bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of heat treatment on the mechanical properties of alkali-activated fly ash-based binders with marble dust substitution
Authors: Ionescu B A , Mircea C , Chira M , Lăzărescu A-V
Published: August 2022

Marble waste contains a high level of calcium, which is obtained from the cutting process in marble production. The properties of geopolymer binders are influenced not only by the amount of alkali activators, their ratio, the molarity used, and the Si and Al content of the mineral additives used in the mixture, but also by the duration of the heat treatment and the heat treatment temperature. This study aimed to produce alkali-activated geopolymer binders based on fly ash and marble dust. Alkali-activated geopolymer pastes were made both with heat treatment for 24h at 70°C and without heat treatment at (23±2) °C. Structural analysis by optical microscopy revealed, in the case of heat-treated samples, the formation of pores with an average size of 1÷1.5 mm, much larger than in the case of samples without heat treatment.
Increasing the sustainability of construction sector by developing new products based on biomass and renewable polymers - bibliometric analysis
Authors: Istoan R , Manea L D , Plesa L , Tintisan M L
Published: August 2022

To increase the sustainability of the construction sector, one of the most important research directions in recent years has been the development of new building materials. As the construction industry is considered one of the most polluted sectors, the focus of researchers is to find new ways to shift away from traditional materials towards green materials. Those are usually derived from waste or unlimited natural-organic resources and have the role to reduce the environmental impact of the construction sector. Reaching the objective of a sustainable industry through the process of developing sustainable building materials is not about restricting the total amount of construction but paying more attention to how the new materials are designed and the traditional materials are rethought, as clean and energy efficient alternatives. The utilization of biomass in the composition of building materials present the new products as low-embodied energy materials that reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. Based on this premise, the research will provide a bibliometric analysis of the studies carried out in the last years.
Study on behaviour of electrical insulating materials combined with conductive elements
Authors: Buică G , Antonov A E , Beiu C , Pasculescu D , Sipos C
Published: August 2022

The study presents the research results on the identification of technical and safety requirements specific to work equipment made of electrical insulation materials combined with conductive elements, to guarantee safety in use. The identification of the technical and safety requirements specific to the work equipment that is provided with electrically insulating materials combined with conductive elements was carried out, taking into account the safety conditions that must be guaranteed from the design and manufacturing phase. The national technical norms for live work stipulate that the work equipment used for electrical installations must be certified from the point of view of safety and health at work. Research study shows the behavior of various electrical insulation materials combined with conductive elements under the influence of mechanical, electrical, thermal and environmental factors to verify and certify the safety function that must be guaranteed in use. The research results consist of the development of the experimentation and evaluation methodology concerning the legal regulations in force and the evaluation of compliance with the technical and safety requirements identified for work equipment that is provided with electrical insulation materials combined with conductive elements - occupational health of workers and a safe work environment.
Investigation of microstructural development in mortars with recycled paper ash used as cement replacement, using NMR relaxometry
Authors: Tintisan M L , Siomin A C , Moldovean M , Zaharie A M , Istoan R , Jumate E , Manea D L , Fechete R
Published: August 2022

For the investigation of porous media with applications in the field of civil engineering on concrete and mortar, NMR technology is used, with emphasis on the sensitivity of 1H hydrogen protons to pore filling fluids. NMR technology was used to highlight the changes that replacing cement with recycled paper ash powder in mortar recipes brings at a molecular level. The samples are analyzed during 56 days, at predetermined deadlines depending on the evolution of cement compounds hydration. Ability of recycled paper ash to replace cement in its role as binder is analyzed and the results obtained from mechanical tests are correlated with the structure and volume of pores in the control samples. Mixture compositions and C–S–H characteristics are calculated based on NMR signal intensities and relaxation analysis.
Identifying the structure of a plaster mortar mixtures on the basis of NMR investigations
Authors: Siomin A C , Tintisan M L , Zaharie A , Moldoveanu M , Manea D L , Jumate E , Fechete R
Published: August 2022

Starting from the concept of sustainable development, the research program aims to establish a waste management by reducing the construction materials used in the preparation of plaster mortars. Thus, the chosen material, respectively the used paint plays an important role in replacing the main components of the plaster mortar recipe. Following the research in the laboratory of the Faculty of Construction, it was concluded that used paint can replace water or cement in the recipe in different percentages, a fact recorded in an article published in early 2022 [1]. In the future, this research can help reduce the raw materials used to make plaster mortars, an ambitious plan and a step towards the transition to the circular economy. By reducing the amount of raw materials by recycling used paint, we protect the environment. During the investigations, the 3 mortar recipes: CSIV, CSIV10C, CSIV20P are presented from the point of view of nuclear magnetic resonance NMR. According to the research program, the tracking of behavior over time was done by analyzing the samples at 3 days, 7 days and 28 days.
Olive vegetation waters (OVWs): characteristics, treatments and environmental problems
Authors: De Luca P , Sicilia V , Candamano S , Macario A
Published: August 2022

