bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular evidence of the avocado defense response to Fusarium kuroshium infection: a deep transcriptome analysis using RNA-Seq
Authors: Pérez-Torres Claudia-Anahí , Ibarra-Laclette Enrique , Hernández-Domínguez Eric-Edmundo , Rodríguez-Haas Benjamín , Pérez-Lira Alan-Josué , Villafán Emanuel , Alonso-Sánchez Alexandro , García-Ávila Clemente de Jesús , Ramírez-Pool José-Abrahán , Sánchez-Rangel Diana
Published: April 2021

Fusarium kuroshium is a novel member of the Ambrosia Fusarium Clade (AFC) that has been recognized as one of the symbionts of the invasive Kuroshio shot hole borer, an Asian ambrosia beetle. This complex is considered the causal agent of Fusarium dieback, a disease that has severely threatened natural forests, landscape trees, and avocado orchards in the last 8 years. Despite the interest in this species, the molecular responses of both the host and F. kuroshium during the infection process and disease establishment remain unknown. In this work, we established an in vitro pathosystem using Hass avocado stems inoculated with F. kuroshium to investigate differential gene expression at 1, 4, 7 and 14 days post-inoculation. RNA-seq technology allowed us to obtain data from both the plant and the fungus, and the sequences obtained from both organisms were analyzed independently. The pathosystem established was able to mimic Fusarium dieback symptoms, such as carbohydrate exudation, necrosis, and vascular tissue discoloration. The results provide interesting evidence regarding the genes that may play roles in the avocado defense response to Fusarium dieback disease. The avocado data set comprised a coding sequence collection of 51,379 UniGenes, from which 2,403 (4.67%) were identified as differentially expressed. The global expression analysis showed that F. kuroshium responsive UniGenes can be clustered into six groups according to their expression profiles. The biologically relevant functional categories that were identified included photosynthesis as well as responses to stress, hormones, abscisic acid, and water deprivation. Additionally, processes such as oxidation-reduction, organization and biogenesis of the cell wall and polysaccharide metabolism were detected. Moreover, we identified orthologues of nucleotide-binding leucine-rich receptors, and their possible action mode was analyzed. In F. kuroshium, we identified 57 differentially expressed genes. Interestingly, the alcohol metabolic process biological category had the highest number of upregulated genes, and the enzyme group in this category may play an important role in the mechanisms of secondary metabolite detoxification. Hydrolytic enzymes, such as endoglucanases and a pectate lyase, were also identified, as well as some proteases. In conclusion, our research was conducted mainly to explain how the vascular tissue of a recognized host of the ambrosia complex responds during F. kuroshium infection since Fusarium dieback is an ambrosia beetle-vectored disease and many variables facilitate its establishment.
Temporal inversion of the acid-base equilibrium in newborns: an observational study
Authors: Mizutani Yuko , Kinoshita Masahiro , Lin Yung-Chieh , Fukaya Satoko , Kato Shin , Hisano Tadashi , Hida Hideki , Iwata Sachiko , Saitoh Shinji , Iwata Osuke
Published: April 2021

Background

A considerable fraction of newborn infants experience hypoxia-ischaemia and metabolic acidosis at birth. However, little is known regarding the biological response of newborn infants to the pH drift from the physiological equilibrium. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the pH drift at birth and postnatal acid-base regulation in newborn infants.

Methods

Clinical information of 200 spontaneously breathing newborn infants hospitalised at a neonatal intensive care centre were reviewed. Clinical variables associated with venous blood pH on days 5–7 were assessed.

Results

The higher blood pH on days 5–7 were explained by lower cord blood pH (−0.131, −0.210 to −0.052; regression coefficient, 95% confidence interval), greater gestational age (0.004, 0.002 to 0.005) and lower partial pressure of carbon dioxide on days 5–7 (−0.005, −0.006 to −0.004) (adjusted for sex, postnatal age and lactate on days 5–7).

Conclusion

In relatively stable newborn infants, blood pH drift from the physiological equilibrium at birth might trigger a system, which reverts and over-corrects blood pH within the first week of life. Given that the infants within the study cohort was spontaneously breathing, the observed phenomenon might be a common reaction of newborn infants to pH changes at birth.
Effect of Type of Malocclusion on the Surface Pattern of Caries on Molars and DMFT Index in Primary and Mixed Dentition Period- A Pilot Study
Authors: Chib Adhishree Singh , Sharma Vishal , Garg Shalini , Dogra Shikha , Gupta Anil , Srivastava Ankit , Joshi Sakshi
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Caries pattern is multifactorial in context to the type of diet, tooth structure, time of insult, microflora and salivary contents (salivary pH, buffering action, salivary flow, etc.). Craniofacial relationship may be a contributing factor in the site of occurrence of caries i.e., mesial, distal, occlusal, palatal/lingual and buccal surfaces of primary and permanent molars. Aim: The aim of the study was to find out the effect of the type of malocclusion in primary dentition and mixed dentition period on the surface distribution of caries with respect to their molars along with overall DMFT (decayed, missing and filled teeth index) of the patient. Materials and Methods: A pilot study was conducted in Government and Private schools of district Gurugram, Haryana. Hundred children between 3-5 years of age with primary dentition and 8-10 years of age in mixed dentition period as per inclusion and exclusion criteria were included. Type of terminal plane relationship, according to Baume’s classification, i.e., Flush terminal/mesial step/distal step and affected carious site in all primary molars were examined in 3-5-year-old children. Similarly in 8-10-year-old, type of malocclusion according to Angle’s Classification and its association with carious sites in permanent first molar were examined. Decayed, missing and filled teeth index, DMFT/dmft (i.e., dmft=0-1, 1-2, ≤3 and DMFT+dmft (DMFT+dmft=0-1, 1-2, ≤3) was analysed in both groups, respectively. Results: The mesial step molar relationship was the most common malocclusion (93%) in primary dentition whereas in mixed dentition Angle’s Class I was the most common (84%) malocclusion. Caries occurrence was more in maxillary molars as compared to mandibular molars. The order of caries occurrence in primary and permanent dentition was occlusal surfaces>mesial surfaces>distal surfaces>buccal surfaces>palatal/lingual surfaces. The caries occurrence according to dmft index in primary dentition was not associated with any type of malocclusion, though it was more in mesial step molar relationship. Angle’s Class II malocclusion contributed significantly high DMFT+dmft index with p-value of 0.020. Conclusion: Type of malocclusion does not affect with surface pattern of caries on molars in primary and mixed dentition period. Decayed, missing and filled caries index may be significantly associated with Angle’s Class II malocclusion according to the present study.
Adaptation to Online Technology for Learning during COVID-19 Pandemic: An Observational Study of Effectiveness and Student’s Perception in Various Universities
Authors: Kumar Saurabh , Sharma Ankush , Sharma Shveta , Pal Sajjan , Singh Anand Kumar
Published: April 2021

