bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional SARS-CoV-2-specific immune memory persists after mild COVID-19
Authors: Pepper Marion , Rodda Lauren , Netland Jason , Shehata Laila , Pruner Kurt , Morawski Peter , Thouvenel Chris , Takahara Kennidy , Eggenberger Julie , Hemann Emily , Waterman Hayley , Fahning Mitchell , Chen Yu , Rathe Jennifer , Stokes Caleb , Wrenn Samuel , Fiala Brooke , Carter Lauren , Hamerman Jessica , King Neil , Gale Michael , Campbell Daniel , Rawlings David
Published: August 2020

The recently emerged SARS-CoV-2 virus is currently causing a global pandemic and cases continue to rise. The majority of infected individuals experience mildly symptomatic coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), but it is unknown whether this can induce persistent immune memory that might contribute to herd immunity. Thus, we performed a longitudinal assessment of individuals recovered from mildly symptomatic COVID-19 to determine if they develop and sustain immunological memory against the virus. We found that recovered individuals developed SARS-CoV-2-specific IgG antibody and neutralizing plasma, as well as virus-specific memory B and T cells that not only persisted, but in some cases increased numerically over three months following symptom onset. Furthermore, the SARS-CoV-2-specific memory lymphocytes exhibited characteristics associated with potent antiviral immunity: memory T cells secreted IFN-γ and expanded upon antigen re-encounter, while memory B cells expressed receptors capable of neutralizing virus when expressed as antibodies. These findings demonstrate that mild COVID-19 elicits memory lymphocytes that persist and display functional hallmarks associated with antiviral protective immunity.
Capitalizing on Fear and Failure: For-Profit Colleges Selling Themselves to the Poor
Authors: Campbell Courtney , Deil-Amen Regina , Gjerde Jessica
Published: August 2020

This study explores the admissions encounter that prospective undergraduates experience at many for-profit colleges and universities (FPCUs). We consider how this encounter is shaped by intentional sales techniques and the implications of that approach for the college enrollment choices of low-SES and low-achieving students. Using the content of an admissions and recruitment staff training manual from a for-profit college with a publicly traded parent corporation and interviews from 47 students who went through the admissions and enrollment process at a for-profit college, we explore how recruiting practices are relevant to students’ college choice and to our rethinking of how college choice operates for students who are very similar to community college populations. Our data reveal for-profit admissions representatives, despite their good intentions, are incentivized to work as institutional agents in service of the institution’s profit motive at the expense of the student. FPCUs use admissions representatives to recruit prospective students by presenting the benefits of enrolling in a way that capitalizes on student anxieties, stress, and fear.
Effects of long-term nitrogen addition on soil respiration and its components in a boreal forest
Authors: Liu Guancheng , Liu Tong , Yan Guoyong , Wang Lei , Wang Xiaochun , Xing Yajuan , Wang Qinggui
Published: August 2020

Background Atmospheric nitrogen (N) deposition in boreal forest ecosystems increased gradually with the development of industry and agriculture, but the effects of N input on soil CO2 fluxes in these ecosystems were rarely reported in previous studies. To evaluate the effect of N addition on soil respiration is of great significance for understanding the distribution of soil carbon (C) on the N gradient in forest ecosystems.Results In this study, four treatment levels of N addition (0, 25, 50, 75 kg N ha− 1 yr− 1) were applied to natural Larix gmelinii forest in Greater Khingan Mountains of northeast China. We focused mainly on the dynamics of soil respiration (Rs), heterotrophic respiration (Rh), autotrophic respiration (Ra), microbial biomass C and N (MBC and MBN) and fine root biomass (FRB) in a growing season. We found that low N addition significant increased Rs, Rh and Ra, but with the increase of N addition, the promotion effect was gradually weakened. Medium N increased the temperature sensitivity (Q10) of Rs and Rh components, while medium N and high N significantly reduced the Q10 of Ra. Ra was positively correlated with FRB; Rh was positively correlated with soil MBC and MBN; and RS was probably driven by Ra from May to July, while by Rh in August and September.Conclusions Long-term N addition alleviated microbial N limitation, promoted soil respiration and accelerated soil C and N cycle in boreal forest ecosystems.
Composition and distribution characteristics of karst epilithic moss communities
Authors: Meng Wenping , Ren Qingqing , Tu Na , Leng Tingjiao , Dai Quanhou , Yi Xingsong
Published: August 2020

Background

Bryophytes have an important ecological function in maintaining ecological diversity, material transformation, and energy cycles in ecosystems. In this study, bryophytes in a typical karst area were the research objects. The coverage and abundance of rocky bryophytes in established plots were recorded. The composition and distribution characteristics of the karst epilithic mosses were analyzed by importance values, a dissimilarity index and ggplot2 in R.
Results

The karst epilithic moss communities included 207 species in 93 genera and 37 families, including 185 species in 27 families and 80 genera of mosses and 22 species in 10 families and 13 genera of liverworts. The dominant families were Pottiaceae, Brachytheciaceae, Thuidiaceae, Bryaceae, Hypnaceae, Mniaceae, Entodontaceae, and Lichenaceae. The dominant species were Thuidium kanedae, Pseudosymblepharis angustata, Trichostomum involutum, Racopilum cuspidigerum, Brachythecium helminthocladum, Eurohypnum leptothallum, Hyophila involuta, Anomodon rugelii, Taxiphyllum taxirameum, and Bryohaplocladium angustifolium. Epilithic mosses in karst habitats have five life forms: turf, weft, cushion, slanting, and pendant. The main life forms we observed were turf and weft.
Conclusions

