bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Quantitative fluorescence imaging of mitochondria in body wall muscles of Caenorhabditis elegans under hyperglycemic conditions using a microfluidic chip
Authors: Sofela Samuel , Sahloul Sarah , Bhattacharjee Sukanta , Bose Ambar , Usman Ushna , Song Yong-Ak 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
Type 2 diabetes is the most common metabolic disease, and insulin resistance plays a role in the pathogenesis of the disease. Because completely functional mitochondria are necessary to obtain glucose-stimulated insulin from pancreatic beta cells, dysfunction of mitochondrial oxidative pathway could be involved in the development of diabetes. As a simple animal model, Caenorhabditis elegans renders itself to investigate such metabolic mechanisms because it possesses insulin/insulin-like growth factor-1 signaling pathway similar to that in humans. Currently, the widely spread agarose pad-based immobilization technique for fluorescence imaging of the mitochondria in C. elegans is laborious, batchwise, and does not allow for facile handling of the worm. To overcome these technical challenges, we have developed a single-channel microfluidic device that can trap a C. elegans and allow to image the mitochondria in body wall muscles accurately and in higher throughput than the traditional approach. In specific, our microfluidic device took advantage of the proprioception of the worm to rotate its body in a microfluidic channel with an aspect ratio above one to gain more space for its undulation motion that was favorable for quantitative fluorescence imaging of mitochondria in the body wall muscles. Exploiting this unique feature of the microfluidic chip-based immobilization and fluorescence imaging, we observed a significant decrease in the mitochondrial fluorescence intensity under hyperglycemic conditions, whereas the agarose pad-based approach did not show any significant change under the same conditions. A machine learning model trained with these fluorescence images from the microfluidic device could classify healthy and hyperglycemic worms at high accuracy. Given this significant technological advantage, its easiness of use and low cost, our microfluidic imaging chip could become a useful immobilization tool for quantitative fluorescence imaging of the body wall muscles in C. elegans.
Creation of the gender-equitable school index for secondary schools using principal components analysis
Authors: Bergenfeld Irina , Jackson Emma C , Yount Kathryn M 
Published: June 2020

Abstract

Background
Higher schooling attainment for girls is associated with improved maternal and child health outcomes. In low- and middle-income countries, girls drop out of school at higher rates than boys beginning in early adolescence due to factors such as son preference and lack of access to menstrual supplies.

Methods
Using principal components analysis, we created a gender-equitable school (GES) index with data from 159 secondary schools in Nepal to measure school-level factors that may influence girls' secondary school pass rates.

Results
A component describing girls’ safety and hygiene was positively associated with school-wide pass rates for girls, and to a lesser degree for boys.

Conclusions
The GES index has diagnostic and programmatic utility in programs aimed at supporting girls’ education and health.
Dengue in parts of the Guinea Savannah region of Nigeria and the risk of increased transmission
Authors: Omatola C A , Onoja A B , Moses E , Mahmud M , Mofolorunsho C K 
Published: June 2020

Abstract

Background
Dengue virus (DENV) is spreading to parts of the world where it had not been previously reported. Increased international travel has led to intercontinental importation of dengue by visitors returning from countries in sub-Saharan Africa. Although dengue is well documented in the rain forest region of Nigeria, there is a dearth of information in the Guinea Savannah region, which is a major transit point for local and international visitors in the most populous nation in Africa. We provide preliminary evidence of dengue activity in the Guinea Savannah and highlight the risk factors.

Methods
Blood was collected from a cross-section of 200 patients attending four hospitals in Anyigba, Kogi State. Anti-dengue antibody was identified using DENV immunoglobulin G (IgG) immunoassays. Questionnaires were used to obtain sociodemographic variables and risk factors. Data were analysed with SPSS version 16.0 for Windows.

Results
Forty-two (20.5%) participants had anti-DENV IgG antibodies. Persons within the 45–59 y age group were more seropositive, with a rate of 35%. Males were more seropositive compared with females. Marriage, formal education, involvement in business activities and the presence of grasses around homes were associated with higher IgG seropositivity. The presence of open water containers around human dwellings and a lack of mosquito net use are predisposing factors.

