bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hierarchical Classification Method for Radio Frequency Interference Recognition and Characterization
Authors: Ujan Sahar , Navidi Neda , Landry Rene Jr
Published: May 2020

Satellite communication (Satcom) is an artificial geostationary satellite that facilitates a wide range of telecommunications. Considering its quality of service (QoS) and security is crucial in government/military applications. The most challenging situation for efficient Satcom is radio frequency interference (RFI) environment. Thus, it is necessary to ensure that transmissions are incorruptible or at least sense the quality of its spectrum. This paper presents a new method to recognize received signal characteristics using a hierarchical classification in a multi-layer perceptron neural network. We consider signal modulation and the type of RFI as the characteristics of a real-time video stream transmitted in the direct broadcast satellite. Four different modulation types are investigated in this study. Moreover, the combination of the communication signal with various kinds of interference and their effects on the classification method widely have been analyzed. Besides, two robust feature selection techniques have been developed to reduce the data-set dimensional, which leads to optimizing the classification process. The results show that the Genetic Algorithm (GA) slightly outperforms Principal Component Analysis (PCA) for feature selection. Furthermore, the robustness of the proposed techniques is assessed to detect unknown signals at different signal to noise ratios.
Storage, Indexing, Query Processing, and Benchmarking in Centralized and Distributed RDF Engines: A Survey
Authors: Ali Waqas , Saleem Muhammad , Yao Bin , Ngonga Ngomo Axel-Cyrille
Published: May 2020

The recent advancements of the Semantic Web and Linked Data have changed the working of the traditional web. There is a huge adoption of the Resource Description Framework (RDF) format for saving of web-based data. This massive adoption has paved the way for the development of various centralized and distributed RDF processing engines. These engines employ different mechanisms to implement key components of the query processing engines such as data storage, indexing, language support, and query execution. All these components govern how queries are executed and can have a substantial effect on the query runtime. For example, the storage of RDF data in various ways significantly affects the data storage space required and the query runtime performance. The type of indexing approach used in RDF engines is key for fast data lookup. The type of the underlying querying language (e.g., SPARQL or SQL) used for query execution is a key optimization component of the RDF storage solutions. Finally, query execution involving different join orders significantly affects the query response time. This paper provides a comprehensive review of centralized and distributed RDF engines in terms of storage, indexing, language support, and query execution.
Evaluation of Protection Level and Safety of Commercially Available Snorkel Masks as Personal Protection Devices against Aerosolized Contaminants and SARS-CoV2
Authors: Germonpre Peter , Van Rompaey Dirk , Balestra Costantino
Published: May 2020

Introduction: The SARS-CoV2 pandemic has led to an worldwide shortage of Personal Protection Devices (PPD) for medical and paramedical personnel. Adaptation of commercially available snorkel masks to serve as full face masks has been proposed. Even not formally approved as PPD, they are publicized on social media as suitable for this use. Concerns about actual protection levels and risk of carbon dioxide (CO2) accumulation while wearing them for extended periods made us perform a systematic testing of various brands, in order to verify whether they are as safe and effective as claimed. Methods: A “fit” test was performed, analogous to gas mask testing. Respiratory safety was evaluated by measuring end-tidal CO2 and oxygen saturation while wearing the masks in rest and during physical exercise. Masks were tested with 3D adaptors to mount regular bacterial-viral ventilator filters when available, or with snorkel openings covered with N95/FFP2 cloth. Results: Modified masks performed reasonably well on the fit test, comparable to regular N95/FFP2 masks. Not all ventilator filters are equally protective. For all masks, a small initial increase in end-tidal CO2 was noted, remaining within physiological limits. 3D printed adaptors are safer, have more flexibility and reliability than makeshift adaptations. Conclusions: These masks can offer benefit as a substitute for complete protective gear as they are easier to don and remove and offer full-face protection. They may be more comfortable to wear for extended periods. Proper selection of mask size, fit testing, quality of 3D printed parts and choice of filter are important.
Importance, Determinants and Gender Dimensions of Forests for Communities Dawuro Zone, South-West Ethiopia a Case Study of Essera Woreda
Authors: Tona Amenu Bekele , Shanko Mamo Getahun
Published: May 2020