The distribution of the epilithic moss communities is closely related to their habitats. The diversity of bryophytes in areas with high forest coverage, high humidity, and abundant water and heat conditions is higher than that of bryophytes in rocky desertification habitats.
Diffusion Weighted Imaging of Different Breast Cancer Molecular Subtypes. A Systematic Review and Meta Analysis.
Authors: Meyer Hans-Jonas , Wienke Andreas , Surov Alexey
Published: August 2020

Background: Magnetic resonance imaging can be used to diagnose breast cancer (BC)s. Diffusion weighted imaging and the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) can be used to reflect tumor microstructure. The present analysis sought to compare ADC values between molecular subtypes of BC based upon a large patient sample.Methods: MEDLINE library and SCOPUS databases were screened for the associations between ADC and molecular suptype of BC to April 2020. Primary endpoint of the systematic review was the ADC value in different BC. Overall, 28 studies were suitable for the analysis and included into the present study.Results: The included studies comprised a total of 2990 tumors. Luminal A type was diagnosed in 865 cases (28.9%), Luminal B in 899 cases (30.1%), Her-2 enriched in 597 cases (20.0%) and triple negative in 629 cases (21.0%). The mean ADC value of the Luminal A type was 0.99 × 10− 3 mm2/s [95% CI 0.94-1.04], of the Luminal B type was 0.99 × 10− 3 mm2/s [95% CI 0.89-1.05], of Her 2-enriched type was 1.02 × 10− 3 mm2/s [95% CI 0.95-1.08] and of the triple negative type was 0.99 × 10− 3 mm2/s [95% CI 0.91-1.07].Conclusions: ADC values cannot be used to discriminate between molecular subtypes of BC.
A Clinical Study Measuring Dental Aerosols with and without a HVE Device
Authors: Nulty Adam , Lefkaditis Chris , Zachrisson Patrik , Tonder Quintus Van , Yar Riaz
Published: August 2020

Introduction;External high volume extraction devices may offer a way to reduce any aerosol particulate generated.Aims;The aim of this study was to measure the particle count during dental aerosolprocedures and compare the results to when a High Volume Extraction device is used.Design;A comparative clinical study measuring the amount of PM1, PM2.5 and PM10 aerosol particulate with and without the use of an external High Volume Extraction device was undertaken.Materials and methods;In total, 10 restorative procedures were monitored with an an industrial Trotec PC220 particle counter.Interventions;An external High Volume Extraction device.Main outcome methods;The air sampler was placed at the average working distance of the clinicians involved in the study - 420mm.Results;In the present study aerosol particulate was recorded at statistically significantly increased levels during dental procedures without an external high volume extractio device versus with the device.Discussion;The null hypothesis was rejected, in that significant differences were found between the results of the amount of aerosol particle count with and without a High Volume Extraction device.Conclusion;If the results of the present study are repeated in an in vivo setting, an external high volume suction device may potentially lower the risk of transmission of viral particulate.
Factors Associated With Psychological Distress, Fear and Coping Strategies During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Australia
Authors: Rahman Muhammad Aziz , Hoque Nazmul , Alif Sheikh M , Salehin Masudus , Islam Sheikh Mohammed Shariful , Banik Biswajit , Sharif Ahmed , Nazim Nashrin Binte , Sultana Farhana , Cross Wendy
Published: August 2020

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the personal, professional and social life of Australians with some people more impacted than others. Objectives: This study aimed to identify the factors associated with psychological distress, fear and coping strategies during the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia.Methods: This cross-sectional online survey was conducted among residents in Australia, including patients, frontline health and other essential service workers, and community members during Jun-2020. Psychological distress was assessed using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10), level of fear was assessed using the Fear of COVID-19 Scale (FCV-19S), and coping strategies were assessed using the Brief Resilient Coping Scale (BRCS). Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with the extent of psychological distress, level of fear and coping strategies while adjusting for potential confounders. Results: Among 587 participants, the majority (391, 73.2%) were 30-59 years old and female (363, 61.8%). More than half (349, 59.5%) were born outside Australia and two-third (418, 71.5%) completed at least a Bachelor’s degree. The majority (401, 71.5%) had a source of income, 243 (42.3%) self-identified as a frontline worker, and 335 (58.9%) reported financial impact due to COVID-19. Comorbidities such as pre-existing mental health conditions (AOR 3.13, 95% CIs 1.12-8.75), increased smoking (8.66, 1.08-69.1) and alcohol drinking (2.39, 1.05-5.47) over the last four weeks, high levels of fear (2.93, 1.83-4.67) and being female (1.74, 1.15-2.65) were associated with a higher levels of psychological distress. Perceived distress due to change of employment status (4.14, 1.39-12.4), alcohol drinking (3.64, 1.54-8.58), providing care to known or suspected cases (3.64, 1.54-8.58), being female (1.56, 1.00-2.45), being 30-59 years old (2.29, 1.21-4.35) and having medium to high levels of psychological distress (2.90, 1.82-5.62) were associated with a higher level of fear; while healthcare service use in the last four weeks was associated with medium to high resilience. Conclusions: This study identified individuals who were at higher risk of distress and fear during the COVID-19 pandemic situation in Australia. Specific interventions to support the mental wellbeing of these individuals should be considered in addition to the existing resources within primary healthcare settings.
Prevalence of People at Risk of Developing Diabetes Mellitus and the Involvement of Community Pharmacies in a National Screening Campaign: A Pioneer Action in Brazil
Authors: Correr Cassyano Januário , Coura-Vital Wendel , Frade Josélia Cintya Quintao Pena , Nascimento Renata Cristina Rezende Macedo do , Nascimento Lúbia Guaima , Pinheiro Eliete Bachrany , Ferreira Wesley Magno , Reis Janice Sepúlveda , de Melo Karla Fabiana Santana , Pontarolo Roberto , Lenzi Mônica Soares Amaral , de Almeida José Vanilton , Pedrosa Hermelinda Cordeiro , João Walter da Silva Jorge
Published: August 2020

