bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Technology-supported sitting balance therapy versus usual care in the chronic stage after stroke: A pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Thijs Liselot , Voets Eline , Wiskerke Evelien , Nauwelaerts Thomas , Arys Yves , Haspeslagh Harold , Kool Jan , Bischof Patrick , Bauer Christoph , Lemmens Robin , Baumgartner Daniel , Verheyden Geert
Published: April 2021

Insights in evidence on sitting balance and trunk rehabilitation have not resulted in specific device development. Hence, intensive one-by-one therapist-patient guidance is still required. We developed a novel rehabilitation prototype, specifically aimed at providing sitting balance therapy. In this study, we investigated if technology-supported sitting balance training was feasible and safe in chronic stroke patients and we evaluated whether clinical outcomes improved after a four-week programme when compared with usual care. Methods. In this parallel-group, assessor-blinded, randomized controlled pilot trial, we divided first event chronic stroke participants randomly into two groups. The experimental group received usual care plus additional therapy supported by rehabilitation technology consisting of 12 sessions of 50 minutes of therapy in four weeks. The control group received usual care only. We assessed all participants twice pre-intervention and once post-intervention. Feasibility and safety were descriptively analysed. Between-group analysis evaluated the differences in changes in motor and functional outcomes. Results. In total, 30 participants were recruited and 29 completed the trial (experimental group, n=14; control group, n=15). There were no between-group differences at baseline. Therapy was evaluated feasible by participants and therapist. There were no serious adverse events during sitting balance therapy. Changes in clinical outcomes from pre- to post-intervention demonstrated an increase in the experimental compared to the control group for trunk function; mean (standard deviation [SD]): 7.07 (1.69) versus 0.33 (2.35) points on trunk impairment scale (p<.000), maximum walking speed on 10-meter walk test (0.16 (0.16) m/s in the experimental group versus 0.06 (0.06) m/s in the control group; p=.003), and functional balance measured using Berg balance scale (median [interquartile range] 4.5 (5) points in the experimental group versus 0 (4) points in the control group (p=.014). Conclusions. Technology-supported sitting balance training in persons with chronic stroke is feasible and safe. A four-week, 12-hour programme on top of usual care suggests beneficial effects for trunk function, maximum gait speed and functional balance.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04467554, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04467554, date of Registration: 13 July 2020.
Experiment Regarding Magnetic Fields with Gravity
Authors: LEE JONG-HOON
Published: April 2021

We observed the Earth's gravity to produce electricity in the magnetic sea. The gravity generator (GG) generated currents and voltages on the mesoscopic scale when we connected it in the vacuum. Gravity interacts to generate electricity in the Earth’s direction or the opposite direction by the repulsive magnetic force. The ground-based device simulates the potential energy (voltages) between gravity and magnetic seas. The GG increased simulations of gravity quantum effects using different physical set-ups. A trapped gravity was set to behave as free relativistic quantum particles or fluids, which made it possible to measure the particle position as a function of time and study the magnetic sea for different initial superpositions of positive- negative-gravity spinor state. It might explain the relativistic quantum equations, antigravity, and the heating mechanism of the Sun.
Polymorphic estrogen receptor binding site causes CD2-dependent sex bias in the susceptibility to autoimmune diseases
Authors: Lahore Gonzalo Fernandez , Förster Michael , Johannesson Martina , Sabatier Pierre , Lönnblom Erik , Aoun Mike , He Yibo , Nandakumar Kutty , Zubarev Roman , Holmdahl Rikard
Published: April 2021

Complex autoimmune diseases are sexually dimorphic. An interplay between predisposing genetics and sex-related factors likely determines the sex discrepancy in the immune response, but conclusive evidence is lacking regarding the underlying molecular mechanisms. Using forward genetics, we positionally identified a polymorphic estrogen receptor binding site that regulates CD2 expression, leading to female-specific differences in mouse models of T cell-dependent autoimmunity. Female mice with reduced CD2 levels displayed diminished expansion of autoreactive T cells. Mechanistically, CD2 affected T cell activation by inhibiting LAG-3 expression. Our findings explain the sexual dimorphism in human autoimmunity, as CD2 associated with rheumatoid arthritis and its regulation through 17-β-estradiol was conserved in human T cells. Hormonal regulation of CD2 has implications for CD2-targeted therapy. Indeed, anti-CD2 treatment was more potent in female mice. In conclusion, our results demonstrate the relevance of sex-genotype interactions and provide strong evidence for CD2 as a sex-sensitive predisposing factor in autoimmunity.
Addition of Al(OH)3 vs. AlO(OH) nanoparticles on the optical, thermo-mechanical and heat/oxygen transmission properties of microfibrillated cellulose films
Authors: Kolar Tjaša , Mušič Branka , Korošec Romana Cerc , Kokol Vanja
Published: April 2021

