bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three-dimensional models increase the interobserver agreement for the treatment of proximal humerus fractures
Authors: Cocco Luiz Fernando , Aihara André Yui , Franciozi Carlos , dos Reis Fernando Baldy , Luzo Marcus Vinicius Malheiro
Published: August 2020

Background

The agreement for the treatment of proximal humerus fractures is low. Interpretation of exams used for diagnosis can be directly associated with this limitation. This study proposes to compare the agreement between experts and residents in orthopedics for treatment indication of proximal humerus fractures, utilizing 3D-models, holography (augmented reality), x-rays, and tomography as diagnostic methods.

Methods

Twenty orthopedists (ten experts in shoulder and elbow surgery and ten experts in traumatology) and thirty resident physicians in orthopedics evaluated nine fractures of the proximal humerus, randomly distributed as x-rays, tomography, 3D-models and holography, using the Neer and AO / OTA Classifications. After, we evaluated the interobserver agreement between treatment options (conservative, osteosynthesis and arthroplasty) and whether the experience of the evaluators interfered with the results.

Results

The interobserver agreement analysis showed the following kappa-values: κ = 0.362 and κ = 0.306 for experts and residents (3D-models); κ = 0.240 and κ = 0.221 (X-ray); κ = 0.233 and κ = 0.123 (Tomography) and κ = 0.321 and κ = 0.160 (Holography), for experts and residents respectively. Moreover, residents and specialists were discordant in the treatment indication using Tomography as a diagnostic method (p = 0.003). The same was not seen for the other diagnostic methods (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Three-dimensional models showed, overall, the highest interobserver agreement (experts versus residents in orthopedics) for the choice of treatment of proximal humerus fractures compared to X-ray, Tomography, and Holography. Agreement in the choice of treatment among experts that used Tomography and Holography as diagnostic methods were two times higher compared to residents.

Trial registration

Registered in Brazil Platform under no. CAAE 12273519.7.0000.5505.
Demystifying “drop-outs” in single-cell UMI data
Authors: Kim Tae Hyun , Zhou Xiang , Chen Mengjie
Published: August 2020

Many existing pipelines for scRNA-seq data apply pre-processing steps such as normalization or imputation to account for excessive zeros or “drop-outs." Here, we extensively analyze diverse UMI data sets to show that clustering should be the foremost step of the workflow. We observe that most drop-outs disappear once cell-type heterogeneity is resolved, while imputing or normalizing heterogeneous data can introduce unwanted noise. We propose a novel framework HIPPO (Heterogeneity-Inspired Pre-Processing tOol) that leverages zero proportions to explain cellular heterogeneity and integrates feature selection with iterative clustering. HIPPO leads to downstream analysis with greater flexibility and interpretability compared to alternatives.
Long non-coding RNA cancer susceptibility candidate 2 (CASC2) alleviates the high glucose-induced injury of CIHP-1 cells via regulating miR-9-5p/PPARγ axis in diabetes nephropathy
Authors: Li Feng , Dai Bo , Ni Xiquan
Published: August 2020

Background

High glucose (HG) induced podocytes injury plays an important role in diabetes nephropathy (DN) development. Long noncoding RNA cancer susceptibility candidate 2 (CASC2) was found to be decreased in serum of DN patients. We aimed to explore the function and possible mechanism of CASC2 in HG induced podocytes injury.

Methods

Under normal glucose (NG), HG and mannitol stimulated podocyte conditions, the levels of CASC2, microRNA-9-5p (miR-9-5p) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) were examined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Podocyte injury was evaluated by measuring cell viability and apoptosis of CIHP-1 cells were checked by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay and flow cytometry, respectively. Western blot was used to detect all protein levels. Dual-luciferase reporter, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and RNA pull-down assays were performed to confirm the relationship between CASC2 and miR-9-5p.

Results

HG stimulation inhibited the expression levels of CASC2 and PPARγ, but promoted the expression of miR-9-5p. HG could restrain cell viability, autophagy and facilitate apoptosis in CIHP-1 cells, while CASC2 overexpression could reverse HG-induced podocytes injury. Furthermore, CASC2 could be used as a ceRNA to adsorb miR-9-5p, and miR-9-5p mimic overturned the effects of CASC2 on cell viability, autophagy and apoptosis in HG-stimulated podocytes. Additionally, PPARγ was a target gene of miR-9-5p, and CASC2 could weaken the HG-induced podocytes injury by up-regulating PPARγ.

Conclusion

CASC2 increased cell viability, autophagy and inhibited cell apoptosis by regulating miR-9-5p/PPARγ axis, thus reducing the HG-induced podocytes injury.
Effects of resistance training and turmeric supplementation on reactive species marker stress in diabetic rats
Authors: Júnior Ailton Santos Sena , Aidar Felipe José , Santos Jymmys Lopes Dos , Estevam Charles Dos Santos , dos Santos Jessica Denielle Matos , de Oliveira e Silva Ana Mara , Lima Fábio Bessa , De Araújo Silvan Silva , Marçal Anderson Carlos
Published: August 2020

Background

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is a metabolic disease characterized by hyperglycemia and excessive generation of reactive oxygen species caused by autoimmune destruction of beta-cells in the pancreas. Among the antioxidant compounds, Curcuma longa (CL) has potential antioxidant effects and may improve hyperglycemia in uncontrolled T1DM/TD1, as well as prevent its complications (higher costs for the maintenance of health per patient, functional disability, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic damage). In addition to the use of compounds to attenuate the effects triggered by diabetes, physical exercise is also essential for glycemic control and the maintenance of skeletal muscles. Our objective is to evaluate the effects of CL supplementation associated with moderate- to high-intensity resistance training on the parameters of body weight recovery, glycemic control, reactive species markers, and tissue damage in rats with T1DM/TD1.