Background
Brazil is one of top 10 countries with the highest number of people with diabetes mellitus (DM), affecting 16.8 million peoples. It is estimated that 7.7 million people (20–79 years) in the country have not yet been diagnosed, representing an under-diagnosis rate of 46%. Herein we aimed to screen people for high blood glucose or risk for developing type 2 DM (T2DM) through community pharmacies in Brazil.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was carried out in November 2018, involving 977 pharmacists from 345 municipalities in Brazil. The study evaluated people between 20 and 79 years old without a previous diagnosis of DM. Glycemia was considered high when its value was ≥ 100 mg/dL fasting and ≥ 140 mg/dL in a casual feeding state. The FINDRISC (Finnish Diabetes Risk Score) was used to estimate the risk for developing T2DM. The prevalence of high blood glucose was estimated and the associated factors were obtained using Poisson's multivariate analysis with robust variance.
Results
During the national screening campaign, 17,580 people were tested with the majority of the consultations (78.2%) being carried out in private pharmacies. The population was composed mainly of women (59.5%) and people aged between 20 and 45 years (47.9%). The prevalence of patients with high blood glucose was 18.4% (95% CI 17.9–19.0). Considering the FINDRISC, 22.7% of people had a high or very high risk for DM. The risk factors associated with high blood glucose were: Body Mass Index > 25 kg/m2, abdominal circumference > 94 cm for men and > 80 cm for women; education level below 15 years of study, no daily intake of vegetables and fruits; previous diagnosis of arterial hypertension; history of high blood glucose and family history of DM.
Conclusions
This is the largest screening study that evaluated the prevalence of high blood glucose and its associated factors in a population without a previous diagnosis, ever performed in community pharmacies in Brazil. These results may help to guide public health preventive actions and involve pharmacists in screening and education actions aimed at this undiagnosed population in a continent-size country such as Brazil.
Cervical spine fracture prediction by simple plain X-ray in ankylosing spondylitis patients after low-energy trauma
Authors: Liu Bingchuan , Yang Zhongwei , Hou Guojin , Zhou Fang , Ji Hongquan , Tian Yun
Published: August 2020

Background Due to various reasons, the diagnosis of cervical spine fracture (CSF) in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) may be missed or delayed in clinical practice.Objective To explore the prediction ability of simple plain X-ray for the possibility of CSF in AS patients who suffer from low-energy trauma (LET).Methods From January 2010 to December 2019, AS patients who experienced LET were retrospectively reviewed. Their clinical data, including gender, age, body mass index, time interval between AS diagnosis and trauma, smoking or not, and a presence of continuous bony bridge between anterior margin of C1 and C2 body or not was collected. Besides, distances and angles were measured by the lateral cervical X-ray.Results 129 AS patients were divided into Fracture group (41 cases) and Non-fracture group (88 cases) based on whether CSF existed. A total of twelve parameters had significantly statistical differences between two groups (P < 0.05). According to the binary logistic regression model, four of the twelve parameters showed a further correlation with the occurrence of CSF after LET in AS patients, namely, mean Pavlov ratio (P < 0.001, OR = 0.067), Angle D (P = 0.031, OR = 1.057), Borden’s index (P = 0.042, OR = 1.131), the time interval between the AS diagnosis and the trauma (P < 0.020, OR = 0.935). Their 95% CI were (0.023 to 0.194), (1.005 to 1.112), (0.994 to 1.287), and (0.883 to 0.990), respectively. The ROC curve and the AUC further revealed the mean Pavlov ratio had the largest AUC (0.793) (95% CI: 0.873 to 0.986), whose cut-off value was 0.72 based on the highest Youden’s index value. The optimal cut-off value, sensitivity, and specificity of the other three parameters were Angle D (45.65°, 61.0%, 78.4%), Borden’s index (9.79, 87.8%, 37.5%), and the time interval between AS diagnosis and trauma (15.50 years, 70.7%, 56.8%).Limitations The number of the included patients in the present study was relatively small.Conclusions Four parameters measured by simple X-ray show prediction ability for the occurrence of CSF in AS patients who encounter LET.
Inspiratory Plus Expiratory Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation Versus Diaphragm Pacing for Rehabilitation in Severe COPD Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Zhao Zhiling , Wang Xiaojuan , Sun Wuzhuang , Zhao Xiaoyun , Lin Yingxiang , Zhang Shu , Li Zhu , Lu Yong , Wang Wen , Gong Juanni , Liu Yan , Yu Yanxia , Li Bojun , Hu Xiujuan , Li Yuechuan , Tong Zhaohui
Published: August 2020

