bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Respond to Covid-19 challenges: Unconstrained growth and policy options
Authors: Labus Miroljub
Published: May 2021

In the first, empirical part of the paper, we have dealt with the previous recession episodes in Serbia in the 15-year interval from 2006 to 2020 and the direct impact of the Covid-19 crisis. We have compared the long-term and short-term trends and one-off Covid-19 impacts on the real and monetary economy, financial sector, and the rest of the world. Key lessons drawn from the previous crises are highly relevant today. The second part of the paper is analytical. For that purpose, we have updated our DSGE model with the data until the last quarter of 2020 and simulated nine alternative scenarios of fiscal, monetary, and industrial policies over the next five years. They showed remarkable results in some sectors, but created imbalances in others. Focusing on GDP growth in the post-Covid-19 period is misleading since the economy will never be the same. There is a need to choose an optimal mix of conventional policy measures and an industrial policy based on digitalisation and IT. The current Government policy of a huge fiscal deficit and rising public debt exposes the country to unbearable risk in the future.
Determinants of volatility of economic activity in Europe during the COVID-19 pandemic: Stylized facts
Authors: Ranđelović Saša
Published: May 2021

In 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, almost all European countries recorded negative rates of economic growth, with relatively large variations from one country to another in terms of the depth of the recession. From the expenditure side, the decline was most pronounced in the segment of personal consumption and investment. Observed by sectors, the largest decline was recorded in transport and tourism, manufacturing industry and construction. This paper analyzes three groups of factors that could have potentially influenced the variation in the depth of the recession in European countries in 2020 - the application of non-pharmacological epidemiological measures, the structure of the economy and the fiscal policy response. The data reveal a relatively strong negative correlation between the GDP growth rate and the share of the tourism sector, as well as a moderate negative correlation between the growth rate and the stringency of epidemiological measures and a moderate positive correlation between the size of direct fiscal stimuli and economic growth. The decline in Serbia's GDP in 2020 was significantly lower than the average decline in EU countries. During most of 2020, Serbia applied looser epidemiological measures, while the share of the tourism sector in Serbia's GDP is significantly smaller, and the contraction in this sector was lower than the European average. Direct fiscal stimuli in Serbia were significantly higher (by 48 percent) than the European average. This may indicate that these three groups of factors could potentially explain the lower decline of the Serbian economy compared to the European average in 2020. To draw final conclusions on this issue, econometric modeling would be required, taking into account the influence of other factors, as well.
Patients’ Communication Preferences Around Cancer Symptom Reporting During Cancer Treatment: A Phenomenological Study
Authors: Carrasco, PhD, RN Sharyn
Published: May 2021

Background: The purpose of this descriptive phenomenological study was to gain an in-depth understanding of cancer patients’ experiences and perspectives on self-reporting their symptoms. Patients with cancer experience a wide variety of symptoms from both their disease and treatment, yet clinicians are often unaware of their patients’ symptoms due to poor reporting methods. Poorly documented symptoms are more likely to go untreated, causing increased symptom distress and decreased quality of life for patients. Effective, real-time communication between patients and health-care practitioners is key to symptom assessment and management. Moreover, it is important for patients’ communication preferences to be taken into account when developing symptom management plans. Methods: This qualitative study focused on the symptom reporting experiences of 13 adults in the United States with advanced or metastatic cancer who were undergoing systemic cancer treatment. Data were collected via interviews. Results: The findings revealed that a personalized symptom management plan, prompt reporting, and timely communication with health-care practitioners improved patients’ physical and emotional wellbeing. Conclusions: A better understanding of cancer patients’ experiences self-reporting their symptoms may lead to improved communication methods and more effective reporting systems, which ultimately reduce patient burden and enhance patients’ self-advocacy. Ensuring that patients’ preferences for reporting their symptoms are met may positively influence the likelihood and timeliness of symptom self-reporting. Developing new and improved ways for health-care teams to manage symptoms is vital to improving patients’ quality of life.
Les modalités essentielles d’une supervision clinique en contexte d’intervention comportementale intensive
Authors: Florigan Ménard Christine , Poirier Nathalie
Published: May 2021

Les résultats présentés dans cet article proviennent de la banque de données d’une recherche exploratoire portant sur le processus de partenariat entre les parents, les éducatrices à la petite enfance et les intervenantes du CRDITED en contexte d’intervention comportementale intensive (ICI) offerte en milieu de garde éducatif auprès d’enfants présentant un trouble du spectre de l’autisme (TSA). L’analyse des données a fait ressortir l’importance des supervisions cliniques à titre de thème émergent et récurrent selon l’expérience des participants. L’objectif de cet article est d’explorer les modalités qui facilitent et qui nuisent à la mise en place et à l’efficacité des supervisions cliniques dans un contexte d’ICI offerte en milieu de garde éducatif auprès d’enfants ayant un TSA. Pour ce faire, 17 parents, 10 éducatrices et 20 intervenantes ont rempli une fiche signalétique et ont été interrogés lors de groupes de discussion ou d’entretiens individuels. Les données recueillies indiquent qu’aucun cadre ne régit le programme d’intervention au Québec et, par conséquent, la supervision clinique. Ainsi, une variabilité est observée quant à la fréquence des rencontres, en plus de souligner la difficulté pour les parents et les éducatrices de se libérer pour pouvoir participer à ces moments de discussion. Ces résultats occasionnent alors une difficulté importante à répondre au but ultime d’une ICI, soit la généralisation des apprentissages dans les milieux de vie de l’enfant. Pour tenter de remédier à cette problématique, des suggestions sont apportées par les participants pour améliorer la mise en place et l’efficacité des supervisions cliniques.
Miniaturized 3D bone marrow tissue model to assess response to Thrombopoietin-receptor agonists in patients
Authors: Di Buduo Christian A , Laurent Pierre-Alexandre , Zaninetti Carlo , Lordier Larissa , Soprano Paolo M , Ntai Aikaterini , Barozzi Serena , La Spada Alberto , Biunno Ida , Raslova Hana , Bussel James B , Kaplan David L , Balduini Carlo L , Pecci Alessandro , Balduini Alessandra
Published: May 2021