The present work aims to analyze the various aspects relating to olive-vegetative waters (OVW) with particular reference to environmental problems. As is known, olive-vegetation waters are one of the most polluting by-products of the oil industry. They are produced in large quantities and have a polluting potential. For this reason, an in-depth and detailed analysis of the production chain is reported up to the correct and lawful disposal of the olive-vegetation waters. The chemical characteristics of vegetation waters are described, with particular reference to polyphenols, which are the most important compounds present in vegetation waters. The treatments, enhancement, perspectives and possible uses in agriculture are reported.
Recycling plastic wastes in order to obtain new building materials
Authors: Plesa L , Manea L D , Istoan R
Published: August 2022

This paper presents the development of new types of construction materials using plastic waste. According to the European Court, plastic waste from various sectors such as the automotive, electronics, agriculture and construction sectors is a growing problem and is damaging to both terrestrial and marine media. Thus, every year, between 4.8 and 12.7 million tons of plastics reach the oceans. According to most of the research studies, plastic wastes have the potential to replace the natural aggregate at specific percentages. This paper proposes the reuse of this waste as reinforcement in masonry mortars, using plastic waste in various proportions. The experimental program follows the characteristics of masonry mortars both in terms of the behaviour of fresh mortar and in terms of mechanical strength. The results obtained showed a better performance of mortars reinforced with plastic strips, both in terms of flexural strength and compressive strength.
Flexible sensor based on multi-walled carbon nanotube-SnO2 nanocomposite material for hydrogen detection
Authors: Aleksanyan Mikayel S , Sayunts Artak G , Shahkhatuni Gevorg H , Simonyan Zarine G , Aroutiounian Vladimir M , Shahnazaryan Gohar E
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to develop a high-performance hydrogen flexible sensor based on multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT):SnO2 material. The MWCNT:SnO2 thin film was deposited onto a flexible polyimide substrate by the electron-beam deposition method to perform the low temperature detection of hydrogen. The thickness and surface morphology of the sensing layers have been determined by the thickness measuring profilometer and the scanning electron microscope (SEM), respectively. The flexible MWCNT:SnO2 sensor exhibited excellent sensitive characteristics to hydrogen in a range of 25–3000 ppm. H2 sensing parameters like sensor response, recovery, and response times were investigated at different operating temperatures. The minimum response and recovery times of the sensor corresponding to 1000 ppm H2 concentrations were found to be 37 and 554 s, respectively. The investigated sensing parameters demonstrate that this work can provide the possibility of a versatile route to fabricate flexible hydrogen sensor with high sensitivity and selectivity, which demonstrates its great potential in hydrogen leakage monitoring.
Concordance to the Fōdo Hōmon Genrushō Facsimile
Authors: Blum Mark L.
Published: August 2022

This is a concordance between the pages of the translation of Gyōnen's Jōdo Hōmon Genrushō on Pure Land school of Buddhism and those of the facsimile of the 1814 xylograph.
Gyōnen's Pure Land Beliefs
Authors: Blum Mark L.
Published: August 2022

This appendix looks at Gyōnen's personal beliefs on the Pure Land school of Buddhism, which although not directly enunciated, can be surmised from the positions of those who influenced him (both directly and indirectly), and from how he describes those positions. The appendix first considers how Gyōnen looks at his teachers Enshō, Chōsai, and Shinkū, and his description of the Southern Sung figure Yüan‐chao. It then considers relevant statements scattered throughout Gyōnen's writing that speak of certain issues in Pure Land doctrine, specifically the concept of the triple mind or sanjin.
Deontology and the Agent: A Reply to Jonathan
Authors: Scheffler Samuel
Published: August 2022

Scheffler argues, in response to criticisms by Jonathan Bennett, that there is a non‐trivial sense of ‘agent‐centredness’ that applies to both an agent‐centred prerogative and agent‐centred restrictions. In further articulating this notion of agent‐centredness, Scheffler anticipates and responds to four objections that Bennett might make to his argument. He also discusses the relation between agent‐centredness and the doing/allowing distinction.
Appendix: Unger's Semantic Relativism
Authors: Craig Edward
Published: August 2022

Discusses Peter Unger's Philosophical Relativity, which makes use of a distinction between ‘Invariantist’ and ‘Contextualist’ semantics. Craig critiques what he sees as Unger's assumption that invariantism entails absolutism with respect to knowledge, the view that knowledge calls for absolute certainty, arguing that the context‐independence of a standard does not entail that it has to be the toughest standard possible. On the other hand, Unger's Semantic Relativism, the view that for many expressions there are empirically underdetermined plausible semantics of both the invariantist and contextualist kind, is endorsed and said to be compatible with the results of the practical explication, which does not itself determine a choice between invariantist and contextualist semantics for ‘know’.
The Substitution of Phrases for Words
Authors: Whitaker C. W. A.
Published: August 2022

This important technique, like the contradiction argument discussed in Appendix I, depends on the concept of signification established in the De Interpretatione. The expansion of a word by substituting a phrase with the same signification is much used by Aristotle, in the Topics, Sophistic Refutations, and elsewhere. Moreover, in cases of multiple signification many phrases may be substituted for a single name: thus the question ’In how many ways is it said?’ leads to the discovery of multiple phrases (’logoi’), each expressing one aspect of an ambiguous term.
State of the Art Review: Vascular Remodeling in Hypertension
Authors: Rizzoni Damiano , Agabiti-Rosei Claudia , De Ciuceis Carolina
Published: August 2022

Although the gold-standard method for the assessment of structural alteration in small resistance arteries is the evaluation of the MLR by micromyography in bioptic tissues, new, noninvasive techniques are presently under development, focusing mainly on the evaluation of WLR in retinal arterioles. These approaches represent a promising and interesting future perspective. Appropriate antihypertensive treatment is able to prevent the development of microvascular alterations or to induce their regression. Also, conductance arteries may be affected by a remodeling process in hypertension, and a cross-talk may exist between structural changes in the small and large arteries.

