bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autonomous NanoSurfactant for Enhanced Oil Recovery Applications
Authors: Shi Nan , Mashat Afnan , Abdel-Fattah Amr
Published: June 2020

Enhanced oil recovery (EOR) techniques often involve delivering chemicals, macromolecules, or particles in oil reservoirs to improve oil mobility and production. The harsh environment typical to the reservoir poses a great challenge to maintaining long-term stability of these agents. Moreover, accessing constricted regions in the reservoir with extremely tight pores and pore throats, and where large volumes of resources exist, require more efficient delivery methods than diffusion.

We have developed an in-house EOR nano-agent (NanoSurfactant) platform using the inexpensive and abundant petroleum sulfonate salt surfactant. NanoSurfactants are chemically and colloidally stable at high salinity (> 56K ppm) and high temperature (> 90°C) conditions. Their structure, size, and surface properties suggest different transport mechanisms for enhanced delivery in oil reservoirs compared to conventional surfactants. We seek to improve the delivery of NanoSurfactants to regions in the reservoir that are inaccessible to conventional waterflood. Here, we explore diffusiophoresis (DP) as a mean to efficiently deliver NanoSurfactants to flow-restricted regions.

Direct microscopic visualization experiments are conducted to study the migration of NanoSurfactants in different chemical gradients. These transient gradients are established in microfluidic channels mimicking dead-end pores in the reservoir. In addition, we study the effect of adding dilute macromolecules to the NanoSurfactant solutions on their DP migration. NanoSurfactants are labeled with a fluorescent dye to enable microscopic visualization and quantification of DP migration. Results showed that salinity gradients yield faster and deeper delivery of NanoSurfactants into the dead-end channels compared to diffusion without any gradients. A more pronounced migration is observed when small concentrations of macromolecules are added.

Our findings expand the understanding of DP migration in an extremely high salinity environment. In addition, they provide insights into the utilization of natural or induced gradients in oil reservoirs to harness the DP migration for EOR applications.
Optimization of Liquid Pipeline Control for Economic and Efficient Operations
Authors: Khlebnikova Elena , Zlotnik Anatoly , Sundar Kaarthik , Ewers Mary , Tasseff Byron , Bent Russell
Published: June 2020

Pipelines perform a critical function in the petroleum business by transporting hydrocarbon commodities between oil fields, refineries, and consumer markets. We formulate an optimization problem for determining the optimal pumping modes and flow configuration for liquid pipeline operations. Based on requested flow rates and commodity prices submitted by users of the pipeline system, the system manager can solve an optimization problem to determine flow rates allocated to all customers, flows on each pipeline section, and pumps station operating settings in order to maximize economic value provided by a pipeline while adhering to limitations of pump machinery and the physics of fluid flow. In particular, the optimal solution will maximize the economic benefit for the pipeline transport network users and utilization of system capacity while also minimizing the energy expended in operation. This problem is nonconvex, and solutions are only guaranteed to be locally optimal. In this study we pose a mathematical optimization formulation with minimal modeling that captures the basic phenomena involved, and an algorithm based on general-purpose interior point optimization is proposed for efficient solution. We demonstrate our approach on a realistic case study based on a pipeline system in the United States.
Improving the nursing informatics competency of critical care nurses: results of an interventional study
Authors: Jouparinejad Somayeh , Foroughameri Golnaz , Khajouei Reza , Farokhzadian Jamileh
Published: June 2020

Background Along with growth and development of health information technology (HIT), nursing informatics (NI) is becoming a fundamental part of all domains of nursing practice especially in critical care settings. Nurses at different levels of the nursing continuum are expected to equip with NI competency for providing patient-centered evidence-based care. Therefore, improvement of the nurses’ NI competency through educational programs is important and necessary for effective using of HIT. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a training program on NI competency of critical care nurses. Methods In this interventional study, 60 nurses working in critical care units at hospitals affiliated with a large University of Medical Sciences in the southeast of Iran were randomly and equally assigned to the control and intervention groups. NI competency was trained to the intervention group in a three-day workshop. Data were collected using demographic questionnaire and Nursing Informatics Competency Assessment Tool (NICAT) before and one month after the intervention. Results In the pretest stage, both intervention and control groups were at the “competent” level in terms of the NI competency, and no significant difference was observed between them ( p =0.65). However, in the posttest, the NI competency and its dimensions significantly increased in the intervention group with a large effect size compared with the control group ( p = 0.001). This difference showed that the intervention group achieved the “proficient” level in posttest stage. Conclusions The improved scores of NI competency and its dimensions after using the training program implied the effectiveness of this method in enhancing the NI competency of nurses working in the critical care units. The higher efficiency of the training program can be determined by its application in diverse domains of nursing practice. The project is a fundamental for improving nurses’ NI competency through continuous educational programs in Iran, other cultures and contexts.
An Innovative Strategy to address shortages of healthcare personnel in South Africa
Authors: Gumede Dumsani Mandla , Taylor Myra , Kvalsvig Jane
Published: June 2020

