bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differentiating the Reactivity of ZrO2-Bound Formates Formed on Cu/ZrO2 during CO2 Hydrogenation
Authors: Meunier Frederic C. , Dansette Isaac , Eng Kimleang , Schuurman Yves
Published: July 2022

The surface species formed during the hydrogenation of CO2 with H2 over a ZrO2-supported Cu catalyst were investigated by operando diffuse reflectance FT-IR spectroscopy at 220 °C and 3 bar. The reactivity of two different formates located on zirconia could be unraveled. The data pointed to ZrO2 hydroxyl groups at 3755 cm−1 as the sites on which carbonates and then formates were hydrogenated to methoxy species. Formate hydrogenation appeared as the slowest step. The most reactive ZrO2-bound formates exhibited a rate constant of reaction about 65 times higher than that of the slower formate.
Analysis of Supporting Factors Associated with Exclusive Breastfeeding Practice in the Urban Setting during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Agrina Agrina , Afandi Dedi , Suyanto Suyanto , Erika Erika , Dewi Yulia Irvani , Helina Siska , Pramita Dita , Safira Nanda
Published: July 2022

Breastfeeding mothers have had limited access to breastfeeding support throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to investigate breastfeeding practices during the COVID-19 period and to determine the factors associated with supporting exclusive breastfeeding. A sequential explanatory mixed methods approach was adopted, including a quantitative method in the first phase and qualitative method in the second phase. Mothers whose babies were aged over 6 months to 24 months old from July to September 2021 in Pekanbaru City were selected as research subjects. Data analysis was performed with multivariate and deductive content analysis. Of 156 participants, 97 mothers (62.2%) exclusively breastfed their babies. Of those, mothers who delivered exclusive breastfeeding worked less than eight hours per day, were aged 17–25 and had low education. Though by using exclusive breastfeeding practice as a reference, associated supports, including emotional, instrumental, appraisal and information regarding exclusive breastfeeding practice were insignificant; however, mothers who practice exclusive breastfeeding had higher information support. During the COVID-19 pandemic period, the informational support factor was found to be important to achieve the successful exclusive breastfeeding practice.
First-Principles Study on the Adsorption and Dissociation Behavior of H2 on the Surface of a Plutonium–Gallium System
Authors: Li Longxian , Zhu Min , Huang Huang , Liang Tianxi , Su Huan , Xue Baiyu
Published: July 2022

In order to understand the mechanism of hydrogen interaction on the surface of a plutonium–gallium system, the adsorption and dissociation behaviors of hydrogen molecules on the surface of a plutonium–gallium system were studied using the first-principles approach. The results show that the physical adsorption of hydrogen molecules occurs on the surface with a small degree of interaction; the most stable adsorption configuration is hollow-site parallel adsorption (H-b-hor1). During adsorption, charge transfer occurs mainly in the first atomic layer, and the density of states and surface function does not change significantly before and after adsorption. When the hydrogen molecule overcomes the energy barrier of 4.96 eV, it dissociates into two hydrogen atoms chemisorbed on the surface, which reduces the energy of the whole system by 1.95 eV. The essence of the hydrogen atom–surface interaction is that the 1s orbital of the hydrogen atom hybridizes with the 4s and 4p orbitals of the gallium atom and the 6s, 7s, and 6d orbitals of the plutonium atom to form a chemical bond.
Gravure Printing for PVDF Thin-Film Pyroelectric Device Manufacture
Authors: Sico Giuliano , Montanino Maria , Loffredo Fausta , Borriello Carmela , Miscioscia Riccardo
Published: July 2022

Pyroelectric energy harvesting is one of the more recent and promising solid-state approaches for directly converting time-dependent temperature fluctuations into electric energy. Conventional printing technologies can offer many advantages for the production of pyroelectric thin-film-based devices, such as low cost, low temperature, the use of flexible substrates and shaping at the same time as deposition. Nevertheless, some issues related to low printed thickness and film-forming microstructure control need to be addressed. In this exploratory study, the possibility of exploiting the highly attractive gravure printing process for the potential industrial manufacture of flexible polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) thin-film pyroelectric devices was investigated. By the use of corona pre-treatment of the printing substrate and low-temperature polar solvent evaporation, multilayer gravure-printed PVDF pyroelectric devices were successfully manufactured for the first time, achieving a maximum generated current of 0.1 nA at 2.5 K/s from a device with an active area of 1 cm2. Considering the very low thermal inertia and performance scaling by the area expected for pyroelectric thin-film-based devices, combined with the upscaling potential of roll-to-roll gravure printing, our results provide new opportunities for on-demand, low-cost pyroelectric device manufacture and their integration in hybrid harvesters.
On the Control of Hot Nickel Target Magnetron Sputtering by Distribution of Power Pulses
Authors: Chodun Rafal , Wicher Bartosz , Nowakowska-Langier Katarzyna , Minikayev Roman , Dypa-Uminska Marlena , Zdunek Krzysztof
Published: July 2022

