bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Influence of Protease Inhibitors on the Evolution of Hepatitis C in Patients with HIV and HCV Co-Infection
Authors: Dumea Elena , Claudia Cambrea Simona
Published: March 2021

Prevalence of hepatitis C in HIV infected patients is much higher than in the general population. There is the possibility of viral clearance HCV, in some patients co-infected HIV and HCV, in the phase of immune reconstruction after antiretroviral treatment (ART). There are patients’ anti-HCV positive who initially did not show HCV viral load detected and after the start of ART becomes HCV viral load detectable. There are studies that described that immune restoration with increase in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, from ART, was important in control of HCV viremia. Has been proposed hypothesis that direct or indirect effect of ART on HCV replication play a role in spontaneous resolution of HCV infection. We evaluated the co-infected patients with HIV and HCV under combined antiretroviral treatment, containing PI boosted with ritonavir in terms of immunological and virological status (for both infection) and also liver disease. Patients were evaluated for liver damage by non-invasive methods. We have shown that a small percentage of patients have severe liver damage. We demonstrated the negative role of HCV on immunological status and in liver fibrosis in co-infected patients. A high proportion of these HIV and HCV co-infected patients had no detectable viremia, higher than other studies published.
An Approach for Estimating Geothermal Reservoir Productivity under Access Limitations Associated with Snowy and Mountainous Prospects
Authors: Matsumoto Mitsuo
Published: March 2021

This chapter describes an approach to estimate reservoir productivity during the active exploration and development of a geothermal prospect. This approach allows a reservoir model to be updated by overcoming the severe time limitations associated with accessing sites for drilling and well testing under snowy and mountainous conditions. Performed in parallel with the conventional standard approach, the new approach enables us to obtain a first estimate of the reservoir productivity at an early time and to make successful project management decisions. Assuming a practical geothermal field, the procedures of the new approach are demonstrated here in detail. Finally, frequency distributions for the expected production rates and changes in the reservoir pressure at an arbitrary time are obtained during an assumed operational period.
Rapeseed-Mustard Breeding in India: Scenario, Achievements and Research Needs
Authors: Chand Subhash , Prakash Patidar Om , Chaudhary Rajat , Saroj Ranjit , Chandra Kailash , Kamal Meena Vijay , M. Limbalkar Omkar , Kumar Patel Manoj , P. Pardeshi Priya , Vasisth Prashant
Published: March 2021

Brassica spp., commonly known as rapeseed-mustard, plays a significant role in the Indian economy by providing edible oils, vegetables, condiments and animal feed. Globally, India holds second and third position in rapeseed-mustard area under cultivation and production, respectively. However, anthropogenically accelerated climate change thwarts yield potential of rapeseed-mustard by employing abiotic (drought, flood, temperature variation and salinity) and biotic (disease and insects) stresses. Various approaches such as molecular breeding, pre-breeding, −omics and biotechnological interventions have been used to develop varieties for improved yield and oil quality, climate resilient and resistance or tolerance to abiotic and biotic stresses. In this context, this chapter highlighted the different cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) sources and their potential use for hybrid development. At the end, this chapter also enlisted salient achievement by the government and non-government institutes and briefly described the future perspective for improvement of rapeseed-mustard in India.
In vitro Approaches to Model Breast Tumor Complexity
Authors: Rosado-Galindo Heizel , Suarez Lyanne , Domenech Maribella
Published: March 2021

Cell culture technologies have provided biomedical researchers with fast and accessible tools to probe the breast tumor microenvironment. Exponential progress in fabrication methods combined with multiparametric approaches have enabled the development of cell culture model systems with enhanced biological complexity to identify key aspects that regulate breast cancer (BC) progression and therapeutic response. Yet, the culture parameters and conditions employed influence the behavior of tumor cells, thereby affecting its tissue biomimetic capabilities. In this chapter we review the wide range of culture platforms employed for the generation of breast tumor models and summarize their biomimetic capabilities, advantages, disadvantages and specific applications.
Meaning and Health Impact of Food: Historical and Ecological Analysis
Authors: Monroy-Torres Rebeca , Velázquez-Delgado Graciela , Carcaño-Valencia Erika , Vela-Gutiérrez Gilber
Published: March 2021

Currently the world is facing a viral contingency that has exposed the vulnerability in which the human being is in the face of the alarming statistics of obesity at all ages, increasing the numbers of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer mainly. But not only health has suffered a deterioration worldwide but also the environment with impacts on the availability and quality of water, air pollution and soil deterioration. In México, the food culture has undergone changes derived from greater accessibility to industrialized foods, less physical activity, stress, replacement of consumption and the use of local foods. Currently in Mexico actions are being implemented to rescue agroecology, gastronomy, and food culture. Therefore, this chapter will have the purpose of integrating a historical, ecological and health impacts analysis with what food means and its source or origin for people.
Evolving Dynamic Biomarkers for Prediction of Immune Responses to Checkpoint Inhibitors in Cancer
Authors: Raza Afsheen , Merhi Maysaloun , Relecom Allan , Fernandes Queenie , Inchakalody Varghese , Rahman Zar Gul Abdul , Uddin Shahab , Ussama Al Homsi Mohammed , Dermime Said
Published: March 2021

