bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can Chinese Central Government Inspection on Environmental Protection Improve Air Quality?
Authors: He Ling-Yun , Geng Meng-Meng
Published: September 2020

Environmental pollution is one of the major sustainability problems in China. As a major institutional innovation to supervise local governments to implement environmental governance measures, the effect of central environmental protection inspection needs to be carefully investigated. In this paper, the environmental protection inspection in July 2016 was used as a quasi-natural experiment to estimate the effect of central environmental protection inspection on air quality by using the synthetic control method. The study found that not all regions under inspection have significantly reduced the Air Quality Index (AQI). For the four inspected regions, the AQI decreased in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region and Jiangsu Province during the period of inspection. But the inspection does not affect Henan Province and Jiangxi Province. In terms of individual pollutants, for Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region and Jiangsu Province where AQI has declined, not all individual pollutant concentrations have decreased. The treatment of specific individual pollutants still needs to be concerned.
Sol–Gel and Electrospinning Synthesis of Silica–Hydroxyapatite–Silver Nanofibers for SEIRAS and SERS
Authors: Soto-Nieto Fernando , Farías Rurik , Reyes-López Simón Yobanny
Published: September 2020

Surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) and Surface-enhanced infrared absorption spectroscopy (SEIRAS) are both novel techniques favored by the excitation of surface plasmons onto metal nanostructures. The light emitted from the metal surface couples with the vibrational transitions of molecules in proximity, enhancing its spectral response and leading to more sensitive and effective spectroscopic analysis. The absence of inexpensive and reproducible substrates is among the major impediments to the accurate implementation and optimal performance of the technique. The development of a low-cost active substrate based on silica–hydroxyapatite through sol–gel synthesis and electrospinning is addressed in the present study. Fibers of 512 ± 199 nm diameter were produced after sintering at 1150 °C on the electrospun mats. The fibers are fixed to an indium tin oxide (ITO) glass base for electrodeposition with 10 and 20 mM AgNO3 at 1.5 and 3.3 V at different time periods. Electrodeposition produced silver nanorods and nanocubes on the fibers. The SERS and SEIRAS activity of each one of the nine supports was tested using pyridine 1 nM, comparing it with the spectrum of pyridine 1 mM. An enhancement factor of 2.01 × 106 for the band at 3335 cm−1 was obtained during a SEIRAS essay for the support doped for 2 min at 3.3 V with 10 mM silver nitrate solution. The highest SERS enhancement factor was 3.46 × 108, for the band at 1567 cm−1 in the substrate doped for 5 min at 1.5 V with silver nitrate solution at 10 mM. After testing both samples with 10−4 M violet crystal solution, no SERS enhancement factor was found, but higher band resolution in the spectra was observed.
SiO2/Ladder-Like Polysilsesquioxanes Nanocomposite Coatings: Playing with the Hybrid Interface for Tuning Thermal Properties and Wettability
Authors: D’Arienzo Massimiliano , Dirè Sandra , Cobani Elkid , Orsini Sara , Di Credico Barbara , Antonini Carlo , Callone Emanuela , Parrino Francesco , Dalle Vacche Sara , Trusiano Giuseppe , Bongiovanni Roberta , Scotti Roberto
Published: September 2020

The present study explores the exploitation of ladder-like polysilsesquioxanes (PSQs) bearing reactive functional groups in conjunction with SiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) to produce UV-curable nanocomposite coatings with increased hydrophobicity and good thermal resistance. In detail, a medium degree regular ladder-like structured poly (methacryloxypropyl) silsesquioxane (LPMASQ) and silica NPs, either naked or functionalized with a methacrylsilane (SiO2@TMMS), were blended and then irradiated in the form of a film. Material characterization evidenced significant modifications of the structural organization of the LPMASQ backbone and, in particular, a rearrangement of the silsesquioxane chains at the interface upon introduction of the functionalized silica NPs. This leads to remarkable thermal resistance and enhanced hydrophobic features in the final nanocomposite. The results suggest that the adopted strategy, in comparison with mostly difficult and expensive surface modification and structuring protocols, may provide tailored functional properties without modifying the surface roughness or the functionalities of silsesquioxanes, but simply tuning their interactions at the hybrid interface with silica fillers.
Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Evaluations for the Differentiation of Carbapenem-Resistant from Susceptible Enterobacteriaceae Strains
Authors: Alharbi Bushra , Sikulu-Lord Maggy , Lord Anton , Zowawi Hosam M. , Trembizki Ella
Published: September 2020

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) caused by Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) is a global threat. Accurate identification of these bacterial species with associated AMR is critical for their management. While highly accurate methods to detect CRE are available, they are costly, timely and require expert skills, making their application infeasible in low-resource settings. Here, we investigated the potential of Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) for a range of applications: (i) the detection and differentiation of isolates of two pathogenic Enterobacteriaceae species, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli, and (ii) the differentiation of carbapenem resistant and susceptible K. pneumoniae. NIRS has successfully differentiated between K. pneumoniae and E. coli isolates with a predictive accuracy of 89.04% (95% CI; 88.7–89.4%). K. pneumoniae isolates harbouring carbapenem-resistance determinants were differentiated from susceptible K. pneumoniae strains with an accuracy of 85% (95% CI; 84.2–86.1%). To our knowledge, this is the largest proof of concept demonstration for the utility and feasibility of NIRS to rapidly differentiate between K. pneumoniae and E. coli as well as carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae from susceptible strains.
Laser-Assisted aPDT Protocols in Randomized Controlled Clinical Trials in Dentistry: A Systematic Review
Authors: Mylona Valina , Anagnostaki Eugenia , Parker Steven , Cronshaw Mark , Lynch Edward , Grootveld Martin
Published: September 2020

