bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The influence of gestational weight gain after bariatric procedures on selected pregnancy outcomes: a single center study
Authors: Walędziak Maciej , Kacperczyk-Bartnik Joanna , Bartnik Paweł , Czajkowski Krzysztof , Kwiatkowski Andrzej , Różańska-Walędziak Anna 
Published: October 2021

AbstractPregnancy after bariatric surgery is known to be associated with a higher risk of small for gestational age infants (SGA) and maternal anemia. 71 patients with a history of bariatric surgery, who had at least one pregnancy ended with a delivery of a single live-born neonate after the bariatric surgery were included in the study. The main endpoints were gestational weight gain (GWG), GWG as % of the maternal weight at the beginning of pregnancy (GWG%), maternal anemia, SGA and large for gestational age infants (LGA), neonatal intensive care unit admission (NICU). GWG% was 23.8% ± 14.1 in the LGA group vs 13.9% ± 11.0 in the normal weight neonates group; p < 0.03. Patients diagnosed with anemia before pregnancy had higher GWG% than patients without pre-pregnancy anemia (20.1% ± 11.1 vs 13.4% ± 11.6); p < 0.05. GWG% was higher in patients, whose infants were admitted to NICU (25.3% ± 17.6 vs 14.1% ± 11.0; p < 0.04). GWG% can be considered a risk predictor of the LGA and NICU admissions in bariatric patients. Anemia diagnosed before pregnancy is associated with higher GWG%.
Design and comparative characterization of RecA variants
Authors: del Val Elsa , Nasser William , Abaibou Hafid , Reverchon Sylvie 
Published: October 2021

AbstractRecA plays a central role in DNA repair and is a main actor involved in recombination and activation of the SOS response. It is also used in the context of biotechnological applications in recombinase polymerase isothermal amplification (RPA). In this work, we studied the biological properties of seven RecA variants, in particular their recombinogenic activity and their ability to induce the SOS response, to better understand the structure–function relationship of RecA and the effect of combined mutations. We also investigated the biochemical properties of RecA variants that may be useful for the development of biotechnological applications. We showed that Dickeya dadantii RecA (DdRecA) had an optimum strand exchange activity at 30 °C and in the presence of a dNTP mixture that inhibited Escherichia coli RecA (EcRecA). The differences between the CTD and C-tail of the EcRecA and DdRecA domains could explain the altered behaviour of DdRecA. D. radiodurans RecA (DrRecA) was unable to perform recombination and activation of the SOS response in an E. coli context, probably due to its inability to interact with E. coli recombination accessory proteins and SOS LexA repressor. DrRecA strand exchange activity was totally inhibited in the presence of chloride ions but worked well in acetate buffer. The overproduction of Pseudomonas aeruginosa RecA (PaRecA) in an E. coli context was responsible for a higher SOS response and defects in cellular growth. PaRecA was less inhibited by the dNTP mixture than EcRecA. Finally, the study of three variants, namely, EcPa, EcRecAV1 and EcRecAV2, that contained a combination of mutations that, taken independently, are described as improving recombination, led us to raise new hypotheses on the structure–function relationship and on the monomer–monomer interactions that perturb the activity of the protein as a whole.
Predicting kinetics of water-rich permeate flux through photocatalytic mesh under visible light illumination
Authors: Shrestha Bishwash , Ezazi Mohammadamin , Rad Seyed Vahid , Kwon Gibum 
Published: October 2021

