bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined use of Bacillus strains and Miscanthus for accelerating biodegradation of poly(lactic acid) and poly(ethylene terephthalate)
Authors: Dąbrowska Grażyna B. , Janczak Katarzyna , Richert Agnieszka
Published: March 2021

Background

The aim of this study was to verify whether the presence of Bacillus strains and of miscanthus influence biodegradation and formed of biofilm of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET).

Methods

The experiment conducted in compost soil showed that strains Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus cereus isolated from heavy metal contaminated environment have biochemical activity and accelerate biodegradation of both plastic materials.

Results

For PLA film it was found that the carbonyl index dropped by over 15% in the presence of B. subtilis, while the film tensile strength decreased by 35% and the oxygen to carbon O/C ratio was higher by 3% in the presence of B. cereus, and the presence of miscanthus resulted in a loss of weight. For PET film, a decrease in the carbonyl index by 16% was observed following inoculation with B. cereus. The metabolic activity of this strain contributed to the reduction of the film’s tensile strength by 17% and to the increase in the permeability to O2 and CO2. The most intense degradation of PET film was observed in the presence of bacteria and plants. B. subtilis strain combined with miscanthus plantings may be a promising method for accelerating PLA and PET degradation in compost soil.
Systematic analysis of JmjC gene family and stress­-response expression of KDM5 subfamily genes in Brassica napus
Authors: He Xinghui , Wang Qianwen , Pan Jiao , Liu Boyu , Ruan Ying , Huang Yong
Published: March 2021

Background

Jumonji C (JmjC) proteins exert critical roles in plant development and stress response through the removal of lysine methylation from histones. Brassica napus, which originated from spontaneous hybridization by Brassica rapa and Brassica oleracea, is the most important oilseed crop after soybean. In JmjC proteins of Brassica species, the structure and function and its relationship with the parents and model plant Arabidopsis thaliana remain uncharacterized. Systematic identification and analysis for JmjC family in Brassica crops can facilitate the future functional characterization and oilseed crops improvement.

Methods

Basing on the conserved JmjC domain, JmjC homologs from the three Brassica species, B. rapa (AA), B. oleracea (CC) and B. napus, were identified from the Brassica database. Some methods, such as phylogenic analysis, chromosomal mapping, HMMER searching, gene structure display and Logos analysis, were used to characterize relationships of the JmjC homologs. Synonymous and nonsynonymous nucleotide substitutions were used to infer the information of gene duplication among homologs. Then, the expression levels of BnKDM5 subfamily genes were checked under abiotic stress by qRT-PCR.

Results

Sixty-five JmjC genes were identified from B. napus genome, 29 from B. rapa, and 23 from B. oleracea. These genes were grouped into seven clades based on the phylogenetic analysis, and their catalytic activities of demethylation were predicted. The average retention rate of B. napus JmjC genes (B. napus JmjC gene from B. rapa (93.1%) and B. oleracea (82.6%)) exceeded whole genome level. JmjC sequences demonstrated high conservation in domain origination, chromosomal location, intron/exon number and catalytic sites. The gene duplication events were confirmed among the homologs. Many of the BrKDM5 subfamily genes showed higher expression under drought and NaCl treatments, but only a few genes were involved in high temperature stress.

Conclusions

This study provides the first genome-wide characterization of JmjC genes in Brassica species. The BnJmjC exhibits higher conservation during the formation process of allotetraploid than the average retention rates of the whole B. napus genome. Furthermore, expression profiles of many genes indicated that BnKDM5 subfamily genes are involved in stress response to salt, drought and high temperature.
The classification of EEG-based winking signals: a transfer learning and random forest pipeline
Authors: Mahendra Kumar Jothi Letchumy , Rashid Mamunur , Muazu Musa Rabiu , Mohd Razman Mohd Azraai , Sulaiman Norizam , Jailani Rozita , P.P. Abdul Majeed Anwar
Published: March 2021

Brain Computer-Interface (BCI) technology plays a considerable role in the control of rehabilitation or peripheral devices for stroke patients. This is particularly due to their inability to control such devices from their inherent physical limitations after such an attack. More often than not, the control of such devices exploits electroencephalogram (EEG) signals. Nonetheless, it is worth noting that the extraction of the features and the classification of the signals is non-trivial for a successful BCI system. The use of Transfer Learning (TL) has been demonstrated to be a powerful tool in the extraction of essential features. However, the employment of such a method towards BCI applications, particularly in regard to EEG signals, are somewhat limited. The present study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of different TL models in extracting features for the classification of wink-based EEG signals. The extracted features are classified by means of fine-tuned Random Forest (RF) classifier. The raw EEG signals are transformed into a scalogram image via Continuous Wavelet Transform (CWT) before it was fed into the TL models, namely InceptionV3, Inception ResNetV2, Xception and MobileNet. The dataset was divided into training, validation, and test datasets, respectively, via a stratified ratio of 60:20:20. The hyperparameters of the RF models were optimised through the grid search approach, in which the five-fold cross-validation technique was adopted. The optimised RF classifier performance was compared with the conventional TL-based CNN classifier performance. It was demonstrated from the study that the best TL model identified is the Inception ResNetV2 along with an optimised RF pipeline, as it was able to yield a classification accuracy of 100% on both the training and validation dataset. Therefore, it could be established from the study that a comparable classification efficacy is attainable via the Inception ResNetV2 with an optimised RF pipeline. It is envisaged that the implementation of the proposed architecture to a BCI system would potentially facilitate post-stroke patients to lead a better life quality.
Analysis of Added Value of Fish Drumstick at Home Industry "Adisyafidz Barokah" Nagreg, Bandung Regency, West Java
Authors: Ramadhan Muhammad Firham , Junianto .
Published: March 2021