Methods

Forty male 3-month-old Wistar rats (200–250 g) with alloxan-induced T1DM were divided into 4 groups (n = 7–10): sedentary diabetics (DC); diabetic rats that underwent a 4-week resistance training protocol (TD); CL-supplemented diabetic rats (200 mg/kg body weight, 3x a week) (SD); and supplemented diabetic rats under the same conditions as above and submitted to training (TSD). Body weight, blood glucose, and the following biochemical markers were analyzed: lipid profile, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), uric acid, creatine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS).

Results

Compared to the DC group, the TD group showed body weight gain (↑7.99%, p = 0.0153) and attenuated glycemia (↓23.14%, p = 0.0008) and total cholesterol (↓31.72%, p ≤ 0.0041) associated with diminished reactive species markers in pancreatic (↓45.53%, p < 0.0001) and cardiac tissues (↓51.85%, p < 0.0001). In addition, compared to DC, TSD promoted body weight recovery (↑15.44%, p ≤ 0.0001); attenuated glycemia (↓42.40%, p ≤ 0.0001), triglycerides (↓39.96%, p ≤ 0.001), and total cholesterol (↓28.61%, p ≤ 0.05); and attenuated the reactive species markers in the serum (↓26.92%, p ≤ 0.01), pancreas (↓46.22%, p ≤ 0.0001), cardiac (↓55.33%, p ≤ 0.001), and skeletal muscle (↓42.27%, p ≤ 0.001) tissues caused by T1DM.

Conclusion

Resistance training associated (and/or not) with the use of Curcuma longa attenuated weight loss, the hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects, reactive species markers, and T1DM-induced tissue injury.
A DROP-IN beta probe for robot-assisted 68Ga-PSMA radioguided surgery: first ex vivo technology evaluation using prostate cancer specimens
Authors: Collamati Francesco , van Oosterom Matthias N. , De Simoni Micol , Faccini Riccardo , Fischetti Marta , Mancini Terracciano Carlo , Mirabelli Riccardo , Moretti Roberto , Heuvel Judith olde , Solfaroli Camillocci Elena , van Beurden Florian , van der Poel Henk G. , Valdes Olmos Renato A. , van Leeuwen Pim J. , van Leeuwen Fijs W. B. , Morganti Silvio
Published: August 2020

Background

Recently, a flexible DROP-IN gamma-probe was introduced for robot-assisted radioguided surgery, using traditional low-energy SPECT-isotopes. In parallel, a novel approach to achieve sensitive radioguidance using beta-emitting PET isotopes has been proposed. Integration of these two concepts would allow to exploit the use of PET tracers during robot-assisted tumor-receptor-targeted. In this study, we have engineered and validated the performance of a novel DROP-IN beta particle (DROP-INβ) detector.

Methods

Seven prostate cancer patients with PSMA-PET positive tumors received an additional intraoperative injection of ~ 70 MBq 68Ga-PSMA-11, followed by robot-assisted prostatectomy and extended pelvic lymph node dissection. The surgical specimens from these procedures were used to validate the performance of our DROP-INβ probe prototype, which merged a scintillating detector with a housing optimized for a 12-mm trocar and prograsp instruments.

Results

After optimization of the detector and probe housing via Monte Carlo simulations, the resulting DROP-INβ probe prototype was tested in a robotic setting. In the ex vivo setting, the probe—positioned by the robot—was able to identify 68Ga-PSMA-11 containing hot-spots in the surgical specimens: signal-to-background (S/B) was > 5 when pathology confirmed that the tumor was located < 1 mm below the specimen surface. 68Ga-PSMA-11 containing (and PET positive) lymph nodes, as found in two patients, were also confirmed with the DROP-INβ probe (S/B > 3). The rotational freedom of the DROP-IN design and the ability to manipulate the probe with the prograsp tool allowed the surgeon to perform autonomous beta-tracing.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the feasibility of beta-radioguided surgery in a robotic context by means of a DROP-INβ detector. When translated to an in vivo setting in the future, this technique could provide a valuable tool in detecting tumor remnants on the prostate surface and in confirmation of PSMA-PET positive lymph nodes.
Overexpression of pyruvate dehydrogenase phosphatase 1 promotes the progression of pancreatic adenocarcinoma by regulating energy-related AMPK/mTOR signaling
Authors: Li Ye , Shen Jia , Cheng Chien-shan , Gao HuiFeng , Zhao Jiangang , Chen Lianyu
Published: August 2020

Background

Human pyruvate dehydrogenase phosphatase 1 (PDP1) plays an important physiological role in energy metabolism; however, its expression and function in human pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remain unknown. This study aimed to investigate the expression pattern and mechanisms of action of PDP1 in human PDAC.

Methods

The expression pattern of PDP1 in PDAC was determined, and its correlation with patient survival was analyzed. Ectopic expression or knockdown of PDP1 was performed, and in vitro proliferation and migration, as well as in vivo tumor growth of PDAC, were measured. The mechanism was studied by biochemical approaches.

