bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microvascular Myocutaneous and Cutaneous Free Flap Reconstruction for Patients With Terminal Esophagostomy After Complicated Oncological Esophagus Resection
Authors: Poelsler Lukas , Koch Oliver , Gaggl Alexander , Presl Jaroslav , Hutter Jörg , Brandtner Christian , Emmanuel Klaus
Published: July 2021

BackgroundPersisting anastomotic leakage after oncological esophagectomy is a severe problem associated with high mortality and morbidity. Unfortunately, treatment options with promising results are scarce especially when conventional operative and endoscopic methods have failed. Due to limitation of oral intake and need for artificial nutrition quality of life is reduced. Microvascular myocutaneous and cutaneous free flap (MFF) reconstruction could be a promising alternative. MethodsThis retrospective case series presents seven patients treated between March 2017 and November 2020 at our surgical department, with persisting postoperative anastomotic leakage without further feasible treatment options. All patients received anastomotic MFF reconstruction, we evaluated used flaps and important intraoperative factors like microvascular anastomosis. Complications were assessed by Clavien-Dindo-Score, patient contentment was evaluated with a questionnaire. ResultsThe included seven male patients had median age of 65.15 years (range: 48-75). MFF function was adequate in six out of seven patients, one flap necrosis was encountered. Five patients initially had good results, surgical revision was performed in one patient to ensure graft function. Postoperative complications appeared in 6 out of 7 patients, three patients had complications ranked in Clavien-Dindo IIIa (two patients received stenting, one patient endoscopic stenting and dilatation) and two patients needed surgical revision (Clavien-Dindo IIIb). Furthermore one patient had postoperative delirium with prolonged intensive care unit stay and one patient had no complications (Clavien-Dindo 0). Mean duration of inpatient care was 63 days (Range: 24-156). At time of evaluation, one patient has died because of his malignant disease. No more additional nutrition was needed in 3 out of 6 patients with adequate graft function. The majority of patients reported improved quality of life after MFF. Conclusion MFF free flap can be an alternative treatment option for patients with terminal esophagostomy after complicated oncological esophagus resection without further treatment options. The renewed ability of oral food intake results in a significant improvement of quality of life for the patients.
The Fate of Patients After Failed Epicardial Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Nasso Giuseppe , Lorusso Roberto , Motekallemi Arash , Dell’Aquila Angelo M. , Bari Nicola Di , Condello Ignazio , Moscarelli Marco , Iacopino Saverio , Serraino Giuseppe F. , Mastroroberto Pasquale , Santarpino Giuseppe , Speziale Giuseppe
Published: July 2021

Background – Much debate is still going on about the best ablation strategy – via endocardial or epicardial approach – in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), and evidence gaps exist in current guidelines in this area. More specifically, there are no clear long-term outcome data after failed surgical AF ablation.Methods – Since June 2008, 549 surgical AF ablation procedures through a right minithoracotomy were performed at our institution. From 2008 to 2011, a unipolar radiofrequency device was used (151 patients), whereas from 2011 to 2020 a bipolar radiofrequency device was used (398 patients). Patients were scheduled for surgery on the basis of the following criteria: recurrent episodes of paroxysmal or persistent lone AF refractory to maximally tolerated antiarrhythmic drug dosing and at least one failed cardioversion attempt. Besides the recommended follow-up by the local cardiologist, starting from 2021, surviving patients were asked to undergo assessment of left ventricular function and to complete a questionnaire addressing quality of life and predisposing factors for recurrent AF.Results – At a mean follow-up of 77 months, the rate of AF recurrence was 20.7% (n=114). On multivariate analysis, impaired left ventricular ejection fraction (58 patients, 51%, p=0.002), worsening of European Heart Rhythm Association (EHRA) symptom class (37 patients, 32%, p=0.003) and cognitive decline or depression (23 patients, 20%, p=0.023) during follow-up were found to be significantly associated with AF recurrence.Conclusions – Surgical AF ablation through a right minithoracotomy is safe, but a better outcome could be achieved using a hybrid approach. Patients after initial failed surgical AF ablation show worsening of cardiac function, clinical status and quality of life at follow-up compared to patients with successful AF ablation.
Intercomparison of Historical Simulation and Future Projection of Rainfall and Temperature by CMIP5 and CMIP6 GCMs Over Egypt
Authors: Hamed Mohammed Magdy , Nashwan Mohamed Salem , Shahid Shamsuddin
Published: July 2021

The performances of the Global Climate Models (GCMs) of recently released Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 6 (CMIP6) compared to its predecessor, CMIP5 are evaluated to anticipate the expected changes in climate over Egypt, globally one of the most environmentally fragile countries due to water insecurity and climate change. Thirteen common GCMs and their multi-model ensemble (MME) of both CMIPs were used for this purpose. The future projections were compared for two radiative concentration pathways (RCP 4.5 and 8.5), and two shared socioeconomic pathways (SSP 2-4.5 and 5-8.5) scenarios. The results revealed improvement in most CMIP6 models in replicating historical rainfall, maximum temperature (Tmax) and minimum temperature (Tmin) climatology over Egypt. The MME of the CMIPs revealed that both could reproduce the spatial distribution and seasonal variability of climate in Egypt. However, the bias in CMIP6 is much less than that for CMIP5. The uncertainty in simulating seasonal variability of rainfall and temperature was lower for CMIP6 compared to CMIP5. The future projection of rainfall using CMIP6 MME revealed a higher reduction of precipitation (4 to 10 mm) in the economically crucial northern region compared to that estimated using CMIP5 (10 to >15 mm). CMIP6 also projected a 1.5 to 2.5ºC more rise in Tmax and Tmin compared to CMIP5. The study indicates more aggravated scenarios of climate changes in Egypt than anticipated earlier, using the CMIP5 model. Therefore, Egypt needs to streamline the existing adaptation measures formulated based on CMIP5 projections.
Redesigning An Antibody H3 Loop by Virtual Screening of A Small Library of Human Germline-Derived Sequences
Authors: Corbeil Christopher R. , Manenda Mahder Seifu , Sulea Traian , Baardsnes Jason , Picard Marie-Ève , Hogues Hervé , Gaudreault Francis , Deprez Christophe , Shi Rong , Purisima Enrico O.
Published: July 2021