Differently structured aluminum (tri/mono) hydroxide (Al(OH)3 / AlO(OH)) nanoparticles were prepared and used as thermal-management additives to microfibrillated cellulose (MFC), cast-dried in thin-layer films. Both particles increased the thermal stability of the MFC film, yielding 20–23% residue at 600 °C, and up to 57% lowered enthalpy (to 5.5–7.5 kJ/g) at 0.15 wt% of loading, while transforming to Al2O3. However, the film containing 40 nm large Al(OH)3 particles decomposed in a one-step process, and released up to 20 % more energy between 300–400°C as compared to the films prepared from smaller (21 nm) and meta-stable AlO(OH), which decomposed gradually with an exothermic peak shifted to 480 °C. The latter resulted in a highly flexible, optically transparent (95%), and mechanically stronger (5.7 GPa) film with a much lower specific heat capacity (0.31 − 0.28 J/gK compared to 0.68–0.89 J/gK for MFC-Al(OH)3 and 0.87–1.26 for MFC films), which render it as an effective heat-dissipating material to be used in flexible opto-electronics. Low oxygen permeability (2192.8 cm3/m2day) and a hydrophobic surface (>60°) rendered such a film also useful in ecologically-benign and thermosensitive packaging.
NEW DAD STUDY (NEST): A mixed-methods feasibility study of an intervention to improve men’s mental health and wellbeing during their transition to fatherhood
Authors: Baldwin Sharin , Malone Mary , Murrells Trevor , Sandall Jane , Bick Debra
Published: April 2021

Background: Many health visiting services in England use the Promotional Guide system with mothers and fathers, an intervention to support their transition to parenthood, but there is little known about its use and effectiveness, especially with fathers. The aim of this study was to test the feasibility and acceptability of the Promotional Guide system with first-time fathers and pilot potential outcome measures to assess their mental health and wellbeing. Methods: A mixed methods prospective observational cohort study. Expectant first-time fathers were recruited from four London (UK) local authority boroughs. Data were collected through online pre and post intervention questionnaires, and semi-structured telephone interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and qualitative data were analysed using framework analysis. Results: Eighty-six fathers were interested in participating; 7 men did not meet inclusion criteria and 79 were invited to complete the baseline questionnaire. Questionnaires completed by 45 men at both timepoints were included in the final analysis. Ten of these men were also interviewed. Six major categories were identified: 1) Experience of health visitor contact, 2) Experience of Promotional Guides, 3) Experience of perinatal health services, 4) Experience of fatherhood, 5) Fathers’ mental health and wellbeing, and 6) Experience of the research process. While antenatal and postnatal outcomes were collected from 45 first-time fathers, none had received the intervention in its entirety. This study identified major gaps in the implementation of the Promotional Guide system with fathers. Conclusion: This study highlighted first-time fathers’ mental health and wellbeing needs during their transition to fatherhood, and how they wanted to be supported. It also identified barriers to implementation of the Promotional Guide system by health visitors, which need to be addressed prior to any future research into this intervention. These findings have a number of implications for researchers, health professionals, health service managers, commissioners, policy makers and parents.
Title Knowledge, attitude and use of evidence based practice (EBP) among Registered Nurse-Midwives practicing in Central Hospitals in Malawi: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Kaseka Paul Uchizi , Mbakaya Balwani Chingatichifwe
Published: April 2021

Background: Even though EBP is being considered as a critical element in improving the quality of health services and achieving excellence in patient care, there is currently little knowledge of how EBP relates to nursing and midwifery in Malawi. This paper is a report of a study describing EBP knowledge, attitudes and use of registered nurses-midwives practicing in central hospitals in Malawi. Methods: The descriptive, cross-sectional research design was conducted with a convenient sample of 183 nurse-midwives (response rate of 86%). The study used a questionnaire to collect data. Data were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics in the Statistical Product and Service Solutions version 23. Descriptive statistics were calculated to summarize overall knowledge levels, attitudes and use of nurse-midwives as percentages based on their scores from the assessment scale (1 to 7 Likert scale) in the EBP questionnaire. Non-parametric Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests were carried out to compare evidence-based practice scores based on demographics. Pearson’s correlation (r) and stepwise regression analysis were further performed to analyse the relationship between the knowledge, attitude and use of nurse-midwives on the overall EBP of nurse-midwives. Results: The average scores (mean±SD) of evidence-based practice amongst nurse midwives were 78.7±19.6 for attitude, 70.6±15.1 for knowledge levels, 57.8±23.for use, and 68.9±14.2 for the overall EBP. Higher educational qualification was associated with higher scores in knowledge levels (P=0.02). Research experience was associated with higher scores in nursing use (P=0.005), and higher overall evidence based practice were associated with both research experience (P=0.035) and educational qualification (P=0.004). Nurse-midwives attitude was affected by clinical experience (P=0.006) and the hospital where nurse-midwives worked (P=0.016). There was no significant difference in the EBP scores of nurse-midwives based on gender and/or their administrative roles in their respective central hospitals Conclusion: It is important to develop the knowledge/skills of nurse midwives in order to enhance evidence based practice amongst nurse midwives in Malawian hospitals. The results can be used by nurse managers, nurse educators, Ministry of Health policy makers, Nurses and Midwives Council of Malawi and donors to enhance implementation of EBP.
Economic costs of invasive alien ants worldwide
Authors: Angulo Elena , Hoffmann Benjamin D , Ballesteros-Mejia Liliana , Taheri Ahmed , Balzani Paride , Renault David , Cordonnier Marion , Bellard Céline , Diagne Christophe , Ahmed Danish A , Watari Yuya , Courchamp Franck
Published: April 2021

