bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
O MÉTODO DA BISSEÇÃO DESENVOLVIDO A PARTIR DA PERSPECTIVA DA TEORIA DOS REGISTROS DE REPRESENTAÇÃO SEMIÓTICA E CONTEÚDOS DO ENSINO MÉDIO
Authors: Lara Fernanda Gastaldi  , Adriano Rodrigues de Melo
Published: February 2021

Este trabalho tem por objetivo apresentar o desenvolvimento do M´etodo da Bisseção,utilizado para o cálculo de aproximaçoes de ra´ızes de funç˜oes, a partir da teoriados registros de representaçao semi´ótica. Foram necess´arios apenas conte´udos doensino m´edio, ao passo que as mudanc¸as de registros utilizadas em cada passo foramtodas mostradas. Aplicou-se o Algoritmo desenvolvido, por meio da construção de umprograma em linguagem PHP, num problema de matem´ática financeira. Conclui-se queo dom´ınio de v´ários registros de representaçao de um conceito matem´ático favorece odesenvolvimento de novas ideias e conhecimentos.
AVALIAÇÃO DO NIVEL DE UREIA NO LEITE E A SUA RELAÇÃO COM AS PROPRIEDADES LEITEIRAS DO MUNICÍPIO DE ABELARDO LUZ
Authors: Giovanna Tauchert Gris  , Fernanda Tomazi  , Sara Eulália Coelho
Published: February 2021

O objetivo do trabalho foi utilizar os dados do nível de ureia no leite (NUL) paradetectar o status nutricional das vacas em lactação de 7 propriedades leiteiras doMunicípio de Abelardo Luz e, propor ajustes nas dietas visando o aumento daprodução de leite e redução dos custos da alimentação. Os dados de NUL e asinformações sobre a alimentação das vacas foram fornecidas pelos produtores. Oestudo proporcionou uma visão sistemática da eficiência na manipulação das dietas,demonstrando que as propriedades que apresentam critérios de alimentação maisadequados produzem mais leite e com melhor qualidade.
Diffusion-Based Modeling of Gas Transport in Organic-Rich Ultratight Reservoirs
Authors: Liu Zizhong , Emami-Meybodi Hamid
Published: February 2021

The complex pore structure and storage mechanism of organic-rich ultratight reservoirs make the hydrocarbon transport within these reservoirs complicated and significantly different from conventional oil and gas reservoirs. A substantial fraction of pore volume in the ultratight matrix consists of nanopores in which the notion of viscous flow may become irrelevant. Instead, multiple transport and storage mechanisms should be considered to model fluid transport within the shale matrix, including molecular diffusion, Knudsen diffusion, surface diffusion, and sorption. This paper presents a diffusion-based semianalytical model for a single-component gas transport within an infinite-acting organic-rich ultratight matrix. The model treats free and sorbed gas as two phases coexisting in nanopores. The overall mass conservation equation for both phases is transformed into one governing equation solely on the basis of the concentration (density) of the free phase. As a result, the partial differential equation (PDE) governing the overall mass transport carries two newly defined nonlinear terms; namely, effective diffusion coefficient, De, and capacity factor, Φ. The De term accounts for the molecular, Knudsen, and surface diffusion coefficients, and the Φ term considers the mass exchange between free and sorbed phases under sorption equilibrium condition. Furthermore, the ratio of De/Φ is recognized as an apparent diffusion coefficient Da, which is a function of free phase concentration. The nonlinear PDE is solved by applying a piecewise-constant-coefficient technique that divides the domain under consideration into an arbitrary number of subdomains. Each subdomain is assigned with a constant Da. The diffusion-based model is validated against numerical simulation. The model is then used to investigate the impact of surface and Knudsen diffusion coefficients, porosity, and adsorption capacity on gas transport within the ultratight formation. Further, the model is used to study gas transport and production from the Barnett, Marcellus, and New Albany shales. The results show that surface diffusion significantly contributes to gas production in shales with large values of surface diffusion coefficient and adsorption capacity and small values of Knudsen diffusion coefficient and total porosity. Thus, neglecting surface diffusion in organic-rich shales may result in the underestimation of gas production.
Comparison of capillary and venous blood for malaria detection using two PCR based assays in febrile patients in Sierra Leone.
Authors: Leski Tomasz , Taitt Chris Rowe , Bangura Umaru , Lahai Joseph , Lamin Joseph M. , Baio Victoria , Koroma Mohamed S , Swaray Abdulai G. , Jacobsen Kathryn H. , Jackson Olivia , Jones Brian W , Phillips Cynthia L. , Ansumana Rashid , Stenger David A.
Published: February 2021

Background. Rapid and sensitive diagnostics are critical tools for clinical case management and public health control efforts. Both capillary and venous blood are currently used for malaria detection and while diagnostic technologies may not be equally sensitive with both materials, the published data on this subject are scarce and not conclusive.Methods. Paired clinical samples of venous and capillary blood from 141 febrile individuals in Bo, Sierra Leone, were obtained between January and May 2019 and tested for the presence of Plasmodium parasites using two multiplexed PCR assays: the FilmArray-based Global Fever Panel (GFP) and the TaqMan-based Malaria Multiplex Sample Ready (MMSR) assay.Results. We observed no significant differences in Plasmodium parasite detection between capillary and venous blood for both assays. The GFP assay was more sensitive than MMSR for all markers that could be compared (Plasmodium spp. and P. falciparum) in both venous and capillary blood.Conclusions. No difference was found in malaria detection between venous and capillary blood using two different PCR-based detection assays. This data gives support for use of capillary blood, a material which can be obtained easier by less invasive methods, for PCR-based malaria diagnostics, independent of the platform.
Five Regions, Five Retinopathy Screening Programmes: A Systematic Review of how Portugal addresses the challenge.
Authors: Pereira Andreia Marisa Penso , Laureano Raul Manuel da Silva , Neto Fernando Buarque de Lima
Published: February 2021

