bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A matrix for the evaluation of COVID-19 contact risk in healthcare workers: Technical note
Authors: Durmaz Seyfi , Durusoy Raika
Published: November 2020

Detecting risky contacts and early isolation of healthcare workers who have been in contact with COVID-19 cases will increase the likelihood of limiting the spread of the infection. The aim of this technical note is to propose a reliable, fast-adaptable and easy-to-use matrix that accurately classifies risk for contact tracing of healthcare workers with COVID-19 patients. The researchers have created a matrix with the support of the literature and their experience within the university hospital surveillance team. This matrix enables a detailed High / Medium / Low Risk classification of contacts of healthcare workers with COVID-19 cases, covering many different contact situations encountered in a university hospital. The distinction between different contact risk categories implies different preventive measures: High-risk contacts are isolated at home for 7 days and return to work if they test PCR-negative on day 7; while medium and low risk contacts continue to work using masks, with medium-risk contacts tested on day 7, so it is important to standardize the classification among different interviewers. Three main headings have come to the fore in health worker contact risk classification: 1. Differences caused by the ventilation of the environment: Indoors, well ventilated indoors, outdoors. 2. Direct contact or material sharing. 3. Aerosol generating procedure (AGP). The matrix has been used effectively in 1169 risky contact interviews over a two-month period (24 August - 23 October 2020). It has been evaluated by two groups: the surveillance team using it routinely for contact tracing and by experts. The matrix is quickly adapted by new surveillance team members and is easy to use.
Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis with a Mutation in the Mitochondrially Encoded NADH Dehydrogenase 5 Gene: A Case Report
Authors: Naganuma Tsukasa , Imasawa Toshiyuki , Nukui Ikuo , Wakasugi Masakiyo , Kitamura Hiroshi , Yatsuka Yukiko , Kishita Yoshihito , Okazaki Yasushi , Murayama Kei , Jinguji Yoshimi
Published: November 2020

Background: NADH dehydrogenase 5 (ND5) is one of 44 subunits forming Complex I in the mitochondrial respiratory chain. Therefore, a mitochondrially encoded ND5 (MT-ND5) gene mutation causes mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) disorder, resulting in the development of mitochondrial diseases, such as mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes. Although focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) is induced by several mitochondrial diseases, no reports have yet confirmed that an MT-ND5 mutation causes FSGS. Case presentation: A Japanese woman at 29 years old was found to have proteinuria and renal dysfunction in an annual health check-up for the first time. Because her proteinuria and renal dysfunction were persistent, she was admitted for a kidney biopsy to investigate the reason at 33 years of age. Although there were no abnormal neurological findings, she was diagnosed with sensorineural hearing loss by an otolaryngologist. Renal histology showed perihilar variant-type FSGS with podocytes filled with abnormal mitochondria. In addition, the renal pathological findings showed granular swollen epithelial cells (GSECs) in tubular cells, age-inappropriately disarranged and irregularly sized vascular smooth muscle cells (AiDIVs), and red-colored podocytes (ReCPos) by acidic dye, which are assumed to be characteristic changes of mitochondrial nephropathy. Genetic analysis using peripheral mononuclear blood cells and urine sediment cells detected the m.13513 G>A variant, which has already been confirmed as a pathogenic variant of the MT-ND5 gene. The heteroplasmy rates of the blood cells and urine sediments were 10.3% and 62.2%, respectively. Therefore, this patient was diagnosed with FSGS due to an MT-ND5 mutation. Conclusion: This is the first case report to show that a gene mutation encoding subunits of Complex I causes FSGS with podocytes filled with abnormal mitochondria. The routine evaluation of GSECs, AiDIVs, and ReCPos is expected to be useful for detecting mitochondrial nephropathies, which could be latent in etiology-unknown FSGS or glomerulosclerosis cases.
Carcinosarcoma of the Gallbladder with Two Heterologous Components: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: TIABI EL MEHDI , MIRY ACHRAF , HALOUI ANASS , NAJIOUI YOUNESSE , BOUDOU MOHAMED , KARICH NASSIRA , BOUZIANE MOHAMMED , BENNANI AMAL
Published: November 2020

IntroductionGallbladder carcinosarcoma [CSGB] is a rare malignant tumor characterized by malignant epithelial and mesenchymal components. Its pathogenesis is unknown and most CSGBs are associated with poor survival because the disease normally presents at an advanced stage and, therefore, curative resection is rare. Case report This report describes the case of a 66-year-old man with pain in the upper right quadrant. The preoperative diagnosis was cancer of the gallbladder [GB], and therefore, a curative radical cholecystectomy was performed. However, pathological examination of the surgical sample revealed that the tumor was made up of two histological components. The first one is the carcinomatous component and the second one corresponds to the sarcomatous component, which was compatible with a diagnosis of carcinosarcoma. ConclusionThe prognosis for CSGB remains poor despite curative resection, and therefore, the authors recommend that efforts be made to improve surgical outcomes.
Optical trapping by petal-like circular Airy beam
Authors: Shahabadi Vahid , Abdollahpour Daryoush
Published: November 2020

