bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extended, Double-Pedicled Facial Artery Musculomucosal (dpFAMM) Flap in Tongue Reconstruction in Edentulous Patients: Preliminary Report and Flap Design
Authors: Gontarz Michał , Bargiel Jakub , Gąsiorowski Krzysztof , Marecik Tomasz , Szczurowski Paweł , Zapała Jan , Wyszyńska-Pawelec Grażyna
Published: July 2021

Backgroundand Objectives: The reconstruction of tongue defects after cancer resection is challenging for reconstructive surgeons. The facial artery musculomucosal (FAMM) flap and the myomucosal buccinator flap (Bozola flap) are important tools in the reconstruction of intraoral defects. In this study, we describe the combination of both flaps—the extended, double-pedicled FAMM (dpFAMM) flap—and present clinical results of the reconstruction of moderate tongue defects in edentulous patients. Materials and Methods: a tongue defect, after squamous cell carcinoma excision, was reconstructed with the dpFAMM flap in 5 patients. Most of them received postoperative radiotherapy. Results: the healing process was uneventful in all patients. We did not observe flap necrosis or venous congestion. Tongue mobility, speech and swallowing were satisfactory. Conclusions: In conclusion, the dpFAMM flap is a good alternative in the reconstruction of moderate defects of the lateral part of the tongue. The flap is easy to harvest and has a good vascularity. This is a predictable method of reconstruction, especially for elderly patients with numerous comorbidities.
Follow-Up of Patients Who Achieved Sustained Virologic Response after Interferon-Free Treatment against Hepatitis C Virus: Focus on Older Patients
Authors: Nirei Kazushige , Kanda Tatsuo , Masuzaki Ryota , Mizutani Taku , Moriyama Mitsuhiko
Published: July 2021

Background and Objectives: Direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) have improved sustained virologic response (SVR) rates in patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Our aim was to elucidate the occurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and to compare the outcomes of patients aged 75 years or older (older group) with those of patients younger than 75 years (younger group) after SVR. Materials and Methods: Among 441 patients treated with interferon-free DAA combinations, a total of 409 SVR patients were analyzed. We compared the two age groups in terms of HCC incidence and mortality rates. Results: Older and younger groups consisted of 68 and 341 patients, respectively. Occurrence of HCC after SVR did not differ between the two groups of patients with a history of HCC. Occurrence of HCC after SVR was observed more in younger patients without a history of HCC (p < 0.01). Although older patients without a history of HCC had a higher mortality rate (p < 0.01), their causes of death were not associated with liver diseases. Among younger patients without a history of HCC, none died. Conclusions: After SVR, liver disease may not be a prognostic factor in older HCV patients without a history of HCC.
Lipid Transporters Beam Signals from Cell Membranes
Authors: Ristovski Miliça , Farhat Danny , Bancud Shelly Ellaine M. , Lee Jyh-Yeuan
Published: July 2021

Lipid composition in cellular membranes plays an important role in maintaining the structural integrity of cells and in regulating cellular signaling that controls functions of both membrane-anchored and cytoplasmic proteins. ATP-dependent ABC and P4-ATPase lipid transporters, two integral membrane proteins, are known to contribute to lipid translocation across the lipid bilayers on the cellular membranes. In this review, we will highlight current knowledge about the role of cholesterol and phospholipids of cellular membranes in regulating cell signaling and how lipid transporters participate this process.
Fabrication and Characterization of Sulfonated Graphene Oxide-Doped Polymeric Membranes with Improved Anti-Biofouling Behavior
Authors: Zahid Muhammad , Rashid Anum , Akram Saba , Shakir H. M. Fayzan , Rehan Zulfiqar Ahmad , Javed Talha , Shabbir Rubab , Hessien Mahmoud M.
Published: July 2021

In this study, cellulose acetate (CA) was blended with sulfonated graphene oxide (SGO) nanomaterials to endow a nanocomposite membrane for wastewater treatment with improved hydrophilicity and anti-biofouling behavior. The phase inversion method was employed for membrane fabrication using tetrahydrofuran (THF) as the solvent. The characteristics of CA-SGO-doped membranes were investigated through thermal analysis, contact angle, SEM, FTIR, and anti-biofouling property. Results indicated that anti-biofouling property and hydrophilicity of CA-SGO nanocomposite membranes were enhanced with addition of hydrophilic SGO nanomaterials in comparison to pristine CA membrane. FTIR analysis confirmed the successful decoration of SGO groups on CA membrane surface while revealing its morphological properties through SEM analysis. Thermal analysis performed using DSC confirmed the increase in thermal stability of CA-SGO membranes with addition of SGO content than pure CA membrane.
Alicyclic Polyimide/SiO2 Mixed Matrix Membranes for Water/n-Butanol Pervaporation
Authors: Hsieh Ching-Wen , Li Bo-Xian , Suen Shing-Yi
Published: July 2021

