bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Secondary Stroke Prevention in Polish Adults: Results from the LIPIDOGRAM2015 Study
Authors: Labuz-Roszak Beata , Banach Maciej , Skrzypek Michal , Windak Adam , Tomasik Tomasz , Mastej Miroslaw , Tomaszewski Maciej , Mikhailidis Dimitri P. , Toth Peter P. , Catapano Alberico , Ray Kausik K. , Howard George , Lip Gregory Y. H. , Charchar Fadi J. , Sattar Naveed , Williams Bryan , MacDonald Thomas M. , Penson Peter , Jozwiak Jacek J. ,   on behalf of the LIPIDOGRAM2015 Investigators
Published: September 2021

Background: The purpose of the study was to evaluate secondary stroke prevention in Poland and its association with sociodemographic factors, place of residence, and concomitant cardiovascular risk factors. Material and methods: From all patients in LIPIDOGRAM2015 Study (n = 13,724), 268 subjects had a history of ischaemic stroke and were included. Results: 165 subjects (61.6%) used at least one preventive medication. Oral antiplatelet and anticoagulation agents were used by 116 (43.3%) and 70 (26.1%) patients, respectively. Only 157 (58.6%) participants used lipid-lowering drugs, and 205 (76.5%) were treated with antihypertensive drugs. Coronary heart disease (CHD) and dyslipidaemia were associated with antiplatelet treatment (p = 0.047 and p = 0.012, respectively). A history of atrial fibrillation, CHD, and previous myocardial infarction correlated with anticoagulant treatment (p = 0.001, p = 0.011, and p < 0.0001, respectively). Age, gender, time from stroke onset, place of residence, and level of education were not associated with antiplatelet or anticoagulant treatment. Only 31.7% of patients were engaged in regular physical activity, 62% used appropriate diet, and 13.6% were current smokers. Conclusions: In Poland drugs and lifestyle modification for secondary stroke prevention are not commonly adhered to. Educational programmes for physicians and patients should be developed to improve application of effective secondary prevention of stroke.
Effects of Immersive and Non-Immersive Virtual Reality on the Static and Dynamic Balance of Stroke Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Garay-Sánchez Aitor , Suarez-Serrano Carmen , Ferrando-Margelí Mercedes , Jimenez-Rejano Jose Jesus , Marcén-Román Yolanda
Published: September 2021

(1) Background: The development of new technologies means that the use of virtual reality is increasingly being implemented in rehabilitative approaches for adult stroke patients. Objective: To analyze the existing scientific evidence regarding the application of immersive and non-immersive virtual reality in patients following cerebrovascular incidents and their efficacy in achieving dynamic and static balance. (2) Data sources: An electronic search of the databases Medline, Cochrane Library, PEDro, Scopus, and Scielo from January 2010 to December 2020 was carried out using the terms physiotherapy, physical therapy, virtual reality, immersive virtual reality, non-immersive virtual reality, stroke, balance, static balance, and dynamic balance. Selection of studies: Randomized controlled trials in patients older than 18 developed with an adult population (>18 years old) with balance disorders as a consequence of suffering a stroke in the previous six months before therapeutic intervention, including exercises harnessing virtual reality in their interventions and evaluations of balance and published in English or Spanish, were included. A total of two hundred twenty-seven articles were found, ten of which were included for review and of these, nine were included in the subsequent meta-analysis. (3) Data extraction: Two authors selected the studies and extracted their characteristics (participants, interventions, and validation instruments) and results. The methodological quality of the studies was evaluated using the PEDro scale, and the risk of bias was determined using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. Data synthesis: Of the selected studies, three did not show significant improvements and seven showed significant improvements in the intervention groups in relation to the variables. (4) Conclusions: Non-immersive virtual reality combined with conventional rehabilitation could be considered as a therapeutic option.
Intra-Anal Imiquimod Cream against Human Papillomavirus Infection in Men Who Have Sex with Men Living with HIV: A Single-Arm, Open-Label Pilot Study
Authors: Durukan Duygu , Phillips Tiffany R. , Murray Gerald L. , Ong Jason J. , Grulich Andrew E. , Poynten I. Mary , Jin Fengyi , Bradshaw Catriona S. , Aguirre Ivette , Silvers Julie , Kent Helen , Atchison Steph , Balgovind Prisha , Cornall Alyssa , Chen Marcus Y. , Fairley Christopher K. , Chow Eric P. F.
Published: September 2021

Men who have sex with men (MSM) living with HIV have a high prevalence and incidence of anal high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) and anal cancer. We conducted an open-label, single-arm pilot study to examine the tolerability of imiquimod cream among MSM aged ≥18 years, living with HIV, who tested positive for anal hrHPV at Melbourne Sexual Health Centre between April 2018 and June 2020. We instructed men to apply 6.25 mg imiquimod intra-anally and peri-anally 3 doses per week for 16 weeks (period 1) and then one dose per week for a further 48 weeks (period 2). Twenty-seven MSM enrolled in period 1 and 24 (86%) applied at least 50% of doses. All men reported adverse events (AEs), including 39.5% grade 1, 39.5% grade 2, and 21% grade 3 AEs on at least one occasion. Eighteen MSM (67%) temporarily stopped using imiquimod during period 1, most commonly due to local AEs (n = 11) such as irritation and itching. Eighteen MSM continued in period 2 and all applied at least 50% of doses with no treatment-limiting AEs reported. Imiquimod 3 doses per week caused local AEs in most men and was not well tolerated. In contrast, once-a-week application was well tolerated over 48-weeks with no treatment-limiting AEs.
Spectral Transmission of the Human Corneal Layers
Authors: Peris-Martínez Cristina , García-Domene Mari Carmen , Penadés Mariola , Luque María Josefa , Fernández-López Ester , Artigas José María
Published: September 2021