Research was conducted for one month starting from 16 November 2020 to 17 December 2020 at home industry "Adisyafidz barokah" Nagreg, Bandung regency, West Java province, Indonesia. Catfish (Clarias sp.) is one of the fish that preferably consumed by the people of Indonesia. This opportunity is used by Mr. Mansyur as owner of home industry "Adisyafidz Barakoh" to process various products made from catfish, one of them is fish drumstick. This product is very popular among children and adults. This research aims to determine the added value and profit of fish drumstick products in the "Adisyafidz Barokah" Home Industry. The added value was analyzed using the Hayami method. The research procedure is carried out with the first stage of making fish drumstick products according to the steps that are usually done at home industry. Then the next step is to conduct interviews with the owner of the Home Industry Adisyafidz Barokah and also with several employees to get information related to the prices of main and additional raw materials as well as the marketing prices of fish drumstick. The data obtained were analyzed to see the added value based on the Hayami method. Based on the results of the research, it was concluded that the processing of catfish into fish drumstick products added value more than 0, wich mean this business was feasible to carry out. This processed product has an added value of IDR. 137,000.00 from 4 kg of fish drumstick products with 12 kg of catfish as raw material. The profit obtained from processing catfish into fish drumstick in one production (12 kg of raw material) is IDR. 110,600.00, percentage of profit is 80.07%.
Participation of Rural Women in Rice Farming Activities: Case of a Village in Bangladesh
Authors: Chakma Kakon , Ruba Umama Begum , Senthi Jarrin Yeasmin , Rahman Saidur
Published: March 2021

The objectives of this research were to evaluate the socio-economic features of rural women, determine their participation extent in rice farming activities, and find out relationship between socio-economic features and extent of participation. This survey-based research was conducted in a village called Jahidpur in the Sunamganj district. 80 farm families involved in rice farming were selected by using simple random sampling method. Data were collected from women respondents through direct interviews using questionnaires. To determine participation extent, a rating scale of 5 points was used. Around 22 tasks were categorized into 5 aspects namely pre-planting, planting, intercultural operation, harvesting, and post-harvesting. The report revealed that rural women's participation was maximum in post-harvesting activities. However, no participation was found in some field-level tasks such as seedbed preparation, transplanting, nutrient management, plant protection management, irrigation, and harvesting. A major part of the rural women had medium level participation in rice farming activities 61.25% compared to a low participation rate of 38.75% but nobody had high level participation. Some socio-economic characteristics such as age, farming experience, agricultural knowledge had a significant positive relationship whereas education had a significant negative relationship with rural women's participation in rice farming activities. Tradition (100%), food security (95%), and poverty reduction (92.5%) were the main three reasons for women’s participation while male-dominated society (100%), restricted social interaction (95%), and limited access to resources (86.5%) acted as top three barriers. Rural women's involvement in rice farming was not at a satisfactory level and proper strategy implementation is required for further increasing the participation extent in rice farming activities.
Application of Black Soldier Fly, Hermetia illucens (L., 1758) (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) Larvae to Treat Waste Water
Authors: Doelle Klaus , Udegbunam Ifeoma
Published: March 2021

This study investigated the application potential of Black Soldier Fly Larva Hermetia illucens Stratiomyidae: Diptera (L.1758) for wastewater treatment and the removal potential of chemical oxygen demand, ammonia, and phosphorus of and liquid manure residue and municipal waste water containing 1% solids content.

Black Soldier Fly Larva were found to reduce the concentration of chemical oxygen demand, but unfortunately, increase the concentration of ammonia and phosphorus.

The ability of Black Soldier Fly Larva to feed on organic waste of Liquid manure residue showed that Black Soldier Fly Larva increase their weight by 365% in a solution with 12% solids content and by 595% in a solution having 6% solids content. The study also showed that Black Soldier Fly Larva have the ability to survive in a solution of 1% solids content and have the ability to reduce chemical oxygen demand by up to 86.4% for liquid manure residue and 46.9% for municipal wastewater after 24 hours. Generally, ammonia increased by 43.9% for Liquid manure residue and 98.6% for municipal wastewater. Total phosphorus showed an increase of 11.0% and 88.6% increase for liquid manure residue and municipal wastewater respectively over the 8-day study. Transparent environments tend to reduce the COD content more than the dark environment, both for the liquid manure residue (55.8% and 65.4%) and municipal wastewater (71.5% and 66.4%).
Determination of Crop Health Monitoring in MPKV – Rahuri, Using Remote Sensing Approach
Authors: Kamble Ankita P. , Atre A. A. , Mahadule Payal A. , Pande C. B. , Kute N. S. , Gorantiwar S. D.
Published: March 2021