In conclusion, the evaluation of microvascular structure is ready for clinical prime time, and it could, in the future, represent an evaluation to be performed in the majority of hypertensive patients, to better stratify cardiovascular risk and better evaluate the effects of antihypertensive therapy. However, for this purpose, we need a clear demonstration of the prognostic relevance of noninvasive measures of microvascular structure, in basal conditions and during treatment.

Vascular remodeling may be frequently observed in hypertension, as well as in obesity and diabetes mellitus. An increased media to lumen ratio (MLR) or wall to lumen ratio (WLR) in microvessels is the hallmark of hypertension, and may impair organ flow reserve, being relevant in the maintenance and, probably, also in the progressive worsening of hypertensive disease, as well as in the development of hypertension-mediated organ damage/cardiovascular events. The molecular mechanisms underlying the development of vascular remodeling are only partly understood.
Studying protein–protein interaction through side-chain modeling method OPUS-Mut
Authors: Xu Gang , Wang Yilin , Wang Qinghua , Ma Jianpeng
Published: August 2022

Protein side chains are vitally important to many biological processes such as protein–protein interaction. In this study, we evaluate the performance of our previous released side-chain modeling method OPUS-Mut, together with some other methods, on three oligomer datasets, CASP14 (11), CAMEO-Homo (65) and CAMEO-Hetero (21). The results show that OPUS-Mut outperforms other methods measured by all residues or by the interfacial residues. We also demonstrate our method on evaluating protein–protein docking pose on a dataset Oligomer-Dock (75) created using the top 10 predictions from ZDOCK 3.0.2. Our scoring function correctly identifies the native pose as the top-1 in 45 out of 75 targets. Different from traditional scoring functions, our method is based on the overall side-chain packing favorableness in accordance with the local packing environment. It emphasizes the significance of side chains and provides a new and effective scoring term for studying protein–protein interaction.
Detection of Circulating Tumor Cells in Cerebrospinal Fluid of Patients with Suspected Breast Cancer Leptomeningeal Metastases: A Prospective Study
Authors: Darlix Amélie , Cayrefourcq Laure , Pouderoux Stéphane , Menjot de Champfleur Nicolas , Bievelez Alexis , Jacot William , Leaha Cristina , Thezenas Simon , Alix-Panabières Catherine
Published: August 2022

Background

The diagnosis of breast cancer (BC)-related leptomeningeal metastases (LM) relies on the detection of tumor cells in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) using conventional cytology (gold standard). However, the sensitivity of this technique is low. Our goal was to evaluate whether circulating tumor cell (CTC) detection in CSF using the CellSearch® system could be used for LM diagnosis.

Methods

This prospective, monocentric study included adult patients with suspected BC-related LM. The clinical sensitivity and specificity of CTC detection in CSF for LM diagnosis were calculated relative to conventional CSF cytology.

Results

Forty-nine eligible patients were included and 40 were evaluable (CTC detection technical failure: n = 8, eligibility criteria failure: n = 1). Cytology was positive in 18/40 patients. CTCs were detected in these 18 patients (median: 5824 CTC, range: 93 to 45052) and in 5/22 patients with negative cytology (median: 2 CTC, range: 1 to 44). The detection of ≥1 CSF CTC was associated with a clinical sensitivity of 100% (95% CI, 82.4–100) and a specificity of 77.3% (95% CI, 64.3–90.3) for LM diagnosis. HER2+ CTCs were detected in the CSF of 40.6% of patients with HER2− BC (median: 500 CTC, range: 13 to 28 320).

Conclusions

The clinical sensitivity of CTC detection in CSF with the CellSearch® system for LM diagnosis is higher than that of CSF cytology. CTC detection in patients with negative cytology, however, must be further investigated. The finding of HER2+ CTCs in patients with HER2− BC suggests that the HER2 status of LM should be evaluated to increase the treatment opportunities for these patients.
A roadmap for the functional annotation of protein families: a community perspective
Authors: de Crécy-lagard Valérie , Amorin de Hegedus Rocio , Arighi Cecilia , Babor Jill , Bateman Alex , Blaby Ian , Blaby-Haas Crysten , Bridge Alan J , Burley Stephen K , Cleveland Stacey , Colwell Lucy J , Conesa Ana , Dallago Christian , Danchin Antoine , de Waard Anita , Deutschbauer Adam , Dias Raquel , Ding Yousong , Fang Gang , Friedberg Iddo , Gerlt John , Goldford Joshua , Gorelik Mark , Gyori Benjamin M , Henry Christopher , Hutinet Geoffrey , Jaroch Marshall , Karp Peter D , Kondratova Liudmyla , Lu Zhiyong , Marchler-Bauer Aron , Martin Maria-Jesus , McWhite Claire , Moghe Gaurav D , Monaghan Paul , Morgat Anne , Mungall Christopher J , Natale Darren A , Nelson William C , O’Donoghue Seán , Orengo Christine , O’Toole Katherine H , Radivojac Predrag , Reed Colbie , Roberts Richard J , Rodionov Dmitri , Rodionova Irina A , Rudolf Jeffrey D , Saleh Lana , Sheynkman Gloria , Thibaud-Nissen Francoise , Thomas Paul D , Uetz Peter , Vallenet David , Carter Erica Watson , Weigele Peter R , Wood Valerie , Wood-Charlson Elisha M , Xu Jin
Published: August 2022