Background: Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) has been proposed as an effective alternative method for the adjunctive treatment of all classes of oral infections. The multifactorial nature of its mechanism of action correlates with various influencing factors, involving parameters concerning both the photosensitizer and the light delivery system. This study aims to critically evaluate the recorded parameters of aPDT applications that use lasers as the light source in randomized clinical trials in dentistry. Methods: PubMed and Cochrane search engines were used to identify human clinical trials of aPDT therapy in dentistry. After applying specific keywords, additional filters, inclusion and exclusion criteria, the initial number of 7744 articles was reduced to 38. Results: Almost one-half of the articles presented incomplete parameters, whilst the others had different protocols, even with the same photosensitizer and for the same field of application. Conclusions: No safe recommendation for aPDT protocols can be extrapolated for clinical use. Further research investigations should be performed with clear protocols, so that standardization for their potential dental applications can be achieved.
Research Trends in Geotourism: A Bibliometric Analysis Using the Scopus Database
Authors: Herrera-Franco Gricelda , Montalván-Burbano Néstor , Carrión-Mero Paúl , Apolo-Masache Boris , Jaya-Montalvo María
Published: September 2020

Geodiversity has elements of exceptional scientific value that are considered to represent geoheritage, or geological heritage. One way to conserve and promote the knowledge of these elements is through the initiatives of United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Global Geoparks, which, over a decade ago, began to notably highlight a new sustainable tourism alternative called geotourism, or geological tourism, that promotes the protection of the unique geological resources of territory and, at the same time, provides social, economic, and environmental benefits. This study aims to investigate the scientific information related to geotourism in the Scopus database through a bibliometric analysis, using the VOSviewer software, for the evaluation of the structure, conceptual evolution, and trends of geotourism following related publications. The research comprises four study phases: (i) search criteria of the research field; (ii) search and selection of documents; (iii) software and data extraction; and (iv) analysis of results and trends. The results present geotourism as a scientific discipline that is in a phase of exponential research growth and exhibits its scientific productivity from 1984 to 2019, where three main periods are differentiated: introduction, theoretical development, and diversification of information. The most active research area is geomorphological heritage, which is very far from the emerging line of research of engineering geology in geotourism. However, growing exploration during the last six years has generated the development of various geoscientific branches promoted by geotourism that, currently, present their research area trends such as geosites, geoheritages, and geoparks.
Organic Control of Pear Psylla in Pear with Trunk Injection
Authors: Wheeler Celeste E. , Vandervoort Christine , Wise John C.
Published: September 2020

Organic production of pears is challenging in part because OMRI (Organic Materials Review Institute) approved biopesticides are short lived when applied as foliar sprays. Trunk injection is an alternative method of insecticide delivery that may enhance the performance of biopesticides for control of pear psylla. The objective of this study is to compare the efficacy of azadirachtin and abamectin in the control of pear psylla using two different application methods, airblast sprayer and trunk injection. Trunk injections of azadirachtin and abamectin were compared to airblast applications of equal labeled rates on 33-year-old Bartlett Pear trees (Pyrus communis L., var “Bartlett”). The azadirachtin and abamectin trunk injected treatments performed equally or better than the two airblast applications in the control of the pear psylla. The trunk injected trees from the first season provided a moderate level of control into the second season, one year after the injections. This study suggests that trunk injection is a superior delivery system for biopesticides used in organic pear production.
Molecular Characterizations of Double-Stranded RNA Degrading Nuclease Genes from Ostrinia nubilalis
Authors: Cooper Anastasia M. W. , Song Huifang , Shi Xuekai , Yu Zhitao , Lorenzen Marcé , Silver Kristopher , Zhang Jianzhen , Zhu Kun Yan
Published: September 2020

Variable RNA interference (RNAi) efficiencies limit RNAi-based pest management strategies for many pests. Previous efforts to understand mechanisms contributing to low RNAi efficiency indicate that double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) is degraded in the European corn borer (ECB), Ostrinia nubilalis, due to nuclease activity. To investigate the contribution of dsRNA-degrading endonucleases (dsRNases) and lepidopteran-specific RNAi efficiency-related nucleases (REases) to dsRNA instability and low RNAi efficiency in ECB, five complementary DNAs putatively encoding four dsRNases (OndsRNase1, 2, 3, and 4) and one REase (OnREase) were sequenced. Characterization of these transcripts revealed that substrate specificity might vary among the four dsRNases due to different amino acid combinations in the substrate-binding sites. Gene expression analysis indicated that OndsRNase2 and OnREase were highly expressed in the larval gut, and OndsRNase1 showed the highest expression in hemolymph, especially in older developmental stages. Transcript level analysis after dsRNA exposure revealed that expression of OnREase rapidly increased upon dsRNA ingestion or injection, whereas OndsRNase4 expression only increased after long-term ingestion of dsRNA. While the biological function of these nucleases remains to be verified, our results suggest that OnREase and OndsRNase2, and OndsRNase1 and OndsRNase4 may be responsible for degradation of dsRNAs in the ECB gut and hemolymph, respectively, thereby contributing to low RNAi efficiency.
An Innovative IMTA System: Polychaetes, Sponges and Macroalgae Co-Cultured in a Southern Italian In-Shore Mariculture Plant (Ionian Sea)
Authors: Giangrande Adriana , Pierri Cataldo , Arduini Daniele , Borghese Jacopo , Licciano Margherita , Trani Roberta , Corriero Giuseppe , Basile Grazia , Cecere Ester , Petrocelli Antonella , Stabili Loredana , Longo Caterina
Published: September 2020