Results

PDP1 was overexpressed in human PDAC samples, and high expression of PDP1 correlated with poor overall and disease-free survival of PDAC patients. PDP1 promoted the proliferation, colony formation, and invasion of PDAC cells in vitro and facilitated orthotopic tumor growth in vivo. PDP1 accelerated intracellular ATP production, leading to sufficient energy to support rapid cancer progression. mTOR activation was responsible for the PDP1-induced tumor cell proliferation and invasion in PDAC. AMPK was downregulated by PDP1 overexpression, resulting in mTOR activation and cancer progression.

Conclusion

Our findings suggested that PDP1 could be a promising diagnostic and therapeutic target for anti-PDAC treatment.
Strongly extreme points of Orlicz function spaces equipped with Φ-Amemiya norm
Authors: An Lili , Cui Yunan
Published: August 2020

In this paper, the criterion that points of Orlicz function spaces equipped with Φ-Amemiya norm generated by an Orlicz function are strongly extreme is given. As a corollary, the sufficient and necessary conditions of midpoint local uniform rotundity of Orlicz function spaces equipped with Φ-Amemiya norm are obtained.
The spectrum of discrete Dirac operator with a general boundary condition
Authors: Coskun Nimet , Yokus Nihal
Published: August 2020

In this paper, we aim to investigate the spectrum of the nonselfadjoint operator L generated in the Hilbert space $l_{2}(\mathbb{N},\mathbb{C}^{2})$

l
2

(
N
,

C
2

)
by the discrete Dirac system
$$ \textstyle\begin{cases} y_{n+1}^{ (2 )} - y_{n}^{ (2 )} + p_{n} y_{n}^{ (1 )} =\lambda y_{n}^{ (1 )},\\ - y_{n}^{ (1 )} + y_{n-1}^{ (1 )} + q_{n} y_{n}^{ (2 )} =\lambda y_{n}^{ (2 )}, \end{cases}\displaystyle \quad n\in \mathbb{N}, $$

{

y

n
+
1

(
2
)

−

y
n

(
2
)

+

p
n

y
n

(
1
)

=
λ

y
n

(
1
)

,

−

y
n

(
1
)

+

y

n
−
1

(
1
)

+

q
n

y
n

(
2
)

=
λ

y
n

(
2
)

,

n
∈
N
,
and the general boundary condition
$$ \sum_{n = 0}^{\infty } h_{n}y_{n} = 0, $$

∑

n
=
0

∞

h
n

y
n

=
0
,
where λ is a spectral parameter, Δ is the forward difference operator, ($h_{n}$

h
n

) is a complex vector sequence such that $h_{n} = ( h_{n}^{(1)}, h_{n}^{(2)} )$

h
n

=
(

h
n

(
1
)

,

h
n

(
2
)

)
, where $h_{n}^{(i)} \in l^{1} ( \mathbb{N} ) \cap l^{2} ( \mathbb{N} )$

h
n

(
i
)

∈

l
1

(
N
)
∩

l
2

(
N
)
, $i = 1,2$
i
=
1
,
2
, and $h_{0}^{(1)} \ne 0$

h
0

(
1
)

≠
0
. Upon determining the sets of eigenvalues and spectral singularities of L, we prove that, under certain conditions, L has a finite number of eigenvalues and spectral singularities with finite multiplicity.
Use of medical face masks versus particulate respirators as a component of personal protective equipment for health care workers in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Conly John , Seto W. H. , Pittet Didier , Holmes Alison , Chu May , Hunter Paul R. ,   on behalf of the WHO Infection Prevention and Control Research and Development Expert Group for COVID-19, Conly John , Cookson Barry , Pittet Didier , Holmes Alison , Chu May , Voss Andreas , Levin Anna Sara Shafferman , Seto Wing Hong , Kalisvar Marimuthu , Fisher Dale , Gobat Nina , Hunter Paul R. , Sobsey Mark , Schwaber Mitchell J. , Tomczyk Sara , Ling Moi Lin
Published: August 2020

Currently available evidence supports that the predominant route of human-to-human transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 is through respiratory droplets and/or contact routes. The report by the World Health Organization (WHO) Joint Mission on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in China supports person-to-person droplet and fomite transmission during close unprotected contact with the vast majority of the investigated infection clusters occurring within families, with a household secondary attack rate varying between 3 and 10%, a finding that is not consistent with airborne transmission. The reproduction number (R0) for the SARS-CoV-2 is estimated to be between 2.2–2.7, compatible with other respiratory viruses associated with a droplet/contact mode of transmission and very different than an airborne virus like measles with a R0widely cited to be between 12 and 18. Based on the scientific evidence accumulated to date, our view is that SARS-CoV-2 is not spread by the airborne route  to  any significant extent and the use of particulate respirators offers no advantage over medical masks as a component of personal protective equipment for the routine care of patients with COVID-19 in the health care setting. Moreover, prolonged use of particulate respirators may result in unintended harms. In conjunction with appropriate hand hygiene, personal protective equipment (PPE) used by health care workers caring for patients with COVID-19 must be used with attention to detail and precision of execution to prevent lapses in adherence and active failures in the donning and doffing of the PPE.
Applying 3D-eco routing model to reduce environmental footprint of road transports in Addis Ababa City
Authors: Busho Seifu Woldemichael , Alemayehu Daniel
Published: August 2020

Background

Climate change has emerged as a very important threat to economic development, atmosphere, and public health. One of the driving factors behind global climate change is road transportation. Therefore, the sector needs to take on the responsibility of addressing its negative impacts on the environment. This study seeks to find ways of mitigating the impacts of climate change. It pays particular attention to greenhouse gas emissions and other selected air pollutants based on a new navigation concept called eco-route, a 3D eco-routing transportation planning method that can help reduce the environmental footprints of Road transports in Addis Ababa city for distribution vehicles. The model applied in this study considered the road gradient, varying velocity or speed of vehicles, and weight of vehicles to evaluate gradient effects on consumption of fuel, CO2 and also other air pollutants emission. The model is applied in three scenarios within different vehicle weight ranges and three different cases in Addis Ababa.

