bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Implications of CaMK2A And MeCP2 Signalings In The Cognitive Ability of Adolescents
Authors: Lee Li-Ching , Su Ming-Tsan , Huang Hsing-Ying , Cho Ying-Chun , Yeh Ting-Kuang , Chang Chun-Yen
Published: May 2021

The glutamatergic signaling pathway is involved in molecular learning and human cognitive ability. Specific single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the genes encoding NMDA receptor subunits have been associated with neuropsychiatric disorders by altering glutamate transmission. But how these polymorphisms associated with cognition and brain psychological activities were rarely been explored in healthy adolescents. In this study, we screened SNPs of the glutamatergic signaling pathway to identify genetic variants associated with cognitive ability. We found that single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in subunits of ionotropic glutamate receptors, including GRIA1, GRINN1, GRIN2B, GRIN2C, GRIN3A, GRIN3B, and Calcium/ Calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II α (CaMK2A) associated with the cognitive function of students. Importantly, the plasma CaMK2A levels correlated positively with the cognitive ability of senior high school students in Taiwan. We demonstrated that the elevated CaMK2A increased its autophosphorylation at T286 and increased the expression of its downstream targets, including GRIA1 and phosphor GRIA1 in vivo. Additionally, the Methyl CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2), a downstream target of CaMK2A, can activate the expression of CaMK2A, suggesting that MeCP2 and CaMK2A could form a positive feedback loop. In summary, we concluded that members of the glutamatergic signaling, CaMK2A, and MeCP2 were implicated in the cognitive ability of adolescents, and alternating in the CaMK2A expressing may have collective effects on the cognitive ability of youths.
The Method and Results of a Treatment Targeting SARS-CoV-2-Activated Inflammasomes
Authors: Kanwar Badar , Khattak Asif , Lee Chul Joong , Balentine Jenny , Kast R. E. , Oh Sang-Suk , Sergi Consolato , LEE JONG HOON
Published: May 2021

In COVID-19 patients, clinicians should consider an increase in the oxygen requirement from 6 l/min to as high as 100% with a high-flow nasal cannula, as well as dapsone administration. A COVID-19 committee at Hunt Regional Medical Center reviewed the use of dapsone as an off-label medication in the first period. The hospital then revalidated its effectiveness by reporting the findings of 44 (22 cases/22 controls) patients with ARDS treated with dapsone in the second period. In ARDS-onset patients treated with dapsone, there was a decrease in FIO2 requirements in 7 patients and no worsening in 1 patient. In aggravated ARDS patients treated with dapsone, there was a decrease in FIO2 requirements in 6 patients and no worsening in 3 patients. In patients with severe ARDS treated with dapsone, no response to treatment was observed in 2 patients. In the ARDS-onset group not treated with dapsone, eight of twenty patients died, but in the ARDS-onset group treated with dapsone, no one of seventeen patients died throughout the entire study period. There was a significant difference in dapsone treatment results in the ARDS-onset group. We clinically diagnosed transient bulbar palsy of medulla oblongata in the brain associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection in the ARDS-onset group. We confirmed that dapsone clinically treated the onset of ARDS by targeting SARS-CoV-2-activated inflammasomes. Like chemically reacting substances, inflammasome and dapsone are competing, proving that it is only effective in treating early ARDS.
Estimated Economic Burden of Cancer Associated with Suboptimal Diet in the United States
Authors: Khushalani Jaya Shankar , Cudhea Frederick , Ekwueme Donatus , Ruan Mengyuan , Shan Zhilei , Harris Diane , Mozaffarian Dariush , Zhang Fang Fang
Published: May 2021

Purpose: Suboptimal diet is a preventable cause of cancer. We aimed to estimate the economic burden of diet-associated cancer among US adults. Methods: We used a Comparative Risk Assessment model to quantify the number of new cancer cases attributable to seven dietary factors among US adults ages 20+ years. A Markov cohort model estimated the 5-year medical costs for 15 diet-associated cancers diagnosed in 2015. We obtained dietary intake from 2013-2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, cancer incidence and survival from 2008-2014 Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program, and medical costs from 2007-2013 linked SEER-Medicare data. Results: The estimated 5-year medical costs of new diet-associated cancer cases diagnosed in 2015 were $7.44 (2018 US$). Colorectal cancer had the largest diet-related 5-year medical costs of $5.32B. Suboptimal consumption of whole grains ($2.76B), dairy ($1.82B) and high consumption of processed meats ($1.5B) accounted for the highest medical costs. Per-person medical costs attributable to suboptimal diet vary by gender, race and age group.Conclusions: Suboptimal diet contributes substantially to the economic burden of diet-associated cancers among US adults. This study highlights the need to implement population-based strategies to improve diet and reduce cancer burden in the US.
Association Between Weight Gain, Psychological, Sociodemographic Factors, and Physical Activity in Bariatric Patients: A Network Perspective
Authors: Vieira Nélio Barreto , Bandeira Paulo Felipe Ribeiro , Delmondes Gyllyandeson , Bertoldi Rafaela , Cunha Glacithane Lins da , Soares Nayara da Silva , Bottcher Lara Belmudes , de Almeida Roberto Lopes , Vieira Maria Eveline , Salami Sedigheh , Kerntopf Marta Regina , Martins Clarice , Zaia Victor
Published: May 2021