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease, which might be improved by neuromuscular electrical stimulation. To date, no trials of intervention of inspiratory plus expiratory neuromuscular electrical stimulation have been conducted. This study aimed to evaluate the effect and safety of in patients with severe COPD. Methods: In this prospective, multicenter controlled trial, 120 stable patients with severe COPD who received standard medical treatment were assigned 1:1 to receive either inspiratory plus expiratory neuromuscular electrical stimulation (study intervention) or stimulation of the phrenic nerve, called diaphragm pacing (control intervention). Intention-to-treat analysis was carried out. The primary outcome was to analyze the changes in functional exercise capacity, estimated as six-minute walk distance (6MWD), following four weeks of electrical stimulation intervention.Results: The change in 6MWD was greater in the study intervention (65.53 ± 39.45m) than in the control intervention (26.66 ± 32.65m). The mean between-group difference at four weeks was 29.07 m ([95% CI, 16.098 to 42.035];  < 0.001). There was no significant between-group difference in secondary (modified Medical Research Council, forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), FEV1% predicted, and FEV1 ratio forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC)) outcomes after four weeks of electrical stimulation. For GOLD 4 subjects, FEV1 and FEV1/FVC had improved in the study intervention ( < 0.05). No electrical stimulation-related serious adverse events were observed in either group.Conclusion: Functional exercise capacity were significantly improved in the study intervention in stable patients with severe COPD after four weeks of treatment. Trial registration: ChiCTR, ChiCTR2000032681. Registered 6 May 2020- Retrospectively registered, http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=53086.
Assessment of Necessity of Neuronavigation in Localization of Clavarial Extra-axial Lesions in the Setting of Limited Resources.
Authors: Soffar Hussein , Alsawy Mohamed F.
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND: Neuronavigation is a very beneficial tool in modern neurosurgicalpractice. However, the neuronavigation is not available in most of the hospitals in our country raising the question about its importance in localizing the clavarial extra-axial lesions and to what extent it is safe to operate without it.METHODS: We studied twenty patients with claverial extra-axial lesions who underwent surgical interventions. All lesions were preoperatively located with both neuronavigation and the usual linear measurements. Both methods were compared regarding the time consumed to localize the tumor and the accuracy of each method to anticipate the actual center of the tumor.RESULTS: The mean error of distance between the planned center of the tumor and the actual was 6.50±1.762 mm in conventional method, whereas the error was 3.85±1.309 mm in IGS method. Much more time was consumed during the Neuronavigation method including booting,registration, positioning. A statistically significant difference was found between the mean time passed in the conventional method and IGS method (2.05±0.826, 24.90±1.334, respectively), P-value<0.001.CONCLUSION: In the setting of limited resources, the linear measurement localization method seems to have an accepted accuracy in localization of clavarial extra-axial lesions and it saves more time than neuronavigation method.
Possible silent hypoxemia in a COVID-19 patient: a case report
Authors: Siswanto  , Gani Munawar , Fauzi Aditya Rifqi , Nugroho Bagus , Agustiningsih Denny , Gunadi
Published: August 2020

Background: It has been hypothesized that silent hypoxemia is the cause of the rapid progressive respiratory failure with severe hypoxia that occurs in some patients with COVID-19 without warning. Here, we reported one COVID-19 case with the possibility of silent hypoxemia. Case presentation: A 60-year-old male presented with complaints of cough that he felt starting two weeks before admission without any breathing difficulty. Complaints were accompanied by fever, runny nose and sore throat. Vital signs examination showed blood pressure 130/75 mmHg, pulse 84 times per minute, normal respiratory rate (RR) of 21 times per minute, body temperature 36.5 C, and 99% oxygen saturation with oxygen via nasal cannula 3 liters per minute were recorded. On physical examination, an increase in vesicular sounds and crackles in both lungs were identified. Chest x-ray showed bilateral pneumonia. Nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swab real-time polymerase chain reaction tests for COVID-19 were positive. On the third day of treatment, the patient complained of worsening of shortness of breath, but his RR was still normal with 22 times per minute. On the fifth day of treatment, the patient experienced severe shortness of breath with a RR of 38 times per minute. The patient was then intubated and his blood gas analysis showed respiratory alkalosis (pH 7.54, PaO2 58.9 mmHg, PaCO2 31.1 mmHg, HCO3 26.9 mEq/L, SaO2 94.7%). On the eighth day of treatment, his condition deteriorated starting in the morning, with blood pressure 80/40 mmHg with norepinephrine support, pulse 109 times per minute, and 72% SpO2 with ventilator. In the afternoon, the patient experienced cardiac arrest and underwent basic life support, then resumed strained breathing with return of spontaneous circulation. Blood gas analysis showed severe respiratory acidosis (pH 7.07, PaO2 58.1 mmHg, PaCO2 108.9 mmHg, HCO3 32.1 mEq /L, SaO2 78.7%). Three hours later, he suffered cardiac arrest again, but was unable to be resuscitated. The patient eventually died.Conclusions: Silent hypoxemia might be considered as an early clinical sign of deterioration of patients with COVID-19, thus, the physician may be able to intervene early and decrease its morbidity and mortality.
Advancing Sustainability in Tree Crop Pest Management: Refining Spray Application Rate with a Laser-guided Variable-rate Sprayer in Apple Orchards
Authors: Fessler Lauren , Fulcher Amy , Lockwood Dave , Wright Wesley , Zhu Heping
Published: August 2020