Superposition of two circular Airy vortex beams (CAVB), with opposite sign topological charges (l), produces a new type of petal beams called petal-like circular Airy beam (PCAB) with a transverse field distribution in the form of azimuthally modulated concentric rings that follow Airy function over the radial distance on a transverse plane. In this paper, tight focusing of truncated PCAB and its application in optical trapping is numerically investigated. It is shown that by adjusting the beam parameters four different trapping configurations can be achieved: a single transverse trap at a single axial position, a multi-trap geometry at a single axial position, two single transverse traps at two positions along the axial direction, and two multi-trap geometries at two different axial positions. It is also shown that the number of trapped particles in the multi-trap configurations is 2l per focal plane, while the number of axial trap positions is determined by the truncation aperture size. Finally, trap stiffnesses and corresponding potential energies for the trapping configurations are presented and discussed.
Prevalence of Malnutrition Inflammation Complex Syndrome among Patients on Maintenance Haemodialysis at Muhimbili National Hospital in Tanzania: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Bramania Puneet Kishore , Ruggajo Paschal , Bramania Rimal , Mahmoud Muhiddin , Furia Francis Fredrick
Published: November 2020

Background: Malnutrition, inflammation, and the combination thereof are predictors of poor outcomes in haemodialysis patients. Malnutrition Inflammation Complex Syndrome (MICS) is an accelerator of atherosclerosis and portends high mortality. Early recognition and treatment of MICS may help to improve the clinical outlook of such patients. This study investigated the prevalence of MICS and its associated factors among patients on maintenance haemodialysis at Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH) in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Methods: This was a prospective cross-sectional observational study done among 160 adult patients on maintenance haemodialysis at MNH in 2019. All participants provided written informed consent. Questionnaires were used to collect data and patients’ blood was tested for complete blood count (CBC), C-reactive protein (CRP), ferritin, transferrin, creatinine, urea, total cholesterol, and albumin. The Malnutrition Inflammation Score was used to assess MICS and its severity. Data analysis was done using the SPSS 20 software.
Results: Of the 160 patients included in the study, 111 (69.4%) were male. The mean age (±SD) of patients and mean duration (±SD) on haemodialysis were 52.2(13.3) years and 22(18) months respectively. MICS was prevalent in 46.3% (mild in 24.4% and moderate to severe in 21.9%).
Long-term haemodialysis (>4years) was an independent predictor of MICS [Adjusted Odds Ratio, AOR 5.04 (95% CI: 1.33–19.2), p<0.05]. Hypercholesterolaemia was a negative predictor of MICS [AOR 0.11 (95% CI: 0.01-0.97), p<0.05]. Patients with MICS had significantly lower mean body mass index, serum albumin, total cholesterol, transferrin, haemoglobin, and creatinine levels. The presence of MICS was higher in underweight patients and those who had inflammation. Haemodialysis adequacy did not correlate with MICS.
Conclusion: Malnutrition Inflammation Complex Syndrome is relatively common among patients on haemodialysis in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Our study has shown a longer duration on haemodialysis to be associated with the occurrence of MICS; on the contrary, having hypercholesterolaemia seems to be protective against MICS consistent with the concept of reverse epidemiology. Patients on haemodialysis should be assessed regularly for malnutrition and inflammation and should receive appropriate and timely treatment to reduce the burden of associated morbidity, and mortality to these patients.
Computer-Assisted femoral head reduction osteotomies: An approach for anatomic reconstruction of severely deformed Legg-Calvé-Perthes hips. A pilot study of six patients
Authors: Fürnstahl Philipp , Casari Fabio A. , Ackermann Joëlle , Marcon Magda , Leunig Michael , Ganz Reinhold
Published: November 2020

Background Legg–Calvé–Perthes (LCP) is a common orthopedic childhood disease that causes a deformity of the femoral head and to an adaptive deformity of the acetabulum. The altered joint biomechanics can result in early joint degeneration that requires total hip arthroplasty. In 2002, Ganz et al. introduced the femoral head reduction osteotomy (FHRO) as a direct joint-preserving treatment. The procedure remains one of the most challenging in hip surgery. Computer-based 3D preoperative planning and patient-specific navigation instruments have been successfully used to reduce technical complexity in other anatomies. The purpose of this study was to report the first results in the treatment of 6 patients to investigate whether our approach is feasible and safe.Methods In this retrospective pilot study, 6 LCP patients were treated with FHRO in multiple centers between May 2017 and June 2019. Based on patient-specific 3D-models of the hips, the surgeries were simulated in a step-wise fashion. Patient-specific instruments tailored for FHRO were designed, 3D-printed and used in the surgeries for navigating the osteotomies. The results were assessed radiographically [diameter index, sphericity index, Stulberg classification, extrusion index, LCE-, Tönnis-, CCD-angle and Shenton line] and the time and costs were recorded. Radiologic values were tested for normal distribution using the Shapiro–Wilk test and for significance using Wilcoxon signed-rank test.Results The sphericity index improved postoperatively by 20% (p = 0.028). The postoperative diameter of the femoral head differed by only 1.8% (p = 0.043) from the contralateral side and Stulberg grading improved from poor coxarthrosis outcome to good outcome (p = 0.026). All patients underwent acetabular reorientation by periacetabular osteotomy. The average time (in minutes) for preliminary analysis, computer simulation and patient-specific instrument design was 63 (±48), 156 (±64) and 105 (±68.5), respectively.Conclusion The clinical feasibility of our approach to FHRO has been demonstrated. The results showed significant improvement compared to the preoperative situation. All operations were performed by experienced surgeons; nevertheless, three complications occurred, showing that FHRO remains one of the most complex hip surgeries even with computer assistance. However, none of the complications were directly related to the simulation or the navigation technique.
Patterns of coronal and sagittal deformities in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis
Authors: Mak Trixie , Cheung Prudence Wing Hang , Zhang Teng , Cheung Jason Pui Yin
Published: November 2020

