bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of the early COVID-19 pandemic on outcomes in a rural Ugandan neonatal unit: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Hedstrom Anna , Mubiri Paul , Nyonyintono James , Nakakande Josephine , Magnusson Brooke , Vaughan Madeline , Waiswa Peter , Batra Maneesh
Published: December 2021

Background

During the early COVID-19 pandemic travel in Uganda was tightly restricted which affected demand for and access to care for pregnant women and small and sick newborns. In this study we describe changes to neonatal outcomes in one rural central Ugandan newborn unit before and during the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

We report outcomes from admissions captured in an electronic dataset of a well-established newborn unit before (September 2019 to March 2020) and during the early COVID-19 period (April–September 2020) as well as two seasonally matched periods one year prior. We report excess mortality as the percent change in mortality over what was expected based on seasonal trends.

Findings

The study included 2,494 patients, 567 of whom were admitted during the early COVID-19 period. During the pandemic admissions decreased by 14%. Patients born outside the facility were older on admission than previously (median 1 day of age vs. admission on the day of birth). There was an increase in admissions with birth asphyxia (22% vs. 15% of patients). Mortality was higher during COVID-19 than previously [16% vs. 11%, p = 0.017]. Patients born outside the facility had a relative increase of 55% above seasonal expected mortality (21% vs. 14%, p = 0.028). During this period patients had decreased antenatal care, restricted transport and difficulty with expenses and support. The hospital had difficulty with maternity staffing and supplies. There was significant community and staff fear of COVID-19.

Interpretation

Increased newborn mortality during the early COVID-19 pandemic at this facility was likely attributed to disruptions affecting maternal and newborn demand for, access to and quality of perinatal healthcare. Lockdown conditions and restrictions to public transit were significant barriers to maternal and newborn wellbeing, and require further focus by national and regional health officials.
Automation improves repeatability of retinal oximetry measurements
Authors: Karlsson Robert Arnar , Olafsdottir Olof Birna , Helgadottir Vedis , Belhadj Soumaya , Eliasdottir Thorunn Scheving , Stefansson Einar , Hardarson Sveinn Hakon
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Retinal oximetry is a technique based on spectrophotometry where images are analyzed with software capable of calculating vessel oxygen saturation and vessel diameter. In this study, the effect of automation of measurements of retinal vessel oxygen saturation and vessel diameter is explored.

Methods

Until now, operators have had to choose each vessel segment to be measured explicitly. A new, automatic version of the software automatically selects the vessels once the operator defines a measurement area. Five operators analyzed image pairs from the right eye of 23 healthy subjects with semiautomated retinal oximetry analysis software, Oxymap Analyzer (v2.5.1), and an automated version (v3.0). Inter- and intra-operator variability was investigated using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) between oxygen saturation measurements of vessel segments in the same area of the retina.

Results

For semiautomated saturation measurements, the inter-rater ICC was 0.80 for arterioles and venules. For automated saturation measurements, the inter-rater ICC was 0.97 for arterioles and 0.96 for venules. For semiautomated diameter measurements, the inter-rater ICC was 0.71 for arterioles and venules. For automated diameter measurements the inter-rater ICC was 0.97 for arterioles and 0.95 for venules. The inter-rater ICCs were different (p< 0.01) between the semiautomated and automated version in all instances.

Conclusion

Automated measurements of retinal oximetry values are more repeatable compared to measurements where vessels are selected manually.
Science-utility and science-trust associations and how they relate to knowledge about how science works
Authors: Schoor Cornelia , Schütz Astrid
Published: December 2021

Knowledge about how science works, trust in scientists, and the perceived utility of science currently appear to be eroding in these times in which “alternative facts” or personal experiences and opinions are used as arguments. Yet, in many situations, it would be beneficial for the individual and all of society if scientific findings were considered in decision-making. For this to happen, people have to trust in scientists and perceive science as useful. Still, in university contexts, it might not be desirable to report negative beliefs about science. In addition, science-utility and science-trust associations may differ from explicit beliefs because associations were learned through the co-occurrence of stimuli rather than being based on propositional reasoning. We developed two IATs to measure science-utility and science-trust associations in university students and tested the psychometric properties and predictive potential of these measures. In a study of 261 university students, the IATs were found to have good psychometric properties and small correlations with their corresponding self-report scales. Science-utility and science-trust associations predicted knowledge about how science works over and above self-reported beliefs. The results suggest that indirect measures are useful for assessing beliefs about science and can be used to predict outcome measures.
A multilevel analysis of the social determinants associated with symptoms of acute respiratory infection among preschool age children in Pakistan: A population-based survey
Authors: Deji-Abiodun Oluwafunmilade , Ferrandiz-Mont David , Mishra Vinod , Chiao Chi
Published: December 2021

Background

As advocated by WHO in “Closing the Health Gap in a Generation”, dramatic differences in child health are closely linked to degrees of social disadvantage, both within and between communities. Nevertheless, research has not examined whether child health inequalities include, but are not confined to, worse acute respiratory infection (ARI) symptoms among the socioeconomic disadvantaged in Pakistan. In addition to such disadvantages as the child’s gender, maternal education, and household poverty, the present study also examined the linkages between the community environment and ARI symptoms among Pakistan children under five. Furthermore, we have assessed gender contingencies related to the aforementioned associations.