Alicyclic polyimides (PIs) have excellent properties in solubility, mechanical strength, thermal property, etc. This study developed two types of alicyclic PI-based mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) for water/n-butanol pervaporation application, which have never been investigated previously. The fillers were hydrophilic SiO2 nanoparticles. The synthesized PI was mixed with SiO2 nanoparticles in DMAc to make the casting solution, and a liquid film was formed over PET substrate using doctor blade. A dense MMM was fabricated at 80 °C and further treated via multi-stage curing (100–170 °C). The prepared membranes were characterized by FTIR, TGA, FE-SEM, water contact angle, and solvent swelling. The trends of pure solvent swelling effects agree well with the water contact angle results. Moreover, the pervaporation efficiencies of alicyclic PI/SiO2 MMMs for 85 wt% n-butanol aqueous solution at 40 °C were investigated. The results showed that BCDA-3,4′-ODA/SiO2 MMMs had a larger permeation flux and higher separation factor than BCDA-1,3,3-APB/SiO2 MMMs. For both types of MMMs, the separation factor increased first and then decreased, with increasing SiO2 loading. Based on the PSI performance, the optimal SiO2 content was 0.5 wt% for BCDA-3,4′-ODA/SiO2 MMMs and 5 wt% for BCDA-1,3,3-APB/SiO2 MMMs. The overall separation efficiency of BCDA-3,4′-ODA-based membranes was 10–30-fold higher.
Experimental Determination of the MnO Activity Coefficient in High-Manganese Slags Using the Chemical Equilibrium Method
Authors: Cheremisina Elizaveta , Gao Xu , Ueda Shigeru , Kitamura Shin-ya , Yamashina Ryo , Schenk Johannes
Published: July 2021

The thermodynamics of manganese oxide in high-MnO-containing slags was investigated using the chemical equilibrium method in the temperature range of 1623 to 1723 K. MnO-SiO2-Al2O3 slags were brought into equilibrium with molten silver (Ag) under controlled CO/CO2 gas atmosphere. The equilibrium Mn concentration in the silver was measured by ICP-AES (inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy) analysis after the experiment. Slag samples were analyzed by EPMA (electron probe microanalyzer) analysis. The obtained activity aMnO and activity coefficient γMnO were derived as a function of the slag composition and temperature. The activity coefficient of MnO within the investigated slag system increased with an increasing MnO/SiO2 ratio. The derived temperature dependence of the activity coefficient and partition ratio of Mn between the metal and the slag was strongly influenced by the slag composition. The thermodynamic assessment of the activity and activity coefficient of MnO was carried out by applying the regular solution model (RSM) on the basis of interaction energies of the cations and with FactSageTM 7.3. The theoretical calculations were compared with the experimentally derived values.
Numerical Study about the Influence of Superimposed Hydrostatic Pressure on Shear Damage Mechanism in Sheet Metals
Authors: Shahzamanian Mohammadmehdi , Thomsen Chris , Partovi Amir , Xu Zhutian , Wu Peidong
Published: July 2021

It is generally accepted that the superimposed hydrostatic pressure increases fracture strain in sheet metal and mode of fracture changes with applying pressure. Void growth is delayed or completely eliminated under pressure and the shear damage mechanism becomes the dominant mode of fracture. In this study, the effect of superimposed hydrostatic pressure on the ductility of sheet metal under tension is investigated using the finite element (FE) method employing the modified Gurson–Tvergaard–Needleman (GTN) model. The shear damage mechanism is considered as an increment in the total void volume fraction and the model is implemented using the VUMAT subroutine in the ABAQUS/Explicit. It is shown that ductility and fracture strain increase significantly by imposing hydrostatic pressure as it suppresses the damage mechanisms of microvoid growth and shear damage. When hydrostatic pressure is applied, it is observed that although the shear damage mechanism is delayed, the shear damage mechanism is dominant over the growth of microvoids. These numerical findings are consistent with those experimental results published in the previous studies about the effect of superimposed hydrostatic pressure on fracture strain. The numerical results clearly show that the dominant mode of failure changes from microvoid growth to shear damage under pressure. Numerical studies in the literature explain the effect of pressure on fracture strain using the conventional GTN model available in the ABAQUS material behavior library when the mode of fracture does not change. However, in this study, the shear modified GTN model is used to understand the effect of pressure on the shear damage mechanism as one of the individual void volume fraction increments and change in mode of fracture is explained numerically.
Gut Microbiome and Metabolome Profiles Associated with High-Fat Diet in Mice
Authors: Jo Jae-Kwon , Seo Seung-Ho , Park Seong-Eun , Kim Hyun-Woo , Kim Eun-Ju , Kim Jeong-Sang , Pyo Ju-Yeon , Cho Kwang-Moon , Kwon Sun-Jae , Park Dae-Hun , Son Hong-Seok
Published: July 2021

Obesity can be caused by microbes producing metabolites; it is thus important to determine the correlation between gut microbes and metabolites. This study aimed to identify gut microbiota-metabolomic signatures that change with a high-fat diet and understand the underlying mechanisms. To investigate the profiles of the gut microbiota and metabolites that changed after a 60% fat diet for 8 weeks, 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS)-based metabolomic analyses were performed. Mice belonging to the HFD group showed a significant decrease in the relative abundance of Bacteroidetes but an increase in the relative abundance of Firmicutes compared to the control group. The relative abundance of Firmicutes, such as Lactococcus, Blautia, Lachnoclostridium, Oscillibacter, Ruminiclostridium, Harryflintia, Lactobacillus, Oscillospira, and Erysipelatoclostridium, was significantly higher in the HFD group than in the control group. The increased relative abundance of Firmicutes in the HFD group was positively correlated with fecal ribose, hypoxanthine, fructose, glycolic acid, ornithine, serum inositol, tyrosine, and glycine. Metabolic pathways affected by a high fat diet on serum were involved in aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, glycine, serine and threonine metabolism, cysteine and methionine metabolism, glyoxylate and dicarboxylate metabolism, and phenylalanine, tyrosine, and trypto-phan biosynthesis. This study provides insight into the dysbiosis of gut microbiota and metabolites altered by HFD and may help to understand the mechanisms underlying obesity mediated by gut microbiota.
Efficient Optomechanical Mode-Shape Mapping of Micromechanical Devices
Authors: Hoch David , Haas Kevin-Jeremy , Moller Leopold , Sommer Timo , Soubelet Pedro , Finley Jonathan J. , Poot Menno
Published: July 2021

