bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sequence diversity of cytotoxic T cell antigens and satellite marker analysis of Theileria parva informs the immunization against East Coast fever in Rwanda
Authors: Atuhaire David Kalenzi , Muleya Walter , Mbao Victor , Bazarusanga Thomas , Gafarasi Isidore , Salt Jeremy , Namangala Boniface , Musoke Antony Jim
Published: September 2020

Background

East Coast fever (ECF) caused by Theileria parva is endemic in Rwanda. In this study, the antigenic and genetic diversity of T. parva coupled with immunization and field challenge were undertaken to provide evidence for the introduction of ECF immunization in Rwanda.

Methods

Blood collected from cattle in the field was screened for T. parva using ELISA and PCR targeting the p104 gene. Tp1 and Tp2 gene sequences were generated from field samples and from Gikongoro and Nyakizu isolates. Furthermore, multilocus genotype data was generated using 5 satellite markers and an immunization challenge trial under field conditions using Muguga cocktail vaccine undertaken.

Results

Out of 120 samples, 44 and 20 were positive on ELISA and PCR, respectively. Antigenic diversity of the Tp1 and Tp2 gene sequences revealed an abundance of Muguga, Kiambu and Serengeti epitopes in the samples. A further three clusters were observed on both Tp1 and Tp2 phylogenetic trees; two clusters comprising of field samples and vaccine isolates and the third cluster comprising exclusively of Rwanda samples. Both antigens exhibited purifying selection with no positive selection sites. In addition, satellite marker analysis revealed that field samples possessed both shared alleles with Muguga cocktail on all loci and also a higher proportion of unique alleles. The Muguga cocktail (Muguga, Kiambu and Serengeti) genotype compared to other vaccine isolates, was the most represented in the field samples. Further low genetic sub-structuring (FST = 0.037) coupled with linkage disequilibrium between Muguga cocktail and the field samples was observed. Using the above data to guide a field immunization challenge trial comprising 41 immunized and 40 control animals resulted in 85% seroconversion in the immunized animals and an efficacy of vaccination of 81.7%, implying high protection against ECF.

Conclusions

Antigenic and genetic diversity analysis of T. parva facilitated the use of Muguga cocktail vaccine in field conditions. A protection level of 81.7% was achieved, demonstrating the importance of combining molecular tools with field trials to establish the suitability of implementation of immunization campaigns. Based on the information in this study, Muguga cocktail immunization in Rwanda has a potential to produce desirable results.
Molecular epidemiology of a fatal sarcoptic mange epidemic in endangered San Joaquin kit foxes (Vulpes macrotis mutica)
Authors: Rudd Jaime L. , Clifford Deana L. , Cypher Brian L. , Hull Joshua M. , Jane Riner A. , Foley Janet E.
Published: September 2020

Background

In 2013, sarcoptic mange, caused bySarcoptes scabieimites, precipitated a catastrophic decline of the formerly stable urban population of endangered San Joaquin kit foxes (Vulpes macrotis mutica) in Bakersfield, California, USA. In 2019, a smaller sarcoptic mange outbreak affected kit foxes 58 km southwest of Bakersfield in the town of Taft, California. To determine whether the Taft outbreak could have occurred as spillover from the Bakersfield outbreak and whether epidemic control efforts must involve not only kit foxes but also sympatric dogs (Canis lupus familiaris), coyotes (Canis latrans), and red foxes (Vulpes vulpes), we evaluated genotypes and gene flow among mites collected from each host species.

Methods

We used 10Sarcoptesmicrosatellite markers (SARM) to perform molecular typing of 445S. scabieimites collected from skin scrapings from twenty-two infested kit foxes, two dogs, five coyotes, and five red foxes from Bakersfield, Taft, and other nearby cities.

Results

We identified 60 alleles across all SARM loci; kit fox- and red fox-derived mites were relatively monomorphic, while genetic variability was greatest in Bakersfield coyote- and dog-derived mites. AMOVA analysis documented distinct mite populations unique to hosts, with an overall FSTof 0.467. The lowest FST(i.e. closest genetic relationship, FST = 0.038) was between Bakersfield and Taft kit fox-derived mites while the largest genetic difference was between Ventura coyote- and Taft kit fox-derived mites (FST = 0.843).

Conclusions

These results confirm the close relationship between the Taft and Bakersfield outbreaks. Although a spillover event likely initiated the kit fox mange outbreak, mite transmission is now primarily kit fox-to-kit fox. Therefore, any large-scale population level intervention should focus on treating kit foxes within the city.
The magnitude of undiagnosed diabetes and Hypertension among adult psychiatric patients receiving antipsychotic treatment
Authors: Hirigo Agete Tadewos , Teshome Tesfaye
Published: September 2020

Background

Patients with severe mental illness (SMI) are at increased risk of developing non-communicable diseases that could cause significantly lower life expectancy when compared to the general population. This study aimed to assess the magnitude and predictors of undiagnosed type-2 diabetes and hypertension among adult patients with SMI on antipsychotic treatments.

