bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a Natural Preservative from Chestnut Flowers: Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction Optimization and Functionality Assessment
Authors: Alaya Ikbel ben , Pereira Eliana , Dias Maria Inês , Pinela José , Calhelha Ricardo C. , Soković Marina , Kostić Marina , Prieto Miguel A. , Essid Faten , Caleja Cristina , Ferreira Isabel C. F. R. , Barros Lillian
Published: June 2021

This study was carried out with the aim of optimizing the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) of phenolic compounds from male chestnut flowers (C. sativa Mill) to develop a bioactive extract with potential to be used as a natural antioxidant preservative ingredient in the food industry. Time (t, 1–39 min), solvent concentration (S, 0–100%), and ultrasonic power (P, 5–500 W) were used as the independent variables for a 5-level experimental circumscribed central composite design (CCCD) coupled with response surface methodology (RSM) to optimize the extraction of phenolic compounds by UAE. Regarding the variables, the three showed a significant effect on the extraction of phenolic compounds. The content of phenolic compounds (including flavonoids and tannins) and the extraction yield (extract weight gravimetrically assessed) were the response criteria for the optimization. Based on the statistically validated predictive polynomial models, it was possible to reach a maximum content of phenolic compounds at the global optimal conditions of 24 ± 3 min, 259 ± 16 W, and 51 ± 7% ethanol. Additionally, pentagalloyl-glucoside and trigalloyl-hexahydroxydiphenoyl-glucoside were the major phenolic compounds identified. The optimized extract was then analyzed for their biological properties. The bioactive potential of the chestnut flower extract obtained under these optimized conditions was evaluated using in vitro assays for antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activity, as well as cytotoxicity and hepatotoxicity tests. The results revealed that the enriched extract has antioxidant, antitumoral, and anti-inflammatory activities without toxicity issues. Overall, this study allowed to define the optimal conditions for the extraction of phenolic compounds from chestnuts male flowers by UAE, to obtain an enriched extract with biological properties that could be further used as a natural antioxidant ingredient with applications on functional foods.
Association of Family Nutrition and Physical Activity with Preschooler’s Working Memory: A Cross-Sectional Study among Mexican Children
Authors: Aguayo Liliana , Pineros-Leano Maria , Alam Rifat B. , Aguirre-Pereyra Rosalba , Schwingel Andiara , Cunningham Solveig A.
Published: June 2021

Healthy eating and active lifestyles are associated with children’s healthy weight and cognitive development. This study examines whether family behaviors relevant for nutrition and activity levels are associated with children’s working memory, independent of their weight status. A convenience sample of child–caregiver dyads (n = 85 dyads) were recruited from a public preschool serving a low-income community in central Mexico. Caregivers reported the frequency of ten family behaviors using the Family Nutrition and Physical Activity screening tool. Children completed a test of their ability to recall four words after a 60-s distraction task, an assessment of working memory. Multiple linear regression models were used to test the association of children’s working memory with each family behavior, adjusting for children’s sex, age, mother’s age and education, and subjective social status and then also adjusting for children’s age- and sex-specific body mass index percentile (BMI-P) and covariates. Higher frequency of breakfast intake was significantly associated with working memory (β = 0.57, p = 0.013). This association was independent of children’s BMI-P. Other family behaviors (frequent family mealtimes, limiting screen time, and others) were not significantly associated with children’s working memory. Frequent breakfast intake could benefit young children’s working memory, regardless of their weight status. This association merits further investigation.
Prevalence, Antibiogram and Genetic Characterization of Listeria monocytogenes from Food Products in Egypt
Authors: Abdeen Eman E. , Mousa Walid S. , Harb Ola. H. , Fath-Elbab Gehad A. , Nooruzzaman Mohammed , Gaber Ahmed , Alsanie Walaa F. , Abdeen Ahmed
Published: June 2021

World Health Organization classified Listeria monocytogenes as a major notable foodborne pathogen associated with high mortality and hospitalization. The study reports the prevalence, antibiogram, virulence determination and genetic characterization of L. monocytogenes from different food products. A total of 250 food samples, fifty samples each from raw milk, ice cream, minced meat, fish fillet and sausage were collected from the Menoufiya governorate in Egypt. L. monocytogenes was detected in 17 (6.8%) of the tested food samples including minced meat (14%), fish fillet (8%), sausage (6%) and raw milk (6%). The antimicrobial susceptibility assay of 17 L. monocytogenes isolates against seventeen antibiotics belonging to eight antibiotics classes revealed a high susceptibility to norfloxacin (82.3%), amoxicillin-clavulanic acid (76.4%), cefotaxime (70.5%), erythromycin (64.6%), amoxicillin (64.6%), gentamicin (58.7%) and vancomycin (58.7%). While, high resistance was observed against oxytetracycline (76.4%), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (76.4%), chloramphenicol (70.5%), doxycycline (64.6%), levofloxacin (41.2%) and azithromycin (41.2%). Of note, all L. monocytogenes isolates were multidrug-resistant. The multiplex PCR successfully amplified L. monocytogenes in all tested isolates. Screening of the five virulence-related genes revealed the hlyA and iap as the most prevalent genes followed by actA gene, however, the inlA and prfA genes were not detected in any of the studied isolates. The partial 16S rRNA gene sequencing of three L. monocytogenes isolates showed a high nucleotide similarity (99.1–99.8%) between the study isolates and various global clones, and phylogenetic analysis clustered these L. monocytogenes strains with other Listeria species including L. welshimeri, L. seeligeri and L. innocua. This study demonstrates the impact of L. monocytogenes as a major contaminant of various food products and suggests more attention to the awareness and hygienic measures in the food industry.
European Clinical Neuropsychology: Role in Healthcare and Access to Neuropsychological Services
Authors: Kasten Erich , Barbosa Fernando , Kosmidis Mary H. , Persson Bengt A. , Constantinou Marios , Baker Gus A. , Lettner Sandra , Hokkanen Laura , Ponchel Amélie , Mondini Sara , Jonsdottir Maria K. , Varako Nataliya , Nikolai Tomas , Pranckeviciene Aiste , Harper Lauren , Hessen Erik
Published: June 2021

