bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Τα όψιμα δυναμικά στην πορεία του οξέος εμφράγματος του μυοκαρδίου
Authors: Μεϊντάνης Ευάγγελος
Published: August 2021

Σε αυτή τη μελέτη διερευνήθηκε η σχέση των οψίμων δυναμικών με την έκταση και τη βαρύτητα της στεφανιαίας νόσου.Εξετάσθηκαν συνολικά 112 ασθενείς κατά την οξεία φάση του εμφράγματος του μυοκαρδίου (πρώτες δέκα ημέρες) πριν την έξοδό τους από το Νοσοκομείο. Από αυτούς 96 είχαν αρνητικά Ο.Δ. και 16 είχαν θετικά. Η βαρύτητα της στεφανιαίας νόσου των ασθενών εκτιμήθηκε χρησιμοποιώντας το Gensini-score και ειδικότερα το Gensini- score στον πρόσθιο κατιόντα. Όλοι οι ασθενείς στεφανιογραφήθηκαν και χωρίσθηκαν σε ομάδες με 0, 1, 2 ή 3 νοσούντα αγγεία. Σημαντική σχέση βρέθηκε μόνο στους ασθενείς με νόσο ενός αγγείου και θετικά Ο.Δ. Επίσης συσχετίσθηκαν οι επί μέρους παράμετροι των Ο.Δ. (TQRS, LRMS και AMPL) με το Gensini και το Gensini στον LAD, χωρίς να εξαχθούν αξιόλογα συμπεράσματα από τις ανωτέρω συσχετίσεις.Επίσης μετρήθηκε το QT σε όλους τους ασθενείς, διορθωμένο με τον τύπο του QTBazett(QTCVrrκαθώς και η διασπορά του QT (QT dispersion) οριζόμενη ως ηδιαφορά του βραχύτερου από το μακρύτερο QT.Βάσει της στεφανιογραφίας τους, οι ασθενείς χωρίσθηκαν σε δύο ομάδες; Αυτούς με βατό (ανοικτό) το υπεύθυνο για το έμφραγμα αγγείο και σ’ αυτούς με μη βατό. Ακολούθως συσχετίσθηκαν με κάθε μία από τις παραμέτρους των Ο.Δ. ξεχωριστά (TQRS, LRMS, AMPL). Δεν προέκυψε στατιστικά σημαντική σχέση για καμία από τις παραμέτρους.Μελετήθηκε η σχέση της διασποράς του QT με τα όψιμα δυναμικά, όπου επίσης δεν προέκυψε σημαντική συσχέτιση. Ομοίως δεν προκύπτει σημαντική διαφορά της διασποράς του QT, σε ασθενείς με βατή ή μη την υπεύθυνη αρτηρία του εμφράγματος.Στην ανωτέρω μελέτη χρησιμοποιήθηκε η διαχρονική ανάλυση του συμψηφι- στικού ΗΚΓ και όχι η ανάλυση συχνοτήτων.Σε πρόσφατη μελέτη των Klingenheben και συνεργατών (105) βρέθηκε ότι και οι δύο αυτόνομοι δείκτες (διακύμανση καρδιακής συχνότητος, ευαισθησία των τασεοϋποδοχέων), το κλάσμα εξωθήσεως της αριστεράς κοιλίας και η βατότης της σχετιζόμενης με το έμφραγμα αρτηρίας ή σαν ανεξάρτητοι προγνωστικοί παράγοντες θνητότητος.Οι Puljevic και συνεργάτες (106) βρήκαν ότι η ευρεία διασπορά του QT και τα Ο.Δ. ήσαν δείκτες κινδύνου, για κοιλιακή ταχυκαρδία, αλλά δεν υπήρχε σχέση μεταξύ διασποράς του QT, ημερησίων διακυμάνσεων του διαστήματος QT, ημερησίων διακυμάνσεων του διαστήματος QT και των Ο.Δ. σε ασθενείς - τρεις μήνες μετά από οξύ έμφραγμα.Συμπερασματικά, το ύψος και η διάρκεια του RMS είναι δείκτες ηλεκτρικής σταθερότητας που σχετίζονται μεταξύ τους αλλά δεν σχετίζονται με την έκταση και τη βαρύτητα της στεφανιαίας νόσου όπως αυτή εκτιμάται με τον Gensini και τον Gensini/LAD score ούτε με τη διασπορά του διαστήματος QT. Συνεπώς οι παράμετροι αυτοί αποτελούν ανεξάρτητους προγνωστικούς δείκτες ηλεκτρικών συμβαμάτων σε μετεμφραγματικούς ασθενείς, προβλέποντας το ευρισκόμενο εν κινδύνω «ηλεκτρικώς» μυοκάρδιο.
Υπολογιστική γεωμετρία για καμπύλα αντικείμενα
Authors: Τζούμας Γεώργιος
Published: August 2021

Στη διατριβή αυτή εξετάζουμε το πρόβλημα του ακριβούς υπολογισμού του γράψου Delaunay (και του δυϊκού διαγράμματος Voronoi) ενός συνόλου, ενδεχομένως τεμνόμενων, κυρτών ομαλών ψευδοκύκλων του Ευκλείδειου επιπέδου, που δίνονται σε παραμετρική μορφή. Ψευδοκύκλοι ονομάζονται κλειστές καμπύλες, τα ζεύγη των οποίων τέμνονται σε δύο το πολύ σημεία. Ο γράφος Delaunay κατασκευάζεται αυξητικά. Προτείνουμε αποτελεσματικούς αλγορίθμους για όλα τα απαιτούμενα κατηγορήματα, αναλύοντας την αλγεβρική τους πολυπλοκότητα, υπό το πρότυπο της ακριβούς αριθμητικής. Εστιάζουμε στο InCircle, το οποίο αποτελεί το δυσκολότερο κατηγόρημα, εκφράζοντάς το με ένα απλό αραιό πολυωνυμικό σύστημα 5x5, το οποίο θα μας οδηγήσει σε μία αποτελεσματική υλοποίηση μέσω διαδοχικών απαλοιφουσών Sylvester και ενός λήμματος παραγοντοποίησης. Για να επιταχύνουμε τους αλγεβρικούς υπολογισμούς, μελετάμε ορισμένες γεωμετρικές ιδιότητες του προβλήματος και παρέχουμε έναν αλγόριθμο υποδιαίρεσης τετραγωνικής σύγκλισης, ο οποίος μας επιτρέπει να απαντάμε στο κατηγόρημα σε πραγματικό χρόνο, στις μη εκφυλισμένες περιπτώσεις. Τέλος, υλοποιούμε τις παραπάνω τεχνικές για ελλείψεις σε C++, βασιζόμενοι στη βιβλιοθήκη CGAL. Πρόκειται, απ’ όσο γνωρίζουμε, για την πρώτη ακριβή υλοποίηση μη γραμμικής υπολογιστικής γεωμετρίας η οποία χειρίζεται αλγεβρικούς αριθμούς βαθμού 184. Για την κατασκευή του γράψου Delaunay ενός συνόλου 128 μη τεμνόμενων ελλείψεων, ο κώδικάς μας χρειάζεται 98 sec, όταν δεν προκύπτουν εκφυλισμένες περιπτώσεις. Δείχνουμε ότι οι εξειδικευμένες μέθοδοι που αναπτύχθηκαν για ελλείψεις είναι γρηγορότερες από γενικό λογισμικό συμβολικών-αριθμητικών υπολογισμών. Επιπλέον, η υλοποίησή μας είναι γρηγορότερη από τον υπολογισμό του γράφου Delaunay ευθυγράμμων τμημάτων της CGAL, όταν οι ελλείψεις προσεγγίζονται με ν-γωνα, με ν > 15, και από το διάγραμμα Voronoi σημείων, όταν κάθε έλλειψη προσεγγίζεται με περισσότερα από 240 σημεία.
Ενεργοποίηση ανοσοδραστικών κυττάρων πνεύμονα σε άτομα με μη επαγγελματική έκθεση σε αμίαντο "Πνεύμων Μετσόβου"
Authors: Μαντά-Σταχούλη Κάρμεν
Published: August 2021

