bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Airworthiness and Conceptual Design Optimization Considerations of the Environmental Impact Assessment of a Supersonic Business Jet Aircraft
Authors: Lappas Ilias , Pergamalis Nikolaos
Published: November 2019

In recent years, the anticipation of sustainable commercial supersonic jet operations has elevated again. Advances in propulsion together with the increased usage of composite materials favour the potential of sustained and cost efficient supersonic commercial operations. However, obstacles remain with regards to the certification of the new supersonic aircraft platforms, while the two main certification bodies EASA and FAA are under pressure to develop certification requirements which will reassure that the supersonic operations are going to have the least possible environmental impact. From a design perspective, past and current research suggests that a trade-off exists between the aircraft performance and the environmental impact, which should be balanced. The current study attempts to balance this trade-off and to conceptually design a SuperSonic Business Jet (SSBJ) by taking into account environmental concerns of the supersonic flight together with design methods that facilitate a sustained supersonic cruise. An environmental impact assessment is undertaken for the SSBJ design and its results are compared to a typical commercial subsonic airliner.
Study of Local Inertial Focusing Conditions for Spherical Particles in Asymmetric Serpentines
Authors: Pedrol Eric , Massons Jaume , Díaz Francesc , Aguiló Magdalena
Published: November 2019

Inertial focusing conditions of fluorescent polystyrene spherical particles are studied at the pointwise level along their pathlines. This is accomplished by an algorithm that calculates a de-gree of spreading function of the particles' trajectories taking streaklines images as raw data. Different confinement ratios of the particles and flow rates are studied and the results are pre-sented in state diagrams showing the focusing degree of the particles in terms of their position within a curve of an asymmetric serpentine and the applied flow rate. In addition, together with numerical simulation results, we present empirical evidence that the preferred trajectories of inertially focused spheres are contained within Dean vortices' centerlines. We speculate about the existence of a new force, never postulated before, to explain this fact.
Effects of Sales, Receivables Turnover, and Cash Flow on Liquidity
Authors: Rusdiyanto Rusdiyanto , Agustia Dian , Soetedjo Soegeng , Septiarini Dina Fitrisia , Susetyorini Susetyorini , Elan Umi , Syafii Mochamad , Ulum Bustanul , Suparman Petrus , Rahayu Dwi Inggarwati , kusumaningrum Dini
Published: November 2019

In this study, the author proposes to evaluate the effect of sales growth, Receivable Turnover and operating cash flow on the liquidity of PT. Unilever Indonesia Plc. The research method used is descriptive method with a quantitative approach. In this statement, the population used in this study is the financial statement data from PT. Unilever Indonesia Plc. from 2010 to 2018, the technique of determining the sampling uses Purposive Sampling. This research data uses secondary data from PT. Unilever Indonesia Plc financial statements from 2010 to 2018. All data sources were obtained from the website of the Indonesia Stock Exchange at https://www.idx.co.id, the company's website and Google search. Our analysis reveals that sales growth and accounts receivable turnover from PT. Unilever Indonesia Plc. has no influence on the liquidity of PT. Unilever Indonesia Plc, while operating cash flow has an influence on the Liquidity of PT Unilever Indonesia Plc. This means the ups and downs of the value of sales and accounts receivable turnover of a company has no influence on the liquidity of PT. Unilever Indonesia Plc, while operating cash flow has increased or decreased has an influence on the liquidity of PT Unilever Indonesia Plc. The value of sales growth, accounts receivable turnover and operating cash flow can explain the liquidity of PT Unilever Indonesia Plc. by 78%, while 22% is explained by other factors which are not included in this study.
Are Cry Studies Replicable? An Analysis of Participants, Setups, and Methods Adopted and Reported in Cry Studies
Authors: Gabrieli Giulio , Scapin Giulia , Bornstein Marc H. , Esposito Gianluca
Published: November 2019

Infant cry is evolutionarily, psychologically, and clinically significant. During the last 60 years, several researchers and clinicians assessed the possibility of investigating the acoustical properties of cry for medical purposes. However, there is a lack of standardization in conducting and reporting cry-based studies. In this work, methodologies and procedures employed in infant cry analysis are reviewed, and best practices for reporting studies are provided. First, available literature on vocal and audio acoustic analysis have been examined to identify critical aspects of participant information, data collection, methods, and data analysis. Then, 180 peer-reviewed research articles have been assessed to certify the presence of identified critical information. Results show a general lack of critical description. Researchers in the field of infant cry need to agree on a standard set of criteria to report experimental studies, to better demonstrate the validity of the methods and obtained results.
A Vegetation and Soil Survey Method for Surveillance Monitoring of Rangeland Environments
Authors: Sparrow Ben , Foulkes Jeff , Wardle Glenda , Leitch Emrys , Caddy-Retalic Stefan , van Leeuwen Stephen , Tokmakoff Andrew , Thurgate Nicole , Guerin Greg , Lowe Andrew
Published: November 2019