We have assessed the spectral transmittance of the different layers of the human cornea in the ultraviolet (UV), visible, and near-infrared (IR) spectral ranges. Seventy-four corneal sample donors were included in the study. Firstly, the corneal transmittance was measured using a spectrophotometer. Then, all samples were fixed for histopathological analysis, which allowed us to measure the thickness of each corneal layer. Finally, the absorption coefficients of the corneal layers were computed by a linear model reproducing total transmittance. The results show that corneal transmission was almost in unity at the visible and IR ranges but not at the UV range, in which the layer with higher transmission is Descemet’s membrane, whereas the stroma showed the lowest transmittance. Regarding the absorption coefficient, the most absorptive tissue was Bowman’s layer, followed by the endothelium. Variations on transmittance due to changes in the stroma, Bowman’s layer, or Descemet layer were simulated, and important transmission increases were found due to stroma and Bowman changes. To conclude, we have developed a method to measure the transmittance and thickness for each corneal layer. All corneal layers absorb UV light to a greater or lesser extent. The absorption coefficient is higher for Bowman’s layer, while the stroma is the layer with the lowest transmittance due to its thickness. Variations in stroma thickness or changes in the corneal tissue of Bowman’s layer or the endothelium layer due to some pathologies or surgeries could affect, to a greater or lesser degree, the total transmission of the cornea. Thus, obtaining accurate absorption coefficients for different layers would help us to predict and compensate these changes.
Elevated Plasma Bioactive Adrenomedullin and Mortality in Cardiogenic Shock: Results from the OptimaCC Trial
Authors: Takagi Koji , Levy Bruno , Kimmoun Antoine , Miró Òscar , Duarte Kévin , Asakage Ayu , Blet Alice , Deniau Benjamin , Schulte Janin , Hartmann Oliver , Cotter Gad , Davison Beth A , Gayat Etienne , Mebazaa Alexandre
Published: September 2021

Aims: Bioactive adrenomedullin (bio-ADM) was recently shown to be a prognostic marker in patients with acute circulatory failure. We investigate the association of bio-ADM with organ injury, functional impairment, and survival in cardiogenic shock (CS). Methods: OptimaCC was a multicenter and randomized trial in 57 patients with CS. In this post-hoc analysis, the primary endpoint was to assess the association between bio-ADM and 30-day all-cause mortality. Secondary endpoints included adverse events and parameters of organ injury or functional impairment. Results: Bio-ADM values were higher in 30-day non-survivors than 30-day survivors at inclusion (median (interquartile range) 67.0 (54.6–142.9) pg/mL vs. 38.7 (23.8–63.6) pg/mL, p = 0.010), at 24 h (p = 0.012), and up to 48 h (p = 0.027). Using a bio-ADM cutoff of 53.8 pg/mL, patients with increased bio-ADM had a HR of 3.90 (95% confidence interval 1.43–10.68, p = 0.008) for 30-day all-cause mortality, and similar results were observed even after adjustment for severity scores. Patients with the occurrence of refractory CS had higher bio-ADM value at inclusion (90.7 (59.9–147.7) pg/mL vs. 40.7 (23.0–64.7) pg/mL p = 0.005). Bio-ADM values at inclusion were correlated with pulmonary vascular resistance index, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (r = 0.49, r = –0.47, and r = 0.64, respectively; p < 0.001). Conclusions: In CS patients, the values of bio-ADM are associated with some parameters of organ injury and functional impairment and are prognostic for the occurrence of refractory CS and 30-day mortality.
Editorial for Special Issue “Fine Art Pattern Extraction and Recognition”
Authors: Bellavia Fabio , Castellano Giovanna , Vessio Gennaro
Published: September 2021

Cultural heritage, especially the fine arts, plays an invaluable role in the cultural, historical, and economic growth of our societies [...]
Resting State Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Elucidates Neurotransmitter Deficiency in Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: McCarty Patrick J. , Pines Andrew R. , Sussman Bethany L. , Wyckoff Sarah N. , Jensen Amanda , Bunch Raymond , Boerwinkle Varina L. , Frye Richard E.
Published: September 2021

Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging provides dynamic insight into the functional organization of the brains’ intrinsic activity at rest. The emergence of resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging in both the clinical and research settings may be attributed to recent advancements in statistical techniques, non-invasiveness and enhanced spatiotemporal resolution compared to other neuroimaging modalities, and the capability to identify and characterize deep brain structures and networks. In this report we describe a 16-year-old female patient with autism spectrum disorder who underwent resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging due to late regression. Imaging revealed deactivated networks in deep brain structures involved in monoamine synthesis. Monoamine neurotransmitter deficits were confirmed by cerebrospinal fluid analysis. This case suggests that resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging may have clinical utility as a non-invasive biomarker of central nervous system neurochemical alterations by measuring the function of neurotransmitter-driven networks. Use of this technology can accelerate and increase the accuracy of selecting appropriate therapeutic agents for patients with neurological and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Therapeutic Interaction of Apatinib and Chidamide in T-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia through Interference with Mitochondria Associated Biogenesis and Intrinsic Apoptosis
Authors: Zhong Mengya , Lin Fusheng , Jiang Yuelong , Pan Guangchao , Tan Jinshui , Zhou Hui , Lai Qian , Chen Qinwei , Deng Manman , Zha Jie , Xu Bing
Published: September 2021

