bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teknologi Pengolahan Samosa dengan Penambahan Daun Kelor (Moringa oleifera)
Authors: Widagdo Andika Kuncoro , Hamidah Siti
Published: July 2020

Daun kelor merupakan tanaman yang banyak ditemui di Indonesia. Tanaman ini mengandung banyak gizi, tetapi pemanfaatannya masih rendah. Agar gizi tersebut dapat dimanfaatkan maka perlu dilakukan inovasi makanan yang dapat diterima oleh masyarakat. Salah satu inovasi yang dipilih adalah samosa. Pemilihan hidangan tersebut dikarenakan rasa dari rempah dapat menutupi rasa dan aroma khas daun kelor. Penelitian dilaksanakan untuk mengetahui daya terima secara sensoris dan nilai gizi (energi dan ß-karoten) samosa. Penelitian menggunakan Rancangan Acak Lengkap (RAL) dengan 6 kali pengulangan pada 4 formula. Formula kontrol (F0) dan  3 formula modifikasi (F1,F2, dan F3), samosa diujikan kepada 50 panelis tidak terlatih dengan penambahan kelor sebesar 17,5%; 20% dan 22,5%. Analisis data menggunakan analisis deskriptif dan analisis statistik menggunakan uji Kruskal Wallis dan Mann Whitney Test (a = 0,05). Analisis daya terima menunjukkan bahwa formula samosa daun kelor dapat diterima secara umum (rasa, aroma, tekstur, dan warna) dengan kategori suka (3) hanya pada formula F1 (penambahan daun kelor paling sedikit). Warna dan tekstur tidak berbeda nyata, sedangkan aroma berbeda nyata. Formula terbaik yang direkomendasikan yaitu F1 (daun kelor 17,5%) dengan kandungan zat gizi sebesar 164 kkal dan 604 mcg ß-karoten per 100 g.

 

Received Power and Samosa Nutrition Substance with Addition Of Moringa oliefera

Moringa leaves are plant parts that are commonly found in Indonesia. This plant contains high nutrients, but its use is still limited. To utilize these nutrients, it is necessary to innovate a food that accepted by the communities. One of the food was samosa, the choice of the dish was due to the taste of the spices that able to cover the flavor and aroma typical of moringa leaves. This research was carried out to determine the sensory reception and nutritional value (energy and ß-carotene) of samosa. The study was conducted using a completely randomized design (CRD) with six replicates on four formulas. Control formula (F0) and three modified samosas recipes (F1, F2, and F3), were tested to 50 untrained panelist with the addition of moringa were 17,5%; 20% and 22.5%. Data analysis used descriptive analysis and statistical analysis using the Kruskal Wallis test and Mann Whitney Test (a = 0.05). Analysis of acceptability indicate that samosa with F1 formula (the least addition of moringa leaves) was generally accepted (taste, aroma, texture, and color) with the category of the likes (3), Color and texture were not significantly different mean while aroma was significantly different. The best formula recommended is F1 (17,5% moringa leaves) with nutrient content of 164 kcal and 604 mcg ß-carotene per 100 g of samosa.
The Long Site (41CE330), An Ancestral Caddo Site on Box’s Creek in the Neches River Basin, Cherokee County, Texas
Authors: Perttula
Published: July 2020

The Long site is principally an ancestral Caddo site dating primarily to the Early Caddo period, and the Alto phase, on Box’s Creek in the Neches River basin in the East Texas Pineywoods. A few diagnostic decorated ceramic vessel sherds and radiocarbon dates also indicate that there is a Middle Caddo period (ca. A.D. 1200-1400) component there as well, along with a mid-19th century Anglo-American component on only one part of the site.
2019 Activities Report
Authors: Meeks
Published: July 2020

2019 was an eventful year for our small organization, and for the Caddo Tribe as well. We enjoyed gathering for many events and functions throughout the previous twelve months, but none were more memorable than our trip to the Caddo Mounds State Historic Site near Alto, TX, as many might already know. I want to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their continued support of the Caddo Nation and its members, myself included. Your thoughts, prayers, and support have been heard and received by many and for that I am forever grateful. I offer a special thank you to my friends with the Caddo Conference Organization for extending the opportunity of submitting this report.
El rol de las bibliotecas en tiempos de COVID-19: reflexiones y propuestas
Authors: Alonso María Luisa (Nina) , Federico Aline
Published: July 2020

Este trabajo hace una reflexión acerca del rol de las bibliotecas como centro de acceso a la literatura y a la cultura para la infancia y la juventud durante la pandemia de la COVID-19. Empieza con una cartografía de las iniciativas dirigidas a este público promovidas por las bibliotecas Este trabajo hace una reflexión acerca del rol de las bibliotecas como centro de acceso a la literatura y a la cultura para la infancia y la juventud durante la pandemia de la COVID-19. Empieza con una cartografía de las iniciativas dirigidas a este público promovidas por las bibliotecas
Un teatro para la pandemia: alternativas para la creación escénica en tiempos del nuevo coronavirus en el Perú, a propósito del proyecto virtual «Sin filtro» del Teatro Británico
Authors: Barraza Eléspuru Ernesto
Published: July 2020

Este artículo centra su análisis en el proyecto «Sin filtro», impulsado por el Teatro Británico en Lima, como respuesta a la crisis del sector de las artes escénicas en el Perú, en el marco de la emergencia nacional por la COVID-19 que se inició el 16 de marzo de 2020 y que se ha mantenido durante el desarrollo de la presente investigación. El artículo toma como objeto de análisis las cuatro obras que se escribieron y produjeron como parte de la primera etapa del proyecto.

