bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinicopathologic Characteristics, Therapeutic Modalities and Survival Outcomes of Plasmablastic Lymphoma: A Real-World Study
Authors: Zheng Yan-Hua , Wang Hai-Tao , Wan Zhuo , Tian Biao , Shen Hong-Yuan , Liu Li , Feng Juan
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Plasmablastic lymphoma(PBL)，an extremely rare subtype of B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma(NHL), is characterized by aggressiveness, rapid progression and bleak prognosis. Neither standardized regimen nor consensus for PBL treatment has been established.Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the clinicopathologic characteristics, therapeutic modalities and survival outcomes of 418 patients registered in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database from 2008 to 2016 and 21 (19 treated) patients in our institution. Kaplan-Meier survival curves and log-rank test for overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) were performed to compare each variable. Variables with statistical significance in the univariate Cox regression were incorporated into the multivariate Cox model to determine the independent prognostic factors.Results: In patient cohort from the SEER, PBL has a striking male predilection. The median OS for all PBL patients was 17 months. The 1-year,3-year and 5-year OS rate were 54.4%, 40.4% and 37.2% respectively. Patients who suffered from previous malignancy had a significant survival disadvantage compared to those without previous cancer. Patients with higher Ann Arbor stage at diagnosis were at higher risk of death than those with lower stage. Chemotherapy alone or chemotherapy combined with radiotherapy could significantly reduce the risk of death and extend the patients’ survival, yielding HR of 0.209(95%CI 0.152-0.288) and 0.187(95%CI 0.089-0.394), respectively. Radiation alone seemed useless. All patients from our institution were HIV-negative. The main therapeutic regimens were CHOP or CHOPE, DA-EPOCH, DHAP and ESHAP. Complete response (CR) was achieved in only 3 patients, while partial response (PR) in 10 patients. The median OS was 7 months. Fourteen patients later died of the disease progression.Conclusions: Previous malignancy history, Ann Arbor stage and therapeutic modality were independent prognostic factors. Bortezomib combined with DA-EPOCH may serve as an effective regimen for PBL. The optimal therapeutic modality necessitates further exploration.
Influencing Factors of Humanistic Care Ability in Mental Health Workers: An Online Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Liu Xiaolin , Zhu Hongjin
Published: November 2021

Background Mental health workers may face more obstacles in humanistic care during the COVID-19 pandemic, we aimed to explore the humanistic care ability of mental health workers and its potential influencing factors.Method(s) An online cross-sectional survey was conducted among 262 mental health workers working in Chongqing, China from December 1 to 31, 2020. Self-administered questionnaires were used to collect data from the participants. Results Mental health workers’ humanistic care ability score was 186.47 ± 21.34, and most of the them (79.8%) were at a low level. Psychological capital and personality traits were significant influencing factors of humanistic care ability and its sub-dimensions.Conclusion(s) Research has found that the humanistic care ability of mental health workers is at a low level, and psychological capital and personality traits are significant factors influencing the humanistic care ability and its sub-dimensions. Interventions to improve psychological capital of mental health workers or to promote the change of personality traits that they want are recommended, thereby promoting humanistic practice.
Continuous Passive Motion Not Affect the Knee Motion and the Surgical wound Aspect After Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Gil-Gonzalez Sergi , Rodriguez Ricardo Andrés Barja , Pujol Antoni Lopez , Berjaoui Hussein , Bengoa Jose Enrique Fernandez , Erquicia Juan Ignacio , Blanquet Joan Leal , Pelfort Xavier
Published: November 2021

Background. This study aimed to assess whether use of continuous passive motion (CPM) can improve range of motion in patients after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Moreover, the relationship between the use of CPM with the surgical wound aspect (SWA) and pain management after TKA was analysed.Methods. We randomized 210 patients, 102 patients in the CPM group, who received a standard rehabilitation protocol together with CPM application; and 108 patients in the no-CPM group, without CPM. Variables as knee motion (flexion, extension, range of motion) and pain was measured before surgery, on the 1s, 2nd and 3rd postoperative day, and in the 2nd, 6th, 12th and 24th postoperative weeks following TKA. The SWA was determined by the “surgical wound aspect score” (SWAS) in the next 48 hours after surgery. This scale analyses swelling, erythema, haematoma, blood drainage and blisters. Results. There was an improvement in the knee motion over the course of follow-up in both groups, without significant difference in flexion parameter. We found no significant differences in the total score of SWA, except for haematoma, with less severity in the CPM group. Furthermore, we found no differences in the others SWAS parameters and pain. Conclusions. The application of CPM does not provide benefit to our patients undergoing TKA in terms of either improved flexion mobility or decreased pain. No relationship was found between the use of CPM and the global score of SWA following a TKA, except for a decrease in haematoma appearance.
Efficacy, Safety, Cost, and Clinical Outcomes After the Switch to Generic Rosuvastatin Compared with Consistent Brand-Name Atorvastatin Treatment.
Authors: Huang Mu-shiang , Wu Chun-I , Su Pei-Fang , Liu Ping-Yen
Published: November 2021