Background Weight gain affects about 10-20% of patients after bariatric surgery (BS). It’s a phenomenon that’s difficult to understand and to intervene due to its complexity and etiological heterogeneity. In the present study, we investigated, from a network analysis perspective, the associations between weight regain, psychological, sociodemographic factors and physical activity in patients undergoing BS. Methods The sample consisted of 124 patients, of both sexes, aged 39 ± 9.1 years, who had undergone surgical intervention for more than 18 months. After voluntary consent, respondents answered questionnaires and instruments directly on the Google Forms platform. Results The weight gain was negatively associated with the items of depression, anxiety and stress, binge eating and with the dimensions of the personality questionnaire (negative affectivity -0.182; detachment -0.078; antagonism -0.107; disinterest - 0.198 and psychoticism -0.158). Conclusion Characteristics of disinterest and negative affectivity and most of the items on the depression, anxiety and stress scale had a greater expected influence, indicating that these are the most sensitive variables to intervention and who need more attention from health professionals.Level of evidence: Level III, evidence obtained from well-designed case-control analytic studies.
In-Silico Evaluation and Selection of the Best 16S rRNA Gene Primers for Use in Next-Generation Sequencing to Detect Oral Bacteria and Archaea.
Authors: A Regueira-Iglesias , L Vázquez-González , C Balsa-Castro , N Vila-Blanco , T Blanco-Pintos , J Tamames , MJ Carreira , I Tomás
Published: May 2021

Background: Sequencing has been widely used to study the composition of the oral microbiome present in various health conditions. The extent of the coverage of the 16S rRNA gene primers employed for this purpose has not, however, been evaluated in silico using oral-specific databases. This paper analyses these primers using two databases containing 16S rRNA sequences from bacteria and archaea found in the human mouth and describes some of the best primers for each domain. Results: A total of 369 distinct individual primers were identified from sequencing studies of the oral microbiome and other ecosystems. These were evaluated against a database reported in the literature of 16S rRNA sequences obtained from oral bacteria, which was modified by our group, and a self-created oral-archaea database . Both databases contained the genomic variants detected for each included species. Primers were evaluated at the variant and species levels, and those with a species coverage (SC) ≥75.00% were selected for the pair analyses. All possible combinations of the forward and reverse primers were identified, with the resulting 4638 primer pairs also evaluated using the two databases. The best bacteria-specific pairs targeted the 3-4, 4-7 and 3-7 16S rRNA gene regions, with SC levels of 97.14-98.83%; meanwhile, the optimum archaea-specific primer pairs amplified regions 5-6, 3-5 and 3-6, with SC estimates of 95.88%. Finally, the best pairs for detecting both domains targeted regions 4-5, 3-5 and 5-9, and produced SC values of 94.54-95.71% and 96.91-99.48% for bacteria and archaea, respectively. Conclusions: Given the three amplicon length categories (100-300, 301-600 and >600 bps), the primer pairs with the best coverage values for detecting oral bacteria were: KP_F048-OP_R043 (region 3-4; primer pair position for Escherichia coli J01859.1: 342-529), KP_F051-OP_R030 (4-7; 514-1079), and KP_F048-OP_R030 (3-7; 342-1079). For detecting oral archaea, these were: OP_F066-KP_R013 (5-6; 784-undefined), KP_F020-KP_R013 (3-6; 518-undefined) and OP_F114-KP_R013 (3-6; 340-undefined). Lastly, for detecting both domains jointly they were KP_F020-KP_R032 (4-5; 518-801), OP_F114-KP_R031 (3-5; 340-801) and OP_F066-OP_R121 (5-9; 784-1405). The primer pairs with the best coverage identified herein are not among those described most widely in the oral microbiome literature.
Failure of Internal Fixation of The Anterior Ring For Unstable Pelvic Fractures, The Experience of A Single Institute
Authors: Zhang Sheng , Mo Huagui , Liu Yucheng , Zhu Guohua , Yu Bin
Published: May 2021

Background: This study aimed to share our experience of anterior ring fixation failure for unstable pelvic fractures and propose corresponding treatment strategies. Materials: From January 2009 to December 2018, 93 patients with pelvic fractures were retrospectively reviewed. Patients with failure of the anterior ring internal fixation within 3 months after initial surgery were analyzed. Quality of reduction was evaluated using the Majeed scoring system.Results: According to the Tile classification of fracture, there were 23 cases of type B1, 17 cases of type B2, 11 cases of type B3, 28 cases of type C1, 6 cases of type C2, and 8 cases of type C3. The duration from injury to pelvic internal fixation ranged from 5-28 days. Seven out of 93 patients experienced failure of internal fixation of the anterior pelvic ring within 3 months, including 2 patients fixed with an external fixator and 5 patients were fixed with a plate. Five patients undergoing revision surgery were followed up for 6-36 months with an average of 18 months. According to Majeedscore at the last follow-up, there were 2 cases of excellent, 2 cases of good, 1 case of fair, and the excellent and good rate reached 80%.Conclusion: The treatment of complicated unstable pelvic fractures requires early multidisciplinary cooperation, proper management of hemodynamic stability and other comorbidities, and performing internal fixation surgery within 2 weeks. It is necessary to make a preoperative plan and stabilize the posterior ring first, avoiding a single steel plate crossing the pubic symphysis.
Disc Measurement and Nucleus Calibration in a Smoothened Lumbar Model Increases the Accuracy and Efficiency of in-silico Study
Authors: Li Jingchi , Xu Chen , Zhang Xiaoyu , Xi Zhipeng , Sun Shenglu , Zhang Ke , Fang Xiaoyang , Xie Lin , Liu Yang , Song Yueming
Published: May 2021