This study analyzed aspects of the work of clinical neuropsychologists across Europe. There are no published comparisons between European countries regarding the nature of clinical neuropsychologists’ work. Forty-one national psychological and neuropsychological societies were approached, of which 31 (76%) responded. Data from seven countries with less than 10 neuropsychologists were excluded. A license is required to practice clinical neuropsychology in 50% of the countries. Clinical neuropsychologists work independently in 62.5%. Diagnostic/assessment work is the most frequently reported activity (54%). Most neuropsychologists work in public hospitals, followed by health centers. Adult neuropsychology was the most frequent area of activity. Services in public institutions are covered by public entities (45.8%), or by a combination of patient funds and public entities (29.2%) and only 4.2% by the patient; whereas services in private institutions are covered by the patient (26.1%) and the combination of patient, public entities (21.7%) or patient and private entities (17.4%). The data suggest that the number of neuropsychologists working across European countries is considerably low in comparison to other medical professionals. The results of the survey identified similar aspects of neuropsychologists’ work, despite variations in terms of reimbursement and mechanisms, reflecting economic and healthcare differences. Estimates on the number of clinical neuropsychologists suggest insufficient access to neuropsychological services.
Mental Health, Information and Being Connected: Qualitative Experiences of Social Media Use during the COVID-19 Pandemic from a Trans-National Sample
Authors: Schoultz Mariyana , Leung Janni , Bonsaksen Tore , Ruffolo Mary , Thygesen Hilde , Price Daicia , Geirdal Amy Østertun
Published: June 2021

Background: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the strict national policies regarding social distancing behavior in Europe, America and Australia, people became reliant on social media as a means for gathering information and as a tool for staying connected to family, friends and work. This is the first trans-national study exploring the qualitative experiences and challenges of using social media while in lockdown or shelter-in-place during the current pandemic. Methods: This study was part of a wider cross-sectional online survey conducted in Norway, the UK, USA and Australia during April/May 2020. The manuscript reports on the qualitative free-text component of the study asking about the challenges of social media users during the COVID-19 pandemic in the UK, USA and Australia. A total of 1991 responses were included in the analysis. Thematic analysis was conducted independently by two researchers. Results: Three overarching themes identified were: Emotional/Mental Health, Information and Being Connected. Participants experienced that using social media during the pandemic amplified anxiety, depression, fear, panic, anger, frustration and loneliness. They felt that there was information overload and social media was full of misleading or polarized opinions which were difficult to switch off. Nonetheless, participants also thought that there was an urge for connection and learning, which was positive and stressful at the same time. Conclusion: Using social media while in a shelter-in-place or lockdown could have a negative impact on the emotional and mental health of some of the population. To support policy and practice in strengthening mental health care in the community, social media could be used to deliver practical advice on coping and stress management. Communication with the public should be strengthened by unambiguous and clear messages and clear communication pathways. We should be looking at alternative ways of staying connected.
Investigation on Hydrodynamic Performance of Flapping Foil Interacting with Oncoming Von Kármán Wake of a D-Section Cylinder
Authors: Li Jian , Wang Peng , An Xiaoyi , Lyu Da , He Ruixuan , Zhang Baoshou
Published: June 2021

Flapping foils are studied to achieve an efficient propeller. The performance of the flapping foil is influenced by many factors such as oncoming vortices, heaving amplitude, and geometrical parameters. In this paper, investigations are performed on flapping foils to assess its performance in the wake of a D-section cylinder located half a diameter in front of the foil. The effects of heaving amplitude and foil thickness are examined. The results indicate that oncoming vortices facilitate the flapping motion. Although the thrust increases with the increasing heaving amplitude, the propelling efficiency decreases with it. Moreover, increasing thickness results in higher efficiency. The highest propelling efficiency is achieved when the heaving amplitude equals ten percent of the chord length with a symmetric foil type of NACA0050 foil. When the heaving amplitude is small, the influence of the thickness tends to be more remarkable. The propelling efficiency exceeds 100% and the heaving amplitude is 10% of the chord length when the commonly used equation is adopted. This result demonstrates that the flapping motion extracts some energy from the oncoming vortices. Based on the numerical results, a new parameter, the energy transforming ratio (RET), is applied to explicate the energy transforming procedure. The RET represents that the flapping foil is driven by the engine or both the engines and the oncoming vortices with the range of RET being (0, Infini) and (−1, 0), respectively. With what has been discussed in this paper, the oncoming wake of the D-section cylinder benefits the flapping motion which indicates that the macro underwater vehicle performs better following a bluff body.
Using Drones to Measure Jellyfish Density in Shallow Estuaries
Authors: Hamel Héloïse , Lhoumeau Sébastien , Wahlberg Magnus , Javidpour Jamileh
Published: June 2021

