bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tripanossomose bovina no Brasil
Authors: Oliveira Wilson Junior , Barbosa Fernando Cristino , Moraes Fernanda Rosalinski
Published: November 2019

O Trypanosoma vivax é um protozoário originário da África e principal agente etiológico envolvido na tripanossomose bovina. A doença é de grande importância devido ao grave impacto econômico, desconhecimento dos pecuaristas quanto a formas de controle e transmissão, bem como pela ineficácia dos tratamentos. Objetiva-se realizar uma revisão de literatura com a finalidade de esclarecer médicos veterinários, acadêmicos e proprietários rurais quanto a algumas características da doença. O agente etiológico é transmitido mecanicamente através de moscas hematófagas do gênero Stomoxys spp., Tabanus spp., entre outros, ou através de fômites como agulhas contaminadas. Mecanismos como a variação antigênica de glicoproteínas de superfície contribuem para a permanência do parasita na corrente sanguínea. Os sinais clínicos da enfermidade são anemia, emaciação, diarreia, abortos e sinais neurológicos. O tratamento se baseia na aplicação de drogas como aceturato de diminazene e cloridrato de isometamidium, porém relatos de resistência aos dois medicamentos foram evidenciados. O controle envolve medidas de monitoramento epidemiológico, controle do vetor, uso de raças bovinas resistentes aos tripanossomas (tripanotolerantes), tratamento dos animais acometidos e redução de sua movimentação. A criação de vacinas tem sido ineficaz devido ao baixo nível de proteção e variações antigênicas do parasita.
Pesquisa de anticorpo anti-Leptospira spp. e anti-Brucella spp. em equinos provenientes da Ilha do Marajó, Pará
Authors: Rocha Katarine De Souza , Paz Giselle Souza da , Guerreiro Andrey Do Nascimento , Meneses André Marcelo Conceição , Marques José Ribamar Felipe , Moraes Carla Cristina Guimarães de
Published: November 2019

Pesquisa de anticorpos contra Leptospira spp. e Brucella lisa foi realizada em equinos da raça Marajoara e Puruca provenientes da Ilha do Marajó. Utilizaram-se 57 amostras de soro de equinos de ambos os sexos, diferentes idades e sem sintomatologia clínica de doença causada pelos agentes pesquisados. As amostras forma submetidas ao teste de aglutinação microscópica (MAT) para pesquisa de Leptospira spp. e teste de soroaglutinação rápida em placa com antígeno acidificado tamponado (AAT) para pesquisa de Brucella spp. Dos 57 soros avaliados, 49,1% (28/57) foram reagentes para um ou mais sorovares, apresentando-se quatro coaglutinações. Os sorogrupos mais frequen-temente encontrados no presente estudo foram Grippotyphosa, Djasiman, Serjoe, Icterohaemorrhagiae, Shermani e Cynopteri, com títulos entre 100 e 3200. Nenhum animal foi reagente na pesquisa de aglutininas contra brucelose. Conclui-se que os animais alvos do estudo estiveram expostos à Leptospira spp., mas não demonstraram sorologicamente ter infectado-se por Brucella.
Gamificación en la nube
Authors: Nebot Danii , Rodriguez Elad
Published: November 2019

Gamificación es uno de los términos más de moda en el futuro de internet y de la interacción en la nube. Se podría definir como el empleo de mecánicas de desarrollo de juegos en entornos y contextos que no pertenecen a un juego en sí, con el fin de potenciar la motivación y fidelización de los usuarios.
Ricardo Cabello
Authors: Córcoles César
Published: November 2019

Ricardo Cabello, programador y diseñador gráfico, ha centrado su trabajo en innovar y descubrir las posibilidades que el mundo web ofrece. Ha llevado a cabo todo tipo de trabajos, algunos más sencillos y divertidos como Ball Pool y Harmony, y otros más complejos como el famoso videoclip del grupo musical Arcade Fire (The Wilderness Downtown) o el clip interactivo 3 Dreams of Black.
Design of biochemical pattern forming systems from minimal motifs
Authors: Glock Philipp , Brauns Fridtjof , Halatek Jacob , Frey Erwin , Schwille Petra
Published: November 2019

Although molecular self-organization and pattern formation are key features of life, only very few pattern-forming biochemical systems have been identified that can be reconstituted and studied in vitro under defined conditions. A systematic understanding of the underlying mechanisms is often hampered by multiple interactions, conformational flexibility and other complex features of the pattern forming proteins. Because of its compositional simplicity of only two proteins and a membrane, the MinDE system from Escherichia coli has in the past years been invaluable for deciphering the mechanisms of spatiotemporal self-organization in cells. Here, we explored the potential of reducing the complexity of this system even further, by identifying key functional motifs in the effector MinE that could be used to design pattern formation from scratch. In a combined approach of experiment and quantitative modeling, we show that starting from a minimal MinE-MinD interaction motif, pattern formation can be obtained by adding either dimerization or membrane-binding motifs. Moreover, we show that the pathways underlying pattern formation are recruitment-driven cytosolic cycling of MinE and recombination of membrane-bound MinE, and that these differ in their in vivo phenomenology.
Punishment insensitivity emerges from impaired contingency detection, not aversion insensitivity or reward dominance
Authors: Jean-Richard-dit-Bressel Philip , Ma Cassandra , Bradfield Laura A , Killcross Simon , McNally Gavan P
Published: November 2019