Background: The efficacy, safety, and clinical outcomes for patients switch to generic rosuvastatin, compared with patients taking other brand-name atorvastatin, is unclear. Method: We retrospectively collected electronic medical records from January 1, 2013, to December 31, 2020, of patients who switched medication, because of hospital policy, from brand-name to generic rosuvastatin after March 14, 2018. we only considered patients who had taken the medication at least 1 year prior to and 1 year after that date. We also collected records of patients who consistently used brand-name atorvastatin during the same period. The efficacy of lipid control, potential adverse effects, clinical outcomes of major cardiovascular events (MACE), and medical expenses were compared between the 2 groups. Propensity score matching (PSM) was conducted to balance potential cofounders. Result: After 1:1 PSM, 592 patients were enrolled in the rosuvastatin and atorvastatin groups, and no significant difference was observed in their total cholesterol (TC) level difference (−4.38 ± 23.0 vs. −3.72 ± 26.95 mg/dL, P = 0.702), low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C) (−2.38 ± 19.89 vs. −2.42 ± 23.63 mg/dL, P = 0.976), or glycated hemoglobin (−0.05% ± 0.7% vs. −0.08% ± 0.76%, P = 0.543). No significant differences were noted in their cumulative MACE (2.70% vs. 3.89%, log-rank P = 0.265) after the switch date, and each person in the generic group had a 16% average reduction in their medical expenses. Conclusion: Switching to generic rosuvastatin led to comparable lipid-lowering efficacy, safety, and clinical outcomes and fewer medical expenses compared with consistently using brand-name atorvastatin.
A Prospective Study on the Reduction of Perioperative Blood Loss in Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty with Femoral Extramedullary Positioning Osteotomy
Authors: chen jiahui , Wei Shufa , Yang Yi , Li Zhenggang , Liu Junhong , Liang Yiming , Li Biao
Published: November 2021

Purpose: To investigate the effect of gyroscope femoral extramedullary positioning osteotomy on perioperative blood loss in primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA).Methods: 71 knee-joints from 59 patients receiving primary TKA in our hospital from June 2019 to June 2020 were included. A prospective, double-blind study was conducted. The included patients were randomly assigned to the extramedullary osteotomy group (group A; 34 cases underwent femoral extramedullary positioning osteotomy using a gyroscope) and intramedullary osteotomy group (group B; 37 cases underwent traditional intramedullary guide rod for femoral positioning osteotomy). The differences in blood loss and knee function were observed.Results: ① There was no significant difference in age, gender, body mass index, preoperative hemoglobin, preoperative Knee Society Score (KSS), and pain visual analogue scale (VAS) between the two groups of patients. ② The intraoperative blood loss, postoperative drainage, and total blood loss in group A were lower than those in group B (P < 0.001). ③ There was no significant difference in VAS and KSS between the two groups, and they were higher than those before operation. ④ The range of knee joint motion in group A was higher than that in group B at 1 and 3 days after the operation (P < 0.01), but there was no significant difference in the range of knee motion between the two groups at 7 days and 6 weeks after the operation.Conclusion: Femoral extramedullary positioning osteotomy with a gyroscope significantly reduced perioperative blood loss in primary TKA. The functional score of the patient knee joint after this operation had no significant difference from that of traditional operation.
The Prevalence and Treatment Options of Melasma as Well as its Association with Quality of Life in Darker Skin Types: A Scoping Review Protocol
Authors: Mpofana Nomakhosi , Chibi Buyisile , Gqaleni Nceba , Mohammed Ahmed Hussain , Finlayson Avenal Jane , Kgarosi Kabelo , Dlova Ncoza Cordelia
Published: November 2021

BackgroundMelasma is one of the most encountered dermatoses in dermatology and skin care clinics. It is a challenging chronic, recurrent condition associated with hyperpigmentation. Its etiology is poorly understood. Melasma affects all races and gender but is more prevalent in women with darker skin types. Being a facial lesion, melasma has a severe impact on quality of life due to its disfigurement. While many modalities of treatment for melasma exists, unfortunately, effectiveness and safety remain a huge concern. Treatment modalities are variable and often unsatisfactory. The objective of this scoping review is to systemically map available evidence from literature regarding melasma, garner insight as to how melasma affects the quality of life and begin to investigate and gain understanding on effectiveness of different treatments used for melasma.MethodsA scoping review guided by Arksey and O’Malley’s framework, the enhancements and recommendations of Levac, Colquhoun and O’Brien, Daudt and associates and the 2015 Johanna Briggs Institute’s guidelines will be conducted. Systematic electronic searches of databases and search engines such as, Scopus, PubMed, CINAHL Complete, Cochrane, Science Direct, and Web of Science will be conducted to attain published peer-reviewed articles of all study designs excluding reviews. All literature that meets the inclusion criteria, research question and sub-question will be included in this review. All the retrieved literature will be exported to an Endnote X20 library. Quality appraisal of the included articles will be conducted using the mixed methods appraisal tool (MMAT) 2018 version.DiscussionWe anticipate mapping relevant literature on the prevalence of melasma, investigating the effectiveness of treatment options of melasma as well as evaluating its association with quality of life in darker skin types. This study is likely to reveal research gaps, which could guide future implementation research on melasma treatment interventions.Protocol registration: This protocol has been registered apriori with OSF and is accessible on this link: https://osf.io/ru3jc/
Ferroptosis Promotes Microtubule-Associated Protein Tau Aggregation via GSK-3β Activition and Proteasome Inhibition
Authors: Wang Shaohui , Jiang Yao , Liu Yabo , Liu Qianhui , Sun Hongwei , Mei Mengjie , Liao Xiaomei
Published: November 2021

