bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of a training intervention to improve the management of vertigo in primary care: a multicentre cluster-randomized trial.
Authors: Patiño Jenniffer Elizabeth Pérez , Moreno Jose Luis Ballve , Matos Yolanda Rando , Ortega Jesús Almeda , Puértolas Oriol Cunillera , Muñoz Ricard Carrillo , Balboa Ivan Villar , Compta Xavier González , Agudelo Olga Lucia Arias , Muñoz Sebastiá Calero , Rodríguez Vanessa Monforte , Cortes Anna Navarro , Rodríguez Eva Peguero
Published: May 2022

BackgroundBenign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the most common type of vertigo. While BPPV is best treated with canalicular repositioning maneuvers, they are not routinely performed in primary care (PC). MethodologyObjectives:To evaluate the effectiveness of blended training (online and face-to-face) on the diagnosis and management of vertigo to improve adherence of family doctors to clinical practice guidelines.DesignCommunity multicenters cluster-randomized open-label trial with an intervention (IG) and a control group (GC) of 10 primary care teams (PCTs) each.MeasurementsOutcome variables will be: ICD-10 diagnostic codes (proportion of nonspecific diagnoses such as dizziness and vertigo versus specific diagnoses such as BPPV, vestibular neuritis and Meniere's syndrome); referrals to ENT and neurology specialists; prescription of antivertigo agents; duration of sick leave due to vertigo.Statistical analysis The baseline comparability of the two study groups will be analysed to ensure homogeneity. A description of all baseline variables will be performed. Student’s t-test will be used to evaluate differences between groups. Logistic regression multivariate analysis will be performed to study the relationship between baseline variables of professionals and centers with outcome variables.ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04929444. Registered June 18, 2021, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04929444EthicsThis protocol has been approved by the Ethics Committee of the Institut Universitari d’Investigació en Atenció Primària Jordi Gol (IDIAP Jordi Gol) with the code 20/004-P. All patient data will be anonymised in agreement with the 2016/679 European Regulation. Expected results and Applicability With the improvement of the diagnosis and management of vertigo by family doctors after this training we expect: an increase in the proportion of specific diagnoses; a decrease in the prescription of antivertigo agents; a decrease in the request for complementary tests and referrals to other specialists; a reduction in the duration of sick leave due to temporary disability. The blended training will be easily expanded within primary care services, since it is mainly delivered online, with a single face-to-face session to ensure that the maneuvers have been adequately learned.
Begining of integration RATP model in LASER/F for thermo-radiative simulation of an urban district with vegetation
Authors: Chakkour Tarik
Published: May 2022

LASER/F is designed to simulate the energy budget of the urban climate. This model has been developed for the needs of urban climate research. The framework of the model is described in this paper. This article deals with simulating radiative fluxes and distribution of the radiative energy in an urban canyon. Specific algorithms involving in these computations are presented. When vegetation is present on the ground, the transpiration is slightly underestimated using it. On the other hand, the model RATP simulates well the spatial distribution of radiation and leaf-gas exchanges within vegetation canopies as a function of canopy microclimate. The aim of the paper is to improve some geometric procedures used in LASER/F in order to obtain globally a good level of performance. Coupling these models stays chalenging and complicated. Then, we will consider the influence of urban planning and in particular the influence of urban vegetation in the model.
Fluorescent aptamers modified mesoporous silica nanoparticles for quantitative detection of acetamiprid
Authors: He Kangli , Yang Jinghan , Shi Qiuyun , Guan Lingjun , Sun Li , Chen Zhiyang , Feng Jianguo , Dong Sa
Published: May 2022

Acetamiprid (ACE) is widely used to control aphids, brown planthoppers and other agricultural pests. However, its difficulty in degrading in the environment leads to pesticide residue contamination, acute and chronic toxicity to humans and their non-target organisms. Therefore, the development of a fast, convenient and highly sensitive method to quantify ACE is essential. In this paper, a simple and sensitive fluorescence analysis method for the rapid detection of ACE was constructed by preparing aminated mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs-NH2) by one-pot method and adsorbing a 6-Carboxyfluorescein modified aptamer of ACE (FAM-Apt) on its surface by electrostatic interaction. In the absence of ACE, the negatively charged FAM-Apt binds electrostatically to the positively charged MSNs-NH2, due to gravity MSNs-NH2@FAM-Apt is centrifuged to form a precipitate and no fluorescent signal is detected in the supernatant. Conversely, the specific combining of FAM-Apt to insecticides was greater than the electrostatic interaction with MSNs-NH2, FAM-Apt was separated from MSNs-NH2 and a high fluorescence signal was obtained in the supernatant. For ACE detection, the linear range was 50-1100 ng/mL, and calculated the detection limit (LOD) of ACE was 30.26 ng/mL. The method performs well in practical sample analysis applications with good sensitivity, selectivity and reproducibility, providing a reference for rapid and low-cost detection of ACE.
Effects of Slider, Tensioner Neurodynamic Mobilization Techniques and Stretching Exercises in Treatment of Chronic Discogenic Sciatica: A Comparative Study
Authors: Morsi Haytham Ibrahim , Nahass Bassem Galal Eldein El , Ibrahim Mona Mohamed
Published: May 2022