Result

The finds of the study imply the eco-routes emission reduction potential from fuel and CO2 in the tested scenarios is up to 39.81% while other air pollutants account for 25.65%. The results prove that eco routes have the ability of reducing Fuel consumption, CO2 and other air pollutant emission rate.

Conclusions

Eco routes have the potential to provide sustainable transportation opportunities for Addis Ababa city. This study recommends that eco-routes should be used instead of shortest and fastest routes where significant road gradients exist.
Using heat maps to identify areas prone to violence against women in the public sphere
Authors: Garfias Royo Margarita , Parikh Priti , Belur Jyoti
Published: August 2020

The lack of accessible crime data, especially geolocations, in developing countries often acts as a barrier to identifying environmental or situational factors in high crime areas that might contribute to the facilitation of those crimes. This paper presents a methodology for conducting fieldwork for creating heat maps to identify areas prone to violence against women (VAW) in Corregidora, Mexico. Heat maps were produced based on household survey data. The results were used to select specific high concentration locations to conduct structured observations and inductive visual analysis at street level in order to identify if and what situational factors might influence the perpetration of VAW in those locations. Four broad features were identified in the urban built environment during the site visits linked to the facilitation of opportunities for the commission of VAW: (1) lacking infrastructure, (2) presence of physical obstacles, (3) poor visibility and (4) restricted pedestrian mobility. The paper demonstrates the utility of this method for aiding situational crime prevention strategies in areas where official spatial crime data is unavailable or lacking. This study presents a relatively low cost (although labour intensive) and independent method of aiding crime prevention strategies, which will hopefully be of practical value for organisations in areas with poor crime recording practices and limited access to expensive mapping technologies.
Pharmacokinetic and metabolomic analyses of Mangiferin calcium salt in rat models of type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Lin He , Teng Houlei , Wu Wei , Li Yong , Lv Guangfu , Huang Xiaowei , Yan Wenhao , Lin Zhe
Published: August 2020

Background

Non-alcoholic fatty liver is one of the most common comorbidities of diabetes. It can cause disturbance of glucose and lipid metabolism in the body, gradually develop into liver fibrosis, and even cause liver cirrhosis. Mangiferin has a variety of pharmacological activities, especially for the improvement of glycolipid metabolism and liver injury. However, its poor oral absorption and low bioavailability limit its further clinical development and application. The modification of mangiferin derivatives is the current research hotspot to solve this problem.

Methods

The plasma pharmacokinetic of mangiferin calcium salt (MCS) and mangiferin were monitored by HPLC. The urine metabolomics of MCS were conducted by UPLC-Q-TOF-MS.

Results

The pharmacokinetic parameters of MCS have been varied, and the oral absorption effect of MCS was better than mangiferin. Also MCS had a good therapeutic effect on type 2 diabetes and NAFLD rats by regulating glucose and lipid metabolism. Sixteen potential biomarkers had been identified based on metabolomics which were related to the corresponding pathways including Pantothenate and CoA biosynthesis, fatty acid biosynthesis, citric acid cycle, arginine biosynthesis, tryptophan metabolism, etc.

Conclusions

The present study validated the favorable pharmacokinetic profiles of MCS and the biochemical mechanisms of MCS in treating type 2 diabetes and NAFLD.
Diarrheal morbidity and predisposing factors among children under 5 years of age in rural East Ethiopia
Authors: Solomon Ephrem Tefera , Gari Sirak Robele , Kloos Helmut , Mengistie Bezatu
Published: August 2020

Background

Diarrheal diseases remain a leading cause of preventable death among children under-five in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In Ethiopia, diarrhea is the major contributor to deaths for children under the age of 5 years. In order to develop prevention strategies for the alleviation of childhood diarrhea, it is necessary to identify the important predisposing factors. These predisposing factors have been observed to vary by location across Eastern Ethiopia. Moreover, the evidence on prevalence and determinants of diarrhea among children under 5 years of age in Dire Dawa and its suburbs is very limited and those available have been erratic. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and predisposing factors of diarrhea among children under the age of 5 years in rural Dire Dawa, East Ethiopia.

Methods

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in rural Dire Dawa City Administration in May 2018. Multistage sampling technique was employed to recruit 1180 under-five children from the rural population of Dire Dawa City Administration. Data on socio-demographic, environmental, and child- and hygiene-related factors were collected by trained data collectors using a structured questionnaire. Logistic regression was used to identify independent risk factors for childhood diarrhea.