Understanding jellyfish ecology and roles in coastal ecosystems is challenging due to their patchy distribution. While standard net sampling or manned aircraft surveys are inefficient, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or drones represent a promising alternative for data collection. In this technical report, we used pictures taken from a small drone to estimate the density of Aurelia sp. in a shallow fjord with a narrow entrance, where the population dynamic is well-known. We investigated the ability of an image processing software to count small and translucent jellyfish from the drone pictures at three locations with different environmental conditions (sun glare, waves or seagrass). Densities of Aurelia sp. estimated from semiautomated and manual counts from drone images were similar to densities estimated by netting. The semiautomated program was able to highlight the medusae from the background in order to discard false detections of items unlikely to be jellyfish. In spite of this, some objects (e.g., seagrass) were hardly distinguishable from jellyfish and resulted in a small number of false positives. This report presents a preview of the possible applications of drones to observe small and fragile jellyfishes, for which in situ sampling remains delicate. Drones may represent a noninvasive approach to monitoring jellyfish abundance over time, enabling the collection of a large amount of data in a short time. Software development may be useful for automatically measuring jellyfish size and even population biomass.
Hericium erinaceus (Bull.) Pers. Ethanolic Extract with Antioxidant Properties on Scopolamine-Induced Memory Deficits in a Zebrafish Model of Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Valu Mihai-Vlad , Soare Liliana Cristina , Ducu Catalin , Moga Sorin , Negrea Denis , Vamanu Emanuel , Balseanu Tudor-Adrian , Carradori Simone , Hritcu Lucian , Boiangiu Razvan Stefan
Published: June 2021

Hericium erinaceus (H. erinaceus) is a rare and appreciated fungal species belonging to the division Basidiomycota used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine for its medicinal value. This species of mushrooms brings the most diverse benefits for the human body, and can have beneficial effects for treating Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This study investigated whether ethanolic extract from the fungal biomass of H. erinaceus enhances cognitive function via the action on cholinergic neurons using the scopolamine (SCOP)-induced zebrafish (Danio rerio) model of memory impairment. The ethanolic extract from the fungal biomass of H. erinaceus was previously obtained using an ultrasonic extraction method (UE). The administration of H. erinaceus extract to zebrafish, with a pattern of AD induced by scopolamine, showed an improvement in memory evaluated by behavioral and biochemical tests on brain tissue. These results suggest that H. erinaceus has preventive and therapeutic potentials in managing memory deficits and brain oxidative stress in zebrafish with AD.
Specific Functional Features of the Cell Integrity MAP Kinase Pathway in the Dimorphic Fission Yeast Schizosaccharomyces japonicus
Authors: Gómez-Gil Elisa , Franco Alejandro , Vázquez-Marín Beatriz , Prieto-Ruiz Francisco , Pérez-Díaz Armando , Vicente-Soler Jero , Madrid Marisa , Soto Teresa , Cansado José
Published: June 2021

Mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways execute essential functions in eukaryotic organisms by transducing extracellular stimuli into adaptive cellular responses. In the fission yeast model Schizosaccharomyces pombe the cell integrity pathway (CIP) and its core effector, MAPK Pmk1, play a key role during regulation of cell integrity, cytokinesis, and ionic homeostasis. Schizosaccharomyces japonicus, another fission yeast species, shows remarkable differences with respect to S. pombe, including a robust yeast to hyphae dimorphism in response to environmental changes. We show that the CIP MAPK module architecture and its upstream regulators, PKC orthologs Pck1 and Pck2, are conserved in both fission yeast species. However, some of S. pombe’s CIP-related functions, such as cytokinetic control and response to glucose availability, are regulated differently in S. japonicus. Moreover, Pck1 and Pck2 antagonistically regulate S. japonicus hyphal differentiation through fine-tuning of Pmk1 activity. Chimeric MAPK-swapping experiments revealed that S. japonicus Pmk1 is fully functional in S. pombe, whereas S. pombe Pmk1 shows a limited ability to execute CIP functions and promote S. japonicus mycelial development. Our findings also suggest that a modified N-lobe domain secondary structure within S. japonicus Pmk1 has a major influence on the CIP signaling features of this evolutionarily diverged fission yeast.
Development of an Intelligent Decision Support System for Attaining Sustainable Growth within a Life Insurance Company
Authors: Khan Mohammad Farhan , Haider Farnaz , Al-Hmouz Ahmed , Mursaleen Mohammad
Published: June 2021