Over the last 25 years, biology has entered the genomic era and is becoming a science of ‘big data’. Most interpretations of genomic analyses rely on accurate functional annotations of the proteins encoded by more than 500 000 genomes sequenced to date. By different estimates, only half the predicted sequenced proteins carry an accurate functional annotation, and this percentage varies drastically between different organismal lineages. Such a large gap in knowledge hampers all aspects of biological enterprise and, thereby, is standing in the way of genomic biology reaching its full potential. A brainstorming meeting to address this issue funded by the National Science Foundation was held during 3–4 February 2022. Bringing together data scientists, biocurators, computational biologists and experimentalists within the same venue allowed for a comprehensive assessment of the current state of functional annotations of protein families. Further, major issues that were obstructing the field were identified and discussed, which ultimately allowed for the proposal of solutions on how to move forward.
Chromosome-level and graphic genomes provide insights into metabolism of bioactive metabolites and cold-adaption of Pueraria lobata var. montana
Authors: Mo Changjuan , Wu Zhengdan , Shang Xiaohong , Shi Pingli , Wei Minghua , Wang Haiyan , Xiao Liang , Cao Sheng , Lu Liuying , Zeng Wendan , Yan Huabing , Kong Qiusheng
Published: August 2022

Pueraria lobata var. montana (P. montana) belongs to the genus Pueraria and originated in Asia. Compared with its sister P. thomsonii, P. montana has stronger growth vigour and cold-adaption but contains less bioactive metabolites such as puerarin. To promote the investigation of metabolic regulation and genetic improvement of Pueraria, the present study reports a chromosome-level genome of P. montana with length of 978.59 Mb and scaffold N50 of 80.18 Mb. Comparative genomics analysis showed that P. montana possesses smaller genome size than that of P. thomsonii owing to less repeat sequences and duplicated genes. A total of 6,548 and 4,675 variety-specific gene families were identified in P. montana and P. thomsonii, respectively. The identified variety-specific and expanded/contracted gene families related to biosynthesis of bioactive metabolites and microtubules are likely the causes for the different characteristics of metabolism and cold-adaption of P. montana and P. thomsonii. Moreover, a graphic genome was constructed based on 11 P. montana accessions. Total 92 structural variants were identified and most of which are related to stimulus-response. In conclusion, the chromosome-level and graphic genomes of P. montana will not only facilitate the studies of evolution and metabolic regulation, but also promote the breeding of Pueraria.
Linkage mapping reveals loci that underlie differences in Caenorhabditis elegans growth
Authors: Nyaanga Joy , Andersen Erik C
Published: August 2022

Growth rate and body size are complex traits that contribute to the fitness of organisms. The identification of loci that underlie differences in these traits provides insights into the genetic contributions to development. Leveraging Caenorhabditis elegans as a tractable metazoan model for quantitative genetics, we can identify genomic regions that underlie differences in growth. We measured postembryonic growth of the laboratory-adapted wild-type strain (N2) and a wild strain from Hawaii (CB4856) and found differences in body size. Using linkage mapping, we identified three distinct quantitative trait loci (QTL) on chromosomes IV, V, and X that are associated with variation in body growth. We further examined these growth-associated quantitative trait loci using chromosome substitution strains and near-isogenic lines and validated the chromosome X quantitative trait loci. In addition, we generated a list of candidate genes for the chromosome X quantitative trait loci. These genes could potentially contribute to differences in animal growth and should be evaluated in subsequent studies. Our work reveals the genetic architecture underlying animal growth variation and highlights the genetic complexity of growth in Caenorhabditis elegans natural populations.
A Chromosome-Scale Genome Assembly of aHelicoverpa zeaStrain Resistant toBacillus thuringiensisCry1Ac Insecticidal Protein
Authors: Stahlke Amanda R , Chang Jennifer , Tembrock Luke R , Sim Sheina B , Chudalayandi Sivanandan , Geib Scott M , Scheffler Brian E , Perera Omaththage P , Gilligan Todd M , Childers Anna K , Hackett Kevin J , Coates Brad S
Published: August 2022