Background: In order to improve health in low- and middle- income countries the basic health infrastructure needs to be upgraded. Part of the problem is the shortage of skilled healthcare professionals (HCP) particularly in rural areas. The Umthombo Youth Development Foundation (UYDF) is a non-profit organisation (NPO) established in 1999 to assist in addressing shortage of HCPs in rural areas. The aim of this study is to measure the success of the UYDF bursary scheme in achieving this goal by calculating the cost of supporting rural students and estimating the benefits in relieving the shortage in terms of the financial return on investment.Methods: The sources of the data were the UYDF organisational records (finance, human resources and procurement), supplemented by the published and unpublished UYDF reports. The return on investment was estimated through the use of an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) calculation.Results: The UYDF database of beneficiaries showed that by the year 2017 a total of 337 HCPs had graduated and a further 254 were still studying. An average of R17 million was spent every year on the students or R102 015 per student per year. The IRR was 63% higher than interest rates on commercial loans. These graduates are expected to generate an estimated R15 billion in lifetime earnings, which would be equal to R4 billion at current prices.Conclusion: The UYDF scheme relieved the shortage of HCPs in rural hospitals, and the hospitals were able to retain the service of many of the locally sourced HCPs. The costs of implementing the bursary scheme were outweighed by the income generated from salaries, and taxes contributed to the country’s economic development.
Spatial Analysis of Mangrove Forest Management for the Reduction of Air Temperature and Co2 Emission
Authors: - Sumarmi , - Purwanto , Mutia Tuti
Published: June 2020

Surabaya is one of the developing cities in term of coastal area. Like other developing cities, Surabaya highlysuppresses the mangrove forest for the residential area, industry and so forth. Mangrove forest as a conservation land has an essential function as an oxygen source for people in Surabaya and it absorbs CO2. Mangrove forest functions to decrease the impact of global warming and maintain the coastal ecosystem sustainability. This research aimed to 1) Map the dynamics of temperature in Surabaya during the last twenty years (1996-2016) by using Remote Sensing and GIS. 2) Examine the ability of mangrove forest in absorbing CO2 and heat energy in decreasing the impact of global warming in Surabaya. The research results showed that 1) based on the analysis result of temperature surface extent, the temperature has changed since 1996 up to 2016. The trend of the temperature change can be classified into three surface temperatures which are low, moderate and high. The low temperature with the category of 21 o-30 oC had a differenttrend. Every year, the trend of the area extent of which surface temperature was highly categorized was 31-42 oC. The trend was highly increasing in the period of 2006-2016. Such condition showed that, in 2016, Surabaya had a high temperature increase. (2) There was a correlation between mangrove forest change and the temperature change; the content of CO2 in the mangrove, vegetation and water areas was reduced and it increased in the areas used for buildings such as factory, residential, road and so on. The content of CO2 in the air of Surabaya showed the distribution grouping in the “high” and “extremely high” categories. The highcategory was 27.5% and the extremely high category was 67.5%. There was one sample point in each of moderate and low categories which was 2.5% respectively.
Network Pharmacology-Based Study on the Mechanism of Pinellia ternata in Asthma Treatment
Authors: Lyu Yanmin , Chen Xiangjing , Xia Qing , Zhang Shanshan , Yao Chengfang
Published: June 2020

Background: Pinellia ternata (PT), a medicinal plant, has had an extensive application in the treatment of asthma in China, whereas its underlying pharmacological mechanisms remain unclear.Methods: Firstly, the therapeutic effect of PT was verified by an animal experiment. Secondly, a network pharmacology method was adopted to collect activated components of PT from Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis (TCMSP); binding targets of PT were assessed by exploiting Pharmmapper website; asthma-related targets were collected, and Target-Target interaction networks were built. Subsequently, critical nodes exhibiting high-possibility were identified as the hub nodes in the network, which employed to conduct GeneOntology (GO) comment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) signaling pathway enrichment analysis. Finally, the tissue expression profiles and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq) data of candidate genes were identified by Gene Expression Omnibus database (GEO) and PanglaoDB databases.Results: In animal experiments, PT could alleviate the allergic response of mice by inhibiting the activation of T-helper type 2 (TH2) cells and the secretion of IL-4 and IL-5. Subsequently, 57 achievable targets of PT on asthma were confirmed as hub nodes, included candidate genes matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2) and nuclear receptor subfamily 3 group C member 1(NR3C1). Moreover, according to transcriptome RNA sequencing data from lung tissues of allergic mice compared to normal mice, mRNA level of MMP2 was up-regulated (P<0.001), and mRNA level of NR3C1 was no significant difference (P=0.0749). Finally, we compared their levels of expression and distributions to those present in the single-cell level. Conclusions: With network pharmacology, our study provides candidate genes that may be either used for future studies related to diagnosis/prognosis or as targets for asthma management. Besides, more attention should be paid to methods of identifying the origin of these genes and determining their expression at the single-cell level.
The radiographic effects of ketorolac on patients with spondylolisthesis
Authors: Chou Shih-Hsiang , Lu Cheng-Chang , Lin Kun-Ling , Lin Sung-Yen , Tu Hung-Pin , Shih Chia-Lung , Huang Peng-Ju , Tien Yin-Chun , Huang Yi-Hung , Shen Po-Chih
Published: June 2020