De esta manera, se busca reflexionar, describir y analizar los factores de un nuevo proceso creativo, a propósito del mencionado proyecto, y se intenta indagar hasta qué punto es posible la creación escénica a través de un soporte virtual, como respuesta a un contexto que ha obligado a cerrar la totalidad de los teatros en el mundo y ha dejado al sector casi totalmente en el desempleo.
The association between nutrient intake, nutritional status and physical function of community-dwelling ethnically diverse older adults
Authors: Asamane Evans Atiah , Greig Carolyn A. , Thompson Janice Lee
Published: July 2020

Background: There are limited longitudinal data regarding nutrient intake, nutritional status and physical function in community-dwelling ethnically diverse older adults. This study explored these variables and their relationship at baseline (n=100) and 8-months’ follow-up (n=81) among community-dwelling ethnically diverse older adults (≥60 years) in Birmingham, United Kingdom. Methods: Multiple-pass 24-hour dietary recalls and the Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form assessed nutritional intake and status, respectively. Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and handgrip strength measured physical function. Linear and multinomial regressions were used to predict relationships between physical function, nutritional status and nutrient intake. Results: Complete data were collected at baseline (n=100) and 8-months’ follow-up (n=81). Mean (SD) age was 70 (8.1) years (60% male), with 62% being obese. Statistically significant decreases in intakes of vitamin B6, vitamin B1, iron, folate, and magnesium occurred over time. Daily intake of all micronutrients except vitamin B12, phosphorus and manganese were below the Recommended Nutrient Intakes (RNI). SPPB (Z=-4.01, p<0.001) and nutritional status (Z=-2.37, p=0.018) declined over time. Higher SPPB scores at baseline (OR=0.54 95% CI 0.35, 0.81) were associated with a slower decline in nutritional status. Conclusion: The observed declines and inadequate nutrient intakes in the absence of weight loss in just eight months may pose serious challenges to healthy ageing, identifying an urgent need to re-evaluate and tailor appropriate dietary advice for this population. Additionally, the associations of nutrition and physical function observed in this study serves as an essential resource to design and implement community/faith-based interventions targeting early screening of nutritional status and physical function to ensure most older adults are assessed and treated accordingly.
Identification of biomarkers and pathways in hypertensive nephropathy based on the ceRNA regulatory network
Authors: Wang Zhen , Liu Zhongjie , Liu Yingxia , Kang Lei
Published: July 2020

Background

Hypertensive nephropathy (HTN) is a kind of renal injury caused by chronic hypertension, which seriously affect people’s life. The purpose of this study was to identify the potential biomarkers of HTN and understand its possible mechanisms.

Methods

The dataset numbered GSE28260 related to hypertensive and normotensive was downloaded from NCBI Gene Expression Omnibus. Then, the differentially expressed RNAs (DERs) were screened using R limma package, and functional analyses of DE-mRNA were performed by DAVID. Afterwards, a ceRNA network was established and KEGG pathway was analyzed based on the Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) database. Finally, a ceRNA regulatory network directly associated with HTN was proposed.

Results

A total of 947 DERs were identified, including 900 DE-mRNAs, 20 DE-lncRNAs and 27 DE-miRNAs. Based on these DE-mRNAs, they were involved in biological processes such as fatty acid beta-oxidation, IRE1-mediated unfolded protein response, and transmembrane transport, and many KEGG pathways like glycine, serine and threonine metabolism, carbon metabolism. Subsequently, lncRNAs KCTD21-AS1 , LINC00470 and SNHG14 were found to be hub nodes in the ceRNA regulatory network. KEGG analysis showed that insulin signaling pathway, glycine, serine and threonine metabolism, pathways in cancer, lysosome, and apoptosis was associated with hypertensive. Finally, insulin signaling pathway was screened to directly associate with HTN and was regulated by mRNAs PPP1R3C , PPKAR2B and AKT3 , miRNA has-miR-107, and lncRNAs SNHG14 , TUG1 , ZNF252P-AS1 and MIR503HG .

Conclusions

Insulin signaling pathway was directly associated with HTN, and miRNA has-miR-107 and lncRNAs SNHG14 , TUG1 , ZNF252P-AS1 and MIR503HG were the biomarkers of HTN. These results would improve our understanding of the occurrence and development of HTN.
Quantitative assessment of neural elements in a rat model using nerve growth factor after remnant-preserving anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a histological and immunofluorescence pilot study
Authors: Lee Sung Hyun , Cho Hyung Gyu , Song Jin Soo , Chun Keun Churl , Chun Churl Hong
Published: July 2020