Σε μελέτη της Πανεπιστημιακής Πνευμονολογικής Κλινικής Ιωαννίνων, το 1985 ανεδείχθη ότι η ενδημική εμφάνιση αποτιτανώσεων υπεζωκότα σε Μετσοβίτες, συνοδευόταν από υψηλή επίπτωση κακοήθους μεσοθηλιώματος (ΜΡΜ)-300 φορές υψηλότερη συχνότερο απ' ότι στον γενικό πληθυσμό. Περαιτέρω μελέτες ανέδειξαν ότι τόσο οι αποτιτανώσεις υπεζωκότα όσο και το υψηλό ποσοστό εμφάνισης κακοήθους μεσοθηλιώματος οφείλονταν σε έκθεση σε αμίαντο τύπου τρεμολίτη που υπήρχε σε ένα υλικό λεγόμενο «λούτο» που χρησιμοποιούσαν οι κάτοικοι του Μετσόβου για το άσπρισμα των σπιτιών. Επιπλέον τα περισσότερα μεσοθηλιώματα εμφανίστηκαν σε Μετσοβίτες χωρίς αποτιτανώσεις υπεζωκότα στην Α/Α θώρακος. Η μελέτη που ακολούθησε, με ανάλυση του βρογχοκυψελιδικού εκπλύματος (BAL) στους Μετσοβίτες, απέδειξε την ύπαρξη μιας λεμφοκυτταρικής κυψελιδίτιδας μόνο στην ομάδα με αποτιτανώσεις (PC+). Η παρούσα εργασία, επικεντρώθηκε στη ανάλυση των κυψελιδικών μακροφάγων (ΜΦ) στην προσέλκυση των λεμφοκυττάρων και η επακόλουθη κυψελιδίτιδα, πιθανόν υπεύθυνη για την «προστασία έναντι κακοήθειες» που παρατηρήθηκε στους Μετσοβίτες με αποτιτανώσεις υπεζωκότα. Μελετήθηκαν Μετσοβίτες με και χωρίς αποτιτανώσεις (PC+ και PC-) για την εκτίμηση των διαφορών των κυψελιδικών ΜΦ μεταξύ των δύο ομάδων. Επίσης συγκρίθηκαν οι δύο ομάδες Μετσοβιτών (ως σύνολο) με μια ομάδα, ασθενών με σαρκοείδωση και λεμφοκυτταρική κυψελιδίτιδα. Τα αποτελέσματα ήταν τα ακόλουθα: 1) Οι Μετσοβίτες ανέδειξαν παρόμοια κατανομή των δεικτών ενεργοποίησης των κυψελιδικών ΜΦ με τους ασθενείς που έπασχαν από σαρκοείδωση. Αυτά τα ευρήματα υποδηλώνουν την ύπαρξη μιας χρόνιας φλεγμονής, που σε αντίθεση με την σαρκοείδωση δεν είχε κλινική επίπτωση. 2) Η σύγκριση μεταξύ των δύο ομάδων των Μετσοβιτών (PC+, PC-) έδειξαν αυξημένη έκφραση των αντιγόνων ιστοσυμβατότητας MHC class II, μιας ιντεγκρίνης α (CD11c) και του υποδοχέα ενδοτοξίνης (CD14) στην επιφάνεια των κυψελιδικών μακροφάγων στην ομάδα PC(-). Όλα τα αναφερθέντα μόρια συμμετέχουν στην ενδοκύττωση, καταστροφή και αδρανοποίηση τοξικών ουσιών. Αυτούς τους μηχανισμούς, χρησιμοποιούν τα ΜΦ στην έκθεση τους σε ίνες αμιάντου. Οι ίνες αμιάντου είναι πολύ ανθεκτικές στην δράση των λυτικών ενζύμων των ΜΦ και πολύ συχνά προκαλούν την καταστροφή των ενεργοποιημένων αυτών ΜΦ και την απελευθέρωση ενζύμων και ROS/RNS στον εξωκυττάριο χώρο με συνέπεια την ιστική βλάβη και ενεργοποίηση των μηχανισμών φλεγμονής. Η παρουσία σιδήρου στην επιφάνεια των ινών αυξάνει την παραγωγή ROS/RNS προκαλώντας περαιτέρω ιστική βλάβη. Επιπλέον αυτά τα μόρια είναι ικανά να προκαλέσουν βλάβη του DNA και καρκινογένεση. Είναι πιθανόν η αυξημένη έκφραση αυτών των μορίων στα ΑΜΦ των Μετσοβιτών με PC(-) να συνδέεται με αυξημένο κίνδυνο για μεταλλάξεις στους γύρο ιστούς σε σύγκριση με την ομάδα PC(+) γεγονός που είναι σύμφωνο με την αυξημένη επίπτωση κακοήθους μεσοθηλιώματος στην ομάδα χωρίς αποτιτανώσεις και κυψελιδίτιδα PC(-).
Ενδοκυτταρικοί μηχανισμοί σηματοδότησης κατά την επίδραση στρες σε οργανισμικό και κυτταρικό επίπεδο
Authors: Κεφαλογιάννη Ειρήνη
Published: August 2021