Background: Low back pain may inhibit patients’ spinal range of motion during radiography. Little is known about the dynamic changes of measurement variables and diagnosis of unstable segments in flexion/extension radiographs before and after analgesic injections. We hypothesise that pain control with intramuscular (IM) ketorolac could reveal more radiographic instability segments currently masked by low back pain. Methods: One hundred patients with symptomatic spondylolisthesis from outpatient clinics were recruited. Standing flexion-extension radiographs before and after analgesic injections (IM ketorolac 30 mg) were examined. The visual analog scale (VAS) score and the parameters of segmental instability, including dynamic lumbar lordosis (º; DL), dynamic segmental angulation (º; DA), dynamic segmental translation (mm; DT), and slip percentage (dynamic translation divided with vertebral body width; SP) (%), before and after ketorolac injection were measured. In addition, newly diagnosed unstable segments by different instability criteria were recorded. Pre-post changes between the two groups were analysed using paired t-tests.Results: The VAS score decreased significantly after analgesic injections (66.9 ± 0.97 vs. 32.2 ± 13.1 mm, P < 0.001). DL, DA, DT, and SP were significantly increased (P < 0.001) after providing analgesia compared to pre-analgesia. More unstable segments were found from radiography after ketorolac injection.Conclusion: Ketorolac 30 mg injections provided effective analgesia. The radiographic change and diagnosis of instability segments, which might be masked by back pain, significantly changed after IM Ketorolac in patients with symptomatic spondylolisthesis.
Trying for a second chance: Iranian infertile couples’ experiences after failed ART
Authors: Zagami Samira Ebrahimzadeh , Roudsari Robab Latifnejad , Janghorban Roksana , Allan Helen T
Published: June 2020

Background: Despite significant advances, only 35% infertile couples conceive after ART. If IVF is unsuccessful, couples will need to decide whether to proceed again with assisted conception. The aim of this study was to explore Iranian infertile couples’ experiences after failed ART to continue treatment.Methods: In this qualitative study participants were selected using purposeful sampling method. Data were collected using 36 semi-structured face-to-face in-depth interviews at a regional Infertility Center in Iran from April 2016 to June 2017. All interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed with conventional content analysis method using MAXQDA software.Results: Our findings suggest that couples’ decisions to continue treatment after unsuccessful ART is shaped by their social, emotional and financial circumstances. We have constructed two themes to describe their experiences: support to continue and trying for a second chance. Conclusions: Infertile couples rely on support from different sources in their lives to decide to have a further cycle after an unsuccessful ART. Our findings suggest that good marital and family support networks can support infertile couples during this period of decision making. Many of the couples found the financial burden of another cycle challenging. Considering the depression and anxiety caused by failed ARTs, which itself could affect the success rate of any further ARTs, the clinical team should effectively assess psychological readiness of couples who decide to continue with another ART after unsuccessful treatment.
Low vitamin D levels are associated with vascular endothelial dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetes: A retrospective study
Authors: Tanaka Kenichi , Okada Yosuke , Hajime Maiko , Tanaka Yoshiya
Published: June 2020

Background

The aim of this study was to determine the association between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels and vascular endothelial function in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).
Methods

This retrospective study included 113 T2D patients who were admitted for in-hospital diabetes educational program and underwent measurements of serum 25(OH)D levels and reactive hyperemia index (RHI). The primary endpoint was the association between serum 25(OH)D levels and RHI in T2D patients.
Results

Serum 25(OH)D levels correlated significantly with RHI in T2D patients (r = 0.285, p = 0.002). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis showed that serum 25(OH)D level of 16.5 ng/mL is the optimal cut-off level for predicting vascular endothelial dysfunction (RHI < 1.67), with a sensitivity of 68.5%, specificity of 67.9%, and area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.668 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.566–0.770, p = 0.002). The mean RHI was significantly lower (1.70 ± 0.54) in patients with low 25(OH)D levels (n = 56, 25(OH)D levels < 16.5 ng/mL) than that (1.99 ± 0.58 vs.; p < 0.001) of patients with high 25(OH)D levels (n = 57, 25(OH)D level > 16.5 ng/mL). The proportion of patients with RHI < 1.67 was also higher in the low 25(OH)D group than in the high 25(OH)D group (38% vs. 18%; p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified serum 25(OH)D levels < 16.5 ng/mL was associated with increased odds of RHI < 1.67 (odds ratio 4.598, 95% CI 1.961–10.783, p < 0.001).
Conclusions

The results demonstrated the association of serum 25(OH)D levels with endothelial function in T2D patients and identified serum 25(OH)D level of < 16.5 ng/mL as a predictor of vascular endothelial dysfunction. Serum 25(OH)D level is a potentially useful marker of vascular endothelial dysfunction in T2D patients.
Allograft inflammatory factor-1 (AIF-1) induces inflammatory mediator production via NF-κB signaling and impairs bovine mammary epithelial cells via mitochondrial pathway
Authors: Yang Danru , Wu Yinghuan , Zhao Yanying
Published: June 2020

Background

Bovine mastitis is the inflammatory response of the mammary gland with an utmost threat to the dairy industry worldwide. Cytokine networks fuel inflammation. The sensitive and subtle changes of the inflammatory cytokine network in healthy and mastitic bovine mammary gland may encourage the use of cytokines in the diagnosis and prognosis of bovine mastitis. Allograft inflammatory factor-1 (AIF-1) is a proinflammatory cytokine mainly secreted by immune cells and it plays a central role in the complex signaling network of inflammation activation. Therefore, we explored the possible role of bovine AIF-1 related to bovine mastitis in the present study.
Results

