bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and nonlinear optical properties of 4-phenylethylene derivatives based on a large π conjugated structure
Authors: Li Biyu , Gao Lijun , Yi Haoyue , Yang Linpo , Song Yinglin , Zhou Liming , Fang Shaoming
Published: February 2022

4-phenylethylene derivatives (B1, B2 and B3) with π conjugated systems were designed and synthesized by Sonogashira coupling reaction and Schiff base reaction. Under the ns laser source, the nonlinear absorption coefficients (β) of B2 and B3 are 1.85 × 10−10 m/W and 1.9 × 10−10 m/W. B2 and B3 have good light limit performance. Furthermore, the third harmonic strength of B2 and B3 is 181 and 215 times that of SiO2, respectively. The optical limiting threshold and third harmonic signal show that 4-phenylethylene derivatives will have good application potential in laser protection and frequency conversion.
TiO2/AgNPs SERS substrate for the detection of multi-molecules with a self-cleaning and high enhancement factor using the UV-induced method
Authors: Jiang Mu , Wang Zhengkun , Zhang Jie
Published: February 2022

An ultraviolet light-induced method is used to simultaneously grow silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) on the surface of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanospheres and complete a self-cleaning function. By adjusting ultraviolet (UV) light-induced duration, TiO2/AgNPs composite samples were prepared as surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates. The electromagnetic distribution of TiO2/AgNPs was analyzed with FDTD Solutions simulation software, and the corresponding theoretical enhancement factor was calculated. Taking the Rhodamine 6G (R6G) molecule as an analyte, the experimental detection limit is lower than 10−12 mol/L under UV-induced duration of 10 min, and the analytical enhancement factor (AEF) is ∼ 6.8×1010. In addition, the UV light-induced used samples can show a self-cleaning function, and the samples can be used for 5 cycles, with certain stability and repeatability. Moreover, the samples’ performance of multi-molecule detection is experimentally carried on.
Characterisation of the spectrum and genetic dependence of collateral mutations induced by translesion DNA synthesis
Authors: Póti Ádám , Szikriszt Bernadett , Gervai Judit Zsuzsanna , Chen Dan , Szüts Dávid
Published: February 2022

Translesion DNA synthesis (TLS) is a fundamental damage bypass pathway that utilises specialised polymerases with relaxed template specificity to achieve replication through damaged DNA. Misinsertions by low fidelity TLS polymerases may introduce additional mutations on undamaged DNA near the original lesion site, which we termed collateral mutations. In this study, we used whole genome sequencing datasets of chicken DT40 and several human cell lines to obtain evidence for collateral mutagenesis in higher eukaryotes. We found that cisplatin and UVC radiation frequently induce close mutation pairs within 25 base pairs that consist of an adduct-associated primary and a downstream collateral mutation, and genetically linked their formation to TLS activity involving PCNA ubiquitylation and polymeraseκ. PCNA ubiquitylation was also indispensable for close mutation pairs observed amongst spontaneously arising base substitutions in cell lines with disrupted homologous recombination. Collateral mutation pairs were also found in melanoma genomes with evidence of UV exposure. We showed that collateral mutations frequently copy the upstream base, and extracted a base substitution signature that describes collateral mutagenesis in the presented dataset regardless of the primary mutagenic process. Using this mutation signature, we showed that collateral mutagenesis creates approximately 10–20% of non-paired substitutions as well, underscoring the importance of the process.
Reemergence of yellow fever virus in southeastern Brazil, 2017–2018: What sparked the spread?
Authors: Rosser Joelle I. , Nielsen-Saines Karin , Saad Eduardo , Fuller Trevon
Published: February 2022

Background

The 2017–2018 yellow fever virus (YFV) outbreak in southeastern Brazil marked a reemergence of YFV in urban states that had been YFV-free for nearly a century. Unlike earlier urban YFV transmission, this epidemic was driven by forest mosquitoes. The objective of this study was to evaluate environmental drivers of this outbreak.

Methodology/Principal findings

Using surveillance data from the Brazilian Ministry of Health on human and non-human primate (NHP) cases of YFV, we traced the spatiotemporal progression of the outbreak. We then assessed the epidemic timing in relation to drought using a monthly Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) and evaluated demographic risk factors for rural or outdoor exposure amongst YFV cases. Finally, we developed a mechanistic framework to map the relationship between drought and YFV. Both human and NHP cases were first identified in a hot, dry, rural area in northern Minas Gerais before spreading southeast into the more cool, wet urban states. Outbreaks coincided with drought in all four southeastern states of Brazil and an extreme drought in Minas Gerais. Confirmed YFV cases had an increased odds of being male (OR 2.6; 95% CI 2.2–3.0), working age (OR: 1.8; 95% CI: 1.5–2.1), and reporting any recent travel (OR: 2.8; 95% CI: 2.3–3.3). Based on this data as well as mosquito and non-human primate biology, we created the “Mono-DrY” mechanistic framework showing how an unusual drought in this region could have amplified YFV transmission at the rural-urban interface and sparked the spread of this epidemic.

