bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of movement recursions to detect reproductive events and estimate their fate in central place foragers
Authors: Picardi Simona , Smith Brian J. , Boone Matthew E. , Frederick Peter C. , Cecere Jacopo G. , Rubolini Diego , Serra Lorenzo , Pirrello Simone , Borkhataria Rena R. , Basille Mathieu
Published: June 2020

Background

Recursive movement patterns have been used to detect behavioral structure within individual movement trajectories in the context of foraging ecology, home-ranging behavior, and predator avoidance. Some animals exhibit movement recursions to locations that are tied to reproductive functions, including nests and dens; while existing literature recognizes that, no method is currently available to explicitly target different types of revisited locations. Moreover, the temporal persistence of recursive movements to a breeding location can carry information regarding the fate of breeding attempts, but it has never been used as a metric to quantify recursive movement patterns. Here, we introduce a method to locate breeding attempts and estimate their fate from GPS-tracking data of central place foragers. We tested the performance of our method in three bird species differing in breeding ecology (wood stork (Mycteria americana),lesser kestrel (Falco naumanni),Mediterranean gull (Ichthyaetus melanocephalus)) and implemented it in the R package ‘nestR’.

Methods

We identified breeding sites based on the analysis of recursive movements within individual tracks. Using trajectories with known breeding attempts, we estimated a set of species-specific criteria for the identification of nest sites, which we further validated using non-reproductive individuals as controls. We then estimated individual nest survival as a binary measure of reproductive fate (success, corresponding to fledging of at least one chick, or failure) from nest-site revisitation histories during breeding attempts, using a Bayesian hierarchical modeling approach that accounted for temporally variable revisitation patterns, probability of visit detection, and missing data.

Results

Across the three species, positive predictive value of the nest-site detection algorithm varied between 87 and 100% and sensitivity between 88 and 92%, and we correctly estimated the fate of 86–100% breeding attempts.

Conclusions

By providing a method to formally distinguish among revisited locations that serve different ecological functions and introducing a probabilistic framework to quantify temporal persistence of movement recursions, we demonstrated how the analysis of recursive movement patterns can be applied to estimate reproduction in central place foragers. Beyond avian species, the principles of our method can be applied to other central place foraging breeders such as denning mammals. Our method estimates a component of individual fitness from movement data and will help bridge the gap between movement behavior, environmental factors, and their fitness consequences.
Systematic mechanical assessment of consolidants for canvas reinforcement under controlled environment
Authors: Bridarolli Alexandra , Nualart-Torroja Anna , Chevalier Aurélia , Odlyha Marianne , Bozec Laurent
Published: June 2020

In conservation, adhesives are commonly used for the consolidation of canvases, yet their impact upon the canvas longevity has raised some concerns amongst conservators. As such, this study presents a testing protocol developed to assess the performance of commonly-used adhesives (natural animal glue and synthetic Beva
®
371) and a newly developed nanocellulose consolidant, nanofibrillated nanocellulose (CNF). This includes their effect on the visual appearance, consolidation, and response of the mechanical properties of the treated canvases to programmed changes in relative humidity (RH). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of animal glue- and Beva
®
371-treated canvases revealed the presence of adhesive and consolidant on and in-between cotton fibres. The consolidants form bridges linking and connecting the cotton fibres and holding them together, whereas the CNF treatment, formed a visible continuous and dense surface coating. None of the treatments induced any discernible colour change. Controlled environment mechanical testing was performed in two ways: by applying a linearly increasing static force at fixed RH (Young’s modulus) and by applying a dynamic force together with a programmed RH cycling between 20 and 80% (RH dependent viscoelastic properties). CNF gave a higher value of Young’s modulus than either of the two commonly-used materials. Measurements at different values of RH (20 and 80%) demonstrated for all the treated canvases that at the lower value (RH 20%) Young’s modulus values were higher than at the higher value (RH 80%). Besides, the dynamic mode showed that the rate of response in all cases was rapid and reversible and that the nanofibrillated cellulose treated sample showed the highest variation in storage (or elastic) modulus measured at the end of RH plateaux (20 and 80% RH). Thus CNF appears to be a promising material given its higher mechanical performance. The protocol developed in this study has enabled us to examine and compare candidate materials for the consolidation of canvases systematically, using testing parameters that remained relevant to the field of canvas conservation.
Depression as a concealable stigmatized identity: what influences whether students conceal or reveal their depression in undergraduate research experiences?
Authors: Cooper Katelyn M. , Gin Logan E. , Brownell Sara E.
Published: June 2020

Background

Concealable stigmatized identities (CSIs) are identities that can be kept hidden or invisible and that carry negative stereotypes. Depression is one of the most common CSIs among undergraduates. However, to our knowledge, no studies have explored how students manage depression as a CSI in the context of undergraduate research, a high-impact practice for undergraduate science students. Concealing CSIs can cause psychological distress and revealing CSIs can be beneficial; however, it is unknown whether these findings extend to students with depression in the context of undergraduate research experiences. In this study, we interviewed 35 life sciences majors with depression from 12 research-intensive institutions across the United States who participated in undergraduate research. We sought to understand to what extent students reveal their depression in research and to describe the challenges of concealing depression and the benefits of revealing depression in this specific context. Additionally, we explored whether students knew scientists with depression and how knowing a scientist with depression might affect them.

