bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antioxidant Effects of Resistance Training with Pumpkin Seed Extract Consumption in Heart Tissue of Rats Exposed to H2O2-induced Oxidative Damage
Authors: Mohammad Nazafarin , Matinhomaee Hasan , Hosseini Seyed Ali
Published: August 2021

Background: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are small, unstable, highly reactive molecules that can oxidize proteins, lipids, and DNA. It has been shown that ROS levels increase with aging, leading to loss of muscle mass and heart damage as well as muscle diseases such as muscular dystrophy. However, proper exercise and antioxidant consumption like pumpkin seed (PS) can have protective effects against oxidative stress. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the antioxidant effects of resistance training (RT) and PS extract consumption in the rat’s heart tissue exposed to H2O2-induced oxidative damage. Methods: Forty-two male Wistar rats were selected and divided into seven groups of six subjects, including (1) control (C); (2) treatment control (TC); (3) RT; (4) 1 g/kg PS (1PS); (5) 2 g/kg PS (2PS); (6) RT + 1PS; and (7) RT + 2PS. The groups 2 to 7 received 1 mg/kg of H2O2 peritoneally for eight weeks; groups 4, 5, 6, and 7 received ethanolic extract of PS at given doses by gavage; the groups 3, 6, and 7 performed RT (the initial weight selected was 50% of the rats’ body weight, which gradually increased by the end of the eight-week period and increased by 100% in the final week) three days per week. Forty-eight hours after the last RT and PS administration the rats were sacrificed, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP), glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), and pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB) levels were measured in the heart tissue. Results: H2O2-induced oxidative damage significantly reduced ATP and GSH as well as increased MDA and PAB levels (P = 0.001); RT significantly increased GSH and decreased MDA and PAB levels (P = 0.001); 1PS and 2PS significantly increased GSH and decreased PAB levels (P = 0.001); RT + 1PS and RT + 2PS significantly increased ATP and GSH as well as decreased PAB levels (P = 0.001) also RT + 2PS had more effect on ATP increase and MDA decrease and PAB compared with RT, 1PS, 2PS, and RT + 1PS (P = 0.001). Conclusions: It seems that RT simultaneously with PS administration compared with RT and PS alone have more protective effects in the heart tissue of rats exposed to H2O2-induced oxidative damage; also, effects of PS consumption are dose-dependent.
Taxonomic revision of the genus Oplognathus MacLeay, 1819 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Rutelinae: Rutelini)
Authors: Carvalho Tamara G. , Seidel Matthias , Grossi Paschoal C.
Published: August 2021

The genus Oplognathus MacLeay, 1819 is revised based on type material of two of the three described species and scattered additional material from several collections around the world. The diagnostic characters of the genus are confirmed, distinguishing it from other Brazilian Areodina mainly by: quadrangular clypeus with trilobate apex in males, rounded in females, extending beyond labrum in both sexes; mandibles with three distinct teeth; maxillae with six teeth; antenna with 10 antennomeres; 10 elytral striae; mesoventral process present; and asymmetrical parameres. The genus and all three species are redescribed, and the female of Oplognathus bahianus Ohaus, 1912 is described for the first time. We consider Oplognathus helmenreichi var. maculicollis Ohaus, 1914 an unavailable infrasubspecific taxon that is conspecific with Oplognathus helmenreichi Ohaus, 1905; its distribution is updated, and the different spelling of the specific epithet is discussed. A neotype is designated for Oplognathus kirbii MacLeay, 1819 since the holotype is currently considered lost. Additionally, an identification key and a distribution map are included.
Évaluation statistique d’un protocole de relevés bryologiques pour inventorier et suivre la biodiversité en forêt
Authors: GOSSELIN Marion , CADET Serge , CARTIER Denis , DUMAS Yann , GAUTROT Thierry , RITZ Frédéric , BLIN Mirham , KELLER Johann , GATTUS Jean-Christophe , KACZMAR Mickaël , MARCK Christian , DEBAIVE Nicolas , BOULANGER Vincent , PAILLET Yoan , GOSSELIN Frédéric
Published: August 2021

Les Bryophytes représentent une partie importante de la biodiversité forestière. Pour étudier l’évolution de leur diversité dans le temps, ou entre modalités de gestion forestière, les protocoles de relevés doivent être adaptés à la diversité des supports colonisés, et reproductibles sans biais. Nous présentons le protocole standardisé que nous avons conçu et testé sur 14 massifs forestiers de plaine et de montagne en France métropolitaine (193 placettes). Sa faisabilité a été évaluée par retour d’expérience des opérateurs, et l’exhaustivité par la part d’espèces captées par le procotole en comparaison à des richesses de référence sur chaque placette. La reproductibilité a été évaluée par un test d’effet opérateur, sur des supports ayant chacun été inventorié par plusieurs opérateurs et fait l’objet d’un relevé de consensus. En combinant un inventaire dirigé par supports prédéfinis et un inventaire complémentaire en plein, notre protocole capte, pour les principaux types de supports, plus de 80 % de la richesse théorique calculée par l’indice Chao2. Augmenter le nombre de supports dans l’inventaire dirigé consommerait du temps pour un gain faible en espèces. L’effet opérateur joue sur le taux de détection des espèces, et peut être soit pris en compte dans les modélisations, soit réduit par entraînement. Notre protocole offre donc un bon compromis entre faisabilité, répétabilité et exhaustivité pour évaluer la diversité bryologique des peuplements forestiers de France métropolitaine dans la strate 0-2 m, dans le cadre de suivis temporels ou de comparaison de modalités écologiques ou de gestion.
The Intentionality of Confronting Racism, Systemic Oppression, and Cyclical Trauma in Counselor Education: A Self Study
Authors: Ieva Kara , Hannon Michael D. , Vereen Linwood G.
Published: August 2021