Background: Sciatica is a critical musculoskeletal disorder affecting many people and its related disabilities disturb their lives. Methods: The study purpose was to see which one of two neurodynamic techniques and stretching exercises has a better effect on improving symptoms and dysfunction for cases of sciatica due to disc herniation. There were 36 unilaterally affected participants. They were assigned at random into three groups; participants in the first were treated by the slider technique, while participants in the second were treated by the tensioner technique, and participants in the third were treated by stretching. The treatment program was set to be 6 successive sessions in 2 weeks. The therapist assessed the participants pre and post-program.Results: The statistical analysis revealed that there were significant differences in favor of the slider and tensioner techniques compared with stretching. Furthermore, there were found significant differences in favor of the slider as compared to the tensioner technique regarding range of motion (ROM).Conclusion: Slider and tensioner techniques have better clinical results than stretching exercises in improving symptoms and dysfunction with a greater effect for the slider technique in enhancing ROM.Trial registration: This study was executed under the ethical guidelines of 1964 declaration of Helsinki and was registered in the clinical trial registry with clinical trial.gov on 10/02/2021, ID: NCT04746690.
Lipidomics profiling to reveal the restorative effect of moisturizer in OICD patients
Authors: Fan Ke-liang , Mao Zhen-Xing , Wang Jia , Xu Qing-qing , Liu PengLing , Wang Juan , Wei Dan Dan , Wang Chong-Jian , Yan Lei , Chen Yuanyuan , Zhou Lihong , Yuan Chao , Chen Tian
Published: May 2022

Background
Occupational irritant contact dermatitis (OICD) usually manifests as impaired skin barrier function. The composition of the skin surface lipids (SSLs) determined the skin barrier function. This study aims to evaluate the repair effect of moisturizer on the skin barrier function of OICD patients and lipidomic tools were used to explore potential repair mechanisms.
Methods
A self-controlled study based on occupational shampoo workers was conducted in Zhengzhou, China, in December 2019. The study lasted 2 weeks in total, and subjects with OICD symptoms applied moisturizing cream during the study. Skin moisture content and trans epidermal water loss (TEWL) values were used as secondary indicators, and SSLs were used as main indicators to evaluate the recovery effect of subjects' skin barrier function after the intervention.
Results
After using moisturizer for 2 weeks, skin moisture increased significantly (p < 0.001), and TEWL decreased. A total of 635 SSLs were detected and classified into 5 main classes. The relative abundance of all lipids increased. Long-chain fatty acids, glycerolipids (mainly triglycerides), and cholesterol lipids were the major lipid species repaired after 1 week of intervention. Glycerophospholipids as the main lipid were repaired after 2 weeks of intervention.
Conclusion
Moisturizer could be used as an effective intervention to increase SSLs and repair skin barrier function to a certain extent in OICD patients.
Trial registration:
This study was reviewed and approved by Zhengzhou University's Life Science Ethics Review Committee and Registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ID: ChiCTR2000034103). Informed consent from participants was obtained before enrollment.
Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression within the UNiversity community: the cross-sectional UN-SAD study
Authors: Scarpis Enrico , Pin Massimo Del , Ruscio Edoardo , Tullio Annarita , Brusaferro Silvio , Brunelli Laura
Published: May 2022

The increasing complexity of academia, with its demanding working conditions and uncertain career opportunities, may affect the mental health of academics and potentially lead to mental health problems. This study aims to determine the prevalence of depression and anxiety symptoms in the academic population of the University of Udine, comparing symptoms in senior and younger academics and administrative staff.A cross-sectional survey was conducted between June and December 2020, involving all academic and administrative staff from all departments. The prevalence of depressive and anxiety symptoms was assessed using the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 tools. The relationship between mental health outcomes and job role was analyzed using nonparametric tests and ordinal logistic regression.A total of 366 individuals participated: 109 junior academics, 146 senior and 111 administrative staff. The proportion of women was 55.7% and the mean age was 47.9 years. Compared to administrative staff and senior academics, junior academics had a higher prevalence of depressive (39.4% vs 14.4% vs 27.0%; p<0.001) and anxiety symptoms (33.0% vs 15.1% vs 22.5%; p<0.005). Univariate models suggest a lower risk for anxiety symptoms OR 0.53 (0.31-0.88) for men.The prevalence of depressive symptoms is higher in our academic community than in the general population, particularly among junior academics. These findings may represent the impact of uncertain career and challenging environment on the mental health of young academics. Universities should provide more support to young academics so that they can contribute effectively and healthily to the advancement of research.
Protein of Interest Synthesis Using Non-formylated Methionine−Escherichia coli initiator tRNA in HeLa cells
Authors: ‍Kim Jung Min , Kang Young Mi
Published: May 2022