Background: Thoracic scoliosis has been shown to be associated with hypokyphosis in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). However, the relationship of sagittal spino-pelvic parameters with different coronal curve patterns and their influence on patient-perceived quality of life is unknown. This study aims to determine the association between coronal and sagittal malalignment in patients with AIS and to determine their effects on SRS-22r scores. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 1054 consecutive patients with AIS. The coronal Cobb angle, thoracic kyphosis (TK), lumbar lordosis (LL), pelvic incidence (PI), PI-LL mismatch (PI-LL), pelvic tilt (PT), and sacral slope (SS) were measured on standing radiographs. The coronal Cobb angle (mild: 10-20°; moderate: >20-40°; severe: >40°) and PI (low: <35°; average: 35-50°; high: >50°) were divided into 3 sub-groups for comparison. Relationship between coronal curve magnitudes and sagittal parameters was studied as was their association with SRS-22r scores. Results: Low PI had smaller SS (30.1±8.3° vs 44.8±7.7°; p<0.001), PT (-0.3±8.1° vs 14.4±7.5°; p<0.001), and LL (42.0±13.2° vs 55.1±10.6°; p<0.001), negative PI-LL mismatch (-12.1±13.1° vs 4.1±10.5°; p<0.001) as compared to large PI. There were no significant relationships with PI and TK (p=0.905) or curve magnitude (p=0.431). No differences in sagittal parameters were observed for mild, moderate or severe coronal Cobb angles. SRS-22r scores only correlated with coronal Cobb angle and larger Cobb angles were negatively correlated with the function, appearance and pain domains. Conclusions: The sagittal profile for AIS is associated with the pelvic parameters especially PI but not with the coronal curve pattern. All patients have a similar TK regardless of coronal curve type. However, it appears that the coronal deformity is a greater influence on quality of life outcomes especially those >40°.
Exercise-therapy and education for individuals one year after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction: a pilot randomised controlled trial
Authors: Patterson Brooke , Barton Christian , Culvenor Adam , Cooper Randall , Crossley Kay
Published: November 2020

Background: Guided rehabilitation beyond 6-months is rare following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), despite high prevalence of unacceptable symptoms and quality of life (QoL). Our primary aim was to determine the feasibility of a randomised controlled trial (RCT) evaluating a physiotherapist-guided intervention for individuals 1-year post-ACLR with persistent symptoms. Our secondary aim was to determine if a worthwhile treatment effect could be observed for the lower-limb focussed intervention (compared to the trunk-focussed intervention), for improvement in knee-related QoL, symptoms, and function. Design: Participant- and assessor-blinded, pilot feasibility RCT.Methods: Participant eligibility criteria: i) 12-15 months post-ACLR; ii) <87.5/100 on the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) QoL subscale; and either a one-leg rise test <22 repetitions, single-hop <90% limb symmetry; or Anterior Knee Pain Scale <87/100. Participants were randomised to lower-limb or trunk-focussed focussed exercise and education.. Both interventions involved 8 face-to-face physiotherapy sessions over 16-weeks. Feasibility was assessed by eligibility rate (>1 in 3 screened), recruitment rate (> 4 participants/month), retention (<20% drop-out), physiotherapy attendance and unsupervised exercise adherence (>80%). Between-group differences for knee-related QoL (KOOS-QoL, ACL-QoL), symptoms (KOOS-Pain, KOOS-Symptoms), and function (KOOS-Sport, functional performance tests) were used to verify that the worthwhile effect (greater than the minimal detectable change for each measure) was contained within the 95% confidence interval. Results: 47% of those screened were eligible, and 27 participants (3 participants/month; 48% men, 34±12 years) were randomised. Two did not commence treatment, and two were lost to follow-up (16% drop-out). Physiotherapy attendance was >80% for both groups but reported adherence to unsupervised exercise was low (<55%). Both interventions had potentially worthwhile effects for KOOS-QoL and ACL-QoL, while the lower-limb focussed intervention had potentially greater effects for KOOS-Sport, KOOS-Pain, and functional performance.Conclusions: A larger-scale RCT is warranted. All feasibility criteria were met, or reasonable recommendations could be made to achieve the criteria in future trials. Strategies to increase recruitment rate and exercise adherence are required. The potential worthwhile effects for knee-related QoL, symptoms, and function indicates a fully-powered RCT may detect a clinically meaningful effect.Trial Registration: Prospectively registered (ACTRN12616000564459).
Unplanned hospital readmission after surgical treatment for thoracic spinal stenosis: incidence and causative factors
Authors: Wang Hui , Wang Longjie , Sun Zhuoran , Jiang Shuai , Li Weishi
Published: November 2020