Invasive ants are amongst the most destructive and widespread invaders across the globe; they can strongly alter invaded ecosystems and are responsible for the displacement of numerous native ant species. Several studies have reported that invasive ants can lead to substantial economic costs. In this study, we search, describe and analyze 1,621 reported costs of invasive ants using the InvaCost database. Economic costs, reported since 1930 for 12 ant species in 27 countries, totaled US$ 56.92 billion. The largest costs were associated with two species, Solenopsis invicta and Wasmannia auropunctata (US$ 36.91 and 19.91 billion respectively); and two countries, USA and Australia (US$ 28.62 and 27.94 billion respectively). Potential costs (i.e., expected or predicted costs) constituted the vast majority of the reported costs (80.4%). Overall, damage costs amounted to 96.3% of the total cost, impacting mostly the agriculture, public and social welfare sectors, whereas management costs primarily resulted from post-invasion management (US$ 1.78 billion), with much lower amounts dedicated to prevention (US$ 235.62 million). Beside the taxonomic bias, cost information lacked for ~ 77% of the invaded countries per species, and the geographic coverage of costs was only ~ 18% within invaded countries with costs reported. Our synthesis suggests that the global costs of invasive ants are massive but largely underreported, and thus most likely grossly underestimated. We advocate for more and improved cost reporting of invasive ants through better collaborations between managers, practitioners and researchers, a crucial basis for adequately informing future budgets and improving proactive management actions of invasive ants.
Ox-LDL induced endothelial progenitor cells oxidative stress via p38/Keap1/Nrf2 pathway
Authors: Jiang Qijun , Li Chengpeng , Gong Zhigang , Li Zhigang , Ding Shifang
Published: April 2021

Background
In many studies, endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) highly expressing antioxidant protein were induced oxidative stress and apoptosis by Oxidized-low density lipoprotein (ox-LDL). Nrf2 which was resently reported to regulate the antioxidant genes and cellular redox regulators was highly expressed in EPCs. However, its role in ox-LDL induced EPCs oxidative stress and apoptosis has not been fully illustrated.
Methods
EPCs isolated from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells were treated with different concentration of ox-LDL, Keap1 siRNA and a specific p38 MAPK inhibitor SB203580, then used to assay the whole cellular Nrf2 (total Nrf2, t-Nrf2), cytoplasmic Nrf2 (c-Nrf2), nuclear Nrf2 (n- Nrf2), NAD(P) H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) protein levels and Bax /Bcl-2 with western blot, NQO1 mRNA levels with RT-PCR, ROS level with H2DCF-DA, the loss/disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) with JC-1, apoptosis with Annexin-V and PI,migration ability with transwell chambers and tube formation.
Results
The ox-LDL treatment decreased the n-Nrf2/Histone H3 to c-Nrf2/GAPDH ratio, NQO1 mRNA and protein expression levels. Treatment of ox-LDL enhanced the ROS production, induced loss of membrane potential, increase in cell shrinkage, pyknotic nuclei and apoptosis of EPCs. The Keap1 knockdown with Keap1 siRNA increased the nuclear translocation of Nrf2, the NQO1 mRNA and protein transcription levels, and prevented ox-LDL induced ROS generation and formation of JC-1 monomers. Treatment of ox-LDL increased the activation of p38. Pretreatment with SB203580 significantly eliminated ox-LDL induced the inhibition of Nrf2 nuclear translocation, the depression of the mRNA transcription levels of NQO-1, the ROS generation and the formation of JC-1 monomers in EPCs. The pretreatment of Keap1 siRNA decreased the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio which was increased by the treatment of ox-LDL in EPCs. The ox-LDL treatment decreased EPCs migration activity and tube formation. Whereas the pre-treatment with Keap1 siRNA preserved the migration ability and tube formation of EPCs
Conclusion
Ox-LDL induced EPCs oxidative stress and apoptosis via p38/Keap1/Nrf2 pathway.
Differences in clinical and computed tomography imaging features between two types of mixed epithelial and stromal tumor of the kidney: Suggestions for patient management
Authors: Chen Juan , Liu Hui , Li Meng-Si , Liu Wen-Guang , Masokano Ismail Bilal , Peng Ying , Feng De-Yun , Pei Yi-Gang , Li Wen-Zheng
Published: April 2021

Background To analyze the differences in clinical features and computed tomography characteristics in the two types of mixed epithelial and stromal tumor of the kidney (MESTK) and to establish a treatment plan for the MESTK types.Methods 17 patients underwent multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) before surgery and had a pathological diagnosis of MESTK were enrolled. Their clinical information (R.E.N.A.L.Nephrometry Score (R.E.N.A.L.－NS), radical nephrectomy (RN), partial nephrectomy (PN), etc.) were collected. The radiological features included renal sinus fat invagination (SFI), maximal diameter (MD), capsule and septa of the tumor, etc. were also analyzed. They were divided into two types according to the MDsolid/MDtumor ratio (type A with > 63%; type B with ≤ 63%). An independent-sample t-test and Fisher exact test were used to assess the differences between the two groups. Results MESTKs demonstrated a variable multi-septate cystic and solid components with a delayed enhancement. There were 9 patients for type A and 8 subjects for type B. Compared with type A, the lesions in type B have larger MD (79.13±39.06 vs. 41.22±24.19, p = 0.028), higher R.E.N.A.L.－NS (10.03±0.50 vs. 8.95±1.26, P＜0.001), higher RN (75.00% vs.22.22%, p =0.015), larger SFI (87.5% vs.33.3%, p=0.05), more septa (100% vs. 0%, p <0.001) and more capsule (100% vs. 11.1%, p < 0.001).Conclusion Type B MESTK has more hazardous features compared with type A, suggesting that RN is more suitable for type B and PN for type A.
Discovery of an ultra-quantum spin liquid
Authors: Yang Yanxing , Tan Cheng , Zhu Zihao , Zhang J. , Ding Zhaofeng , Wu Qiong , Chen Changsheng , Shiroka Toni , MacLaughline Douglas , Varma Chandra , Shu Lei
Published: April 2021