Utilizing self-study methodology, the researchers sought to understand their practices in developing school counselors and counselor educators who acknowledge and resist anti-Black racism and marginalization to prevent harm through complacency. Given counselor education’s existence as overwhelmingly white and Eurocentric, the authors investigate disrupting the heteronormative structures inherent in counseling and the academy with the prioritizing of race, systemic inequities, and cyclical trauma in their faculty roles (e.g., teaching, supervising, and service) in efforts to shift a profession slow to address society’s ever-changing mental health needs. The team of counselor educators from different states in the northeast use a thematic analysis to highlight their challenges and successes at each institution, and within the broader counselor education and academic context.
Prospectiva para ciência, tecnologia e inovação
Authors: Miles Ian , Saritas Ozcan , Sokolov Alexander
Published: August 2021

Tradução de obra lançada em 2016, o livro preenche uma lacuna na literatura relacionada aos chamados estudos do futuro, em âmbitos nacional e internacional. Escrito por três professores da Escola Superior de Economia (HSE) de Moscou, na Rússia, o volume pretende ampliar o conjunto de atores engajados na política de ciência e inovação, contribuindo para planejadores, gestores, formadores de políticas e tomadores de decisão. Publicada originalmente sob o título Foresight for Science, Technology and Innovation, a obra foi traduzida por Valdir Ermida, chefe do Serviço de Planejamento do Instituto Nacional de Infectologia Evandro Chagas (INI/Fiocruz).
Enteroaggregative Escherichia coli is associated with antibiotic resistance and urinary tract infection symptomatology
Authors: Martínez-Santos Verónica I. , Ruíz-Rosas María , Ramirez- Peralta Arturo , Zaragoza García Oscar , Resendiz-Reyes Luis Armando , Romero-Pineda Obed Josimar , Castro-Alarcón Natividad
Published: August 2021

Background

Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) is the causative agent of uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) in ambulatory patients. However, enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC), an emergent bacterial pathogen that causes persistent diarrhoea, has recently been associated with UTIs. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of EAEC virulence genes, antibiotic resistance, as well as biofilm production of UPEC isolates obtained from ambulatory patients with non-complicated UTIs that attended to the ISSSTE clinic in Chilpancingo, Guerrero, Mexico, and correlate these with the patients’ urinary tract infection symptomatology.

Methods

One hundred clinical isolates were obtained. The identification of clinical isolates, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, and extended spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) production were performed using the Vitek automated system. Assignment of E. coli phylogenetic groups was performed using the quadruplex phylo-group assignment PCR assay. UPEC virulence genes (hlyA, fimH, papC, iutA, and cnf1) and EAEC virulence genes (aap, aggR, and aatA) were detected by multiple PCR.

Results

We found that 22% of the isolates carried the aggR gene and were classified as UPEC/EAEC. The main phylogenetic group was B2 (44.1% were UPEC and 77.27% UPEC/EAEC isolates, respectively). Over half of the UPEC/EAEC isolates (63.64%) were obtained from symptomatic patients, however the aatA gene was the only one found to be associated with the risk of developing pyelonephritis (OR = 5.15, p = 0.038). A total of 77.71% of the UPEC/EAEC isolates were ESBL producers and 90.91% multidrug-resistant (MDR). In conclusion, UPEC/EAEC isolates are more frequent in symptomatic patients and the aatA gene was associated with a higher risk of developing pyelonephritis, along with UPEC genes hlyA and cfn1. UPEC/EAEC isolates obtained from UTI showed ESBL production and MDR.
Molecular and morphological evidence for a new species of Leptopus (Phyllanthaceae) from Southeast Yunnan, China
Authors: Zhang Wenhua , Zhu Xinxin , Xue Bine , Liu Ende , Li Yuling , Yao Gang
Published: August 2021

Leptopus malipoensis, a new species of Phyllanthaceae from Southeast Yunnan Province, China, is described. The phylogenetic position of the new species within the genus Leptopus was analyzed based on nuclear ribosomal Internal Transcribed Spacer (nrITS) and plastid matK sequence data. The results show that L. malipoensis is highly supported to be the sister of L. fangdingianus (P. T. Li) Voronts. & Petra Hoff., a species endemic to western Guangxi Province, China. Morphologically, the new species can be distinguished from all known congeneric taxa by its long and slim branches usually pendulous or procumbent, some of its leaf laminas up to 15 cm long and 7 cm wide. It further differs from its sister species by its hirsute stems, leaves and pedicel of female flowers, longer pedicel of male flowers, 3-locular ovary and three styles. A key to all 10 accepted Leptopus species is provided.
The modulatory properties of Astragalus membranaceus treatment on endometrial cancer: an integrated pharmacological method
Authors: Zhang Qianqian , Huang Xianghua
Published: August 2021