Ferroptosis is a form of regulated cell death resulting from iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation. In some particular brain regions, iron dyshomeostasis and peroxidation damage of neurons are closely related to a wide range of neurodegenerative diseases known as “tauopathies”, in which intracellular aggregation of microtubule-associated protein tau is the common neuropathological feature. However, the relationship between ferroptosis and tau aggregation is not well understood. The current study demonstrates that erastin-induced ferroptosis can promote tau hyperphosphorylation and aggregation in mouse neuroblastoma cells (N2a cells). Moreover, ferroptosis inhibitor ferrostatin-1 can alleviate tau aggregation effectively. In-depth mechanism research indicates that activated Glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β) is responsible for abnormal hyperphosphorylation and accumulation. More importantly, proteasome inhibition can exacerbate the tau degradation obstacle and accelerate tau aggregation in the process of ferroptosis. Our results indicate that ferroptosis can lead to abnormal aggregation of tau protein and might be a promising therapeutic target of tauopathies.
The Influence of Rainfall Amounts Not Exceeding Critical Rainfall on Landslide Occurrence in Japan
Authors: Kaihara Soichi , Tadakuma Noriko , Saito Hitoshi , Nakaya Hiroaki
Published: November 2021

Critical rainfall events are used in landslide early-warning systems to predict the occurrence and severity of disasters. In this study, past landslide disasters in Japan were identified for which the critical rainfall set for each 1-km grid was exceeded using historical landslide records, radar-based rainfall data over a 1-km grid, and standard rainfall data collected over the past 17 years. It was determined that nearly equal numbers of rainfall events were identified with higher and lower rainfall amounts than the critical rainfall. The probability that a series of rainfall events would cause a landslide was approximately 1.15% when the critical rainfall was exceeded and 0.09% otherwise, a difference of approximately 10 times. It was also found that even if critical rainfall was not exceeded, in the case of debris flow and slope failures, there was rainfall that exceeded the standard rainfall one or two days before. In the case of landslides, there was rainfall that exceeded the critical rainfall one or two weeks before, and if the critical rainfall was exceeded in another rainfall event, a landslide could occur. The operational evaluation of Japanese LEWSs has a recall value of 0.486 as the accuracy of occurrence prediction, which was related to the fact that almost half of the rainfall events occurred in nonexceedance of the reference rainfall. The specificity was 0.935, known as the accuracy of nonoccurrence prediction, which was also greatly influenced by the TN (true negative) data of nonexceeding rainfall events, which accounted for most of the data.
Dose-Response Association Between Dietary Folate and Niacin Intakes With Diabetes Among Chinese Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Jiang Yuhong , Zhang Zhiwen , Zhu Yi , Chai Yongfei , Xie Hong
Published: November 2021

Background
This study aimed to examine the relationships between dietary vitamin intakes and the risk of diabetes among Chinese adults.
Methods
This is a cross-sectional observational study. Demographic and anthropometric data along with information on dietary vitamin intakes were collected and eligible participants were recruited to complete a questionnaire. Binary logistic regression analysis was conducted to examine the associations between dietary vitamin intakes and the risk of diabetes, with adjustment for potential confounders. We also evaluated non-linear dose-response relationships between dietary vitamin intakes and diabetes using adjusted restricted cubic splines.
Results
Of the 3106 eligible participants, 15.9% had prevalent diabetes, 19.0% in male and 13.7% in female, respectively. The median folate was significantly higher in diabetic patients than in controls (32.030 vs 27.600 µg), while median niacin was significantly lower (7.000 vs 7.900 mg). The binary logistic regression analysis also showed a significant association between dietary folate (Odds ratio (OR)=1.002; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.000-1.004; P=0.022) and niacin intakes (OR=0.965; 95% CI: 0.944-0.986; P=0.001) with the risk of diabetes after controlling for potential confounders. The plots of restricted cubic splines presented an atypical inverted U-shaped association between dietary folate intake and diabetes.
Conclusions
The data presented here showed that diabetics had a low intake of vitamins, especially B group vitamins. Dietary folate and niacin intakes tended to be independently related to the risk of diabetes. Nevertheless, this study is observational, and there yet to be large-scale randomized controlled trials which would increase the evidence of the findings.
An ultrasound-guided percutaneous nerve stimulation regimen based on finite element modeling for median nerve rupture
Authors: chu xiaolei , Song Xizi , Li Yuru , Wu Ziren , Li Qi , Li Qingwen , Gu Xiaosong , Ming Dong
Published: November 2021

