bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of Pyriproxyfen to Induce Oogenesis in Diapausing Megacopta cribraria (Heteroptera: Plataspidae), and Evaluation of Pyriproxyfen-Induced Eggs for Rearing the Parasitoid Paratelenomus saccharalis (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae)
Authors: Penca Cory , Goltz Nicholas C. , Hodges Amanda C. , Leppla Norman C. , Eger Joseph E. , Smith Trevor R.
Published: January 2022

The mass rearing of hymenopteran egg parasitoids requires an abundant supply of host eggs. The onset of reproductive diapause and subsequent decline in egg production poses a challenge for parasitoid rearing when using host colonies augmented by field-collected insects. We investigated the application of pyriproxyfen, a juvenile hormone analog, to induce oviposition in diapausing adult kudzu bugs, Megacopta cribraria (Fabricius) (Heteroptera: Plataspidae), and the use of eggs produced by pyriproxyfen-treated kudzu bugs to rear the egg parasitoid, Paratelenomus saccharalis (Dodd) (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae). The effects of pyriproxyfen and photoperiod treatments on host mortality, egg production, and rates of parasitoid eclosion from the eggs were used to calculate the parasitoid yield for the different treatment regimes. A combination of pyriproxyfen and a long-day photoperiod increased the parasitoid yield by 87% compared to acetone and a long-day photoperiod. The general applicability of JH-analog mediated egg production for parasitoid rearing is discussed.
Relationship between Cardiovascular Calcium and Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Lee Sung Ho , Lee Mi Yeon , Shin Seung Yong , Lee Wang-Soo , Kim Sang-Wook , Park Seung-Jung , Kim June Soo , Sung Ki-Chul
Published: January 2022

Coronary artery calcium score (CACS) is associated with increased risk of atrial fibrillation (AF). However, the relationship between the burden of CACS and extra-coronary calcium and the AF is unclear. This cross-sectional study retrospectively analyzed the data of 143,529 participants (74.9% men; mean age, 41.7 ± 8.6 years) who underwent health examination including non-contrast cardiac CT and electrocardiography, from 2010 to 2018 to evaluate the association between cardiac calcium and AF. AF was diagnosed in 679 participants. The prevalence of AF was significantly increased as the CACS increased (p < 0.01). Multivariable analysis adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, smoking, alcohol, and history of coronary artery disease showed a significant association between a high CACS ≥1000 and AF (OR 2.26, 95% CI 1.07–4.77, p = 0.032). In a subgroup analysis of participants with a CACS ≥100, aortic valve and thoracic aorta calcium were significantly associated with AF (OR 3.49, 95% CI 1.57–7.77, p = 0.002 and OR 2.19, 95% CI 1.14–4.21, p = 0.01, respectively). High CACS was associated with AF, and extra-coronary atherosclerosis was associated with AF in participants with a moderate to very high CACS.
Initial Clinical Experience with NIPT for Rare Autosomal Aneuploidies and Large Copy Number Variations
Authors: Harasim Thomas , Neuhann Teresa , Behnecke Anne , Stampfer Miriam , Holinski-Feder Elke , Abicht Angela
Published: January 2022

Objective: Amniocentesis, chorionic villi sampling and first trimester combined testing are able to screen for common trisomies 13, 18, and 21 and other atypical chromosomal anomalies (ACA). The most frequent atypical aberrations reported are rare autosomal aneuploidies (RAA) and copy number variations (CNV), which are deletions or duplications of various sizes. We evaluated the clinical outcome of non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) results positive for RAA and large CNVs to determine the clinical significance of these abnormal results. Methods: Genome-wide NIPT was performed on 3664 eligible patient samples at a single genetics center. For patients with positive NIPT reports, the prescribing physician was asked retrospectively to provide clinical follow-up information using a standardized questionnaire. Results: RAAs and CNVs (>7 Mb) were detected in 0.5%, and 0.2% of tested cases, respectively. Follow up on pregnancies with an NIPT-positive result for RAA revealed signs of placental insufficiency or intra-uterine death in 50% of the cases and normal outcome at the time of birth in the other 50% of cases. We showed that CNV testing by NIPT allows for the detection of unbalanced translocations and relevant maternal health conditions. Conclusion: NIPT for aneuploidies of all autosomes and large CNVs of at least 7 Mb has a low “non-reportable”-rate (<0.2%) and allows the detection of additional conditions of clinical significance.
Psychological Flexibility Mediates Wellbeing for People with Adverse Childhood Experiences during COVID-19
Authors: Browne Angela , Stafford Owen , Berry Anna , Murphy Eddie , Taylor Laura K. , Shevlin Mark , McHugh Louise , Carr Alan , Burke Tom
Published: January 2022

Background: The psychological impact of COVID-19 is multifaceted, both acute and chronic, and has not affected everyone equally. Method: This longitudinal study compared those with and without Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) on measures of psychological distress and wellbeing over time. Results: All groups (No ACE, Low ACE, and High ACE) had similar levels of distress at Time 1, with significant increases in psychological distress for those with ACEs over time, but not for those without. Psychological Flexibility was strongly and significantly associated with decreases in psychological distress and improved wellbeing. It significantly mediated the relationship between ACE and wellbeing. Conclusions: Those with ACEs report significantly increased psychological distress over time, compared to those without ACE during the COVID-19 pandemic. Evidence-based interventions using Psychological Flexibility may improve mental health and wellbeing to help further mediate its effects.
Circulating Blood-Based Biomarkers in Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Banaszkiewicz Marta , Gąsecka Aleksandra , Darocha Szymon , Florczyk Michał , Pietrasik Arkadiusz , Kędzierski Piotr , Piłka Michał , Torbicki Adam , Kurzyna Marcin
Published: January 2022