Results

The 2-week prevalence of diarrhea among the under-five children was 23% (95% CI 20.8–25.7%). Maternal diarrhea (AOR = 2.22, 95% CI 1.10–4.47), handwashing after contact with child feces (AOR = 6.27, 95% CI 2.01–19.55), use of a dipper to draw water from containers (AOR = 2.88, 95% CI 1.41–5.89), and presence of a refuse disposal facility (AOR = 2.47, 95% CI 1.09–5.60) were the significant predisposing factors of diarrhea.

Conclusion

Our study identified a high burden of childhood diarrheal disease in rural Dire Dawa City Administration in Eastern Ethiopia. The identified risk factors were maternal diarrhea, handwashing after contact with child feces, use of a dipper to draw water from containers, and presence of refuse disposal facility. To minimize the risk of diarrhea, health education programs focusing on good hygiene practice and sanitation as well as early treatment are recommended.
Method to simulate distal flow resistance in coronary arteries in 3D printed patient specific coronary models
Authors: Sommer Kelsey N. , Iyer Vijay , Kumamaru Kanako Kunishima , Rava Ryan A. , Ionita Ciprian N.
Published: August 2020

Background

Three-dimensional printing (3DP) offers a unique opportunity to build flexible vascular patient-specific coronary models for device testing, treatment planning, and physiological simulations. By optimizing the 3DP design to replicate the geometrical and mechanical properties of healthy and diseased arteries, we may improve the relevance of using such models to simulate the hemodynamics of coronary disease. We developed a method to build 3DP patient specific coronary phantoms, which maintain a significant part of the coronary tree, while preserving geometrical accuracy of the atherosclerotic plaques and allows for an adjustable hydraulic resistance.

Methods

Coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) data was used within Vitrea (Vital Images, Minnetonka, MN) cardiac analysis application for automatic segmentation of the aortic root, Left Anterior Descending (LAD), Left Circumflex (LCX), Right Coronary Artery (RCA), and calcifications. Stereolithographic (STL) files of the vasculature and calcium were imported into Autodesk Meshmixer for 3D model optimization. A base with three chambers was built and interfaced with the phantom to allow fluid collection and independent distal resistance adjustment of the RCA, LAD and LCX and branching arteries. For the 3DP we used Agilus for the arterial wall, VeroClear for the base and a Vero blend for the calcifications, respectively. Each chamber outlet allowed interface with catheters of varying lengths and diameters for simulation of hydraulic resistance of both normal and hyperemic coronary flow conditions. To demonstrate the manufacturing approach appropriateness, models were tested in flow experiments.

Results

Models were used successfully in flow experiments to simulate normal and hyperemic flow conditions. The inherent mean resistance of the chamber for the LAD, LCX, and RCA, were 1671, 1820, and 591 (dynes ∙ sec/ cm5), respectively. This was negligible when compared with estimates in humans, with the chamber resistance equating to 0.65–5.86%, 1.23–6.86%, and 0.05–1.67% of the coronary resistance for the LAD, LCX, and RCA, respectively at varying flow rates and activity states. Therefore, the chamber served as a means to simulate the compliance of the distal coronary trees and to allow facile coupling with a set of known resistance catheters to simulate various physical activity levels.

Conclusions

We have developed a method to create complex 3D printed patient specific coronary models derived from CCTA, which allow adjustable distal capillary bed resistances. This manufacturing approach permits comprehensive coronary model development which may be used for physiologically relevant flow simulations.
Technological innovation in architecture and engineering education - an investigation on three generations from Turkey
Authors: Bayhan Hasan Gokberk , Karaca Ece
Published: August 2020

The developments in technology have caused many radical changes in the curriculum of architecture and engineering (a/e) disciplines. At the same time, generations and their personal characteristics are in continuous change that is shaping newer education techniques. In this context, this study is aimed to compare the educational perceptions of generations X, Y and Z for the advancements in the curriculum. For this purpose, a literature review concerning the technological advancements in education and characteristics of X, Y, and Z generations are demonstrated. Then, a survey was conducted on 160 respondents to differ the perceptions between these generations while considering the respondents’ educational and social-related features. Results of this study support that Information Technology (IT)-related education is insufficient for the upcoming generations who were born and grew in the digital age. Generation Y is the least satisfied with IT-related lectures and more affected by the movement of sustainability. The perceptions between the generations are found statistically different and solutions are offered for the upcoming generations. The outcomes of this study are expected to guide professionals in a/e education to better fulfill the expectations of the upcoming generations.
Effects of vitamin D3 on the level of heat shock protein 70 and oxidative stress in human sperm: a pilot study
Authors: Taheri Moghadam Mahin , Hamidian Omid , Mansouri Esrafil , Nikbakht Roshan
Published: August 2020

Background

Vitamin D3 (Vit.D3) is an antioxidant that can improve sperm motility. However, the specific mechanisms of Vit.D3’s effect on sperm are not yet elucidated. Since heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) and oxidative stress (OS) are effective in sperm motility and it has been shown that vitamin D3 is associated with these factors, thus this pilot study evaluated the effects of Vit.D3 on HSP70 and OS levels in normal and asthenozoospermic semen samples.

Results

In this study, the level of HSP70 proteins was evaluated by western blotting and immunocytochemistry in eight normal and nine asthenozoospermic samples. Additionally, malondialdehyde (MDA) assay and nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) test were used for measuring OS. The results showed that the amount of HSP70 protein was higher in the groups treated with Vit.D3 compared to the control groups. Likewise, in normal and asthenozoospermic samples, OS was increased in treatment groups, but the increase was insignificant in asthenozoospermic samples.