Object: In order to promote the functional recovery of median nerve rupture patients, this paper proposes an ultrasound-guided percutaneous nerve stimulation regimen based on finite element modeling. Method: First, according to anatomy feature, a multi-layer human forearm model is constructed. What’s more, taking current density and activate function as optimization indicators, the percutaneous nerve stimulation regimen is designed with finite element modeling, including electrical needle angel, distance and position. Finally, to test the performance of designed regimen, a total of 22 patients with median nerve rupture participate in the clinical randomized controlled trial. And the clinical treatment effect is evaluated with BMRC, grip strength, functional score of median nerve and DASH scores. Results: The designed percutaneous nerve stimulation regimen is that, parallel to each other, electrical needles are located at both ends of the injury nerve with a distance of 3 cm. Besides, clinical trial results show that, after treatment the difference in sensory function was statistically significant. In terms of motor function, the BMRC of motor and grip strength are improved in both groups after treatment and there are significant differences between groups. Besides the grip strength improvement of experimental group is 4 times higher than that of control group. On global function, the DASH scores are reduced by 29% with experimental group but only 8% with control group; functional score of median nerve improved by 24% in the experimental group and by 22% in the control group, but the difference between groups is statistically significant after treatment. Conclusion: Clinical trial results demonstrate that the designed percutaneous nerve stimulation regimen can significantly improve the sensory, motor and global function of median nerve rupture, which is a potential clinical treatment regimen. Trial registration: ChiCTR, ChiCTR2000030790. Registered14 march 2020, http://www.chictr.org.cn/ChiCTR2000030790
Exosome Derived From Traumatic Brain Injury Patients Accelerates Fracture Healing via SMAD7 Signaling Regulation
Authors: Xiong Yuan , Lin Ze , Xue Hang , Hu Yiqiang , Yu Tao , Chen Lang , Panayi Adriana C. , Zhou Wu , Sun Yun , Cao Faqi , Zeng Ruiyin , Liu Guodong , Mi Bobin , Liu Guohui
Published: November 2021

BackgroundExtremity injuries, especially for bone fracture, predominate in warfare, and around one-third of military personnel sustain at least one kind of traumatic brain injury (TBI). The beneficial role of TBI in osteogenic differentiation and fracture healing was found in clinic, however, the underlying mechanism of this interesting finding is elusive. Exosome (Exos) is nanosized extracellular vesicles, and their regulatory role in bone remodeling have attracted accumulative attention.MethodsUltra-high speed gradient centrifugation was used to extract exosomes (Exos) both from fracture patients combined with TBI (TBI-Exos), and from isolated fracture patients (Ctr-Exos). Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) proliferation was checked by qRT-PCR, western blotting, ALP staining, alizarin red staining, and EdU (5-ethynyl-2’-deoxyuridine) assays. In addition, C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into different groups according to the treatments, and the radiographic and histopathological results were analyzed to evaluate the effect of TBI-Exos on fracture healing. ResultsIn vitro, suppression of SMAD7 promoted osteogenic differentiation, whereas knock down of miR-21-5p in TBI-Exos deprived this bone-beneficial effect at a great extent. Similarly, our results confirmed that pre-injection of TBI-Exos leads to enhanced bone formation, whereas knock down of exosomal miR-21-5p was capable to markedly impair this bone-beneficial effect in vivo. ConclusionOur findings provide a potential mechanism of the beneficial role of TBI in fracture healing with a particular focus on the TBI-Exos, and suggest that the use of nanosized materials combined with miR-21-5p-mimics may be a promising therapeutic approach to enhance fracture healing in the future.
Fruit and Vegetable Intakes and Sleep in Linkage With Cognition Among Older Adults in China
Authors: Bai Chen , Xie Yuning , Gu Danan
Published: November 2021

Background: Identifying factors associated with cognitive impairment among older adults is critical. This study aims to examine associations of fruit and/or vegetable intake (FVI), sleep quality and duration, and their interactions with cognitive performance among older adults in China.Methods: We utilize nationwide datasets in 2008 and 2011 in China to examine associations between sleep quality and duration, FVI, and cognitive impairment. Interactions between sleep and FVI on cognitive performance are also examined. All analyses are further stratified by gender, age group, and urban-rural residence.Results: When all covariates are fully adjusted for in the cross-sectional analyses, frequent FVI is associated with a 29% lower risk of cognitive impairment compared with less frequent FVI, and daily sleeping durations of ≤6h and ≥10h are associated with a 13% and a 51% higher risk of cognitive impairment, respectively, as compared with the duration of 8h. Sleep quality is not significantly associated with cognitive impairment compared with fair/poor sleep quality when all covariates are adjusted, though it is associated with a 31% lower risk when only demographics are controlled for. Interaction analyses reveal that frequent FVI offsets the higher risk of cognitive impairment for poor sleep quality and excessive sleep durations. Subgroup analyses show a generally similar pattern for both sexes but a more pronounced association for young older adults than for oldest-old adults. The patterns of the interactions of FVI, sleep quality, and sleep duration with cognitive impairment differ by urban-rural residence. However, associations of good sleep quality, adequate sleep duration, and frequent FVI with the incidence of cognitive impairment over a 3-year follow-up period are mostly not significant. Conclusions: The positive association of good sleep quality, appropriate sleep duration, frequent FVI, with good cognitive is mainly cumulative or long-term. Frequent FVI could offset a higher risk of cognitive impairment for poor sleep quality and/or excessive sleep durations. The associations are similar for both sexes but are stronger in oldest-old adults and differ by urban-rural residence.
Chromatin organizer SATB1 controls the cell identity of CD4+ CD8+ double-positive thymocytes by compacting super-enhancers
Authors: Feng Delong , Chen Yanhong , Dai Ranran , Bian Shasha , Xue Wei , Zhu Yongchang , Li Zhaoqiang , Yang Yiting , Zhang Yan , Zhang Jiarui , Bai Jie , Qin Litao , Kohwi Yoshinori , Shi Weili , Kohwi-Shigematsu Terumi , Liao Shixiu , Hao Bingtao
Published: November 2021