Background: The implementation of a population-based screening programme for diabetic retinopathy involves several challenges, often leading to postponements and setbacks at high human and material costs. Thus, it is of the utmost importance to promote the sharing of experiences, successes and difficulties. However, factors such as the existence of regional programmes, specificities of each country's health systems, organizational and even linguistic barriers, make it difficult to create a solid framework that can be used as a basis for future projects.Methods: Web of Science and PubMed platforms were searched using appropriate key words. The review process resulted in 423 articles adherent to the search criteria, 28 of which were accepted and analysed. Web sites of all Portuguese governmental and non-governmental organizations, with a relevant role on the research topic, were inspected and 75 official documents were retrieved and analysed.Results: Since 2001, five regional screening programmes were gradually implemented under the guidelines of Portuguese General Health Department. However, complete population coverage was still not achieved. Among the main difficulties reported are the complex articulation between different levels of care providers, the low number of orthoptic technician in the national health system, the high burden that images grading and treatment of positive cases represents for hospitals ophthalmology services, and low adherence rates. Yet, the comparison between strategies adopted in the different regions allowed the identification of potential solutions: hire orthoptic technician for primary health care units, eliminating the dependence of hospital professionals; use artificial intelligence algorithms for automatic retinographies grading, avoiding ophthalmologists overload; adoption of proximity strategies, as the use of portable retinographers, to promote adherence to screening.Conclusion: Access to diabetic retinopathy screening remains remarkably variable in Portugal and needs urgent attention. However, several characteristics of effective screening programmes were found in Portuguese screening programmes, what seems to point toward promising outcomes, especially if each other highlights are considered. The findings of this research could be very useful for the other countries with similar socio-political characteristics.Registration: PROSPERO registration ID CRD42020200115
Eight-gene risk score predicts progression and prognosis in bladder cancer
Authors: Wang Ruiliang , Zheng Zongtai , Mao Shiyu , Zhang Wentao , Liu Ji , Li Cheng , Liu Shenghua , Yao Xudong
Published: February 2021

Background: The progression from non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) to muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) increases the risk of death. It is therefore important to find new relevant molecular models that will allow for effective prediction of the progression and prognosis of bladder cancer (BC).Methods: Using RNA-Sequence data of 49 BC patients in our center and weighted gene co-expression network analysis methods, a co-expression network of genes was developed and three key modules associated with malignant progression were selected. Based on the genes in three key modules, an eight-gene risk score was established using univariate Cox regression and the Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator Cox model in The Cancer Genome Atlas Program (TCGA) and validated in validation sets. Subsequently, a nomogram based on the risk score was constructed for prognostic prediction. The mRNA and protein expression levels of eight genes in cell lines and tissues were further investigated.Results: A novel eight-gene risk score was closely related to the malignant clinical features of BC and could predict the prognosis of patients in the training dataset (TCGA) and three validation sets (GSE3289 , GSE13507 and IMvigor210 trial). The nomogram showed good prognostic prediction and calibration. The mRNA and protein expression level of the eight genes were differentially expressed in cell lines and tissues.Conclusions: In our study, we established a novel eight-gene risk score which could predict the progression and prognoses of BC patients.
Distinguishing electron paramagnetic resonance signature of molecular hydrino
Authors: Hagen Wilfred , Mills Randell
Published: February 2021

Quantum mechanics postulates that the hydrogen atom has a stable ground state from which it can be promoted to excited states by capture of electromagnetic radiation, with the energy of all possible states given by En = -13.598/n2 eV, in which n ≥ 1 is a positive integer. By contrast, it has been proposed that the n = 1 state is not the true ground state, and that so-called ‘hydrino’ states of lower energy can exist, which are characterized by fractional quantum numbers n = 1/p, in which 1 < p ≤ 137 is a limited integer1,2. Electron transition to a hydrino state, H(1/p) is non-radiative and requires a quantized amount of energy, 2mE1 (m is an integer), to be transferred to a catalyst3,4. Since its inception5 the hydrino hypothesis has remained highly controversial6-17 and laboratory verification studies by its proponents have been criticised18,19. Remarkably, no experimental testing by independent researchers has been described in the literature over the past 31 years. Here, we give an account of an independent electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) study of molecular hydrino H2(1/4) that was produced by a plasma reaction of atomic hydrogen with non-hydrogen bonded water as the catalyst. A sharp, complex, multi-line EPR spectrum is found, whose detailed properties prove to be semi-quantitatively consistent with predictions20 from hydrino theory with an average error less than 0.09 G (0.2%) over a 39 G span of 37 lines. We have sought but failed to find reasonable alternative, ‘conventional’ interpretations for the detected paramagnetism. Fundamental relevance of the hydrino hypothesis lies in its challenging some of the foundations of the theory of quantum mechanics1. Very high net energy release during hydrino formation signifies technological relevance as a novel method of green energy production with recent validation at the 100 kW continuous power level by measurement of steam production20-27.
Overexpression of thermophilic a -amylase in Bacillus licheniformis using a high efficiency chromosomal integration and amplification strategy
Authors: Shen Peili , Niu Dandan , Liu Xuelian , Tian Kangming , Kugenthiren Permaul , Singh Suren , Wang Zhengxiang
Published: February 2021