Methods

A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 237 psychiatric patients from January to June 2019 at Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Hawassa, Southern Ethiopia. All relevant information was collected using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire with a systematic random sampling technique. A total of 4–5 mL of overnight fasting venous blood was collected from each patient. Serum lipid profiles and fasting blood sugar (FBS) were measured using the A25™ BioSystem Random Access chemistry analyzer. To identify predictors of hyperglycemia and raised blood pressure, multiple linear regression analysis was done using SPSS version 23. Statistical significance was set at p value < 5%.

Results

From 247 patients with SMI approached, 237 (58.2% male and 41.8% females) were take part in the study giving a response rate of 95.9%. The overall 31.2% (95%CI: 24.1–37.6) and 27.8% (95%CI: 23.2–33.4) of patients had hyperglycemia and raised BP. The magnitude of prediabetes and type-2 diabetes was 24.9% (95%CI:19.4–30.4), and 6.3% (95% CI: 3.4–10.1), respectively. While the magnitude of prehypertension and hypertension was 23.2% (95%CI: 17.3–29.5) and 4.6% (95%CI: 2.1–8.0), respectively. In multiple linear regression analyses: age, HDL-cholesterol, physical activity and Triglyceride/HDL-cholesterol ratio were positively correlated with FBS. While, HDL-cholesterol, waist circumference, physical activity, total cholesterol/HDL-c ratio, and body mass index were positively correlated with systolic and diastolic blood pressures.

Conclusion

The findings indicate a need to assess blood glucose and blood pressure at baseline before the commencement of any antipsychotic therapy and during therapeutic follow up to manage any increasing trends. Moreover, close monitoring of patients with severe mental illness on antipsychotic therapy is exclusively recommended.
Comparative analysis of cadmium uptake and distribution in contrasting canadian flax cultivars
Authors: House Megan A. , Young Lester W. , Liu Xia , Liber Karsten , Diederichsen Axel , Booker Helen M.
Published: September 2020

Objective

Humans consume low quantities of cadmium (Cd), a non-nutritive and potentially toxic heavy metal, primarily via the dietary intake of grains. A trial experiment was conducted to investigate physiological and developmental differences in Cd content in four flax cultivars (‘AC Emerson’, ‘Flanders’, ‘CDC Bethune’, and ‘AC McDuff’) as part of a study to provide information that will assist in the breeding of low Cd-accumulating flax cultivars. Our objective was to identify varietal differences in the uptake and distribution of Cd in various tissues among flax cultivars grown in naturally Cd-containing soil in a controlled environment.

Results

Cadmium concentration was dependent on genotype, developmental stage, and tissue type, as well as their interaction. Cadmium concentration was higher in roots and leaves, relative to all other tissues, with a general trend of decreasing Cd content over time within leaves and stems. Notably, the concentration of Cd was higher in ‘AC Emerson’ relative to ‘AC McDuff’ across tissues and ages, including the seeds, while the concentration of ‘Flanders’ was higher than in ‘AC McDuff’ in seeds and other reproductive organs but similar in roots and leaves. The results suggest varietal differences in the mechanisms that determine Cd content in seeds.
Higher integrability for obstacle problem related to the singular porous medium equation
Authors: Li Qifan
Published: September 2020

In this paper we study the self-improving property of the obstacle problem related to the singular porous medium equation by using the method developed by Gianazza and Schwarzacher (J. Funct. Anal. 277(12):1–57, 2019). We establish a local higher integrability result for the spatial gradient of the mth power of nonnegative weak solutions, under some suitable regularity assumptions on the obstacle function. In comparison to the work by Cho and Scheven (J. Math. Anal. Appl. 491(2):1–44, 2020), our approach provides some new aspects in the estimations of the nonnegative weak solution of the obstacle problem.
Existence of nonoscillatory solutions to nonlinear higher-order neutral dynamic equations
Authors: Qiu Yang-Cong , Chiu Kuo-Shou , Jadlovská Irena , Li Tongxing
Published: September 2020

We investigate the existence of different types of nonoscillatory solutions to a class of higher-order nonlinear neutral dynamic equations on a time scale. Two examples are provided to show the significance of the conclusions.
Boring bivalve traces in modern reef and deeper-water macroid and rhodolith beds
Authors: Bassi Davide , Braga Juan C. , Owada Masato , Aguirre Julio , Lipps Jere H. , Takayanagi Hideko , Iryu Yasufumi
Published: September 2020

Macroids and rhodoliths, made by encrusting acervulinid foraminifera and coralline algae, are widely recognized as bioengineers providing relatively stable microhabitats and increasing biodiversity for other species. Macroid and rhodolith beds occur in different depositional settings at various localities and bathymetries worldwide. Six case studies of macroid/rhodolith beds from 0 to 117 m water depth in the Pacific Ocean (northern Central Ryukyu Islands, French Polynesia), eastern Australia (Fraser Island, One Tree Reef, Lizard Island), and the Mediterranean Sea (southeastern Spain) show that nodules in the beds are perforated by small-sized boring bivalve traces (Gastrochaenolites). On average, boring bivalve shells (gastrochaenids and mytilids) are more slender and smaller than those living inside shallow-water rocky substrates. In the Pacific, Gastrochaena cuneiformis, Gastrochaena sp., Leiosolenus malaccanus, L. mucronatus, L. spp., and Lithophaga/Leiosolenus sp., for the first time identified below 20 m water depth, occur as juvenile forms along with rare small-sized adults. In deep-water macroids and rhodoliths the boring bivalves are larger than the shallower counterparts in which growth of juveniles is probably restrained by higher overturn rates of host nodules. In general, most boring bivalves are juveniles that grew faster than the acervulinid foraminiferal and coralline red algal hosts and rarely reached the adult stage. As a consequence of phenotypic plasticity, small-sized adults with slow growth rates coexist with juveniles. Below wave base macroids and rhodoliths had the highest amounts of bioerosion, mainly produced by sponges and polychaete worms. These modern observations provide bases for paleobiological inferences in fossil occurrences.
Bioelectronics-on-a-chip for cardio myoblast proliferation enhancement using electric field stimulation
Authors: Aragón Ángel , Cebro-Márquez María , Perez Eliseo , Pazos Antonio , Lage Ricardo , González-Juanatey José Ramón , Moscoso Isabel , Bao-Varela Carmen , Nieto Daniel
Published: September 2020