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been approved as first or second line therapy in a large group of cancers. However, the observation of potentially long-lasting responses was restricted to limited subset of patients. Efforts have been made to identify predictive factors of response to ICIs in order to select eligible patients and to avoid exposing non-responding patients to treatment side effects. Although several biomarkers have been identified, their predictive potential remains unsatisfactory. One promising emerging approach is to focus on dynamic biomarkers to directly characterize the response and, more importantly, to identify those patients presenting an immune response failure. Several studies have shown a strong correlation between specific circulating immune cell subsets and tumor immune infiltrates. Moreover, liquid biomarkers including soluble immune checkpoint molecules have potential in predicting the modulation of the immune response under immune checkpoint blockade. In this chapter, we will discuss current advances in the study of circulatory and intra-tumoral dynamic biomarkers as predictors of responses to ICIs therapy in cancer.
Dyes as Labels in Biosensing
Authors: Li Hu , Han Yuanyuan , Zhao Haiyan , Jafri Hassan , Tian Bo
Published: March 2021

Investigation and evaluation of dyes play a vital role in the process of introduction novel labels and their corresponding sensing methods, which signify opportunities for the development of biosensors. This chapter introduces applications of various dyes as labels in biosensing. Bio-recognition molecules with dyes transduce biological information into measurable optical, electrochemical, magnetic or other kinds of signals for quantification. The dyes used in this field were summarized and reviewed according to their signal types, namely colorimetric, fluorescent and electrochemical. Some dyes can transduce signals between multiple physical signals. For some most important dyes, detailed descriptions were given focused on their unique properties, labeling methods and sensing mechanisms.
The Budding Yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae as a Valuable Model Organism for Investigating Anti-Aging Compounds
Authors: Sudiyani Yanni , Eka Prastya Muhammad , Maryana Roni , Triwahyuni Eka , Muryanto
Published: March 2021

Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the budding yeast was long history as industrial baker’s yeast due to its ability to produce numerous product such as ethanol, acetate, industrial bakers etc. Interestingly, this yeast was also important tools for studying biological mechanism in eukaryotic cells including aging, autophagy, mitochondrial response etc. S. cerevisiae has arisen as a powerful chemical and genetic screening platform, due to a rapid workflow with experimental amenability and the availability of a wide range of genetic mutant libraries. Calorie restriction (CR) as the reduction of nutrients intake could promote yeast longevity through some pathways such as inhibition of nutrient sensing target of rapamycin (TOR), serine–threonine kinase (SCH9), protein adenylate cyclase (AC), protein kinase A (PKA) and ras, reduced ethanol, acetic acid and apoptotic process. In addition, CR also induces the expression of antioxidative proteins, sirtuin2 (Sir2), autophagy and induction of mitochondrial yeast adaptive response. Three methods, spotting test; chronological life span (CLS) and replicative life span (RLS) assays, have been developed to study aging in S. cerevisiae. Here, we present strategies for pharmacological anti-aging screens in yeast, discuss common pitfalls and summarize studies that have used yeast for drug discovery.
Antioxidant Properties of Alpine Plant
Authors: Laxmi Trivedi Vijay , Chandra Nautiyal Mohan
Published: March 2021

Alpines are the exceptional regions of the world’s biomes. They have unique climatic and topographic conditions; they are the habitat of some of the highly specialized flora and fauna. The harsh environmental conditions and extreme fluctuations in them on a seasonal and diurnal basis created extremely stressful situations for the alpine plants. Such stress causes damage to biochemical structures and compounds of the plant cells leads to the production of free radicals, i.e. reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can further damage the plant cells or tissues. Alpine plants protect themselves from those ROS efficiently by their highly competent enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant system. In general, this protection increases in alpine plants with altitudes; however, some exceptions are also reported. Antioxidant compounds viz. ascorbic acid, tocopherol, glutathione, carotenoids found in alpine flora in higher concentrations as compared to low land plants. Phenolic compounds protected the alpine plants from UV induced ROS by screening the UV radiations and blocking their entries in the cell’s mesophyll. This higher antioxidant potential of the alpine plants is highly beneficial for the human being as most alpine plants are the sources of some life-saving drugs.
Deformation and structural evolution of metamorphic complexes of the Taldyk antiform in the East Mugodzhar zone of Urals (West Kazakhstan)
Authors: Golionko B. G. , Ryazantsev A. V.
Published: March 2021

The study is focused on mesostructural folded parageneses of the Taldyk antiform (a.k.a. Taldyk block) located in the East Mugodzhar zone. The sequence of their formation is established; the structural evolution of the study area is investigated, and four stages of deformation are identified. The NW-trending folds F1 with SE-vergence formed during the first stage of deformation, DI. The geodynamics and timeline of this stage remain unclear. The W-E-trending folds F2 with E-vergence are related to tectonic movements that took place at stage DII. In the western limb of the antiform, stage DII is evidenced by folds overturned towards the south-east. In the eastern limb, folds plunge to the east and northeast. These fold structures are probably related to the Devonian subduction-obduction processes. At stage DIII, thrusting of the Taldyk antiform over the West Mugodzhar zone and folding F3 with W-vergence is related to the Ural continental collision in the Late Paleozoic, which completed the geodynamic evolution of the Ural paleo-ocean. At stage DIV, postcollisional shearing is evidenced by folds F4 with steeply dipping hinges, which completed the structural evolution of the study area.
Tectonic depressions on the East-European and Siberian platforms: numerical modeling of convection beneath the Eurasian continent
Authors: Chervov V. V. , Bushenkova N. A. , Chernykh G. G.
Published: March 2021