AbstractMembrane-based separation technologies are attractive to remediating unconventional water sources, including brackish, industrial, and municipal wastewater, due to their versatility and relatively high energy efficiency. However, membrane fouling by dissolved or suspended organic substances remains a primary challenge which can result in an irreversible decline of the permeate flux. To overcome this, membranes have been incorporated with photocatalytic materials that can degrade these organic substances deposited on the surface upon light illumination. While such photocatalytic membranes have demonstrated that they can recover their inherent permeability, less information is known about the effect of photocatalysis on the kinetics of the permeate flux. In this work, a photocatalytic mesh that can selectively permeate water while repelling oil was fabricated by coating a mixture of nitrogen-doped TiO2 (N-TiO2) and perfluorosilane-grafted SiO2 (F-SiO2) nanoparticles on a stainless steel mesh. Utilizing the photocatalytic mesh, the time-dependent evolution of the water-rich permeate flux as a result of photocatalytic degradation of the oil was studied under the visible light illumination. A mathematical model was developed that can relate the photocatalytic degradation of the organic substances deposited on a mesh surface to the evolution of the permeate flux. This model was established by integrating the Langmuir–Hinshelwood kinetics for photocatalysis and the Cassie–Baxter wettability analysis on a chemically heterogeneous mesh surface into a permeate flux relation. Consequently, the time-dependent water-rich permeate flux values are compared with those predicted by using the model. It is found that the model can predict the evolution of the water-rich permeate flux with a goodness of fit of 0.92.
Inferior survival outcomes of pancreas transplant alone in uremic patients
Authors: Shyr Bor-Uei , Shyr Bor-Shiuan , Chen Shih-Chin , Shyr Yi-Ming , Wang Shin-E. 
Published: October 2021

AbstractTheoretically, pancreas transplant alone in uremic (PTAU) patients could also be one of the options for those waiting for both pancreas and kidney grafts, but it has never been reported. There were 160 cases of pancreas transplant in this study, including 16% PTAU. The 5-year patient survival was 66.2% after PTAU, 94.5% after SPK, 95.8% after PAK, and 95.4% after PTA. Rejection of pancreas graft was significantly lower in PTAU group (3.8%), followed by 16.7% in pancreas after kidney transplant (PAK), 29.8% in simultaneous pancreas and kidney transplant (SPK) and 37.0% in pancreas transplant alone (PTA). Fasting blood sugar and serum HbA1c levels after PTAU were not significantly different from those by other subgroups. The 5-year death-censored pancreas graft survival was 100% after PTAU and PAK, and 97.0% after SPK and 77.9% after PTA. However, the 5-year death-uncensored pancreas graft survival was 67.0% after PTAU, 100% after PAK, 91.3% after SPK, and 74.0% after PTA. The superior graft survival in the PTAU group was achieved only if deaths with a functioning graft were censored. In conclusion, given the inferior patient survival outcome, PTAU is still not recommended unless SPK and PAK is not available. Although PTAU could be a treatment option for patients with diabetes complicated by end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in terms of surgical risks, endocrine function, and immunological and graft survival outcomes, modification of the organ allocation policies to prioritize SPK transplant in eligible patients should be the prime goal.
Motion cues from the background influence associative color learning of honey bees in a virtual-reality scenario
Authors: Lafon Gregory , Howard Scarlett R. , Paffhausen Benjamin H. , Avarguès-Weber Aurore , Giurfa Martin 
Published: October 2021

AbstractHoney bees exhibit remarkable visual learning capacities, which can be studied using virtual reality (VR) landscapes in laboratory conditions. Existing VR environments for bees are imperfect as they provide either open-loop conditions or 2D displays. Here we achieved a true 3D environment in which walking bees learned to discriminate a rewarded from a punished virtual stimulus based on color differences. We included ventral or frontal background cues, which were also subjected to 3D updating based on the bee movements. We thus studied if and how the presence of such motion cues affected visual discrimination in our VR landscape. Our results showed that the presence of frontal, and to a lesser extent, of ventral background motion cues impaired the bees’ performance. Whenever these cues were suppressed, color discrimination learning became possible. We analyzed the specific contribution of foreground and background cues and discussed the role of attentional interference and differences in stimulus salience in the VR environment to account for these results. Overall, we show how background and target cues may interact at the perceptual level and influence associative learning in bees. In addition, we identify issues that may affect decision-making in VR landscapes, which require specific control by experimenters.
In vivo human retinal swept source optical coherence tomography and angiography at 830 nm with a CMOS compatible photonic integrated circuit
Authors: Rank Elisabet A. , Nevlacsil Stefan , Muellner Paul , Hainberger Rainer , Salas Matthias , Gloor Stefan , Duelk Marcus , Sagmeister Martin , Kraft Jochen , Leitgeb Rainer A. , Drexler Wolfgang 
Published: October 2021

