bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Flow Cytometric Measurement of Efflux in Candida Species
Authors: Iyer Kali R. , Robbins Nicole , Cowen Leah E. 
Published: October 2020

AbstractA technique to assess the ability of distinct Candida strains to efflux substrates, as well as to compare the effectiveness of efflux inhibitors, is important for analysis of antifungal drug resistance mechanisms and the mode of action of antifungals. We describe a method that measures the ability of Candida species to extrude the fluorescent dye Nile red as an output for efflux activity. This involves exposing cells to Nile red and using flow cytometry to quantify cellular fluorescence, enabling numerous samples to be processed in a limited time frame. This protocol provides a simple, yet effective method for quantifying efflux in drug‐resistant Candida species. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLCBasic Protocol 1: Growth and sample preparation of stained CandidaBasic Protocol 2: Quantitative measurement of fluorescence by flow cytometryAlternate Protocol: Qualitative determination of fluorescence using microscopy
Polyvinyl Chloride‐Derived Carbon Spheres for CO2 Adsorption
Authors: Wang Jing , Wang Fanan , Duan Hongmin , Li Yang , Xu Jinming , Huang Yanqiang , Liu Bin , Zhang Tao 
Published: October 2020

AbstractPolyvinyl chloride (PVC) is the world's third‐most widely produced plastic polymer. Directly transforming PVC to carbonaceous materials for CO2 capture provides an environmentally friendly and attractive strategy to recycle plastics. In this work, a simple and effective method was developed to prepare PVC‐derived carbon spheres. In this method, the classical “spheroidization” process shaped the original PVC powders into millimeter spheres, and a special dehalogenation and cross‐linking process in the presence of a phase‐transfer catalyst transferred the thermoplasticity of the PVC‐spheres into thermosetting, which stabilized the shape. Furthermore, by rationally adjusting the activation conditions, the porous structure of the carbon spheres was well optimized. With a specific surface area up to 1738 m2 g−1 and the developed microporous structure, the as‐prepared carbon spheres showed not only excellent performance in pure CO2 adsorption (8.93 mmol g−1, 39.3 wt% at 0 °C and 5.47 mmol g−1, 24.1 wt% at 25 °C), but also outstanding adsorption capacity and recyclability in low‐concentration CO2 capture, even superior to conventional molecular sieves.
Comparative analysis of gut microbiota diversity in endangered, economical, and common freshwater mussels using 16S rRNA gene sequencing
Authors: Liu Xiongjun , Cao Yanling , Ouyang Shan , Wu Xiaoping 
Published: October 2020

AbstractFreshwater mussels are both among the most diverse and endangered faunas worldwide. The gut microbiota of species plays a key role in nutrition and immunity, such as preventing it from pathogen invasion, synthesizing beneficial secondary metabolites, and contributing to the digestion of complex nutrients. Information on the gut microbiota could have significant implications for conservation biology, especially for threatened or endangered species. However, there is relatively little study into the gut microbiota of freshwater mussels. Here, the gut microbiota diversity was analyzed in endangered (Solenaia carinata), economical (Sinohyriopsis cumingii), and common (Sinanodonta woodiana) freshwater mussels using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. This study represents the first to compare the gut microbiota diversity of endangered, economical, and common Chinese freshwater mussels. The results showed that 13,535 OTUs were found inS. carinata, 12,985 OTUs inS. cumingii,and 9,365 OTUs inS. woodiana. The dominant phylum inS. carinataandS. cumingiiwas Fusobacteria, and was Firmicutes inS. woodiana. Alpha diversity indices indicated thatS. carinataandS. cumingiihad a higher abundance and diversity of gut microbiota thanS. woodiana. The composition of gut microbiota was different among three freshwater mussels, but their composition variation was not significant. This study provides insight for the conservation of freshwater mussel biodiversity, which will not only help conserve these vulnerable groups but also, will offer wider benefits to freshwater ecosystems.
Structural implications of traditional agricultural landscapes on the functional diversity of birds near the Korean Demilitarized Zone
Authors: Kim Jae Hyun , Park Shinyeong , Kim Seung Ho , Kang Keunwon , Waldman Bruce , Lee Myung Hwa , Yu Minhye , Yang Hyunyoung , Chung Hyun Yong , Lee Eun Ju 
Published: October 2020