T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL) shows poor clinical outcome and has limited therapeutic options, indicating that new treatment approaches for this disease are urgently required. Our previous study demonstrated that apatinib, an orally selective VEGFR-2 antagonist, is highly effective in T-ALL. Additionally, chidamide, a histone deacetylase inhibitor, has proven to be cytotoxic against T-ALL in preclinical and clinical settings. However, whether the therapeutic interaction of apatinib and chidamide in T-ALL remains unknown. In this study, apatinib and chidamide acted additively to decrease cell viability and induce apoptosis in T-ALL in vitro. Notably, compared with apatinib or chidamide alone, the combinational regimen was more efficient in abrogating the leukemia burden in the spleen and bone marrow of T-ALL patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models. Mechanistically, the additive antileukemia effect of apatinib and chidamide was associated with suppression of mitochondrial respiration and downregulation of the abundance levels of several rate-limiting enzymes that are involved in the citric acid cycle and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). In addition, apatinib enhanced the antileukemia effect of chidamide on T-ALL via activation of the mitochondria-mediated apoptosis pathway and impediment of mitochondrial biogenesis. Taken together, the study provides a potential role for apatinib in combination with chidamide in the management of T-ALL and warrants further clinical evaluations of this combination in patients with T-ALL.
Population Exposure to Compound Droughts and Heatwaves in the Observations and ERA5 Reanalysis Data in the Gan River Basin, China
Authors: Zhang Yuqing , Mao Guangxiong , Chen Changchun , Shen Liucheng , Xiao Binyu
Published: September 2021

The frequency, duration, and magnitude of heatwaves and droughts are expected to increase in a warming climate, which can have profound impacts on the environment, society, and public health, and these may be severely affected specifically by compound droughts and heatwaves (CDHWs). On the basis of daily maximum temperature data and the one-month standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI) from 1961 to 2018, the Gan River Basin (GRB) was taken as a case here to construct CDHW identification indicators and quantify the population exposure to CDHWs. We found that ERA5 reanalysis data performed well in overall simulating temperature, precipitation, one-month SPEI, heatwaves, and CDHWs in the GRB from 1961 to 2018. CDHWs during the period from 1997 to 2018 were slightly higher than that in 1961–1997. CDHWs were more likely to occur in the southern parts of the basin due to the relatively high values of drought–heatwave dependence indices. Atmospheric circulation analysis of the 2003 CDHW in the GRB showed a relatively long-lasting anomalous high pressure and anticyclonic circulation system, accompanied by the positive convective inhibition and surface net solar radiation anomalies. These circulating background fields eventually led to the exceptional 2003 CDHW occurrence in the GRB. The population exposure to CDHWs basically increased, especially for the moderate CDHWs in ERA5. The change in total exposure was mainly due to climate change. Compared with the period from 1989 to 1998, the contributions of the population change effect in 2009–2018 gradually increased with the increase in the CDHW magnitude both in the observations and ERA5 reanalysis data.
Microfluidic Platforms to Unravel Mysteries of Alzheimer’s Disease: How Far Have We Come?
Authors: Prasanna Pragya , Rathee Shweta , Rahul Vedanabhatla , Mandal Debabrata , Chandra Goud Macherla Sharath , Yadav Pardeep , Hawthorne Susan , Sharma Ankur , Gupta Piyush Kumar , Ojha Shreesh , Jha Niraj Kumar , Villa Chiara , Jha Saurabh Kumar
Published: September 2021

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a significant health concern with enormous social and economic impact globally. The gradual deterioration of cognitive functions and irreversible neuronal losses are primary features of the disease. Even after decades of research, most therapeutic options are merely symptomatic, and drugs in clinical practice present numerous side effects. Lack of effective diagnostic techniques prevents the early prognosis of disease, resulting in a gradual deterioration in the quality of life. Furthermore, the mechanism of cognitive impairment and AD pathophysiology is poorly understood. Microfluidics exploits different microscale properties of fluids to mimic environments on microfluidic chip-like devices. These miniature multichambered devices can be used to grow cells and 3D tissues in vitro, analyze cell-to-cell communication, decipher the roles of neural cells such as microglia, and gain insights into AD pathophysiology. This review focuses on the applications and impact of microfluidics on AD research. We discuss the technical challenges and possible solutions provided by this new cutting-edge technique to understand disease-associated pathways and mechanisms.
Influence of the Process Parameters on the Quality and Efficiency of the Resistance Spot Welding Process of Advanced High-Strength Complex-Phase Steels
Authors: Morales-Sánchez Gerardo , Collazo Antonio , Doval-Gandoy Jesús
Published: September 2021

In this study, the effects of electrical characteristics of an inverter combined with main welding parameters on the resistance spot weldability of advanced high strength steels (AHSS) CP1000 is investigated. The main welding parameters, current and time, were varied. The effects on the geometry and microstructure of the weld spot, the diameter of the weld pad, the hardness, the shear strength, and the efficiency of the process were studied, and the results were compared for two switching frequencies of the medium frequency converter. Furthermore, the weldability lobes were obtained as a function of the shear strength, for both frequencies. This work shows that the quality of the welding, in the established terms, is better when a lower frequency is used, even though the parameterization of the welding equipment can be easier for higher frequencies.
Evaluation of Sodium Bisulfate on Reducing Salmonella Heidelberg Biofilm and Colonization in Broiler Crops and Ceca
Authors: Pineda Megan Rose , Byrd James Allen , Genovese Kenneth James , Farnell Yuhua Zhang , Zhao Dan , Wang Xi , Milby Allison Claire , Farnell Morgan Brian
Published: September 2021