Background: The production of industrially important enzymes depends on the development of genetically stable and high-yielding microorganisms. In order to simplify the development of strains able to efficiently overproduce enzymes, a new strategy based on chromosomal integration and amplification in Bacillus sp. was developed.Results: A thermosensitive replicable plasmid pUB-MazF and an integrated expression plasmid pUB'-Ex1 were constructed. pUB-MazF with a thermo-sensitive replicase RepF encoded by gene repF can self-replicate in Bacillus sp. if the cultivation temperature is no more than 35 oC and if the MazF encoded by mazF is not expressed. mazF is controlled by an isopropyl β-d-1-thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG)-inducing promoter and MazF is toxic to the cell. When IPTG is present and the MazF encoded by mazF in pUB-MazF is expressed, the host cell should lose the plasmid to survive. At a cultivation temperature over 37 oC, pUB-MazF will not well replicate and is not stable. pUB'-Ex1 has a disrupted repF and cannot self-replicate but can replicate when pUB-MazF is present. By using this approach, pUB'-Ex1 and constructs can replicate and will be forced to integrate into the host chromosome at 37oC or over when a selectable marker is present. The host was cured by MazF expression after induction with IPTG. Bacillus licheniformis BL-UBM integrated with pUB-MazF was transformed with pUB'-amyS derived from pUB'-Ex1 by in-frame cloning of amyS encoding a thermophilic α-amylase from Geobacillus stearothermophilus ATCC 31195. B. licheniformis BL-UBM transformed with pUB'-amyS was cultivated at 42oC with 1 mmol/l IPTG and 500 μg/ml kanamycin and the recombinants expressing high α-amylase activities were selected. All recombinants evaluated were genetically stable. The highest yield of α-amylase of 50 753 U/ml was produced by recombinant BLiS-002 carrying five copies of amyS in a 50-l fermenter. Conclusion: The strategy developed in this study has potential application for convenient and rapid development of strains overexpressing industrially important enzymes.
The Mechanisms of Colorectal Cancer Cell mesenchymal-epithelial Transition Induced by Hepatocyte Exosome-derived miR-203a-3p
Authors: Xu Heyang , Lan Qiusheng , Huang Yongliang , Zhang Yang , Zeng Yujie , Su Pengwei , Chu Ziqiang , Lai Wei , Chu Zhonghua
Published: February 2021

Background: Liver metastasis is the most common cause of death in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). Phosphatase of regenerating liver-3 induces CRC metastasis by epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, which promotes CRC cell liver metastasis. Mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition (MET), the opposite of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, has been proposed as a mechanism for the establishment of metastatic neoplasms. However, the molecular mechanism of MET remains unclear. Methods: Using Immunohistochemistry, western blotting，invasion assays, real-time quantitative PCR, chromatin immunoprecipitation, luciferase reporter assays, human miRNA arrays, and xenograft mouse model, we determined the role of hepatocyte exosome-derived miR-203a-3p in CRC MET.Results: In our study, we found that miR-203a-3p derived from hepatocyte exosomes increased colorectal cancer cells E-cadherin expression, inhibited Src expression, and reduced activity. In this way miR-203a-3p induced the decreased invasion rate of CRC cells.Coclusion: MiR-203a-3p derived from hepatocyte exosomes plays an important role of CRC cells to colonize in liver.
Suppression of JNK Pathway as a Novel Regulator of Chemo-Resistance in AML: A Meta-Analysis of Gene Signatures and Key Pathways
Authors: Modarres Parastoo , Farsani Farzaneh Mohammadi , Nekouie AmirAbas , Vallian Sadeq
Published: February 2021

The pathways and robust deregulated gene signatures involved in AML chemo-resistance are not fully understood. Multiple subgroups of AMLs which are under treatment of various regimens seem to have similar regulatory gene(s) or pathway(s) related to their chemo-resistance phenotype. In this study using gene set enrichment approach, deregulated genes and pathways associated with relapse after chemotherapy were investigated in AML samples. Five AML libraries compiled from GEO and ArrayExpress repositories were used to identify significantly differentially expressed genes between chemo-resistance and chemo-sensitive groups. Functional and pathway enrichment analysis of differentially expressed genes was performed to assess molecular mechanisms related to AML chemotherapeutic resistance. A total of 34 genes were selected to be differentially expressed in chemo-resistance compared to chemo-sensitive group. Among these genes, c-Jun, AKT3, ARAP3, GABBR1, PELI2 and SORT1 are involved in neurotrophin, estrogen, cAMP and Toll-like receptor signaling pathways. All these pathways are located upstream and regulate JNK signaling pathway which functions as a key regulator of cellular apoptosis. Our expression data are in favor of suppression of JNK pathway, which could induce pro-apoptotic gene expression as well as down regulation of survival factors, suggesting this pathway as a novel key regulator of drug-resistance development in AML.
Evaluation of Inhibitory Activity, Purification and X-Ray Crystallography of Alpha—Amylase Inhibitor from Phaseolus Vulgaris Cultivars of Uttarakhand
Authors: Singh Ravinder , Dobriyal Anoop Kumar , Singh Rattan Deep , Rios-Escalante Patricio De los
Published: February 2021

