bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial-Temporal Relationship between Water Resources and Economic Development in Rural China from a Poverty Perspective
Authors: Liu Zhaorunqing , Liu Wenxin
Published: February 2021

Guaranteeing sustainable development is a pressing issue in China. To this end, balancing economic development and the protection of limited water resources enables healthy and orderly economic development. This study details the application of a water poverty index and sustainable livelihoods approach using 25 indicators to evaluate the water situation and the economic situation in rural China from 1997 to 2019. The analysis results suggest the need for location-specific policy interventions. In addition, we determined whether the water poverty and economic poverty or their spatial types featured the phenomenon of agglomeration. This study also proposes a harmonious development (HD) model and found a significant relationship between water poverty and economic poverty. Next, we adopted a spatial and temporal perspective to analyze the causes of variation in HD level using the modified Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) model and defined four HD levels using a classification method. The results revealed that the overall HD level was higher in the east than in the west. In conclusion, water poverty is associated with economic poverty; thus, there is a need for water and economic assistance strategies in pro-poor policies. The research findings also serve as a theoretical foundation for policies aimed at resolving conflicts between water use and economic development in rural China.
Application of the Ottawa Charter Five Priority Areas of Action for Public Health to an Institution-Wide Diabetes Care Promotion
Authors: Lin Min-Hua , Chiu She-Yu , Ho Wen-Chao , Huang Hui-Ying
Published: February 2021

This study was the first institution-wide health promotion program in Taiwan to apply the five priority areas for taking action in public health highlighted in the Ottawa Charter for diabetes patients. We aimed to improve the quality of home care received by diabetic patients by training health care professionals in health promotion. This program consisted of developing personal skills, reorienting health services, strengthening community actions, creating supportive environments, and building healthy public policy. It was applied in the Yunlin Christian Hospital located in central Taiwan from August 2011 to November 2011. A health-promoting education course consisting of weight control, diabetes care, and quality management for diabetes was developed and applied to all 323 hospital staff. Then, hospital staff volunteers and diabetes patients were recruited to participate in the program. A total of 61 staff volunteers and 90 diabetes patients were involved in this study. Staff volunteers were trained to participate in communities to provide care and guidance to patients with diabetes. The World Health Organization Quality of Life(WHOQOL)-BREF-Taiwan Version questionnaires were investigated before and after implementation of this program for the patients. A health-promoting lifestyle profile questionnaire was filled by the staff. The investigation data were then analyzed by statistical methods. The diabetes patients experienced a significant increase in their satisfaction with health and health-related quality of life as well as significant improvements in health-promotion and self-management behaviors (p < 0.05). In addition, staff volunteers significantly consumes food from the five major groups than the other staff (p < 0.05). Various improvements in health-promoting behaviors were observed amongst the hospital staff and the diabetic patients. Our project could be a reference for other medical organizations to implement an institution-wide health-promotion program for diabetic patients.
A Model of Factors Determining Nurses’ Attitudes towards Learning Communicative Competences
Authors: Iwanow Lucyna , Jaworski Mariusz , Gotlib Joanna , Panczyk Mariusz
Published: February 2021

The aim of the study was to assess the empirical model of factors determining the attitude towards acquiring communicative competences among nurses participating in the program of specialist training courses. Research was conducted using a cross-sectional study. A representative group of 1010 Polish registered nurses that took part in the postgraduate education course answered a self-report survey (three instruments: NEO-PI-R questionnaire, Communication Skills Attitude Scale (CSAS), and Empathy Understanding Questionnaire (KRE II)) from the beginning of March to the end of May 2018, which was evaluated using path analysis. The research results conducted confirmed the soundness of the created theoretical model (χ2 = 0.278, p = 0.598, RMSEA < 0.05). It was proved that acquiring communicative competences in nurses is determined by factors such as professional experience, empathic tendency, and the intensity of agreeableness, whereby these factors are bound with each other creating a homogeneous network. The developed model demonstrated that skills can most effectively be shaped in an individual’s attitude based on positive mentoring in work environment.
Building a House of Skills—A Study of Functional Health Literacy and Numeracy among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes in Hungary
Authors: Klinovszky Andrea , Papp-Zipernovszky Orsolya , Buzás Norbert
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this study is to explore functional health literacy (FHL) and numeracy skills in an insulin-treated, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patient population, and their impact on diabetes self-care activities. A non-experimental, cross-sectional quantitative design was used for this study. The sample consisted of 102 T2DM patients on insulin therapy, including 42 males and 60 females, with a mean age of 64.75 years (SD = 9.180) and an average diabetes duration of 10.76 years (SD = 6.702). Independent variables were sociodemographic variables (e.g., age, educational level, etc.) and diabetes and health-related factors (e.g., duration of diabetes (years), the frequency of blood glucose testing/day, etc.). For this study, the participants completed the reading comprehension exercise from the Short Test of Functional Health Literacy (S-TOFHLA) and the Shortened Version of the Diabetes Numeracy Test (DNT-15), which specifically evaluates the numeracy skills of patients living with diabetes. The associations between the variables were examined with Spearman’s rank correlation. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to examine whether measured FHL skills impact diabetes self-care activities. We found that DNT-15 test (β = 0.174, t(96) = 2.412, p < 0.018) had significant effect on the frequency of blood glucose testing/day. Moreover, the problem areas for patients with T2DM mostly included multi-step calculations according to food label interpretations, and adequate insulin dosage based on current blood glucose levels and carbohydrate intake. The results of regression analyses and Spearman’s rank correlation indicated that limited FHL and diabetes numeracy skills not only influenced the participants’ behaviors related to self-management, but they also affected their health outcomes. Thus, besides the personalization of insulin treatment, it is indispensable to provide more precise information on different types of insulin administration and more refined educational materials based on medical nutrition therapy.
Leadership Styles and Nurses’ Job Satisfaction. Results of a Systematic Review
Authors: Specchia Maria Lucia , Cozzolino Maria Rosaria , Carini Elettra , Di Pilla Andrea , Galletti Caterina , Ricciardi Walter , Damiani Gianfranco
Published: February 2021