Background To assess the incidence and causative factors of unplanned hospital readmission within 90 days after surgical treatment of thoracic spinal stenosis (TSS).Methods Hospital administrative database was queried to identify patients who underwent surgical treatment of TSS from July 2010 through December 2017. All unplanned readmissions within 90 days of discharge were reviewed for causes and the rate of unplanned readmissions was calculated. Patients of unplanned readmission were matched 1:3 to a control cohort without readmission.Results Twenty-one patients (incidence of 1.7% in 1239 patients) presented unplanned hospital readmission within a 90-day period and enrolled as the study group, 63 non-readmission patients (a proportion of 1: 3) were randomly selected as the control group. Causes of readmission include CSF cyst (8 patients; 38%), CSF leakage combined with poor incision healing (6 patients; 29%), wound dehiscence (2 patient; 9%), surgical site infection (2 patients; 9%), spinal epidural hematoma (1 patient; 5%), inadequate original surgical decompression (2 patients; 9%). Mean duration from re-admission to the first surgery was 39.6±28.2 days, most of the patients readmitted at the first 40 days (66.7%, 14/21 patients). When compared to the non-readmitted patients, diagnosis of OPLL+OFL, circumferential decompression, dural injury, long hospital stay were more to be seen in readmitted patients.Conclusions The incidence of 90-day unplanned hospital readmission after surgical treatment of TSS is 1.7%, the peak period of readmission occurred from 10 to 40 days after surgery, CSF leakage and CSF cyst were the most common causes of unplanned hospital readmission.
The feasibility of anterior transpedicle screw fixation in lumbosacral spine: a radiographic and cadaveric study
Authors: Xu Wei-Xing , Xu Bin , Ding Wei-Guo , Sheng Hong-Feng , Lu Di , Hu Tian-Hong
Published: November 2020

Background: The anterior transpedicle screw technique for L5 and S1 is crucial for proper anterior lumbar interbody fusion. This study aimed to determine the projection, screw trajectory angle, and bone screw passageway length (BSPL) of the anterior transpedicle screw in L5 and S1, as well as the screw’s insertion regularity and the operating area that is safe for its insertion.Methods: Forty patients with low back pain, all of whom had lumbar computed tomography scans available, were included in a retrospective analysis. Radiographic parameters were measured, including the distances from the projection to the upper endplate, lower endplate, and midline; the transverse and sagittal screws’ angles; and the BSPL. Ten fresh adult cadaveric lumbosacral spine segments were chosen to determine the safe anatomical area at which to operate. Finally, anterior transpedicle screws were inserted in L5 and S1 to determine the regularity of anterior pedicle screw insertion.Results: We measured the anterior projection parameters, including the distances to the upper endplate (L5:12.5 ± 1.3 mm; S1: 4.54 ± 0.87 mm), lower endplate (L5: 17.3 ± 1.6 mm), and midline (L5: 6.6 ± 0.7 mm; S1: 6.6 ± 0.6 mm); the screw trajectory angle, including the transverse screw angle (L5: 25.3° ± 2.8°; S1: 25.7° ± 2.6°), sagittal screw angle (L5: 17.1° ± 1.7°; S1: 22.4° ± 1.1°); and the BSPL (L5: 48.6 ± 3.5 mm; S1: 48.0 ± 3.5 mm). We then identified the safe operating area and the regularity of L5 and S1 anterior pedicle screw insertions.Conclusions: We determined the projection, screw trajectory angle, and BSPL of anterior transpedicle screws in L5 and S1, their insertion regularity, and the area in which the operation could be safely performed.
CIPK11: a calcineurin B-like protein-interacting protein kinase from Nitraria tangutorum, confers tolerance to salt and drought in Arabidopsis
Authors: Lu Lu , Chen Xinying , Wang Pengkai , Lu Ye , Zhang Jingbo , Yang Xiuyan , Cheng Tielong , Shi Jisen , Chen Jinhui
Published: November 2020

Background
The CIPKs are a group of plant-specific Ser/Thr protein kinases acting in response to calcium signaling, which plays an important role in the physiological and developmental adaptation of plants to adverse environments. However, the functions of halophyte-derived CIPKs are still poorly understood, that limits a potential application of CIPKs from halophytes for improving the tolerance of glycophytes to abiotic stresses.
Results
In this study, we characterized the NtCIPK11 gene from the halophyte Nitraria tangutorum and subsequently analyzed its role in salt and drought stress tolerance using transgenic experiments with Arabidopsis. NtCIPK11 expression was upregulated in N. tangutorum root, stem and blade tissues after salt or drought treatment. Overexpressing NtCIPK11 in Arabidopsis improved seed germination on medium containing different levels of NaCl. Moreover, the transgenic plants grew more vigorously under salt stress and developed longer roots under salt or drought conditions than the WT plants. Furthermore, NtCIPK11 overexpression altered transcription of genes encoding key enzymes involved in proline metabolism in Arabidopsis exposed to salinity.
Conclusions
We conclude that NtCIPK11 promotes plant growth and mitigates damage associated with salt stress by regulating the expression of genes controlling proline accumulation. These results extend our understanding on the function of halophyte-derived CIPK genes and suggest that NtCIPK11 can serve as a candidate gene for improving the salt and drought tolerance of glycophytes through genetic engineering.
Description of Heterodera microulae sp. n. (Nematoda: Heteroderinae) from China – a new cyst nematode in the Goettingiana group
Authors: Li Wenhao , Li Huixia , Ni Chunhui , Peng Deliang , Liu Yonggang , Luo Ning , Xu Xuefen
Published: November 2020

A new cyst-forming nematode, Heterodera microulae sp. n., was isolated from the roots and rhizosphere soil of Microula sikkimensis in China. Morphologically, the new species is characterized by lemon-shaped body with an extruded neck and obtuse vulval cone. The vulval cone of the new species appeared to be ambifenestrate without bullae and a weak underbridge. The second-stage juveniles have a longer body length with four lateral lines, strong stylets with rounded and flat stylet knobs, tail with a comparatively longer hyaline area, and a sharp terminus. The phylogenetic analyses based on ITS-rDNA, D2-D3 of 28S rDNA, and COI sequences revealed that the new species formed a separate clade from other Heterodera species in Goettingiana group, which further support the unique status of H. microulae sp. n. Therefore, it is described herein as a new species of genus Heterodera; additionally, the present study provided the first record of Goettingiana group in Gansu Province, China.
Nematode trophic structure in the phytotelma of Neoregelia cruenta (Bromeliaceae) in relation to microenvironmental and climate variables
Authors: Almeida Alexandre M. , Souza Ricardo M.
Published: November 2020