Conclusions/Significance

The 2017–2018 YFV epidemic in Brazil originated in hot, dry rural areas of Minas Gerais before expanding south into urban centers. An unusually severe drought in this region may have created environmental pressures that sparked the reemergence of YFV in Brazil’s southeastern cities.
Major acute cardiovascular events after dengue infection–A population-based observational study
Authors: Wei Kai-Che , Sy Cheng-Len , Wang Wen-Hwa , Wu Chia-Ling , Chang Shang-Hung , Huang Yu-Tung
Published: February 2022

Background

Dengue virus (DENV) infection may be associated with increased risks of major adverse cardiovascular effect (MACE), but a large-scale study evaluating the association between DENV infection and MACEs is still lacking.

Methods and findings

All laboratory confirmed dengue cases in Taiwan during 2009 and 2015 were included by CDC notifiable database. The self-controlled case-series design was used to evaluate the association between DENV infection and MACE (including acute myocardial infarction [AMI], heart failure and stroke). The "risk interval" was defined as the first 7 days after the diagnosis of DENV infection and the "control interval" as 1 year before and 1 year after the risk interval. The incidence rate ratio (IRR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for MACE were estimated by conditional Poisson regression. Finally, the primary outcome of the incidence of MACEs within one year of dengue was observed in 1,247 patients. The IRR of MACEs was 17.9 (95% CI 15.80–20.37) during the first week after the onset of DENV infection observed from 1,244 eligible patients. IRR were significantly higher for hemorrhagic stroke (10.9, 95% CI 6.80–17.49), ischemic stroke (15.56, 95% CI 12.44–19.47), AMI (13.53, 95% CI 10.13–18.06), and heart failure (27.24, 95% CI 22.67–32.73). No increased IRR was observed after day 14.

Conclusions

The risks for MACEs are significantly higher in the immediate time period after dengue infection. Since dengue infection is potentially preventable by early recognition and vaccination, the dengue-associated MACE should be taken into consideration when making public health management policies.
Robust validation and performance comparison of immunogenicity assays assessing IgG and neutralizing antibodies to SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Bonhomme Marie E. , Bonhomme Cyrille J. , Strelow Lisa , Chaudhari Atul , Howlett Adrienne , Breidenbach Carl , Hester Jack , Hammond Christopher , Fuzy Michéal , Harvey Laura , Swanner Vanessa , Ellis Jeymie , Greway Rebecca R. , Pisciella Victoria A. , Green Tina , Kierstead Lisa
Published: February 2022

To enable benchmarking of immunogenicity between candidate severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccines, there is a need for standardized, validated immunogenicity assays. In this article, we report the design and criteria used to validate immunogenicity assays and the outcome of the validation of serologic and functional assays for the evaluation of functional immune response and antibody titers in human serum. A quantitative cell-based microneutralization (MNT) assay, utilizing a reference standard, for detecting anti-SARS-CoV-2 spike protein-neutralizing antibodies in human serum and Meso Scale Discovery’s multiplex electrochemiluminescence (MSD ECL) assay for immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 spike, nucleocapsid, and receptor-binding domain (RBD) proteins were assessed for precision, accuracy, dilutional linearity, selectivity, and specificity using pooled human serum from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-confirmed recovered donors. Both assays met prespecified acceptance criteria for precision, relative accuracy, dilutional linearity, selectivity, and specificity. Both assays demonstrated high specificity for the different SARS-CoV-2 antigens or virus tested, and no significant cross-reactivity with seasonal coronaviruses. An evaluation to compare the neutralizing activity in the MNT assay to the IgG measured using the MSD ECL assay showed a strong correlation between the presence of neutralizing activity and amount of antibodies against the spike and RBD proteins in sera from both convalescent and vaccinated individuals. Finally, the MNT assay was calibrated to the WHO reference standard to enable reporting of results in international units, thus facilitating comparison of immunogenicity data generated by different assays and/or laboratories. The MSD ECL assay has previously been calibrated. In conclusion, these validated assays for the evaluation of functional immune response and antibody titers following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination could provide a relatively simple standardized approach for accurately comparing immune responses to different vaccines and/or vaccination regimens.
“I just have to hope that this abortion should go well”: Perceptions, fears, and experiences of abortion clients in Nigeria
Authors: Katz Anna J. , Ramirez Ana Maria , Bercu Chiara , Filippa Sofia , Dirisu Osasuyi , Egwuatu Ijeoma , Nmezi Sybil , Palmer Lucky , Baum Sarah E.
Published: February 2022

This qualitative study aimed to examine how abortion clients in Nigeria perceive abortion and explore the role their beliefs and fears play in their care-seeking experiences and interactions with providers. Abortion is severely legally restricted in Nigeria but remains common. We conducted in-depth interviews with 25 people who obtained abortion services through three distinct models of care. We coded interview transcripts and conducted thematic analysis. Clients perceived negative attitudes toward abortion in their communities, though clients’ own beliefs were more nuanced. Clients recounted a range of fears, and nearly all mentioned worrying that they might die as a result of their abortion. Despite their concerns, clients relied on social networks and word-of-mouth recommendations to identify providers they perceived as trustworthy and safe. Kind and non-judgmental treatment, clear instructions, open communication, and reassurance of privacy and confidentiality by providers alleviated client fears and helped clients feel supported throughout their abortion process. Within restrictive contexts, the mobilization of information networks, provision of high-quality care through innovative models, and personalization of care to individual needs can assuage fears and contribute to reducing stigma and increasing access to safe abortion services.
Modalities and preferred routes of geographic spread of cholera from endemic areas in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Kayembe Harry César Ntumba , Bompangue Didier , Linard Catherine , Muwonga Jérémie , Moutschen Michel , Situakibanza Hippolyte , Ozer Pierre
Published: February 2022