Backgrounds: Finite element analysis (FEA) is an important tool during the spinal biomechanical study. Irregular surfaces in FEA models directly reconstructed based on imaging data may increase the computational burden and decrease the computational credibility. Definitions of the relative nucleus position and its cross-sectional area ratio do not conform to a uniform standard in FEA. Methods: To increase the accuracy and efficiency of FEA, nucleus position and cross-sectional area ratio were measured from imaging data. A FEA model with smoothened surfaces was constructed using measured values, nucleus position was calibrated by estimating the differences in the range of motion (RoM) between the FEA model and that of an in-vitro study. Then, the differences was re-estimated by comparing the RoM, the intradiscal pressure, the facet contact force and the disc compression to validate the measured and calibrated indicators. The computational time in different models was also recorded to evaluate the efficiency. Results: Computational results indicated that 99% of accuracy was attained when measured and calibrated indicators were set in the FEA model, with a model validation of greater than 90% attained under almost all of the loading conditions. Computational time decreased by around 70% in the fitted model with smoothened surfaces compared with that of the reconstructed model. Conclusions: The computational accuracy and efficiency of in-silico study can be guaranteed in the lumbar FEA model constructed using smoothened surfaces with measured and calibrated relative nucleus position and its cross-sectional area ratio.
Nonlinear Vibrations of Rotating Pretwisted Composite Blade Reinforced by Functionally Graded Graphene Platelets Under Combined Aerodynamic Load and Air Flow in Tip Clearance
Authors: Gu X. J. , Zhang W. , Zhang Y. F.
Published: May 2021

The primary resonance and nonlinear vibrations of the functionally graded graphene platelet (FGGP) reinforced rotating pretwisted composite blade under combined the external and multiple parametric excitations are investigated with three different distribution patterns. The FGGP reinforced rotating pretwisted composite blade is simplified to the rotating pretwisted composite cantilever plate reinforced by the functionally graded graphene platelet. It is novel to simplify the leakage of the air flow in the tip clearance to the non-uniform axial excitation. The rotating speed of the steady-state adding a small periodic perturbation is considered. The aerodynamic load subjecting to the surface of the plate is simulated as the transverse excitation. Utilizing the first-order shear deformation theory, von-Karman nonlinear geometric relationship, Lagrange equation and mode functions satisfying the boundary conditions, three-degree-of-freedom nonlinear ordinary differential equations of motion are derived for the FGGP reinforced rotating pretwisted composite cantilever plate under combined the external and multiple parametric excitations. The primary resonance and nonlinear dynamic behaviors of the FGGP reinforced rotating pretwisted composite cantilever plate are analyzed by Runge-Kutta method. The amplitude-frequency response curves，force-frequency response curves, bifurcation diagrams, maximum Lyapunov exponent, phase portraits, waveforms and Poincare map are obtained to investigate the nonlinear dynamic responses of the FGGP reinforced rotating pretwisted composite cantilever plate under combined the external and multiple parametric excitations.
Temperament-Based Treatment for Young Adults with Eating Disorders: Acceptability and Initial Efficacy of an Intensive, Multi-Family, Parent-Involved Treatment.
Authors: Peck Stephanie Knatz , Towne Terra , Wierenga Christina , Hill Laura , Eisler Ivan , Brown Tiffany , Han Emily , Miller McKenzie , Perry Taylor , Kaye Walter
Published: May 2021

Background: Adult eating disorder treatments are hampered by lack of access and limited efficacy. This open-trial study evaluated the acceptability and preliminary efficacy of a novel intervention for adults with eating disorders delivered to young adults and parent-supports in an intensive, multi-family format (Young Adult Temperament-Based Treatment with Supports; YA-TBT-S). Methods: 38 YA-TBT-S participants (m age = 19.58; SD 2.13) with anorexia nervosa (AN)-spectrum disorders, bulimia nervosa (BN)-spectrum disorders, and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) completed self-report assessments at admission, discharge, and 12-month follow-up. Assessments measured program satisfaction, eating disorder psychopathology and impairment, body mass index (BMI), and trait anxiety. Outcomes were analyzed using linear mixed effects models to examine changes in outcome variables across diagnoses over time. Results: Treatment was rated as highly satisfactory. 53.33% were in partial or full remission at 12-month follow-up. Participants reported reductions in ED symptomatology (AN and BN), increases in BMI (AN and ARFID), and reductions in clinical impairment (AN and ARFID) at 12-month follow-up. Conclusions: YA-TBT-S is a feasible and acceptable treatment that may improve ED outcomes in young adults with a broad range of diagnoses. Further evaluation of efficacy is needed in larger samples, and to compare YA-TBT-S to other ED treatment approaches.
Integrating WaTEM/SEDEM model and GIS-based FAHP Method for Identifying Ecological Rainwater Harvesting Sites in Ziz upper watershed, SE Morocco
Authors: Manaouch Mohamed , Mohamed Sadiki , Imad Fenjiro
Published: May 2021