Introduction: COVID-19 is a newly discovered infectious disease caused by a virus named ‘coronavirus’. To control the rapid spread of the virus, Indian government announced lockdown in whole country. The lockdown has largely affected the lives of students because education was shifted from traditional classroom learning to online learning. After COVID 19 pandemic the online teaching-learning has become more prevalent in India, it becomes particularly important to know its effectiveness and to know whether it’s actually helping the students to achieve what they expect. Aim: The present study was designed to understand the effectiveness, student’s perspective, attitudes and readiness about online classes being conducted at the University level. Materials and Methods: An observational, descriptive study was conducted with a total sample size of 400. Students studying in four different universities were included in the study. The data was collected using a Questionnaire. A semi structured, self-administered questionnaire was prepared on Google Forms with open and close ended questionnaire and was circulated among university going students via WhatsApp and e-mail. The data was tabulated by Google spreadsheet. SPSS version 20 was used for data analysis. Results: Out of 400 students, who participated in the study, 55.25% students liked and 44.75% disliked online teaching during the lockdown period. However, 90.5% said that classroom was an effective platform for learning in comparison to online learning. Total of 6.5% subjects were completely satisfied, 24.5% somewhat satisfied and 8.25% were completely unsatisfied with online learning experience. A 44.75% student also felt difficult to spend several hours on mobile or computer. Conclusion: After analysing the results, it was concluded that the students liked the online classes but are not interested in continuing the same way after the lockdown. They felt that classroom teaching was more effective than online learning due to issues related to topic understanding, net connectivity, and lack of practical and/or demonstrations. Hence, certain improvements must be made to increase its acceptability amongst students.
Prevalence of Dental Caries and Periodontal Diseases among Secondary School Students in Duhok, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
Authors: Hamonari Nasreen Hamarash , Dabbagh Samim Ahmed AL , Mudhir Anees Mahmood
Published: April 2021

Introduction: A healthy oral cavity is a vital state for a healthy living, which can be influenced by oral cavity diseases such as dental caries and periodontal disease. Dental caries and periodontal disorders are the major oral health problems and indicators of the oral health burden worldwide. Aim: The study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of dental caries and periodontal diseases among secondary school students and their association with socio-demographic factors in Duhok, Kurdistan Region, Iraq. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a randomly selected sample of 809 high school students (395 females and 414 males) aged 14-20 years from eight secondary schools using multistage random sampling in four quarters of Duhok city from December 2018 to May 2019. The dental caries status was assessed by the Decayed, Missing, and Filled Teeth (DMFT) Index and periodontal status was assessed by using the Gingival Index (GI) and Plaque Index (PI). Results: The prevalence of dental caries was significantly higher (p=0.002) among males (93.5%) in comparison to females (86.8%). Also, the DMFT ≥5 among males (62.6%) was significantly higher than that (40.8%) among females (p<0.001). No significant association was detected between DMFT ≥5 and the socio-economic status (p=0.090). Likewise, the prevalence of moderate to severe gingivitis was significantly higher among males (63.5%) than females (55.2%) (p=0.016). However, the prevalence of moderate to severe gingivitis was higher among those living in low socio-economic quarters (63%) compared with those living in high socio-economic quarters (56.2%) of Duhok city (p=0.049). Conclusion: The results of this study provide evidence of a high prevalence of caries and periodontal diseases among secondary school students aged 14-20 years in Duhok city. Mean caries and gingival indices were significantly higher in males in comparison to females.
Generating New Flexible Lifetime Class of Distributions Based on Competing Risks and Frailty Models
Authors: El-Monsef M. M. E. Abd , El-Awady M. M.
Published: April 2021

New classes of continuous distributions have been generated, in the last decad, based on a compounding procedure arises on a latent competing risks problem. This procedure assumes the homogeneity between the population individuals. In this paper, a new lifetime distribution is generated, assuming the heterogeneity at both population and individual levels, called Extended Gamma Gompertz (EGG) distribution. This distribution shows very desirable exibility of its hazard function. Some properties of the proposed distribution are given. Maximum likelihood estimation technique is used to estimate the parameters. A simulation study is performed to examine the performance of the proposed model. Finally, application to a real data set is given to exemplify the utility of the EGG distribution.
Río de la Plata voyagers: Deciphering the migration ecology of a vulnerable marine catfish (Genidens barbus) in a large subtropical river (lower Uruguay River)
Authors: Vidal Nicolás , D'Anatro Alejandro , González‐Bergonzoni Iván , Silva Ivana , Correa Patricia , País Joaquín , Tesitore Giancarlo , Teixeira de Mello Franco
Published: April 2021

Genidens barbus is a vulnerable marine migrant catfish with low fecundity, a complex life cycle (i.e. mouth breeding), and is the target of industrial and artisanal fisheries of several countries. This species regularly migrates from marine to freshwater environments of the south‐western Atlantic.