In modern concepts, the upper mantle of the Earth is a highly viscous incompressible liquid, and its flow is described using the Navier – Stokes equations in the Oberbeck – Boussinesq and geodynamic approximations. Convective flows in the upper mantle play a decisive role in the kinematics of lithospheric plates and the geological history of continental regions. Mathematical modeling is a basic method for studying convective processes in the mantle. Our paper presents a numerical model of convection, which is based on the implicit artificial compressibility method. This model is tested in detail by comparing our calculation results with the results of a well-known international test. It is demonstrated that the Fedorenko grids sequence method is highly efficient and reduces the computing time almost by a factor of eight. The numerical model is generalized in order to state the problem in a spherical system of coordinates. It is used to analyse the distribution of convective flows in the upper mantle underneath the Eurasian continent. The analysis shows that the thickness and geometrical parameters of the lithospheric blocks are the factors of significant influence on the distribution of convective flows in the upper mantle. The resulting structure of convective flows is manifested in the surface topography of large platform areas wherein the lithosphere thickness is increased. Thus, the locations of extended downward convection flows under the East European and Siberian platforms are clearly comparable to syneclises observed in the study area.
Trichilemmoma in continuity with pigmented basal cell carcinoma; with dermatoscopy and dermatopathology
Authors: Al Kaptan Moayad , Kattampallil Joseph , Rosendahl Cliff
Published: March 2021

A case of trichilemmoma in continuity with a pigmented basal cell carcinoma is presented with dermatoscopy and dermatopathology. The distinction between the two lesions was evident dermatoscopically and was confirmed dermatopathologically. While trichilemmoma has been reported in association with basal cell carcinoma and dermatoscopy images of four previous cases of trichilemmoma have been published, no previous dermatoscopy image has been published of trichilemmoma associated with basal cell carcinoma.
Architecture, Ceremonial, and Power
Authors: Necipoglu Gülru
Published: March 2021

Gülru Necipoglu brings together largely unpublished sources, both written and visual, along with information derived from the architectural remains to uncover the processes through which the meaning of the palace was once produced, before it came to represent a stereotyped microcosm of oriental despotism imbued with the exotic otherness of the East.

Today the Topkapi Palace in Istanbul seems a haphazard aggregate of modest buildings no longer capable of conveying imperial power. Yet it is at once the most celebrated of all Islamic palaces and the least understood. Gülru Necipoglu brings together largely unpublished sources, both written and visual, along with information derived from the architectural remains to uncover the processes through which the meaning of the palace was once produced, before it came to represent a stereotyped microcosm of oriental despotism imbued with the exotic otherness of the East. She relocates the Topkapi in its historical context, a context that included not only the circumstances of its patronage, but the complex interaction of cultural practices, ideologies, and social codes of recognition. Necipoglu focuses on the imperial iconograpy of palatial forms that lack monumentality, axiality, and rational-geometric planning principles to decipher codes of grandeur that are no longer obvious to the modern observer. She reconstructs the architectural and ceremonial impact of the palace through a step-by-step tour of its buildings, demonstrating how the palace was experienced as a processional sequence of separate courts and seemingly disjointed architectural elements that were nevertheless integrated into a coherent whole by passage through time and space. Far more than an analysis of the architectural program of the palace, Architecture, Ceremonial, and Power raises questions and provides answers to fundamental concerns about the ideology of absolute sovereignty, the interplay between architecture and ritual, and the changing perceptions of a building through the centuries, a building that drew upon a wide range of Palatine traditions, mythical, Islamic, Turco-Mongol, Romano-Byzantine, and Italian Renaissance.
Formal verification of Matrix based MATLAB models using interactive theorem proving
Authors: Gauhar Ayesha , Rashid Adnan , Hasan Osman , Bispo João , Cardoso João M.P.
Published: March 2021

MATLAB is a software based analysis environment that supports a high-level programing language and is widely used to model and analyze systems in various domains of engineering and sciences. Traditionally, the analysis of MATLAB models is done using simulation and debugging/testing frameworks. These methods provide limited coverage due to their inherent incompleteness. Formal verification can overcome these limitations, but developing the formal models of the underlying MATLAB models is a very challenging and time-consuming task, especially in the case of higher-order-logic models. To facilitate this process, we present a library of higher-order-logic functions corresponding to the commonly used matrix functions of MATLAB as well as a translator that allows automatic conversion of MATLAB models to higher-order logic. The formal models can then be formally verified in an interactive theorem prover. For illustrating the usefulness of the proposed library and approach, we present the formal analysis of a Finite Impulse Response (FIR) filter, which is quite commonly used in digital signal processing applications, within the sound core of the HOL Light theorem prover.
Effect of Fermentation and Mango Mesocarp or Fluted Pumpkin Powders on the Chemical Composition and Potential Mineral Bioavailability of Sorghum-Based Complementary Foods
Authors: Abraham Sengev Iorfa , Charles Ariahu Chukwuma , Oneh Abu Joseph , Iorwuese Gernah Dickson
Published: March 2021