Conclusions
This study identified past exposure to DENV among people in Anyigba, located in the Guinea Savannah region. Proper diagnosis of febrile episodes is required to improve case management and curtail off-target treatment. The high rate of previous exposure of patients to dengue indicates the need to strengthen vector control and dengue surveillance programs.
Implementation of a digital chatbot to screen health system employees during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Judson Timothy J , Odisho Anobel Y , Young Jerry J , Bigazzi Olivia , Steuer David , Gonzales Ralph , Neinstein Aaron B 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
The screening of healthcare workers for COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) symptoms and exposures prior to every clinical shift is important for preventing nosocomial spread of infection but creates a major logistical challenge. To make the screening process simple and efficient, University of California, San Francisco Health designed and implemented a digital chatbot-based workflow. Within 1 week of forming a team, we conducted a product development sprint and deployed the digital screening process. In the first 2 months of use, over 270 000 digital screens have been conducted. This process has reduced wait times for employees entering our hospitals during shift changes, allowed for physical distancing at hospital entrances, prevented higher-risk individuals from coming to work, and provided our healthcare leaders with robust, real-time data for make staffing decisions.
Extension of grouting-induced splitting fractures in materials similar to coal rocks containing prefabricated fractures
Authors: Liu Chao , Huang Xiaosheng , Yue Wenping , Zhang Chao 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
To reveal the influence of prefabricated fractures (PFs) with different parameters on the extension of grouting-induced splitting fractures, a combination of numerical simulation and physical experiments were used to carry out grouting trials on similar materials to coal rock. The RFPA software was used to simulate the whole process of fracture initiation and expansion of coal rock with PFs during grouting. In the experiment, acoustic emission (AE) technology was used to monitor the extension process of grouting-induced splitting fractures. The results demonstrated that when the PFs do not intersect with the grouting holes, the extension of grouting-induced splitting fractures in rocks containing PFs experienced four stages: splitting and penetrating, slurry filling, fracture splitting and splitting extension. PFs have an orienting effect on the direction of grouting fracture extension and the size of the PFs influenced the extension of the grouting-induced splitting fractures: the larger the size, the easier the surrounding rocks were ruptured, the easier the connection was formed of channels between the grouting-induced splitting fractures and the PFs were formed, and the more complex the secondary splitting pattern in the PFs. This indicated that the angle of PFs played a decisive role in determining the extension direction of grouting-induced splitting fractures. The extension of grouting-induced splitting fractures during grouting of rock mass with different parameters is revealed by numerical simulation and experimental results.
Low Levels of Pyrethroid Resistance in Hybrid Offspring of a Highly Resistant and a More Susceptible Mosquito Strain
Authors: Pinch Matthew , Rodriguez Stacy D , Mitra Soumi , Kandel Yashoda , Moore Emily , Hansen Immo A 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
The use of insecticides has been a central approach to control disease-transmitting mosquitoes for the last century. The high prevalence of pyrethroid use as public health insecticides has resulted in the evolution of pyrethroid resistance in many populations of Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus) (Diptera: Culicidae), throughout its global distribution range. Insecticide resistance is often correlated with an associated fitness cost. In this project, we studied the phenotypes of hybrid mosquitoes derived from crossing a pyrethroid-resistant strain of Ae. aegypti (Puerto Rico [PR]) with a more susceptible one (Rockefeller [ROCK]). We first sequenced and compared the para gene of both original strains. We then crossed males from one strain with females of the other, creating two hybrids (Puertofeller, Rockorico). We used a Y-tube choice assay to measure the attraction of these strains towards a human host. We then compared the levels of pyrethroid resistance in the different strains. We found three known resistance mutations in the para gene sequence of the PR strain. In our attraction assays, PR females showed lower attraction to humans, than the ROCK females. Both hybrid strains showed strong attraction to a human host. In the insecticide resistance bottle assays, both hybrid strains showed marginal increases in resistance to permethrin compared to the more susceptible ROCK strain. These results suggest that hybrids of sensitive and permethrin-resistant mosquitoes have an incremental advantage compared to more susceptible mosquitoes when challenged with permethrin. This explains the rapid spread of permethrin resistance that was observed many times in the field.
Variation in the methods leads to variation in the interpretation of biodiversity–ecosystem multifunctionality relationships
Authors: Jing Xin , Prager Case M , Classen Aimée T , Maestre Fernando T , He Jin-Sheng , Sanders Nathan J 
Published: June 2020