Cholera is endemic along the Great Lakes Region, in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). From these endemic areas, also under perpetual conflicts, outbreaks spread to other areas. However, the main routes of propagation remain unclear. This research aimed to explore the modalities and likely main routes of geographic spread of cholera from endemic areas in eastern DRC. We used historical reconstruction of major outbreak expansions of cholera since its introduction in eastern DRC, maps of distribution and spatiotemporal cluster detection analyses of cholera data from passive surveillance (2000–2017) to describe the spread dynamics of cholera from eastern DRC. Four modalities of geographic spread and their likely main routes from the source areas of epidemics to other areas were identified: in endemic eastern provinces, and in non-endemic provinces of eastern, central and western DRC. Using non-parametric statistics, we found that the higher the number of conflict events reported in eastern DRC, the greater the geographic spread of cholera across the country. The present study revealed that the dynamics of the spread of cholera follow a fairly well-defined spatial logic and can therefore be predicted.
Long-term data on the proposed adalimumab biosimilar BCD-057 in patients with moderate to severe psoriasis: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Samtsov Alexey V. , Bakulev Andrey L. , Khairutdinov Vladislav R. , Kokhan Muza M. , Korotaeva Tat’yana V. , Minullin Iskander K. , Vylegzhanina Olga A. , Dubenskiy Valery V. , Khalilov Bulat V. , Khotko Alkes A. , Zykova Olga S. , Chumachenko Irina V. , Lukyanov Alexander M. , Artemeva Antonina V. , Pukhtinskaia Polina P.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

The objective of this study was to demonstrate that BCD-057 is similar to innovator adalimumab (iADA) in terms of efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetics in steady state in the target population of patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis (NCT02762955).

Methods

Patients were randomized in 1:1 ratio to receive 80 mg of BCD-057 or iADA at week 0 and 40 mg thereafter every other week from week 1. At week 24 patients from iADA group were re-randomized (1:1) to continue iADA or to be switched to BCD-057. The primary efficacy endpoint was 75% improvement in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index from baseline (PASI 75), secondary endpoints included PASI percent improvement and relative change in affected Body Surface Area (BSA) from baseline at weeks 16, 24, 33, and 55. Safety was assessed through monitoring of adverse events (AEs) and antidrug antibodies. Pharmacokinetics was evaluated at steady state.

Results

Overall, 346 adult patients were included in the study (174/172 patients in BCD-057/iADA arms, respectively). At week 16 PASI 75 was achieved by 60.34% and 63.37% of patients in BCD-057 and iADA arms, respectively (p = 0.5622). Bounds of the calculated 95% confidence interval (CI) for the difference between PASI 75 responses in arms [-13.26%; 7.2%] fall within the equivalence margin [-15% to 15%] demonstrating equivalent efficacy of BCD-057 and iADA. At week 55 81.61%, 85.56%, and 80.49% of patients in BCD-057, iADA and iADA/BCD-057 arms achieved PASI 75. Comparison of the secondary endpoints did not show significant differences between arms. A comparable pharmacokinetics was shown at steady state. Safety profiles and proportions of patients with antidrug antibodies were similar between arms. The switch from the iADA to BCD-057 did not affect the immunogenicity profile.

Conclusion

Obtained data demonstrate that BCD-057 and iADA are highly similar in clinical efficacy, pharmacokinetics, safety, and immunogenicity in patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.
Cell orientation characteristics of the natural combs of honey bee colonies
Authors: Yang Shunhua , Meng Qingxin , Zhao Wenzheng , Wang Jianming , Liu Yiqiu , Gong Xueyang , Dong Kun
Published: February 2022

The cell orientation characteristics of the natural combs of honey bees have received much research attention. Although natural combs have been shown to be composed of cells with three orientations—vertical, intermediate (oblique), and horizontal—the proportion of comb cells in these three orientations varies. Knowledge of the comb-building preferences of honey bees is essential for the installation of wax comb foundations, and clarification of the cell orientation characteristics of natural honey bee combs is important for beekeeping. The purpose of this study was to determine the cell orientation characteristics of natural combs of Eastern honey bees (Apis cerana cerana) and Western honey bees (Apis mellifera ligustica). Newly built combs were used to measure the orientation of hexagonal cells and calculate the proportion of cells in different orientations relative to the total number of cells. The number of eggs laid by queens in the cells of different orientations was also determined. The orientation of cells in the natural combs of Eastern and Western honey bees was determined based on the value of the minimum included angle between the pair of parallel cell walls and a vertical line connecting the top and bottom bars of the movable frame in the geometric plane of the comb: 0°≤θ≤10°, 10°<θ≤20°, and 20°<θ≤30° for vertical, intermediate, and horizontal orientations, respectively. Natural combs were composed of cells with at least one orientation (vertical or horizontal), two orientations (vertical + intermediate (oblique) or vertical + horizontal), or three orientations (vertical + intermediate + horizontal), and the proportions of combs with the three aforementioned configurations differed. Both Eastern honey bees and Western honey bees preferred building combs with cells in a vertical orientation. Queens showed no clear preference for laying eggs in cells of specific orientations. The results of this study provide new insight that could aid the production and cutting of wax comb foundations of Eastern and Western honey bees. Our study highlights the importance of installing wax comb foundations compatible with the comb-building preferences of bees.
Saliva as a useful tool for evaluating upper mucosal antibody response to influenza
Authors: Tsunetsugu-Yokota Yasuko , Ito Sayaka , Adachi Yu , Onodera Taishi , Kageyama Tsutomu , Takahashi Yoshimasa
Published: February 2022