Pests and diseases cause major harm during crop development. Also plant stress affects crop quality and quantity. Recent developments in high resolution remotely sensed data has seen a great potential in mapping cropland areas infected by pests and diseases, as well as potential vulnerable areas over expansive areas. Crop health monitoring in this study was carried out using remote sensing techniques. The present study was carried out in MPKV, Rahuri, Ahmednagar District, Maharashtra. Vegetation indices like Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI) were used to classify the crops into healthy and dead or unhealthy one. Sentinel-2 image data from October 2019 to January 2020 processed in Arc GIS 10.1 were used for this study. Vegetation is a key component of the ecosystem and plays an important role in stabilizing the global environment. The result showed that the average vegetation cover was decreased in the month of November and healthy vegetation was found more in month of October as compared to December and January. This shows that NDVI and SAVI indices for Sentinel-2 images can be used for crop health monitoring.
Impact of the Climate Change and the Recent Development of an Artificial Tropical Estuary on the Mobility and Distribution of Phosphorus: Case of Vridi Channel (Côte d'Ivoire)
Authors: Samuel N’DA , Konan YAO Marcel , Albert Trokourey
Published: March 2021

This study focused on the effects of the climate change and the recent modification of Vridi channel on the mobility and distribution of phosphorus (P) in its superficial sediments. To best estimate this fact, the annual mobility and distribution of P were followed and compared before and after this development during two different annual periods, marked differently by the climate change effects. The first annual period has covered the period from April 2014 to March 2015 and this channel presented its former hydromorphology, with hydroclimatic conditions very close to that normal of Abidjan district. The second period annual has covered the period from October 2018 to September 2019 and this channel presented its current hydromorphology and, characterized by a rainfall drop and high ambient air temperatures compared to that normal of Abidjan district.

A monthly sampling has been done at 5 cm below the surface sediment in this channel during each annual period. The mobility and distribution of P was assessed in the superficial sediments of this channel according two sequential extraction protocols: the modified Van Eck method and the modified Olsen method. Total phosphorus was assessed according AFNOR NF X31-147.

The total phosphorus contents and all P fractions contents of these superficial sediments assessed by these two sequential methods and obtained over the period from April 2014 to March 2015 are higher than those determined over the period from October 2018 to September 2019. Thus, the recent development of this estuary, with as a corollary the modification of the physical and chemical characteristics of its superficial sediments, would have had the effect of clearing P towards the Atlantic Ocean and/or accelerating its sedimentation; hence the reduction of eutrophication risk of this aquatic ecosystem.
Diagnostic Performance of Hrp2 Based Diagnostic Test Kits and Frequency of Pfhrp2 Gene Deletion in Plasmodium falciparum Isolates of Osogbo, Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Nassar A. S. , Bakarey A. S. , Abdulazeez A. A. , Fayemi O. O.
Published: March 2021

Introduction: The introduction of P. falciparum encoded HRP-2 based malaria Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) kits is widely accepted in Nigeria and worldwide as a simplified form of diagnosis and a cheaper alternative to the microscopy technique (gold standard). However, deletion of Pfhrp2 gene contributes to false negative results and large number of such deletions has been reported in advanced countries thereby highlighting the importance of surveillance to detect such deletions in our local environment.

Methodology: Microscopy as well as RDT techniques (using Rapid malaria test kit: SD BIOLINE Malaria Ag P.f/Pv, South Korea) were carried out on the blood samples of three hundred and twenty-three (323) febrile subjects attending Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, Osun State Nigeria. PCR analysis was also conducted on 50 blood samples that were positive for microscopy but negative for RDT.

Results: The results from the study revealed that microscopy had a sensitivity of 99% and specificity of 99.2%. The RDT however had a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 60.1%. Fifty (50) samples that were positive for microscopy but negative for RDT were subjected to further PCR examination to detect the possible deletion of the Pfhrp-2 gene and the result revealed that the gene was present in 39 (78%) of the blood samples while remaining 11 (22%) samples lacked the gene which could possibly be the reason for the negative results obtained using the RDT kits.

Conclusion: This study provides evidence of low level of presence of Pfhrp-2 gene deletion of Plasmodium falciparum parasites in our healthcare facility setting in Osogbo, Nigeria.
Dynamic Analysis of Fatigue Life Prediction on the Shafts of a Modern Cassava Peeling Machine for Safe and Economic Use
Authors: Eddy Pondi Pius , Chuka Nwigbo Solomon , Omeiza Obende Eziekel , Chukwuemeka Olisakwe Henry , Peter Chikelu Okechukwu , Andrew Azaka Onyemazuwa
Published: March 2021