Advanced variable-rate spray technology, which applies pesticides based on real-time scanning laser rangefinder measurements of plant presence, size, and density, was developed and retrofitted to existing sprayers. Experiments were conducted to characterize the application of four programmed spray rates (0.03, 0.05, 0.07, or 0.09 L·m−3 of crop geometric volume) when applied to Malus domestica Borkh. ‘Golden Delicious’ apple trees using this crop sensing technology. Water-sensitive cards (WSCs) were used as samplers to quantify spray coverage, deposits, and deposit density in the target and nontarget areas, and an overspray index based on a threshold of greater than 30% coverage was calculated. The application rate ranged from 262 L·ha−1 at the programmed spray rate of 0.03 L·m−3 to 638 L·ha−1 at the rate of 0.09 L·m−3. For a given WSC position, spray coverage and deposits increased as the spray rate increased. WSC positions 1 and 2 were oversprayed at all rates. The effect of spray rate on deposit density varied with WSC positions, with high densities achieved by low spray rates for WSCs closest to the sprayer but by high spray rates for WSCs positioned either deeper within or under the canopy. When coalescing deposits were accounted for, deposit densities met or exceeded the recommended pesticide application thresholds (insecticides 20–30 droplets/cm2; fungicides 50–70 droplets/cm2) at all WSC positions for each spray rate tested. The lowest spray rate reduced off-target loss to the orchard floor by 81% compared with the highest rate, dramatically reducing potential exposure to nontarget organisms, such as foraging pollinators, to come into contact with pesticide residues. Applying the lowest rate of 0.03 L·m−3 met deposit density efficacy levels while reducing spray volume by 83% compared with the orchard standard application of 1540 L·ha−1 and by 87% compared with the 1950 L·ha−1 application rate recommended when using the tree row volume method. Thus, there is potential for growers to refine pesticide application rates to further achieve significant pesticide cost savings. Producers of other woody crops, such as nursery, citrus, and grapes, who use air-assisted sprayers, may be able to achieve similar savings by refining pesticide applications through the use of laser rangefinder-based spray application technology.
Molecular detection of opportunistic pathogens and insights into microbial diversity in private well water and premise plumbing
Authors: Xue Jia , Zhang Bowen , Lamori Jennifer , Shah Kinjal , Zabaleta Jovanny , Garai Jone , Taylor Christopher M. , Sherchan Samendra P.
Published: August 2020

Private well water systems in rural areas that are improperly maintained will result in poor drinking water quality, loss of water supply, and pose human health risk. The purpose of this study was to investigate the occurrence of fecal indicator bacteria (FIB) and opportunistic pathogens in private well water in rural areas surrounding New Orleans, Louisiana. Our results confirmed the ubiquitous nature of Legionella (86.7%) and mycobacteria (68.1%) in private well water in the study area, with gene concentration ranged from 0.60 to 5.53 and 0.67 to 5.95 Log10 of GC/100 mL, respectively. Naegleria fowleri target sequence was detected in 16.8% and Escherichia coli was detected in 43.4% of the water samples. Total coliform, as well as Legionella and mycobacteria genetic markers' concentrations were significantly reduced by 3-minute flushing. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) data indicated that the abundance of bacterial species was significantly increased in water collected in kitchens compared with samples from wells directly. This study provided integrated knowledge on the persistence of pathogenic organisms in private well water. Further study is needed to explore the presence of clinical species of those opportunistic pathogens in private well water systems to elucidate the health risk.
Bioremediation of Ni, Al and Pb by the living cells of a resistant strain of microalga
Authors: Ahmad Nourhane , Mounsef Jihane Rahbani , Abou Tayeh Joyce , Lteif Roger
Published: August 2020

The microalgae treatment system is an economically and environmentally friendly option for wastewater treatment. However, the effects of heavy metal toxicity on microalgae cells can limit the use of microalgae in the treatment of industrial effluents rich in heavy metals. In this work, we studied the effect of Ni, Cu, Al, Hg and Pb, added as single-metal solutions to the microalgae culture medium, on the growth of 20 indigenous strains belonging to a wide variety of microalgae genera. Ni and Cu were the most toxic to the strains tested. A highly tolerant strain of the Phacus genera was selected. We determined the effect of multiple combinations of Ni, Al and Pb on the cell growth of the selected strain and on the removal capacity of each metal from the microalgae culture medium. Phacus was able to grow in the multi-metal solution (Ni, 5.00 mg/L; Al, 9.94 mg/L and Pb 1.00 mg/L) and to efficiently remove the metals, with removal capacities of 8.82 ±0.16 mg/g for Ni, 2.09 ± 0.05 mg/g for Pb and 16.90 ± 0.53 mg/g for Al. The reductions of Ni, Al and Pb concentrations were 66.67, 64.28 and 79.17% respectively.
Performance improvement of wastewater treatment processes by application of machine learning
Authors: Icke O. , van Es D. M. , de Koning M. F. , Wuister J. J. G. , Ng J. , Phua K. M. , Koh Y. K. K. , Chan W. J. , Tao G.
Published: August 2020