Στην παρούσα εργασία διερευνήθηκε η επίδραση στρεσογόνων συνθηκών στην ενδοκυτταρική σηματοδότηση. Η μελέτη πραγματοποιήθηκε σε επίπεδο ολόκληρου οργανισμού και σε επίπεδο μεμονωμένων κυττάρων. Για το ένα σκέλος, άθικτα ζώα του είδους Mytilus galloprovincialis εκτέθηκαν σε στρεσογόνες συνθήκες και, για το άλλο, συνθήκες στρες εφαρμόστηκαν σε απομονωμένα κύτταρα από το βραχίονα του Octopus vulgaris και σε σκελετικούς μυοβλάστες θηλαστικού. Εξετάστηκε η ενεργοποίηση των σηματοδοτικών μονοπατιών των MAPKs και του NF-kB. Συγκεκριμένα, στα M. Galloprovincialis βρέθηκε ότι η p38 MAPC είναι η κύρια ενεργοποιούμενη από το στρες κινάση στο μανδύα του οργανισμού και το χρονικό και ποσοτικό πρότυπο ενεργοποίησής της μελετήθηκε κατά την επίδραση οξειδωτικού στρες, βαρέων μετάλλων, θερμικού στρες, ωσμωτικού στρες και έκθεσης στο αέρα. Τα σκελετικά κύτταρα εκτέθηκαν σε οξειδωτικό στρες και βρέθηκε ότι και οι 3 κύριες υποοικογένειες των MAPKs, όπως και ο μεταγραφικός παράγοντας NF-kB ενεργοποιούνται στις συνθήκες αυτές. Αναλυτικά εξετάστηκαν τα χρονικά και ποσοτικά πρότυπα ενεργοποίησης των σηματοδοτικών αυτών μορίων, η υποκυτταρική τους κατανομή, πιθανοί μηχανισμοί ενεργοποίησής τους, πιθανά υποστρώματά τους όπως και οι πιθανές αλληλεπιδράσεις μεταξύ των σηματοδοτικών μονοπατιών παράμετροι που καθορίζουν τις τελικές κυτταρικές αποκρίσεις σε αυτόν τον ανθεκτικό στο οξειδωτικό στρες κυτταρικό τύπο.
Ανάπτυξη προγραμμάτων εκπαίδευσης με στόχο την περιβαλλοντική ευαισθητοποίηση ατόμων με ειδικές ανάγκες και την κοινωνική τους ενσωμάτωση
Authors: Λάππα Χριστίνα
Published: August 2021

Ο στόχος αυτής της έρευνας ήταν η διερεύνηση των απόψεων των εκπαιδευτικών Ειδικής Αγωγής για το κατά πόσο είναι δυνατή η Περιβαλλοντική Εκπαίδευση (Π.Ε.) σε παιδιά με αναπηρίες, η εισαγωγή περιβαλλοντικής εκπαίδευσης σε παιδιά με νοητική καθυστέρηση που βρίσκονται σε ανοικτά και κλειστά εκπαιδευτικά πλαίσια και η ταυτόχρονη εκπαίδευση κοινωνικών ανταλλαγών μεταξύ τους. Δομημένο ερωτηματολόγιο δόθηκε σε εκπαιδευτικούς Ειδικής Αγωγής, οι οποίοι απάντησαν ότι δεν είναι εύκολη η Π.Ε. στα άτομα με αναπηρίες, αλλά πιστεύουν ότι, αν υλοποιηθεί, τα άτομα αυτά θα ωφεληθούν ποικιλοτρόπως. Μέσω της έρευνας αυτής υλοποιήθηκε Π.Ε. σε άτομα με νοητική καθυστέρηση με την εφαρμογή μιας απλής παρέμβασης. Συγκεκριμένα, τρεις ομάδες παιδιών σχολικής ηλικίας με νοητική καθυστέρηση και άλλες αναπηρίες και τρεις ομάδες νεαρών με νοητική καθυστέρηση και σύνδρομο Down εκπαιδεύτηκαν με ερωταποκρίσεις να αναγνωρίζουν τα ζώα, την τροφή και το φυσικό ή τεχνητό ενδιαίτημά τους με τη χρήση επιτραπέζιων παιχνιδιών. Ένα ενδοϋποκειμενικό ημιπειραματικό σχέδιο εναλλαγής συνθηκών βάσης, εκπαίδευσης, επανεκτιμήσεων και γενικεύσεων χρησιμοποιήθηκε για να δείξει την κατάκτηση της ικανότητας συνομιλίας και τη γενίκευση αυτής. Όλες οι συνεδρίες βιντεοσκοπήθηκαν και βαθμολογήθηκαν από δύο ερευνητές. Και στις έξι ομάδες που ξεκίνησαν από μηδενική βάση όλα τα παιδιά και οι νέοι κατέκτησαν τη στοιχειώδη περιβαλλοντική γνώση και κατόρθωσαν να συμμετέχουν στη συζήτηση ανάλογα με το δυναμικό τους. Πριν την παρέμβαση τα παιδιά, αν και γνωριζόντουσαν καλά μεταξύ τους, δεν είχαν επικοινωνία και δεν ήταν κοινωνικοποιημένα. Η εκπαίδευση και η παρεχόμενη δομή αυτής της παρέμβασης τους έδωσε τη δυνατότητα και τον τρόπο να κοινωνικοποιηθούν. Τα αποτελέσματα επιβεβαιώθηκαν για την εγκυρότητά τους από δύο μετρήσεις, η μία εκ των οποίων αποτελείτο από δασκάλους ειδικής αγωγής και η άλλη από καθηγητές γενικής παιδείας.
MIREyA: a computational approach to detect miRNA-directed gene activation
Authors: Elizarova Anna , Ozturk Mumin , Guler Reto , Medvedeva Yulia A.
Published: August 2021

Emerging studies demonstrate the ability of microRNAs (miRNAs) to activate genes via different mechanisms. Specifically, miRNAs may trigger an enhancer promoting chromatin remodelling in the enhancer region, thus activating the enhancer and its target genes. Here we present MIREyA, a pipeline developed to predict such miRNA-gene-enhancer trios based on an expression dataset which obviates the need to write custom scripts. We applied our pipeline to primary murine macrophages infected by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (HN878 strain) and detected Mir22, Mir221, Mir222, Mir155 and Mir1956, which could up-regulate genes related to immune responses. We believe that MIREyA is a useful tool for detecting putative miRNA-directed gene activation cases. MIREyA is available from: https://github.com/veania/MIREyA
Case Report: Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia during COVID-19 outbreak: the importance of scoring system in differentiating with sepsis-induced coagulopathy
Authors: Wardhani Louisa Fadjri Kusuma , Dewi Ivana Purnama , Suwanto Denny , Ambari Ade Meidian , Ardiana Meity
Published: August 2021

Background: COVID-19 disease is accompanied by derangement of coagulation with a risk of fatal thromboembolic formation. COVID-19 patients are among those indicative for heparin treatment. Increased heparin administration among COVID-19 patients increased heparin induced-thrombocytopenia's risk with/without thrombocytopenia.