In eukaryotic cells and Escherichia coli, protein synthesis is initiated through non-formylated and formylated methionine-conjugated initiator tRNA (Met-tRNAi and fMet-tRNAi, respectively). Studies have shown that protein of interest (POI) reduced EGFP mRNA expression in human Met-tRNAi/human methionyl-tRNA synthetase (HMRS) pairs under methionine-deficient conditions. Intracellular L-Met depletion can result in the inhibition of endogenously non-formylated human Met-tRNAi/HMRS in HeLa cells. We investigated the effect of non-formylated Met-conjugated E. coli initiator tRNA (E. coli Met-tRNAi) on POI synthesis in HeLa cells under intracellular L-Met levels. The expression of GFP—a model protein—in L-methionine-deficient HeLa cells, in which endogenous tRNAi was replaced with two kinds of E. coli tRNAi, E. coli Met-tRNAi/E. coli methionyl-tRNA synthetase (EcMRS) and E. coli Met-tRNAi/HMRS, was analyzed. The results indicated that E. coli Met-tRNAi can offset human Met-tRNAi, and E. coli methionyl tRNA synthetase (EcMRS) can drive the expression of EGFP mRNA. The non-formylated E. coli Met-tRNAi/EcMRS pairs reduced the expression of EGFP mRNA, resulting in reduced HeLa cell survival. Our results provide new insights into the potential use of E. coli Met-tRNAi as novel therapeutics that can control POI synthesis initiation. The E. coli Met-tRNAi/MRS pair has the potential to fine-tune protein synthesis in mammalian cells.
QSRR modeling of the chromatographic retention behavior for some quinolone and sulfonamide antibacterial agents using firefly algorithm coupled to support vector machine
Authors: Fouad Marwa A. , Tolba Enas H. , El-Shal Manal A. , Serag Ahmed , Kerdawy Ahmed M. El
Published: May 2022

Quinolone and sulfonamide are two classes of antibacterial agents that have an opulent history of medicinal chemistry features responsible for their improving bacterial spectrum, efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and adverse side effect profiles. The urgent need of their use and escalating rate of their resistance provokes the necessity for developing suitable analytical methods that speed up and facilitate their analysis. In this study, advanced firefly algorithm (FFA) coupled with support vector machine (SVM) were used to select the most significant descriptors and to construct two separate quantitative structure–retention relationship (QSRR) models using a series of 11 selected quinolones and 13 sulfonamide drugs, separately, in order to predict their retention factors in HPLC. Precisely, the effect of different pH range values and acetonitrile composition in the mobile phase on the retention behavior of quinolones and sulfonamides were studied, respectively. The obtained QSRR models showed high performance in both internal and external validation indicating their robustness and predictive ability. Y-randomization validation displayed that the obtained models are not obtained by chance. Besides, the obtained results shed the light on the molecular features that influence the retention behavior of these two classes under the current chromatographic conditions.
Hypoxia increases RCC stem cell phenotype via altering the androgen receptor (AR)-lncTCFL5-2-YBX1-SOX2 signaling axis
Authors: Guo Changcheng , Sun Yin , Zhai Wei , Yao Xudong , Gong Dongkui , You Bosen , Huang Chi-Ping , Zheng Junhua , Chang Chawnshang
Published: May 2022

Background： Early studies indicated that the androgen receptor (AR) could promote renal cell carcinoma (RCC) development and metastasis, but its linkage to RCC progression under hypoxia, remains unclear. Results: Here we found AR expression in RCC cells decreased in response to hypoxia, which might then lead to increase the cancer stem cells (CSC) phenotype through the lncTCFL5-2-modulated YBX1/SOX2 signals. The consequences of such hypoxia-modulated AR/lncTCFL5-2/YBX1/SOX2 signals to alter CSC phenotype might render RCC cells more resistant to targeted therapy with Sunitinib. Mechanism dissection revealed that AR might alter the lncTCFL5-2/YBX1/SOX2 signaling through transcriptional suppression of the lncTCFL5-2 expression via the AR-response-elements (AREs) on the lncTCFL5-2 promoter. The lncTCFL5-2 interacts with YBX1 to increase its stability, which in turn increases SOX2 expression at a transcriptional level via the YBX1-response-elements (YBX1Es) on the SOX2 promoter. The in vivo mouse model with orthotopic xenografts of RCC cells also validates the in vitro data, and a human RCC sample survey demonstrated the clinical significance of the AR/lncTCFL5-2/YBX1/SOX2 signaling axis for the RCC prognosis, likely as a result of regulating CSC phenotypes. Conclusions: Together, these findings suggest that hypoxia may increase the RCC CSC phenotype via altering the AR/lncTCFL5-2/YBX1/SOX2 signaling axis and a potential therapy to target this newly identified signal perhaps may help improve the targeted therapy with Sunitinib to better suppress RCC progression.
Design and baseline description of an observational population-based cohort study on COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness in the Netherlands - The VAccine Study COvid-19 (VASCO)
Authors: Huiberts Anne J. , Kooijman Marjolein N. , de Melker Hester E. , Hahne Susan J. , Grobbee Diederick E. , Hoeve Christel , Binnendijk Rob van , Hartog Gerco den , de Wijgert Janneke H.H.M. van , Hof Susan van den , Knol Mirjam J.
Published: May 2022