Improving wastewater treatment processes is becoming increasingly important, due to more stringent effluent quality requirements, the need to reduce energy consumption and chemical dosing. This can be achieved by applying artificial intelligence. Machine learning is implemented in two domains: (1) predictive control and (2) advanced analytics. This is currently being piloted at the integrated validation plant of PUB, Singapore's National Water Agency. (1) Primarily, predictive control is applied for optimised nutrient removal. This is obtained by application of a self-learning feedforward algorithm, which uses load prediction and machine learning, fine–tuned with feedback on ammonium effluent. Operational results with predictive control show that the load prediction has an accuracy of ≈88%. It is also shown that an up to ≈15% reduction of aeration amount is achieved compared to conventional control. It is proven that this load prediction-based control leads to stable operation and meeting effluent quality requirements as an autopilot system. (2) Additionally, advanced analytics are being developed for operational support. This is obtained by application of quantile regression neural network modelling for anomaly detection. Preliminary results illustrate the ability to autodetect process and instrument anomalies. These can be used as early warnings to deliver data-driven operational support to process operators.
The adsorption of Mn(II) by insolubilized humic acid
Authors: Zhao Wenlin , Ren Bozhi , Hursthouse Andrew , Jiang Feng
Published: August 2020

The eco-friendly and non-toxic natural organic substance, insolubilized humic acid (IHA), was used to remove Mn(II) from aqueous solutions. The adsorption characteristics were studied through a series of static adsorption tests. The results show that conditions such as the dose, the pH of the solution and the initial concentration of Mn(II) all affect removal efficiency, and the optimal pH value was 5.5. The sorption process for Mn(II) on IHA conforms to the pseudo-second-order adsorption kinetic model and intra-particle diffusion is not the only factor affecting the adsorption rate. Both Langmuir and Freundlich models can describe this adsorption behavior, and the experimental maximum adsorption capacity of IHA was 52.87 mg/g under optimal conditions. The thermodynamic analysis of adsorption shows that the adsorption process is a non-spontaneous endothermic physical reaction. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) were used to characterize the samples, it was found that as IHA successfully adsorbed Mn(II), the surface morphology of IHA changed after the adsorption reaction. The adsorption mechanism for Mn(II) on IHA is to provide electron pairs for carboxyl, phenolic hydroxyl and other functional groups to form stable complexes with Mn(II).
Pentoxifylline and Oxypurinol: Potential Drugs to Prevent the “Cytokine Release (Storm) Syndrome” Caused by SARS-CoV-2?
Authors: López-Iranzo Francisco J. , López-Rodas Ana M. , Franco Luis , López-Rodas Gerardo
Published: August 2020

Background:

COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, is a potentially lethal, rapidly-expanding pandemic
and many efforts are being carried out worldwide to understand and control the disease. COVID-19 patients may
display a cytokine release syndrome, which causes severe lung inflammation, leading, in many instances, to
death.

Objective:

This paper is intended to explore the possibilities of controlling the COVID-19-associated hyperinflammation
by using licensed drugs with anti-inflammatory effects.

Hypothesis:

We have previously described that pentoxifylline alone, or in combination with oxypurinol, reduces
the systemic inflammation caused by experimentally-induced pancreatitis in rats. Pentoxifylline is an inhibitor of
TNF-α production and oxypurinol inhibits xanthine oxidase. TNF-α, in turn, activates other inflammatory genes
such as Nos2, Icam or IL-6, which regulate migration and infiltration of neutrophils into the pulmonary interstitial
tissue, causing injury to the lung parenchyma. In acute pancreatitis, the anti-inflammatory action of pentoxifylline
seems to be mediated by the prevention of the rapid and presumably transient loss of PP2A activity. This may
also occur in the hyperinflammatory -cytokine releasing phase- of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Therefore, it may be
hypothesized that early treatment of COVID-19 patients with pentoxifylline, alone or in combination with oxypurinol,
would prevent the potentially lethal acute respiratory distress syndrome.

Conclusion:

Pentoxifylline and oxypurinol are licensed drugs used for diseases other than COVID-19 and, therefore,
phase I clinical trials would not be necessary for the administration to SARS-CoV-2- infected people. It
would be worth investigating their potential effects against the hyperinflammatory response to SARS-CoV-2
infection.
Geometry Optimization, UV/Vis, NBO, HOMO and LUMO, Excited State and Antioxidant Evaluation of Pyrimidine Derivatives
Authors: Shahab Siyamak , Sheikhi Masoome , Kvasyuk Evgeni , Sysa Aliaksei G. , Alnajjar Radwan , Strogova Aleksandra , Sirotsina Kseniya , Yurlevich Hanna , Novik Darya
Published: August 2020

In this research, the four pyrimidine derivatives have been studied by using density functional
theory (DFT/B3LYP/6-31G*) in solvent water for the first time. After quantum-chemical calculations,
the title compounds have been synthesized. The electronic spectra of the new derivatives in
solvent water were performed by the time-dependent DFT (TD-DFT) method. The equilibrium geometry,
the HOMO and LUMO orbitals, MEP, excitation energies, natural charges, oscillator strengths for
the molecules have also been calculated. NBO analysis has been calculated in order to elucidate the intramolecular,
rehybridization and delocalization of electron density. These molecules have high antioxidant
potential due to the planarity and formation of intramolecular hydrogen bonds. Antioxidant properties
of the title compounds have been investigated and discussed.
The Role of Bacterial Superantigens in the Immune Response: From Biology to Cancer Treatment
Authors: Hashemzadeh Mohammad S. , Tapeh Behnam E.G. , Mirhosseini Seyed A.
Published: August 2020

Aims:

Encouraging results have been indicated preclinically and in patients using the bacterial superantigen. This review article intends to summarize the role of the superantigens that have been recently used in the treatment of cancer. In addition, the vector systems, including lentiviral vectors, adeno-associated vector systems and retroviral vectors that are increasingly being used in basic and applied research, were discussed. Most importantly, the new CRISPR technique has also been discussed in this literature review.