Thrombocytopenic disorders have been treated with the Thrombopoietin-receptor agonist Eltrombopag. Patients with the same apparent form of thrombocytopenia may respond differently to the treatment. We describe a miniaturized bone marrow tissue model that provides a screening bioreactor for personalized, pre-treatment response prediction to Eltrombopag for individual patients. Using silk fibroin, a 3D bone marrow niche was developed that reproduces platelet biogenesis. Hematopoietic progenitors were isolated from a small amount of peripheral blood of patients with mutations in ANKRD26 and MYH9 genes, who had previously received Eltrombopag. The ex vivo response was strongly correlated with the in vivo platelet response. Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs) from one patient with mutated MYH9 differentiated into functional megakaryocytes that responded to Eltrombopag. Combining patient-derived cells and iPSCs with the 3D bone marrow model technology allows having a reproducible system for studying drug mechanisms and for individualized, pre-treatment selection of effective therapy in Inherited Thrombocytopenias.
An ABA-GA bistable switch can account for natural variation in the variability of Arabidopsis seed germination time
Authors: Abley Katie , Formosa-Jordan Pau , Tavares Hugo , Chan Emily YT , Afsharinafar Mana , Leyser Ottoline , Locke James CW
Published: May 2021

Genetically identical plants growing in the same conditions can display heterogeneous phenotypes. Here we use Arabidopsis seed germination time as a model system to examine phenotypic variability and its underlying mechanisms. We show extensive variation in seed germination time variability between Arabidopsis accessions and use a multiparent recombinant inbred population to identify two genetic loci involved in this trait. Both loci include genes implicated in modulating abscisic acid (ABA) sensitivity. Mutually antagonistic regulation between ABA, which represses germination, and gibberellic acid (GA), which promotes germination, underlies the decision to germinate and can act as a bistable switch. A simple stochastic model of the ABA-GA network shows that modulating ABA sensitivity can generate the range of germination time distributions we observe experimentally. We validate the model by testing its predictions on the effects of exogenous hormone addition. Our work provides a foundation for understanding the mechanism and functional role of phenotypic variability in germination time.
Songbirds can learn flexible contextual control over syllable sequencing
Authors: Veit Lena , Tian Lucas Y , Monroy Hernandez Christian J , Brainard Michael S
Published: May 2021

The flexible control of sequential behavior is a fundamental aspect of speech, enabling endless reordering of a limited set of learned vocal elements (syllables or words). Songbirds are phylogenetically distant from humans but share both the capacity for vocal learning and neural circuitry for vocal control that includes direct pallial-brainstem projections. Based on these similarities, we hypothesized that songbirds might likewise be able to learn flexible, moment-by-moment control over vocalizations. Here, we demonstrate that Bengalese finches (Lonchura striata domestica), which sing variable syllable sequences, can learn to rapidly modify the probability of specific sequences (e.g. ‘ab-c’ versus ‘ab-d’) in response to arbitrary visual cues. Moreover, once learned, this modulation of sequencing occurs immediately following changes in contextual cues and persists without external reinforcement. Our findings reveal a capacity in songbirds for learned contextual control over syllable sequencing that parallels human cognitive control over syllable sequencing in speech.
Optogenetic strategies for high-efficiency all-optical interrogation using blue-light-sensitive opsins
Authors: Forli Angelo , Pisoni Matteo , Printz Yoav , Yizhar Ofer , Fellin Tommaso
Published: May 2021

All-optical methods for imaging and manipulating brain networks with high spatial resolution are fundamental to study how neuronal ensembles drive behavior. Stimulation of neuronal ensembles using two-photon holographic techniques requires high-sensitivity actuators to avoid photodamage and heating. Moreover, two-photon-excitable opsins should be insensitive to light at wavelengths used for imaging. To achieve this goal, we developed a novel soma-targeted variant of the large-conductance blue-light-sensitive opsin CoChR (stCoChR). In the mouse cortex in vivo, we combined holographic two-photon stimulation of stCoChR with an amplified laser tuned at the opsin absorption peak and two-photon imaging of the red-shifted indicator jRCaMP1a. Compared to previously characterized blue-light-sensitive soma-targeted opsins in vivo, stCoChR allowed neuronal stimulation with more than 10-fold lower average power and no spectral crosstalk. The combination of stCoChR, tuned amplified laser stimulation, and red-shifted functional indicators promises to be a powerful tool for large-scale interrogation of neural networks in the intact brain.
Detecting adaptive introgression in human evolution using convolutional neural networks
Authors: Gower Graham , Picazo Pablo Iáñez , Fumagalli Matteo , Racimo Fernando
Published: May 2021