Ecosystem surveillance monitoring is critical to managing natural resources and especially so under changing environments. Despite this importance, the design and implementation of monitoring programs across large temporal and spatial scales has been hampered by the lack of appropriately standardised methods and data streams. To address this gap, we outline a surveillance monitoring method based on permanent plots and voucher samples suited to rangeland environments around the world that is repeatable, cost-effective, appropriate for large-scale comparisons and adaptable to other global biomes. The method provides comprehensive data on vegetation composition and structure along with soil attributes relevant to plant growth, delivered as a combination of modules that can be targeted for different purposes or available resources. Plots are located in a stratified design across vegetation units, landforms and climates to enhance continental and global comparisons. Changes are investigated through revisits. Vegetation is measured to inform on composition, cover and structure. Samples of vegetation and soils are collected and tracked by barcode labels and stored long-term for subsequent analysis. Technology is used to enhance the accuracy of field methods, including differential GPS r plot locations, instrument based Leaf Area Index (LAI) measures, and three dimensional photo-panoramas for advanced analysis. A key feature of the method is the use of electronic field data collection to enhance data delivery into a publicly-accessible database.Our method is pragmatic, whilst still providing consistent data, information and samples on key vegetation and soil attributes. The method is operational and has been applied at more than 704 field locations across the Australian rangelands as part of the Ecosystem Surveillance program of the Terrestrial Ecosystem Research Network (TERN). The methodology enables continental analyses, and has been tested in communities broadly representative of rangelands globally, with components being applicable to other biomes. Here we also recommend the consultative process and guiding principles that drove the development of this method as an approach for development of the method into other biomes. The consistent, standardised and objective method enables continental, and potentially global analyses than were not previously possible with disparate programs and datasets.
A Base-Band Wireless Spectrum Hypervisor for Multiplexing Concurrent OFDM signals
Authors: Pereira de Figueiredo Felipe Augusto , Mennes Ruben , Jabandzic Irfan , Jiao Xianjun , Moerman Ingrid
Published: November 2019

The next generation of wireless and mobile networks will have to handle a significant increase in traffic load compared to the actual one. This situation calls for novel ways to increase spectral efficiency. Therefore in this paper, we propose a wireless spectrum hypervisor architecture that abstracts a radio frequency (RF) front-end into a configurable number of virtual RF front-ends. The proposed architecture has the ability to enable flexible spectrum access in existing wireless and mobile networks, which is a challenging task due to the limited spectrum programmability, $i.e.$, the capability a system has to change the spectral properties of a given signal to fit an arbitrary frequency allocation. The main goal of the proposed approach is to improve spectral efficiency by efficiently using vacant gaps in congested spectrum-bandwidths or adopting network densification through infrastructure sharing. We demonstrate mathematically how our proposed approach works and present several simulation results proving its functionality and efficiency. Additionally, we designed and implemented an open-source and free proof of concept prototype of the proposed architecture, which can be used by researchers and developers to run experiments or extend the concept to other applications. We present several experimental results used to validate the proposed prototype. We demonstrate that the prototype can easily handle up to 12 concurrent physical layers.
Preparation of Porous Liquid based on Silicalite-1
Authors: Liu Yutong , Bai Yang , Tian Tao
Published: November 2019

Solid porous materials, like zeolites, have been widely used in a variety of fields such as size and shape-selective absorption/separation and catalysis because of their porosity. But there are few liquid materials exhibit permanent porosity. Porous liquids are a novel material that combine the properties of fluidity and permanent porosity. It has potential applications in many fields such as gas separation, storage and transport. Herein, we report a novel Type 1 porous liquid prepared based on Silicalite-1. The pore size of this porous liquid was determined by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS), and the CO2 capacities was determined by the intelligent gravimetric analyser (IGA). The unique properties of this porous liquid can promote its application in many fields such as gas storage and transport.
Development of Populus alba L. and Populus tremula L. Species Specific Molecular Markers Based on the 5S rDNA Non-transcribed Spacer Polymorphism
Authors: Alexandrov Oleg S. , Karlov Gennady I.
Published: November 2019

The Populus L. genus unites tree species, which are botanically grouped into several sections. The species successfully hybridize both in the same section and between some sections. The poplar hybridization widely occurs in nature and in variety breeding. Therefore, the development of poplar species specific molecular markers is very actual. The effective markers for trees of the Aigeiros Daby section have been recently developed using the polymorphism of the 5S rDNA non-transcribed spacers (NTSs). In this article, the 5S rDNA NTS based markers were designed for several species of the Leuce Daby section. The alb9 marker amplifies one fragment with DNA matrix of P. alba and P. × canescens (natural hybrid P. alba × P. tremula). The alb2 marker works the same way except the case with P. bolleana. In this case, the amplification of three fragments was observed. The tremu1 marker amplification is detected with DNA matrix of P. tremula and P. × canescens. Thus, the developed markers may be applied as useful tool for the P. alba, P. tremula, P. × canescens and P. bolleana identification in such areas of plant science as botany, dendrology, genetics of populations, variety breeding etc.
Epigenetic Signalling and RNA Regulation in Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Mongelli Alessia , Atlante Sandra , Bacchetti Tiziana , Martelli Fabio , Farsetti Antonella , Gaetano Carlo
Published: November 2019