The design of superior biologic therapeutics, including antibodies and engineered proteins, involves optimizing their specific ability to bind to disease-related molecular targets. Previously, we developed and applied the Assisted Design of Antibody and Protein Therapeutics (ADAPT) platform for virtual affinity maturation of antibodies (PLoS ONE, 12(7): e0181490). However, ADAPT is limited to point mutations of hot-spot residues in existing CDR loops. In this study, we explore the possibility of wholesale replacement of the entire H3 loop with no restriction to maintain the parental loop length. This complements other currently published studies that sample replacements for the CDR loops L1, L2, L3, H1 and H2. Given the immense sequence space theoretically available to H3, we focused on the virtual grafting of over 5000 human germline-derived H3 sequences from the IGMT/LIGM database increasing the diversity of the sequence space when compared to using crystalized H3 loop sequences. H3 loop conformations are generated and scored to identify optimized H3 sequences. Experimental testing of high-ranking H3 sequences grafted into the framework of the bH1 antibody against human VEGF-A led to the discovery of multiple hits, some of which had similar or better affinities relative to the parental antibody. In over 75% of the tested designs, the redesigned H3 loop contributed favorably to overall binding affinity. The hits also demonstrated good developability attributes such as high thermal stability and no aggregation. Crystal structures of select redesigned H3 variants were solved and indicated that although some deviations from predicted structures were seen in the more solvent accessible regions of the H3 loop, they did not significantly affect predicted affinity scores.
Extraction High Purity Nanosilica Corn Cob by Modified Precipitation Technique
Authors: Ajeel Sami A. , Sukkar Khalid A. , zedin naser korde
Published: July 2021

Corn cob considers the agricultural waste in Iraq. High purity SiO2NPs were extracted from corn cob by enhanced precipitation and developed leaching processes. In this study, pre-treatment with 3N HCl has achieved then calcination of the corn cob at 700°C, then follows with the leaching process with (2, 2.5, 3)N NaOH. The characterizations of the prepared SiO2NPs were analyzed with atomic force microscopy (AFM), and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). The results were found that the prepared SiO2NPs have an amorphous structure with a high purity of 97.13 %. Also, the AFM results indicated that the average diameter of the SiO2NPs was 85 nm. It was noted that the leaching processes and pretreatment methods determine the structure, particle size, and quality of the synthesized SiO2NPs.
Sum and Difference Beamspace Domain Refined Maximum Likelihood Algorithm for Elevation Estimation in Multipath Environment
Authors: Chen Sheng , Zhao Yongbo , Hu Yili , Pang Xiaojiao
Published: July 2021

Beamspace domain super-resolution methods for elevation estimation in multipath environment has attracted significant attention. However, the difference beam is rarely used in super-resolution methods, especially in low elevation estimation. In order to improve the accuracy of beamspace domain maximum likelihood algorithm for elevation estimation, we apply the difference beam to the beamformer. Therefore, we develop a sum and difference beamspace domain maximum likelihood (SDBDML) algorithm for elevation estimation, which has good estimation accuracy and is not sensitive to antenna height and reflection coefficient errors. In order to further improve the estimation performance, we take the refined signal model into account in the SDBDML algorithm, and develop a sum and difference beamspace domain refined maximum likelihood (SDBDRML) algorithm. Compared with the SDBDML algorithm, the SDBDRML algorithm has higher estimation accuracy and lower computational burden, although it is sensitive to antenna height and reflection coefficient errors. The theoretical target elevation angle root mean square error (RMSE) and the computational complexity of proposed algorithms are analyzed. Finally, our computer simulations and real data processing results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms.
Early Detection and Intervention for Young Children With Early Developmental Disabilities in Western Uganda: a Mixed-methods Evaluation
Authors: Sadoo Samantha , Nalugya Ruth , Lassman Rachel , Kohli-Lynch Maya , Chariot Golden , Davies Hannah , Katuutu Euphrasia , Clee Melissa , Seeley Janet , Webb Emily L , Rehema Mutoni Vedastine , Beckerlegge Fiona , Tann Cally
Published: July 2021

