bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous Silencing of Two Different Arabidopsis Genes With A Novel Virus-Induced Gene Silencing Vector
Authors: Zhang Xiuchun , Wu Yadan , Zhang Chunwei , Wu Kunxin , Liu Zhixin 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: Virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) is a useful tool for functional characterizations of plant genes. However, the penetrance of VIGS varies depending on the genes to be silenced, and has to be evaluated by examining the transcript levels of target genes. Results: In this report, we report the development of a novel VIGS vector that permits a preliminary assessment of the silencing penetrance. This new vector is based on an attenuated variant of Turnip crinkle virus (TCV) known as CPB that can be readily used in Arabidopsis thaliana to interrogate genes of this model plant. A CPB derivative, designated CPB1B, was produced by inserting a 46 nucleotide section of the Arabidopsis PHYTOENE DESATURASE (PDS) gene into CPB, in antisense orientation. CPB1B induced robust PDS silencing, causing easily visible photobleaching in systemically infected Arabidopsis leaves. More importantly, CPB1B can accommodate additional inserts, derived from other Arabidopsis genes, causing the silencing of two or more genes simultaneously. With photobleaching as a visual marker, we adopted the CPB1B vector to evaluate the relative importance of several known RNA silencing pathway genes in PDS VIGS. This approach allowed us to validate the involvement of DICER-LIKE 4 (DCL4) and ARGONAUTE 2 (AGO2) in PDS silencing. Notably, double-stranded RNA-binding protein 4 (DRB4), whose protein product (DRB4) commonly partners with DCL4 in the antiviral silencing pathway, was dispensable for PDS silencing induced by CPB1B. Conclusions: The CPB1B-based vector developed in this work is a valuable tool with tracable and visualizable indicator of the silencing penetrance for interrogating Arabidopsis genes, especially those involved in the RNA silencing pathways.
Impact of module degradation on the viability of on-grid photovoltaic systems in Mediterranean climate: case of Shymkent Airport
Authors: Smagulov Zhalgas , Anapiya Adil , Dikhanbayeva Dinara , Rojas-Solórzano Luis 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
This paper presents the techno-economic feasibility analysis of an on-grid Photovoltaic Solar System (PVSS) subject to Mediterranean climate aging effects. The PVSS under study is considered installed on the roof of Shymkent airport, located in southern Kazakhstan. A PVSS performance degradation rate of 1.48%-per-annun was considered according to the Mediterranean climate prevailing in the location. A 25-year life-cycle cost analysis comparing the rated vs de-rated on-grid PVSS led to a positive Net Present Value (NPV), a less than 9-year equity payback, and favorable internal rate of return (IRR) and Benefit to Cost Ratio (BCR) in both conditions. The analysis demonstrates that despite the expected performance degradation associated to climatic aging, a convenient feed-in tariff (FIT) and attractive financial conditions, such as those present in Kazakhstan, conform a robust setting to promote on-grid PVSS in the country.
The Dyadic Interaction Model of Relationship Quality and the Impact of Attachment Orientation and Empathy on Infertile Couples in China
Authors: Du Kun , Dong Yue-zhi 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: The study was conducted to examine the effect of attachment orientation and empathy on the relationship quality of infertile couples and assess the interdependency model of these factors.Method: In this study, 168 infertile couples (336 individuals) were enrolled and asked to finish he following questionnaires: the revised Adult Attachment Scales, the Interpersonal Response Index questionnaire, and the Relationship Quality subscale of the Fertility Quality of Life (FertiQol).Results: The attachment orientation of infertile couples can influence their relationship quality, and empathetic wives and husbands have actor and partner effects on the infertile couples’ relationship quality.Conclusion: Empathetic infertile couples are conducive to the harmony of the relationship. In order to provide better psychological services for patients, the clinical personnel should consider the infertile couple as a team both experiencing the stress of infertility together, and then should evaluate their ability for empathy systematically.
Prenatal distress level and its predictors according to the gestational age in pregnant women in the semi-urban region in Northwestern Turkey: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Mercan Yeliz , SELCUK Kevser TARI , DIGIN Figen , SAYGIN Hasan 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: The aim of the present study was to determine the level and predictors of prenatal distress in pregnant women according to gestational age.Methods: This a cross-sectional study was conducted in eight Family Health Centers (FHCs) in Kirklareli, in Turkey. The study included 179 pregnant women who presented to the FHCs, who were at ≥12th week of gestation. Results:The frequency of prenatal distress in the participants was 21.2% (between 12th-27th weeks:16.5%, between 28th-41st weeks: 26.8%). It was found that level of education, age of the spouse, current pregnancy being unplanned, and social support levels were associated with the level of prenatal distress in ≥12th week or between 12th-27th weeks or between 28th-41st weeks (p<0.05). And also, perceived income level, abortion, and the number of pregnancies were associated with the level of prenatal distress in ≥12th weeks; the age of women, perceived income levels, previous abortion experience, and the number of pregnancies were associated with the level of prenatal distress in between 12th-27th weeks; the age of women, education level of spouse', and previous birth experience prenatal distress levels were associated in between 28th-41st weeks (p<0.05).Conclusion: The level of prenatal distress according to the gestational age, the education level of the woman, the age of her spouse’, the unplanned pregnancy, and social support levels were predictors. In both periods, the age of women were determinants in prenatal stress levels in pregnant women. Pregnant women should be screened and evaluated for prenatal distress in their application to FHCs.