Salmonella Heidelberg (SH) on contaminated poultry causes economic and health risks to producers and consumers. We hypothesized that sodium bisulfate (SBS) would decrease SH biofilm on polyvinyl chloride (PVC) coupons and decrease the horizontal transfer of SH in broilers. Experiment 1: Salmonella Heidelberg biofilm was cultured with PVC coupons, which were treated with SBS at a pH of 3.5 for 10 min, 8 h, and 24 h. Experiment 2: Nine replicate pens per treatment were divided between two rooms. A seeder contact model was used to mimic a natural infection environment. Treatments consisted of tap water or sodium bisulfate in water at a pH of 3.5. Salmonella Heidelberg incidence and enumeration were measured in crops and ceca. Sodium bisulfate significantly reduced biofilm by 2.16 and 1.04 logs when treated for 8 and 24 h, respectively. Crop colonization was significantly decreased in trials 1 and 2 by 0.29 and 0.23 logs, respectively. Crop pH was significantly decreased in trial 2. Ceca colonization was significantly decreased in trial 1 by 0.39 logs. The results from the present study suggest that SBS may be administered to drinking water to decrease SH gut colonization and to reduce biofilm.
The Case against Antibiotics and for Anti-Virulence Therapeutics
Authors: Hotinger Julia A. , Morris Seth T. , May Aaron E.
Published: September 2021

Although antibiotics have been indispensable in the advancement of modern medicine, there are downsides to their use. Growing resistance to broad-spectrum antibiotics is leading to an epidemic of infections untreatable by first-line therapies. Resistance is exacerbated by antibiotics used as growth factors in livestock, over-prescribing by doctors, and poor treatment adherence by patients. This generates populations of resistant bacteria that can then spread resistance genes horizontally to other bacterial species, including commensals. Furthermore, even when antibiotics are used appropriately, they harm commensal bacteria leading to increased secondary infection risk. Effective antibiotic treatment can induce bacterial survival tactics, such as toxin release and increasing resistance gene transfer. These problems highlight the need for new approaches to treating bacterial infection. Current solutions include combination therapies, narrow-spectrum therapeutics, and antibiotic stewardship programs. These mediate the issues but do not address their root cause. One emerging solution to these problems is anti-virulence treatment: preventing bacterial pathogenesis instead of using bactericidal agents. In this review, we discuss select examples of potential anti-virulence targets and strategies that could be developed into bacterial infection treatments: the bacterial type III secretion system, quorum sensing, and liposomes.
Seasonal Characterization of the Endophytic Fungal Microbiome of Mulberry (Morus spp.) Cultivars Resistant and Susceptible to Sclerotiniosis
Authors: Xu Weifang , Wang Fei , Wang Ruolin , Sui Yuan , Zhou Zeyang , Xie Jie , Xiang Zhonghuai
Published: September 2021

The endophytic microbiome is thought to play an important role in promoting plant growth and health. Using culture-independent and culture-dependent protocols, this study characterized the seasonal shifts in the endophytic fungal microbiota of four mulberry (Morus L.) cultivars having different levels of resistance to mulberry fruit sclerotiniosis. Core endophytes can be obtained by two approaches, and they were divided into two clusters by season. Spring samples harbored higher operational taxonomic units (OTUs) and α-diversity, while autumn samples had more sequences or isolates of the fungal class Dothideomycetes with the representative orders Capnodiales and Pleosporales. While comparing different mulberry cultivars, we found that the total number of OTUs in susceptible cultivars was higher than that of resistant cultivars, and Cladosporium sp. were observed in all. Notably, the causal agent of fruit sclerotiniosis (Scleromitrula shiraiana) was only detected in susceptible cultivars. Collectively, our work elucidated significant variations in the mulberry endophytic microbiome, mainly because of seasonal shifts, and the fact that the host cultivars and mulberry endophytic fungal community appeared to have a certain connection with the resistance level of mulberry fruit to sclerotiniosis. These results provided valuable information on the isolation and culturing of mulberry endophytes that could be applied to improve mulberry fruit production and health.
Acidisoma silvae sp. nov. and Acidisomacellulosilytica sp. nov., Two Acidophilic Bacteria Isolated from Decaying Wood, Hydrolyzing Cellulose and Producing Poly-3-hydroxybutyrate
Authors: Mieszkin Sophie , Pouder Eva , Uroz Stéphane , Simon-Colin Christelle , Alain Karine
Published: September 2021