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a serious hemodynamic condition, characterized by increased pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR), leading to right heart failure (HF) and death when not properly treated. The prognosis of PH depends on etiology, hemodynamic and biochemical parameters, as well as on response to specific treatment. Biomarkers appear to be useful noninvasive tools, providing information about the disease severity, treatment response, and prognosis. However, given the complexity of PH, it is impossible for a single biomarker to be adequate for the broad assessment of patients with different types of PH. The search for novel emerging biomarkers is still ongoing, resulting in a few potential biomarkers mirroring numerous pathophysiological courses. In this review, markers related to HF, myocardial remodeling, inflammation, hypoxia and tissue damage, and endothelial and pulmonary smooth muscle cell dysfunction are discussed in terms of diagnosis and prognosis. Extracellular vesicles and other markers with complex backgrounds are also reviewed. In conclusion, although many promising biomarkers have been identified and studied in recent years, there are still insufficient data on the application of multimarker strategies for monitoring and risk stratification in PH patients.
In Vivo Confocal Microscopy Evaluation in Patients with Keratoconus
Authors: Teo Alvin Wei Jun , Mansoor Hassan , Sim Nigel , Lin Molly Tzu-Yu , Liu Yu-Chi
Published: January 2022

Keratoconus is the most common primary corneal ectasia characterized by progressive focal thinning. Patients experience increased irregular astigmatism, decreased visual acuity and corneal sensitivity. Corneal collagen crosslinking (CXL), a minimally invasive procedure, is effective in halting disease progression. Historically, keratoconus research was confined to ex vivo settings. In vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM) has been used to examine the corneal microstructure clinically. In this review, we discuss keratoconus cellular changes evaluated by IVCM before and after CXL. Cellular changes before CXL include decreased keratocyte and nerve densities, disorganized subbasal nerves with thickening, increased nerve tortuosity and shortened nerve fibre length. Repopulation of keratocytes occurs up to 1 year post procedure. IVCM also correlates corneal nerve status to functional corneal sensitivity. Immediately after CXL, there is reduced nerve density and keratocyte absence due to mechanical removal of the epithelium and CXL effect. Nerve regeneration begins after 1 month, with nerve fibre densities recovering to pre-operative levels between 6 months to 1 year and remains stable up to 5 years. Nerves remain tortuous and nerve densities are reduced. Corneal sensitivity is reduced immediately postoperatively but recovers with nerve regeneration. Our article provides comprehensive review on the use of IVCM imaging in keratoconus patients.
Drug Triggers and Clinic of Acute Generalized Exanthematous Pustulosis (AGEP): A Literature Case Series of 297 Patients
Authors: Vallejo-Yagüe Enriqueta , Martinez-De la Torre Adrian , Mohamad Omar S. , Sabu Shweta , Burden Andrea M.
Published: January 2022

Acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) is a rare skin reaction, commonly caused by drugs. Available evidence mostly relies on small studies or case reports. We collected published AGEP case reports and, subsequently, described the patient characteristics, suspect and concomitant drugs, time to onset, disease management, and clinical prognosis. This study included 297 AGEP patients (64.3% women) obtained from 250 published case reports or case series with individual patient data. AGEP affected patients of all ages, but the majority of patients (88.2%) were ≥25 years old. The most frequently reported suspect drugs were anti-infectives for systemic use (36.5%), particularly antibacterials for systemic use (31.0%), and especially beta-lactam antibacterials (18.3%) and macrolides (4.3%). Other frequent suspect drugs were antineoplastics (12.2%), and anti-inflammatory/anti-rheumatic products (5.2%) plus hydroxychloroquine (12.8%). Mean time to onset was 9.1 days (standard deviation SD 13.94). Some patients developed fever (64.3%) and systemic involvement (18.9%), and most patients (76.4%) received pharmacological treatment for AGEP. Seven patients died, although five of them were already critically ill prior to AGEP. In conclusion, antibiotics remain the most common suspected cause of AGEP. While case mortality rate may be up to 2.5%, disentangling the role of AGEP on the fatal outcome from the role of the preexisting health conditions remains challenging.
Association between C-Reactive Protein Velocity and Left Ventricular Function in Patients with ST-Elevated Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Banai Ariel , Levit Dana , Morgan Samuel , Loewenstein Itamar , Merdler Ilan , Hochstadt Aviram , Szekely Yishay , Topilsky Yan , Banai Shmuel , Shacham Yacov
Published: January 2022