Healthcare organisations are social systems in which human resources are the most important factor. Leadership plays a key role, affecting outcomes for professionals, patients and work environment. The aim of this research was to identify and analyse the knowledge present to date concerning the correlation between leadership styles and nurses’ job satisfaction. A systematic review was carried out on PubMed, CINAHL and Embase using the following inclusion criteria: impact of different leadership styles on nurses’ job satisfaction; secondary care; nursing setting; full-text available; English or Italian language. From 11,813 initial titles, 12 studies were selected. Of these, 88% showed a significant correlation between leadership style and nurses’ job satisfaction. Transformational style had the highest number of positive correlations followed by authentic, resonant and servant styles. Passive-avoidant and laissez-faire styles, instead, showed a negative correlation with job satisfaction in all cases. Only the transactional style showed both positive and negative correlation. In this challenging environment, leaders need to promote technical and professional competencies, but also act to improve staff satisfaction and morale. It is necessary to identify and fill the gaps in leadership knowledge as a future objective to positively affect health professionals’ job satisfaction and therefore healthcare quality indicators.
Discovery of a Small Molecule Inhibitor of Human Adenovirus Capable of Preventing Escape from the Endosome
Authors: Xu Jimin , Berastegui-Cabrera Judith , Carretero-Ledesma Marta , Chen Haiying , Xue Yu , Wold Eric A. , Pachón Jerónimo , Zhou Jia , Sánchez-Céspedes Javier
Published: February 2021

Human adenoviruses (HAdVs) display a wide range of tissue tropism and can cause an array of symptoms from mild respiratory illnesses to disseminated and life-threatening infections in immunocompromised individuals. However, no antiviral drug has been approved specifically for the treatment of HAdV infections. Herein, we report our continued efforts to optimize salicylamide derivatives and discover compound 16 (JMX0493) as a potent inhibitor of HAdV infection. Compound 16 displays submicromolar IC50 values, a higher selectivity index (SI > 100) and 2.5-fold virus yield reduction compared to our hit compound niclosamide. Moreover, unlike niclosamide, our mechanistic studies suggest that the antiviral activity of compound 16 against HAdV is achieved through the inhibition of viral particle escape from the endosome, which bars subsequent uncoating and the presentation of lytic protein VI.
Genome-Wide Identification of the B-BOX Genes that Respond to Multiple Ripening Related Signals in Sweet Cherry Fruit
Authors: Wang Yanyan , Zhai Zefeng , Sun Yueting , Feng Chen , Peng Xiang , Zhang Xiang , Xiao Yuqin , Zhou Xin , Wang Weili , Jiao Jiale , Li Tianhong
Published: February 2021

B-BOX proteins are zinc finger transcription factors that play important roles in plant growth, development, and abiotic stress responses. In this study, we identified 15 PavBBX genes in the genome database of sweet cherry. We systematically analyzed the gene structures, clustering characteristics, and expression patterns of these genes during fruit development and in response to light and various hormones. The PavBBX genes were divided into five subgroups. The promoter regions of the PavBBX genes contain cis-acting elements related to plant development, hormones, and stress. qRT-PCR revealed five upregulated and eight downregulated PavBBX genes during fruit development. In addition, PavBBX6, PavBBX9, and PavBBX11 were upregulated in response to light induction. We also found that ABA, BR, and GA3 contents significantly increased in response to light induction. Furthermore, the expression of several PavBBX genes was highly correlated with the expression of anthocyanin biosynthesis genes, light-responsive genes, and genes that function in multiple hormone signaling pathways. Some PavBBX genes were strongly induced by ABA, GA, and BR treatment. Notably, PavBBX6 and PavBBX9 responded to all three hormones. Taken together, BBX proteins likely play major roles in regulating anthocyanin biosynthesis in sweet cherry fruit by integrating light, ABA, GA, and BR signaling pathways.
Hiltonol Cocktail Kills Lung Cancer Cells by Activating Cancer-Suppressors, PKR/OAS, and Restraining the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Chang Shu-Chun , Zhang Bo-Xiang , Su Emily Chia-Yu , Wu Wei-Ciao , Hsieh Tsung-Han , Salazar Andres M. , Lin Yen-Kuang , Ding Jeak Ling
Published: February 2021