The effect of fermentation, mango mesocarp or fluted pumpkin leaf powders on the chemical properties and potential mineral bioavailability of sorghum-based complementary foods was investigated. Samples were formulated based on 16% protein to satisfy the nutrient requirement of preschool children to obtain non-fermented sorghum/mango mesocarp/crayfish (NFSMC), non-fermented sorghum/fluted pumpkin leaf/crayfish (NFSPC), fermented sorghum/ mango mesocarp/crayfish (FSMC) and fermented sorghum/ fluted pumpkin leaf /crayfish (FSPC). Some physico-chemical properties of the blends were analysed using standard procedures. Moisture (10.22–10.99%) and carbohydrate (78.73-79.89%). The protein (15.84-16.91%), fibre (0.07-0.08%) and ash (2.07-2.15%) were within the recommended limits. Fat contents ranged from 2.00-2.16% and energy values ranged from 401.40 to 402.10 kCal. Fermentation did not significantly (p ≥ 0.05) affect the proximate composition of the products. The mineral values for magnesium (53.25-61.60%), sodium (32.06-46.30%), potassium (20.80-44.66%), calcium (198.60-230.30%) and phosphorus (98.99-101.50%) with no significant (p ≥ 0.05) difference in most of the products. The iron and copper values ranged from 10.03-17.09% and 0.42-1.43% respectively. Mineral ratios for the products ranged from 0.74 – 2.19 for Na/K, 1.96 – 2.71 for Ca/P and 3.69 – 5.07 for Ca/Mg. The tannins content ranged from 20.23 to 51.51 mg/100 g, phytate (7.25-22.16 mg/100 g), oxalate (5.50 to 14.37 mg.100 g), pH (6.20 to 7.80) and beta-carotene ranged from 724.50 - 1215.40 µg/100 g with significant (p<0.05) difference between the blends. The molar ratios of the blends, except NFSMC, indicated good potential for mineral bioavailability.
A Condition Assessment of the Profile and Non-Structural Factors of the Buildings in the University of Eastern Philippines
Authors: Gonzaga Ric L.
Published: March 2021

This study discusses on the condition assessment of the profile and non-structural factors of the buildings in the University of Eastern Philippines was undertaken to determine the level of functionality of the building as perceived by the end users, to find out the serviceability of the buildings structure, and to assess the profile and non-structural factors of the buildings in the University of Eastern Philippines. The study utilized ocular/visual inspection, data and documents review, applying the instrument made by Coronilli [1], survey questionnaire as perceived by the end users, and the American Concrete Institute (ACI) guidelines on the condition of the selected buildings in the University of Eastern Philippines-Main Campus. Cracking of concrete are classified into structural and non-structural cracks. Non-structural cracking was observed in the buildings inspected and the College of Nursing is the most critical building in terms of cracks of the building. Furthermore, College of Science obtained 3.07 was perceived as most functional building according to the end users. The school buildings which are in need of repair is the College of Nursing buildings.
Perceptions of Population on COVID-19 in Lisala City (Mongala Province) and Perspective of Valorising Alternative Therapy in Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Falanga C. M. , Lindomba E. M. , Inkoto C. L. , Basosila N. B. , Masengo C. A. , Lusasi W. S. , Ratsimba M. H. , Baholy R. , Mpiana P. T. , Mudogo V. , Ngbolua K. N.
Published: March 2021

Aim: To assess the population's knowledge of COVID-19 in order to guide future scientific research on the alternative management of this pandemic by Traditional Pharmacopoeia.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was undertaken in Lisala city (province of Mongala, Democratic Republic of the Congo), from 26 July to 10 August 2020.

Methodology: The surveys consisted in drafting a questionnaire beforehand to apprehend the knowledge of COVID-19among the surrounding population. The interview was conducted in Lingala language using stratified proportional random sampling method.

Results: A total of 200 people were interviewed in Lisala city. The majority were men (63.0% vs. 37.0%). The majority of the respondents were aged between 26-45 years (51.5%). The majority of the respondents were Ngombe people (43.5%), followed by Budja (21.5%), Mongo (13.0%) and Lokele (7.0%) respectively. The best source of information on the pandemic in Lisala city was the radio (72.5%), followed by the multisectoral committee for the response to COVID-19 (17.5%), television (9.0%) and newspapers (1.5%). In the event of contamination, the therapeutic approach recommended by the population is modern medicine (76.5%) as opposed to 23.5% of respondents who prefer to resort to traditional medicine. The majority of respondents prefer health products other than vaccines (71.0% vs. 20.0%). The results of the present survey showed statistically significant difference (at the probability threshold of 0.05: χ2≥9.345 and p-value≤0.05) and relationship (Cramer Pearson V value≥0.216) between educational status of the respondents and variables like knowledge on the disease consequences, knowledge on the COVID-19 agent; remarks concerning communication strategy; the risk of infection from living with a COVID-19 infected people; the fear to be infected; the existence of COVID-19 support structures and the knowledge on barrier.   