AbstractPhotonic integrated circuits (PIC) provide promising functionalities to significantly reduce the size and costs of optical coherence tomography (OCT) systems. This paper presents an imaging platform operating at a center wavelength of 830 nm for ophthalmic application using PIC-based swept source OCT. An on-chip Mach–Zehnder interferometer (MZI) configuration, which comprises an input power splitter, polarization beam splitters in the sample and the reference arm, and a 50/50 coupler for signal interference represents the core element of the system with a footprint of only $$(12 \times 5)\;{\text {mm}}^2$$

(
12
×
5
)

mm

2

. The system achieves 94 dB imaging sensitivity with 750 $$\upmu $$
μ
W on the sample, 50 kHz imaging speed and 5.5 $$\upmu $$
μ
m axial resolution (in soft tissue). With this setup, in vivo human retinal imaging of healthy subjects was performed producing B-scans, three-dimensional renderings as well as OCT angiography. These promising results are significant prerequisites for further integration of optical and electronic building blocks on a single swept source-OCT PIC.
Attenuation model of tunnel blast vibration velocity based on the influence of free surface
Authors: Jia Baoxin , Zhou Linli , Cui Jiaojiao , Chen Hao 
Published: October 2021

AbstractIn tunnel blasting excavation, it is important to clarify the attenuation law of blast wave propagation and predict the blast vibration velocity effectively to ensure safe tunnel construction and protection design. The effects of the free surface area its quantity on the blast vibration velocity are considered, and free surface parameters are introduced to improve the existing blast vibration velocity prediction formula. Based on the Tianhuan railway Daqianshiling tunnel project, field blast vibration monitoring tests are performed to determine changes in the peak blasting vibration velocity based on the blast distance and free surface area. LS-DYNA is used to establish tunnel blasting excavation models under three operating conditions; subsequently, the attenuation law of blast vibration velocity and changes in the vibration response spectrum are analysed. Results show that the free surface area and number of free surfaces enable the blast vibration velocity to be predicted under various operating conditions: a smaller free surface area results in a narrower frequency band range, whereas more free surfaces result in a narrower frequency band range. The improved blast vibration velocity prediction formula is validated using field and numerical test data. It is indicated that the improved formula is applicable to various tunnelling conditions.
Development of a novel humanized mouse model for improved evaluation of in vivo anti-cancer effects of anti-PD-1 antibody
Authors: Katano Ikumi , Hanazawa Asami , Otsuka Iyo , Yamaguchi Takuya , Mochizuki Misa , Kawai Kenji , Ito Ryoji , Goto Motohito , Kagawa Takahiro , Takahashi Takeshi 
Published: October 2021

AbstractImmune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized the treatment of cancer in the clinic. Further discovery of novel drugs or therapeutic protocols that enhance efficacy requires reliable animal models that recapitulate human immune responses to ICI treatment in vivo. In this study, we utilized an immunodeficient NOG mouse substrain deficient for mouse FcγR genes, NOG-FcγR−/−mice, to evaluate the anti-cancer effects of nivolumab, an anti-programmed cell death-1 (PD-1) antibody. After reconstitution of human immune systems by human hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (huNOG-FcγR−/−mice), four different programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1)-positive human cancer cell lines were tested. Among them, the growth of three cell lines was strongly suppressed by nivolumab in huNOG-FcγR−/−mice, but not in conventional huNOG mice. Accordingly, immunohistochemistry demonstrated the enhanced infiltration of human T cells into tumor parenchyma in only nivolumab-treated huNOG-FcγR−/−mice. Consistently, the number of human T cells was increased in the spleen in huNOG-FcγR−/−mice by nivolumab but not in huNOG mice. Furthermore, human PD-L1 expression was strongly induced in the spleen of huNOG-FcγR−/−mice. Collectively, our results suggest that the anti-cancer effects of anti-PD-1 antibodies can be detected more clearly in NOG-FcγR−/−mice than in NOG mice.
Establishment of high-throughput screening HTRF assay for identification small molecule inhibitors of Skp2-Cks1
Authors: Hu Kaizhao , Li Xiao-Jing , Asmamaw Moges Dessale , Shi Xiao-Jing , Liu Hong-Min 
Published: October 2021