Quantum fluctuations are expected to lead to highly entangled spin-liquid states in some two-dimensional spin-1/2 compounds. We have synthesized and measured thermodynamic properties and muon relaxation rates in two related such compounds, one of which is the least disordered of this kind synthesized hitherto and reveals intrinsic properties of a class of spin-liquids. Its measured properties can all be simply characterized by scale invariant time-dependent fluctuations with a single parameter. The specific heat divided by temperature and muon relaxation rates are both temperature independent at low temperatures, followed by a logarithmic decrease with increasing temperature. Even more remarkably, ∼57% of the magnetic entropy is missing down to temperatures of O(10−3) the exchange energy, independent of magnetic field up to gµBH > kBT . This is evidence that quantum fluctuations lead either to a gigantic specific heat peak from topological singlet excitations below such temperatures, or to an extensively degenerate topological singlet ground state. These results reveal an ultra-quantum state of matter.
Caregivers’ health literacy and management of presumptive malaria in children under five: A cross-sectional study from Ghana
Authors: Boateng Millicent Addai , Asuman Derek , Agyei-Baffour Peter , Enemark Ulrika
Published: April 2021

Background: Low health literacy is associated with poor health status, poor self-management, and poor use of healthcare. This study assessed the associations of caregivers’ health literacy, incidence of malaria in children, use of healthcare and associated household costs in the management of malaria in children under five years.Method: This is a cross-sectional study with data (N=1270) collected in November - December 2017. We used hierarchical cluster analysis to generate health literacy profiles of caregivers based on responses to the Health Literacy Questionnaire (HLQ). We run logistic regression models and generalized linear models with incidence of malaria, desirable use of healthcare and household costs as dependent variables, and health literacy profiles and other socio-demographic and access variables as covariates. Results: We generated 7 caregiver health literacy profiles with Profile 1 characterised by overall high scores, Profile 4 by overall moderate scores and Profile 7 by overall low scores on nine health literacy dimensions. With Profile 4 as reference, children of caregivers in Profile 7 had 69% increased odds of an incident of malaria and no difference in odds for those of Profile 1. Profiles 1 and 7 both had reduced odds of desirable use of healthcare, 26% and 58% respectively. Caregivers in Profile 1 incurred higher spending, while caregivers in Profile 7 incurred lower spending on management of malaria in children as compared to Profile 4. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that general health literacy of caregivers as measured by the HLQ may not be influential in incidence of malaria, desirable use of healthcare and household costs in the management of malaria in children under five years in Ghana where malaria is highly prevalent. The use of hierarchical cluster analysis was feasible in the analysis of comprehensive health literacy and facilitated analysis on use of healthcare and associated costs.
Ultra-stable all-solid-state sodium-metal batteries enabled by perfluoropolyether-based electrolytes
Authors: WANG Xiaoen , Zhang Cheng , Sawczyk Michal , Yuan Qinghong , Chen Fangfang , Mendes Tiago , Howlett Patrick , Fu Changkui , Searles Debra J. , Kral Petr , Hawker Craig , Whittaker Andrew , Forsyth Maria
Published: April 2021

Rechargeable batteries paired with sodium (Na)-metal anodes are considered as one of the most promising high energy and low-cost energy storage systems. However, the use of highly reactive Na metal and the formation of Na dendrites during battery operation have caused significant safety concerns, especially when highly flammable liquid electrolytes are used. Herein, we design and develop a solvent-free solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) based on a perfluoropolyether (PFPE) terminated polyethylene glycol (PEG)-based block copolymer for safe and stable all-solid-state Na-metal batteries. Compared with traditional poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) or PEG SPEs, our results suggest that block copolymer design allows for the formation of self-assembled microstructures leading to high storage modulus at elevated temperatures with the PEG domains providing transport channels even at high salt concentration (EO/Na+ = 8:2). Moreover, it is demonstrated that the incorporation of PFPE segments enhances the Na+ transference number of the electrolyte to 0.46 at 80 oC. Finally, the proposed SPE exhibits highly stable symmetric cell cycling performance with high current density (0.5 mA cm-2 and 1.0 mAh cm-2, up to 1300 hours). The assembled all-solid-state Na-metal batteries with Na3V2(PO4)3 cathode demonstrate outstanding rate performance, high capacity retention and long-term charge/discharge stability (CE = 99.91%) after more than 900 cycles.
Feasibility and Accuracy of the Automated Software for Dynamic Quantification of Left Ventricular and Atrial Volumes and Function in a Large Unselected Population
Authors: Italiano Gianpiero , Tamborini Gloria , Fusini Laura , Mantegazza Valentina , Volpato Valentina , Celeste Fabrizio , Gripari Paola , muratori manuela , Lang Roberto , Pepi Mauro
Published: April 2021