Conclusion

According to the data, HSP70 and OS levels were increased in the sperm cells after incubation with Vit.D3; thus, vitamin D3 might improve sperm motility via these factors in vitro.
Role of multi-detector CT in analysis of the greater and lesser palatine foramina
Authors: Awad Ahmad Sayed , Tohamy Hadeer Maher Ahmed , Gadallah Hanan Nabieh , Ibrahim Mohamed Emad El-Din , Raafat Tarek Ahmed
Published: August 2020

Background

The objective of this study was to assess variation in number, size, shape, and location of greater and lesser palatine foramina using multiple anatomical landmarks through data obtained from adult head CT scans. CT skulls of 200 adult persons were included in this study. There were 100 males and 100 females, aged from 22 to 65 years old. An e-film DICOM viewer version 2 was applied to estimate morphological parameters and to calculate the linear measurements related to the greater palatine foramen.

Results

On the basis of CT findings, regarding the position of GPF in relation to maxillary molar teeth, the most frequent location was opposite the third maxillary molar (41%). Regarding the dimensions of the GPF, the mean AP diameter was 3.94 ± 1.13 mm on the right side and 4.22 ± 1.21 mm on the left. The mean LM diameter was 2.17 ± 0.59 mm on the right side and 2.28 ± 0.74 mm on the left. It was concluded that the GPF was AP elongated in 90.5% and circular in 9.5% of the examined CT scans. Linear measurements from the center of GPF to surrounding anatomical landmarks were done and showed no statistically significant difference existed between sides, but a statistically highly significant difference existed between males and females.

Conclusions

Proper localization of GPF is important to facilitate therapeutic, local anesthetic, and surgical manipulation in the maxillofacial region. Based on CT findings, we demonstrated that the GPF is most often located opposite the M3 in the majority of the cases. The maxillary molars are the best landmarks for locating the GPF.
Structural characterization of the C-terminal domain of SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein
Authors: Zhou Renjie , Zeng Rui , von Brunn Albrecht , Lei Jian
Published: August 2020

The newly emerging severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has resulted in a global human health crisis. The CoV nucleocapsid (N) protein plays essential roles both in the viral genomic RNA packaging and the regulation of host cellular machinery. Here, to contribute to the structural information of the N protein, we describe the 2.0 Å crystal structure of the SARS-CoV-2 N protein C-terminal domain (N-CTD). The structure indicates an extensive interaction dimer in a domain-swapped manner. The interface of this dimer was first thoroughly illustrated. Also, the SARS-CoV-2 N-CTD dimerization form was verified in solution using size-exclusion chromatography. Based on the structural comparison of the N-CTDs from alpha-, beta-, and gamma-CoVs, we demonstrate the common and specific characteristics of the SARS-CoV-2 N-CTD. Furthermore, we provide evidence that the SARS-CoV-2 N-CTD possesses the binding ability to single-stranded RNA, single-stranded DNA as well as double-stranded DNA in vitro. In conclusion, this study could potentially accelerate research to understand the complete biological functions of the new CoV N protein.
Implications of Nonphysiological Ovarian Primordial Follicle Activation for Fertility Preservation
Authors: Grosbois Johanne , Devos Melody , Demeestere Isabelle
Published: August 2020

In recent years, ovarian tissue cryopreservation has rapidly developed as a successful method for preserving the fertility of girls and young women with cancer or benign conditions requiring gonadotoxic therapy, and is now becoming widely recognized as an effective alternative to oocyte and embryo freezing when not feasible. Primordial follicles are the most abundant population of follicles in the ovary, and their relatively quiescent metabolism makes them more resistant to cryoinjury. This dormant pool represents a key target for fertility preservation strategies as a resource for generating high-quality oocytes. However, development of mature, competent oocytes derived from primordial follicles is challenging, particularly in larger mammals. One of the main barriers is the substantial knowledge gap regarding the regulation of the balance between dormancy and activation of primordial follicles to initiate their growing phase. In addition, experimental and clinical factors also affect dormant follicle demise, while the mechanisms involved remain largely to be elucidated. Moreover, most of our basic knowledge of these processes comes from rodent studies and should be extrapolated to humans with caution, considering the differences between species in the reproductive field. Overcoming these obstacles is essential to improving both the quantity and the quality of mature oocytes available for further fertilization, and may have valuable biological and clinical applications, especially in fertility preservation procedures. This review provides an update on current knowledge of mammalian primordial follicle activation under both physiological and nonphysiological conditions, and discusses implications for fertility preservation and priorities for future research.
Climate of Anxiety in the Sahel: Emigration in Xenophobic Times
Authors: Ribot Jesse , Faye Papa , Turner Matthew D.
Published: August 2020

Young Sahelian farmers are crossing the Sahara toward Europe. They are sold as slave labor, held ransom for money from their families, beaten and spit on. Many die in the desert or drown at sea. Yet, knowing the dangers, they go. The media depicts them as “climate refugees”—running from climate stress. These emigrants and their families, however, rarely mention the weather as a cause of their plight at home or their decisions to leave. They are fleeing abusive policies, exposure to markets, debt peonage, failures of social security systems and a sense of hopelessness in a world where they never expect to have a dignified role in their families or communities. Casting them as climate refugees occludes the multiple forces that lead them to emigrate and diverts attention from potential responses. This casting mobilizes, thus validating, European xenophobia to motivate Europeans to fight climate change. While climate investments appear responsible and progressive, the climate focus denies the colonial and postcolonial histories of emigrants’ plights, thereby threatening to deepen the crisis.
An inexpensive and easy-to-implement approach to a Quality Management System for an academic research lab
Authors: Hewera Michael , Nickel Ann-Christin , Knipprath Nina , Muhammad Sajjad , Fan Xiaolong , Steiger Hans-Jakob , Hänggi Daniel , Kahlert Ulf Dietrich
Published: August 2020

Background: Increasing concerns emerge regarding the limited success in reproducing data and translating research results into applications. This is a major problem for science, society and economy. Driven by industry or scientific networks, several attempts to combat this crisis are initiated. However, only few measures address the applicability and feasibility of implementation of actions into an academic research environment with limited resources.