Studies in a variety of species have shown evidence for positively selected variants introduced into a population via introgression from another, distantly related population—a process known as adaptive introgression. However, there are few explicit frameworks for jointly modelling introgression and positive selection, in order to detect these variants using genomic sequence data. Here, we develop an approach based on convolutional neural networks (CNNs). CNNs do not require the specification of an analytical model of allele frequency dynamics and have outperformed alternative methods for classification and parameter estimation tasks in various areas of population genetics. Thus, they are potentially well suited to the identification of adaptive introgression. Using simulations, we trained CNNs on genotype matrices derived from genomes sampled from the donor population, the recipient population and a related non-introgressed population, in order to distinguish regions of the genome evolving under adaptive introgression from those evolving neutrally or experiencing selective sweeps. Our CNN architecture exhibits 95% accuracy on simulated data, even when the genomes are unphased, and accuracy decreases only moderately in the presence of heterosis. As a proof of concept, we applied our trained CNNs to human genomic datasets—both phased and unphased—to detect candidates for adaptive introgression that shaped our evolutionary history.
Biological controls for standardization and interpretation of adaptive immune receptor repertoire profiling
Authors: Trück Johannes , Eugster Anne , Barennes Pierre , Tipton Christopher M , Luning Prak Eline T , Bagnara Davide , Soto Cinque , Sherkow Jacob S , Payne Aimee S , Lefranc Marie-Paule , Farmer Andrew ,   The AIRR Community, Bostick Magnolia , Mariotti-Ferrandiz Encarnita
Published: May 2021

Use of adaptive immune receptor repertoire sequencing (AIRR-seq) has become widespread, providing new insights into the immune system with potential broad clinical and diagnostic applications. However, like many high-throughput technologies, it comes with several problems, and the AIRR Community was established to understand and help solve them. We, the AIRR Community’s Biological Resources Working Group, have surveyed scientists about the need for standards and controls in generating and annotating AIRR-seq data. Here, we review the current status of AIRR-seq, provide the results of our survey, and based on them, offer recommendations for developing AIRR-seq standards and controls, including future work.
The discriminatory power of the T cell receptor
Authors: Pettmann Johannes , Huhn Anna , Abu Shah Enas , Kutuzov Mikhail A , Wilson Daniel B , Dustin Michael L , Davis Simon J , van der Merwe P Anton , Dushek Omer
Published: May 2021

T cells use their T cell receptors (TCRs) to discriminate between lower-affinity self and higher-affinity non-self peptides presented on major histocompatibility complex (pMHC) antigens. Although the discriminatory power of the TCR is widely believed to be near-perfect, technical difficulties have hampered efforts to precisely quantify it. Here, we describe a method for measuring very low TCR/pMHC affinities and use it to measure the discriminatory power of the TCR and the factors affecting it. We find that TCR discrimination, although enhanced compared with conventional cell-surface receptors, is imperfect: primary human T cells can respond to pMHC with affinities as low as KD∼ 1 mM. The kinetic proofreading mechanism fit our data, providing the first estimates of both the time delay (2.8 s) and number of biochemical steps (2.67) that are consistent with the extraordinary sensitivity of antigen recognition. Our findings explain why self pMHC frequently induce autoimmune diseases and anti-tumour responses, and suggest ways to modify TCR discrimination.
Cellular, circuit and transcriptional framework for modulation of itch in the central amygdala
Authors: Samineni Vijay K , Grajales-Reyes Jose G , Grajales-Reyes Gary E , Tycksen Eric , Copits Bryan A , Pedersen Christian , Ankudey Edem S , Sackey Julian N , Sewell Sienna B , Bruchas Michael R , Gereau Robert W
Published: May 2021

Itch is an unpleasant sensation that elicits robust scratching and aversive experience. However, the identity of the cells and neural circuits that organize this information remains elusive. Here, we show the necessity and sufficiency of chloroquine-activated neurons in the central amygdala (CeA) for both itch sensation and associated aversion. Further, we show that chloroquine-activated CeA neurons play important roles in itch-related comorbidities, including anxiety-like behaviors, but not in some aversive and appetitive behaviors previously ascribed to CeA neurons. RNA-sequencing of chloroquine-activated CeA neurons identified several differentially expressed genes as well as potential key signaling pathways in regulating pruritis. Finally, viral tracing experiments demonstrate that these neurons send projections to the ventral periaqueductal gray that are critical in modulation of itch. These findings reveal a cellular and circuit signature of CeA neurons orchestrating behavioral and affective responses to pruritus in mice.
Deep learning prediction of mild cognitive impairment conversion to Alzheimer’s disease at 3 years after diagnosis using longitudinal and whole-brain 3D MRI
Authors: Ocasio Ethan , Duong Tim Q.
Published: May 2021

Background

While there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease (AD), early diagnosis and accurate prognosis of AD may enable or encourage lifestyle changes, neurocognitive enrichment, and interventions to slow the rate of cognitive decline. The goal of our study was to develop and evaluate a novel deep learning algorithm to predict mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to AD conversion at three years after diagnosis using longitudinal and whole-brain 3D MRI.