Two novel strains, HW T2.11T and HW T5.17T, were isolated from decaying wood (forest of Champenoux, France). Study of the 16S rRNA sequence similarity indicated that the novel strains belong to the genus Acidisoma. The sequence similarity of the 16S rRNA gene of HW T2.11T with the corresponding sequences of A. tundrae and A. sibiricum was 97.30% and 97.25%, while for HW T5.17T it was 96.85% and 97.14%, respectively. The DNA G+C contents of the strains were 62.32–62.50%. Cells were Gram-negative coccobacilli that had intracellular storage granules (poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (P3HB)) that confer resistance to environmental stress conditions. They were mesophilic and acidophilic organisms growing at 8–25 °C, at a pH of 2.0–6.5, and were capable of using a wide range of organic compounds and complex biopolymers such as starch, fucoidan, laminarin, pectin and cellulose, the latter two being involved in wood composition. The major cellular fatty acid was cyclo C19:0ω8c and the major quinone was Q-10. Overall, genome relatedness indices between genomes of strains HW T2.11T and HW T5.17T (Orthologous Average Nucleotide Identity (OrthoANI) value = 83.73% and digital DNA-DNA hybridization score = 27.5%) confirmed that they belonged to two different species. Genetic predictions indicate that the cyclopropane fatty acid (CFA) pathway is present, conferring acid-resistance properties to the cells. The two novel strains might possess a class IV polyhydroxyalcanoate (PHA) synthase operon involved in the P3HB production pathway. Overall, the polyphasic taxonomic analysis shows that these two novel strains are adapted to harsh environments such as decaying wood where the organic matter is difficult to access, and can contribute to the degradation of dead wood. These strains represent novel species of the genus Acidisoma, for which the names Acidisoma silvae sp. nov. and Acidisomacellulosilytica sp. nov. are proposed. The type strains of Acidisoma silvae and Acidisomacellulosilytica are, respectively, HW T2.11T (DSM 111006T; UBOCC-M-3364T) and HW T5.17T (DSM 111007T; UBOCC-M-3365T).
Nanomaterials in the Management of Gram-Negative Bacterial Infections
Authors: Barani Mahmood , Zeeshan Mahira , Kalantar-Neyestanaki Davood , Farooq Muhammad , Rahdar Abbas , Jha Niraj , Sargazi Saman , Gupta Piyush , Thakur Vijay
Published: September 2021

The exploration of multiplexed bacterial virulence factors is a major problem in the early stages of Escherichia coli infection therapy. Traditional methods for detecting Escherichia coli (E. coli), such as serological experiments, immunoassays, polymerase chain reaction, and isothermal microcalorimetry have some drawbacks. As a result, detecting E. coli in a timely, cost-effective, and sensitive manner is critical for various areas of human safety and health. Intelligent devices based on nanotechnology are paving the way for fast and early detection of E. coli at the point of care. Due to their specific optical, magnetic, and electrical capabilities, nanostructures can play an important role in bacterial sensors. Another one of the applications involved use of nanomaterials in fighting microbial infections, including E. coli mediated infections. Various types of nanomaterials, either used directly as an antibacterial agent such as metallic nanoparticles (NPs) (silver, gold, zinc, etc.), or as a nanocarrier to deliver and target the antibiotic to the E. coli and its infected area. Among different types, polymeric NPs, lipidic nanocarriers, metallic nanocarriers, nanomicelles, nanoemulsion/ nanosuspension, dendrimers, graphene, etc. proved to be effective vehicles to deliver the drug in a controlled fashion at the targeted site with lower off-site drug leakage and side effects.
Radiative Corrections to Semileptonic Beta Decays: Progress and Challenges
Authors: Seng Chien-Yeah
Published: September 2021

We review some recent progress in the theory of electroweak radiative corrections in semileptonic decay processes. The resurrection of the so-called Sirlin’s representation based on current algebra relations permits a clear separation between the perturbatively-calculable and incalculable pieces in the O(GFα) radiative corrections. The latter are expressed as compact hadronic matrix elements that allow systematic non-perturbative analysis such as dispersion relation and lattice QCD. This brings substantial improvements to the precision of the electroweak radiative corrections in semileptonic decays of pion, kaon, free neutron and JP=0+ nuclei that are important theory inputs in precision tests of the Standard Model. Unresolved issues and future prospects are discussed.
Treatment of Complex Cutaneous Leishmaniasis with Liposomal Amphotericin B
Authors: Ubals Maria , Bosch-Nicolau Pau , Sánchez-Montalvá Adrián , Salvador Fernando , Aparicio-Español Gloria , Sulleiro Elena , Silgado Aroa , Soriano-Arandes Antoni , Espiau Maria , Ferrer Berta , Pou Diana , Treviño Begoña , Molina Israel , García-Patos Vicente
Published: September 2021

Background: There is no consensus for the best treatment of complex cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL). We aimed to describe a cohort of CL, focusing on liposomal amphotericin B (L-AmB) treatment outcome. Methods: We performed a retrospective study in Vall d’Hebron University Hospital (Barcelona, Spain). All patients with parasitologically proven CL diagnosed from 2012 to 2018 were included. Results: The analysis included 41 patients with CL. The median age was 39 years (IQR 12- 66); 12 (29%) were children, and 29 (71%) were men. Regarding treatment, 24 (59%) received local treatment, whereas 17 (41%) had complex CL and were offered intravenous systemic treatment. Sixteen patients received L-AmB; eight (50%) had adverse events, and three (19%) discontinued treatment for safety reasons. All cases were considered cured within the first year post-treatment. Conclusions: L-AmB for complex CL showed no treatment failures, offering an alternative treatment option for patients with complex CL. Clinicians should pay close attention to the potential adverse events of L-AmB and adopt an active drug safety surveillance scheme to rapidly detect reversible side effects.
Concurrent and Concordant Anal and Oral Human PapillomaVirus Infections Are Not Associated with Sexual Behavior in At-Risk Males
Authors: Rollo Francesca , Latini Alessandra , Benevolo Maria , Giglio Amalia , Giuliani Eugenia , Pichi Barbara , Pellini Raul , Giuliani Massimo , Donà Maria Gabriella
Published: September 2021