Our behaviour is shaped by its consequences – we seek rewards and avoid harm. It has been reported that individuals vary markedly in their avoidance of detrimental consequences, that is in their sensitivity to punishment. The underpinnings of this variability are poorly understood; they may be driven by differences in aversion sensitivity, motivation for reward, and/or instrumental control. We examined these hypotheses by applying several analysis strategies to the behaviour of rats (n = 48; 18 female) trained in a conditioned punishment task that permitted concurrent assessment of punishment, reward-seeking, and Pavlovian fear. We show that punishment insensitivity is a unique phenotype, unrelated to differences in reward-seeking and Pavlovian fear, and due to a failure of instrumental control. Subjects insensitive to punishment are afraid of aversive events, they are simply unable to change their behaviour to avoid them.
Effect of vibration vs non-vibration foam rolling techniques on flexibility, dynamic balance and perceived joint stability after fatigue
Authors: de Benito Ana María , Valldecabres Raúl , Ceca Diego , Richards Jim , Barrachina Igual Joaquín , Pablos Ana
Published: November 2019

Background

Foam roller and vibration techniques are currently used to assist in recovery after fatigue. The main purpose of this study was to determine the effects of the use of a foam roller with and without vibration on dynamic balance, ankle dorsiflexion, hamstring and lumbar spine flexibility and perceived knee and ankle stability after an induced fatigue protocol.

Methods

A total of 24 healthy recreationally active participants (17 males and seven females) were recruited to a randomized cross over trial consisting of; no treatment (NT), foam roller treatment (FR) and vibration foam roller treatment (VFR). The assessments included; the Sit & Reach test, Y balance test and post-treatment perceived knee and ankle stability. Measurements were taken after a standardized warm up (baseline) and repeated following an exercise-induced muscle fatigue protocol consisting of repeated lunges until volitional fatigue. The three treatment conditions were assessed on three separate days in a randomized order. A 3 × 3 repeated measures ANOVA was used to investigate differences between the three treatments over the three time points and a one factor repeated measures ANOVA was used to determine any differences between treatments using the Global Rate of Change scale when considering perceived stability.

Results

FR and VFR conditions both showed a greater ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (ROM) (p < 0.001), greater posteromedial and posterolateral reach distances (p < 0.001) and a better knee and ankle perceived stability (p < 0.001) when compared to the NT condition. A trend toward significance was observed in the hamstring and lumbar spine flexibility (p = 0.074) in both treatment conditions when compared to the NT condition. However, no differences were seen between the FR and VFR conditions.

Conclusions

Both FR conditions seem to assist in exercise-induced muscle fatigue recovery with improvements in ROM, balance and perceived stability.
Identification of novel genes associated with litter size of indigenous sheep population in Xinjiang, China using specific-locus amplified fragment sequencing technology
Authors: Ma Haiyu , Fang Chao , Liu Lingling , Wang Qiong , Aniwashi Jueken , Sulaiman Yiming , Abudilaheman Kezierkailedi , Liu Wujun
Published: November 2019

Background

There are abundant sheep breed resources in the Xinjiang region of China attributing to its diverse ecological system, which include several high-litter size sheep populations. Previous studies have confirmed that the major high prolificacy gene cannot be used to detect high litter size. Our research team found a resource group in Pishan County, southern Xinjiang. It showed high fertility with an average litter size of two to four in one birth, excellent breast development, and a high survival rate of lambs. In the present study, we used this resource as an ideal sample for studying the genetic mechanisms of high prolificacy in sheep.

Methods

Indigenous sheep populations from Xinjiang, with different litter sizes, were selected for the research, and specific-locus amplified fragment sequencing (SLAF-seq) technology was used to comprehensively screen single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from the whole genome that may cause differences in litter size. Novel genes associated with litter size of sheep were detected using genome-wide association studies (GWAS), providing new clues revealing the regulation mechanism of sheep fecundity. Candidate genes related to ovulation and litter size were selected for verification using Kompetitive Allele Specific polymerase chain reaction (KASP) cluster analysis.

Results

We identified 685,300 SNPs using the SLAF-seq technique for subsequent genome-wide analysis. Subsequently, 155 SNPs were detected at the genome-wide level. Fourteen genes related to sheep reproduction were notated: COIL, SLK, FSHR, Plxna3, Ddx24, CXCL12, Pla2g7, ATP5F1A, KERA, GUCY1A1, LOC101107541, LOC101107119, LOC101107809, and BRAF. Based on literature reports, 30 loci of seven genes and candidate genes (CXCL12, FSHR, SLK, GUCY1A1, COIL, LOC101107541, and LOC101107119) related to ovulation and litter size were selected for verification using KASP cluster analysis. Among them, nine loci of three genes were successfully genotyped. Three loci of FSHR (GenBank ID: 443299, g. 75320741G>A site), GUCY1A1 (GenBank ID: 101110000, g. 43266624C>T site), and COIL (GenBank ID: 101123134, g. 7321466C>G site) were found to be significantly or extremely significantly associated with litter size. These three loci are expected to be used as molecular markers to determine differences in litter size in sheep.
Hypoglycaemic and Hypolipidemic Effects of Treculia africana Aqueous Leaves Extract in Alloxan Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Kankara Idris A. , Paulina Gayus A. , Aliyu M.
Published: November 2019