Discussion:

More successful therapies can be achieved by manipulating bacterial vector systems through incorporating genes related to the superantigens and cytokines. The products of SAg and cytokine genes contribute to the strong stimulation of the immune system against tumor cells. They bind to MHC II molecules as well as the V beta regions of TCR and lead to the production of IL2 and other cytokines, the activation of antigen-presenting cells and T lymphocytes. Additionally, superantigens can be used to eradicate tumor cells. Better results in cancer treatment can be achieved by transferring superantigen genes and subsequent strong immune stimulation along with other cancer immunotherapy agents.

Conclusion:

Superantigens induce the proliferation of T lymphocytes and antigen-presenting cells by binding to MHCII molecules and V beta regions in T cell receptors. Therefore, the presentation of tumor cell antigens is increased. Additionally, the production of important cytokines by T cells and APCs contributes to the stimulation of immune response against tumor cells. The manipulation of bacterial vector systems through incorporating genesrelated to SAgs and other immune response factors is a good strategy for the immune system stimulating and eradicating tumor cells along with other immunotherapy agents.
Different Pharmacokinetic Responses to an Acute Dose of Inorganic Nitrate in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Bahadoran Zahra , Mirmiran Parvin , Carlström Mattias , Norouzirad Reza , Jeddi Sajad , Azizi Fereidoun , Ghasemi Asghar
Published: August 2020

Aim:

In this study, we aimed to compare the pharmacokinetics of nitrate (NO3) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and healthy adults. Potential effects of salivary nitrate reductase (NR) activity on cardiometabolic responses to an acute dose of NO3was also assessed.

Methods:

Nine healthy adults and nine T2DM patients were recruited to consume a NO3-rich breakfast (~410 mg NO3). Pharmacokinetics of NO3were examined using repeated measurements of NOx (nitrate+ nitrite) concentrations of serum and saliva over 8 hours and NO3concentrations of spot and 24-h urine samples. Cardiometabolic parameters, including serum levels of glucose, insulin, and triglycerides as well as blood pressure were also measured.

Results:

Compared to patients with T2DM, serum NOx concentration (Δ1= 16.7 vs. 4.4 μmol/L, P=0.057) of healthy subjects sharply increased within 1 hour after NO3loading. Healthy subjects had a higher NR activity index, and higher peak salivary NO3concentration with a lower time to peak. Diabetic patients with high- compared to low-NR values had a higher whole-body NOx exposure (103±31.4 vs. 58.9±22.1 μmol.h/L); they also showed a better glycemic response and more reduction of blood pressure following ingestion of a NO3-rich meal.

Conclusion:

T2DM may be associated with a different pattern of NOx pharmacokinetics (especially salivary NOx metabolism). Salivary NR activity may have a critical role in postprandial metabolism of NO3, and diabetic patients with higher NR activity may take more advantages from NO3supplementation.
Recovery of Missing Sensor Data with GRNN-based Cascade Scheme
Authors: Tkachenko Roman , Izonin Ivan , Dronyuk Ivanna , Logoyda Mykola , Tkachenko Pavlo
Published: August 2020

Background:

Today, IoT-based systems are widely used in various applications. Intellectual
analysis of the data collected by IoT devices is an important task for the efficient and successful
functioning of such systems. In particular, the reliability of such kind of analysis has greatly
influenced the ability to partially or fully automate certain processes or subsystems. However,
imperfect devices of data collection, transportation errors, etc. lead to gaps in the data. Such incompetency
makes an effective intellectual data analysis for the specific tasks impossible. That is
why there must be a scientific solution to this problem of effectively filling the gaps in the data
collected by the IoT sensors.

Methods:

The authors propose a new prediction method for solving this problem based on the use of General Regression
Neural Networks (GRNN).

Results:

The possibility of approximation and partial elimination of the error of this computational
intelligence tool has been analytically proved. A prediction method based on the use of GRNN
was developed. The optimal parameters of the developed method were selected. The simulation of
its work was performed to solve the problem of recovery of missing sensor data in the air pollution
monitoring dataset.