AbstractBird assemblages are sensitive to changes in landscape composition and the environment, such as those that result from drought. In this study, the relationship between landscape composition and avian functional diversity in traditional agricultural ecosystems in the Civilian Control Zone (CCZ) of Korea was examined. In addition, the resilience of biodiversity to changes in landscape elements resulting from drought conditions was investigated. The traditional agricultural landscape (TAL) of the sites studied was divided into three types: TAL 1 had a high proportion of rice paddies, TAL 2 included large forest areas, and TAL 3 represented areas with drylands. Of these, TAL 1 showed the highest species richness and functional richness, but these measures were most vulnerable to drought. Meanwhile, TAL 2 showed that the bird communities were more tolerant under drought event. This study shows that to conserve and enhance the diversity of birds in traditional agricultural landscapes of Northeast Asia, active management of forest areas is needed to protect bird populations. In addition, commercial pressures to develop this area will require urgent biodiversity conservation plans to protect the unique biodiversity of the Korean CCZ. This study thus provides landscape management guidance for conservation planning.
The effects of nutrient enrichment and invasive mollusks on freshwater environments
Authors: Schuler Matthew S. , Hintz William D. , Jones Devin K. , Mattes Brian M. , Stoler Aaron B. , Relyea Rick A. 
Published: October 2020

AbstractThe effects of an invasive species on the environment can be altered by anthropogenic activities such as nutrient pollution or the presence of additional invasive species with similar or unique traits. Using experimental mesocosms, we tested the separate and combined effects of three invasive mollusks (zebra mussels, Asian clams, and banded mystery snails) on freshwater environments in nutrient‐poor and nutrient‐enriched conditions. We predicted that in nutrient‐poor conditions, single mollusk species would reduce the abundance of algae and zooplankton, but nutrient enrichment would mitigate these effects. Regardless of nutrient additions, paired bivalve species would reduce phytoplankton and zooplankton abundance, increasing periphyton biomass. Bivalves and snails paired together would reduce periphyton, phytoplankton, and zooplankton compared to communities with paired bivalve species. Finally, nutrient enrichment would increase the survival or biomass of paired bivalves and snails. Single, paired, and three co‐occurring invasive mollusks did not affect algae or zooplankton abundance. Banded mystery snails reduced nutrient concentrations in high‐nutrient conditions more than other invasive species, but the reduced nutrients did not affect algal abundance. Paired invasive species did not affect the survival or biomass of other invasive species. Nutrient enrichment increased the biomass of zebra mussels and mystery snails, but not Asian clams. Additionally, zebra mussel reproduction increased in the high‐nutrient treatment when banded mystery snails were present, but not when all three species were together. We conclude that human‐induced trophic states might determine the effects that single and multiple invasive species have in freshwater environments.
The dynamics and stoichiometry of dissolved organic carbon release by kelp
Authors: Weigel Brooke L. , Pfister Catherine A. 
Published: October 2020

AbstractCanopy‐forming kelps are foundational species in coastal ecosystems, fixing tremendous amounts of carbon, yet we know little about the ecological and physiological determinants of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) release by kelps. We examined DOC release by the bull kelp, Nereocystis luetkeana, in relation to carbon fixation, nutrient uptake, tissue nitrogen content, and light availability. DOC release was approximately 3.5 times greater during the day than at night. During the day, N. luetkeana blades released an average of 16.2% of fixed carbon as DOC. Carbon fixation increased with light availability but DOC release did not, leading to a lower proportion of fixed carbon released as DOC at high light levels. We found no relationship between carbon fixation and DOC release rates measured concurrently. Rather, DOC release by N. luetkeana blades declined with marginal significance as blade tissue nitrogen content increased and with experimental nitrate addition, supporting the role of stoichiometric relationships in DOC release. Using a stable isotope (13C) tracer method, we demonstrated that inorganic carbon is rapidly fixed and released by N. luetkeana blades as 13DOC, within hours. However, recently fixed carbon (13DOC) comprised less than 20% of the total DOC released, indicating that isotope studies that rely on tracer production alone may underestimate total DOC release, as it is decoupled from recent kelp productivity. Comparing carbon and nitrogen assimilation dynamics of the annual kelp N. luetkeana with the perennial kelp Macrocystis pyrifera revealed that N. luetkeana had significantly higher carbon fixation, DOC production and nitrogen uptake rates per unit dry mass. Both kelp species were able to perform light‐independent carbon fixation at night. Carbon fixation by the annual kelp N. luetkeana is as high as 2.35 kg C·m−2·yr−1, but an average of 16% of this carbon (376 g C·m−2·yr−1) is released as DOC. As kelp forests are increasingly viewed as vehicles for carbon sequestration, it is important to consider the fate of this substantial quantity of DOC released by canopy‐forming kelps.
Ultrahigh throughput beehive‐like device for blood plasma separation
Authors: Jiang Fengtao , Xiang Nan , Ni Zhonghua 
Published: October 2020