Background

Cardio myoblast generation from conventional approaches is laborious and time-consuming. We present a bioelectronics on-a-chip for stimulating cells cardio myoblast proliferation during culture.

Method

The bioelectronics chip fabrication methodology involves two different process. In the first step, an aluminum layer of 200 nm is deposited over a soda-lime glass substrate using physical vapor deposition and selectively removed using a Q-switched Nd:YVO
4
laser to create the electric tracks. To perform the experiments, we developed a biochip composed of a cell culture chamber fabricated with polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) with a glass coverslip or a cell culture dish placed over the electric circuit tracks. By using such a glass cover slip or cell culture dish we avoid any toxic reactions caused by electrodes in the culture or may be degraded by electrochemical reactions with the cell medium, which is crucial to determine the effective cell-device coupling.

Results

The chip was used to study the effect of electric field stimulation of Rat ventricular cardiomyoblasts cells (H9c2). Results shows a remarkable increase in the number of H9c2 cells for the stimulated samples, where after 72 h the cell density double the cell density of control samples.

Conclusions

Cell proliferation of Rat ventricular cardiomyoblasts cells (H9c2) using the bioelectronics-on-a-chip was enhanced upon the electrical stimulation. The dependence on the geometrical characteristics of the electric circuit on the peak value and homogeneity of the electric field generated are analyzed and proper parameters to ensure a homogeneous electric field at the cell culture chamber are obtained. It can also be observed a high dependence of the electric field on the geometry of the electrostimulator circuit tracks and envisage the potential applications on electrophysiology studies, monitoring and modulate cellular behavior through the application of electric fields.
Carfilzomib induced cardiotoxicity in a multiple myeloma patient
Authors: Méndez-Toro Arnold , Díaz-Brochero Cándida , Acosta-Gutiérrez Estivalis
Published: September 2020

Proteasome inhibitors such as carfilzomib are indicated in multiple myeloma patients showing relapse and/or refractoriness of clonal activity. However, this therapy has been associated with a significant incidence of cardiotoxicity, especially in patients with known cardiovascular risk factors. Here we report a case of a 60-year-old woman with multiple myeloma, who developed severe congestive heart failure with positive myocardial injury biomarkers together with impaired LVEF and GLS, after treatment with carfilzomib. Therefore, chemotherapeutic drug was discontinued and neurohormonal blocking and diuretic therapy was started resulting in amelioration of symptoms, without changes in LVEF but with significant GLS improvement. Although high-grade cardiotoxicity is relatively rare in patients with non previous cardiac risk factors, it was a predictable side effect of carfilzomib use. Recognition of this syndrome is critical to instauration of appropriate therapy and prevention of morbimortality.
Perceived Opportunities to Craft Scale: adaptation and evidence of the construct validity of the Brazilian version
Authors: Pimenta de Devotto Rita , de Freitas Clarissa Pinto Pizarro , Wechsler Solange Muglia
Published: September 2020

Employees’ perceived opportunities to craft (POCs) influence actual job crafting behavior, which may have consequences for their well-being and work performance. This study aimed to validate the perceived opportunities to craft scale (POCS) in the Brazilian context. We collected data from Brazilian employees (N = 1451) in two separate samples. The factor structure, reliability, and convergent validity of the POCS were tested using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), multigroup confirmatory factor analysis (MGCFA), and external variables. The results indicated that the POCS-Brazilian version (with seven-point and five-point Likert scale) replicated the unidimensional structure of the original instrument. POCs showed significant positive and moderate correlations with occupational self-efficacy, work engagement and job crafting, and negative associations with workaholism. Both POCS-Brazilian versions were reliable according to three types of reliability indexes and also showed discriminant and convergent validity evidence.
The burden of healthcare-associated infection in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Alemu Abebaw Yeshambel , Endalamaw Aklilu , Bayih Wubet Alebachew
Published: September 2020

Background

Different primary studies in Ethiopia showed the burden of nosocomial infection across geographical setting and variant period. However, the national level of burden and types of healthcare-associated infections were unknown. Hence, this systematic review and meta-analysis estimated the overall nationwide burden and types of healthcare-associated infections in Ethiopia.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, African Journal Online, and Addis Ababa University repository by date April 7, 2020. To assess publication bias, Egger’s test regression analysis was applied. Weight-inverse random-effect model meta-analysis was used. Subgroup analysis was conducted based on ward type, study region, study design, sample size and diagnostic method, ward type, and study participants.