The average concentration of AIF-1 in milks suffering from mastitis was 2.5 fold of that in the healthy cows, while its value decreased in cows recovered from mastitis. Furthermore, recombinant bovine AIF-1 up-regulated TNF-α, IL-6, and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 secretion from bovine mammary epithelial cells with NF-κB activating, then NF-κB signaling inhibitor BAY 11-7085 abolished the increase of these inflammatory cytokines secretion induced by AIF-1. Thereafter, AIF-1 impaired bovine mammary epithelial cell viability, induced cell membrane permeability and cell apoptosis with exacerbated nitric oxide and oxidative stress, activated caspase 3, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential and intracellular ATP concentration.
Conclusion

These results indicated that AIF-1 prompted inflammation mediator production of bovine mammary epithelial cells via NF-κB signaling. Moreover, it damaged epithelial cells by depressing cell viability, inducing cell membrane permeability and cell apoptosis, which might be related to bovine mastitis.
Zuotai (β-HgS)-containing 70 Wei Zhen-Zhu-Wan (Rannasangpei) differs from mercury chloride and methylmercury on hepatic cytochrome P450
Authors: Nie Yu , Xu Shang-Fu , Lu Yan-Liu , Zhao Xiu-Rong , Li Cen , Wei Li-Xin , Liu Jie
Published: June 2020

Background: Zuotai (mainly β-HgS)-containing 70 Wei-Zhen-Zhu-Wan (70W, Rannasangpei ) is a famous Tibetan medicine for cardiovascular and gastrointestinal diseases. We have shown that 70W protected against CCl 4 hepatotoxicity. CCl 4 is metabolized via cytochrome P450 (CYP450) to produce reactive metabolites. Whether 70W has any effect on CYP450 is unknown and such effects should be compared with mercury compounds for safety evaluation. Methods: Mice were given 70W (0.15-1.5 g/kg, po), Zuotai (30 mg/kg, po), HgCl 2 (33.6 mg/kg, po) and MeHg (3.1 mg/kg, po) for 7 days. Liver RNA and protein were isolated for qPCR and Western-blot analysis. Results: 70W and Zuotai had no effects on hepatic Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and CYP1A2, but HgCl 2 and MeHg increased Cyp1a2 mRNA and CYP1A2 protein levels;70W and Zuotai had no effects on constitutive androstane receptor (CAR) ,CYP2B andCYP2E1 expressions, but HgCl 2 increased CAR and Cyp2b10 mRNA, HgCl 2 and MeHg increased CYP2B and CYP2E1 protein expressions; 70W and mercury compounds had no apparent effects on the expression of pregnane X receptor (PXR) and Cyp3a11 mRNA, as well as CYP3A proteins. 70W and mercury compounds had no apparent effects on the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) and CYP4A; but HgCl 2 tended to increase Cyp4a10 mRNA and CYP4A protein expressions. 70W and Zuotai had no apparent effects on the expression of farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and Cyp7a1 , while HgCl 2 and MeHg increased CYP7A1 expression. Conclusions: Zuotai and Zuotai-containing 70W at clinical doses had minimal influence on hepatic CYPs, and the effects of 70W and Zuotai on CYP and corresponding nuclear receptors are different from HgCl 2 and MeHg.
Research on Blood Oxygen Activity in Cerebral Cortical Motor Function Areas With Adjustment Intention During Gait
Authors: Li Chunguang , Zhu Yufei , Qu Wei , Sun Lining
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND: The study of the neural mechanism of human gait control can provide a theoretical basis for the treatment of walking disorders or the improvement of rehabilitation strategies, and further promote the functional rehabilitation of patients with movement disorders. However, the performance and changes of cerebral cortex activity corresponding to gait adjustment intentions arestill not clear. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to detect the blood oxygen activation characterization of the cerebral cortex motor function area when people have intention to adjust gait during walking. METHODS: 30 young volunteers (21 ± 1 years old) perform normal walking (NW), speed increase (DI), speed reduction (DR), step increase (PI) and step reduction (PR), during which continuous monitoring of oxygenated hemoglobin (HbO), deoxygenated hemoglobin (HbR) and total oxyhemoglobin (HbT) information in the prefrontal cortex (PFC), premotor cortex (PMC), supplementary motor area (SMA) using near infrared brain functional imaging.RESULTS: (1) With the intention to adjust gait, the HbO concentration in the SMA increased significantly (p=0.0029), while the HbT concentration in the Medial-PFC decreased significantly (p=0.0088). (2) In the HbO concentration, step reduction is more activated than the step increase in the Left-PMC (p=0.0130); step adjustment is more activated thanspeed adjustment in the Right-PMC (p=0.0067).In the HbR concentration, speed reduction is more activated than the speed increase in the Left-PFC(p=0.0103). In the HbT concentration, an increase in gait parameters is more activated than the decrease in gait parameters in the Left-PFC(p=0.0042).CONCLUSIONS: (1) When the intention of gait adjustment occurs, the increase of HbO concentration in the SMA indicates the initial stage of gait adjustment will increase the motion cognitive needs of the brain.(2) The right brain area, especially the Right-PMC, is responsible for step adjustment. While the left brain area, especially the Left-PFC, meets the additional nerve needs of speed adjustment. The increase in gait parameters promotes more blood oxygen metabolism in the Left-PFC to meet the needs of enhanced nerve activity. The preliminary findings of this study can lay an important theoretical foundation for the realization of gait control based on fNIRS-BCI technology.
Economic Condition Affects Breast Cancer Care - A Cross Sectional Study in Bangladesh
Authors: Akhtar Khursheda , Hossain Kazi Jahangir , Akhtar Khodeza , Nahar Shamsun , Elahi Md Qudrat E , Hossain Sharmin , Islam Md Ariful
Published: June 2020