The aim of this work was to delve deeper into the migration ecology of G. barbus, characterizing both its timing and potential environmental drivers. Furthermore, aspects of the population structure and reproduction of migrants in the lower Uruguay River were studied and the presence of juveniles in the adjacent estuarine recruitment area was evaluated.

Data from 11 years (2008–2018) of records of adult G. barbus captured by artisanal fisheries were used alongside relevant environmental variables that were recorded monthly. Reproductive biology (i.e. sex ratio, gonadosomatic index, fecundity, and oocyte size) was analysed for a period of 3 years (2016–2018). The juvenile abundance in the Río de la Plata estuary was evaluated seasonally.

A total of 935 adult individuals of G. barbus were captured, representing a total biomass of 3,123 kg. The migration timing was from early spring to early summer. The abundance of migrants strongly increased with river discharge, suggesting that this variable regulates the upriver migration. Furthermore, pre‐ and post‐spawn females and males displaying mouth breeding were recorded during the study period, confirming G. barbus reproduction in the lower Uruguay River.

The results obtained suggest that G. barbus ascend to spawn in the freshwater environments upstream from the mouth of the Uruguay River. Then, adult males incubate and carry the embryos downstream, releasing juveniles in the Río de la Plata estuary.

This relevant information will help with the implementation of effective management polices (e.g. fishing restrictions during the reproductive period) for the presently unregulated fishery of this vulnerable species in the lower Uruguay River.
Promoting connectivity between priority freshwater sites for conservation in intermittent hydrological systems
Authors: Naia Marisa , Hermoso Virgilio , Carvalho Sílvia B. , Brito José Carlos
Published: April 2021

Systematic conservation planning in freshwater ecosystems faces multiple challenges because of the dynamic nature of rivers and their multiple dimensions of connectivity. In intermittent hydrological systems connectivity is functional when water is available, allowing the exchange of aquatic individuals between isolated freshwater ecosystems. Integrating these isolated systems in their hydrological context is essential when identifying priority areas for conservation, in order to try to minimize the propagation of threats into target water bodies (management units) from the surrounding landscape.

Here, the use of a systematic planning approach is demonstrated to identify a set of priority management units to preserve freshwater biodiversity in an arid system of fragmented water bodies immersed in a landscape subject to a range of impacts.

Twenty‐six water‐dependent taxa from 59 mountain rock pools (gueltas) of three southern Mauritanian mountains were used as a case study. A conservation planning tool (marxan) was used to find priority conservation areas to integrate intermittent hydrological systems in their hydrological context, promote connectivity, and minimize the downstream propagation of threats. Three types of connectivity were analysed: (i) no connectivity, (ii) connectivity between gueltas, and (iii) connectivity between gueltas and sub‐catchments.

Considering different types of longitudinal connectivity affects the number and spatial allocation of the priority gueltas selected, and the conservation status of the gueltas and their upstream areas. Incorporating connections between gueltas and upstream locations in the modelling resulted in the selection of gueltas in areas with a low human footprint and in the increased connectivity of the solutions.

The results obtained revealed important locations for local biodiversity conservation, and the method presented can be used when assessing the propagation of potential waterborne threats into isolated management units. The framework developed allows connectivity to be addressed in conservation planning. It can be replicated in regions with similar isolated habitats that connect through intermittent hydrological systems and can also be applied to lateral and vertical hydrological connectivity.
Human assist control considering shape of target system
Authors: Furusawa Shoma , Nakamura Hisakazu
Published: April 2021

Human operational errors, especially those that result in car crashes, are recognized as a significant issue in modern society. Recently, assistance with control systems operated by humans has generated interest in its detailed investigation. Previously, to avoid collisions with obstacles as a result of arbitrary human input, control barrier function‐based collision avoidance methods have been utilized. However, safety can only be guaranteed in the condition that a target system is a point. In this paper, we propose a new control barrier function that can guarantee the safety of the entire shape of the control target. We design a lane‐keeping assistance system that considers the shape of a target system for a rear‐wheel‐drive car with a control barrier function. The effectiveness of the proposed method is confirmed by computer simulation.
Perceived helpfulness of depression treatments among young adults with autism
Authors: Zheng Shuting , Taylor Julie Lounds , Adams Ryan , Pezzimenti Florencia , Bishop Somer L.
Published: April 2021