The durability of a machine structure is based on its mechanical performance through its entire service life. To avoid structural failures in machines, it is a standard design practice that machines be analyzed based on the types of loading (static and fatigue) associated with it in order to design safe and dependable machine structures. These types of analyses are performed with the purpose of estimating the behavior of the mechanical parts under specific operational conditions. The aim of this research is to investigate the effect of different loading to the maximum load on the redesigned shafts of an existing cassava peeling machine capable of peeling at least one (10) tons of   cassava tubers with different weight, size or shape per day  to ascertain the effects on the bending moment, shear force, deflection angle, shear stress and bending stress, and evaluate if there is need to reduce or increase the thickness of the shafts to a standard considered to be safe and economical. The three shafts of the cassava peeling machine have been carefully analyzed to check for their fatigue life under different loading conditions. From the analysis, with stress values of 48.640MPa, 49.1289MPa, 3.06089MPa and shaft diameter values of 34.6799mm, 34.7955mm, 13.7941mm evaluated from the reduced stress diagrams and ideal diameter diagrams for abrasive cylinder shaft, peeling cylinder shaft, and retainer shaft respectively, gave positive results because none of stress values were greater than reduced stresses (calculated stress value from Tresca’s theory) on the respective shafts. Therefore, a standard steel shaft of 35mm diameter is appropriate for manufacturing of the machine and also safe and economical.
Opioid toxicity due to CNS depressant polypharmacy: A case report
Authors: Lee Christine , Wanson Annabelle , Frangou Sarah , Chong David , Halpape Katelyn
Published: March 2021

The interaction between methadone and central nervous system depressants can cause serious adverse effects, including profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. This poses a challenge in the treatment of patients with concurrent psychiatric and substance use disorders as the combined use is often unavoidable. We report a case of a patient with opioid use disorder, mood disorder unspecified, chronic pain, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who experienced 2 serious episodes of CNS and respiratory depression due to polypharmacy-induced opioid toxicity. Careful consideration of pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and patient-specific factors was imperative to identify the suspected contributing medications: methadone, lorazepam, divalproex, gabapentin, and cyclobenzaprine. Cognitive and system factors that contributed to these adverse events and strategies to mitigate risk of recurrence were also identified.
The MedPhys match survey: Search criteria and advice for programs and applicants
Authors: Hendrickson Kristi R. G. , Juang Titania , Rodrigues Anna E. , Burmeister Jay W.
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to gauge the experiences of applicants and program directors (PDs) in the Medical Physics (MedPhys) Match (MPM) and to determine the most important characteristics and factors that influence decision‐making for applicants and programs when screening, interviewing, and ranking in the MPM. Opinions were also solicited from applicants and PDs on the status of medical physics residencies and the selection process, such as the availability of residency positions and satisfaction with the match process.

Methods

A survey was sent to all applicants registered for the 2015–2018 MPM and to all PDs registered for the 2015–2017 MPM. Survey questions asked about the pre‐interview screening, interview, and ranking stages of the residency match process. Survey data were analyzed using graphical methods and spreadsheet tools.

Results

An increasing percentage of applicants are female and/or hold a PhD as their highest degree. The over all number of interview invitations per applicant has increased, leading some applicants to decline interviews with the top reasons being cost of travel and scheduling conflicts. The top considerations for applicants in ranking programs were residency program/institution reputation, program structure/organization, and facilities/equipment available. The primary considerations identified by PDs for ranking applicants included impressions from the interview, personality fit, and clinical potential. While two‐thirds of applicants agreed or strongly agreed with the statement that a residency position was difficult to obtain, roughly one‐third of PDs agree that the current residency placement rate is a problem.

Conclusion

Four years of survey data on the experiences of applicants and PDs participating in the MPM is useful to future participants navigating the residency match system. It is hoped that the data will be helpful to inform improvements and to enhance understanding of the residency match system and how it shapes our profession.
Hyaluronan‐Mediated Motility Receptor Governs Chromosome Segregation by Regulating Microtubules Sliding Within the Bridging Fiber
Authors: Jiang Zemin , Zhang Shiyu , Lee Yew Mun , Teng Xiang , Yang Qiaoyun , Toyama Yusuke , Liou Yih‐Cherng
Published: March 2021

Accurate segregation of chromosomes during anaphase relies on the central spindle and its regulators. A newly raised concept of the central spindle, the bridging fiber, shows that sliding of antiparallel microtubules (MTs) within the bridging fiber promotes chromosome segregation. However, the regulators of the bridging fiber and its regulatory mechanism on MTs sliding remain largely unknown. In this study, the non‐motor microtubule‐associated protein, hyaluronan‐mediated motility receptor (HMMR), is identified as a novel regulator of the bridging fiber. It then identifies that HMMR regulates MTs sliding within the bridging fiber by cooperating with its binding partner HSET. By utilizing a laser‐based cell ablation system and photoactivation approach, the study's results reveal that depletion of HMMR causes an inhibitory effect on MTs sliding within the bridging fiber and disrupts the forced uniformity on the kinetochore‐attached microtubules‐formed fibers (k‐fibers). These are created by suppressing the dynamics of HSET, which functions in transiting the force from sliding of bridging MTs to the k‐fiber. This study sheds new light on the novel regulatory mechanism of MTs sliding within the bridging fiber by HMMR and HSET and uncovers the role of HMMR in chromosome segregation during anaphase.
Highly Efficient Plasmonic Membrane Flow Reactor
Authors: Tang Hao , Shao Guozheng , Hinds Bruce J.
Published: March 2021