Case presentation: We present a 71-year-old male patient who came to the emergency room (ER) with a COVID-19 clinical manifestation followed by positive PCR nasopharyngeal swab result. He was assessed to have acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), as shown by rapid progression of hypoxemic respiratory failure and bilateral pulmonary infiltrate. He was then treated with moxifloxacin, remdesivir, dexamethasone, unfractionated heparin (UFH) pump, and multivitamins. During admission, his respiratory symptoms got worse, so he transferred to the ICU for NIV support. On the ninth day of admission, he had gross hematuria followed by a rapid fall of platelet count. We used two different scoring systems (4Ts and HEP scoring system) to confirm the diagnosis of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). Following the discontinuation of UFH injection, the thrombocyte continued to rise, and hematuria disappeared.

Conclusion: Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia is associated with an increased risk of severe disease and mortality among COVID-19 patients. The differential diagnosis of HIT could be difficult as thrombocytopenia can also be caused by the progression of infection. We use two scoring systems (4Ts and HEP scoring) in order to help us managing the patient. These could improve the outcomes, thus avoiding morbidity and mortality.
Factors associated with inadequate urinary iodine concentration among pregnant women in Mbeya region Tanzania.
Authors: Lukindo Tedson , Masumo Ray , Hancy Adam , John Sauli E. , Paulo Heavenlight A. , Sanga Abraham , Noor Ramadhan , Lankoande Fatoumata , Towo Elifatio , Leyna Germana H. , Bridge Gemma , Bedi Raman
Published: August 2021

Background: Deficient and excess iodine intake during pregnancy can lead to serious health problems. In Tanzania, information available on iodine status during pregnancy is minimal. The aim of this study was to assess the iodine status and its association with sociodemographic factors in pregnant women in the Mbeya region, Tanzania. Method: A cross sectional survey involving 420 pregnant women (n=420) aged between 15-49 years registered in antenatal care clinics was conducted. Data were collected via interviews and laboratory analysis of urinary iodine concentration (UIC). Results: Median UIC was 279.4μg/L (+/-26.1) to 1915μg/L. Insufficient iodine intake (UIC below 150μg/L) was observed in 17.14% of participants, sufficient intake in 24.29% and 58.57% had intakes above the recommended level (>250μg/L). Rungwe district council (DC) had the highest proportion of patients (27.9%) with low iodine levels, while Chunya and Mbarali DCs had the greatest proportion of those with UIC’s, over the WHO recommended level. Fish consumption and education status were associated with increased risk of insufficient iodine while individuals in Mbalali DC aged between 35-49 years were associated with increased risk of UIC above recommended level. Conclusion: Both deficient and excess iodine intake remains a public health problem, especially in pregnant women in Tanzania. Therefore, educational programs on iodine intake are needed to ensure this population has an appropriate iodine intake to prevent any health risks to the mother and the unborn child.
Seroprevalence and risk factors of SARS-CoV-2 infection in an urban informal settlement in Nairobi, Kenya, December 2020
Authors: Munywoki Patrick K , Nasimiyu Caroline , Alando Moshe Dayan , Otieno Nancy , Ombok Cynthia , Njoroge Ruth , Kikwai Gilbert , Odhiambo, Dennis , Osita Mike Powel , Ouma Alice , Odour Clifford , Juma Bonventure , Ochieng Caroline A , Mutisya Immaculate , Ngere Isaac , Dawa Jeanette , Osoro Eric , Njenga M Kariuki , Bigogo Godfrey , Munyua Peninah , Lo Terrence Q , Hunsperger Elizabeth , Herman-Roloff Amy
Published: August 2021

Introduction: Urban informal settlements may be disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic due to overcrowding and other socioeconomic challenges that make adoption and implementation of public health mitigation measures difficult. We conducted a seroprevalence survey in the Kibera informal settlement, Nairobi, Kenya, to determine the extent of SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Methods: Members of randomly selected households from an existing population-based infectious disease surveillance (PBIDS) provided blood specimens between 27th November and 5th December 2020. The specimens were tested for antibodies to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Seroprevalence estimates were weighted by age and sex distribution of the PBIDS population and accounted for household clustering. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for individual seropositivity.  

Results: Consent was obtained from 523 individuals in 175 households, yielding 511 serum specimens that were tested. The overall weighted seroprevalence was 43.3% (95% CI, 37.4 – 49.5%) and did not vary by sex. Of the sampled households, 122(69.7%) had at least one seropositive individual. The individual seroprevalence increased by age from 7.6% (95% CI, 2.4 – 21.3%) among children (<5 years), 32.7% (95% CI, 22.9 – 44.4%) among children 5 – 9 years, 41.8% (95% CI, 33.0 – 51.1%) for those 10-19 years, and 54.9%(46.2 – 63.3%) for adults (≥20 years). Relative to those from medium-sized households (3 and 4 individuals), participants from large (≥5 persons) households had significantly increased odds of being seropositive, aOR, 1.98(95% CI, 1.17 – 1.58), while those from small-sized households (≤2 individuals) had increased odds but not statistically significant, aOR, 2.31 (95% CI, 0.93 – 5.74). 

Conclusion: In densely populated urban settings, close to half of the individuals had an infection to SARS-CoV-2 after eight months of the COVID-19 pandemic in Kenya. This highlights the importance to prioritize mitigation measures, including COVID-19 vaccine distribution, in the crowded, low socioeconomic settings.
The impact of COVID-19 on people ageing with an intellectual disability in Ireland: Protocol for a follow-up survey
Authors: McCarron Mary , Allen Andrew , McCausland Darren , Haigh Margaret , Luus Retha , Bavussantakath Fathima Rosmin , Sheerin Fintan , Mulryan Niamh , Burke Eilish , McGlinchey Eimear , Flannery Fidelma , McCallion Philip
Published: August 2021

Background:  The COVID-19 pandemic and associated lockdowns have had a dramatic impact on many people, but individuals with an intellectual disability, given the prevalence of congregate living and high levels of co-morbid conditions, may be particularly vulnerable at this time. A prior initial survey of participants of the Intellectual Disability Supplement to the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (IDS-TILDA) found that, despite a majority of participants being tested, only a small proportion had tested positive for COVID-19. Furthermore, despite some reporting positive aspects to the lockdown, a similar proportion were experiencing stress or anxiety during the pandemic. The pandemic and lockdowns have continued, and it is possible that experiences and consequences have changed over time.