Moroccan southeast areas have limited water ressources, vulnerable to climate change and characterized by a significant spatio-temporal variability. In response, to ensure the availability of water for local comunity, it is advised to develop some alternatives that improve the local water resources management throughout these areas. Rainwater harvesting (RWH) has been used widely as an alternative technique towards water scaricity. However, taking into account socio-economic constraints for identifying ecological sites for RWH remains a complex task for water managers. The present study was conducted using WaTEM/SEDEM model, GIS techniques and Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (FAHP) method to identify important ecological RWH sites. For this purpose, several data sources were employed to generate needful thematic layers. The soil conservation service curve number (SCS-CN) method was utilized for preparing a yearly runoff potential map. Then, the thematic layers were weighted for generating RWH suitability map. The results show that yearly surface runoff ranges from 136 to 500 mm. Moreover, the spatial distribution map of soil erosion of WaTEM/SEDEM shows that Ziz upper watershed can be classed into four classes: (i) slight (very suitable), (ii) moderate (suitable), (iii) high (less suitable) and (iv) severe (not suitable). Aproximatly 76.1% of the study area falls within slight soil erosion class. The GIS tools were used for generating the important ecological RWH suitability map. The GIS’s intersect tool was used to eliminate insuitable soil erosion classes and the buffer tool was used for integrating the socio-economic factors including the distance from residential areas and agriculltural fields. Prediction accuracy of the resultant map of RWH suitability showed the value of the area under the curve (AUC) equal to 59.6% for FAHP method in this study. Ecological RWH map, mainly, introduced western areas and some central parts of Ziz upper watershed as suitable RWH areas. The present study demonstrated that coupling WaTEM/SEDEM model with FAHP method and GIS tools provide a valuable approach for identifying the ecological RWH sites in large semi-arid areas.
Mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinomas of stomach and ampulla of vater after curative-intent resection: a single center cases series
Authors: Yang Sishu , Lu Jiong , Cai Yulong , Li Bei , Xiong Xianze
Published: May 2021

Background

Mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma is a rare clinical manifestation, especially in the gastric and ampullary. The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinicopathological features and prognosis of mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma in the gastric and ampullary and summarize related treatment suggestions.
Methods

In all, 32 cases of mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma in the gastric and ampullary that were diagnosed from resected specimens were analyzed from 2009–2015. The corresponding demographic, clinicopathological and survival data were retrospectively reviewed.
Results

The 1-year, 3-year and 5-year survival rates were 78.1%, 28.1% and 9.4%, respectively, and the median overall survival was 28.0 months. In all, 75.0% (24/32) had lymph node metastasis at the time of initial diagnosis. A multivariate analysis revealed that TNM stage(HR6.444 95%CI 1.477–28.121 P = 0.013), lymph nodes metastasis (HR10.617 95%CI 1.409–79.997 P = 0.022), vascular invasion (HR 5.855 95%CI 1.719–19.940 P = 0.005),grade of the adenocarcinoma component (HR 3.876 95% CI 1.451–10.357 P = 0.007) and CD56 positivity (HR 0.265 95% CI 0.100-0.705 P = 0.008)were independent predictors of overall survival.
Conclusions

Mixed adenoneuroendocrine carcinoma is an aggressive clinical entity with a poor prognosis. Taking both the neuroendocrine component and the adenocarcinoma component into consideration of optimal treatment is strongly recommended.
WITHDRAWN: Intraarticular Injection of Different Doses of Mesenchymal Stem Cell Derived Exosomes Reduces ATF-3 Expression in the Dorsal Root Ganglion in Monoiodoacetate-Induced Rats of Osteoarthritis
Authors: Zhou Wenwen , Wang Lin , Cao Qilong , LI Xinhe , Hu Yue , Li Juan , Li Tieshan
Published: May 2021

Background: This study aims to evaluate the therapeutic effect of intra-articular injection of different doses of exosomes derived from mesenchymal stem cells(MSC) and the effect on nerve and cartilage repair in a monoiodoacetate (MIA) model of knee osteoarthritis(OA) in rats. Methods: The pain rat model was established by injection of sodium monoiodate (MIA) into the knee joint of the rats, the knee joint and dorsal root ganglion (DRG) of rats were collected for histologic analyses. For pain assessment, On 1 day before MIA injection, 7, 14 days after MIA injection and 7, 14,28 days after Exosome injection,paw withdrawal threshold (PWT) and paw withdrawal latency (PWL) was measured. Articular cartilage were assessed on HE by ORASI grade and the expression of ATF-3 and GAP-43 in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) using immunohistochemistry and western blotting in MIA-induced rats. Results: In our study, exosome significantly improved PWT and PWL value with a dose-dependent manner on 7, 14, and 28 days after intra-articular Exosome compared with the MIA group. Exosome injection therapy also has a repairing effect on cartilage on 28 days after intra-articular Exosome compared with the MIA group. Moreover, exosome treatment significantly upregulated GAP-43 protein and downregulated ATF-3 protein in the DRG with a dose-dependent manner of the OA rat. Conclusion: Intraarticular injection of different doses of mesenchymal stem cell derived exosomes in MIA-induced rats osteoarthritis, the analgesic effect of exosome was dose-dependent. Moreover, the repair of nerve by exosomes is earlier than that of cartilage.
Assessing Problematic Facebook Use: Psychometric Properties of the Polish Version of Facebook Intrusion Questionnaire
Authors: Błachnio Agata , Przepiórka Aneta , Cudo Andrzej , Elphinston Rachel A.
Published: May 2021

BackgroundFacebook is used for work, entertainment and communication. However, there is potential for problematic or addictive use which can cause significant mental and physical health problems. The Facebook Intrusion Questionnaire (FIQ; Elphinston & Noller, 2011) is one of the most widely used measures of problematic Facebook use. However, no previous study has validated this measure in a Polish population. MethodsThe study aims to validate the Polish adaptation of FIQ. Five large samples of Polish Facebook users (N = 12,753; M age = 21 years; 66% female) were used to examine the psychometric properties of the Polish version of the FIQ. ResultsAn exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis provided support for a unidimensional factor structure (χ2(16) = 199.53, p< 0.001; RMSEA = 0.042; SRMR = 0.022; CFI = 0.950). Item response theory showed that the adapted FIQ items had adequate discrimination and information levels. ConclusionThe Polish version of the FIQ showed good internal consistency and adequate construct validity. Overall, the findings suggest that the FIQ is a reliable and valid measure for use in the Polish population.
Properties of Humic Acids in Meadow Soils Irrigated With the Slope-And Flooding System
Authors: Banach-Szott Magdalena , Dziamski Andrzej
Published: May 2021