The term phytotelma (pl. phytotelmata) designates a plant-associated reservoir of fresh water and organic debris. Phytotelmata in tank bromeliads are abundant in tropical forests, and they provide shelter, food, and water for many metazoans. Among the invertebrates known to inhabit phytotelmata, nematodes are the least studied, despite their important role in nutrient and energy cycles in freshwater ecosystems. This study was conceived to characterize the nematode trophic structure in the phytotelma of the bromeliad N. cruenta, and to identify climate and microenvironmental variables that impact it. Nematode abundance (total and per trophic group), rainfall, air temperature, the amount of organic debris fallen into the phytotelma, and eight physico-chemical properties (PCPs) of the water retained in the bromeliad tank – volume; temperature; pH; dissolved organic carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and solids; and electrical conductivity – were monitored during two years in a natural reserve in Brazil. Bacterial and hyphal feeder nematodes predominated over other trophic groups. Nematode abundance (total and per trophic group) was not impacted by fluctuations in rainfall or air temperature. The amount of organic debris fallen into the phytotelma correlated positively with nematode abundance (total and per trophic group). Regarding the PCPs of water, the only significant correlation – positive – was between the amount of dissolved oxygen and the abundance of hyphal feeder nematodes. These results bring a clearer understanding of the ecology of nematodes inhabiting phytotelmata, which are peculiar and understudied freshwater ecosystems.
Relationship between the application of IFRS and the accounting information quality in Jordan
Authors: Ahmad Alawaqleh Qasim
Published: November 2020

The study aimed to find out the relationship between the application of international financial reporting standards (IFRS) and the accounting information quality (AIQ) in Jordan. The research data was collected from 59 industrial companies listed on the Amman Stock Exchange (ASE) between 2010 and 2018. Panel data was used to measure an independent variable (the application of IFRS), and a questionnaire (a 5-point Likert scale) was applied to measure a dependent variable (AIQ). Multiple regression was used to test hypotheses. The study concluded that the application of IFRS in terms of earnings management and trading volume had a positive relationship with AIQ. Finally, the study recommended validating the transparency of financial reporting to improve the efficiency of the Jordanian financial market.
Digital economy and digital employment appearence
Authors: Petrova Iryna , Balyka Olena , Kachan Hanna
Published: November 2020

The article reveals the central role of information and communication technologies in the economy of the country, which have long become an important component of each person’s life and is a defining characteristic of digital transformation. The basis of digitalization is the digital presentation of data, which leads to better quality of life and economic efficiency of the individual country and the world as a whole. The article analyzes the specific features of digital economy and stipulates the consistency of creating the digital employment. It has been determined that the development of the digital economy and digital technologies leads to changes in all spheres of human life, predominantly in employment relations, manifested in the appearance of digital workplaces, workers with digital competencies, specific relations in the digital segment of labor market. The results of the work in the digital segment are the technologies, products, and services, some of which are analyzed in the article (eHealth, digital insurance, e-security, e-rights and e-technical passport, smart cities, SmartFactory – smart production, digital workplace, blockchain, “GAFAnomy”). In the digitalization process, the employment acquires the multivector flexibility, and has both positive and negative consequences. Taking these consequences into consideration is necessary for regulating the economic and social sphere.
Kinetic and Thermodynamic Study of Plantaricin IIA-1A5, a Bacteriocin Produced by Indonesian Probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum IIA-1A5
Authors: Arifin Muhamad , Budiman Cahyo , Fujiyama Kazuhito , Arief Irma Isnafia
Published: November 2020

Background:

Plantaricin IIA-1A5 is a bacteriocin produced by Lactobacillus plantarum IIA-1A5, a locally isolat-ed probiotic from Indonesia. Plantaricin IIA-1A5 exhibits antibacterial activity against wide spectrum of pathogenic bacte-ria, thus promising to be applied in various food products. Nevertheless, thermal stability of this bacteriocin remains to be fully investigated.

Objective:

This study aims to determine thermal stability of plantaricin IIA-1A5 through kinetic and thermodynamic param-eters.

Method:

To address, plantaricin IIA-1A5 was purified from Lactobacillus plantarum IIA-1A5, which was growth under whey media, using ammonium sulfate precipitation followed by ion-exchange chromatography. Purified plantaricin IIA-IA5 was then subjected to analysis of its bacteriocin activity. The thermal inactivation of bacteriocin from L. plantarum IIA-1A5 was calculated by incubating the bacteriocin at different temperatures ranging from 60-80 °C for 30 to 90 min, which was then used to calculate its kinetic and thermodynamic parameters.

Results:

The result showed the inactivation rates (k-value) were ranging from 0.008 to 0.013 min-1. Heat resistance of plantaricin IIA-1A5 (D-value) at constant heating temperature of 60, 65, 70, 75, and 80°C were 311.6, 305.9, 294.5, 198.9, and 180.2 min, which indicated a faster inactivation at higher temperatures. D-value sensitivity for temperature changes (z-value) was calculated to be 75.76°C. Further, thermodynamic analysis suggested that plantaricin IIA-1A5 is thermostable, with activation energy (Ea) of 29.02 kJ mol-1.