VAccine Study COvid-19 (VASCO) is a cohort study with 5-year follow-up to assess the real-world vaccine effectiveness (VE) of COVID-19 vaccines in the Netherlands. VASCO was initiated when COVID-19 vaccination was introduced in the Netherlands. The primary objective is to estimate vaccine-specific VE against symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection, overall and in four subpopulations defined by age and medical risk, at 9 months after study start when most participants would have accumulated at least 6 months of follow-up. Secondary objectives are to estimate VE by time since vaccination and by severity of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Between May and December 2021, 45,271 participants aged 18–85 years have been enrolled in VASCO. Participants were included irrespective of their COVID-19 vaccination status or intention to get vaccinated. At inclusion, at 6, 12, 24, 36, 48 and 60 months after inclusion, and at one month after primary vaccination, participants are asked to take a self-collected fingerprick blood sample at home. In the serum samples, nucleoprotein (N) and spike protein receptor binding domain (RBD)-specific antibody titers are assessed to determine vaccine response and prior SARS-CoV-2 infection(s), including prior asymptomatic infections. Participants are also asked to complete monthly digital questionnaires in the first year, and 3-monthly in years 2–5, including questions on sociodemographic factors, health status, COVID-19 vaccination, SARS-CoV-2 related symptoms and testing results, and behavioral responses to COVID-19 measures. The main aim of VASCO is to contribute to policy decision-making regarding future COVID-19 vaccination. Furthermore, VASCO provides an infrastructure to conduct substudies in response to unforeseen developments within the COVID-19 pandemic.
Triglyceride glucose-waist circumference to height ratio predicts 10-year diabetes risk: the REACTION research
Authors: Lin Jie , Li Hang , Qin Yahui , Xiang Xin , Wan Qin
Published: May 2022

Objective: Although the triglyceride glucose-waist-to-height ratio (TyG-WHtR) is an indicator of insulin resistance, the relationship between TyG-WHtR and newly diagnosed diabetes is unclear. The aim of this research was to examine the causative association between TyG-WHtR and newly diagnosed diabetes.Patients and measurements: We organized a retrospective 10-year cohort study of 10150 Chinese adults. After screening out people who were not qualified, the TyG-WHtR level of 8279 participants was calculated in this study. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to investigate the possibility that it has a connection with diabetes.Results: Within 10 years, 271 men (3.27%) and 532 women (6.43%) had new-onset diabetes. The TyG-WHtR index and newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus had a linear correlation, according to multivariate Cox regression analysis (HR = 2.186, 95% CI: 1.873 to 2.551, P < 0.001), and TyG-WHtR had a good AUC (0.750, 95% CI: 0.733-0.767). Additionally, TyG-WHtR-associated diabetes was substantially more prevalent in people aged 71 to 80, with a BMI below 18.5 kg/m2 and no hypertensive condition (P < 0.05).Conclusions : TyG-WHtR might be an accurate indicator of future diabetes risk and outperform other commonly used anthropometric indices.
Metabonomics analysis of Iron shell wheat (Triticum aestivum ssp. yunnanense King) reveals mechanisms of resistance against powdery mildew
Authors: Zhang Xuesong , Huang Tingzhi , Wang Qianchao , Guo Yirui , Li Li , Liu Junna , Zhang Ping , Xie Heng , Zhang Chuanli , Qin Peng
Published: May 2022

Wheat powdery mildew (Bgt), a fungal seeding disease, is a threat to wheat agriculture worldwide. In this study, Iron shell wheat (Triticum aestivum ssp. yunnanense King) was used as the research material. Extensive targeted metabolomic analysis was conducted on the leaves of the susceptible strain Iron shell wheat 1 (DiKe 1) and the normal resistant strain Zhenkang Iron shell wheat (Yunmai 0030); further, the dynamic physiological changes in metabolite levels between the two strains were assessed. Significant differences were identified in tryptophan and pyrimidine metabolism as well as isoquinoline alkaloid biosynthesis. The main metabolites were phenolic acids, flavonoid carboglycosides, indole alkaloids, phenolic amines, amino acids, and their derivatives. The defense response to powdery mildew in the Iron shell wheat was dominated by tryptophan metabolism. The importance of L-dopa and Tyramine in powdery mildew resistance provides new insights into the relevant mechanisms and can help identify antigens for use in the breeding of powdery-mildew-resistant wheat varieties.
Digital microlearning for training and competency development of elderly care personnel: a mixed-methods implementation study to assess needs, effectiveness, and areas of application
Authors: Richardson Matt X. , Aytar Osman , Hess-Wiktor Katarzyna , Wamala-Andersson Sarah
Published: May 2022

Background: Elderly care organisations face challenges today due to high personnel turnover and pandemic-related obstacles in conducting training and competence development programs in a time-sensitive and fit-for-purpose manner. Digital microlearning is a method that attempts to meet these challenges by more quickly adapting to the educational needs of organisations and individual employees in terms of time, place, urgency, and retention capacity, than more traditional competency development methods. Methods: This study assessed the use of a digital microlearning application which was at the testing stage in the design thinking model among managerial (N=4) and operational (N=22) employees within three elderly care organisations. The app was used to conduct pre-determined competency development courses for the staff. Baseline measurements included participants´ previous training and competency development methods and participation, as well as perceived needs in terms of time, design, and channel. They then were introduced to and used a digital microlearning application to conduct two courses on one or more digital devices, schedules, and locations of their own choice during a period ~1 month. The digital application and course content, perceived knowledge retention and work performance and satisfaction were individually assessed via survey upon completion. The survey was complemented with four semi-structured focus group interviews which allowed participants (in total 16 individuals; 6 managerial-administrative employees and 10 operational employees) to describe their experiences with the application and its potential usefulness within their organisations. Results: The proposed advantages of the digital microlearning application were largely confirmed by the participants’ perceptions, particularly regarding ease of use and accessibility, and efficiency and timeliness of knowledge delivery. Assessments were more positive among younger or less experienced employees with more diverse backgrounds. Participants expressed a positive inclination towards using the application, and suggestions provided regarding its potential development and broader use suggested a positive view of digitalization in general. Conclusions: Our results show that application-based digital microlearning appears to be an appropriate new method for providing such development within the elderly care setting. Its implementation in a larger sample can potentially provide more detailed insights regarding its intended effects.
The Role of Time Interval Elimination on Pain Control of Preterm Infants by Sucrose Administration
Authors: Yaprak Deniz , Karagöl Belma Saygılı , Bozat Ali Dinç , Kar İrem
Published: May 2022