The aim of the research has been to determine the effect of many-year irrigation of unique grasslands on the properties of humic acids defining the quality of organic matter. The research was performed based on the soil (Albic Brunic Arenosol, the A, AE and Bsv horizons) sampled from Europe’s unique complex of permanent grasslands irrigated continuously for 150 years, applying the slope-and-flooding system; the Czerskie Meadows. The soil samples were assayed for the content of total organic carbon (TOC) and the particle size distribution. HAs were extracted with the Schnitzer method and analysed for the elemental composition, spectrometric parameters in the UV-VIS range, hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties and the infrared spectra were produced. The research results have shown that the HAs properties depended on the depth and the distance from the irrigation ditch. The HAs of the A horizon of the soils were identified with a lower “degree of maturity”, as reflected by the values of atomic ratios (H/C, O/C, O/H), absorbance coefficients, and the FT-IR spectra, as compared with the HAs of the Bsv horizon. The HAs molecules of the soils sampled furthest from the irrigation ditch were identified with a higher degree of humification, as compared with the HAs of the soils sampled within the closest distance. The results have demonstrated that many-year grassland irrigation affected the structure and the properties of humic acids.
SARS-Cov-2 Clearance in Term of Cycle Threshold (Ct) During First Two Waves of COVID-19 in Pakistan: A Phenomenon of Delayed Viral Clearance Post- Corticosteroid Treatment.
Authors: Saeed Umar , Uppal Sara Rizwan , Piracha Zahra Zahid , Uppal Rizwan
Published: May 2021

SARS-CoV-2 is recently emerged virus, which caused millions of deaths, all over the world. To tackle COVID-19 pandemic, there is an utmost need for in-depth analysis of viral replication. We aimed to examine viral load in SARS-CoV-2 patients during first two waves of COVID-19 in Pakistan. 225,615 suspected subjects from 75 different regions of Pakistan were selected in the study. SARS-CoV-2 RNAs were detected via real time PCR. During first wave (period of June-July, 2020) of COVID-19 the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 was 20.38%. However during second wave (period of November-December, 2020) of COVID-19, the rate of prevalence was 9.41%. During first wave of COVID-19 96.31% of participants remained PCR positive for 14 to 21 days, 3.39% of subjects showed positive results for 22 to 35 days, while delayed Ct values were observed among 0.26% of participants for 36 to 49 days. However, during second wave of COVID-19 89.31% of the subjects exhibited symptoms and showed real-time PCR positive results for 14 to 21 days, 9.42% showed positive results for 22 to 35 days, while significantly delayed Ct value results were observed among 1.026% of participants for 36 to 63 days (3.95 times higher than first wave). In contrast to first wave of COVID-19, the factors that were different in second wave were neither viral (different strains) nor host (same population). But treatment factors changed significantly. As during second wave besides azithromycin, corticosteroid dexamethasone consumption was increased consequently causing delayed Ct value negativity. This suggests that corticosteroid treatment might be linked with delayed Ct value or viral clearance. This study is crucial for re-considering effective therapeutic options against COVID-19.
Parasites and Parasitic Diseases of Laboratory Animals in Plateau State Nigeria: The Zoonotic Implications
Authors: Akanbi Olatunde B. , Ola-Fadunsin Shola David , Yahaya Sadiq , Kaye Rebecca , Shamaki Rebecca
Published: May 2021

Parasitic infections in laboratory animals, are detrimental to the success of researches and can also infect personnel and researchers. This study is aimed at investigating the parasitic infections of laboratory animals maintained in animal houses of The National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom, Nigeria, as well determining the zoonotic implications of the parasites. Two hundred and six laboratory animals (55 guinea pigs, 72 rabbits, 29 rats and 50 mice) were sampled. Faecal samples and skin scrapings were collected and subjected to parasitological analyses. Pathological examinations were conducted on laboratory animals that had skin lesions. Sixteen different species comprising of 7 nematodes, 5 cestodes, 3 protozoans, and 1 mite were detected. Eimeria species (40/206; 19.42%; 95% CI = 14.44 – 25.25) was the most prevalent parasite, followed by Syphacia muris (26/206; 12.62%; 95% CI = 8.59 – 17.69). Entamoeba caviae, Tritrichomonas caviae, Rodentolepis microstoma, Rodentolepis nana, Heterakis spumosa, Capillaria hepatica and Cysticercus fasciolaris were the least prevalent with a 0.49% prevalence each. Three, four, five and six different species of parasites were detected in mice, guinea pigs, rats and rabbits respectively. The Chi square analysis revealed that the infection rate of parasites was significantly higher (p = <0.01) in mice compared to guinea pigs, rabbits and rats. Of the Sixteen species of parasites detected, Eimeria species, Syphacia muris, Rodentolepis diminuta, Rodentolepis microstoma, Rodentolepis nana, and Capillaria hepatica are zoonotic. This study showed that 40.29% of the studied laboratory animals were infected with one parasite species or the other. The outcome of this study stresses the zoonotic implications of the parasites detected. We thereby advise researchers and handlers to take caution and apply utmost sanitary measures in the handling of laboratory animals so as to prevent themselves from been infected with these zoonotic parasites.
Modelling and Solving Assembly Line Worker Assignment and Balancing Problem with Sequence-Dependent Setup Times
Authors: YILMAZ Hamid
Published: May 2021