RNA epigenetics is perhaps the most recent aspect of interest for translational epigeneticists. RNA modifications create such an extensive network of epigenetically driven combination whose role in physiology and pathophysiology is still far from being elucidated. Not surprisingly, some of the players determining changes into RNA structure are in common with those involved in DNA and chromatin structure regulation, while other molecules seem very specific to RNA. It is envisaged, then, that new small molecules, acting selectively on RNA epigenetic changes, will be reported soon, opening new therapeutic interventions based on the correction of the RNA epigenetic landscape. In this review, we shall summarize some aspects of RNA epigenetics limited to those in which the potential clinical translatability to cardiovascular disease is emerging.
Finite-Distance Gravitational Deflection of Massive Particles by the Kerr-like Black Hole in the Bumblebee Gravity Model
Authors: Li Zonghai , Övgün Ali
Published: November 2019

In this paper, we study the weak gravitational deflection angle of relativistic massive particles by the Kerr-like black hole in the bumblebee gravity model. In particular, we focus on weak field limits and calculate the deflection angle for a receiver and source at a finite distance from the lens. To this end, we use the Gauss-Bonnet theorem of a two-dimensional surface defined by a generalized Jacobi metric. The spacetime is asymptotically non-flat due to the existence of a bumblebee vector field. Thus the deflection angle is modified and can be divided into three parts: the surface integral of the Gaussian curvature, the path integral of a geodesic curvature of the particle ray and the change in the coordinate angle. In addition, we also obtain the same results by defining the deflection angle. The effects of the Lorentz breaking constant on the gravitational lensing are analyzed. We then consider the finite-distance correction for the deflection angle of massive particles.
Some Integral Inequalities for h-Godunova-Levin Preinvexity
Authors: Almutairi Ohud , Kilicman Adem
Published: November 2019

In this study, we define new classes of convexity called of h-Godunova-Levin and h-Godunova-Levin preinvexity, through which some new inequalities of Hermite-Hadamard type were established. These new classes are the generalisation of several known convexity including the s-convex, P-function, Godunova-Levin. Further, the properties of h-Godunova-Levin function were also discussed. Meanwhile, the applications of h-Godunova-Levin Preinvex function are given
Somatic BRCA Mutation in Cholangiocarcinoma Patient Utilized to Individualize an HBOC Syndrome
Authors: Paradiso Angelo , Patruno Margherita , Digennaro Maria , Tommasi Stefania , Pilato Brunella , Argentiero Antonella , Brunetti Oronzo , Silvestris Nicola
Published: November 2019

BRCA-associated hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome (HBOC) implies increased absolute risk also for other malignancies such as cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). However, even if somatic mutations in CCA have been reported, there are no data on its utilization as predisposing genetic factor in a family. For the first time, we utilized CCA somatic BRCA mutation to individualize a family with HBOC. A 47-year-old woman (daughter of a patient died for CCA) accessed to our Genetic Councelling to evaluate her personal cancer risk. We performed a somatic BRCA1/2 NGS analysis on DNA extracted from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded CCA-tissue of her mother. After demonstration of pathogenic variant c.6468_6469delTC in BRCA2 gene mutation, the same germline pathogenic variant was found in DNA blood of one of two daugthers. So far, CCA tissue can be utilized, in addition to patient’s selection to specific therapeutic strategies, also to individualize families belonging to HBOC syndrome.
Graphene-Based Catalysts for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Regent Lana , Luis-Sunga Maximina , Pastor Elena , García Gonzalo
Published: November 2019

Developing sustainable and renewable energy sources is critical as higher and higher global energy and environmental challenges arise. Hydrogen has the highest mass/energy density of any fuel and is considered one of the best sources of clean energy. Water splitting is regarded as one of the most promising solutions for hydrogen production on a large scale. Highly efficient, durable and cost-effective catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) are critical in the realization of this goal. Among many materials proposed, graphene-based materials offer some unique properties for HER catalysis. In this review, we present recent progress on development of graphene-based electrocatalysts toward HER throughout the past few years.
Factors Influencing the Disaster-Incident-Related Shock Experienced by Korean Nursing Students
Authors: Sok Sohyune R. , Gu Minkyung , Kim Ran , Lee Hyunjung
Published: November 2019

The frequency of earthquakes in South Korea is increasing. This study aimed to examine and identify the factors influencing the degree of disaster-incident-related shock among Korean nursing students with the disaster experience. The study sample consisted of 153 nursing students who have been living around Phohang-si in Gyeongsang-do, South Korea, and who having the experience of disaster-incident-related shock. Measures were Impact of Event Scale, Perceived health status scale, Psychological Well-Being Scale, and Coping Strategy Indicator in Korean version. The data collection period was from October to December, 2018. The factor that was found to have the most influence on disaster-incident-related shock among Korean nursing students was the perceived health status (β = 0.48), followed by gender (β = -0.28), coping skill (β = 0.18), psychological well-being (β = 0.14), need for disaster education (β = 0.12), and major satisfaction (β = -0.12). This study provides preliminary evidence that perceived health status is a major and primary predictor of disaster-incident-related shock among Korean nursing students, next followed by coping skill, and psychological well-being. The findings can be reflected in the pertinent curriculum by actively considering these influence factors in designing nursing education interventions for disaster-incident-related shock in the Korean nursing students.
Greener Nanocomposite Polyurethane Foam Based on Sustainable Polyol and Natural Fillers: Investigation of Chemico-Physical and Mechanical Properties
Authors: De Luca Bossa Ferdinando , Santillo Chiara , Verdolotti Letizia , Campaner Pietro , Minigher Andrea , Boggioni Laura , Losio Simona , Coccia Francesca , Iannace Salvatore , Lama Giuseppe C.
Published: November 2019