Aim: To explore over time and in greater depth the impact of COVID-19 and associated lockdowns and to further establish rates of infection, rates of vaccination and participants’ experiences.

Methods: A structured questionnaire for people with intellectual disability participating in the IDS-TILDA longitudinal study, to be administered by telephone/video in summer 2021. Where participants are unable to respond independently, a proxy respondent will be invited to either assist the participant or answer questions on their behalf. This questionnaire will include questions from the first COVID-19 questionnaire, with extra questions assessing “long COVID” (i.e. COVID-19 lasting for 12 weeks or longer), infection control behaviours, changes in mental health, social contacts and loneliness, frailty, healthcare, and incidence of vaccination.

Impact: The results of this survey will be used to inform healthcare provision for people with intellectual disability during the latter stages of the lockdown and into the future.
Reptiles in the Pontianak and Kubu Raya Residental Area, West Kalimantan, Indonesia
Authors: Setiadi Anandita Eka , RAHAYU HANUM MUKTI
Published: August 2021

Abstract. Setiadi AE, Rahayu HM. 2021. Reptiles in the Pontianak and Kubu Raya Residental Area, West Kalimantan, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 22: 2763-2770. The increase in population is directly proportional to housing needs. Expansion of residential areas can threaten the diversity of reptiles in West Kalimantan. This study aims to inventory and identify the diversity of reptiles in residential areas in Pontianak and Kubu Raya, West Kalimantan province, Indonesia. This research gives a better understanding of reptilian urban species to support monitoring and evaluation of biodiversity in West Kalimantan. This research uses the descriptive exploratory method. Four study areas were selected based on a proportion of impervious surfaces. Data collection used the VES (Visual Encounter Survey). Identification refers to Reptile field guides and identification books. The data were analyzed descriptively qualitatively, the level reptile diversity was analyzed using the Shannon Diversity Index, and the similarities of reptiles between the residential area in Pontianak and Kubu Raya were assessed using the Jaccard similarity coefficient. The results showed, from 50 individual reptiles found in Pontianak and Kubu Raya, there were 13 reptile species from the order Squamata and the order Testudines. The Shannon-Wiener Diversity Index of 2.26 and Jaccard similarity coefficient 0.384, indicating that the level of diversity of reptile species in the two study areas is classified as moderate.
The commercial potential of forest trees as medicinal and health ingredients
Authors: Hidayat Syamsul , Zuhud Ervizal A.M. , Widyatmoko Didik , BAHRUNI Bahruni , Batubara Irmanida
Published: August 2021

Abstract. Hidayat S, Zuhud EAM, Widyatmoko D, Bahruni, Batubara I. 2021. The commercial potential of forest trees as medicinal and health ingredients. Biodiversitas 22: 2795-2804.  Indonesian forests contain many trees that belong to medicinal plants classified as non-timber forest products (NTFP). Although these plants have been used from generation to generation by several ethnic groups and even some of them have become commercial goods, many species have not received special attention in terms of their cultivation. This study aimed to explore the commercial value of forest trees as medicinal ingredients and obtain a recommended ranking for their cultivation. The method used was market surveys to herbal stores and questionnaires to experts related to medicinal plants. The results showed that there are 59 species of forest trees used as medicinal ingredients and health supplements. Cinnamomum burmanni, Morinda citrifolia, and Moringa oleifera have the most diverse commercial products in drugs and health stores. These three species also have active ingredients that potentially substitute for chemical drugs. Following the advice of medicinal plant experts, these three species are also included in the ten species recommended for immediate cultivation.
Short Communication: Curcuma wanenlueanga (Zingiberaceae), a new species of subgenus Curcuma from Thailand
Authors: Saensouk Surapon , Boonma Thawatphong , THOMUDTHA ADISAK , THOMUDTHA PARIYA , Saensouk Piyaporn
Published: August 2021

Abstract. Saensouk S, Boonma T, Thomudtha A, Thomudtha P, Saensouk P. 2021. Short Communication: Curcuma wanenlueanga (Zingiberaceae), a new species of subgenus Curcuma from Thailand. Biodiversitas 22: 2988-2994. Curcuma wanenlueanga Saensouk, Thomudtha & Boonma, a new species of Curcuma subgenus Curcuma (Zingiberaceae) from Thailand was described with detailed illustrations, and photographs. The dominant morphological description is terminal inflorescence, leaf adaxially green with reddish-purple along the midrib, leaf-sheath with reddish-brown tinge. Moreover, the color and smell rhizome of C. wanenlueanga has yellow with a darker core internally. It is distributed in Mae Hong Son Province, Northern Thailand, and cultivated throughout the country, i.e. Nakhon Nayok, Maha Sarakham, Chiang Mai, Tak, Chantaburi, Suratthani, and Kanchanaburi Provinces. It is used as Thai traditional medicinal. It grows in in sandy loam soil and well-drained in the mixed-deciduous forest, at elevation 700-900 m asl. It is accompanied by a revised key to 26 species of Curcuma subgenus Curcuma from Thailand.
Plant diversity, structure and composition of vegetation around Barumun Watershed, North Sumatra, Indonesia
Authors: Rambey Ridahati , SUSILOWATI ARIDA , RANGKUTI AHMAD BAIQUNI , ONRIZAL ONRIZAL , DESRITA DESRITA , ARDI RIO , HARTANTO ADRIAN
Published: August 2021