Methods

Using data from the nationally representative 2017–2018 Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey, a total of 11,908 surviving preschool age children (0–59 months old) living in 561 communities were analyzed. We employed two-level multilevel logistic regressions to model the relationship between ARI symptoms and individual-level and community-level social factors.

Results

The social factors at individual and community levels were found to be significantly associated with an increased risk of the child suffering from ARI symptoms. A particularly higher risk was observed among girls who resided in urban areas (AOR = 1.42; p<0.01) and who had a birth order of three or greater.

Discussions

Our results underscore the need for socioeconomic interventions in Pakistan that are targeted at densely populated households and communities within urban areas, with a particular emphasis on out-migration, in order to improve unequal economic underdevelopment. This could be done by targeting improvements in socio-economic structures, including maternal education.
Macrophage uptake of oxidized and acetylated low-density lipoproteins and generation of reactive oxygen species are regulated by linear stiffness of the growth surface
Authors: Gruber Erika J. , Aygun Ali Y. , Leifer Cynthia A.
Published: December 2021

Macrophages are key players in the development of atherosclerosis: they scavenge lipid, transform into foam cells, and produce proinflammatory mediators. At the same time, the arterial wall undergoes profound changes in its mechanical properties. We recently showed that macrophage morphology and proinflammatory potential are regulated by the linear stiffness of the growth surface. Here we asked whether linear stiffness also regulates lipid uptake by macrophages. We cultured murine bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMMs) on polyacrylamide gels modeling stiffness of healthy (1kPa) and diseased (10-150kPa) blood vessels. In unprimed BMMs, increased linear stiffness increased uptake of oxidized (oxLDL) and acetylated (acLDL) low density lipoproteins and generation of reactive oxygen species, but did not alter phagocytosis of bacteria or silica particles. Macrophages adapted to stiff growth surfaces had increased mRNA and protein expression of two key lipoprotein receptors: CD36 and scavenger receptor b1. Regulation of the lipoprotein receptor, lectin-like receptor for ox-LDL, was more complex: mRNA expression decreased but surface protein expression increased with increased stiffness. Focal adhesion kinase was required for maximal uptake of oxLDL, but not of acLDL. Uptake of oxLDL and acLDL was independent of rho-associated coiled coil kinase. Through pharmacologic inhibition and genetic deletion, we found that transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4), a mechanosensitive ion channel, plays an inhibitory role in the uptake of acLDL, but not oxLDL. Together, these results implicate mechanical signaling in the uptake of acLDL and oxLDL, opening up the possibility of new pharmacologic targets to modulate lipid uptake by macrophages in vivo.
The effect of bio-banding on academy soccer player passing networks: Implications of relative pitch size
Authors: Towlson Christopher , Abt Grant , Barrett Steve , Cumming Sean , Hunter Frances , Hamilton Ally , Lowthorpe Alex , Goncalves Bruno , Corsie Martin , Swinton Paul
Published: December 2021

The primary aims of this study were to examine the effects of bio-banding players on passing networks created during 4v4 small-sided games (SSGs), while also examining the interaction of pitch size using passing network analysis compared to a coach-based scoring system of player performance. Using a repeated measures design, 32 players from two English Championship soccer clubs contested mixed maturity and bio-banded SSGs. Each week, a different pitch size was used: Week 1) small (36.1 m2 per player); week 2) medium (72.0 m2 per player); week 3) large (108.8 m2 per player); and week 4) expansive (144.50 m2 per player). All players contested 12 maturity (mis)matched and 12 mixed maturity SSGs. Technical-tactical outcome measures were collected automatically using a foot-mounted device containing an inertial measurement unit (IMU) and the Game Technical Scoring Chart (GTSC) was used to subjectively quantify the technical performance of players. Passing data collected from the IMUs were used to construct passing networks. Mixed effect models were used with statistical inferences made using generalized likelihood ratio tests, accompanied by Cohen’s local f2 to quantify the effect magnitude of each independent variable (game type, pitch size and maturation). Consistent trends were identified with mean values for all passing network and coach-based scoring metrics indicating better performance and more effective collective behaviours for early compared with late maturation players. Network metrics established differences (f2 = 0.00 to 0.05) primarily for early maturation players indicating that they became more integral to passing and team dynamics when playing in a mixed-maturation team. However, coach-based scoring was unable to identify differences across bio-banding game types (f2 = 0.00 to 0.02). Pitch size had the largest effect on metrics captured at the team level (f2 = 0.24 to 0.27) with smaller pitch areas leading to increased technical actions. The results of this study suggest that the use of passing networks may provide additional insight into the effects of interventions such as bio-banding and that the number of early-maturing players should be considered when using mixed-maturity playing formats to help to minimize late-maturing players over-relying on their early-maturing counterparts during match-play.
Increased sensitivity of heavy metal bioreporters in transporter deficient Synechocystis PCC6803 mutants
Authors: Patyi Gábor , Hódi Barbara , Solymosi Dániel , Vass Imre , Kós Péter B.
Published: December 2021