Visualizing eigenmodes is crucial in understanding the behavior of state-of-the-art micromechanical devices. We demonstrate a method to optically map multiple modes of mechanical structures simultaneously. The fast and robust method, based on a modified phase-lock loop, is demonstrated on a silicon nitride membrane and shown to outperform three alternative approaches. Line traces and two-dimensional maps of different modes are acquired. The high quality data enables us to determine the weights of individual contributions in superpositions of degenerate modes.
Metatranscriptomic Analysis of Bacterial Communities on Laundered Textiles: A Pilot Case Study
Authors: Jacksch Susanne , König Christoph , Kaiser Dominik , Weide Mirko , Ratering Stefan , Schnell Sylvia , Egert Markus
Published: July 2021

Microbially contaminated washing machines and mild laundering conditions facilitate the survival and growth of microorganisms on laundry, promoting undesired side effects such as malodor formation. Clearly, a deeper understanding of the functionality and hygienic relevance of the laundry microbiota necessitates the analysis of the microbial gene expression on textiles after washing, which—to the best of our knowledge—has not been performed before. In this pilot case study, we used single-end RNA sequencing to generate de novo transcriptomes of the bacterial communities remaining on polyester and cotton fabrics washed in a domestic washing machine in mild conditions and subsequently incubated under moist conditions for 72 h. Two common de novo transcriptome assemblers were used. The final assemblies included 22,321 Trinity isoforms and 12,600 Spades isoforms. A large part of these isoforms could be assigned to the SwissProt database, and was further categorized into “molecular function”, “biological process” and “cellular component” using Gene Ontology (GO) terms. In addition, differential gene expression was used to show the difference in the pairwise comparison of the two tissue types. When comparing the assemblies generated with the two assemblers, the annotation results were relatively similar. However, there were clear differences between the de novo assemblies regarding differential gene expression.
Probiotic Lactobacilli in Fermented Dairy Products: Selective Detection, Enumeration and Identification Scheme
Authors: Farahmand Nasim , Ouoba Labia I. I. , Naghizadeh Raeisi Shahram , Sutherland Jane , Ghoddusi Hamid B.
Published: July 2021

A selection of 36 commercial probiotic fermented dairy products from UK and Europe markets were evaluated for the numbers, types, and viability of Lactobacillus strains against the stated information on their packages. A comparative study was carried out on selectivity of MRS-Clindamycin, MRS-Sorbitol, and MRS-IM Maltose, to select the right medium for enumeration of probiotic Lactobacillus. Based on selectivity of medium for recovery of the targeted lactobacilli, and also simplicity of preparation, MRS-Clindamycin was chosen as the best medium for enumeration of probiotic Lactobacillus in fermented milks. The results of enumeration of lactobacilli showed that 22 out of a total 36 tested products contained more than 106 colony-forming units/g at the end of their shelf life, which comply with the recommended minimum therapeutic level for probiotics. Rep-PCR using primer GTG-5 was applied for initial discrimination of isolated strains, and isolates, which presented different band profile, were placed in different groups. The isolated Lactobacillus spp. were identified mainly as Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, and Lactobacillus paracasei by analysis of partial sequences of the 16S ribosomal RNA and rpoA genes.
Time Integrated Metal Accumulation on Pellets in an Industrial Harbour “Durban Harbour”
Authors: Mofokeng Refilwe Precious , Glassom David
Published: July 2021

Once in the environment, preproduction plastic polymers between 2–5 mm in size, also known as pellets, can cause physical harm to animals that mistake them for food as they have been reported to accumulate toxic substances, including on their surface. However, the rate of metal enrichment on pellets is not well investigated. In October 2018, Durban experienced a storm that resulted in ±2000 tons of polyethylene pellets being spilt into Durban Harbour, which caused environmental pollution concerns. This event provided a unique opportunity to study metal accumulation on pellets. Pellets were collected at one-month intervals for 6 months following the spill from October 2017 to March 2018, and metal concentrations were compared to concentrations found on pellets collected before the spill. The pellets were digested using a mixture of concentrated nitric acid (55%) and sulphuric acid (60%) at a ratio of 3:1 and analysed for numerous trace metals (Al, As, Pb, Cd, Cr, Fe, Cu, Mn, Ni, and Zn) using the Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES). Pellets collected in Durban Harbour prior to the spill in a related study (unpublished data) showed higher metal accumulation; however, there was no evident linear increase in metal concentration in pellets over time. ANOVA showed no significant difference for all metals (p > 0.05) in metal concentration between months; however, there was a significant difference between aged and newly introduced pellets.
Metal Accumulation and Tolerance in Artemisia indica var. maximowiczii (Nakai) H. Hara. and Fallopia sachalinensis (F.Schmidt) Ronse Decr., a Naturally Growing Plant Species at Mine Site
Authors: Lu Xingyan , Yamaji Keiko , Haruma Toshikatsu , Yachi Mitsuki , Doyama Kohei , Tomiyama Shingo
Published: July 2021

For growing plants at mine sites, plant species that accumulate metals in tissues and are tolerant to high metal concentrations should be selected from the perspective of phytostabilization. However, the eco-chemical or elemental information of the plant species at the mine sites is limited. The purpose of this study was to identify plants that can adapt to natural growth at mine sites, via: (1) vegetation survey, (2) elemental analysis in soil and plants, and (3) detoxicant detection in plant cells. Our vegetation survey indicated that plants growing at our study site are consistent with plant species confirmed at other mine sites in previous reports. A. indica var. maximowiczii and F. sachalinensis, present at the mine site, highly accumulated Fe, Al, and Cu in the roots, indicating their metal tolerance. Furthermore, A. indica var. maximowiczii produced detoxicants such as chlorogenic acid and 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid in the roots, which exhibited high antioxidative activity that would play an important role in metal tolerance in A. indica var. maximowiczii. This study will be effective in providing fundamental information on phytostabilization at mine sites.
Optical-Thermally Excited Graphene Resonant Mass Detection: A Molecular Dynamics Analysis
Authors: Xiao Xing , Fan Shang-Chun , Li Cheng , Liu Yu-Jian
Published: July 2021