Results

Most students did not reveal their depression in their undergraduate research experiences. Those who did typically revealed it to another undergraduate researcher and few revealed it to a faculty mentor. Students who concealed their depression feared the potential consequences of revealing their identity, such as being treated negatively by others in the lab. Students who revealed their depression highlighted a set of benefits that they experienced after revealing their depression, such as receiving support and flexibility from their research mentor. We found that few students knew a specific scientist with depression. However, students perceived that knowing a scientist with depression would help them realize that they are not the only one experiencing depression in science and that people with depression can be successful in science.

Conclusions

This study illustrates that students with depression would benefit from research environments that are supportive of students with depression so that they can feel comfortable revealing their depression if they would like to. We also identified that students may benefit from knowing successful scientists with depression. We hope this study encourages undergraduate research mentors to support students with depression and ultimately reduces the stigma around CSIs such as depression.
Altitude effects of localized source currents on magnetotelluric responses
Authors: Sato Shinya
Published: June 2020

The effects of localized source currents on Earth’s magnetotelluric (MT) responses have been reported in the literature in terms of the changes in period and subsurface structure. The focus in this study is on the bias within the MT responses arising from variations in the vertical and horizontal distances of the source current. The MT responses at the periods of field aligned resonance (20 and 200 s) were calculated at various distances from the source current. A slight change in source distance causes a shift in the MT responses. The shift of apparent resistivity at 20 and 200 s exceeds 10% and 50% of the original values, respectively. Such features are found especially over the altitude range of the ionospheric E layer (i.e., 100–150 km), where MT source currents often flow. The vertical distance of the source field varies because the distribution of conductivity with altitude in the ionosphere and the region controlling the ionospheric electrical process change temporally. Thus, in assessing the temporal changes in MT responses, we should treat them carefully by checking the ionospheric environment.
Avocado crops as a floral resource for native bees of Chile
Authors: Monzón Víctor H. , Avendaño-Soto Patricio , Araujo Rodrigo O. , Garrido Rubén , Mesquita-Neto José N.
Published: June 2020

Background

Chile is the second largest avocado producer in the world. However, there have been few studies on interactions between native bees and avocado pollination in a Chilean environment. The flowering period of avocado is very sensitive to temperature fluctuations and so environmental conditions, particularly cool temperatures, can have a strong influence on its floral behaviour. Thus, we aimed to determine whether temperature also influences bee visitation rates to avocado flowers or if this was due to the number of available flowers. Moreover, we proposed to verify the attractiveness of avocado flowers to native bees and compare flower handling time and type of floral resource collected between managed and native bees.

Methods

An avocado orchard of “Hass” cultivar located in the Mediterranean region of Chile was studied during the flowering season of 2016. The frequency of exotic and native bee species in flowers, floral phenology, and environmental temperature were analysed, and the foraging behaviours of exotic and native bee species in avocado flowers compared.

Results

Five Chilean native and two exotic species were recorded visiting avocado flowers at the studied orchard. The bees generally sought nectar rather than pollen. The European honeybee (Apis mellifera) was the most frequent flower visitor, followed by the native species Colletes cyanescens and Cadeguala occidentalis. There was a strong positive correlation between temperature and number of visits, but no significant correlation between number of open flowers and number of visits.

Conclusions

Native Chilean bees visited avocado flowers and some of them were frequent floral visitors. They generally sought for nectar rather than pollen and were as fast as honeybees handling avocado flowers. The environmental temperature plays a key role in the frequency of bees in avocado flowers. The warmer weather is related to the higher number of bees visits to avocado flowers.
Effects of Mycobacterium vaccae vaccine in a mouse model of tuberculosis: protective action and differentially expressed genes
Authors: Gong Wen-Ping , Liang Yan , Ling Yan-Bo , Zhang Jun-Xian , Yang You-Rong , Wang Lan , Wang Jie , Shi Ying-Chang , Wu Xue-Qiong
Published: June 2020

Background

Tuberculosis is a leading cause of death worldwide. BCG is an effective vaccine, but not widely used in many parts of the world due to a variety of issues. Mycobacterium vaccae (M. vaccae) is another vaccine used in human subjects to prevent tuberculosis. In the current study, we investigated the potential mechanisms of M. vaccae vaccination by determining differentially expressed genes in mice infected with M. tuberculosis before and after M. vaccae vaccination.

Methods

Three days after exposure to M. tuberculosis H37Rv strain (5 × 105 CFU), adult BALB/c mice randomly received either M. vaccae vaccine (22.5 μg) or vehicle via intramuscular injection (n = 8). Booster immunization was conducted 14 and 28 days after the primary immunization. Differentially expressed genes were identified by microarray followed by standard bioinformatics analysis.

Results

M. vaccae vaccination provided protection against M. tuberculosis infection (most prominent in the lungs). We identified 2326 upregulated and 2221 downregulated genes in vaccinated mice. These changes could be mapped to a total of 123 signaling pathways (68 upregulated and 55 downregulated). Further analysis pinpointed to the MyD88-dependent TLR signaling pathway and PI3K-Akt signaling pathway as most likely to be functional.

