bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
TNF-α expression ratio of M1/M2 macrophages is a potential adjunctive tool for the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Yamauchi Takahira , Makinodan Manabu , Toritsuka Michihiro , Okumura Kazuki , Kayashima Yoshinori , Ishida Rio , Kishimoto Naoko , Takahashi Masato , Komori Takashi , Yamaguchi Yasunari , Takada Ryohei , Yamamuro Kazuhiko , Kimoto Sohei , Yasuda Yuka , Hashimoto Ryota , Kishimoto Toshifumi 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background The etiology of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is complex. Its pathobiology is characterized by enhanced inflammatory activities; however, the exact ASD pathobiology remains unclear. Some cases of ASD are difficult to diagnose using existing psychological assessments because the careful exclusion of other psychiatric disorders is challenging. To distinguish between the appropriate targets for interventions and research, the demand for identifying efficient diagnostic biomarkers is increasing. This study aimed to find an inflammatory indicator beneficial for the diagnosis of ASD.Methods Cytokine mRNA expression, including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), was measured in the differentiated M1 and M2 macrophages of ASD patients (n = 29) and typically developed (TD) individuals (n = 30). TNF-α expression was also measured in the monocytes of ASD patients (n = 7) and TD individuals (n = 6).Results TNF-α expression in M1 macrophages and TNF-α expression ratio of M1/M2 macrophages were markedly higher in ASD patients than in TD subjects; however, this difference was not observed in M2 macrophages (M1: p < 0.01; ratio of M1/M2: p < 0.0001; M2: p > 0.05), suggesting that this indicator could be a useful tool for diagnosing ASD (M1: sensitivity = 34.5%, specificity = 96.7%, area under the curve (AUC) = 0.74, positive likelihood ratio (PLR) = 10.34; ratio of M1/M2: sensitivity = 55.2%, specificity = 96.7%, AUC = 0.79, PLR = 16.55). However, there was no significant difference in the TNF-α expression in monocytes between ASD and TD individuals (p > 0.05).Conclusion These findings suggest that TNF-α expression in differentiated macrophages represents a novel adjunctive tool for the diagnosis of ASD.
The Skeleton Key Group: The Impact of Fellow Led Education in Nephrology
Authors: Yau Amy A , Topf Joel , Norouzi Sayna 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
BackgroundThe Skeleton Key Group (SKG) is an online collective of trainees working to generate free, open-access medical education (FOAMed) focusing on electrolyte disorders. Trainee created and edited materials include a case report supplemented by visual abstracts, tweetorials, and quizzes. MethodsThe group formed in September 2019, and members were continually added. In May 2020, anonymous surveys were sent to SKG members and readers to assess educational impact.ResultsMember response rate was 62.5% (n=20) with 13 nephrology fellows and 4 residents. 85% (n=17) of respondents reported improved medical knowledge, and 70-80% (n=14-16) noted improved manuscript construction. Members’ primary goal of joining was to learn (n=18), and 60% (n=12) met all and 30% (n=6) met some of their goals with similar rates among low-engagement members (n=10).Of the 130 audience responses, the majority were nephrology fellows (41, 32%) and residents (42, 32%). Case reports were considered high quality, scoring 91±15.5 (0, low to 100, high). Tweetorials were the most useful and reported utility increased compared to the case report as training level progressed. 79% (n=103) confirmed their educational experience was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and 90% (n=116) found the SKG an effective educational tool during this period.ConclusionsThe SKG is an innovative collaborative experience and valuable educational resource. Involvement led to positive changes in members’ reported medical knowledge and writing skills. Our data also reinforces the ability of FOAMed to cater to different learning styles and to complement traditional medical education specifically during periods of social distancing.