Isolation and Characterizations of A Novel Recombinant scFv Antibody Against Exotoxin-A of Pseudomonas Aeruginosa
Authors: Shadman Zahra , Farajnia Safar , Pazhang Mohammad , Tohidkia Mohammadreza , Rahbarnia Leila , Najavand Saeed , Toraby Sayna 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is known as the leading cause of nosocomial infections especially in people with a compromised immune system. Targeting virulence factors by neutralizing antibodies is a novel paradigm for the treatment of antibiotic-resistant pseudomonas infections.Methods: In this respect, exotoxin A is one of the most potent virulence factors in P. aeruginosa. The present study was conducted to identify a novel human scFv antibody against domain I of P. aeruginosa exotoxin A from a human scFv phage library. For this, the recombinant domain I of exotoxin A was expressed in E. coli and purified by Ni-NTA column. A novel screening procedure was conducted to prevent the elimination of rare specific clones. Based on polyclonal phage ELISA results, the fifth round of biopanning was selected to identify specific phage clones.Results: Two positive clones were found by monoclonal phage. The phage clone with high reactivity was evaluated by ELISA and western blot. The purified scFv also showed high reactivity with full length exotoxin.Conclusions: In conclusion, the purified anti-exotoxin A scFv displayed high specificity against exotoxin A. The human scFv identified can be the groundwork for development of a novel therapeutic agent for control of P. aeruginosa infections.
Effect of Sociodemographic Factors on COVID-19 Incidence of 342 Cities in China: An Analysis Using Geographically Weighted Regression Model
Authors: Zhang Huihui , Liu Yini , Chen Fangyao , Mi Baibing , Zeng Lingxia , Pei Leilei 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has spread quickly among the crowd and brought serious global impact since December 2019. However, there were considerable geographical disparities in the distribution of the COVID-19 incidence among different cities. In this study, we aimed to explore the effect of sociodemographic factors on COVID-19 incidence of 342 cities in China from the geographic perspective.Methods: The official surveillance data about the COVID-19 and sociodemographic information in the 342 cities of China were collected. Local GWPR model and global GLM Poisson regression model were compared to find the optimal one for analysis. Results: A significantly lower AICc in the GWPR model was shown compared with the GLM Poisson regression model (43218.9 in GWPR vs. 61953.0 in GLM, respectively). Any spatial auto-correlations of residuals were not found in the GWPR model (global Moran’s I = -0.005, p = 0.468), representing the spatial auto-correlation had been captured by the GWPR model. These cities with higher GDP, limited health resources, and shorter distance to Wuhan, were at higher risk for COVID-19. As population density increased, the incidence of COVID-19 decreased for most of the cities, except parts of the southeastern cities. Conclusions: There are potential effects of the sociodemographic factors on the COVID-19 incidence. Furthermore, the findings and methodology in our study could be used as a guide to other countries to help understand the local transmission of COVID-19 and tailor site-specific intervention strategies.
Modelling testing and response strategies for COVID-19 outbreaks in remote Australian Aboriginal communities
Authors: Hui Ben B , Brown Damien , Chisholm Rebecca H , Geard Nicholas , McVernon Jodie , Regan David G 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
BackgroundRemote Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities have potential to be severely impacted by COVID-19, with multiple factors predisposing to increased transmission and disease severity. Our modelling aims to inform optimal public health responses. MethodsAn individual-based simulation model represented communities ranging from 100 to 3,500 people, comprised of large interconnected households. A range of strategies for case finding, quarantining of contacts, testing, and lockdown were examined, following the silent introduction of a case.ResultsMultiple secondary infections are likely present by the time the first case is identified. Quarantine of close contacts, defined by extended household membership, can reduce peak infection prevalence from 60-70% to around 10%, but subsequent waves may occur when community mixing resumes. Exit testing significantly reduces ongoing transmission. Concurrent lockdown of non-quarantined households for 14 days is highly effective for epidemic control and reduces overall testing requirements; peak prevalence of the initial outbreak can be constrained to less than 5%, and the final community attack rate to less than 10% in modelled scenarios. Lockdown also mitigates the effect of a delay in the initial response. Compliance with lockdown must be at least 80-90%, however, or epidemic control will be lost.ConclusionsA SARS-CoV-2 outbreak will spread rapidly in remote communities. Prompt case detection with quarantining of extended-household contacts and a 14-day lockdown for all other residents, combined with exit testing for all, is the most effective strategy for rapid containment. Compliance is crucial, underscoring the need for community supported, culturally sensitive responses.