Currently available treatments for depression show limited effectiveness in adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) based on measures of symptom changes and clinician impressions. Perceived helpfulness is another metric that has been found to be useful for understanding treatment outcomes in the general population, but it has not yet been explored in adults with ASD. Thus, the current study collected online survey data to examine patient‐perceived treatment helpfulness in a sample of 144 adults with ASD who reported that they were currently receiving community‐based treatment for depression. Findings indicate that while there was variability in the levels of perceived helpfulness for both medication and individual therapy, most adults with ASD perceived treatment to be at least moderately helpful. Notably, adults with ASD reported having been in treatment for a prolonged duration (5 to 6 years). Ordinal logistic regression models showed that adults with more depressive symptoms perceived treatments to be less helpful (i.e., medications: odds ratio [OR] = 0.92, 95% confidence interval[CI] = 0.89–0.95; individual therapy: OR = 0.95, 95% CI = 0.92–0.99). Moreover, women perceived medication as more helpful than men (OR = 2.33, 95% CI = 1.13–4.82). Other individual (i.e., age, race, education level) and treatment (i.e., treatment length, concurrent treatment) characteristics were not significantly associated with perceived helpfulness. These findings suggest that future studies may want to use perceived helpfulness, in addition to traditionally used objective outcomes, to understand patients' treatment experience and evaluate depression treatments for adults with ASD.

Lay summary

Adults with autism are much more likely to be depressed than those without autism; therefore, effective depression treatments are necessary to improve mental health outcomes in this group. This online survey study found that most adults with autism felt that the depression treatments they were receiving in the community (i.e., medication and individual therapy) were helpful. Females and those with fewer symptoms of depression felt treatments were more helpful compared with males and those with more symptoms of depression. Our findings suggest that when examining whether treatments for depression are effective, it may be important to measure adults' feelings about the helpfulness of the treatments in addition to measuring changes in symptoms of depression.
Buccal Pedicle Flap Combined With Porcine Collagen Matrix: A Follow‐Up of 2 Years on 40 Consecutive Cases
Authors: Tabanella Giorgio
Published: April 2021

Introduction

A thick peri‐implant mucosa is of importance to prevent recession, color alterations, bone remodeling and promote “creeping attachment.” A volume stable porcine cross‐linked collagen matrix has been recently introduced for soft tissue regeneration and volume maintenance. The aim of this study was to investigate peri‐implant soft tissue healing and stability on 40 consecutive patients treated with buccal pedicle flap combined with the use of the collagen matrix.

Case Series

The buccal pedicle flap combined with a volume stable collagen matrix was executed at second stage surgery. The average initial mucosa thickness was 1.32 mm whereas the average band of keratinized mucosa was 1.65 mm and the height 1.3 mm. Four months after surgical procedure and before delivering the final restoration, the peri‐implant soft tissue measurements were significantly increased: the average band of keratinized mucosa was 5.10 mm, the mucosa thickness was 3.27 mm, and the mucosa height was 3.32 mm. After 2 years of follow‐up, the superimposition of 3D models described an overall volumetric stability of the augmented mucosa with no signs of soft tissue collapse.

Conclusion

The proposed modified buccal pedicle flap was demonstrated to perform well in terms of decreased morbidity, maintenance of blood supply, stabilization of the pedicle, superior haemostasis, and speed of treatment. No significant variations of the keratinized tissue were registered when the buccal pedicle flap was executed in conjunction with the collagen matrix that however provided color match with the surrounding tissue as well as an increased mucosa thickness.
Hazard characterization of carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, and reproductive toxicity for short chain primary nitroalkanes
Authors: Garnick Lindsey , Gillie Caroline , Kozal Jordan , Monnot Andy , Spencer Pamela , Quinn Jordan , Maier Andrew
Published: April 2021

Nitroalkanes are organic aliphatic hydrocarbon compounds with a nitro moiety that are commonly used as solvents or intermediates to synthesize a variety of organic compounds due to their inherent reactivity. In June 2020, a harmonized classification and labeling (CLH) proposal was submitted to the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) for the following harmonized carcinogenicity, mutagenicity, and reproductive toxicity (“CMR”) classifications for nitromethane (NM), nitroethane (NE), and 1‐nitropropane (1‐NP): NM Carc. 1B and Repr. 1B; NE Repr. 1B; and 1‐NP Repr. 2. In this assessment, a weight of evidence (WoE) evaluation of studies on animal carcinogenicity and reproductive and developmental toxicity, genotoxicity, and mode of action for these three nitroalkanes was performed to critically assess the relevance of the proposed CMR classifications. Overall, the WoE indicates that NM, NE, and 1‐NP are not carcinogenic, genotoxic, nor selective reproductive or developmental toxicants. Based on our analysis, classifying NM, NE, and 1‐NP as Category 2 reproductive toxicants is most appropriate. Furthermore, not classifying NE and 1‐NP with respect to their carcinogenicity is appropriate based on the available studies for this endpoint coupled with negative results in genotoxicity studies, metabolism data, and in silico predictions. We determined that the classification for NM of Carc. 1B is not appropriate, based on the fact that rat mammary and harderian tumors are likely not relevant to humans and lung and liver tumors reported in mice were equivocal in their dose–response and statistical significance.
Development of biodegradable webs of PLA/PCL blends prepared via electrospinning: Morphological, chemical, and thermal characterization
Authors: Oztemur Janset , Yalcin‐Enis Ipek
Published: April 2021