In consideration of the presented optical-thermally excited resonant mass detection scheme, molecular dynamics calculations are performed to investigate the thermal actuation and resonant mass sensing mechanism. The simulation results indicate that an extremely high temperature exists in a 6% central area of the graphene sheet exposed to the exciting laser. Therefore, constraining the laser driving power and enlarging the laser spot radius are essential to weaken the overheating in the middle of the graphene sheet, thus avoiding being burned through. Moreover, molecular dynamics calculations demonstrate a mass sensitivity of 214 kHz/zg for the graphene resonator with a pre-stress of 1 GPa. However, the adsorbed mass would degrade the resonant quality factor from 236 to 193. In comparison, the sensitivity and quality factor could rise by 1.3 and 4 times, respectively, for the graphene sheet with a pre-stress of 5 GPa, thus revealing the availability of enlarging pre-stress for better mass sensing performance.
Bimetallic Nanocrystals: Structure, Controllable Synthesis and Applications in Catalysis, Energy and Sensing
Authors: Li Gaojie , Zhang Wenshuang , Luo Na , Xue Zhenggang , Hu Qingmin , Zeng Wen , Xu Jiaqiang
Published: July 2021

In recent years, bimetallic nanocrystals have attracted great interest from many researchers. Bimetallic nanocrystals are expected to exhibit improved physical and chemical properties due to the synergistic effect between the two metals, not just a combination of two monometallic properties. More importantly, the properties of bimetallic nanocrystals are significantly affected by their morphology, structure, and atomic arrangement. Reasonable regulation of these parameters of nanocrystals can effectively control their properties and enhance their practicality in a given application. This review summarizes some recent research progress in the controlled synthesis of shape, composition and structure, as well as some important applications of bimetallic nanocrystals. We first give a brief introduction to the development of bimetals, followed by the architectural diversity of bimetallic nanocrystals. The most commonly used and typical synthesis methods are also summarized, and the possible morphologies under different conditions are also discussed. Finally, we discuss the composition-dependent and shape-dependent properties of bimetals in terms of highlighting applications such as catalysis, energy conversion, gas sensing and bio-detection applications.
Decay Rates of Plasmonic Elliptical Nanostructures via Effective Medium Theory
Authors: Gamal Mohammed , Kandas Ishac , Badran Hussein , Hajjiah Ali , Muhammed Mufasila , Shehata Nader
Published: July 2021

This paper investigates the spontaneous decay rate of elliptical plasmonic nanostructures. The refractive index was analyzed using the effective medium theory (EMT). Then, the polarizability, spontaneous radiative, non-radiative decay rate, and electric field enhancement factor were characterized for the targeted elliptical nanostructures at different aspect ratios. All of the optical analyses were analyzed at different distances between the excited fluorescent coupled atom and the plasmonic nanostructure (down to 100 nm). This work is promising in selecting the optimum elliptical nanostructure according to the required decay rates for optical conversion efficiency control in energy harvesting for solar cells and optical sensing applications.
SnS2 Nanosheets with RGO Modification as High-Performance Anode Materials for Na-Ion and K-Ion Batteries
Authors: Wu Leqiang , Shao Hengjia , Yang Chen , Feng Xiangmin , Han Linxuan , Zhou Yanli , Du Wei , Sun Xueqin , Xu Zhijun , Zhang Xiaoyu , Jiang Fuyi , Dong Caifu
Published: July 2021

To date, the fabrication of advanced anode materials that can accommodate both Na+ and K+ storage is still very challenging. Herein, we developed a facile solvothermal and subsequent annealing process to synthesize SnS2/RGO composite, in which SnS2 nanosheets are bonded on RGO, and investigated their potential as anodes for Na+ and K+ storage. When used as an anode in SIBs, the as-prepared SnS2/RGO displays preeminent performance (581 mAh g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 after 80 cycles), which is a significant improvement compared with pure SnS2. More encouragingly, SnS2/RGO also exhibits good cycling stability (130 mAh g−1 at 0.3 A g−1 after 300 cycles) and excellent rate capability (520.8 mAh g−1 at 0.05 A g−1 and 281.4 mAh g−1 at 0.5 A g−1) when used as anode for PIBs. The well-engineered structure not only guarantees the fast electrode reaction kinetics, but also ensures superior pseudocapacitance contribution during repeated cycles, which has been proved by kinetic analysis.
Evidence of Extensive Circulation of Yersinia enterocolitica in Rodents and Shrews in Natural Habitats from Retrospective and Perspective Studies in South Caucasus
Authors: Imnadze Tata , Malania Lile , Chakvetadze Neli , Burjanadze Irma , Abazashvili Natalia , Zhgenti Ekaterine , Sidamonidze Ketevan , Khmaladze Ekaterine , Martashvili Vakhtang , Tsertsvadze Nikoloz , Imnadze Paata , Kandaurov Andrei , Arner Ryan J. , Motin Vladimir , Kosoy Michael
Published: July 2021