This paper presents the experimental results of high-temperature sputtering of nickel targets by the Gas Injection Magnetron Sputtering (GIMS) technique. The GIMS technique is a pulsed magnetron sputtering technique that involves the generation of plasma pulses by injecting small doses of gas into the zone of the magnetron target surface. Using a target with a dedicated construction to limit heat dissipation and the proper use of injection parameters and electrical power density, the temperature of the target during sputtering can be precisely controlled. This feature of the GIMS technique was used in an experiment with sputtering nickel targets of varying thicknesses and temperatures. Plasma emission spectra and current-voltage waveforms were studied to characterize the plasma process. The thickness, structure, phase composition, and crystallite size of the nickel layers produced on silicon substrates were investigated. Our experiment showed that although the most significant increase in growth kinetics was observed for high temperatures, the low sputtering temperature range may be the most interesting from a practical perspective. The excited plasma has the highest energy in the sputtering temperature range, just above the Curie temperature.
Effect of Austempering on Mechanical Properties of Nb/V Microalloyed Bainitic Bearing Steel
Authors: Wang Yanhui , Liu Baisong , Pan Qiang , Zhao Jing , Zhao Xiaojia , Sun Huaqiang , Xu Dong , Yang Zhinan
Published: July 2022

In this study, a multi-element microalloyed GCr15Si1MoNbV bainitic bearing steel was designed by adding trace amounts of Nb and V. The bainite/martensite/retained austenite/undissolved carbide multiphase bearing steel with a short heat-treated cycle and remarkable comprehensive mechanical properties was prepared via low-temperature austempering, which was compared with a traditional quenched and tempered martensitic microstructure. The results showed that the comprehensive mechanical properties of the low-temperature bainitic microstructure of the Nb/V microalloyed bearing steel were better than those of a traditional tempered martensitic microstructure. In addition, as the isothermal temperature increased, the impact toughness of experimental steel was significantly improved, and the hardness decreased slightly. The tensile strength was improved with the increase in isothermal time. As the isothermal temperature increased, the bainite content of the experimental steel rose, and the stability of the retained austenite enhanced due to more carbon atoms being partitioned into it. The research work in this paper made a preliminary exploration for the application of Nb/V microalloyed bainitic bearing steel in the bearing field and provided some basic data for reference.
Choosing Wisely—Barriers and Solutions to Implementation in Low and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Rubagumya Fidel , Sengar Manju , Ka Sidy , Hammad Nazik , Booth Christopher M. , Karim Safiya
Published: July 2022

Globally, there is increasing emphasis on value-based cancer care. Rising healthcare costs and reduced health care spending and budgets, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), call for patients, providers, and healthcare systems to apply the Choose Wisely (CW) approach. This approach seeks to advance a dialogue on avoiding unnecessary medical tests, treatments, and procedures. Several factors have been described as barriers and facilitators to the implementation of the Choosing Wisely recommendations in high-income countries but none for LMICs. In this review, we attempt to classify potential barriers to the Choose Wisely implementation relative to the sources of behavior and potential intervention functions that can be implemented in order to reduce these barriers.
Do Sustainable Palliative Single Fraction Radiotherapy Practices Proliferate or Perish 2 Years after a Knowledge Translation Campaign?
Authors: Shahhat Shaheer , Hanumanthappa Nikesh , Chung Youn Tae , Beck James , Koul Rashmi , Bashir Bashir , Cooke Andrew , Dubey Arbind , Butler Jim , Nashed Maged , Hunter William , Ong Aldrich D. , Rathod Shrinivas , Tran Kim , Kim Julian O.
Published: July 2022

In early 2017, the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer and CancerCare Manitoba undertook a comprehensive knowledge translation (KT) campaign to improve the utilization of single fraction radiotherapy (SFRT) over multiple fraction radiotherapy (MFRT) for palliative management of bone metastases. The campaign significantly increased short-term SFRT utilization. We assess the time-dependent effects of KT-derived SFRT utilization 12–24 months removed from the KT campaign in a Provincial Cancer Program. This study identified patients receiving palliative radiotherapy for bone metastases in Manitoba in the 2018 calendar year using the provincial radiotherapy database. The proportion of patients treated with SFRT in 2018 was compared to 2017. Logistic regression analyses identified risk factors associated with MFRT receipt. In 2018, 1008 patients received palliative radiotherapy for bone metastasis, of which 63.3% received SFRT, a small overall increase in SFRT use over 2017 (59.1%). However, 41.1% of ROs demonstrated year-over-year decreases in SFRT utilization, indicative of a time-dependent loss of SFRT prescription habits derived from KT. Although SFRT use increased slightly overall in 2018, evidence of compliance fatigue was observed, suggestive of a time-perishing property of RO prescription behaviours derived from KT methodologies. Verification of the study’s findings in larger cohorts would be beneficial. These findings highlight the need for additional longitudinal KT reinforcement practices in the years following KT campaigns.
The Revolution of Lateral Flow Assay in the Field of AMR Detection
Authors: Boutal Hervé , Moguet Christian , Pommiès Lilas , Simon Stéphanie , Naas Thierry , Volland Hervé
Published: July 2022