Helicoverpa zea (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is an insect pest of major cultivated crops in North and South America. The species has adapted to different host plants and developed resistance to several insecticidal agents, including Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticidal proteins in transgenic cotton and maize. Helicoverpa zea populations persist year-round in tropical and subtropical regions, but seasonal migrations into temperate zones increase the geographic range of associated crop damage. To better understand the genetic basis of these physiological and ecological characteristics, we generated a high-quality chromosome-level assembly for a single H. zea male from Bt-resistant strain, HzStark_Cry1AcR. Hi-C data were used to scaffold an initial 375.2 Mb contig assembly into 30 autosomes and the Z sex chromosome (scaffold N50 = 12.8 Mb and L50 = 14). The scaffolded assembly was error-corrected with a novel pipeline, polishCLR. The mitochondrial genome was assembled through an improved pipeline and annotated. Assessment of this genome assembly indicated 98.8% of the Lepidopteran Benchmark Universal Single-Copy Ortholog set were complete (98.5% as complete single copy). Repetitive elements comprised approximately 29.5% of the assembly with the plurality (11.2%) classified as retroelements. This chromosome-scale reference assembly for H. zea, ilHelZeax1.1, will facilitate future research to evaluate and enhance sustainable crop production practices.
Fixation dynamics of beneficial alleles in prokaryotic polyploid chromosomes and plasmids
Authors: Santer Mario , Kupczok Anne , Dagan Tal , Uecker Hildegard
Published: August 2022

Theoretical population genetics has been mostly developed for sexually reproducing diploid and for monoploid (haploid) organisms, focusing on eukaryotes. The evolution of bacteria and archaea is often studied by models for the allele dynamics in monoploid populations. However, many prokaryotic organisms harbor multicopy replicons—chromosomes and plasmids—and theory for the allele dynamics in populations of polyploid prokaryotes remains lacking. Here, we present a population genetics model for replicons with multiple copies in the cell. Using this model, we characterize the fixation process of a dominant beneficial mutation at 2 levels: the phenotype and the genotype. Our results show that depending on the mode of replication and segregation, the fixation of the mutant phenotype may precede genotypic fixation by many generations; we term this time interval the heterozygosity window. We furthermore derive concise analytical expressions for the occurrence and length of the heterozygosity window, showing that it emerges if the copy number is high and selection strong. Within the heterozygosity window, the population is phenotypically adapted, while both alleles persist in the population. Replicon ploidy thus allows for the maintenance of genetic variation following phenotypic adaptation and consequently for reversibility in adaptation to fluctuating environmental conditions.
The Mental Health Benefit of Friend Networks in Older Korean Americans: The Conditioning Effect of Family Type
Authors: Jang Yuri , Park Nan Sook , Park Juyoung , Chiriboga David A , Haley William E , Kim Miyong T
Published: August 2022

Objectives

We identified types of family relationships of older Korean Americans and examined how the mental health benefit of friend networks might be conditioned by family type.

Methods

Data were from 2,070 participants in the Study of Older Korean Americans, a multistate survey of Korean immigrants aged 60 and older (Mage = 73.3, standard deviation [SD] = 8.01). To identify family types, latent profile analysis (LPA) was performed with marital status, living arrangement, family network, positive and negative interactions with family members, and family mistreatment. Linear regression models examined how mental distress was associated with friend networks and family types, as well as their interactions.

Results

LPA identified 5 family types: close-knit, intimate but distant, detached, connected but dysfunctional, and dysfunctional. Greater distress was associated with smaller friend networks and belonging to the detached, connected but dysfunctional, and dysfunctional family types in comparison to the close-knit type. The interaction model showed that people in the connected but dysfunctional and dysfunctional groups had a stronger association between friend networks and mental distress than the counterparts in the close-knit group.

Discussion

We not only confirmed the health-promoting role of friend networks and the value of a close-knit family but also found that the benefit of friend networks was pronounced when quality of the family relationship was impaired. Our findings called renewed attention to older immigrants’ social convoys of family and friends, suggesting that the enhancement of friend networks could be particularly advantageous for older immigrants with dysfunctional family relationships.
Fishing tactics and the effect of resource depletion and interference during the exploitation of local patches of flatfish
Authors: Rijnsdorp A D , Aarts G , Hintzen N T , van Rijssel J C , Winter A M , Poos J J
Published: August 2022

The fine-scale exploitation pattern of fishers and the interactions among fishing vessels determine their impact on exploited populations, habitats, and ecosystems. This study used a unique combination of high resolution data of fishing tracks (positions recorded at 1 and 6 min intervals) and catch rates of sole (Solea solea) and plaice (Pleuronectes platessa) per tow, to study how pulse trawl (PUL) and tickler chain beam trawl (TBT) fishers exploit patches of concealed flatfish. PUL and TBT fishers had similar tactics. Effort was concentrated in the core of the patch. PUL fishers trawled in a systematic manner with successive tows segments placed parallel to each other at a median distance of ∼200 m. In 45% of the cores, simultaneous trawling by multiple PUL vessels occurred. A total of 40% of the cores were revisited in the following week, of which 50% were re-exploited. Catch rate in the core was ∼50% higher than the background catch rate and decreased over time due to resource depletion and interference related to the response of flatfish to the fishing activities. Interference contributed up to 67% to the decline in catch rate and was larger in TBT than in PUL.
Randomized clinical trial of nitazoxanide or sofosbuvir/daclatasvir for the prevention of SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Sokhela Simiso , Bosch Bronwyn , Hill Andrew , Simmons Bryony , Woods Joana , Johnstone Hilary , Akpomiemie Godspower , Ellis Leah , Owen Andrew , Casas Carmen Perez , Venter Willem Daniel Francois
Published: August 2022

Background

The COVER trial evaluated whether nitazoxanide or sofosbuvir/daclatasvir could lower the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Nitazoxanide was selected given its favourable pharmacokinetics and in vitro antiviral effects against SARS-CoV-2. Sofosbuvir/daclatasvir had shown favourable results in early clinical trials.