Methods: Here we propose a strategy catalogue aiming for a quality management system suitable for many research labs, on the example of a cell culture focused laboratory. Our proposal is guided by its inexpensiveness and possibility of rapid installation.  For this we used eLabFTW, an electronic lab book, as hub for all other components of our Quality Management System (QMS) and digital storage of lab journals. We introduced Standard Operation Procedures (SOPs) as well as a managed bio bank for safer long-term storage of bio samples. Next, we set up a lab meeting as feedback mechanism for the QMS. Finally, we implemented an automated pipeline to be used for example for drug screens.

Results: With this effort we want to reduce individual differences in work techniques, to further improve the quality of our results. Although, just recently established, we can already observe positive outcomes in quality of experimental results, improvements in sample and data storage, stakeholder engagement and even promotion of new scientific discoveries.

Conclusions: We believe that our experiences can help to establish a road map to increase value and output of preclinical research in academic labs with limited budget and personnel.
Pooled testing conserves SARS-CoV-2 laboratory resources and improves test turn-around time: experience on the Kenyan Coast
Authors: Agoti Charles N. , Mutunga Martin , Lambisia Arnold W. , Kimani Domtila , Cheruiyot Robinson , Kiyuka Patience , Lewa Clement , Gicheru Elijah , Tendwa Metrine , Said Mohammed Khadija , Osoti Victor , Makale Johnstone , Tawa Brian , Odundo Calleb , Cheruiyot Wesley , Nyamu Wilfred , Gumbi Wilson , Mwacharo Jedidah , Nyamako Lydia , Otieno Edward , Amadi David , Thoya Janet , Karani Angela , Mugo Daisy , Musyoki Jennifer , Gumba Horace , Mwarumba Salim , M. Gichuki Bonface , Njuguna Susan , Riako Debra , Mutua Shadrack , Gitonga John N. , Sein Yiakon , Bartilol Brian , Mwangi Shaban J. , O. Omuoyo Donwilliams , M. Morobe John , de Laurent Zaydah R. , Bejon Philip , Ochola-Oyier Lynette Isabella , Tsofa Benjamin
Published: August 2020

Background. International recommendations for the control of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic emphasize the central role of laboratory testing for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the etiological agent, at scale. The availability of testing reagents, laboratory equipment and qualified staff are important bottlenecks to achieving this. Elsewhere, pooled testing (i.e. combining multiple samples in the same reaction) has been suggested to increase testing capacities in the pandemic period.

Methods. We discuss our experience with SARS-CoV-2 pooled testing using real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) on the Kenyan Coast.

Results. In mid-May, 2020, our RT-PCR testing capacity for SARS-CoV-2 was improved by ~100% as a result of adoption of a six-sample pooled testing strategy. This was accompanied with a concomitant saving of ~50% of SARS-CoV-2 laboratory test kits at both the RNA extraction and RT-PCR stages. However, pooled testing came with a slight decline of test sensitivity. The RT-PCR cycle threshold value (ΔCt) was ~1.59 higher for samples tested in pools compared to samples tested singly.

Conclusions. Pooled testing is a useful strategy to increase SARS-CoV-2 laboratory testing capacity especially in low-income settings.
Cavity Length Affects the Occupation of Trap-Nests by Centris analis and Tetrapedia diversipes (Hymenoptera: Apidae)
Authors: Santos Claudia Oliveira , Cardoso Peixoto Paulo Enrique , Lima Aguiar Cândida Maria
Published: August 2020

The ideal cavity dimensions for neotropical cavity-nesting bees with the potential to be managed as pollinators have not been getting proper attention. We investigated whether the occupancy of trap-nests by Centris analis Fabricius and Tetrapedia diversipes Klug, and other nesting aspects, are affected by different trap-nest length. The used trap-nests were cardboard tubes 5, 10, 15 and 20 cm in length, and Ø 8 mm. Occupation rates of 10-cm trap-nests by C. analis was higher than that of the 5-cm ones (χ2=11.17, gl=1, p<0.001). On the other hand, there was not difference between the occupation rates of 10 and 15-cm long trap-nests (χ2=0.51, gl=1, p=0.48), and between the ones measuring 15 and 20 cm long (χ2=1.36, gl=1, p=0.24). T. diversipes occupied a smaller number of 5-cm trap-nests than the 10-cm ones (χ2=1.52, gl=1, p=0.22), as well as that the 15-cm ones were more occupied than the 10-cm trap-nests (χ2=4.23, gl=1, p=0.04); moreover, there was not difference between the occupation of 15 and 20-cm trap-nests (χ2=0.28, gl=1, p=0.59). Both species showed higher rates of dead immatures in nests set in the shortest trap-nests, whereas these mortality rates were lower in the longest ones. By taking into consideration that there was not significant difference in many of the assessed parameters in comparison to values recorded for 15 and 20-cm long trap-nests, it seems likely to recommend the adoption of 10-cm long trap-nests for C. analis reproduction in agricultural sites that depend on the pollination service provided by this bees species.
Resources Collected by two Melipona Illiger, 1806 (Apidae: Meliponini) Species Based on Pollen Spectrum of Honeys from the Amazon Basin
Authors: Souza Rogério Ribeiro de , Pimentel Alyne Daniele Alves , Nogueira Lizandra Ludgerio , Abreu Vanessa Holanda Righetti de , Novais Jaílson Santos de
Published: August 2020