Background: Immunofluorescence analyses of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) allografts following remnant-preserving ACL reconstruction using Achilles tendon allografts have provided evidence for the presence of neural elements. In this study, we aimed to examine the expression of neural elements and quantify the presence of neural cells in ACL remnants and Achilles allografts using nerve growth factor (NGF) therapy after remnant-preserving ACL reconstruction.Methods: Experiments were conducted on 5 pairs of rats (approximately 8 weeks old and weighing 320 g at the time of surgery). Longitudinally split Achilles tendons from the paired rats were freshly frozen and later defrosted with warm saline and allografted onto the right ACL of the other rat that was partially detached at the femoral attachment site. A sham operation was conducted on the left knee to be used as a control. NGF was injected into both knee joints every week for 6 weeks after surgery. The presence of neural cells in the ACL of the sham-operated knee, allografted Achilles tendon, and ACL remnant was examined 6 weeks post-surgery using H and E and immunofluorescent staining.Results: H and E staining did not reveal neural cells in any of the three groups. However, immunofluorescence analysis showed the presence of nestin-positive neural elements in the normal ACL tissues as well as ACL remnants. Additionally, neural elements were examined in 7 of the 8 (87.5%) allograft tissues. Quantitative analysis showed no difference in the number or area of nuclei among the three groups. However, the number and area of neural cells in the Achilles allografts were significantly lower than those in the other two groups (p=0.000 and p=0.001, respectively).Conclusion: Our observations indicate that ACL remnants promote the new ingrowth and persistence of neural cells. We suggest that the ingrowth of neural elements can support the persistence and new ingrowth of mechanoreceptors, thereby enhancing the functional stability of knee joints. Moreover, the expression of neural cells in the Achilles allografts was lower than that in normal ACL tissues and ACL remnants in the quantitative evaluation, thereby confirming the essential role of ACL remnants in knee joint functionalization.
A Five-Year Trend Analysis of Malaria Surveillance Data in Selected Zones of Amhara Region, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Lankir Damtie , Solomn Samrawit , Gize Addisu
Published: July 2020

Background : Trend analysis of malaria surveillance data is essential to inform stakeholders on progress towards malaria control. From the total 387,096 cases of malaria reported in Amhara region in 2017, 167,079 (43.2%) cases were in Central, North and West Gondar zones. From this total figure of zones, 15,445 (9.2%) were ≤5 years which contributes 4 % of cases in the region. So, the purpose of this study was to analyze trends of malaria parasite in Selected Zones of Amhara Region, Northwest Ethiopia Methods : A Retrospective study was conducted in Central, North and West Gondar zones from July 1- 30/ 2018. Data were collected, entered, cleaned, analyzed and interpreted using Microsoft Excel-2010. Different tables, figures and maps were used to present results. Result : A total of 2,827,722 cases have been received a diagnostic test of; Microscopy 1,712,193(60.56%) and Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) 1,115,529(39.44%). Trends of total patients treated as confirmed and clinical malaria cases in July 2017- June 2018 were decreased to 139297 (14%) as compared from July 2015- June 2016, 249571(25%). From total cases received diagnostic tests only 1,003,391 (36%) were confirmed and clinical cases treated with antimalaria. Of these Plasmodium falciparum and vivax malaria cases were confirmed to be 1,002,946 (99.96%) and clinical malaria cases were 445(0.04%), respectively. Conclusion : Risk of infection and diagnostic effort were high in West Gondar Zone. The Amhara public health institute including health Bureau, stakeholders and all responsible bodies should give special standing to highest malaria districts of West Gondar zone.
Active constituents of Zanthoxylum nitidum from Yunnan Province against leukemia
Authors: Deng Ying , Ding Tongtong , Deng Lulu , Hao Xiaojiang , Mu Shu Zhen
Published: July 2020

Zanthoxylum nitidium (Roxb.) DC (Rutaceae) is well known for inhibiting the proliferation of human gastric, liver, kidney and lung cancer cells, though research on its potential use in treating leukaemia is relatively rare. Twenty-six compounds were isolated from the chloroform and petroleum ether extracts of the roots and leaves of Z. nitidium . Four among them, compounds 4-6 and 16 , were first confirmed in this study by UV, IR, 1D, 2D NMR and HR-ESI-MS spectra. Compounds 1-2 and 11 were isolated from Z. nitidium for the first time. Of the assayed compounds, 1 , 2 , 9 , 10 , 14 , 15 and 24, exhibited good inhibitory activities in the leukaemia cell line HEL, whereas compound 14 (IC 50 : 3.59 µM) and compound 24 (IC 50 : 15.95 µM) exhibited potent inhibitory activities. So, to further investigate the possible mechanisms, cell cycle and apoptosis assays were performed, which indicated that compound 14 causes obvious S-phase arrest in HEL cells and induced apoptosis, whereas compound 24 only induced apoptosis. The present results suggested both compounds 14 and 24 are promising potential anti-leukaemia drug candidates.
Characterization, Identification and Expression Profiling of Genome-Wide R-Genes in Melon and Their Putative Roles in Bacterial Fruit Blotch Resistance
Authors: Islam Md. Rafiqul , Hossain Mohammad Rashed , Jesse Denison Michael Immanuel , Jung Hee-Jeong , Kim Hoy-Taek , Park Jong-In , Nou Ill-Sup
Published: July 2020