Astragalus membranaceus is a traditional Chinese medicine and has been used for adjuvant clinical therapy for a variety of cancers. However, the mechanism of its action on endometrial carcinoma is unclear. Based on the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, and the Traditional Chinese Medicine System Pharmacology Database (TCMSP™), the drug and target compounds were initially screened to construct a common network module. Twenty active compounds in Astragalus membranaceus were successfully identified, which hit by 463 potential targets related to endometrial cancer. Eight of the more highly predictive compounds (such as Jaranol, Bifendate, Isorhamnetin, Calycosin, 7-O-methylisomucronulatol, Formononetin, Kaempferol, Quercetin) were involved in DNA integrity checkpoint, cyclin-dependent protein kinase holoenzyme complex, and histone kinase activity. Additionally, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway confirmed that Astragalus membranaceus might play a role in the treatment of endometrial cancer through p53 signalling pathway, transcriptional misregulation in cancer, and endometrial cancer signalling pathway. Drug-target-pathway networks were constructed using Cytoscape to provide a visual perspective. In addition, we verified that formononetin inhibited the proliferation of endometrial cancer cells through cell viability tests and clone formation tests. And qPCR and western blot found that formononetin exerts anti-cancer effects by promoting the expression of estrogen receptor beta (ERβ) and p53. Based on a systematic network pharmacology approach, our works successfully predict the active ingredients and potential targets of Astragalus membranaceus for application to endometrial cancer and helps to illustrate mechanism of action on a comprehensive level.
Discriminating three motor imagery states of the same joint for brain-computer interface
Authors: Guan Shan , Li Jixian , Wang Fuwang , Yuan Zhen , Kang Xiaogang , Lu Bin
Published: August 2021

The classification of electroencephalography (EEG) induced by the same joint is one of the major challenges for brain-computer interface (BCI) systems. In this paper, we propose a new framework, which includes two parts, feature extraction and classification. Based on local mean decomposition (LMD), cloud model, and common spatial pattern (CSP), a feature extraction method called LMD-CSP is proposed to extract distinguishable features. In order to improve the classification results multi-objective grey wolf optimization twin support vector machine (MOGWO-TWSVM) is applied to discriminate the extracted features. We evaluated the performance of the proposed framework on our laboratory data sets with three motor imagery (MI) tasks of the same joint (shoulder abduction, extension, and flexion), and the average classification accuracy was 91.27%. Further comparison with several widely used methods showed that the proposed method had better performance in feature extraction and pattern classification. Overall, this study can be used for developing high-performance BCI systems, enabling individuals to control external devices intuitively and naturally.
Full-length transcriptome analysis ofSpodoptera frugiperdalarval brain reveals detoxification genes
Authors: Yang Lei , Xing Binglin , Li Fen , Wang Li Kui , Yuan Linlin , Mbuji Amosi Leonard , Peng Zhengqiang , Malhat Farag , Wu Shaoying
Published: August 2021

Background

Spodoptera frugiperda(J. E. Smith), commonly known as fall armyworm (FAW), is one of the most destructive agricultural pests in the world and has posed a great threat to crops. The improper use of insecticides has led to rapid development of resistance. However, the genetic data available for uncovering the insecticide resistance mechanisms are scarce.

Methods

In this study, we used PacBio single-molecule real-time (SMRT) sequencing aimed at revealing the full-length transcriptome profiling of the FAW larval brain to obtain detoxification genes.

Results

A total of 18,642 high-quality transcripts were obtained with an average length of 2,371 bp, and 11,230 of which were successfully annotated in six public databases. Among these, 5,692 alternative splicing events were identified.
Strength and durability of roller compacted concrete with different types and addition rates of polypropylene fibers
Authors:   Kirklareli University, Faculty of Engineering, Department of Civil Engineering, 39100 (Turkey), Kilic Ismail , Gokce Gok Saadet ,   Kirklareli University, Faculty of Engineering, Department of Civil Engineering, 39100 (Turkey)
Published: August 2021

Roller compacted concrete (RCC) is a relatively new alternative construction material that can be used in road and dam constructions by allowing rapid use after production and the use of conventional building materials in production. RCC, which can be produced with low water/cement ratio, is one of the rigid road pavement types and shows similarity to flexible road pavements with the production technique. Different types of fibers such as steel and polypropylene (PP) are used in concrete roads with the aim of preventing cracks, reducing the pavement thickness and increasing the permissible joint gap. In this study, flexural strength, compressive strength, unit weight, water absorption, ultrasonic pulse velocity, modulus of elasticity and freeze-thaw resistance were determined in roller compacted concretes produced by using two different polypropylene-based fibers. In RCC design, fiber addition was insufficient to improve concrete properties in terms of strength and durability. It has been observed that there was a 14.4% reduction in compressive strength with 0.20% fiber inclusion, and a 46.8% reduction in compressive strength with 0.50% fiber inclusion. Polypropylene fiber inclusion increased the water absorption percentages and decreased the specific weights of fiber reinforced roller compacted concretes. However, roller compacted concretes produced with PP-fiber exhibited a good performance under freeze-thaw attack.
Classification and resolution procedure for disputes in public construction projects
Authors:   Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Department of Civil Engineering, Istanbul, 34320 (Turkey), Sayin Baris , Sarı Mahmut ,   Ahi Evran University, Vocational School of Technical Sciences, Kırşehir, 40200 (Turkey), Akcay Cemil ,   Istanbul University, Department of Architecture, Istanbul, 34116 (Turkey)
Published: August 2021