Results

A total of 18 studies with 13,821 patients participated in the overall prevalence estimation. The pooled prevalence of healthcare-associated infection was 16.96% (95% CI 14.10–19.82). Specifically, surgical site infection (39.66%), urinary tract infection (27.69%), bloodstream infection (19.9%), dual infections (SSI and UTI) (14.01%), and respiratory tract (13.51%) were the commonest types of healthcare-associated infection. In subgroup analysis, the highest overall prevalence was observed as surgical, gynecology, and obstetrics ward (22.42%).

Conclusions

The national prevalence of healthcare-associated infection remains high. The most common type of HCAI was surgical site infection, followed by urinary tract infection, bloodstream infection, SSI and UTI, and respiratory tract infection. The overall prevalence was highest in surgical, gynecology, and obstetrics ward. Hence, infection prevention and control should be a priority agenda in healthcare with due emphasis for surgical patients.
The anti-snoring bed - a pilot study
Authors: Wilhelm Elisabeth , Crivelli Francesco , Gerig Nicolas , Kohler Malcolm , Riener Robert
Published: September 2020

Purpose

Avoiding supine position can reduce snoring in most habitual snorers. However, devices that restrict the sleeping position cause discomfort or disrupt sleep resulting in low compliance. Therefore, mechanisms, which lift the trunk of the user without disturbing sleep, have been proposed. We present the first study, which investigates whether individual interventions provided by beds with lifting mechanisms are able to stop snoring (success rate) and whether they reduce the snoring index (number of total snores divided by total time in bed) using a repeated measures design. In addition, we investigated whether the intervention is interfering with the subjective sleep quality.

Methods

Twenty-two subjects were observed for four nights (adaptation, baseline, and two intervention nights). During intervention nights, the bed lifted the trunk of the user in closed-loop manner. Subjects were divided in three groups (non-snorer, snorer one, and snorer two). Non-snorers were lifted by the bed at random time points during the night. In group snorer one, a stepwise increase of the bed inclination was compared with going directly to a randomly selected angle. In group snorer two, the influence of a small inclination angle (10 ∘) and a big inclination angle (20 ∘) was compared.

Results

Snoring was stopped successfully in 22% (small angle) and 67% (big angle) of the interventions. This did not lead to a significant reduction in the snoring index. The subjective sleep quality was not reduced by the intervention.

Conclusion

The anti-snoring bed is able to stop individual episodes of habitual snoring without reducing the subjective sleep quality.

Trial Registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov, no. NCT04053738, registered 12 August 2019 - Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04053738.
Reverse genetics systems of plant negative-strand RNA viruses are difficult to be developed but powerful for virus-host interaction studies and virus-based vector applications
Authors: Zang Ying , Fang Xiao-Dong , Qiao Ji-Hui , Gao Qiang , Wang Xian-Bing
Published: September 2020

Plant virus-induced diseases cause significant losses to agricultural crop production worldwide. Reverse genetics systems of plant viruses allow gene manipulation on viral genomes, which greatly facilitates studies of viral pathogenesis and interactions with host organisms. In addition, viral infectious cDNA clones have been modified as versatile recombinant vectors for virus-mediated protein overexpression, virus-induced gene silencing, and gene editing. Since genome RNAs of plant positive-strand RNA viruses are directly translatable, recovery of these viruses has been achieved more than three decades ago by simply expressing viral genome RNA or viral genome-derived in vitro synthesized transcripts in planta. In contrast, genomes of plant negative-strand RNA (NSR) viruses are complementary to their mRNAs and cannot be translated directly. Therefore, rescue of infectious plant NSR viruses from cDNA clones strictly requires the core replication proteins together with their genome RNAs which can assemble into nucleocapsid (NC) complexes as minimal infectious units. However, it is a major challenge to deliver multiple essential components in single cells and to assemble the NC complexes in vivo. Major breakthroughs in reverse genetics systems of plant non-segmented and segmented NSR viruses were just achieved in recent 5 years through various strategies, such as agroinfiltration, minireplicon systems, insect transmission and airbrush inoculation assays. In this review, we summarized critical steps toward developing reverse genetics systems for recovery of several plant NSR viruses in plants and insects. We also highlighted important applications of these reverse genetics of NSR viruses in viral gene function analyses, investigation of virus-insect-plant interactions, and genomic studies of insect vectors and host plants.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Association of severity of coronary artery disease by SYNTAX score (SS) and lower extremity arterial disease by duplex ultrasound (DUS) study—an Indian perspective
Authors: Nandi Saumen , Mukherjee Anindya , Khanra Dibbendhu , Biswas Kaushik
Published: September 2020

Background

Coronary artery disease (CAD) and lower extremity artery disease (LEAD) often coexist. Ankle brachial index (ABI) has been shown to be an independent predictor of CAD. Studies have reported correlation of CAD and LEAD on the basis of ABI and also invasive angiography. But rigorous searching did not reveal any similar research where severity of LEAD was assessed by duplex ultrasound (DUS).

In this study, we assessed the association of severity and localisation of LEAD by DUS with SYNTAX score (SS).