The global spread of antimicrobial resistant (AMR) bacteria represents a considerable public health concern, yet their detection and identification of their resistance mechanisms remain challenging. Optimal diagnostic tests should provide rapid results at low cost to enable implementation in any microbiology laboratory. Lateral flow assays (LFA) meet these requirements and have become essential tools to combat AMR. This review presents the versatility of LFA developed for the AMR detection field, with particular attention to those directly triggering β-lactamases, their performances, and specific limitations. It considers how LFA can be modified by detecting not only the enzyme, but also its β-lactamase activity for a broader clinical sensitivity. Moreover, although LFA allow a short time-to-result, they are generally only implemented after fastidious and time-consuming techniques. We present a sample processing device that shortens and simplifies the handling of clinical samples before the use of LFA. Finally, the capacity of LFA to detect amplified genetic determinants of AMR by isothermal PCR will be discussed. LFA are inexpensive, rapid, and efficient tools that are easy to implement in the routine workflow of laboratories as new first-line tests against AMR with bacterial colonies, and in the near future directly with biological media.
The Interaction of Craniofacial Morphology and Body Mass Index in Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Bertuzzi Federica , Santagostini Antonio , Pollis Matteo , Meola Fabio , Segù Marzia
Published: July 2022

Aim: This study sets out to explore the relationship between craniofacial morphology and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) severity, assessing the relative contribution of obesity, calculated using BMI. Methods: A sample of 30 adult patients (20 males; 10 females), mean age = 54(±76) years, with a polysomnography-confirmed diagnosis of OSA, i.e., with an apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) of over 5 events/h, was recruited and underwent cephalometric evaluation. Sleep parameters, namely AHI, AHI supine, oxygen desaturation index (ODI), and mean oxygen saturation [Mean SaO2%], were assessed. Correlation analysis between 13 cephalometric features and AHI was performed using a Pearson test. The sample was split into three groups based on AHI score (mild = 10 < AHI < 15; moderate = 15 < AHI < 30; severe = AHI > 30), and ANOVA was performed to compare the means of cephalometric features. In addition, the sample was split into two groups according to BMI (normal weight = BMI < 25; overweight = BMI > 25). Correlation analysis between cephalometric features and AHI was performed for each group using a Pearson test. Results: The average polysomnographic values were AHI = 29.08(±16); AHI supine = 43.45(±21); ODI = 23.98(±21); mean SaO2(%) = 93.12(±2). Posterior facial height (PFH) was significantly lower in the severe OSA group than in patients with moderate OSA (p = 0.05). In the normal-weight group, negative correlations of the PFH and SNA angle with AHI (r = −0.36; r = −0.25, respectively), and positive correlations of the FMA angle and MP-H distance with AHI (r = 0.29; r = 0.20, respectively), were found. In the overweight group, negative correlations of AO-BO distance, SPAS (upper posterior airway space) and PAS (posterior airway space) with AHI (r = −0.30; r = −0.28; r = −0.24, respectively), and positive correlations of AFH (anterior facial height) and the FMA angle with AHI (r = 0.32; r = 0.25, respectively), emerged. Conclusions: PFH seems to be related to the aggravation of OSA. In normal-weight subjects, hard tissue-related factors have a greater impact on OSA severity, whereas in overweight subjects, the impact of fat tissue is greater.
Analyzing TCP Performance in High Bit Error Rate Using Simulation and Modeling
Authors: Sarkar Nurul I. , Ammann Roman , Zabir Salahuddin Muhammad Salim
Published: July 2022

While Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) works well with a low bit error rate (BER), the performance of TCP degrades significantly if the BER rises above a certain level. A study of the performance of TCP with high BER is required for the efficient design and deployment of such systems. In this paper, we address the problem of TCP performance in high BERs and analyze the issues by investigating the effect of BERs on system performance. We consider TCP Reno in our study to explore the system performance using extensive analysis of simulation and modeling. In the analysis, we consider the amount of datagram sent and retransmitted, mean throughput, link-layer overhead, TCP window size, FTP download response time, packet dropping and retransmission, and the TCP congestion avoidance mechanism. We validate simulation results by setting up a virtualized testbed using Linux hosts and a Linux router. The results obtained show that TCP throughput degrades significantly and eventually collapses at the packet drop probability of 10% (BER = 10−5). The FTP download response time is about 32 times longer than that of a perfect channel (no packet dropping). We found that TCP Reno cannot handle such a high BER to operate in wireless environments effectively. Finally, we provide recommendations for network researchers and engineers confronted with the challenge of operating TCP over noisy channels.
Multiple Fuel Injection Strategies for Compression Ignition Engines
Authors: Simpson Tyler , Depcik Christopher
Published: July 2022

Until the early 1990s, the predominant method of fuel delivery for compression ignition engines was the mechanical pump-line-nozzle system. These systems typically consisted of a cam-driven pump that would send pressurized fuel to the fuel injectors where injection timing was fixed according to the pressure needed to overcome the spring pressure of the injector needle. These configurations were robust; however, they were limited to a single fuel injection event per thermodynamic cycle and respectively low injection pressures of 200–300 bar. Due to their limited flexibility, a poorly mixed and highly stratified air fuel mixture would result in and produce elevated levels of both nitrogen oxides and particulate matter. The onset of stringent emissions standards caused the advancement of fuel injection technology and eventually led to the proliferation of high-pressure common rail electronic fuel injection systems. This system brought about two major advantages, the first being operation at fuel pressures up to 2500 bar. This allowed better atomization and fuel spray penetration that improves mixing and the degree of charge homogenization of the air fuel mixture. The second is that the electronic fuel injector allows for flexible and precise injection timing and quantity while allowing for multiple fuel injection events per thermodynamic cycle. To supply guidance in this area, this effort reviews the experimental history of multiple fuel injection strategies involving both diesel and biodiesel fuels through 2019. Summaries are supplied for each fuel highlighting literature consensus on the mechanisms that influence noise, performance, and emissions based on timing, amount, and type of fuel injected during multiple fuel injection strategies.
Study on the Algae Contamination and Its Effects on the Properties of RTV-Coated Insulators
Authors: Li Yawei , Song Zhibo , Tian Yuan , Yang Chao , Liu Fenglian , Bai Huan , Zhao Fuping , Liu Xingwen , Yang Hao
Published: July 2022