Assembly lines appear with various differentiations in order to better include the disabled in the labor market and to increase production efficiency. In this way, the optimal workforce assignment problem that emerges heterogeneously is called assembly line worker assignment and balancing problem (ALWABP). This paper addresses the ALWABP where the simple version is enriched by considering sequence-dependent setup times between tasks. A mixed integer linear programming model is presented and a simulated annealing algorithm is developed such as an NP-hard problem. In order to test the proposed solutions, 640 benchmark problems in the literature were combined and used. The solutions obtained through using the proposed algorithm are compared with the mixed integer programming model on the small-size test problems. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm is more effective and robust for a large set of benchmark problems.
High-resolution imaging of mitochondria and mitochondrial nucleoids in differentiated SH-SY5Y cells
Authors: Annuario Emily , Ng Kristal Y-W , Vagnoni Alessio
Published: May 2021

Mitochondria are highly dynamic organelles which form intricate networks with complex dynamics. Mitochondrial transport and distribution are essential to ensure proper cell function, especially in cells with an extremely polarised morphology such as neurons. A layer of complexity is added when considering mitochondria have their own genome, packaged into nucleoids. Major mitochondrial morphological transitions, for example mitochondrial division, often occur in conjunction with mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) replication and changes in the dynamic behaviour of the nucleoids. However, the relationship between mtDNA dynamics and mitochondrial motility in the processes of neurons has been largely overlooked. In this chapter, we describe a method for live imaging of mitochondria and nucleoids in differentiated SH-SY5Y cells by instant structured illumination microscopy (iSIM). We also include a detailed protocol for the differentiation of SH-SY5Y cells into cells with a pronounced neuronal-like morphology and show examples of coordinated mitochondrial and nucleoid motility in the long processes of these cells.
Physical activity and barriers and facilitators in patients with rheumatoid arthritis or spondyloarthritis: a cross-sectional study of 150 patients
Authors: DAVERGNE Thomas , Tekaya Rawdha , Sellam Jérémie , Tounadre Anne , Mitrovic Stephane , Ruyssen-Witrand Adeline , Hudry Christophe , Dadoun Sabrina , Avouac Jérôme , Fautrel Bruno , Gossec Laure
Published: May 2021

BackgroundBarriers and facilitators to physical activity in inflammatory arthritis can be assessed through the Inflammatory arthritis Facilitators and barriers questionnaire (IFAB) questionnaire. The objective was to measure the correlation between IFAB and self-reported physical activity levels.MethodsThis was an international, multicentric, cross-sectional study in 2019-20 (NCT04426747). Consecutive spondyloarthritis (axSpA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or psoriatic arthritis (PsA) patients completed the 10-item IFAB, ranging − 70 to 70 with lower scores indicating more barriers. Physical activity was measured by the IPAQ-S questionnaire, steps per day collected by smartphone, and psychological readiness to change by stages of behavior change. Spearman correlations and multivariable linear regression were calculated.ResultsOf 245 patients included, 150 were analysed: 69 (46%) axSpA, 63 (42%) RA, 18 (12%) PsA. Mean age was 48.6 years (standard deviation, SD 17.1), mean disease duration 11.7 (10.1) years and 60% were women. Barriers to physical activity were moderate: mean IFAB, 6 (SD 19.2); 39 (26%) patients scored less than − 5, corresponding to significant barriers. The mean physical activity was 2837 (SD 2668, median 1784) MET-minutes per week. Physical activity was correlated with the IFAB (rho 0.28, p < 0.001), as well as the stage of behavior change (rho 0.35, p < 0.001) though not with steps per day. Multivariable analyses were confirmatory.ConclusionPerceived barriers and facilitators to physical activity were correlated with physical activity, indicating that targeting patients with high barriers and low facilitators to physical activity could be an effective option to improve physical activity levels.Trial registration on ClinicalTrialNCT04426747. Registered 11 June 2011 - Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04426747
Gnuplot Helper – a new Utility for gnuplot Graph Plotting Software
Authors: Deb Dwaipayan
Published: May 2021

The gnuplot is a well known software for graph plotting in the field of science andengineering. It is a command based software originally built for Linuxenvironment, however now it’s available for other operating systems too. Thepresent review discusses overview of a utility software namely Gnuplot Helper tobe used with gnuplot. This utility can generate and run gnuplot scripts in GraphicalUser Interface mode very easily and can save the output as an image file which canbe used in research papers or other purposes. This paper also discusses how to usethe software.
Feral pigeons as a nest competitor for a small seabird
Authors: Rodríguez Beneharo , Rodríguez Airam , Siverio Felipe , Martínez Juan Manuel , Sacramento Enrique , Acosta Yarci
Published: May 2021