Methods

In this clinical trial in Johannesburg, South Africa, healthcare workers and others at high risk of infection were randomized to 24 weeks of either nitazoxanide or sofosbuvir/daclatasvir as prevention, or standard prevention advice only. Participants were evaluated every 4 weeks for COVID-19 symptoms and had antibody and PCR testing. The primary endpoint was positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR and/or serology ≥7 days after randomization, regardless of symptoms. A Poisson regression model was used to estimate the incidence rate ratios of confirmed SARS-CoV-2 between each experimental arm and control.

Results

Between December 2020 and January 2022, 828 participants were enrolled. COVID-19 infections were confirmed in 100 participants on nitazoxanide (2234 per 1000 person-years; 95% CI 1837–2718), 87 on sofosbuvir/daclatasvir (2125 per 1000 person-years; 95% CI 1722–2622) and 111 in the control arm (1849 per 1000 person-years; 95% CI 1535–2227). There were no significant differences in the primary endpoint between the treatment arms, and the results met the criteria for futility. In the safety analysis, the frequency of grade 3 or 4 adverse events was low and similar across arms.

Conclusions

In this randomized trial, nitazoxanide and sofosbuvir/daclatasvir had no significant preventative effect on infection with SARS-CoV-2 among healthcare workers and others at high risk of infection.
Relationship between rumen microbial differences and traits among Hu sheep, Tan sheep, and Dorper sheep
Authors: Cheng Jiangbo , Zhang Xiaoxue , Xu Dan , Zhang Deyin , Zhang Yukun , Song Qizhi , Li Xiaolong , Zhao Yuan , Zhao Liming , Li Wenxin , Wang Jianghui , Zhou Bubo , Lin Changchun , Yang Xiaobin , Zhai Rui , Cui Panpan , Zeng Xiwen , Huang Yongliang , Ma Zongwu , Liu Jia , Wang Weimin
Published: August 2022

Rumen microbes play an important role in the growth and development of ruminants. Differences in variety will affect the rumen community structure. The three excellent sheep breeds were selected for this study (Hu sheep, Tan sheep, and Dorper sheep) have different uses and origins. The sheep were raised on the same diet to 180 d of age in a consistent environment. 16S rDNA V3 to V4 region sequencing was used to assess the rumen microbes of 180 individuals (60 per breed). There were differences in microbial diversity among different sheep breeds (P < 0.05). Principal coordinate analysis showed that the three varieties were separated, but also partially overlapped. Linear discriminant analysis effect size identified a total of 19 biomarkers in three breeds. Of these biomarkers, five in Hu sheep were significantly negatively correlated with average feed conversion rate (P < 0.05). Six biomarkers were identified in the rumen of Dorper sheep, among which Ruminococcus was significantly positively correlated with body weight at 80 d (P < 0.05). In Tan sheep, Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group was significantly positively correlated with meat fat, and significantly positively correlated with volatile fatty acids (VFAs), such as butyric acid and isobutyric acid (P < 0.05). The Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group may regulate Tan mutton fat deposition by affecting the concentration of VFAs. Functional prediction revealed enrichment differences of functional pathways among different sheep breeds were small. All were enriched in functions, such as fermentation and chemoheterotrophy. The results show that there are differences in the rumen microorganisms of the different sheep breeds, and that the microorganisms influence the host.
The reproductive numbers of SARS-CoV-2 vary depending on the compartmental model used during epidemiological modelling
Authors: Yadav Subhash Kumar , Akhter Yusuf
Published: August 2022

We illustrate the correct way to compare reproductive numbers obtained from various compartmental models used in mathematical epidemiology.
Keeping up with the miRNAs: current paradigms of the biogenesis pathway
Authors: Mencia Regina , Gonzalo Lucía , Tossolini Ileana , Manavella Pablo A
Published: August 2022

For many years we have studied the processes involved in producing miRNAs in plants and the numerous differences from their metazoan counterpart. A well-defined catalytic process, mostly carried out by the RNase III enzyme DICER-LIKE1 (DCL1), it was identified early after the discovery of RNAi and was followed by the isolation of a plethora of miRNA biogenesis cofactors. The production of miRNAs, which later are loaded in ARGONAUTE (AGO) proteins to perform their RNA silencing functions both within the cell and non-cell autonomously, appears to be a highly regulated and dynamic process. Many regulatory events during miRNA biogenesis require the action of specific proteins. However, in recent years, many post-transcriptional modifications, structural features, and coupling with other cellular processing emerged as critical elements controlling the production of miRNA and, thus, a plant’s physiology. This review discusses new evidence that has changed the way we understand how miRNAs are produced in plants. We also provide an updated view of the miRNA biogenesis pathways, focusing on the gaps in our knowledge and the most compelling questions that remain open.
Diagnostic Efficiency of Serum-Based Infrared Spectroscopy in Detecting Breast Cancer: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Pabico Louise Julie , Jaron Jennica Naiomi , Mosqueda Marc Erickson , Wu Jorge Jaesen , Tiongco Raphael Enrique , Albano Pia Marie
Published: August 2022

Background

The advancement of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy as a potential diagnostic tool in the clinical setting has been studied over the years, particularly its application in cancer diagnostics.