Background

Socio- economic condition plays a role on taking decision for cancer treatment beside this out pocket expenditure is a headache for cancer patients. For that, pattern of financial assistance for breast cancer treatment and associated factors were explored.
Method:

A cross sectional study was carried out with 200 samples; those were selected randomly from the listed patients who attended in the day care centre of chemotherapy.
Results

Maximum respondents first visited to health care provider at II and III stage with first symptom as lump on breast or axilla, no patients came at stage I. Along with family and neighbor, social welfare also play a positive role to assist finance. Donation was the major means to collect money and two or three sources were needed at a time for collecting money. In chi square (χ 2) test, economic condition had a significant role on care seeking. Simultaneously by ANOVA it was found that mean difference was more at age 31–40 year of age. After 50 years, care seeking time was intersect, here Main effect of age was F (1, 192) = 1.92, p = 0.162; Main effect of economic condition was F (3, 192) = 0.27, p = 0.847; Inter effect was F (2, 192) = 1.77, p = 0.154.
Conclusion

After knowing cancer, she and her family member become puzzled to collect money. For that necessary measure should be taken to easy availability of expenditure cost. It is recommended to launch public health insurance as soon as possible.
On the theoretical prediction of microalgae growth for parallel flow
Authors: Ma Chunyang
Published: June 2020

Background: The established microalgae growth models are semi-empirical or considerable fitting coefficients exist. Therefore, the ability of the model prediction is reduced by the numerous fitting coefficients. Furthermore, the predicted results of the established models are dependent on the size of the photobioreactor (PBR), light intensity, flow and concentration field. The growth mechanism of microalgae has not clearly understood in PBR cultivation. It is difficult to predict the microalgae growth by theoretical methods, owing to the aforementioned factors. We developed an exploratory bridging microalgae growth model to predict the microalgae growth rate in PBRs by using the nondimensional method which is effectively in fluid dynamics and heat transfer.Results: The analytical solution of the growth rate was obtained for the parallel flow. The nondimensional growth rate expressed as function of Reynolds number and Schmidt number, which can be used for arbitrary parallel flow due to the solution was expressed as nondimensional quantities. The theoretically predicted growth rate is compared with the experimentally measured microalgae growth rate on the order of magnitude.Conclusions: The nondimensional method successfully applied to the microalgae growth problem for the first time. The general nondimensional solution can unify the numerous experimental data for different laboratory conditions, and give a direction for the disorder of the microalgae growth problem. The nondimensional solution will be useful in the design and operation of PBRs for biofuel production.
The Influence of Experimental Pain on Primary Motor Cortex Function: Protocol for a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Chowdhury Nahian , Chang Wei-Ju , Millard Samantha K , Skippen Patrick , Bilska Katarzyna , Seminowicz David S , Schabrun Siobhan M
Published: June 2020

Introduction: The primary motor cortex (M1) is a key brain region implicated in pain processing. Here, we present a protocol for a review that aims to synthesise and critically appraise the evidence for the effect of experimentalpain on M1 function. Methods/Analysis: A systematic review and meta-analysis will be conducted. Electronic databases will be searched using a predetermined strategy. Studies published before April 2020 that investigate the effects of experimentally induced pain on corticomotor excitability (CME) in healthy individuals will be included if they meet eligibility criteria. Study identification, data extraction andrisk of bias assessment will be conducted by two independent reviewers, with a third reviewer consulted for any disagreements. The primary outcomes will include group level changes in CME and intracortical, transcortical and sensorimotor modulators of CME. A separate analysis using individual data will also be conducted to explore individual differences in CME in response to experimental pain. The meta-analysis will consider the following factors: pain model (transient, tonic, transitional pain), type of painful tissue (cutaneous, musculoskeletal), time points of outcome measures(during or after recovery from pain) and localisation of pain(target area, control area). Discussion: This review will provide a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms within M1 that mediate experimentally induced pain, both on a group and individual level. Registration Number: The systematic review is registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (#CRD42020173172)
Niche Partitioning in the Rimicaris Exoculata Holobiont: The Case of the First Symbiotic Zetaproteobacteria
Authors: Cambon-Bonavita Marie-Anne , Aubé Johanne , Cueff-Gauchard Valérie , Reveillaud Julie
Published: June 2020