Background: Early support for children with developmental disabilities is crucial but frequently unavailable in low-resource settings. We conducted a mixed-methods evaluation to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and impact of a programme of early detection and intervention for young children with developmental disabilities in Western Uganda. Methods: Early child development training for healthcare workers (HCWs) was implemented in three rural districts, and attendance was tracked. HCW knowledge and confidence were assessed pre-/post-training, and referral numbers tracked to evaluate impact. Facilitators were trained and mentored to deliver a participatory, group, early intervention programme (EIP) for young children with developmental disabilities and their families. Facilitators were tracked as they were identified, trained, and delivered the intervention, and attendance of families was tracked. Pre-/post-intervention assessments evaluated changes in family quality of life (PedsQL 2.0, Family Impact Module), and child nutritional outcomes. Focus group discussions with stakeholders also assessed feasibility, acceptability and impact.Results: Overall, 93 HCWs from 45 healthcare facilities received training. In the pre-/post-evaluation, median knowledge and confidence scores increased significantly (from 4.0 to 7.0 and from 2.7 to 4.7, respectively (p<0.001)). HCWs reported feeling empowered to refer and offer care for families with a young child with disability. Referral rates increased from 148 to 251 per annum (70%). Eleven EIP facilitators were trained, and all delivered the intervention; 84 families were enrolled, of which 78% attended at least 6 out of 10 modules. Amongst those with paired pre-/post-intervention data (n=48), total family quality of life scores increased significantly (21%, p<0.001). Improvements were seen across all domains of quality of life, with the largest impacts on emotional functioning and social functioning (p<0.001). The programme was acceptable to caregivers and facilitators. Caregivers reported improved knowledge, family relationships, hope, emotional wellbeing, and reduced self-stigma. Conclusions: A programme of early detection and intervention for children with early developmental disabilities and their families was feasible and acceptable in a rural community-based Ugandan setting. HCW training positively impacted knowledge, confidence, attitudes, and referral rates. Families enrolled to the EIP reported significant improvements in quality of life. Important programmatic barriers identified included geographical spread, poverty, gender inequality, and stigma.
Bacterial Isolates from Decomposing Rice Straw used for Polyhydroxyalkanoate Production from Straw Hydrolysate Obtained by Alkaline Pretreatment and Enzymatic Hydrolysis
Authors: Thuoc Doan Van , Chung Nguyen Thi , Hatti-Kaul Rajni
Published: July 2021

Rice straw is an important low cost feedstock for bio-based economy. This report presents a study in which rice straw was used both as a source for isolation of bacteria producing the biodegradable polyester polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), as well as the carbon source for the production of the polymer by the isolated bacteria. Of the 100 bacterial isolates, seven were found to be positive for PHA production by Nile blue staining and were identified as Bacillus species by 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis. Three isolates showed 100% sequence identity to B. cereus, one to B. paranthracis, two with 99 and 100% identity to B. anthracis, while one was closely similar to B. thuringensis. For use in PHA production, rice straw was subjected to mild alkaline pretreatment followed by enzymatic hydrolysis. Comparison of pretreatment by 2% sodium hydroxide, 2% calcium hydroxide and 20% aqueous ammonia, respectively, at different temperatures showed maximum weight loss with NaOH at 80 °C for 5 hours, but ammonia for 15 h at 80 °C led to highest lignin removal of 63%. The ammonia pretreated rice straw also led to highest release of total reducing sugar up to 92% on hydrolysis by a cocktail of cellulases and hemicellulose at 50 °C. Cultivation of the Bacillus isolates on the pretreated rice straw revealed highest PHA content of 59.3 and 46.4%, and PHA concentration of 2.96 and 2.51 g/L by Bacillus cereus VK92 and VK98, respectively.
Role of biomass (bio-diesel, bio-ethanol. biomass pyro-lysis),solar energy and green energy related project
Authors: Tripathi Bhavya , P.Vijay
Published: July 2021

The present work outlines the energy crisis produced by burning of excess amount of fossil fuels. The scientists and environmentalists come to realize the importance of renewable amount of energy to eradicate the pollution by developing new technologies and discussing its pros and cons, in addition to it developing sustainable ways to tackle the problem of global warming and green-house effect. There is a need to understand the development of developing the bio-fuel project by undergoing the cumulative aspects of various environmental, man-made, resource etc,. We cannot only rely on the unique aspect of producing bio-fuel products. There are certain no. ways to inculcate the agendas related to its development. An attempt was made to produce bio-oil from wheatgrass. In conclusion, the bio-oil was obtained by means of biomass pyrolysis method indicates that it is a good source of bio-oil and can be used as a resource of diesel and various petroleum products after grinding, separation, distillation and extraction.
E-Cigarette Use, Cigarette Use, and Sex Modify the Nasal Microbiome and Nasal Host-Microbiota Interactions
Authors: Hickman Elise , Hinton Andrew , Zorn Bryan , Rebuli Meghan , Robinette Carole , Wolfgang Matthew , Mucha Peter , Jaspers Ilona
Published: July 2021

E-cigarettes are often perceived as safer than cigarettes, but previous research suggests that e-cigarettes can alter respiratory innate immune function. The respiratory microbiome plays a key role in respiratory host defense, but the effect of e-cigarettes on the respiratory microbiome has not been studied. Using 16S rRNA gene sequencing on nasal epithelial lining fluid samples from adult e-cigarette users, smokers, and nonsmokers, followed by novel computational analysis of pairwise log ratios, we determined that e-cigarette use and smoking causes differential respiratory microbiome dysbiosis, which was further affected by sex. We also collected nasal lavage fluid for analysis of immune mediators associated with host-microbiota interactions. Our analysis identified disruption of the relationships between host-microbiota mediators in the nose of e-cigarette users and smokers, which is indicative of disrupted respiratory mucosal immune responses. Our approach provides a novel platform that robustly identifies host immune dysfunction caused by e-cigarette use or smoking.
Differential Immunogenicity of BNT162b2 or ChAdOx1 Vaccines After Extended-Interval Homologous Dual Vaccination in Older People
Authors: Parry Helen , Bruton Rachel , Stephens Christine , Brown Kevin , Amirthalingam Gayatri , Otter Ashley , Hallis Bassam , Zuo Jianmin , Moss Paul
Published: July 2021

