bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The dissociating of reward feedback on familiarity and recollection processing: evidence from event-related potential
Authors: Liu Fangfang , Jiang Yingjie , Li Songliang 
Published: May 2022

Objectives
Although previous studies have explored the effect of reward feedback on recognition memory, electrophysiological evidence for reward-enhanced memory and its underlying processing mechanisms remains unclear.

Methods
This study adopts reward-learning and recognition memory tasks. Participants were asked to learn the reward values of two-color images (each color image had either reward or nonreward feedback) in the reward-learning task, and then tested their recognition memory performance with reward and nonreward feedback items.

Results
Results demonstrated that the recognition memory performance of rewarded items was better than that of nonrewarded items. During the reward-learning period, nonreward feedback elicited larger feedback-related negativity (FRN) and P300 amplitudes compared with reward feedback. The findings indicated that participants mainly engaged in prediction error processing in the early stage, followed by comparing and context update of the learned items. During the recognition memory period, reward items elicited larger FN400 amplitude and smaller LPC amplitude compared with nonreward items. This suggests that reward item retrieval has deeper memory traces and can identify items faster, relying mainly on familiarity processing. Conversely, nonreward, as a general or inhibitory item, requires more detail and cognitive resources, that is, relies on recollection processing.

Conclusions
These findings indicated that participants had different process patterns between reward and nonreward items during recognition retrieval.
Searching for new microbial enzymes for plastic polymer degradation: Polyurethanes and Lycra
Authors: Linke Julia , Ward John 
Published: May 2022

New enzymes and biocatalysis could provide routes to help limit global plastic pollution, as suggested by the example of PETases for the PET degradation. Experiments were conducted to screen soil microorganisms for enzymes able to break down the plastic polymer Lycra, which contains polyurethane linkages and could be utilized as a carbon and nitrogen source.
The methodology is based on a plate assay, which compared the growth of bacteria at 50°C and 65°C on minimal media and minimal media with a top layer, that contained DMF-dissolved Lycra. The medium provided the main nutrients required for bacterial growth, with Lycra being the only substantial carbon source. Promising candidates were identified as bacterial colonies with visibly enhanced growth on the Lycra-enriched minimal medium plate. The selected soil microorganisms were then tested with a liquid culture assay, where the strain was cultivated at 50°C or 65°C in liquid broth medium, that contained dissolved Lycra. The liquid culture samples were collected at 4 time points between 0-48h, and the aliquots tested on HPLC for detection of released Lycra monomers.
Around 50 different bacterial strains from 6 various soil and compost sources were tested with the described plate screening method and 7 bacterial thermophilic species were detected, that showed visibly enhanced growth on the Lycra-enriched plates. These results could support the development of Lycra enzymatic degradation. New enzymes could be engineered, optimized and yield a sustainable solution for the textile industry, which would not require toxic chemicals or contribute to landfill.
Dissecting meningococcal disease and carriage traits using high throughput phenotypic testing
Authors: Farzand Robeena , Mourkas Evangelos , Ste Croix Megan De , Dave Neelam , Jama Abdullahi , Oldfield Neil , Lucidarme Jay , Turner David , Borrow Ray , Martinez-Pomares Luisa , Sheppard Samuel , Bayliss Christopher 
Published: May 2022

Despite on-going vaccination programmes, Neisseria meningitidisis a majorcause of septicaemia and meningitis. In 2017-18, the MenW and MenY capsular groups caused 38% of all UK invasive meningococcal disease cases. Current policy is to generate genome sequences of all meningococcal disease isolates. Using this resource, we aim to determine how genetic variation contributes to phenotypic differences between carriage and disease isolates. We have adapted assays, mimicking carriage and disease behaviours, for high-throughput phenotypic testing of 335 MenW cc11 and MenY cc23 isolates. We are currently testing MenW cc11 disease and carriage isolates for cytotoxicity in a human lung epithelial cell line, growth in media and biofilm formation. Phenotypic differences are utilised as inputs for Genome Wide Association Studies enabling linkage of specific genomic variants, or variant combinations, with phenotypic variation. Genomic data include whole genome sequences and repeat-mediated phase variation states.
The MenW cc11 isolates span two known phylogenetic clusters, original and 2013. Our preliminary data from high-throughput growth and biofilm assays showed no significant differences between these groups or sources (disease versus carriage); however, variations were observed within groups with, for example, distinctive cytotoxicity or biofilm differences between isolates. These variations may reflect physiological divergence due to minor genetic modifications between highly phylogenetically-related strains. Our assay systems are robust, reproducible, and easily scalable for efficient high-throughput genotypic and phenotypic testing. Thus, large-scale screening of phenotypic variation for infectious diseases is achievable and harnessable for cost-effective, direct evolutionary and epidemiological studies.
Antimicrobial potentials of Lantana camara montevidensis leaf extract on wounds infected with Candida isolates using animal models
Authors: Ogba Ofonime , Edim Sunday 
Published: May 2022