In this paper, we report data from the first year of rearing of a set of filter feeder bioremediator organisms: macrobenthic invertebrates (sabellid polychaetes and sponges), coupled with macroalgae, realized in a mariculture fish farm. This innovative integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) system was realized at a preindustrial level in the Gulf of Taranto (southern Italy, northern Ionian Sea), within the framework of the EU Remedia Life project. Long lines containing different collector typologies were placed around the fish breeding cages. Vertical collectors were utilized for both polychaetes and sponges, whilst macroalgae were cultivated in horizontal collectors. Data on the growth and mortality of the target species after the first year of rearing and cultivation are given together with their biomass estimation. Polychaete biomass was obtained from natural settlement on ropes previously hung in the system, while sponges and macroalgae were derived from explants and/or inocules inserted in the collectors. The description of the successional pattern occurring on collectors used for settling until reaching a “stable” point is also described, with indications of additional filter feeder macroinvertebrates other than polychaetes and sponges that are easily obtainable and useful in the system as bioremediators as well. The results demonstrate an easy, natural obtaining of large biomass of sabellid polychaetes settling especially from about a 4 to 10 m depth. Sponges and macroalgae need to be periodically cleaned from the fouling covering. The macroalgae cycle was different from that of invertebrates and requires the cultivation of two different species with about a 6-month cycle for each one. The present study represents one of the first attempts at IMTA in the Mediterranean area where invertebrates and macroalgae are co-cultured in an inshore fish farm. Possible utilization of the produced biomass is also suggested.
Evidence for Multi-Organ Infection During Experimental Meningococcal Sepsis due to ST-11 Isolates in Human Transferrin-Transgenic Mice
Authors: Levy Michael , Aouiti Trabelsi Myriam , Taha Muhamed-Kheir
Published: September 2020

The description of invasive meningococcal disease that is provoked by Neisseria meningitidis (Nm) is frequently restricted to meningitis. However, a wide panel of clinical presentations can be encountered including severe forms with intense inflammatory reaction leading to multi-organ failure. Several human factors are involved in the development of invasive infections such as transferrin, factor H or CEACAM1. In this study, we used an experimental meningococcal infection in transgenic mice expressing the human transferrin to show multi-organ infection. Mice were infected by an intraperitoneal injection of bacterial suspension (1.5 × 107 colony-forming unit/mouse) of a bioluminescent serogroup C strain belonging to the clonal complex ST-11. Dynamic imaging and histological analysis were performed. The results showed invasion of tissues by Nm with bacteria observed, outside blood vessels, in the kidneys, the heart and the brain as well as skin involvement. These data further support the systemic aspect of invasive meningococcal disease with involvement of several organs including skin as in humans. Thus, our model can be used to study severe forms of meningococcal invasive infections with multi-organ failure.
Interlaboratory Validation of a Detection Method for Hepatitis E Virus RNA in Pig Liver
Authors: Trojnar Eva , Contzen Matthias , Moor Dominik , Carl Anja , Burkhardt Sabine , Kilwinski Jochen , Berghof-Jäger Kornelia , Mormann Sascha , Schotte Ulrich , Kontek Anne , Althof Nadine , Mäde Dietrich , Johne Reimar
Published: September 2020

Background: In the last years, the number of notified hepatitis E cases in humans has continuously increased in Europe. Foodborne infection with the zoonotic hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotype 3 is considered the major cause of this disease. Undercooked liver and raw sausages containing the liver of pigs and wild boar are at high risk of containing HEV. However, so far, no standardized method for the detection of HEV-RNA in pig liver is available. Methods: An international collaborative study on method reproducibility involving 11 laboratories was performed for an HEV-RNA detection method, which consists of steps of sample homogenization, RNA extraction and real-time RT-PCR detection, including a process control. Naturally contaminated pork liver samples containing two different amounts of HEV and a HEV-negative pork liver sample were tested by all laboratories using the method. Results: Valid results were retrieved from 10 laboratories. A specificity of 100% and a sensitivity of 79% were calculated for the method. False negative results were only retrieved from the sample containing very low HEV amounts near the detection limit. Conclusions: The results show that the method is highly specific, sufficiently sensitive and robust for use in different laboratories. The method can, therefore, be applied to routine food control as well as in monitoring studies.
Impact of Fly Ash as a Raw Material on the Properties of Refractory Forsterite–Spinel Ceramics
Authors: Nguyen Martin , Sokolář Radomír
Published: September 2020