Abstract. Rambey R, Susilowati A, Rangkuti AB, Onrizal O, Desrita, Ardhi R, Hartanto A. 2021. Plant diversity, structure and composition of vegetation around Barumun Watershed, North Sumatra, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 22: 3250-3256. Watershed ecosystem plays an important role in water and soil conservation which is supported by vegetation around watershed. As such, vegetation analysis is beneficial to assess the current state of watershed vegetation and monitor future changes. Barumun Watershed, located in South Labuhanbatu District, North Sumatra Province, Indonesia, is under threat due to habitat degradation and land conversion for plantation and agriculture. This research aimed to investigate the diversity, structure and composition of vegetation in the Barumun River including its smaller streams (rivulets). Data were collected using a combination of line transect and quadratic plots arranged systematically. The total observation plots were 48 plots, consisting of 24 plots in Barumun River, 12 plots in Tasik Rivulet and 12 plots in Titi Kembar Rivulet. The results documented a total of 51 plants in the studied sites in Barumun Watershed in which 37 species were found in Barumun River, 20 species in Tasik Rivulet and 17 species in the Titi Kembar Rivulet. Plant species consisted of several habitus including herbs, palms, shrubs, climbers and trees. The trees consisted of 22 species (43.13%), herbs 22 species (43.13%), climbers 3 species (5.88%), shrubs two species (3.92%), and palm two species (3.92%). The highest Importance Value Index (IVI) for tree community was recorded in the Barumun River from Hevea brasiliensis (108.28), followed by Cryptocarya sp. (123.24) in the Titi Kembar Rivulet. In addition, the highest IVI for pole, sapling, seedling, and shrub was recorded from Muntingia calabura (Barumun River), Nauclea orientalis (Tasik Rivulet), Psychotria viridiflora (Tasik Rivulet), and Calamus axillaris (Titi Kembar Rivulet), respectively. The plant diversity in Barumun Watershed was categorized from low to moderate level of richness.
Diversity and cellulolytic activity of culturable bacteria isolated from the gut of higher termites (Odontotermes sp.) in eastern Thailand
Authors: Boontanom Parima , Chantarasiri Aiya
Published: August 2021

Abstract. Boontanom P, Chantarasiri A. 2021. Diversity and cellulolytic activity of culturable bacteria isolated from the gut of higher termites (Odontotermes sp.) in eastern Thailand. Biodiversitas 22: 3349-3357. Cellulolytic bacteria are vital symbionts associated with the gut of all higher termites. Odontotermes termites are a higher termite widely found in Thailand. However, information concerning the diversity of cellulolytic bacteria in this termite gut remains inadequate. The aim of this study is to isolate and identify the culturable cellulolytic bacteria from the Odontotermes gut collected from eastern Thailand. The crude cellulases produced from the most active cellulolytic bacterium were further characterized. Thirty-two cellulolytic bacteria were isolated and subsequently classified by PCR-RFLP of the 16S rRNA gene. A total of 10 different RFLP patterns were obtained belonging to five bacterial genera, namely Acinetobacter, Bacillus, Citrobacter, Paenibacillus, and Serratia. The B. cereus strain TWV503 was considered to be the most active cellulolytic bacterium based on the CMC agar method. B. cereus strain TWV503 showed CMCase activity at 2.190 ± 0.063 U/mL of CMCase and 0.276 ± 0.031 U/mL of FPase. The optimum temperature and pH for CMCase activity were 50°C and the neutral pH ranging from 7.0 to 8.0, respectively. CMCase activity remained stable at up to 70°C and neutral pH ranging from 7.0 to 8.0 for 24 hours of incubation. This study revealed novel information related to cellulolytic bacteria isolated from the gut of Odontotermes termites collected from Thailand.
Femtosecond diode-based time lens laser for multiphoton microscopy
Authors: Lange Simmons Y. , Underwood Kenneth J. , Supekar Omkar D. , Heffernan Brendan M. , Welton Tarah A. , Gibson Emily A. , Gopinath Juliet T.
Published: August 2021

We demonstrate a near-infrared, femtosecond, diode laser-based source with kW peak power for two-photon microscopy. At a wavelength of 976 nm, the system produces sub-ps pulses operating at a repetition rate of 10 MHz with kilowatt class peak powers suitable for deep tissue two-photon microscopy. The system, integrated with a laser-scanning microscope, images to a depth of 900 µm in a fixed sample of PLP-eGFP labeled mouse brain tissue. This represents a significant development that will lead to more efficient, compact, and accessible laser sources for biomedical imaging.
Analysis of intracellular protein dynamics in living zebrafish embryos using light-sheet fluorescence single-molecule microscopy
Authors: Bernardello Matteo , Gora Radoslaw J. , Van Hage Patrick , Castro-Olvera Gustavo , Gualda Emilio J. , Schaaf Marcel J. M. , Loza-Alvarez Pablo
Published: August 2021

Single-molecule microscopy techniques have emerged as useful tools to image individual molecules and analyze their dynamics inside cells, but their application has mostly been restricted to cell cultures. Here, a light-sheet fluorescence microscopy setup is presented for imaging individual proteins inside living zebrafish embryos. The optical configuration makes this design accessible to many laboratories and a dedicated sample-mounting system ensures sample viability and mounting flexibility. Using this setup, we have analyzed the dynamics of individual glucocorticoid receptors, which demonstrates that this approach creates multiple possibilities for the analysis of intracellular protein dynamics in intact living organisms.
Improved analysis of measurement-device-independent quantum key distribution with non-phase-randomized coherent states
Authors: Zhu Yan , Zhang Chun-Mei
Published: August 2021

Measurement-device-independent quantum key distribution (MDI-QKD) can remove all detector side-channel attacks, which can be implemented with phase-randomized coherent states (PRCS) or non-phase-randomized coherent states (NPRCS). In this paper, we focus on the MDI-QKD protocol with NPRCS and provide an improved analysis. In contrast with the original MDI-QKD with NPRCS which modulates the same intensity of coherent states in the key and test bases, we propose to modulate different intensities of coherent states in the key and test bases. Simulation results show that the secret key rate and transmission distance of MDI-QKD with NPRCS can be significantly improved. Furthermore, it is noteworthy that the modulation of different intensities does not bring extra complexity for experimental researchers, which can be easily done by adding an intensity modulator.
Surface measuring coherence scanning interferometry beyond the specular reflection limit
Authors: Thomas Matthew , Su Rong , de Groot Peter , Coupland Jeremy , Leach Richard
Published: August 2021

The capability of optical surface topography measurement methods for measurement of steep and tilted surfaces is investigated through modelling of a coherence scanning interferometer. Of particular interest is the effect on the interference signal and measured topography when tilting the object at angles larger than the numerical aperture slope limit (i.e. the specular reflection limit) of the instrument. Here we use theoretical modelling to predict the results across a range of tilt angles for a blazed diffraction grating. The theoretically predicted interference patterns and surface height measurements are then verified directly with experimental measurements. Results illustrate the capabilities, limitations and modelling methods for interferometers to measure beyond the specular reflection limit.
Ultra-fast dynamic line-field optical coherence elastography
Authors: Singh Manmohan , Schill Alexander W. , Nair Achuth , Aglyamov Salavat R. , Larina Irina V. , Larin Kirill V.
Published: August 2021