C-reactive protein velocity (CRPv), defined as the change in wide-range CRP concentration divided by time, is an inflammatory biomarker associated with increased morbidity and mortality in patients with ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) treated with primary percutaneous intervention (PCI). However, data regarding CRPv association with echocardiographic parameters assessing left ventricular systolic and diastolic function is lacking. Echocardiographic parameters and CRPv values were analyzed using a cohort of 1059 patients admitted with STEMI and treated with primary PCI. Patients were stratified into tertiles according to their CRPv. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate CRPv optimal cut-off values for the prediction of severe systolic and diastolic dysfunction. Patients with high CRPv tertiles had lower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (49% vs. 46% vs. 41%, respectively; p < 0.001). CRPv was found to independently predict LVEF ≤ 35% (HR 1.3 CI 95% 1.21–1.4; p < 0.001) and grade III diastolic dysfunction (HR 1.16 CI 95% 11.02–1.31; p = 0.02). CRPv exhibited a better diagnostic profile for severe systolic dysfunction as compared to CRP (area under the curve 0.734 ± 0.02 vs. 0.608 ± 0.02). In conclusion, For STEMI patients treated with primary PCI, CRPv is a marker of both systolic and diastolic dysfunction. Further larger studies are needed to support this finding.
Serum Lactate for Predicting Cardiac Arrest in the Emergency Department
Authors: Hsu Shu-Hsien , Kao Po-Hsuan , Lu Tsung-Chien , Wang Chih-Hung , Fang Cheng-Chung , Chang Wei-Tien , Huang Chien-Hua , Tsai Chu-Lin
Published: January 2022

Objectives: Early recognition and prevention of in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) play an increasingly important role in the Chain of Survival. However, clinical tools for predicting IHCA in the emergency department (ED) are scanty. We sought to evaluate the role of serum lactate in predicting ED-based IHCA. Methods: Data were retrieved from 733,398 ED visits over a 7-year period in a tertiary medical centre. We selected one ED visit per person and excluded out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, children, or those without lactate measurements. Patient demographics, computerised triage information, and serum lactate levels were extracted. The initial serum lactate levels were grouped into normal (≤2 mmol/L), moderately elevated (2 < lactate ≤ 4), and highly elevated (>4 mmol/L) categories. The primary outcome was ED-based IHCA. Results: A total of 17,392 adult patients were included. Of them, 342 (2%) developed IHCA. About 50% of the lactate levels were normal, 30% were moderately elevated, and 20% were highly elevated. In multivariable analysis, the group with highly elevated lactate had an 18-fold increased risk of IHCA (adjusted odds ratio [OR], 18.0; 95% confidence interval [CI], 11.5–28.2), compared with the normal lactate group. In subgroup analysis, the poor lactate-clearance group (<2.5%/h) was associated with a 7.5-fold higher risk of IHCA (adjusted OR, 7.5; 95%CI, 3.7–15.1) compared with the normal clearance group. Conclusions: Elevated lactate levels and poor lactate clearance were strongly associated with a higher risk of ED-based IHCA. Clinicians may consider a more liberal sampling of lactate in patients at higher risk of IHCA with follow-up of abnormal levels.
Prevalence of Chronic Kidney Disease and Variation of Its Risk Factors by the Regions in Okayama Prefecture
Authors: Umebayashi Ryoko , Uchida Haruhito Adam , Matsuoka-Uchiyama Natsumi , Sugiyama Hitoshi , Wada Jun
Published: January 2022

Objective: The prevention of chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression is an important issue from health and financial perspectives. We conducted a single-year cross-sectional study to clarify the prevalence of CKD and its risk factors along with variations in these factors among five medical regions in Okayama Prefecture, Japan. Methods and Results: Data concerning the renal function and proteinuria as well as other CKD risk factors were obtained from the database of the Japanese National Health Insurance. The proportion of CKD patients at an increased risk of progression to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), classified as orange and red on the CKD heatmap, ranged from 6–9% and did not vary significantly by the regions. However, the causes of the increased severity differed between regions where renal dysfunction was predominant and regions where there were many patients with proteinuria. CKD risk factors, such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hyper low-density lipoprotein-cholesterolemia, obesity, smoking and lack of exercise, also differed among these regions, suggesting that different regions need tailored interventions that suit the characteristics of the region, such as an increased health checkup ratio, dietary guidance and promotion of exercise opportunities. Conclusions: Approximately 6–9% of people are at an increased risk of developing ESRD (orange or red on a CKD heatmap) among the population with National Health Insurance in Okayama Prefecture. The underlying health problems that cause CKD may differ among the regions. Thus, it is necessary to consider intervention methods for preventing CKD progression that are tailored to each region’s health problems.
Harnessing Synthetic Lethal Interactions for Personalized Medicine
Authors: Shieh Grace
Published: January 2022

Two genes are said to have synthetic lethal (SL) interactions if the simultaneous mutations in a cell lead to lethality, but each individual mutation does not. Targeting SL partners of mutated cancer genes can kill cancer cells but leave normal cells intact. The applicability of translating this concept into clinics has been demonstrated by three drugs that have been approved by the FDA to target PARP for tumors bearing mutations in BRCA1/2. This article reviews applications of the SL concept to translational cancer medicine over the past five years. Topics are (1) exploiting the SL concept for drug combinations to circumvent tumor resistance, (2) using synthetic lethality to identify prognostic and predictive biomarkers, (3) applying SL interactions to stratify patients for targeted and immunotherapy, and (4) discussions on challenges and future directions.
The Effect of Surgeon Expertise on the Outcome of Patients with Adrenocortical Carcinoma
Authors: Barac Nekic Anja , Knezevic Nikola , Zibar Tomsic Karin , Kraljevic Ivana , Balasko Annemarie , Skoric Polovina Tanja , Solak Mirsala , Dusek Tina , Kastelan Darko ,   Croatian ACC Study Group
Published: January 2022

