bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Natural genetic variation inDrosophila melanogasterreveals genes associated withCoxiella burnetiiinfection
Authors: Guzman Rosa M , Howard Zachary P , Liu Ziying , Oliveira Ryan D , Massa Alisha T , Omsland Anders , White Stephen N , Goodman Alan G 
Published: January 2021

AbstractThe gram-negative bacterium Coxiella burnetii is the causative agent of Query (Q) fever in humans and coxiellosis in livestock. Host genetics are associated with C. burnetii pathogenesis both in humans and animals; however, it remains unknown if specific genes are associated with severity of infection. We employed the Drosophila Genetics Reference Panel to perform a genome-wide association study to identify host genetic variants that affect host survival to C. burnetii infection. The genome-wide association study identified 64 unique variants (P &lt; 10−5) associated with 25 candidate genes. We examined the role each candidate gene contributes to host survival during C. burnetii infection using flies carrying a null mutation or RNAi knockdown of each candidate. We validated 15 of the 25 candidate genes using at least one method. This is the first report establishing involvement of many of these genes or their homologs with C. burnetii susceptibility in any system. Among the validated genes, FER and tara play roles in the JAK/STAT, JNK, and decapentaplegic/TGF-β signaling pathways which are components of known innate immune responses to C. burnetii infection. CG42673 and DIP-ε play roles in bacterial infection and synaptic signaling but have no previous association with C. burnetii pathogenesis. Furthermore, since the mammalian ortholog of CG13404 (PLGRKT) is an important regulator of macrophage function, CG13404 could play a role in host susceptibility to C. burnetii through hemocyte regulation. These insights provide a foundation for further investigation regarding the genetics of C. burnetii susceptibility across a wide variety of hosts.
New regulators ofDrosophilaeye development identified from temporal transcriptome changes
Authors: Quiquand Manon , Rimesso Gerard , Qiao Nan , Suo Shengbao , Zhao Chunyu , Slattery Matthew , White Kevin P , Han Jackie J , Baker Nicholas E 
Published: January 2021

AbstractIn the last larval instar, uncommitted progenitor cells in the Drosophila eye primordium start to adopt individual retinal cell fates, arrest their growth and proliferation, and initiate terminal differentiation into photoreceptor neurons and other retinal cell types. To explore the regulation of these processes, we have performed mRNA-Seq studies of the larval eye and antennal primordial at multiple developmental stages. A total of 10,893 fly genes were expressed during these stages and could be adaptively clustered into gene groups, some of whose expression increases or decreases in parallel with the cessation of proliferation and onset of differentiation. Using in situ hybridization of a sample of 98 genes to verify spatial and temporal expression patterns, we estimate that 534 genes or more are transcriptionally upregulated during retinal differentiation, and 1367 or more downregulated as progenitor cells differentiate. Each group of co-expressed genes is enriched for regulatory motifs recognized by co-expressed transcription factors, suggesting that they represent coherent transcriptional regulatory programs. Using available mutant strains, we describe novel roles for the transcription factors SoxNeuro (SoxN), H6-like homeobox (Hmx), CG10253, without children (woc), Structure specific recognition protein (Ssrp), and multisex combs (mxc).
Estimating divergence times from DNA sequences
Authors: Sjödin Per , McKenna James , Jakobsson Mattias 
Published: January 2021

AbstractThe patterns of genetic variation within and among individuals and populations can be used to make inferences about the evolutionary forces that generated those patterns. Numerous population genetic approaches have been developed in order to infer evolutionary history. Here, we present the “Two-Two (TT)” and the “Two-Two-outgroup (TTo)” methods; two closely related approaches for estimating divergence time based in coalescent theory. They rely on sequence data from two haploid genomes (or a single diploid individual) from each of two populations. Under a simple population-divergence model, we derive the probabilities of the possible sample configurations. These probabilities form a set of equations that can be solved to obtain estimates of the model parameters, including population split times, directly from the sequence data. This transparent and computationally efficient approach to infer population divergence time makes it possible to estimate time scaled in generations (assuming a mutation rate), and not as a compound parameter of genetic drift. Using simulations under a range of demographic scenarios, we show that the method is relatively robust to migration and that the TTo method can alleviate biases that can appear from drastic ancestral population size changes. We illustrate the utility of the approaches with some examples, including estimating split times for pairs of human populations as well as providing further evidence for the complex relationship among Neandertals and Denisovans and their ancestors.
Automated and customizable quantitative image analysis of wholeCaenorhabditis elegansgermlines
Authors: Toraason Erik , Adler Victoria L , Kurhanewicz Nicole A , DiNardo Acadia , Saunders Adam M , Cahoon Cori K , Libuda Diana E 
Published: January 2021