The surface of organic insulating materials such as room temperature vulcanized silicone rubber (RTV) coatings often has serious contamination deposition. In humid areas such as the Southwest region of China, algae contamination layers are present on the surface of the insulators. In this study, the geographical and creeping distribution of algae contamination on the surfaces of RTV insulators were studied by investigating and sampling various substations in the Southwest region. The main components of soluble salts in the contamination were studied by atomic absorption spectroscopy and ion chromatography. The algal genome was extracted by the cetyltrimethylammonium bromide method, and the species of algae and other microorganisms in the contamination layer were determined. The effects of algae or their secretions on the surface resistance and hydrophobicity were studied by quantitatively inoculating algae and smearing extracellular secretions on the RTV surface. The damage of the algae contamination layer to the microstructure of the silicone rubber was investigated by microscopic observation and thermogravimetric analysis. Results showed that the growth of algae was positively correlated with the surface contamination of RTV. The extracellular secretion of algae destroys the surface microstructure of RTV and causes the removal of alumina hydroxide, leading to the reduction of siloxane. Therefore, the resistance and hydrophobicity of the RTV surface were reduced. It is of great significance to study the characteristics and effects of the algae contamination layer for RTV maintenance.
Planning of Flexible Generators and Energy Storages under High Penetration of Renewable Power in Taiwan Power System
Authors: Wu Yuan-Kang , Tan Wen-Shan , Chiang Yu-Shuang , Huang Cheng-Liang
Published: July 2022

The proportion of renewable power generation in the world has been increasing in recent years. However, the fluctuations and uncertainties of renewable power generation bring a considerable challenge to future unit scheduling. Therefore, the generation flexibility in power systems becomes more critical as a large amount of renewable generation is integrated into power systems. The use of flexible generators with energy storage systems is one of the most efficient methods of improving power system flexibility. The primary purpose of this study is to explore the effect of generation flexibility on the cost of unit scheduling. A flexibility index is used to evaluate the generation flexibility in the Taiwan power system, and a multi-scenario analysis for renewable power integration is considered. This study also considers various system constraints, such as the unit commitment of actual hydro and thermal units, the scheduling of flexible internal combustion engines (ICEs) and energy storage systems, and possible curtailments of renewable power generation. According to the seasonable characteristics of renewable power generation, this study provides a suitable capacity for flexible ICE units and energy storage systems. Furthermore, this study demonstrates that the cost of unit scheduling is effectively reduced by increasing flexible ICE units and energy storage systems. The results of this study can be used as a reference for power systems in preparing flexible generating units and energy storage systems under the integration of a large amount of renewable power generation in the future.
Response of Common Ice Plant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum L.) to Photoperiod/Daily Light Integral in Vertical Hydroponic Production
Authors: Xia Jiaqi , Mattson Neil
Published: July 2022

Common ice plant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum L.) is a novel edible plant with a succulent and savory flavor emerging as new crop for greenhouse and plant factory growers. Currently very limited information is available on the response of ice plant to photoperiod and to daily light integral (DLI). The objective of this study was to determine the impact of photoperiod/DLI on the growth of ice plant for indoor vertical production. Four-week old seedlings of ice plant were transplanted into vertical hydroponic systems and given five photoperiod/DLI treatments: 8/6.3, 12/9.5, 16/12.7, 20/15.8, and 24/19.0 h/mol·m−2·d−1. Sequential destructive harvests to determine plant growth occurred 14, 21, and 28 days after lighting treatments began. Plants performed better with increasing photoperiod/DLI from 8 h/6.3 mol·m−2·d−1 to 20 h/15.8 mol·m−2·d−1. By day 28, shoot fresh weight increased from 160 g to 639 g as the photoperiod/DLI increased from 8 h/6.3 mol·m−2·d−1 to 20 h/15.8 mol·m−2·d−1. The continuous lighting treatment, 24 h/19 mol·m−2·d−1, showed a negative effect on the plant fresh weight (FW) and dry weight (DW). Light treatment did not have obvious effects on shoot:root ratio and macronutrient uptake except that potassium (K) uptake decreased slightly with increased photoperiod/DLI. Plants receiving higher photoperiod/DLI showed the same number of leaves (indicating the same development stage) but had smaller, thicker, and darker green leaves compared to lower photoperiod/DLI treatments. Leaf water content was not affected by light treatment up to 20 h/15.8 mol·m−2·d−1 but decreased at 24 h/19 mol·m−2·d−1. Further research is needed to separate the physiological response of increasing/continuous photoperiod from the response of increasing DLI.
Changes in Yield, Quality, and Morphology of Three Grafted Cut Roses Grown in a Greenhouse Year-Round
Authors: Kwon O-Hyeon , Choi Hyo-Gil , Kim Se-Jin , Lee Young-Ran , Jung Hyun-Hwan , Park Ki-Young
Published: July 2022