Construction sector, which is associated with approximately two hundred sub-sectors in terms of employment area, plays the role of locomotive sector in economic development of countries. This feature of the sector affects economy directly and indirectly. Despite this positive contribution of the sector, disputes are inevitable between parties –administration and contractor– in a bid, contract and implementation processes, which are parameters of the construction process. Formal judicial process applied for the purpose of resolving disputes encountered in construction projects that the public assumes the role of employer, takes a long time. Therefore, while contractor is exposed to financial losses, administration cannot conclude public investment. In the study; disputes in public construction projects are classified, and proposals preventing disputes are presented. In this scope, firstly, 174 of 10591 disputes submitted to Court of Cassation, and 84 of 102 disputes submitted to Directorate of High Technics Board are selected regarding public construction projects. In the second stage, parameters causing disputes are classified under six main items. Thirdly, reasons of the disputes for each classification are detailed, and then proposals are presented for prevention of the disputes based on FIDIC (International Federation of Consulting Engineers) contract forms. Finally, a resolution procedure is developed for the processes including bid, contract and implementation phases based on FIDIC. By the presented proposals for GCCW (General conditions of construction works) official resolution paths can be reduced to a minimum, and the processes result positively for administration and contractors. It is concluded that the developed procedure is suitable as a practical tool for resolution process of the disputes in the public construction projects.
Dynamic responses of reinforced concrete slabs under sudden impact loading
Authors:   Department of Civil Engineering, Manisa Celal Bayar University, 45140, Manisa (Turkey), Tuğrul Erdem Recep
Published: August 2021

Reinforced concrete (RC) slabs may be subjected to low-velocity impact effect in their service lives. In this study, it is aimed to investigate dynamic responses of two-way rc slabs. So, a total of 6 slabs with 500x500, 550x550 and 600x600 mm side lengths and having same thickness are both experimentally and numerically investigated under low velocity impact loading. Two different reinforcement configurations are used in the production of each slab. A drop test setup is designed for the experimental study. Besides, measurement devices such as accelerometer, lvdt, dynamic load cell, data logger and optic photocells are used in the experimental program. Experiments on the specimens are carried out for the same level of impact energy. Acceleration, displacement and impact load values of slabs are presented by time dependent graphs. In addition, cracks and deformations are observed during tests. In the numerical part of this study, a detailed finite element procedure where explicit dynamic analysis is performed by Abaqus finite elements software is established. The simulations are performed for each test specimen under impact effect and analysis results are used in the verification of experimental results. The relationship between experimental and numerical studies is comparatively examined in terms of crack patterns and average ratios of accelerations, displacements, impact loads. Finally, it is considered that the proposed numerical model could be used in the evaluation of experimental results under impact loading.
Mechanical and durability properties of the concrete with copper slag
Authors:   Faculty of Civil Engineering, Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education, Anand Nagar, Krishnankoil, 626126 (India), Jagan S. , Neelakantan T. R. ,   Faculty of Civil Engineering, Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education, Anand Nagar, Krishnankoil, 626126 (India), Gokul Kannan R. ,   Apprenticeship, Public works department, Tamilnadu public service commission, Theni, Tamilnadu, 625531 (India)
Published: August 2021

Increased development in the field of construction with the use of sand, stones etc. depletes the natural resources and thus resulted in the scarcity of construction materials. Furthermore, generation of waste from several industries such as steel slag, copper slag, blast furnace slag etc. are being dumped in the nearby landfills leading to disposal problems. The scarcity of construction materials necessitated the utilization of suitable alternative materials with equivalent physical and chemical characteristics. This paper investigates the suitability of copper slag (CS) as a substitute to natural fine aggregate (NFA) in the concrete. The concrete mixes are prepared with 0%, 10%, 30%, 50%, 70% and 100% of copper slag at 0.45 w/c ratio. The behaviour of CS in the concrete was assessed by hardened properties such as compression, tension and flexure at 7, 14, 28 and 90 days and durability properties such as water absorption, porosity and chloride ion penetration at 56 days. Results indicate that the replacement of CS beyond 50% affects properties of the concrete; however increased curing improved the properties of the concrete at higher replacement levels. Characterization studies such as XRD and SEM was performed to examine the effect of CS on the properties of the concrete.
Effects of mortar compressive strength on out of plane response of unreinforced masonry walls
Authors:   Istanbul Technical University, 34469, Maslak-Istanbul (Turkey), Sorkhab Atabak Pourmohammad , Küçük Mesut ,   Istanbul Technical University, 34469, Maslak-Istanbul (Turkey), Sari Ali ,   Istanbul Technical University, 34469, Maslak-Istanbul (Turkey)
Published: August 2021