Nutritional Status and Associated Factors Among Children Below Five Years of Age in Somali Region, Ethiopia: Evidence From 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey
Authors: Kebede Damitie , Aragaw Hayat , Worku Eyerusalem 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Childhood under-nutrition is far-reaching in low and middle-income nations. Under-nutrition is one of the major open wellbeing concerns among newborn children and youthful children in Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of under-nutrition and its related variables among under-five children in Somali Region, Ethiopia.Methods: The data for this study was extricated from the Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey (EDHS) 2016. The data collected from 1339 children born 5 years before was considered within the analysis. A multivariable binary logistic regression analysis was utilized at a 5% level of significance to decide the individual and community-level variables related to childhood malnutrition.Results: the incidences of stunting, underweight and wasting were 27.4%, 28.7% and 22.7%, respectively. About 16.1% of children were both stunted and underweight; the extent of both being underweight and wasted was 11.7%, the prevalence of both stunted and wasted children was 5.5%, and all three malnutrition conditions were 4.7% children. Among the variables considered in this study, age of the child in months, type of birth, anemia level, size child at birth, sex of the child, mothers’ BMI and sources of drinking water were significantly related to stunting, underweight and wasting in Somali Region.Conclusions: The prevalence of stunting, underweight and wasting was relatively high. Under-nutrition is one of the major open wellbeing concerns among children in Somali region. The impact of these variables ought to be considered to develop strategies for decreasing the lack of healthy sustenance due to malnutrition in the study areas. Hence, intercession should be centered on making strides the under-nutrition determinant variables of the children to be solid, to improve the child’s wholesome status, and decrease child mortality quickly.
A quintessence dynamical dark energy model
Authors: Liu Jackie 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
We develop a mechanism to generate dynamical dark energy - a quintessence field coupled with gravity. Such model causes the dark energy behaving differently in early and late time universe. In the radiation-dominated-era and matter-dominated-era, the related analytical solutions of the quintessence field have an interesting property - starting as a constant field, then oscillating as the universe expands. By Markov Chain Monte Carlo search of the parameter space with the local measurement (Type Ia supernovae) in the Bayesian framework, the probed range of H0 (within 1σ) overlaps the H0 value inferred from Planck CMB dataset by ΛCDM model.
Proteomic signatures of innate immunity in immunotherapy naïve melanomas correlate with anti-CTLA-4 immunotherapy responsiveness
Authors: Taylor Erin Michelle , Koss Brian , Washam Charity L , Shalin Sara C , Barreto Juan C , Graw Stefan , Byrum Stephanie D , Mackintosh Samuel G , Edmondson Rick D , Tackett Alan 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background Factors that determine responsiveness to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in metastatic melanoma are not completely understood. Failure to respond to ICI therapy can result from primary resistance or the development of secondary resistance to treatment. Understanding the mechanisms that contribute to primary and secondary resistance may help direct which immune checkpoint blockade agents a patient should receive or allow for the development of therapeutics which could be used in combination with immune checkpoint blockade to boost responsiveness.Methods Formalin-fixed, paraffin embedded, metastatic melanoma tumors were collected from 17 patients prior to receiving anti-CTLA-4 monotherapy. After monotherapy, 5 patients had complete response and 12 had disease progression. The samples were processed for proteomic analysis using filter aided sample preparation and Thermo Tandem Mass Tag (TMT)-labeling of resulting peptides. TMT-labeled samples were fractionated off-line and combined into super fractions. The super fractions were then analyzed by mass spectrometry using an in-line ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) coupled to a Thermo Orbitrap Fusion Tribrid instrument.Results Proteomic analysis of metastatic melanoma patient tumors prior to treatment with anti-CTLA-4 therapy identified a total of 4,776 proteins across all patient samples. A random forest model was used to identify the most important proteomic features that could predict responsiveness to treatment. The random forest model had a sensitivity of 80% and specificity of 67% for predicting patient response to therapy. A large portion of the proteins elevated in tumors from patients that had complete response to the treatment were associated with innate immunity, particularly pathways involving complement cascade and neutrophil degranulation.Conclusions Proteomic analysis of immunotherapy naïve metastatic melanoma tissue from patients subsequently treated with anti-CTLA-4 therapy suggests that preexisting innate immune response may be important in responsiveness to treatment. Specifically, elevation of complement cascade or neutrophil degranulation proteins in the tumor microenvironment may increase responsiveness to anti-CTLA-4 monotherapy. Assessing a patient’s innate immune status prior to treatment may aid in predicting whether a patient would respond to immune checkpoint inhibition with anti-CTLA-4 monotherapy.