This article examines the process for the synthesis of forsterite–spinel (2MgO·SiO2/MgO·Al2O3) refractory ceramics from fly ash and alumina as sources of aluminum oxide. Raw materials were milled, mixed in different ratios and sintered at 1500 °C for 2 h. Sintered samples were characterized by XRD, thermal analyses and SEM. Porosity, water absorption, bulk density, refractoriness, refractoriness under load and thermal shock resistance were also investigated. The impact of fly ash as a raw material was investigated in accordance with the resulting properties and microstructure of samples with fly ash and alumina as the raw materials. Due to the positive effect of flux oxides (iron oxides and alkalis) on sintering, the mullite contained in fly ash completely decomposed into silica and alumina, which, together with magnesium oxide, formed spinel. This led to improved microstructural and mechanical properties and thermal shock resistance. In particular, mixtures with 10 wt.% and 20 wt.% of fly ash had the most promising results compared to alumina mixtures. Both modulus of rupture and thermal shock resistance were improved, while the impact on refractory properties was minimal. The novelty of this research lies in the recycling of fly ash, a by-product from coal-burning power plants, into a raw material for the production of forsterite–spinel refractory ceramics.
Geochemistry and Zircon U-Pb-Hf Isotopes of Metamorphic Rocks from the Kaiyuan and Hulan Tectonic Mélanges, NE China: Implications for the Tectonic Evolution of the Paleo-Asian and Mudanjiang Oceans
Authors: Han Zuozhen , Li Jingjing , Song Zhigang , Liu Guyao , Zhong Wenjian , Gao Lihua , Du Qingxiang
Published: September 2020

The Late Paleozoic–Early Mesozoic tectonic evolution of the Changchun-Yanji suture (CYS) was mainly associated with the Paleo-Asian and Mudanjiang tectonic regimes. However, the spatial and temporal overprinting and variations of these two regimes remains are still dispute. In order to evaluate this issue, in this contribution, we present new zircon U-Pb ages and a whole-rock geochemical and zircon Hf isotopic dataset on a suite of metamorphic rocks, including gneisses, actinolite schist, leptynites, and biotite schists, from tectonic mélanges in northern Liaoning and central Jilin provinces, NE China. Based on zircon LA-ICP-MS U-Pb dating results, protoliths show wide ranges of aging spectrum, including Paleoproterozoic (2441 Ma), Early Permian (281 Ma), Late Permian (254 Ma), and Late Triassic (230 Ma). The Permian protoliths of leptynites from the Hulan Tectonic Mélange (HLTM) and gneisses from the Kaiyuan Tectonic Mélange (KYTM) exhibit arc-related geochemical signatures, implying that the Paleo-Asian Ocean (PAO) did not close prior to the Late Permian. The Late Triassic protoliths of gneisses from the KYTM, in combination with previously reported coeval igneous rocks along the CYS, comprises a typical bimodal igneous suite in an E–W-trending belt, suggesting a post-orogenic extensional environment. Consequently, we infer that the final closure of the PAO took place during the Early–Middle Triassic. The Early Permian protoliths of biotite schists from the HLTM are alkali basaltic rocks and contain multiple older inherited zircons, which, in conjunction with the geochemical features of the rocks, indicate that they were generated in a continental rift related to the initial opening of the Mudanjiang Ocean (MO). Data from this contribution and previous studies lead us to conclude that the MO probably opened during the Middle Triassic, due to the north–south trending compression caused by the final closure of the PAO.
Charge Carrier Relaxation in Colloidal FAPbI3 Nanostructures Using Global Analysis
Authors: Franco Carolina Villamil , Mahler Benoît , Cornaggia Christian , Gustavsson Thomas , Cassette Elsa
Published: September 2020

We study the hot charge carrier relaxation process in weakly confined hybrid lead iodide perovskite colloidal nanostructures, FAPbI3 (FA = formaminidium), using femtosecond transient absorption (TA). We compare the conventional analysis method based on the extraction of the carrier temperature (Tc) by fitting the high-energy tail of the band-edge bleach with a global analysis method modeling the continuous evolution of the spectral lineshape in time using a simple sequential kinetic model. This practical approach results in a more accurate way to determine the charge carrier relaxation dynamics. At high excitation fluence (density of charge carriers above 1018 cm−3), the cooling time increases up to almost 1 ps in thick nanoplates (NPs) and cubic nanocrystals (NCs), indicating the hot phonon bottleneck effect. Furthermore, Auger heating resulting from the multi-charge carrier recombination process slows down the relaxation even further to tens and hundreds of picoseconds. These two processes could only be well disentangled by analyzing simultaneously the spectral lineshape and amplitude evolution.
Direct Conjugation of Resveratrol on Hydrophilic Gold Nanoparticles: Structural and Cytotoxic Studies for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Venditti Iole , Iucci Giovanna , Fratoddi Ilaria , Cipolletti Manuela , Montalesi Emiliano , Marino Maria , Secchi Valeria , Battocchio Chiara
Published: September 2020