AbstractAimsBiodiversity is often positively related to the capacity of an ecosystem to provide multiple functions simultaneously (i.e. multifunctionality). However, there is some controversy over whether biodiversity–multifunctionality relationships depend on the number of functions considered. Particularly, investigators have documented contrasting findings that the effects of biodiversity on ecosystem multifunctionality do not change or increase with the number of ecosystem functions. Here, we provide some clarity on this issue by examining the statistical underpinnings of different multifunctionality metrics.MethodsWe used simulations and data from a variety of empirical studies conducted across spatial scales (from local to global) and biomes (temperate and alpine grasslands, forests and drylands). We revisited three methods to quantify multifunctionality including the averaging approach, summing approach and threshold-based approach.Important FindingsBiodiversity–multifunctionality relationships either did not change or increased as more functions were considered. These results were best explained by the statistical underpinnings of the averaging and summing multifunctionality metrics. Specifically, by averaging the individual ecosystem functions, the biodiversity–multifunctionality relationships equal the population mean of biodiversity-single function relationships, and thus will not change with the number of functions. Likewise, by summing the individual ecosystem functions, the strength of biodiversity–multifunctionality relationships increases as the number of functions increased. We proposed a scaling standardization method by converting the averaging or summing metrics into a scaling metric, which would make comparisons among different biodiversity studies. In addition, we showed that the range-relevant standardization can be applied to the threshold-based approach by solving for the mathematical artefact of the approach (i.e. the effects of biodiversity may artificially increase with the number of functions considered). Our study highlights different approaches yield different results and that it is essential to develop an understanding of the statistical underpinnings of different approaches. The standardization methods provide a prospective way of comparing biodiversity–multifunctionality relationships across studies.
The Customary Three-Level Scheme Part I
Authors: McLaughlin Robert 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
This chapter discusses the first two levels within the three-level scheme of rebellion-insurgency-belligerency. The least legally significant form, for third states, of conflict categorization was that of "rebellion." This level of the customary conflict categorization is not readily equated to less-than-NIAC (non-international armed conflict) civil unrest and riot, but was nevertheless assessed to be fundamentally a matter of domestic criminal law, with no alteration in either conflict state or third state rights and responsibilities. As a matter of domestic law, rebellion was "always war against the Crown," in the British context. Rebellion, consequently, created a situation of necessity which permitted application of martial law as opposed to "routine law," and was thus narrowly construed. The second level in the three level scheme was "insurrection" or "insurgency." This category was the most legally problematic of the three, as it was generally considered to be a political characterization with some legal consequences for third states recognizing the situation as such.
Some Challenging Issues and Case Studies in Recognition of Belligerency
Authors: McLaughlin Robert 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
This chapter addresses four of the challenges faced by the doctrine on recognition of belligerency. Although intensely flexible and well suited to its purposes, the doctrine on recognition of belligerency has faced significant challenges over the course of its customary existence. The very fact that it is an almost forgotten component of the law of war/law of armed conflict (LOAC) today indicates that the doctrine must have evinced a degree of fragility because it is now subject to some level of existential doubt. The challenges faced by the doctrine have included questions as to its universality; its applicability in certain intensely complicated political and military situations; its survival of the post-1949 reconfiguration of the law of war and the creation of LOAC; and the lack of recent definitive state practice in terms of clear, express, and overt genuflection to and application of the doctrine. Yet indications of its utility and vitality persist, albeit often as a sub-narrative to the more mainstream non-international armed conflict-international armed conflict analysis of conflict characterizations and contexts.
What if Recognition of Belligerency Remains Legally Available?
Authors: McLaughlin Robert 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
This concluding chapter looks at the importance of revisiting the doctrine on recognition of belligerency. It also assesses what the consequences might be if recognition of belligerency remain extant and available for states to employ in defining the legal rules governing their relationship with and/or between the conflict state and a non-state armed group (NSAG). The answer is that the doctrine on recognition of belligerency offers a specially and specifically designed—albeit relatively forgotten—legal analytical framework through which to approach some of the challenges and nuances that make non-international armed conflict LOAC a fundamentally more amorphous and difficult study than international armed conflict LOAC. The chapter then offers some thoughts on the utility of the doctrine—if it persists—for addressing some of these challenges. It approaches this task under three general thematic headings: status and treatment; means and methods; and interacting with NSAGs as entities.
Fast-moving pulsars as probes of interstellar medium
Authors: Barkov Maxim V , Lyutikov Maxim , Khangulyan Dmitry 
Published: June 2020