The detection and identification of heavy metal contaminants are becoming increasingly important as environmental pollution causes an ever-increasing health hazard in the last decades. Bacterial heavy metal reporters, which constitute an environmentally friendly and cheap approach, offer great help in this process. Although their application has great potential in the detection of heavy metal contamination, their sensitivity still needs to be improved. In this study, we describe a simple molecular biology approach to improve the sensitivity of bacterial heavy metal biosensors. The constructs are luxAB marker genes regulated by the promoters of heavy metal exporter genes. We constructed a mutant strain lacking the cluster of genes responsible for heavy metal transport and hence achieved increased intracellular heavy metal content of the Synechocystis PCC6803 cyanobacterium. Taking advantage of this increased intracellular heavy metal concentration the Ni2+; Co2+ and Zn2+ detection limits of the constructs were three to tenfold decreased compared to the sensitivity of the same constructs in the wild-type cyanobacterium.
Neural evidence for image quality perception based on algebraic topology
Authors: Liu Chang , Yu Dingguo , Ma Xiaoyu , Xie Songyun , Zhang Honggang
Published: December 2021

In this paper, the algebraic topological characteristics of brain networks composed of electroencephalogram(EEG) signals induced by different quality images were studied, and on that basis, a neurophysiological image quality assessment approach was proposed. Our approach acquired quality perception-related neural information via integrating the EEG collection with conventional image assessment procedures, and the physiologically meaningful brain responses to different distortion-level images were obtained by topological data analysis. According to the validation experiment results, statistically significant discrepancies of the algebraic topological characteristics of EEG data evoked by a clear image compared to that of an unclear image are observed in several frequency bands, especially in the beta band. Furthermore, the phase transition difference of brain network caused by JPEG compression is more significant, indicating that humans are more sensitive to JPEG compression other than Gaussian blur. In general, the algebraic topological characteristics of EEG signals evoked by distorted images were investigated in this paper, which contributes to the study of neurophysiological assessment of image quality.
Informality in the time of COVID-19 in Latin America: Implications and policy options
Authors: Acevedo Ivonne , Castellani Francesca , Lotti Giulia , Székely Miguel
Published: December 2021

This paper analyzes the dynamics of the labor market in Latin America during the COVID-19 pandemic. After a decade of a virtuous circle of growth with the creation of formal jobs, the pandemic has had an considerable impact on the region’s labor market, generating an unparalleled increase in the proportion of the inactive population, considerable reductions in informality, and, in contrast, smaller fluctuations in formal jobs. In this context, the formal sector, given its lower flexibility, became a "social safety net" that preserved the stability of employment and wages. Based on the findings presented in this paper, it is projected that, starting in 2021, informality will grow to levels higher than those of the pre-COVID-19 era–with 7.56 million additional informal jobs–as a result of the population returning to the labor market to compensate for the declines in incomes. According to the simulations presented, postponing or forgiving income tax payments and social security contributions conditional on the generation of formal jobs could reduce the growth of informality by 50 to 75 percent. Achieving educational improvements has the potential to reduce it by 50 percent.
Pathogenicity of field strain of fowl aviadenovirus serotype 11 isolated from chickens with inclusion body hepatitis in Morocco
Authors: Abghour Samira , Mouahid Mohamed , Darkaoui Sami , Berrada Jaouad , Zro Khalil , Kichou Faouzi
Published: December 2021

Outbreaks of inclusion body hepatitis have emerged in Morocco since 2013 and has resulted in significant economic losses to poultry farms. Three isolates of the causative virus, Fowl adenonovirus (FAdV)were characterized from chickens with IBH, but their pathogenicity has never been investigated. In this work, the pathogenicity of an isolate FAdV 11 (MOR300315 strain) was evaluated by inoculating a group of 40 SPF chickens at 3 days of age by oral route. A group of 40 chicks injected with phosphate-buffered saline solution was used as a control group. The infected chickens showed decreased weight gain from 3dpi. Necropsy displayed pallor and enlargement in liver, swelling and slight hemorrhage in kidney and spleen at 6 dpi. Histopathological changes were mainly characterized by severe and extensive hepatic necrosis associated with the presence of basophilic intra-nuclear inclusion bodies within hepatocytes. The FAdV was reisolated in chicken embryo fibroblast cell culture from liver tissue homogenate of infected chicken from 3 to 6 dpi. Viral DNA was detected by PCR in liver, kidney, spleen and cloacal swabs from 3 to 13 dpi. Antibody response against inoculated FAdV was appeared from 9 dpi. These results confirmed that the FAdV 11 strain is pathogenic in chicken. This study is the first experimental infection of FAdV 11 in chicken in Morocco, which increase our understanding of its pathogenicity in chickens and indicate that preventive measures against FAdV infection in poultry farms should be implemented in Morocco.
Exploration of Klebsiella pneumoniae M6 for paclobutrazol degradation, plant growth attributes, and biocontrol action under subtropical ecosystem
Authors: Kumar Govind , Lal Shatrohan , Maurya Shailendra K. , Bhattacherjee A. K. , Chaudhary Parul , Gangola Saurabh , Rajan Shailendra
Published: December 2021