In this study, the out-of-plane response of infill walls that are widely used in Turkey and the surrounding regions were experimentally investigated. Several out-of-plane wall tests were performed in the laboratory, with the walls specimens produced with lateral hollow clay bricks (LHCB) and different mortar qualities. The walls were tested in their out-of-plane (OOP) direction under static load conditions and evaluated based on the load-bearing and energy dissipation capacities, crack propagations, mortar strengths, and initial stiffnesses. These walls are experimentally investigated to understand the effects of the mortar strength on the infill wall structural behaviors and to assess the effectiveness of the out-of-plane strength formulations. It was found that when the mortar strength is low, the first major crack occurs at the mortar, however, because of the arch mechanism efficiency in this situation the OOP load-carrying and energy dissipation capacities of unreinforced walls can be significantly increased. When the first major crack in the wall occurs in the brick itself, the arc mechanism is provided with delicate sections in the brick, which leads to strength decreasing in the walls. In this case, excessive deviations occur in the out-of-plane strength formulations estimates. This study shows that the arc mechanism, the damage start region and progress can change significantly unreinforced masonry (URM) infill walls behaviors.
Vocabulary learning and assessment: A commentary on four studies for JALT vocabulary SIG
Authors: Elgort Irina
Published: August 2021

Four papers by Chie Ogawa, Haidee Thomson, Michael Holsworthm and Darrell Wilkinson were presented in the Vocabulary Learning and Assessment session at the Eighth Annual Japan Association for Language Teaching (JALT) Vocabulary Special Interest Group (SIG) Symposium, at the University of Niigata, Japan, in May 2020. The papers raised methodological questions, proposed approaches to assessing spoken and written word knowledge and fluency, and presented some experimental findings. It is my pleasure to discuss these papers in terms of the ideas proposed by the four researchers, their implementation and potential future directions
The indirect spaced repetition concept
Authors: Lafleur Louis
Published: August 2021

The main goal of this research is to systemize, build, and test prototype software to demonstrate Indirect Spaced Repetition (ISR) as a viable concept for Second Language Vocabulary Acquisition (SLVA). ISR is designed around well-founded spaced repetition and SLVA principles. Most importantly, it is based on Nation’s (2001) recommendation to consider all three tiers of word knowledge (meaning, form, and function/use) and subsequent 18 aspects of word knowledge for a more balanced approach in teaching and learning vocabulary. ISR prototype software was achieved in the conceptual phase of the research. The resulting prototype flashcard software was given an in-depth trial for a period of 2 weeks by seven university students. Participants were given a post-project survey to evaluate ISR software (ISRS) under four categories: enjoyment, usefulness, usability, and general consideration. Post-test survey findings showed above-average satisfaction and consideration to use such software in the future. However, these findings also revealed that some areas could be further improved, such as addressing some hardware/software issues (e.g., IT infrastructure problematics and lag) and integrating gamification elements (e.g., performance feedback/reports).
Anatomical Variations of the Extrinsic Musculature of Thumb
Authors: Rosario Martin G , Hanrahan Clare , Bowman Carley
Published: August 2021

Anatomical variations are commonly encountered during human cadaver dissections. Some of these variations are never discovered unless there is an underlying injury that requires attention. For conceivable clinical and rehabilitation treatments, anatomical modifications may have implications on function therefore it is imperative to report them. This case series depicts the anatomical inconsistency in the muscles and tendons of the extrinsic musculature of the thumb in three human specimens. During a cadaver dissection in physical therapy anatomy course, various anatomical variations were found in three human cadaveric specimens. Cadaver 1 exhibited a new muscle with a split tendon near the distal posterolateral radius. The author uncovered the supplementary muscle between the Extensor Pollicis Longus (EPL) and Extensor Pollicis Brevis muscles. Cadaver 2 had two other extrinsic tendons inserted at the thumb. The Extensor Digitorum provided an extra tendon to the pollicis; a similar insertion as the EPL was recognised. In cadaver 3 an extra muscle belly was observed within the tendon of the abductor pollicis longus. The other muscle variation was near the distolateral attachment at the base of the first metacarpal joint, between the abductor pollicis brevis and extensor carpi radialis muscles. Understanding the diverse anatomical arrangements could prove beneficial for surgeons and those involved in rehabilitating upper extremities. A detailed understanding of the forearm structural anatomy and anomalies is essential to comprehend the function and movements when lesions affect the normal biomechanics within teaching and clinical environments.
Phenotypic Characterisation, Virulence Determination and Antimicrobial Resistance Pattern of Enterococcus Species Isolated from Clinical Specimen in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Kolkata
Authors: Sikdar Subhendu , Sadhukhan Sampa , Majumdar Amit Kumar , Bhunia Somnath , Sarkar Soma , Bhattacharjee Swagata Ganguly
Published: August 2021