Mucosal immunity plays a crucial role in controlling upper respiratory infections, including influenza. We established a quantitative ELISA to measure the amount of influenza virus-specific salivery IgA (sIgA) and salivary IgG (sIgG) antibodies using a standard antibody broadly reactive to the influenza A virus. We then analyzed saliva and serum samples from seven individuals infected with the A(H1N1)pdm09 influenza virus during the 2019–2020 flu seasons. We detected an early (6–10 days post-infection) increase of sIgA in five of the seven samples and a later (3–5 weeks) increase of sIgG in six of the seven saliva samples. Although the conventional parenteral influenza vaccine did not induce IgA production in saliva, vaccinated individuals with a history of influenza infection had higher basal levels of sIgA than those without a history. Interestingly, we observed sIgA and sIgG in an asymptomatic individual who had close contact with two influenza cases. Both early mucosal sIgA secretion and late systemically induced sIgG in the mucosal surface may protect against virus infection. Despite the small sample size, our results indicate that the saliva test system can be useful for analyzing upper mucosal immunity in influenza.
Key drivers of fertility levels and differentials in India, at the national, state and population subgroup levels, 2015–2016: An application of Bongaarts’ proximate determinants model
Authors: Singh Susheela , Shekhar Chander , Bankole Akinrinola , Acharya Rajib , Audam Suzette , Akinade Temitope
Published: February 2022

Objectives

The transition to small family size is at an advanced phase in India, with a national TFR of 2.2 in 2015–16. This paper examines the roles of four key determinants of fertility—marriage, contraception, abortion and postpartum infecundability—for India, all 29 states and population subgroups.

Methods

Data from the most recent available national survey, the National Family Health Survey, conducted in 2015–16, were used. The Bongaarts proximate determinants model was used to quantify the roles of the four key factors that largely determine fertility. Methodological contributions of this analysis are: adaptations of the model to the Indian context; measurement of the role of abortion; and provision of estimates for sub-groups nationally and by state: age, education, residence, wealth status and caste.

Results

Nationally, marriage is the most important determinant of the reduction in fertility from the biological maximum, contributing 36%, followed by contraception and abortion, contributing 24% and 23% respectively, and post-partum infecundability contributed 16%. This national pattern of contributions characterizes most states and subgroups. Abortion makes a larger contribution than contraception among young women and better educated women. Findings suggest that sterility and infertility play a greater than average role in Southern states; marriage practices in some Northeastern states; and male migration for less-educated women. The absence of stronger relationships between the key proximate fertility determinants and geography or socio-economic status suggests that as family size declined, the role of these determinants is increasingly homogenous.

Conclusions

Findings argue for improvements across all states and subgroups, in provision of contraceptive care and safe abortion services, given the importance of these mechanisms for implementing fertility preferences. In-depth studies are needed to identify policy and program needs that depend on the barriers and vulnerabilities that exist in specific areas and population groups.
Associations of lymphocyte subpopulations with clinical phenotypes and long-term outcomes in juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Lerkvaleekul Butsabong , Apiwattanakul Nopporn , Tangnararatchakit Kanchana , Jirapattananon Nisa , Srisala Supanart , Vilaiyuk Soamarat
Published: February 2022

Objective

Juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (JSLE) is a complex and heterogeneous immune-mediated disease. Cellular components have crucial roles in disease phenotypes and outcomes. We aimed to determine the associations of lymphocyte subsets with clinical manifestations and long-term outcomes in JSLE patients.

Methods

A cohort of 60 JSLE patients provided blood samples during active disease, of whom 34 provided further samples during inactive disease. In a longitudinal study, blood samples were obtained from 49 of the JSLE patients at 0, 3, and 6 months. The healthy control (HC) group consisted of 42 age-matched children. Lymphocyte subsets were analyzed by flow cytometry.

Results

The percentages of CD4+ T, γδ T, and NK cells were significantly decreased in JSLE patients compared with HC, while the percentages of CD8+ T, NKT, and CD19+ B cells were significantly increased. The percentage of regulatory T cells (Tregs) was significantly lower in JSLE patients with lupus nephritis (LN) than in non-LN JSLE patients and HC. The patients were stratified into high and low groups by the median frequency of each lymphocyte subset. The γδ T cells high group and NK cells high group were significantly related to mucosal ulcer. The CD4+ T cells high group was significantly associated with arthritis, and the NKT cells high group was substantially linked with autoimmune hemolytic anemia. The CD8+ T cells low group was mainly related to vasculitis, and the Tregs low group was significantly associated with LN. The percentage of Tregs was significantly increased at 6 months of follow-up, and the LN JSLE group had a lower Treg percentage than the non-LN JSLE group. Predictors of remission on therapy were high Tregs, high absolute lymphocyte count, direct Coombs test positivity, and LN absence at enrollment.