In recent times, injudicious use of paclobutrazol (PBZ) in mango orchards deteriorates the soil quality and fertility by persistence nature and causes a serious ecosystem imbalance. In this study, a newKlebsiella pneumoniaestrain M6 (MW228061) was isolated from mango rhizosphere and characterized as a potent plant growth promoter, biocontrol, and PBZ degrading agent. The strain M6 efficiently utilizes PBZ as carbon, energy and nitrogen source and degrades up to 98.28% (50 mgL-1initial conc.) of PBZ at 15thday of incubation in MS medium. In the soil system first order degradation kinetics and linear model suggested 4.5 days was the theoretical half-life (t1/2value) of PBZ with strain M6. Box Behnken design (BBD) model of Response surface methodology (RSM) showed pH 7.0, 31°C temperature, and 2.0 ml inoculum size (8 x 109CFU mL-1) was optimized condition for maximum PBZ degradation with strain M6. Plant growth promoting attributes such as Zn, K, PO4solubilization IAA, HCN and NH3production of strain M6 showed positive results and were assessed quantitatively. The relation between plant growth promotion and PBZ degradation was analyzed by heat map, principal component analysis (PCA) and, clustal correlation analysis (CCA). Strain M6 was also showing a significant biocontrol activity against pathogenic fungi such asFusarium oxysporum(MTCC–284),Colletotrichum gloeosporioides(MTCC– 2190),Pythium aphanidermatum(MTCC– 1024), Tropical race 1 (TR -1), and Tropical race 4 (TR -4). Hence, results of the study suggested that strain M6 can be utilized as an effective bio-agent to restore degraded land affected by persistent use of paclobutrazol.
The effects of the environmental protection tax law on heavily polluting firms in China
Authors: Wen Huwei , Deng Weifeng , Guo Quanen
Published: December 2021

In 2016, China implemented an environmental protection tax (EPTL2016) to promote the transformation and upgrading of heavily polluting industries through tax leverage. Using panel data of China’s listed companies, this study assesses the treatment effects of the EPTL2016 on the transformation and upgrading of heavily polluting firms by incorporating the intermediary role of the financial market. The empirical findings show that the EPTL2016 significantly reduced the innovation investment and productivity of heavily polluting firms but had no significant effect on fixed-asset investment. Additionally, EPTL2016 reduced the supply of bank loans to heavily polluting firms and increased the value of growth options for private enterprises and the efficiency of the supply of long-term loans to heavily polluting firms. Although the environmental policy of EPTL2016 benefits the transformation and upgrading of heavily polluting industries in many aspects, it generally hinders the industrial upgrading because of the reduction of bank loans.
The relation between the gut microbiome and osteoarthritis: A systematic review of literature
Authors: Chisari Emanuele , Wouthuyzen-Bakker Marjan , Friedrich Alex W. , Parvizi Javad
Published: December 2021

Background

Along with mechanical and genetic factors, emerging evidence suggests that the presence of low-grade inflammation has a role in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA) and seems to be related to the microbiome composition of the gut.

Purpose

To provide evidence whether there is clinical or preclinical evidence of gut-joint axis in the pathogenesis and symptoms of OA.

Methods

An extensive review of the current literature was performed using three different databases. Human, as well as animal studies, were included. The risk of bias was identified using ROBINS and SYRCLE tools, while the quality of evidence was assessed using GRADE and CAMADARES criteria.

Results

A total of nineteen articles were included. Multiple animal studies demonstrated that both obesity, and high-fat and high-sugar diets resulted in a gut dysbiosis status characterized by increased Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B) phyla ratio and increased permeability. These changes were associated with increased lipopolysaccharide serum levels, which consequently resulted in synovitis and OA severity. The administration of pre-and probiotics partially reversed this bacterial composition. In addition, in human studies, a decreased amount of gut Bacteroidetes, subsequent increased F/B ratio, have also been observed in OA patients.

Conclusions

Our review confirms preliminary yet sound evidence supporting a gut-joint axis in OA in primarily preclinical models, by showing an association between diet, gut dysbiosis and OA radiological severity and self-reported symptoms. Clinical studies are needed to confirm these findings, and to investigate whether interventions targeting the composition of the microbiome will have a beneficial clinical effect.
Eigenvector centrality defines hierarchy and predicts graduation in therapeutic community units
Authors: Campbell Benjamin , Warren Keith , Weiler Mackenzie , De Leon George
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Therapeutic communities (TCs) are mutual aid based residential programs for the treatment of substance abuse and criminal behavior. While it is expected that residents will provide feedback to peers, there has been no social network study of the hierarchy through which feedback flows.