AbstractWe report here a low‐cost, rapid‐prototyping, and beehive‐like multilayer polymer microfluidic device for ultrahigh‐throughput blood plasma separation. To understand the device physics and optimize the device structure, the effect of cross‐sectional dimension and operational parameter on particle focusing behavior was explored using a single spiral microchannel device. Then, the blood plasma separation performance of the determined channel structure was validated using the blood samples with different hematocrits (HCTs). It was found that a high separation efficiency of 99% could be achieved using the blood sample with an HCT of 0.5% at a high throughput of 1 mL/min. Finally, a multilayer microfluidic device with a novel beehive‐like multiplexing channel arrangement was developed for ultrahigh‐throughput blood plasma separation. The prototype device could be fabricated within ∼1 hour utilizing the laser cutting and thermal lamination methods. The total processing throughput could reach up to 72 mL/min for 0.5% HCT sample with a plasma separation ratio close to 90%. Our device may hold potentials for the ultrahigh‐throughput separation of blood plasma from large volume blood samples for downstream disease diagnosis.
Early red nucleus atrophy in relapse‐onset multiple sclerosis
Authors: Margoni Monica , Poggiali Davide , Zywicki Sofia , Rubin Martina , Lazzarotto Andrea , Franciotta Silvia , Anglani Maria Giulia , Causin Francesco , Rinaldi Francesca , Perini Paola , Filippi Massimo , Gallo Paolo 
Published: October 2020

AbstractNo study has investigated red nucleus (RN) atrophy in multiple sclerosis (MS) despite cerebellum and its connections are elective sites of MS‐related pathology. In this study, we explore RN atrophy in early MS phases and its association with cerebellar damage (focal lesions and atrophy) and physical disability. Thirty‐seven relapse‐onset MS (RMS) patients having mean age of 35.6 ± 8.5 (18–56) years and mean disease duration of 1.1 ± 1.5 (0–5) years, and 36 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls (HC) were studied. Cerebellar and RN lesions and volumes were analyzed on 3 T‐MRI images. RMS did not differ from HC in cerebellar lobe volumes but significantly differed in both right (107.84 ± 13.95 mm3 vs. 99.37 ± 11.53 mm3, p = .019) and left (109.71 ± 14.94 mm3 vs. 100.47 ± 15.78 mm3, p = .020) RN volumes. Cerebellar white matter lesion volume (WMLV) inversely correlated with both right and left RN volumes (r = −.333, p = .004 and r = −.298, p = .010, respectively), while no correlation was detected between RN volumes and mean cortical thickness, cerebellar gray matter lesion volume, and supratentorial WMLV (right RN: r = −.147, p = .216; left RN: r = −.153, p = .196). Right, but not left, RN volume inversely correlated with midbrain WMLV (r = −.310, p = .008), while no correlation was observed between whole brainstem WMLV and either RN volumes (right RN: r = −.164, p = .164; left RN: r = −.64, p = .588). Finally, left RN volume correlated with vermis VIIb (r = .297, p = .011) and right interposed nucleus (r = .249, p = .034) volumes. We observed RN atrophy in early RMS, likely resulting from anterograde axonal degeneration starting in cerebellar and midbrain WML. RN atrophy seems a promising marker of neurodegeneration and/or cerebellar damage in RMS.
Integrated metastate functional connectivity networks predict change in symptom severity in clinical high risk for psychosis
Authors: Gifford George , Crossley Nicolas , Morgan Sarah , Kempton Matthew J , Dazzan Paola , Modinos Gemma , Azis Matilda , Samson Carly , Bonoldi Ilaria , Quinn Beverly , Smart Sophie E , Antoniades Mathilde , Bossong Matthijs G , Broome Matthew R , Perez Jesus , Howes Oliver D , Stone James M , Allen Paul , Grace Anthony A , McGuire Philip 
Published: October 2020