Strongly hydrophilic gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), functionalized with citrate and L-cysteine, were synthetized and used as Resveratrol (RSV) vehicle to improve its bioavailability. Two different conjugation procedures were investigated: the first by adding RSV during AuNPs synthesis (1) and the second by adding RSV after AuNPs synthesis (2). The two different conjugated systems, namely AuNPs@RSV1 and AuNPs@RSV2 respectively, showed good loading efficiency (η%): η1 = 80 ± 5% for AuNPs@RSV1 and η2 = 20 ± 3% for AuNPs@RSV2. Both conjugated systems were investigated by means of Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS), confirming hydrophilic behavior and nanodimension (<2RH> 1 = 45 ± 12 nm and <2RH> 2 = 170 ± 30 nm). Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Synchrotron Radiation induced X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (SR-XPS) and Near Edge X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (NEXAFS) techniques were applied to deeply understand the hooking mode of RSV on AuNPs surface in the two differently conjugated systems. Moreover, the biocompatibility of AuNPs and AuNPs@RSV1 was evaluated in the concentration range 1.0–45.5 µg/mL by assessing their effect on breast cancer cell vitality. The obtained data confirmed that, at the concentration used, AuNPs do not induce cell death, whereas AuNPs@RSV1 maintains the same anticancer effects as the unconjugated RSV.
pH-Sensitive Dendrimersomes of Hybrid Triazine-Carbosilane Dendritic Amphiphiles-Smart Vehicles for Drug Delivery
Authors: Apartsin Evgeny , Knauer Nadezhda , Arkhipova Valeria , Pashkina Ekaterina , Aktanova Alina , Poletaeva Julia , Sánchez-Nieves Javier , de la Mata Francisco Javier , Gómez Rafael
Published: September 2020

Supramolecular constructions of amphiphilic dendritic molecules are promising vehicles for anti-cancer drug delivery due to the flexibility of their architecture, high drug loading capacity and avoiding off-target effects of a drug. Herein, we report a new class of amphiphilic dendritic species—triazine-carbosilane dendrons readily self-assembling into pH-sensitive dendrimersomes. The dendrimersomes efficiently encapsulate anticancer drugs doxorubicin and methotrexate. Chemodrug-loaded dendrimersomes have dose-related cytotoxic activity against leukaemia cell lines 1301 and K562. Our findings suggest that triazine-carbosilane dendrimersomes are prospective drug carriers for anti-cancer therapy.
Association of the Healthy Eating Index with Estimated Cardiovascular Age in Adults from the KNHANES 2013–2017
Authors: Park Sunmin , Kim Kyungjin , Lee Byung-Kook , Ahn Jaeouk
Published: September 2020

In this paper, we hypothesized that the gap between estimated cardiovascular age (eCV-age) and chronological age had a gender-wise correlation with the Korean Healthy Eating Index (KHEI). We tested the hypothesis in adults aged 20–64 years old using the KNHANES 2013–2017 data. eCV-age was estimated based on the designated risk factors of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and age-gap was calculated by subtracting the eCV-age from the chronological age in 12,317 adults. Adjusted odds ratios for the age-gap were measured according to KHEI, while controlling for covariates to influence risk factors of CVD, using logistic regression analysis with the complex sample survey design. Age-gaps were divided into four groups: >4 (High), 0–4 (Moderate), −4–0 (Mild), and <−4 years (Low). The higher the age-gap, the lower the cardiovascular risk. Persons included in the following categories belonged to the high and moderate age-gap groups: young (<40 years), women, urban living, better than high school education, higher income, lean, mild drinking, and exercising regularly. KHEI scores were overall higher in women than men (p < 0.01). Having breakfast and saturated fat intake were primary factors that influenced the age-gap for men, whereas fresh fruit intake and carbohydrate intake influenced the age-gap in women. The KHEI scores positively correlated with nutrient intake, especially fiber and vitamin C intake in women (p < 0.05). Participants with high KHEI scores increased their chances of belonging to the high age-gap group by 2.16 times for men and 2.10 for women after adjusting for covariates of sex, age, and residence. However, after adding the covariates of education, income, marriage, and obesity, in conjunction with smoking, alcohol, and regular exercise, this reduced to 1.34 times in women. In conclusion, both genders had a positive correlation between age-gap and overall KHEI scores.
Potential of Cell-Free Supernatant from Lactobacillus plantarum NIBR97, Including Novel Bacteriocins, as a Natural Alternative to Chemical Disinfectants
Authors: Kim Sam Woong , Kang Song I. , Shin Da Hye , Oh Se Yun , Lee Chae Won , Yang Yoonyong , Son Youn Kyoung , Yang Hee-Sun , Lee Byoung-Hee , An Hee-Jung , Jeong In Sil , Bang Woo Young
Published: September 2020

The recent pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has increased demand for chemical disinfectants, which can be potentially hazardous to users. Here, we suggest that the cell-free supernatant from Lactobacillus plantarum NIBR97, including novel bacteriocins, has potential as a natural alternative to chemical disinfectants. It exhibits significant antibacterial activities against a broad range of pathogens, and was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to cause cellular lysis through pore formation in bacterial membranes, implying that its antibacterial activity may be mediated by peptides or proteins and supported by proteinase K treatment. It also showed significant antiviral activities against HIV-based lentivirus and influenza A/H3N2, causing lentiviral lysis through envelope collapse. Furthermore, whole-genome sequencing revealed that NIBR97 has diverse antimicrobial peptides, and among them are five novel bacteriocins, designated as plantaricin 1 to 5. Plantaricin 3 and 5 in particular showed both antibacterial and antiviral activities. SEM revealed that plantaricin 3 causes direct damage to both bacterial membranes and viral envelopes, while plantaricin 5 damaged only bacterial membranes, implying different antiviral mechanisms. Our data suggest that the cell-free supernatant from L. plantarum NIBR97, including novel bacteriocins, is potentially useful as a natural alternative to chemical disinfectants.
Impact of COVID-19 on Immunization Services for Maternal and Infant Vaccines: Results of a Survey Conducted by Imprint—The Immunising Pregnant Women and Infants Network
Authors: Saso Anja , Skirrow Helen , Kampmann Beate
Published: September 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic response has caused disruption to healthcare services globally, including to routine immunizations. To understand immunization service interruptions specifically for maternal, neonatal and infant vaccines, we captured the local experiences of members of the Immunising Pregnant Women and Infants Network (IMPRINT) by conducting an online survey over 2-weeks in April 2020. IMPRINT is a global network of clinicians and scientists working in maternal and neonatal vaccinology. The survey included discrete questions to quantify the extent of disruption as well as free-text options to explore the reasons behind reported disruptions. Of the 48 responses received, the majority (75%) were from low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs). Of all respondents, 50% or more reported issues with vaccine delivery within their country. Thematic analysis identified three key themes behind immunization disruption: “access” issues, e.g., logistical barriers, “provider” issues, e.g., staff shortages and user “concern” about attending immunization appointments due to COVID-19 fear. Access and provider issues were more commonly reported by LMIC respondents. Overall, respondents reported uncertainty among parents and healthcare providers regarding routine immunization. We conclude that further quantification of routine vaccination disruption is needed, alongside health service prioritization, logistical support and targeted communication strategies to reinforce routine immunizations during the COVID-19 response.
Involvement of Various Enzymes in the Physiology and Pathogenesis of Streptococcus suis
Authors: Zheng Chengkun , Wei Man , Jia Mengdie , Cao ManMan
Published: September 2020