Results

A total of 637 subjects above 45 years of age with coronary angiographic confirmation of CAD were studied in this single centre cross-sectional, descriptive and analytical research. High SS was significantly more common in subjects with LEAD (p = 0.04). In the femoro-popliteal segment, total occlusion of arteries was found in significantly more proportion of subjects with high SS. A progressive increase in mean SS was noted across the grades of arterial disease in the femoro-popliteal segment (p = 0.007). 85.2% of the LEAD was in the femoro-popliteal segment, while below-knee arterial disease was present in 98.5% of subjects with LEAD. Hypertension, smoking, history of CVE and presentation with ACS independently increased the risk of LEAD.

Conclusion

High prevalence of asymptomatic LEAD and association of high SS with LEAD as a whole as well as femoro-popliteal involvement suggests the need for a point of care DUS study (POCUS) since treatment varies with location and extent of disease which cannot be fathomed by ABI alone. Being the largest study on association of CAD and LEAD from Indian subcontinent till date and also the first study to use non-invasive tool as DUS for LEAD assessment while studying its association with CAD makes this a landmark experience.
Early discharge (within 24–72 h) in low-risk AMI patients treated with PCI: feasibility and safety—Hajj study
Authors: Khaled Sheeren , Jaha Najeeb , Shalaby Ghada , Niazi Azmat Khadija , Alhazmi Faisal , Alqasimi Hadeel , Ruzaizah Rahaf Abu , Haddad Mryam , Alsabri Mroj , Kufiah Heba
Published: September 2020

Background

Shortening of the hospital stay in patients admitted with the diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) has been observed within the last decades. Our center is the only cardiac center in the region providing tertiary care facility and hence receives all AMI patients deemed suitable for invasive assessment and management and this leads to huge required demand. Our aim is to assess feasibility and safety of the early discharge of selected proportion of AMI patients.

Result

Out of 557 of patients presented with AMI and treated with percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), 310 (56%) were discharged early. Men patients and pilgrims were more prevalent among the early discharge group. Early discharged patients had significantly less comorbidities compared to the other group of patients. Moreover, they presented mainly with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (P = 0.04) and treated more with primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) (P = 0.04). They had favorable coronary anatomy (P = 0.01 and 0.02 for left main and multi-vessel coronary artery disease, respectively), better hospital course, and higher left ventricular ejection fraction compared to non-early discharged patients (P = 0.006 and < 0.001 for pulmonary edema and left ventricular ejection fraction post myocardial infarction). Follow-up of those early discharged patients were promising as majority of them were asymptomatic (95%) and did well post-discharge.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated data that support safety of early discharge in a carefully selected group of AMI patients. Early but safe discharge may have a huge impact on increasing bed availability, reducing hospital costs, and improving patient’s satisfaction.
Prevalence of maternal antenatal anxiety and its association with demographic and socioeconomic factors: A multicentre study in Italy
Authors: Cena L. , Mirabella F. , Palumbo G. , Gigantesco A. , Trainini A. , Stefana A.
Published: September 2020

Background.

Maternal antenatal anxiety is very common, and despite its short- and long-term effects on both mothers and fetus outcomes, it has received less attention than it deserves in scientific research and clinical practice. Therefore, we aimed to estimate the prevalence of state anxiety in the antenatal period, and to analyze its association with demographic and socioeconomic factors.

Methods.

A total of 1142 pregnant women from nine Italian healthcare centers were assessed through the state scale of the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory and a clinical interview. Demographic and socioeconomic factors were also measured.

Results.

The prevalence of anxiety was 24.3% among pregnant women. There was a significantly higher risk of anxiety in pregnant women with low level of education (p < 0.01), who are jobless (p < 0.01), and who have economic problems (p < 0.01). Furthermore, pregnant women experience higher level of anxiety when they have not planned the pregnancy (p < 0.01), have a history of abortion (p < 0.05), and have children living at the time of the current pregnancy (p < 0.05).

Conclusion.

There exists a significant association between maternal antenatal anxiety and economic conditions. Early evaluation of socioeconomic status of pregnant women and their families in order to identify disadvantaged situations might reduce the prevalence of antenatal anxiety and its direct and indirect costs.
Loss of dmrt1 restores female fates in the absence of cyp19a1a but not rbpms2a/b
Authors: Romano Shannon , Kaufman Odelya H. , Marlow Florence L.
Published: September 2020

Sex determination and differentiation is a complex process regulated by multiple factors, including factors from the germline or surrounding somatic tissue. In zebrafish, sex-determination involves establishment of a bipotential ovary that undergoes sex-specific differentiation and maintenance to form the functional adult gonad. However, the relationships among these factors are not fully understood. Here we identify potential Rbpms2 targets and apply genetic epistasis experiments to decipher the genetic hierarchy of regulators of sex-specific differentiation. We provide genetic evidence that the critical female factor, rbpms2 is epistatic to the male factor dmrt1 in terms of adult sex. Moreover, Rbpms2's role in promoting female fates extends beyond repression of Dmrt1, as Rbpms2 is essential for female differentiation even in the absence of Dmrt1. In contrast, female fates can be restored in mutants lacking cyp19a1a and dmrt1, and prolonged in bmp15 mutants in the absence of dmrt1. Taken together this work indicates that cyp19a1a-mediated suppression of dmrt1 establishes a bipotential ovary and initiates female fate acquisition. Then, after female fate specification, Cyp19a1a regulates subsequent oocyte maturation and sustains female fates independent of Dmrt1 repression.
Callose deposition is essential for the completion of cytokinesis in the unicellular alga, Penium margaritaceum
Authors: Davis Destiny J. , Wang Minmin , Sørensen Iben , Rose Jocelyn K. C. , Domozych David S. , Drakakaki Georgia
Published: September 2020