Conclusion:

This result showed that plantaricin IIA-1A5 is considerably more heat-stable than plantaricin members and promises to be applied in food industries where heat treatments are applied. Furthermore, a possible mechanism by which plantaricin IIA-1A5 maintains its stability was also discussed by referring to its thermodynamic parameters.
Computer-aided Structural and Molecular Insights into the Mechanisms by which Pseudouridimycin (PUM) Disrupts Cleft Extension in Bacterial RNA Polymerase to Block DNA Entry and Exit
Authors: Rabbad Ali H. , Olotu Fisayo A. , Soliman Mahmoud E.
Published: November 2020

Background:

The ability of Pseudouridimycin (PUM) to occupy the nucleotide addition
site of bacterial RNA Polymerase (RNAP) underlies its inhibitory potency, as previously reported.
PUM has gained high research interest as a broad-spectrum nucleoside analog that has demonstrated
exciting potentials in treating drug-resistant bacterial infections.

Objective:

Herein, we identified, for the first time, a novel complementary mechanism by which
PUM elicits its inhibitory effects on bacterial RNAP.

Methods:

The dynamic binding behavior of PUM to bacterial RNAP was studied
using various dynamic analysis approaches.

Results:

Findings revealed that in addition to occupying the nucleotide addition site, PUM also
interrupts the unimpeded entry and exit of DNA by reducing the mechanistic extension of the
RNAP cleft and perturbing the primary conformations of the switch regions. Moreover, PUM binding
reduced the distances between key residues in the β and β’ subunits that extend to accommodate
the DNA.

Conclusion:

This study’s findings present structural insights that would contribute to the structurebased
design of potent and selective PUM inhibitors.
A Novel Quinoline Derivative for Selective and Sensitive Visual Detection of PPB Level Cu2+ in an Aqueous Solution
Authors: Das Nilimesh , Khan Tanmoy , Das Aritra , Jain Vipin Kumar , Acharya Joydev , Faizi Md. Serajul Haque , Daniel Joseph , Sen Pratik
Published: November 2020

Aim:

Selective and sensitive visual detection of Cu2+in aqueous solution at PPB level using easily synthesized compound.

Background:

The search for a chemosensor that can detect Cu2+ is very long owing to the fact that an optimum level of Cu2+ is required for human health and the recommended amount of Cu2+ in drinking water is set to be 1-2 mgL-1 . Thus, it is very important to detect Cu2+ even at a very low concentration to assess the associated health risks.

Objective:

We are still seeking for the easiest, cheapest, fastest and greenest sensor that can selectively, sensitively and accurately detect Cu2+ with lowest detection limit. Our objective of this work is to find one such Cu2+ sensor.

Methods:

We have synthesized a quinoline derivative following very easy synthetic procedures and characterize the compound by standard methods. For sensing study, we used steady state absorption and emission spectroscopy.

Results:

Our sensor can detect Cu2+ selectively and sensitively in aqueous solution instantaneously even in the presence of excess amount of other salts. The pale-yellow color of the sensor turns red on the addition of Cu2+ . There is no interference from other cations and anions. A 2:1 binding mechanism of the ligand with Cu2+ is proposed using Jobs plot with binding constant in the order of 109 M-2 . We calculated the LOD to be 18 ppb, which is quite low than what is permissible in drinking water.

Conclusion:

We developed a new quinoline based chemo-sensor following straightforward synthetic procedure from very cheap starting materials that can detect Cu2+ visually and instantaneously in aqueous solution with ppb level sensitivity and zero interference from other ions.
Coccidioidomycosis Resulting in a Prosthetic Joint Infection in an Immunocompetent
Patient after a Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Case Report and Review
of the Literature
Authors: Shah Sidra , Haq Syed , Antony Suresh J.
Published: November 2020

Coccidioidomycosis is a fungal infection that is a rare cause of prosthetic joint infection
(PJI) in patients. This case report describes an immunocompetent patient who had a right total hip
arthroplasty (THA) complicated with Coccidioidomycosis. This patient is the 9th reported case of
Coccidioidomycosis, causing a PJI and only the second case to be reported in a THA. Once progressed,
it can be difficult to treat, often reoccurring and requiring repeat surgical and prolonged
therapy. This study discusses the clinical presentation in this patient and reviews the literature on
the currently published cases.
Detailed Mechanistic Pattern in Halogen Dance Reactions of Iodothiophenes
Authors: Sakhaee Nader , Sakhaee Sahar , Doustkhah Esmail , mobaraki Akbar
Published: November 2020

Background::

Synthetic chemists have utilized base catalyzed halogen dance reactions
ever since their discovery by Bunnet et al. Many modifications under various conditions have enabled
synthetic chemists to build substituted heterocyclic targets with rich structural diversity.

Methods::

Using DFT-Cam-B3LYP/ land2dz computations and focusing on Hannes Frohlich et al.
Halogen dance reactions of iodothiophenes, a new iodo-bridged transition state is proposed. This iodo-
bridged TS was then used to put forth 8 possible isomerization as well as 8 possible disproportionation
paths.

Results & Discussion:

All mechanistic pathways were then thoroughly investigated based on TS’s
energy and protonation/deprotonation steps to find the most suitable pathways. Collectively, these
mechanistic pathways were joined like a jigsaw puzzle to yield, for the first time, a comprehensive
cascade-like pattern for base-catalyzed halogen dance in iodothiophenes.