Background: Bacterial fruit blotch (BFB), a disease caused by Acidovorax citrulli, results in significant economic losses in melon. The causal QTLs and genes for resistance to this disease have yet to be identified. Resistance (R)-genes play vital roles in resistance to plant diseases. Since the complete genome sequence of melon is available and genome-wide identification of R-genes has been performed for this important crop, comprehensive expression profiling may lead to the identification of putative candidate genes that function in the response to BFB.Results: We identified melon accessions that are resistant and susceptible to BFB through repeated bioassays and characterized all 70 R-genes in melon, including their gene structures, chromosomal locations, domain organizations, motif distributions, and syntenic relationships. Several disease resistance-related domains were identified, including NBS, TIR, LRR, CC, RLK, and DUF domains, and the genes were categorized based on the domains of their encoded proteins. In addition, we profiled the expression patterns of the genes in melon accessions with contrasting levels of BFB resistance at 12 h, 1 d, 3 d, and 6 d after inoculation with A. citrulli. Six R-genes exhibited consistent expression patterns (MELO3C023441, MELO3C016529, MELO3C022157, MELO3C022146, MELO3C025518, and MELO3C004303), with higher expression levels in the resistant vs. susceptible accession. Conclusion: We identified six putative candidate R-genes against BFB in melon. Upon functional validation, these genes could be targeted for manipulation via breeding and biotechnological approaches to improve BFB resistance in melon in the future.
Transgelin interacts with PARP1 and affects Rho signaling pathway in human colon cancer cells
Authors: Lew Zhen-xian , Zhou Hui-min , Fang Yuan-yuan , Ye Zhen , Zhong Wa , Yang Xin-yi , Yu Zhong , Chen Dan-yu , Luo Si-min , Chen Li-fei , Lin Ying
Published: July 2020

Background: Transgelin, an actin-binding protein, is associated with the cytoskeleton remodeling. Our previous studies found that transgelin was up-regulated in node-positive colorectal cancer versus in node-negative disease. Over-expression of TAGLN affected the expression of 256 downstream transcripts and increased the metastatic potential of colon cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. This study aims to explore the mechanisms that transgelin participates in the metastasis of colon cancer cells.Methods: Immunofluorescence and immunoblotting analysis were used to determine the cellular localization of the endogenous and exogenous transgelin in colon cancer cells. Co-immunoprecipitation and subsequent high performance liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry were performed to identify the proteins potentially interacting with transgelin. Bioinformatics methods were used to analyze the 256 downstream transcripts regulated by transgelin to discriminate the specific key genes and signaling pathways. GCBI tools were used to predict the potential transcription factor(s) for these key genes. The predicted transcription factors were matching to the proteins that have been identified to interact with transgelin. The interaction between transgelin and these transcription factors was verified by co-immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence.Results: Transgelin was found to localize both in cytoplasm and nucleus of colon cancer cells. 297 proteins have been identified to interact with transgelin by co-immunoprecipitation and subsequent high performance liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. Over-expression of TAGLN could lead to differential expression of 184 downstream genes. The network of gene-encoded proteins was constructed in which 7 genes (CALM1, MYO1F, NCKIPSD, PLK4, RAC1, WAS and WIPF1) have been discriminated as key genes by network topology analysis. They are mostly involved in the Rho signaling pathway. Poly ADP-ribose polymerase-1 (PARP1) was predicted as the unique transcription factor for the key genes and concurrently matching to the DNA-binding proteins potentially interacting with transgelin. Immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence validated the interaction between PARP1and transgelin in human RKO colon cancer cells. Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that transgelin binds to PARP1 and regulates the expression of downstream key genes which are mainly involved in Rho signaling pathway, thus participates in the metastasis of colon cancer.
Genotypic characterisation and antimicrobial resistance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains isolated from patients of different hospitals and medical centres from Poland
Authors: Brzozowski Marcin , Krukowska Żaneta , Galant Katarzyna , Jursa-Kulesza Joanna , Kosik-Bogacka Danuta Izabela
Published: July 2020

Background: Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a Gram-negative bacteria responsible for infections in immunocompromised patients and is one of the most common causes of nosocomial infections particularly in intensive care and burn units. We aimed to investigate the population structure of P. aeruginosa strains isolated from patients at different hospital wards. Methods: We analysed the possible presence of P. aeruginosa epidemic or endemic strains in hospitals of the selected region. A genotyping analysis was performed for 202 P. aeruginosa isolates collected from patients of eleven hospitals in north-western Poland. Collections of P. aeruginosa were genotyped using pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Phenotypic screening for antibiotic susceptibility was performed for the common antimicrobial agents.Results: P. aeruginosa isolates were distributed among 116 different pulsotype groups. We identified 30 groups of clonally related strains, each containing from 2 to 17 isolates and typed the obtained 13 unique patterns, designated as A, D, E, J, K, M, N, Ó, P, T, X, AC, AD, and AH. The two largest clusters, D and E, contained 17 and 13 isolates, respectively. Strains of these groups were continuously isolated from patients at intensive care units and burn units, indicating transmission of these strains. Conclusions: In this study, we demonstrate the clonal relatedness of P. aeruginosa strains and their constant exchange in hospitals over a period of 15 months. The obtained results indicate a predominantly non-clonal structure of P. aeruginosa.
Biosurfactant production by Trichoderma sp. MK116452 and its possible application in oil recovery
Authors: Matussin Nur Bazilah Afifah , Shivanand Pooja , Lim Lee Hoon
Published: July 2020