Introduction: Enterococci are usually normal human commensal of gastrointestinal tract predominantly. They are considered as an important nosocomial pathogen now a day due to its intrinsic as well as increasing acquired antibiotic resistance resulting in a great threat to modern Medicine. Aim: To determine prevalence of Enterococci isolated from clinical specimens with special reference to its virulence and antibiogram conventionally. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted over a period of two years (January 2019 to December 2020) with 326 Enterococci, isolated from various clinical specimens received by Department of Microbiology. Enterococci isolated from stool samples were excluded. They were identified and speciated conventionally as per standard laboratory protocol. Gelatinase, haemolysin and biofilm formation was determined for each isolate. Their antibiogram was also determined by disc diffusion methods over Blood agar followed by Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) testing (as per Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guideline). All statistical analysis was done by Chi-square test using Software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22.0. Results: Among the total 4516 samples collected, growth of Enterococci was noted in 7.22% cases. Out of them, E. faecalis (84.05%) out numbered E. faecium. Urine was the most predominant (55.22%) sample. 73.93% isolates produced biofilm whereas 18.40% produced haemolysin and 19.94% produced gelatinase. Most of the isolates were susceptible to vancomycin (94.79%) and linezolid (98.77%). High level gentamicin resistance was seen in 54.6% cases. Ciprofloxacin was the most resistant antibiotic. Vancomycin Resistance Enterococcus (VRE) was detected in 5.21% cases only, out of which Van A type was detected phenotypically in most cases. Conclusion: The high rate of resistance to high-level gentamicin could fail treatment of gentamicin in combination with penicillin group of antibiotics. In clinical samples, the emergence of VRE strains makes treatment options more challenging.
The Three “R”s-Rights, Roles and Responsibilities of Healthcare Workers During COVID-19 Outbreak in India
Authors: Biswas Monalisa , Belle Vijetha Shenoy
Published: August 2021

This article addresses the rights, roles and responsibilities of Healthcare Workers (HCW) who are front line warriors in any pandemic outbreak. Coronaviruses 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has emerged as international public health emergency in March 2020, and exposed the weak/failed health care system preparedness to respond to the pandemic threat and controlling the community spread. In India, huge population, poor economic growth and unacceptable doctor to patient ratio made swift response to emergence of pandemic, safeguarding HCWs, ability to provide care without mental and physical burn out challenging. This review emphasises the need for safety of HCW and patients, infection control, security to the family, psychosocial and mental well-being, proper allocation of medical supplies, medical ethics and communication.
Infections and Major Sickle Cell Syndromes at the Ziguinchor Peace Hospital / Senegal
Authors: Thiam Lamine , Coly Isabelle Jokébé , Sarr Habib , Coly Mame Ngoné , Diatta Alassane , Fall Amadou Lamine , Diagne Ibrahima , Ndiaye Ousmane
Published: August 2021

Background: Sickle cell disease is an inherited disorder of hemoglobin. It poses a public health problem in Senegal and mainly affects children and adolescents. Infections are the main cause of morbidity and mortality in children with sickle cell disease. The objective of our work was to assess infections associated with major sickle cell syndromes at the Ziguinchor Peace Hospital (ZPH).

Methods: This was a retrospective study, from October 1, 2015 to October 31, 2020. Included were sickle cell patients homozygous SS and heterozygous SC, hospitalized with fever ≥ 39°C, in whom an infectious assessment was performed. Excluded from the study were patients whose complete blood count, C-Reactive Protein, and rapid diagnostic test for malaria were not performed.

Results: During the study period, we collected 66 patient files (43 boys and 23 girls). The mean age was 7.6 years [8 months – 21 years]. The population consisted of SS sickle cell disease patients in 98.5% of cases. The average body temperature was 39.6°C [39 – 40.5°C]. The clinical picture on admission was predominantly vaso-occlusive crisis and anemia. The positivity of the bacteriological examinations was 2 cases for the blood culture, 3 cases for the urine culture. The infections were dominated by bronchopneumonia (31.8%); ear, nose and throat infections (31.8%) and osteoarthritis (15.2%). Four children presented with severe malaria and the immediate course was favorable for all patients.

Conclusion: otorhinolaryngological infections; Bronchopulmonary and osteoarticular diseases are frequent in children with sickle cell disease at the Ziguinchor peace hospital. we recommend support for the microbiology unit and systematic sampling in febrile sickle cell patients.
Comparative Study of Three Vitrification Solutions for an Effective Droplet-vitrification Cryopreservation Procedure for Pfaffia Glomerata (Spreng.) Pedersen
Authors: Oliveira Daniela Vasconcelos de , Salomão Antonieta Nassif , Martins Ildeu Soares , Santos Izulmé Rita Imaculada
Published: August 2021

Aims: The objective of this research was to establish a cryopreservation protocol for shoot tips (ST) of in vitro P. glomerata using the droplet-vitrification technique.

Study Design: The experimental design was a factorial, with four factors, arranged in a completely randomized design. Three vitrification solutions (PVS2, PVS3, PVS4), three times (20, 40, 60 min) and two temperatures (25 ± 2 °C and 0 °C) of treatment with the solutions, followed by freezing (LN+) or not (LN-) with liquid nitrogen (LN) were tested. All tests were performed using six replicates and the results analysed using Two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s tests and expressed as the mean ± the standard error of the means (SEM) deviation.

Place and Duration of Study: Laboratory of Plant Cryobiology, Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, over a two-year period.

Methodology: ST excised from in vitro plantlets were pre-cultured overnight (19h), treated with a loading solution (LS) and three different vitrification solutions (PVS2, PVS3, PVS4) prior to freezing in LN. Treatment with the vitrification solutions was carried out at 0 or 25°C, for 20, 40 or 60 min. For freezing, drops of the vitrification solutions containing a single ST were dispensed on aluminum foil strips and the strips were submerged in LN (-196°C). For thawing, foil strips were submerged into unloading solution (US) at 40 ± 2°C, for three min. Thawed ST were transferred to regeneration medium and cultured in vitro.