BackgroundMutualistic symbioses between invertebrate animals and chemosynthetic bacteria are at the basis of Life in hydrothermal vent ecosystems. The shrimp Rimicaris exoculata, which dominates animal fauna along the Mid Atlantic Ridge, houses in its cephalothorax a complex bacterial community including Campylobacteria, Gamma- Delta- and some recently discovered iron oxyhydroxides-coated Zetaproteobacteria. This epibiotic consortium uses iron, sulfide, methane and hydrogen as energy sources. Here, we used a DNA extraction procedure adapted to recalcitrant embedded bacteria and generated shotgun metagenomes from Rimicaris exoculata cephalothoracic epibiotic community. We aimed reconstructing symbiotic genomes from specimen collected in three geochemically contrasted vent fields, TAG, Rainbow and Snake Pit to unravel the specificity, variability and adaptation of host-microbes associations.ResultsUsing these data we were able to reconstruct 49 high quality metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) from TAG and Rainbow vents fields. Most critically, two MAGs in our collection were affiliated to Zetaproteobacteria and had no close relatives (ANI < 77% from the closest relative Ghiorsea bivora isolated from TAG and <88% between each other), suggesting potential novel species. Genes for CBB carbon fixation, iron and sulfur oxidation, as well as nitrate reduction, occurred in both MAGs. However, genes for hydrogen oxidation and quorum sensing as well as multicopper oxidases occurred in one MAG only, suggesting shared and specific potential functions for these two novel Zetaproteobacteria symbiotic lineages. Overall, we observed highly similar symbionts that co-exist in a single shrimp at both basaltic TAG and ultramafic Rainbow vent sites. Nevertheless, further insights into the seemingly functional redundancy between those epibionts revealed important differences. ConclusionThese data highlight microniche partitioning in the Rimicaris holobiont and confirm recent works that show functional diversity enables multiple symbiont strains to coexist in animals from hydrothermal vents.
Perceived Stress Among Indian Children And Young Adults Living With Type 1 Diabetes During the COVID-19 Outbreak
Authors: Agarwal Neha , Harikar Mandara M , Shukla Rishi , Bajpai Anurag
Published: June 2020

Background - Strict isolation measures and interrupted healthcare services during the COVID 19 pandemic are contemplated to instigate stress universally, particularly in those with chronic illnesses such as Type 1 Diabetes (T1D).Objective- To evaluate perceived stress towards COVID-19 among T1D individuals.Study Design - A cross-sectional, observational study. Participants - Adolescents and young adults (aged 10 - 25), living with T1D; and age, gender matched controls.Interventions - An online, semi-structured survey including Perceived Stress Scale. Outcomes - Determinants of stress and its impact on glycemic control.Results - A total of 97 cases (49 males; mean age 18.8 ± 4.5 years), diagnosed with T1D (mean diabetes duration 8.0 ± 5.0 years; mean HBA1C 8.1 ± 1.5%) completed the survey. Among cases, 53.6% reported moderate stress; 41.2% low stress and 5.2% severe stress. No significant difference was observed in the mean PSS score between the cases and controls. Cases with higher PSS scores tracked pandemic-related updates with significantly lesser frequency than those with lower scores (mean rank 78.75; p = 0.01). High PSS score was significantly associated with HbA1C over last 6 months (r 0.276; p = 0.015) and worsened glycemic control (mean rank 63.97 p = 0.012). Conclusion- An increased apprehension was seen regarding the acquisition of optimal diabetes management and care during the current infectious outbreak. Tele-medicine could emerge as an effective tool and a promising initiative to manage T1D patients during the pandemic.
Impact of Targeted Treatment on the Prevalence and Intensity of Schistosomiasis in Primary School Children in Africa: A Scoping Review
Authors: Chanhanga Nathan , Ndarukwa Pisirai , Chimbari Moses John
Published: June 2020

BackgroundSchistosomiasis one of the major neglected tropical diseases that cause considerable public health problems in more than 78 tropical and subtropical countries. The disease is most prevalent among children who carry a disproportionately high worm load. Various interventions such as, Mass Drug Administration, snail control, safe water provision and health education on schistosomiasis have been implemented independently or jointly in an effort to control, reduce and ultimately eliminate this parasitic disease. The proposed review willquantify and evaluate the impact of these targeted interventions on the prevalence and intensity of schistosomiasis infection in African primary schools.MethodologyThe Arkseys and O’Malley framework for scoping reviews will be used to conduct the study. We will systematically search for eligible literature from peer-reviewed articles and grey literature. Databases such as Google Scholar, Medline, PubMed and EBSCO host will be searched. In addition, websites like the World Health Organization and government websites will also be searched for articles on the impact of targeted treatment on the prevalence and intensity of schistosomiasis in African primary schools. The scoping review will the conducted on studies that were published from 2000 to 2020. The Population Intervention, Comparison and Outcome (PICO) framework will be implemented to evaluate the eligibility of the research question. The results of the search will be reported utilizing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) flow diagram. Furthermore, quality assessment for the selected primary studies will be conducted using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT)Version 2018. Discussion We expect to gather research articles on various interventions and treatment modalities that have been implemented to reduce the prevalence and intensity of schistosomiasis infection in African primary schools. This will allow us to quantify and evaluate the overall impact of the targeted treatment to reduce morbidity due to schistosomiasis. Findings from this scoping review will be disseminated in print and electronic to policy makers, researchers and academics through publication in accredited journals and at conferences or congresses.
Improved Resistance to Root-knot Nematode Species in an Advanced Inbred Line of Specialty Pepper (Capsicum annuum)
Authors: Maquilan Mary Ann D. , Padilla Dominick C. , Dickson Donald W. , Rathinasabapathi Bala
Published: June 2020