Rural households across developing countries rely on diversified sources of income and forest resource play important role in this regard. This study is designed with the objectives of assessing the contribution of forests to annual income of rural households and identifying its determinants with the case of Essera woreda forest in western Ethiopia. It also examined the gender dimensions of forest income and how this income varies with the wealth status of households key informants interview focus group discussion and household based questionnaire survey were used to collect data. On average income from crop production accounted for (40.7%) of the total annual household income. Forest income is second in importance contributing (32.6%), income from livestock off and non-farm activities and woodlots accounted for (13.6%), (11.4%) and (1.7%) of the total household income respectively. Firewood is the most used forest product and constituted the largest proportion (79%) of the total forest income. Forest income is more important for poor households (47.3%) than for medium (30.5%) or rich (20.2%) households. It is also more important for female headed households (58.2%) than for male headed households (29%). The gender dimension of forest income is also important within the household. Female members generated about four times more forest income (77% of the household forest income) than male members (23%). Policy to promote new forest management arrangement such as participatory forest management (PFM) needs to take in to account the major forest users and the types of products they depend on and be accompanied with other poverty reduction measures so that improved forest conservation outcome will not have negative consequences on local livelihoods particularly on poor and women who depend most on the forest.
Computational Strategies to Combat COVID-19: Useful Tools to Accelerate SARS-CoV-2 and Coronavirus Research
Authors: Hufsky Franziska , Lamkiewicz Kevin , Almeida Alexandre , Aouacheria Abdel , Arighi Cecilia , Bateman Alex , Baumbach Jan , Beerenwinkel Niko , Brandt Christian , Cacciabue Marco , Chuguransky Sara , Drechsel Oliver , Finn Robert D. , Fritz Adrian , Fuchs Stephan , Hattab Georges , Hauschild Anne-Christin , Heider Dominik , Hoffmann Marie , Hölzer Martin , Hoops Stefan , Kaderali Lars , Kalvari Ioanna , von Kleist Max , Kmiecinski René , Kühnert Denise , Lasso Gorka , Libin Pieter , List Markus , Löchel Hannah F. , Martin Maria J. , Martin Roman , Matschinske Julian , McHardy Alice C. , Mendes Pedro , Mistry Jaina , Navratil Vincent , Nawrocki Eric , O'Toole Áine Niamh , Palacios-Ontiveros Nancy , Petrov Anton I. , Rangel-Piñeros Guillermo , Redaschi Nicole , Reimering Susanne , Reinert Knut , Reyes Alejandro , Richardson Lorna , Robertson David L. , Sadegh Sepideh , Singer Joshua B. , Theys Kristof , Upton Chris , Welzel Marius , Williams Lowri , Marz Manja
Published: May 2020

SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) is a novel virus of the family Coronaviridae. The virus causes the infectious disease COVID-19. The biology of coronaviruses has been studied for many years. However, bioinformatics tools designed explicitly for SARS-CoV-2 have only recently been developed as a rapid reaction to the need for fast detection, understanding, and treatment of COVID-19. To control the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it is of utmost importance to get insight into the evolution and pathogenesis of the virus. In this review, we cover bioinformatics workflows and tools for the routine detection of SARS-CoV-2 infection, the reliable analysis of sequencing data, the tracking of the COVID-19 pandemic and evaluation of containment measures, the study of coronavirus evolution, the discovery of potential drug targets and development of therapeutic strategies. For each tool, we briefly describe its use case and how it advances research specifically for SARS-CoV-2. All tools are freely available online, either through web applications or public code repositories.
Advances in Research on the Relationship between Intestinal Flora and Myasthenia Gravis
Authors: Wu Xingxing , Xu Yong , Wang Qin , Wei Yuhui , Karim Md Rezaul , Wang Yun-Fu
Published: May 2020

Human intestinal flora refers to a large and diverse microbial population present in the digestive tract of the human body, which plays a significant role in the establishment of human immune homeostasis and the normal function of the immune system. Myasthenia Gravis is an autoimmune disease of the neuromuscular junction, mainly involved in the anti-acetylcholine receptor antibody, cellular immune dependence, and complement1. At present, studies have found that the intestinal flora of Myasthenia Gravis is different from that of healthy people. Probiotic therapy has been shown effective in the experimental autoimmune Myasthenia Gravis animal models. This article reviews the relationship between intestinal flora and Myasthenia Gravis, to provide new ideas for further study of the pathogenesis and clinical treatment of Myasthenia Gravis.
Evaluation of Neutralizing Antibodies against Highly Pathogenic Coronaviruses: A Detailed Protocol for a Rapid Evaluation of Neutralizing Antibodies Using Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (Vsv) Pseudovirus-Based Assay
Authors: Almahboub Sarah A. , Algaissi Abdullah , Alfaleh Mohamed A. , ElAssouli M-Zaki , Hashem Anwar M.
Published: May 2020

Emerging highly pathogenic human coronaviruses (CoVs) represent a serious ongoing threat to the public health worldwide. The spike (S) proteins of CoVs are surface glycoproteins that facilitate viral entry into host cells via attachment to their respective cellular receptors. The S protein is believed to be a major immunogenic component of CoVs and a target for neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) and most candidate vaccines. Development of a safe and convenient assay is thus urgently needed to determine the prevalence of CoVs nAbs in the population, to study immune response in infected individuals, and to aid in vaccines and viral entry inhibitors evaluation. While live virus-based neutralization assays are used as gold standard serological methods to detect and measure nAbs, handling of highly pathogenic live CoVs requires strict bio-containment conditions in biosafety level-3 laboratories. On the other hand, use of replication-incompetent pseudoviruses bearing CoVs S proteins could represent a safe and useful method to detect nAbs in serum samples under biosafety level-2 conditions. Here, we describe a detailed protocol of a safe and convenient assay to generate vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV)-based pseudoviruses to evaluate and measure nAbs against highly pathogenic CoVs. The protocol covers methods to produce VSV pseudovirus bearing the S protein of the Middle East respiratory syndrome-CoV (MERS-CoV) and the severe acute respiratory syndrome-CoV-2 (SARS-CoV-2), pseudovirus titration, and pseudovirus neutralizing assay. Such assay could be adapted by different laboratories and researchers working on highly pathogenic CoVs without the need to handle live viruses in biosafety level-3 environment.
Unravelling the Social Network of COVID-19 in India from 30 January to 6 April 2020
Authors: Azad Sarita , Devi Sushma
Published: May 2020