Complete surgical removal of adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) represents the only chance of long-term cure. In this study, we compared the long-term outcomes of ACC patients depending on whether they had adrenal surgery performed in a high-volume (HVC) or in a low-volume (LVC) center. This retrospective study included 49 patients from the Croatian ACC Registry with the European Network for the Study of Adrenal Tumors (ENSAT) stage I–III ACC, of which 35 underwent surgery in a HVC whereas 14 of them were operated in one of the LVCs. Patients operated in the LVCs had a significantly higher rate of ACC recurrence (57.1% vs. 22.9%; p = 0.02). Accordingly, RFS was significantly longer in patients operated on in HVC (p = 0.04). The difference in RFS remained significant after controlling for age, gender, tumor size, Ki-67 index, Weiss score, and type of surgery (HR 4.55; 95% CI 1.16–17.88; p = 0.03). In addition, there is a tendency towards longer DSS in patients in the HVC group compared to those in the LVC group (p = 0.05). These results point to the centralization of adrenal surgery as a key prerequisite for improving the outcomes of ACC patients.
Spatiotemporal Variation and Influence Factors of Habitat Quality in Loess Hilly and Gully Area of Yellow River Basin: A Case Study of Liulin County, China
Authors: Zhang Xu , Lyu Chunjuan , Fan Xiang , Bi Rutian , Xia Lu , Xu Caicai , Sun Bo , Li Tao , Jiang Chenggang
Published: January 2022

China has set up ecological protection and high-quality development of the Yellow River Basin as its national strategy. However, the fragile natural ecosystem and intensive human disturbances pose challenges to it. This study evaluates habitat quality change and analyzes its drivers in a representative county of this region, aiming to provide scientific basis for ecological protection and sustainable development. We took Liulin, a representative county of middle Yellow River Basin as the study area and evaluated the spatiotemporal variation of habitat quality from 2000 to 2020 with the InVEST model. Further, the influencing factors of habitat quality pattern were explored using GeoDetector, and their gradient ranges dominating the habitat quality change were determined by gradient analysis. The results showed that: (1) Areas of low and medium-low habitat quality grades were distributed interactively in the whole county; medium grade areas were scattered in the northeast and southwest parts of the county; and medium-high and high grades area were distributed sporadically along the Yellow River and its branches. (2) Habitat quality of the county almost unchanged from 2000 to 2010. However, from 2010 to 2020, with the rapid expansion of construction land (increased by 9.62 times), the area proportion of medium, medium-high, and high habitat quality grades decreased from 7.01% to 5.31%, while that of low and medium-low habitat quality grades increased from 92.99% to 94.69%. (3) The habitat quality was influenced by multiple natural-human factors. The main influencing factor was land use, followed by elevation. (4) Most changes of habitat quality occurred in areas with lower elevation, gentler slope, and higher vegetation coverage, which were affected by intensive human activities. These results suggest that in future land use policy making and the construction land expansion in Liulin County should be restricted, and differentiated ecological protection and restoration strategies should be implemented in areas with different habitat quality.
The Challenges of Political Corruption in Australia, the Proposed Commonwealth Integrity Commission Bill (2020) and the Application of the APUNCAC
Authors: dela Rama Marie J. , Lester Michael E. , Staples Warren
Published: January 2022

Political corruption affects each nation-state differently, but the outcomes are nominally the same: a deficit of public trust, weakened government institutions and undermined political systems. This article analyzes issues of political corruption in Australia by framing them within a national integrity ecosystem (NIE) and addressing them against the proposed Commonwealth Integrity Commission (CIC) 2020 bill. It also discusses prevalent ‘grey’ areas of Australian politically-corrupt behavior where they interact with the private sector: the revolving door, political donations, and lobbying; and the state of Australia’s implementation of the OECD Anti-Bribery Convention. This article argues for their inclusion within the mandated scope of the proposed CIC. There is a need for strong legislation, both domestic and international, to fight corruption. This article then discusses the application of the provisions of the draft Anticorruption Protocol to the UN Convention Against Corruption (APUNCAC) that may apply with respect to these ‘grey’ issues, and how an International Anti-Corruption Court may provide another institutional model for Australia to follow. Finally, this article links these proposals to the 2021 UN General Assembly Special Session (UNGASS) on Corruption and the 9th Conference of States Parties on the UNCAC (COSP9). These events illustrate multilateral momentum and progress on anti-corruption. As a country that has historically supported the UN multilateral framework and its institutions, this article recommends a proactive approach for Australia so that the passing of a strong domestic anticorruption initiative will contribute to the adoption, and eventual ratification, of the APUNCAC.
Structural and Functional Characterization of Camelus dromedarius Glutathione Transferase M1-1
Authors: Perperopoulou Fereniki , Poudel Nirmal , Papageorgiou Anastassios C. , Ataya Farid S. , Labrou Nikolaos E.
Published: January 2022