The present work is based on analysis of inhibitory activity of alpha-amylase inhibitor in selected cultivars of Phaseolus vulgaris of Uttarakhand. Fifteen samples were assessed for inhibitory activity of alpha-amylase inhibitor. Significant variations were found in different cultivars. Crude extract of alpha-amylase inhibitor from sample PUR (Purola) have shown maximum inhibitory activity (70.2 ± 0.84). Crude extract of all the cultivars have shown considerable variations in inhibitory activity in the temperature ranging from 20ºC to 100ºC. Based on inhibitory activity and heat stability profile, the alpha amylase inhibitor was purified from PUR cultivar. The purified inhibitor was found to be stable even at 90ºC with an inhibitory activity of 97.20 ±0.09. The molecular weight of purified inhibitor on Native PAGE (Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis) was found to be 31kd, consisting of two subunits of 17kd and 14kd on SDS-PAGE.
High Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratio Predicts Serious Renal Insufficiency in Patients With Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Tang Dijiao , Tang Qi , Jia Xiaojiong , Zhang Long , Wang Hongxu
Published: February 2021

Background

Recently, neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), a biomarker used to monitor inflammation and immune response, has been shown to be a prognostic marker in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Objective

To investigate the association between pretreatment NLR and renal impairment in patients with lupus nephritis(LN).
Methods

This retrospective study included 88 LN patients, 51 SLE patients without renal involvement, 79 patients with primary chronic nephritis (CN) and 52 healthy controls (HC). The differentiation was analyzed among these four groups via Whitney U test, and correlations among variables were evaluated in LN patients. Finally, receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC) was performed to evaluate the diagnostic value of NLR in patients with LN.
Results

Pretreatment NLR of LN patients was significantly higher than that of the other three groups. The NLR was positively associated with complement 3(C3), C4, C-reactive protein (CRP) and serum creatinine (SCr) (C3: r = 0.222, p = 0.042; C4: r = 0.230, p = 0.035; CRP: r = 0.337, p = 0.007; SC: r = 0.408, p < 0.0001) but inversely correlated with IgG (r=-0.226, p = 0.041). NLR level increased with severity of renal impairment. NLR (area under the curve (AUC): 0.785, 95% CI = 0.708–0.862) was useful for diagnosis of LN, and its optimal cutoff was 5.44 (sensitivity: 65.9%, specificity: 86.3%).
Conclusions

A high NLR was associated with severe renal function impairment in LN patients. NLR would be useful for diagnosis of LN and reflect severity of renal impairment. Thus, evaluating pretreatment NLR could help clinicians identify the potential renal involvement in SLE patients and distinguish LN from CN, so clinicians could conduct early triage and initiate effective management in time.
Exploration of Interethnic Variation in the Ibuprofen Metabolizing Enzyme CYP2C9: A Cautionary Guide for Treatment of COVID-19 Symptoms
Authors: Almarzooq Ammar
Published: February 2021

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is a rapidly spreading infectious illness that causes a debilitating respiratory syndrome. While non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including ibuprofen, may be prescribed for the management of pain and fever, controversy arose on the use of ibuprofen due to the possibility of a worse COVID-19 prognosis. P450 enzyme CYP2C9 are known to be involved in the metabolism of NSAIDs. Although no direct evidence of pharmacogenomics data in patients with COVID-19 was available at the time of writing this manuscript, there are plausible mechanisms by which genetic determinants may play a role in adverse drug responses (ADRs).
Methods

In this work, several genetic markers were analyzed across diverse ethnic backgrounds to identify population differences in drug responses and toxicity events associated with ibuprofen treatment. A cohort of 101 Jordanian Arab samples were retrospectively recruited and genotyped using Affymetrix DMET Plus Premier Package, within the context of over 100,000 global subjects in 417 published reports.
Results

Genetic structure analysis across populations validated that Jordanian Arabs share the closest CYP2C9 sequence homology to Near East and European populations. The Jordanian Arab population was also shown to be genetically heterogeneous for CYP2C9. However, European populations are 7.2x more likely to show impaired ibuprofen metabolism than Sub-Saharan populations, and 4.5x more likely than East Asian ancestry populations.
Conclusions

These findings are supported by recent European reports of potential harm with ibuprofen usage in patients with COVID-19 symptoms. Hence, the use of modern genomic tools coupled with a proactive assessment of the most likely gene-drug candidates will lead to a better understanding of the role of pharmacogenetics for COVID-19 and more effective treatments.
Ichthyofauna of Gibe Sheleko National Park and Some Morphometric Relationships of Fish of the Tributary Rivers, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Mekonen Sefi , Hailu Abera
Published: February 2021