NSCLC (non-small cell lung cancer) is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Clinical trials showed that Hiltonol, a stable dsRNA representing an advanced form of polyI:C (polyinosinic-polycytidilic acid), is an adjuvant cancer-immunomodulator. However, its mechanisms of action and effect on lung cancer have not been explored pre-clinically. Here, we examined, for the first time, how a novel Hiltonol cocktail kills NSCLC cells. By retrospective analysis of NSCLC patient tissues obtained from the tumor biobank; pre-clinical studies with Hiltonol alone or Hiltonol+++ cocktail [Hiltonol+anti-IL6+AG490 (JAK2 inhibitor)+Stattic (STAT3 inhibitor)]; cytokine analysis; gene knockdown and gain/loss-of-function studies, we uncovered the mechanisms of action of Hiltonol+++. We demonstrated that Hiltonol+++ kills the cancer cells and suppresses the metastatic potential of NSCLC through: (i) upregulation of pro-apoptotic Caspase-9 and Caspase-3, (ii) induction of cytosolic cytochrome c, (iii) modulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines (GRO, MCP-1, IL-8, and IL-6) and anticancer IL-24 in NSCLC subtypes, and (iv) upregulation of tumor suppressors, PKR (protein kinase R) and OAS (2′5′ oligoadenylate synthetase). In silico analysis showed that Lys296 of PKR and Lys66 of OAS interact with Hiltonol. These Lys residues are purportedly involved in the catalytic/signaling activity of the tumor suppressors. Furthermore, knockdown of PKR/OAS abrogated the anticancer action of Hiltonol, provoking survival of cancer cells. Ex vivo analysis of NSCLC patient tissues corroborated that loss of PKR and OAS is associated with cancer advancement. Altogether, our findings unraveled the significance of studying tumor biobank tissues, which suggests PKR and OAS as precision oncological suppressor candidates to be targeted by this novel Hiltonol+++ cocktail which represents a prospective drug for development into a potent and tailored therapy for NSCLC subtypes.
A Cell-Penetrating Peptide That Blocks Toll-Like Receptor Signaling Protects Kidneys against Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Jung Su Woong , Seo Jung-Woo , Park Seon Hwa , Kim Yang Gyun , Moon Ju-Young , Choi Sangdun , Lee Sang-Ho
Published: February 2021

Renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is involved in the majority of clinical conditions that manifest as renal function deterioration; however, specific treatment for this type of injury is still far from clinical use. Since Toll-like receptor (TLR)-mediated signaling is a key mediator of IRI, we examined the effect of a multiple-TLR-blocking peptide named TLR-inhibitory peptide 1 (TIP1), which exerts the strongest action on TLR4, on renal IRI. We subjected C57BL/6 mice to 23 min of renal pedicle clamping preceded by intraperitoneal injection with a vehicle or TIP1. Sham control mice underwent flank incision only. Mouse kidneys were harvested after 24 h of reperfusion for histology, western blot, RT-PCR, and flow cytometry analysis. Pretreatment with TIP1 lowered the magnitude of elevated plasma creatinine levels and attenuated tubular injury. TIP1 treatment also reduced mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines and decreased apoptotic cells and oxidative stress in post-ischemic kidneys. In kidneys pretreated with TIP1, the infiltration of macrophages and T helper 17 cells was less abundant than those in the IRI only group. These results suggest that TIP1 has a potential beneficial effect in attenuating the degree of kidney damage induced by IRI.
Construction and Validation of a Prognostic Gene-Based Model for Overall Survival Prediction in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Using an Integrated Statistical and Bioinformatic Approach
Authors: Dessie Eskezeia Yihunie , Tu Siang-Jyun , Chiang Hui-Shan , Tsai Jeffrey J.P. , Chang Ya-Sian , Chang Jan-Gowth , Ng Ka-Lok
Published: February 2021

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common lethal cancers worldwide and is often related to late diagnosis and poor survival outcome. More evidence is demonstrating that gene-based prognostic models can be used to predict high-risk HCC patients. Therefore, our study aimed to construct a novel prognostic model for predicting the prognosis of HCC patients. We used multivariate Cox regression model with three hybrid penalties approach including least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (Lasso), adaptive lasso and elastic net algorithms for informative prognostic-related genes selection. Then, the best subset regression was used to identify the best prognostic gene signature. The prognostic gene-based risk score was constructed using the Cox coefficient of the prognostic gene signature. The model was evaluated by Kaplan–Meier (KM) and receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analyses. A novel four-gene signature associated with prognosis was identified and the risk score was constructed based on the four-gene signature. The risk score efficiently distinguished the patients into a high-risk group with poor prognosis. The time-dependent ROC analysis revealed that the risk model had a good performance with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.780, 0.732, 0.733 in 1-, 2- and 3-year prognosis prediction in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset. Moreover, the risk score revealed a high diagnostic performance to classify HCC from normal samples. The prognosis and diagnosis prediction performances of risk scores were verified in external validation datasets. Functional enrichment analysis of the four-gene signature and its co-expressed genes involved in the metabolic and cell cycle pathways was constructed. Overall, we developed a novel-gene-based prognostic model to predict high-risk HCC patients and we hope that our findings can provide promising insight to explore the role of the four-gene signature in HCC patients and aid risk classification.
The Effect of Lead Exposure on Autism Development
Authors: Goel Aanya , Aschner Michael
Published: February 2021