Biodegradable polymers have a mean role to mimic native tissues and allow cells to penetrate, grow, and proliferate with their advanced features in tissue engineering applications. The physiological, chemical, mechanical, and biological qualities of the surfaces, which are presented from biodegradable polymers, affect the final properties of the scaffolds. In this study, it is aimed to produce fibrous webs by electrospinning method for tissue engineering applications using two different biopolymers, polylactic acid (PLA) and polycaprolactone (PCL). These polymers are used either alone or in a blended form (PLA/PCL, 1/1 wt.). Within the scope of the study, polymer concentrations (6, 8 and 10%) and solvent types (used for chloroform/ethanol/acetic acid mixture, PCL and PLA/PCL mixtures, and chloroform/acetone, PLA) vary as solution parameters. Fibrous webs are investigated in terms of morphological, chemical, and thermal characteristics. Results show continuous fibers are examined for 8 or 10% polymer concentrations with an average fiber diameter of 1.3–2.7 μm and pore area of 4–9 μm2. No fiber formation is observed in sample groups with a polymer concentration of 6% and beaded structures are formed. Water contact angle analysis proves the hydrophobic properties of PLA and PCL, whereas Fourier‐transform infrared results show there is no solution residue on the surfaces, so there is no toxic effect. Also, in differential scanning calorimetry analysis, the characteristic crystallization peaks of the polymers are recognized, and when the polymers are in a blend, it beholds that they have effects on each other's crystallization.
The role of Vitamin B12 and genetic risk factors in the etiology of neural tube defects: A systematic review
Authors: Wahbeh Farah , Manyama Mange
Published: April 2021

Neural tube defects (NTDs) are birth defects that arise during embryogenesis when normal neural tube closure fails to occur. According to the World Health Organization, NTDs are detected annually in approximately 300,000 neonates worldwide. The exact etiology of NTDs remains complex and poorly understood. It is generally agreed that most NTD cases are of multifactorial origin, having a combination of multiple genes and a number of environmental risk factors. The role of folic acid, vitamin B12 deficiency, genetics and other risk factors, in the etiology of NTDs, has also been extensively studied. This knowledge synthesis brings together different types of evidence to update the role of vitamin B12 deficiency, genetics and other risk factors, in the etiology of NTDs. Following a PubMed search and screening for relevant articles, we included 40 studies in our review (30 case–control studies, 3 cross‐sectional studies, 5 cohort studies, and 2 case reports). The available data showed that vitamin B12 levels were decreased in mothers and infants in NTD groups compared with control groups. Holo‐transcobalamin, the active form of vitamin B12, was also found in lower levels in mothers with NTD‐affected infants. Several studies reported elevated homocysteine levels in mothers and infants in NTD groups. Additionally, numerous studies reported links between genetic variants and increased NTD risk. These genes include GIF, LRP2, CUBN, TCb1R, MTHFR, and others. Several maternal factors have also been linked with significant NTD risk such as BMI, maternal diet, air pollutants, low maternal age, and many others. The majority of studies on NTDs have focused on the role of folic acid, hence there is a need for well‐designed studies on the role of other risk factors like vitamin B12 deficiency in the etiology of NTDs.
Modulation of stimulated dopamine release in rat nucleus accumbens shell by GABA in vitro: Effect of sub‐chronic phencyclidine pretreatment
Authors: Ferdinand Jacqueline‐Marie , Peters Kate Z. , Yavas Ersin , Young Andrew M. J.
Published: April 2021

Dopamine signaling in nucleus accumbens (NAc) is modulated by γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA), acting through GABA‐A and GABA‐B receptors: dysregulation of GABAergic control of dopamine function may be important in behavioral deficits in schizophrenia. We investigated the effect of GABA‐A (muscimol) and GABA‐B (baclofen) receptor agonists on electrically stimulated dopamine release. Furthermore, we explored whether drug‐induced changes were disrupted by pretreatment with phencyclidine, which provides a well‐validated model of schizophrenia. Using brain slices from female rats, fast‐scan cyclic voltammetry was used to measure electrically stimulated dopamine release in NAc shell. Both muscimol and baclofen caused concentration‐dependent attenuation of evoked dopamine release: neither effect was changed by dihydro‐β‐erythroidine, a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor antagonist, or the α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA)‐type glutamate receptor antagonist, 6‐cyano‐7‐nitroquinoxaline‐2,3‐dione (CNQX), precluding indirect mechanisms using these transmitter systems in the GABAergic actions. In slices taken from rats pretreated with phencyclidine, the attenuation of evoked dopamine release by baclofen was abolished, but the attenuation by muscimol was unaffected. Since phencyclidine pretreatment was followed by drug‐free washout period of at least a week, the drug was not present during recording. Therefore, disruption of GABA‐B modulation of dopamine is due to long‐term functional changes resulting from the treatment, rather than transient changes due to the drug's presence at test. This enduring dysregulation of GABA‐B modulation of accumbal dopamine release provides a plausible mechanism through which GABA dysfunction influences accumbal dopamine leading to behavioral changes seen in schizophrenia and may provide a route for novel therapeutic strategies to treat the condition.
Thermal buckling of trapezoidal composite laminated plates with embedded shape memory alloys
Authors: Yas Mohammad Hossein , Basati Fatemeh , Kamarian Saeed
Published: April 2021