Predictors of Skin and Soft Tissue Infections Among Sample of Rural Residents Who Inject Drugs
Authors: Baltes Amelia , Akhtar Wajiha , Birstler Jen , Olson-Streed Heidi , Eagen Kellene , Seal David , Westergaard Ryan , Brown Randall 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Introduction: Skin and soft tissue infections (SSTIs) are among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality for people who inject drugs (PWID). Studies demonstrate that certain injection practices correlate with SSTI incidence among PWID. The opioid epidemic has particularly affected rural communities, where access to prevention and treatment presents unique challenges. This study aims to understand current injection practices and SSTI history among a rural-dwelling PWID.Methods: Thirteen questions specific to SSTIs and injection practices were added to a larger study assessing unmet health care needs among PWID and were administered at six needle exchange programs in rural Wisconsin between May and July 2019. SSTI history prevalence was estimated based on infections reported within one-year prior of response and was compared to self-reported demographics and injection practices. Results: Eighty responses were collected and analyzed. Respondents were white (77.5%), males (60%), between the ages 30-39 (42.5%), and have a high school diploma or GED (38.75%). Females were over three times more likely to report SSTI history (OR=3.07, p=0.038) compared to males. Water sources for drug dilution (p=0.093) and frequency of injecting on first attempt (p=0.037), but not proper skin cleaning method (p = 0.378), were significantly associated with a history of SSTI. Injecting into skin (p=0.038) or muscle (p=0.001) significantly associated with a history of SSTI whereas injection into veins did not (p=0.333).Conclusion: Higher-risk injection practices were common among participants reporting a history of SSTIs in this rural sample. Studies exploring socio-demographic factors influencing risky injection practices and general barriers to safer injection practices to prevent SSTIs are warranted. Dissemination of education materials targeting SSTI prevention and intervention among PWID not in treatment are warranted.
Analyzing inherent biases in SARS-CoV-2 PCR and serological epidemiologic metrics
Authors: Makhoul Monia , Abou-Hijleh Farah , Seedat Shaheen , Mumtaz Ghina R , Chemaitelly Hiam , Ayoub Houssein , Abu-Raddad Laith J. 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background Prospective observational data show that infected persons with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) remain polymerase chain reaction (PCR) positive for a prolonged duration, and that detectable antibodies develop slowly with time. We aimed to analyze how these effects can bias key epidemiological metrics used to track and monitor SARS-CoV-2 epidemics.Methods An age-structured mathematical model was constructed to simulate progression of SARS-CoV-2 epidemics in populations. PCR testing to diagnose infection and cross-sectional surveys to measure seroprevalence were also simulated. Analyses were conducted on simulated outcomes assuming a natural epidemic time course and an epidemic in presence of interventions.Results The prolonged PCR positivity biased the epidemiological measures. There was a lag of 10 days between the true epidemic peak and the actually-observed peak. Prior to epidemic peak, PCR positivity rate was 2-fold higher than that based only on current active infection, and half of those tested positive by PCR were in the prolonged PCR positivity stage after infection clearance. Post epidemic peak, PCR positivity rate poorly predicted true trend in active infection. Meanwhile, the prolonged PCR positivity did not appreciably bias estimation of the basic reproduction number R0. The time delay in development of detectable antibodies biased measured seroprevalence. The actually-observed seroprevalence substantially underestimated true prevalence of ever infection, with the underestimation being most pronounced around epidemic peak.Conclusions Caution is warranted in interpreting PCR and serological testing data, and any drawn inferences need to factor the effects of the investigated biases for an accurate assessment of epidemic dynamics.