PurposeWe aimed to evaluate the feasibility and accuracy of machine learning based automated dynamic quantification of left ventricular (LV) and left atrial (LA) volumes in an unselected population.MethodsWe enrolled 600 unselected patients (12% in atrial fibrillation) clinically referred for transthoracic echocardiography (2DTTE), who also underwent 3D echocardiography (3DE) imaging. LV ejection fraction (EF), LV and LA volumes were obtained from 2D images; 3D images were analysed using Dynamic Heart Model (DHM) software resulting in LV and LA volume-time curves. A subgroup of 140 patients underwent also cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging. Average time of analysis, feasibility, and image quality were recorded and results were compared between 2DTTE, DHM and CMR.ResultsThe use of DHM was feasible in 529/600 cases (88%). When feasible, the boundary position was considered accurate in 335/522 patients (64%), while major (n=43) or minor (n=156) borders corrections were needed. The overall time required for DHM datasets was approximately 40 seconds, resulting in physiologically appearing LV and LA volume–time curves in all cases. As expected, DHM LV volumes were larger than 2D ones (end-diastolic volume: 173±64 vs 142±58 mL, respectively), while no differences were found for LV EF and LA volumes (EF: 55%±12 vs 56%±14; LA volume 89±36 vs 89±38 mL, respectively). The comparison between DHM and CMR values showed a high correlation for LV volumes (r=0.70 and r=0.82, p<0.001 for end-diastolic and end-systolic volume, respectively) and an excellent correlation for EF (r= 0.82, p<0.001) and LA volumes.ConclusionsThe DHM software is feasible, accurate and quick in a large series of unselected patients, including those with suboptimal 2D images or in atrial fibrillation.
Rapid Induction of Dopaminergic Neuron Loss Accompanied by Lewy Body-Like Inclusions in A53T BAC-SNCA Transgenic Mice
Authors: Okuda Shinya , Uemura Norihito , Sawamura Masanori , Taguchi Tomoyuki , Ikuno Masashi , Uemura Maiko T. , Yamakado Hodaka , Takahashi Ryosuke
Published: April 2021

BackgroundParkinson’s disease (PD) is the most common neurodegenerative movement disorder. Pathological features of PD include dopaminergic neuron loss in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) and intraneuronal α-Synuclein (α-Syn) inclusions called Lewy bodies (LBs). Since there is no treatment to either halt or slow the progression of PD, it is highly demanded to establish a rodent model that recapitulates the clinicopathological features of PD within a short period to efficiently investigate the pathological mechanisms and test disease-modifying therapies (DMTs).MethodsWe injected human and mouse α-Syn-preformed fibrils (hPFFs and mPFFs, respectively) into the hemilateral dorsal striatum of wild-type mice, wild-type human α-Syn bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) transgenic (WT BAC-SNCA Tg) mice, and A53T human α-Syn BAC transgenic (A53T BAC-SNCA Tg) mice, and conducted pathological and behavioral analyses.ResultsWT BAC-SNCA Tg and A53T BAC-SNCA Tg mice expressed a comparable amount of α-Syn (2.9 and 2.7-fold more α-Syn, respectively, than wild-type mice) in the brains. mPFF injections induced more severe α-Syn pathology in most brain regions, including the ipsilateral SNpc, than hPFF injections in all genotypes at 1 month post-injection. Among the mPFF-injected mice, the A53T BAC-SNCA Tg mice exhibited the most severe α-Syn pathology as early as 0.5 month (2 weeks) post-injection. Consistent with these observations, in vitro fibrillization assay revealed that a mixture of A53T human α-Syn and mouse α-Syn seeded with mPFFs aggregated most rapidly among the conditions tested. The mPFF-injected A53T BAC-SNCA Tg mice showed a 38% reduction in tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-positive neurons in the ipsilateral SNpc, apomorphine-induced rotational behavior, and motor dysfunction at 2 months post-injection. Notably, the reduction in TH-positive density in the striatum and microglial activation preceded the obvious TH-positive neuron loss in the SNpc.Conclusions﻿Our data indicate that the extent of α-Syn pathology induced by α-Syn PFF injection depends on the types of α-Syn PFFs and exogenously expressed α-Syn in Tg mice. The mPFF-injected A53T BAC-SNCA Tg mice recapitulate the pathological processes of PD more rapidly than previously reported mouse models, suggesting their usefulness for testing DMTs as well as analyzing the pathological mechanisms.
KLK3 as a possible novel early biomarker of environmental exposure in young women living in Polluted area
Authors: Raimondo Salvatore , Gentile Mariacira , Esposito Giusy , Gentile Tommaso , Ferrara Ida , Crescenzo Claudia , Palmieri Mariangela , Cuomo Felice , Filippo Stefania De , Piscopo Marina , montano luigi
Published: April 2021