The present work deals with thermal buckling of trapezoidal composite plates with embedded shape memory alloy (SMA) wires. In order to estimate the thermomechanical behavior of SMAs, Brinson's model is applied. The thermal buckling equations are derived based on first‐order shear deformation theory, and then solved by means of two‐dimensional generalized differential quadrature method. A parametric study is performed to demonstrate the influence of some parameters such as volume fraction and pre‐strain of SMA wires, the geometric properties, lay‐up configuration, as well as boundary conditions on the critical buckling temperature of trapezoidal composite plates. Numerical results state that the positive effects of SMA wires are restricted to a limited range of thickness and temperature. Results also show that SMA wires can play a destructive role in the thermal buckling behavior of trapezoidal plates, depending on the geometry of the structure, stacking sequence of layers, and boundary conditions.
In a belowground multitrophic interaction, Trichoderma harzianum induces maize root herbivore tolerance against Phyllophaga vetula
Authors: Contreras‐Cornejo Hexon Angel , Macías‐Rodríguez Lourdes , Real‐Santillán Raúl Omar , López‐Carmona Dante , García‐Gómez Griselda , Galicia‐Gallardo Ana Paola , Alfaro‐Cuevas Ruth , González‐Esquivel Carlos E , Najera‐Rincón Miguel Bernardo , Adame‐Garnica Sandra Goretti , Rebollar‐Alviter Angel , Álvarez‐Navarrete Mariana , Larsen John
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND

Trichoderma spp. are soil fungi that interact with plant roots and associated biota such as other microorganisms and soil fauna. However, information about their interactions with root‐feeding insects is limited. Here, interactions between Trichoderma harzianum and the root‐feeding insect Phyllophaga vetula, a common insect pest in maize agroecosystems, were examined.

RESULTS

Applications of T. harzianum and P. vetula to the root system increased and decreased maize growth, respectively. Induced tolerance against herbivore attack was provided by T. harzianum maintaining a robust and functional root system as evidenced by the increased uptake of Cu, Ca, Mg, Na and K. Herbivore tolerance also coincided with changes in the emission of root volatile terpenes known to induce indirect defense responses and attract natural enemies of the herbivore. More importantly, T. harzianum induced de novo emission of several sesquiterpenes such as β‐caryophyllene and δ‐cadinene. In addition, single and combined applications of T. harzianum and P. vetula altered the sucrose content of the roots. Finally, T. harzianum produced 6‐pentyl‐2H‐pyran‐2‐one (6‐PP) a volatile compound that may act as an antifeedant‐signaling compound mitigating root herbivory by P. vetula.

CONCLUSION

Our results provide novel information about belowground multitrophic plant–microbe–arthropod interactions between T. harzianum and P. vetula in the maize rhizosphere resulting in alterations in maize phenotypic plant responses, inducing root herbivore tolerance.
Effects of Nigella sativa oil supplementation on selected metabolic parameters and anthropometric indices in patients with coronary artery disease: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial
Authors: Tavakoli‐Rouzbehani Omid Mohammad , Abbasnezhad Mohsen , Kheirouri Sorayya , Alizadeh Mohammad
Published: April 2021

Various metabolic parameters are risk factors related to the amplified risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. A wide variety of data exist on Nigella sativa (NS) and metabolic parameters. The current study is designed to examine NS supplementation on lipid profile, blood pressure, glycemic control, anthropometric indices, and insulin resistance in individuals with coronary artery disease (CAD). In a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial, 60 patients with CAD received either 2 g of NS oil or sunflower oil as a placebo for 8 weeks. Biochemical and anthropometric measurements were assessed. NS significantly reduced weight (−1.82 Kg; 95% C, [2.72, 4.13]), body mass index (−0.67 kg/m2; 95% C, [0.33, 1.01]), waist circumference (−2.15 cm; 95% C, [1.06, 3.23]), hip circumference (−1.26 cm; 95% C, [0.61, 1.910]), waist‐to‐hip ratio (0.008; 95%C, [0.001, 0.01]), systolic (−9.52 mmHg; 95% C, [7.14, 11.9]), diastolic blood pressure (−8.26 mmHg; 95% C, [4.89, 11.62]), and fasting blood glucose (FBS) (−4.32 mg/dl; 95% C, [−0.51, 9.15]) as compared with the placebo group. The results indicate a potential beneficiary effect of NS on the metabolic parameters in CAD patients including improvements in anthropometric indices, blood pressure, and FBS.
Local Unitarity: a representation of differential cross-sections that is locally free of infrared singularities at any order
Authors: Capatti Zeno , Hirschi Valentin , Pelloni Andrea , Ruijl Ben
Published: April 2021

Abstract

We propose a novel representation of differential scattering cross-sections that locally realises the direct cancellation of infrared singularities exhibited by its so-called real-emission and virtual degrees of freedom. We take advantage of the Loop-Tree Duality representation of each individual forward-scattering diagram and we prove that the ensuing expression is locally free of infrared divergences, applies at any perturbative order and for any process without initial-state collinear singularities. Divergences for loop momenta with large magnitudes are regulated using local ultraviolet counterterms that reproduce the usual Lagrangian renormalisation procedure of quantum field theories. Our representation is especially suited for a numerical implementation and we demonstrate its practical potential by computing fully numerically and without any IR counterterm the next-to-leading order accurate differential cross-section for the process e+e− → $$ d\overline{d} $$
d

d
¯

. We also show first results beyond next-to-leading order by computing interference terms part of the N4LO-accurate inclusive cross-section of a 1 → 2 + X scalar scattering process.
Fibonacci topological phase in arrays of anyonic chains
Authors: Ebisu Hiromi
Published: April 2021

Abstract

Fibonacci anyon, an exotic quasi-particle excitation, plays a pivotal role in realization of a quantum computer. Starting from a SU (2)4 topological phase, in this paper we demonstrate a way to construct a Fibonacci topological phase which has only one non-trivial excitation described by the Fibonacci anyon. We show that arrays of anyonic chains created by excitations of the SU(2)4 phase leads to the Fibonacci phase. We further demonstrate that our theoretical propositions can be extended to other topological phases.
Elution study of acrylic monomers from orthodontic materials using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)
Authors: Kux B. J. , Bacigalupo L. M. , Scriba A. , Emmrich M. , Jost-Brinkmann P.-G.
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Main goal of the study was the identification and quantitative analysis of monomer elution from materials commonly used in fixed orthodontic therapy. Studies have shown severe health effects of monomers including cytotoxic, allergenic or mutagenic potential and endocrine changes. This in vitro study focusses primarily on five resins which are usually processed intraorally and remain in the oral cavity long-term.