Yersinia enterocolitica culture-positive rodents and shrews were reported in different territories across Georgia during 14 of 17 years of investigations conducted for the period of 1981–1997. In total, Y. enterocolitica was isolated from 2052 rodents (15 species) and 33 shrews. Most isolates were obtained from Microtus arvalis, Rattus norvegicus, Mus musculus, and Apodemus spp. During the prospective study (2017−2019), isolates of Yersinia-like bacteria were cultured from 53 rodents collected in four parts of Georgia. All the Yersinia-like isolates were confirmed as Y. enterocolitica based on the API 20E and the BD Phenix50 tests. Whole-genome (WG) sequencing of five rodents and one shrew strain of Y. enterocolitica revealed that they possessed a set of virulence genes characteristic of the potentially pathogenic strains of biogroup 1A. All isolates lacked distinguished virulence determinants for YstA, Ail, TccC, VirF, and virulence plasmid pYV but carried the genes for YstB, YmoA, HemPR-HmuVSTU, YaxAB, PhlA, PldA, ArsCBR, and a flagellar apparatus. One strain contained a gene highly homologous to heat-labile enterotoxin, a chain of E. coli, a function not previously described for Y. enterocolitica. The WG single-nucleotide polymorphism-based typing placed the isolates in four distinct phylogenetic clusters.
Regional Prevalence of Intermediate Leptospira spp. in Humans: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Abd Rahman Aina Nadheera , Hasnul Hadi Nurul Husna , Sun Zhong , Thilakavathy Karuppiah , Joseph Narcisse
Published: July 2021

Leptospirosis is one of the most widespread bacterial diseases caused by pathogenic Leptospira. There are broad clinical manifestations due to varied pathogenicity of Leptospira spp., which can be classified into three clusters such as pathogenic, intermediate, and saprophytic. Intermediate Leptospira spp. can either be pathogenic or non-pathogenic and they have been reported to cause mild to severe forms of leptospirosis in several studies, contributing to the disease burden. Hence, this study aimed to estimate the global prevalence of intermediate Leptospira spp. in humans using meta-analysis with region-wise stratification. The articles were searched from three databases which include PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect. Seven studies were included consisting of two regions based on United Nations geo-scheme regions, among 469 records identified. Statistical analysis was performed using RevMan software. The overall prevalence estimate of intermediate Leptospira spp. in humans was 86% and the pooled prevalences were 96% and 17% for the American and Asia regions, respectively. The data also revealed that Leptospira wolffii was the most predominantly found compared to the other intermediate species identified from the included studies, which were Leptospira inadai and Leptospira broomii. The estimated prevalence data from this study could be used to develop better control and intervention strategies in combating human leptospirosis.
Variation in Gene Expression between Two Sorghum bicolor Lines Differing in Innate Immunity Response
Authors: Cui Yaya , Chen Dongqin , Jiang Yuexu , Xu Dong , Balint-Kurti Peter , Stacey Gary
Published: July 2021

Microbe associated molecular pattern (MAMPs) triggered immunity (MTI) is a key component of the plant innate immunity response to microbial recognition. However, most of our current knowledge of MTI comes from model plants (i.e., Arabidopsis thaliana) with comparatively less work done using crop plants. In this work, we studied the MAMP triggered oxidative burst (ROS) and the transcriptional response in two Sorghum bicolor genotypes, BTx623 and SC155-14E. SC155-14E is a line that shows high anthracnose resistance and the line BTx623 is susceptible to anthracnose. Our results revealed a clear variation in gene expression and ROS in response to either flagellin (flg22) or chitin elicitation between the two lines. While the transcriptional response to each MAMP and in each line was unique there was a considerable degree of overlap, and we were able to define a core set of genes associated with the sorghum MAMP transcriptional response. The GO term and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis discovered more immunity and pathogen resistance related DEGs in MAMP treated SC155-14E samples than in BTx623 with the same treatment. The results provide a baseline for future studies to investigate innate immunity pathways in sorghum, including efforts to enhance disease resistance.
Preparation and Physicochemical Characterization of a Diclofenac Sodium-Dual Layer Polyvinyl Alcohol Patch
Authors: Sa’adon Shafizah , Ansari Mohamed Nainar Mohamed , Razak Saiful Izwan Abd , Anand Joseph Sahaya , Nayan Nadirul Hasraf Mat , Ismail Al Emran , Khan Muhammad Umar Aslam , Haider Adnan
Published: July 2021

The aim of this study is to prepare a dual layer polyvinyl (PVA) patch using a combination of electrospinning techniques and cryogelation (freeze-thaw process) then subsequently to investigate the effect of freeze-thaw cycles, nanofiber thickness, and diclofenac sodium (DS) loading on the physicochemical and mechanical properties and formulation of dual layer PVA patches composed of electrospun PVA nanofibers and PVA cryogel. After the successful preparation of the dual layer PVA patch, the prepared patch was subjected to investigation to assess the effect of freeze-thaw cycles, nanofiber thickness and percentages of DS loading on the morphology, physiochemical and mechanical properties. Various spectroscopic techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), water contact angle, and tensile tests were used to evaluate the physicochemical and mechanical properties of prepared dual layer PVA patches. The morphological structures of the dual layer PVA patch demonstrated the effectiveness of both techniques. The effect of freeze-thaw cycles, nanofiber thickness, and DS percentage loading on the crystallinity of a dual layer PVA patch was investigated using XRD analysis. The presence of a distinct DS peak in the FTIR spectrum indicates the compatibility of DS in a dual layer PVA patch through in-situ loading. All prepared patches were considered highly hydrophilic because the data obtained was less than 90°. The increasing saturation of DS within the PVA matrix increases the tensile strength of prepared patches, however decreased its elasticity. Evidently, the increasing of electrospun PVA nanofibers thickness, freeze-thaw cycles, and the DS saturation has improved the physicochemical and mechanical properties of the DS medicated dual layer PVA patches, making them a promising biomaterial for transdermal drug delivery applications.
5-Aminosalicylic Acid Loaded Chitosan-Carrageenan Hydrogel Beads with Potential Application for the Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Stavarache Cristina Elena , Ghebaur Adi , Dinescu Sorina , Samoilă Iuliana , Vasile Eugeniu , Vlasceanu George Mihail , Iovu Horia , Gârea Sorina Alexandra
Published: July 2021