Streptococcus suis causes severe infections in both swine and humans, making it a serious threat to the swine industry and public health. Insight into the physiology and pathogenesis of S. suis undoubtedly contributes to the control of its infection. During the infection process, a wide variety of virulence factors enable S. suis to colonize, invade, and spread in the host, thus causing localized infections and/or systemic diseases. Enzymes catalyze almost all aspects of metabolism in living organisms. Numerous enzymes have been characterized in extensive detail in S. suis, and have shown to be involved in the pathogenesis and/or physiology of this pathogen. In this review, we describe the progress in the study of some representative enzymes in S. suis, such as ATPases, immunoglobulin-degrading enzymes, and eukaryote-like serine/threonine kinase and phosphatase, and we highlight the important role of various enzymes in the physiology and pathogenesis of this pathogen. The controversies about the current understanding of certain enzymes are also discussed here. Additionally, we provide suggestions about future directions in the study of enzymes in S. suis.
EFEKTIVITAS KONSELING KELOMPOK DENGAN TEKNIK TIME MANAGEMENT UNTUK MENIMALISIR PROKRASTINASI MENGHAFAL AL-QUR’AN DI PONDOK PESANTREN KHUSUS YATIM AS-SYAFI’IYAH
Authors: Supriyadi Yudi , Wibowo Dwi Endrasto
Published: September 2020

This research aims to examine the effect of Effectiveness of Group Counseling with Time Management Techniques to Minimize the Procrastination of Memorizing Al-Qur'an.This method used is Quasi Experiment with the design Pretest-Posttest Control Group Design. Involve 18 students, 9 students as an Experiment Group and 9 other students as a Control Group. The data results that (F= 9.377; p<.000) Means H0 ia rejected and H1 is accepted. The conclusion of the data is Group Counseling with the Time Management is Effective in Minimazing the Procrastination of Memorizing Al-Qur'an.
Importância da avaliação funcional respiratória e motora em pacientes hemiparéticos por acidente vascular cerebral
Authors: Ville Santos Letícia , Luís Fischer Eichinger Fernando , Noveletto Fabrício , Vinicius Soares Antonio , Eckermann da Silva Helton
Published: September 2020

Introdução. Hemiparéticos por Acidente Vascular Cerebral (AVC) apresentam diversas disfunções motoras e respiratórias, as quais estão relacionadas com prejuízos funcionais, levando a piora da qualidade de vida. Objetivo. Avaliar a função respiratória e motora de pacientes hemiparéticos por AVC e a correlação existente entre estas variáveis importantes para a capacidade funcional. Método. Trata-se de um estudo descritivo transversal, envolvendo 25 pacientes hemiparéticos pós-AVC. Foram avaliados: independência funcional (índice de Barthel modificado), força de preensão manual (dinamometria), velocidade de marcha, mobilidade funcional (Timed Up and Go Test), pico de fluxo expiratório (PFE - Peak Flow) e as pressões inspiratórias e expiratórias máximas (manovacuometria). Resultados. Foram constatados déficits nas variáveis motoras e respiratórias. Os valores de pressão respiratória foram inferiores quando comparados aos valores preditos para saudáveis, estando a pressão inspiratória máxima em 58,74% e a pressão expiratória máxima em 62,92% do valor predito (p<0,001). Houve correlações entre PFE e todas as variáveis motoras apenas em pacientes agudos. Conclusão. Pacientes hemiparéticos apresentam importantes comprometimentos motores e respiratórios. A avaliação da musculatura respiratória pós-AVC, por vezes não realizada, é necessária na prática clínica pois fornece importantes informações sobre a função pulmonar, contribuindo para prevenção de complicações respiratórias nestes pacientes.
Baseline Characteristics and Patient-Reported Outcomes of ADPKD Patients in the Multicenter TAME-PKD Clinical Trial
Authors: Seliger Stephen L. , Watnick Terry , Althouse Andrew D. , Perrone Ronald D. , Abebe Kaleab Z. , Hallows Kenneth R. , Miskulin Dana C. , Bae Kyongtae T.
Published: September 2020

Background

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) has been associated with metabolic disturbances characterized by downregulation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a critical sensor of the cellular energy status. Therapeutic activation of AMPK by metformin could inhibit cyst enlargement by inhibition of both the mammalian target of rapamycin pathway and fluid secretion via the CFTR chloride channel.