Methods

This retrospective study consisted of 320 normal cognition (NC), 554 MCI, and 237 AD patients. Longitudinal data include T1-weighted 3D MRI obtained at initial presentation with diagnosis of MCI and at 12-month follow up. Whole-brain 3D MRI volumes were used without a priori segmentation of regional structural volumes or cortical thicknesses. MRIs of the AD and NC cohort were used to train a deep learning classification model to obtain weights to be applied via transfer learning for prediction of MCI patient conversion to AD at three years post-diagnosis. Two (zero-shot and fine tuning) transfer learning methods were evaluated. Three different convolutional neural network (CNN) architectures (sequential, residual bottleneck, and wide residual) were compared. Data were split into 75% and 25% for training and testing, respectively, with 4-fold cross validation. Prediction accuracy was evaluated using balanced accuracy. Heatmaps were generated.

Results

The sequential convolutional approach yielded slightly better performance than the residual-based architecture, the zero-shot transfer learning approach yielded better performance than fine tuning, and CNN using longitudinal data performed better than CNN using a single timepoint MRI in predicting MCI conversion to AD. The best CNN model for predicting MCI conversion to AD at three years after diagnosis yielded a balanced accuracy of 0.793. Heatmaps of the prediction model showed regions most relevant to the network including the lateral ventricles, periventricular white matter and cortical gray matter.

Conclusions

This is the first convolutional neural network model using longitudinal and whole-brain 3D MRIs without extracting regional brain volumes or cortical thicknesses to predict future MCI to AD conversion at 3 years after diagnosis. This approach could lead to early prediction of patients who are likely to progress to AD and thus may lead to better management of the disease.
Psychometric properties of the Attitudes towards Medical Communication Scale in nursing students
Authors: Escribano Silvia , Juliá-Sanchis Rocío , García-Sanjuán Sofía , Congost-Maestre Nereida , Cabañero-Martínez María José
Published: May 2021

Background

Adequate communication skills in healthcare professionals are one of the key elements required for achieving high-quality healthcare. Thus, measurement instruments able to assess the dimensions related to these skills, including attitudes towards communication, are useful and convenient tools.

Objectives

To (a) cross-culturally adapt and validate a scale to measure attitudes towards communication in a sample of nursing students in the Spanish environment; (b) describe the perceived attitudes of nursing degree students towards communication.

Methods

We conducted an instrumental study. First, we adapted the scale by applying a standardised linguistic validation procedure. After that, we determined its structural equivalence and evaluated its psychometric properties.

Participants

A total of 255 students participated; their average age was 22.66 years (SD= 4.75) and 82% were female.

Results

The internal consistency of the scale was adequate (0.75), and the data fit well with the model (CFI = 0.99; TLI = 0.99; RMSEA = .01 95% CI [.00–.05]). The overall instrument score poorly correlated with the self-efficacy in communication skills variable.

Conclusions

The attitudes towards communication scores for these nursing students were high. The Spanish version of the Attitudes Towards Health Communication scale had adequate psychometric properties and this tool could quickly and easily be applied to assess the attitudes of health profession students.
Cuffless blood pressure estimation based on haemodynamic principles: progress towards mobile healthcare
Authors: Yamakoshi Takehiro , Rolfe Peter , Yamakoshi Ken-ichi
Published: May 2021

Background

Although cuff-sphygmomanometry is used worldwide in medical and healthcare fields, it is a fact that the use of an occlusive cuff to obtain blood pressure (BP) is troublesome and inconvenient. There have therefore been on-going efforts to devise methods that do not require the use of a cuff, almost all being based on the measurement of pulse wave velocity or pulse transit time, but so far few significant developments have been made, especially regarding measurement accuracy. We have previously reported a smartphone-based cuffless method using a linear multiple regression calibration model comprising of BP obtained with a cuff-sphygmomanometer as an objective variable and modified normalized pulse volume (mNPV: a measure of vasoconstrictive activity in a finger) and pulse rate (PR) as explanatory variables. This requires a number of subjects to construct a calibration model and thus is largely dependent on the accuracy due to the model. To address these drawbacks, we report here a new cuffless method to surpass considerably the results of our previous study as well as earlier works.

Methods

With this method we can estimate BP, with much higher accuracy, using mNPV and PR, both also obtained from a smartphone-derived photoplethysmogram. The subject firstly performs a cuff-based BP measurement in parallel with the acquisition of mNPV and PR from a smartphone. These parameters are set as initial values (BPc0, mNPV0 and PR0; initial calibration procedure). Then, the estimated BP (BPe) can be calculated from the relation: “BPe = (BPc0·PR·mNPV)/(PR0·mNPV0)”, which is derived from the so-called haemodynamic Ohm’s law. To validate this method, preliminary experiments using 13 volunteers were carried out to compare results from the new method with those from the cuff-sphygmomanometry, used as a reference.

Results

Altogether 299 paired data sets were analyzed: A good agreement was found between the cuff-based and the estimated BP values, with correlation coefficients of 0.968 for systolic BP (SBP), 0.934 for mean BP (MBP) and 0.844 for diastolic BP (DBP). Bland-Altman analyses for the BPe (SBPe, MBPe, DBPe) and the BPc (SBPc, MBPc, DBPc) values also supported these comparison results. Mean absolute differences between the BPe and the BPc values in total subjects were less than 5 mmHg. Fairly good tracking availability in terms of time series data of the BPc against the corresponding BPe values was also confirmed in each subject during the study periods (1–2 weeks for 12 subjects and about 4 months for one subject).