Surfactants are amphiphatic compounds containing both hydrophilic and hydrophobic groups, which are capable of lowering surface or interfacial tension. Considering the advantages of using biosurfactants produced by microorganisms, the aim of this study was to develop and characterise a biosurfactant produced by Trichoderma sp. MK116452 isolated from Seri Cermin filling station, Brunei Darussalam, and to examine its potential application in microbial enhanced oil recovery (MEOR). The microorganism was cultured in a minimal salt medium containing 1% crude oil as a carbon source and a cell-free culture broth was used to screen its efficiency in producing biosurfactants. Characterisation of the biosurfactant showed the presence of glycosides and fatty acids, suggesting its glycolipidic nature. The isolated biosurfactant showed no toxicity to the micro-crustacean Artemia salina or to red bean ( Vigna angularis ). The extracted biosurfactant was effective at recovering up to 60% of crude oil from sand using the sand pack column method, which is similar to the recovery rate for a chemical surfactant (SDS) (65%). These findings highlight the potential use of Trichoderma sp. MK116452 biosurfactant in the oil industry.
Global identification of genes associated with xylan biosynthesis in cotton fiber
Authors: Chen Feng , Guo Yanjun , Chen Li , Gan Xinli , Liu Min , Li Juan , Xu wenliang
Published: July 2020

Background: Mature cotton fiber secondary wall comprises largely of cellulose (>90%) and small amounts of xylan and lignin. Little is known about the cotton fiber xylan biosynthesis by far. Results: To comprehensively survey biosynthetic enzymes involved in xylan biosynthesis in cotton fiber, the combination of the phylogenetic analysis with expression profile analysis and co-expression analyses allowed us to identify five IRX9, five IRX10, one IRX14, six IRX15, two FRA8, one PARVUS, eight GUX, four GXM, two RWA, two AXY9, 13 TBL genes. In addition, we also identified two GT61 members, two GT47 members, and two DUF579 family members whose homologs in Arabidopsis were not functionally characterized. These 55 genes were regarded as the most probable genes to be involved in fiber xylan biosynthesis. Further experimental validation of one IRX10 like and two FRA8 related genes by complementation analysis indicated that these three genes are able to partially recover the irregular xylem phenotype conferred by the xylan deficiency in the respective Arabidopsis mutant. We presume that these genes are functional orthologs of respective genes that are implicated in GX biosynthesis. Conclusion: The list of 55 cotton genes presented here provides not only a solid basis to uncover the biosynthesis of xylan in cotton fiber, but also a genetic resource potentially useful for future studies aiming at fiber improvement via biotechnological approaches.
Modelling and predicting the spatio-temporal spread of COVID-19 in Italy
Authors: Giuliani Diego , Dickson Maria Michela , Espa Giuseppe , Santi Flavio
Published: July 2020

Background:
The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was first detected in China at the end of 2019 and it has since spread in few months all over the World. Italy was one of the first Western countries who faced the health emergency and is one of the countries most severely affected by the pandemic. The diffusion of COVID-19 in Italy has followed a peculiar spatial pattern, however the attention of the scientific community has so far focussed almost exclusively on the prediction of the evolution of the disease over time.
Methods:
Official freely available data about the number of infected at the finest possible level of spatial areal aggregation (Italian provinces) are used to model the spatio-temporal distribution of COVID-19 infections at local level. An endemic-epidemic time-series mixed-effects generalized linear model for areal disease counts has been implemented to understand and predict spatio-temporal diffusion of the phenomenon.
Results:
Three subcomponents characterize the fitted model. The first describes the transmission of the illness within provinces; the second accounts for the transmission between nearby provinces; the third is related to the evolution of the disease over time. At the local level, the provinces first concerned by containment measures are those that are not affected by the effects of spatial neighbours. On the other hand, the component accounting for the spatial interaction with surrounding areas is prevalent for provinces that are strongly involved by contagions. Moreover, the proposed model provides good forecasts for the number of infections at local level while controlling for delayed reporting.
Conclusions:
A strong evidence is found that strict control measures implemented in some provinces efficiently break contagions and limit the spread to nearby areas. While containment policies may potentially be more effective if planned considering the peculiarities of local territories, the effective and homogeneous enforcement of control measures at national level is needed to prevent the disease control being delayed or missed as a whole. This may also apply at international level where, as it is for the EU or the USA, the internal border checks among states have largely been abolished.
Carbon Stock, Sequestration and Soil Properties among Fields in Smallholder Farms in Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Laekemariam Fanuel
Published: July 2020