Purpose. It has been demonstrated clearly that sucrose solutions given before a minor painful procedure can reduce pain among newborns. But, there is no fully accepted conclusions about the time scheduling of sucrose administration prior to heel lance. In few sudies, various time intervals between sucrose intake and heel lance procedure has been proposed. The aim of this study was to obtain deeper knowledge of the underlying mechanism by investigating whether a different initiation of heel lance in terms of timing would reduce the effect of orally administered sucrose at heel lance among preterm newborns. Methods. A randomized, placebo-controlled, double blind trial with a validated, neonatal, pain-scoring scale in Gülhane Medical School Hospital in Ankara, Turkey between March 2019 and January 2021. The trial included 69 preterm newborns undergoing heel lance, who were assigned randomly to 1 of 2 groups, ie, group I, with the 2-minute-time interval of per oral 24% sucrose given prior to heel lance or group II, without a time interval of per oral sucrose given prior to heel lance. Pain-related behaviour during blood sampling was measured with the Premature Infants Pain Profile-Revised (PIPP-R). Crying incidence, time and heart rate were also recorded. Results. The 2 groups did not differ significantly in PIPP-R scores during heel lance. The median crying time during 1 minutes was 6.5 seconds (range: 1–13 seconds) for the 2-minute-time interval group and 4.5 seconds (range: 1–18 seconds) for the without a time interval group. There was no significant difference in the heart rate between the 2 groups. Conclusion. Eliminating of the time interval did not decrease the analgesic effect of orally administered 24% sucrose given prior to heel lance.
Clinical application of Improved VSD and VSD in the treatment of SSI after abdominal surgery
Authors: Huang Tao , Liu Tong , Shang Mei , Shang An , Han Gang
Published: May 2022

AimTo explore the feasibility of clinical application and promotion of Improved vacuum sealing drainage devices by comparing the efficacy and cost of Improved vacuum sealing drainage devices and vacuum sealing drainage (VSD) devices in the treatment of postoperative abdominal surgical site infection.Methods from October 2019 to December 2021, we retrospectively analyzed 55 patients with surgical site infection after abdominal surgery in our hospital, including 30 patients treated with improved VSD and 25 patients treated with VSD. Wound healing efficacy, total dressing change cost during treatment, total hospitalization cost, hospital days, and bacteria culture results of wound secretions before and after treatment were compared between the two groups. ResultsWound healing was achieved in both groups after vacuum sealing drainage treatment, and there was no significant difference in wound healing time and secondary suture rate (P > 0.05), but the hospitalization cost and dressing change cost of the Improved VSD group were significantly lower than those of VSD, with significant difference (P < 0.05).ConclusionsThe efficacy of simple VSD in the treatment of surgical site infection after abdominal surgery is similar to that of VSD. Compared with VSD, the total dressing change cost and hospitalization cost of improved VSD device in the treatment process are lower. Improved VSD has a wider application scope and is suitable for clinical application and promotion.
Long-COVID in immunocompromised children
Authors: Kuczborska Karolina , Buda Piotr , Książyk Janusz
Published: May 2022

PurposeCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) can lead to an illness characterized by persistent symptoms which affect various organs and systems, known as long-COVID. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and clinical characteristics of long-COVID in children with immunodeficiency, in comparison to those without.MethodsA self-constructed questionnaire was created, which included questions regarding the child's general health, the course of their COVID-19, their symptoms of long-COVID and its impact on their daily functioning, the diagnosis of multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C), and vaccination status. The questionnaire was completed by parents of 147 children - 70 children with a diagnosis of immunodeficiency (47.6 %) and 77 who were immunocompetent (52.4 %).ResultsImmunocompetent children were more significantly affected by long-COVID than those immunocompromised. Its prevalence in the first 12 weeks post-infection was 60.0 % and 35.7 % in these groups, respectively. Beyond this period, these percentages had dropped to 34.6 % and 11.43 %, respectively. Children who were immunocompetent suffered more often from fatigue, reduced exercise tolerance and difficulty concentrating. Meanwhile, there was a slight increase in complaints of gastrointestinal symptoms in immunocompromised patients. The risk of developing long-COVID increased with age and COVID-19 severity in both groups. Furthermore, the daily activities of immunocompetent children were limited more frequently (41.8 %) than for those who were immunocompromised (25 %).ConclusionsAlthough immunocompromised children experienced long-COVID, its prevalence and impact on daily functioning were significantly lower than among immunocompetent children. However, as the pathomechanisms of long-COVID are not yet fully understood, it is not currently possible to fully explain these findings.
Do state-owned enterprises really have better environmental performance in China? Environmental regulation and corporate environmental strategies
Authors: Wang Qi , Liu Mengdi , Zhang Bing
Published: May 2022