Background: Kallikrein Related Peptidase 3 (KLK3) is secreted by Skene's glands and, is considered ancestral homologues of the male prostate gland and has long been used as a biological marker of prostate cancer. Recent studies have shown that the synthesis of KLK3 can be induced by steroid hormones in different tissues of women and in the menstrual cycle it seems to follow the cyclic variation of estradiol and progesterone. In addition, some environmental pollutants such as bisphenols, phthalate / DBP (DiButyl Phthalate) affect AR (Androgen Receptors) mediated signalling that directly regulates KLK3 secretion. This suggests that environmental factors may play a role in KLK3 secretion.Methods: 61 healthy women living in a high environmental impact (HEI) area, 58 healthy women living in a low environmental impact (LEI) area were evaluated on possible presence or changes of KLK3 in serum at different phases of the menstrual cycle: blood samples taken in the follicular phase 5th-6th day, ovulatory phase 12th -13th day and luteal phase 19th -20th day of the menstrual cycle. For this aim, an ultra-sensitive kit for KLK3 with a detection limit of 0.001 ng / mL was used.Results KLK 3 values​​showed two opposite peaks, women from HEI had a positive peak in the ovulatory phase with mean value of 9.90 ± 3.21 pg / mL while women from LEI had a negative peak in the ovulatory phase with mean values ​​of 3.07 ± 1.49 pg / mL. Progesterone, showed a correlation with KLK3. Women from HEI had higher KLK3 values on average and no significant changes were evident between the three withdrawals in the different phases of the cycle. In contrast, women from LEI had a statistically significant decrease between the follicular and ovulatory phase (p <0.0001) and a statistically significant increase (p <0.0001) between the ovulatory and luteal phase.Conclusions: The data obtained seem to go beyond the known role of KLK3. The dosage of KLK3 during the various phases of the menstrual cycle, simple to carry out and with low costs, can represent an effective and early biomarker to assess environmental exposure and useful to recognize the risk early and protect female health, not only reproductive.
Climate change impacts on rainfed maize yields in Zambia under conventional and optimized crop management
Authors: Siatwiinda Siatwiinda Mabele , Supit Iwan , Hove Bert van , Yerokun Olusegun , Ros Gerard H. , de Vries Wim
Published: April 2021

Maize production in Zambia is characterized by significant yield gaps attributed to nutrient management and climate change threatens to widen these gaps unless agronomic management is optimized. Insights in the impacts of climate change on maize yields and the potential to mitigate negative impacts by crop management is currently lacking for Zambia. Using five Global Circulation models and the WOFOST crop model, we assessed expected climate change and the impacts on maize yields at a 0.5° × 0.5° spatial resolution for RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 scenarios. Impacts were assessed for two future periods (i.e. near future: 2035–2066 and far future: 2065–2096) in comparison with a reference period (1971–2001). The average surface temperature and summer days (above 30°C) are projected to increase strongly in the southern and western regions. Precipitation is expected to decline, except in the northern regions while the number of wet days decline everywhere, indicating a shortening growing season. The risk of crop failure in western and southern regions increases due to dry spells and heat stress while crops in the northern regions will be threatened by flooding or waterlogging due to heavy precipitation. The simulated decline in the water limited and water- and nutrient- limited maize yields varied from ca 15–20% in the near future and from ca 20–40% in the far future, mainly due to the expected temperature increases. Optimizing management by adjusting planting dates and maize varieties can counteract these impacts by 6–29%. Quantitatively, the existing gaps between water limited yields and nutrient limited maize yields are substantially larger than the expected yield decline due to climate change. Improved nutrient management is therefore crucial to avoid crop yield decline and might even increase crop yields in Zambia.
Effects of temperature on interfacial evolution and mechanical properties of pure titanium and carbon steel sheets bonded via new multi-pass continuous hot-roll diffusion with nickel interlayer
Authors: Lin Chun-Ming Jimmy , Rizi Mohsen Saboktakin , Chen Chia-Kai
Published: April 2021

This study performed experiments and thermodynamic calculations to elucidate the effects of diffusion temperature on interfacial evolution and mechanical properties of pure titanium and carbon steel (i.e., steel) sheets bonded via a new type of multi-pass continuous hot-roll diffusion with nickel interlayer. The interfacial evolution results revealed that this new type of multi-pass continuous hot-roll diffusion treatment showed a very good adherence due to its metallurgy bonding, because it made a remarked improve to between compound and intermetallic compounds relationship. Secondly, in mechanical properties results revealed that the highest shear strength (∼470 MPa) was obtained at a processing temperature of 850°C. The highest peel strength (∼21 N/mm) was obtained in the sample processed at 900°C. Bonding temperatures above and below these levels reduced the bond strength respectively due to poor atom diffusion and excessive compound formation, resulting in joint failure at the Ti-Ni interface. Extensive cleavage planes with various alignments were observed on the fracture surfaces in these cases. Overall, a hot-rolling temperature of 850°C was found to provide the optimal tradeoff between interfacial bonding strength and ductility. This work provided an economical and convenient solution for broadening the engineering application of interface between sheets of pure titanium and steel.
Vibration-based tool wear monitoring using Artificial Neural Networks fed by Spectral centroid indicator & RMS of CEEMDAN modes
Authors: NOUIOUA Mourad , BOUHALAIS Mohamed Lamine
Published: April 2021

In machining processes various phenomena occur during cutting operation. These phenomena can disturb the production through the reduction of part quality and accuracy. Therefore, a mastery of this cutting phenomena is needed to define the machining parameters and take full advantage of manufacturing process. An easy way to classify these phenomena is by monitoring incontrollable parameters, such as generated temperature and vibration. The acquired vibration signals can provide information regarding tool life, cutting performances and workpiece defects. This paper evaluates the possibility of monitoring the tool life during the turning process of AISI 1045 steel using Laser Doppler Vibrometer (LDV), the surface roughness has been measured along with the tool-wear until reaching its limit value of 300µm. Furthermore, this paper also outlines the application of CEEMDAN technique to process the acquired signals for the monitoring processes. RMS and SCI indicators have been used to describe the wear progress, then, the artificial neural network has been adopted to achieve a real time wear monitoring. The obtained results qualified the SCI indicator and ANN for online monitoring.
Neighbourhood Effects and FDI Location: the Role of the Ability to Source Inputs
Authors: KITIMBI Michael Peter MBANJO , BIDIASSE Honoré
Published: April 2021