Conclusions

M. vaccae vaccine provided good protection in mice against M. tuberculosis infection, via a highly complex set of molecular changes. Our findings may provide clue to guide development of more effective vaccine against tuberculosis.
Models to predict injury, physical fitness failure and attrition in recruit training: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Orr Robin M. , Cohen Bruce S. , Allison Stephen C. , Bulathsinhala Lakmini , Zambraski Edward J. , Jaffrey Mark
Published: June 2020

Background

Attrition rate in new army recruits is higher than in incumbent troops. In the current study, we identified the risk factors for attrition due to injuries and physical fitness failure in recruit training. A variety of predictive models were attempted.

Methods

This retrospective cohort included 19,769 Army soldiers of the Australian Defence Force receiving recruit training during a period from 2006 to 2011. Among them, 7692 reserve soldiers received a 28-day training course, and the remaining 12,077 full-time soldiers received an 80-day training course. Retrieved data included anthropometric measures, course-specific variables, injury, and physical fitness failure. Multivariate regression was used to develop a variety of models to predict the rate of attrition due to injuries and physical fitness failure. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was used to compare the performance of the models.

Results

In the overall analysis that included both the 28-day and 80-day courses, the incidence of injury of any type was 27.8%. The 80-day course had a higher rate of injury if calculated per course (34.3% vs. 17.6% in the 28-day course), but lower number of injuries per person-year (1.56 vs. 2.29). Fitness test failure rate was significantly higher in the 28-day course (30.0% vs. 12.1%). The overall attrition rate was 5.2 and 5.0% in the 28-day and 80-day courses, respectively. Stress fracture was common in the 80-day course (n = 44) and rare in the 28-day course (n = 1). The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves for the course-specific predictive models were relatively low (ranging from 0.51 to 0.69), consistent with “failed” to “poor” predictive accuracy. The course-combined models performed somewhat better than the course-specific models, with two models having AUC of 0.70 and 0.78, which are considered “fair” predictive accuracy.

Conclusion

Attrition rate was similar between 28-day and 80-day courses. In comparison to the 80-day full course, the 28-day course had a lower rate of injury but a higher number of injuries per person-year and of fitness test failure. These findings suggest fitness level at the commencement of training is a critically important factor to consider when designing the course curriculum, particularly short courses.
Tetravalent dengue DNA vaccine is not immunogenic when delivered by retrograde infusion into salivary glands
Authors: El Helou Guy , Ponzio Todd A. , Goodman Joseph F. , Blevins Maria , Caudell David L. , Raviprakash Kanakatte S. , Ewing Daniel , Williams Maya , Porter Kevin R. , Sanders John W.
Published: June 2020

Introduction and background

A tetravalent DNA vaccine for Dengue virus is under development but has not yet achieved optimal immunogenicity. Salivary glands vaccination has been reported efficacious in rodents and dogs. We report on a pilot study testing the salivary gland as a platform for a Dengue DNA vaccine in a non-human primate model.

Materials and methods

Four cynomolgus macaques were used in this study. Each macaque was pre-medicated with atropine and sedated with ketamine. Stensen’s duct papilla was cannulated with a P10 polyethylene tube, linked to a 500ul syringe. On the first two infusions, all macaques were infused with 300ul of TVDV mixed with 2 mg of zinc. For the 3rd infusion, to increase transfection into salivary tissue, two animals received 100uL TVDV mixed with 400uL polyethylenimine 1μg/ml (PEI) and the other two animals received 500uL TVDV with zinc. Antibody titers were assessed 4 weeks following the second and third infusion.

Results and conclusions

SGRI through Stensen’s duct is a well-tolerated, simple and easy to reproduce procedure. TVDV infused into macaques salivary glands elicited a significantly weaker antibody response than with different delivery methods.
Current status of plant metabolite-based fabrication of copper/copper oxide nanoparticles and their applications: a review
Authors: Siddiqi Khwaja Salahuddin , Husen Azamal
Published: June 2020

Since green mode of nanoparticles (NPs) synthesis is simple, advantageous and environment friendly relative to chemical and physical procedures, various plant species have been used to fabricate copper and copper oxide nanoparticles (Cu/CuO-NPs) owing to the presence of phytochemicals which often act as capping as well as stabilizing agent. These Cu/CuO-NPs are highly stable and used in the degradation of organic dyes like methylene blue and reduction of organic compounds such as phenols. They are also used as antibacterial, antioxidant and antifungal agent due to their cytotoxicity. They are also examined for agricultural crops growth and productivity. Cu-NPs increased the root and shoot growth of mung bean. In wheat plants, these particles reduced shoot growth; and enhanced the grain yield and stress tolerance through starch degradation. Similarly, CuO-NPs treated seedlings have shown reduced chlorophyll, carotenoid and sugar content, whereas proline and anthocyanins were increased inBrassica rapaseedlings. Overall, this review presents the recent understanding of plant-mediated Cu and CuO-NPs fabrication and their application in biomedicine, environmental remediation and agricultural practices. A comparison of the traditional/conventional method of fabrication of NPs with those of green protocols has also been made. Some misconception of copper chemistry has also been critically discussed in terms of oxidation and reduction reactions.
Three-dimensional bio-printing and bone tissue engineering: technical innovations and potential applications in maxillofacial reconstructive surgery
Authors: Salah Muhja , Tayebi Lobat , Moharamzadeh Keyvan , Naini Farhad B.
Published: June 2020

Background

Bone grafting has been considered the gold standard for hard tissue reconstructive surgery and is widely used for large mandibular defect reconstruction. However, the midface encompasses delicate structures that are surrounded by a complex bone architecture, which makes bone grafting using traditional methods very challenging. Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting is a developing technology that is derived from the evolution of additive manufacturing. It enables precise development of a scaffold from different available biomaterials that mimic the shape, size, and dimension of a defect without relying only on the surgeon’s skills and capabilities, and subsequently, may enhance surgical outcomes and, in turn, patient satisfaction and quality of life.