BackgroundSeveral SARS-CoV-2 vaccines have shown clinical efficacy against Covid-19 infection but there remains uncertainty about the immune responses elicited by different regimens. This is a particularly important question for older people who are at increased clinical risk following infection and in whom immune senescence may limit vaccine responses. The BNT162b2 mRNA and ChAdOx1 adenovirus vaccines were the first two vaccines deployed in the UK programme using an 8-12 week ‘extended interval’.ObjectivesWe undertook analysis of the spike-specific antibody and cellular immune response in 131 participants aged 80+ years after the second dose of ‘extended interval’ dual vaccination with either BNT162b2 mRNA (n=54) or ChAdOx1 (n=77) adenovirus vaccine. Blood samples were taken 2-3 weeks after second vaccine and were paired with samples taken at 5-weeks after first vaccine which have been reported previously. Antibody responses were measured using the Elecsys® electrochemiluminescence immunoassay assay and cellular responses were assessed by IFN-g ELISpot. ResultsAntibody responses against spike protein became detectable in all donors following dual vaccination with either vaccine. 4 donors had evidence of previous natural infection which is known to boost vaccine responses. Within the 53 infection-naïve donors the median antibody titre was 4030 U/ml (IQR 1892-8530) following BNT162b2 dual vaccination and 1405 (IQR 469.5- 2543) in the 74 patients after the ChAdOx1 vaccine (p=<0.0001). Spike-specific T cell responses were observed in 30% and 49% of mRNA and ChAdOx1 recipients respectively and median responses were 1.4-times higher in ChAdOx1 vaccinees at 14 vs 20 spots/million respectively (p=0.022).ConclusionDual vaccination with BNT162b2 or ChAdOx1 induces strong humoral immunity in older people following an extended interval protocol. Antibody responses are 2.9-times higher following the mRNA regimen whilst cellular responses are 1.7-times higher with the adenovirus-based vaccine. Differential patterns of immunogenicity are therefore elicited from the two vaccine platforms. It will be of interest to assess the relative stability of immune responses after these homologous vaccine regimens in order to assess the potential need for vaccine boosting. Furthermore, these findings indicate that heterologous vaccine platforms may offer the opportunity to further optimize vaccine responses.
Identification of the Most Specific Markers to Differentiate Primary Pulmonary Carcinoma From Metastatic Gastrointestinal Carcinoma to the Lung.
Authors: Alabdullah Bachar , Hadji-Ashrafy Amir
Published: July 2021

Background: A number of biomarkers have the potential of differentiating between primary lung tumours and secondary lung tumours from the gastrointestinal tract, however, a standardised panel for that purpose does not exist yet. We aimed to identify the smallest panel that is most sensitive and specific at differentiating between primary lung tumours and secondary lung tumours from the gastrointestinal tract. Methods: A total of 170 samples were collected, including 140 primary and 30 non-primary lung tumours and staining for CK7, Napsin-A, TTF1, CK20, CDX2, and SATB2 was performed via tissue microarray. The data was then analysed using univariate regression models and a combination of multivariate regression models and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves.Results: Univariate regression models confirmed the 6 biomarkers’ ability to independently predict the primary outcome (p<0.001). Multivariate models of 2-biomarker combinations identified 11 combinations with statistically significant ORs (p<0.05), of which TTF1/CDX2 had the highest area under the curve (AUC) (0.983, 0.960-1.000 95% CI). The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV were 75.7%, 100%, 100%, and 37.5% respectively. Multivariate models of 3-biomarker combinations identified 4 combinations with statistically significant ORs (p<0.05), of which CK7/CK20/SATB2 had the highest AUC (0.965, 0.930-1.000 95% CI). The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV were 85.1%, 100%, 100%, and 41.7% respectively. Multivariate models of 4-biomarker combinations did not identify any combinations with statistically significant ORs (p<0.05). Conclusions: The analysis identified the combination of CK7/CK20/SATB2 to be the smallest panel with the highest sensitivity (85.1%) and specificity (100%) for predicting tumour origin with an ROC AUC of 0.965 (p<0.001; SE: 0.018, 0.930-1.000 95% CI).
Factors Associated with Depression and Anxiety in the Adult Population of Qatar after the First COVID-19 Wave: a Cross-sectional study
Authors: Khaled Salma M. , Amro Iman , Bader Lina , Woodruff Peter , Alabdulla Majid A , Bellaj Tarek , Marzouki Youssri , Hasan Yousef , Al-Kaabi Ibrahim , Haddad Peter M.
Published: July 2021