Cut roses are grown throughout the four distinct seasons of spring, summer, autumn, and winter in Korea. Especially in the very hot or cold seasons of summer or winter, the temperature and light environments inside a greenhouse cause abiotic stress on the growth of horticultural crops. In a greenhouse where shade cultivation is performed in summer, the temperature is high and the light intensity is low, whereas in winter when shade cultivation is not performed, both temperature and light intensity are low. This experiment investigated the year-round growth and yield changes of cut roses grafted onto three rootstocks. The root activity of rootstocks was generally higher than that of the scion. The stomata of the grafted cut roses showed morphological changes according to the seasons. Compared with the scion, the stomata of grafted cut roses became smaller and their number increased in summer, whereas only the stomata size increased in winter. The grafted cut roses had characteristics of high photosynthetic efficiency such as photosynthesis rate, stomatal conductance, transpiration rate from rootstocks under harsh environmental conditions including temperature and light intensity, and thus the photosynthetic efficiency was higher than that of the scion. There was no significant change in the yield of grafted cut roses, but flower quality parameters such as the stem height, stem thickness, and weight of grafted cut roses were improved according to the rootstocks compared with those of the scion. In particular, in cut roses grafted with R. multiflora cv. Natal Briar and Rosa indica ‘Major’ rootstocks, the weight increased as the stem lengthened and thickened in spring, autumn, and winter. Therefore, grafting is effective in improving the quality of cut roses grown under abiotic stress caused by harsh temperature and light intensity conditions during winter.
The Mediating Effect of Fatigue on the Nature Element, Organisational Culture and Task Performance in Central Taiwan
Authors: Alkharabsheh Omar Hamdan Mohammad , Jaaffar Amar Hisham , Chou Ying-Chyi , Rawati Erni , Fong Pok Wei
Published: July 2022

In the current dynamic business environment, managing the physical working environment of the workforce has become an important part of the company. This study seeks to investigate the effects of the nature element and organisational culture on the task performance of employees with fatigue as a mediator, based on a sample of 103 white-collar employees who work in the central district of Taichung City during the spring and using a purposive sampling method. The data were collected through a self-administered subjective measurement instrument questionnaire and were analysed using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) path analysis. The results show that organisational culture and task performance were significantly positive. The mediating effect of fatigue caused this relationship to become negative. It was also found that there was a negative relationship between nature elements and task performance. The results provide insights into the importance of employers in providing a healthy workplace which promotes collaboration, health, safety, and the wellbeing of the employee in line with the recommendations of the World Health Organisation (WHO). The study concludes that future international comparative studies can be performed to identify the best workplace design that can reduce employees’ fatigue and alleviate their current work performance.
Emergency Preparedness for the COVID-19 Pandemic: Social Determinants Predicting the Community Pharmacists’ Preparedness and Perceived Response in Malaysia
Authors: Xin Tan Yu , Rajiah Kingston , Maharajan Mari Kannan
Published: July 2022

Background: Pandemic preparedness of healthcare providers helps to mitigate future threats such as spread and fatality rates, as well as the management of the disease. Pharmacists are key partners with public health agencies, and the role of community pharmacists is becoming increasingly recognised in this COVID-19 pandemic. The study aimed to explore the emergency preparedness of community pharmacists (CPs) for COVID-19. Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed among community pharmacists using cluster sampling followed by convenient sampling. A self-administered questionnaire was formulated using references from the previous literature and the WHO preparedness checklist. Descriptive analysis was undertaken for the participants’ socio-demographic characteristics. All the data collected were entered into the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 24 (SPSS V.24), (IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 24.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp.) for analysis. Results: Most of the CPs had five or fewer years of practice experience, and they had all the mandatory information relating to the needs of their communities regarding the disease. The participants knew where to acquire these resources whenever needed. They were able to recognise the signs and symptoms of the disease. Most participants felt that they were confident to provide patient education and carry out their duties during these challenging times. There was a strong position correlation between preparedness and the perceived response of the participants. Conclusion: The community pharmacists in Malaysia are prepared enough for COVID-19 pandemic management and perceive that they can respond during any unprecedented situations, such as COVID-19. Community pharmacists were aware of the challenges that they need to face in their community regarding COVID-19.
A Therapeutic Approach Using the Combined Application of Virtual Reality with Robotics for the Treatment of Patients with Spinal Cord Injury: A Systematic Review
Authors: De Miguel-Rubio Amaranta , Muñoz-Pérez Lorena , Alba-Rueda Alvaro , Arias-Avila Mariana , Rodrigues-de-Souza Daiana Priscila
Published: July 2022