Cytokinesis in land plants involves the formation of a cell plate that develops into the new cell wall. Callose, a β-1,3 glucan accumulates at later stages of cell plate development presumably to stabilize this delicate membrane network during expansion. Cytokinetic callose is considered specific to multicellular plant species, as it has not been detected in unicellular algae. Here we present callose at the cytokinesis junction of the unicellular charophyte, P. margaritaceum. Callose deposition at the division plane of P. margaritaceum showed distinct, spatiotemporal patterns likely representing distinct roles of this polymer in cytokinesis. Pharmacological inhibition by Endosidin 7 resulted in cytokinesis defects, consistent with the essential role for this polymer in P. margaritaceum cell division. Cell wall deposition at the isthmus zone was also affected by the absence of callose, demonstrating the dynamic nature of new wall assembly in P. margaritaceum. The identification of candidate callose synthase genes provides molecular evidence for callose biosynthesis in P. margaritaceum. The evolutionary implications of cytokinetic callose in this unicellular Zygnematopycean alga is discussed in the context of the conquest of land by plants.
Serotonergic control in initiating defensive responses to unexpected tactile stimuli in the trap-jaw antOdontomachus kuroiwae
Authors: Aonuma Hitoshi
Published: September 2020

The decision to express either a defensive response or an escape response to a potential threat is crucial for insects to survive. This study investigated an aminergic mechanism underlying defensive responses to unexpected touch in an ant that has powerful mandibles, the so-called trap-jaw. The mandibles close extremely quickly and are used as a weapon during hunting. Tactile stimulation to the abdomen elicited quick forward movements in a dart escape in 90% of the ants in a colony. Less than 10% of the ants responded with a quick defensive turn towards the source of stimulation. To reveal the neuronal mechanisms underlying this defensive behavior, the effect of brain biogenic amines on the responses to tactile stimuli were investigated. The levels of octopamine (OA), dopamine (DA) and serotonin (5HT) in the brain were significantly elevated in ants that responded with a defensive turn to the unexpected stimulus compared to ants that responded with a dart escape. Oral administration of DA and 5HT demonstrated that both amines contributed to the initiation of a defensive responses. Oral administration of L-DOPA weakly affected the initiation of the defensive turn, while 5-hydroxy-L-tryptophan (5HTP) strongly affected the initiation of defensive behavior. Oral administration of ketanserin, a 5HT antagonist, inhibited the initiation of the defensive turn in aggressive workers, abolishing the effects of both 5HT and 5HTP on the initiation of turn responses. These results indicate that 5HTergic control in the nervous system is a key for the initiation of defensive behavior in the trap-jaw ant.
Feeding ecology of pipefish species inhabiting Mediterranean seagrasses
Authors: CASTRO-FERNÁNDEZ JULIA , CASTEJÓN-SILVO INÉS , ARECHAVALA-LOPEZ PABLO , TERRADOS JORGE , MORALES-NIN BEATRIZ
Published: September 2020

Pipefish are a vulnerable and diverse group of ichthyofauna tightly associated to seagrass meadows, key habitats in shallow marine areas. Despite of their charismatic role, main ecological features, habitat and diet of this group remain largely unknown. This study focuses on assessing pipefish habitat and feeding preferences including different hosting seagrasses such as Posidonia oceanica and Cymodocea nodosa from the Balearic Islands, western Mediterranean. Four species (Syngnathus typhle, S. abaster, Nerophis ophidion and N. maculatus) were found associated to different seagrasses. S. typhle and N. maculatus were more frequent in P. oceanica meadows, while S. abaster and N. ophidion in C. nodosa. Individuals of all species captured in P. oceanica were larger than those living in C. nodosa, suggesting a size-dependent habitat preference. Feeding preferences, however, were driven by prey availability and fish features, e.g head/snout morphology. For the first time in the western Mediterranean, a thorough description of the diet and potential preys of this group was carried out. Epifaunal assemblages (potential prey) were dominated in both habitats by harpacticoid copepods and gammarid amphipods, and they were also the primary preys according to stomach contents of all species. These results can contribute to future pipefish conservation and management actions, such as targeting crucial habitat identification and designing culture and reintroduction protocols.
Mediterranean Sea Literacy: When Ocean Literacy becomes region- specific
Authors: MOKOS MELITA , CHEIMONOPOULOU MARIA TH. , KOULOURI PANAYOTA , PREVIATI MONICA , REALDON GIULIA , SANTORO FRANCESCA , MOGIAS ATHANASIOS , BOUBONARI THEODORA , GAZO MANEL , SATTA ALESSIO , IOAKEIMIDIS CHRISTOS , TOJEIRO ALBA , CHICOTE CARLA A. , PAPATHANASSIOU MARTHA , KEVREKIDIS THEODOROS
Published: September 2020