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) remains one of the most detrimental neurodevelopmental conditions in society today. Common symptoms include diminished social and communication ability. Investigations on autism etiology remain largely ambiguous. Previous studies have highlighted exposure to lead (Pb) may play a role in ASD. In addition, lead has been shown to be one of the most prevalent metal exposures associated with neurological deficits. A semi-systematic review was conducted using public databases in order to evaluate the extent of lead’s role in the etiology of autism. This review examines the relationship between autistic comorbid symptoms—such as deterioration in intelligence scores, memory, language ability, and social interaction—and lead exposure. Specifically, the mechanisms of action of lead exposure, including changes within the cholinergic, dopaminergic, glutamatergic, gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic systems, are discussed. The goal of this review is to help illustrate the connections between lead’s mechanistic interference and the possible furthering of the comorbidities of ASD. Considerations of the current data and trends suggest a potential strong role for lead in ASD.
AP2M1 Supports TGF-β Signals to Promote Collagen Expression by Inhibiting Caveolin Expression
Authors: Lee Saerom , Lim Ga-Eun , Kim Yong-Nyun , Koo Hyeon-Sook , Shim Jaegal
Published: February 2021

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is important for normal development and disease states, including inflammation and fibrosis. To understand the complex regulation of ECM, we performed a suppressor screening using Caenorhabditis elegans expressing the mutant ROL-6 collagen protein. One cuticle mutant has a mutation in dpy-23 that encodes the μ2 adaptin (AP2M1) of clathrin-associated protein complex II (AP-2). The subsequent suppressor screening for dpy-23 revealed the lon-2 mutation. LON-2 functions to regulate body size through negative regulation of the tumor growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling pathway responsible for ECM production. RNA-seq analysis showed a dominant change in the expression of collagen genes and cuticle components. We noted an increase in the cav-1 gene encoding caveolin-1, which functions in clathrin-independent endocytosis. By knockdown of cav-1, the reduced TGF-β signal was significantly restored in the dpy-23 mutant. In conclusion, the dpy-23 mutation upregulated cav-1 expression in the hypodermis, and increased CAV-1 resulted in a decrease of TβRI. Finally, the reduction of collagen expression including rol-6 by the reduced TGF-β signal influenced the cuticle formation of the dpy-23 mutant. These findings could help us to understand the complex process of ECM regulation in organism development and disease conditions.
Zinc(II) Complexes of Amino Acids as New Active Ingredients for Anti-Acne Dermatological Preparations
Authors: Abendrot Michał , Płuciennik Elżbieta , Felczak Aleksandra , Zawadzka Katarzyna , Piątczak Ewelina , Nowaczyk Piotr , Kalinowska-Lis Urszula
Published: February 2021

Zinc compounds have a number of beneficial properties for the skin, including antimicrobial, sebostatic and demulcent activities. The aim of the study was to develop new anti-acne preparations containing zinc–amino acid complexes as active ingredients. Firstly, the cytotoxicity of the zinc complexes was evaluated against human skin fibroblasts (1BR.3.N cell line) and human epidermal keratinocyte cell lines, and their antimicrobial activity was determined against Cutibacterium acnes. Then, zinc complexes of glycine and histidine were selected to create original gel formulations. The stability (by measuring pH, density and viscosity), microbiological purity (referring to PN-EN ISO standards) and efficacy of the preservative system (according to Ph. Eur. 10 methodology) for the preparations were evaluated. Skin tolerance was determined in a group of 25 healthy volunteers by the patch test. The preparations containing zinc(II) complexes with glycine and histidine as active substances can be topically used in the treatment of acne skin due to their high antibacterial activity against C. acnes and low cytotoxicity for the skin cells. Dermatological recipes have been appropriately composed; no irritation or allergy was observed, and the preparations showed high microbiological purity and physicochemical stability.
Caffeic Acid Enhances the Anti-Leukemic Effect of Imatinib on Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Cells and Triggers Apoptosis in Cells Sensitive and Resistant to Imatinib
Authors: Feriotto Giordana , Tagliati Federico , Giriolo Riccardo , Casciano Fabio , Tabolacci Claudio , Beninati Simone , Khan Mahmud Tareq Hassan , Mischiati Carlo
Published: February 2021

Among the phenolic acids tested on the K562 cell line, a model of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), caffeic acid (CA) was biologically active on sensitive and imatinib (IM)-resistant cells at micro-molar concentration, either in terms of reduction of cell proliferation or triggering of apoptosis. The CA treatment provoked mitochondrial membrane depolarization, genomic DNA fragmentation and phosphatidylserine exposure, hallmarks of apoptosis. Cell cycle analysis following the treatment with comparable cytotoxic concentrations of IM or CA showed marked differences in the distribution profiles. The reduction of cell proliferation by CA administration was associated with increased expression of two cell cycle repressor genes, CDKN1A and CHES1, while IM at a cytotoxic concentration increased the CHES1 but not the CDKN1A expression. In addition, CA treatment affected the proliferation and triggered the apoptosis in IM-resistant cells. Taken together, these data suggested that CA induced the anti-proliferative effect and triggered apoptosis of CML cells by a different mechanism than IM. Finally, the combined administration of IM and CA at suboptimal concentrations evidenced a synergy of action in determining the anti-proliferative effect and triggering apoptosis. The ability of CA to potentiate the anti-leukemic effect of IM highlighted the nutraceutical potential of CA in CML.
Compound Heterozygosity for a Novel Frameshift Variant Causing Fatal Infantile Liver Failure and Genotype–Phenotype Correlation of POLG c.3286C>T Variant
Authors: Sriwattanapong Kanokwan , Rojnueangnit Kitiwan , Theerapanon Thanakorn , Srichomthong Chalurmpon , Porntaveetus Thantrira , Shotelersuk Vorasuk
Published: February 2021