Glutathione transferases (GSTs; EC. 2.5.1.18) are a large family of multifunctional enzymes that play crucial roles in the metabolism and inactivation of a broad range of xenobiotic compounds. In the present work, we report the kinetic and structural characterization of the isoenzyme GSTM1-1 from Camelus dromedarius (CdGSTM1-1). The CdGSΤM1-1 was expressed in E. coli BL21 (DE3) and was purified by affinity chromatography. Kinetics analysis showed that the enzyme displays a relative narrow substrate specificity and restricted ability to bind xenobiotic compounds. The crystal structures of CdGSΤM1-1 were determined by X-ray crystallography in complex with the substrate (GSH) or the reaction product (S-p-nitrobenzyl-GSH), providing snapshots of the induced-fit catalytic mechanism. The thermodynamic stability of CdGSTM1-1 was investigated using differential scanning fluorimetry (DSF) in the absence and in presence of GSH and S-p-nitrobenzyl-GSH and revealed that the enzyme’s structure is significantly stabilized by its ligands. The results of the present study advance the understanding of camelid GST detoxification mechanisms and their contribution to abiotic stress adaptation in harsh desert conditions.
Research on the Influence of Tip Clearance of Axial-Flow Pump on Energy Characteristics under Pump and Turbine Conditions
Authors: Li Yanjun , Lin Qixu , Meng Fan , Zheng Yunhao , Xu Xiaotian
Published: January 2022

In order to study the influence of tip clearance on the performance and energy dissipation of the axial-flow pump and the axial-flow pump as a turbine, and find the location of high dissipation rate, this study took an axial-flow pump model as its research object and designed four tip radial clearance schemes (0, 0.2, 1 and 2 mm). The unsteady calculation simulation of each tip clearance scheme was carried out based on CFD technology. The calculated results were compared with the experimental results, and the simulation results were analyzed using entropy production analysis theory. The results showed that, under both an axial-flow pump and axial-flow pump as turbine operating conditions, increasing the blade tip clearance led to a decrease in hydraulic performance. Compared with the 0 mm clearance, the maximum decreases in pump efficiency, head and shaft power under 2 mm tip clearance were 15.3%, 25.7% and 12.3% under the pump condition, and 12.7%, 18.5% and 28.8% under the turbine condition, respectively. Under the axial-flow pump operating condition, the change in blade tip clearance had a great influence on the total dissipation of the impeller, guide vane and outlet passage, and the maximum variation under the flow rate of 1.0Qdes was 53.9%, 32.1% and 54.2%, respectively. Under the axial-flow pump as a turbine operating condition, the change in blade tip clearance had a great influence on the total dissipation of the impeller and outlet passage, the maximum variation under the flow rate of 1.0Qdes was 22.7% and 17.4%, respectively. Under the design flow rate condition, with the increase in tip clearance, the dissipation rate of the blade surface showed an increasing trend under both the axial-flow pump and axial-flow pump as turbine operating conditions, and areas of high dissipation rate were generated at the rim and clearance.
Evaluating Research Trends from Journal Paper Metadata, Considering the Research Publication Latency
Authors: Curiac Christian-Daniel , Banias Ovidiu , Micea Mihai
Published: January 2022

Investigating the research trends within a scientific domain by analyzing semantic information extracted from scientific journals has been a topic of interest in the natural language processing (NLP) field. A research trend evaluation is generally based on the time evolution of the term occurrence or the term topic, but it neglects an important aspect—research publication latency. The average time lag between the research and its publication may vary from one month to more than one year, and it is a characteristic that may have significant impact when assessing research trends, mainly for rapidly evolving scientific areas. To cope with this problem, the present paper is the first work that explicitly considers research publication latency as a parameter in the trend evaluation process. Consequently, we provide a new trend detection methodology that mixes auto-ARIMA prediction with Mann–Kendall trend evaluations. The experimental results in an electronic design automation case study prove the viability of our approach.
Role of Cannabinoids in Inflammation
Authors: Downer Eric J.
Published: January 2022

This Special Issue brings an update on some of the advances in research in the cannabinoid field, with focus on the impact of cannabinoids on inflammation [...]
Biocompatible and Antimicrobial Cellulose Acetate-Collagen Films Containing MWCNTs Decorated with TiO2 Nanoparticles for Potential Biomedical Applications
Authors: David Madalina Elena , Ion Rodica Mariana , Grigorescu Ramona Marina , Iancu Lorena , Holban Alina Maria , Iordache Florin , Nicoara Adrian Ionut , Alexandrescu Elvira , Somoghi Raluca , Teodorescu Sofia , Gheboianu Anca Irina
Published: January 2022

This research focuses on the synthesis of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) decorated with TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) and incorporated in cellulose acetate-collagen film in order to obtain a new biomaterial with potential biomedical applications and improved antimicrobial activity. The successful decoration of the MWCNTs with TiO2 NPs was confirmed by several structural and morphological analysis, such as Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. The obtained nanocomposites were further incorporated into cellulose acetate-collagen films, at different concentrations and absorption kinetics, antimicrobial activity and in vitro biocompatibility of the obtained films was investigated. The antimicrobial tests sustained that the presence of the nanocomposites into the polymeric matrix is an important aspect in increasing and maintaining the antimicrobial activity of the polymeric wound dressings over time. The biocompatibility and cytotoxicity of the obtained films was evaluated using cellular viability/proliferation assay and fluorescent microscopy which revealed the ability of the obtained materials as potential wound dressing biomaterial.
Volatile Organic Compound Composition and Glandular Trichome Characteristics of In Vitro Propagated Clinopodium pulegium (Rochel) Bräuchler: Effect of Carbon Source
Authors: Stojičić Dragana , Tošić Svetlana , Stojanović Gordana , Zlatković Bojan , Jovanović Snežana , Budimir Snežana , Uzelac Branka
Published: January 2022