Background Soil organic carbon (SOC) is key indicator of soil quality and health. It has substantial benefits to the ecosystem. Information on the magnitude of carbon pools under field scale of subsistence farms is scanty. This study aimed to assess carbon stock, sequestration and soil properties among different fields in smallholder farms of southern Ethiopia. Five field types within a farm were investigated viz. coffee (Coffea arabica L.), enset (Ensete ventricosum), root and tuber crop field (RTC), crop field used for growing cereals and pulses, and fallow land. For each field, eight representative fields as a replication were selected. Surface soil samples were collected, and analyzed to determine soil physico-chemical properties. In addition, C stock, C-sequestration, and CO2 emission were also evaluated. Results The result regarding soil properties revealed significant differences in almost all of investigated parameters. The minimum and maximum values being recorded were: bulk density (BD) (1.05, 1.29 gm cm-3), pH (6.1, 7.0), SOC (1.1, 2.48%), TN (0.09-0.19%), available P (1.1, 70.9 mg/kg), total exchangeable bases (9.5, 20.5 Cmolc/kg), K/Mg (0.37,1.02), B (0.4, 1.2 mg/kg) Cu (0.32, 0.91 mg/kg), Zn (5, 20.5 mg/kg), Fe (105.5, 133.8 mg/kg) and CEC (18.6, 27.5 mg/kg). Fields in the backyard (enset and coffee) showed lowest BD and maximum values of soil chemical properties. On contrary, highest BD and lowest values of chemical parameters were observed in crop and fallow fields. The result further indicated that the field that stocked and sequestered more carbon, and emitted less CO2 was coffee > enset > RTC > crop field > fallow land. C-stock and sequestration (t/ha) magnitude was being: coffee (81.4, 298.5), enset (75.5, 277.0), RTC (68.8, 252.6), crop field (57.5, 211.0) and fallow (43.3, 159). Using coffee field as least CO2 emitter and as the base value for comparison, the percentage increment in CO2 emission out of the sequestered carbon was 7.2% (enset), 15.4% (RTC), 29.3% (crop field) and 46.7% (fallow).Soil deterioration index (%) relative to coffee field for OC, N, P, and K in their order was as follows: enset [-2.8, 0, 254.5, 23.1], RTC [-17.7, -31.6, -59.5, -34.6], crop field [-35, -47.4,-79, -46] and fallow [-55.7, -52.6, -94.5,and -76.9]. Conclusion Different fields within smallholder farms exhibited significant variation in amount of carbon sequestered, CO2 emission, soil degradation and soil properties. Thus, climate smart soil management practices that would enhance carbon pool and simultaneously increasing soil quality are suggested e.g., integrated nutrient management.
Systemic factors affecting the technical quality of healthcare in results-based financing in Burkina Faso.
Authors: Zigani Zambeando , BICABA Abel , Sanon Adama , Sawadogo Siméon
Published: July 2020

Background:In the implementation of the results-based financing (PBF) strategy in Burkina Faso, there is heterogeneity in the performance of technical quality of healthcare in basic healthcare facilities. This study aims to identify the factors that may explain this heterogeneity. Methods:We carried out a quantitative study in 30 basic public health facilities, thirteen of which have a quality score greater than or equal to 50% and 17 of which have a quality score less than 50%. Data from their profiles were collected using a direct observation grid. A total of 94 health professionals answered a series of semi-structured questions. A bivariate analysis using the Chi-square test and a multivariate analysis using the multiple regression model were used. Results:The difference is statistically significant in favour of health facilities with good performance in technical quality in terms of health infrastructure (p=0.020), health equipment (p=0.004) and compliance with norms and standards in terms of health personnel (p=0.004). The variables used in the multiple regression model are ongoing training (p=0.000), internal communication (p=0.000) and financial motivation (p=0.003) of health professionals.Conclusion:These results suggest that the effectiveness of the technical quality of healthcare in implementing the PBF depends on certain basic conditions in the health facilities, such as the presence of infrastructures, equipment and human resources that meet established norms and standards and the managerial dynamics of healthcare workers.
Lung ultrasound score to determine the effect of fraction inspired oxygen during alveolar recruitment on absorption atelectasis in laparoscopic surgery: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kim Bo Rim , Lee Seohee , Bae Hansu , Lee Minkyoo , Bahk Jae-Hyon , Yoon Susie
Published: July 2020

Background The intraoperative alveolar recruitment maneuver (ARM) efficiently treats atelectasis, but the effect of Fio 2 during ARM on atelectasis is uncertain. Here, we investigated this effect. Methods Patients undergoing elective laparoscopic surgery in the Trendelenburg position were randomized to low- (Fio 2 0.4; n=44) and high-Fio 2 (Fio 2 1.0, n=46) groups. ARMs were performed 1-min post tracheal intubation and post changes between supine and Trendelenburg positions during surgery. Intraoperative Fio 2 was set at 0.4 for both groups. Modified lung ultrasound (LUS) scores were calculated to assess lung aeration after inducing anesthesia and at surgery completion. The primary outcome was modified LUS score at the end of the surgery, and secondary outcomes were the intra- and postoperative Pao 2 to Fio 2 ratio and postoperative pulmonary complications. Results Both groups presented similar modified LUS scores before capnoperitoneum and ARM ( P =0.747). However, the postoperative modified LUS score was significantly lower in the low- than in the high-Fio 2 group (7.0±4.1 vs 11.7±4.2, mean difference 4.7, 95% CI 2.96–6.44, P <0.001). Significant atelectasis postoperatively was more common in the high-Fio 2 group (relative risk 1.77, 95% CI 1.27‒2.47, P <0.001). Intra- and postoperative Pao 2 to Fio 2 were similar and no postoperative pulmonary complications occurred. Atelectasis occurred more frequently when ARM was performed with high than with low Fio 2 . High-Fio 2 did not benefit oxygenation. Conclusions In patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery in the Trendelenburg position, absorption atelectasis occurred more frequently when the ARM was performed with high rather than low Fio 2 . No oxygenation benefit was observed in the high-Fio 2 group.
Complementary NAD+ Replacement Strategies Fail to Functionally Protect Dystrophin-Deficient Muscle
Authors: Frederick David , McDougal Alan V. , Semenas Melisa , Vappiani Johanna , Nuzzo Andrea , Ulrich John C. , Stewart Eugene L. , Sévin Daniel C. , Kramer H. Fritz , Becherer J. David , Preugschat Frank
Published: July 2020