This study investigated the hypoglycaemic and hypolipidaemic effects of Treculia africana plant used in Nigeria as medicinal plant. Diabetes mellitus was induced by a single dose intraperitoneal injection of alloxan 150 mg/kg body weight. Twenty five (25) male albino rats were divided into five groups, five (5) rats per group; normal control, diabetic control and diabetic groups treated with aqueous leaves extract of 200,400 and 800 mg/Kg body weight respectively for 21 days orally. The effects of the extract on some biochemical parameters were evaluated; fasting blood glucose level was assayed using glucose oxidase method, total cholesterol and HDL –cholesterol were assayed using enzymatic method while LDL- cholesterol was determined by Friedewald equation. The results showed that, extract significantly (p<0.05) decrease the elevated fasting blood glucose levels, total cholesterol, triglyceride and LDL- cholesterol when compared with the diabetic control rats. The extract also caused significant (p<0.05) increased in HDL –cholesterol and body weight when compared with diabetic control rats. Aqueous leave extract of Treculia africana possess hypoglycemic effect and the most effective dose was 800 mg/Kg body weight in amelioration of hyperglycaemia and most all toxicity effects of alloxan on lipid profile.
Nuclease Activity of the DNA Polymerases: An Evasion of Microscopic Reversibility Leading to Fidelity in Excess of Kinetic Control Levels
Authors: Chandrasekhar Sosale
Published: November 2019

The exonuclease and endonuclease activities of the DNA polymerases, which extend their proof-reading capabilities and maintain high fidelity in the replication process, apparently conflict with the principle of microscopic reversibility. However, in-depth mechanistic analysis of the reactions leads to fascinating insights into the kinetic and thermodynamic effects controlling the replication of the primary genetic material. Thus, nucleotide addition and excision involve different pathways, although a violation of microscopic reversibility is avoided as the overall reaction does not reach equilibrium. Intriguingly, however, this allows the fidelity levels to exceed those expected from simple kinetic control.
Molecular Therapeutic Cancer Peptides: A Closer Look at Bovine Lactoferricin
Authors: Sadiq Idris Zubairu , Babagana Kamaluddeen , Danlami Dauda , Abdullahi Lawi Isa , Khan Amir Riyaz
Published: November 2019

Background: In spite of the progress that was recorded in the development of anticancer drugs, challenges continue to rises particularly due to resistance of the cancer chemotherapies and low sensitivity of the commercially available anticancer drugs.

Methodology: collection and review of available literatures.

Results: Bovine lactoferricin (LfcinB) is a cationic peptide with broad spectrum antimicrobial and anticancer activity. It also shows promising activity against many varieties of cancer cells including colon carcinoma cells, melanoma, fibrosarcoma, monocytic leukemic cells and neuroblastoma. It is unaffected by multidrug resistance mechanisms seen with conventional chemotherapeutic drugs, and displays a higher specificity for cancer cells versus normal cells in comparison to conventional chemotherapy. 

Conclusion: LfcinB exhibit strong antitumor activity effectively penetrating cell membrane, activating caspases and induce apoptosis to cancer cells.
Evaluation of Saliva for Monitoring Renal Function in Haemodialysis Patients at University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital
Authors: Fyneface C. Amadi, , Onengiyeofori Ibama , Tamuno-Emine Davies
Published: November 2019

In this study, the concentrations of urea were assayed in both blood and saliva of 130 haemodialysis patients; before haemodialyis(pre-haemodialysis) and after haemodialysis (post haemodialysis); and 60 healthy individuals who made up the control group. The method used for urea assay was urease method. The mean±SD concentrations of salivary urea in pre and post haemodialysis patients, as well as control group, were 17±0.6 mmol/l, 9.1±0.5 mmol/l and 4.0±0.3 mmol/l respectively. The mean±SD concentrations of blood urea in pre and post haemodialysis patients, as well as control group, were 21.6±0.5 mmol/l, 9.1±0.4 mmol/l and 4.2±0.2 mmol/l respectively. The correlation coefficient between blood and salivary urea in pre-haemodialysis patients is 78.8% while that for post haemodialysis patients is 60.6% and for the control group is 90%. The ANOVA results of salivary urea in the three groups (pre, post and control) showed a significant difference with P-value ˂0.05. The ANOVA results of blood urea in the three groups (pre, post and control) showed a significant difference with P-value ˂0.05. From the various results obtained, saliva can serve as a diagnostic biofluid for renal disease especially with the salivary urea as the biomarker. Also, the salivary renal biomarker (urea) responds to changes in concentrations after therapeutic consideration. This study is in consonance with other literature that saliva is a diagnostic fluid for kidney disease; however, there is a need to carry out more research works to continually unveil the diagnostic potential of saliva in kidney disease.
Mitotic Studies and Genotoxic Assessment of Edible Nigerian Aroids to Selected Oilfield Chemicals
Authors: Ajah Florence O. , Osuji Julian O. , Anoliefo Geoffrey O.
Published: November 2019

The genotoxic potentials of two water-based oilfield chemicals on edible aroids were investigated. Five accessions of Colocasia eculenta and three accessions of Xanthosoma maffafa were exposed to graded concentrations of sodium azide and potassium chromate; while the accessions without any chemical additive were used as controls. Results revealed that the peak periods of cell division were recorded between 12:00 noon to 4:00 pm in both the treated and control accessions. Metaphase cells increased after prophase cells and continued mostly between 10.00 am and 4.00 pm. Variations observed with the treatments included: shifts of metaphase peaks, high percentages of prophase cells, high intensity of cytoplasmic staining and induction of micronuclei among others. Sodium azide was observed to be a stronger genotoxic substance than potassium chromate. Accession NCe 001 had the highest survival rate while NCe 002 recorded the least rate of survival. Statistical evidence revealed that the difference in various mitotic stages and time of harvest between different accessions and treatments was significant at both 5% and 1%. The study provides useful information that would be used to promote cytogenetic researches as well as the exploitation and improvement of this neglected and underexploited economic plant.
Comparative Study of the Effect of Aqueous Extract of Entandrophragma angolense and Vitamin B12 on Induced Hemolytic Anemia and Inflammation in the Wistar Rat
Authors: Mansour Adeoti, Franck , Aurélie Yenon, Achiè , Jonas Vanie, Bi Foua , Bidié Alain, Dit Philippe , Joseph Djaman, Allico
Published: November 2019