AbstractS-phase kinase associated protein 2 (Skp2), a member of the F-box family that constitute the largest known class of ubiquitin E3 specificity components, is responsible for recognizing and recruiting cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p27 for its ubiquitination in the presence of the small accessory protein cyclin-dependent kinase regulatory subunit 1(Cks1). Skp2 is overexpressed in esophageal carcinoma tissues and closely related with tumor poor prognosis, and perturbation of the Skp2-Cks1 interaction by inhibitors or RNAi could inhibit the proliferation and metastasis of tumor cells. Therefore, inhibition of Skp2 function by small-molecule compounds targeting Skp2-Cks1 interaction is emerging as a promising and novel anti-cancer strategy. In this study, we establish an improved high-throughput screening platform to screen Skp2 inhibitors targeting Skp2-Cks1interaction, which may provide a new therapeutic approach for the clinic.
Limitations of the transmitted photonic spin Hall effect through layered structure
Authors: Miao Chong , Wang Dongxue , Herrmann Eric , Zheng Zhiyuan , Huang Haochong , Gao Hua 
Published: October 2021

AbstractIn this paper, we show theoretically that the spin-dependent transverse shift of the transmitted photonic spin Hall effect (SHE) through layered structure cannot exceed half of the incident beam waist. Exact conditions for obtaining the upper limit of the transmitted SHE are clarified in detail. In addition, different from the popular view in many investigations, we find that there is no positive correlation between the spin-dependent transverse displacement and the ratio between the Fresnel transmission coefficients (tp, ts). In contrast, the optimal transmission ratio is determined by the incident angle and the beam waist. Moreover, two conventional transmission structures are selected and studied in detail. The characteristics of the transverse displacements obtained are in very good agreement with our theoretical conclusions. These findings provide a deeper insight into the photonic spin Hall phenomena and offer a guide for future related research.
Prostaglandin-E2 receptor-4 stimulant rescues cardiac malfunction during myocarditis and protects the heart from adverse ventricular remodeling after myocarditis
Authors: Takakuma Akira , Nishii Mototsugu , Valaperti Alan , Hiraga Haruto , Saji Ryo , Sakai Kazuya , Matsumura Reo , Miyata Yasuo , Oba Nozomu , Nunose Fumiya , Ogawa Fumihiro , Tamura Kouichi , Takeuchi Ichiro 
Published: October 2021

AbstractCardioprotective effect of prostaglandin-E2 receptor-4 (EP4) stimulation on the ischemic heart has been demonstrated. Its effect on the heart affected by myocarditis, however, remains uncertain. In this study, we investigated therapeutic effect of EP4 stimulant using a mouse model of autoimmune myocarditis (EAM) that progresses to dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). EP4 was present in the hearts of EAM mice. Treatment with EP4 agonist (ONO-0260164: 20 mg/kg/day) improved an impaired left ventricular (LV) contractility and reduction of blood pressure on day 21, a peak myocardial inflammation. Alternatively, DCM phenotype, characterized by LV dilation, LV systolic dysfunction, and collagen deposition, was observed on day 56, along with activation of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 critical for myocardial extracellular matrix disruption, indicating an important molecular mechanism underlying adverse ventricular remodeling after myocarditis. Continued treatment with ONO-0260164 alleviated the DCM phenotype, but this effect was counteracted by its combination with a EP4 antagonist. Moreover, ONO-0260164 inhibited in vivo proteolytic activity of MMP-2 in association with up-regulation of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-3. EP4 stimulant may be a promising and novel therapeutic agent that rescues cardiac malfunction during myocarditis and prevents adverse ventricular remodeling after myocarditis by promoting the TIMP-3/MMP-2 axis.
Verbal horror and slaughterhouse imagery in media representation of herdsmen violence
Authors: Igwebuike Ebuka Elias 
Published: October 2021