A variant in the POLG gene is the leading cause of a heterogeneous group of mitochondrial disorders. No definitive treatment is currently available. Prenatal and newborn screening have the potential to improve clinical outcome of patients affected with POLG-related disorders. We reported a 4-month-old infant who presented with developmental delay, fever, and diarrhea. Within two weeks after hospital admission, the patient developed hepatic failure and died. Liver necropsy demonstrated an extensive loss of hepatocytes and bile duct proliferations. Trio-whole exome sequencing identified that the patient was compound heterozygous for a novel frameshift variant c.3102delG (p.Lys1035Serfs*59) and a common variant c.3286C>T (p.Arg1096Cys) in POLG (NM_002693.3) inherited from the mother and father, respectively. The c.3102delG (p.Lys1035Serfs*59) was a null variant and classified as pathogenic according to the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics Standards and Guidelines. Prenatal genetic screenings using rapid whole exome sequencing successfully detected the heterozygous c.3286C>T variant in the following pregnancy and the normal alleles in the other one. Both children had been healthy. We reviewed all 34 cases identified with the POLG c.3286C>T variant and found that all 15 compound heterozygous cases had two missense variants except our patient who had the truncating variant and showed the earliest disease onset, rapid deterioration, and the youngest death. All homozygous cases had disease onset before age 2 and developed seizure. Here, we report a novel POLG variant expanding the genotypic spectrum, demonstrate the successful use of exome sequencing for prenatal and neonatal screenings of POLG-related disorders, and show the genotype–phenotype correlation of the common c.3286C>T variant.
Epidemiological Impact of Myocarditis
Authors: Golpour Ainoosh , Patriki Dimitri , Hanson Paul J. , McManus Bruce , Heidecker Bettina
Published: February 2021

Myocarditis is an inflammatory disease of the heart muscle with a wide range of potential etiological factors and consequently varying clinical patterns across the world. In this review, we address the epidemiology of myocarditis. Myocarditis was considered a rare disease until intensified research efforts in recent decades revealed its true epidemiological importance. While it remains a challenge to determine the true prevalence of myocarditis, studies are underway to obtain better approximations of the proportions of this disease. Nowadays, the prevalence of myocarditis has been reported from 10.2 to 105.6 per 100,000 worldwide, and its annual occurrence is estimated at about 1.8 million cases. This wide range of reported cases reflects the uncertainty surrounding the true prevalence and a potential underdiagnosis of this disease. Since myocarditis continues to be a significant public health issue, particularly in young adults in whom myocarditis is among the most common causes of sudden cardiac death, improved diagnostic and therapeutic procedures are necessary. This manuscript aims to summarize the current knowledge on the epidemiology of myocarditis, new diagnostic approaches and the current epidemiological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Noncontact Sensing of Contagion
Authors: Khanam Fatema-Tuz-Zohra , Chahl Loris A. , Chahl Jaswant S. , Al-Naji Ali , Perera Asanka G. , Wang Danyi , Lee Y.H. , Ogunwa Titilayo T. , Teague Samuel , Nguyen Tran Xuan Bach , McIntyre Timothy D. , Pegoli Simon P. , Tao Yiting , McGuire John L. , Huynh Jasmine , Chahl Javaan
Published: February 2021

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared COVID-19 a pandemic. We review and reduce the clinical literature on diagnosis of COVID-19 through symptoms that might be remotely detected as of early May 2020. Vital signs associated with respiratory distress and fever, coughing, and visible infections have been reported. Fever screening by temperature monitoring is currently popular. However, improved noncontact detection is sought. Vital signs including heart rate and respiratory rate are affected by the condition. Cough, fatigue, and visible infections are also reported as common symptoms. There are non-contact methods for measuring vital signs remotely that have been shown to have acceptable accuracy, reliability, and practicality in some settings. Each has its pros and cons and may perform well in some challenges but be inadequate in others. Our review shows that visible spectrum and thermal spectrum cameras offer the best options for truly noncontact sensing of those studied to date, thermal cameras due to their potential to measure all likely symptoms on a single camera, especially temperature, and video cameras due to their availability, cost, adaptability, and compatibility. Substantial supply chain disruptions during the pandemic and the widespread nature of the problem means that cost-effectiveness and availability are important considerations.
A Four-Year Longitudinal Comparative Study on the Lexicon Development of Russian and Turkish Heritage Speakers in Germany
Authors: Czapka Sophia , Topaj Nathalie , Gagarina Natalia
Published: February 2021

Russian and Turkish are the most frequently spoken and intensively investigated heritage languages in Germany, but contrastive research on their development in early childhood is still missing. This longitudinal study compares the trajectories of expressive lexicon development in Russian (n = 70) and Turkish (n = 79) heritage speakers and identifies predictors for their lexicon size at preschool age. Heritage lexicon size was tested with two comparable tests assessing the expressive lexicon at four test points between the mean ages of 3.3 (range: 25–49 months) and 5.6 (range: 54–78 months) years. The influence of language-related factors, such as input quantity, parents’ heritage language proficiency and age of onset (AoO) of German, and other potential predictors, i.e., intelligence and socio-economic status, is evaluated. Results show that the Turkish group’s abilities grow slower but are similar at the last test point. Common predictors for lexicon size are input quantity from siblings and AoO. Group-specific influences are parental input quantity in the Russian group and siblings’ proficiency in the Turkish group. Our findings emphasize the interplay of input quantity and society language AoO for heritage lexicon development. The relevance of our results for the usage-based theory of language acquisition is discussed.
Adsorption of Pb(II) from Aqueous Solution by Mussel Shell-Based Adsorbent: Preparation, Characterization, and Adsorption Performance
Authors: Wang Quan , Jiang Fangyuan , Ouyang Xiao-Kun , Yang Li-Ye , Wang Yangguang
Published: February 2021