Conclusion and Suggestions: The population's dependence on Traditional Medicine is postulated as one of the protective factors for the population of sub-Saharan Africa against COVID-19. It is therefore desirable to develop a phytochemicals library and its virtual screening in order to partially validate the anti-corona-viral properties of medicinal plants. Computational chemistry and structural biology will thus help to develop sustainable alternative medicine using molecular modelling and dynamics as strategy for predicting bioactivity, pharmacokinetic and toxicological properties of natural products isolated from medicinal plants.
Biological Properties and Phytochemical Analysis of Fractions and Total Extracts of Cylicodiscus gabunensis Harms and Morinda lucida Benth
Authors: Obiang Cédric Sima , Misso Rick Léonid Ngoua Meye , N’Nang Elvis Otogo , Ondo Joseph Privat , Atome Guy Roger Ndong , Engonga Louis Clément Obame , Emvo Edouard Nsi
Published: March 2021

Two plants used in traditional medicine from Gabon were studied. The aim of this study was to study the biological properties and phytochemical analysis of Cylicodiscus gabunensis Harms and Morinda lucida Benth. These extracts were subjected to antimicrobial (diffusion, dilution), antioxidant (DPPH, ABTS) and inhibition of protein denaturation. The water-ethanol, water-acetone extracts and the partitioned extracts (F1 and F2) of Cylicodiscus gabunensis showed the greatest antibacterial activity on the majority of microbial strains and a good inhibition of denaturation with IC50 of 58.75 ± 2.10; 19.16 ± 2.00; 69.50 ± 2.00 and 17.49 ± 1.20 μg / mL respectively, compared to standards. Similarly, these extracts of Cylicodiscus gabunensis have anti-free radical capacities close to standards including vitamin C and butylated hydroxyanisole. The phytochemicals present in the extracts of Cylicodiscus gabunensis and Morinda lucida may be responsible for the biological activities studied.
Surgical Site Infection after Caesarean Section: Epidemiology, Microbiology, Management and Prevention in a Tertiary Health Facility in Niger Delta Region, Nigeria
Authors: Ikeanyi Eugene M. , Abasi Isaac J. , Ofuruma Ninabai N.
Published: March 2021

Background: Surgical site infection despite marked advances in surgical techniques and preventive measures continues to contribute substantially to hospital morbidity, financial burden and mortality.

Aims: This study was designed to measure surgical site infection rate following caesarean section, investigate the risk factors and the pattern of the offending microbes. The paucity of SSI data from authors’ center influenced the desire to contribute data to cesarean section-related SSI.

Study Design: A case control study.

Place and Duration of Study: Niger Delta University Teaching Hospital Bayelsa State Nigeria between May 2018 and March 2020.

Methodology: Consenting cases of caesarean procedure-related surgical site infection were recruited as study group and the next non-infected caesarean patients as the control group. Descriptive statistics was done with EPI Info and Instat software.   Relative risk (RR) determined association of variables and SSI with p-value <.05.

Results: Twenty six (9.4%) of the 276 caesarean section cases had surgical site infection. Unbooked status (RR 2.4, p=0.003), BMI≥30mgm-2(RR 2.2, p=0.02), surgery duration > 60 minutes (RR 5.3, p=0.03), interrupted stitch (RR 3.0, P<0.001), prolonged rupture of fetal membranes (p=0.008), chorioamnionitis (RR2.68, p=0.002), estimated blood loss>1000ml (p=0.02) were significant risk factors for SSI. SSIs had longer postoperative hospital stay median (IQR) 14.5(10-21) vs.6.0 (5-7), P<.001. Obstructed labor (42.3%) was responsible for most of SSIs after C-section. Wound discharge (37%), fever (23%) and wound dehiscence 17% were the main clinical features of SSI. The most isolated microorganisms were staphylococcus aureus (22.7%), klebsiella species and Escherichia coli 18.2% each and they were predominantly susceptible to quinolones and gentamicin and resistant to beta-lactam antibiotics.

Conclusions: Surgical site infection after C-section is still common in Nigeria. The factors were multifactorial and largely modifiable.
Predictors of Peripheral Artery Disease among Elderly Respondents in an Urban Hospital, Edo State Nigeria
Authors: Akpan Iboro Samuel , Ehimen Ferguson Ayemere , Adedokun Babatunde , Oviasu Osaretin
Published: March 2021

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) potentially affects health-related Quality of Life, Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) and is a strong prognostic marker for future cardiovascular events in elderly population. PAD commonly affects the elderly but may go undiagnosed in them, probably due to the presence of other morbidities like osteoarthritis and associated muscle spasm.

Aim. The aim of this study was to determine the predictors of PAD in elderly by evaluating the socio-demographic and clinical characteristics in elderly patients.

Methods. A cross sectional hospital based study was carried out among 370 patients aged 60 years and above attending a Tertiary Hospital from September to November 2017. A systematic random sampling technique was utilized. A structured questionnaire was administered to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyle variables, and medical history. The Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) was used to assess for PAD. Analysis was done using Chi-square test and logistic regression. 

Results. The mean age was 69.3±7 years comprising of 76.5% females, 50% of the respondents were married while 47% were widowed. After adjusting for other variables, the result of the multi-logistic regression indicated that only patients with abnormal pedal pulse were more likely to present with PAD than those with normal pedal pulse (OR=10.634, 95% CI=2.4-47.121, p=0.002).

Conclusion. The study reveals that abnormal pedal pulses were significant predictors of PAD, therefore it is recommended that regular screening (clinical foot examination and ABI) should be done for elderly to achieve early detection of PAD and facilitate prompt treatment.
Immunohistochemical Expression of Nibrin in Epithelial Dysplasia and OSCC: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Abidi Fizza , Hosein Mervyn , Butt Saima Akram , Baig Faraz , Ahmed Rehan , Zaidi Abeeha Batool
Published: March 2021

Inherited defect in DNA repair capability is the fundamental problem causing mutations to be passed on to new generation of cells leading to cancer. The NBS1/Nibrin/p95 belongs to the family of the DNA double-strand break repair complex (hMre11 complex) which is a transcript of the mutated NBS gene, located on human chromosome 8q21 The protein complex containing nibrin binds to the edges of the DNA double-stranded break causing defective repair process. Nibrin also activates various signaling cascades such as; phosphatidylinositide 3-kinases PI3-kinase/Akt triggering the oncogenic process.