The aim of our work is to prepare mucoadhesive particles with biopolymers and 5-Aminosalicylic acid (5ASA) using the ionotropic gelation technique to ensure a controlled drug release at the colon level with potential applications in the treatment of intestinal bowel disease (IBD). The preparation of particles through the crosslinking of Chitosan (CS) with sodium tripolyphosphate (TPP) using different mass ratios and the influence of the k-Carrageenan (kCG) layer were studied. UV–VIS spectrometry was employed to assess encapsulation efficiency and drug release profile of 5ASA. The particles were investigated using FT-IR spectrometry for chemical characterization and the DLS results highlighted a monodisperse particle size distribution. The morphology of the polymeric beads was investigated using micro-computer tomography (µCT) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Particles based on Chitosan and k-Carrageenan were able to incorporate and preserve 5ASA in an acidic and alkaline medium. The 5ASA loaded polymeric particles obtained after immersion for 1 h in kCG solution exhibited the lowest release rate in pH = 1.2. Biocompatibility studies performed on all of the particles displayed a good viability for the CCD 841 CoN cells and low cytotoxicity. All of the results have shown that these new biomaterials could be a versatile platform of targeted carriers with potential applications in inflammatory bowel disease treatment.
Special Issue “Interplay between Financial and Actuarial Mathematics”
Authors: Constantinescu Corina , Eisenberg Julia
Published: July 2021

The Special Issue aims to highlight the interaction between actuarial and financial mathematics, which, due to the recent low interest rates and implications of COVID-19, requires an interlace between actuarial and financial methods, along with control theory, machine learning, mortality models, option pricing, hedging, unit-linked contracts and drawdown analysis, among others [...]
A Numerical Study of the Flow and Sediment Interaction in the Middle Reach of the Huai River
Authors: Ni Jin , Yu Bangyi , Wu Peng
Published: July 2021

In recent years, the incoming sediments from upstream of the Huai River have continuously decreased. The relationship between flow and sediment has significantly changed. Therefore, the erosion and deposition characteristics of the river could be affected. To investigate this interaction between flow and sediment, the present study was conducted using the Wanglin section in the middle reach of the Huai River as the study site. A 1D hydrodynamic model was developed and validated using field data. Data from 1985–2014 were used as a continuous series while data from 2004–2014 were used as a repetitive series. The sediment variation and distribution processes at different locations were discussed. It was found that the river channel displayed several notable characteristics. In the flow direction, the channel had frontal erosion and backward deposition. The variation rate was relatively slow. With reduced sediment, the overall deposition at the Wanglin section was significantly mitigated. Future recommendations are provided based on the present simulation for flood mitigation along the Huai River.
Ecological and biological features of river crayfish in the modern conditions of the Kuibyshev reservoir
Authors: Kalaida Marina Lvovna , Borisova Svetlana Dmitrievna , Khamitova Madina Farhadovna
Published: July 2021

Crayfish are considered as objects of consumption in the modern world. An increase in their share in the production of aquaculture objects is shown. The data on the state of the crayfish population on the territory of the Middle Volga before regulation, after the formation of the Kuibyshev reservoir and at the present time are presented. It was shown that the size-weight and ecological-biological characteristics of long-toed crayfish before regulation and after the formation of the reservoir are similar. The data on the modern size-age characteristics of populations of narrow-clawed crayfish in the Volga-Kama reach of the Kuibyshev reservoir are presented. It is shown that in the catches the basis is made up of three-year-olds 13–15 cm long and weighing about 80–100 g. The equation for the dependence of body weight on the zoological length of river narrow-clawed crayfish in the Volga-Kama reach of the Kuibyshev reservoir: y = 35,588x0,3073. The equation for the dependence of body weight on the commercial length of narrow-clawed crayfish in the Volga-Kama Reach of the Kuibyshev Reservoir: y = 29,409x0,3275. Chemical analysis of narrow-clawed crayfish revealed 12 elements. The following sequences of the content of elements in narrow-clawed crayfish from the Volga-Kama reach of the Kuibyshev reservoir were noted: in the muscle tissue of edible parts — Ca ˃K ˃S ˃P ˃Cu ˃Fe ˃Zn ˃Mn ˃ Br ˃Sr; in shell — Ca ˃Si ˃P ˃S ˃K ˃Sr ˃Ti ˃Fe ˃Mn ˃Cu ˃Br ˃Zn; in entire crayfish — Ca ˃K ˃P ˃Si ˃S ˃Sr ˃Fe ˃Mn ˃Cu ˃Ti ˃Br ˃Zn. In the edible parts of the narrow-clawed crayfish of the Volga-Kama reach of the Kuibyshev reservoir, there are no such hazardous elements as lead, arsenic, cadmium and mercury. Crayfish can be used as a feed additive in feed for aquaculture objects. Crayfish breeding in the structure of aquaculture in the Middle Volga region can become an important component. The development of aquabiotechnology makes it possible to use natural crayfish populations for the tasks of creating industrial crayfish farms.
Growth Performance and Nutritional Value of Chlorella ellipsoidea in Fertilizer Factory Effluent Media
Authors: TOYUB M. A. , AHMED S.R. , MIAH M. I. , HABIB M. A. B.
Published: July 2021