Methods

We designed a phase-2, randomized, placebo-controlled, clinical trial to assess the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of metformin on total kidney volume in adults without diabetes (age 18–60 years) with ADPKD and eGFR of ≥50 ml/min per 1.73 m2. There were no eligibility criteria relating to kidney volume. In addition to demographics and clinical/family history, baseline parameters included eGFR, total kidney and liver volumes measured by MRI, and patient-reported outcomes were ascertained by the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36, the Gastrointestinal Safety Rating Scale, and the HALT-PKD pain questionnaire.

Results

We successfully randomized 97 participants recruited from two university-based clinical sites in Baltimore and Boston. The mean age of participants was 41.9 years, 72% were female, and 94% of participants were White. The majority of study participants had early stage disease, with a mean eGFR of 86.8±19.0 ml/min per 1.73 m2. Approximately half of the study participants (48%) were classified as high risk for progression (Mayo imaging classes 1C, 1D, or 1E). There was no correlation between kidney and/or liver size and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) or gastrointestinal symptom severity.

Conclusions

We report successful recruitment in this ongoing, novel, clinical trial of metformin in ADPKD, with a study sample comprising patients with early stage disease and nearly a half of participants considered at high estimated risk for progression. Participants reported a low gastrointestinal symptom burden at baseline, and HRQoL similar to that of the general population, with no differences in symptoms or HRQoL related to organomegaly.

Clinical Trial registry name and registration number

Metformin as a Novel Therapy for Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (TAME), NCT02656017
Moral-legal self-regulation of freedom of conscience: culturological aspect
Authors: Donnikova Irina , Kovban Andrii
Published: September 2020

The purpose of the article is to analyze the possibility of combining legal and moral regulations in the implementation of the human right to freedom of conscience. The methodological basis of the study reveals the interdisciplinary of the problem. Culturological analysis of freedom of conscience is performed by using philosophical-anthropological and phenomenological approaches to identify the specifics of legal culture, the role of conscience in the moral and legal self-regulation of human. Systemic method is used for analysis freedom of conscience as a complex holistic phenomenon; historical method and comparative-legal method – for identification of the specifics of the legal regulation of freedom of conscience in historical retrospect and perspective. Scientific novelty. Freedom of conscience is revealed as a phenomenon of legal culture which involves the moral-legal self-regulation of people. As a manifestation of social self-organization the legal culture forms a tolerant communicative space, in which the actually legal regulation of freedom of conscience is supplemented by mechanism of the moral self-regulation of a person – conscience. It is substantiated that transformation of the law to a legal culture requires not only human trust in the law, but also the legal trust in a conscientious person.
Blended Learning Approach for Deaf or Hard of Hearing Students: Investigating university teachers' views
Authors: Alsraisri Naseem , Albakheet Heba , Alsajjan Nada , Aldaajani Nedaa
Published: September 2020

This qualitative study investigated the views of teachers at a university in the Riyadh Region toward blended learning for students who were deaf or hard of hearing. Adopting a phenomenological approach, semi-structured interviews were used to collect experiential data from three faculty teachers. The content analysis tool was also used. Participants experiences in using blended learning with students who were deaf or hard of hearing were overwhelmingly positive. Minor challenges incurred when implementing blended learning could be overcome when educators were committed to this type of instruction and created the required curriculum. Recommendations to increase higher education access and opportunities for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing include training instructors in blended learning and issue binding university decisions for its use. These recommendations are consistent with Saudi Arabia’s vision for digital transformation by 2030.
Bioequivalence of Two Oral Ciprofloxacin Extended-Release Formulations in Healthy Mexican Volunteers
Authors: Tolentino-Hernández Suset J. , Cruz-Antonio Leticia , Torres-Roque Irma , Pérez-Urizar José T.
Published: September 2020

Introduction. Oral ciprofloxacin extended-release formulation decreases the risk of treatment failure and prevents the development of antimicrobial resistance. However, non-equivalent formulations lead to subtherapeutic plasma drug concentrations, increasing the risk of such problems. Objective. To determine the bioequivalence of two oral ciprofloxacin extended-release tablet formulations (1,000 mg) in healthy Mexican volunteers. Material and Methods. In this open-label 2 × 2 crossover design study, 26 healthy volunteers were randomly allocated to receive a single dose of the reference drug Cipro XR® (Bayer, Mexico) and the test formulation Ciproflox DM® (Senosiain Laboratories, Mexico). Blood samples were obtained for 24 hours. Ciprofloxacin plasma levels were quantified using a validated liquid chromatography method. Pharmacokinetic parameters were obtained by standard non-compartmental analysis. In order to determine bioequivalence, log-transformed test/reference ratios of Cmax, AUC0-t, and AUC0-inf were compared by an analysis of variance, followed by the 90 % confidence intervals and the Schuirmann bilateral test. Results. The 90 % confidence intervals ranged from 85.69 to 114.31 % for Cmax, 85.16-115.84 % in AUC0-t, and 85.39-114.61 % for AUC0-inf, all cases were within bioequivalence acceptance criteria (80-125 %). Schuirmann test verified the probability that the values were within these criteria (p < 0.05). No side-effects were observed with any treatment. Conclusions. The results obtained demonstrate bioequivalence between the analyzed formulations.
Ácido micofenólico en trasplante renal ¿El problema es la selección de la dosis o su alta variabilidad farmacocinética?
Authors: García Roca Pilar , Hernández Ana María , Valverde Saúl , González Ramírez Rodrigo , Medeiros Mara
Published: September 2020