Results: Highest regeneration percentages after cryopreservation were 82% for ST treated with PVS3, at 0°C, for 60 min; 32% for ST treated with PVS4 at 25°C for 60 min or 0°C for 40 min and 22% for those treated with PVS2 at 0°C for 60 min.

Conclusion: Droplet-vitrification is a suitable technique to ensure survival of P. glomerata ST after cryopreservation. This procedure can be applied to establish germplasm collections of this medicinal species in gene banks.
Blended Learning - A Global Solution in the Age of COVID-19
Authors: Devi Barkha , Sharma Champa , Lepcha Nazung
Published: August 2021

Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently declared Covid 19 to be a pandemic that poses a threat to humanity. The existing Conventional and other instructional methods have been canceled and the online learning has been broadly revised to allow learners to educate themselves through online platforms.

Aims: This article was written to identify the teaching practices throughout Covid 19 with key terms, virtual mastering during the lockdown, on-line teaching during a pandemic, and application of blended learning during Covid-19 and post Covid implication.

Methodology: The mini review was conducted to identify the online teaching practices during Covid-19 and blended mode of teaching in higher education and its implication during post Covid-19. The different database searches identiﬁed more than ninety articles, of which 35 full-textual content articles had been assessed and nineteen had been included in this paper.

Results: Blended learning is a modern, powerful, and effective tool for increasing universities' competitiveness, meeting the diverse needs and interests of instructional service consumers, imposing the concept of continuing education, and integrating classroom and distance learning to facilitate independent, interactive, and collaborative learning among students.

Conclusion: The article finishes with an overview of the most pressing issues, as well as suggestions and brief recommendations for expanding the use of blended learning in the post-Covid-19 era.
Artificial Intelligence the Itinerary of Sustainable Health Care
Authors: Bhatia Simren , Mathur Anmol , Mathur Aditi
Published: August 2021

The Global Strategy for health for all by the year 2020 was launched by WHO in the year 1979 but still the goal has not been achieved; crisis of health care personnel is a major reason behind it. To achieve a more stable future, health care sector needs Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be a curtain raiser towards sustainability in the field of health care.

Sustainable health care can be achieved by fulfilling the targets set out by Sustainable Development Goals, AI can provide promising alternatives to match the goals and aim the sustainable health care for the generations to come. The current paper would like to propose AI as a solution to these issues. AI is already in the front line for diagnosis and medical imaging but there is still lot of scopefor utilization.
Self-Organization of Charged Particles in an Electric Field
Authors: Oldham Jr. William J. B.
Published: August 2021

Self-organization in small systems of particles with simple dynamic laws has been simulated. The purpose of this work was to investigate self-organization in small systems of charged particles under the influence of an electric field where we could follow individual particles. There are positively and negatively charged particles. The intention is to look for pattern formation as the system evolves. Three electric fields and the particle-to-particle interactions were utilized to provide the forces. The three electric fields were a constant field, a ramp field, and an oscillatory field. The final system states for various electric fields are presented. For the two kinds of particles simulated, like particles have a repulsive force, while unlike particles have an attractive force. Initially, the particles are randomly distributed in a two dimensional square bounded region, and then allowed to dynamically interact for a number of iterations. Using the inverse square law force, modified at short distances, most cases resulted in equilibrium with the particles of opposite polarity paired up. Since this was a state of equilibrium no more movement occurred. The results of the experiments are presented in graphical format. The main conclusions are that this model can be used to study small dynamic systems, and that the presence of an external electric field does not significantly modify the final configuration but hastens the development of the equilibrium state.
Trends in Buprenorphine Dispensing Among Adolescents and Young Adults in the US
Authors: Lee Eileen , Rikard S. Michaela , Guy Gery , Terranella Andrew
Published: December 2024

This study examines trends in buprenorphine dispensing from retail pharmacies to adolescents and young adults aged 10 to 24 years in the US from 2020 to 2023.
Hospital Participation in the Acute Hospital Care at Home Waiver Program
Authors: Zikry Hashem E. , Schriger David L. , Kilaru Austin S.
Published: December 2024

This cross-sectional study explores whether hospital participation in the Acute Hospital Care at Home program continued to increase following the extension of the program and the characteristics of participating hospitals.
Bullous Arthropod Reaction Secondary to Ctenocephalides felis
Authors: Izri Arezki , Akhoundi Mohammad
Published: December 2024

This case report describes a woman in her 40s who presented for evaluation of pruritic skin lesions on her chest and all 4 extremities that had developed over several days.
Transgenerational Clinical Care—The Case for Family-Based Treatment
Authors: Epstein Leonard H. , Wilfley Denise E. , Egede Leonard E.
Published: December 2024

This Viewpoint advocates for use of family-based care to treat and prevent transgenerational diseases.
Surface Texturing on Polycrystalline Diamond Compact Cutter by Nanosecond Laser Processing
Authors: Ding Yanbo , Li Qiankun , Jia Ruizhi , Chen Lei , Liu Baochang
Published: December 2024