As a natural biological adsorbent, shell powder is inexpensive, highly efficient, and does not leave any chemical residue; thus, it can be used to remove contaminants from water. In this study, we used mussel shells as a raw material to prepare an adsorbent. Scanning electron microscopy was used to observe the surface morphology of the mussel shell powder before and after calcination, and X-ray diffraction measurements, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller measurements were performed to analyze the structure and composition of calcined mussel shell powder. Characterization of the shell powder before and after calcination revealed a change from calcium carbonate to calcium oxide, as well as the formation of a surface porous structure. Using Pb(II) as a representative contaminant, various factors affecting the adsorption were explored, and the adsorption mechanism was analyzed. It was found that the adsorption is consistent with the Freundlich adsorption isotherm and the pseudo second-order model. The calcined mussel shell powder exhibits excellent adsorption for Pb(II), with an adsorption capacity reaching 102.04 mg/g.
Finite Element Modeling of Bond Behavior of FRP and Steel Plates
Authors: Ciampa Elena , Ceroni Francesca , Pecce Maria Rosaria
Published: February 2021

Strengthening systems for existing reinforced concrete (RC) structures are increasingly needed due to several problems such as degradation of materials over the time, underdesign, serviceability or seismic upgrading, or new code requirements. In the last decades, strengthening by fibers composite materials applied with various techniques (FRP, FRCM, NSM) were largely investigated and theoretical formulations have been introduced in national and international design guidelines. Although they are an excellent strengthening solution, steel plates may represent still a valid traditional alternative, due to low costs, ductile stress-strain behavior, simple and fast mounting with possibility of reusing the material. Guidelines for a correct design are still lack and, therefore, detailed models and design formulas are needed. In this paper, the bond behavior at the plate-concrete interface, which plays a key role for the effectiveness of the strengthening system, is analyzed by means of 3D finite element models calibrated on experimental results available in literature. Parametric analyses were carried out by changing some meaningful parameters.
InP-Substrate-Based Quantum Dashes on a DBR as Single-Photon Emitters at the Third Telecommunication Window
Authors: Wyborski Paweł , Musiał Anna , Mrowiński Paweł , Podemski Paweł , Baumann Vasilij , Wroński Piotr , Jabeen Fauzia , Höfling Sven , Sęk Grzegorz
Published: February 2021

We investigated emission properties of photonic structures with InAs/InGaAlAs/InP quantum dashes grown by molecular beam epitaxy on a distributed Bragg reflector. In high-spatial-resolution photoluminescence experiment, well-resolved sharp spectral lines are observed and single-photon emission is detected in the third telecommunication window characterized by very low multiphoton events probabilities. The photoluminescence spectra measured on simple photonic structures in the form of cylindrical mesas reveal significant intensity enhancement by a factor of 4 when compared to a planar sample. These results are supported by simulations of the electromagnetic field distribution, which show emission extraction efficiencies even above 18% for optimized designs. When combined with relatively simple and undemanding fabrication approach, it makes this kind of structures competitive with the existing solutions in that spectral range and prospective in the context of efficient and practical single-photon sources for fiber-based quantum networks applications.
Modelling ATR-FTIR Spectra of Dental Bonding Systems to Investigate Composition and Polymerisation Kinetics
Authors: Delgado António HS , Young Anne M.
Published: February 2021

Component ratios and kinetics are key to understanding and optimising novel formulations. This warrants investigation of valid methods. Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infra-Red (ATR)-FTIR spectra of separate primers/adhesives were modelled using summed spectra of solvents (water, ethanol), methacrylate monomers (HEMA (hydroxyethyl methacrylate), Bis-GMA (bisphenol A glycidyl methacrylate), and 10-MDP (10-methacryloyloxydecyl dihydrogen phosphate)), and fillers, multiplied by varying fractions. Filler loads were obtained following their separation from the adhesives, by analysing three repetitions (n = 3). Spectral changes during light exposure at 37 °C (20 s, LED 1100–1330 mW/cm2) were used to determine polymerisation kinetics (n = 3). Independent samples T-test was used for statistical analysis (significance level of 5%). FTIR modelling suggested a primer solvent percentage of OBFL (Optibond FL) (30%) was half that of CFSE (Clearfil SE 2) (60%). OBFL included ethanol and water, while CFSE included only water. Monomer peaks were largely those of HEMA with lower levels of phosphate monomers. OBFL/CFSE adhesive model spectra suggested that both contained equal volumes of Bis-GMA/HEMA, with CFSE having 10-MDP. Filler levels and spectra from OBFL (48 wt.%) and CFSE (5 wt.%) were different. Both systems reached a 50% conversion rate within seconds of light exposure. The final conversion for OBFL (74 ± 1%) was lower compared to CFSE (79 ± 2%) (p < 0.05). ATR-FTIR is a useful method to investigate relative levels of main components in bonding systems and their polymerisation kinetics. Such information is valuable to understanding such behaviour.
Facile Synthesis of Ag Nanowire/TiO2 and Ag Nanowire/TiO2/GO Nanocomposites for Photocatalytic Degradation of Rhodamine B
Authors: Hajipour Pejman , Bahrami Abbas , Mehr Maryam Yazdan , van Driel Willem Dirk , Zhang Kouchi
Published: February 2021