Clinopodium pulegium (Rochel) Bräuchler (Lamiaceae) is an endangered species endemic to the Southern Carpathians. It is characterized by the production of high amounts of essential oils, which emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that have an essential role in biotic and abiotic stress responses and in plant–plant and plant–insect interactions. The present study was initiated to phytochemically examine the influence of different carbon sources in the nutrition medium on VOC emissions of micropropagated C. pulegium plants, using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis of headspace VOCs. The volatile profiles were subjected to multivariate analysis with respect to the presence, concentration and type of carbon source in the nutrient medium. In addition, the effect of different carbohydrates on the density and size of the leaf glandular trichomes, the main structures involved in the emission of VOCs, was determined. A total of 19 VOCs, primarily belonging to mono- and sesquiterpenes previously described in plants, were tentatively identified. Six VOCs were produced at levels higher than 2% of the total VOC emission, dominated by pulegone, ß-pinene and menthone. Inclusion of the carbohydrates in the culture media affected the production of the main leaf trichome-associated volatile allelochemicals although the qualitative composition of the volatiles changed only slightly. Multivariate analysis showed that the concentration, rather than the carbohydrate type, influenced the VOC profile.
A Data-Driven Packaging Efficiency Optimization Method for a Low Carbon System in Agri-Products Cold Chain
Authors: Wang Jingjie , Zhang Xiaoshuan , Wang Xiang , Huang Hongxing , Hu Jinyou , Lin Weijun
Published: January 2022

The of monitoring the Internet of Things (IoT) in the cold chain allows process data, including packaging data, to be more easily accessible. Proper optimization modelling is the core driving force towards the green and low-carbon operation of cold chain logistics, laying the necessary foundation for the development of a data-driven modelling system. Since efficient packaging is necessary for loss control in the cold chain, its final efficiency during circulation is important for realizing continuous loss prevention and efficient supply. Thus, it is urgent to determine how to utilize these continuously acquired data and how to formulate a more accurate packaging efficiency control methodology in the agri-products cold chain. Through continuous monitoring, we examined the feasibility of this topic by focusing on the concept of data-driven evaluation modelling and the dynamic formation mechanism of comprehensive packaging efficiency in cold chain logistics. The packaging efficiency in the table grape cold chain was used as an example to evaluate the comprehensive efficiency evaluation index system and data-driven evaluation framework proposed in this paper. Our results indicate that the established methodology can adapt to the continuity of comprehensive packaging efficiency, also reflecting the comprehensive efficiency evaluation of the packaging for different times and distances. Through the evaluation of our results, the differences and the dynamic processes between different final packaging efficiencies at different moments are effectively displayed. Thus, the continuous improvement of a low-carbon system in cold chain logistics could be realized.
The Importance of Spiritual Ecology in the Qingyuan Forest Mushroom Co-Cultivation System
Authors: Zhu Guannan , Cao Xingsui , Wang Bin , Zhang Kai , Min Qingwen
Published: January 2022

The ecological value encapsulated in the term “spiritual ecology” is drawing more and more attention from ethnology, folklore, ecology, and other related disciplines. The custom of respecting and pacifying forest spirits has distinct regional and ethnic characteristics, and many scholars have discovered samples from different studies around the world. Qingyuan County, located in the mountainous region of southwest Zhejiang, is a very typical case of the practice of respecting and pacifying forest spirits. The mushroom-cultivation technology invented by the chthonic people there more than 900 years ago made this the global birthplace of artificial mushroom cultivation. The Qingyuan Forest–Mushroom Co-cultivation System (QFMCS) has been listed as an important agricultural heritage system by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Beijing, China and a candidate project by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome, Italy for Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS). Additionally, the QFMCS is currently an important part of the Baishanzu National Park under construction. The authors made an in-depth field study in the mountainous areas of Qingyuan and used theoretical methods of ecology, anthropology, and folklore to reveal the function spiritual ecology plays in ecological conservation, forest protection, identity, and the maintenance of community interests. In the “traditional-modern” transformation of Qingyuan County, the practice of respecting and pacifying the Spirits is still being propagated, resulting in expansion and social cohesion.
Issues of safe correction of gastroduodenal symptoms during pregnancy
Authors:   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology No. 2, FSBEI HE Rostov State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Chebotareva Yuliya Yurievna , Veselova Elena Nikolaevna ,   Department of Propaedeutics of Internal Diseases, FSBEI HE Rostov State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Petrov Yuriy Alekseevich ,   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology No. 2, FSBEI HE Rostov State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
Published: January 2022