This study was carried out along a tributary of Gibe Sheleko National Park to investigate the diversity, relative abundance and morphometric characteristics of fish. By using monofilament gill-nets, fish were collected, their species identifiedand their morphometric data measured. A total of 10 species were identified, dominated overall by Synodontis schall (28.52%), followed by Labeobarbus nedgia (18.88%) and Labeobarbus intermedius (14.06%). According to the Index of Relative Importance (IRI), S. schall was also first (49.13%), followed by L. intermedius (15.49%). There were no significance differences in the IRI values of fish and relative abundance between the dry and wet season (p > 0.05). Synodontis schall had the largest girth (23.1 cm), but Clarias gariepinus had the largest eye diameter (8.4 mm) and body weight (1713.4 g). Heterobranchus longifilis was first in total fork and standard length (64.7 cm, 64.7 cm and 59.8 cm, respectively). However, the paired t test of the total body length was not significantly different from the fork length (Pn> 0.05), but not showing statistical differences from standard length, weight and girth (P < 0.05). Gibe River had a higher number of species (N) than Wabe River in both seasons. The Shannon Diversity Index (H') in Gibe River was also higher (2.09) than Wabe (1.84) during the dry season, but lowest in the wet season (1.52 and 1.57, respectively). Furthermore, both (N) and (H') were not statistically different between tributaries and seasons (p > 0.05). Generally, differences in sampling habitats and fishing effort might have contributed to discovered variants findings. Fishery development should be implemented in the Park to use the fish resource sustainably.
Pattern of Thalassemia and Hemoglobinopathies Among Anemic Under-Five Children of Northern Bangladesh: A Hospital Based Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Rafi Md. Abdur , Zaman M. Morsed , Hossain Md. Golam
Published: February 2021

Background

Congenital hemoglobin defects are significant global health concern affecting more than 330,000 newborns every year. In Bangladesh more than half of the under-five children are anemic, but the contribution of hemoglobin disorders to childhood anemia is quite unexplored. Hence, the objective of the present study was to investigate the prevalence and pattern of hemoglobinopathies among anemic under-five (age 6–59 months) children visiting the hematology department of Rajshahi Medical College Hospital (RMCH).
Methods

This was a retrospective cross-sectional study among anemic patients aged between 6 to 59 months conducted in the hematology department of RMCH from July 2018 to June 2020. The guideline of WHO was used to define the severity of anemia. Hemoglobinopathies was measured using standard methods. Chi-square test was used to find the association between two categorical factors.
Results

Female and younger children included in the study were more likely to suffer from moderate to severe form of anemia compared to their counterparts. Out of 534 patients 183 were suffering from different types of hemoglobinopathies (prevalence 34.3%). E-β-Thalassemia was the most common type of hemoglobinopathy (14%) followed by Hemoglobin E trait (11%) and β-Thalassemia minor (5.6%). Prevalence of these hemoglobin disorders was comparatively higher among female and older children (p < 0.05). Patients with E-β-Thalassemia and β-Thalassemia major of our study were mostly suffering from severe form of anemia while patients with hemoglobin E trait and β-Thalassemia minor were mostly suffering from mild anemia (p < 0.01).
Conclusions

A remarkable number of children were suffering from severe anemia and different types of hemoglobinopathies. Gender and age group were the risk factors of anemia and hemoglobinopathies among under-five children. Health authorities of Bangladesh should especially take care of anemic children in this country.
Factors influencing the success of trial of labor after one previous caesarean section in a secure inter-delivery interval at Panzi Hospital.
Authors: Maroyi Raha , Bahaya Naomi , Ingersoll Celeste , Nerville Roselyn , Mukwege Denis
Published: February 2021

Background: In middle- and low-income countries, the inter-delivery interval is an important parameter considered in the decision of TOLAC. The objective of this study is to determine influencing factors for success of trial of labor after cesarean in women with secure inter-delivery interval after a cesarean-section at a referral hospital.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Panzi hospital on 231 cases in one year period. Women with one previous cesarean section, an inter-delivery interval space at least 18 months and no contracted pelvis were included. A successful TOLAC was defined as vaginal delivery and failed if cesarean section after trial of labor. Chi-square univariate testing and multi-variate logistic regression were used to understand the relationship between influencing factors the recorded variables and successful TOLAC, with a significance threshold of 5%.Results : 57.6% (133 cases) successfully completed TOLAC with vaginal delivery. Many obstetric factors have a significant effect on success of TOLAC. middle cervix was likely to increase success of TOLAC by 61.50 times (OR=61.50, p-value=0.000). Cervical softening was likely to increase success of TOLAC by 5.96 times (OR=5.96, p-value=0.001). Active labor was likely to increase success of TOLAC by 7.79 times (OR=7.79, p-value=0.013). Uterine height also has a significant effect such that every centimeter increase in uterine height decreased likelihood of successful TOLAC by about half (OR= 0.62, p-value=0.000). Every unit increase in Apgar score in the 1st minute after birth increased likelihood of successful TOLAC by 1.71 times (OR=1.71, p-value=0.010). For every increase in parity, the likelihood of successful TOLAC increases by 1.30 (OR=1.30, p-value=0.031). The remaining obstetric factors in the model had no significant effect on success of TOLAC. Conclusions: Our study shows that within a secure inter-delivery interval, high parity, uterine height less than 34 cm, active labor and cervical parameters such as cervical softening and middle cervix are important contributing factors to the success of TOLAC and VBAC. These factors should be considered by practitioners to influence their decision making regarding TOLAC.
Iron removal and pH stabilization of synthetic acid mine drainage (AMD) using peat soil and limestone.
Authors: Halim Mohd Syazwan Mohd , Ibrahim Abdul Haqi , Izhar Tengku Nuraiti Tengku , Ismail Suhaina , Jaafar Zul Fahmi Mohamed
Published: February 2021