A plasmonic flow reactor, consisting of thin Au film at exits of monolithic anodized aluminum oxide (AAO) membranes under LED illumination is demonstrated. The system shows over 200% quantum efficiency (QE) for peroxide activation and the ability to limit to single oxidation reaction by controlling residence time with flow rate and pore geometry. Periodic pore arrays (20–200 nm diameter) with 25 nm thick Au on AAO are modeled by finite‐difference time‐domain (FDTD) simulations and predicted largest E‐field enhancements for the larger 200 nm pore diameters. Peroxide activation, as measured by O2 generation is most efficient with a 200 nm pore diameter system under 523 nm LED illumination. The optimal wavelength falls near the absorption peak of Au@AAO with 200 nm pore diameter suggesting that hot electron generated from gold plasmonic response is the primary mechanism for activation of H2O2. QE for gold plasmonic flow system calculated from O2 generation experiments is as high as 250%, which indicates a mechanism of hot‐electron activation of peroxide that leaves a still energetic hot‐electron to catalytically activate multiple reactions. The formation of Au surface oxides that are catalytically active in dark is also observed and must be accounted for in Au plasmonic photochemical studies.
Three Resistance States Achieved by Nanocrystalline Decomposition in Ge‐Ga‐Sb Compound for Multilevel Phase Change Memory
Authors: Zhang Liwei , Mai Xianliang , Gu Rongchuan , Liu Long , Xiong Changying , Yang Zhe , Tong Hao , Cheng Xiaomin , Xu Ming , Zhou Peng , Miao Xiangshui
Published: March 2021

Phase‐change memory (PCM), using the fast and reversible transition between crystal and glass to store binary data, is a promising candidate for next‐generation information storage and computing technologies. Recording more than one bit of information on each memory cell, known as multilevel cell (MLC) technology, can greatly increase the data density of PCMs. In this paper, the MLC capability in a phase change material Ge‐Ga‐Sb (GGS) is explored. Using the “SET” operation with increasing voltage amplitudes on this PCM cell in a 250 nm pillar structure device, three resistance levels are achieved and can be stabilized within large operating voltage windows, allowing large tolerance of SET voltage variation which may lead to the overlap of the neighboring resistance levels. It is discovered that the additional resistance level other than “0” and “1” is enabled by compositional phase separation in the nanocrystalline GGS, as revealed via atom probe tomography and electronic microscopy. The device also shows small resistance drift (ν = 0.025) in amorphous state, about four times lower than prototypical Ge‐Sb‐Te‐based PCMs, stabilizing it against time variation. Meanwhile, high thermal stability (Tc ≈ 300 °C) in GGS‐based device can also facilitate the practical applications in some extreme conditions.
Ophthalmic conditions associated with dementia risk: The Cardiovascular Health Study
Authors: Hwang Phillip H. , Longstreth Will T. , Thielke Stephen M. , Francis Courtney E. , Carone Marco , Kuller Lewis H. , Fitzpatrick Annette L.
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Ophthalmic conditions and dementia appear to overlap and may share common pathways, but research has not differentiated dementia subtypes.

Methods

Diagnoses of cataracts, age‐related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy (DR), and glaucoma were based on medical histories and International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD‐9) codes for 3375 participants from the Cardiovascular Health Study. Dementia, including Alzheimer's disease (AD) and vascular dementia (VaD), was classified using standardized research criteria.

Results

Cataracts were associated with AD (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.34; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.01‐1.80) and VaD/mixed dementia (HR = 1.41; 95% CI = 1.02‐1.95). AMD was associated with AD only (HR = 1.87; 95% CI = 1.13‐3.09), whereas DR was associated with VaD/mixed dementia only (HR = 2.63; 95% CI = 1.10‐6.27).

Discussion

Differential associations between specific ophthalmic conditions and dementia subtypes may elucidate pathophysiologic pathways. Lack of association between glaucoma and dementia was most surprising from these analyses.
Quantifying progression in primary progressive aphasia with structural neuroimaging
Authors: Lombardi Jolina , Mayer Benjamin , Semler Elisa , Anderl‐Straub Sarah , Uttner Ingo , Kassubek Jan , Diehl‐Schmid Janine , Danek Adrian , Levin Johannes , Fassbender Klaus , Fliessbach Klaus , Schneider Anja , Huppertz Hans‐Jürgen , Jahn Holger , Volk Alexander , Kornhuber Johannes , Landwehrmeyer Bernhard , Lauer Martin , Prudlo Johannes , Wiltfang Jens , Schroeter Matthias L. , Ludolph Albert , Otto Markus ,   the FTLD consortium
Published: March 2021

Introduction

The term primary progressive aphasia (PPA) sums up the non‐fluent (nfv), the semantic (sv), and the logopenic (lv) variant. Up to now, there is only limited data available concerning magnetic resonance imaging volumetry to monitor disease progression.

Methods

Structural brain imaging and an extensive assessment were applied at baseline and up to 4‐year(s) follow‐up in 269 participants. With automated atlas‐based volumetry 56 brain regions were assessed. Atrophy progression served to calculate sample sizes for therapeutic trials.

Results

At baseline highest atrophy appeared in parts of the left frontal lobe for nfvPPA (–17%) and of the left temporal lobe for svPPA (–34%) and lvPPA (–24%). Severest progression within 1‐year follow‐up occurred in the basal ganglia in nfvPPA (–7%), in the hippocampus/amygdala in svPPA (–9%), and in (medial) temporal regions in lvPPA (–6%).