In this work, we present an ultra-fast line-field optical coherence elastography system (LF-OCE) with an 11.5 MHz equivalent A-line rate. The system was composed of a line-field spectral domain optical coherence tomography system based on a supercontinuum light source, Michelson-type interferometer, and a high-speed 2D spectrometer. The system performed ultra-fast imaging of elastic waves in tissue-mimicking phantoms of various elasticities. The results corroborated well with mechanical testing. Following validation, LF-OCE measurements were made in in situ and in in vivo rabbit corneas under various conditions. The results show the capability of the system to rapidly image elastic waves in tissues.
Generation of a dual optical frequency comb by large signal modulation of a semiconductor laser
Authors: Krstić Marko M. , Crnjanski Jasna V. , Banović Mladen Ž. , Vasiljević Ivana S. , Gvozdić Dejan M.
Published: August 2021

In this paper, we present and theoretically investigate a simple and
power efficient scheme for dual optical frequency comb generation
residing on a single directly modulated semiconductor laser driven by
two superimposed current waveforms. Our detailed model estimates dual
combs comprising teeth pairs within 20 dB margin spanning up to
116 GHz with power per teeth pair up to 8.8 µW. In addition, we report
dual combs with 40 GHz span comprising ultraflat teeth pairs, with
flatness of the order of 1 dB.
A Y-linked anti-Müllerian hormone type-II receptor is the sex-determining gene in ayu, Plecoglossus altivelis
Authors: Nakamoto Masatoshi , Uchino Tsubasa , Koshimizu Eriko , Kuchiishi Yudai , Sekiguchi Ryota , Wang Liu , Sudo Ryusuke , Endo Masato , Guiguen Yann , Schartl Manfred , Postlethwait John H. , Sakamoto Takashi
Published: August 2021

Whole-genome duplication and genome compaction are thought to have played important roles in teleost fish evolution. Ayu (or sweetfish), Plecoglossus altivelis, belongs to the superorder Stomiati, order Osmeriformes. Stomiati is phylogenetically classified as sister taxa of Neoteleostei. Thus, ayu holds an important position in the fish tree of life. Although ayu is economically important for the food industry and recreational fishing in Japan, few genomic resources are available for this species. To address this problem, we produced a draft genome sequence of ayu by whole-genome shotgun sequencing and constructed linkage maps using a genotyping-by-sequencing approach. Syntenic analyses of ayu and other teleost fish provided information about chromosomal rearrangements during the divergence of Stomiati, Protacanthopterygii and Neoteleostei. The size of the ayu genome indicates that genome compaction occurred after the divergence of the family Osmeridae. Ayu has an XX/XY sex-determination system for which we identified sex-associated loci by a genome-wide association study by genotyping-by-sequencing and whole-genome resequencing using wild populations. Genome-wide association mapping using wild ayu populations revealed three sex-linked scaffolds (total, 2.03 Mb). Comparison of whole-genome resequencing mapping coverage between males and females identified male-specific regions in sex-linked scaffolds. A duplicate copy of the anti-Müllerian hormone type-II receptor gene (amhr2bY) was found within these male-specific regions, distinct from the autosomal copy of amhr2. Expression of the Y-linked amhr2 gene was male-specific in sox9b-positive somatic cells surrounding germ cells in undifferentiated gonads, whereas autosomal amhr2 transcripts were detected in somatic cells in sexually undifferentiated gonads of both genetic males and females. Loss-of-function mutation for amhr2bY induced male to female sex reversal. Taken together with the known role of Amh and Amhr2 in sex differentiation, these results indicate that the paralog of amhr2 on the ayu Y chromosome determines genetic sex, and the male-specific amh-amhr2 pathway is critical for testicular differentiation in ayu.
Antibody activities in hyperimmune plasma against the Rhodococcus equi virulence -associated protein A or poly-N-acetyl glucosamine are associated with protection of foals against rhodococcal pneumonia
Authors: Kahn Susanne K. , Cywes-Bentley Colette , Blodgett Glenn P. , Canaday Nathan M. , Turner-Garcia Carly E. , Vinacur Mariana , Cortez-Ramirez Sophia C. , Sutter Patrick J. , Meyer Sarah C. , Bordin Angela I. , Vlock Daniel R. , Pier Gerald B. , Cohen Noah D.
Published: August 2021

The efficacy of transfusion with hyperimmune plasma (HIP) for preventing pneumonia caused byRhodococcus equiremains ill-defined. Quarter Horse foals at 2 large breeding farms were randomly assigned to be transfused with 2 L of HIP from adult donors hyperimmunized either withR.equi(RE HIP) or a conjugate vaccine eliciting antibody to the surface polysaccharide β-1→6-poly-N-acetyl glucosamine (PNAG HIP) within 24 hours of birth. Antibody activities against PNAG and the rhodococcal virulence-associated protein A (VapA), and to deposition of complement component 1q (C՛1q) onto PNAG were determined by ELISA, and then associated with either clinical pneumonia at Farm A (n = 119) or subclinical pneumonia at Farm B (n = 114). Data were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression. Among RE HIP-transfused foals, the odds of pneumonia were approximately 6-fold higher (P = 0.0005) among foals with VapA antibody activity ≤ the population median. Among PNAG HIP-transfused foals, the odds of pneumonia were approximately 3-fold (P = 0.0347) and 11-fold (P = 0.0034) higher for foals with antibody activities ≤ the population median for PNAG or C՛1q deposition, respectively. Results indicated that levels of activity of antibodies againstR.equiantigens are correlates of protection against both subclinical and clinicalR.equipneumonia in field settings. Among PNAG HIP-transfused foals, activity of antibodies with C՛1q deposition (an indicator of functional antibodies) were a stronger predictor of protection than was PNAG antibody activity alone. Collectively, these findings suggest that the amount and activity of antibodies in HIP (i.e., plasma volume and/or antibody activity) is positively associated with protection againstR.equipneumonia in foals.
Efficacy of the new β-D-glucan measurement kit for diagnosing invasive fungal infections, as compared with that of four conventional kits
Authors: Bamba Yuuki , Nagano Kei , Moro Hiroshi , Ogata Hideyuki , Hakamata Mariko , Shibata Satoshi , Koizumi Takeshi , Aoki Nobumasa , Ohshima Yasuyoshi , Watanabe Satoshi , Nakamura Takeshi , Kobayashi Sugako , Hoshiyama Yoshiki , Koya Toshiyuki , Takada Toshinori , Kikuchi Toshiaki
Published: August 2021

Background

Each of the currently available (1→3)-β-D-glucan (BDG) measurement kits follows a different measurement method and cut-off value. Comparisons of diagnostic performance for invasive fungal infections (IFIs) are desirable. Additionally, ecological considerations are becoming increasingly important in the development of new measurement kits.