Entandrophragma angolense is a plant of the family Meliaceae of African pharmacopoeia. It is used in traditional medicine as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory in cases of abdominal or hips pain. The aim of this study is to compare the effect of oral administration of aqueous extract of E. angolense and vitamin B12 on hemolytic induced anemia and inflammation in the rat. Anemia was induced by intraperitoneal administration of phenylhydrazine at the dose of 40 mg / kg / day for two days in 24 Wistar rats, followed by aqueous extract of E. angolense and vitamin B12 chosen as reference molecule administered orally to rats once a day for 28 days. A biological assessment on blood count, CRP and the study of secondary metabolites of the aqueous extract of E. angolense have been realized. The results obtained showed the existence of anemia characterized by a significant decrease (p <0.01) of the hemoglobin level of 42.80% ± 3.09 and red blood cells of 44.21% ± 3.16 in rats, and inflammation revealed by the significantly elevated CRP assay (p <0.05). The aqueous extract of E. angolense at the dose of 200 mg / kg increased significantly (p <0.001) the number of red blood cells and hemoglobin at the 4th week of treatment compared to the vitamin B12.

In conclusion, the aqueous extract of the plant has an anti-inflammatory and anti-anemic effect. This double physiological action could come from the phytochemicals (flavonoids, saponins and alkaloids) contained in the extract.
Investigation of the Association of FOLH1 rs61886494 and DISC1 rs12133766 loci in Iranian Schizophrenia Patients
Authors: Parisa Azizi , Faryal Azizi , Fahimeh Nemati
Published: November 2019

Background: The aim of this study was to identification of polymorphisms of FOLH1 and DISC1 genes in Iranian patients with schizophrenia.

Materials and Methods: In this case-control study, 50 patients with schizophrenia and 50 healthy controls were evaluated. PCR-RFLP and Tetra-ARMS method used for detection of FOLH1 and DISC1 gene respectively in both of patients and control groups.

Results: The frequency of CC, CT, and TT genotypes for FOLH1 gene in rs61886494 locus in schizophrenic patients was 92%, 8%, and 0%, respectively, and in healthy subjects, 94%, 0%, and 6%, respectively. The frequency of DISC gene in GG genotype was higher than that of normal people and frequency of GA genotype was lower than normal subjects. In addition, the genotype AA was identified only in patients.

Conclusion: For FOLH1 gene in rs61886494 locus, the frequency of CC and TT genotypes in patients was 2% and 6% lower in healthy people, while CT genotype in patients was 8% higher in healthy people. Interestingly, TT genotype was not observed in patients and CT genotype in healthy people was not observed. Regarding the DISC1 gene, the results showed that the frequency of homozygous GG and GA homozygote genotypes in the patients was higher in the rs12133766 locus, while the heterozygote GA was high in healthy subjects and was not observed in patients. Therefore, the result of this study in our country can provide suitable method for diagnosis and prevention of schizophrenia patients.
Therapeutic Effects of Viscum album Combined with Garcinia kola against CCL4 Induced Liver Injury in Albino Rats
Authors: Emeji Roseline , Gabriel Tamuno-Emine Davies , Ndokiari Bosia
Published: November 2019

This study was aimed at evaluating the efficacy of Viscum album (mistletoe) and Garcinia kola seed (bitter kola) in treating Rat liver against CCl4-induced liver injury. Mistletoe and bitter Kola are used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various disorders, including hepatic disorders. Biochemical parameters and histological structure were assessed and used as a measure of the therapeutic potential of the herbs against CCl4 induced liver injury. The experimental animals (15 male wistar albino rats) weighing between 100-120 g were randomly divided into three (3) groups. Each group comprised 5 rats and was labeled as group 1, 2 or 3. Group 1 (negative control) animals were administered saline orally daily for 6 weeks (1 ml volume per kg body weight) while group 2 (CCl4 group) animals were administered CCl4 mixed with olive oil as vehicle in 1:1 ratio (3 ml/kg body weight). Group 3 represented the treatment group with extracts of the two herbal plants (250 mg/kg daily). The combination of the herbal extracts administered orally for 6weeks showed a significant decrease (P<0.05) in serum protein, albumin, total bilirubin and conjugated bilirubin concentrations and in serum activities of AST, ALT, ALP and GGT compared with CCl4-induced increases in concentrations or activities of the aforementioned biochemical parameters. Histological examination of the liver of CCl4–treated rats with the combined herbal extracts showed less destruction of liver architecture in comparison to the group induced with CCl4 only. The results indicated that the combination herbal extracts investigated (mistletoe and bitter kola) had therapeutic effect against CCL4-induced liver injury when used either in combination and this effect could be due to the phytochemicals present in the herbs.
Identification of Fusarium spp. Associated with Potato Tubers in Upper Egypt by Morphological and Molecular Characters
Authors: Gherbawy Youssuf A. , Hussein Mohamed A. , El-Dawy Eman G. A. , Hassany Nabila A. , Alamri Saad A.
Published: November 2019

Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is an important crop which holds promise for food security considering the global population growth rate. Fusarium dry rot is one of the most significant diseases of potato. To build up strategies for the control of this disease, it ought to be made primarily a correct diagnosis and identification of the pathogen. A total of 504 Fusarium isolates were recovered from potato tubers collected from Upper Egypt. Fusarium isolates were identified based on morphology and partial DNA sequencing of β-tubulin (TUB) genes. 62.5% of the isolates were identified as F. sambucinum, followed F. oxysporum (57.5%), then F. verticillioides (56.25%) and F. incarnatum (47.5%). All the tested Fusarium species were able to produce amylase. The pathogenicity of the isolates was tested by inoculation of healthy potato tubers; all of the tested isolates were pathogenic to healthy potato tubers. F. sambucinum had a highly virulent effect.
The Efficiency and Effectiveness of Open Pollination in Musa Breeding
Authors: Wilson Victoria , Tenkouano Abdou
Published: November 2019

Aims: This field experiment was conducted to determine if hand and open pollination methods affected performances of Musa progenies from 4x - 2x crosses and to identify promising progenies for recurrent selection.

Study Design: The experimental design was a randomized complete block design with two replications of 6 plants per genotype.

Place and Duration of Study: International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) High Rainfall Station, Onne (4º51’N, 7º03’E, 10 m above sea level), in Rivers State, South-south Nigeria for 24 months.

Methodology: Two-month old seedlings of hand pollinated (6 diploid, 6 tetraploid) and open pollinated (6 diploid, 6 tetraploid) progenies, along with parental clones (2x) and (4x) of each genotype were planted at 3 m x 2 m spacing. Data on phenology, vegetative growth, yield and yield characters were collected at flowering and harvest over three crop cycles. Genotypes were partitioned into 5 clusters assayed by means of orthogonal contrasts to compare the performance of progenies from both pollination methods.

Results: Pollination methods produced no significant (P = .05) differences, unfavourable effects or reduction in performance of economically important yield and yield components of 4x and 2x progenies of similar genotype. Some significant (P = .05) linear correlations and relationships between phenological and vegetative traits; and yield and yield components changed with pollination methods and ploidy levels but did not affect final outcomes. Promising open pollinated diploids include the early maturing TMP2x 2829-62OP; and for high yield and yield components measured, TMB2x 8084-2OP and TMP2x 1448-1OP. Promising open pollinated tetraploids include TMP4x 7002-1OP and TMP4x 2796-5OP.

Conclusion: Open pollination did not result in unfavorable effects or reduction in performance of economically important yield and yield components in progenies of similar genotypes. Therefore, open pollination could be considered for Musa breeding. This will reduce cost, labour, time and stress involved in Musa improvement.
Corynebacterium Diphtheriae: A Case Report of Some Isolates in National Ear Care Centre Kaduna
Authors: Ibrahim Rimi Maryam , Agyigraa Isaac , Nkwazema Kelechi N. , Yakubu Jajere Abubakar , Ardo Jabbo Astaharam , Ibrahim Ango Sumayya , Kabir Muhammad
Published: November 2019

This is a case study of the incidence of diphtheria in National Ear Care Centre Kaduna. Samples included all patients presented with diphtheria symptoms referred to the hospital from October to December; 2018. A total of 8 patients were referred and several samples taken for laboratory investigations. 8 throat swabs were collected for organism isolation by inoculation on some certain agars, incubation, secondary gram and microscopy; colonies appeared to be biconcave, large and whitish. Microscopy revealed characteristic Chinese lettered, pleomorphic bacillus which are features of Corynebacterium diphtheriae. Blood samples were used for urea and creatinine estimation which yielded abnormal high values in all except the creatinine of one of the samples indicating kidney impairment which could be attributed to presence of the tox gene. To further confirm the incidence of the disease; one throat swab was saved at 4°C for molecular confirmation and characterisation of the gene. It was then transported to Molecular laboratory and the DNA extracted using the phenol/chloroform extraction method. Both the A and B subunits of the tox gene were amplified from the DNA extract at 248bp and 297bp respectively. Sanger’s Dye Terminator Cycle Sequencing (DTCS) of both the subunits of the tox gene was carried out and the sequences were obtained and converted to the fasta format using a Finch TV for bioinformatics analyses using the NCBI blast tool. The A and B subunits showed a percentage identity of 99.59% and 95.57% to Corynebacterium diphtheriae mitis strain NCTC 3529 genome assembly, chromosome: 1 respectively. The A subunit also showed 99.59% identity to Corynebacterium diphtheriae strain BQ11 chromosome; complete genome while the B subunit also showed 95.57% identity to Corynebacterium diphtheriae mitis strain NCTC 7838 genome assembly chromosome: 1. A mutation was also discovered in the tox genes as indicated by the E-value of 3e-84 and 2e-121 for A and B subunits respectively which are values that are less than 1. This is also confirmed by 5 gaps noticed from the blast results (4 gaps from A and 1 from B) indicating the presence of indels. In conclusion; there are confirmed incidences and sporadic cases of diphtheria in Kaduna State and the organism is said to have mutated.
Unique Presentation of Squamous Cell Carcinoma as Giant Cutaneous Horn
Authors: Shoeb Mohammad Fazelul Rahman , Adappa Sanna
Published: November 2019