ABSTRACT
Pulsars moving through interstellar medium (ISM) produce bow shocks detected in hydrogen H α line emission. The morphology of the bow shock nebulae allows one to probe the properties of ISM on scales ∼0.01 pc and smaller. We performed 2D relativistic magnetohydrodynamic modelling of the pulsar bow shock and simulated the corresponding H α emission morphology. We find that even a mild spatial inhomogeneity of ISM density, δρ/ρ ∼ 1, leads to significant variations of the shape of the shock seen in H α line emission. We successfully reproduce the morphology of the Guitar Nebula. We infer quasi-periodic density variations in the warm component of ISM with characteristic length of ∼0.1 pc. Structures of this scale might be also responsible for the formation of the fine features seen at the forward shock of Tycho supernova remnant (SNR) in X-rays. Formation of such short periodic density structures in the warm component of ISM is puzzling, and bow-shock nebulae provide unique probes to study this phenomenon.
Unleash electron transfer in C–H functionalization by mesoporous carbon-supported palladium interstitial catalysts
Authors: Zhao Xiaorui , Cao Yueqiang , Duan Linlin , Yang Ruoou , Jiang Zheng , Tian Chao , Chen Shangjun , Duan Xuezhi , Chen De , Wan Ying 
Published: June 2020

Abstract
The functionalization of otherwise unreactive C–H bonds adds a new dimension to synthetic chemistry, yielding useful molecules for a range of applications. Arylation has emerged as an increasingly viable strategy for functionalization of heteroarenes which constitute an important class of structural moieties for organic materials. However, direct bisarylation of heteroarenes to enable aryl-heteroaryl-aryl bond formation remains a formidable challenge, due to the strong coordination between heteroatom of N or S and transitional metals. Here we report Pd interstitial nanocatalysts supported on ordered mesoporous carbon as catalysts for a direct and highly efficient bisarylation method for five-membered heteroarenes that allows for green and mild reaction conditions. Notably, in the absence of any base, ligands and phase transfer agents, high activity (turn-over frequency, TOF, up to 107 h−1) and selectivity (&gt;99%) for the 2,5-bisarylation of five-membered heteroarenes are achieved in water. A combination of characterization reveals that the remarkable catalytic reactivity here is attributable to the parallel adsorption of heteroarene over Pd clusters, which breaks the barrier to electron transfer in traditional homogenous catalysis and creates dual electrophilic sites for aryl radicals and adsorbate at C2 and C5 positions. The d-band filling at Pd sites shows a linear relationship with activation entropy and catalytic activity. The ordered mesopores facilitate the absence of a mass transfer effect. These findings suggest alternative synthesis pathways for the design, synthesis and understanding of a large number of organic chemicals by ordered mesoporous carbon supported palladium catalysts.
Health and Economic Impact of Health Warnings and Plain Tobacco Packaging in Seven Latin American Countries: Results of a Simulation Model
Authors: Alcaraz Andrea , Hernández-Vásquez Akram , Palacios Alfredo , Rodríguez Belén , Roberti Javier , García-Martí Sebastián , Ciapponi Agustín , Augustovski Federico , Bardach Ariel , Pichon-Riviere Andrés 
Published: June 2020