CD4+ and CD8+ double-positive (DP) thymocytes are at a crucial stage during the T cell development in the thymus. DP cells rearrange the T cell receptor gene Tcra to generate T cell receptors with TCRβ. Then DP cells differentiate into CD4 or CD8 single-positive (SP) thymocytes, Regulatory T cells, or invariant nature kill T cells (iNKT) according to the TCR signal. Chromatin organizer SATB1 is highly expressed in DP cells and plays an essential role in regulating Tcra rearrangement and differentiation of DP cells. Here we explored the mechanism of SATB1 orchestrating gene expression in DP cells. Single-cell RNA sequencing assay of SATB1-deficient thymocytes showed that the cell identity of DP thymocytes was changed, and the genes specifically highly expressed in DP cells were down-regulated. The super-enhancers regulate the expressions of the DP-specific genes, and the SATB1 deficiency reduced the super-enhancer activity. Hi-C data showed that interactions in super-enhancers and between super-enhancers and promoters decreased in SATB1 deficient thymocytes. We further explored the regulation mechanism of two SATB1-regulating genes, Ets2 and Bcl6, in DP cells and found that the knockout of the super-enhancers of these two genes impaired the development of DP cells. Our research reveals that SATB1 globally regulates super-enhancers of DP cells and promotes the establishment of DP cell identity, which helps understand the role of SATB1 in thymocyte development.
The Interval Between Staged Bilateral Total Knee Arthroplasties Does Not Affect Early Complications of the Second Knee or Long-term Function of the First and Second Knees
Authors: Shang Guangqian , Xiang Shuai , Guo Jianjun , Ji Feng , Yang Shuai , Liu Kun , Xu Hao
Published: November 2021

Background: This study explored the optimal time interval between staged bilateral total knee arthroplasty (BTKA) to minimise early complications of the second TKA and maximise long-term function of the first and second knees.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 266 patients who underwent staged BTKA between 2010 and 2015. Groups 1–4 had time intervals between BTKAs of 1–6, 6–12, 12–18, and 18–24 months, respectively. Demographics, postoperative complications within 90 days of the second TKA, Knee Society Score (KSS), and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) score were compared among the groups.Results: In total, 54, 96, 75, and 41 patients were assigned to groups 1–4, respectively. Although group 1 had the highest overall complication rate (11.11%), there was no significant difference in the complication rate among the four groups. Also, no significant differences were found among the four groups in functional and patient-reported outcomes, in either the first or second knee at 5 years postoperatively, including KSS-knee, KSS-function, WOMAC-pain, WOMAC-stiffness, and WOMAC-physical function. The interval between BTKA did not influence complications or the function of the second knee. The TKA type (posterior-stabilised vs. medial-pivot) and age did not correlate significantly with any scores.Conclusions: There was no group difference in early complications of the second TKA, and postoperative function was equivalent between the two knees and did not vary by the interval between surgeries. Our results can help surgeons discuss the timing of the second TKA with patients, which should be based on their own preferences. If patients cannot tolerate severe symptoms in the contralateral knee after the first TKA, the second TKA should be performed as early as possible.
Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Moringa Oleifera Leaf Extract, Tamarindus Indica Fruit Extract and Assessement of Antibacterial Activity Against Staphylococcus Aureus
Authors: A Shirisha , KUMAR ANUMOLU VIJAYA , R Laxman Chatlod , M Shashi Kumar , N Krishnaiah , Ch Raghupathi
Published: November 2021

The present study mainly deals with the green synthesis, characterization and evaluation of antibacterial properties of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesized by using the leaf extract of Moringa oleifera and fruit extract of Tamarindus indica. In this study for synthesis of silver nanoparticles different ratios of 1mM silver nitrate and Moringa oleifera leaf extract i.e, 95:5, 90:10 and 85: 15 was taken in conical flask and kept for one 1 hr at 25 0 c on magnetic stirrer, out of which 90:10 ratio was selected for further study based on highest peak, good size and stability. Tamarindus indica fruit extract was added to silver nitrate solution till the colour of the solution changes from light brown to chocolate brownish colour. The synthesized silver nanoparticles were characterized by UV-Visible spectroscopy, Zeta potential, size distribution by intensity. The absorption spectrum of the silver nano solution prepared by using Moringa oleifera and Tamarindus indica fruit extract showed a surface plasmon absorption band with maximum of 420 nm and 430 nm respectively indicating the presence of silver nanoparticles. The zeta value of silver nanoparticles synthesized from Moringa oleifera and Tamarindus indica fruit extract was -12.5 mV and -15.5 mV, size of 110.2 nm and 130.2 nm respectively. The antibacterial efficacy of nanosilver was checked by agar well diffusion method, and the silver nanoparticles showed effective antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus.
Ancient uniparental DNAs in distinguishing the competing theories of molecular evolution and modern human origins
Authors: Xia Zhiyi , Chen Hongyao , Zhang Ye , Huang Shi
Published: November 2021