Background Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a progressive muscle wasting disorder stemming from a loss of functional dystrophin. Current therapeutic options for DMD are limited, as small molecule modalities remain largely unable to lessen the incidence or mitigate the consequences of repetitive mechanical insults to the muscle during eccentric contractions (ECCs). Methods Using a metabolomics approach, we observed distinct and transient molecular phenotypes in muscles of dystrophin-deficient MDX mice subjected to ECCs. Among the most depleted metabolites was nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD), an essential metabolic cofactor suggested to protect muscle from structural and metabolic degeneration over time. We tested whether the MDX muscle NAD pool can be expanded for therapeutic benefit by providing a biosynthetic precursor, nicotinamide riboside, or specifically inhibiting the NAD-degrading activity of the ADP-ribosyl cyclase, CD38. Results Administering a novel, potent, and orally available CD38 antagonist to MDX mice successfully reverted a majority of the muscle metabolome toward the wildtype state, while supplementing nicotinamide riboside did not significantly affect the molecular phenotype of the muscle. However, neither strategy effectively lessened muscle damage markers or improved hindlimb strength following repeated rounds of eccentric challenge and recovery. Conclusions Intramuscular NAD depletion occurs rapidly after eccentic injury, with broad pleitropic effects on the molecular phenotype of the tissue. Currently available means of protecting or replenishing the muscle NAD pool via orally administered small molecules are insufficient to functionally restore dystrophin-deficient muscle.
Neurodegeneration and Neuroinflammation are Linked, but Independent of α-Synuclein Inclusions, in a Seeding/Spreading Mouse Model of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Garcia Pierre , Wemheuer Wiebke , Uriarte Oihane , Schmit Kristopher J , Masuch Annette , Brioschi Simone , Weihofen Andreas , Koncina Eric , Coowar Djalil , Heurtaux Tony , Glaab Enrico , Balling Rudi , Sousa Carole , Michelucci Alessandro , Kaoma Tony , Nicot Nathalie , Pfander Tatjana , Schulz-Schaeffer Walter , Allouche Ahmad , Fischer Nicolas , Biber Knut , Mittelbronn Michel , Buttini Manuel
Published: July 2020

Background: Akey process of neurodegeneration in Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the transneuronal spreading of a-synuclein. Alpha-synuclein is a presynaptic protein that is implicated in the pathogenesis of PD and other synucleinopathies, where it forms, upon intracellular aggregation, pathological inclusions.Other hallmarks of PD include neurodegeneration and microgliosis in susceptible brain regions. Whether it is primarilytransneuronal spreading of a-synuclein particles,inclusion formation, or other mechanisms, such as inflammation,that cause neurodegeneration in PDis unclear.Methods: We used spreading/aggregation ofa-synuclein induced by intracerebral injection of a-synucleinpreformed fibrils into the mouse brain to address this question. We performed quantitative histological analysis for a-synuclein inclusions, neurodegeneration, and microgliosis in different brain regions, and a gene expression profiling of the ventral midbrain, at two different timepoints after disease induction.Results: We observed significant neurodegeneration and microgliosis in brain regions not only with,but alsowithouta-synuclein inclusions. We also observed prominent microgliosis in injured brain regions that did not correlate with neurodegeneration nor with inclusion load. In longitudinal gene expression profiling experiments, we observedearly and unique alterationslinkedto microglial mediated inflammation that preceded neurodegeneration, indicating an active role of microglia in inducing neurodegeneration. Our observations indicate that a-synuclein inclusion formation is not the major driverin the early phases of PD-like neurodegeneration, but that diffusible, oligomeric a-synuclein species,which induce unusual microglial reactivity, play a key role in this process.Conclusion: Our findings uncover new features of a-synuclein induced pathologies, in particular microgliosis, and point to the necessity of a broader view of the process of “prion-like spreading” of that protein.
10-year follow-up results of the prospective, double-blinded, randomized, controlled study on autologous bone marrow buffy coat grafting combined with core decompression in patients with avascular necrosis of the femoral head
Authors: Li Mengyuan , Ma Yuanchen , Fu Guangtao , Zhang Ruiying , Li Qingtian , Deng Zhantao , Zheng Minghao , Zheng Qiujian
Published: July 2020