Discussion

The present study reported the successful development of the new cuffless BP estimation method, given as the status of a trial stage of investigation. This method could easily be used with various smartphones, smart watches, and finger-based devices, and it appears to have significant potential as a convenient substitute for conventional cuff-sphygmomanometers as well as for practical application to mobile healthcare.
Run for your life: can exercise be used to effectively target GLUT4 in diabetic cardiac disease?
Authors: Bowman Peter R.T. , Smith Godfrey L. , Gould Gwyn W.
Published: May 2021

The global incidence, associated mortality rates and economic burden of diabetes are now such that it is considered one of the most pressing worldwide public health challenges. Considerable research is now devoted to better understanding the mechanisms underlying the onset and progression of this disease, with an ultimate aim of improving the array of available preventive and therapeutic interventions. One area of particular unmet clinical need is the significantly elevated rate of cardiomyopathy in diabetic patients, which in part contributes to cardiovascular disease being the primary cause of premature death in this population. This review will first consider the role of metabolism and more specifically the insulin sensitive glucose transporter GLUT4 in diabetic cardiac disease, before addressing how we may use exercise to intervene in order to beneficially impact key functional clinical outcomes.
Biotin-streptavidin-guided two-step pretargeting approach using PLGA for molecular ultrasound imaging and chemotherapy for ovarian cancer
Authors: Zhou Hang , Fu Jing , Fu Qihuan , Feng Yujie , Hong Ruixia , Li Pan , Wang Zhigang , Huang Xiaoling , Li Fang
Published: May 2021

Background

Ovarian cancer seriously threatens the lives and health of women, and early diagnosis and treatment are still challenging. Pre-targeting is a promising strategy to improve the treatment efficacy of ovarian cancer and the results of ultrasound imaging.

Purpose

To explore the effects of a pre-targeting strategy using streptavidin (SA) and paclitaxel (PTX)-loaded phase-shifting poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles with perfluoro-n-pentane (PTX-PLGA-SA/PFPs) on the treatment and ultrasound imaging of ovarian cancer.

Methods

PTX-PLGA/PFPs were prepared with a single emulsion (O/W) solvent evaporation method and SA was attached using carbodiimide. The encapsulation efficiency of PTX and the release characteristics were assessed with high performance liquid chromatography. The phase-change characteristics of the PTX-PLGA-SA/PFPs were investigated. The anti-carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) antibody (Ab) was covalently attached to PTX-PLGA/PFPs via carbodiimide to create PTX-PLGA-Ab/PFPs. The targeting efficiency of the nanoparticles and the viability of ovarian cancer SKOV3 cells were evaluated in each group using a microscope, flow cytometry, and cell counting kit 8 assays.

Results

THE PTX-PLGA-SA/PFPs were spheres with a size of 383.0 ± 75.59 nm. The encapsulation efficiency and loading capability of the nanoparticles for PTX were 71.56 ±  6.51% and 6.57 ± 0.61%, respectively. PTX was burst-released up to 70% in 2–3 d. When irradiated at 7.5 W for 3 min, the PTX-PLGA-SA/PFPs visibly enhanced the ultrasonography images (P < 0.05). At temperatures of 45°C and 60°C the nanoparticles phase-shifted into micro-bubbles and the sizes increased. The binding efficiencies of SA and Ab to the PTX-PLGA/PFPs were 97.16 ±  1.20% and 92.74 ± 5.75%, respectively. Pre-targeting resulted in a high binding efficacy and killing effect on SKOV3 cells (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The two-step pre-targeting process can significantly enhance the targeting ability of PTX-loaded PLGA nanoparticles for ovarian cancer cells and substantially improve the therapeutic efficacy. This technique provides a new method for ultrasonic imaging and precise chemotherapy for ovarian cancer.
Effects of Methanolic Leaf Extracts of Daniella oliveri on Biochemical and Haematological Parameters of Albino Mice Infected with Plasmodium berghei NK 65
Authors: Muazu Muhammed , Dikwa Karderam Bukar , Dibal Deborah Madi , Danjuma Muhammed , Sunday Gideon Obaje , Junaidu Yahaya
Published: May 2021

The rapid emergence and spread of Plasmodium falciparum resistance to Artemisinin derivatives and all the conventional antimalarial drugs necessitates the importance of ethnobotany, resulting in need to study the antiplasmodial potentials and the resultant effects of the methanolic leaf extract of Daniella oliveri (D.oliveri) on the biochemical and haematological parameters of the infected and treated albino mice. A total of 30 mice were randomized to six groups; 1 (positive control), 2 (negative control), 3 (normal control), 4, 5 and 6 (treatment groups) of five mice per group, body weights of mice were measured before and after infection and treatments, the mice were Infected intravenously with 0.2 ml of 1x107 standard inoculum of chloroquine sensitive Plasmodium berghei infected erythrocytes on the first day (day 0), treatment commence 72 hours later (day 3), continued for 5 days to terminate on day 7. On day 8, the Swiss Albino mice used for antiplasmodial activity were subjected to euthanasia under chloroform, aseptically dissected and blood was collected through cardiac puncture in lithium heparin bottle for biochemical assays and in an ethylene diamine tetra- acetic acid (EDTA) bottles for haematological assays.All mice in the treatment group showed decrease in body weight except for normal control group that showed increase in body weight. Methanolic leaf extract of D.oliveri contains some secondary metabolites that are hepato-protective in nature with no significant effects on the biochemical and hematological parameters of the malaria infected and treated albino mice.
Genomic analysis of Neisseria elongata isolate from a patient with infective endocarditis
Authors: Schörner Marcos André , Passarelli‐Araujo Hemanoel , Scheffer Mara Cristina , Hartmann Barazzetti Fernando , Motta Martins Jessica , de Melo Machado Hanalydia , Palmeiro Jussara Kasuko , Bazzo Maria Luiza
Published: May 2021