Nowadays, the chemical industry is looking for sustainable chemicals to synthesize nanocomposite bio-based polyurethane foams, PUs, with the aim to replace the conventional petrochemical precursors. Some possibilities to increase the environmental sustainability in the synthesis of nanocomposite PUs include the use of chemicals and additives derived from renewable sources (such as vegetable oils or biomass wastes) which comprise an increasing wider base raw materials. Generally, sustainable PUs exhibit chemico-physical, mechanical and functional properties which are not comparable with those of PUs produced from petrochemical precursors. In order to enhance the performances as well as the bio-based aspect, the addition in the polyurethane formulation of renewable or natural fillers can be considered. Among these, walnut shells and cellulose are very popular wood-based waste and due to their chemical composition, carbohydrate, protein and/or fatty acid, can be used as reactive fillers in the synthesis of PUs, diatomite as natural inorganic nanoporous filler can be also evaluated to improve mechanical and thermal insulation properties of rigid PUs. In this respect, sustainable nanocomposite rigid PU foams are synthesized by using a cardanol-based Mannich polyol, MDI as isocyanate source, catalysts and surfactant to regulate the polymerization and blowing reactions, H2O as sustainable blowing agent and suitable amount (5wt%) of ultramilled walnut shell, cellulose and diatomite as filler. The effect of these fillers on the chemico-physical, morphological, mechanical and functional performances on PU foams has been analyzed.
Testing Horndeski Theory Using Light Deflection by Asymptotically Flat Black Holes
Authors: Javed Wajiha , Abbas Jameela , Kumaran Yashmitha , Övgün Ali
Published: November 2019

The principal objective of this project is to investigate the gravitational lensing by asymptotically flat black holes in the framework of Horndeski theory in weak field limits. To achieve this objective, we utilize the Gauss-Bonnet theorem to the optical geometry of asymptotically flat black holes and applying the Gibbons-Werner technique to achieve the deflection angle of photons in weak field limits. Subsequently, we manifest the influence of plasma medium on deflection of photons by asymptotically flat black holes in the context of Horndeski theory. We also examine the graphical impact of deflection angle on asymptotically flat black holes in the background of Horndeski theory in plasma as well as non-plasma medium.
The Effect of Avocado to the Profile of Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) and Creatinine in Rats (Rattus norvegicus) Induced with Meloxicam
Authors: Anshar Amelia Ramadhani , Bahar Muhammad Akbar , Ikliptikawati Dini Kurnia
Published: November 2019

Incidence of drug overdose during treatment of acute disease consequently leads to serious renal damage. As supporting treatment, administration of herbal medicine and food dietary are frequently developed. This research aimed to prove how the administration of avocado juice could lower the BUN and creatinine level in white rats induced with toxic doses of meloxicam. Meloxicam is a non-steroidal anti-inflamatory drug (NSAID), which is effectively used as an anti-inflamatory, analgesic, and antipyretic. Twenty four (24) male Wistar rats were assigned to 4 groups of six rats each (n=6). 1 ml of CMC 1% was administered to Control Group I, 30 mg/kgBB meloxicam and 1 ml of CMC 1% to Control Grup II, 30 mg/kgBB meloxicam and avocado juice 5 g/kgBB/day to Treatment Group I, and 30 mg/kgBB meloxicam and avocado juice 10 g/kgBB/day to Treatment Group II. The study was conducted over 8 days, then the level of Blood Urea Nitrogen and creatinine of the white rats were examined on the 1st and 8th day. The results were analyzed by Anova Two Way With Replication, then followed by T-test (α = 0,05) if there were difference. The Anova Two Way With Replication test showed that the mean of the four groups either the levels of Blood Urea Nitrogen or creatinine was significantly decreased (p<0,05). The decrease of BUN in the treatment group I was 27,17 27,17mg/dl and 17,83mg/dl while the decrease of creatinine level was 0,983mg/dl and 0,713mg/dl. The conclusion of this study was that avocado juice decreases level of Blood Urea Nitrogen and creatinine in white rats which exposed toxic doses of meloxicam.
Histopathologic features of male domestic cat (Felis domestica) testes induced by bisphenol-A orally
Authors: Makmur Fachira Ulfa , Purba Fika Yuliza , Sari Dwi Kesuma
Published: November 2019

Infertility in cat becomes a serious problem in pet community since many compounds of infertility-caused can be found widely in the environment. One of the compounds causing infertility in mammals is Bisphenol-A (BPA), which is known as an estrogenic compound. The purpose of this research is to observe the changes in testicular histology of male domestic cat (Felis domestica) induced by BPA orally. Sample used in this study were 24 male domestic cats divided into 4 groups, namely the group 1 as control, group 2, 3 and 4 were treated with BPA about 5, 10 and 100 mg/kg bodyweight, respectively for 5 days. The results showed that the estrogenic effect of BPA affects the reproductive system of the cat. The effects of BPA in cat included decrease in the amounts of spermatozoa, vacuolization of seminiferous tubules cells, degeneration of Leydig cells, degeneration of tubular epithelial cells,  irregular forms of the germ, interstitial tissue hemorrhage, debris cell filled the lumen of seminiferous tubules. These results suggested that BPA can be harmful to the reproductive system of the cat
Glucose levels and Stress Index of Common Palm Civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus) Coffee Eaters and not Coffee Eaters
Authors: Ulfa Nur Isnaini , Novelina Savitri , Satyaningtijas Aryani Sismin
Published: November 2019