Cutaneous horn is a conical, dense, and hyperkeratotic protrusion that often appears similar to the horn of an animal. Giant cutaneous horns are rare; no incidence or prevalence has been reported. The significance of cutaneous horns is that they occur in association with, or as a response to, a wide variety of underlying benign, premalignant, and malignant cutaneous diseases. Herein we report a unique case of a 60-year-old male with a giant cutaneous horn (size: 10 cm × 2 cm) projecting from the left angle of mouth, which is extremely rare. Wide local excision of the growth was done. Histopathologic examination showed verrucous carcinoma with negative margin. There is no recurrence after follow-up of 2 years.
Comparative Analysis for Internal Fixations of Pauwels II by Biomechanical Finite Element Method
Authors: Peng Matthew Jian-Qiao , Ju Xiangyang , Chen Hai-Yan , Bo Bai , Li XinXu
Published: November 2019

Purpose:

A series models of surgical internal fixation for femoral neck fracture of Pauwels II will be constructed by an innovative approach of finite element so as to determine the most stable fixation by comparison of their biomechanical performance.

Method:

Seventeen specimens of proximal femurs scanned by computed tomography in Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) format were input onto Mimics rebuilding 3D models; their stereolithography (STL) format dataset were imported into Geomagic Studio (3D Systems, Rock Hill, South Carolina) for simulative osteotomy and non-uniform rational basis spline kartograph; the generated IGS dataset were interacted by UG to fit simulative 3D-solid models; 3 sorts of internal fixators were expressed in 3D model by ProE (PTC, Boston, Connecticut) program virtually. Processed by HyperMesh (Altair, Troy, Michigan), all compartments (fracture model + internal immobilization) were assembled onto 3 systems actually as: Dynamic hip screw (DHS) / Lag screw (LS) / DHS+LS. Eventually, a numerical model of finite elemental analysis was exported to ANSYS for solution.

Result:

Three models of internal fixations for femoral neck fracture of Pauwels II were established and validated effectively, the stress and displacement of each internal pin were analyzed, the advantages of each surgical therapy for femoral neck fracture of Pauwels II were compared and demonstrated synthetically as: “The contact stress of 3-LS-system was checked to be the least; the interfragmentary displacement of DHS+1-LS assemblages was assessed to be the least.”

Conclusion:

3-LS-system is recommended to be a clinical optimization for Pauwels II femoral neck facture, by this therapeutic fixation mechanically, breakage of fixators, or secondary fracture rarely occurs.
Genomic foundations of evolution and ocular pathogenesis in human adenovirus species D
Authors: Ismail Ashrafali Mohamed , Zhou Xiaohong , Dyer David W. , Seto Donald , Rajaiya Jaya , Chodosh James
Published: November 2019

Human adenovirus commonly causes infections of respiratory, gastrointestinal, genitourinary, and ocular surface mucosae. Although most adenovirus eye infections are mild and self‐limited, specific viruses within human adenovirus species D are associated with epidemic keratoconjunctivitis (EKC), a severe and highly contagious ocular surface infection, which can lead to chronic and/or recurrent, visually disabling keratitis. In this review, we discuss the links between adenovirus ontogeny, genomics, immune responses, and corneal pathogenesis, for those viruses that cause EKC.
The biology of the adenovirus E1B 55K protein
Authors: Hidalgo Paloma , Ip Wing Hang , Dobner Thomas , Gonzalez Ramón A.
Published: November 2019

The adenovirus E1B 55K (E1B) protein plays major roles in productive adenoviral infection and cellular transformation. Interest in E1B increased because of the potential of adenoviruses as therapeutic vectors, and the E1B gene is commonly deleted from adenovirus vectors for anticancer therapy. E1B activities are spatiotemporally regulated through SUMOylation and phosphorylation, and through interactions with multiple partners that occur presumably at different intracellular sites and times postinfection. E1B is implicated in the formation of viral replication compartments and regulates viral genome replication and transcription, transcriptional repression, degradation of cellular proteins, and several intranuclear steps of viral late mRNA biogenesis. Here, we review advances in our understanding of E1B during productive adenovirus replication and discuss fundamental aspects that remain unresolved.
Epigenetics and the dynamics of chromatin during adenovirus infections
Authors: Lynch Kelsey L. , Gooding Linda R. , Garnett‐Benson Charlie , Ornelles David A. , Avgousti Daphne C.
Published: November 2019

The DNA genome of eukaryotic cells is compacted by histone proteins within the nucleus to form chromatin. Nuclear‐replicating viruses such as adenovirus have evolved mechanisms of chromatin manipulation to promote infection and subvert host defenses. Epigenetic factors may also regulate persistent adenovirus infection and reactivation in lymphoid tissues. In this review, we discuss the viral proteins E1A and protein VII that interact with and alter host chromatin, as well as E4orf3, which separates host chromatin from sites of viral replication. We also highlight recent advances in chromatin technologies that offer new insights into virus‐directed chromatin manipulation. Beyond the role of chromatin in the viral replication cycle, we discuss the nature of persistent viral genomes in lymphoid tissue and cell lines, and the potential contribution of epigenetic signals in maintaining adenovirus in a quiescent state. By understanding the mechanisms through which adenovirus manipulates host chromatin, we will understand new aspects of this ubiquitous virus and shed light on previously unknown aspects of chromatin biology.
A data mining approach for classification of orthostatic and essential tremor based on MRI‐derived brain volume and cortical thickness
Authors: Benito‐León Julián , Louis Elan D. , Mato‐Abad Virginia , Sánchez‐Ferro Alvaro , Romero Juan P. , Matarazzo Michele , Serrano J. Ignacio
Published: November 2019

Objective

Orthostatic tremor (OT) is an extremely rare, misdiagnosed, and underdiagnosed disorder affecting adults in midlife. There is debate as to whether it is a different condition or a variant of essential tremor (ET), or even, if both conditions coexist. Our objective was to use data mining classification methods, using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐derived brain volume and cortical thickness data, to identify morphometric measures that help to discriminate OT patients from those with ET.