Objective

To summarize previous research on FTIR spectroscopy in detecting breast cancer using serum specimens.

Methods

Related literature was searched and screened from various databases. Relevant data were then extracted, tabulated, and analyzed using Meta-DiSc 1.4 software.

Results

Sensitivity and specificity rates were 90% to 100% and 80% to 95%, respectively. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was at 0.9729, indicating that serum analysis via FTIR spectroscopy can accurately discriminate between healthy individuals and patients with breast cancer.

Conclusion

Overall, FTIR spectroscopy for breast cancer diagnosis using serum specimens shows promising results. However, further studies are still needed to validate these claims.
A Meta-Analysis on the Association of Colibactin-Producing pks+ Escherichia coli with the Development of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Gaab Marcianne Elaine , Lozano Prim Olivette , Ibañez Danica , Manese Korina Diane , Riego Fatima May , Tiongco Raphael Enrique , Albano Pia Marie
Published: August 2022

Objective

Previous studies on the association between pks+Escherichia coli and colorectal cancer (CRC) demonstrated conflicting results. Hence, we performed a meta-analysis to obtain more precise estimates.

Methods

Related literature was obtained from PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and Cochrane Library. Data were then extracted, summarized, and subjected to analysis using Review Manager 5.4 by computing for the pooled odds ratios at the 95% confidence interval.

Results

Overall analysis showed that individuals carrying pks+E coli had a greater risk of developing CRC. Subgroup analysis further showed that individuals from Western countries carrying pks+E coli and individuals with pks+E coli in their tissue samples had increased risk of developing CRC.

Conclusion

Results of this meta-analysis suggest that individuals with pks+E coli have a greater risk of developing CRC. However, more studies are needed to confirm our claims.
Review of Evidence
Authors: Whiteside Stephen P. H. , Ollendick Thomas H. , Biggs Bridget K.
Published: August 2022

This chapter reviews the research supporting the efficacy of exposure therapy for anxiety disorders and obsessive–compulsive disorder. The chapter begins with a brief commentary on the importance of using research to guide clinical practice. It then reviews the evidence supporting exposure therapy for adult anxiety disorders. As with many areas of health care, the adult anxiety disorder research literature is larger than that for childhood anxiety disorders. As such, the former can provide answers to broad questions and includes more explorations of specific questions compared with the latter. Of course, children are not simply little adults, and conclusions from adult studies do not necessarily apply to childhood disorders. Thus, the empirical support for exposure therapy in children with anxiety disorders and obsessive–compulsive disorder is presented in a subsequent chapter.
Implementing Exposure
Authors: Whiteside Stephen P. H. , Ollendick Thomas H. , Biggs Bridget K.
Published: August 2022

This chapter presents detailed steps for how to implement exposure therapy for the broad spectrum of childhood and adolescent anxiety disorders and obsessive–compulsive disorder. The chapter begins with descriptions of the three categories of exposure (in vivo, imaginal, and interoceptive), the symptoms for which they are best utilized, and the goals for their use. The chapter then discusses important considerations for the optimal implementation of exposure, including identifying symptoms, titrating level of difficulty, and monitoring response. Finally, the chapter presents the procedures for implementing exposure for common clinical presentations, including social anxiety, separation anxiety, generalized anxiety, contamination, not-just-right experiences, bodily sensations and panic, specific fears, and distressing memories.
Additional Resources
Authors: Whiteside Stephen P. H. , Ollendick Thomas H. , Biggs Bridget K.
Published: August 2022

This chapter discusses additional resources to aid therapists in the delivery of exposure therapy. The chapter begins with materials and sources specific to the delivery of exposure, including a session-by-session outline as well as further reading, training, and technology. Next, the chapter reviews resources for addressing other aspects of childhood emotional and behavioral problems that may co-occur with anxiety and that require other techniques, such as disruptive behavior, depression, and trauma. Finally, the chapter briefly discusses avenues for locating other practitioners with an interest or expertise in exposure for child anxiety, such as training through professional organizations.
Mary Main, Erik Hesse, and the Berkeley Social Development Study
Authors: Duschinsky Robbie
Published: August 2022

This chapter explores the contributions of Mary Main, Erik Hesse, and the Berkeley longitudinal study. The Berkeley group generated the dominant approach to method and theory for the second generation of attachment research, and helped establish the priorities and values of the field over recent decades. The chapter argues for the importance of attentional processes for Main’s conceptualisation of minimising and maximising attachment strategies. Recognition of the centrality of attention to Main’s theory also helps makes sense of her introduction of the disorganised attachment classification, and her development of the Adult Attachment Interview. A particular focus of the chapter are the six-year systems for assessing attachment developed by Main and colleagues. The chapter also draws on an examination of the development of the Adult Attachment Interview coding system from the 1980s to the 2000s to offer clarifications regarding Main and Hesse’s ideas regarding ‘lack of resolution’ of loss and trauma.
Conclusion
Authors: Duschinsky Robbie
Published: August 2022