Methods

We tested the elution of monomers from specimens (7.5 mm × 1.5 mm) immersed in artificial saliva at body temperature (37 °C) for 30 min to 5 weeks. The used method is in accordance with DIN EN ISO 10993-13. The five tested materials were BrackFix® (Voco GmbH, Cuxhaven, Germany), Triad®Gel (DeguDent GmbH, Hanau, Germany), and Transbond™ XT, LR and Plus (3M Unitek, Monrovia, CA, USA). All aliquots were analyzed using high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Data were statistically analyzed.

Results

All five analyzed materials eluted substances over a period of 5 weeks. Identified substances included bisphenol A (BPA), triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) and urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA). BPA eluted from Transbond™ Plus, XT, LR and BrackFix®. The cumulated mean values after 35 days ranged from 16.04 to 64.83 ppm, depending on the material. TEGDMA eluted with a mean of 688.61 ppm from Transbond™ LR. UDMA with a mean of 1682.00 ppm from Triad®Gel. For each material the highest concentrations of all these substances were found in the first elution period. Other substances that were not equivocally identified or of low concentration also eluted.

Conclusion

Using the described method, it is possible to qualitatively and quantitatively determine the in vitro elution of monomers from orthodontic materials. The concentrations of the substances identified were below the current maximum recommended intake. However, a cumulative effect and low-dose effects should be considered for both patients and dental professionals, especially for young patients. Measures to reduce exposure patients and practitioners are suggested.
Evidenzbasiert Gesundheit fördern: Wo stehen wir in Aus‑, Fort- und Weiterbildung der relevanten Akteure? Eine explorative Übersicht
Authors: Trojan Alf , Nelskamp Zarah , Kolip Petra
Published: April 2021

Hintergrund

Interventionen in der Gesundheitsförderung und Prävention sind bisher nicht im wünschenswerten Umfang evidenzbasiert angelegt. Ein vergleichsweise unbeachteter Erklärungsfaktor könnte darin liegen, dass in der Aus- und Fortbildung von Akteuren der Gesundheitsförderung und Prävention Evidenzbasierung noch zu wenig berücksichtigt wird.

Fragestellung

Inwieweit findet sich das Thema Evidenzbasierung in Grundlagendokumenten wie Kompetenzrahmen, Modulhandbüchern einschlägiger Studiengänge sowie den Fortbildungsangeboten zentraler Fortbildungsträger für Akteure der Prävention und Gesundheitsförderung?

Methoden und Material

Selektive Internetrecherche und Dokumentenanalyse von 2 fachspezifischen Qualifikationsrahmen, 31 Studiengängen und 3 großen Trägern von Fortbildungsangeboten im Hinblick auf die explizite Erwähnung von Evidenzthemen.

Ergebnisse

Deutliche Berücksichtigung von Evidenz in beiden Qualifikationsrahmen und in 17 von 31 Studiengängen; keine explizite Nennung in den Qualifizierungsangeboten der 3 untersuchten Träger in den letzten 5 Jahren.

Diskussion

Limitationen des methodischen Vorgehens sind, dass nicht das gesamte Feld analysiert wurde, dass nur nach expliziter Berücksichtigung von Evidenzthemen gesucht wurde und dass Planungspapiere ein unsicherer Indikator für die tatsächliche Praxis der Aus‑, Weiter- und Fortbildung sind. Gleichwohl zeigt die explorative Studie Handlungsbedarf auf. Es wird angeregt, auf Universitäten, Hochschulen und die Träger der Fortbildungsangebote zuzugehen mit dem Ziel, Evidenzthemen, z. B. auf Basis des Memorandums der Bundeszentrale für gesundheitliche Aufklärung (BZgA) „Evidenzbasierte Prävention und Gesundheitsförderung“, stärker in ihren Angeboten zu verankern.
Gründe für die Ablehnung behördlicher Empfehlungen und Maßnahmen zum Schutz vor SARS-CoV-2 – eine qualitative Studie auf Basis von Beiträgen in sozialen Medien
Authors: Wahidie Diana , Yılmaz-Aslan Yüce , Ölcer Sabahat , Aksakal Tuğba , Brzoska Patrick
Published: April 2021

Hintergrund

Um die Ausbreitung von SARS-CoV‑2 (schweres akutes Atemwegssyndrom-Coronavirus-Typ 2) zu verlangsamen, haben Bund und Bundesländer Schutzmaßnahmen ergriffen, die weitreichende Folgen für die Bevölkerung haben. Diese Maßnahmen umfassen u. a. die zeitweise Einschränkung des Betriebs von Freizeiteinrichtungen sowie Kontakt- und Reiseeinschränkungen. Die Maßnahmen rufen gemischte Reaktionen hervor, wobei Teile der Bevölkerung Empfehlungen und Vorgaben ignorieren.