AbstractArranged in a spatial-temporal gradient for germ cell development, the adult germline of Caenorhabditis elegans is an excellent system for understanding the generation, differentiation, function, and maintenance of germ cells. Imaging whole C. elegans germlines along the distal-proximal axis enables powerful cytological analyses of germ cell nuclei as they progress from the pre-meiotic tip through all the stages of meiotic prophase I. To enable high-content image analysis of whole C. elegans gonads, we developed a custom algorithm and pipelines to function with image processing software that enables: (1) quantification of cytological features at single nucleus resolution from immunofluorescence images; and (2) assessment of these individual nuclei based on their position within the germline. We show the capability of our quantitative image analysis approach by analyzing multiple cytological features of meiotic nuclei in whole C. elegans germlines. First, we quantify double-strand DNA breaks (DSBs) per nucleus by analyzing DNA-associated foci of the recombinase RAD-51 at single-nucleus resolution in the context of whole germline progression. Second, we quantify the DSBs that are licensed for crossover repair by analyzing foci of MSH-5 and COSA-1 when they associate with the synaptonemal complex during meiotic prophase progression. Finally, we quantify P-granule composition across the whole germline by analyzing the colocalization of PGL-1 and ZNFX-1 foci. Our image analysis pipeline is an adaptable and useful method for researchers spanning multiple fields using the C. elegans germline as a model system.
Features of Daily Social Interactions That Discriminate Between Older Adults With and Without Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Zhaoyang Ruixue , Sliwinski Martin J , Martire Lynn M , Katz Mindy J , Scott Stacey B 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Objectives
Detecting subtle behavioral changes in everyday life as early signs of cognitive decline and impairment is important for effective early intervention against Alzheimer’s disease. This study examined whether features of daily social interactions captured by ecological momentary assessments could serve as more sensitive behavioral markers to distinguish older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) from those without MCI, as compared to conventional global measures of social relationships.

Method
Participants were 311 community-dwelling older adults (aged 70–90 years) who reported their social interactions and socializing activities 5 times daily for 14 consecutive days using smartphones.

Results
Compared to those with normal cognitive function, older adults classified as MCI reported less frequent total and positive social interactions and less frequent in-person socializing activities on a daily basis. Older adults with and without MCI, however, did not show differences in most features of social relationships assessed by conventional global measures.