AbstractThe ability to identify biomarkers of psychosis risk is essential in defining effective preventive measures to potentially circumvent the transition to psychosis. Using samples of people at clinical high risk for psychosis (CHR) and Healthy controls (HC) who were administered a task fMRI paradigm, we used a framework for labelling time windows of fMRI scans as ‘integrated’ FC networks to provide a granular representation of functional connectivity (FC). Periods of integration were defined using the ‘cartographic profile’ of time windows and k‐means clustering, and sub‐network discovery was carried out using Network Based Statistics (NBS). There were no network differences between CHR and HC groups. Within the CHR group, using integrated FC networks, we identified a sub‐network negatively associated with longitudinal changes in the severity of psychotic symptoms. This sub‐network comprised brain areas implicated in bottom‐up sensory processing and in integration with motor control, suggesting it may be related to the demands of the fMRI task. These data suggest that extracting integrated FC networks may be useful in the investigation of biomarkers of psychosis risk.
How does regulation affect the organizational form of foreign banks' presence in developing versus developed countries?
Authors: Pamen Nyola Annick , Sauviat Alain , Tarazi Amine 
Published: October 2020

AbstractUsing a unique hand‐collected dataset of 1,251 European Union banks and 20,850 foreign affiliates hosted in 154 countries, this paper investigates how both host country and home country regulations affect the decision on where and how to go abroad in developing countries as opposed to developed countries. We find that banks prefer high‐income countries with numerous activity restrictions and weaker supervision but less developed countries with less restrictions and stronger supervision. In all cases, they avoid locations with stronger capital regulation than at home. Regarding the choice of foreign organizational form (branches versus subsidiaries), banks rather operate subsidiaries in both high and middle‐income countries with stringent entry requirements but prefer branches in developing countries with stringent capital requirements and greater supervisory power. Our findings contribute to the literature examining bank internationalization and have several policy implications for regulatory reforms in developing and developed countries.
Effect of a labor triage checklist and ultrasound on obstetric referral at three primary health centers in Eastern Uganda
Authors: Santos Nicole , Mulowooza Jude , Isabirye Nathan , Inhensiko Innocent , Sloan Nancy L. , Shah Sachita , Butrick Elizabeth , Waiswa Peter , Walker Dilys 
Published: October 2020

AbstractObjectiveTo test whether introduction of a midwife‐performed triage checklist and focused ultrasound improves diagnosis and referral for obstetric conditions, including multiple gestation, placenta previa, oligohydramnios, preterm birth, malpresentation, and abnormal fetal heart rate.MethodsWe implemented an intake log (Phase 1), a checklist (Phase 2), and a checklist plus ultrasound scan (Phase 3) at three primary health centers in Eastern Uganda for women presenting in labor. Intake diagnoses, referral status, and delivery outcomes were assessed, as well as sensitivity and positive predictive value (PPV).ResultsBetween February 2018 and July 2019, 1155, 961, and 603 women were enrolled across the three phases (n=2719); 2339 had outcome data. Incidence of any outcome‐confirmed condition was 8.8%, 7.9%, and 7.1% (P=0.526) for each phase, respectively. The proportion of referred women with a condition did not change between Phases 1 and 2 (7.8% versus 8.6%, P=0.855), but increased in Phase 3 (48.4%, P<0.001). Sensitivity improved with each intervention; PPV decreased with ultrasound.ConclusionUse of ultrasound plus checklist increased referrals and sensitivity for high‐risk conditions, with decreased PPV. The checklist alone improved correct diagnosis, but not referral. Further evaluation of these triage interventions to maximize diagnostic accuracy, referral decisions, and outcomes are warranted.
Bacillus amyloliquefaciens application to prevent biofilms in reclaimed water microirrigation systems*
Authors: Wen Jiaxin , Xiao Yang , Song Peng , Sun Bo , Muhammad Tahir , Ma Lianghe , Aosiman An Waier , Li Yunkai 
Published: October 2020