Methods

Data for this study was drawn from clinical records of peer corrections exchanged between TC residents in six units kept over periods of less than two to over eight years. Four of the units served men while two served women. Hierarchy position was measured using eigenvector centrality, on the assumption that residents who were more central in the network of corrections were lower in the hierarchy. It was hypothesized that residents would rise in the hierarchy over time. This was tested using Wilcoxon paired samples tests comparing the mean and maximum eigenvector centrality for time in treatment with those in the last month of treatment. It was also hypothesized that residents who rose higher in the hierarchy were more likely to graduate, the outcome of primary interest. Logistic regression was used to test hierarchy position as a predictor of graduation, controlling for age, race, risk of recidivism as measured by the Level of Services Inventory-Revised (LSI-R) and days spent in the program.

Results

Residents averaged a statistically significantly lower eigenvector centrality in the last month in all units, indicating a rise in the hierarchy over time. Residents with lower maximum and average eigenvector centrality both over the length of treatment and in the last month of treatment were more likely to graduate in four of the six units, those with lower maximum and average eigenvector centrality in the last month but not over the length of treatment were more likely to graduate in one of the six units, while eigenvector centrality did not predict graduation in one unit. However, this last unit was much smaller than the others, which may have influenced the results.

Conclusion

These results suggest that TC residents move through a social network hierarchy and that movement through the hierarchy predicts successful graduation.
A vesicular stomatitis virus-based prime-boost vaccination strategy induces potent and protective neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Kim Gyoung Nyoun , Choi Jung-ah , Wu Kunyu , Saeedian Nasrin , Yang Eunji , Park Hayan , Woo Sun-Je , Lim Gippeum , Kim Seong-Gyu , Eo Su-Kyeong , Jeong Hoe Won , Kim Taewoo , Chang Jae-Hyung , Seo Sang Hwan , Kim Na Hyung , Choi Eunsil , Choo Seungho , Lee Sangkyun , Winterborn Andrew , Li Yue , Parham Kate , Donovan Justin M. , Fenton Brock , Dikeakos Jimmy D. , Dekaban Gregory A. , Haeryfar S. M. Mansour , Troyer Ryan M. , Arts Eric J. , Barr Stephen D. , Song Manki , Kang C. Yong
Published: December 2021

The development of safe and effective vaccines to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infections remains an urgent priority worldwide. We have used a recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus (rVSV)-based prime-boost immunization strategy to develop an effective COVID-19 vaccine candidate. We have constructed VSV genomes carrying exogenous genes resulting in the production of avirulent rVSV carrying the full-length spike protein (SF), the S1 subunit, or the receptor-binding domain (RBD) plus envelope (E) protein of SARS-CoV-2. Adding the honeybee melittin signal peptide (msp) to the N-terminus enhanced the protein expression, and adding the VSV G protein transmembrane domain and the cytoplasmic tail (Gtc) enhanced protein incorporation into pseudotype VSV. All rVSVs expressed three different forms of SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins, but chimeras with VSV-Gtc demonstrated the highest rVSV-associated expression. In immunized mice, rVSV with chimeric S protein-Gtc derivatives induced the highest level of potent neutralizing antibodies and T cell responses, and rVSV harboring the full-length msp-SF-Gtc proved to be the superior immunogen. More importantly, rVSV-msp-SF-Gtc vaccinated animals were completely protected from a subsequent SARS-CoV-2 challenge. Overall, we have developed an efficient strategy to induce a protective response in SARS-CoV-2 challenged immunized mice. Vaccination with our rVSV-based vector may be an effective solution in the global fight against COVID-19.
Comparison of RNA synthesis initiation properties of non-segmented negative strand RNA virus polymerases
Authors: Shareef Afzaal M. , Ludeke Barbara , Jordan Paul , Deval Jerome , Fearns Rachel
Published: December 2021

It is generally thought that the promoters of non-segmented, negative strand RNA viruses (nsNSVs) direct the polymerase to initiate RNA synthesis exclusively opposite the 3´ terminal nucleotide of the genome RNA by a de novo (primer independent) initiation mechanism. However, recent studies have revealed that there is diversity between different nsNSVs with pneumovirus promoters directing the polymerase to initiate at positions 1 and 3 of the genome, and ebolavirus polymerases being able to initiate at position 2 on the template. Studies with other RNA viruses have shown that polymerases that engage in de novo initiation opposite position 1 typically have structural features to stabilize the initiation complex and ensure efficient and accurate initiation. This raised the question of whether different nsNSV polymerases have evolved fundamentally different structural properties to facilitate initiation at different sites on their promoters. Here we examined the functional properties of polymerases of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a pneumovirus, human parainfluenza virus type 3 (PIV-3), a paramyxovirus, and Marburg virus (MARV), a filovirus, both on their cognate promoters and on promoters of other viruses. We found that in contrast to the RSV polymerase, which initiated at positions 1 and 3 of its promoter, the PIV-3 and MARV polymerases initiated exclusively at position 1 on their cognate promoters. However, all three polymerases could recognize and initiate from heterologous promoters, with the promoter sequence playing a key role in determining initiation site selection. In addition to examining de novo initiation, we also compared the ability of the RSV and PIV-3 polymerases to engage in back-priming, an activity in which the promoter template is folded into a secondary structure and nucleotides are added to the template 3´ end. This analysis showed that whereas the RSV polymerase was promiscuous in back-priming activity, the PIV-3 polymerase generated barely detectable levels of back-primed product, irrespective of promoter template sequence. Overall, this study shows that the polymerases from these three nsNSV families are fundamentally similar in their initiation properties, but have differences in their abilities to engage in back-priming.
Quantification of T-cell dynamics during latent cytomegalovirus infection in humans
Authors: van den Berg Sara P. H. , Derksen Lyanne Y. , Drylewicz Julia , Nanlohy Nening M. , Beckers Lisa , Lanfermeijer Josien , Gessel Stephanie N. , Vos Martijn , Otto Sigrid A. , de Boer Rob J. , Tesselaar Kiki , Borghans José A. M. , van Baarle Debbie
Published: December 2021