Dynamic tracking and identification of tissue-specific secretory proteins in the circulation of live mice
Authors: Suh Jae Myoung , Kim Kwang-eun , Park Isaac , Kim Jeesoo , Kang Myeong-Gyun , Choi Won Gun , Shin Hyemi , Kim Jong-Seo , Rhee Hyun-Woo 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Here we describe iSLET (in situ Secretory protein Labeling via ER-anchored TurboID) which labels secretory pathway proteins as they transit through the ER-lumen to enable dynamic tracking of tissue-specific secreted proteomes in vivo. We expressed iSLET in the mouse liver and demonstrated efficient in situ labeling of the liver-specific secreted proteome which could be tracked and identified within circulating blood plasma. iSLET is a versatile and powerful tool for studying spatiotemporal dynamics of secretory proteins, a valuable class of biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
Whole genome sequencing and metabolomics analyses reveal the biosynthesis of nerol in a multi-stress-tolerant Meyerozyma guilliermondii GXDK6
Authors: Mo Xueyan , Cai Xinghua , Hui Qinyan , Sun Huijie , Yu Ran , Bu Ru , Yan Bing , Ou Qian , Li Quanwen , He Sheng , Jiang Chengjian 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
BackgroundNerol (C10H18O), an acyclic monoterpene, naturally presents in plant essential oils, and is used widely in food, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals as the valuable fragrance. Meanwhile, chemical synthesis is the only strategy for large-scale production of nerol, and the disadvantages of chemical synthesis greatly limited the production and its application. These defects drive the interests of researchers shift to the production of nerol by eco-friendly methods known as biosynthesis methods. However, the main technical bottleneck restricting the biosynthesis of nerol is the lacking of corresponding natural aroma-producing microorganisms.ResultsIn this study, a novel multi-stress-tolerant probiotics Meyerozyma guilliermondii GXDK6 with aroma-producing properties was identified by whole genome sequencing and metabolomics technology. GXDK6 showed a broad pH tolerance in the range of 2.5–10.0. The species also showed salt tolerance with up to 12% NaCl and up to 18% of KCl or MgCl2. GXDK6 exhibited heavy-metal Mn2+ tolerance of up to 5494 ppm. GXDK6 could also ferment with a total of 21 kinds of single organic matter as the carbon source, and produce abundant aromatic metabolites. Results from the gas chromatography–mass spectrometry indicated the production of 8–14 types of aromatic metabolites (isopentanol, nerol, geraniol, phenylethanol, isobutanol, etc.) when GXDK6 was fermented up to 72 h with glucose, sucrose, fructose, or xylose as the single carbon source. Among of them, nerol was found as a novel aromatic metabolite from GXDK6 fermentation, and its biosynthesis mechanism had also been further revealed.ConclusionA novel aroma-producing M. guilliermondii GXDK6 was identified successfully by whole genome sequencing and metabolomics technology. GXDK6 showed high multi-stress-tolerant properties with acid–base, salty, and heavy-metal environments. The aroma-producing mechanism of nerol in GXDK6 had also been revealed. These findings indicated the aroma-producing M. guilliermondii GXDK6 with multi-stress-tolerant properties has great potential value in the fermentation industry.