Common palm civet is a mamalia which often used to produce luwak coffee. Therefore  health status of common palm civet is very important to be considered because force feeding of coffee can turn to stress condition. Glucose level, leukocyte profile and ratio N/L were often used as stress indicator. This study was aimed to determine glucose levels from blood of common palm civet, determine leukocyte profile and its deffirentiation also to calculate neutrophyl/limpocyte ratio from six common palm civet there were three group of observation, there were common palm civet coffe eaters and not coffe eaters. Blood samples were taken intracardially for further analyzed using manual blood method. Glucose levels of coffee eaters common palm civet was higher than common palm civet that was not coffee eaters. Stress index of coffee eaters common palm civet (0,516) was higher than not coffee eaters (0,463), but it was still in the normal range. Common palm civet that eat coffee continuosly can lead to oxidative stress condition.
The Analysis of Renal Anatomy and Histological Changes of Green Iguana (Iguana Iguana) After Feeding With Red Spinach (Amaranthus tricolor L.)
Authors: Nurjunitar Annita Vury , Purba Fika Yuliza , Wahyuni Wahyuni , Ismartoyo Ismartoyo , Sari Dwi Kesuma
Published: November 2019

Background and Objective: Iguana breeders usually used red spinach as a feed for iguanas. However, several studies have indicated that red spinach contains oxalate and purine which are harmful if consumed at a certain level because they can interfere with kidney function. This study aimed to investigate the change of anatomy and histology of green iguana (Iguana iguana) kidney after feeding with red spinach. Materials and methods: Twelve iguanas were used in this study and were divided into four groups in accordance to the dose level of red spinach (100%, 75%, 50% and 25%, namely group I to IV, respectively). The red spinach was given for 30 days through the nasogastric intubation. The effect of red spinach administration was observed through the anatomy and histological changes. The results were statistically analyzed with One Way ANOVA with p<0.05 was considered significant, and Post Hoc Test. The histopathology change of the kidney was analyzed descriptively. Results: The administration of red spinach in iguanas caused some anatomy changes of the kidney; such as the enlargement of iguana’s kidney. The histological findings included the enlargement of the glomerulus, capsular space constriction, hydropic degeneration, tubular dilation, necrosis, and formation of connective tissue (fibrosis), uric acid crystal sediment (gout), oxalate crystal, and lymphocyte infiltration. Among four different dose levels of red spinach, 100% of red spinach caused the highest damage to the iguana’s kidney. The significant change grew as the increasing dose of red spinach that was given to the green iguanas’ bodies. Conclusion:  Red spinach caused changes in anatomy structure as well as kidney histology of green iguanas. Severe damages occurred in the treatment group III, moderate damage occurredin the treatment group II, and light damage occurred in the treatment group I. Keywords: Green iguana, Red spinach, Kidney, Anatomy Change, Histology Change
Convergent degeneration of olfactory receptor gene repertoires in marine mammals
Authors: Liu Ake , He Funan , Shen Libing , Liu Ruixiang , Wang Zhijun , Zhou Jingqi
Published: November 2019

Background: Olfactory receptors (ORs) can bind odor molecules and play a crucial role in odor sensation. Due to the frequent gains and losses of genes during evolution, the number of OR members varies greatly among different species. However, whether the extent of gene gains/losses varies between marine mammals and related terrestrial mammals has not been clarified, and the factors that might underlie these variations are unknown.
Results: To address these questions, we identified more than 10,000 members of the OR family in 23 mammals and classified them into 830 orthologous gene groups (OGGs) and 281 singletons. Significant differences occurred in the number of OR repertoires and OGGs among different species. We found that all marine mammals had fewer OR genes than their related terrestrial lineages, with the fewest OR genes found in cetaceans, which may be closely related to olfactory degradation. ORs with more gene duplications or loss events tended to be under weaker purifying selection. The average gain and loss rates of OR genes in terrestrial mammals were higher than those of mammalian gene families, while the average gain and loss rates of OR genes in marine mammals were significantly lower and much higher than those of mammalian gene families, respectively. Additionally, we failed to detect any one-to-one orthologous genes in the focal species, suggesting that OR genes are not well conserved among marine mammals.
Conclusions: Marine mammals have experienced large numbers of OR gene losses compared with their related terrestrial lineages, which may result from the frequent birth-and-death evolution under varied functional constrains. Due to their independent degeneration, OR genes present in each lineage are not well conserved among marine mammals. Our study provides a basis for future research on the olfactory receptor function in mammals from the perspective of evolutionary trajectories.
Evolution of cis- and trans-regulatory divergence in the chicken genome between two contrasting breeds analyzed using three tissue types at one-day-old
Authors: Wang Qiong , Jia Yaxiong , Wang Yuan , Jiang Zhihua , Zhou Xiang , Zhang Zebin , Nie Changsheng , Li Junying , Yang Ning , Qu Lujiang
Published: November 2019