Men who have sex with men (MSM) harbor the highest prevalence of anal and oral Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection, particularly if HIV-infected. We investigated anal and oral HPV infections in HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected MSM, to assess concurrent (HPV detected at both sites, irrespective of the genotypes), and concordant infections (same genotype[s] detected at both sites). Matched anal and oral samples from 161 MSM (85 HIV-infected, and 76 HIV-uninfected) were tested with the Linear Array. Determinants of concurrent and concordant infections were evaluated using logistic regression. Anal infections were 4 to 7 times more frequent than oral infections in both study groups (p < 0.0001). Concurrent infections were not significantly different in HIV-infected (25.9%) and HIV-uninfected MSM (17.1%), p = 0.18. A concordant infection was found in 15 MSM (9.3%). Concordance was for one genotype in 14 individuals and for four genotypes in the remaining subject. In the overall population, only age was independently associated with a concurrent infection (AOR = 3.10, 95% CI: 1.34–7.19 for >39 vs. ≤39 years). None of the parameters of sexual behavior showed independent association with concordant infections. Among MSM, concordant anal and oral HPV infections do not seem to be explained by sexual behavior, but might derive from sequential acquisition by autoinoculation.
Expression of Two Rye CENH3 Variants and Their Loading into Centromeres
Authors: Evtushenko Elena V. , Elisafenko Evgeny A. , Gatzkaya Sima S. , Schubert Veit , Houben Andreas , Vershinin Alexander V.
Published: September 2021

Gene duplication and the preservation of both copies during evolution is an intriguing evolutionary phenomenon. Their preservation is related to the function they perform. The central component of centromere specification and function is the centromere-specific histone H3 (CENH3). Some cereal species (maize, rice) have one copy of the gene encoding this protein, while some (wheat, barley, rye) have two. Therefore, they represent a good model for a comparative study of the functional activity of the duplicated CENH3 genes and their protein products. We determined the organization of the CENH3 locus in rye (Secale cereale L.) and identified the functional motifs in the vicinity of the CENH3 genes. We compared the expression of these genes at different stages of plant development and the loading of their products, the CENH3 proteins, into nucleosomes during mitosis and meiosis. Using extended chromatin fibers, we revealed patterns of loading CENH3 proteinsinto polynucleosomal domains in centromeric chromatin. Our results indicate no sign of neofunctionalization, subfunctionalization or specialization in the gene copies. The influence of negative selection on the coding part of the genes led them to preserve their conserved function. The advantage of having two functional genes appears as the gene-dosage effect.
Microcystin-LR, a Cyanobacterial Toxin, Induces DNA Strand Breaks Correlated with Changes in Specific Nuclease and Protease Activities in White Mustard (Sinapis alba) Seedlings
Authors: M-Hamvas Márta , Vasas Gábor , Beyer Dániel , Nagylaki Eszter , Máthé Csaba
Published: September 2021

There is increasing evidence for the induction of programmed cell death (PCD) in vascular plants by the cyanobacterial toxin microcystin-LR (MC-LR). Our aim was to detect the occurrence of PCD-related DNA strand breaks and their possible connections to specific nuclease and protease activities. DNA breaks were studied by the deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) method in the photoperiodically grown dicot model of white mustard (Sinapis alba). In-gel nuclease and protease activity assays showed changes in the activities of specific isoenzymes during treatments with MC-LR. Strand breaks occurred both in the developing root epidermis and cortex. Several isoenzyme activities were related to these breaks, for example: an increase in the activity of neutral 80–75 kDa, acidic high MW (100–120 kDa) and, most importantly, an increase in the activity of neutral 26–20 kDa nucleases, all of them having single-stranded DNA cleaving (SSP nuclease) activities. Increases in the activities of alkaline proteases in the 61–41 kDa range were also detected and proved to be in relation with MC-LR-induced PCD. This is one of the first pieces of evidence on the correlation of PCD-related DNA strand breaks with specific hydrolase activities in a model dicot treated with a cyanobacterial toxin known to have environmental importance.
Analysis of Cr(VI) Bioremediation by Citrobacter freundii Using Synchrotron Soft X-ray Scanning Transmission X-ray Microscopy
Authors: Anil Amith , Swaraj Sufal , Subramanian Sankaran , Ramamurthy Praveen
Published: September 2021

Scanning transmission X-ray microscopy (STXM) was utilized for analysing the bioremediation of Cr(VI) by Citrobacter freundii, a species of gram-negative bacteria. The biosorption and bioreduction processes were analysed by the chemical mapping of cells biosorbed at different concentrations of Cr(VI). STXM spectromicroscopy images were recorded at O K-edge and Cr L-edge. A thorough analysis of the X-ray absorption features corresponding to different oxidation states of Cr in the biosorbed cell indicated the coexistence of Cr(III) and Cr(VI) at higher concentrations. This signifies the presence of partially reduced Cr(VI) in addition to biosorbed Cr(VI). In addition, the Cr(III) signal is intense compared with Cr(VI) at different regions of the cell indicating excess of reduced Cr. Speciation of adsorbed Cr was analysed for the spectral features of biosorbed cell and comparison with Cr standards. Analysis of absorption onset, L3/L2 ratio and absorption fine structure concludes that adsorbed Cr is predominantly present as Cr(III) hydroxide or oxyhydroxide. The evolution of absorption features in the duration of biosorption process was also studied. These time lapse studies depict the gradual decrement in Cr(VI) signal as biosorption proceeds. A strong evidence of interaction of Cr with the cell material was also observed. The obtained results provide insights into the biosorption process and chemical speciation of Cr on the cells.
The Potential Adjuvanticity of CAvant®SOE for Foot-and-Mouth Disease Vaccine
Authors: Ahn Young-Hoon , Chathuranga W. A. Gayan , Shim Young-Jung , Haluwana D. K. , Kim Eun-Hee , Yoon In-Joong , Lim Yong-Taik , Shin Sung Ho , Jo Hyundong , Hwang Seong Yun , Kim Hyun Mi , Lee Min Ja , Park Jong-Hyeon , Yoo Sung-Sik , Lee Jong-Soo
Published: September 2021