Neisseria elongata is part of the commensal microbiota of the oropharynx. Although it is not considered pathogenic to humans, N. elongata has been implicated in several cases of infective endocarditis (IE). Here, we report a case of IE caused by N. elongata subsp. nitroreducens (Nel_M001) and compare its genome with 17 N. elongata genomes available in GenBank. We also evaluated resistance and virulence profiles with Comprehensive Antibiotic Resistance and Virulence Finder databases. The results showed a wide diversity among N. elongata isolates. Based on the pangenome cumulative curve, we demonstrate that N. elongata has an open pangenome. We found several different resistance genes, mainly associated with antibiotic efflux pumps. A wide range of virulence genes was observed, predominantly pilus formation genes. Nel_M001 was the only isolate to present two copies of some pilus genes and not present nspA gene. Together, our results provide insights into how this commensal microorganism can cause IE and may assist further biological investigations on nonpathogenic Neisseria spp. Case reporting and pangenome analyses are critical for enhancing our understanding of IE pathogenesis, as well as for alerting physicians and microbiologists to enable rapid identification and treatment to avoid unfavorable outcomes.
Growth, Microstructure, and Mechanical Properties of Co–Cr–Mo Crystal Fibers Fabricated from the Melt by Unidirectional Solidification
Authors: Yokota Yuui , Nihei Takayuki , Abe Shoki , Yoshikawa Akira
Published: May 2021

Many complicated forming processes are required to fabricate thin wires of Co–Cr–Mo (CCM) biomedical materials due to the poor workability of these materials. A novel fabrication technique for CCM crystal fibers is developed by unidirectional solidification directly from the melt using the alloy‐micro‐pulling‐down (A‐μ‐PD) method. Compared with conventional methods, the proposed technique is an innovative fabrication method for CCM alloy fibers and is characterized by low cost, time saving, and low loading. In addition, the proposed method shows potential for further thinning of fibers. At growth rates of 0.1 and 0.3 mm min−1, CCM single‐crystal fibers composed of the ε‐phase with a hexagonal close‐packed (hcp) structure (hcp ε‐phase) can be fabricated. The hcp‐ε‐phase CCM crystal fibers exhibit considerably improved strain because of the slipping line in the hcp structure. Moreover, the γ‐phase with an fcc structure (fcc γ‐phase) appears in the hcp‐ε‐phase at growth rates greater than 0.5 mm min−1, and the ratio of the fcc γ‐phase in the CCM crystal fibers systematically increases with an increase in the cooling rate. The results reveal that the growth rate in the A‐μ‐PD method has a notable effect on the fabrication of single‐ or polycrystalline CCM fibers.
Oxidative Cleavage of Indoles Mediated by Urea Hydrogen Peroxide or H2O2 in Polar Solvents
Authors: Llopis Natalia , Gisbert Patricia , Baeza Alejandro
Published: May 2021

The oxidative cleavage of indoles (Witkop oxidation) involving the use of H2O2 or urea hydrogen peroxide in combination with a polar solvent has been described. Among these solvents, 1,1,1,3,3,3‐hexafluoroisopropanol (HFIP) stands out as the one affording the corresponding 2‐ketoacetanilides generally in higher yields The protocol described has also enabled the oxidation of different pyrroles and furans derivatives. Furthermore, the procedure was implemented in a larger‐scale and HFIP was distilled from the reaction mixture and reused (up to 4 cycles) without a significant detriment in the reaction outcome, which remarks its sustainability and applicability.

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Phenotypically concordant but epigenetically discordant monozygotic dichorionic diamniotic twins with Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome
Authors: Sun Feifei , Hara Satoshi , Tomita Chiyoko , Tanoue Yuka , Yatsuki Hitomi , Higashimoto Ken , Soejima Hidenobu
Published: May 2021

Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome (BWS) is an imprinting disorder caused by (epi)genetic alterations. The incidence of monozygotic (MZ) twins in BWS is higher than in the general population. Most MZ twins with BWS are female and have phenotypical discordance: one twin is clinically diagnosed with BWS, while the other shows a mild or normal phenotype. The most frequent (epi)genetic alteration in MZ twins is loss of methylation of imprinting control region 2 (ICR2‐LOM) at 11p15.5. Intriguingly, ICR2‐LOM is usually found in the peripheral blood leukocytes (PBL) of both twins, even if they are clinically discordant. Here, we present a rare pair of MZ dichorionic diamniotic female twins with BWS and concordant phenotypes (a Beckwith–Wiedemann spectrum score of 5 in each twin). Molecular analysis of genomic DNA from PBL revealed ICR2‐LOM in one twin but not the other. Our analyses suggest that ICR2‐LOM occurred between days 1 and 3 after fertilization, followed by twinning. We speculate that during embryogenesis, ICR2‐LOM cells were distributed to the hematopoietic stem cells in different ratios in the two fetuses, and also to commonly affected tissues, such as the tongue, in similar ratios, although we were unable to analyze any tissues other than PBL.
Chemo‐ and Enantioselective Insertion of Furyl Carbene into the N−H Bond of 2‐Pyridones
Authors: Wang Kai , Liu Ziye , Xu Guangyang , Shao Ying , Tang Shengbiao , Chen Ping , Zhang Xinhao , Sun Jiangtao
Published: May 2021