Social network analysis is an essential means to uncover and examine infectious contact relations between individuals. This paper aims to investigate the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) from international to the national level and find a few super spreaders which played a central role in the transmission of disease in India. Our network metrics calculated from 30 January to 6 April 2020 revealed that the maximum numbers of connections were established from Dubai (degree-144) and UK (degree-64). These two countries played a crucial role in diffusing the disease in Indian states. The eigenvector centrality of Dubai is found to be the highest, and this marked it the most influential node. However, based on the modularity class, we found that the different clusters were formed across Indian states which demonstrated the forming of a multi-layered social network structure.A significant increase in the confirmed cases was reported during the first lockdown 1.0 (22 March 2020) primarily attributed to a gathering in Delhi Religious Conference (DRC) known as Tabliqui Jamaat. As of 6 April 2020, the overall structure of the network has encompassed local transmission, and it was significantly seen in the states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Karnataka. An important conclusion drawn from the presented social network reveals that the COVID-19 spread till 6 April was mainly due to the local transmission across Indian states. The timely quarantine of infected cases in DRC has not led it to spread at the level of community transmission.
Consumptive Coagulopathy and Thrombosis during Severe COVID-19 Infection: Potential Involvement of VWF/ADAMTS13
Authors: Katneni Upendra K. , Alexaki Aikaterini , Hunt Ryan , Schiller Tal , DiCuccio Michael , Buehler Paul W. , Ibla Juan C. , Kimchi-Sarfaty Chava
Published: May 2020

Coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) is the clinical manifestation of the respiratory infection caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Following its origin as a regional outbreak in Wuhan, China, COVID-19 rapidly spread globally and eventually was designated as pandemic by the World Health Organization. Multiple studies describing the clinical characteristics of COVID-19 patients highlighted the prevalence of abnormal coagulopathy and higher incidence of thrombosis. These studies identified co-morbid inflammatory disorders as risk factors for hospitalization in SARS-CoV-2 infections. While early evidence suggested inflammatory conditions as the leading cause of abnormal coagulopathy in COVID-19 patients, the mechanisms behind progression of inflammation mediated hemostasis dysregulation to thrombotic outcomes in susceptible individuals are not well understood. In addition, a sensitive and temporal assessments of coagulation and fibrinolysis is still lacking. Von Willebrand Factor (VWF) and ADAMTS13 interactions play an important role in the maintenance of hemostasis and prevention of unwanted thrombosis. In inflammatory conditions, VWF-ADAMTS13 imbalance characterized by elevated VWF levels and inhibited and/or reduced activity of ADAMTS13 is reported. Also, an imbalance between ADAMTS13 activity and VWF antigen is associated with organ dysfunction and death in patients with systemic inflammation. Despite the natural antithrombotic activity of ADAMTS13, its role in COVID-19 pathophysiology, specifically thrombotic outcomes has not yet been investigated. A thorough understanding of VWF-ADAMTS13 interactions during early and advanced phases of COVID-19 could help define the pathophysiology, guide thromboprophylaxis and treatment and improve clinical prognosis.
Gene Mutation and Epigenetic Modification Origin in Glioma Initiation: Are the GDNF and SOX1 Overexpression the Causes of Its Initiation?
Authors: Kanwore Kouminin , Guo Xiao-xiao , Abiola Ayanlaja Abdulrahman , Kambey Piniel Alphayo , Oluwafemi Adekunle Adebayo , Gao Dianshuai
Published: May 2020

The extrinsic and intrinsic factors are essential in glioma initiation. Many extrinsic factors (UV, radiation, food, etc.) and intrinsic factors (proteins, hormones, ageing, DNA and RNA damages, etc.) was reported to being responsible for glioma initiation and progression. However, the cell responsible for glioma origin is still unknown. Many research papers have reported that glioma stem cells, senescent cells, injured cells, and death neurons are the cells of glioma origin. However, gene mutation and oncogene protein overexpression doesn’t occur only in cancer but during life evolution. The source of genetic mutations has become a fundamental issue in understanding its role in the initiation of glioma. The glioma is the precise coordination of several distant factors that work together in the initiation and development of glioma. However, the role and effects of the genes (GDNF and SOX1) on cancer cells are well known, but their gene mutation origin is controversial. Several models and theories have been proposed to explain the origins of GDNF and SOX1 genetic mutations and epigenetic modification related to cancer. Our aim in this review is to clear that incertitude about glioma origin (gene mutation and epigenetic modifications) and those factors involved in glioma initiation and recurrence.
Candidatus Liberibacter Asiaticus Manipulates the Expression of Vitellogenin, Cytoskeleton, and Endocytotic Pathway-Related Genes to Become Circulative in Its Vector, Diaphorina citri (Hemiptera: Psyllidae)
Authors: Jaiswal Damini , Sidharthan V. Kavi , Sharma Susheel Kumar , Rai Richa , Choudhary Nandlal , Ghosh Amalendu , Baranwal Virendra Kumar
Published: May 2020