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection has a major impact on the T-cell pool, which is thought to be associated with ageing of the immune system. The effect on the T-cell pool has been interpreted as an effect of CMV on non-CMV specific T-cells. However, it remains unclear whether the effect of CMV could simply be explained by the presence of large, immunodominant, CMV-specific memory CD8+ T-cell populations. These have been suggested to establish through gradual accumulation of long-lived cells. However, little is known about their maintenance. We investigated the effect of CMV infection on T-cell dynamics in healthy older adults, and aimed to unravel the mechanisms of maintenance of large numbers of CMV-specific CD8+ T-cells. We studied the expression of senescence, proliferation, and apoptosis markers and quantified the in vivo dynamics of CMV-specific and other memory T-cell populations using in vivo deuterium labelling. Increased expression of late-stage differentiation markers by CD8+ T-cells of CMV+ versus CMV- individuals was not solely explained by the presence of large, immunodominant CMV-specific CD8+ T-cell populations. The lifespans of circulating CMV-specific CD8+ T-cells did not differ significantly from those of bulk memory CD8+ T-cells, and the lifespans of bulk memory CD8+ T-cells did not differ significantly between CMV- and CMV+ individuals. Memory CD4+ T-cells of CMV+ individuals showed increased expression of late-stage differentiation markers and decreased Ki-67 expression. Overall, the expression of senescence markers on T-cell populations correlated positively with their expected in vivo lifespan. Together, this work suggests that i) large, immunodominant CMV-specific CD8+ T-cell populations do not explain the phenotypical differences between CMV+ and CMV- individuals, ii) CMV infection hardly affects the dynamics of the T-cell pool, and iii) large numbers of CMV-specific CD8+ T-cells are not due to longer lifespans of these cells.
Connecting within: Digital collage as art-based research to process a pandemic
Authors: Ferro Michele J.
Published: December 2021

This article focuses on the use of digital collage as art-based research (ABR) to process the COVID-19 pandemic by an employed art therapist. The researcher/artist created a series of digital collages over a four-month period that were explored symbolically and metaphorically to comprehend a period of collective grief. The investigation explores digital collage as an applicable ABR method and highlights the importance of expressive therapists creating their own art, especially during times of crises.
E-cooperative problem solving as a strategy for learning mathematics during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Knopik Tomasz , Oszwa Urszula
Published: December 2021

The aim of the article is to present the benefits of cooperative learning in mathematics in distance teaching conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic. In longitudinal studies, six math teachers formed a collaborative network and developed scenarios for three projects to be implemented by students on an educational platform. During their eight-week implementation, the principles of cooperative learning, using the methodical implications of the self-determination theory (SDT) have been followed. Mathematical problems were solved using the capabilities of the Teams platform. Among students (N = 104) from five sixth grades of primary school who took part in the study, measurements of social-emotional skills were carried out using the Distance Learning Climate questionnaire (DLC-21), designed for the study. The students have shown a high level of mathematical performance (84.8%), the significant increase of the relatedness to the group and the significant decrease in a sense of situational fear. The results also indicate a high level of students' sense of competence and satisfaction associated with the implementation of mathematical projects. The obtained results should be included in further research on the effectiveness of distance mathematics teaching methods.
Alginate and Gum Arabic Coated Iron Oxide Nanoparticles as an Efficient Drug Carrier Agent
Authors: Singh Jaiveer , Jangra Arti , Rani Keerti , Kumar Parvin , Kumar Suresh , Kumar Ramesh
Published: December 2021

Multifunctional iron oxide nanoparticles have a vast and emerging scope in the field of nanotechnology.
Out of numerous techniques available to develop multifunctional magnetite nanoparticles,
co-precipitation is considered as one of the most efficient and economical techniques. Bare magnetite
nanoparticles could be functionalized to act as multifunctional nanoparticles with the help of some
suitable and biocompatible coating materials. In present study, surface functionalization of magnetic
iron oxide nanoparticles has been carried out with alginate and gum Arabic, respectively. For the
confirmation of surface functionalization, the synthesized multifunctional magnetite nanoparticles
were characterized FTIR spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. Further, the drug loading
efficiency of these surface coated iron oxide nanoparticles has been evaluated with the help of UV-visible
spectrophotometric studies
Assessment of Groundwater Quality for Drinking Purpose in Tehsil Bah, Agra District, India
Authors: Sharma Ajay , Rupini B.
Published: December 2021