Conclusion

PPA presents as a left‐dominant, mostly gray matter sensitive disease with considerable atrophy at baseline that proceeds variant‐specific.
Collecting Site‐Level Data on Organisms Causing Surgical Site Infections to Guide Quality Improvement
Authors: Goldman Lauren , McAlister Sarah A. , Keith Abigail , Bone Nathalie , McSwain Jenna M. , Klineline Dena N. , Hagedorn Wonder Amy
Published: March 2021

Surgical site infections (SSIs) negatively affect patients and health care organizations. We conducted a descriptive, correlational study at two hospitals that provide care to rural patients in one Midwestern state. The study purposes were to describe: types of organisms causing reportable organ/space SSIs that occurred within 30 days of an open or a laparoscopic abdominal surgery (N = 20), and commonalities in patient‐ and care‐related factors to provide baseline information for site‐level prevention efforts for quality improvement. We identified Escherichia coli in almost half of the SSI cases (n = 9, 45%). Common patient‐related factors included ethnicity, smoking, and dirty or contaminated wounds. Common care‐related factors included longer surgery times (> 60 minutes), unplanned surgeries, and procedures that involved the colon or small bowel. Personnel can use site‐level data to monitor prevalent types of organisms causing SSIs, enabling an evidence‐based, interdisciplinary approach to develop and test methods to enhance prevention.
Simultaneous delivery of several antimicrobial drugs from multi‐compartment glycerol‐silicone membranes
Authors: Mazurek Piotr , Yuusuf Nuura A. , Silau Harald , Mordhorst Hanne , Pamp Sünje J. , Brook Michael A. , Skov Anne L.
Published: March 2021

Combining drugs is an efficient tool in fighting bacterial infections. It has been proven to enable an increased antimicrobial activity compared to mono‐drug therapies. Current commercial dressings for treatment of infected wounds provide delivery of one drug only. Therefore, there is an obvious need to develop a technology enabling incorporation and release of two and more actives. Ideally, such technology should prevent potential cross‐reactions between the drugs during long‐term storage. Here, a concept of drug compartmentalization within distinct glycerol domains of glycerol‐silicone elastomer membranes is presented. Multiple drugs are encapsulated within different types of glycerol domains hampering any cross‐reactions. The drugs are simultaneously released upon contact with aqueous media and the release kinetics can be precisely adjusted by tuning various material parameters, such as glycerol content and membrane thickness. Ultimately, the drug release capabilities and the antimicrobial potential are evaluated against a variety of bacteria in an agar diffusion assay. The membranes are proven effective against different bacterial species, which confirms the efficiency of release even at minimum moisture levels. The glycerol‐silicone platform technology enables delivery of virtually unlimited combinations of drugs from different drug families (e.g., antimicrobial, anti‐inflammatory, and pain relief agents) facilitating new ways of treating wound disorders.
The evolution and shift of research topics and methods in library and information science
Authors: Ma Jinxuan , Lund Brady
Published: March 2021

Employing approaches adopted from studies of library and information science (LIS) research trends performed by Järvelin et al., this content analysis systematically examines the evolution and distribution of LIS research topics and data collection methods at 6‐year increments from 2006 to 2018. Bibliographic data were collected for 3,422 articles published in LIS journals in the years 2006, 2012, and 2018. While the classification schemes provided in the Järvelin studies do not indicate much change, an analysis of subtopics, data sources, and keywords indicates a substantial impact of social media and data science on the discipline, which emerged at some point between the years of 2012 and 2018. These findings suggest a type of shift in the focus of LIS research, with social media and data science topics playing a role in well over one‐third of articles published in 2018, compared with approximately 5% in 2012 and virtually none in 2006. The shift in LIS research foci based on these two technologies/approaches appears similar in extent to those produced by the introduction of information systems in library science in the 1960s, or the Internet in the 1990s, suggesting that these recent advancements are fundamental to the identity of LIS as a discipline.
Improving an intensified and integrated continuous bioprocess platform for biologics manufacturing
Authors: Zhou Hang , Fang Mingyue , Zheng Xiang , Zhou Weichang
Published: March 2021

The WuXi Biologics' Ultra‐high Productivity platform (WuXiUP) technology is an innovative and integrated platform of continuous biomanufacturing. Through process intensification, the platform enables continuous manufacturing of almost any type of biologics and delivers processes with ultra‐high productivity. In this paper, a new case study producing a monoclonal antibody (mAb) via the WuXiUP process was further optimized. Key process parameters like culture temperature, basal media, and perfusion rate were evaluated to ensure an enhanced and robust process. To improve process efficiency for downstream processing, a continuous dual‐pore size hollow fiber cell separation and product harvest system were also designed to complement the increased harvest volume from upstream production. In this case study, a significant protein concentration increase and harvest volume reduction were achieved by the application of the new WuXiUP platform.
Theoretical Simulations of Thermochromic and Aggregation‐Induced Emission Behaviors of a Series of Red‐Light Anthracene‐o‐carborane Derivatives
Authors: Duan Ying‐Chen , Pan Qing‐Qing , Zhao Zhi‐Wen , Gao Ying , Wu Yong , Zhao Liang , Geng Yun , Zhang Min , Su Zhong‐Min
Published: March 2021