Consumer behaviour is one of the most important and complex areas of research. It acknowledges the buying behaviour of consumer clusters towards any product, such as life insurance policies. Among various factors, the three most well-known determinants on which human conjecture depends for preferring a product are demographic, economic and psychographic factors, which can help in developing an accurate market design and strategy for the sustainable growth of a company. In this paper, the study of customer satisfaction with regard to a life insurance company is presented, which focused on comparing artificial intelligence-based, data-driven approaches to classical market segmentation approaches. In this work, an artificial intelligence-based decision support system was developed which utilises the aforementioned factors for the accurate classification of potential buyers. The novelty of this paper lies in developing supervised machine learning models that have a tendency to accurately identify the cluster of potential buyers with the help of demographic, economic and psychographic factors. By considering a combination of the factors that are related to the demographic, economic and psychographic elements, the proposed support vector machine model and logistic regression model-based decision support systems were able to identify the cluster of potential buyers with collective accuracies of 98.82% and 89.20%, respectively. The substantial accuracy of a support vector machine model would be helpful for a life insurance company which needs a decision support system for targeting potential customers and sustaining its share within the market.
An Operator-Based Scheme for the Numerical Integration of FDEs
Authors: Timofejeva Inga , Navickas Zenonas , Telksnys Tadas , Marcinkevicius Romas , Ragulskis Minvydas
Published: June 2021

An operator-based scheme for the numerical integration of fractional differential equations is presented in this paper. The generalized differential operator is used to construct the analytic solution to the corresponding characteristic ordinary differential equation in the form of an infinite power series. The approximate numerical solution is constructed by truncating the power series, and by changing the point of the expansion. The developed adaptive integration step selection strategy is based on the controlled error of approximation induced by the truncation. Computational experiments are used to demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed scheme.
Formalizing Calculus without Limit Theory in Coq
Authors: Fu Yaoshun , Yu Wensheng
Published: June 2021

Formal verification of mathematical theory has received widespread concern and grown rapidly. The formalization of the fundamental theory will contribute to the development of large projects. In this paper, we present the formalization in Coq of calculus without limit theory. The theory aims to found a new form of calculus more easily but rigorously. This theory as an innovation differs from traditional calculus but is equivalent and more comprehensible. First, the definition of the difference-quotient control function is given intuitively from the physical facts. Further, conditions are added to it to get the derivative, and define the integral by the axiomatization. Then some important conclusions in calculus such as the Newton–Leibniz formula and the Taylor formula can be formally verified. This shows that this theory can be independent of limit theory, and any proof does not involve real number completeness. This work can help learners to study calculus and lay the foundation for many applications.
Acceleration of Boltzmann Collision Integral Calculation Using Machine Learning
Authors: Holloway Ian , Wood Aihua , Alekseenko Alexander
Published: June 2021

The Boltzmann equation is essential to the accurate modeling of rarefied gases. Unfortunately, traditional numerical solvers for this equation are too computationally expensive for many practical applications. With modern interest in hypersonic flight and plasma flows, to which the Boltzmann equation is relevant, there would be immediate value in an efficient simulation method. The collision integral component of the equation is the main contributor of the large complexity. A plethora of new mathematical and numerical approaches have been proposed in an effort to reduce the computational cost of solving the Boltzmann collision integral, yet it still remains prohibitively expensive for large problems. This paper aims to accelerate the computation of this integral via machine learning methods. In particular, we build a deep convolutional neural network to encode/decode the solution vector, and enforce conservation laws during post-processing of the collision integral before each time-step. Our preliminary results for the spatially homogeneous Boltzmann equation show a drastic reduction of computational cost. Specifically, our algorithm requires O(n3) operations, while asymptotically converging direct discretization algorithms require O(n6), where n is the number of discrete velocity points in one velocity dimension. Our method demonstrated a speed up of 270 times compared to these methods while still maintaining reasonable accuracy.
Development of a Shipment Policy for Collection Centers
Authors: Mora-Ochomogo Irais , Serrato Marco , Mora-Vargas Jaime , Akhavan-Tabatabaei Raha
Published: June 2021

Natural disasters represent a latent threat for every country in the world. Due to climate change and other factors, statistics show that they continue to be on the rise. This situation presents a challenge for the communities and the humanitarian organizations to be better prepared and react faster to natural disasters. In some countries, in-kind donations represent a high percentage of the supply for the operations, which presents additional challenges. This research proposes a Markov Decision Process (MDP) model to resemble operations in collection centers, where in-kind donations are received, sorted, packed, and sent to the affected areas. The decision addressed is when to send a shipment considering the uncertainty of the donations’ supply and the demand, as well as the logistics costs and the penalty of unsatisfied demand. As a result of the MDP a Monotone Optimal Non-Decreasing Policy (MONDP) is proposed, which provides valuable insights for decision-makers within this field. Moreover, the necessary conditions to prove the existence of such MONDP are presented.
Formulas and Properties, Their Links and Characteristics
Authors: Sudoplatov Sergey V.
Published: June 2021