Bell and chili peppers are important vegetable and spice commodities worldwide. Significant yield reductions have been attributed to damage caused by root-knot nematodes (RKNs; Meloidogyne spp.). This study addresses the need for developing pepper varieties that have high resistance to RKN, which is now of increasing importance due to restrictions on the use of fumigant nematicides. Our goal is to provide a nonchemical alternative to sustain commercial pepper production in Florida, which is a major producer of peppers in the United States. We evaluated ‘UFRJ107(6)A3’, an advanced inbred line developed from a cross between Capsicum annuum L. ‘Jalapeno’ and ‘Round of Hungary’, for resistance against the nematode in comparison with the parental and three other Capsicum cultivars, namely, C. annuum ‘Charleston Belle’, ‘California Wonder’, and C. chinense Jacq. ‘Datil’ in two separate growth chamber experiments. Based on egg mass indices and reproduction factors, ‘UFRJ107(6)A3’ was significantly more resistant to M. incognita compared with the other five cultivars. When tested with five RKN species, ‘UFRJ107(6)A3’ showed comparably high levels of resistance to M. arenaria and M. floridensis as ‘California Wonder’ based on the nematode reproduction factor. In ‘UFRJ107(6)A3’, however, there were no detectable M. arenaria egg masses, and M. incognita reproduction was minimal compared with that of ‘California Wonder’; both cultivars supported the reproduction of M. enterolobii and M. javanica, although the reproduction factors of M. enterolobii were ≈10-fold higher than M. javanica. To characterize the mechanism of high resistance to M. incognita in ‘UFRJ107(6)A3’, we examined the extent to which infective second-stage juveniles (J2s) were able to penetrate its roots in comparison with the susceptible ‘California Wonder’ and ‘Datil’ in two independent experiments; we conducted RKN root penetration assays with a single plant in a pot and two plants in a single-pot choice test using ‘Datil’ and ‘California Wonder’, respectively, as susceptible standards. In both assays, M. incognita J2s were absent in the roots of ‘UFRJ107(6)A3’ 7 days after inoculation but were present in the susceptible cultivars, indicating that resistance has an effect at the root invasion stage. In growth chamber experiments, at constant temperatures of 28 and 30 °C, ‘UFRJ107(6)A3’ exhibited M. incognita resistance superior to its parents and to the standard resistant bell pepper ‘Charleston Belle’, thus offering the potential to enhance specialty pepper production and for use as a nematode-resistant rootstock for commercial bell peppers.
Microirrigation Equipment for Okra Cultivation in the U.S. Virgin Islands
Authors: Ferrarezi Rhuanito Soranz , Geiger Thomas C. , Greenidge Jayar , Dennery Shamali , Weiss Stuart A. , Vieira Gustavo H.S.
Published: June 2020

Drip irrigation presents higher distribution efficiency than sprinkler irrigation. Proper system design and the use of pressure-compensating emitters have important roles in irrigation uniformity and efficiency, which directly affect plant growth. This study evaluated the performance of four pressure-compensating and noncompensating emitters and the effects of these irrigation equipment on the yield of three okra [Abelmoschus esculentus] varieties cultivated in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Trials were performed in two seasons (Spring and Fall 2016), and tested four types of irrigation equipment (flow control drip tape, thin wall drip line, thin wall drip tape, and heavy wall drip line) and three varieties of okra (‘Clemson Spineless 80’, ‘Clemson Spineless’, and ‘Chant’), arranged on a complete randomized block design with three replications. Irrigation was performed based on reference evapotranspiration and measured daily using an automated weather station. Soil moisture, electrical conductivity (EC), and soil temperature were monitored using capacitance sensors. The ability of the irrigation equipment to increase pressure was evaluated in the laboratory, in experimental modules using clean water, and while simulating three different slopes (leveled, uphill, and downhill). In the field trial, yield and leaf physiological parameters were influenced by season (P < 0.05) and the percentage of the marketable yield was influenced by variety (P < 0.05); however, fruit morphological parameters and soluble solids content were variety-dependent (P < 0.01). The pressure-compensating emitters maintained water flow within the range indicated by the manufacturers when used within the recommended pressure range. Distribution uniformity decreased over time for all equipment except the heavy wall drip line in Fall 2016. Irrigation equipment did not impact okra morphological attributes and yield, indicating that the same productivity can be successfully maintained while improving irrigation efficiency. Equipment should be selected based on price and irrigation efficiency to reduce the amount of water used.
Effects of pH and Ca exchange on the structure and redox state of synthetic Na-birnessite
Authors: Elmi Chiara , Post Jeffrey E. , Heaney Peter J. , Ilton Eugene S.
Published: June 2020