Conclusion:

The highest accuracy of the developed method in comparison with other methods of
this class was experimentally established. All advantages and disadvantages are described. Perspectives
of further research are outlined.
Use of copper in pine nurseries
Authors: South David B. , Payne Nina
Published: August 2020

Copper has been used by nursery managers for more than 100 years to suppress fungi and as a fertilizer for more than 50 years. Consequently, nursery seedlings with copper deficiencies are rare, especially for broadleaf species. In many nurseries, soil contains <10 μg-Cu g-1 and in greenhouse trials, pine seedlings are relatively tolerant of soil levels with 35 μg-Cu g-1. A million bareroot pine seedlings may contain 50 to 100 g-Cu and, when soil tests indicate low copper levels, managers might apply 1 kg-Cu per million seedlings. In contrast, it may take only 15 g-Cu to produce one million container-grown seedlings. Copper fertilization is typically not required when 30 cm of applied irrigation water contains 0.1 μg-Cu g-1 (supplying 0.3 kg-Cu ha-1). This review highlights some of the past and current uses of copper in bareroot and container nurseries with a focus on deficiency and toxicity effects as well as the impact of various copper-based products and provides recommendations on ideal soil and foliar ranges.
Red Iberoamericana para el desarrollo de péptidos terapéuticos, REDIPEPT
Authors: Rodriguez Hortensia
Published: August 2020

En este contexto nace REDIPEPT, la Red Iberoamericana de Péptidos Terapéuticos, cuyo objetivo fundamental es crear y fortalecer vínculos de colaboración entre grupos iberoamericanos que desarrollan investigación focalizada en la búsqueda, identificación, diseño y síntesis de péptidos y derivados con potencial terapéutico. Los temas de investigación de interés general incluyen síntesis de péptidos de potencial actividad biológica, el aislamiento y la caracterización de nuevos productos, estudios de la relación estructura-actividad, la diversidad molecular, el diseño de novo, la administración de fármacos y el descubrimiento de nuevos agentes farmacéuticos. Para ello, se generarán Plataformas que incorporen y compartan las fortalezas de los grupos que formen parte de la red, en el diseño y la síntesis de péptidos, así como en la determinación del potencial biológico de estos. Las dianas de interés serán aquellas enfermedades de alto impacto en la salud de los países que conforman la red, con énfasis en enfermedades infecciosas de carácter bacterial o viral (Covid-19, Dengue, Zica, Chikungunya, Chagas, Tuberculosis, entre otras), degenerativas como el Alzheimer, o catastróficas como el cáncer.
Iraq Faces the COVID-19 with Limited Health Capabilities and Major Medical Challenges
Authors: Al-Dahhan Wedad H. , Al-Mashhadani Mohammed H. , Raheem Rasha , Yousif Emad
Published: August 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease affecting the respiratory system, which has had an unprecedented effect on healthcare systems globally with severe impact on specialist services. In December 2019, a novel coronavirus strain (CoV) was detected in Wuhan, China. By January 2020, It named as 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) by the World Health Organization (WHO). On February 24, Iraq announced that an Iranian student has infected by coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in the south of Iraq in the holy Shiite city (Najaf). This was the first confirmed case in the whole of Iraq. The patient entered the country before the Iraqi government decided to restrict the entry of Iranian citizens on border crossings or airports. This article sheds light on the following concepts: The unqualified health system in Iraq to face the pandemic disease like COVID-19; the religious rituals in Iraq which contributed to the events of large gatherings to visit the holy shrines which increase the virus spread. Finally, discuss the social customs and traditions where the spread of the Coronavirus in Iraq has modified Iraqi customs and traditions that show personal affection through physical touch.
Pseudoscientific Treatments in the COVID-19 Pandemic: Flattening the "Infodemic" Curve Also Saves Lives
Authors: Espín Estefanía
Published: August 2020

On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) recognized COVID-19, the disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, as a pandemic. 1 This pandemic has claimed 640,016 lives worldwide, as officially reported to the WHO. 2 In parallel, an epidemic equally dangerous for human health; the "infodemic" spread. Infodemic is a term coined to define information excess, some accurate and some not, during an epidemic, which could damage public health. 3

Infodemic spreads rapidly, influencing the behavior of the population, avoiding their adherence to preventive health measures. The amplifying factor of the infodemic is mainly social media, whose users increased globally by 20-87%, during the pandemic. 4 Infodemic has been prejudicial due to: 1) distorted communication of facts with a weak scientific basis; and 2) diffusion of pseudoscientific theories. 5 In the context of a pandemic threatening our lives, in the absence of an effective vaccine or treatment, amid the constant updating of scientific information, as we learn more about SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19; a favorable scenario has been generated for infodemic.
Enriquecimiento proteico de Solanum tuberosum mediante fermentación en estado sólido utilizando Aspergillus niger
Authors: Fonseca Lilibeth Berenize , Fernández Danae , López Orestes Dario
Published: August 2020

Los residuos de cáscara de papa se han incrementado debido al alto consumo del tubérculo, no obstante, los avances biotecnológicos permiten usar estos desechos y generar otros mejorados generalmente a través de una fermentación con ayuda de microorganismos como Aspergillus niger. En este trabajo se evaluó la influencia del tiempo de fermentación (5 – 8 días), la velocidad de agitación (0 – 60 rpm) y la concentración del inóculo (5000 y 50000 conidios/g de medio) sobre la concentración de biomasa y proteína a través de un diseño factorial 23. El análisis estadístico determinó que los factores con mayor influencia sobre las variables respuestas analizadas fueron la velocidad de agitación y la concentración del inóculo con sus máximos niveles: 60 rpm y 50000 conidios/g de medio respectivamente. Se maximizaron las variables respuestas con valores de 16,31 mg/mL para la concentración de proteína y 0,94 g/mL para la concentración de biomasa.