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a notifiable contagious disease of cloven-hoofed mammals. A high potency vaccine that stimulates the host immune response is the foremost strategy used to prevent disease persistence in endemic regions. FMD vaccines comprise inactivated virus antigens whose immunogenicity is potentiated by immunogenic adjuvants. Oil-based adjuvants have clear advantages over traditional adjuvant vaccines; however, there is potential to develop novel adjuvants to increase the potency of FMD vaccines. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a novel water-in-oil emulsion, called CAvant®SOE, as a novel vaccine adjuvant for use with inactivated FMD vaccines. In this study, we found that inactivated A22 Iraq virus plus CAvant®SOE (iA22 Iraq-CAvant®SOE) induced effective antigen-specific humoral (IgG, IgG1, and IgG2a) and cell-mediated immune responses (IFN-γ and IL-4) in mice. Immunization of pigs with a single dose of iA22 Iraq-CAvant®SOE also elicited effective protection, with no detectable clinical symptoms against challenge with heterologous A/SKR/GP/2018 FMDV. Levels of protection are strongly in line with vaccine-induced neutralizing antibody titers. Collectively, these results indicate that CAvant®SOE-adjuvanted vaccine is a promising candidate for control of FMD in pigs.
Waning of IgG, Total and Neutralizing Antibodies 6 Months Post-Vaccination with BNT162b2 in Healthcare Workers
Authors: Bayart Jean-Louis , Douxfils Jonathan , Gillot Constant , David Clara , Mullier François , Elsen Marc , Eucher Christine , Van Eeckhoudt Sandrine , Roy Tatiana , Gerin Vincent , Wieers Grégoire , Laurent Christine , Closset Mélanie , Dogné Jean-Michel , Favresse Julien
Published: September 2021

Data about the long-term duration of antibodies after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination are still scarce and are important to design vaccination strategies. In this study, 231 healthcare professionals received the two-dose regimen of BNT162b2. Of these, 158 were seronegative and 73 were seropositive at baseline. Samples were collected at several time points. The neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) and antibodies against the nucleocapsid and the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 were measured. At day 180, a significant antibody decline was observed in seronegative (−55.4% with total antibody assay; −89.6% with IgG assay) and seropositive individuals (−74.8% with total antibody assay; −79.4% with IgG assay). The estimated half-life of IgG from the peak humoral response was 21 days (95% CI: 13–65) in seronegative and 53 days (95% CI: 40–79) in seropositive individuals. The estimated half-life of total antibodies was longer and ranged from 68 days (95% CI: 54–90) to 114 days (95% CI: 87–167) in seropositive and seronegative individuals, respectively. The decline of NAbs was more pronounced (−98.6%) and around 45% of the subjects tested were negative at day 180. Whether this decrease correlates with an equivalent drop in the clinical effectiveness against the virus would require appropriate clinical studies.
The Rise of Vectored Vaccines: A Legacy of the COVID-19 Global Crisis
Authors: Daian e Silva Danielle Soares de Oliveira , da Fonseca Flávio Guimarães
Published: September 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic represents a milestone in vaccine research and development in a global context. A worldwide effort, as never seen before, involved scientists from all over the world in favor of the fast, accurate and precise construction and testing of immunogens against the new coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2. Among all the vaccine strategies put into play for study and validation, those based on recombinant viral vectors gained special attention due to their effectiveness, ease of production and the amplitude of the triggered immune responses. Some of these new vaccines have already been approved for emergency/full use, while others are still in pre- and clinical trials. In this article we will highlight what is behind adeno-associated vectors, such as those presented by the immunogens ChaAdOx1, Sputnik, Convidecia (CanSino, Tianjin, China), and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson, New Jersey, EUA), in addition to other promising platforms such as Vaccinia virus MVA, influenza virus, and measles virus, among others.
“Dá um like e se inscreve no canal!”: problematizando discursos de gêneros e sexualidades em vídeos do youtuber Felipe Neto
Authors:   , Santos Michele Priscila Gonçalves dos
Published: September 2021

Este estudo analisou os discursos de gênero e sexualidade presentes em alguns vídeos do youtuber Felipe Neto. As identidades sexuais e de gênero fazem parte da nossa constituição enquanto sujeitos, estão presentes em nossas vidas e perpassam as relações que estabelecemos com nós mesmos e com os outros. Por isso, é importante problematizar como os sujeitos constroem suas identidades em nossa sociedade e que mecanismos participam desse processo, tomando gênero e sexualidade como construções discursivas, sociais, culturais e históricas. Ao pensar sobre as maneiras como os canais do YouTube estão colocados em nossa sociedade é possível problematizar que são artefatos culturais educativos, pelos quais circulam diferentes saberes. Os/as youtubers lidam com subjetividades, formam opiniões, trabalham conceitos, disseminam padrões... O que eles/as fazem e falam é visto e ouvido por milhões de indivíduos. Por isso, é importante refletir sobre essas produções como dispositivos educativos dos sujeitos. Para esta discussão me embasei nas perspectivas Pós-estruturalistas, nos Estudos Culturais, nos Estudos Foucaultianos e nos Estudos de Gênero, que analisam a relevância do âmbito cultural na constituição dos sujeitos, levando em consideração como as relações de saber e de poder participam desses processos, defendendo a problematização como ferramenta de pensamento e pesquisa. Para delimitar o campo, consultei crianças de 6 a 11 anos de uma escola estadual de Juiz de Fora, com o objetivo de saber qual é o canal de youtuber mais assistido por elas, obtendo como resultado o nome de Felipe Neto. Diante da questão “Como discursos de gênero e sexualidade são disseminados no canal do youtuber Felipe Neto?”, utilizei a análise de discurso de inspiração foucaultiana para problematizar os enunciados presentes nos vídeos.
Saberes para ensinar matemática: manuais de didática geral e didática da matemática em tempos de Matemática Moderna
Authors:   , Almeida Maria Cláudia Caires Costa
Published: September 2021