Conclusion::

The present work may shed light on a dynamic domino mechanism that may well
dominate the organic chemistry of iodothiophenyl anions. Trends like this may reveal mechanistic
pathways in base digestion of halogenated aromatic compounds in CS2.
Effect of follicular growth promoters on timed artificial insemination in dairy cows.
Authors: Câmara-de-Almeida Ítalo , Albani-Oliveira Fabrício , Madureira Ana P , Barioni Graziela , Alves-Torres Ciro A
Published: November 2020

Objective. To evaluate the efficiency of equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) on the pregnancy rate of crossbred cows from different body condition score (BCS) in the postpartum period in timed artificial insemination (TAI). Material and methods. The cows were subjected to the same hormone protocol: Day zero (D0), progesterone-release intravaginal device (PRID) and 2 mg estradiol benzoate (EB); D8, withdrawal of PRID, application 0.150 mg of prostaglandin. On D8, the animals were distributed into three treatments: 1 – (TeCG; n = 98) injection of 300 IU eCG; 2 – (TFSH; n = 84) injection of 20 mg of FSH and; 3 – (Control; n = 115) without further treatment. On D9, all animals received 1 mg of EB; D10, TAI of all the cows. After 30 days from TAI, ultrasound diagnosis of pregnancy was performed. Results. Pregnancy rate did not differ among eCG (52.04%), FSH (40.47%), and Control (40.00%) treated cows (p>0.05). In cows with low body condition, the pregnancy rate was higher (p<0.05) for cows treated with eCG (41.46%) when compared to FSH (18.18%) and Control (17.07%) cows. The postpartum interval among treatments was similar (p>0.05) (35–65 or 66–95days). Conclusions. The use of eCG or FSH did not result in an increase in the pregnancy rate when compared to the control treatment; however, eCG improved the pregnancy rate of cows with low body condition scores.
Power generation portfolios: A parametric formulation of the efficient frontier
Authors: Juárez-Luna David
Published: November 2020

This paper aims to provide a methodology to construct parametrically the Efficient Frontier (EF) of Power Generation Portfolio (PGP). The methodology works as follows. First, we obtain two sets of the shares of the assets: one that guarantee the maximal expected return on the PGP; and another that guarantee the minimal risk of the PGP. The EF corresponds to the parametric equation of the risk-return profiles from the minimal risk to the maximal expected return of the PGP. We apply our methodology to replicate the results from three existing papers. The present methodology allows to and different and more coherent results than those obtained in the original papers. The analysis suggests that there are optimal investment alternatives that have been denied by previous analysis. This fact creates a bias in the design of investment policies in electricity generation. One limitation of the paper is that the analysis relies on the assumption that the covariances of the returns of the different assets is zero. This assumption leads to gains in tractability, clarity, and in the scope of the methodology formulated.
Aversión al riesgo implícita en los precios de mercado de diferentes activos financieros de Argentina
Authors: Chavez Etelvina , Milanesi Gastón , Pesce Gabriela
Published: November 2020

El objetivo del artículo es determinar el grado de aversión al riesgo implícito en el precio de mercado del dólar estadounidense, la tasa de política monetaria argentina y las acciones líderes del índice S&P Merval. Metodológicamente se aplica el concepto de equivalente de certeza, modelando el comportamiento frente al riesgo de los agentes a partir de la función de utilidad con aversión al riesgo relativa constante (CRRA) y de la función de tres parámetros flexibles (FTP). Los resultados muestran que el coeficiente de aversión al riesgo implícito oscila entre 0.50 y 0.89 bajo el supuesto de CRRA, mientras que fluctúa entre 0.46 y 1.10 cuando se asume FTP. Las limitaciones del trabajo incluyen la extensión de la serie temporal y funciones de utilidad elegidas. Su originalidad radica en la metodología propuesta, los tipos de activos considerados, el uso comparativo de dos funciones de utilidad y su aplicación en un mercado emergente. Como principal conclusión, se identifica un comportamiento de aversión al riesgo con ambas funciones, que varía de moderada a muy elevada según cuál de ellas se emplea.
Dinámica anticipada del PIB trimestral en México ante shocks negativos derivados de factores debidos a la crisis sanitaria del covid-19
Authors: Cabrera González Gustavo , de León Arias Adrián
Published: November 2020

Este artículo presenta los efectos anticipados en la tasa de crecimiento del producto interno bruto (PIB) trimestral de México debido a perturbaciones (shocks) que se espera la afecten en los próximos trimestres, en el contexto de los impactos del covid-19. Con este objetivo, se identifica la especificación econométrica markoviana autorregresiva de mejor ajuste a los datos de la dinámica del crecimiento del PIB de Q1-1960 a Q4-2019, bajo la condición de cuatro regímenes diferentes, dados por cambios en la media y por la volatilidad de la tasa de crecimiento. Posteriormente se introducen shocks negativos que asimilan diversos efectos macroeconómicos derivados del impacto económico del covid-19. En este ejercicio de simulación, la tasa de crecimiento del PIB puede permanecer en recesión de dos a seis trimestres, lo cual depende de la magnitud y persistencia que podrían tener los shocks negativos y a los posibles efectos estabilizadores que incidirán en la producción en México. Esta contribución ofrece un modelo para cuantificar efectos macroeconómicos ante eventos significativos e inesperados, con la limitación de que tales eventos podrían alejarse de distribuciones de probabilidad convencionales.
Herbal formula SS-1 increases tear secretion for Sjögren’s syndrome (Preprint)
Authors: Chang Ching-Mao , Wu Po-Chang , Lin Jr-Rung , Jan Wu Yeong-Jian , Luo Shue-Fen , Hsue Yin-Tzu , Lan Joung-Liang , Pan Tai-Long , Wu Yu-Ting , Yu Kuang-Hui , Wei Yau-Huei , Chang Hen-Hong
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Sjögren’s syndrome (SS) is an autoimmune inflammatory disease that primarily affects the exocrine glands, leading to glandular dysfunction. The hallmark symptoms of SS are dry eyes and mouth, compromising the quality of life of patients and decreasing their capacity to perform their daily activities.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of the herbal formula SS-1 for its potential therapeutic benefits for patients with Sjögren’s syndrome.