Although state-owned enterprises (SOEs) have long been criticized for being inefficient compared to their counterparts, they play a vital role in realizing social welfare including the improvement of environmental quality. With governments as their controlling shareholders, the motivations and strategies of SOEs to improve their corporate environmental performance can be very distinct from their privately-owned counterparts. In this article, we propose that a unique strategy that SOEs take in improving their environmental performance is high responsiveness to the government’s goal. Using a unique and detailed firm-level dataset, we find that SOEs perform better for the pollutant assessed by government targets while they perform similarly for the unregulated pollutant compared with their privately-owned counterparts, which indicates that they are more responsive and accountable to achieve policy requirements. Using privatization as an external shock, we find that SOEs worsen their environmental performance with mandatory targets after the privatization, which is consistent with the main results. With the privatization of SOEs worldwide, determining how to avoid the negative effects of privatization as well as to motivate for-profit enterprises to improve corporate environmental performance is the key to achieving a win-win.
Aoguangibacterium sediminis gen. nov., sp. nov., a noval denitrifying and carbon-fixing bacterium isolated from marine sediment
Authors: Yu Zi-Liang , Du Zong-Jun , Mu Da-Shuai
Published: May 2022

A Gram-stain-negative, non-motile, aerobic, red colony, mesophilic, and slightly halotolerant bacteria with carbon fixation and denitrification, designated strain D16T, was separated from intertidal surface sediments from Xiaoshi Island, Weihai, China. The strain was able to grow at 10–43°C, pH 5.5–9.5 and in 0–5% (w/v) NaCl. Optimum growth conditions of the strain were at pH 7.0, 30–33°C and 1% (w/v) NaCl. The predominant respiratory quinone, major fatty acids and polar lipids of the strain were (MK-6), (iso-C15:0, 32.0%, C16:0, 10.5%) and (DPG、PE、AGL、 GL、 AL、PGS), respectively. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences and genomes indicated that strain D16T was the closest to genera Eudoraea, Poritiphilus, Muriicola, Robiginitalea and Zeaxanthinibacter, sharing 92–93% 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity with the representative of these genera. The draft genome of strain D16T composed 3,225,638 bp, and the G + C content was 42.8 mol %. The ANI, dDDH, AAI values of strain D16T compared to similar genera ranged from 67.3 to 70.2%, 16.2 to 19.1% and 68.3 to 70.1%, respectively, below the threshold for recommended species division of ANI 95–96%, dDDH 70% and AAI 95%. Furthermore, POCP values between strain D16T and similar genera were less than 50.0%, consistent with the description of a new genus. Based on the results of phylogenetic, phenotypic, genotypic, chemotaxonomic analyses and comparative analysis of metabolic pathway, environmental distribution and characterization between in strain D16T and other relative genera of family Flavobacteriaceae, it is concluded that strain D16T represents a novel species of a noval genus of the family Flavobacteriaceae, for which the name Aoguangibacterium sediminis gen.nov., sp. is proposed. The type strain is D16T (= MCCC 1H00463T = KCTC 82746T).
Zinc Nanoparticles Induced Oxidative Stress, Genotoxicity and Apoptosis in Haemocytes of Bombyx mori Larvae
Authors: Belal Rania , Gad Abir
Published: May 2022

The expanded uses of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) have grown rapidly in the field of nanotechnology. Thus, the increased production of nanoparticles (NPs) increases the potential risks to the environment and occupationally exposed humans. Hence, safety toxicity assessment including genotoxicity of these NPs is indispensable. In the present study, we have evaluated the genotoxic effect of ZnO-NPs on 5th larval instar of Bombyx mori after feeding on mulberry leaves treated with ZnO-NPs at concentrations 50 and 100μg/ml. Moreover, evaluated its effects on total and different haemocyte count, antioxidant potential and catalase activity on the haemolymph of treated larvae. Results showed that ZnO-NPs at concentrations 50 µg/l and100 µg/ml significantly decreased the total haemocyte count (THC) and different haemocyte count (DHC) except the number of Oenocyte it significantly increased. Gene expression profile also showed up-regulation of GST, CNDP2 and CE genes suggesting increase in antioxidant activity and alteration in cell viability as well as cell signaling.
GeV emission from a compact binary merger
Authors: Mei Alessio , Banerjee Biswajit , Oganesyan Gor , Salafia Om Sharan , Giarratana Stefano , Branchesi Marica , D'Avanzo Paolo , Campana Sergio , Ghirlanda Giancarlo , Ronchini Samuele , Shukla Amit , Tiwari Pawan
Published: May 2022