Review

This review summarizes different biomaterial classes that can be used in 3D bioprinters as bioinks to fabricate bone scaffolds, including polymers, bioceramics, and composites. It also describes the advantages and limitations of the three currently used 3D bioprinting technologies: inkjet bioprinting, micro-extrusion, and laser-assisted bioprinting.

Conclusions

Although 3D bioprinting technology is still in its infancy and requires further development and optimization both in biomaterials and techniques, it offers great promise and potential for facial reconstruction with improved outcome.
Benchmarking bulkers delivered between 2010 and 2016, identifying the effect of the EEDI introduction
Authors: Pruyn Jeroen F. J.
Published: June 2020

The EEDI is one measure to identify the energy efficiency of a vessel. Besides EEDI there are many other aspects relevant when considering the energy efficiency quality of a vessel, most based on design insights. In this paper, a set of ten relevant indicators are identified to establish the performance of the vessel and pinpoint the source of an energy efficiency improvement. These indicators are applied to the dry bulk vessels delivered between 2010 and 2016. Finally, for all indicators with a reasonable fit, the significance of the differences between trend lines is investigated. This results in groupings with equal performance, showing a clear split between vessels delivered between 2014 and 2016 and before. This is in line with the EEDI enforcement starting 2013. However, for the vessels below 125.000 DWT, the effect so far is traced back to be an increase in contract speed only. No other aspects changed significantly enough. Above this size, a reduction in speed and power can be observed, as predicted by many scholars.
Lessons learned in preparing for and responding to the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic: one simulation’s program experience adapting to the new normal
Authors: Brydges Ryan , Campbell Douglas M. , Beavers Lindsay , Khodadoust Nazanin , Iantomasi Paula , Sampson Kristen , Goffi Alberto , Caparica Santos Filipe N. , Petrosoniak Andrew
Published: June 2020

Use of simulation to ensure an organization is ready for significant events, like COVID-19 pandemic, has shifted from a “backburner” training tool to a “first choice” strategy for ensuring individual, team, and system readiness. In this report, we summarize our simulation program’s response during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the associated challenges and lessons learned. We also reflect on anticipated changes within our program as we adapt to a “new normal” following this pandemic. We intend for this report to function as a guide for other simulation programs to consult as this COVID-19 crisis continues to unfold, and during future challenges within global healthcare systems. We argue that this pandemic has cemented simulation programs as fundamental for any healthcare organization interested in ensuring its workforce can adapt in times of crisis. With the right team and set of partners, we believe that sustained investments in a simulation program will amplify into immeasurable impacts across a healthcare system.
Abortions followed by contraceptive failures in Northern India: an analysis of contraceptive histories (2009–2014)
Authors: Singh Anjali , Mishra Rakesh , Singh K. K. , Verma Prashant
Published: June 2020

This study tries to elicit the unexplored nexus between the contraceptive failure and abortions in India’s most populous state Uttar Pradesh. Condom being the most used modern method contributes to 47% of all observed episodes in the calendar period. Of all accidental pregnancies occurred because of modern contraceptive failures, 35.2% terminated with induced abortions. Gross failure rate of modern methods is conspicuously higher for urban poor, uneducated women, and marginalized section of population living in urban area. From a total of 7496 episodes of all reversible methods, abortions are estimated as high as 29.2%, whereas for the traditional method it accounts for around 21%. The empirical evidence of induced abortions due to contraceptive failure put serious concern regarding unintended pregnancies and hence discourages fertility intentions among the potential couples.
Rationale and design of the HIT-CF organoid study: stratifying cystic fibrosis patients based on intestinal organoid response to different CFTR-modulators
Authors: van Mourik Peter , Michel Sabine , Vonk Annelotte M. , Beekman Jeffrey M. , van der Ent Cornelis K. ,   on behalf of the HIT-CF consortium, De Keyser Hilde , Lammertyn Elise , van Koningsbruggen-Rietschel Silke , Naehrlich Lutz , Pool Judith , van de Craen Marc , Aguilera Begoña , Pott Johanna , Vries Rob G. J. , Boj Sylvia F. , De Boeck Kris , Vermeulen François , Ramalho Anabela S. , Silva Iris A. L. , Amaral Margarida D. , Goddeeris Matthew , Gilmartin Geoffrey
Published: June 2020

Background

Cystic fibrosis is a rare recessive monogenic disease caused by loss-of-function mutations in theCystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator(CFTR) gene. Recently developed CFTR-modulators (i.e. drugs that rescue CFTR-function) have improved the prognosis of the disease, but are only available for certain, relatively common mutations. More than 2000 genetic variants in CFTR have been described, many of which are uncharacterized, while efficacy of CFTR-modulators can differ depending on genotype. Personalized models that can predict drug efficacy in patients with rare mutations could help to provide access to effective CFTR-modulator treatment. The forskolin induced swelling (FIS) assay in rectal organoids can robustly measure CFTR-function and CFTR-modulator efficacy, and pilot studies indicate that FIS accurately predicts treatment efficacy in individual patients. In the HIT-CF Organoid Study, rectal organoids from patients with rare CFTR-mutations are screened for CFTR-modulator efficacy to identify patients that could clinically benefit from these drugs.