Discussion
These results suggest that certain features of daily social interactions (quality and quantity) could serve as sensitive and ecologically valid behavioral markers to facilitate the detection of MCI.
Compatibility of the Intellectual Property Regime, the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Nagoya Protocol
Authors: Roca Santiago 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
For nearly two decades, there has seemingly been no way to make intellectual property norms compatible with the implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the Nagoya Protocol (NP). This conflict makes these two international agreements inoperative and difficult to apply.
This study analyzes the main disagreements between the regulations of the CBD and NP on the one hand and intellectual property norms on the other. It briefly reviews the character and the dominant perspectives of both regulations and identifies concepts and interpretations that, if applied correctly, could make them compatible. To this end, the approach of this paper is to separate the problem of conservation and sustainability in biodiversity from the problem of the lack of intrinsic, potential or use value attributed to genetic resources and traditional knowledge. It also redeems the notion of patents as an instrument to reestablish fair competition and solve the market failure of unfair imitation, rather than its deployment as a strategic asset to generate extraordinary, monopolistic profits. At the same time, the article evaluates the assumed preponderance of innovation and conservation goals in comparison to other rights and public interests. The study analyzes the eleven most important connections between the rules that regulate the access to and use and distribution of benefits deriving from biodiversity and those that protect intellectual property. It concludes that most international impasses in which intellectual property is pitted against the CBD and the NP find a solution through the new approach proposed above. Finally, the article briefly provides solutions to each of the eleven issues examined.
Genocide and the ‘clean-fighting Turk’ in First World War Britain and Ireland
Authors: Steel Daniel 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
British and Irish attitudes towards their Turkish enemy during the First World War have rarely been explored. Unlike the German ‘Hun’, Turks were praised as ‘clean fighters’, despite overwhelming evidence of the Armenian Genocide. Using largely unexamined press material, this article attributes the ‘clean-fighting Turk’s’ longevity to the sanctity of soldier testimony, where it originated, and the preoccupation with Germany. Both Turkish chivalry, which highlighted German ‘barbarity’ by contrast, and Germano-centric interpretations of the Armenian Genocide offered hitherto unrecognized validation of the United Kingdom’s ‘just war’ in Europe. The First World War was truly global, but Germany dominated the public imagination.
Thermal conductivity estimation of nanofluids with TiO2 nanoparticles by employing artificial neural networks
Authors: Komeili Birjandi Ali , Irandoost Shahrestani Misagh , Maleki Akbar , Habibi Ali , Pourfayaz Fathollah 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Applying nanofluids in energy-related technologies and thermal mediums can lead to remarkable enhancement in their efficiency and performance due to their modified thermophysical properties. Among thermophysical properties, thermal conductivity (TC) performs principal role in heat transfer ability of nanofluids. Artificial neural networks (ANNs) have shown promising performance in modeling nanofluids’ TC. In this article, two types of ANNs are used for estimating TC of nanofluids with TiO2 nanoparticles. In this regard, effective factors including particle size, temperature, volume fraction of solid particles and TC of the base fluids are applied at the input of the model. Based on the comparison between the estimated data and the corresponding actual ones, it is concluded that employing multi-layer perceptron (MLP) is superior compared with group method of data handling (GMDH). In the optimal conditions of the networks, the R-squared value of the models based on both MLP and GMDH was 0.999. Moreover, average absolute relative deviations of the mentioned models were around 0.23% and 0.32%, respectively.
A Littlewood-Type Theorem for Random Bergman Functions
Authors: Cheng Guozheng , Fang Xiang , Liu Chao 
Published: January 2021