The concluding chapter begins by reviewing key structural dynamics that have contributed to the present state of attachment research as a paradigm: the apparent accessibility of attachment concepts; the subtlety and complexity of its theory and methods; and the differentiation of a field of cumulative attachment research. The chapter then examines the problems the intersection of these structural dynamics have caused for communication between researchers and practitioners, with child welfare practice as an illustration. Threats to the credibility and apparent relevance of attachment research from such breakdowns have led to claims that the paradigm is reaching exhaustion. The chapter evaluates this claim and closes by considering what comes next for attachment research.
Focused Assessment with Sonography in Trauma (FAST)
Authors: Brandon Caroline , Moran Jaime , Sajed Dana , Kang Tarina
Published: August 2022

This chapter uses clinical vignettes and multiple-choice questions to explore core and advanced principles of the Focused Abdominal Sonography in Trauma (FAST), including the extended FAST (EFAST). The cases will assess image acquisition pearls and pitfalls, image interpretation, false positive and negative findings, and integration into patient management. Clinical vignettes will include stable and unstable patients presenting with blunt or penetrating trauma, as well as nontraumatic presentations in which the FAST may be used. Each case will include detailed explanations for correct and incorrect answer choices, incorporating landmark studies as well as the latest literature that clinical sonographers will find of interest. Topics include liver tip, double line sign, spine sign, hemopericardium, gastric fluid sign, phrenicocolic ligament, iliac vessels, seminal vesicles, lung pulse, lung point, and M-mode in pneumothorax.
Resuscitative Ultrasound
Authors: Mehta Ishan , Jun Dale , Guo Stephanie , Barjaktarevic Igor
Published: August 2022

This chapter uses clinical vignettes and multiple-choice questions to explore core and advanced principles of resuscitative ultrasound. The cases assess image acquisition pearls and pitfalls, image interpretation, false positive and negative findings, and integration into patient management and incorporate videos and images. Clinical vignettes include critically ill patients presenting with undifferentiated symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, cardiac arrest, or hypotension. Each case includes a learning objective, a question, and detailed explanations for correct and incorrect answer choices, incorporating landmark studies as well as the latest literature that clinical sonographers will find of interest. Relevant references are also provided for each case.
Thoracic Ultrasound
Authors: Avila Jacob , Huang Calvin , Noble Vicki
Published: August 2022

This chapter uses clinical vignettes and multiple-choice questions to explore core and advanced principles of thoracic ultrasound. The cases assess image acquisition pearls and pitfalls, image interpretation, false positive and negative findings, and integration into patient management. Clinical vignettes include stable and unstable patients presenting with undifferentiated symptoms such as shortness of breath and chest pain. Each case includes detailed explanations for correct and incorrect answer choices, incorporating landmark studies as well as the latest literature that clinical sonographers will find of interest. Relevant references and sources for each case are also included, as well as keywords for each section.
Renal Ultrasound
Authors: Aminlari Amir , Macias Michael A. , Shah Virag J. , Medak Anthony J.
Published: August 2022

This chapter uses clinical vignettes and multiple-choice questions to explore core and advanced principles of renal ultrasound. The cases assess image acquisition pearls and pitfalls, image interpretation, false positive and negative findings, and integration into patient management. Clinical vignettes include stable and unstable patients presenting with undifferentiated symptoms such as abdominal pain, flank pain, or hypotension. Each case includes detailed explanations for correct and incorrect answer choices, incorporating landmark studies as well as the latest literature that clinical sonographers will find of interest. Relevant references and sources for each case are also included, as well as keywords for each section.
Bilateral Essential Tremor
Authors: Layton Kelly , Riley Jonathan , Schmidt Richard , Hoelscher Christian , Wu Chengyuan
Published: August 2022

Essential tremor can be a disabling condition that manifests with postural and action tremors. Hence, patients with essential tremor have difficulty performing basic activities of daily living, including eating and drinking. Though medical therapies such as beta-blockers and primidone may provide some degree of relief for patients, a subset of patients do not experience improvement with medical therapy. Deep brain stimulation targeting the ventralis intermedius nucleus of the thalamus is an effective intervention for essential tremor. Stimulation-induced side effects can include paresthesia from stimulation of the sensory thalamus and motor effects from stimulation of the internal capsule. Evidence supports performing surgery either with patients awake using intraoperative electrophysiological testing or with patients asleep using intraoperative radiological confirmation.
Tremor-Dominant Parkinson Disease
Authors: Zyck Stephanie , Duemani Reddy Gaddum
Published: August 2022

Deep brain stimulation is an evidence-based treatment for Parkinson disease that has been shown to improve quality of life along multiple domains. Though ablation may be considered in patients with unilateral tremor dominance, deep brain stimulation has evolved as the dominant therapy as it can be performed bilaterally and can be adjusted with time. For patients with tremor as the dominant symptom, stimulation of the ventralis intermedius nucleus of the thalamus may be considered. For patients with tremor along with refractory bradykinesia or rigidity, stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus or globus pallidus internus can improve both the tremor and the other cardinal motor features of Parkinson disease.