Citrus greening disease or huanglongbing (HLB) caused by Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas) limits the citrus production worldwide. CLas is transmitted by the Asian citrus psyllid (ACP), Diaphorina citri (Hemiptera: Psyllidae) in a persistent-propagative manner. Application of insecticides to manage the psyllid vectors and disease is the most common practice. Understanding the molecular interaction between CLas and ACP and interrupting the interrelationship can provide an alternative to insecticides for managing citrus greening disease. Transcriptome analysis of ACP in response to CLas showed differential expression of 3911 genes (2196 up-regulated, and 1715 down-regulated) including the key genes of ACP involved in cytoskeleton synthesis and nutrition-related proteins. Majority of the differentially expressed genes were categorized under molecular function followed by cellular components and biological processes. KEGG pathway analysis showed differential regulation of carbohydrate, nucleotide and energy metabolic pathways, the endocytotic pathway and the defense-related pathways. Differential regulation of genes associated with the key pathways might favors CLas to become systemic and propagate in its insect vector. The study provides an understanding of genes involved in circulation of CLas in ACP. The candidate genes involved in key physiological processes and CLas transmission by ACP would be potential targets for sustainable management of ACP and CLas.
What is the Real Shape of the Hubble Diagram, z = H0*D or z+1= eH0*t? Analysis of the SN1a Supernovae and Gamma Ray Burst Redshift/Magnitude Data including the High Redshift Range up to z = 8.1
Authors: Marosi Laszlo
Published: May 2020

Analyses of the Hubble diagrams are presented for SN1a supernovae and gamma ray bursts in the redshift ranges z = 0.01–1.3 and 0.034–8.1, respectively. Data are presented on the typical z/μ scale and also on the less common yet increasingly sensitive photon flight time t/(z+1) scale. The primary conclusion is that on the basis of the presently accessible data in the redshift range z = 0.01–8.1, the slope of the Hubble diagram is, or is extremely close to, exponential.
COVID 19 Data Visualization through Automatic Phase Detection
Authors: Biswas Pradipta , Singh Saluja Kamalpreet , Arjun Somnath , Murthy LRD , Prabhakar Gowdham , Sharma Vinay Krishna , Shree DV Jeevitha
Published: May 2020

This paper presents a new interactive visualization system to represent and compare rate of spread of COVID 19 pandemic across different countries over time. We surveyed existing visualization techniques used in various websites and media outlets and introduced use of a knee detection algorithm that divides the exponential spread in multiple linear components. A set of use cases demonstrates the utility of the system in comparing the spread across different countries for both analysis and prediction.
A Single Arm Study to Evaluate the Transfer of Drospirenone to Breast Milk after Reaching Steady State after Oral Administration of 4 MG Drospirenone Only Pill in Healthy Lactating Female Volunteers
Authors: Melka Dace , Kask Kalev , Colli Enrico , Regidor Pedro-Antonio
Published: May 2020

Objective: The primary objective of this trial was to assess the transfer of drospirenone to breast milk after daily administration of an oral test preparation containing 4 mg of drospirenone at the steady state. The secondary objective of the trial was to assess the safety of the preparation based on safety clinical and laboratory measurements (at the beginning and at the end of the trial) and reporting of adverse events and/or adverse drug reactions. Patients and Methods: This was an open label, non-comparative single center study. Drospirenone 4mg per day was the first postpartum contraceptive for the study participants who were no longer breastfeeding yet were still lactating. It was administered for 7 (seven) days to achieve steady-state concentration. All participants were volunteers who planned to use oral contraceptives as their family planning method in the future. Results: A total number of 12 volunteers completed the trial according to the protocol and the samples of all the 12 study completers were analyzed. The average concentration-time curve of drospirenone in plasma 24 h after the administration of the last dose (AUC(0-24h)) was 635.33 ng*h/mL and 120 h after the single repeat dose administration (AUC(0-120h) was 1180.57 ng*h/mL, respectively. The average Cmax was 48.64 ng/mL. The average concentration-time curve of drospirenone in milk 24 h after the administration of the last dose (AUC(0-24h)) was 134.35 ng*h/mL and 120 h after the single repeat dose administration (AUC(0-120h) was 227.17 ng*h/mL respectively. The average Cmax was 10.34 ng/mL. Conclusion: On average 18.13% of plasma drospirenone made it to breast milk and the highest concentration of drospirenone in breast milk was 17.55% of that in plasma. The total quantity of drospirenone passing to breast milk is on average 4478 ng during a 24 h period representing 0.11% of the maternal daily dose. Thus, at the recommended doses, no effects on breastfed newborns/infants are anticipated with drospirenone 4 mg.
Makna Menjadi Guru Bimbingan Konseling (Studi Fenomenologi Terhadap Fresh Graduate)
Authors: Irawan Andi Wahyu , Aswar
Published: May 2020