Background
There is an increased focus in the development of antimicrobials of herbs origin because they possess active chemotherapeutic effect on different kinds of infectious diseases. Many communities in Nigeria and other African countries use plants to treat various infections, including wounds. New antimicrobial agents are being developed in response to the emergence of resistance to existing antibiotics and antifungal agents. Lantana camara leaves are easily accessible at low or no cost in resource poor communities. The aim of this study was to determine the antimicrobial activity of Lantana camaraleaf extract against selected Candida isolates from infected wounds invitro and in vivo using animal models.

Methods
Aqueous and methanol leaf extraction was done using Soxhlet apparatus. TenCandidaisolates associated with wound infectionswere re-identified and used for the study. Antifungal susceptibility testing was done using the E-Test strips. Fifteen healthy male Wistar rats were used for the study. The rats were anesthetized before making incision wounds on the neck region. The rats were treated with 100mg/ml, 50mg/ml and 25mg/ml concentration of extract topically. The skin tissues of the sacrificed rats were obtained for histological examination using Heamatoxylin and eosin technique.

Results
The susceptibility rate of the Candida isolates ranged from (0.0% - 40.0%). Fluconazole was the most effective antifungal. Isolates were most susceptible(40.0%)to 100mg/ml concentration of extract. Rats treated with 100mg/ml methanol extract had significant mean wound contractions of 70.33±0.58 withdamaged tissue repair.

Conclusion
Methanol extract of Lantana camara leafhas antimicrobial activity on Candidaisolates and topical healing effect on Candida.
Genetic manipulation of Lactobacillus to produce optically pure lactic acid following fermentation using hydrolysed organic fraction of municipal solid waste as a feedstock
Authors: Letchford-Jones Christopher , Bryant David , Hughes Alun , Puri Dhivya , Gallagher Joe 
Published: May 2022

Background
Lactic acid for polymer applications must be optically pure to allow the final plastic properties to be controlled. We have isolated a strain of Lactobacillus plantarum capable of utilising a range of carbohydrates and tolerant to high sugar and organic acid concentrations. However, like most Lactobacillus plantarum, this strain produces D- and L-lactic acid. To improve the commercial application of this strain gene editing has been used to ensure only one isoform is produced.

Methods
Using two-step homologous recombination, ldhL was replaced with a truncated version interrupted by a chloramphenicol acetyltransferase resistance marker, then with an unmarked truncated version.
The optical purity shift was quantified biochemically by enzymatic assay and HPLC and fermentation performance compared against the unmodified strain using enzymatically hydrolysed municipal solid waste pulp (MSW sugars) as a feedstock.

Results
The ldhL gene was successfully deleted, leading to a dramatic shift in the optical purity of lactate produced in both synthetic media and MSW sugars. The unmodified strain produced D-lactic acid with an optical purity of 40%, while the mutant achieved 94%. In MSW sugars, the modified strain performed as well as the unmodified control, consuming all available glucose in less than 48 hours with a volumetric productivity of 1.02 g/L/h.