Conclusion

JSLE patients exhibited altered lymphocyte subsets, which were strongly associated with clinical phenotypes and long-term outcomes.
Next-generation sequencing of the whole mitochondrial genome identifies functionally deleterious mutations in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Al-Kafaji Ghada , Bakheit Halla F. , AlAli Faisal , Fattah Mina , Alhajeri Saad , Alharbi Maram A. , Daif Abdulqader , Alsabbagh Manahel Mahmood , Alwehaidah Materah Salem , Bakhiet Moiz
Published: February 2022

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immune-mediated disease of the central nervous system with genetics and environmental determinants. Studies focused on the neurogenetics of MS showed that mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations that can ultimately lead to mitochondrial dysfunction, alter brain energy metabolism and cause neurodegeneration. We analyzed the whole mitochondrial genome using next-generation sequencing (NGS) from 47 Saudi individuals, 23 patients with relapsing-remitting MS and 24 healthy controls to identify mtDNA disease-related mutations/variants. A large number of variants were detected in the D-loop and coding genes of mtDNA. While distinct unique variants were only present in patients or only occur in controls, a number of common variants were shared among the two groups. The prevalence of some common variants differed significantly between patients and controls, thus could be implicated in susceptibility to MS. Of the unique variants only present in the patients, 34 were missense mutations, located in different mtDNA-encoded genes. Seven of these mutations were not previously reported in MS, and predicted to be deleterious with considerable impacts on the functions and structures of encoded-proteins and may play a role in the pathogenesis of MS. These include two heteroplasmic mutations namely 10237T>C in MT-ND3 gene and 15884G>C in MT-CYB gene; and three homoplasmic mutations namely 9288A>G in MT-CO3 gene, 14484T>C in MT-ND6 gene, 15431G>A in MT-CYB gene, 8490T>C in MT-ATP8 gene and 5437C>T in MT-ND2 gene. Notably some patients harboured multiple mutations while other patients carried the same mutations. This study is the first to sequence the entire mitochondrial genome in MS patients in an Arab population. Our results expanded the mutational spectrum of mtDNA variants in MS and highlighted the efficiency of NGS in population-specific mtDNA variant discovery. Further investigations in a larger cohort are warranted to confirm the role of mtDNA MS.
Influence mechanism of structure on shear mechanical deformation characteristics of loess-steel interface
Authors: Wei Ya-zhi , Yao Zhi-hua , Chong Xiao-lei , Zhang Jian-hua , Zhang Jun
Published: February 2022

The mechanical properties of loess-steel interface are of great significance for understanding the residual strength and deformation of loess. However, the undisturbed loess has significant structural properties, while the remolded loess has weak structural properties. There are few reports on the mechanical properties of loess-steel interface from the structural point of view. This paper focused on the ring shear test between undisturbed loess as well as its remolded loess and steel interface under the same physical mechanics and test conditions (water content, shear rate and vertical pressure), and explored the influence mechanism of structure on the mechanical deformation characteristics of steel-loess interface. The results show that the shear rate has little effect on the residual strength of the undisturbed and remolded loess-steel interface. However, the water content has a significant influence on the residual strength of the loess-steel interface, moreover, the residual internal friction angle is the dominant factor supporting the residual strength of the loess-steel interface. In general, the residual strength of the undisturbed loess-steel interface is greater than that of the remolded loess specimen (for example, the maximum percentage of residual strength difference between undisturbed and remolded loess specimens under the same moisture content is 6.8%), which is because that compared with the mosaic arrangement structure of the remolded loess, the overhead arrangement structure of the undisturbed loess skeleton particles makes the loess particles on the loess-steel interface re-adjust the arrangement direction earlier and reach a stable speed relatively faster. The loess particles with angular angles in the undisturbed loess make the residual internal friction between the particles greater than the smoother particles of the remolded loess (for example, the maximum percentage of residual cohesion difference between undisturbed and remolded loess specimens under the same vertical pressure is 4.29%), and the intact cement between undisturbed loess particles brings stronger cohesion than the remolded loess particles with destroyed cement (for example, the maximum difference percentage of residual cohesion between undisturbed and remolded soil specimens under the same vertical pressure is 33.80%). The test results provide experimental basis for further revealing the influence mechanism of structure, and parameter basis for similar engineering construction.
Evaluation of urine sample for diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis using rK-39 immunochromatographic test in Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Eyayu Tahir , Yasin Melashu , Workineh Lemma , Tiruneh Tegenaw , Andualem Henok , Sema Meslo , Damtie Shewaneh , Abebaw Aynework , Getie Birhanu , Andargie Desalegn , Achaw Barnabas , Taklual Wubet
Published: February 2022

Background

Visceral leishmaniasis is the most severe form of leishmaniasis which ranks second in mortality and fourth in morbidity. Parasitological diagnostic techniques with splenic aspirate remain the gold standard. However, sample collection is risky, painful, and difficult. Alternatively, serological techniques provide good diagnostic accuracy using serum sample that is difficult for applying on small children and in the field. So, finding alternative non-invasive and self-collected samples like urine is very important. Thus, the study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the rK-39 strip test using urine for diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis.