The research subjects were selected using purposive sampling in the criteria of fresh graduate and served as honorary teacher no more than one year, no more than 25 years old, and worked in a high school in the city of Samarinda. Data collected techniques were in-depth interviews and analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) techniques. The analysis technique sought to find meaning themes to become counseling guidance teachers. The results show three main themes, those are counseling guidance teachers interpreted as: 1) a soul calling; 2) to enjoy comfort; and 3) as a part-time job. The sub-theme of: 1) the soul calling is not profit oriented, realizing the future of students, and religious beliefs. The sub-theme of: 2) enjoy comfort that is a sense of comfort when students are helped, enjoy being parents for students, and to get life lessons. The sub-theme of: 3) part-time job is waiting to become civil servants and not easily laid off. Suggestion from this study are excepted to be a reference in helping counseling teachers in the process of valuing their work throught positive environmental conditioning to increase their productivity at work.
Hydrogeomorphic exploration of a local headwater stream in low mountainous environment following detailed field survey protocol (Mecsek Mountains, Hungary)
Authors: FÁBIÁN Szabolcs Ákos , KALMÁR Péter , JÓZSA Edina , SOBUCKI Mateusz
Published: May 2020

Comprehensive field survey of the physiographic context and channel morphology is a key to distinguish characteristic hydrogeomorphic reaches of a watercourse. In this analysis field data were collected during seasonal campaigns following a field survey protocol developed in the Polish Carpathian Mountains. Complementary information was conducted from cartographic materials and digital elevation model to map diverse sections of the semi-natural Váralja Stream in the Eastern Mecsek Mountains. Geological, geomorphological and anthropogenic effects had to be considered as decisive factors in recent fluvial development, with emphasis on the sediment transport influenced by woody debris. A total of 12 hydrogeomorphic reaches were identified along the stream by interpreting the spatial arrangement of channel forms and analysing the characteristics of the watershed environment. The mapped reaches are connected with transitional zones of different length. Step systems are typical on the upper reach of the stream, but they were found to be the result of the geological composition and structure of the region. It was also proven that woody debris accumulations, made up of tree trunks, branches and roots have significant influence on the channel evolution of the Váralja stream. Even though the presented field survey instructions were field-tested in alpine catchments the conducted research confirmed the applicability of such workflow in low mountainous environment. Furthermore, the results on the hydrogeomorphic conditions of this small watershed with intense relief provide useful information for understanding the flash floods occurring in the region.
General practice patients starting treatment for substance use problems: observations from two data sources across levels of care
Authors: Boffin Nicole , Antoine Jerome , Baelen Luk Van , Moreels Sarah , Doggen Kris
Published: May 2020

Background In Belgium, the incidence of treatment episodes for substance use problems is monitored by the Network of Sentinel General Practices (SGP), and at higher, specialist care levels by the Treatment Demand Indicator (TDI) surveillance. Using both data sources, we examine 1) how patients starting specialist treatment for substance use problems on referral by their GP compare to those that were referred by non-GP caregivers; 2) how patients starting GP treatment for substance use problems without receiving concurrent specialist treatment compare to those who did. Methods Both surveillances are based on the TDI protocol for reporting data to the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) on individuals starting treatment as a result of their substance use. Data from 2016 and 2017 were examined using 95% confidence intervals and multivariate logistic regression. Results According to TDI-data (n=16,543), determinants of being referred by a GP (versus by a non-GP caregiver) for specialist treatment were age ≥ median (OR 1.25; 95% CI 1.13-1.38), education ≥ secondary level (OR 1.27; 95% CI 1.15-1.41), recent employment (OR 1.71; 1.56-1.88), recent stable accommodation (3.62; 95% CI 3.08-4.26), first treatment episode (OR 1.72; 95% CI 1.57-1.87), recent daily primary substance use (OR 1.46; 95% CI 1.33-1.59) and mono substance use (OR 1.23; 95% CI 1.04-1.48). Type of substance use was a significant determinant with higher odds of using pharmaceuticals (and alcohol) (OR 1.24; 95% CI 1.04-1.48), and lower odds of using cannabis only/primarily (OR 0.73; 95% CI 0.62-0.86), with reference to street drugs minus cannabis only/primarily. According to SGP data (n=314), determinants of starting GP treatment without concurrent specialist treatment were recent employment (OR 2.58; 95% CI 1.36-4.91), first treatment episode (OR 2.78; 95% CI 1.39-5.55) and living in the Brussels or Walloon region (OR 1.97; 95% CI 1.06-3.66). Conclusions This study provides a useful insight into the general practice population treated for substance use problems. It shows that both surveillances consistently found a relatively favourable profile of general practice patients with substance use problems.
The VetMAXTM M. tuberculosis Complex PCR Kit detects MTBC DNA in antemortem and postmortem samples from White rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum), African elephants (Loxodonta africana) and African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer).
Authors: Goosen Wynand Johan , Kerr Tanya Jane , Kleynhans Léanie , Buss Peter , Cooper David , Warren Robin Mark , Helden Paul D van , Schröder Björn , Parsons Sven David Charles , Miller Michele Ann
Published: May 2020