In this work, we study links between first-order formulas and arbitrary properties for families of theories, classes of structures and their isomorphism types. Possibilities for ranks and degrees for formulas and theories with respect to the given properties are described. Characteristics of generic sentences and generic theories with respect to these properties are described and characterized.
Non-B DNA-Forming Motifs Promote Mfd-Dependent Stationary-Phase Mutagenesis in Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Ermi Tatiana , Vallin Carmen , García Ana Gabriela Regalado , Bravo Moises , Cordero Ismaray Fernandez , Martin Holly Anne , Pedraza-Reyes Mario , Robleto Eduardo
Published: June 2021

Transcription-induced mutagenic mechanisms limit genetic changes to times when expression happens and to coding DNA. It has been hypothesized that intrinsic sequences that have the potential to form alternate DNA structures, such as non-B DNA structures, influence these mechanisms. Non-B DNA structures are promoted by transcription and induce genome instability in eukaryotic cells, but their impact in bacterial genomes is less known. Here, we investigated if G4 DNA- and hairpin-forming motifs influence stationary-phase mutagenesis in Bacillus subtilis. We developed a system to measure the influence of non-B DNA on B. subtilis stationary-phase mutagenesis by deleting the wild-type argF at its chromosomal position and introducing IPTG-inducible argF alleles differing in their ability to form hairpin and G4 DNA structures into an ectopic locus. Using this system, we found that sequences predicted to form non-B DNA structures promoted mutagenesis in B. subtilis stationary-phase cells; such a response did not occur in growing conditions. We also found that the transcription-coupled repair factor Mfd promoted mutagenesis at these predicted structures. In summary, we showed that non-B DNA-forming motifs promote genetic instability, particularly in coding regions in stressed cells; therefore, non-B DNA structures may have a spatial and temporal mutagenic effect in bacteria. This study provides insights into mechanisms that prevent or promote mutagenesis and advances our understanding of processes underlying bacterial evolution.
Impact of Cellulose-Rich Organic Soil Amendments on Growth Dynamics and Pathogenicity of Rhizoctonia solani
Authors: Clocchiatti Anna , Hannula Silja Emilia , Rizaludin Muhammad Syamsu , Hundscheid Maria P. J. , klein Gunnewiek Paulien J. A. , Schilder Mirjam T. , Postma Joeke , de Boer Wietse
Published: June 2021

Cellulose-rich amendments stimulate saprotrophic fungi in arable soils. This may increase competitive and antagonistic interactions with root-infecting pathogenic fungi, resulting in lower disease incidence. However, cellulose-rich amendments may also stimulate pathogenic fungi with saprotrophic abilities, thereby increasing plant disease severity. The current study explores these scenarios, with a focus on the pathogenic fungus Rhizoctonia solani. Saprotrophic growth of R. solani on cellulose-rich materials was tested in vitro. This confirmed paper pulp as a highly suitable substrate for R. solani, whereas its performance on wood sawdusts varied with tree species. In two pot experiments, the effects of amendment of R. solani-infected soil with cellulose-rich materials on performance of beetroot seedlings were tested. All deciduous sawdusts and paper pulp stimulated soil fungal biomass, but only oak, elder and beech sawdusts reduced damping-off of beetroot. Oak sawdust amendment gave a consistent stimulation of saprotrophic Sordariomycetes fungi and of seedling performance, independently of the time between amendment and sowing. In contrast, paper pulp caused a short-term increase in R. solani abundance, coinciding with increased disease severity for beet seedlings sown immediately after amendment. However, damping-off of beetroot was reduced if plants were sown two or four weeks after paper pulp amendment. Cellulolytic bacteria, including Cytophagaceae, responded to paper pulp during the first two weeks and may have counteracted further spread of R. solani. The results showed that fungus-stimulating, cellulose-rich amendments have potential to be used for suppression of R. solani. However, such amendments require a careful consideration of material choice and application strategy.
Antimicrobial Resistance Mechanisms and Virulence of Colistin- and Carbapenem-Resistant Acinetobacter baumannii Isolated from a Teaching Hospital in Taiwan
Authors: Ilsan Noor Andryan , Lee Yuarn-Jang , Kuo Shu-Chen , Lee I-Hui , Huang Tzu-Wen
Published: June 2021

Acinetobacter baumannii, a Gram-negative bacterium, is an important nosocomial pathogen. Colistin-resistant A. baumannii is becoming a new concern, since colistin is one of the last-line antibiotics for infections by carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii. From 452 carbapenem-resistant isolates collected in a teaching hospital in Taipei, Taiwan, we identified seven that were resistant to colistin. Carbapenem resistance in these isolates is attributed to the presence of carbapenemase gene blaOXA-23 in their genomes. Colistin resistance is presumably conferred by mutations in the sensor kinase domain of PmrB found in these isolates, which are known to result in modification of colistin target lipid A via the PmrB–PmrA–PmrC signal transduction pathway. Overexpression of pmrC, eptA, and naxD was observed in all seven isolates. Colistin resistance mediated by pmrB mutations has never been reported in Taiwan. One of the seven isolates contained three mutations in lpxD and exhibited an altered lipopolysaccharide profile, which may contribute to its colistin resistance. No significant difference in growth rates was observed between the isolates and the reference strain, suggesting no fitness cost of colistin resistance. Biofilm formation abilities of the isolates were lower than that of the reference. Interestingly, one of the isolates was heteroresistant to colistin. Four of the isolates were significantly more virulent to wax moth larvae than the reference.
Low Ozone Concentrations Affect the Structural and Functional Features of Jurkat T Cells
Authors: Cappellozza Enrica , Costanzo Manuela , Calderan Laura , Galiè Mirco , Angelini Osvaldo , Tabaracci Gabriele , Malatesta Manuela
Published: June 2021