Aims: The purpose of this research was to aid in the diagnosis of oral cancer and dysplastic lesions in Karachi population.

Study Design: This cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital. All samples were recruited for the study after obtaining written informed consent from patients and seeking ethical approval from Ethic Review Committee Ziauddin University (Reference Code: 0330618FAOM), Karachi Pakistan.

Place and Duration of Study: Ziauddin hospital north Nazimabad Karachi, November 2018 to September 2019.

Methodology: Expression of Nibrin (NBS1) was evaluated by Immunohistochemistry on dysplasia and OSCC biopsies by H-Score method. The tumor was graded by broder system. Immunohistochemical analysis for nibrin was performed on the tumor block. Mean, frequency, percentages were calculated for quantitative variables, chi square was used for qualitative variables. A value <0.05 was considered as significant.

Results: 92% OSCC cases were positive for Nibrin while 80% of oral dysplasia revealed Nibrin expression. This accounts for significant statistical association of Nibrin with OSCC (0.012*) and dysplasia (0.001*). Unfortunately, apart from moderaterly histological differentiation (0.012) none of these clinicopathological parameters showed statistical significance.

Conclusion: We conclude that a Nibrin protein showed overexpression among 92% of OSCC patients out of total 100 cases and in 80% out of 30 cases of dysplasia so the association of histological grading with expression of Nibrin was significant and expression of Nibrin intensity with histological grading was significant as well. Our study suggests that this expression of Nibrin may be used as a diagnostic marker for potential OSCC patients.
Socio Economic Status of Scheduled Tribes in Kolli Hills of Tamil Nadu
Authors: Keerthana V. , Divakaran A.
Published: March 2021

Social and economic justice, equal status and opportunities and the assurance of the dignity of the individual are guaranteed by the Indian Constitution for all citizens among other things. Economic and social marginalization, primitive life, geographical isolation, and educational backwardness define the Scheduled Tribes communities in India. India's constitution is filled with several provisions for scheduling castes and scheduling tribes to protect and endorse them by improvising their socio- economic interests to bring them into the nation's mainstream. Two stage sampling method was used for this study. The majority of the people in the field of study are illiterate. The main occupation is agriculture and income from this helps the individuals in the field of research in their everyday expenses. More significance and emphasis needs to be given to the educational aspects to enhance their social standing in the future. In this study the researcher tries to understand the current socio-economic status of the Scheduled tribes in Kolli Hills Namakkal district Tamil Nadu.
The Impact of Capital on Bank Profitability: Case of Tunisia
Authors: Moussa Mohamed Aymen Ben , Trabelsi Hédi , Boubaker Adel
Published: March 2021

The capital adequacy ratio measures the ability of a financial institutions to meet its liabilities by comparing its capital with assets.

This article studied the relationship between bank capital and bank profitability measured by (Return on assets; return on equity; net interest margin). We used a method of static panel for a sample of 11 banks in Tunisia between (2000…2018). We found that bank capital has a significant impact on ROA. But capital has a non significant effect on bank return on equity and not significant impact on bank net interest margin.
Bacterial Infections Profile and Patterns for Diabetic Foot Ulcers in Nongovernmental Hospitals of Jordan
Authors: Abu-Harirah Hashem A. , Saleem Ammar , Daradka Haytham M. , Siyam Ali Ahmad Abu , Qudah Audai Jamal Al , Daabes Emad
Published: March 2021

Background: Many types of infection can cause diabetic foot ulcers Infections involving the bacteria; E. coli, Acinetobacter spp (MDR) and K. pneumoniae, pseudomonas aeruginosa, so the assessment of Bacterial profile and patterns is needed to understand the source and management of these injuries.

Objective: To determine Bacterial infections profile and patterns for diabetic foot ulcers in nongovernmental.

Method: During a period of eleven months, 148 patients with diabetic mellitus foot syndrome (DMFS). Patients were involved, out of 130 which foot ulceration infections. data analysis was done using SPSS version 20. p value was set at <0.05.

Results: Out of 607 Patients with diabetic foot ulceration (DFU) were 130 out of 148 with diabetic mellitus foot syndrome (DMFS). Diabetic foot ulceration (DFU) therefore contributed 20.3% of DMFS among these subjects. Microbiological culture pattern was total of    17 different pathogenic microorganisms were isolated from the participants, one yeast and 16 types of bacteria, from the diabetic foot swabs for ulcers. S. aureus  was the most frequent pathogen followed by E.coli  then Acinetobacter spp (MDR) and K. pneumonia, then pseudomonas aeruginosa , then p. mirabilis then  Streptococcus agalactiae ( group b) then (Enitrobacteria spp and pseudomonas spp and Candida spp and P. vulgaris and K. oxytoca ESBL) then S. viridanse and Enterobacter spp ESBL and Staphylococcus coag. negative). The Enterobacter spp ESBL was the less frequent pathogen.