Background: To date, limited mental health data are available from Arabic-speaking countries and from different time points in the pandemic.Aim: To identify factors associated with symptoms of depression-anxiety in the adult population of Qatar after the first COVID-19 wave. Method: We conducted a cross-sectional online survey in Qatar between July and December 2020. Depression-anxiety was defined as a cut-off of 20 or higher on the PHQ-ADS scale. Results: Of 1138 participants, 71.05% were female, 69.0% Arabs, and 70.0% Non-Qataris. 77% were < 40 years (median age in Qatar is 32 years). In a fully-adjusted model, six variables were significantly associated with PHQ-ADS; Arab ethnicity (OR=1.67, p=0.026), never married (OR=2.04, p < 0.001 (versus married), prior history of psychiatric disorder (versus no history) (OR=1.76, p=0.039), increased worries due to social media use for COVID-related news/updates (OR=1.72, p=0.003), those with a history of COVID-19 (OR=1.76, p=0.039), loneliness (OR=1.91, p < 0.001), and lower levels of religiosity (OR=0.96, p=0.039). These associations also pertained in the reduced model, with exception of religiosity which was only marginally statistically significant (OR=0.97, p=0.055).Conclusions: The potential risk factors identified may assist with anxiety and depression prevention and early intervention in future COVID-19 waves and similar crises.
Neuroimaging guided tES to facilitate complex laparoscopic surgical tasks – insights from functional near-infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Walia Pushpinder , Fu Yaoyu , Schwaitzberg Steven D. , Intes Xavier , De Suvranu , Cavuoto Lora , Dutta Anirban
Published: July 2021

Fundamentals of Laparoscopic Surgery (FLS) is a prerequisite for board certification in general surgery in the USA. In FLS, the suturing task with intracorporeal knot tying is considered the most complex. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (PFC) has been shown to facilitate FLS surgical skill acquisition where 2mA tDCS for 15min with the anode over F3 (10/10 EEG montage) and cathode over F4 has improved performance score in an open knot-tying task. Since PFC has a functional organization related to the hierarchy of cognitive control, we performed functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to investigate PFC activation during the more complex FLS suturing task with intracorporeal knot tying. We performed fNIRS-based analysis using AtlasViewer software on two expert surgeons and four novice medical students. We found an average cortical activation mainly at the left medial PFC across the experts, while the average cortical activation across the novices was primarily at the left pars opercularis of the inferior frontal gyrus and ventral premotor cortex, inferior parietal lobule, and supramarginal gyrus. Here, the average cortical activation across the novices included not only the cognitive control related brain regions but also motor control complexity related brain regions. Therefore, we investigated the feasibility to stimulate motor complexity related PFC regions using ROAST software and identified a 4x1 high-definition (HD) tDCS montage.Clinical Relevance—This shows the feasibility of fNIRS-guided tES to individualize electrode montage that may facilitate FLS surgical training in our future studies.
Cerebral and muscle near-infrared spectroscopy during lower-limb muscle activity – volitional and functional electrical stimulation
Authors: Dutta Anirban , Zhao Fei , Cheung Mancheung , Das Abhijit , Tomita Machiko , Chatterjee Kausik
Published: July 2021

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) can lead to blood clotting in the deep veins of the legs, a disease known as deep vein thrombosis. An estimated 40 percent of people in the United States have venous insufficiency that may be ameliorated with functional electrical stimulation (FES). Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) is a non-invasive optical imaging method for monitoring hemodynamics. NIRS being an optical technique can be combined with FES for a theranostics application without suffering stimulation artefact. In this study, we combined muscle NIRS with electromyogram (EMG) of the calf muscles to detect blood volume changes (based on total hemoglobin concentration) in the muscle during volitional tiptoe movements at different frequencies as well as during FES (using geko™) with different stimulation intensity. In muscle NIRS+FES study, we also measured the cerebral hemodynamics using functional NIRS (fNIRS). Muscle NIRS was conducted using a frequency domain (FD) method (called FDNIRS) that used a multi-distance method to isolate muscle hemodynamics. FDNIRS-EMG study in ten healthy humans found a statistically significant (p<0.05) effect of the tiptoe frequencies on the EMG magnitude (and power) that increased with tiptoe frequency. Also, the muscle blood volume (standing/rest) decreased p<0.01) with increasing tiptoe frequency and increasing stimulation intensity that was statistically significantly (p<0.05) different for males and females. Moreover, increasing stimulation intensity led to a statistically significant (p<0.01) increase in cerebral blood volume measured with fNIRS. Therefore, combined muscle NIRS and fNIRS with FES can provide a theranostics application in CVI.
Synthesis of copper metal organic framework based on Schiff base tricarboxylate ligand for highly selective and sensitive detection of 2,4,6-trinitrophenol in aqueous medium
Authors: Kaur Manpreet , Yususf M. , Malik Ashok Kumar
Published: July 2021

By using Schiff base tricarboxylate ligand 5-(4-carboxybenzylideneamino)isophthalic acid (H 3 CIP), a new imine functionalized copper metal organic framework (MOF) has been synthesized solvothermally. It was fully characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy, Powder X-Ray Diffraction (PXRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDS), and elemental mapping techniques. The as-synthesized MOF has been utilized as fluorescent probe for detection of nitro aromatic explosives (NAEs). The results show that the copper MOF can be developed into highly selective and sensitive sensor for detection of TNP in the aqueous medium via the “turn-off” quenching response. The linear fitting of the Stern-Volmer plot for TNP offered large quenching constant of 1.07 × 10 4 M −1 for Cu-MOF indicating the high sensitivity of the sensing process. Outstanding sensitivity of prepared material towards TNP detection was further validated by the low detection limit of 80 ppb (0.35 µM). The detailed mechanistic studies for their mode of action and density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveals that photo-induced electron transfer (PET) and fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) processes, as well as electrostatic interactions ( i.e. H-bonding) are the key factors for the turn-off response toward TNP by this fluorescent sensor. Thus, this new LMOF owing to their high water stability and remarkable functional features are potential candidates which can be developed into selective and sensitive TNP detection devices.
Revisão sistemática de estudos sobre TPACK na formação de professores no Brasil e em Portugal
Authors: Piedade João Manuel
Published: July 2021