Essa dissertação analisa saberes para ensinar Matemática no ensino primário na década de 1960. Para o desenvolvimento da pesquisa, considerou-se como fontes Manuais de Didática Geral e Didática da Matemática publicados já no período do Movimento da Matemática Moderna (MMM), mais precisamente da década de 1960. As referências teórico-metodológicas têm base na História Cultural e nos estudos recentes do GHEMAT sobre os saberes profissionais do professor que ensina matemática. Buscamos responder à seguinte questão: Que indícios de saberes para ensinar podem ser identificados em Manuais de Didática Geral e Didática da Matemática, publicados no Brasil, durante o período da Matemática Moderna, na década de 1960? A análise dos manuais permitiu construir uma representação de que saberes bastante distintos poderiam ser requeridos dos professores para ensinar matemática às crianças. Ainda com acentos escolanovistas, o método analítico aplicado à geometria, por exemplo, justificava a introdução das formas espaciais para as primeiras séries. Conhecimentos sobre o Método Cuisinaire estavam colocados, analisados e criticados. O desenho e os trabalhos manuais seriam saberes para ensinar matemática que trariam suporte para, por exemplo, a construção de sólidos geométricos, ábacos ou jogos. Já o uso dos símbolos, a necessidade de abstração e a ênfase no raciocínio lógico são saberes para ensinar matemática presentes nos manuais representativos da Matemática Moderna analisados. Para tanto, o professor deveria dispor do conhecimento sobre o poder de síntese que a linguagem simbólica possibilita, e como dar sentido a ela para introduzi-la às crianças. Esse trabalho resultou em um produto educacional, uma revista, publicada separadamente. A revista discute a introdução de noções de topologia e de geometria por transformações nos anos iniciais do ensino fundamental. O produto educacional é direcionado aos professores que ensinam matemática nos anos iniciais.
A loucura como forma de pensar a realidade feminina: a obra de Maura Lopes Cançado
Authors:   , Martins Luana Arruda
Published: September 2021

Esta pesquisa analisa a escrita da autora brasileira Maura Lopes Cançado, nascida em São Gonçalo do Abaeté, Minas Gerais, em 27 de janeiro de 1929. Seu livro, Hospício é Deus, foi produzido entre os anos de 1959 e 1960, quando a autora esteve internada em um hospital psiquiátrico no bairro do Engenho de Dentro, no Rio de Janeiro. A partir desse contexto, e levando em consideração a problemática existencial da loucura, nosso trabalho enfoca, desse modo, a escrita de si e a experiência da loucura expressa no diário intitulado Hospício é Deus, lançado em livro em 1965. Interessa-nos, em particular, a representação da loucura no diário a fim de investigar como a alteração de estados mentais pode ser apresentada na escrita, como ela se relaciona à concepção de memória, diário, autobiografia e ficção sobre o eu, como se constrói enquanto rompimento entre espaço público e privado, e, como ocupa função importante para a construção e afirmação de identidade. Assim, após a apreciação dos temas propostos, buscamos analisar o diário da autora como uma escrita etnográfica, embasando-nos nos estudos da antropologia pós-moderna no século XX.
A morte e o erotismo em Werner Schroeter: por uma mise-en-scène alegórica.
Authors:   , Dias Guilherme Gomes
Published: September 2021

A partir da análise do filme A morte de Maria Malibran (1971) do cineasta alemão Werner Schroeter, a seguinte pesquisa irá buscar compreender como a linguagem cinematográfica pode encontrar no exercício da alegoria um elemento de produção de sentido e como elementos originários do teatro podem dar suporte a esta forma de fazer o cinema. A mise-en-scène utilizada por Schroeter para a produção de imagens alegóricas nos leva a uma investigação teórica a passar pela teoria estética, teatral e cinematográfica e, em síntese, este será o percurso teórico deste estudo. Estes estudos nos permitirão analisar o filme a partir de três operadores, são eles: as imagens alegóricas em seu processo de fragmentação, o efeito de distanciamento e o erotismo como relação estética.
Определение объемной длины диффузии фотогенерированных носителей заряда в МЛЭ
КРТ n-типа проводимости с x=0.295 методом сканирования светового пятна диодом
фотоприёмной матрицы
Authors: Вишняков А.В. , Васильев В.В. , Варавин В.С.
Published: September 2021

С целью определения объемной длины диффузии ld фотогенерированных носителей заряда (ФНЗ) в
материале кадмий-ртуть-теллур (КРТ) n-типа проводимости были проведены измерения профилей
сканирования диодом p-на-n фотоприёмной матрицы пятна засветки в виде узкой засвеченной полоски
при последовательном уменьшении отбираемого из слоя абсорбера фототока. В эксперименте
использовался фотоприемник средневолнового ИК-диапазона, абсорбер которого был легирован
индием до концентрации 3.9·1015 см-3
в процессе роста материала методом МЛЭ. Стехиометрический
коэффициент материала КРТ абсорбера был равен x=0.295. Период матрицы составлял 15 мкм, а размер
её диодов был равен ≈ 5x5 мкм.