Methods

In this EU-H2020 funded multi-centre study, rectal biopsies are obtained from approximately 500 subjects with rare CFTR-mutations from 17 different EU countries and sent to central laboratories. Organoids are generated, on which several novel CFTR-modulating drugs are screened for efficacy. In the process, a biobank is generated which could be used for future research. Subjects whose organoids show a response to treatment will be asked to participate in subsequent clinical trials evaluating the clinical efficacy of tested drugs.

Discussion

The HIT-CF Organoid Study applies the intestinal organoid model for personalized medicine in patients with rare variant cystic fibrosis, who are currently excluded from classical CFTR-modulator trials. Together with the subsequent clinical trials in high responders, this study aims to create a new pathway for access to CFTR-modulating drugs for patients with ultra-rare CFTR variants.

Trial registration

This trial has been registered in the Netherlands Trial Registry (NTR7520,https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/7304), a primary registry approved and recognized by WMO and ICMJE, on 2018-10-02.
Assessment of bacterial loads of Clarias gariepinus (Burchell, 1822) obtained from cultured and natural habitats
Authors: Afolabi Olajide Joseph , Oladele Oluwole Olakunle , Olususi Fayokemi Christianah
Published: June 2020

Background

African catfish (Clarias garipienus) is a major tropical aquaculture species in Africa and most cultivated by fish farmers in Nigeria. The dominance of African catfish for fish farming is attributed to several favourable characteristics such as its ability to tolerate a varying range of environmental conditions, high stocking densities under culture conditions, fast growth rate, acceptability of artificial feed, high fecundity rate, ease of artificial breeding and high market value. However, catfishes are known to harbour bacteria which limit its suitability for human consumption. Hence, this study was conducted to compare the bacterial loads of C. gariepinus from cultured and natural habitats.

Methodology

A total number of twelve live adult (200–799 g) C. gariepinus comprising 3 each were randomly obtained from two cultured habitats (ponds) and two natural habitats (rivers). In the laboratory, the skin and the intestine of the fish were examined for the presence of bacteria using nutrient, mannitol salt and cetrimide agars.

Results

Seven bacteria isolates namely, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermis, Micrococcus luteus, Escherichia coli and Streptococcus spp. were identified from the catfishes using their colonial, morphological and biochemical characteristics. The results showed that the total bacterial loads in cultured habitat (skin, 25.77 × 104cfu/g; intestine, 22.50 × 104cfu/g) were significantly higher than the total bacterial load recorded in natural habitat (skin, 15.94 × 104cfu/g, intestine, 14.23 × 104cfu/g). Specifically, total Staphylococcal loads (skin, 10.40 × 104cfu/g; intestine, 10.77 × 104cfu/g) and Pseudomonad loads (skin, 6.80 × 104cfu/g; intestine, 8.00 × 104cfu/g) were significantly higher in cultured habitat than natural habitat where Staphylococcal loads (skin, 6.66 × 104cfu/g; intestine, 5.50 × 104cfu/g) and Pseudomonad loads (skin, 5.46 × 104cfu/g; intestine, 5.54 × 104cfu/g) were recorded. Generally, it was observed that bacterial loads were higher on the skin compare to intestines of C. gariepinus obtained from both habitats.

Conclusion

The study showed that bacterial loads were more in C. gariepinus obtained from cultured habitat compared to those obtained from natural habitat. It is therefore recommended that sanitary conditions under which fish are reared in fish pond should be improved.
An overview on COVID-19: reality and expectation
Authors: Hamed Manal A.
Published: June 2020

Recently, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2), commonly known as coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) has rapidly spread across China and around the world. By the declaration of WHO, COVID-19 outbreak considered as a public health problem of international concern. The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive view on COVID-19 and the future expectations to control virus progression. Patients with liver disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity are more susceptible to the incidence of COVID-19 infection. So, there is a rapid need for disease diagnosis, vaccine development, and drug discovery to detect, prevent, and treat this sudden and lethal virus. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is considered as a rapid, accurate, and specific tool for disease diagnosis. Under this emergency situation that the world facing against COVID-19, there are about 15 potential vaccine candidates tested globally based on messenger RNA, DNA-based, nanoparticle, synthetic, and modified virus-like particle. Certain drugs that are clinically approved for other diseases were tested against COVID-19 as chloroquine, hydroxychloroquine, ivermectin, favipiravir, ribavirin, and remdesivir. Convalescent plasma transfusion and traditional herbal medicine were also taken into consideration. Due to the absence of effective treatment or vaccines against COVID-19 so far, the precautionary measures according to WHO’s strategic objectives are the only way to confront this crisis. Governments should adopt national medical care programs to reduce the risk of exposure to any future viral outbreaks especially to patients with pre-existing medical conditions.
Light microscopic evidence of in vivo differentiation from the transplanted inferior turbinate-derived stem cell into the rod photoreceptor in degenerating retina of the mouse
Authors: Park Yong Soo , Kim Yeonji , Kim Sung Won , Kim In-Beom
Published: June 2020