A Successive Alkalinity Producing System (SAPS) was evaluated for the remediation of synthetic Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) by using an organic substrate of peat soil and limestone aggregate. The characterization of the AMD was conducted by the testing the AMD effluent originated from active mining site at Pengkalan Hulu, Perak, Malaysia. The characterization of the peat soil and limestone revealed stipulated composition, carbon content in the peat soil and particle size distribution of the limestone. Synthetic AMD was prepared incorporating iron sulphate (FeSO4) and sulphuric acid (H2SO4). The synthetic AMD was acidic (pH < 4.0) and with 50, 75 and 100 ppm Iron (Fe) concentration. A laboratory scale physical model to simulate a tailing pond was developed. The synthetic AMD was introduced and passed through the filtration media. Subsequently, water samples were collected and analyzed to determine pH level. Additionally, the Fe concentration was analyzed using UV-Vis test at 6 to maximum 48 hours’ retention time. The residues of the peat soil and limestone from the physical model were further analyzed using SEM-EDX microscopic to determine the remaining iron content absorb or precipitate onto the peat soil and limestone. The analysis revealed that the innovative methodology has successfully reduced more than 85 % iron content and neutralized the pH only after 6 hours of retention time. These results proved the combination of peat soil and limestone potentially can be proposed as the alternate solution for treating the AMD effluent from the mining site.
Adverse Effect of Rheumatoid Arthritis on Male Wistar Rat’s Fertility: Protective Role of Costus Extract
Authors: Kamel Samar , Tag Hend M. , Ebeid Hala , Khaled Howayda E. , Almallah Amani A , El-Naggar Mohamed S.
Published: February 2021

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune systemic complaint. Costus speciosus, an ornamental plant, which traditionally used in urinary diseases, rheumatism, jaundice and dropsy. The purpose of the study is to assess the protective effect of Costus on rheumatoid arthritis induced male rat in fertility. Thirty male adult Wistar rats (190-200 g) were sectioned into 6 groups. They were subdivided into 3 groups; group 1 was control received Distilled water, groups II and III received two various doses of Costus extract (200 and 400 mg/kg, respectively) for 60 days. Another 3 groups were subjected to RA induction via Freund's adjuvant. First group of RA induced rats was given Distilled water. Other two groups were given orally (200 and 400 mg/kg dosage of extract, respectively) from the 2nd day of RA induction for 60 days. Sex organ relative weight, sperm concentration assay, testicular histopathology and immunohistochemistry of androgen receptors, TNF α and Bax protein were determined. Rheumatoid arthritis caused significant decrease in relative weight of sex organs which relatively improved by doses of Costus (200, 400 mg/kg). In addition, RA caused a significant reduction in sperm count which was improved via Costus (200, 400 mg/kg). RA induction caused testicular degeneration with marked depletion of spermatozoa, which markedly improved with costus treatment as shown in histopathological sections. Rheumatoid arthritis caused a reduction in %IHC of androgen receptors and increase of %IHC of both TNF α and Bax protein. Costus (200, 400 mg/kg) significantly improved %IHC of androgen receptors and significantly decreased %IHC of both TNF α and Bax protein, in RA induced groups. We can concluded that Costus speciosus had potentially useful role in improving fertility disorders caused by RA.
Ultrasound guided platelet rich plasma injections for post-traumatic greater occipital neuralgia: a randomized controlled pilot study
Authors: Stone Jacqueline , Fung Tak S. , Machan Matthew , Campbell Christina , Shan Rodney Li Pi , Debert Chantel
Published: February 2021

Background: Post-traumatic headaches (PTH) are a common sequalae of TBI and greatly impact patient function and quality of life. Post-traumatic greater occipital neuralgia (GON) is a type of post-traumatic headache. Conventional treatment includes steroid/anesthetic injections which typically alleviate pain but have a short duration of effect. Platelet rich plasma (PRP) is an emerging biological treatment for numerous degenerative disorders, including peripheral nerve disorders. The primary aim of this pilot study is to evaluate whether a randomized control trial of PRP for the treatment of GON in patients with post-traumatic headaches is feasible in regard to recruitment, adherence, retention, and adherence and adverse events. Exploratory aims includes improvement in pain, function and quality of life in patients with post-traumatic GON receiving PRP compared to steroid/anesthetic and normal saline injections. Methods: Thirty adults (over 18 years of age) with post-traumatic GON will be randomized into one of three groups: 1) autologous PRP injection 2) steroid/anesthetic injection (standard care) or 3) placebo injection with normal saline. Injections will be performed to the greater occipital nerve under ultrasound guidance by a trained physician. Daily headache intensity and frequency data will be collected pre-injection and for the duration of the study period. Feasibility will be defined as greater than 30% recruitment, 70% completion of intervention, 70% retention and less than 2 minor adverse events. Exploratory outcomes will be explored using the (HIT-6; a valid and reliable 6-item questionnaire for assessment of the impact of headaches across different diagnostic groups of headaches (42, 43)) and the quality of life in following brain injury questionnaire (QOILIBRI). Discussion: This pilot study will be the first to evaluate the feasibility of PRP as a potential treatment of GON in patients with post-traumatic headache. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov - NCT04051203 (registered August 9, 2019), available at https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04051203?cond=greater+occipital+neuralgia&draw=2&rank=1
Based on the Current Level of Economic Development, Predict PAHs Concentration in Sediment of Dianchi Lake in Southwest China From 2021 to 2030
Authors: Ma Xiaohua , Yang Hao , Li Shuaidong , Huang Changchun , Huang Tao , Wan Hongbin
Published: February 2021