Transcriptomic Response of Daphnia Magna to Nitrogen or Phosphorus Limited Diet
Authors: Xu Zhimeng , Li Yingdong , Li Meng , Liu Hongbin 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Effects of nutrient-imbalanced diet on the growth and fitness of zooplankton were widely reported. However, little is known about the molecular mechanisms driving the physiological changes of zooplankton under nutrient stress.Results: In this study, we investigated the physiological fitness and transcriptomic response of Daphnia magna when exposed to nitrogen (N)-limited or phosphorus (P)-limited algal diet (Chlamydomonas reinhardtii) compared to regular algae (N and P saturated). D. magna showed higher ingestion rates and over expression of genes encoding digestive enzymes when fed with either N-limited or P-limited algae, reflecting the compensatory feeding. Under P-limitation, both growth rate and reproduction rate of D. magna were greatly reduced, which could be attributed to the downregulated genes within the pathways of cell cycle and DNA replication. Growth rate of D. magna under N-limitation was similar to normal group, which could be explained by the high methylation level (by degradation of methionine) supporting the body development.Conclusions: Phenotypic changes of D. magna under nutrient stress were explained by gene and pathway regulations from transcriptome data. Generally, D. magna invested more on growth under N-limitation but kept maintenance (e.g. cell structure and defense to external stress) in priority under P-limitation. Post-translational modifications (e.g. methylation and protein folding) were important for D. magna to deal with nutrient constrains. This study reveals the fundamental mechanisms of zooplankton in dealing with elemental imbalanced diet and shed light on the transfer of energy and nutrient in aquatic ecosystems.
The β- Amylase Gene Family in Brassica Napus: Genome Wide Analysis and Expression Profiles in Response to Abiotic Stresses
Authors: Lv Yan , Luo Dan , Jia Ziqi , Cheng Yong , Zou Xiling 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: The β amylase (BAM) gene family, known for their property of catalytic ability to hydrolyze starch to maltose units, has been recognized to play critical roles in metabolism and gene regulation. To date, BAM genes have not been characterized in oil crops.Results: In this study, the genome wide survey revealed the identification of 30 BnaBAM genes in Brassica napus (B. napus), 11 BraBAM genes in Brassica rapa (B. rapa), 20 BoBAM genes in Brassica oleracea (B. oleracea), which were divided into 4 subfamilies according to the sequence similarity and phylogenetic relationships. All the BAM genes identified in the allotetraploid genome of B. napus, as well as two parental related species (B. rapa and B. oleracea), were analyzed for the gene structures, chromosomal distribution and collinearity, the sequence alignment of the core glucosyl hydrolase domains was further applied. 30 BnaBAMs, 11 BraBAMs and 17 BoBAMs exhibited uneven distribution on chromosomes of Brassica crops. The similar structural compositions of BAM genes in the same subfamily suggested that they were relatively conserved. Abiotic stresses pose one of the major constraints to plant growth and productivity worldwide. Thus, the responsiveness of BnaBAM genes under abiotic stresses were analyzed in B. napus. The expression patterns revealed a stress responsive behavior of all members, of which BnaBAM3s were more prominent. These differential expression patterns suggested an intricate regulation of BnaBAMs elicited by environmental stimuli. Conclusion: Altogether, the present study provides first insights into the BAM gene family of Brassica crops, which lays the foundation for investigating the roles of stress--responsive BnaBAM candidates in B. napus.
Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants in Yilmana Densa and Quarit Districts, West Gojjam, Western Ethiopia
Authors: Alemneh Derebe 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
Background: Traditional herbal preparations for addressing human diseases and ailments have been applied in Yilmana Densa and Quarit Districts, Ethiopia, for generations. However, the medicinal knowledge of the community and the plants are subjected to loss without being scientifically documented due to anthropogenic factors. Hence, this study aims at providing a comprehensive documentation on medicinal plant knowledge of the people to conserve the knowledge and medicinal plants of the areas.Methods: Semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, participant observation, field observation and market survey were used to collect ethnobotanical data. All semi-structured interviews were followed by independent walk in the woods exercises. Field observations were performed with the help of local guides. The data analysis methods were informant consensus factor and fidelity level, frequency and cultural significance indices, preference and direct matrix ranking exercises. Results: A total of 112 medicinal plants were reported. Fabaceae was represented with highest species. Leaves were the primary source of remedy. Most remedy was prepared by pounding and administered orally. Miscellaneous, central nervous and digestive system diseases were recorded with highest informant agreements while Dodonia angustifolia, Dovyalis abyssinica, Hagenia abyssinica, Nigella sativa and Urtica simensis were recorded with highest healing potential for malaria, tapeworm, cough, stomach ulcer respectively. Phytolacca dodecandra, Trigonella foenum-graecum, and Carissa spinarum and Croton macrostachyus were recorded with highest frequency, use, and cultural values respectively. Verbascum sinaiticum was the most preferred to treat blood pressure Conclusion: The study indicated that indigenous knowledge on medicinal plant use is still rich and active in the Districts. Species with recorded highest consensus for curative role are a useful pool for further phytochemical and pharmacological validation for better utilization. Declining medicinal flora of the area calls for implementation of a coordinated complementary in situ and ex situ conservation strategy.
Noise-Free Estimation of Temporal Change in Seismic Wave Attenuation Using High-Stable Vibration Sources.
Authors: Tsuji Shuhei , Yamaoka Koshun , Ikuta Ryoya 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
We developed a method to detect changes in attenuation in transfer functions obtained by precisely controlled artificial seismic sources, namely Accurately Controlled Routinely Operated Signal System (ACROSS), and applied it to monitor the temporal changes for in-situ data collected by previous studies. Our method, together with the usage of the ACROSS sources, is less susceptible to change in noise level to which conventional methods such as envelope calculation suffer. The method utilizes the noise level that is independently estimated in the frequency domain. Thus, we can eliminate the influence of the noise by subtracting it from the observed signal. To test the performance, we applied this method to a dataset obtained at Awaji Island, Japan from 2000 to 2001. We detected the changes in amplitude with several causes including ground motion in an earthquake and water injection experiment. At the 2000 Western Tottori earthquake (MW = 6.6, Epicenter distance of 165 km), a sudden decrease in amplitude up to 5% followed by gradual recovery are clearly observed. These coseismic changes in amplitude are consistent with the opening of fluid-filled cracks as proposed by previous studies. We convert the amplitude change into ΔQ-1, which gives similar values as reported by previous studies using natural earthquakes. Increases in amplitude up to 5% associated with water injection experiments are also observed. During these experiments, the amplitude increased several days after the beginning of the injection and recovered to the previous level. This may be the result of a stress increase caused by the injection followed by a saturation increase by water diffusion.
An approach towards developments of smart COVID-19 patient's management and triaging using blockchain framework
Authors: Lahiri Pralay Kumar , Mandal Riman , Banerjee Sourav , Biswas Utpal 
Published: September 2020

Abstract
The explosive epidemic of the coronavirus (COVID-19) has exposed the constraints in health care systems to handle public health emergencies. It's evident that adopting innovative technologies reminiscent of blockchain will facilitate in eective designing operations and resource deployments. Within the health care sector to improve the information management system by reducing delays in regulative approvals, communication between dierent stakeholders of the chain with the help of blockchain technology. To ensure authenticity of the information collected from public and government agencies, blockchain based system plays an important role. This paper tends to review implementation of blockchain application and opportunities in combating the COVID-19 pandemic. To trace according information involving in recent cases, deaths and recovered cases maintaining through blockchain storage system that has been proposed and implemented blockchain system based on Ethereum smart contract. An interactive model and respective algorithm has been explained with detailed analysis on information integrity, security, transparency and traceability.