AbstractIntroductionThe burden of disease attributable to tobacco use in Latin America is very high. Our objective was to evaluate the 10-year potential impact of current legislation related to cigarette packaging and warnings and expected effects of moving to a higher level of strategies implementing cigarette plain packaging on health and cost outcomes in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, and Peru, using a microsimulation model.Aims and MethodsWe used a probabilistic state-transition microsimulation model, considering natural history, costs, and quality of life losses associated with main tobacco-related diseases. We followed up individuals in hypothetical cohorts and calculated health outcomes annually to obtain aggregated long-term population health outcomes and costs. We performed a literature review to estimate effects and analyzed studies and information from ministries, relevant organizations, and national surveys. We calibrated the model comparing the predicted disease-specific mortality rates with local statistics.ResultsCurrent graphic warnings already in place in each country could avert, during 10 years, 69 369 deaths and 638 295 disease events, adding 1.2 million years of healthy life and saving USD 5.3 billion in the seven countries. If these countries implemented plain packaging strategies, additional 155 857 premature deaths and 4 133 858 events could be averted, adding 4.1 million healthy years of life and saving USD 13.6 billion in direct health care expenses of diseases attributable to smoking.ConclusionsLatin American countries should not delay the implementation of this strategy that will alleviate part of the enormous health and financial burden that tobacco poses on their economies and health care systems.ImplicationsTobacco smoking is the single most preventable and premature mortality cause in the world. The Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, supported by the World Health Organization, introduced a package of evidence-based measures for tobacco control. This study adds evidence on the potential health effects and savings of implementing cigarette plain packaging in countries representing almost 80% of the Latin American population; findings are valuable resources for policy makers in the region.
The Combined Endoscopic Endonasal Far Medial and Open Postauricular Transtemporal Approaches As a Lesser Invasive Approach to the Jugular Foramen: Anatomic Morphometric Study With Case Illustration
Authors: Youssef A Samy , Arnone Gregory D , Farell Nyssa Fox , Thompson John A , Ramakrishnan Vijay R , Gubbels Samuel , Cohen-Gadol Aaron A , Cass Stephen , Labib Mohamed A 
Published: June 2020

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Access to the jugular foramen (JF) requires extensive approaches. An endoscopic endonasal far medial (EEFM) approach combined with a postauricular transtemporal (PTT) approach may provide adequate exposure with limited morbidities.

OBJECTIVE
To provide a quantitative anatomic comparison of the EEFM, the PTT, and the combined EEFM/PTT approaches. A clinical case of the combined approach is presented.

METHODS
Five cadaveric heads were dissected. Each specimen received PTT and EEFM approaches on opposite sides followed by an EEFM approach on the side of the PTT approach. Morphometric and quadrant analyses were conducted. Three groups were obtained and compared: PTT (group A), EEFM (group B), and combined (group C).

RESULTS
Group B had a significantly higher area of exposure of the JF as compared to group A (112.3 and 225 mm2, respectively, P = .004). The average degree of freedom (DOF) in the cranio-caudal plane for groups A and B was 63.6 and 12.6 degrees, respectively (P < .00001). Group A had a higher DOF in the medial-lateral plane than group B (49 vs 13.4 degrees, respectively, P < .00001. The average volume of exposure in groups A and B was 1469.2 and 1897.4 mm3, respectively (P = .02). By adding an EEFM approach to the PTT approach, an additional 56.1% of the anterior quadrant was exposed, representing a 584.4% increase in the anterior exposure.

CONCLUSION
The PTT and EEFM approaches provide optimal exposures to different aspects of the JF and in combination may constitute a less invasive alternative to the more extensive approaches.