Ocean Literacy (OL) has been defined as an understanding of the ocean’s influence on people and their influence on the ocean. The OL movement was born in the US and its framework consisted of seven essential principles and 45 fundamental concepts; it is now largely accepted worldwide for use in both formal (schools and universities) and non-formal (research institutes, aquaria, museums, etc.) education settings. Based on this framework, marine scientists and educators developed the “Mediterranean Sea Literacy” (MSL) guide adapted to the specificities of the Mediterranean region, presented here. The MSL principles (7) and concepts (43), serving as guidance for research, education, informed decision-making, and improved citizens’ lifestyles, aim to contribute to environmental protection, conservation, and restoration of the Mediterranean Sea as well as to help to achieve a blue innovative and sustainable economy.
Η πολιτική έρευνας και τεχνολογίας της Ε.Ε. στο νέο Πολυετές Δημοσιονομικό Πλαίσιο. Βασικά στοιχεία και προοπτικές
Authors: Χρυσομαλλίδης Χαράλαμπος
Published: September 2020

Funding is the core activity of EU contemporary public policy in the areas of research, technology and innovation (RTI), since the introduction of Framework Programmes (FP) in the early 1980s, as it is traditionally focused on one main aspect of relevant public policy, namely project funding. The discussion on EU RTI policy has been intensifi ed and deepened, as EU has upgraded research, technology and innovation sector in its policy agenda, trying to contribute to European economy’s transformation into a “smarter” and more knowledge intensive pattern. For that purpose, EU, has included research and innovation prominently in its growth strategies, since 2000, both in Lisbon Strategy and Strategy “Europe 2020”. On this ground, the paper highlights aspects of EU RTI policy until now, as well as towards the next Multiannual Financial Framework, 2021-2027, according to Commission’s proposal and all relevant developments, so far, referring also to the (potential) impact that EU RTI policy has had (may have) on member states, and more particularly on Greece.
The Common Agricultural Policy under the pressure of the new Financial Framework (2021-2027): Nationalization and adaptation
Authors: Δούκας Γιάννης Ε.
Published: September 2020

The current context in which agriculture is operating is characterized by decreasing agricultural prices due to global macroeconomic conditions and geopolitical tensions - like migration. Furthermore, the emphasis of trade negotiations has shifted from multilateral to bilateral agreements, forcing the EU to lower even more its protectionist trade barriers. Additionally, the EU has signed up to new international commitments, concerning actions to deal with the climate change and sustainable development issues. Lastly, the forthcoming Brexit exerts strong fi nancial pressure on the ΕU budget for agriculture, which will be signifi cantly lower than in the current period. This article highlights the challenges that the new Common Agricultural Policy is called upon to administer, presents and attempts to evaluate the Commission’s proposals for the period 2021-27.
Comparison of major bleeding in patients with acute coronary syndrome that underwent coronary artery bypass grafting treated with clopidogrel or ticagrelor: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Rohman Mohammad Saifur , Purnamasari Yeni , Ilmawan Muhammad , Mahdi Bagus Aulia , Tamara Fredo , Mahendra Aditya Indra , Mazen Mazen , Heriansyah Teuku , Yamin Muhammad , Pikir Budi Susetio , Fajar Jonny Karunia
Published: September 2020

Background: There is controversy among physicians regarding the use of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients treated with coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Moreover, the evidence of previous studies about this topic remained inconclusive. This study aimed to perform a meta-analysis concerning the relation between the risk of major bleeding and the use of different DAPT (clopidogrel or ticagrelor) in ACS patients treated with CABG.

Methods: A meta-analysis was conducted during March to October 2019. Searches were carried out in Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science. The predictor covariate in our present study was DAPT (clopidogrel or ticagrelor), and the outcome measure was the risk of major bleeding. Sub-group analysis was also performed, where data were classified into pre- and post-CABG. Furthermore, to determine the correlation and effect estimation, data were analyzed using fixed or random effect model.

Results: A total of 13 studies consisting 34,015 patients treated with clopidogrel and 32,661 patients treated with ticagrelor was included in our study. Our pooled calculation revealed that the incidence of major bleeding was not different significantly between clopidogrel and ticagrelor. In pre- and post-CABG sub-groups, our results also found no significant difference in major bleeding incidence between clopidogrel and ticagrelor groups.

Conclusions: Our meta-analysis clarifies that clopidogrel, compared to ticagrelor, or vice versa, is not associated with the risk of major bleeding in ACS patients treated with CABG.
Abortion knowledge and experiences among young women and men in Accra, Ghana
Authors: Reiger Sarah T. , Dako-Gyeke Phyllis , Ngo Thoai D. , Eva Gillian , Gobah Leonard , Blanchard Kelly , Chandrasekaran Sruthi , Grindlay Kate
Published: September 2020

Background: Despite the presence of legal abortion services in Ghana, unsafe abortion remains common, particularly among young women. Little is understood about what young people know about safe and legal abortion, and if and how they are utilizing it.

Methods: To characterize abortion use and address gaps in safe access, from September-December 2013, we conducted a cross-sectional survey with 100 men and 250 women aged 18-24 in Accra, Ghana. Participants were asked about abortion experiences, including prior services, providers, methods, satisfaction, perceived support, and knowledge of laws. Descriptive statistics, Fisher’s exact tests, and chi-square tests were performed.