Autohemotherapy is the most used method to administer O2-O3 systemically. It consists in exposing a limited amount of blood to a gaseous O2-O3 and reinfusing it, thus activating a cascade of biochemical pathways involving plasma and blood cells that gives rise to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory responses. The therapeutic effects strictly depend on the O3 dose; it is therefore necessary to understand the relationship between the O3 concentration and the effects on blood cells involved in antioxidant and immune response. Here we performed a basic study on the effects of the low O3 concentrations used for autohemotherapy on the structural and functional features of the human T-lymphocyte-derived Jurkat cells. Ultrastructural, biomolecular, and bioanalytic techniques were used. Our findings showed that 10, 20, and 30 µg O3 concentrations were able to trigger Nrf2-induced antioxidant response and increase IL-2 secretion. However, viability and proliferation tests as well as ultrastructural observations revealed stress signs after treatment with 20 and 30 µg O3, thus designating 10 µg O3 as the optimal concentration in combining cell safety and efficient antioxidant and immune response in our in vitro system. These data offer novel evidence of the fine regulatory role played by the oxidative stress level in the hormetic response of T lymphocytes to O2-O3 administration.
Numerical Research of Pump-as-Turbine Performance with Synergy Analysis
Authors: Cao Zheng , Deng Jianqiang , Zhao Linkun , Lu Lin
Published: June 2021

The wide use of pumps and turbines has significant value in energy conservation and utilization. In this work, a three-dimensional Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model and a one-dimensional theoretical model of a Pump as Turbine (PAT) were established. On this basis, the correlation between pressure and velocity was quantitatively investigated by a proposed sensitivity index (SPV). A synergy field analysis was then applied to evaluate the flow characteristics of a pump and PAT, providing a perspective from the mechanism of the energy transfer enhancement for hydraulic devices. Moreover, the hydraulic and synergy performances of PAT were studied under various operating conditions. The results show that the minimum SPV is obtained in the impeller. With increasing flow rate, the SPV of the PAT generally increases, and the synergy angle of the impeller surface increases as well. A strong disordered synergy field is observed in regions of the blade leading edge, trailing edge, and volute tongue. The variations in efficiency and head with flow rate showed similar trends, respectively, with the synergy angle of the outlet and the mid-plane. This study provides an analytical method for quantitative evaluation of flow synergy characteristics, and it supplies a basis for further design improvement of the pump and PAT.
Demineralization of Miscanthus Biocrude Obtained from Catalytic Hydrothermal Liquefaction: Conditioning through Acid Washing
Authors: Haider Muhammad Salman , Isik Mehmed Akif , Castello Daniele , Pedersen Thomas Helmer , Rosendahl Lasse Aistrup
Published: June 2021

In this contribution, we successfully applied demineralization (i.e., solvent-assisted separation and acid washing) for the removal of carbonaceous solids and inorganics from a biocrude obtained from the catalytic hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) of Miscanthus. The experimental results of all six employed acids showed that 0.1 M H2SO4 was the most effective and significantly reduced metallic (Fe by 93.9%, <15 µg/g and Mg by 95.6%, 2.1 µg/g) and ash content (by 92.7% to 337 µg/g) from the already filtered biocrude. The utilized demineralizing agents caused a loss of nitrogen and of organic carbon (1% total organic carbon (TOC) and 0.058% total nitrogen (TN) in 0.1 M H2SO4). Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) results clarified the nature of this loss, showing that 54% of ketones and 39% of alcohols were removed when 0.1 M H2SO4 was employed. Furthermore, FT-IR spectra remained the same before and after acid washing without affecting any functional groups. This work therefore proposes demineralization as a viable route for the removal of high inorganic content from lignocellulosic HTL biocrudes.
Parameter Estimation of a Countershaft Brake for Heavy-Duty Vehicles with Automated Mechanical Transmission
Authors: Li Yunxia , Li Lei
Published: June 2021