The analysis of the correlation between polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and economic parameters show that the total population, gross domestic product, coal consumption, and oil consumption have significant relationships with PAH concentrations in Dianchi Lake, Yunnan province, China. An artificial neural network model was developed in order to predict the trend in PAHs concentration in the sediments of Dianchi Lake in the next ten years, based current indicators of economic development. The artificial neural network model estimated the concentration of PAHs for the period 1980 to 2014. The R2 and RMSE of the training samples were 0.97 and 44.2, respectively; the R2 and RMSE of the validation samples were 0.99 and 18.7, respectively the R2 and RMSE of the testing samples were 0.99 and 13.2, respectively; and the R2 and RMSE of all samples were 0.98 and 39.2, respectively. The concentration of PAHs in the sediments of Dianchi Lake predicted by the neural network model shows that the concentration of PAHs from 2021 to 2030 can reach as high as 2128.9 ng/g. The ecological environment of Dianchi Lake has a great impact on the lives of local residents, including through its support for the local economy. Therefore, it is necessary for the government to take more effective measures and increase investments to control the environmental problems in Dianchi Lake.
Design and Fabrication of RGO/WO3 as A Novel Photoanode For High Efficient Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Ramesh K. , Gnanavel B
Published: February 2021

The hydrothermal approach for photovoltaic applications introduces an easy and scalable synthesis of RGO/WO3 nanocomposites. Some advanced techniques such as X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy showed that high-quality RGO/WO3 nanocomposites contained single crystal WO3 nanoparticles in the characterization of RGO/WO3 nanocomposites. Due to its charge transport and light-scattering properties, the RGO/WO3 photoanode with DSSC greatly improved the cell efficiency. A power conversion efficiency of 7.9 % was demonstrated by the RGO/WO3 DSSC, which is better than that of the bare WO3 (4.1 %) and industrial Pt (6.5 percent) electrolytes. Our findings indicate that the electrochemical efficiency of the RGO/WO3 electrode shows a higher charge transfer and series cell resistance of 64.9 and 6.88 cm2, respectively) than the RGO electrode and is equivalent to the Pt electrode.
Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study of Antimicrobial Stewardship and Antifungal Stewardship Programs in Inpatient Settings in Japan
Authors: Moriyama Yuki , Ishikane Masahiro , Kusama Yoshiki , Matsunaga Nobuaki , Tajima Taichi , Hayakawa Kayoko , Ohmagari Norio
Published: February 2021

Background
To prevent antimicrobial resistance, both antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) and antifungal stewardship (AFS) in inpatient settings are needed in small/middle-sized hospitals as well as large hospitals.
Methods
We conducted the web-based, self-administered, nationwide cross-sectional study regarding AMS and AFS in inpatient settings in Japan, targeting hospitals that participated in a hospital epidemiology workshop conducted in July 2018. The questionnaire was composed of intervention protocols for use of broad-spectrum antimicrobials and antifungals within 7 or 28 d of beginning usage. These broad-spectrum antimicrobial and antifungal protocols were compared between large (≥ 501beds) and small/middle-sized (≤ 500 beds) hospitals.
Results
Of 240 hospitals surveyed, 39 (16%; 18 large and 21 small/middle-sized) responded. The number of hospitals that intervened in the use of broad-spectrum antimicrobials within 7 and 28 d were 17 (44%) and 34 (87%), respectively; those that intervened for antifungals were 3 (8%) and 10 (26%), respectively. Interventions for use of broad-spectrum antimicrobials within 7 d were significantly more frequent in small/middle-sized hospitals compared to large hospitals [13 (61. 9%) vs. 4 (22. 2%), odds ratio = 5.7, 95% confidence interval = 1.4–23.3, p = 0.023].
Conclusions
Small/middle-sized hospitals had more frequent interventions within 7 d of broad-spectrum antimicrobial use than large hospitals. More effort to improve AFS is needed among all hospitals.
Geometric Analysis of Mixed-mode Oscillations in a Model of Electrical Activity in Human Beta-cells
Authors: Battaglin Simone , Pedersen Morten Gram
Published: February 2021