Birnessite-like minerals are among the most common Mn oxides in surficial soils and sediments, and they mediate important environmental processes (e.g., biogeochemical cycles, heavy metal confinement) and have novel technological applications (e.g., water oxidation catalysis). Ca is the dominant interlayer cation in both biotic and abiotic birnessites, especially when they form in association with carbonates. The current study investigated the structures of a series of synthetic Ca-birnessite analogs prepared by cation-exchange with synthetic Na-birnessite at pH values from 2 to 7.5. The resulting Ca-exchanged birnessite phases were characterized using powder X-ray diffraction and Rietveld refinement, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and scanning and transmission electron microscopy. All samples synthesized at pH values greater than 3 exhibited a similar triclinic structure with nearly identical unit-cell parameters. The samples exchanged at pH 2 and 3 yielded hexagonal structures, or mixtures of hexagonal and triclinic phases. Rietveld structure refinement and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy showed that exchange of Na by Ca triggered reduction of some Mn3+, generating interlayer Mn2+ and vacancies in the octahedral layers. The triclinic and hexagonal Ca-birnessite structures described in this study were distinct from Na- and H-birnessite, respectively. Therefore, modeling X-ray absorption spectra of natural Ca-rich birnessites through mixing of Na- and H-birnessite end-members will not yield an accurate representation of the true structure.
The impact of quarantine due to COVID-19 pandemic on the tourism industry in Lviv (Ukraine)
Authors: Rutynskyi Mykhailo , Kushniruk Halyna
Published: June 2020

The global crisis caused by COVID-19 pandemic and the introduction of long-term international quarantine measures have had a very negative impact on the tourism industry. The paper aims to analyze the sectoral losses of the tourism industry during quarantine due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Lviv, a city whose historical center is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The article highlights the potential of the tourism industry before the introduction of quarantine measures, as well as using extrapolation methods estimates the economic losses of the tourist industry of Lviv in the conditions of long-term quarantine. Besides, the anti-crisis measures of the city authorities to minimize the impact of quarantine due to COVID-19 pandemic on the tourism industry of Lviv are described. Based on a statistical analysis of the forecasted economic losses, it is recommended that city authorities abolish some local taxes and fees in the tourism sector to restore its potential as soon as possible.
Clinical Values of Nitric Oxide Parameters from the Respiratory System
Authors: Lehtimäki Lauri , Karvonen Tuomas , Högman Marieann
Published: June 2020

Background:

Fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) concentration reliably reflects
central airway inflammation, but it is not sensitive to changes in the NO dynamics in the lung
periphery. By measuring FENO at several different flow rates one can estimate alveolar NO
concentration (CANO), bronchial NO flux (JawNO), bronchial wall NO concentration (CawNO)
and the bronchial diffusivity of NO (DawNO).

Objective:

We aimed to describe the current knowledge and clinical relevance of NO parameters
in different pulmonary diseases.

Methods:

We conducted a systematic literature search to identify publications reporting NO
parameters in subjects with pulmonary or systemic diseases affecting the respiratory tract. A
narrative review was created for those with clinical relevance.

Results:

Estimation of pulmonary NO parameters allows for differentiation between central
and peripheral inflammation and a more precise analysis of central airway NO output. CANO
seems to be a promising marker of parenchymal inflammation in interstitial lung diseases and
also a marker of tissue damage and altered gas diffusion in chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease and systemic diseases affecting the lung. In asthma, CANO can detect small airway
involvement left undetected by ordinary FENO measurement. Additionally, CawNO and
DawNO can be used in asthma to assess if FENO is increased due to enhanced inflammatory
activity (increased CawNO) or tissue changes related to bronchial remodelling (altered
DawNO).

Conclusion:

: NO parameters may be useful for diagnosis, prediction of disease progression
and prediction of treatment responses in different parenchymal lung and airway diseases.
Formal trials to test the added clinical value of NO parameters are needed.
Oxidative and Nitrosative Stress in the Pathogenesis of Obstructive Lung Diseases of Increasing Severity
Authors: Di Stefano Antonino , Maniscalco Mauro , Balbi Bruno , Ricciardolo Fabio L.M.
Published: June 2020

The imbalance between increased oxidative agents and antioxidant defence mechanisms is central in the pathogenesis of obstructive lung diseases such as asthma and COPD. In these patients, there are increased levels of reactive oxygen species. Superoxide anions (O2-), Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) and hydroxyl radicals (•OH) are critical for the formation of further cytotoxic radicals in the bronchi and lung parenchyma. Chronic inflammation, partly induced by oxidative stress, can further increase the oxidant burden through activated phagocytic cells (neutrophils, eosinophils, macrophages), particularly in severer disease states. Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory genes are, in fact, frequently downregulated in diseased patients. Nrf2, which activates the Antioxidant Response Element (ARE) leading to upregulation of GPx, thiol metabolism-associated detoxifying enzymes (GSTs) and stressresponse genes (HO-1) are all downregulated in animal models and patients with asthma and COPD. An exaggerated production of Nitric Oxide (NO) in the presence of oxidative stress can promote the formation of oxidizing reactive nitrogen species, such as peroxynitrite (ONO2-), leading to nitration and DNA damage, inhibition of mitochondrial respiration, protein dysfunction, and cell damage in the biological systems. Protein nitration also occurs by activation of myeloperoxidase and H2O2, promoting oxidation of nitrite (NO2-). There is increased nitrotyrosine and myeloperoxidase in the bronchi of COPD patients, particularly in severe disease. The decreased peroxynitrite inhibitory activity found in induced sputum of COPD patients correlates with pulmonary function. Markers of protein nitration - 3- nitrotyrosine, 3-bromotyrosine, and 3-chlorotyrosine - are increased in the bronchoalveolar lavage of severe asthmatics. Targeting the oxidative, nitrosative stress and associated lung inflammation through the use of either denitration mechanisms or new drug delivery strategies for antioxidant administration could improve the treatment of these chronic disabling obstructive lung diseases.