Methods

The plasma BDG levels in clinical samples were measured using the following currently available kits: the Fungitec G test MKII, the Fungitec G test ES, Fungitell, the β-Glucan test Wako, and the newly developed Wako kit (Wako-Eu). Wako-Eu uses a pre-treatment solution that conforms to European regulations for the registration, evaluation, authorisation, and restriction of chemicals. The values obtained for the samples using each kit were studied and compared.

Results

Of the 165 patients evaluated, 12 had IFIs, including pneumocystis pneumonia, aspergillosis, and candidiasis. BDG values obtained using the kits were moderately correlated with each other. Clinical diagnoses of the evaluated cases indicated that 21 false positives were diagnosed by at least one kit. The sensitivity of the Fungitell kit was relatively low, but those of the other four were over 90%. The specificity was above 90% for all kits. For positive predictive value, the Wako and the Wako-Eu methods were superior to the others owing to fewer false positive results.

Conclusions

The newly developed Wako-Eu method, which considers ecological concerns, shows diagnostic performance equivalent to that of its predecessor. To improve the diagnostic accuracy of IFIs, it is necessary to interpret the results carefully, giving due consideration to the characteristics of each measurement kit.
“Mass gathering events and COVID-19 transmission in Borriana (Spain): A retrospective cohort study”
Authors: Domènech-Montoliu Salvador , Pac-Sa Maria Rosario , Vidal-Utrillas Paula , Latorre-Poveda Marta , Del Rio-González Alba , Ferrando-Rubert Sara , Ferrer-Abad Gema , Sánchez-Urbano Manuel , Aparisi-Esteve Laura , Badenes-Marques Gema , Cervera-Ferrer Belén , Clerig-Arnau Ursula , Dols-Bernad Claudia , Fontal-Carcel Maria , Gomez-Lanas Lorna , Jovani-Sales David , León-Domingo Maria Carmen , Llopico-Vilanova Maria Dolores , Moros-Blasco Mercedes , Notari-Rodríguez Cristina , Ruíz-Puig Raquel , Valls-López Sonia , Arnedo-Pena Alberto
Published: August 2021

Objective

Mass gathering events (MGEs) are associated with the transmission of COVID-19. Between 6 and 10 March 2020, several MGEs related to theFallesfestival took place in Borriana, a municipality in the province of Castellon (Spain). The aim of this study was to estimate the incidence of COVID-19 and its association with these MGEs, and to quantify the potential risk factors of its occurrence.

Methods

During May and June 2020, a population-based retrospective cohort study was carried out by the Public Health Center of Castelló and the Hospital de la Plana in Vila-real. Participants were obtained from a representative sample of 1663 people with potential exposure at six MGEs. A questionnaire survey was carried out to obtain information about attendance at MGEs and COVID-19 disease. In addition, a serologic survey of antibodies against SARS-Cov-2 was implemented. Inverse probability weighted regression was used in the statistical analysis.

Results

A total of 1338 subjects participated in the questionnaire survey (80.5%), 997 of whom undertook the serologic survey. Five hundred and seventy cases were observed with an attack rate (AR) of 42.6%; average age was 36 years, 62.3% were female, 536 cases were confirmed by laboratory tests, and 514 cases were found with SARS-CoV-2 total antibodies. Considering MGE exposure, AR was 39.2% (496/1264). A dose-response relationship was found between MGE attendance and the disease, (adjusted relative risk [aRR] = 4.11 95% confidence interval [CI]3.25–5.19). Two MGEs with a dinner and dance in the same building had higher risks. Associated risk factors with the incidence were older age, obesity, and upper and middle class versus lower class; current smoking was protective.

Conclusions

The study suggests the significance of MGEs in the COVID-19 transmission that could explain the subsequent outbreak in Borriana.
Sleep disorders and associated factors in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Patery Sari Wardhani Mahligai , Sunartini Sunartini , Sutomo Retno
Published: August 2021

Background Sleep disorders are a condition affecting quality and quantity of sleep. Children with cerebral palsy (CP) have higher risk of sleep disorders than those with no chronic disease.

Objective To determine the prevalence and factors associated with sleep disorders in children with CP.

Methods We conducted an analytic, observational study with cross-sectional design in children aged 4-10 years with CP. Subjects were recruited consecutively; children with chronic diseases (cardiovascular, malignancy, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and diabetes mellitus) were excluded from the study. Primary data including sociodemographics, intensity of physiotherapy outside Sardjito General Hospital (SGH), sleep hygiene, and sleep disorders were collected from the Children’s Sleep Habit Questionnaire (CSHQ). Secondary data were acquired from medical records, such as type of CP, severity of motor function impairment, presence of epilepsy, intensity of physiotherapy performed at SGH, as well as anti-epileptic, anti-spastic, and sleep-affecting medicines.

Results We found sleep disorders in 64 of 75 (85%) subjects, mostly bedtime resistance (66%). Spastic quadriplegia (OR=3.63; 95%CI 1.82 to15.94) and presence of epilepsy (OR=7.82; 95%CI 1.53 to 39.84) were significantly associated with sleep disorders in children with CP aged 4-10 years.

Conclusion Sleep disorders are common in children with CP, with the majority experiencing bedtime resistance. Sleep disorders are more prevalent in subjects with spastic quadriplegia and epilepsy.
Differential expression of Arabidopsis EJC core proteins under short-day and long-day growth conditions
Authors: Sahoo Annapurna , Satapathy Kunja Bihari
Published: August 2021

Exon junction complexes (EJCs) associate with mRNAs, mediate the pre-mRNA splicing and eventually gets displaced by ribosomes during the initial phase of translation. EJCs are involved in several critical physiological pathways. The functional nature of EJCs and the underlying molecular mechanism(s) still needs to be elucidated particularly in case of plants. Here, we report that the putative core protein factors of the EJC differentially express under short-day and long-day conditions. Since, plants are constantly exposed to biotic and abiotic factor(s), it would be significant to see how the EJCs respond to different stress inducing conditions. The protein levels of EJC core proteins under short-day conditions were 1.25 times higher relative to the protein levels under long-day conditions. Similar results were observed for the mRNA transcripts of the EJC core protein factors. These results signify that under short-day conditions, the EJC proteins are more activated and might be involved in few events which are yet to be revealed.