The human turbinate-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hTMSCs), which were DiI-labeled and transplanted into the subretinal space in degenerating mouse retina, were observed in retinal vertical sections processed for rhodopsin (a marker for rod photoreceptor) by confocal microscope with differential interference contrast (DIC) filters. The images clearly demonstrated that DiI-labeled hTMSCs have rhodopsin-immunoreactive appendages, indicating differentiation of transplanted hTMSC into rod photoreceptor. Conclusively, the finding suggests therapeutic potential of hTMSCs in retinal degeneration.
Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor of maxillary sinus successfully treated with radiotherapy and corticosteroid: report of a rare case
Authors: Biswas Rituparna , Halder Anirban , Gangopadhyay Mimi , Biswas Dipanwita
Published: June 2020

Background

Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (IMT) is a mesenchymal tumor mainly found in lung or retroperitoneum and rarely affects head and neck region. Extensive English literature search reveals that less than fifty cases of head and neck IMT have been reported so far, maxillary sinus being fewer.

Case presentation

We present a case of IMT involving maxillary sinus in a 48-year-old gentleman who attained complete clinico-radiologic response after treatment with radiotherapy (RT) and concurrent oral prednisolone.

Conclusions

This is the first report where such magnificent response was attained in primary setting treated with RT and steroids as opposed to surgery which used to be considered as standard of care till now.
Salvage Ipilimumab and Nivolumab in Patients With Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma After Prior Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
Authors: Gul Anita , Stewart Tyler F. , Mantia Charlene M. , Shah Neil J. , Gatof Emily Stern , Long Ying , Allman Kimberly D. , Ornstein Moshe C. , Hammers Hans J. , McDermott David F. , Atkins Michael B. , Hurwitz Michael , Rini Brian I.
Published: June 2020

PURPOSE

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are standard therapy in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC). The safety and activity of the combination of ipilimumab and nivolumab in patients who have received prior ICI targeting the programmed death 1 (PD-1) pathway remains unknown. We evaluated ipilimumab and nivolumab in patients with metastatic RCC after prior treatment with anti–PD-1 pathway–targeted therapy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with metastatic RCC who received prior anti–PD-1 pathway-targeted therapy and subsequently received ipilimumab and nivolumab were reviewed. Objective response rate and progression-free survival per investigator assessment were recorded. Toxicity of ipilimumab and nivolumab was also assessed.

RESULTS

Forty-five patients with metastatic RCC were included. All patients (100%) received prior ICIs targeting the PD-1 pathway. The median age was 62 years (range, 21-82 years). At a median follow-up of 12 months, the objective response rate to ipilimumab and nivolumab was 20%. The median progression-free survival while on ipilimumab and nivolumab was 4 months (range, 0.8-19 months). Immune-related adverse events (irAEs) of any grade with ipilimumab and nivolumab were recorded in 29 (64%) of the 45 patients; grade 3 irAEs were recorded in 6 (13%) of the 45 patients.

CONCLUSION

Ipilimumab and nivolumab demonstrated antitumor activity with acceptable toxicity in patients with metastatic RCC who had prior treatment with checkpoint inhibition.
A mouse SWATH-MS reference spectral library enables deconvolution of species-specific proteomic alterations in human tumour xenografts
Authors: Krasny Lukas , Bland Philip , Burns Jessica , Lima Nadia Carvalho , Harrison Peter T. , Pacini Laura , Elms Mark L. , Ning Jian , Garcia Martinez Victor , Yu Yi-Ru , Acton Sophie E. , Ho Ping-Chih , Calvo Fernando , Swain Amanda , Howard Beatrice A. , Natrajan Rachael C. , Huang Paul H.
Published: June 2020

SWATH-mass spectrometry (MS) enables accurate and reproducible proteomic profiling in multiple model organisms including the mouse. Here we present a comprehensive mouse reference spectral library (MouseRefSWATH) that permits quantification of up to 10,597 proteins (62.2% of the mouse proteome) by SWATH-MS. We exploit MouseRefSWATH to develop an analytical pipeline for species-specific deconvolution of proteomic alterations in human tumour xenografts (XenoSWATH). This method overcomes the challenge of high sequence similarity between mouse and human proteins, facilitating the study of host microenvironment-tumour interactions from ‘bulk tumour’ measurements. We apply the XenoSWATH pipeline to characterise an intraductal xenograft model of breast ductal carcinoma in-situ and uncover complex regulation consistent with stromal reprogramming, where the modulation of cell migration pathways is not restricted to tumour cells but also operate in the mouse stroma upon progression to invasive disease. MouseRefSWATH and XenoSWATH opens new opportunities for in-depth and reproducible proteomic assessment to address wide-ranging biological questions involving this important model organism.
Reference Values for Chronotropic Index from 1280 Incremental Cycle Ergometry Tests
Authors: SIRICHANA WORAWAN , NEUFELD ERIC V. , WANG XIAOYAN , HU SCOTT B. , DOLEZAL BRETT A. , COOPER CHRISTOPHER B.
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Clinical cardiopulmonary exercise testing can determine causes of exercise limitation. The slope of heart rate (fC
) versus oxygen uptake (V˙O2), which we call the chronotropic index (CI), can help identify cardiovascular impairment. We aimed to develop a reference equation for CI based on a large number of subjects considered to have normal exercise responses.