Due to their life-history traits, the petrels are particularly sensitive to predation by introduced species. Therefore, many populations have constricted their original breeding distribution range, currently only occupying predator-free sites. In this scenario, interspecific competition for nesting sites can be detrimental for the petrel’ conservation. Here, we evaluate how the presence of introduced mammals (cats Felis catus and rats Rattus spp.) and potential competitors for nest sites (Cory’s shearwaters Calonectris borealis and feral rock pigeons Columba livia) shape the distribution, breeding density, and breeding performance of the Bulwer’s petrel Bulweria bulwerii on Tenerife, the largest and most densely populated of the Canary Islands. We estimated nest density, assessed the role of nest location and nest characteristics on breeding success, and determined causes of breeding failure by exotic predators and competitors. Nest density was higher in predator-free colonies on marine rocks. Cat presence was the best predictor for nest density, while presence or abundance of competitors had no correlation to nest density. Breeding success varied between years and colonies, but was not related to nest characteristics. Of the unequivocally determined causes of breeding failure, pigeon competition for nests was the most frequent (7.3%), followed by rat predation (6.3%). We also compared petrel and pigeon nest cavities and found a considerable overlap in nesting niche. Our study provides insight on an overlooked impact of the invasive rock pigeon: nest competition with small seabirds. We encourage more research on the effects of pigeons on nest density, disease and pathogen transmission, and vegetation changes within petrel colonies.
C−H•••F−C Interactions: A Guide for Designing Fluorous Monodentate Ligands for the Highly Linear-Selective Hydroformylation at Near-Ambient Pressure
Authors: Deng Yuchao , Liu Xiaofang , Wei Baiyin , Zhou Zhimin , Hua Kaimin , Chen Junjun , Li Shenggang , Wang Hui , Wang Xiao , Sun Yuhan
Published: May 2021

Organofluorine compounds often exhibit unique catalytic capabilities with novel structural scaffold, reactivity and mechanisms. Herein, we report a Rh-catalyzed hydroformylation under mild conditions using monodentate phosphite ligands P(OCH2CF3)3 (TTFP) and P(OCH2CF2CH3)3 (TDFP). The ligand were designed with the principle that the inclusion of fluorine-rich group can significantly change the physical and chemical properties of the complex through H•••F hydrogen bonds, the existence of which has been confirmed by crystal-packing studies. These monodentate phosphite ligands self-assemble to form bidentate ligands through C–H•••F–C interactions, and catalysts based on these ligands deliver extremely high regioselectivities in hydroformylation. Aldehydes were formed with up to 92% chemoselectivity, with linear aldehydes formed in high regioselectivity (n:iso=28/1) under a syngas pressure of only 2 atm.
SVM Classification of Brain Gray Matter Volume Predicts Classic Trigeminal Neuralgia
Authors: Peng Xinji , Chen You , Zhao Guoshu , Du Huifang , Hu Ziyi , He Laichang
Published: May 2021

Background: Previous studies have shown gray matter(GM) abnormalities in the central nervous system at the group level, but this method is limited because it is based on single or cluster voxels. In contrast, machine learning makes full use of all available empirical information, including differences in brain images or behavioral data, to classify or predict data and ensure good generalization ability. This approach has potential use as a prediction tool at the individual level. We thus hypothesized that a multivariate pattern classification method may distinguish classic trigeminal neuralgia(CTN) patients from healthy controls(HC) based on gray matter volume(GMV).Methods: Resting-state fMRI scans in 24 CTN and 22 HC were processed to extract whole-brain GMV. Based on this feature dataset, take the method of Spearman, T-test, F-score, principal component analysis(PCA) respectively to reduce the feature dimension. Applying a linear support vector machine(SVM) algorithm to differentiate CTN and HC. And extract the features that survive each iteration. Pearson correlation analysis was then used to assess the correlations between the deci_value(the distance from the sample to the optimal hyperplane) and VAS scores and pain duration respectively in CTN patients.Results: Compared with other methods of feature dimension reduction, PCA has a higher ability to correctly classify an individual with an accuracy of 85%(AUC 0.9223; 91.67% sensitivity; 86.36% specificity, p<0.001). And the features that survive each iteration were concentrated in the region of the left anterior cingulate cortex(ACC_L), right superior frontal gyrus(SFG_R), and bilateral cerebellum inferior(CI). In the CTN group, deci_value was positively correlated with the VAS scores in PCA(r=0.42, P=0.041, two-tailed). While there was no difference between deci_value and VAS scores in F-score, T-test, Spearman(r=0.39,p=0.06/r=0.36,p=0.09/r=0.37,p=0.08 respectively). Also, we did not find significant correlations between the pain duration for CTN patients and deci_value among the four methods of feature dimension reduction(P > 0.05).Conclusions: This study demonstrates that machine-learning algorithms can detect characteristic patterns of structural alterations in TN, and not only highlights the high accuracy of the PCA method, but also the role of ACC, SFG, and CI for classification.
Improving the technology of gold ore X-ray radiometric separation
Authors: Kulikov Vadim I.
Published: May 2021

Introduction. Gold ore pre-concentration is an urgent issue that can efficiently be solved by the technology of X-ray radiometric separation (XRS). Quarts and quarts-sulfide gold ore XRS is based on the methods of indirect sorting by gold accompanying chemical elements or genetic associate minerals laying the foundation for the creation of separation characteristics for these ores. Additional separation characteristics are required for efficient gold-quartz and gold-quartz-sulfide ore sorting; Irgiredmet Research Institute works on these characteristics search and development. Research methodology. Optimal ore separation characteristics for each specific deposit are chosen after studying and analyzing the spectral information acquired at XRF separators when detecting secondary characteristic radiation from each specific deposit ore samples. The recent modernization of XRF separators significantly enhanced the technological capabilities of XRS concerning intensive search and study of new separation characteristics for gold ore. It has been established that most ores can be efficiently sorted by three characteristics. Research results. A new method of gold ore XRS has been developed which consists of simultaneously applying three, two, or one decision criterion of a lump separation depending on the type, geologicalmineralogical properties, and material composition of the processed ore
Merengkuh Bumi Merawat Semesta: Mengupayakan Hermeneutik Ekologis dalam Rangka Menanggapi Kerusakan Lingkungan Dewasa Ini
Authors: Putra Darius Ade
Published: May 2021