Introduction. Mycophenolic acid, in combination with tacrolimus, is the cornerstone of the immunosuppressive therapy in transplants. Nevertheless, its use is controversial because it is associated with adverse events, high variability in plasma concentrations, and because monitoring it in plasma levels is still debatable. Case presentation. A female sixteen-year-old patient with kidney transplant and with maintenance immunosup-pressive therapy. She had been treated with mycophenolate mofetil, tacrolimus, and prednisone according to her size and weight, but she presented recurrent gastrointestinal disorders associated with the administration of mycophenolate mofetil and with overexposure to the drug. Pharmacokinetic monitoring of mycophenolate mofetil was performed and the findings showed high levels of the drug (double concentration); then the dose was reduced. Nevertheless, after two attempts to adjust the levels (and the corresponding monitoring), the goal levels were not achieved; she passed from overexposure to underexposure; there was no relationship among doses adjustments. Based on the risk of graft rejection due to plasma concentration variability, azathioprine was used as an antimetabolite drug instead of mycophenolic acid and the outcomes were good. Conclusions. The pharmacokinetic monitoring was useful to identify overexposure to mycophenolic acid, but it was not possible to properly adjust the dose regimen due to the pharmacokinetic variability, even though the literature claims that mycophenolic acid shows linear pharmacokinetics.
Pharmacovigilance of Antivenoms in Toxicological Emergencies
Authors: Esquivel Abdieel , Mendoza Greisbel , Soria Raúl , Velázquez Nayeli
Published: September 2020

Antivenoms (AVs) are biological therapies indicated in the treatment of envenoming by bites or stings of venomous animals. However, access, supply problems, quality of manufacturing, sociocultural issues, and regulatory aspects are factors related to the effectiveness and safety of AVs. Likewise, the controlled clinical research is limited apparently for the low prevalence registered in tropical regions such as Latin America, Middle East, Africa, and Asia; therefore, a lack of evidence may elicit an unsuitable approach on the emergency or intensive care units. Moreover, the clinical trials are controversial because they would not reflect the reality inside the clinical setting of envenoming. Accordingly, there are factors influencing the therapeutic response to AVs. Here, the implementation of pharmacovigilance (PV) may help to improve the management of the AVs-related risks through the identification and assessment of suspected drug adverse reactions, ineffecti- veness, and other drug-related problems. Notwithstanding, the knowledge of the PV within clinical toxicology, emergency, and intensive care units is limited. Then, the PV must be established as a routine activity within an integral process of the medical attention of envenoming by bites or stings from venomous animals (BSVA) to guarantee a suitable and safe medication. The aim of this paper is outlining an overview about the clinical setting of envenoming, the current treatment and its relationship with the PV as a complementary activity to improve the quality, effectiveness, safety of AVs, through a perspective of experts in Mexico.
Hallazgos oftalmológicos en enfermedad de Fabry: relación de su severidad en una familia mexicana
Authors: Borja Borja Araceli , Salas Pérez Gabriela , Radillo Díaz Pablo
Published: September 2020

Introduction. Fabry disease (FD) is a lysosomal storage disorder associated with multiple organ dysfunction which eventually leads to high morbidity and premature mortality. Ophthalmologic findings in FD are very common and have been described extensively. We describe the ophthalmologic findings of a family diagnosed with FD at Hospital de Especialidades de Puebla and establish their relationship with other phenotypic findings. Cases Presentation. A renal, cardiac, audiological, neurological, and ophthalmologic evaluation was carried out. The disease was confirmed by GLA gene sequencing. The ophthalmologic assessment was focused on the changes described in the literature, as well as the search for other anomalies possibly related to the disease. All the patients had the c.260delA (P.Glu87Glyfs*34) mutation in the GLA gene. The main ophthalmologic finding in our patients was cornea verticillata (in 100 % of the female patients). Other ophthalmologic manifestations were dry eye, retinal vessel tortuosity, ametropia, chromatic vision disorders, ocular annexes, eyelids, and conjuntiva disorders. Conclusions. Most of the assessed patients showed ophthalmologic changes, consistent with the results described in the literature. A remarkable finding in the sample was the high incidence of changes in women, in whom one would not expect the disease to be as severe because they are heterozygous. Ophthalmologic abnormalities in FD require deeper evaluation to establish their possible use as markers of disease progression and/or enzyme replacement therapy initiation due to the benefit of the non-invasive nature of ophthalmologic evaluations.
Vasculitis leucocitoclástica asociada a medicamentos
Authors: Hernández Fernández Angélica María , Flores Vargas José Antonio
Published: September 2020

Introduction. Leukocytoclastic vasculitis (LV) is the presence of leukocytoclasis (fragmentation of the nuclei of neutrophils or "nuclear dust") in the wall of small vessels and around them. Case Presentation. A 37-yearold female patient with a diagnosis of thrombocytopenic purpura who starts treatment with ceftazidime and phenytoin, which causes LV. Conclusions. The case presented is associated with pharmacological etiology because the patient does not present a concomitant etiological condition.