Conclusion: Diabetic Foot Ulcerations (DFU), is forming about a quarter of the diabetic patient’s tissue infections, the causative agents were bacterial and fungal(yeast). Most of the causative pathogens were; Staphylococcus aureus, and Acinetobacter spp (MDR). The risk of development of High resistant drug isolates of diabetic foot ulcers to be multidrug resistance were high by 53% of total isolated pathogens specially with K. pneumonia (K. pneumoniae), Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Proteus mirabilis bacterial.
Bacteriological and Parasitological Assessment of Water use in Selected Abattoirs in Port Harcourt Metropolis, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Nwadiuto Eze Chinwe , Nnenna Ihua , Ofureb Ijewere Blessing
Published: March 2021

In the abattoir, large amount of water is being used in processing operations; and this produces huge amount of wastewater which empty into the surrounding water bodies. The cross-sectional study followed the conventional microbiological techniques of macroscopy, microscopy, isolation, and identification to assess the bacteriological and parasitological examination of water sources in selected abattoirs in Port Harcourt Metropolis, Rivers State, Nigeria. The result of microbial population showed Total Coliform ranging from 5 x 101cfu/ml – 2.80 x 102cfu/ml and Faecal Coliform bacteria of 2.80 x 101 cfu/ml -1.85 x 102 cfu/ml. Total Heterotrophic bacteria ranged from 7.8 x101cfu/ml to 4.2 x102cfu/ml. The mean microbial counts; 4.86 x101 cfu/ml Fecal Coliform, 9.65 x 101cfu/ml Total Coliform and 1.82 x 102cfu/ml Heterotrophic Count. The isolates identified were Klebsiella spp, Shigella spp., Salmonella typhymurium, E. coli, Proteus spp., Salmonella paratyphi, Vibrio cholera. Nkpor village abattoir recorded highest occurrence of bacteria isolate with a total of 50(22.03%) followed by Iwofe 48(21.15%). Water sample from ponds had a higher parasitic contamination while samples from the borehole were free from parasitic infestation. Water samples for parasitological assessment were filtered and examined for parasitic organism using standard methods. Four different parasites were identified in the study, they include Ascaris lumbricoides (32.5%), Entamoeba histolytica (22.5%), Giardia lamblia (17.5%) and the least Taenia spp (7.5%). Nkpor-village abattoir had the highest level of contamination with (30.0%) parasite occurrence, followed by Mgboshimini abattoir (15.0%). The use of unsafe water for meat processing by butchers, portends a serious public health risk to consumers who purchase the meat, from these abattoirs. Therefore, government should endeavour to make borehole water available to all the abattoirs in Port Harcourt.
Screening of Antioxidant Activity of 20 Kinds of Mushrooms from Southwest of China
Authors: He Dong-Hao , Yu Zhao-Hui , Huang Yi
Published: March 2021

The ethanol and water extracts of 20 kinds of mushrooms from Sichuan Province, Southwest of China, were investigated for their antioxidant activity using DPPH assay. The results showed the ethanol extract of Serpula lacrymans, Daldinia concentrica, and Scleroderma verrucosum had well DPPH free radical scavenging activities 91.33%, 79.76% and 62.82%, respectively. Besides, the water extracts of Serpula lacrymans, Armillaria luteo-virens, and Lentinus edodes also possessed pretty high DPPH free radical scavenging activity were 95.59%, 88.76% and 86.93%, respectively. Based on the above comparison, the EC50 and total phenolic content of the ethanol extracts of Serpula lacrymans, Daldinia concentrica, and Scleroderma verrucosum were also measured. Their EC50 and total phenolic content valued of 17.87mg·mL-1, 11.19mg·mL-1 and 35.01mg·mL-1, as well as 0.0769μg·L-1, 0.0673μg·L-1 and 0.0545μg·L-1, respectively. The results showed there was a correlation between antioxidant activity and total phenolic content. Besides, the reaction time of the DPPH test affected the free radical scavenging, which reflected the difference of the extract component would impact the test method.
One‐Step Polymeric Melt Encapsulation Method to Prepare CsPbBr3 Perovskite Quantum Dots/Polymethyl Methacrylate Composite with High Performance
Authors: Wang Zhiteng , Fu Rui , Li Fei , Xie Huidong , He Peiwen , Sha Qi , Tang Zuobin , Wang Na , Zhong Haizheng
Published: March 2021

All‐inorganic CsPbBr3 perovskite quantum dots (PQDs) exhibit excellent photoelectric properties and application prospects in the field of light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) and display devices. However, these possess poor long‐term stability to UV irradiation, water, heat, and oxygen. Using polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) as the matrix along with CH3(CH2)16COOCs, [CH3(CH2)16COO]2Pb, and KBr as the perovskite sources, CsPbBr3 PQDs/PMMA composites are for the first time prepared via an in situ polymeric melt encapsulation method. Special attention is paid to the effects of synthesis conditions on the photoluminescent quantum yield (PLQY) of the composites. The optimized CsPbBr3 PQDs/PMMA composite reveals excellent performance with ≈82.7% PLQY and ≈18.6 nm full width at a half‐maximum (FWHM). In particular, after 90 h of UV irradiation or 35 days of heating at 60 °C, the luminous intensity remains almost unchanged. In addition, after soaking in water for 15 days, it retains up to ≈53% of the initial luminous intensity, meaning that the composite possesses long‐term stability to UV irradiation, heat, and water. The as‐prepared white LED (WLED) based on the composite evidences the wide color gamut (126.5% National Television System Committee (NTSC)) and a luminous efficiency of 32 lm W−1. This work offers a novel, easily industrialized one‐step, and solvent free route for low‐temperature synthesis of all‐inorganic PQDs with broad application prospects.
Designing MOF Nanoarchitectures for Electrochemical Water Splitting
Authors: Zhang Ben , Zheng Yijuan , Ma Tian , Yang Chengdong , Peng Yifei , Zhou Zhihao , Zhou Mi , Li Shuang , Wang Yinghan , Cheng Chong
Published: March 2021