AbstractReclaimed water (RW) applied in drip irrigation systems could be a solution to cope with the challenges of limited freshwater resources. Biofilm growth in irrigation systems is an unavoidable issue when using RW. To date, strong chemical bactericides mostly dominate the commercial market in controlling biofilms. However, recently scientists have been concerned about their real efficacy and environmental risks. This study assesses a low‐concentration microbial antagonist (i.e., Bacillus amyloliquefaciens inoculums, BAI) intermittently injected into the systems to mitigate biofilm formation in three types of drip emitters using two kinds of treated RW. The results indicated that the application of BAI significantly (p < .05) mitigated the microbial biomass within biofilms when compared with the control groups (no‐BAI). In addition, BAI reduced the contents of extracellular polysaccharides and proteins of biofilms, which decreased the total biomass in BAI treatments by 44.9%–73.8%. Consequently, BAI effectively improved the emitter performances and increased the discharge variation rate by 31.9%–44.3%. These findings might provide a new perspective to control biofouling when applying RW in irrigation systems, with potential implications for sustainable water management in agricultural production.
Nucleic acid biohybrid nanocarriers with high‐therapeutic payload and controllable extended release of daunomycin for cancer therapy
Authors: Whitener Ricky , Mosley Robert J. , Wower Jacek , Byrne Mark Edward 
Published: October 2020

AbstractWe have developed a novel, nanosized drug carrier with high‐therapeutic payload, controllable release, and the potential for active tumor targeting. It consists of a 15 nm gold nanoparticle with dense surface loading of DNA duplexes. We utilize the natural intercalating behavior of daunomycin to load the drug between DNA base pairs. We obtained a high‐therapeutic payload of >1,000 drug molecules per gold nanoparticle (AuNP), one of the highest loadings reported in literature to date. We have engineered unique DNA sequences to control release of daunomycin for over 48 hr and show higher cell death compared to equivalent concentrations of free daunomycin. We have also explored cell internalization mechanisms to identify the pathways by which our gold nanoparticles enter the cell. This nanocarrier is in the ideal size range of 16–100 nm in diameter to utilize the enhanced permeability and retention effect for passive targeting to tumors. Our AuNP platform is effective as a therapeutic drug delivery device and can easily incorporate any aptamer of choice through complementary base pairing. Our work has produced an innovative nanoscale drug‐delivery platform potentially leading to personalized cancer therapies through careful selection of aptamers and an adjustable drug release profile.
Is THP‐1 viability affected by the crystallinity of nanostructured carbonated hydroxyapatites?
Authors: Lira Renata Moraes , Sartoretto Suelen Cristina , da Silva Gouveia Pedrosa Carolina , Calasans‐Maia Mônica Diuana , Leite Paulo Emílio , Granjeiro José Mauro 
Published: October 2020

AbstractIn daily clinical practice, there is a notable variety of synthetic bone substitute, with various resorption rates, different chemical and structural characteristics that influence on bone regeneration and are not suitable for every clinical use. New biomaterials based on nanotechnology have been developed to be bioabsorbable as new bone is formed. This study intends to evaluate THP‐1 cell viability when exposed to extracts of unsintered nanostructured carbonated hydroxyapatite (cHA) microspheres processed at 5 and 37°C compared to sintered hydroxyapatite processed at 90°C. cHA shows, in previous studies, biocompatibility, and better bioabsorption rates, consequently, improve the deposition of new bone and tissue repair. The results demonstrated that the tested biomaterials did not activate inflammatory role through THP‐1 cells and did not affect activated macrophages independently of their crystallinities, suggesting their safety and biocompatibility. These results are of fundamental importance for the advancement of research on smart materials, especially in what controls the effect of nanostructured cHA microspheres in the biological environment, seems to be a promising biomaterial in clinical application on regenerative medicine.