Methods

From a database of 13,728 incremental cycle ergometry exercise tests, we identified 1280 normal tests based on the absence of a clinical diagnosis, normal body mass index, and normal aerobic performance plus absence of cardiovascular disease, medications, or ventilatory limitation. A linear mixed-model approach was used to analyze the relationship between CI and other variables.

Results

Subjects were age 18–84 yr, and 693 (54.1%) were men. Mean ± SD CI in men was lower than in women, 41.2 ± 9.3 beats per liter versus 63.4 ± 15.7 L−1. Age (in years), sex (0, male; 1, female), height (in centimeters), and weight (in kilograms) were significant predictors for CI:CIi
= 106.9 + 0.16 × age
i
+ 14.3 × sex
i
− 0.31 × height
i
− 0.24 × weight
i
. The SE of estimates ranged from 10.6 to 11.2 L−1 (median of 10.7 L−1).

Conclusions

We report a reference equation for CI derived from normal subjects. The CI can be used in conjunction with V˙O2max to interpret maximal cardiopulmonary exercise tests. We consider a high CI to be cardiovascular impairment and a low CI plus low V˙O2max to be chronotropic insufficiency.
Epidermal inclusion cyst of the thyroid: a rare case of a nodule-like structure at ultrasound
Authors: Lauffer Peter , van Schuppen Joost , Mooij Christiaan F.
Published: June 2020

An epidermal/(epi)dermoid cyst of the thyroid is a rare cause of an intrathyroidal mass. At radiological evaluation, it may initially be misinterpreted as a thyroid adenoma or carcinoma. We present a case report of a 15-year-old boy, who was evaluated because of a neck mass which caused globus pharyngeus and pain at swallowing. Ultrasound examination revealed a hypoechoic nodule-like structure in the left thyroid lobe. Aspiration of the nodule yielded white fluid. Cytological evaluation confirmed the diagnosis of an epidermal inclusion cyst of the thyroid.
CONCEITO E PRÁTICA DO CONSENTIMENTO INFORMADO: UMA ANÁLISE DAS DECISÕES JUDICIAIS DO TRIBUNAL DE JUSTIÇA DO ESTADO DO RIO DE JANEIRO
Authors: Lopes Jr. Dalmir
Published: June 2020

O consentimento informado é um conceito resultante das transformações ocorridas na relação entre médicos e pacientes ao longo do século XX. A principal mudança deu-se com a superação do paradigma hipocrático de medicina por outro que privilegia o direito de autodeterminação dos pacientes. Embora ainda não exista uma lei que disponha sobre esse instituto no país, ele já é reconhecido pela jurisprudência pátria. A incorporação desse conceito pelo pensamento jurídico descortina uma nova compreensão para a relação médico-paciente. Neste artigo, procuramos discorrer sobre a natureza do consentimento informado, expondo seus requisitos e limites de aplicação. Para tanto, além de referenciais teóricos sobre a noção, também expomos uma pesquisa sobre a aplicabilidade do conceito a partir das decisões judiciais do Tribunal de Justiça do Estado do Rio de Janeiro entre os anos de 2002 a 2016, a fim de expor como a prática judicial tem contribuído para a consolidação direito de autodeterminação do paciente, bem como quais são as dificuldades que ainda precisam ser superadas.
Does standard cosmology really predict the cosmic microwave background?
Authors: Traunmüller Hartmut
Published: June 2020

In standard Big Bang cosmology, the universe expanded from a very dense, hot and opaque initial state. The light that was last scattered about 380,000 years later, when the universe had become transparent, has been redshifted and is now seen as thermal radiation with a temperature of 2.7 K, the cosmic microwave background (CMB). However, since light escapes faster than matter can move, it is prudent to ask how we, made of matter from this very source, can still see the light. In order for this to be possible, the light must take a return path of the right length. A curved return path is possible in spatially closed, balloon-like models, but in standard cosmology, the universe is “flat” rather than balloon-like, and it lacks a boundary surface that might function as a reflector. Under these premises, radiation that once filled the universe homogeneously cannot do so permanently after expansion, and we cannot see the last scattering event. It is shown that the traditional calculation of the CMB temperature is flawed and that light emitted by any source inside the Big Bang universe earlier than half its “conformal age”, also by distant galaxies, can only become visible to us via a return path. Although often advanced as the best evidence for a hot Big Bang, the CMB actually tells against a formerly smaller universe and so do the most distant galaxies. An attempt to invoke a model in which only time had a beginning, rather than spacetime, has also failed.
Analysis of tRNACys processing under salt stress in Bacillus subtilis spore outgrowth using RNA sequencing data
Authors: Arvizu Hernández Iván , Hernández Flores José Luis , Caballero Pérez Juan , Gutiérrez Sánchez Héctor , Ramos López Miguel Ángel , Romero Gómez Sergio , Cruz Hernández Andrés , Saldaña Gutierrez Carlos , Álvarez Hidalgo Erika , Jones George H. , Campos Guillén Juan
Published: June 2020

Background: In spore-forming bacteria, the molecular mechanisms of accumulation of transfer RNA (tRNA) during sporulation must be a priority as tRNAs play an essential role in protein synthesis during spore germination and outgrowth. However, tRNA processing has not been extensively studied in these conditions, and knowledge of these mechanisms is important to understand long-term stress survival.   