This paper investigates the photocatalytic characteristics of Ag nanowire (AgNW)/TiO2 and AgNW/TiO2/graphene oxide (GO) nanocomposites. Samples were synthesized by the direct coating of TiO2 particles on the surface of silver nanowires. As-prepared AgNW/TiO2 and AgNW/TiO2/GO nanocomposites were characterized by electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, UV/visible absorption spectroscopy, and infrared spectroscopy. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) images confirmed the successful deposition of TiO2 nanoparticles on the surface of AgNWs. The photocatalytic activity of synthesized nanocomposites was evaluated using Rhodamine B (RhB) in an aqueous solution as the model organic dye. Results showed that synthesized AgNW/TiO2/GO nanocomposite has superior photocatalytic activities when it comes to the decomposition of RhB.
Effect of Pore Connectivity on the Behavior of Fluids Confined in Sub-Nanometer Pores: Ethane and CO2 Confined in ZSM-22
Authors: Kummali Mohammed Musthafa , Cole David , Gautam Siddharth
Published: February 2021

The behavior of fluids under nano-confinement varies from that in bulk due to an interplay of several factors including pore connectivity. In this work, we use molecular dynamics simulations to study the behavior of two fluids—ethane and CO2 confined in ZSM-22, a zeolite with channel-like pores of diameter 0.55 nm isolated from each other. By comparing the behavior of the two fluids in ZSM-22 with that reported earlier in ZSM-5, a zeolite with pores of similar shape and size connected to each other via sinusoidal pores running perpendicular to them, we reveal the important role of pore connectivity. Further, by artificially imposing pore connectivity in ZSM-22 via inserting a 2-dimensional slab-like inter-crystalline space of thickness 0.5 nm, we also studied the effect of the dimensionality and geometry of pore connectivity. While the translational motion of both ethane and CO2 in ZSM-22 is suppressed as a result of connecting the pores by perpendicular quasi-one-dimensional pores of similar dimensions, the effect of connecting the pores by inserting the inter-crystalline space is different on the translational motion of the two fluids. For ethane, pores connected via inter-crystalline space facilitate translational motion but suppress rotational motion, whereas in the case of CO2, both types of motion are suppressed by pore connection due to the strong interaction of CO2 with the surface of the substrate.
Carbon Nanodots Embedded on a Polyethersulfone Membrane for Cadmium(II) Removal from Water
Authors: Sam Simanye , Malinga Soraya Phumzile , Mabuba Nonhlangabezo
Published: February 2021

Cadmium(II) is a toxic heavy metal in aquatic systems. As a potential solution, green carbon nanodots (CNDs) were synthesized from oats and embedded on polyethersulfone membrane (PES) via phase inversion for the adsorption of Cd2+ from water. Characterization techniques for the CNDs and PES membranes were transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy (AFM), contact angle and a pure water flux assessment system operated at 300 kPa. TEM results showed that the CNDs were well dispersed with a uniform shape and size (6.7 ± 2.8 nm). Raman spectroscopy revealed that the CNDs were embedded on the PES and the ID/IG ratio slightly increased, showing that the membranes maintained good structural integrity.The CNDs/PES proved to be more hydrophilic than PES. The glassy carbon electrode (GCE) in anodic stripping voltammetry (ASV) technique detected 99.78% Cd2+ removal by 0.5% CNDs/PES at optimum conditions: 30 min. contact time, at pH 5 and 0.5 ppm Cd2+ solution. The 0.5% CNDs/PES removed Cd(II) due to the hydroxyl group (-OH) and carboxyl group (-COO-) on the membrane composite. It was established that Cu2+ and Pb2+ have a significant interfering effect during the analysis of Cd2+ using GCE in ASV technique. The 0.5% CNDs/PES is recyclable because it removed above 95% of cd2+ in four cycles. In a spiked tap water sample, 58.38% of Cd2+ was sensed by GCE of which 95% was in agreement with the value obtained from inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICPOES).
Fabrication of a T-Shaped Microfluidic Channel Using a Consumer Laser Cutter and Application to Monodisperse Microdroplet Formation
Authors: Sasaki Naoki , Sugenami Eisuke
Published: February 2021

The use of micrometer-sized droplets for chemical and biochemical analysis has been widely explored. Photolithography is mainly used to fabricate microfluidic devices, which is often employed to form monodisperse microdroplets. Although photolithography enables precise microfabrication, it is not readily available to biochemists because it requires specialized equipment such as clean room and mask aligners, and expensive consumables such as photoresist and silicon wafers. In this study, we fabricated a microfluidic device using a consumer laser cutter and applied it to droplet formation. Monodisperse microdroplets were formed by using an oil phase for droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR) as the continuous phase and phosphate-buffered saline or polyethylene glycol solution as the dispersed phase. The droplet size decreased as the flow rate of the continuous phase increased and approached a constant value. The method developed in this study can be used to realize microdroplet-based biochemical analysis with simple devices or to construct artificial cells.
Raman Spectroscopic Characteristics of Zeolite Group Minerals
Authors: Tsai Ying-Lai , Huang Eugene , Li Yu-Ho , Hung Hsiao-Tien , Jiang Jhih-Hao , Liu Teh-Ching , Fang Jianng-Neng , Chen Huei-Fen
Published: February 2021