AbstractLet $f(z)=\sum _{n=0}^{\infty }a_n z^n$ be a formal power series with complex coefficients. Let $({\mathcal{R}} f)(z)= \sum _{n=0}^{\infty }\pm a_n z^n$ be the randomization of $f$ by choosing independently a random sign for each coefficient. Let $H^p({\mathbb{D}})$ and $L^p_a({\mathbb{D}})$ $(p&gt;0)$ denote the Hardy space and the Bergman space, respectively, over the unit disk in the complex plane. In 1930, Littlewood proved that if $f \in H^2({\mathbb{D}})$, then ${\mathcal{R}} f \in H^p({\mathbb{D}})$ for any $p \in (0, \infty )$ almost surely, and if $f \notin H^2({\mathbb{D}})$, then ${\mathcal{R}} f \notin H^p({\mathbb{D}})$ for any $p \in (0, \infty )$ almost surely. In this paper, we obtain a characterization of the pairs $(p, q) \in (0, \infty )^2$ such that ${\mathcal{R}} f$ is almost surely in $L^q_a({\mathbb{D}})$ whenever $f \in L^p_a({\mathbb{D}})$, including counterexamples to show the optimality of the embedding. In contrast to Littlewood’s theorem, random Bergman functions exhibit no improvement of regularity for any $p&gt;0$, but the loss of regularity for $p&lt;2$ is not as drastic as the Hardy case; there is indeed a nontrivial boundary curve given by $\frac{1}{q}-\frac{2}{p}+\frac{1}{2}=0$. Several other results about random Bergman functions are established along the way. The technical difficulties, especially when $p&lt;1$, are different from the Hardy space and we devise a different route of proof. The Dirichlet space follows as a corollary. An improvement of the original Littlewood theorem is obtained.
Balancing value and burden: the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services electronic Clinical Quality Measure (eCQM) Strategy Project
Authors: Schreiber Michelle , Krauss Deborah , Blake Bridget , Boone Edna , Almonte Rose 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Healthcare is undergoing a digital transformation, and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) aims to help providers navigate the clinical quality improvement landscape. In December 2017, CMS launched the Electronic Clinical Quality Measure (eCQM) Strategy Project. This article consists of 2 parts. The first part describes stakeholder outreach aimed to identify burdens and recommendations related to eCQM implementation and reporting. The second part describes how these burdens were addressed by CMS and how to engage in the digital transformation journey.
Six themes emerged from the stakeholder feedback: Alignment, Value, Development Process, Implementation and Reporting Processes; EHR certification process; and Communication, Education, and Outreach. CMS and its partners addressed over 100 recommendations to improve the eCQM development, implementation, and reporting experience by creating implementation strategies. This included the development of new tools, such as the Measure Collaboration (MC) Workspace and ongoing testing of Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources (FHIR)-based standards for quality measurement.
CMS is sharing this summary of the eCQM Strategy Project to reflect CMS’ interest in stakeholder engagement and burden reduction, increase awareness of available resources, and encourage continued engagement throughout this digital transformation in quality reporting.
Developing a Validated HPLC Method for Quantification of Ceftazidime Employing Analytical Quality by Design and Monte Carlo Simulations
Authors: Kaur Ranjot , Saini Sumant , Patel Asha , Sharma Teenu , Kaur Ripandeep , Katare O. P , Singh Bhupinder 
Published: January 2021

Abstract

Background
Ceftazidime, a third-generation cephalosporin, is widely used in the treatment of lung infections, often given as “off-label” nebulization. There is a need to develop a sensitive and robust analytical method to compute aerodynamic properties of ceftazidime following nebulization.

Objective
The current study entails development of a simple, accurate, and sensitive HPLC method for ceftazidime estimation, employing the principles of analytical quality-by-design (AQbD) and Monte Carlo simulations.

Method
Selection of critical material attributes (CMAs) affecting method performance was accomplished by factor screening exercises. Subsequently, the influential CMAs, i.e., mobile phase ratio and flow rate, were systemically optimized using a face-centered cubic design for the chosen critical analytical attributes (CAAs). The factor relationship(s) between CMAs and CAAs was explored employing a 3 D-response surface and 2 D-contour plots, followed by numerical as well as graphical optimization, for establishing the optimal chromatographic conditions. The obtained method operable design region was validated by Monte Carlo simulations for defect rate analysis.

Results
The optimized HPLC conditions for estimating ceftazidime were acetonitrile to acetic acid solution (75:25) as mobile phase at a flow rate of 0.7 mL/min, leading to Rt of 4.5 min and peak tailing ≤2. Validation studies, as per International Conference on Harmonization Q2(R1) guidance, demonstrated high sensitivity, accuracy, and efficiency of the developed analytical method with an LOD of 0.075 and LOQ of 0.227 µg/mL. Application of this chromatographic method was extrapolated for determining aerodynamic performance by nebulizing ceftazidime at a flow rate of 15 L/min using a next-generation impactor. The study indicated superior performance, sensitivity, and specificity of the developed analytical system for quantifying ceftazidime.

Conclusions
Application of an AQbD approach, coupled with Monte Carlo simulations, aided in developing a robust HPLC method for estimationof ceftazidime per se and on various stages of impactor.