Conclusions
Deletion of ldhL from our strain of Lactobacillus plantarum allowed exclusive production of D-lactic acid from MSW sugars. This provides a laboratory scale demonstration of the production of optically pure lactic acid from renewable sugars for use in the production of biodegradable plastics.
Actin dynamics regulate proteasome homeostasis
Authors: Williams Thomas , Rousseau Adrien 
Published: May 2022

Cells require thousands of unique proteins to be in the right place, at the right time, in the right amounts and with the right modifications. They do this through several processes collectively known as protein homeostasis. TORC1 is a principal regulator of protein homeostasis, coordinating protein synthesis and degradation. The proteasome, composed of a core particle and one or two regulatory particles, degrades unwanted protein. Diverse stresses cause a protein homeostasis imbalance: inhibiting TORC1 and the misfolded/damaged protein load. Following TORC1 inhibition, proteasome regulatory particle assembly chaperone (RPAC) translation is increased and thus cells assemble more proteasomes to degrade the damaged and misfolded proteins, thereby restoring protein homeostasis.
Using yeast, we identify an endocytic protein, Ede1, that interacts with and is critical for translation of RPAC mRNA following TORC1 inhibition. We find two further endocytic proteins important for RPAC translation regulation. Mutants of these proteins cause altered Arp2/3 activity, and hence altered formation of actin patches/endocytic sites. We show that RPAC mRNA is transported on actin cables and interacts with actin patches. TORC1 inhibition depolarises the actin cytoskeleton, causing RPAC mRNA accumulation on actin patches concurrent with translation. We demonstrate Ede1 is essential for RPAC mRNA localisation regulation following rapamycin treatment.
This work shows that, upon actin depolarisation, RPAC mRNA is recruited to actin patches, likely by Ede1, and translation occurs. Actin regulation is therefore a key element of proteasome (and therefore protein) homeostasis.
Engineered anti-viral shRNAs are more effective than lhRNAs in transgenic Aedes aegypti
Authors: Tng Priscilla , Paladino Leonela Carabajal , Anderson Michelle , Dhokiya Vishaal , Keen Elizabeth , Adelman Zach , Fragkoudis Rennos , Noad Rob , Alphey Luke 
Published: May 2022

The Aedes aegypti mosquito is a major vector of chikungunya virus (CHIKV), which has no licensed vaccine. Engineered mosquitoes expressing long RNA hairpins (lhRNA) or small RNAs against selected arboviruses have been developed to limit virus replication, but their silencing efficiency has not been compared.
We developed lhRNA and short hairpin RNA (shRNA) arrays against CHIKV non-structural protein nsP2. We used a Tet-response element (TRE) and a tTA transactivator to control expression of lhRNAs (TRE-lhRNA) and shRNAs (TRE-shRNA). Constitutive expression in Aag2 cells was assessed with a PUb-tTA driverand midgut specific expression in transgenic mosquitoes was assessed using Carboxypeptidase A (AeCPA)-tTA as driver. In vitrointerference ability was determined with a CHIKV split replication system, and a synthetic luciferase reporter with mRNA containing the targeted CHIKV sequence (CHIK-FF). In vivo interference was tested by inserting the TRE-lhRNA and TRE-shRNA constructs into a AeCPA-tTA line so both constructs expressed from the same locus, and a TRE reporter line that expressed an AmCyan reporter with an N terminal CHIKV fusion (CHIK-AmC).
In Aag2 cells, shRNAs were more effective than lhRNA in silencing both the CHIKV split replication system (99.7%, S. D. ± 0.47 and 72.8%, S. D. ± 9.50, respectively, P<0.001) and CHIK-FF (98.8%, S. D. ± 0.71 and 50.9%, S. D. ± 7.92, respectively, P<0.05). Similar results were observed in transgenic mosquitoes when comparing AmC expression in the midgut.
This study demonstrates that, in mosquitoes, effectively chosen shRNAs can induce greater interference of the desired viral target than the corresponding lhRNA.
Longevity and neutralisation activity of secretory IgA following SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Ellis Samuel , Burleigh Alice , Way Rosie , Kembou-Ringert Japhette , Masonou Tereza , Gilmour Kimberly , Grandjean Louis , Smith Claire 
Published: May 2022