METHODS

The bioactivity profile of SS-1 was determined using four different SS-1 concentrations across 12 human primary cell systems of the BioMAP profile. After that, a randomized, double-blind, crossover, placebo-controlled trial were performed including 57 patients treated with SS-1 for 28 weeks.

RESULTS

Biologically multiplexed activity profiling in cell-based models indicated that SS-1 exerted anti-proliferative activity in B cells and promoted anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activity. In clinical trial, the treatment of SS-1 revealed a significant improvement in both eyes by Schirmer’s test, which were increased by 3.42 mm (95% CI, 2.44–4.41 mm) and 3.45 mm (95% CI, 2.32–4.59 mm), respectively, and a significant reduction in artificial tear use, which was −1.38 times/day, 95% CI, −1.95 to −0.81 times/day,. Moreover, these results indicated that the increases in BAFF and BCMA levels were dampened by 53.20% (295.29 versus 555.02 pg/mL) and 58.33% (99.16 versus 169.99 pg/mL), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

SS-1 treatment significantly inhibited B-cell maturation antigen. No serious drug-related adverse effects were observed. Oral SS-1 administration may be a complementary treatment for Sjögren’s syndrome.

CLINICALTRIAL

Clinicaltrials.gov: NCT02110446. Registered April 10, 2014
Subtle Multicultural Advantages of Online Learning: A Focus on Perspective-Taking
Authors: Shaw Julia Penn
Published: November 2020

Many teachers have been challenged by the unexpected and rushed transition to online learning, forcing them to modify their courses for a virtual environment in a matter of weeks, or even days. Hopefully, they will soon see pedagogical advantages of virtual learning that may be overlooked during this unprecedented time—in addition to the current benefit of protecting the health of faculty, staff, and students. Four that are presented here are particularly relevant to teachers of culturally diverse students who increasingly enroll in online courses: (1) cycles of reflection, (2) scaffolded integration of content, (3) articulate communication, and (4) visible responsibility for learning. The advantages to both deep learning and perspective-taking—both of particular interest to culturally diverse student populations—are presented for each of the four benefits.
O POJMU I PRAVNOJ PRIRODI NEUSPELOG PODSTREKAVANJA
Authors: Djokic Ivan
Published: November 2020

I u srpskom krivičnom zakonodavstvu, kao i u većini stranih zakonodavstava, pošlo se od stava da pod određenim uslovima zaslužuje kaznu i onaj podstrekač koji je bezuspešno navodio drugog na izvršenje krivičnog dela. Kriminalnopolitički se kažnjivost neuspelog (pokušanog) podstrekavanja opravdava naročitom opasnošću po zaštićeno dobro koju započinjanjem kauzalnog toka nad kojim više nema vlast stvara lice u ulozi podstrekača. Kažnjivost je ipak uslovljena prirodom i težinom krivičnog dela na koje se podstrekavalo. Iako je odredba kojom je inkriminisano neuspelo podstrekavanje u našem Krivičnom zakoniku grupisana među odredbe koje regulišu saučesništvo, ono zbog odsustva glavnog dela, tj. nepostojanja izvršioca krivičnog dela, ne predstavlja formu saučesništva, već jednu specifičnu kažnjivu pripremnu radnju, za koju bi se moglo tvrditi da ima odlike i zasebne inkriminacije.
PORODICA KROZ PROGRAMSKE STAVOVE POLITIČKIH PARTIJA U SRBIJI: PRESEK STANJA U DRUGOJ DECENIJI XXI VEKA
Authors: Suvakovic Uros
Published: November 2020

U radu se daje pregled i vrši analiza programskih stavova najuticajnijih partija u Srbiji u odnosu na porodicu, roditeljstvo, porodičnu i populacionu politiku. Ukazuje se na sličnosti i razlike u partijskim opredeljenjima po ovim pitanjima i čini pokušaj vršenja klasifikacije po osnovu njihovih stavova prema porodici, roditeljstvu i rađanju.
Gangrena de Fournier. Reporte de caso
Authors: Pérez Ladrón de Guevara Paloma , Cornelio Rodríguez Georgina , Quiroz Castro Oscar
Published: November 2020

Fournier’s Gangrene is a type II necrotizing fascitis that leads to thrombosis of small subcutaneous vessels and spreads through the perianal and genital regions and the skin of the perineal. Most cases have a perianal or colorectal focus and in a smaller proportion it originates from the urogenital tract. The mortality rate varies between 7.8 and 50%1-3, only timely diagnosis decreases the morbidity and mortality of this condition. Treatment includes surgical debridement of all necrotic tissue and the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics.
Key words: Fournier’s gangrene; gangrene; necrotizing fasciitis; infectious necrotizing of soft tissues.