A discussão do quadro TPACK (MISHRA; KOEHLER, 2006), tem sido foco crescente de pesquisas, principalmente entre os formadores de professores, que necessitam preparar os professores para integrar as TIC ao ensino e aprendizagem em sala de aula (CHAI; KOH; TSAI, 2013). Para compreender como os programas de formação inicial e continuada de professores têm utilizado o TPACK, como base teórica na concepção de cursos e dinâmicas nas diversas áreas curriculares, realizou-se uma revisão sistemática de estudos publicados em contexto brasileiro e português, disponíveis em bases de dados de acesso aberto. Após a aplicação dos critérios de inclusão e exclusão, o corpus de análise constituiu-se de 28 trabalhos, publicados entre 2013 e 2020. Os resultados destacam a prevalência em cursos de formação continuada, cursos na área curricular da Matemática e abordagens voltadas para o desenvolvimento do domínio TPK dos professores.
The Function of the Allusion to Aristophanes’ Birds in the Parable of the Unjust Steward (Lk 16:1–8)
Authors: Adamczewski Bartosz
Published: July 2021

The allusion to Aristophanes’ Birds plays an important role in the intertextual-illustrative rhetoric of the Lucan parable of the unjust steward (Lk 16:1–8). People generally assume that good legal systems promote moral honesty and legal justice. Against this background, the Pauline idea of the presence of the law, but also its ineffectiveness in giving righteousness (Gal 3:19b; cf. 3:21), is quite difficult to explain. In order to illustrate this Pauline idea in his sequential hypertextual reworking of the Letter to the Galatians, Luke used the allusion to Aristophanes’ comedy, which presented the classical Athenian legal system as likewise ineffective against the activity of the morally corrupt legal agent, the sycophant. The Lucan unjust steward not only uses the language of the Athenian sycophant, but also engages in similar, apparently legal but morally unjust activity, thus questioning the effectiveness of the whole legal system in promoting righteousness. The reworking of the sequence of Pauline ideas explains the meaning of the enigmatic parable of the unjust steward (Lk 16:1–8).
Biblijne podstawy eklezjalnej duchowości communio
Authors: Tatar Marek
Published: July 2021

Proces sekularyzacji i relatywizacji życia współczesnego człowieka dotyka wierzących w ich doświadczeniu Kościoła. Jednocześnie zauważalne jest zainteresowanie duchowością, ale często o charakterze zindywidualizowanym i pozaeklezjalnym. Stąd wynika konieczność refleksji nad właściwym rozumieniem tożsamości i misji Kościoła. Adekwatnym pojęciem dla opisania tej tożsamości jest communio. Artykuł wyjaśnia właściwe jego rozumienie w kluczu biblijnym ze względu na wieloznaczność, która występuje w publikacjach z zakresu teologii, a także w naukach pozateologicznych. Szczególnego znaczenia nabiera ono na gruncie teologii duchowości, określając charakter jedności pomiędzy Bogiem a człowiekiem. Analiza Starego Testamentu odsłania istotne aspekty komunijne wynikające z Przymierza. Analiza Nowego Testamentu wskazuje zaś, że w Jezusie Chrystusie dokonała się pełnia komunijnego zjednoczenia, która znajduje swoją kontynuację w Kościele. Z tego względu duchowość chrześcijanina musi być interpersonalna, chrystocentryczna, chrystoformiczna oraz eklezjalna. Ten proces kształtuje życie moralne, znajdujące swoje odzwierciedlenie w życiu indywidualnym, społecznym, ekonomicznym, a nawet politycznym.
Female Sexual Dysfunction: A Problem Hidden in the Shadows
Authors: Doumas Michael , Imprialos Konstantinos P. , Koutsampasopoulos Konstantinos , Katsimardou Aleksandra , Bouloukou Sofia , Theodoulidis Iakovos , Themistoklis Mikos
Published: July 2021

Background:

Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) has been largely underdiagnosed and undertreated
due to the lack of concrete definitions, validated assessment methods and efficient treatments. However, during
the last few decades, there has been great progress in the clinical management and research of FSD.

Objective:

The purpose of this review is to describe the pathophysiology of FSD, report the prevalence of the
disease in the setting of cardiovascular (CV) risk factors and disease, and review current and under investigation
treatment options.

Methods:

A comprehensive literature review was performed to identify studies examining the association of FSD with CV risk factors and/or disease and studies reporting appropriate management options.

Results:

The prevalence of FSD is increased in the general population (approximately 40%) and is significantly
higher in patients with hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia. In patients with overt CV disease,
FSD is even more prevalent (up to 90%). The cause of FSD is multifactorial and includes a variety of vascular,
hormonal, interpersonal and psychological factors, which are all intertwined. Several treatment options exist
that are efficient in improving female sexual function, while a cluster of other options has been shown to offer
benefits.