The increasing dependence on groundwater for domestic, irrigation, industrial and other purposes is
giving adverse impact on the aquifers and environment of the area. The present study is focused on the
physico-chemical analysis of groundwater quality of Tehsil Bah, located in Agra district of India. A
total 84 samples of groundwater were collected from different locations throughout the area of the
tehsil Bah. Total 16 test parameters were analyzed to assess the quality of groundwater by adopting
methodology and techniques given in the American public health association (APHA), 2017. Total
dissolved solids are not meeting the requirements of acceptable limit in all the locations as per Bureau
of Indian standard IS 10500:2012. Total hardness, total alkalinity, chloride, calcium and magnesium
values are also not met the requirements in most of the locations. Sodium and fluoride concentrations
also exceed the prescribed limits of Indian standard in some places.
Fabrication of Minerals Substituted Hydroxyapatite based Nanocomposite
Coating on Titanium: Physico-Chemical and in vitro Biological Evaluations
Authors: Govindaraj Dharman , Rajan Mariappan
Published: December 2021

The search of orthopedic metallic implants which facilitate osteoconductivity and mitigate bacterial
contamination has received substantial care to ensure long-term problems in the biomedical sector.
Current research studies electrophoretic deposition of gelatin (Gel)@minerals (Ce, Mg, Zn) substituted
hydroxyapatite (MHA2)-halloysite nanotube (HNT)-single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT)
(Gel@MHA2-HNT-SWCNT) nanocomposite coatings on the surface of titanium plate. Coated samples
were characterized by FTIR, XRD and SEM-EDX techniques. Furthermore, antimicrobial, hemolysis
and cell viability studies of coating materials and their findings show the bacteriostatic activity,
hemocompatibility and more viable cells, respectively. Overall, the in vitro experiments have shown
that Gel@MHA2-HNT-SWCNT nanocomposite coating on titanium enhanced the biocompatible
efficiency, suggesting that Gel@MHA2-HNT-SWCNT coated titanium is a potential implant substrate
for orthopedic implants.
Intensification of Polyphenols Extraction from Sohiong
(Prunus nepalensis) using Microwave-Assisted Extraction
Authors: Kashyap Piyush , Riar Charanjit Singh , Jindal Navdeep
Published: December 2021

Microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) was investigated to extract polyphenols from sohiong (Prunus
nepalensis) fruit. The effect of process variables (solvent concentration, solvent-solid ratio, microwave
power and time) on yield and total phenol content (TPC) of fruit extract were studied using response
surface methodology. The best conditions for extraction of polyphenolic extract were solvent
concentration (55.17%), solvent-solid ratio (26.09%), microwave power (500 W) and time (238 s).
Under optimized MAE conditions, the yield, TPC, DPPH and FRAP of sohiong extracts were 47.25%,
146.61 mgGAE/g, 89.02% and 0.58 mgAAE/g, respectively. Furthermore, MAE showed higher yield,
TPC and antioxidant activity as compared to conventional solvent extraction (CSE) (28.13%, 96.56
mgGAE/g, 74.87% (DPPH) and 0.54 mgAAE/g (FRAP)), respectively. Thus, MAE is a potential
alternative for polyphenols extraction from sohiong fruit and as a rich source of antioxidant compounds,
it can be a potent ingredient for pharmaceuticals and food industries.
Thermal Decomposition of Copper Acetate at Various Temperature and
Time to form Copper Oxide/Copper Nanoparticles
Authors: Sibokoza S.B. , Moloto M.J. , Mtunzi F. , Moloto N.
Published: December 2021

In the present study, the copper oxide and copper nanoparticles were prepared by thermal decomposition
of solid phase copper acetate at various time (1-3 h) and temperature (200-500 ºC). The method is
simple, less expensive, avoid toxic solvent as well as avoid use of passivating agents. The FT-IR spectrum
of the copper acetate monohydrate (calcined) shows the major changes in absorption peaks associated
with methyl, carbon-oxygen double bond, carbon-oxygen single bond and copper-oxygen bond
functional groups. Thermogravimetry analysis shows that the copper acetate monohydrate decomposes
at about 250 ºC to form copper. The TEM images show a combination of shapes, which includes
icosahedrons, truncated cubes and nano-whiskers made from sphere with diameter of 7.43-0.83 nm.
Synthesis and Biological Screening of Novel
5-(5-Aryl-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-3-yl)-3-aryl-1,2,4-oxadiazole Derivatives
Authors: Kulkarni Pravin S. , Sarda Swapnil R. , Khandebharad Amol U. , Farooqui Mazahar , Agrawal Brijmohan R.
Published: December 2021