A countershaft brake is used as a transmission brake (TB) to realize synchronous shifting by reducing the automated mechanical transmission (AMT) input shaft’s speed rapidly. This process is performed to reduce shifting time and improve shifting quality for heavy-duty vehicles equipped with AMT without synchronizer. To improve controlled synchronous shifting, the AMT input shaft’s equivalent resistance torque and the TB’s characteristic parameters are studied. An AMT dynamic model under neutral gear position is analyzed during the synchronous control interval. A dynamic model of the countershaft brake is discussed, and its control flow is given. The parameter identification method of the AMT input shaft’s equivalent resistance torque is given on the basis of the least squares algorithm. The parameter identification of the TB’s characteristic parameters is proposed on the basis of the recursive least squares method (RLSM). Experimental results show that the recursive estimations of the TB’s characteristic parameters under different duty cycles of the TB solenoid valve, including brake torque estimation, estimation accuracy, and braking intensity estimation, can be effectively estimated. The research provides some reliable evidence to further study the synchronous shifting control schedule for heavy-duty vehicles with AMT.
Gendered Dimensions of Unpaid Activities: An Empirical Insight into Rural Bangladesh Households
Authors: Islam Faisal Bin , Sharma Madhuri
Published: June 2021

Women in Bangladesh are generally perceived as caregivers, often confined within the households to perform various activities, whereas men are perceived as the providers. These complex gendered roles intersect with multiple factors such as household structure, marital status, religion, cultural beliefs, economic shocks, and livelihood opportunities. This study used the feminist political ecology framework to contextualize and analyze time allocated toward unpaid works, culturally accepted as female/gendered activities, and the nuanced power dynamics between men and women within the rural households of Bangladesh. We used the household survey data collected from the Bangladesh Integrated Household Survey of 2015 to create a multiple linear regression model that helps understand the impacts of economic, cultural, and environmental shocks on the total time allocated toward unpaid activities by women within the household. Results suggest women who experienced climate-change shocks such as crop losses due to disasters and non-climatic shocks such as dowry tend to allocate more time toward unpaid tasks. In contrast, women who own their businesses tend to give less time toward unpaid tasks. This study provides guidelines for necessary gender-sensitive national policies to address the United Nation’s goal of gender equity and sustainable development.
The Potential for PE Microplastics to Affect the Removal of Carbamazepine Medical Pollutants from Aqueous Environments by Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Sheng Xiaoyu , Wang Junkai , Zhang Wei , Zuo Qiting
Published: June 2021

Microplastics are ubiquitous in aquatic environments and interact with other kinds of pollutants, which affects the migration, transformation, and fate of those other pollutants. In this study, we employ carbamazepine (CBZ) as the contaminant to study the influence of polyethylene (PE) microplastics on the adsorption of CBZ pollutants by multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MCNTs) in aqueous solution. The adsorption capacity of CBZ by MCNTs in the presence of PE microplastics was obviously lower than that by MCNTs alone. The influencing factors, including the dose of microplastics, pH, and CBZ solution concentration, on the adsorption of CBZ by MCNTs and MCNTs−PE were thoroughly investigated. The adsorption rate of CBZ by MCNTs decreased from 97.4% to 90.6% as the PE microplastics dose increased from 2 g/L to 20 g/L. This decrease occurred because the MCNTs were coated on the surface of the PE microplastics, which further decreased the effective adsorption area of the MCNTs. This research provides a framework for revealing the effect of microplastics on the adsorption of pollutants by carbon materials in aqueous environments.
A Comparison of Vaccine Hesitancy of COVID-19 Vaccination in China and the United States
Authors: Liu Taoran , He Zonglin , Huang Jian , Yan Ni , Chen Qian , Huang Fengqiu , Zhang Yuejia , Akinwunmi Omolola M. , Akinwunmi Babatunde O. , Zhang Casper J. P. , Wu Yibo , Ming Wai-Kit
Published: June 2021

Objectives: To investigate the differences in vaccine hesitancy and preference of the currently available COVID-19 vaccines between two countries, namely, China and the United States (U.S.). Method: A cross-national survey was conducted in both China and the United States, and discrete choice experiments, as well as Likert scales, were utilized to assess vaccine preference and the underlying factors contributing to vaccination acceptance. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to enable a direct comparison between the two countries. Results: A total of 9077 (5375 and 3702 from China and the United States, respectively) respondents completed the survey. After propensity score matching, over 82.0% of respondents from China positively accepted the COVID-19 vaccination, while 72.2% of respondents from the United States positively accepted it. Specifically, only 31.9% of Chinese respondents were recommended by a doctor to have COVID-19 vaccination, while more than half of the U.S. respondents were recommended by a doctor (50.2%), local health board (59.4%), or friends and families (64.8%). The discrete choice experiments revealed that respondents from the United States attached the greatest importance to the efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines (44.41%), followed by the cost of vaccination (29.57%), whereas those from China held a different viewpoint, that the cost of vaccination covered the largest proportion in their trade-off (30.66%), and efficacy ranked as the second most important attribute (26.34%). Additionally, respondents from China tended to be much more concerned about the adverse effect of vaccination (19.68% vs. 6.12%) and have a lower perceived severity of being infected with COVID-19. Conclusion: Although the overall acceptance and hesitancy of COVID-19 vaccination in both countries are high, underpinned distinctions between these countries were observed. Owing to the differences in COVID-19 incidence rates, cultural backgrounds, and the availability of specific COVID-19 vaccines in the two countries, vaccine rollout strategies should be nation-dependent.
The role of logistics in managing the system of medical care organization during a pandemic
Authors: Guseva Natalia
Published: June 2021