Human pancreatic beta-cells may exhibit complex mixed-mode oscillatory electrical activity, which underlies insulin secretion. A recent biophysical model of human beta-cell electrophysiology can simulate such bursting behavior, but a mathematical understanding of the model's dynamics is still lacking. Here we exploit time-scale separation to simplify the original model to a simpler three-dimensional model that retains the behavior of the original model and allows us to apply geometric singular perturbation theory to investigate the origin of mixed-mode oscillations. Changing a parameter modeling the maximal conductance of a potassium current, we nd that the reduced model possesses a singular Hopf bifurcation that results in small-amplitude oscillations, which go through a period-doubling sequence and chaos until the birth of a large-scale return mechanism and bursting dynamics. The theory of folded node singularities provide insight into the bursting dynamics further away from the singular Hopf bifurcation and the eventual transition to simple spiking activity. Numerical simulations confirm that the insight obtained from the analysis of the reduced model can be lifted back to the original model.
Physical and Chemical Properties of Volcanic Ejecta Produced by the Eruption of Mt. Kirishima Shinmoe-dake, Japan -A Case Study After the Explosive Eruption on March 25, 2018-
Authors: Akita Hiromi
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this study was to clarify the physical and chemical properties of volcanic ejecta that fell after the explosive eruption on March 25, 2018 at Shinmoe-dake. In order to investigate the infiltration capacity, which is one of the physical properties of volcanic ejecta, plots were set up on the outer forest plain, the forest plain, and the forest talus, and a cylindrical frame test was conducted with reference to the method of Takeshita (2011). In addition, soil samples were collected at the three locations where the cylindrical frame test was conducted. The final infiltration capacity of 38-92 mm / h appeared lower in the forest talus than in the forest plain. It is considered that this is due to the small particle size distribution of 0.1 mm or more, regardless of the particle size of the silt / clay particle size classification. When the chemical properties of the collected volcanic ejecta were examined, Ca and SO4 were contained at high values. Since these compounds become the source of gypsum that reduces infiltration capacity when they react with water, it has become clear that they have the potential to contribute to the generation of debris-flow as a chemical property.
Maternal Gut Microbes Contribute to Rapid Acquisition of Intestinal Microbiota and High-Altitude Adaptation of Pre-Weaning Yak Calves
Authors: Zhang Jianbo , Liang Zeyi , Kao Renqing Ding , Han Jianlin , Du Mei , Ahmad Anum Ali , Wang Shengyi , Salekdeh Ghasem Hosseini , Long Ruijun , Yan Ping , Ding Xuezhi
Published: February 2021

BackgroundLong time exposure to seasonal forage availability and harsh environment on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau (QTP) has resulted in a series of unique adaptation mechanisms following the evolution of yak to cope with nutritional deficiencies and other adverse conditions. This is likely achieved by an unprecedented genetic resource for fibrolytic enzymes of microbial origins that allow the host to efficiently degrade plant polysaccharides. However, to what extent of maternal symbiotic microbial transmission throughout early microbial successions and its adaptation to high-altitude hypoxia in grazing yak driven by the harsh environment and nutritional stress have been far from clear. Understanding the colonization and succession of yak gut microbiota would help to clarify the functional interaction and crosstalk between microorganisms and their hosts. This study explored the succession of intestinal microbiota of yak ( Bos grunniens ) and cattle ( Bos taurus ) kept in the same habitat during pre-weaning period. ResultsThe gut microbiota of yak and cattle calves were dominated by members of the families Ruminococcaceae , Lachnospiraceae , and Bacteroidaceae during pre-weaning. Moreover, source-tracking models revealed that maternal microbiota was critical for the rapid establishment and colonization of initial intestinal microbiota of their calves at development stage and its impact persisted until weaning or even longer. Compared with cattle calves, the gut microbiota of yak calves was rapidly established and reached to a relatively stable status at the 5th week after birth, indicating the evolutionary significance of interaction between the yak and its intestinal microbial community that could facilitate the adaptation of this flagship species to adapt to the harsh environment on the QTP. ConclusionOur results revealed that under natural grazing conditions, the calves raised by their mothers acquire gut microbiota through the contacts with maternal feces and the social learning behavior, which accelerate the establishment of stable intestinal microbiota. In addition, after long-term natural selection, the yak calves acquire a relatively mature and stable intestinal microbiota earlier than the cattle calves, facilitating their strong adaptation to the harsh environment on the QTP.
Determination of Turkish Norms of Psychometric Tests For Diagnosing Minimal Hepatic Encephalopathy and Proposal of a Simplified Paper Pencil Test Battery
Authors: Özbaş Burak , Keskin Onur , Hecker Hartmut , Karahan İrfan , Özbaş Cansu , Kalkan Çağdaş , Kartal Aysun , Önder Fatih Oğuz , Öncü Burcu Kahveci , Gençdal Genco , Akyildiz Murat , Günşar Fulya , Idilman Ramazan , Weissenborn Karin , Özütemiz Ömer , Yurdaydin Cihan
Published: February 2021

Background: Psychometric hepatic encephalopathy score (PHES) needs standardization for countries and is used for minimal hepatic encephalopathy (mHE) diagnosis. Assessing it is cumbersome.Aims: To standardize PHES for Turkish patients and compare it with German norms; to determine mHE prevalence with two different methods and to assess whether the PHES test can be simplified.Methods: Healthy volunteers (n=816; 400 male) and cirrhotics (n=124; 58 male) were included. PHES score threshold was set at ≤-5 points and that of critical flicker frequency (CFF) at <39 Hz for mHE diagnosis. For comparing German and Turkish norms, datasets were combined. Multiple backward procedure was applied. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were created for assessing diagnostic capabilities of single subtests of the PHES test. Results: Turkish norms displayed non-linear dependence on age and education. Rate of mHE in compensated cirrhotics was 29.8% and 27.4% with PHES and CFF tests, respectively. Compatibility of two tests was low (kappa coefficient 0.389); mHE prevalence decreased to 16% when both tests were combined. Turks performed worse vs Germans in the digit symbol (DS) and serial dotting (SD) subtests but generally performed better in the other subtests. In ROC analyzes of subtests, AUROC was 0.974 for DS+SD tests combined. Conclusions: PHES norms for Turks were developed. Use of 2 methods for diagnosing mHE may be important for research purposes. From a clinical perspective sensitivity with acceptable specificity may suffice. Combined use of DS and SD subtests of the PHES battery may well be suited for use in clinical practice.