A new series of 5-(5-aryl-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-3-yl)-3-aryl-1,2,4-oxadiazole (6a-o) have been
synthesized by a cyclocondensation reaction of ethyl 5-(4-chlorophenyl)-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazole-3-
carboxylate (3a-c) with aryl imidoxime (5a-e). The newly synthesized pyrazolyl-1,2,4-oxadiazole
(6a-o) derivatives were characterized by spectroscopic techniques and screened for in vitro antibacterial
activity against Bacillus subtilis (NCIM 2063), Staphylococcus albus (NCIM 2178), Escherichia coli
(NCIM 2574), Proteus mirabilis (NCIM 2388) and in vitro antifungal activity against Aspergillus
niger (ATCC 504) Candida albicans (NCIM 3100).
Green Synthesis, Characterization, Antioxidant, Antibacterial and Dye
Degradation of Silver Nanoparticles using Combretum indicum Leaf Extract
Authors: Kuyyogsuy Arnannit , Porrawatkul Paweena , Pimsen Rungnapa , Nuengmatcha Prawit , Ninwong Benjawan , Rattanakomon Nichapa , Chanthai Saksit
Published: December 2021

Silver nanoparticles were synthesized by bioreduction of silver nitrate using the aqueous leaf extract
of Combretum indicum (CI-AgNPs). The synthesized CI-AgNPs exhibited a distinct absorption peak
at 414 nm in UV-vis spectroscopy. Various parameters such as pH, temperature and time were optimized
using spectrophotometry. The particle size of the CI-AgNPs was 48 nm as evaluated from the laser
particle size analyzer. The XRD and EDX analyses confirmed the presence of silver in silver
nanoparticles. Synthesized CI-AgNPs revealed significant antioxidant, antimicrobial (against
Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus) and photocatalytic (against methylene blue under sunlight
irradiation) activities. Thus, an eco-friendly method was developed to synthesize silver nanoparticles
using the C. indicum leaf extract.
Flavonoid: A Mini Review on Galangin
Authors: Prasad A. , Kumari S.
Published: December 2021

Studies on flavonoids from plant sources has gained a momentum due to their versatile health benefits.
The main sources of flavonoids in humans are fruits, vegetables, red wine and tea. They are small
molecular weight secondary metabolites produced in different parts of the plant such as seeds, bark,
root, fruits and flowers. Galangin (3,5,7-trihydroxyflavone) a naturally occurring flavonoid is present
in roots of Alpinia officinarum, honey and propolis. Its extraction and detection has been reported
using various methods such as chromatography, spectrophotometric and electrochemical methods
associated with other sophisticated techniques. Galangin showed various pharmacological activities
such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, radical scavenging, anticancer activity and hypolipidimic
activity. The present review discusses the pharmacological activities, pharmacokinetics and bioanalytical
aspects of galangin, which can be beneficial for researchers working in the field of galangin
Mortality Pattern of In-Born vs Out-Born Neonates - Comparative Study of Neonates Admitted to Special New Born Care Units of a Tertiary Care Hospital of Hilly Region of North India
Authors: Sood Ambika , Sharma Rakesh , Katoch Raju , Sharma Sanya
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND The high incidence of global neonatal mortality has triggered several efforts to improve facility-based neonatal care but despite these many advances in perinatal and neonatal care, the outcomes achievable at different levels are comparable. This study was undertaken to compare the mortality pattern among both the inborn and outborn neonates admitted to the special new born care units (SNCU)s of tertiary care hospital of Shimla city, in the hilly state of Himachal Pradesh. METHODS A cross-sectional study involving a record review of all neonates admitted to the specialized neonatal care units of the paediatric ward of IGMC, Shimla & Kamla Nehru Hospital (KNH) over five years from January 2016 to December 2020 was conducted. The most important causes of mortality and its associated factors were analysed, and a statistical inference was made. RESULTS Among the 4018 outborn neonates admitted to the SNCU of the pediatric ward of IGMC, Shimla, 2440 (60.73 %) were males and 1578 (39.27 %) were females while 6607 inborn neonates were admitted to the SNCU of KNH Shimla and among them 3655 (55.32 %) were males and 2952 (44.68 %) were females. In the outborn SNCU of IGMC Shimla, 307 (7.64 %) died while in the inborn SNCU of KNH Shimla, 366 (5.54 %) neonates died over a span of 5 years. In outborn SNCU of IGMC Shimla, a maximum of 110 (35.83 %) neonates died due to sepsis/pneumonia/meningitis, followed by 60 (19.54 %) due to respiratory distress syndrome and 50 (16.29 %) due to HIE/moderate-severe birth asphyxia while in case of inborn SNCU of KNH, maximum deaths of 115 (31.42 %) were due to respiratory distress syndrome, followed by 93 (25.41 %) due to sepsis/pneumonia/meningitis and 69 (18.85 %) due to HIE/moderate-severe birth asphyxia. At outborn SNCU of IGMC, Shimla, most of the neonates who died 118 (38.44 %) weighed about 1500-2499 gm, while in inborn SNCU of KNH, Shimla, most of the neonates 147 (40.16 %) had weight between 1000-1499 gm. At outborn SNCU of IGMC Shimla, 131 (42.67 %) were preterm while at inborn SNCU of KNH, 305 (83.3 %) were preterm. CONCLUSIONS Sepsis, birth asphyxia and RDS are the important causes of mortality, which must be urgently addressed. Improving antenatal care, improved access to health facilities, early identification of danger signs, timely referral, capacity building, can reduce neonatal mortality. KEY WORDS Comparison, Neonatal Mortality, SNCUs, Tertiary Care Hospital, Inborn Neonate, Outborn Neonate.