Background: Gene expression variation is a key underlying factor influencing phenotypic variation, and can occur via cis- or trans-regulation. To understand the role of cis- and trans-regulatory variation on population divergence in chicken, we developed reciprocal crosses of two chicken breeds, White Leghorn and Cornish Game, which exhibit major differences in body size and reproductive traits, and used them to determine the degree of cis versus trans variation in the brain, liver, and muscle tissue of male and female 1-day-old specimens.Results: We provided an overview of how transcriptomes are regulated in hybrid progenies of two contrasting breeds based on allele specific expression analysis. Compared with cis-regulatory divergence, trans-acting genes were more extensive in the chicken genome. In addition, considerable compensatory cis- and trans-regulatory changes exist in the chicken genome. Most importantly, stronger purifying selection was observed on genes regulated by trans-variations than in genes regulated by the cis elements.Conclusions: We present a pipeline to explore allele-specific expression in hybrid progenies of inbred lines without a specific reference genome. Our research is the first study to describe the regulatory divergence between two contrasting breeds. The results suggest that artificial selection associated with domestication in chicken could have acted more on trans-regulatory divergence than on cis-regulatory divergence.
Sepsis in cancer patients residing in Zimbabwe: Spectrum of bacterial and fungal aetiologies and their antimicrobial susceptibility patterns.
Authors: CHINOWAITA FRANK , Chaka Wendy , Nyazika Tinashe K , Maboreke Tendai C , Tizauone Emmanuel , Mapondera Prichard , Chitsike Inam , Cakana Andrew Z , Mavenyengwa Rooyen Tinago
Published: November 2019

Introduction: Cancer and sepsis comorbidity is a major public health problem in most parts of the world including Zimbabwe. The microbial aetiologies of sepsis and their antibiograms vary with time and locations. Knowledge on local microbial aetiologies of sepsis and their susceptibility patterns is critical in guiding empirical antimicrobial treatment choices.
Methods: This was a descriptive cross sectional study which determined the microbial aetiologies of sepsis from blood cultures of paediatric and adult cancer patients obtained between July 2016 and June 2017. The TDR-X120 blood culture system and TDR 300B auto identification machine were used for incubation of blood culture bottles and identification plus antimicrobial susceptibility testing, respectively. Clinical and laboratory standards institute (CLSI) standard breakpoints were used to interpret the antimicrobial susceptibility results.
Results: A total of 142 participants were enrolled; 50 (35.2%) had positive blood cultures with 56.0% Gram positive, 42.0% Gram negative bacteria and 2.0% yeast isolates. Most common isolates were coagulase negative Staphylococcus spp. (CoNS) (22.0%), Escherichia coli (16.0%), Klebsiella pneumoniae (14.0%), Enterococcus faecalis (14.0%) and Staphylococcus aureus (8.0%) in all cancer patients. These isolates were similar in both haematological and solid cancers. Gram negative isolates exhibited high resistance to gentamicin (61.9%) and ceftriaxone (71.4%) which are the empiric antimicrobial agents used in our setting. Amikacin and meropenem showed 85.7% and 95.2% activity respectively against all Gram negative isolates while vancomycin and linezolid were effective against 96.2% and 100.0% of all Gram positive isolates respectively. Ten (66.7%) isolates of E. coli and K. pneumoniae were extended spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) positive. Among Staphylococcus species it was also observed that 10/15 (66.7%) of the isolates were methicillin resistan t.
Conclusions : The major microbial aetiologies of sepsis among patients with cancer in Zimbabwe were CoNS, E. coli , K. pneumoniae , E. faecalis and S. aureus . Most isolates were resistant to commonly used empirical antibiotics and there was high level of ESBL and methicillin resistance carriage. A nationwide survey on microbial aetiologies of sepsis and their susceptibility patterns would assist in the guidance of effective sepsis empiric antimicrobial treatment among patients with cancer.
Perioperative poor grip strength recovery is associated with 30-day complication rate after cardiac surgery discharge in middle-aged and older adults- a prospective observational study
Authors: Fu Liyuan , Zhang Yuanyuan , Shao Bohan , Liu Xiangjing , Yuan Bo , Wang Zhengqing , Chen Tienan , Liu Zhigang , Liu Xiaocheng , Guo Qi
Published: November 2019

Background: Although perioperative care during heart surgery has improved considerably, the rate of postoperative complications has remained stable. It has not been concluded how to better apply grip strength to clinical, postoperative complications. So our study aimed at researching the best way for using grip value for predicting early postoperative complications.
Methods: A total of 212 patients with mean age 63.8±6.3 who underwent cardiac surgery participated in our study. We analyzed the ROC curve of grip strength, grip/weight and grip recovery with complications, found the best cutoff point. Logistic regression confirmed the association between grip strength grouping and complications.
Results: We found that 36 patients had 30-day complications. EuroSCORE were 2.15±1.52 and 2.42±1.58 between normal and complication groups, respectively. The area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC) of grip recovery take the most area (0.837, p<0.001), and the cutoff point was 83.92%. In logistic regression, lower grip recovery has higher risk impact on 30-day complications for 25.68 times than normal group, after adjusted surgery-related factors. After regrouped characteristic information by grip recovery cutoff point , we found that percentage of the estimated 6 minute walk distance (41.5 vs 48.3, p=0.028) and hospitalization time (7.2 vs 6.1, p=0.042) had worse trends in lower recovery group.
Conclusions: Poor grip recovery may be related to higher risk of postoperative complications within 30 days after discharge in middle-aged and older people independent of surgical risk. The results of this study provide a reference for the development of rehabilitation programs in the early postoperative recovery, and may also be a prognostic indicator for postoperative high-risk groups.
Autologous plasma versus fetal calf serum as a supplement for the culture of neutrophils.
Authors: Author) Razieh Alipour(Former Corresponding , Fatemi Alimohammad , Alsahebfosul Fereshteh , Andalib Alireza , Author) Abbasali Pourazar(New Corresponding
Published: November 2019