Abstract
Nigerian media reports on herdsmen’s violence present dehumanised images of a slaughterhouse in which farmers are represented as animals being slaughtered by herders. Using a critical discourse analysis and appraisal framework, with a focus on the systems of attitude and graduation, this paper critically examines media representation of herdsmen’s violence as “butchering” in the form of carnism. Analysis reveals that carnist representation is reinforced through death-dealing socio-cognitive labelling, attitudinal lexicalisation and strands of carnism. Also, using attitude and graduation resources, a one-directional and horrific image is painted. The study concludes that the creation as well as consumption of such scary news cultivates cognitive prejudices and stereotypes.
Nutritional value of microalgae for ruminants and implications from microalgae production
Authors: Lamminen Marjukka 
Published: October 2021

Abstract

Microalgae are a diverse group of microorganisms that are an interesting alternative feed resource for ruminant production. Microalgae species with high protein concentration and adequate amino acid (AA) composition can be used to substitute conventional protein feeds, whereas species with high carbohydrate or lipid concentration can be used to supply energy. Microalgal polyunsaturated acids and short-chain fatty acids have potential to improve the nutritive value of ruminant milk and meat for human consumption and mitigate enteric methane emissions. Microalgae composition is very plastid in comparison to conventional ruminant feeds and it can be influenced relatively easily by environmental conditions, such as nutrient supply. Microalgae also contain many compounds, especially carbohydrates and cell coverings, which are not usually found in ruminant feeds. Standard feed evaluation methods involving the use of crucibles or nylon bags (detergent fibre method,
in vitro
digestibility and
in vivo
rumen incubation) suit poorly to the analysis of microalgae with microscopic particle size. This paper attempts to give a general overview of the nutritive value (protein, lipids and carbohydrates) of microalgae for ruminant feeding applications and the possibilities to tailor microalgae composition for a certain ruminant feeding objectives. In addition, the key knowledge gaps related to the nutritive value of microalgae for ruminant nutrition are identified.
Plasma biomarkers outperform echocardiographic measurements for cardiovascular risk prediction in kidney transplant recipients: results of the HOME ALONE study
Authors: Emrich Insa E , Scheuer Anja L , Rogacev Kyrill S , Mahfoud Felix , Wagenpfeil Stefan , Fliser Danilo , Schirmer Stephan H , Böhm Michael , Heine Gunnar H 
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT

Background
Since kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) have a high cardiovascular disease burden, adequate risk prediction is of importance. Whether echocardiographic parameters and plasma biomarkers, natriuretic peptides [N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP)] and troponin T provide complementary or overlapping prognostic information on cardiovascular events remains uncertain.

Methods
The prospective Heterogeneity of Monocytes and Echocardiography Among Allograft Recipients in Nephrology (HOME ALONE) study followed 177 KTRs for 5.4 ± 1.7 years. Predefined endpoints were hospitalization for acute decompensated heart failure or all-cause death (HF/D) and major atherosclerotic cardiovascular events or all-cause death (MACE/D). At baseline, plasma NT-proBNP, plasma troponin T and echocardiographic parameters [left atrial volume index, left ventricular (LV) mass index, LV ejection fraction, and LV filling pressure] were assessed.

Results
Among all echocardiographic and plasma biomarkers measured, only NT-proBNP was consistently associated with HF/D in univariate and multivariate {third versus first tertile: hazard ratio [HR] 4.20 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.02–17.27]} analysis, and only troponin T was consistently associated with MACE/D in univariate and multivariate [third versus first tertile: HR 8.15 (95% CI 2.75–24.18)] analysis.

Conclusion
Our data suggest that plasma biomarkers are robust and independent predictors of heart failure and atherosclerotic cardiovascular events after kidney transplantation, whereas standard echocardiographic follow-up does not add to risk prediction.