Farmers’ Perception on Forest Degradation in Eastern and Northern Regions of Ghana: Implication for Developing Sustainable Forest Management Strategy
Authors: Tesfahunegn Gebreyesus Brhane Brhane , Ayuk Elias , Adiku Kwasi Godfried Samuel 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
BackgroundGhana’s forest land is under threat of degradation. Even though forest degradation is reported as serious environmental problem, the nature and extent of farmers’ perception on forest degradation has not been adequately reported. In this study, we have attempted to examine farmers’ perception on forest degradation in the study villages from the Eastern and Northern Regions of Ghana and imply for developing forest management strategy. ResultsIn both regions study villages, farmers’ socioeconomic, farm and institutional attributes varied significantly among the farmers in which this could influence their perception on forest degradation. In this study, the main direct causes of forest degradation were perceived by most farmers’ (> 90%) as high firewood and charcoal demand and wildfire/bush fire. Similarly, poverty and population pressures were perceived by significantly higher proportions of the farmers as the major indirect causes of forest degradation. In study regions, significantly higher proportions of the respondents (97%) perceived that there is no forest near to their residence or farmland in 2017. This study showed that significantly higher proportions of the framers perceived that many plant species (e.g., Mahogany (Khaya ivorensis)) and animal species (e.g., Leopard (Panthera pardus)) were disappeared due to forest degradation. In this study, the majority of the respondents also identified other forest degradation indicators such as temperature increased and rainfall irregularity. The most frequently noted strategy to reduce forest degradation that perceived by significantly higher proportions of the respondents (95.6%) were strengthening and enforcement of forest rules and strategies. The binary logistic analysis result indicated that age, education, farming experience and income were the determinant variables common in both study villages that influenced significantly farmers’ perception on forest degradation. ConclusionThis study shows that significantly higher proportions of the farmers well perceived the causes, indicators and consequences of forest degradation in their village. The perception of farmers on forest degradation can support for decision-making while suggested suitable forest management strategy for their village condition such as introduction of environmental regulations and rules, strengthening farmer-extension system, energy options to replace firewood and charcoal and massive reforestation and afforestation programmes.
An Integrated Analysis of Spatial Access to the Three-Tier Healthcare Delivery System in China: A Case Study of Hainan Island
Authors: Wang Xiuli , Seyler Barnabas , Han Wei , Pan Jay 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: Access to healthcare is critical for the implementation of Universal Health Coverage (UHC). With the development of healthcare insurance systems around the world, spatial impedance to healthcare institutions has attracted increasing attention. However, most spatial accessibility methodologies having been developed in Western countries, whose healthcare systems are different from those in Low and Middle Income Countries (LMIC).Methods: In this paper, Hainan Island was taken as an example to explore the utilization of modern spatial accessibility techniques under a specialized Three-Tier Health Care Delivery System in China. Healthcare institutions were first classified into the three tiers accordingly. Then shortest travel time was calculated for each institution tier, and overlapped to identify eight types of multilevel healthcare access zones. Spatial access to doctors based on the Enhanced Two-Step Floating Catchment Area Method (E2SFCA) was also calculated.Results: On Hainan Island, about 90% of the population were within 60-minute service range of Tier 3 (hospitals) healthcare institutions, 80% were within 30 minutes of Tier 2 (health centers), and 75% were within 15 minutes of Tier1 (clinics). Based on local policy, 76.36% of population living in 48.52% of area were able to receive timely services at all tiers of healthcare institutions. The weighted average access to doctors was 2.31 per thousand residents, but reginal disparity was large, and 64.66% were contributed by Tier 3 healthcare institutions.Conclusion: Spatial access to healthcare institutions on Hainan Island was generally good according to travel time and general abundance of doctors, but inequality among regions and irrationality among different tiers of healthcare institutions exist. Primary healthcare institutions, especially Tier 2 need strengthen.
Exploring the Experiences of Changes to Support Access to Primary Health Care Services and the Impact on the Quality and Safety of Care for Homeless People During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Study Protocol for A Qualitative Mixed Methods Approach.
Authors: Howells Kelly , Burrows Martin , Amp Mat , Brennan Rachel , Yeung Wan-Ley , Jackson Shaun , Dickinson Joanne , Draper Julie , Campbell Stephen , Ashcroft Darren , Blakeman Thomas , Sanders Caroline 
Published: October 2020

Abstract
Background: Despite high level of health care need amongst people experiencing homelessness, poor access is a major concern. This is sometimes due to organisational and bureaucratic barriers, but also because they often feel stigmatised and treated badly when they do seek health care. The COVID-19 pandemic and the required social distancing measures have caused unprecedented disruption and change for the organisation of primary care, particularly for people experiencing homelessness. Against this back drop, there are many questions to address regarding whether the recent changes required to deliver services to people experiencing homelessness in the context of COVID-19 will help to address or compound problems in accessing care and inequalities in health outcomes. Methods: An action led and participatory research methodology will be employed to address the study objectives. Interviews with people experiencing homelessness were will be conducted by a researcher with lived experience of homelessness. Researchers with lived experience are able to engage with vulnerable communities in an empathetic, non-judgemental way as their shared experience promotes a sense of trust and integrity, which in turn encourages participation in research and may help people speak more openly about their experience. Interviews with health professionals and stakeholders exploring their experiences of delivering and facilitating care for homeless people during the pandemic will also be explored.Discussion: It is important to explore whether recent changes to the delivery of primary care in in response to the COVID-19 pandemic compromise the safety of homeless people and exacerbate existing health inequalities. This could have implications for how primary healthcare is delivered to those experiencing homelessness not only for the duration of the pandemic but in the future.