Objective Currently the replacement of fetal calf serum (FCS) by a more suitable alternative is a sought aim in the field of tissue and cell culture research. Autologous plasma (AP) and especially autologous serum (AS) have been shown to be effective substitutes of FCS in culture media for some of cell types. Nevertheless, there is no comparative data on the most appropriate supplement for cell media in neutrophil studies, it is now unclear whether AP have relatively an equal, superior or inferior performance to FCS in neutrophil cell culture. In the present study, human blood neutrophils were isolated and cultured in FCS- or AP-supplemented medium. After 12, 36 and 60 hours of incubation, cell viability, oxidative burst and CD11b expression were determined by flow cytometry.Results Compared to the culture of neutrophils in FCS 10% medium, the culture of neutrophils in a medium with AP 10% could prolong their life span without affecting their function. The findings introduce AP as a better supplement for human neutrophil cell culture than FCS and propose a simple and economical procedure for neutrophil isolation and culture.
Silicon application and related changes in soil bacterial community dynamics reduced ginseng black spot incidence in Panax ginseng in a short-term study
Authors: Li Meijia , Wang Qiuxia , Liu Zhengbo , Pan Xiaoxi , Zhang Yayu
Published: November 2019

Background This study analyzed the effect of silicon (Si) application on the occurrence of ginseng black spot caused by Alternaria panax . We explored the differences in soil physical and chemical factors and microbial community structure following Si application as well as the key factors that affected the occurrence of ginseng black spot in soil. Potted Panax ginseng plants were used to assess the effect of Si treatment on ginseng black spot. Soil physical and chemical properties were comprehensively analyzed. Bacterial communities were analyzed using Illumina HiSeq sequencing targeting the 16S rRNA gene.
Results After inoculation with A. panax , the morbidity (and morbidity index) of ginseng with and without Si was 52% (46) and 83% (77), respectively. Soil physical and chemical analysis showed that under the ginseng black spot inoculation, bacterial communities were mainly affected by pH and available potassium, followed by ammonium nitrogen and available Si. NMDS and PLS-DA analyses and the heat maps of relative abundance revealed that Si application elevated the resistance of ginseng black spot as regulated by the abundance and diversity of bacterial flora in rhizosphere soils. Heatmap analysis at the genus level revealed that A. panax + Si inoculations significantly increased the soil community abundance of Sandaracinus , Polycyclovorans , Hirschia , Haliangium , Nitrospira , Saccharothrix , Aeromicrobium , Luteimonas , and Rubellimicrobium and led to a bacterial community structure with relative abundances that were significantly similar to that of untreated soil.
Conclusions Short-term Si application also significantly regulated the structural impact on soil microorganisms caused by ginseng black spot. Our findings indicated that Si applications may possibly be used in the prevention and treatment of ginseng black spot.
Cost of incorrect application of antithrombotic prophylaxis prior to invasive procedures
Authors: Cuevas María Victoria , Martínez-Sancho Ignacio , Arribas Jana , García-Díaz Covadonga , Cuevas Beatriz
Published: November 2019

Background

We analyze the cost of an incorrect application, by the haematologist, of bridging anticoagulation in patients with low-risk atrial fibrillation (AF) needing interruption of treatment prior to a scheduled invasive procedure. Although not recommended, bridging therapy is widely used, resulting in avoidable costs and increased workload.

Methods

Observational retrospective study. We recorded demographic and clinical data including age, sex, type of procedure, use of bridging therapy with low molecular weight heparin (LMWH), and haemorrhagic complications within 30 days of acenocoumarol withdrawal.

Results

Acenocoumarol was stopped in 161 patients, 97 (60%) were male and 64 (40%) female. Average age was 76,11 ± 8,45 years. Procedures included: minor surgical intervention 58 (36%), colonoscopy 61 (38%), gastroscopy 11 (7%), breast biopsy 4 (2.5%), prostate biopsy 4 (2.5%), infiltration 5 (3%), and other 18 (11%). All patients received bridging anticoagulation with LMWH (40mg enoxaparin per day) 3 days before and 3 days after the procedure (6 doses). We used a total of 966 doses, at €4.5 per unit, resulted in €4,347 of total cost. No complications occurred in 156 patients (97%). Haemorrhage was observed in 5 cases: 1 major haemorrhage needing 6 days of hospital stay and transfusion, and 4 minor haemorrhages (2 patients needed emergency attendance and 2 required hospital admission for 3 and 2 days, respectively). The cost of emergency care was €237.36, and the cost of hospital stay was €6860.81 (€623.71 per day, for 11 days). The total cost of the incorrect application of the protocol was €11445.17.