The growth performance of green alga, Chlorella ellipsoidea was studied in a laboratory in different concentrations of fertilizer factory effluent media (FFEM). Five different concentrations viz. 40, 45, 50, 55 and 60% of FFEM and bold basal medium (BBM) (control) were used with three replications for a period of three months. Each trial was done for a period of 16 days. The initial cell density of C. ellipsoidea was 2.5×105 cells.ml-1 which attained a maximum density of 198.49x105 cells.ml-1 in BBM followed by 182.07, 157.41, 142.34, 137.57 and 121.35 (x105 cells. ml-1) in 50, 55, 45, 60 and 40 % FFEM, respectively on the 10th day of culture. A similar trend was observed in the case of chlorophyll a content and the range was 5.85 to 9.39 mg.l-1. The specific growth rate (SGR, μ.day-1) on the basis of cell number and chlorophyll a were found at 0.40 to 0.44 and 0.41 to 0.45, respectively and was significantly (p<0.05) higher in BBM. The total biomass was found at 629.13 and 541.36 mg.l-1 in BBM and 50% FFEM, respectively. The overall growth performance of C. ellipsoidea was significantly (p<0.05) higher in 50% FFEM than in other concentrations of FFEM. The cultured microalga was found nutritionally rich.
Southwest Monsoon Effect on Plankton Occurrence and Distribution in Parts of Bay of Bengal
Authors: ZAFAR M.
Published: July 2021

The present investigation was carried out for one year from March 1988 to February 1989 and focused on hydroplankton aspects in parts of Bay of Bengal. The hydrological factors were mainly governed by the monsoon and river systems flowing into the Bay. A marked seasonal fluctuation in salinity, dissolved oxygen, water temperature and suspended particles was observed, generally which was a unique feature of the northeastern coastal part of the Bay of Bengal. The higher abundance of phytoplankton was recorded in January (3332 cells.l-1) during the low turbidity and bright sunshine period. The minimum was found in August (1295 cells.l-1) when maximum rainfall and fresh water discharge were recorded. Total phytoplankton population were found to have a significant negative correlation with suspended particles at four stations in the study area (S1, r = - 0.887, P < 0.1; S2, r = -0.920, P < 0.001; S3, r = -0.807, P < 0.01; S4, r = -0.920, P < 0.001). Maximum density of zooplankton was recorded in September (326146.36 per 100 m3 ), which indicated a seasonal influence on the distribution pattern of the different groups of zooplankton. Hydromedusae, Mysids and Squilla were major indicator groups and they represented only <1% of the zooplankton population. The zooplankton abundance was not significantly correlated with phytoplankton (r = 0.24, P > 0.05).
Preocupaciones del profesorado sobre la inclusión de alumnos con discapacidad en aulas ordinarias.
Authors: Pla-Viana Lena , Villaescusa-Alejo M. Isabel
Published: July 2021

Este estudio tiene como objetivo principal conocer las preocupaciones de los profesores de los diferentes niveles educativos, en el caso de que alumnos con discapacidad fueran escolarizados en sus aulas. Se ha contado con la participación de 400 profesores. La información se ha recogido a través de un cuestionario elaborado ad hoc basándonos en la escala “Concern about Inclusive Education Scale” (CIE), ampliándola y adaptándola al contexto español. Los resultados muestran las principales preocupaciones de los profesores de la Comunidad Valenciana y apuntan a la necesidad de profundizar en este tema para poder diseñar una formación específica que ayude a los profesores a hacer frente a las inquietudes con las que se enfrentan en su labor docente.
Estudo psicométrico do Questionário de Atitudes Socioculturais em Relação à Aparência – 4
Authors: Lopes da Silva Fernanda , Cassepp-Borges Vicente , Paiva Maria Silvia Paolucci de
Published: July 2021

O presente artigo relata um estudo sobre as influências que fatores socioculturais produzem na composição e na percepção da imagem corporal. O objetivo foi compreender as propriedades psicométricas do Questionário de Atitudes Socioculturais em Relação à Aparência (SATAQ-4). A escala foi aplicada em 390 participantes com idade média de 22,66 anos (DP= 4,68). O SATAQ-4 apresentou cinco fatores de influência sociocultural: três subescalas que avaliam pressões socioculturais e duas de internalização do padrão de beleza, tanto em análises exploratórias quanto confirmatórias. As diferenças encontradas entre sexos indicaram que as mulheres são mais influenciadas socioculturalmente e foi encontrada correlação entre magnitude da pressão sociocultural/internalização do padrão de beleza e autoestima.
Корупція як чинник загрози національній безпеці
Authors: Antonova Liudmyla , Abdullayev Vahif
Published: July 2021

У статті висвітлено явище корупції як чинник загрози національній безпеці сучасної України й надано пропозиції щодо нівелювання корупційних проявів у вітчизняній системі національної безпеки. Змістовно розкрито сутність таких полікомпонентних понять як «корупція», «національна безпека України», «національні інтереси України», «загрози національній безпеці України», «антикорупційна політика», «антикорупційна стратегія». Зазначено складові національної безпеки України, її основні об’єкти. Визначено основні інституціональні загрози національній безпеці сучасної України. З’ясовано причини та умови виникнення, існування та розповсюдження сучасної корупції. Розкрито корупцію як сучасне транснаціональне й транскордонне явище. Охарактеризовано глобалізаційне явище корупції з позиції транснаціоналізму. З’ясовано характерні риси явища корупції в сучасній Україні. Визначено місію, мету сучасної антикорупційної політики. Здійснено системний аналіз проектів антикорупційних стратегій України. Запропоновано актуальні положення до ймовірної національної антикорупційної стратегії. Надано практичні пропозиції щодо зменшення рівня корупції у вітчизняних органах публічної влади. Аргументовано зв'язок існування корупції з наявністю людського чинника. Визначено роль та значення корупції у питаннях міждержавної взаємодії та міжнародної співпраці. Теоретико-практично обґрунтовано нагальну потребу в удосконаленні та розвитку механізмів запобігання та протидії корупції з урахуванням закордонного досвіду на сучасному етапі розвитку української держави. З метою запровадження дієвих механізмів реалізації вітчизняної антикорупційної політики запропоновано прямі та інституційні заходи протидії корупції.
Взаємозалежність дезадаптації та прокрастинації державних службовців в різні періоди кар'єрного зростання
Authors: Kotlyar Lyudmila
Published: July 2021