An energetic γ-ray burst (GRB), GRB 211211A, was observed on 2021 December 11 by the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory. Despite its long duration, typically associated with bursts produced by the collapse of massive stars, the discovery of an optical-infrared kilonova and a quasiperiodic oscillation during a gamma-ray precursor points to a compact object binary merger origin. The complete understanding of this nearby 1 Springer Nature 2021 LATEX template 2 GeV emission from a compact binary merger (∼ 1 billion light-years) burst will significantly impact our knowledge of GRB progenitors and the physical processes that lead to electromagnetic emission in compact binary mergers. Here, we report the discovery of a significant (> 5σ) transient-like emission in the highenergy γ-rays (HE; E> 0.1 GeV) observed by Fermi/LAT starting at 103 s after the burst. After an initial phase with a roughly constant flux (∼ 5 × 10−10 erg s−1 cm−2 ) lasting ∼ 2 × 104 s, the flux started decreasing and soon went undetected. The multi-wavelength ‘afterglow’ emission observed at such late times is usually in good agreement with synchrotron emission from a relativistic shock wave that arises as the GRB jet decelerates in the interstellar medium. However, our detailed modelling of a rich dataset comprising public and dedicated multiwavelength observations demonstrates that GeV emission from GRB 211211A is in excess with respect to the expectation of this scenario. We explore the possibility that the GeV excess is inverse Compton emission due to the interaction of a long-lived, low-power jet with an external source of photons. We discover that the kilonova emission can provide the necessary seed photons for GeV emission in binary neutron star mergers.
What can be impact of civil authorities faulty mortality registration on COVID-19 mortality count in the state of Bihar, India- Evidence from NFHS-5
Authors: Kumar Piyush , Anupama Advocate
Published: May 2022

Several local / global / national / international agencies have been estimating the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on mortality count in different regions. On 30 January 2020 the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). Death toll was only 171 on 30-01-2020 and by 31 -12- 2020, this figure increased to 1 813 188. The estimates of global deaths attributable to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 as published by WHO is at least 3 million, which is 1.2 million more than officially reported. Objective of this research study is to find out number of deaths in the household in the three years preceding the survey registered with the civil authorities’ with another objective of this research study is to estimate the excess mortality due to COVID-19 in a simple way to be understood by most of the readers. The total sample size was 35,834 households, 42,483 women of age 15–49 (including 6,350 women interviewed in PSUs in the state module), and 4,897 men of age 15–54 for the state of Bihar. This sample size was based on the size needed to produce reliable indicator estimates for each district. Household questionnaire regarding number of deaths in the household in the three years preceding the survey were collected and utilized to produce information in 19 languages using CAPI (Computer Assisted Personal Interviewing). This cross sectional survey study revealed that only 37.1 percent of deaths of households members due to any cause were registered with the civil authorities in the three years preceding the survey, of which 28 percent of deaths are at age 0–4, 45 percent of deaths occurred at age 25–34, and 41 percent of deaths occurred at age 35 and above (see table-1 and 2 for more details).
Impact of Indole-3-butyric Acid Concentration and Formulation and Propagation Environment on Rooting Success of ‘I3’ Hemp by Stem Cuttings
Authors: McLeod Adigun , Vining Kelly , Hoskins Tyler , Contreras Ryan
Published: May 2022

As the industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) market grows, there is a need for methods to clonally propagate parental breeding stock and new cultivars. Information is lacking on vegetative cutting propagation of hemp. We evaluated how propagation environment (intermittent mist vs. subirrigation under a humidity dome), indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) formulation (talc rooting powder vs. IBA in solution), and IBA concentration (0, 3000, or 8000 ppm) affected stem cuttings from ‘I3’, a cannabinoid-free cultivar of industrial hemp. Under mist or domes, rooting quality and percent declined at 8000 ppm IBA. Root and shoot quality and rooting percentage also were reduced in 3000 ppm IBA in solution treatment compared with talc. Our data show that for the cultivar tested, cuttings rooted at the highest percentage and produced the highest-quality roots and shoots with either no hormone or 3000 ppm talc powder. These treatments did equally well under humidity domes or intermittent mist.
Assessment of need of orthodontic treatment in south Bhopal population, India using Dental Health Component and Aesthetic Component of the Index of Orthodontic Treatment Needs for providing better local health services to the population with an impact
Authors: Khan Firoz
Published: May 2022

ABSTRACT:

Aims & Objectives:

Aim of the present study is to identify the most common types of malocclusion present in the area and categories the malocclusion according to severity and priority using IOTN as a reliable tool to provide better local health services.

Materials and Methods:

Clinical examination of 500 subjects in natural light was done and intra oral photos of 500 subjects were taken. Assessment of orthodontic treatment needs for improving local health services using IOTN as a reliable epidemiological tool in subjects between 13 to 25 years of age group (13- 18 age group 240 subjects and 18-25 age group 260 subjects) to prioritize and standardize orthodontic treatment and needs. Out of these 279 are males and 221 are females. The study consists of a survey using indices of orthodontic treatment and needs (IOTN) with DHC and AC. DHC and AC were recorded separately, and were calculated only by using clinical examination and intra oral photography compared to the standard chart of IOTN. 