Conclusion:

FSD is a major public health problem with great impact on the patients’ quality of life. In the setting
of increased CV burden, FSD is even more prevalent. Increased awareness is needed for the physician to
establish a trustful environment with the patient, discuss such issues, and offer proper management options.
Computational Studies on Isolated Compounds of Sclerochloa dura; their Efficacy towards Carbonic Anhydrase Inhibition and Anti-cancer Drug Targets
Authors: Ali Majid , Zaidi Asma , Farooq Umar , Sarwar Rizwana , Bukhari Syed Majid
Published: July 2021

Background:

In the previous study, we reported the isolation of six compounds from
Sclerochloa dura and their in-vitro anti-inflammatory potential by their ability to inhibit phospholipase
A2 (PLA2). The objective of current study is to inspect the effect of these compounds on other
expected targets.

Methods:

For this purpose, various targets and percentage activities are predicted through CoFFer
(QSAR) web service. All six compounds under investigation represented 99-100% activity towards
carbonic anhydrases (CAs) and 90-100% activity towards anti-cancer drug targets. As active site of
most of the carbonic anhydrase isozymes is conserved, we selected cytosolic human carbonic anhydrase
II (hCA II) for docking studies which is ubiquitous and involved in various human disorders
such as glaucoma, pulmonary edema and epilepsy. Anticancer drug targets include vascular endothelial
growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2), glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and tyrosine protein kinase (c-
SRC). Interaction of these compounds with hCA II (PDB ID:3P4V) and anti-cancer drug targets such
as VEGFR2 (ID:3WZD), GR (ID:5G5W) and c-SRC (ID:2SRC), were analyzed through molecular
docking studies using MOE (Molecular Operating Environment).

Results:

The findings suggested that most of these compounds represent excellent binding affinity
with hCA II by making interaction with zinc-coordinated water molecule through sulfonic acid group
or hydroxyl group present in the compounds. Similarly, five out of six compounds represented excellent
interaction with VEGFR2. Interactions with GR indicated that compounds 2, 3, and 6 bind effectively
as compared to their co-crystallized ligands. However, among these, the excellent binding
affinity with c-SRC was demonstrated by compounds 3 and 6.

Conclusion:

This study revealed that all these compounds exhibited excellent interaction with the
active site of hCA II, however in the light of previously reported data and due to membrane barrier,
only compound 1 (due to long hydrophobic tail) and compound 4 (due to absence of bulky carbohydrate
groups), can only penetrate inside the cytosol. Compounds 2, 3, 4, and 6 containing bulky carbohydrate
moieties cannot penetrate inside the cell, therefore, they might have selective nature towards
membrane-bounded tumor-associated hCA IX. This anti-tumor property of compounds was
also proved by docking studies with VEGFR2, GR and c-SRC. Therefore, these compounds may
have synergistic effects against inflammation and cancer. The ADMET studies show that compounds
have moderate absorption and permeability along with slight toxicity.
The Role of Rehabilitation Exercises on Weight, Functional Strength, and Exercise Adherence in Knee Osteoarthritis Patients
Authors: Rafiq Muhammad Tariq , Hamid Mohamad Shariff Abdul , Hafiz Eliza , Rashid Khalid , Chaudhary Farid Ahmad
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a weight-bearing joint disease and is more common in overweight and obese persons. The objective of this study was to determine the role of rehabilitation exercises (REs) of lower limbs on weight, functional strength, and exercise adherence in overweight and obese knee OA patients.

Materials And Method:

The patients were recruited from the Urban community of Lahore, Pakistan. The patients were divided into the rehabilitation group (RG) and control group (CG). The patients in the RG performed the REs of lower limbs and followed the instructions of daily care (IDC), while the patients in the CG only followed the IDC for 12 weeks. Outcome measures were assessed at pre-test before grouping and post-test after 12-weeks of interventions. The measures included: weight, functional strength, and exercise adherence. The Paired Samples t-test (for the normally distributed data) and the Wilcoxon Signed Ranked Test (for the data that was not normally distributed) were used to analyze the differences within groups from pre to post-test measurements. The analysis of variance 2 × 2 factors and the Mann-Whitney U-test were used to analyze the difference of weight and functional strength respectively between the groups.

Results:

The patients were recruited from the urban community of Lahore, Pakistan.
The patients were divided into the rehabilitation group (RG) and control group (CG). The patients
in the RG performed the REs of lower limbs and followed the instructions of daily care (IDC),
while the patients in the CG only followed the IDC for a 12 weeks period. Outcome measures
were assessed at pre-test before grouping and post-test after 12-weeks of interventions. The measures
included: weight, functional strength, and exercise adherence. The Paired Samples t-test (for
normally distributed data) and the Wilcoxon Signed Ranked Test (for data that was not normally
distributed) were used to analyze the differences within groups from pre to post-test measurements.
The variance 2 × 2 factors and the Mann Whitney U-test were used to analyze the difference in
weight and functional strength between the groups.

Conclusion:

The REs could improve weight, functional strength and exercise adherence.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Behavior in Avoiding Environmental Tobacco
Smoke Exposure at Home among Pregnant Women
Authors: Ebrahimi Samira , Bayrami Roghieh , Rasouli Javad , Feizipour Haydeh
Published: July 2021

Background:

There is a paucity of research on knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding the harms of exposure to Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) among pregnant women.