Ziel der Arbeit

Ziel der vorliegenden Studie ist es, auf Basis der Beiträge in sozialen Medien die Gründe für die Ablehnung von Schutzmaßnahmen zu untersuchen.

Material und Methoden

3 soziale Netzwerke (Facebook, Twitter und Youtube-Kommentare) wurden für den Zeitraum 02.03. bis 18.04.2020 systematisch hinsichtlich der Einstellungen zu Kontaktbeschränkungen und anderen Schutzmaßnahmen mittels qualitativer Dokumenten- und Inhaltsanalyse untersucht. Insgesamt wurden 119 Beiträge in die Analyse aufgenommen und interpretiert.

Ergebnisse

6 Hauptkategorien und 4 Unterkategorien wurden im Zusammenhang mit der Ablehnung der Schutzmaßnahmen identifiziert: Fehlinformationen der sozialen Medien (Verharmlosung und Zweifel an der Wirksamkeit), Misstrauen gegenüber den etablierten öffentlichen Medien, Wissensdefizite und Verunsicherung, Einschränkung der Grundrechte, die Rolle der Behörden (Bevölkerungskontrolle und mangelndes Vertrauen in das Robert Koch-Institut) sowie wirtschaftliche Auswirkungen der Pandemie.

Diskussion

Fehlinformationen in sozialen Medien und Wissensdefizite können zu einer Unterschätzung der Pandemie beitragen. Zudem können wirtschaftliche Belastungen mit der Ablehnung von Schutzvorkehrungen einhergehen. Zur Erhöhung der Akzeptanz implementierter Schutzmaßnahmen stellen Gesundheitsaufklärung sowie transparente und evidenzbasierte Kommunikation relevante Determinanten dar.
Das funktionelle Querschnittsyndrom – ein Fallbericht
Authors: Haider Thomas , Notter Lisbeth
Published: April 2021

In der Akutsituation im Schockraum stellen neurologische Ausfälle immer eine diagnostische und in weiterer Folge auch therapeutische Herausforderung dar. Das sogenannte funktionelle Querschnittsyndrom, also sensomotorische Defizite bei vermuteter Rückenmarkläsion ohne organisches Korrelat, wird selten angetroffen und auch in der Literatur sind nur vereinzelte Fallberichte zu finden. Der Fall eines jungen Patienten mit einem funktionellen Querschnittsyndrom nach Trauma wird in diesem Artikel vorgestellt.
A phasianid bird from the Pleistocene of Tainan: the very first avian fossil from Taiwan
Authors: Tsai Cheng-Hsiu , Mayr Gerald
Published: April 2021

Taiwan accommodates more than 600 avian species, including about 30 endemic ones. As yet, however, no fossil birds have been scientifically documented from Taiwan, so that the evolutionary origins of this diversified avifauna remain elusive. Here we report on the very first fossil bird from Taiwan. This Pleistocene specimen, a distal end of the left tarsometatarsus, shows diagnostic features of the galliform Phasianidae, including an asymmetric plantar articular facet trochlea metatarsi III. Our discovery of a Pleistocene phasianid from Taiwan opens a new perspective on studies of the evolution of the avifauna in Taiwan because the fossil shows that careful search for fossils in suitable localities has the potential of recovering avian remains. In general, East Asia has an extremely poor avian fossil record, especially if terrestrial birds are concerned, which impedes well-founded evolutionary scenarios concerning the arrival of certain groups in the area. The Phasianidae exhibit a high degree of endemism in Taiwan, and the new fossil presents the first physical evidence for the presence of phasianids on the island, some 400,000–800,000 years ago. The specimen belongs to a species the size of the three larger phasianids occurring in Taiwan today (Syrmaticus mikado, Lophura swinhoii, and Phasianus colchicus). Still, an unambiguous assignment to either of these species is not possible due to the incomplete nature of the left tarsometatarsus. Because the former two species are endemic to Taiwan, the fossil has the potential to yield the first data on their existence in the geological past of Taiwan if future finds allow identification on species-level.
Fuzzy Tuned PID Controller for Envisioned Agricultural Manipulator
Authors: Paul Satyam , Arunachalam Ajay , Khodadad Davood , Andreasson Henrik , Rubanenko Olena
Published: April 2021

The implementation of image-based phenotyping systems has become an important aspect of crop and plant science research which has shown tremendous growth over the years. Accurate determination of features using images requires stable imaging and very precise processing. By installing a camera on a mechanical arm driven by motor, the maintenance of accuracy and stability becomes non-trivial. As per the state-of-the-art, the issue of external camera shake incurred due to vibration is a great concern in capturing accurate images, which may be induced by the driving motor of the manipulator. So, there is a requirement for a stable active controller for sufficient vibration attenuation of the manipulator. However, there are very few reports in agricultural practices which use control algorithms. Although, many control strategies have been utilized to control the vibration in manipulators associated to various applications, no control strategy with validated stability has been provided to control the vibration in such envisioned agricultural manipulator with simple low-cost hardware devices with the compensation of non-linearities. So, in this work, the combination of proportional-integral-differential (PID) control with type-2 fuzzy logic (T2-F-PID) is implemented for vibration control. The validation of the controller stability using Lyapunov analysis is established. A torsional actuator (TA) is applied for mitigating torsional vibration, which is a new contribution in the area of agricultural manipulators. Also, to prove the effectiveness of the controller, the vibration attenuation results with T2-F-PID is compared with conventional PD/PID controllers, and a type-1 fuzzy PID (T1-F-PID) controller.