Background: Bovine tuberculosis and tuberculosis are chronic infectious diseases caused by the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex members, Mycobacterium bovis and Mycobacterium tuberculosis , respectively. Infection with M. bovis and M. tuberculosis have significant implications for wildlife species management, public health, veterinary disease control, and conservation endeavours. Results : Here we describe the first use of the VetMAX TM Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) DNA quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) detection kit for African wildlife samples. DNA was extracted from tissues harvested from 48 African buffaloes and MTBC DNA was detected (test-positive) in all 26 M. bovis culture-confirmed animals with an additional 12 PCR-positive results in culture-negative buffaloes (originating from an exposed population). Of six MTBC-infected African rhinoceros tested, MTBC DNA was detected in antemortem and postmortem samples from five animals. The PCR was also able to detect MTBC DNA in samples from two African elephants confirmed to have M. bovis and M. tuberculosis infections (one each). Culture-confirmed uninfected rhinoceros and elephants’ samples tested negative in the PCR assay.Conclusions: These results suggest this new detection kit is a sensitive screening test for the detection of MTBC-infected African buffaloes, African elephants and white rhinoceros.
The role of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex strain on apoptosis and necroptosis state of macrophages derived from active pulmonary tuberculosis patients
Authors: Yanti Budi , Mulyadi Mulyadi , Amin Muhammad , Harapan Harapan , Mertaniasih Ni Made , Soetjipto Soetjipto
Published: May 2020

Objective The role of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) strain in tuberculosis (TB) infection in human is still questioned. The aim of this study was to determine whether MTBC strain is associated with apoptosis and necroptosis by measuring the expression of specific signaling pathways components (Fas-associated protein with death domain (FADD) and receptor interacting protein 3 (RIP3)), as well as the level of apoptosis. Results We recruited 24 TB patients infected with M. tuberculosis Beijing strain and six patients with M. bovis BCG strain. Data indicated that those who infected with M. tuberculosis were more frequent to have severe lung damage than M. bovis (odds ratio [OR]: 7.60; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07-54.09). M. tuberculosis infection was also associated with lower expression of FADD and lower apoptosis level of macrophage cells compared to M. bovis . No significant different of RIP3 between strain groups. In conclusion, M. tuberculosis Beijing strain is associated with severe pulmonary damage, inhibits FADD expression and reduces apoptosis level in macrophages derived from TB. This suggests that MTBC strain potentially be used as determinant of progressivity of disease and tissue damage in TB cases.
“Death is a better option than being treated like this”: a prevalence survey and qualitative study of depression among multi-drug resistant tuberculosis in-patients.
Authors: Huque Rumana , Elsey Helen , Fieroze Fariza , Hicks Joseph Paul , Huque Samina , Bhawmik Prashanta , Walker Ian , Newell James
Published: May 2020

Background Understanding of the relationship between multi-drug resistant tuberculosis and mental health is limited. With growing prevalence of multi-drug resistant tuberculosis, addressing mental ill-health has potential to improve treatment outcomes and well-being. In several low and middle-income contexts hospitalisation during treatment is common. Understanding of the impact on mental ill-health is required to inform interventions for patients with multi-drug resistant tuberculosis. Our aim was to identify the prevalence of comorbid depression among in-patients being treated for multi-drug resistant tuberculosis and to explore their experiences of comorbid disease and the care they received in a large specialist chest hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Methods We conducted a quantitative cross-sectional survey among 150 multi-drug resistant tuberculosis in-patients (new cases = 34%, previously treated = 66%) in 2018. A psychiatrist assessed depression was assessed with the Structured Clinical Interview for Depression (SCID DSM-IV). We used multi-level modelling to identify associations with depression. Experience Bangladeshi researchers conducted qualitative interviews with 8 patients, 4 carers, 4 health professionals and reflective notes recorded. Qualitative data was analysed thematically. Results We found 33.8% (95% CI 26.7%; 41.7%) of patients were depressed. While more women were depressed 39.3% (95% CI 27.6%; 52.4%) than men 30.4% (95% CI 22%; 40.5%) this was not significant. After controlling for key variables only having one or more co-morbidity (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.88 [95% CI 1.13; 7.33]) and being a new rather than previously treated case (AOR = 2.33 [95% CI 1.06; 5.14]) were associated (positively) with depression. Qualitative data highlighted the isolation and despair felt by patients who described a service predominantly focused on providing medicines. Individual, familial, societal and health-care factors influenced resilience, nuanced by gender, socio-economic status and home location. Conclusions Patients with multi-drug resistant tuberculosis are at high risk of depression, particularly those with co- and multi-morbidities. Screening for depression and psycho-social support should be integrated within routine TB services and provided throughout treatment.
Educational needs of the primary education teachers in inclusive education of the pupils from socially disadvantaged backgrounds in Slovakia
Authors: Rochovská Ivana , Kušnírová, Veronika , Kolibová Daniela , Dolinská Eva , Dudek Mieczyslaw
Published: May 2020

The study presents the results of the research examining the educational needs of the teachers and their interest about the themes of courses and educational programmes in connection with actual needs arising from changes in the Slovak education system due to the gradual promotion of inclusion. The main research method was the questionnaire aimed at detection of primary level teachers’ needs for the professional development and trainings, the identification of primary education teachers’ needs for successful implementation of inclusion in the learning of the pupils from socially disadvantaged backgrounds. This study presents if there exist statistically significant differences in self-reflexive perception of the need to improve in topics related to the implementation of inclusive education and the characteristics of respondents (age, length of the teaching practice, willingness to grow personally and to educate).
Changes in extreme rainfall and its implications for design rainfall using a Bayesian quantile regression approach
Authors: Uranchimeg Sumiya , Kwon Hyun-Han , Kim Byungsik , Kim Tae-Woong
Published: May 2020