Analyses of extant people have resulted in two models for the uniparental DNA phylogenetic trees of modern humans rooted in either Africa or East Asia. The Africa model is based on the neutral theory. The Asia model is reached from the maximum genetic diversity (MGD) theory. To test the two competing theories, we examined published data of ancient uniparental DNAs. Many ancient samples belonging to a terminal haplogroup were found to have mutated only in some, but not all, of the sites that define a more basal haplogroup. This pattern was found for the non-controversial haplogroups shared by the two competing models, and also for the haplogroups specific to the Asia model. Furthermore, many ancient samples that do not belong to some of the haplogroups of the Africa model nonetheless had mutations in them, which makes it impossible to unambiguously assign them to a haplogroup within the Africa model. Finally, uniparental DNAs of archaic humans were found to carry some modern alleles present in the first uniparental DNAs in the Asia model, indicating convergent evolution. Therefore, the data from ancient DNAs have verified the MGD theory and the actual existence of the haplogroups specific to the Asia model.
First-Principles Study on Electronic and Optical Properties of Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Under an External Electric Field
Authors: NAJIM Abdelhafid , BAJJOU Omar , RAHMANI Khalid , khenfouch Mohammed
Published: November 2021

In this study, the electronic and optical properties of one-dimensional (1D) Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube (SWCNT) nanostructures, under an external electric field (𝐸𝑒𝑥𝑡 ) effects applied in z direction, are investigated using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The Visualizer module of Material Studio software used to construct single-layer nanotube. Then, we use the CASTEP code for optimize and calculate the band structure, density of states and optical properties of carboxyl group substitution on Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube (SWCNT/Carboxyl). The 𝐸𝑒𝑥𝑡 effects lead to modulate the band gap and change the total density of states (TDOS), partial density of states (PDOS), absorption coefficient, dielectric function, optical conductivity, refractive index and loss function. The application of an 𝐸𝑒𝑥𝑡 effect on SWCNT/Carboxyl structure, lead to close its band gap. The peaks of TDOS around the fermi level are very weak. The absorption coefficient increases in visible range and decreases in ultraviolet (UV) domain, by reason of increased an 𝐸𝑒𝑥𝑡 effects. It is found that electronic structures and optical properties of SWCNT/Carboxyl, could be affected by the 𝐸𝑒𝑥𝑡 effects. All these results provide the important information for understanding and controlling the electronic and optical properties of 1D-crystals by an 𝐸𝑒𝑥𝑡 effects. This study can provide certain theoretical basis for our future experimental work of optoelectronic properties of SWCNT/Carboxyl material.
Metagenomic Analysis of Viral Diversity and a Novel Astroviruse of Forest Rodent
Authors: Yin Hai , Zhao Li , Chen Hong
Published: November 2021

Background: Rodents are important virus reservoirs and natural hosts for multiple viruses. They are one of the wild animals that are extremely threatening to the spread of human viruses. Therefore, research on rodents carrying viruses and identifying new viruses that rodents carry is of great significance for preventing and controlling viral diseases.Methods: In this study, fecal samples from six species of forest rodents in Northeast China were sequenced using metagenomics, and an abundance of virome information was acquired.Results: Among the top 10 most abundant viral families, RNA virus include Orthomyxoviridae, Picornaviridae, Bunyaviridae and Arenaviridae, DNA virus include Herpesviridae, Insect virus include Nodaviridae and Baculoviridae, Plant virus Tombusviridae and Phage (Myoriviridae). Except for Myoviridae, there was no significant difference in the abundance of virus families in the feces of each rodent species. In addition, a new strain of astrovirus was discovered, with an ORF and genome arrangement comparable to other rodent astroviruses.The newly identified astrovirus had the highest similarity with the rodent astrovirus isolate, CHN/100.Conclusions: The data obtained in this study provided an overview of the viral community present in these rodent fecal samples, revealing some rodent-associated viruses closely related to known human or animal pathogens. Strengthening our understanding of unclassified viruses harbored by rodents present in the natural environment could provide scientific guidance for preventing and controlling new viral outbreaks that can spread via rodents.
Determination of the Influence of Peripheral Neuropathy Symptoms on Quality of Life in Breast Cancer Patients Receiving Paclitaxel: Prospective Cross Sectional Study With Four Follow-ups
Authors: KURT BERNA , KARSLI ZEYNEP SİPAHİ , ÖKSÜZOĞLU BERNA ÖMÜR ÇAKMAK , ÖZTÜRK EMİNE , DEMİRÖRS NESLİHAN , DAĞ OSMAN
Published: November 2021