Methods:To gain further insight into tRNA processing during spore germination and outgrowth, the expression of the single copy tRNACys gene was analyzed in the presence and absence of 1.2 M NaCl in Bacillus subtilis using RNA-Seq data obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The CLC Genomics work bench 12.0.2 (CLC Bio, Aarhus, Denmark, https://www.qiagenbioinformatics.com/) was used to analyze reads from the tRNACys gene. 

Results:The results show that spores store different populations of tRNACys-related molecules.  One such population, representing 60% of total tRNACys, was composed of tRNACys fragments.  Half of these fragments (3´-tRF) possessed CC, CCA or incorrect additions at the 3´end. tRNACys with correct CCA addition at the 3´end represented 23% of total tRNACys, while with CC addition represented 9% of the total and with incorrect addition represented 7%. While an accumulation of tRNACys precursors was induced by upregulation of the rrnD operon under the control of  σA -dependent promoters under both conditions investigated, salt stress produced only a modest effect on tRNACys expression and the accumulation of tRNACys related species.

Conclusions:The results demonstrate that tRNACys molecules resident in spores undergo dynamic processing to produce functional molecules that may play an essential role during protein synthesis.
Coronavirus disease 2019 drug discovery through molecular docking
Authors: Singh Sweta , Florez Hector
Published: June 2020

Background: The dawn of the year 2020 witnessed the spread of the highly infectious and communicable disease coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) globally since it was ﬁrst reported in 2019. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 is the main causative agent. In total, 3,096,626 cases and 217,896 deaths owing to COVID-19 were reported by 30th April, 2020 by the World Health Organization. This means infection and deaths show an exponential growth globally. In order to tackle this pandemic, it is necessary to ﬁnd possible easily accessible therapeutic agents till an effective vaccine is developed.

Methods: In this study, we present the results of molecular docking processes through high throughput virtual screening to analyze drugs recommended for the treatment of COVID-19.

Results: Atovaquone, fexofenadine acetate (Allegra), ethamidindole, baicalin, glycyrrhetic acid, justicidin D, euphol, and curine are few of the lead molecules found after docking 129 known antivirals, antimalarial, antiparasitic drugs and 992 natural products.

Conclusions: These molecules could act as an effective inhibitory drug against COVID-19.
Assessment of adherence level for neonatal hyperbilirubinemia management by various physicians in ‎Iraq: a multi-clinic study
Authors: Hameed Numan Nafie , Yousif Hikmat Noori , Fawzi Hayder Adnan
Published: June 2020

Background: Neonatal jaundice is a physiological process that occurs normally ‎for every infant to a varying degree. In some cases, this process becomes pathological ‎and imposes an increased risk of morbidity and mortality for the infant. The aim of this study was to assess the adherence level of various physicians to different guidelines ‎of management of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia in Iraq.

Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted in ‎multiple outpatient clinics in various Iraqi provinces, from February ‎‎2018 to ‎February 2019. ‎The study involved 130 physicians, who were divided into emergency physicians (EPs), general practitioners (GPs), and pediatricians (PDs), and assessed their compliance to guidelines for management of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia using a questionnaire, which included providing the correct management for a test case scenario.

Results: PDs had significantly longer discharge times compared to EPs and GPs. In total, ‎91.7‎% of PDs always tested the neonate for bilirubin levels ‎before discharge, while 5.5‎% of GPs and 0% of EP did so. Regarding follow-up visits, 16.7‎%, 4.8% and 45.2% of PDs, EPs and GPs, respectively, scheduled a follow-up between 49-72 hours; ‎47.6‎% and 38.1% of EPs scheduled a follow-up at ≤24 hours and 25-48 hours, respectively‎‏. In addition, 91.7% of PDs gave the correct answer for the management of the test ‎case scenario, followed by 58.9% of GPs, and 38.1% of ‎EPs‎‏.‏ About half of ‎PDs extended neonates length of stay beyond 48 ‎hours.

Conclusion: GPs and EPs show lower adherence levels for the management of neonatal jaundice than PDs, which indicates that these physicians adhere well to current management guidelines from the WHO, ‎AAP, and NICE.
Costs of Job Rotation: Evidence from Mandatory Loan Officer Rotation
Authors: Bhowal Subhendu , Subramanian Krishnamurthy , Tantri Prasanna
Published: June 2020

Job rotation inside an organization creates two conflicting effects. It disciplines agents by creating the fear that their successors may discover and report their hidden information. Thus, the agent takes actions that align with the principal’s objective. However, job rotation can create a moral hazard problem. If information is soft and therefore, nonverifiable, the principal cannot attribute blame to the agent or the successor. Agents shirk, thereby hurting performance. Thus, the importance of disciplining versus moral hazard effects depends on the availability of hard information. Using unique loan-level data, we show that job rotation hinders performance when the information is soft.

This paper was accepted by Giesecke Kay, finance.