Methods

A multicenter institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2019 to March 2021 at Northwest Ethiopia. Sociodemographic information was collected using a structured questionnaire. Blood sample and midstream urine sample were collected for rK-39 test. Data were entered into Epi-data version 4.2 and analyzed using SPSS version 24.0. Diagnostic performance parameters of urine-based rK-39 rapid test, i.e. sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, positive and negative likelihood ratios (LR+/−), and diagnostic accuracy were determined on contingency table by using serum-based rK-39 test result as a reference. An agreement between urine and serum-based rK-39 test was statistically determined by kappa value.

Result

In total, 300 subjects, age ranged between 7 and 60 years, were included in the study. The overall sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and diagnostic accuracy of urine-based rK-39 test were found to be 98.0% (95% CI: 93.0% - 99.8%), 95.5% (95% CI: 91.6% - 97.9%), 91.6% (95% CI: 85.2%– 95.4%), 98.9 (95% CI: 96.0%– 99.7%), and 96.33% (95% CI: 93.53–98.16%), respectively. Additionally, there was a strong agreement between the results obtained on rK-39 ICT using urine and serum samples (kappa = 0.92; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Urine-based rK-39 ICT had an excellent high sensitivity, specificity and strong agreement with serum-based rK-39 ICT results. This indicates that urine sample would be a promising noninvasive and easy to collect sample for diagnosis of VL in field and rural settings.
Análisis de la investigación sobre destinos turísticos inteligentes mediante la visualización de redes bibliométricas
Authors: Sustacha Melijosa Inés , Baños Pino José Francisco , Del Valle Tuero Eduardo
Published: February 2022

El gran interés académico que ha despertado el paradigma smart ha hecho que la producción científica asociada a los destinos turísticos inteligentes se haya incrementado notablemente en los últimos años. El objetivo de este trabajo es estudiar su desarrollo y estructura mediante técnicas de análisis bibliométrico poniendo el foco en el destino, frente a investigaciones previas de corte más generalista. Este estudio se basa en 415 documentos indexados en Scopus hasta septiembre de 2020. En él, se analiza la evolución y la distribución geográfica del conocimiento sobre destinos inteligentes, además de las publicaciones, autores y documentos más influyentes. En concreto, se describe la estructura intelectual de esta literatura mediante una red de co-citación de autores construida con VOSviewer. Además, se ha realizado un análisis de co-ocurrencia de palabras clave para identificar los principales temas y tendencias, así como la existencia de brechas de conocimiento. Los mapas bibliométricos facilitan el análisis de la complejidad de la literatura sobre destinos inteligentes, ya que permiten visualizar las interrelaciones entre sus diversos elementos. Los resultados también apuntan los temas de interés más recientes y que merecen atención de cara a futuras investigaciones.
A pesquisa em educação ambiental na disputa pela escola pública:
Authors: De Moraes Agudo Marcela , André Teixeira Lucas
Published: February 2022

Este trabalho busca debater e analisar o materialismo histórico-dialético como fundamento radical tendo em vista uma educação ambiental crítica na escola pública. Esse tema tem composto os objetos de pesquisa e as produções de conhecimentos do Grupo de Pesquisa em Educação Ambiental – GPEA –, que desenvolve suas atividades junto ao Programa de Pós-Graduação em Educação para a Ciência da UNESP-Bauru. Compreendendo que a escola pública se revela cada vez mais uma instituição social disputada por diferentes setores sociais e frações de classes, sua conquista pela classe trabalhadora se revela condição para a transformação da realidade escolar pública brasileira, inclusive para a concretização de uma educação ambiental crítica. Neste sentido, as produções acadêmicas da educação ambiental que se pautam no materialismo histórico-dialético podem nos revelar caminhos e desafios a serem enfrentados e superados para que a educação ambiental crítica se materialize na escola pública. Assim, buscamos analisar e refletir sobre a necessidade da fundamentação das pesquisas em educação ambiental sob este referencial, haja vista suas essenciais contribuições na produção do conhecimento para uma inserção aprofundada da Educação Ambiental crítica na escola pública.
A educação ambiental em Salas Verdes no estado de São Paulo
Authors: Nogueira Lopes Fernanda , Santana Luiz Carlos
Published: February 2022

O Projeto Salas Verdes, do Ministério do Meio Ambiente (MMA), visa atender à Política Nacional de Educação Ambiental (PNEA) com o objetivo de implementar Centros de informação e formação ambiental. Neste trabalho, apresentamos o resultado da análise de dois Projetos Políticos Pedagógicos (PPPs) de Salas Verdes, cujos gestores são uma empresa privada e uma Universidade pública, ambas de São Paulo (SP). Visando identificar, nesse documento, o atendimento à PNEA. Por meio de quatro categorias aglutinadoras dos objetivos e princípios apresentados na política, verificamos o que foi privilegiado e negligenciado na implementação de cada Sala Verde. Os resultados apontam que, nas Salas estudadas, existem lacunas com relação aos princípios e objetivos da PNEA, a exemplo da educação ambiental (EA) integrada com a ciência e tecnologia. Concluímos que o Projeto Salas Verdes é relevante e pode propagar conhecimentos e ações de EA na perspectiva crítica, transformadora e emancipatória que defendemos.
Buscando inspiração entre povos indígenas brasileiros para educar as crianças em conexão com a Terra.
Authors: Tiriba Lea , Vollger Amanda , Pereira Jéssica
Published: February 2022