Objective:

This study, therefore, aimed to examine the knowledge, attitude, and avoidance behavior towards ETS exposure at home among Iranian pregnant women.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2019 on 150 non-smoking pregnant women having husbands who smoked in Urmia, Iran. The participants were selected through a multi-stage process. The data were collected using a researcher-made questionnaire that measured demographic data, knowledge, attitude, and behaviors in avoiding ETS. The data were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient, t-test, and ANOVA by SPSS-16 at a significance level of 0.05.

Results:

The majority of participants (54.7%) had sufficient knowledge about ETS. The women's attitude and efforts to prevent ETS exposure were moderate in 50% and 60% of the cases, respectively. The participants’ knowledge was significantly associated with their level of education, employment status, and family income (P<0.05). Knowledge had a significant and positive relationship with attitude (P=0.001, r=0.280) and efforts to prevent ETS exposure (P<0.001, r=0.403).

Conclusion:

Knowledge about ETS was significantly correlated with attitude and avoidance behavior of ETS exposure. Therefore, pregnancy care providers should implement interventional programs to improve the attitude and practice of pregnant women. Public health initiatives are also needed to empower women and encourage them to reduce ETS exposure.
From a Deliberative to an Implementing Mindset a Process-oriented View of the Formation of Academic Entrepreneurial Intention
Authors: Blaese Richard , Liebig Brigitte
Published: July 2021

Background:

Previous intention-based research has not considered whether participants are in the motivational or in the actional phase. In turn, this creates a gap of knowledge concerning the cognitive and motivational processes involved in the formation of Entrepreneurial Intention (EI). By applying the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), the present study addresses the formation of EI to commercialize research knowledge, focusing on the transition from motivation to implementation in the context of academia.

Methods:

Drawing on cross-sectional data of 490 researchers, segmented regression analysis was conducted to analyze the influence of entrepreneurial engagement on EI-growth. Multi-group Structural Equalization Modeling (SEM) was then used to test the moderation effects of engagement on the relationship between motivational factors and entrepreneurial intention.

Results and Discussion:

The analysis revealed a direct influence of engagement on EI, as well as a threshold of EI-growth per the context of a Rubicon crossing after the initiation of the first gestation action. Our data also show a growing influence of endogenous factors (e.g., attitudes and perceived behavior control) on EI during the venture creation process. The second part of the study contributes by testing the effects of entrepreneurial rewards on TPB-antecedents moderated by engagement.

Conclusion:

Until today, research mostly relied on cross-sectional data to predict and measure the strength of EI in the phase preceding the launch of a new business without considering whether participants are in the motivational or in the actional phase. Our finding highlights the need to shift from focusing entrepreneurship research solely on intentions to now on the process and implementation perspective.
Versatile Synthesis of Organic Compounds Derived from Ascorbic Acid
Authors: Das Aparna , Banik Bimal Krishna
Published: July 2021

:

Ascorbic acid, also known as Vitamin C, is the most important vitamin observed in diverse
food. Ascorbic acid has various applications in several fields. Studies have depicted that in organic
synthesis, it can be used as a mediator or substrate. The derivatives of ascorbic acid have
been found to possess numerous biological activities. In this review, we report the important derivatives
of ascorbic acid, which have significant biological activities. Various studies are considered
in this review to prove its wide range of availability.
Cálculo integral y sus aplicaciones en la empresa
Authors: Jara Riofrío Marco Antonio
Published: July 2021

El presente texto que se ofrece, no es un libro teórico, sino una herramienta de complementación para la práctica indispensable en la aplicación de las integrales en la administración empresarial. El buen uso que se haga de éste llevará a unificar la teoría con la realidad proporcionando los fundamentos matemáticos para estudiantes de administración, economía y negocios. Por esta razón, puede decirse que servirá de apoyo a los estudiantes de la Universidad ECOTEC en el proceso de enseñanzaaprendizaje en la materia de Cálculo. El trabajo que comparto como autor del libro, es una recopilación de la experiencia asociada con los estudiantes y sus perspectivas con la realidad. Los ejercicios y problemas resueltos constituyen una ayuda para el mejoramiento de sus conocimientos técnicos y la aplicabilidad en el proceso educativo. Su contenido responde a un acuerdo general y tácito de lo que debe constituir un curso básico de Cálculo de funciones de una variable.
Clúster y encadenamientos productivos en la costa ecuatoriana
Authors: Márquez Sánchez Fidel , Delgado Morales Edison Daniel , Sorhegui Ortega Rafael Antonio , Viteri Vivero María José , León Gavilanes Mayra Fernando , Salvador Guerra César Efraín
Published: July 2021

La teoría económica contemporánea, así como el resto de las disciplinas de las Ciencias Sociales, dedican una considerable atención al problema del desarrollo sostenible. Sin embargo, a pesar de esos esfuerzos intelectuales, en general, el desarrollo sostenible se mantiene como una meta a alcanzar por la mayoría de los países. En ese contexto, el punto central que desea destacar este libro es la noción de que la adopción de un enfoque de cadena productiva, y la implementación de clústers a escala territorial, se hace cada vez más notable en la era de la economía del conocimiento y el desarrollo de la tercerización en el contexto actual de evolución de la economía mundial.