Background: Avascular necrosis of the femoral head (ANFH) is a severely disabling disease of the hip. Several clinical trials have shown promising outcomes on the use of mesenchymal stem cells for the treatment of ANFH, but long-term clinical assessments are lacking. Previously, we reported the two-year follow-up results of a prospective, double-blinded, randomized, controlled study on autologous bone marrow buffy coat grafting combined with core decompression in patients with ANFH. Here, we report the ten-year follow-up results of this study.Methods: We recruited 43 (53 hips) patients from 2009 to 2010. The hips were randomly allocated to code decompression (CD) with or without bone marrow buffy coat (BBC) grafting. Participants underwent follow-up at 24, 60, and 120 months postoperatively. The visual analogue scale (VAS), Lequesne algofunctional index and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) osteoarthritis scores were recorded. Survival rate analysis and prognostic factor analysis were performed. The endpoint was defined as progression to Ficat stage IV or conversion to hip arthroplasty.Results: A total of 31 patients (41 hips) were included in the final analysis. The CD + BBC group had better subjective assessment scores than the CD group. The average survival times were 102.3 months and 78.1 months in the CD + BBC group and CD group, respectively (log-rank test, P = 0.029). In the univariate Cox proportional hazards regression model, age [hazards ratio (HR) = 1.079, P = 0.047] and preoperative Ficat stage (HR = 3.283, P = 0.028) indicated a high risk for progression, while the use of BBC (HR = 0.332, P = 0.042) indicated a low risk. Preoperative Ficat stage III was isolated as an independent risk factor for clinical failure in the multivariate model (HR = 3.743, P = 0.018).Conclusion: The ten-year follow-up results of this prospective, double-blinded, randomized, controlled study showed that the use of autologous BBC in combination with core decompression was more effective than the use of core decompression alone.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT01613612. Registered 13 December 2011 – Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/record/NCT01613612.
Association between clinical competencies and mental health symptoms among frontline medical staff during the COVID-19 outbreak: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Chang Qing , Xia Yang , Gao Shanyan , Sun Yongjun , Zhang Ming , Su Han , Ma Xiaoyu , Liu Yashu , Zhao Yuhong
Published: July 2020

Background: In China, mental health of frontline medical staff might be influenced by clinicians’ ability to handle the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Few studies to-date have addressed the association between clinicians’ competencies and mental health in this context. This cross-sectional study has examined the prevalence of mental health symptoms among frontline medical staff handling the COVID-19 outbreak, and explored the associations between their competencies, and separate and concurrent depressive and anxiety symptoms. Methods: A total of 623 frontline medical staff were included in this study, which took place from January 20, 2020 to February 20, 2020. Competencies, depressive symptoms, and anxiety symptoms were assessed using the short form of the Chinese clinical physicians’ competency model, Patient Health Questionnaire-9, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 questionnaire, respectively. Logistic regression models were used to estimate the associations between one standard deviation increase in competency scores and the prevalence of mental health problems. Multivariate-adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.Results: Among 623 staff members, the prevalence of depressive, anxiety, and comorbid depressive and anxiety symptoms was 40.93%, 31.78%, and 26.00%, respectively. Among the medical staff with higher total competency scores, the prevalence of depressive (OR=0.67, 95% CI: 0.55-0.81), anxiety (OR=0.68, 95% CI: 0.56-0.83), and comorbid anxiety and depressive symptoms (OR=0.69, 95% CI: 0.55-0.83) was lower than among their lower-scoring counterparts. Subgroup analyses stratified by core competency scores revealed similar associations as the main analyses.Conclusions: The present findings highlight the association between high core competency scores and lower prevalence of depressive, anxiety, and comorbid anxiety and depressive symptoms. Improving medical staff’s core competencies might help prevent mental health problems among frontline medical staff responding to COVID-19.
The Fastest Simulation of Protein Folding Based on Torsion Angles
Authors: Jeong Seonghoon
Published: July 2020

Backgrounds:
Enormous number of possible conformations in the protein structure simulation have led molecular dynamics researchers to be frustrated until now. Some methods with defects ended their experiments into failure. This made them fail to determine the structure and function of folded protein in stable state with the lowest potential energy. This apparently exist in nature. The purpose of resolving a protein folding pathway that follows protein backbone residues torsional inertia was accomplished.
Results
A new method, torsion angle modeling, was adopted focused on the rotation of dihedral angles. The potential energy was calculated by rotating torsion angles of the peptide with 8 residues. It was found that when moving in the order of torsional inertia, 8 residues swivel in sequence. Six passes were repeated to find the lowest value.
Conclusion
The protein backbone torsion angle plays very important role in predicting protein structure. Actually it was thousand times faster or more than others to get the obvious pathway.
Efficacy and safety of knee flexion enhanced standardized home exercise program comparing supervised physiotherapy to improve mobility and quality of life after Total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Xu Tianyang , Fan Lin , Yang Dong , Liu Kaiyuan , Gao Qiuming , Li Guodong
Published: July 2020

Background: In the present study, we introduced a knee flexion enhanced standardized home exercise program assisted by a low stool and evaluate efficiency of this method in the management of rehabilitation after TKA.Methods: Patients were recruited from July 2014 and December 2015, and randomized into two groups, a knee flexion enhanced standardized home exercise program group (group KFEH) and commonly-used supervised physiotherapy group (group SPT). Outcomes were evaluated by observing the joint function with the Knee Society score (KSS), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) score, and ROM assessment at selected time points (pre-operation and 1 week, 1 month, 3 month, 6 month and 1 year following post-operation). Results: At last, we observed pain and functional improvements in both groups. Noninferiority was shown 12 months postoperatively for clinical outcomes except group KFEH had better ROM range at 1 month (P<0.01). The absolute value of WOMAC and KSS were slight better in group KFEH without significant difference, and there was no difference about VAS between two groups as well as complication incidence rate. Additionally, home program would save patients’ times and decrease economic burden. Patents would save 14 times postoperative rehabilitation in outhospital service, and cut down at least 782 RMB in total. Conclusion: Taking the rehabilitation and economical efficiency, we recommend knee flexion enhanced home exercise program for TKA rehabilitation management.