Electrochemical water splitting has attracted significant attention as a key pathway for the development of renewable energy systems. Fabricating efficient electrocatalysts for these processes is intensely desired to reduce their overpotentials and facilitate practical applications. Recently, metal–organic framework (MOF) nanoarchitectures featuring ultrahigh surface areas, tunable nanostructures, and excellent porosities have emerged as promising materials for the development of highly active catalysts for electrochemical water splitting. Herein, the most pivotal advances in recent research on engineering MOF nanoarchitectures for efficient electrochemical water splitting are presented. First, the design of catalytic centers for MOF‐based/derived electrocatalysts is summarized and compared from the aspects of chemical composition optimization and structural functionalization at the atomic and molecular levels. Subsequently, the fast‐growing breakthroughs in catalytic activities, identification of highly active sites, and fundamental mechanisms are thoroughly discussed. Finally, a comprehensive commentary on the current primary challenges and future perspectives in water splitting and its commercialization for hydrogen production is provided. Hereby, new insights into the synthetic principles and electrocatalysis for designing MOF nanoarchitectures for the practical utilization of water splitting are offered, thus further promoting their future prosperity for a wide range of applications.
The Role of Relative Capacitances in Impedance Sensing with Organic Electrochemical Transistors
Authors: Nissa Josefin , Janson Per , Berggren Magnus , Simon Daniel T.
Published: March 2021

The organic electrochemical transistor (OECT) has attracted interest for use in biosensor technology due to its ability to transduce ionic to electronic signals and operate in aqueous environments. While OECTs have been broadly applied for biosensing and impedance characterization of biological systems, there is still no consensus on the ideal geometries, relative capacitances, and operational conditions for specific sensing scenarios. Here it is shown that for impedance sensing with a capacitive layer on the gate, gate‐limited OECTs produce the largest sensor response. An equivalent circuit model is used to study frequency response with non‐permeable and ion‐permeable membranes added to the gate and found that the transistor configuration, with respect to gate and channel capacitances, able to produce the largest sensor signal is determined by the capacitance to be sensed as well as the membrane permeability. The findings are applied to design a gold gate OECT capable of detecting formation of a lipid bilayer on the gate. The results indicate that high transconductance OECTs typically considered attractive do not deliver the largest sensor signals when used for impedance sensing. Results are presented in settings similar to those used in practical experiments, thereby providing guidance on how to best design OECTs for impedance biosensing.
MoSe2@CNT Core–Shell Nanostructures as Grain Promoters Featuring a Direct Li2O2 Formation/Decomposition Catalytic Capability in Lithium‐Oxygen Batteries
Authors: He Biao , Li Gaoyang , Li Jiajia , Wang Jun , Tong Hui , Fan Yuqi , Wang Weiliang , Sun Shuhui , Dang Feng
Published: March 2021

For lithium‐oxygen batteries (LOBs), the strong oxidant intermediate and byproducts during the charge/discharge process are the main reasons for the degradation of the electrochemical performance. Searching for highly efficient catalysts for the direct formation/decomposition of Li2O2 is essential for the development of LOBs. In this study, core–shell nanostructured MoSe2@CNT with uniform MoSe2 coating layers are purposefully synthesized through a facile hydrothermal strategy to address the negative intermediate and side‐product issues, therefore enhancing the battery performance. The continuous and multiwalled MoSe2 layers can not only work as grain promoters that induce the initial nucleation and growth of equiaxed Li2O2 grains on the cathode surface even under a high rate, but also prevent the byproducts formation from corrosive issues between carbon and electrolyte. Moreover, density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal the intrinsic layer dependent direct formation/decomposition catalytic capability of 2D MoSe2 and the LiO2 avoidable reaction pathway during the discharge/charge process, theoretically revealing the direct epitaxial growth mechanisms of Li2O2. As a consequence, the MoSe2@CNT cathode exhibited a superior specific capacity over 32 000 mAh g−1, excellent rate capabilities, and ultralong cycle life of 280 cycles at a high rate of 500 mA g−1.
Parent‐reported histories of adults with trisomy 13 syndrome
Authors: Lebedoff Amy N. , Carey John C.
Published: March 2021

Clinical histories and outcome data of long‐term survivors with trisomy 13 are rare. The goal of this study was to collect the medical histories of adult individuals (≥18 years old) with apparent non‐mosaic trisomy 13/Patau syndrome to help gain further insight in to the clinical course for individuals with this condition and to characterize the manifestations for surveillance and management. We collected 11 families through a contact person with the LWT13 (Living with Trisomy 13) LIFE support group. We performed telephone interviews to gather their medical histories and report these data in system‐based summaries, tables, and clinical vignettes. In instances where parents retained copies of genetic testing reports or clinicians currently taking care of the individual with trisomy 13 were able to provide documentation, we confirmed diagnosis. All clinical histories and reported manifestations were consistent with a diagnosis of trisomy 13. We also elicited comments from parents on their personal experiences of raising an individual with trisomy 13.