Este artigo tem o objetivo de compartilhar resultados parciais de pesquisas sobre relações entre crianças e natureza entre povos indígenas brasileiros. Os achados aqui apresentados são frutos de pesquisa bibliográfica, análise de teses e dissertações e artigos de universidades públicas do sudeste brasileiro, como depoimentos de lideranças e visitas a aldeias indígenas. Os referenciais teóricos são buscados em filosofias não hegemônicas, especialmente, Spinoza (2009) e em epistemologias nativas (KRENAK, 2019, 2020; BISPO, 2015). Os resultados revelam a importância de conhecer e compreender as culturas originárias brasileiras, que tem como cerne a busca pela vitalidade, pela pulsão de experienciar a vida com o outro e com o cosmo. A educação de suas crianças é pautada em princípios de autonomia, liberdade e amizade. Nossas pesquisas buscam aprender com esses povos os saberes necessários a um convívio equilibrado entre seres humanos e com a natureza.
Analysis of Mixed Methods Graduate Thesis Studies in Special Education Programs in Turkey
Authors: DOGAN Murat , CELIK Secil , TOMRIS Gozde
Published: February 2022

This research aims to analyze mixed methods graduate thesis studies completed between 2010 and 2020 in special education programs in Turkey. The literature scan has yielded 26 studies. A qualitative research method, analytical research design has been employed in this study. Research data has been obtained from documents – namely the graduate thesis studies – and analyzed through content analysis carried out following fundamental stages of mixed methods research as proposed in the literature. These stages served as themes in this study: 'Determining the research aim and research questions', 'Selecting a mixed methods research design', 'Explaining the rationale for the mixed methods approach', 'Sampling', 'Collecting the data', 'Analysing the data', 'Integrating, interpreting and reporting the data', 'Researcher competencies and roles' and 'Ethics'. The limitations observed in the methodology and reporting of the thesis studies have suggested that the quality standards of mixed methods research are not reflected on the studies. These limitations include confusion in terminology, lack of explanation as to why the method and the design have been employed, restricted validity and reliability, and lack of integration through blending quantitative and qualitative data. In summary, despite the increase in the number of mixed methods research studies in special education has contributed to the field, it is still debatable whether the philosophical perspective behind the method and its strong suits can be reflected on the studies.
Therapeutic potential of Ceratonia siliqua extract for the management of asthma and hypertension
Authors: Hamid Irfan , Janbaz Khalid Hussain , Iqbal Rabia , Akhtar Muhammad Furqan , Saleem Ammara , Ali Sajid , Sharif Ali , Akhtar Bushra , Javaid Zeeshan , Sohail Kashif
Published: February 2022

The current work was performed to explore the pharmacological mechanisms involved in the management of asthma and hypertension along with the safety profile of the Ceratonia siliqua (C. siliqua/Carob) pods. The bronchorelaxant, vasorelaxant, and cardioselective activities of C. siliqua pods were investigated using isolated rabbit tracheal, aortic, and paired atrial fragments on the Power lab data acquisition system. Normotensive rats were used to study antihypertensive activity. The plant extract and its fractions relaxed the carbachol-induced contraction in the tracheal fragments and shifted the concentration-response curve of carbachol towards the right confirming the muscarinic receptor antagonist activity. The relaxation of phenylephrine-induced contraction in an aortic fragment by the extract showed α- adrenergic blocking activity. Furthermore, the extract produced a cardio-selective response in the paired atria and decreased the blood pressure in anesthetized normotensive rats. The plant extract proved to be non-toxic in oral acute and chronic toxicity studies and did not demonstrate any sign of histopathological lesions. These results suggested that the plant extract was non-toxic and could be used in the management of lifetime therapies of respiratory and cardiovascular disorders without any unwanted effects.
The Effect of Interleukin-6 and Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha Gene Polymorphism and Hormone Replacement Therapy on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Azeez Sarhang Hasan , Ismail Ismail Bilal , Darogha Suhaila Nafia
Published: February 2022

PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) is a prevalent and complicated gynecological endocrine disease that affects around 6% to 10% of women of reproductive age. PCOS is marked by oligoanovulation or anovulation, hyperandrogenism, hyperinsulinemia, monthly irregularity, and infertility. This study included 58 Kurdish females with PCOS who went to private clinics at Hawler city. The disease was confirmed by the doctors with laboratory results and US checking. They were at different age groups with different marital statuses. Demographic distribution, hormonal level and hormone replacement therapy were measured. Cytokine gene polymorphisms were evaluated by Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP). The amplification-refractory mutation system (ARMS) was used to determine the gene polymorphisms. There was a significant change in the hormone levels and the medications as hormone replacement therapy gained best results for impregnation of the patients by Progyluton, Diane35 with metformin. Results of genetic variations in the evaluated cytokines revealed that for IL-6-174GC polymorphism the CC genotype was considered as a risk factor with OR:1.58, CI:0.16-15.36. While for TNF-α the higher producer GG genotype was the most susceptible cause of the disease with OR:1.41, CI: 0.59-3.36. Data of this study indicated the positive relationship between IL-6 -174GC polymorphism with PCOS while no association was detected for TNF-α -308GA.
Economic crisis and trauma journalism: Assessing the emotional toll of reporting in crisis-ridden countries
Authors: Papadopoulou Lambrini , Maniou Theodora A. , Pandia Eleana
Published: February 2022