Extragenital diseases make a great effect on the complicated course of pregnancy and childbirth. The lack of pregravidar preparation and somatic diagnostics lead to miscarriage, preeclampsia, and placental disorders. Therefore, the development of various algorithms for the management of pregnant women suffering from diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and the safe correction of various gastroduodenal symptoms, which is sometimes characteristic of the gestation period, are relevant. The purpose of the study: evaluation and critical analysis of modern data in the field of diagnosis and safe correction of various gastroduodenal symptoms during pregnancy. Materials and methods. Collection of modern Russian and foreign literature sources on the correction of gastroduodenal pathology during pregnancy, generalization and critical analysis of this problem. Results. Heartburn, constipation, flatulence are the most common complaints during pregnancy. The causes of their occurrence are physiological features during gestation, aimed at the most favorable gestation of the fetus. The first-line preparations are alginates created on the basis of alginic acid of brown alga. Antacids have a number of disadvantages. Proton pump inhibitors are prescribed extremely rarely and cautiously during pregnancy. In case of constipation in pregnant women, it is recommended to prescribe lactulose preparations together with defoamers. Prebiotics perfectly regulate the work of the intestine. The etiology, mechanisms of occurrence, clinical symptoms, differential diagnosis and treatment of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnant women were analyzed. Its possible prognoses and risks for the mother and fetus, the possibilities of diagnosis and correction are determined. Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract in pregnant women cause difficulties in diagnosis and treatment. For the most optimal course of pregnancy, there are sufficiently effective gastroenterological drugs recommended so that the effect of treatment is maximized and the side effect is minimized.
Factores climático determinantes del rendimiento y la producción de papa en el distrito de Juli, Puno–Perú, 2000-2018
Authors: Quispe Mamani Julio Cesar , Apaza Mamani Edson , Marca Flores Omar Henry , Calcina Álvarez Dominga Asunción , Pumacallahui Salcedo Eliseo , Yapuchura Saico Cristóbal Rufino
Published: January 2022

El objetivo fue encontrar los factores climáticos que determinan el rendimiento y la producción de papa en el distrito de Julia, entre los periodos 2000-2018, para lo cual se utilizó la información estadística de la Dirección Regional Agraria Puno y del Servicio Nacional  de  Meteorología e Hidrología de Puno. Se utilizó la metodología descriptiva y correlacional, considerando el modelo econométrico de tipo log-log. Se determinó que las variables climáticas como la temperatura mínima, la temperatura máxima determinan de manera positiva en el rendimiento de la producción y en la producción de papa y las precipitaciones de la lluvia determinan de manera negativa en el rendimiento de la producción y en la producción de papa. Finalmente, la temperatura mínima, la temperatura máxima y las precipitaciones explican al rendimiento de la producción y en la producción de papa en 97.96% y 97.95% respectivamente.
Propiedades físico-químicas y digestibilidad in vitro de mezclas alimenticias de cultivos andinos y cereales extruidos
Authors: Huanatico Suárez Elizabeth , Arisaca Parillo Adaliht Jhony , Quispe Alberto , Calla Florez Miriam , Zavaleta Huampa Percy , Quispe Callo Edgar Alcides
Published: January 2022

El objetivo de la investigación fue formular una mezcla alimenticia a base de quinua, maca, cebada y arroz destinada a adultos mayores de acuerdo a las especificaciones de productos instantáneos. Asimismo, se determinó el efecto de cocción extrusión en las propiedades físico-químicas y digestibilidad in vitro de las mezclas seleccionadas. Para obtener la mejor formulación se utilizó el score de aminoácidos obteniendo 25 mezclas y que evaluadas por su calidad proteica, se tomaron 03 muestras, sometiéndose a un proceso de cocción por extrusión con una temperatura entre 140 y 165 °C y una humedad inicial entre 10 y 15 %, obteniéndose productos extruidos con un índice de gelatinización entre 94.34 a 95.87 %, 0.98 a 1.15 a meq/kg para el índice de peróxidos, valor proteico entre 7.4 y 10.33 %, y entre 1.54 y 1.73 % de fibra. La digestibilidad in vitro presentó valores entre 67.0 y 86.00. Se concluye que la mezcla óptima de acuerdo a los parámetros evaluados  es la mezcla 3 compuesta  por 30 % de maca, 25 % quinua, 35 % cebada y 10 % de arroz con un índice de gelatinización de 95.87 %, índice de peróxidos 0.98 meq/kg, Digestibilidad in vitro de 86 %, proteína 7.4%, fibra 1.54 %, grasa 2.5 %, las propiedades físico- químicas fueron influenciadas por la humedad inicial (10 y 15 %) y temperatura (160 – 165°C), en cuanto al análisis microbiológico de la mezcla seleccionada están dentro de los límites establecidos por la normativa vigente.
Relación entre la Planificación Estratégica y Gestión del Conocimiento
Authors: Gomez Zuñiga Fiorella
Published: January 2022

En la actualidad, las instituciones muestran gran preocupación  por  la  planificación de sus objetivos y actividades, asimismo requieren de conocimientos  necesarios que   permita   cubrir   las    expectativos de sus usuarios o clientes. De ahí la necesidad de que conozcan estrategias de planificación y gestionen el conocimiento a fin de maximizar sus ganancias.  por ello, este artículo tiene como finalidad analizar la relación entre la planificación estratégica y la gestión del conocimiento, específicamente dentro de la academia. Para ello, se realizó un estudio descriptivo correlacional, se usaron dos cuestionarios para el desarrollo de las dimensiones. Los resultados señalan que, definitivamente,  se establece una correlación entre ambas variables en los profesores de la muestra elegida. También, se evidencia que hay correlación entre estas dimensiones de la planificación estratégica y las dimensiones de la gestión del conocimiento. Además, se encuentra del mismo modo, que los colaboradores de las sedes de Lima- Metropolitana los cuales se ubican en cinco distritos, sobre todo en Cercado de Lima.
Penerapan Metode Naïve Bayes Dalam Memprediksi Prestasi Siswa Di SMA Negeri 1 Panombeian Panei
Authors: Marpaung Sarina , - Solikhun , - Irawan
Published: January 2022