Стаття присвячена проблемі взаємозалежності дезадаптації та прокрастинації державних службовців, виявленню основних підходів. Процес адаптації передбачає резерви державних службовців щодо забезпечення управлінської діяльності та існування в умовах підвищеної стресогенності зовнішнього середовища, яке постійно змінюється. Дезадаптація державних службовців призводить до порушення взаємодії з середовищем, посилювання проблемних ситуацій в управлінській діяльності та супроводжується міжособистісними і внутрішньоособистісними конфліктами в різні періоди кар’єрного зростання. Діагностичними критеріями дезадаптації державних службовців є порушення в професійній діяльності в різні періоди кар’єрного зростання та в міжособистісній сфері.
Дезадаптація як процес, що посилює проблемні ситуації в управлінській діяльності та супроводжується міжособистісними і внутрішньоособистісними конфліктами є предиктором прокрастинації державних службовців в різні періоди кар’єрного зростання. У результаті аналізу наукових джерел визначено сутність та основні ознаки дезадаптації та прокрастинації державних службовців. Розглянуті та проаналізовані  актуальні наукові  підходи до визначення понять. З’ясовані основні аспекти вищевказаних явищ показали, що  феномен прокрастинації є негативне явище, яке перешкоджає суспільному розвитку і розуміється як  постійне відкладання важливих  справ та прийняття рішень, що завжди повторюються всупереч усвідомленню державними службовцями негативних наслідків та неготовністю взяти на себе відповідальність.
Висновком є те, що в процесі дезадаптації державні службовці менш енергетично обдаровані, не досить гнучкі та мобільні, а проблемні ситуації, міжособистісні та внутрішньоособистісні конфлікти, які виникають в різні періоди кар’єрного зростання, підвищують рівень прокрастинації виконання справ і прийняття рішень. Показниками дезадаптації державних службовців є: нездатність  до формування нового гомеостатичного стану під час взаємодії організму та середовища; нездатність забезпечення дільності в умовах підвищеної стресогенності зовнішнього середовища, що постійно змінюється; нездатність враховувати особливості середовища й активно впливати на нього; низький рівень суб’єктивного відчуття благополуччя; об’єктивна або суб’єктивна неможливість самореалізації та досягнення значимих цілей.
Проявами прокрастинації державних службовців в різні періоди кар`єрного зростання є: відволікання з причини розсіяної уваги і неможливістю зібратися;  недбалість і поспішність в процесі виконання справ і прийняття рішень; негативний вплив Інтернету, який постійно  відволікає від виконання справ і прийняття рішень; імпульсивність, яка ускладнює контроль поведінки та планування дій відповідно до мети; різноспрямована пошукова поведінка, що приводить до порушення цілепокладання.
Studies in Neotropical Araliaceae. IX. Four New Species of Sciodaphyllum from the Cordillera Abitagua, Eastern Andes of Ecuador
Authors: Neill David A. , Lowry II Porter P. , Plunkett Gregory M. , Mora M. Marcela , Merino Efrén , Asanza Mercedes , Jost Lou
Published: July 2021

Following the recent resurrection of Sciodaphyllum P. Browne (Araliaceae) to accommodate the majority of Neotropical species formerly included in Schefflera J. R. Forst. & G. Forst., we have begun to describe the many new members of this genus documented during field and herbarium studies conducted over the past several years. Here we describe and illustrate four new hemi-epiphytic species of Sciodaphyllum from a small area of the eastern Andes in central Ecuador: the western slopes of the Cordillera Abitagua in canton Baños, Tungurahua Province, in the buffer zone of Llanganates National Park. The four new species described, all collected within a few days in an area of less than 10 km² and not known from any other locality, are S. merinoi D. A. Neill, G. M. Plunkett, Lowry & M. M. Mora, S. purocafeanum G. M. Plunkett, M. M. Mora, D. A. Neill & Lowry, S. recaldiorum Lowry, G. M. Plunkett, M. M. Mora & D. A. Neill, and S. zunacense M. M. Mora, Lowry, G. M. Plunkett & D. A. Neill. The conservation status of all four species is assessed as Vulnerable (VU D2) according to the IUCN Red List criteria.
Pregnancy in a Patient with RETT SYNDROME Mutation: Dilemmas in Management
Authors: Raman Dr. Srimathy , Shankar Dr. Harshala , Shekarappa Dr. Priyanka , Shirodkar Dr. Savitha , Venkataram Dr. Padmalatha
Published: July 2021

Rett syndrome, a neurodevelopmental disorder is caused by MECP2 gene mutations inherited sporadically or x linked dominant fashion. It almost exclusively affects girls. Genetic testing can help in preventing recurrence by offering prenatal diagnosis in affected families. We discuss the case of a patient who had such a mutation and discuss her pregnancy outcomes.