Quantum mechanical and molecular dynamics simulations have been carried out on a series of anthracene‐o‐carborane derivatives (ANT‐H, ANT‐Ph, ANT‐Me and ANT‐TMS) with rare red‐light emission in the solid state. The simulation of the heating process of the crystals and further comparison of the molecular structures and excited‐state properties before and after heating help us to disclose the thermochromic behavior, that is, the red‐shift emission is caused by elongation of the C1−C2 bond in the carborane moiety after heating. Thus, we believe that the molecular structure in the crystal is severely affected by heating. Transformation of the molecular conformation appears in the ANT‐H crystal with increasing temperature. More specifically, the anthracene moiety moves from nearly parallel to the C1−C2 bond to nearly perpendicular, causing the short‐wavelength emission to disappear after heating. As for the aggregation‐induced emission phenomenon, the structures and photophysical properties were investigated comparatively in both the isolated and crystal states; the results suggested that the energy dissipation in crystal surroundings was greatly reduced through hindering structure relaxation from the excited to the ground state. We expect that discussion of the thermochromic behavior will provide a new analysis perspective for the molecular design of o‐carborane derivatives.
IL‐19 induced by IL‐13/IL‐17A in the nasal epithelium of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis upregulates MMP‐9 expression via ERK/NF‐κB signaling pathway
Authors: Li Xia , Huang Jiancong , Chen Xiaohong , Lai Xiaoping , Huang Zizhen , Li Yue , Li Shuaixiang , Chang Lihong , Zhang Gehua
Published: March 2021

Background

Tissue remodeling is a crucial characteristic of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Imbalance between matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) is crucial for the pathologic tissue remodeling in CRS. Elevation of interleukin (IL)‐19 or MMP‐9 levels in patients with CRS had been proven in previous studies. Here, we aimed to investigate the role of IL‐19 in mediating MMP‐9 expression in CRS.

Methods

Nasal tissue samples were collected from 45 individuals having chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), 24 CRS without nasal polyps (CRSsNP), and 17 controls. Expression of IL‐19, its receptors (IL‐20R1/IL‐20R2), and MMP‐9 were investigated using RT‐qPCR and Immunofluorescence (IF). Human nasal epithelial cells (HNECs) were stimulated by IL‐19; ERK phosphorylation, nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) pathway activation, and MMP‐9 level were detected by RT‐qPCR, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, western blot, and IF. We also explored the effect of type1/2/3 cytokines on IL‐19 production by RT‐qPCR, and western blot.

Results

Expression levels of IL‐19, its receptors (IL‐20R1/IL‐20R2), and MMP‐9 were increased in nasal tissues from individuals with CRSwNP compared to those with CRSsNP as well as the controls. IL‐19 significantly elevated the production of MMP‐9 in HNECs. Furthermore, IL‐19 could activate the ERK and NF‐κB pathways, accompanied by increased MMP‐9 production in HNECs. Conversely, both ERK and NF‐κB inhibitors significantly attenuated the role of IL‐19 in MMP‐9 production. siRNA knockdown of IL‐20R1 suppressed ERK and NF‐κB pathway activation, thereby decreasing MMP‐9 expression. IL‐13 and IL‐17A were found to stimulate IL‐19 production in HNECs.

Conclusion

IL‐19, promoted by IL‐13 and IL‐17A, contributes to the upregulation of secretion of the tissue remodeling factor MMP‐9 in patients with CRS.
Results of a Dose‐Finding Phase 1b Study of Subcutaneous Atezolizumab in Patients With Locally Advanced or Metastatic Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Felip Enriqueta , Burotto Mauricio , Zvirbule Zanete , Herraez‐Baranda Luis A. , Chanu Pascal , Kshirsagar Smita , Maiya Vidya , Chan Phyllis , Pozzi Emanuela , Marchand Mathilde , Monchalin Marion , Tanaka Kunihiko , Tosti Nadia , Wang Bei , Restuccia Eleonora
Published: March 2021

Intravenous (IV) atezolizumab is approved for non–small cell lung and other cancers. Subcutaneous (SC) atezolizumab coformulated with recombinant human hyaluronidase, a permeation enhancer for SC dispersion and absorption, is being developed to improve treatment options, reduce burden, and increase efficiency for patients and practitioners. IMscin001 (NCT03735121), a 2‐part, open‐label, global, multicenter, phase 1b/3 study, is evaluating the pharmacokinetics (PK), safety, and efficacy of SC atezolizumab. The part 1 (phase 1b) objective was determination of an SC atezolizumab dose yielding a serum trough concentration (Ctrough) comparable with IV. Patients enrolled in 3 cohorts received SC atezolizumab 1800 mg (thigh) once (cohort 1), 1200 mg (thigh) every 2 weeks for 3 cycles (cohort 2), or 1800 mg (abdomen) every 3 weeks cycle 1, then cycles 2 and 3 (thigh) every 3 weeks (cohort 3). In subsequent cycles, IV atezolizumab 1200 mg every 3 weeks was administered until loss of clinical benefit. SC atezolizumab 1800 mg every 3 weeks and 1200 mg every 2 weeks provided similar Ctrough and area under the curve values in cycle 1 to the corresponding IV atezolizumab reference, was well tolerated, and exhibited a safety profile consistent with the established IV formulation. Exposure following SC injection in the abdomen was lower (20%, 28%, and 27% for Ctrough, maximum concentration, and area under the concentration‐time curve from time 0 to day 21, respectively) than in the thigh. Part 1 SC and IV PK data were analyzed using a population PK modeling approach, followed by simulations. Part 2 (phase 3) will now be initiated to demonstrate that SC atezolizumab PK exposure is not lower than that of IV.
A De Novo‐Designed Artificial Metallopeptide Hydrogenase: Insights into Photochemical Processes and the Role of Protonated Cys
Authors: Malayam Parambath Sreya , Williams Ashley E. , Hunt Leigh Anna , Selvan Dhanashree , Hammer Nathan I. , Chakraborty Saumen
Published: March 2021