Tujuan dari penelitian  ini adalah untuk melakukan klasifikasi dalam menentukan prestasi siswa di SMA Negeri 1 Panombeian Panei. Untuk mengetahui hasil dari klasifikasi prestasi siswa di sekolah tersebut  maka digunakan metode data mining Klasifikasi dengan Algoritma Naive Bayes. Sumberdata didapatkan dari hasil kuesioner yang diberikan kepada siswa kelas 2 semester genap, dengan sampel data 105Siswa. Atribut yang digunakan sebanyak 4, yaitu Keberadaan guru (C1), Kemampuan Siswa (C2), Motivasi(C3) dan Lingkungan Sekolah (C4). Diperoleh hasi penelitian bahwa nilai Accuracy  sebesar 91.00 %.  class precision pada prediksi kurang berprestasi memiliki nilai 83..33%, sedangkan pada prediksi berprestasi memiliki nilai 93,42%. Class recall pada truekurang berprestasi  memiliki nilai 80.00%, sedangkan pada trueberprestasi memiliki nilai 94.67 %. Sehingga dengan analisis ini diharapkan dapat membantu pihak sekolah khususnya pihak pendidikan SMA Negeri 1 Panombeian Panei dalam mengetahui prestasi siswa dalam proses belajar mengajar sehingga apabila diketahui banyak siswa yang kurang berprestasi dapat dilakukan antisipasi dalam memperbaiki mutu pendidikan dalam menanganin siswa yang memiliki prestasi yang kurang sehingga dapat menghasilkan generasi yang baik dan memperbaiki kualitas sekolah.
APLIKASI SISTEM PAKAR DALAM MENDIAGNOSA SINDROM KLINIS AKIBAT INFEKSI COVID-19
Authors: Fahrozi Wirhan , Meizar Abdul , Indra Evta
Published: January 2022

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) atau sering kita sebut sebagai virus corona ditemukan di China pada akhir tahun 2019 tepatnya bulan Desember di Kota Wuhan, Provinsi Huebei dan kemudian menyebar ke hampir seluruh dunia termasuk Indonesia. Infeksi yang di timbulkan oleh COVID-19 dapat berupa gejala ringan, sedang atau berat. Terdapat beberapa sindrom klinis yang disebabkan oleh COVID-19 seperti Pneumonia ringan, Pneumonia berat, Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), Sepsis, Syok septik, dan Tidak berkomplikasi. Dengan adanya pemanfaatan teknologi komputer dimungkinkan untuk menerapkan kedalam sebuah aplikasi berbentuk sistem pakar untuk mendiagnosa sidrom klinis yang di akibatkan infeksi Covid-19. Sebuah metedo sistem pakar yang cocok untuk menyelasaikan kasus tersebut adalah metode dempster shafer dengan menerapkan aplikasi berbasis web sebagai media komunikasi dengan sistem.
THE CRISIS IS A NATURAL PART OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, IT IS NECESSARY TO LEARN TO FACE IT
Authors: Kóňa Andrej
Published: January 2022

Europe has the strongest and largest tourism in the world. As in times of economic prosperity, the industry can prosper, in the case of a change in the economic environment as a result of a crises, it is hit hard and the tourism industry throughout the European Union is suffering billions of euros in damage. It is the case of all post-communist countries and also in Slovak Republic. The effects of such fluctuations are all the greater for the country´s GDP because they do not have contingency plans in place and solutions are often chaotic or implemented too late. The article assesses the impact of several crises, including the current one associated with COVID-19 and predicts a possible approach to mitigate the consequences of the crisis and at the same time better manage the future crisis.
Technology Integration in Higher Education: The use of Website Design Pedagogy to Promote Quality Teaching and Learning
Authors: West Joyce , Malatji Makwalete Johanna
Published: January 2022

The integration of technology within higher education, specifically teacher education, has become vital in preparing pre-service teacher for the 21st-century classroom. Literature shows that the integration of technology allows students to engage deeply with content and promote authentic learning. Over two years, pre-service teachers who enrolled for a language education module at a university in South Africa were tasked with designing their own websites using Google Sites – an online, free, collaborative, web-based application that forms part of Google’s G Suite. As part of the website design assignment, they had to include a blog, informative text and a YouTube video explaining a language-teaching-related topic. The study was conducted from an interpretivist paradigm and an embedded mixed-methods research design. The technological pedagogical content knowledge model served as the theoretical framework. Data collected from 214 pre-service teachers revealed that the use of website design pedagogy promoted the integration of different types of knowledge domains, authentic learning and proximal development. The pre-service teachers furthermore reported that the use of website design pedagogy better prepared them for the 21st-century classroom. Challenges that the students experienced included inadequate access to the internet and problems with recording and uploading videos. This study advocates for authentic learning and scaffolding and therefore recommends that higher education institutions integrate technology holistically by adhering to the principles of the technological pedagogical content knowledge model.