In this work, Raman spectroscopic experiments are conducted on zeolites, including a total of 33 varieties and seven groups with different secondary structural frameworks, for which characteristic vibration modes are studied. Most of the zeolites show prominent Raman peaks in the spectral range between 200–1200 cm−1. Different groups of zeolites can be recognized by differences in the wavenumbers of the T-O-T (T = Si and Al, O = oxygen) modes in the range 379–538 cm−1, the M-O (M = metal,) modes in the range 250–360 cm−1 and the T-O bending modes in the range 530–575 cm−1. All zeolites show characteristic Raman peaks in the range 379–529 cm−1, except for natrolite group (fibrous) zeolites, which are characterized by T-O-T modes in the 433–447 cm−1 range and T-O bending modes in the 528–538 cm−1 range. The analcime group (with singly connected four-ring chains) zeolites show T-O-T modes in the 379–392 cm−1 and 475–497 cm−1 ranges. The gismondine group (with doubly connected four-ring chains) zeolites have T-O-T modes in the 391–432 cm−1 and 463–497 cm−1 ranges. The chabazite group (with a six-cyclic ring) zeolites are characterized by M-O modes in the 320–340 cm−1 range and T-O-T modes in the 477–509 cm−1 range. The Raman modes of mordenite group zeolites (397–410 cm−1 and 470–529 cm−1) overlap with those of heulandite group zeolites (402–416 cm−1 and 480–500 cm−1). Moreover, the mordenite group has a characteristic peak in the 502–529 cm−1 range, and an additional peak in the 800–965 cm−1 range. Another recognizable peak for the heulandite group is in the 612–620 cm−1 range. The unknown zeolites (cowlesite) have unique characteristic peaks at 534 cm−1, which can aid in the verification of their identity.
Effect of Water Microsolvation on the Excited-State Proton Transfer of 3-Hydroxyflavone Enclosed in γ-Cyclodextrin
Authors: Kerdpol Khanittha , Daengngern Rathawat , Sattayanon Chanchai , Namuangruk Supawadee , Rungrotmongkol Thanyada , Wolschann Peter , Kungwan Nawee , Hannongbua Supot
Published: February 2021

The effect of microsolvation on excited-state proton transfer (ESPT) reaction of 3-hydroxyflavone (3HF) and its inclusion complex with γ-cyclodextrin (γ-CD) was studied using computational approaches. From molecular dynamics simulations, two possible inclusion complexes formed by the chromone ring (C-ring, Form I) and the phenyl ring (P-ring, Form II) of 3HF insertion to γ-CD were observed. Form II is likely more stable because of lower fluctuation of 3HF inside the hydrophobic cavity and lower water accessibility to the encapsulated 3HF. Next, the conformation analysis of these models in the ground (S0) and the first excited (S1) states was carried out by density functional theory (DFT) and time-dependent DFT (TD-DFT) calculations, respectively, to reveal the photophysical properties of 3HF influenced by the γ-CD. The results show that the intermolecular hydrogen bonding (interHB) between 3HF and γ-CD, and intramolecular hydrogen bonding (intraHB) within 3HF are strengthened in the S1 state confirmed by the shorter interHB and intraHB distances and the red-shift of O–H vibrational modes involving in the ESPT process. The simulated absorption and emission spectra are in good agreement with the experimental data. Significantly, in the S1 state, the keto form of 3HF is stabilized by γ-CD, explaining the increased quantum yield of keto emission of 3HF when complexing with γ-CD in the experiment. In the other word, ESPT of 3HF is more favorable in the γ-CD hydrophobic cavity than in aqueous solution.
Crosslinked Hyaluronic Acid with Liposomes and Crocin Confers Cytoprotection in an Experimental Model of Dry Eye
Authors: Ali Sawan , Davinelli Sergio , Mencucci Rita , Fusi Franco , Scuderi Gianluca , Costagliola Ciro , Scapagnini Giovanni
Published: February 2021

Dry eye disease (DED) is a multifactorial condition caused by tear deficiency and accompanied by ocular surface damage. Recent data support a key role of oxidative and inflammatory processes in the pathogenesis of DED. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is widely used in artificial tears to treat DED by improving ocular hydration and reducing surface friction. Crocin (Cr), the main constituent of saffron, is a renowned compound that exhibits potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The present study was undertaken to assess the viscosity and muco-adhesiveness of a photoactivated formulation with crosslinked HA (cHA), Cr, and liposomes (cHA-Cr-L). Our aim was also to evaluate whether cHA-Cr-L may exert cytoprotective effects against oxidative and inflammatory processes in human corneal epithelial cells (HCECs). Viscosity was measured using a rotational rheometer, and then the muco-adhesiveness was evaluated. Under hyperosmolarity (450 mOsm), the HCECs were treated with cHA-Cr-L. Interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) were quantified by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured using the DCF assay. The combined action of cHA-Cr-L produced a higher viscosity and muco-adhesiveness compared to the control. The anti-inflammatory effect of cHA-Cr-L was achieved through a significant reduction of IL-1β and TNFα (p < 0.001). The results also showed that cHA-Cr-L reduces ROS production under conditions of hyperosmolarity (p < 0.001). We conclude that cHA-Cr-L has potential as a therapeutic agent in DED, which should be further investigated.