Result:

The DHC results in subjects were found to be distributed as follows 70 subjects in no need 228 subjects in little need, 97 subject in moderate or borderline needs, 56 subjects in severe needs, and 49 subjects in category of very severe needs for treatment

Conclusion:

Our study reported that more than 40% of individual in the need category which might have if remained undiagnosed or not facilitated by the orthodontic treatment .This study provides a data on the need of orthodontic treatment in the chosen sample of south Bhopal population, INDIA for improving local health services to the population with an impact .Also we concluded that IOTN is simple, less time consuming and highly reproducible.

Statistics used; CHI SQUARE TEST

Keywords:

Index of orthodontic treatment needs, orthodontic treatment need, aesthetic component, dental health component, epidemiological tool.

Source of Support: Financial support nil.

Conflict of interest: There are no conflicts of interest.

Ethical clearance: Yes
Case management of Ectodermal Dysplasia: A journey from agony to gratification
Authors: Mahajan Sarish , Manuja Naveen , Chaudhary Seema
Published: May 2022

Ectodermal dysplasia are congenital disorders affecting two or more ectodermal structures. The management can be challenging for pedodontist as each patient represent different amalgamation of deformities. The purpose of this paper is to describe the prosthetic management of 7- year old female with anhidrotic ectodermal dysplasia with the presence of primary molars in both maxillary and mandibular arches and compromised alveolar ridges. The impressions were made with elastomeric impression materials to enhance stability and retention of prosthesis.
Inclination of Occlusal Plane and its Impact on Smile Esthetic : A Case Report
Authors: Prateek Prateek bhushan
Published: May 2022

Improving facial esthetics is one of the primary goal of orthodontics and several factors have been proposed to achieve this goal. Instead of focussing only on achieving perfect occlusion or ideal cephalometric values emphasis should be laid onto achieve frontal smile esthetics and study various factors that affect it. This case report determines the influence of the inclination of occlusal plane(IOP) on smile attractiveness and shows how by modifying the IOP  we could achieving better facial esthetics or smile to be precise. Hence, this concept of IOP should be kept in mind while doing treatment planning and should be modified according to treatment needs.
Application of a Customized Transparent Graphed Jig (CTGJ) to evaluate skeleto-dental asymmetry of maxillary and mandibular arch- A case report
Authors: Mishra Shalini
Published: May 2022

Correcting Class II subdivision malocclusions characterized by dentoalveolar asymmetry has long been a challenge for clinicians. In Class II subdivision the molar occlusion is Class II on one side, and Class I on the other. Before planning orthodontic treatment to correct subdivision problems, the location of the asymmetry must be identified. Is it in the maxillary arch, the mandibular arch, or a combination? Janson observed slightly better treatment results in asymmetric extraction of three premolars compared with extraction of four. The asymmetric-extraction choice tends to be more successful in obtaining midline correction with reduced incisor retraction. This article shows a use of a Customized Transparent Graphed Jig (CTGJ) to measure skeleton-dental asymmetry of maxillary and mandibular arch. In this case report Class II subdivision malocclusion treated by three premolar extraction diagnosed using customized transparent graphed jig is discussed.
A CBCT Based Evaluation of The Varying Location of Mandibular Canal and Mental Foramen: An Original Research Study
Authors: Nivedita Mall  , Amrita Pritam  , Vidhi Srivastava  , Vasu Siddhartha Saxena
Published: May 2022

Background and Aim: Iatrogenic injuries to inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) are a well known complication of implant placement, osteotomies and other surgical procedures. This study was at attempted to determine the most common position of the mental foramen and to estimate difference in position of mental foramen, occurrence of anterior loop and to evaluate the variation in the location of mandibular canal using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) radiographs. Materials & Methods: A total of 205 north Indian subjects were selected during a period of two years. Formerly exposed CBCT images of the selected subjects were studied by ‘iCAT Vision’ and ‘Anatomage’ Software. Measurements from the mandibular canal to the root apices of the first premolar, second premolar, first molar and second molar were obtained. Likewise the distance from the inferior alveolar canal to the buccal cortical plate (BCP) and lingual cortical plates (LCP) were also studied. The estimation of the horizontal and vertical positioning of mental foramen on the CBCT images was also done on both sides. Other inter-related dimensional parameters were also studied comprehensively. The incidence of Anterior Loop (AL) was also assessed and comparisons were done among both sides of the jaw and gender. Statistical Analysis and Results: A total of 205 subjects comprising of 108 (52.7%) males and 97 (47.3%) female participated in the study. The Unpaired t-test showed a statistically significant difference among males and females in the measurements of IAC. Among males Linear, Perpendicular and Anterior loop pattern was seen in 64 (59.3%), 34 (31.4%) and 10 (9.3%) subjects respectively. Among males prevalence of right sided anterior loop (Mental Foramen) was 10 (30.3%), left sided anterior loop was 10 (30.3%). The Unpaired t-test showed a statistically non-significant difference among males and females. (p>0.5) Anterior loop was seen on 17 (51.5%) occasions on the right side and 16 (48.5%) occasions on the left side. The Pearson’s Chi-square test showed a statistically non-significant difference among the genders on the right side. Conclusion: The most common configurations alveolar canal was the linear pattern followed by perpendicular pattern. Most frequent location of mental foramen was in continuity with second premolar in both the left and right sides as well as in both the genders. The anterior loop was the least common pattern of inferior alveolar canal.