Hydrogenase enzymes produce H2 gas, which can be a potential source of alternative energy. Inspired by the [NiFe] hydrogenases, we report the construction of a de novo‐designed artificial hydrogenase (ArH). The ArH is a dimeric coiled coil where two cysteine (Cys) residues are introduced at tandem a/d positions of a heptad to create a tetrathiolato Ni binding site. Spectroscopic studies show that Ni binding significantly stabilizes the peptide producing electronic transitions characteristic of Ni‐thiolate proteins. The ArH produces H2 photocatalytically, demonstrating a bell‐shaped pH‐dependence on activity. Fluorescence lifetimes and transient absorption spectroscopic studies are undertaken to elucidate the nature of pH‐dependence, and to monitor the reaction kinetics of the photochemical processes. pH titrations are employed to determine the role of protonated Cys on reactivity. Through combining these results, a fine balance is found between solution acidity and the electron transfer steps. This balance is critical to maximize the production of NiI‐peptide and protonation of the NiII−H− intermediate (Ni−R) by a Cys (pKa≈6.4) to produce H2.
Challenges toward development of rear‐earth free FeCo based permanent magnet
Authors: Hasegawa Takashi
Published: March 2021

Among the various permanent magnets reported to date, FeNdB exhibits the highest magnetic performance, but reducing the use of the rare‐earth elements is necessary to avoid exhaustion of rare‐earth elements. The key to improve the performance of permanent magnets is to increase magnetization and coercivity. FeCo has a very large magnetization, but has a very small coercivity caused by the extremely small magnetic anisotropy due to the cubic crystal structure, so that FeCo has long been unsuitable for permanent magnets. However, recent reports have revealed that the transformation of the crystal structure from cubic to tetragonal causes large magnetic anisotropy. In 2017, the author reported that a large coercivity can be obtained by fabricating tetragonal FeCo nanodots. This article reviews recent progress of rear‐earth free permanent magnets especially for the tetragonal FeCo based alloys.
Scanning the human genome for “signatures” of positive selection: Transformative opportunities and ethical obligations
Authors: Hernandez Margarita , Perry George H.
Published: March 2021

The relationship history of evolutionary anthropology and genetics is complex. At best, genetics is a beautifully integrative part of the discipline. Yet this integration has also been fraught, with punctuated, disruptive challenges to dogma, periodic reluctance by some members of the field to embrace results from analyses of genetic data, and occasional over‐assertions of genetic definitiveness by geneticists. At worst, evolutionary genetics has been a tool for reinforcing racism and colonialism. While a number of genetics/genomics papers have disproportionately impacted evolutionary anthropology, here we highlight the 2002 presentation of an elegantly powerful approach for identifying “signatures” of past positive selection from haplotype‐based patterns of genetic variation. Together with technological advances in genotyping methods, this article transformed our field by facilitating genome‐wide “scans” for signatures of past positive selection in human populations. This approach helped researchers test longstanding evolutionary anthropology hypotheses while simultaneously providing opportunities to develop entirely new ones. Genome‐wide scans for signatures of positive selection have since been conducted in diverse worldwide populations, with striking findings of local adaptation and convergent evolution. Yet there are ethical considerations with respect to the ubiquity of these studies and the cross‐application of the genome‐wide scan approach to existing datasets, which we also discuss.
Methodological approaches for estimating regional emission values using national greenhouse gas inventory: A case study of the Republic of Korea
Authors: Yoo Jong‐Ik , Lee Do‐Hyung , Cheong Yu‐Kyong , Kim So‐Hee , Jeong Yu‐Sik , Lee Dae‐Han , Park Sung‐Kwon , Kim Moon‐Jung
Published: March 2021

Since the Paris Agreement in 2015, the greenhouse gas (GHG) inventory has been considered as an indicator in the evaluation of national GHG reduction. Despite the importance of achieving and evaluating the national GHG reduction targets by the local government, GHG information availed to local governments is very limited, thus necessitating the use of additional resources to create a GHG inventory for each region. This study established and introduced procedures for the selection and distribution of activity data using a national inventory to allow for the estimation of emission values according to region and used them to calculate emissions in Korea. Statistics that were not based on regional data or those based on different data collection systems were identified, and in such cases, data required improvement to achieve consistency. Emission estimation showed that the applied activity data was consistent with the sum of the regional and national values for 12% of GHG emissions. We expect the improvement of certain statistical data to improve data consistency to 82% within a ± 5% variance. With this method, the consistency between the emission data at the national and local or regional levels can be ensured, and ultimately used to establish or evaluate the implementation of a GHG reduction plan. The proposed method can be particularly useful when capacity enhancement of local governments in developing countries is required for GHG inventory management. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.