Spinal cord injury (SCI) has been associated with high mortality rates. Thanks to the multidisciplinary vision and approach of SCI, including the application of new technologies in the field of neurorehabilitation, people with SCI can survive and prosper after injury. The main aim of this systematic review was to analyze the effectiveness of the combined use of VR and robotics in the treatment of patients with SCI. The literature search was performed between May and July 2021 in the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro), PubMed, and Web of Science. The methodological quality of each study was assessed using the SCIRE system and the PEDro scale, whereas the risk of bias was analyzed using the Cochrane Collaboration’s tool. A total of six studies, involving 63 participants, were included in this systematic review. Relevant changes were found in the upper limbs, with improvements of shoulder and upper arm mobility, as well as the strengthening of weaker muscles. Combined rehabilitation may be a valuable approach to improve motor function in SCI patients. Nonetheless, further research is necessary, with a larger patient sample and a longer duration.
The Physical Behaviour Intensity Spectrum and Body Mass Index in School-Aged Youth: A Compositional Analysis of Pooled Individual Participant Data
Authors: Fairclough Stuart J. , Hurter Liezel , Dumuid Dorothea , Gába Ales , Rowlands Alex V. , Cruz Borja del Pozo , Cox Ashley , Crotti Matteo , Foweather Lawrence , Graves Lee E. F. , Jones Owen , McCann Deborah A. , Noonan Robert J. , Owen Michael B. , Rudd James R. , Taylor Sarah L. , Tyler Richard , Boddy Lynne M.
Published: July 2022

We examined the compositional associations between the intensity spectrum derived from incremental acceleration intensity bands and the body mass index (BMI) z-score in youth, and investigated the estimated differences in BMI z-score following time reallocations between intensity bands. School-aged youth from 63 schools wore wrist accelerometers, and data of 1453 participants (57.5% girls) were analysed. Nine acceleration intensity bands (range: 0–50 mg to ≥700 mg) were used to generate time-use compositions. Multivariate regression assessed the associations between intensity band compositions and BMI z-scores. Compositional isotemporal substitution estimated the differences in BMI z-score following time reallocations between intensity bands. The ≥700 mg intensity bandwas strongly and inversely associated with BMI z-score (p < 0.001). The estimated differences in BMI z-score when 5 min were reallocated to and from the ≥700 mg band and reallocated equally among the remaining bands were −0.28 and 0.44, respectively (boys), and −0.39 and 1.06, respectively (girls). The time in the ≥700 mg intensity band was significantly associated with BMI z-score, irrespective of sex. When even modest durations of time in this band were reallocated, the asymmetrical estimated differences in BMI z-score were clinically meaningful. The findings highlight the utility of the full physical activity intensity spectrum over a priori-determined absolute intensity cut-point approaches.
A Bibliometric Analysis of Research Publications of the Bucharest University of Economic Studies in Time of Pandemics: Implications for Teachers’ Professional Publishing Activity
Authors: Davidescu Adriana Ana Maria , Florescu Margareta-Stela , Mosora Liviu Cosmin , Mosora Mihaela Hrisanta , Manta Eduard Mihai
Published: July 2022

The epidemic has forced the academic world, regardless of nation of origin, to unify to find a response to the economic and social difficulties we confront as quickly as possible. This paper investigates how academic performance in terms of scientific publications, especially during the pandemic period, may constitute the premises for boosting professional well-being. The analysis focuses on the researchers and professors of the Bucharest Academy of Economic Studies, analysing in a comparative way the academic performance during the pandemic as a fundamental side of their professional career. To do that, two samples of scientific publications collected between January 2020 and December 2021 were investigated. The first sample comprised 1411 documents indexed in the WoS database, while the second one was formed by 876 documents indexed in the Scopus database. All samples were published during the pandemic and have the university’s affiliation. The empirical findings indicated that the pandemic has created a boost in the number and quality of medical publications for the professors at the Bucharest University of Economic Studies. They created new multidisciplinary teams (economics and medicine), strengthening and widening national and international collaborations.
The Origin and Biomedical Relevance of Cannabigerol
Authors: Jastrząb Anna , Jarocka-Karpowicz Iwona , Skrzydlewska Elżbieta
Published: July 2022

The constant search for new pharmacologically active compounds, especially those that do not exhibit toxic effects, intensifies the interest in plant-based ingredients and their potential use in pharmacotherapy. One of the plants that has great therapeutic potential is Cannabis sativa L., a source of the psychoactive Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), namely cannabidiol (CBD), which exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and cannabigerol (CBG)—a biologically active compound that is present in much smaller quantities. CBG is generated during the non-enzymatic decarboxylation of cannabigerolic acid, a key compound in the process of biosynthesis of phytocannabinoids and consequently the precursor to various phytocannabinoids. By interacting with G-protein-coupled receptors, CBG exhibits a wide range of biological activities, inter alia, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal activities, regulation of the redox balance, and neuromodulatory effects. Due to the wide spectrum of biological activities, CBG seems to be a very promising compound to be used in the treatment of diseases that require multidirectional pharmacotherapy. Moreover, it is suggested that due to the relatively rapid metabolism of cannabigerol, determination of the concentration of the phytocannabinoid in blood or oral fluid can be used to determine cannabis use. Therefore, it seems obvious that new therapeutic approaches using CBG can be expected.
Elemental Composition of Skeletal Muscle Fibres Studied with Synchrotron Radiation X-ray Fluorescence (SR-XRF)
Authors: Kasprzyk Paula , Wróbel Paweł M. , Dudała Joanna , Geraki Kalotina , Szczerbowska-Boruchowska Magdalena , Radwańska Edyta , Krzyżewski Roger M. , Adamek Dariusz , Lankosz Marek
Published: July 2022