This article discusses the relationship between the post-2008 global economic crisis and trauma journalism through a quantitative study of reporters covering austerity’s everyday manifestations and examines the effects on the media professionals involved. The findings indicate that journalists who cover economic crisis-related incidents suffer specific symptoms of trauma. As such, the study re-conceptualizes the economic crisis as primarily affective for media workers, it establishes a direct correlation between the economic crisis and emotional trauma, and provides an insight into the kind of trauma that stems from covering austerity and its impact on society. A regression analysis of symptoms indicates trauma journalism as an emerging field of research into the economic crisis.
Sonochemical synthesis of protein microcapsules loaded with traditional Chinese herb extracts
Authors: Wang Xin , Wang Zhe , Guo Shengwei , Wang Guxia , Xue Min
Published: February 2022

Traditional Chinese herbs have attracted extensive attention due to their good efficacy, low toxicity, and minor side effects. However, some active ingredient extracts are relatively sensitive to external influence and liable to lose their effectiveness. Different from the traditional and complex encapsulation methods, one can easily prepare drug-loaded microcapsules to improve their bioavailability using the new encapsulation technology. In this work, we used the sonochemical method to prepare bovine serum albumin (BSA)/astragalus membranaceus oil (AM) microcapsules. The technology was simpler, greener, and more efficient. Thereinto, BSA and AM oil were used as the shell material and the core material, respectively. The effects of ultrasonic amplitude, ultrasonic mode, and ultrasonic time on synthetic reactions were studied. The morphology and size of the BSA/AM microcapsules were investigated using transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The loading efficiency and drug release behavior were determined using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy, respectively. The best ultrasonic synthesis conditions were obtained by the above analysis, with an ultrasound amplitude of 30%, ultrasound mode of the pulse mode of 2 s, ultrasound time of 4 min. The DLS results show that the microcapsule size is 484.4 nm and the polydispersity index is small. The TGA results show that the drug loading efficiency is about 77%, and the hemolysis tests show that the BSA/AM microcapsules have no cytotoxicity at lower concentrations (lower than 50 μg·mL−1).
Aspects of the physiochemical properties of SARS-CoV-2 to prevent S-protein receptor binding using Arabic gum
Authors: Ghobashy Mohamed Mohamady , Alshangiti Dalal Mohamed , Alkhursani Sheikha A. , Al-Gahtany Samera Ali , Meganid Abeer S. , Madani Mohamed , Kodous Ahmad S.
Published: February 2022

With the number of people infected with the new coronavirus exceeding millions of confirmed infections, the world is turning to scientists and researchers, everyone is waiting – impatiently – for the results of the research that is being carried out in full swing to find an effective treatment for the virus. The recent development of the virus has witnessed at least 17 mutations that may affect its external shape, especially on the S-protein receptor-binding domain (RBD), which helps it attach to human cells’ receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) to make RBD–ACE2 interaction and entry to host cell. This interaction becomes stronger in the new strains of the coronavirus due to a mutation that occurs in the S-proteins that attach to human cells. For researchers and scientists to be able to confront this pandemic that has spread in the world like wildfire, they must be armed with accurate understanding and clear knowledge about coronavirus. This study focuses on polysaccharides, specifically negatively polysaccharides, that can interfere with the positive charge of the surface of the SARS-CoV-2 and ACE2, thus inhibiting the virus’s infectivity and destroying it. In addition, polysaccharides will boost the immune function of the vaccine, thereby fostering nonspecific immunity of the body and specific immunity of the body, cellular immunity, mucosal immunity, humoral immunity, and decreased pro-inflammatory expression. This research aims to reduce the attachment power and modify the pulling apart of the RBD and the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) by polysaccharide molecules such as Arabic gum (AG) and carrageenan. The adapted fluorometric assay is used to investigate the probability of Arabic gum and ACE2 interactions. The obtained results confirmed that the interaction could take place between Arabic gum and ACE2. Several literature studies promote the use of the urchin egg as antiviral, especially for SARS-CoV-2, because it has sulfated fucan polysaccharide molecules that prevent interaction of SARS-CoV-2 with a host cell. But, to the best of our knowledge, we found that the effect of urchin egg as antiviral, especially for SARS-CoV-2 is very difficult due to the presence of immunoglobulin G (IgG) in the human cells containing sugars that terminate with N-glycolylneuraminic (Neu5Ac) as found in the sperm of sea urchin. So, s most probably an interaction has occurred between Neu5Ac in IgG of human cells and sulfated fucan polysaccharide molecules of urchin egg.