Abstract

Since the 1960s, started by Lynn White, Christianity has begun to get attacks because it is considered to have triggered ecological damage. Christianity through the teachings of the Bible is accused of legitimizing absolute anthropocentric ideas which then give rise to expansive actions to the environment and nature. In the midst of the massive damage to the environment and in order to fi nd a possible solution to this problem, it is felt necessary to resonance the new approach to the Scriptures that further explores the sound of the earth. One approach that can be developed is ecological hermeneutics. Based on several principles it is possible to see and understand the biblical text from the perspective of the earth. In addittion, this approach will be elaborated with local wisdom so that it can help the text contextualization process. In the end, a new paradigm is expected to encourage awareness of the importance to tend the universe.

 

Abstrak

Sejak tahun 1960an, dimulai oleh Lynn White, Kekristenan mulai mendapat serangan karena dinilai telah menjadi pemicu kerusakan ekologi. Kekristenan melalui ajaran Alkitab dituduh melegitimasi gagasan-gagasan antroposentris absolut yang kemudian melahirkan tinndakan- tindakan ekspansif terhadap lingkungan dan alam. Di tengah masifnya kerusakan lingkungan dan dalam rangka mencari kemungkinan jalan keluar dari persoalan ini, dirasa perlu untuk menggemakan pendekatan baru pada Kitab Suci yang lebih mengeksplorasi suara bumi. Salah satu pendekatan yang bisa dikembangkan adalah hermeneutik ekologi. Berdasarkan beberapa prinsip-prinsipnya memungkinkan untuk melihat dan memahami teks Alkitab dari perspektif bumi. Selain itu, pendekatan ini akan dielaborasi dengan local widom agar membantu proses kontekstualisasi teks. Pada akhirnya diharapkan sebuah paradigma baru yang mendorong kesadaran akan pentingnya merawat alam semesta.
Customer value and customer brand engagement: Their effects on brand loyalty in automobile business
Authors: Terason Sid , Zhao Shixin , Pattanayanon Pirayut
Published: May 2021

The study investigates the extent to which customer value affected brand loyalty among mid-sized automobile customers in Thailand. It`s focused on assessing whether customer brand engagement acted as an intervening variable in the relationship between customer value and brand loyalty. A questionnaire was distributed to a random sample of 380 current users of medium-sized passenger automobiles in Thailand; these participants were drawn from the list of automobile customers using a multistage sampling technique. The dealership customers were asked to complete an electronic survey using their cell phones. Structural equation modeling was applied to prove the theoretical model. All the model fit indices revealed that the model was reasonably consistent with the data. Results validated customer brand engagement composed of three dimensions using confirmatory factor analysis and its role as a mediator. The findings also provided novel insight into the interplay of the relevant variables and could be used as a guideline for managing automobile customers and promoting automobile marketing in the country.
A QUÍMICA POR TRÁS DOS MEDICAMENTOS DISTRIBUÍDOS PELO PROGRAMA FARMÁCIA POPULAR NO BRASIL: ROTAS SINTÉTICAS, RELAÇÃO ESTRUTURA-ATIVIDADE E PERSPECTIVAS FUTURAS
Authors: Santos Giovanny , Rodrigues Julia , Souza Júllia , Silva-Filho Luiz , Silva Bruno
Published: May 2021

CHEMISTRY BEHIND DRUGS DISTRIBUTED BY THE POPULAR PHARMACY PROGRAM IN BRAZIL: SYNTHETIC ROUTES, STRUCTURE-ACTIVITY RELATIONSHIP AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES. Certainly, most chemistry students, patients or simply curious, have already questioned themselves about certain medications present in their daily lives, trying to understand how they work and even how they can be obtained. Based on that, this work presents some known synthetic routes and the structure-activity relationship (SAR), of some active pharmaceutical ingredients present in medications distributed in Brazil by the government program known as “Farmacia Popular”, emphasizing the functional groups and chemical structure linked to their mechanisms of action. Some other characteristics and future perspectives of such drugs and their respective active principles are also highlighted.
Discharge estimation for trapezoidal open channels applying fuzzy transformation method to a flow equation
Authors: Samarinas N. , Evangelides C.
Published: May 2021

The aim of this paper is to implement fuzzy logic theory in order to estimate the discharge for open channels, which is a well-known physical problem affected by many factors. The problem can be solved by the Manning equation but the parameters present uncertainties as to their true-real values. Especially, the Manning n roughness coefficient, which is an empirically derived coefficient, presents quite a high variation for different substrates. With the help of fuzzy logic and utilizing a fuzzy transformation method, it is possible to include the uncertainties of the problem in the calculation process. In this case, it is feasible to estimate the discharge, putting more emphasis on different uncertainty rates of the Manning roughness coefficient, while the rest of the parameters remain with constant or zero uncertainty level. By taking different α-cut levels, it is shown that the methodology gives realistic and reliable results, presenting with great accuracy the variations of the water discharge for trapezoidal open channels. In this way, a possible underestimation or overestimation of the actual physical condition is avoided, by helping engineers and researchers to obtain a more comprehensive view of the real physical conditions, and thus make better management plans.