This paper aims to show, in the African context, that the ability to source inputs from neighbouring countries increases the attractiveness of African countries. Using a methodology based on spatial econometrics, the SLX and SDEM models are applied to a panel of 24 African countries over the period 2004–2015. It appears that the location of FDI in a country is affected by the capacity of its neighbours to provide inputs, particularly in terms of natural resources and economic openness. Moreover, domestic supply chains also affect the location of FDIJEL classification: F29, F21, C31
Priority and Age Specific Vaccination Algorithm for the Pandemic Diseases: A Comprehensive Parametric Prediction Model
Authors: Tutsoy Önder
Published: April 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
New Identified Anthocyanins from Sudanese Roselle: Potential Candidates for inhibition of Xanthine Oxidase
Authors: El-Naeem Arwa , Abdalla Sahar , Ahmed Ibrahim
Published: April 2021

This study aims to identify anthocyanin pigments in Sudanese roselle and examine their inhibitory activity toward xanthine oxidase (XO) enzyme via in silico docking approach. A number of four samples of Sudanese roselle (red and white) from different regions of Sudan were investigated by high sensitive technique, i.e. LC-MS to identify anthocyanins. Four anthocyanins were identified in all samples; delphinidin-3-glucoside (Dp-3-glu), cyanidin-3-sambubioside (Cy-3-sam), pelargonidin chloride (Pg Chloride), and petuinidin-3-glucoside (Pt-3-glu); in addition to one flavanol; gossypetin (Goss). The anthocyanins of the white samples are suggested to be presented in the yellowish or colorless pseudo base structures. The identified anthocyanins were tested against the inhibition toward xanthine oxidase via molecular docking. All anthocyanins were found to be excellent XO inhibitors superior to the most recent commercially used hyperuricemia drug; i.e. topiroxostat. The binding energies of the complexes (ligand-XO) are lower than the energy of the topiroxostat-XO complex. The binding energies order is: pt-3- dp-3-glu > cy-3-sam > goss > pg chloride. According to our investigation, roselle anthocyanins are considered as good potential future XO-inhibitors drugs; and promising candidates to treat several related diseases.
A Novel Green Synthesis of Zero Valent Iron Nanoparticles (Nzvi) using Walnut Green Skin Characterization, Catalytic Degradation and Toxicity Studies
Authors: Hamzezadeh Asghar , Fazlzadeh Mehdi , Rahmani Kourosh , poureshgh Yousef
Published: April 2021

In the present study, green synthesized nanoparticles were used to activate persulfate and used for oxidation of metronidazole (MTZ). In the process of green synthesis, the walnut green skin was used for the synthesis of zero-valent iron (nZVI) particles. These nanoparticles' FESEM images revealed that they were spherical-shaped nanoparticles with a diameter ranging from 18 to 72 nm. Also, the FTIR spectra indicated the functional groups of polyphenols on the surfaces of the nZVI nanoparticles. Moreover, the XRD pattern illustrated that the synthesized particles possessed a high crystalline quality structure. According to the results, under the optimum conditions, the removal efficiency of the process in degradation of MTZ was 90.3%. LC-MS chromatography showed 7 by-products with reduced toxicity in the reactor outputs. It was found that the green synthesized nZVI had a good effect on the activation of the PS and the PS/nZVI process had a high ability in degradation of MTZ from aqueous solutions.
Propagation of Five Species in a Commercial-scale Submist System
Authors: Burnett Stephanie E. , Peterson Bryan J. , Peronto Marjorie
Published: April 2021

The novel propagation system submist, which applies water to the bases of cuttings rather than overhead, is a promising alternative. We developed and tested a commercial-scale submist system to make this propagation system more accessible to commercial propagators. Five species, including blue star flower (Amsonia tabernaemontana), faassen nepeta (Nepeta ×faassenii ‘Six Hills Giant’), panicle hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata ‘Grandiflora’), sweetgale (Myrica gale), and sweetfern (Comptonia peregrina), were propagated from cuttings in commercial-scale submist and overhead mist systems. Blue star flower and faassen nepeta cuttings had greater root length, root rating, and root number with the submist system. Panicle hydrangea cuttings had more roots in submist, but longer roots in overhead mist. There were no differences in rooting between the systems for sweetgale and sweetfern cuttings. The comparable or superior rooting of these five species in a submist system compared with traditional overhead mist systems is evidence that submist is a viable alternative propagation system. Water use in submist systems was 98% less than that for overhead mist systems.
Pre-service teacher education: Observing senior teachers through the theoretical lens of Ellis’s principles of instructed language learning
Authors: Petrocelli Emilia
Published: April 2021

The study is based on a training project completed in Italy as part of a qualifying course for high school teachers of L2 English. The project moves around the framework that Rod Ellis proposed in 2010 on the relationship between Second Language Acquisition and Language Pedagogy and it argues the need for student teachers (STs) to take the role of classroom researchers during their learning process and carry out critical observations through a solid theoretical lens, such as the 10 principles for instructed language learning by Ellis (2005a, 2005b). Three case studies are analyzed to explore how STs observed classroom activities armed with the knowledge of the principles. Data is based on feedback they gave during seminar discussions and remarks made in written reports. Moreover, a follow-up survey of informants after five years’ in-service practice questions whether and how this experience influenced the quality and degree of their understanding of teaching and learning. Considering these results, suggestions are made for future implementations of this kind of project.
Review: Kagan, Olga, Carreira, Maria M., & Hitchins Chik, Claire (Eds.). (2017). The Routledge handbook of heritage language education: From innovation to program building. Taylor & Francis.
Authors: Er Simay Birce
Published: April 2021