This study aimed to identify the pollen grains found in honeys of Melipona (Michmelia) seminigra pernigra Moure & Kerr and Melipona (Melikerria) interrupta Latreille in two communities of the Tapajós-Arapiuns Extractive Reserve, Lower Amazon (Pará, Brazil) between December 2016 and November 2017. Twenty-four samples of honey were processed, 12 samples from M. seminigra pernigra collected in the Suruacá community and 12 samples from M. interrupta in the Vila Franca community. After acetolysis, 103 pollen types were identified, distributed across 22 families, plus eight indeterminate types. Fifty-nine types were exclusive to M. seminigra pernigra, 29 types were exclusive to M. interrupta and 15 pollen types were shared between both species. Anacardiaceae, Burseraceae, Melastomataceae, and Myrtaceae were the most attractive pollen families, providing key resources for maintenance of these bee populations. The sharing of pollen types between both bee species revealed a high similarity in preference for certain resources. M. seminigra showed greater diversity (H’ = 1.928) than M. interrupta (H’ = 1.292). Furthermore, the diversity (H’) and equitability (J’) indexes showed a more homogeneous pattern in the pollen spectrum of honeys from M. seminigra in most months studied. These data suggest that meliponiculturists should consider the diversity of plant species found in the two communities and keep them close to the meliponary, which will favor honey management and production, as well as the local biodiversity.
Effects of ants on pollinator performance in a distylous pericarpial nectary-bearing Rubiaceae in Brazilian Cerrado
Authors: Sousa-Lopes Bruno De , Calixto Eduardo Soares , Calixto Eduardo Soares , Torezan-Silingardi Helena Maura , Torezan-Silingardi Helena Maura , Del-Claro Kleber , Del-Claro Kleber
Published: August 2020

Besides the eff ectiveness of floral visitors, to better understand pollination systems is necessary to consider the role of predators. Ants are ubiquitous on the vegetation, especially on plants bearing extrafloral (EFNs) and pericarpial nectaries (PNs). Both EFNs and PNs reward ants which in turn provide to plants effective protection against herbivores. However, ants can also repel pollinators and cause an indirect cost for the plant partner, although the role of ants on pollinators’ performance has rarely been assessed in Neotropics, mainly on PN-bearing plants. Here, our main aim was, through an experimental field study in terms of ant’s presence versus absence, to test the hypothesis that ants dissuade floral visitors by decreasing the time spent during visits on the PN-bearing Declieuxia fruticosa. Additionally, we recorded floral phenology, and quantified and qualified floral visits. We showed that bees were the most frequent pollinators and the presence of ants dissuades them. In ant presence, pollinators were on average 30% faster than without ants. Since D. fruticosa produces fruits mainly after cross-pollination, the role of ants may be profi table to plants as they induce pollinators to do shorter visits and search for other fl owers in conspecifi c plants. Therefore, pollinators avoid stay at longer on plants with ants in order to avoid attacks, which may contribute to plant outcrossing. However, whether positive or negative the effects of ants on D. fruticosa reproduction are, they remain to be studied.
On the Effectiveness of Hand Collection to Complement Baits When Studying Ant Vertical Stratification in Tropical Rainforests
Authors: Antoniazzi Reuber , Ahuatzin Diana , Pelayo-Martínez Jaime , Ortiz-Lozada Liliana , Leponce Maurice , Dáttilo Wesley
Published: August 2020

Choosing an appropriate sampling method to study ants is a key factor since distinct sampling methods can capture distinct ant fauna and, therefore, leading to bias in the interpretation and conclusion of the patterns observed. Despite it is well known that the ant fauna is vertically stratified, some of the sampling methods cannot be used throughout the whole vertical stratum (e.g., fogging and Winkler extractor). Here we compared the complementarity of hand collecting and baiting (with tuna or honey) in ant surveys focused on the stratification of the ant fauna in a tropical rainforest in Mexico. We found a total of 44 ant species, belonging to 17 genera and five subfamilies. The three sampling methods were clearly complementary at both the forest floor and canopy levels, even with as little as 10 minutes of search time for hand collecting. The ant species composition differed among sampling methods at both vertical strata. Hand collecting yielded higher ant species richness and more exclusive species than either bait at both vertical strata, but both tuna and honey baits also led to the detection of some (though fewer) exclusive ant species. The combination of hand collecting, tuna, and honey baits should thus be considered complementary tools for ant inventories, since using the two methods together yielded more complete inventories at both vertical strata. An additional advantage is that both methods can be used in both strata, ensuring that data in different vertical strata are comparable and allowing more reliable comparisons among these different habitats.