Asymmetric carbene insertion reactions represent one of the most important protocols to construct carbon–heteroatom bonds. The use of donor–acceptor diazo compounds bearing an ester group is however a prerequisite for achieving high enantioselectivity. Herein, we report a chemo‐ and enantioselective formal N−H insertion of 2‐pyridones that has been accomplished for the first time with enynones as the donor–donor carbene precursors. DFT calculations indicate an unprecedented enantioselective 1,4‐proton transfer from O to C. The rhodium catalyst provides a chiral pocket in which the steric repulsion and the π–π interaction of the propeller ligand play a critical role in determining the selectivities.
One‐Pot and Shape‐Controlled Synthesis of Organic Cages
Authors: Zhao Xiang , Liu Yue , Zhang Zhi‐Yuan , Wang Yiliang , Jia Xueshun , Li Chunju
Published: May 2021

Organic cages are fascinating because of their well‐defined 3D cavities, excellent stability, and accessible post‐modification. However, the synthesis is normally realized by fragment coupling approach in low yields. Herein, we report one‐pot, gram‐scale and shape‐controlled synthesis of two covalent organic cages (box‐shaped [4]cage and triangular prism‐shaped [2]cage) in yields of 46 % and 52 %, involving direct condensation of triangular 1,3,5‐tris(2,4‐dimethoxyphenyl)benzene monomer with paraformaldehyde and isobutyraldehyde, respectively. The cages can convert into high‐yielding per‐hydroxylated analogues. The [2]cage can be utilized as gas chromatographic stationary phase for high‐resolution separation of benzene/cyclohexane and toluene/methylcyclohexane. By changing the central moiety of the triangular monomer and/or aldehyde, this synthetic method would have the potential to be a general strategy to access diverse cages with tunable shape, size, and electronic properties.
High Proton‐Conductivity in Covalently Linked Polyoxometalate‐Organoboronic Acid‐Polymers
Authors: Li Shujun , Zhao Yue , Knoll Sebastian , Liu Rongji , Li Gang , Peng Qingpo , Qiu Pengtao , He Danfeng , Streb Carsten , Chen Xuenian
Published: May 2021

The controlled bottom‐up design of polymers with metal oxide backbones is a grand challenge in materials design, as it could give unique control over the resulting chemical properties. Herein, we report a 1D‐organo‐functionalized polyoxometalate polymer featuring a purely inorganic backbone. The polymer is self‐assembled from two types of monomers, inorganic Wells–Dawson‐type polyoxometalates, and aromatic organo‐boronates. Their covalent linkage results in 1D polymer strands, which combine an inorganic oxide backbone (based on B−O and Nb−O linkages) with functional organic side‐chains. The polymer shows high bulk proton conductivity of up to 1.59×10−1 S cm−1 at 90 °C and 98 % relative humidity. This synthetic approach could lead to a new class of organic–inorganic polymers where function can be designed by controlled tuning of the monomer units.
A TiSe2‐Graphite Dual Ion Battery: Fast Na‐Ion Insertion and Excellent Stability
Authors: Zheng Runtian , Yu Haoxiang , Zhang Xikun , Ding Yang , Xia Maoting , Cao Kangzhe , Shu Jie , Vlad Alexandru , Su Bao‐Lian
Published: May 2021

The sodium dual ion battery (Na‐DIB) technology is proposed as highly promising alternative over lithium‐ion batteries for the stationary electrochemical energy‐storage devices. However, the sluggish reaction kinetics of anode materials seriously impedes their practical implementation. Herein, a Na‐DIB based on TiSe2‐graphite is reported. The high diffusion coefficient of Na‐ions (3.21×10−11–1.20×10−9 cm2 s−1) and the very low Na‐ion diffusion barrier (0.50 eV) lead to very fast electrode kinetics, alike in conventional surface capacitive storage systems. In‐situ investigations reveal that the fast Na‐ion diffusion involves four insertion stage compositions. A prototype cell shows a reversible capacity of 81.8 mAh g−1 at current density of 100 mA g−1, excellent stability with 83.52 % capacity retention over 200 cycles and excellent rate performance, suggesting its potential for next‐generation large scale high‐performance stationary energy storage systems.
Hydrogen‐Bonding‐Induced Heterogenization of Nickel and Palladium Catalysts for Copolymerization of Ethylene with Polar Monomers
Authors: Zhang Hu , Zou Chen , Zhao Huipeng , Cai Zhengguo , Chen Changle
Published: May 2021

The practical synthesis of polar‐functionalized polyolefins using transition‐metal‐catalyzed copolymerization of olefins with polar monomers is a challenge; the use of heterogeneous catalysts is little explored. Herein, we report the synthesis of heterogeneous naphthoquinone‐based nickel (Ni/SiO2) and palladium (Pd/SiO2) catalysts through hydrogen bonding interactions of the ligands with the silica surface. Ni/SiO2 exhibits high activities (up to 2.65×106 g mol−1 h−1) during the copolymerization of ethylene with 5‐hexene‐1‐yl‐acetate, affording high‐molecular‐weight (Mn up to 630 000) polar‐functionalized semicrystalline polyethylene (comonomer incorporation up to 2.8 mol %), along with great morphology control. The resulting copolymers possess improved surface properties and great mechanical properties. Pd/SiO2 can mediate ethylene copolymerization with polar monomers with moderate activity to produce high‐molecular‐weight copolymers with tunable comonomer incorporation.
Identifying priority areas for surface water protection in data scarce regions: An integrated spatial analysis for Zambia
Authors: Lehner Bernhard , Katiyo Loreen , Chivava Faith , Sichingabula Henry M. , Nyirenda Edwin , Rivers‐Moore Nicholas A. , Paxton Bruce R. , Grill Günther , Nyoni Frank , Shamboko‐Mbale Beauty , Banda Kawawa , Thieme Michele L. , Silembo Oscar M. , Musutu Agness , Filgueiras Raquel
Published: May 2021

This study aimed to develop an integrated analytical framework to identify candidate sites for surface water protection that is applicable at broad scales and in data scarce regions, using Zambia as a case study.