Background The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of peripheral neuropathy on the quality of life of breast cancer patients throughout with monthly follow-up during 4 months of paclitaxel treatment.Material and methods The research was conducted with a prospective cross sectional with four follow-ups descriptive design. The study population consisted of female patients with breast cancer at Ankara Oncology Training and Research Hospital between August 2018 and January 2019. Data were collected the ‘’Patient Information Form’’,‘’EORTC C30 Cancer Quality Of Life Questionnaire’’ and ‘’Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy Assessment Tool’’. The study was undertaken in accordance with the STROBE checklist for cross-sectional studies. Results Of 79 patients included in the Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy Assessment Tool except for the general activity subdimension were statistically significant in the ratings of 2nd, compared to 1st; 3rd compared to 1st and 2nd; 4th compared to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd follow-up periods. The overall mean of EORTC C30 Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire, functional subdimension, symptom severity, and general well-being in the evaluations of 2nd, compared with 1st; 3rd compared with 1st and 2nd; 4th compared with 1st, 2nd, and 3rd follow-up periods it was found that the mean values of symptom that decreased gradually were statistically significant.Conclusion The neuropathy scale was found to be higher in 2nd, 3rd, 4th follow-up periods than in 1st follow-up. Also, EORTC C30 Cancer QLQ subdimensions were high initially but gradually decreased after the fourth cycle. Thus, it was found that the increase in neuropathy symptoms negatively affects the quality of life.
RESEARCH OF FORMATION AND USE OF CORPORATE ENTERPRISE`S FINANCIAL RESOURCES
Authors: Hrytsenko L.L. , Derkach L.S.
Published: November 2021

The article analyzes the theoretical essence of formation and use of enterprise’s financial resources. Our country is in conditions of economic instability caused by various destructive factors. In this regard, domestic enterprises are increasingly faced with the problem of insufficient financial resources and sources of its formation. The situation is exacerbated by a reckless approach to the use of these resources. In fact, inefficient formation and use of financial resources is an urgent problem. Therefore, there is a need to research the theoretical foundations of the formation and use of financial resources of the enterprise as a basis for effective functioning in the current circumstances. The article proves that the formation and use of financial resources is an important component of the overall system of enterprises’ financial management. Also it describes the essence of the term "financial resources of the enterprise" by considering various scientific approaches to the interpretation of this category. Our own interpretation of this term was formed. In addition we emphasized the distinction between the categories of "financial resources" and "cash". The article contains explanation theoretical basis of the financial resources formation, focusing on the sources, which are divided into internal and external. Besides the article highlights the main areas of use of funds and finds a reasonable classification by types of assets and types of expenditures. There are the main indicators for assessing the effectiveness of the use of financial resources of the enterprise are outlined, which include analysis of the dynamic and structure of funds and the ratios of financial stability, liquidity, business activity and profitability. A number of problems that impede the smooth running of economic activities have been identified. Recommendations for improving the quality of formation and use of financial resources of a corporate enterprise have also been developed. Ensuring careful control over the formation and use of enterprise’s financial resources is a prerequisite for its effective operation.
BLOCKCHAIN AS A FACTOR OF DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION OF UKRAINE'S ECONOMY
Authors: Nikolaiev S.O. , Voronenko V.I. , Kovalov B.L. , Hrycenko P.V. , Odewole O.O.
Published: November 2021

The article is devoted to the issues of digital transformation of the economy and how blockchain technologies can help it. The transition to such technologies has recently become more frequent in the world. Quite a few well-known companies in the field of trade in goods or services have already made significant progress in this direction. Therefore, this paper provides suggestions for Ukraine on what needs to be done in practice so that the situation moves in the improvement. Blockchain is an area where the European Union and Ukraine can work together and then use this technology to strengthen economic ties and digitally transform their economies. The experience of the European Union countries in this direction and how it can be used in Ukraine are considered. The strengths and weaknesses of the introduction of the blockchain in the economy of Ukraine are analysed and the areas of digital infrastructure that may be interesting for investors are proposed. The advantages that Ukraine has in terms of investing in cryptocurrencies and mining are substantiated. In particular, it is more profitable to mine cryptocurrencies in Ukraine because of lower costs for operating mining farms comparing with the largest countries of the European Union by gross domestic product (Germany, France, Italy, Spain). The benefits of cooperation between the European Union and Ukraine in the digital transformation of economies based on blockchain technologies are analysed. It turned out that the introduction of the blockchain promotes the development of trade, industry, finance and energy. In addition, significant benefits can be gained from the introduction of blockchain technologies in the activities of customs authorities at the borders of the European Union and Ukraine. Blockchain is just a tool, its impact on the digital transformation of the economy depends largely on the basic vision and strategies that businesses choose to manage their day-to-day operations. Therefore, further research is needed to optimize the set of business strategies along with the choice of technology to achieve sustainable development goals. Future analysis should consider the complexity of multi-layered supply chains and the needs of many stakeholders.
TAKING INTO ACCOUNT TERRITORIAL AND INNOVATIVE ASPECTS IN THE FORMATION OF THE INDUSTRIAL CLUSTER
Authors: Maksymenko I. , Shkulipa O. , Pavlenko O. , Dreval O.
Published: November 2021