Results: Among surveyed youth, most (87% of women, 64% of men) thought abortion was illegal or did not know the law. In total, 30% of women and 14% of men ever had an abortion and partner who had an abortion, respectively. Among women’s most recent abortions, medication abortion (61%), surgical methods (26%), and unsafe methods categorized “least safe” (14%) were the initial or only methods used. Most women who accessed medication abortion initially or as their only method saw a pharmacist (40%) or no one (33%). Nearly one-quarter of women (n=16, 24%) who initially took tablets used more than one method.

Conclusions: Despite experiences with abortion, most young people in this study were unaware of its legality and unsafe abortions occurred. More needs to be done to ensure young people understand the law and have access to safe methods, and that pharmacists are trained to provide appropriate doses and formulations of medication abortion.
Veterinary and sanitary examination
Authors: Usha Boris , Avylov Cholponkul , Glamazdin Igor' , Kunakov Al'bert , Urban Valentina , Lenchenko Ekaterina
Published: September 2020

The article presents a material on veterinary and sanitary expertise in the processing of livestock at meat processing enterprises of various types in the most important infectious, parasitic and non-infectious diseases. The history of the national veterinary and sanitary examination is briefly described.

Meets the requirements of the Federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.

For University students studying in the field of Veterinary and sanitary expertise", as well as for students of the FPC, veterinary specialists and technologists."
Municipal law of the Russian Federation
Authors: Mironov Anatoliy
Published: September 2020

The textbook is prepared in accordance with the program of the course of the discipline "Municipal law of Russia" in the specialty "Jurisprudence" and contains answers to the main questions on the discipline. The publication takes into account the current level of knowledge on the organization of local self-government in Russia. It covers the main concepts, provisions, categories, institutions of municipal law, the process of formation and development of local self-government in our country.
Meets the requirements of the Federal state educational standards of secondary professional education of the latest generation.
For students of educational organizations of secondary professional education, as well as cadets, students, postgraduates and teachers of law schools who study this issue.
Development of environmental law in the Eurasian space
Authors: Bogolyubov S.
Published: September 2020

The monograph examines the features of environmental norms, methods, legal relations, ensuring their understanding and accessibility, compensation for present and past environmental damage, and the formation of competitive principles of environmental law.

The article analyzes the current legal problems of using natural resources - soils, subsurface resources, forests, water, wildlife, climate protection, taking into account public access to information about them, land management, combining civil and administrative methods of regulation, and the structure of environmental law.

The subject of the research is the systems of environmental legislation in some European and Asian States, its implementation in the Arctic, Baikal, Crimean territories, in cities and other settlements in order to prevent and suppress environmental offenses.

For scientists, teachers, postgraduates, undergraduates, students of higher legal institutions studying environmental, natural resource, land law, as well as for a wide range of readers interested in modern legal problems of nature protection.
Educative Component of Educational Courses in Russia and France (on the Example of Economics and Law)
Authors: Kororsteleva A.
Published: September 2020

In the presented article, the author shows the features of structuring the textbook of economics and law in the French system of education, which can be used as a tool for additional independent preparation of high school students for passing the Bachelor's degree, or LHC, as it is commonly called in France. The analysis proposed by the author allows to get acquainted with the content and methodological apparatus of the French manual and evaluate the educational component of both educational courses. In general, the article concludes about the features of educative approaches in the domestic and French educational paradigms, as well as the educative components in these courses.
Effect of Sago Analog Rice and Red Bean Diet to β Cells Pancreas Refinement in STZ-NA Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Wahjuningsih Sri Budi , Haslina Haslina , Putranto Agus Tri , Azkia Mita Nurul
Published: September 2020

The study aims to determine the effect of sago analogue rice and red beans in diabetic rats to repair pancreatic β-cells. Thirty-five males Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups: normal group diet (STD), the diabetic group (STDD) with a standard feed diet, the diabetic group with mentik wangi rice (MWRD), the diabetic group with sago analogue rice (SARD) and the diabetic group with sago analogue rice with the addition of 10% red bean flour (SARKBD). All groups were analysed for dietary interventions, blood glucose level, insulin level for HOMA-β and HOMA S indices and measurement of insulin level by using IHC analysis. In addition, short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) analysis was performed in the caecum. This study showed that decreasing blood glucose level shown in SARD and RASKBD groups. The pancreatic β-cell number indicated an increase in the SARD group compares to the STDD group. The pool total of SCFA in SARD group was the highest among of all groups, as well as the acetate, propionate and butyrate pools. These results indicate that the sago analogue rice diet could repair and increase the expression of pancreatic β-cell through absorption inhibition mechanisms and by increasing insulin sensitivity and the SCFA level.
Dermal filler migration complications following lip augmentation procedures
Authors: Davy Danielle
Published: September 2020

Filler migration is a rare complication of dermal filler treatment. Although most research has found that more permanent fillers, such as silicone, are more likely to migrate due to their long-term presence in the body, there have also been reported cases of filler migration from short-term hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers. As lip augmentation procedures are fast becoming one of the most frequently requested treatments in medical aesthetics, this article looks at the longevity of hyaluronic acid lip dermal fillers, while also aiming to assess the cause of dermal filler post-treatment migration and evaluating how to minimise its risk.