In this article, a method for preparing surface texture of polycrystalline diamond compact (PDC) cutter based on nanosecond laser direct is reported. The relationship between the structure of the surface texture with the laser power, scanning speed, and processing cycle of the nanosecond laser is systematically investigated. By changing the laser power, scanning speed, and the number of processing cycle, different nanosecond laser energies are obtained for processing PDC cutter, and the nanosecond laser parameters are precisely changed to achieve the purpose of laser modification and ablation. By controlling the parameters of nanosecond laser processing, micrometer‐scale surface texture on PDC cutter are realized. The surface morphology of the resulting preparation is analyzed. This study provids an experimental basis for the utilization of laser surface texturing technology to improve the performance of PDC cutter, and promotes the further research and development of drilling and machining tools.
Phase Evolution, Stability and Magnetic Behavior of Lightweight Al–Fe Aluminide‐Based Nanocomposites Processed by Mechanical Alloying, Cryomilling, and Annealing
Authors: Balaji Ganne Ketan , Jain Harsh , Sherpa Pema Chida , Tripathy Ritik Roshan , Shadangi Yagnesh , Shivam Vikas , Tripathi Ajay , Tiwari Archana , Mukhopadhyay Nilay Krishna
Published: December 2024

Attempts are made to synthesize Al5Fe2 aluminide‐based composites by mechanical alloying (MA) and cryomilling (CM). The XRD and TEM results of the milled samples confirm the formation of a major B2‐AlFe phase (0.2887 ± 0.0003 nm; cP2) along with the minor amount of Al5Fe2 phase. Nanocrystalline grains of ≈16 nm and an average particle size of 4.0 ± 0.36 μm are evident. A significant refinement in the crystallite size (≈10 nm) and average particle size (1.0 ± 0.03 μm) is achieved after 10 h CM of 60 h MAed powder. CM enhances the phase fraction of the Al5Fe2 phase. The DSC thermogram discerns three exothermic heating events due to phase transformation. These can be corroborated by the structural transformation of the B2‐AlFe phase to the orthorhombic Al5Fe2 phase. The phase obtained as a result of 60 h of MA transforms to orthorhombic Al5Fe2 along with a minor amount of pre‐existing B2‐AlFe structure after annealing at 600 °C. It becomes more stable after annealing at 900 °C. Further, the 60 h milled sample displays soft ferromagnetic properties. The saturation magnetization decreases on CM and annealing due to phase transition from B2‐AlFe to Al5Fe2 phase. Coercivity is reduced when the MA sample is annealed due to an increase in crystallite size and a reduction in lattice strain.
Atomically Flat Dielectric Patterns for Bandgap Engineering and Lateral Junction Formation in MoSe2 Monolayers
Authors: Moser Philipp , Wolz Lukas M. , Henning Alex , Thurn Andreas , Kuhl Matthias , Ji Peirui , Soubelet Pedro , Schalk Martin , Eichhorn Johanna , Sharp Ian D. , Stier Andreas V. , Finley Jonathan J.
Published: December 2024

Combining a precise sputter etching method with subsequent AlOx growth within an atomic layer deposition chamber enables the fabrication of atomically flat lateral patterns of SiO2 and AlOx. The transfer of MoSe2 monolayers onto these dielectrically modulated substrates results in the formation of lateral heterojunctions due to the interaction with alternating regions of SiO2 and AlOx, with the flat substrate topography leading to minimal strain across the junction. Kelvin probe force microscopy measurements show significant variations in the contact potential difference (CPD) across the interface, with AlOx regions inducing a 230 mV increase in CPD. Photoluminescence spectroscopy reveals shifts in spectral weight of neutral and charged exciton species across the different dielectric regions. On the AlOx side, the Fermi energy moves closer to the conduction band, leading to a higher trion‐to‐exciton ratio, indicating a bandgap shift consistent with CPD changes. In addition, transient reflection spectroscopy highlights the influence of the dielectric environment on carrier dynamics, with the SiO2 side exhibiting rapid carrier decay typical of neutral exciton recombination. In contrast, the AlOx side shows slower, mixed decay behavior consistent with conversion of trions back into excitons. These results demonstrate how dielectric substrate engineering can tune 2D materials, allowing scalable fabrication of advanced junctions for novel (opto)electronics applications.
Pressure Regulated π–π Slip Enabling Blue‐Light Emission Enhancement of Terephthalic Acid
Authors: Yang Qing , Wang Yixuan , Niu Guangming , Sui Laizhi , Yang Xinyi , Zou Bo
Published: December 2024

Organic solid‐state luminescent materials give rise to widespread applications in the fields of detection sensors, flexible displays, and optoelectronic devices. However, it remains a significant challenge to realize high‐efficiency emission in solid‐state organic systems owing to the undesired aggregation‐caused quenching. Herein, the extraordinary emission enhancement of solid‐state terephthalic acid (TPA) is successfully achieved under high pressure. Significantly, the high‐efficiency emission is unexpectedly captured down to the ambient conditions after pressure is completely released, where the photoluminescence quantum yield is remarkably increased from 26.5% to 74.1%. Experimental characterizations and first‐principles calculations reveal that the pressure treatment engineering endows the targeted TPA with enhanced hydrogen‐bond interactions decorated with slipped π–π staking arrangement. The targeted configuration restricts the vibration of chemical bonds and raises the rotational energy barrier of the pressure‐treated TPA, resulting in the suppression of nonradiative dissipation and the harvest of high‐performance blue‐light emission. This study provides crucial insights into the design of pressure‐responsive solid materials and significantly advances the development of organic solid luminescent materials.