Conclusion

Guidelines about bridging anticoagulation in low risk AF patients undergoing scheduled invasive procedures were not followed. This practice increments the complications and supposes an increase in costs besides to an inadequate use of the human resources.
Post-lingual non-syndromic hearing loss phenotype: a polygenic case with 2 biallelic mutations in MYO5A and MITF
Authors: Khalil Athar , Karroum Samer Bou , Barake Rana , Dunya Gabriel , Abou-Rizk Samer , Kamar Amina , Nemer Georges , Bassim Marc
Published: November 2019

Background: Hearing loss (HL) represents the most common congenital sensory impairment with an incidence of 1-5 per 1000 live births. Non-syndromic hearing loss (NSHL) is an isolated finding that is not part of any other disorder accounting for 70% of all genetic hearing loss cases. Methods: In the current study , we reported a polygenic mode of inheritance in an NSHL consanguineous family using exome sequencing technology and we evaluated the possible effect of the detected single nucleotide variants (SNVs) using in silico methods. Results: Two bi-allelic SNVs were detected in the affected patients; a MYO15A (. p.V485A) variant, and a novel MITF (p.P338L) variant. Along with these homozygous mutations, we detected two heterozygous variants in well described hearing loss genes ( MYO7A and MYH14). The novel MITF p. Pro338Leu missense mutation was predicted to change the protein structure and function. Conclusion: A novel MITF mutation along with a previously described MYO15A mutation segregate with an autosomal recessive non-syndromic HL case with a post-lingual onset. The findings highlight the importance of carrying whole exome sequencing for a comprehensive assessment of HL genetic heterogeneity.
Intention to Use Long Acting and Permanent Contraceptive Methods and Associated Factors in Health Institutions of Aksum Town, North Ethiopia
Authors: Syum Hailay , Kahsay Gizienesh , Huluf Teklehaymanot , Beyene Berhe , Gerensea Hadgu , Gidey Gebreamlak , Desta Haftom , Abay Mebrahtu , Nuguse Haben , Haile Kebede
Published: November 2019

Objective: In Ethiopia, the majority of married women practice predominantly short-acting contraceptive methods. Therefore this study aims to assess intention to use LAPMs and its determinants among short-acting users in Health Institutions of Aksum Town, North Ethiopia. Results: Prevalence of intention to use LAPMs was 52.1% (95% CI: 47.4-57.0). Good knowledge on LAPMs [AOR=2.15; 95% CI (1.29,3.56)], positive attitude towards LAPMs [AOR=3.41; 95% CI (1.99,5.85)], 18-24 years of age [AOR=3.18; 95% CI (1.30,7.79)], being primary school in educational level [AOR=0.34; 95% CI (0.14,0.78)], decision on the number of children jointly with partner [AOR=2.05; 95% CI (1.01,4.18)], having more than two children [AOR=10.67; 95% CI (1.29,88.31)], and no [AOR=10.21; 95% CI (3.10,33.58)] and one [AOR=4.70; 95% CI (1.68,13.13)] extra number of children desired were factors significantly associated with having intention to use LAPMs compared to their counterparts. The intention to use LAPMs was low. Therefore, appropriate information, education and communication strategies must be designed to raise awareness and change the negative attitude of the community on LAPMs. Keywords: LAPMs, intention to use, factors, Axum, Ethiopia
Incidence Trend of Breast Cancer in Women of Eastern Mediterranean Region countries from 1998 to 2019: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zahedi Razieh , Vardanjani Hossein Molavi , Baneshi Mohammad Reza , Haghdoost Ali Akbar , Afshar Reza Malekpour , Sarabi Roghayeh Ershad , Tavakoli Ftemeh , zolala farzaneh
Published: November 2019

Background This study was conducted to provide evidence on the current status of breast cancer and its incidence trend in Eastern Mediterranean Region during 1998-2019. Also, this study aimed to investigate the association between the incidence of breast cancer and Human Development Index and some factors related to this index, including total fertility rate, and obesity, using a meta-analysis. Method Data on incidence of breast cancer were collected from various sources, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and WHO, from 1998 to 2019 using systematic review and meta-analysis. Pooled age standardized rate was calculated based on study duration and quality of data using a subgroup analysis and random effect meta-analysis. Results A total of 80 studies (545 data points) were analyzed. Pooled age standardized rate of breast cancer for Eastern Mediterranean Region was 37.1 per 100 000 person-year (95% confidence interval [CI], 34.5, 39.8) during 2011-2019. age standardized rate of breast cancer had an upward trend in Eastern Mediterranean Region from 2005 to 2019. However, the increasing trend was found to be slightly different in various regions based on quality of data. Moreover, pooled age standardized rate had a significant association with Human Development Index [-89.2 (95% CI, -119.8, -58.7)] and obesity [1.2 (95% CI, 0.9, 1.5)]. Conclusion Pooled age standardized rate of breast cancer in Eastern Mediterranean Region was lower than the global average. Also, the age standardized rate value and its incremental trend have been higher in countries with high-quality data than in other countries of this region in recent years. Data quality or physiological factors, such as increase in obesity rates, could be the reasons for this incremental trend.