The article analyzes the impact of territorial and innovative aspects on the formation of an industrial cluster. Improving the efficiency of territorial development is one of the biggest problems of the modern economy and management. The system of consideration of territorial and innovative aspects of industrial cluster formation is considered in the article. It is determined that an important component is the institutional changes, the use of appropriate methods and tools of state influence, aimed at the process of clustering in the study areas. Particular importance is attached to the study of the implementation of the phased process of cluster formation. The need for effective functioning of the state mechanism is revealed. Statistical indicators of Ukraine's development are presented, on the basis of which the components for assessing the development potential of the territory are analyzed. In particular, a model of dependence of the territory's potential on a number of indicators is proposed. The influence of the development of the innovation aspect on the formation of the attractiveness of the region is studied. It is proved that the assessment of the region's potential correlates with the costs of innovation in this region. The results of the study showed that the cluster approach allows to consider and describe the industries applied to a particular area and its features. Most often, clusters of enterprises are classified according to such parameters as geographical location, availability of capital, proximity of suppliers, competitiveness, access to specialized services, development of labor potential, availability of specialized educational institutions and research organizations, industry affiliation. The application of integrated assessment in this study made it possible to identify highly promising, medium-promising and low-promising areas, ie to determine the stages of formation of industrial clusters. The article also analyzed statistical indicators such as innovation activity of industrial enterprises, labor force, research and development costs. In particular, the coincidence of the dynamics of changes in these indicators was determined. This is the basis for taking into account territorial and innovative aspects in the formation of industrial clusters.
Neither “Celtic” nor “Dacian”: The Site of Židovar at the Edges of La Tène, Carpathian and Roman Worlds
Authors: D. Mihajlović Vladimir , A. Janković Marko
Published: November 2021

The paper reviews long-standing interpretation of the late Iron Age site of Židovar as “Celtic”, “Dacian” and “Celto-Dacian”. Arguing that this standpoint is derived from biased culture-historical ethno-determinism, the evidence is reconsidered from excavation journals of Branko Gavela and published research on Židovar. Evidential basis is discussed, such as sratigraphic difficulties and chronology, as well as some common misconceptions of the site’s characteristics. Deadlocks are emphasized regarding the conclusions on its ethnic belonging. The paper calls for a new approach that goes beyond ethno-cultural determinism and urges the employment of “relational locality”. This perspective considers the site and its immediate surroundings as the first order community, i.e. the spatio-social focal point entangled in diverse, multidirectional and supra-regional relational networks. This would mean that the community of Židovar actively mediated different templates coming from the “globalized” koines of La Tène Pannonian, Danubian-Carpathian and Roman worlds, and bricolaged them in distinctive local ways.
Phthalocyanine-nanoparticle conjugates supported on inorganic nanofibers as photocatalysts for the treatment of biological and organic pollutants as well as for hydrogen generation
Authors:   , Mapukata Sivuyisiwe
Published: November 2021

This thesis reports on the synthesis, photophysicochemical and photocatalytic properties of various zinc phthalocyanines (Pcs). For enhanced properties and catalyst support, the reported Pcs were conjugated to different nanoparticles (NPs) through chemisorption as well as amide bond formation to yield Pc-NP conjugates. For increased catalyst surface area and catalyst reusability, the Pcs and some of their conjugates were also supported on electrospun inorganic nanofibers i.e. SiO2, hematite (abbreviated Hem and has formula α-Fe2O3), ZnO and TiO2 nanofibers. The effect that the number of charges on a Pc has on its antimicrobial activities was evaluated by comparing the photoactivities of neutral, octacationic and hexadecacationic Pcs against S. aureus, E. coli and C. albicans. The extent of enhancement of their antimicrobial activities upon conjugation (through chemisorption) to Ag NPs was also studied in solution and when supported on SiO2 nanofibers. The results showed that the hexadecacationic complex 3 possessed the best antimicrobial activity against all three microorganisms, in solution and when supported on the SiO2 nanofibers. Covalent conjugation of Pcs with carboxylic acid moieties (complexes 4-6) to amine functionalised NPs (Cys-Ag, NH2-Fe3O4 and Cys-Fe3O4@Ag) resulted in enhanced singlet oxygen generation and thus antibacterial efficiencies. Comparison of the photodegradation efficiencies of semiconductor nanofibers (hematite, ZnO and TiO2) when bare and when modified with a Pc (complex 6) were evaluated. Modification of the nanofibers with the Pc resulted in enhanced photoactivities for the nanofibers with the hematite nanofibers being the best. Modification of the hematite nanofibers with two different Pcs i.e. monosubstituted (complex 5) and an asymmetrical tetrasubstituted Pc (complex 6) showed that complex 6 better enhanced the activity of the nanofibers. Evaluation of the hydrogen generation efficiencies of the bare and modified TiO2 nanofibers calcined at different temperatures demonstrated that the anatase nanofibers calcined at 500 oC possessed the best catalytic efficiency. The efficiency of the TiO2 nanofibers was enhanced in the presence of the Co and Pd NPs as well as a Pc (complex 7), with the extent of enhancement being the greatest for the nanofibers modified with the Pd NPs. The reported findings therefore demonstrate the versatility of applications of Pcs for different water purification techniques when supported on different nanomaterials.