This study aims to explore possible distributional changes in annual daily maximum rainfalls (ADMRs) over South Korea using a Bayesian multiple non-crossing quantile regression model. The distributional changes in the ADMRs are grouped into nine categories, focusing on changes in the location and scale parameters of the probability distribution. We identified seven categories for a distributional change in the selected stations. Most of the stations (28 of 50) are classified as Category III, which is characterized by an upward trend with an increase in variance in the distribution. Moreover, stations with a downward trend with a decrease in the variance pattern (Category VII) are mainly distributed on the southern Korean coast. On the other hand, Category I stations are mostly located in eastern Korea and primarily show a statistically significant upward trend with a decrease in variance. Moreover, this study explored changes in design rainfall estimates for different categories in terms of distributional changes. For Categories I, II, III, and VI, a noticeable increase in design rainfall was observed, while Categories IV, V, and VII showed no evidence of association with risk of increased extreme rainfall.
Removal of Pb (II) from aqueous solution by using micro-spheres of Zea mays rachis–sodium alginate by batch and column systems
Authors: Gutiérrez-López D. , Flores-Alamo N. , Carreño-de-León M. C. , Solache-Rios M. J.
Published: May 2020

The behavior of composite beads of Zea mays rachis and sodium alginate (AL) for Pb (II) adsorption was studied. The Zea mays rachis–sodium alginate was prepared and characterized. The IR spectra showed interactions of the functional groups and the metal ions after adsorption. The kinetic data were fitted to the pseudo-first- and pseudo-second-order models, the maximum adsorption capacity was 60 mg/g for Pb (II), and the isotherm data were best adjusted to the Freundlich model, indicating that the adsorbent is heterogeneous. The thermodynamic study shows that the process is physisorption. The service time of columns increases as the height of columns increases, and this behavior was attributed to the active sites available in the columns. The initial concentration of Pb (II) had a significant effect on the breakthrough curves. As the concentration increases, the saturation time decreases. The material was regenerated four times (adsorption–desorption cycles), without a significant change in the removal efficiencies.
The Ubiquitin-Proteasome Pathway and Resistance Mechanisms Developed Against the Proteasomal Inhibitors in Cancer Cells
Authors: Yerlikaya Azmi , Kanbur Ertan
Published: May 2020

Background:

The ubiquitin-proteasome pathway is crucial for all cellular processes and is,
therefore, a critical target for the investigation and development of novel strategies for cancer treatment.
In addition, approximately 30% of newly synthesized proteins never attain their final conformations
due to translational errors or defects in post-translational modifications; therefore, they are also
rapidly eliminated by the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway.

Objective:

Here, an effort was made to outline the recent findings deciphering the new molecular
mechanisms involved in the regulation of ubiquitin-proteasome pathway as well as the resistance
mechanisms developed against proteasome inhibitors in cell culture experiments and in the clinical
trials.

Results:

Since cancer cells have higher proliferation rates and are more prone to translational errors,
they require the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway for selective advantage and sustained proliferation.
Therefore, drugs targeting the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway are promising agents for the treatment of
both hematological and solid cancers.

Conclusions:

A number of proteasome inhibitors are approved and used for the treatment of advanced
and relapsed multiple myeloma. Unfortunately, drug resistance mechanisms may develop very fast
within days of the start of the proteasome inhibitor-treatment either due to the inherent or acquired resistance
mechanisms under selective drug pressure. However, a comprehensive understanding of the
mechanisms leading to the proteasome inhibitor-resistance will eventually help the design and development
of novel strategies involving new drugs and/or drug combinations for the treatment of a number
of cancers.
Book Review: Layered Materials for Energy Storage and Conversion
Authors: Pothu Ramyakrishna , Saran Aditya , Kalambate Pramod K. , Boddula Rajender
Published: May 2020

Background:

A Book Review on Layered Materials for Energy Storage and Conversion
Edited by Dongsheng Geng, Yuan Cheng and Gang Zhang, The Royal Society of Chemistry, 2019,
315 Pages, Print ISBN 978-1-78801-426-7, Print ISSN 2046-0066, DOI: 10.1039/9781788016193-
FP001.

:

In the earlier decade, the extensive research hot-spot in two-dimensional (2D) layered materials,
especially graphene, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and transition metal dichalcogenides
(TMDCs) benefited from their exceptional chemical, physical, optical, mechanical and electronic
properties. This book provides an up-to-date comprehensive overview of synthesis approaches and
functionalization routes of graphene and TMDCs and functional properties of intercalated layered
materials and its energy applications.

Methods:

The chemistry of layered two-dimensional materials towards its allied applications in
electrocatalysis, lithium-ion batteries, sodium-ion batteries, thermoelectric materials, watersplitting
and performance of photovoltaic devices are the core issues of energy storage and conversion
and they are well addressed in this book.

Results:

This book consists of nine chapters. Altogether they discuss layered materials, energy
storage, substitute energy storage and conversion specifically as it is not possible to discuss each
and everything in detail. The chapters are written well by reputed experts around the globe. That
makes this book an outstandingly important and reliable source of information. It is valuable for a
book to provide updated information, review the work done to date, do proper analysis, compare
the pros and cons of comparable existing technologies and guide the readers to the research gaps
and places where improvement is required.