Diseases of the muscle tissue, particularly those disorders which result from the pathology of individual muscle cells, are often called myopathies. The diversity of the content of individual cells is of interest with regard to their role in both biochemical mechanisms and the structure of muscle tissue itself. These studies focus on the preliminary analysis of the differences that may occur between diseased tissues and tissues that have been recognised as a reference group. To do so, 13 samples of biopsied human muscle tissues were studied: 3 diagnosed as dystrophies, 6 as (non-dystrophic) myopathy and 4 regarded as references. From these sets of muscle biopsies, 135 completely measured muscle fibres were separated altogether, which were subjected to investigations using synchrotron radiation X-ray fluorescence (SR-XRF). Muscle fibres were analysed in terms of the composition of elements such as Br, Ca, Cl, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mn, P, S and Zn. The performed statistical tests indicate that all three groups (dystrophies—D; myopathies—M; references—R) show statistically significant differences in their elemental compositions, and the greatest impact, according to the multivariate discriminate analysis (MDA), comes from elements such as Ca, Cu, K, Cl and S.
Early Gβγ-GRK2 Inhibition Ameliorates Osteoarthritis Development by Simultaneous Anti-Inflammatory and Chondroprotective Effects
Authors: Karuppagounder Vengadeshprabhu , Pinamont William , Yoshioka Natalie , Elbarbary Reyad , Kamal Fadia
Published: July 2022

The G-protein-coupled receptor kinase 2 (GRK2) is an important regulator of inflammation and pathological macrophage phenotype in a variety of diseases. We hypothesize that Gβγ-GRK2 signaling promotes the early inflammatory response and chondrocyte loss in osteoarthritis (OA). Using the destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM) model in 12-week-old male C57BL/6 mice, we determined the role of Gβγ-GRK2 signaling in synovitis, macrophage activation, and OA development. We achieved Gβγ-GRK2 inhibition at the time of DMM by administering the Gβγ inhibitor “gallein” and the GRK2 inhibitor “paroxetine” daily, starting from 2 days before DMM surgery, for a duration of 1 or 12 weeks. Synovial and cartilage structural changes were evaluated by histomorphometry, and molecular events and macrophage activation were examined. We studied the direct role of Gβγ-GRK2 in synovitis and macrophage activation in vitro using SW982 and THP1 cells. Continuous Gβγ-GRK2 inhibition initiated at the time of DMM attenuated OA development and decreased chondrocyte loss more effectively than delayed treatment. GRK2 expression and the M1 macrophage phenotype were elevated in the inflamed synovium, while early gallein and paroxetine treatment for 1 and 12 weeks following DMM resulted in their reduction and an upregulated M2 macrophage phenotype. In vitro experiments showed that Gβγ-GRK2 inhibition attenuated synoviocyte inflammation and the M1 phenotype. We show that early Gβγ-GRK2 inhibition is of higher therapeutic efficacy in OA than delayed inhibition, as it prevents OA development by inhibiting the early inflammatory response.
Is There a Connection between the Metabolism of Copper, Sulfur, and Molybdenum in Alzheimer’s Disease? New Insights on Disease Etiology
Authors: Coelho Fábio Cunha , Cerchiaro Giselle , Araújo Sheila Espírito Santo , Daher João Paulo Lima , Cardoso Silvia Almeida , Coelho Gustavo Fialho , Guimarães Arthur Giraldi
Published: July 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other forms of dementia was ranked 3rd in both the Americas and Europe in 2019 in a World Health Organization (WHO) publication listing the leading causes of death and disability worldwide. Copper (Cu) imbalance has been reported in AD and increasing evidence suggests metal imbalance, including molybdenum (Mo), as a potential link with AD occurrence.We conducted an extensive literature review of the last 60 years of research on AD and its relationship with Cu, sulfur (S), and Mo at out of range levels.Weanalyzed the interactions among metallic elements’ metabolisms;Cu and Mo are biological antagonists, Mo is a sulfite oxidase and xanthine oxidase co-factor, and their low activities impair S metabolism and reduce uric acid, respectively. We found significant evidence in the literature of a new potential mechanism linking Cu imbalance to Mo and S abnormalities in AD etiology: under certain circumstances, the accumulation of Cu not bound to ceruloplasmin might affect the transport of Mo outside the blood vessels, causing a mild Mo deficiency that might lowerthe activity of Mo and S enzymes essential for neuronal activity. The current review provides an updated discussion of the plausible mechanisms combining Cu, S, and Mo alterations in AD.
Targeted-Deletion of a Tiny Sequence via Prime Editing to Restore SMN Expression
Authors: Zhou Miaojin , Tang Shuqing , Duan Nannan , Xie Mi , Li Zhuo , Feng Mai , Wu Lingqian , Hu Zhiqing , Liang Desheng
Published: July 2022