Highlights
(i) QbD-enabled development of robust RP-HPLC method for ceftazidime quantification, (ii) Analytical method optimization employing Risk Assessment and Design of Experiments, (iii) Design space verification and defect rate analysis using Monte Carlo simulations, (iv) Chromatographic method validation as per ICH Q2 R1 guidelines and (v) Quantitative estimation of ceftazidime on various stages of impactor
An Atmospheric Plasma Jet Induces Expression of Wound Healing Genes in Progressive Burn Wounds in a Comb Burn Rat Model: A Pilot Study
Authors: Lee Yoonje , Ricky Sanjaya , Lim Tae Ho , Kim Hongjung , Lee Eui Jung , Song Yeongtak , Lee Sunmi , Jang Yongwoo 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Burn-related injuries are devastating injuries with a high mortality rate that affect people of all ages worldwide. We assessed the effectiveness of plasma jet treatment in altering the expression of genes involved in wound healing in a prospective longitudinal observational animal study. Six male Sprague–Dawley rats weighing 350 g were used, and burn wounds were made by applying a preheated brass comb (100°C) to the back of the rats, resulting in four full-thickness burn wounds separated by three interspaces. A total of 18 burn wounds were induced on three rats. One side of the burn, on each rat received plasma treatment (plasma group), while the other side did not (control group). The interspaces were subjected to the plasma jet for 2 minutes per day until 7 days post-wounding. Plasma treatment significantly decreased the expression of proinflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, an increase in the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokines was observed in the plasma group. We showed that plasma jet treatment could improve burn wound healing by altering the expression of genes involved in the development of wound healing.
A Systematic Review of Quality Improvement Interventions in Burn Care
Authors: Rogers Alan D , Wallace David L , Cartotto Robert 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Quality improvement interventions (QIIs) are intended to improve the care of patients. Unlike most traditional clinical research, these endeavors emphasize the sustainable implementation of scientific evidence rather than the establishment of evidence. Our purpose was to conduct a systematic review of QII publications in the field of burn care. A systematic review was conducted utilizing electronic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Library) of all studies relating to “quality improvement” in burn care published until March 31, 2020. Studies were excluded if no baseline data were reported, or if no intervention was applied and tested. Studies were scored using a novel 10-point evaluation system for QII. We evaluated 414 studies involving “quality improvement” in burn care. Only 82 studies contained a QII while 332 studies were categorized as traditional research. Several traditional research studies made claims to be QIIs, but few met the criteria. Of the 82 QII references, only 20 (24%) were accessible as full-text manuscripts, the remainder were published as abstracts only. The mean score was 7.95 for full-text studies (range 6–10) and 7.4 for abstract-only studies (range 5.5–9.5). Despite the importance of quality improvement (QI) in burn care, very few studies have been published that employ true QI methodology, and many QII studies never advance beyond publication as abstracts in conference proceedings. Based on this systematic review, we propose guidelines to improve the quality of QII submissions.
The Burden of Adverse Childhood Experiences in Children and Those of Their Parents in a Burn Population
Authors: Ong Jia Ern , Fassel Mikenzy , Scieszinski Laura , Hosseini Sameen , Galet Colette , Oral Resmiye , Wibbenmeyer Lucy 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence, type, and associations of parental and child adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) in children presenting with burn injuries. Parents of burned children completed an ACE-18 survey, including questions on parent and child ACEs, needs, and resiliency. Demographics, burn injury, hospital course, and follow-up data were collected. Family needs and burn outcomes of children with and without ACEs’ exposure (no ACE vs one to two ACEs vs three or more ACEs) were analyzed. P &lt;.05 was considered significant. Seventy-five children were enrolled—58.7% were male, 69.3% white. The average age was 6.0 ± 5.2 years. The average total burn surface area was 4.4 ± 5.7% (0.1–27%). Parent ACE exposure correlated with child ACE exposure (r = .57; P = .001) and this intensified by increasing child age (P = .004). Child ACE exposure showed a graded response to family needs, including food and housing insecurity and childcare needs. Stress and psychosocial distress of the parents was significantly associated with their children’s ACE burden. The ACE burden of parents of burned children can affect the ACE load of their children. Burned children with more ACEs tend to have significantly more needs and more family distress. Awareness of past trauma can help identify a vulnerable population to ensure successful burn recovery.