Methods

MRI‐derived brain volume and cortical thickness were obtained from 14 OT patients and 15 age‐, sex‐, and education‐matched ET patients. Feature selection and machine learning methods were subsequently applied.

Results

Four MRI features alone distinguished the two, OT from ET, with 100% diagnostic accuracy. More specifically, left thalamus proper volume (normalized by the total intracranial volume), right superior parietal volume, right superior parietal thickness, and right inferior parietal roughness (i.e., the standard deviation of cortical thickness) were shown to play a key role in OT and ET characterization. Finally, the left caudal anterior cingulate thickness and the left caudal middle frontal roughness allowed us to separate with 100% diagnostic accuracy subgroups of OT patients (primary and those with mild parkinsonian signs).

Conclusions

A data mining approach applied to MRI‐derived brain volume and cortical thickness data may differentiate between these two types of tremor with an accuracy of 100%. Our results suggest that OT and ET are distinct conditions.
Single‐Cell Analysis Using Droplet Microfluidics
Authors: Matuła Kinga , Rivello Francesca , Huck Wilhelm T. S.
Published: November 2019

Droplet microfluidics has revolutionized the study of single cells. The ability to compartmentalize cells within picoliter droplets in microfluidic devices has opened up a wide range of strategies to extract information at the genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic, or metabolomic level from large numbers of individual cells. Studying the different molecular landscapes at single‐cell resolution has provided the authors with a detailed picture of intracellular heterogeneity and the resulting changes in cellular phenotypes. In addition, these technologies have aided in the discovery of rare cells in tumors or in the immune system, and left the authors with a deeper understanding of the fundamental biological processes that determine cell fate. This review aims to provide a detailed overview of the various droplet microfluidic strategies reported in the literature, taking into account the sometimes subtle differences in workflow or reagents that enable or improve certain protocols. Specifically, approaches to targeted‐ and whole‐genome analysis, as well as whole‐transcriptome profiling techniques, are reviewed. In addition, an up‐to‐date overview of new methods to characterize and quantify single‐cell protein levels, and of developments to screen secreted molecules such as antibodies, cytokines, or metabolites at the single‐cell level, is provided.
Out‐of‐Plane Polarization in Bent Graphene‐Like Zinc Oxide and Nanogenerator Applications
Authors: Tan Dan , Willatzen Morten , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: November 2019

Highly efficient piezoelectric nanogenerator operation is demonstrated based on dynamic bending of graphene‐like ZnO nanosheets. Energy is harvested by an external resistor by virtue of a strong time‐varying piezoelectric polarization component perpendicular to the graphene‐like ZnO plane. It is shown analytically and verified numerically using molecular dynamics simulations that the m2 point group of flat graphene‐like ZnO is reduced to monoclinic m symmetry for bent graphene‐like ZnO. The latter symmetry allows for a nonzero and large piezoelectric polarization component perpendicular to the plane of the 2D structure. The numerical results confirm that flexoelectric effects are negligible subject to graphene‐like ZnO bending operation.
One‐Step Rapid Fabrication of Cell‐Only Living Fibers
Authors: Sousa Ana Rita , Martins‐Cruz Cláudia , Oliveira Mariana B. , Mano João F.
Published: November 2019

Cellular aggregates are used as relevant regenerative building blocks, tissue models, and cell delivery platforms. Biomaterial‐free structures are often assembled either as 2D cell sheets or spherical microaggregates, both incompatible with free‐form deposition, and dependent on challenging processes for macroscale 3D upscaling. The continuous and elongated nature of fiber‐shaped materials enables their deposition in unrestricted multiple directions. Cellular fiber fabrication has often required exogenously provided support proteins and/or the use of biomaterial‐based sacrificial templates. Here, the rapid (<24 h) assembly of fiberoids is reported: living centimeter‐long scaffold‐free fibers of cells produced in the absence of exogenous materials or supplements. Adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cell fiberoids can be easily modulated into complex multidimensional geometries and show tissue‐invasive properties while keeping the secretion of trophic factors. Proangiogenic properties studied on a chick chorioallantoic membrane in an ovo model are observed for heterotypic fiberoids containing endothelial cells. These micro‐to‐macrotissues may find application as morphogenic therapeutic and tissue‐mimetic building blocks, with the ability to integrate 3D and 4D full biological materials.
Through Space Charge Transfer for Efficient Sky‐Blue Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence (TADF) Emitter with Unconjugated Connection
Authors: Wang Ya‐Kun , Huang Chen‐Chao , Ye Hao , Zhong Cheng , Khan Aziz , Yang Sheng‐Yi , Fung Man‐Keung , Jiang Zuo‐Quan , Adachi Chihaya , Liao Liang‐Sheng
Published: November 2019