The Routledge Handbook of Heritage Language Education successfully contextualizes heritage language education initiatives across a wide range of languages and geographical settings. It comprises an impressive range of studies that cover all levels of education and show the institutionalization process of heritage language education initiatives. The book is recommended reading for researchers, scholars, educators, language planners, and practitioners.
Extended Reality in Educating the Next Generation of Health Professionals
Authors: Shankar P Ravi
Published: April 2021

COVID-19 has severely impacted health professions education and assessment has mostly shifted online. Major challenges remain especially about teaching-learning and assessment of clinical skills. Interacting with an individual online does not provide the range of information provided by an inperson meeting. There have been dramatic advances in computers and the internet in the last 60 years. Extended reality (XR) is all real- and virtual-combined environments and human-computer interactions generated by computers and wearable devices. The future physical world is likely to face multiple challenges. It is likely that human interactions and learning will increasingly occur in XR spaces. Three-dimensional holographic avatars and interacting and manipulating objects in XR spaces will become easier. Most medical education can occur in these spaces. Universities will invest substantially in these spaces. The safety of the physical world, the cost and usability will determine the extent of use of these learning spaces.
Sulphur in the geochemically conjugated landscapes of the Soimonovsky valley, Chelyabinsk region (Russia)
Authors:   Saint-Petersburg State Agrarian University, Saint-Petersburg, Pushkin, Russia, SHABANOV Mikhail Viktorovich
Published: April 2021

Problem Statement. The paper presents the results of studying the features of lateral and radial differentiation, as well as the sulfur content in the landscape-geochemical catenes of the Soimonovskaya Valley. Soimonovskaya valley is located in the Chelyabinsk region of the Russian Federation. For more than 100 years a metallurgical plant for the production of copper has been operating here. The plant supplies to the environment gas and dust emissions that contain various pollutants, including sulfur dioxide. Sulfur oxide affects the soil and vegetation. The objective of the study to assess the impact of emissions of the copper smelter on the content of sulfur in the landscapes of the Soiman valley and determine the patterns of migration and accumulation of sulfur. Materials for the study were ecological and geochemical surveys carried out on the territory of the Soimonov valley and at different distances from the copper smelter. Soil and soil samples were taken in layers every 15-20 cm up to the parent rock. Physico-chemical parameters and sulfur content were determined in soils and grounds. Results. Lithozems (Leptosols), dark humus soils, and soil-like formations (Urbic Technosols) are developed in the study area. Within a radius of 5 km, plant and soil cover is almost completely absent - technogenic landscapes. Soils are very acidic, gross sulfur content in 0-20 cm layer is more than 1000,0 mg/kg. In a radius of 5 - 10 km prevail natural landscapes, partially modified, the reaction of the environment from slightly acidic to neutral, the gross sulfur content in the layer 0 - 20 cm ranges from 190.0 to 900 mg / kg. Autonomous and subordinate landscapes were studied on the example of two catenas. It was found that in landscapes with an abundance of herbaceous vegetation radial differentiation prevails over lateral differentiation, in technogenic landscapes vice versa. Zones of sulfur accumulation and dispersion in landscapes are revealed.
Socio-economic valuation of an employee’s work activities of a coal mining enterprise: Criteria, indicators, and methodology
Authors:   LLC “NIIOGR”, Chelyabinsk, Russia, POLESHCHUK Marina Nikolaevna
Published: April 2021

Relevance is caused by the fact that the achievement of the required performance results is based on the mutual understanding of the workers of a coal mining enterprise and the consistency of their interaction. It is advisable to carry out a socio-economic valuation and mutual assessment of their activities to effectively change these components. For a correct assessment of the activities of employees, it is necessary to determine the criteria and indicators that reflect its socio-economic characteristics and the results achieved by employees. Purpose of the paper is to present a methodological toolkit that allows employees of a coal mining enterprise to carry out a socioeconomic valuation and mutual assessment of their activities, to develop measures for improving its efficiency. Research methodology and methods. The socio-economic valuation of employees work activities is based on the following provisions: 1) the results of the employee’s activities and the process of achieving them are assessed; 2) an employee himself makes the assessment as well as other employees interacting with him (manager, colleagues, subordinates). When substantiating the criteria and indicators, the methods of structural and functional analysis, scientific generalization and expert assessments were used. Results. A set of criteria and indicators have been substantiated reflecting the attitude of employees to activities, the process of their activities and the results they achieve. A method of socio-economic valuation of activities is proposed, the application of which allows identifying discrepancies in assessments, to achieve mutual understanding between interacting employees, their managers and colleagues, to develop relationships that ensure the required results of interaction. Conclusions. Socio-economic valuation of an employee’s work activities of a coal mining enterprise according to the proposed methodology using a reasonable set of criteria and indicators allows you to form an agreed understanding of the requirements for the activity and its results, to develop and implement effective measures to achieve the desired results Keywords: indicators and criteria, methodology, activity, coal mining enterprise, employee, socio-economic valuation, mutual understanding, relationships, interaction, results.