The mucosal barrier is a primary defence against inhaled pathogens, comprising secretory antibodies which have the potential to block viral entry and neutralise infection. There is an ongoing need for greater understanding of the mucosal immunity to SARS-CoV-2 infection. In this study, we investigated mucosal IgA through non-invasive saliva sampling of healthcare workers.
A total of 551 saliva samples were collected from staff at Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital who previously tested positive for COVID-19. Participant metadata included age, gender, ethnicity and symptoms. IgA titres were measured by ELISA against viral antigens spike protein, nucleocapsid protein, and spike receptor-binding domain. SARS-CoV-2 neutralisation was measured using a VERO E6 cell culture infection assay.
We found that approximately 30% of saliva samples contained detectable IgA specific for at least one of the SARS-CoV-2 antigens. IgA levels in saliva decreased with the time post-infection, and were largely undetectable after six months. IgA titres specific to SARS-CoV-2 were lowest in participants over 60 years old. Specific saliva samples were identified which effectively neutralised SARS-CoV-2 virus infection of epithelial cells.
Our results suggest secretory IgA specific to SARS-CoV-2 can be detected in saliva following infection, an accessible sample type for testing, although titres decreased over time. Some saliva samples were able to neutralise SARS-CoV-2 infectivity against cultured epithelial cells. This data could be used to assess the risk of re-infection with SARS-CoV-2, as well as accelerate efforts to develop effective mucosal vaccination with longer lasting protection.
Automated optimization of deep brain stimulation parameters for modulating neuroimaging-based targets
Authors: Malekmohammadi Mahsa , Mustakos Richard , Sheth Sameer , Pouratian Nader , McIntyre Cameron C. , Bijanki Kelly R. , Tsolaki Evangelia , Chiu Kevin , Robinson Meghan E. , Adkinson Joshua A. , Oswalt Denise , Carcieri Stephen 
Published: May 2022

AbstractObjectiveTherapeutic efficacy of deep brain stimulation (DBS) in both established and emerging indications, is highly dependent on accurate lead placement and optimized clinical programming. The latter relies on clinicians’ experience to search among available sets of stimulation parameters and can be limited by the time constraints of clinical practice. Recent innovations in device technology have expanded the number of possible electrode configurations and parameter sets available to clinicians, amplifying the challenge of time constraints. We hypothesize that patient specific neuroimaging data which can effectively assist the clinical programming using automated algorithms.ApproachThis paper introduces the DBS Illumina 3D algorithm as a tool which uses patient-specific imaging to find stimulation settings that optimizes activating a target area while minimizing the stimulation of areas outside the target that could result in unknown or undesired side effects. This approach utilizes preoperative neuroimaging data paired with the postoperative reconstruction of lead trajectory to search the available stimulation space and identify optimized stimulation parameters. We describe the application of this algorithm in three patients with treatment-resistant depression who underwent bilateral implantation of DBS in subcallosal cingulate cortex (SCC) and ventral capsule/ventral striatum (VC/VS) using tractography optimized targeting with an imaging defined target previously described.Main resultsCompared to the stimulation settings selected by the clinicians (informed by anatomy), stimulation settings produced by the algorithm achieved similar or greater target coverage, while producing a significantly smaller stimulation area that spills outside the target (P=0.002).SignificanceThe DBS Illumina 3D algorithm is seamlessly integrated with the clinician programmer software and effectively and rapidly assists clinicians with the analysis of image based anatomy, and provides a starting point for the clinicians to search the highly complex stimulation parameter space and arrive at the stimulation settings that optimize activating a target area.Clinical trial registration number: NCT 03437928
Relationship between finger movement characteristics and voxel-based specific regional analysis systems for Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Sugioka Junpei , Suzumura Shota , Kuno Katsumi , Kizuka Shiori , Sakurai Hiroaki , Kanada Yoshikiyo , Mizuguchi Tomohiko , Kondo Izumi 
Published: May 2022