In the Zambian Water Resources Management Act of 2011, Water Resource Protection Areas are defined as areas where special measures are necessary for the protection of a catchment, sub‐catchment, aquifer, or geographical area. Three specific selection criteria are listed for the definition of Water Resource Protection Areas: (i) areas of high importance in providing water to users in a catchment; (ii) aquatic areas of high ecological importance; and (iii) areas that are particularly sensitive to human impact.

In this project, each sub‐catchment and river reach of Zambia was characterized for their importance regarding these three criteria. ‘Water provisioning’ was assessed by analysing patterns of runoff generation and human water use; ‘aquatic ecological importance’ was determined by conducting a freshwater biodiversity and ecosystem assessment using a systematic conservation planning approach; and ‘sensitive areas’ were identified by quantifying erosion potential and sediment transport. The work was supported by an assessment of free‐flowing rivers in Zambia, i.e., those rivers where aquatic ecosystem functions and services are largely unaffected by changes to fluvial connectivity through dams and other infrastructure.

Highly ranked sub‐catchments were found in the Liuwa, Barotse, and Bangweulu floodplains and wetlands, and in the headwater regions of the upper Zambezi, Kafue, Chambeshi/Luapula, and Tanganyika catchments. The Luangwa was identified as the highest ranked candidate river for protection within Zambia.

The resulting maps, data, and methods are intended to support national‐scale efforts to prioritize areas for surface water protection, identify catchments and rivers with high conservation value, optimize decision making for infrastructure development, and inform concerted strategies to maintain and restore freshwater ecosystem services in Zambia.
Are marked body shape concerns associated with poorer outcomes at the one‐year follow‐up in anorexia nervosa?
Authors: Rousselet Morgane , Reinhardt Hélène , Forestier Bastien , Eyzop Emeline , Lambert Sylvain , Rocher Bruno , Gailledrat Lucie , Hardouin Jean‐Benoit , Grall‐Bronnec Marie
Published: May 2021

Objective

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a complex disease in which obsessive thoughts about body image, shape, or weight are expressed. The intensity of these concerns varies among individuals, and only a few studies have focused on their impact on patients’ clinical course when patients are treated on an outpatient basis. Our study aimed to determine whether marked body concerns at inclusion were predictive of the one‐year follow‐up.

Method

Participants (N = 72) were women seeking treatment for AN in a specialized unit for eating disorder management. All participants were assessed at inclusion and at the 1‐year follow‐up. Clinical outcome was assessed using the Morgan & Russel Outcome Average Score (MROAS), and body concerns were assessed using the Body Shape Questionnaires (BSQ).

Results

Marked body concerns (BSQ score >140) at inclusion were associated with a poorer outcome at the 12‐month follow‐up (lower MROAS “total score”). Other characteristics at inclusion that were predictive of a poorer outcome at 12 months were as follows: higher severity of ED at inclusion, longer hospitalization during follow‐up, and experiencing a lower impact of the illness on school/work life.

Discussion

The results confirmed the importance of a multifocal treatment that should address body concerns and motivation to change. Our results also highlighted the necessity of promoting the maintenance of school/work during the treatment course.
The state of anatomical donation programs amidst the SARS‐CoV‐2 (Covid‐19) pandemic
Authors: McCumber Travis L. , Latacha Kimberly S. , Lomneth Carol S.
Published: May 2021

The inclusion of human body dissection in anatomical science curricula has been described as a critical educational experience for the mastery of anatomical structures and concepts. To ensure that body donors are ethically acquired and suitable for anatomy education, Anatomical Donation Programs (ADPs) are tasked with the responsibility of acquiring body donors for basic and clinical science curricula. Considering the personal and institutional impact of SARS‐CoV‐2, a national survey was conducted to examine the current effect of the pandemic on ADP protocols, body donation, and the sustainability of ADPs in the United States (U.S.). Eighty‐nine U.S. ADPs were identified and contacted for optional participation in a survey to assess the impact of the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic on their programs. Survey data were collected and managed using REDCap electronic data capture tools. Thirty‐six ADPs (40.5% response rate) from the nine U.S. Divisions are represented in the survey results. Data were collected on ADP descriptions and demographics, SARS‐CoV‐2 impact on ADPs and protocols, and body donation and ADP sustainability. Almost all ADPs reported that the pandemic has affected their ADP operations in some way; however, the sustainability for the majority of ADPs appears likely and donor availability remains stable due to a proportional decrease in body donations and body donor requests. As the long‐term impact on ADPs has yet to be determined, the authors plan to reevaluate the lasting impact of the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic on body donation, ADP sustainability, and anatomical science education throughout the year 2021.