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a devastating autosomal recessive motor neuron disease associated with mutations in the survival motor neuron 1 (SMN1) gene, the leading genetic cause of infant mortality. A nearly identical copy gene (SMN2) is retained in almost all patients with SMA. However, SMN2 fails to prevent disease development because of its alternative splicing, leading to a lack of exon 7 in the majority of SMN2 transcripts and yielding an unstable truncated protein. Several splicing regulatory elements, including intronic splicing silencer-N1 (ISS-N1) of SMN2 have been described. In this study, targeted-deletion of ISS-N1 was achieved using prime editing (PE) in SMA patient-specific induced pluripotent stem cells (SMA-iPSCs) with a high efficiency of 7/24. FL-SMN expression was restored in the targeted-deletion iPS clones and their derived motor neurons (iMNs). Notably, the apoptosis of the iMNs, caused by the loss of SMN protein that leads to the hyperactivity of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, was alleviated in targeted-deletion iPSCs derived-iMNs. Thus, this is the first study to demonstrate that the targeted-deletion of ISS-N1 via PE for restoring FL-SMN expression holds therapeutic promise for SMA.
Functional and Transcriptome Analysis of Streptococcus pyogenes Virulence on Loss of Its Secreted Esterase
Authors: Zhang Xiaolan , Wang Yue , Zhu Hui , Zhong Zhaohua
Published: July 2022

Esterases are broadly expressed in bacteria, but much remains unknown about their pathogenic effect. In previous studies, we focused on an esterase secreted by Streptococcus pyogenes (group A Streptococcus, GAS). Streptococcal secreted esterase (Sse) can hydrolyze the sn−2 ester bonds of platelet−activating factor (PAF), converting it to an inactive form that inhibits neutrophil chemotaxis to the infection sites. However, as a virulent protein, Sse probably participates in GAS pathogenesis far beyond chemotaxis inhibition. In this study, we generated the sse gene knockout strain (Δsse) from the parent strain MGAS5005 (hypervirulent M1T1 serotype) and compared the difference in phenotypes. Absence of Sse was related to weakened skin invasion in a murine infection model, and significantly reduced GAS epithelial adherence, invasion, and intracellular survival. Reduced virulence of the Δsse mutant strain was explored through transcriptome analysis, revealing a striking reduction in the abundance of invasive virulence factors including M protein, SIC, ScpA, and SclA. Besides the influence on the virulence, Sse also affected carbohydrate, amino acid, pyrimidine, and purine metabolism pathways. By elucidating Sse−mediated pathogenic process, the study will contribute to the development of new therapeutic agents that target bacterial esterases to control clinical GAS infections.
Deciphering the Genetic Basis of Root and Biomass Traits in Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) through the Integration of GWAS and RNA-Seq under Nitrogen Stress
Authors: Ahmad Nazir , Su Bin , Ibrahim Sani , Kuang Lieqiong , Tian Ze , Wang Xinfa , Wang Hanzhong , Dun Xiaoling
Published: July 2022

An excellent root system is responsible for crops with high nitrogen-use efficiency (NUE). The current study evaluated the natural variations in 13 root- and biomass-related traits under a low nitrogen (LN) treatment in a rapeseed association panel. The studied traits exhibited significant phenotypic differences with heritabilities ranging from 0.53 to 0.66, and most of the traits showed significant correlations with each other. The genome-wide association study (GWAS) found 51 significant and 30 suggestive trait–SNP associations that integrated into 14 valid quantitative trait loci (QTL) clusters and explained 5.7–21.2% phenotypic variance. In addition, RNA sequencing was performed at two time points to examine the differential expression of genes (DEGs) between high and low NUE lines. In total, 245, 540, and 399 DEGs were identified as LN stress-specific, high nitrogen (HN) condition-specific, and HNLN common DEGs, respectively. An integrated analysis of GWAS, weighted gene co-expression network, and DEGs revealed 16 genes involved in rapeseed root development under LN stress. Previous studies have reported that the homologs of seven out of sixteen potential genes control root growth and NUE. These findings revealed the genetic basis underlying nitrogen stress and provided worthwhile SNPs/genes information for the genetic improvement of NUE in rapeseed.
GABAergic and Glutamatergic Phenotypes of Neurons Expressing Calcium-Binding Proteins in the Preoptic Area of the Guinea Pig
Authors: Bogus-Nowakowska Krystyna , Robak Anna , Kalinowski Daniel , Kozłowska Anna , Równiak Maciej
Published: July 2022

The mammalian preoptic area (POA) has large populations of calbindin (CB), calretinin (CR) and parvalbumin (PV) neurons, but phenotypes of these cells are unknown. Therefore, the question is whether neurons expressing CB, CR, and/or PV are GABAergic or glutamatergic. Double-immunofluorescence staining followed by epifluorescence and confocal microscopy was used to determine the coexpression patterns of CB, CR and PV expressing neurons with vesicular GABA transporters (VGAT) as specific markers of GABAergic neurons and vesicular glutamate transporters (VGLUT 2) as specific markers of glutamatergic neurons. The guinea pig was adopted as, like humans, it has a reproductive cycle with a true luteal phase and a long gestation period. The results demonstrated that in the guinea pig POA of both sexes, ~80% of CB+ and ~90% of CR+ neurons coexpress VGAT; however, one-fifth of CB+ neurons and one-third of CR+ cells coexpress VGLUT. About two-thirds of PV+ neurons express VGAT, and similar proportion of them coexpress VGLUT. Thus, many CB+, CR+ and PV+ neurons may be exclusively GABAergic (VGAT-expressing cells) or glutamatergic (VGLUT-expressing cells); however, at least a small fraction of CR+ cells and at least one-third of PV+ cells are likely neurons with a dual GABA/glutamate phenotype that may coexpress both transporters.