AbstractBackgroundAging is the most significant risk factor of dementia. Alzheimer’s disease accounts for approximately 60%–80% of all dementia cases in elderly individuals. This study aimed to examine the relationship between finger movements and brain function in patients with Alzheimer’s disease, using VSRAD, and explore the relationship between VSRAD and cognitive function (MoCA-J).MethodsPatients diagnosed with AD, at the Center for Comprehensive Care and Research on Memory Disorders, were included in the study. The diagnostic criteria were based on the National Institute on Aging-Alzheimer’s Association. Patients were excluded based on set criteria. A finger-tapping device was used for all measurements. Participants performed the following task, in order: non-dominant hand, dominant hand, simultaneously, and alternate hands. Movements were measured for 15 s each. The relationship between distance and output was measured. MRI measurements were performed, after which VSRAD was performed using sagittal section 3D T1-weighted images. The Z-score was used to calculate the degree of atrophy. Pearson’s product-moment correlation coefficient was used to analyze the relationship between the Z-score and mean values of the parameters in the finger-tapping movements. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.ResultsSixty-two patients were included in the study. Z-scores for MoCA-J analysis, percentage of total brain atrophy in the white matter, and other VSRAD parameters showed varying negative correlations (r = -0. 28, p = 0. 035, r = -0. 31, p = 0. 020, and r = -0. 52, p < 0. 001), respectively. Varying positive correlations between Z-score and the SD of distance rate of velocity peak in extending movements in the non-dominant hand were observed.ConclusionThe SD of distance rate of velocity peak in extending movements and the Z-score showed a significant relationship. An association between neuropsychological tests and overall degree of brain atrophy was also observed.
Effects of virtual reality-based aerobic endurance training on the functional fitness of healthy older adults: A systematic review
Authors: Restrepo Daniela Ramírez , Ruiz Julialba Castellanos , Mesa Lina María Montealegre , Narváez Carolina Márquez , Rendón Santiago Murillo 
Published: May 2022

AbstractObjetiveto analytically and systematically review and integrate the available evidence of the effects of virtual reality-based aerobic endurance training on functional fitness of healthy older adults.Materials and MethodsThis systematic review of randomized controlled trials was conducted through searches in Pubmed, Science Direct, Scopus, PEDro, Web of Science, Lilacs, Scielo, Dialnet, and IEEE Xplore between February and May 2021. The evaluation of bias and methodological quality was performed following the parameters proposed by the Cochrane Manual of Systematic Reviews of Interventions and the PEDro Scale. Review Manager Software (Version 5.4.1) served for a summary of bias.ResultsThree clinical trials were selected. None of the selected studies employed any exclusively aerobic intervention with virtual reality; however, statistically significant findings for this type of intervention were found in functional fitness such as aerobic endurance, upper and lower limb strength, agility, and dynamic balance.Conclusionsaerobic endurance training through the use of virtual reality may provide positive effects on the functional fitness of the healthy elderly. This has implications for clinical practice, as it fosters the development of more beneficial, attractive, motivational, and quality interventions, the prevention of common conditions, and the use of technological tools by the elderly population. However, as for research implications, an increase of knowledge on the effects of technologies in the elderly functional capacity, and an implementation of scientific models or theories on physical activity and exercise are recommended with the purpose of explaining the phenomena due to the use of technologies within the processes of functional rehabilitation.
Health workers’ Perspective on the Feasibility and Acceptability of the Introduction of AgRDT for COVID-19 in Kisumu County, Western Kenya
Authors: Omollo M. , Odero I. A. , Barsosio H.C. , Kariuki S. , Kuile F. Ter , Okello S.O. , Oyoo K. , K’Oloo A. , Otieno K. , Duijn S. van , Houben N. , Milimo E. , Aroka R. , Odhiambo A. , Onsongo S. N. , de Wit T.F. Rinke 
Published: May 2022

AbstractCOVID-19 pandemic remains a major global public health challenge also in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMIC), due to fragile health systems, limited resources and personnel, low testing and counseling capacity, community perceptions, among others. In Kisumu County of Western Kenya, a unique Public Private Partnership (PPP) was rolled-out to increase testing and capacity building by linking private facilities to the ongoing public sector efforts in combating COVID-19. It became increasingly clear that centralized PCR testing for COVID-19 was too labor-intensive, expensive, prone to machine breakdowns and stock-outs of essential reagents, resulting in long turn-around times and sometimes even adaptations of patient selection criteria. A clear need was identified for rapid point-of-care COVID-19 testing (AgRDT). After successful field evaluation, RDT for COVID-19 was offered through the PPP. This paper aimed to understand the health workers perspective on the feasibility and acceptability of the introduction of the AgRDT in Kisumu County.In-Depth Interviews were conducted with selected health workers (n=23) from the participating facilities and analyzed using Nvivo 11 The health workers accepted the use of AgRDT as it enabled the strengthening of the existing health system, increased testing capacity and provided capacity building opportunities. Challenges included poor management of results discrepant with PCR gold standard.The health workers applauded the introduction of AgRDT with the Kisumu County Department of Health as a more realistic and user-friendly approach, leading to fast turn-around times and increased personal safety experience.