Through‐space charge transfer, which exists in nonconjugation linker based thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials, excites chemists to explore more possibilities in organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs). Herein, an sp3‐hybrid carbon‐centered donor–σ–acceptor type chromophore, QAFCN, is tentatively developed by exploring bi‐acridine based electron‐donor, i.e., 5,5‐dimethyl‐5,9‐dihydroquinolino[3,2,1‐de]acridine (QA). It is interesting to find that the QA moiety shows downshift in highest occupied molecular orbital because of its deformed geometry, which makes it qualified for sky‐blue electroluminescence emission. Together with the blue‐shift, enhanced photoluminescence quantum yield and faster reverse intersystem crossing rate are also observed in QAFCN, which can be attributed to the close through‐space distance between donor/acceptor. As compared to the ACRFLCN without these special features, QAFCN has obvious TADF property and achieves efficient OLEDs of ≈18% external quantum efficiency.
Recent Progress in Two‐Dimensional Ferroelectric Materials
Authors: Guan Zhao , Hu He , Shen Xinwei , Xiang Pinghua , Zhong Ni , Chu Junhao , Duan Chungang
Published: November 2019

The investigation of two‐dimensional (2D) ferroelectrics has attracted significant interest in recent years for applications in functional electronics. Without the limitation of a finite size effect, 2D materials with stable layered structures and reduced surface energy may go beyond the presence of an enhanced depolarization field in ultrathin ferroelectrics, thereby opening a pathway to explore low‐dimensional ferroelectricity, making ultra‐high‐density devices possible and maintaining Moore's Law. Although many theoretical works on potential 2D ferroelectric materials have been conducted, much still needs to be accomplished experimentally, as it is rare for 2D ferroelectric materials to be proven and plenty of 2D ferroelectrics are waiting to be discovered. First, experimental and theoretical progress on 2D ferroelectric materials, including in‐plane and out‐of‐plane, is reviewed, followed by a general introduction to various characterization methods. Intrinsic mechanisms associated with promising 2D ferroelectric materials, together with related applications, are also discussed. Finally, an outlook for future trends and development in 2D ferroelectricity are explored. Researchers can use this to obtain a basic understanding of 2D ferroelectric materials and to build a database of progress of 2D ferroelectrics.
Thin, Skin‐Integrated, Stretchable Triboelectric Nanogenerators for Tactile Sensing
Authors: Liu Yiming , Wang Lingyun , Zhao Ling , Yao Kuanming , Xie Zhaoqian , Zi Yunlong , Yu Xinge
Published: November 2019

Recent advances in thin, soft skin‐integrated electronics have brought many opportunities in the wearable technics. A simple platform with the functionality of self‐powering for epidermal electronics is reported. These electronics can generate electricity from external mechanical stresses that associates with triboelectric effect, and therefore afford excellent performance in tactile sensing and energy harvesting. Combined advances in materials and mechanics of the skin‐integrated electronics with high efficiency energy harvesting techniques, triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) in an epidermal format is realized for the first time. The dots‐distributed electrode pattern allows these electronics exhibiting excellent flexibility and stretchability, distinguishing a broad range of pressures that are relevant to normal body motions. The electricity output of the epidermal device from simple finger tapping modes can achieve >60 V of voltage and >1 µA of current, which is sufficient to light up 15 small light‐emitting diodes. Furthermore, the authors also report a 4 × 4 sensor array based on these TENGs, and demonstrate a skin‐like electronics for real‐time motion monitoring and tactile mapping.
Processing‐Performance Evolution of Perovskite Solar Cells: From Large Grain Polycrystalline Films to Single Crystals
Authors: Haque Md Azimul , Troughton Joel , Baran Derya
Published: November 2019

Solution‐processable halide perovskites have emerged as strong contenders for next‐generation solar cells owing to their favorable optoelectronic properties. To maintain the efficiency momentum of perovskite solar cells (PSCs), development of advanced processing techniques, particularly for the perovskite layer, is imperative. There is a close correlation between the quality of the perovskite layer and its photophysical properties: Highly crystalline large grains with uniform morphology of the perovskite layer and their interface with charge transporters are crucial for achieving high performance. Significant efforts have been dedicated to achieve perovskite films with large grains reaching the millimeter‐scale for high‐efficiency PSCs. Recent work showcases a transition from large grain polycrystalline to single‐crystalline (SC) PSCs made possible by the facile growth of perovskite single crystals. In this review, the recent progress of the large grain polycrystalline PSCs and grain boundary‐free SC‐PSCs is reported, particularly focusing on the recent approach of depositing large‐grained perovskite layers and single crystal growth technique, that have been adopted for fabrication of efficient PSCs. In addition, prospects of SC‐PSCs and their further development in terms of efficiency, device design, scalability, and stability are discussed.
3D Porous Pyramid Heterostructure Array Realizing Efficient Photo‐Electrochemical Performance
Authors: Cao Shuyan , Wu Yunzhen , Hou Jungang , Zhang Bo , Li Zhuwei , Nie Xiaowa , Sun Licheng
Published: November 2019

Direct photo‐electrochemical (PEC) water splitting is of great practical interest for developing a sustainable energy systems, but remains a big challenge owing to sluggish charge separation, low efficiency, and poor stability. Herein, a 3D porous In2O3/In2S3 pyramid heterostructure array on a fluorine‐doped tin oxide substrate is fabricated by an ion exchange–induced synthesis strategy. Based on the synergistic structural and electronic modulations from density functional theory calculations and experimental observations, 3D porous In2O3/In2S3 photoanode by the protective layer delivers a low onset potential of ≈0.02 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE), the highest photocurrent density of 8.2 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V versus RHE among all the In2S3 photoanodes reported to date, an incident photon‐to‐current efficiency of 76% at 400 nm, and high stability over 20 h for PEC water splitting are reported. This work provides an alternative promising prototype for the design and construction of novel heterostructures in robust PEC water splitting applications.