Conclusion:

This book is an essential reference guide for students, researchers, engineers and professionals
in the advanced materials community and energy-related sectors such as photovoltaics,
water-splitting, supercapacitor, and batteries, etc.
Recent Approaches to Integrate Multiomics Data on System Biology
Authors: Çelebier Mustafa , Ercan Ayşe
Published: May 2020

Background:

In this review, an outline of the development of omics studies in recent
years was envisaged. The bottom-up and top-down approaches on system biology were discussed
and some of the recent tools that integrate multiomics data on system biology studies were examined.
The improvements in omics applications from genomics to metabolomics were inspected in the light
of breast cancer biomarker discovery.

Results:

It is known that genome or proteome analysis alone is not sufficient to elucidate the molecular
mechanism of any disease, but instead, a holistic evaluation, including metabolomics studies, is
rational and gives definite results. Breast cancer markers approved at the beginning of the millennium
encouraged researchers to search for diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers with the improvements
of advanced analytical strategies. Obviously, the recent developments on omics techniques and
tools to process multiomics data are capable of presenting valuable scientific information better than
ever before.

Conclusion:

Clinical researches using omics techniques might be supported with the integration of
multiomics data to validate the results and to understand the molecular interactions in the biological
system.
Smart Multivariate Spectrophotometric Assisted Techniques for Simultaneous Determination of Ephedrine Hydrochloride and Naphazoline Nitrate in the Presence of Interfering Parabens
Authors: Eltanany Basma M. , Mouhamed Aya A. , Lamie Nesrine T. , Mostafa Nadia M.
Published: May 2020

Background:

PARTIAL Least Squares (PLS) and Principal Component Regression (PCR)
are two well-known chemometric methods based on dimension reduction techniques. They can be very
practical analyzing a large data set of multiple correlated predictor variables.

Objective:

In the presented work, the resolving power of spectrophotometric assisted mathematical techniques
was implemented for the simultaneous determination of two active ingredients; ephedrine hydrochloride (EPH)
and naphazoline nitrate (NAPH), in a matrix of excipients.

Methods:

To build the PLS and PCR models, a calibration set was prepared where the two drugs, in
combination with the interfering parabens, were modeled by multilevel multifactor design. The proposed
models successfully predicted the concentrations of both drugs in validation samples with low
Root Mean Squared Error of Prediction (RMSEP).

Results:

The results revealed the ability of the mentioned multivariate calibration models to analyze
EPH and NAPH in the presence of the interfering parabens with high selectivity in the concentration
ranges of 4.00-20.00 μg mL-1 and 1.00-9.00 μg mL-1, respectively.

Conclusion:

A commercially available nasal spray was successfully analyzed using the developed
methods without interfering with other dosage form additives.
Recent Advances in Herbal Nanomedicines for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Pradhan Deepak , Biswasroy Prativa , Sahu Amita , Sahu Dipak K. , Ghosh Goutam , Rath Goutam
Published: May 2020

Cancer continues to be one of the deadliest diseases that adversely impacts the large population
of the world. A stack of scientific documents reflects a huge number of potent plant-based
anticancer drugs such as curcumin (CUR), podophyllotoxin, camptothecin (CPT), vincristine, vinblastine,
paclitaxel (PTX), etc. that have been integrated into the modern practice of cancer treatment.
The demand for natural products raises exponentially as they are generally considered to be
safe, and devoid of critical toxic effects at the therapeutic dose when compared to their synthetic
counterparts. Despite rising interest towards the potent phytoconstituents, formulation developer
faces various challenges in drug development processes such as poor water solubility, low bioavailability,
marginal permeability, and nonspecific drug delivery at the target site, etc. Further, adverse
drug reaction and multidrug resistance are other critical issues that need to be addressed.
Nanomedicines owing to their unique structural and functional attributes help to fix the above challenges
for improved translational outcomes. This review summarises the prospects and challenges
of a nanotechnology-based drug delivery approach for the delivery of plant-based anticancer drugs.
Detection of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Using Internet of Things: A Review
Authors: M.K. Sandhya , S. Sathya Priya , S. Prasidh
Published: May 2020

Obstructive Sleep Apnea is a kind of sleep syndrome, which has an adverse effect on
both the health, and quality of life of an individual. It results in severe health problems like hypertension,
stroke and many cardiovascular issues. Only a very less percentage of persons with Obstructive
Sleep Apnea are diagnosed and treated. This is due to the lack of available devices and
technology. Detection of this sleep disorder is extremely important, as negligence can prove fatal.
Hence, the critical need in healthcare is the instantaneous monitoring of this disorder. The current
approaches for detecting this disorder are very expensive, bulky and intrusive which in turn will
affect the sleep quality of patients. So there is a necessity to design less expensive, light-weight
non-intrusive systems to diagnose these sleep-related issues. In this paper, the various noninvasive
schemes using sensors and Internet-of-Things to detect Obstructive Sleep Apnea are reviewed.
Further, the open research issues and challenges in detecting Obstructive Sleep Apnea are
presented.