In the current period of mass coronavirus infection of the population of Russia, hidden defects in the organization and management of healthcare have been exposed. In this regard, the author proposes to take advantage of the unique concept of logistic management, which has the ability to provide any management system with maximum efficiency. Logistics, as a systemically integrated process of material and information flow management, when used correctly, leads to the satisfaction of consumers’ needs with minimal overall costs. This is especially important for the healthcare system operating in the extreme conditions of the COVID19 pandemic. The article focuses on precisely those logistics theses that should be used in healthcare management in a difficult epidemiological situation. The author draws attention to the priority importance of interpersonal relations in medical teams, the leading role of healthcare organizers in solving problems arising in the management of medical organizations in extreme conditions, as well as the close relationship between the concepts of Logistics and «lean medicine»; which, apparently, will serve as the basis for future reforms in the health care sector
The attitude of the population to the development of palliative care in our country
Authors: Fokina E. E.
Published: June 2021

The article analyzes the respondents ‘attitude to the current state and development of palliative care in Russia. The study was carried out on the basis of a questionnaire survey. The author concludes that there is a low level of public awareness about the availability of palliative care and a low level of interest in this topic. At the same time, the majority of respondents consider it necessary to improve the provision of medical care to patients in a terminal state at the place of residence.
A critical view of the healthcare control system
Authors: Guseva Natalya Konstantinovna Guseva , Berdutin Vitaliy Anatolievich
Published: June 2021

The Russian state acts not only as the governing regulator, but also as the owner of an immense medical system called the healthcare industry. With bitterness, we have to admit that from year to year the administrative legislation is only growing. Just a few years ago, it was difficult to imagine that the state would want to go so far and thoroughly in tightening quality control of medical care. Nevertheless, in the existing regulatory framework there are many defects, contradictions and collisions regarding the quality of medical care. In the modern era of artificial intelligence and «digital Russia», there is an urgent need to create a new management system in the healthcare sector, which could provide a true, and not declared by officials’ reports, economic interest in the results of treatment, the possibility of using advanced technologies that guarantee the most effective methods of healing the sick. The purpose of our article was to define the place of the system of quality control and safety of medical activities in the management of healthcare institutions and the main shortcomings of its organization now. The authors believe that the core approaches to the organization of effective control should be borrowed from management theory. The control regulations should reflect its main characteristics: overall, comprehensive, timely, easy to realize, ensuring the continuous repetition of the management process in a new phase, with scientifically sound methods of implementation from both negative and positive perspectives.
Practical training of medical and pharmaceutical staff in accordance with the modern requirements of the healthcare system on the basis of workshops SAHEI TR «Tyumen Medical College»
Authors: Popova Svetlana Vladimirovna , Kireeva Tatyana Viktorovna , Plyashkova Svetlana Anatolyevna
Published: June 2021

The article provides information on the practical training of students in the specialties «Laboratory diagnostics» and «Pharmacy» on the basis of workshops in accordance with modern standards and advanced technologies, including the standards of WorldSkills Russia.
Experience in performance of graduate qualification work on PM 04. Work of an employee «Junior medical nurse for patient care»
Authors: Fanina Olga Borisovna
Published: June 2021

The article presents the pedagogical experience of supervising the writing of coursework and final qualifying work, united by the issues of organizing nursing care and medical rehabilitation of patients with stroke.
Role of the nurse in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases in obese patients
Authors: Ryamova Ekaterina Igorevna , Derevyankina Victoria Alexandrovna
Published: June 2021

In one of the polyclinics in Tyumen, overweight patients were trained to prevent cardiovascular diseases of the body. Furthermore, the role of a nurse was defined.
Health professionals’ identified barriers to trans health care: a qualitative interview study
Authors: Mikulak Magdalena , Ryan Sara , Ma Richard , Martin Sam , Stewart Jay , Davidson Sarah , Stepney Melissa
Published: June 2021

Background

Trans and gender-diverse people face multiple barriers within health care. Primary care practitioners are key to providing health care to trans and gender-diverse people but they often lack training in, and understanding of, trans identities and healthcare options. Few studies have examined health professionals’ understanding of the barriers that exist in health care for trans and gender-diverse people.

Aim

To map out barriers to providing good-quality health care to trans and gender-diverse people, and explore ways to address them.

Design and setting

A qualitative interview study involving 20 health professionals working with young trans and gender-diverse people.

Method

Participants were recruited through purposive and snowball sampling. Data were generated using semi-structured qualitative interviews. A thematic analysis involved coding and categorising data using NVivo (version 12) software and further conceptual analysis in which developing themes were identified.

Results

Four barrier domains to good-quality care for trans and gender-diverse people were identified: structural (related to lack of guidelines, long waiting times, and shortage of specialist centres); educational (based on lack of training on trans health); cultural and social (reflecting negative attitudes towards trans people); and technical (related to information systems and technology).

Conclusion

There is an urgent need to address the barriers trans and gender-diverse people face in health care. Structural-level solutions include health policy, professional education, and standards; at the practice level, GPs can act as potential drivers of change in addressing the cultural and technical barriers to better meet the needs of their trans and gender-diverse patients.