bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiology, Species Distribution, and Outcome of Nosocomial Candida spp. Bloodstream Infection in Shanghai — An 11-year Retrospective Analysis in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: ZHENG Yan-Jun , XIE Ting , WU Lin , LIU Xiao-Ying , ZHU Ling , CHEN Ying , MAO En-Qiang , HAN Li-Zhong , CHEN Er-Zhen , Yang Zhi-Tao
Published: February 2021

BackgroundThe incidence of Candida bloodstream infections (BSIs), has increased over time. In this study, we aimed to describe the current epidemiology of Candida BSI in a large tertiary care hospital in Shanghai and to determine the risk factors of 28-day mortality and the impact of antifungal therapy on clinical outcomes. MethodsAll consecutive adult inpatients with Candida BSI at Ruijin Hospital from 2008.1 to 2018.12 were enrolled. Underlying diseases, clinical severity, species distribution, antifungal therapy, and their impact on the outcomes were analyzed. ResultsAmong the 370 inpatients with 393 consecutive episodes of Candida BSI, the incidence of nosocomial Candida BSI was 0.39 episodes/1000 hospitalized patients. Of the 393 cases, 299 (76.1%) were treated with antifungal therapy (247 and 52 were treated with early appropriate and targeted antifungal therapy, respectively). The overall 28-day mortality rate was 28.5%, which was significantly lower in those who received early appropriate (25.5%) or targeted (23.1%) antifungal therapy than in those who did not (39.4%; P=0.012 and P=0.046, respectively). In multivariate Cox regression analysis, age, chronic renal failure, mechanical ventilation, and neutropenia were found to be independent risk factors of 28-day mortality rate. Patients who received antifungal therapy had a lower mortality risk than did those who did not.ConclusionsThe incidence of Candida BSI has increased steadily in the past 11 years at our tertiary care hospital in Shanghai. Antifungal therapy influenced short-term survival, but no significant difference in mortality was observed between those who received early appropriate and targeted antifungal therapy.
Insulin-Like Growth Factor Binding Protein 5: A Novel Regulator of Early Osteogenic Differentiation of hMSCs
Authors: Zhang Zhimin , Li Min , Jiang Daolong , Han Zhengyang , Wang Lihua
Published: February 2021

Insulin-like growth factor binding protein 5 (IGFBP5) is broadly bioactive, but its role in osteogenic differentiation of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) remains to be clarified. Herein, we determined that IGFBP5 expression was markedly increased during the early osteogenic differentiation of hMSCs. We then overexpressed and knocked down this gene in hMSCs and evaluated the impact of the manipulation of IGFBP5 expression on osteogenic differentiation based upon functional assays, ALP staining, and the expression of osteogenic markers. Together, these analyses revealed that IGFBP5 overexpression enhanced early osteogenic differentiation as evidenced by increased ALP staining and osteogenic marker induction, whereas knocking down this gene impaired the osteogenic process. Overexpressing IGFBP5 also markedly bolstered extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) phosphorylation level, while IGFBP5 knockdown suppressed this signaling activity. We additionally compared the impact of simultaneous IGFBP5 overexpression and ERK1/2 inhibitor treatment to the effect of IGFBP5 overexpression alone in these hMSCs, revealing that small molecule-mediated EKR1/2 inhibition was sufficient to impair osteogenic differentiation in the context of elevated IGFBP5 levels. These findings indicated that IGFBP5 drives the early osteogenic differentiation of hMSCs via the ERK1/2 signaling pathway. Our results offer value as a foundation for future efforts to study and treat serious bone-related diseases including osteoporosis.
Degradation of Acrylic Acid/acrylamide Superabsorbent Copolymer
Authors: Bankeeree Wichanee , Samathayanon Chalermkwan , Prasongsuk Sehanat , Lotrakul Pongtharin , Kiatkamjornwong Suda
Published: February 2021

Poly(potassium acrylate), P(KA), and poly[acrylamide-co-(potassium acrylate)], P(Am-co-KA), were synthesized and an effective degradation technique of the polymers via chemical and biological processes were pursued. Significant reductions in dry mass and water absorbency were observed after P(KA) (53% and 54%, respectively) and P(Am-co-KA) (43% and 40%, respectively) were buried in the soil for ten weeks. The living fungal culture failed to degrade the polymers, but the enzymatic treatment using crude peroxidase (20 U/g) for 16 h significantly decreased the dry mass (15%; 15.0±0.3 g) and water absorbency (13%; 16.0±1.0 g/g) of P(KA). Chemical oxidation using H2O2 at high temperature with/without peroxidase efficiently degraded P(KA) and P(Am-co-KA). The maximum degradation of P(KA) (99.84% weight loss) was obtained when incubated with 12.8% (v/w) H2O2 at 65 ºC for 7.3 h while 98.43% weight loss was achieved after P(Am-co-KA) was incubated with 14.8% (v/w) H2O2 at 68 ºC for 9.2 h. No significant inhibition was observed in seed germination of mung bean grown on the untreated polymers but sweet corn was slightly inhibited. The effects of degraded products on mung bean germination were not significantly different from the control and untreated polymers. On sweet corn, the degraded products were apparently less toxic than did the untreated polymers. These results suggested that the rapid and efficient degradation of polyacrylate and its copolymer by the thermo-oxidation of H2O2 could be applied for a larger scale of SAP waste management.
Sperm cryopreservation of male cancer patients for fertility preservation : 10-year monocentric experience
Authors: Liu Xiao , Liu Bo , liu shasha , xian yang , zhao wenrui , zhou bin , xiao xiao , zhu xiao fang , wang li , jiang min , li fuping
Published: February 2021

Background: Semen cryopreservation is an effective method to preserve fertility, which is very important for male cancer patients. Unfortunately, due to unaware of the opportunities for sperm cryopreservation ﻿for both physicians and cancer patients, not a lot of data on ﻿evaluating the semen parameters and dispositions of the cryopreserved samples ﻿of Chinese cancer population are available in the literature. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed semen parameters as well as the clinical outcomes of ﻿assisted reproductive treatments (ART) of 339 male cancer patients of Chinese population who were referred to our center from 2010 to 2019 for fertility preservation. Results: We first classify the male tumors into six major types according to body regions. The most prevalent cancer patients who came from our cohort for sperm banking were hematological neoplasms patients, and the second cancers were germ cell tumors. Patients with germ cell tumors had the lowest pre- thaw and post-thaw concentration among the six major cancer types. However, we separately compared among testicular tumors, lymphoma and leukemia, it turned out that leukemia had the lowest pre-thaw concentration. Most cancer patients (58%) chose to go on keeping their specimens in storage. The second proportion selected to discard their specimens electively (31%). ﻿Over the years, there were only 13 patients (4%) returned to use their sperm by ART. In the storage samples, germ cell tumors were the most proportion ones (29.3%). Moreover, in the unfrozen samples, the percentage of hematological neoplasms were the most (45.5%).Conclusions: To our knowledge, we had owned the most numbers of male cancers who came to sperm bank for fertility conservation in the southwest of China. ﻿In our study we suggested that sperm quality could decrease even before antineoplastic treatment and sperm banking ﻿prior to treatment should be strongly recommended for male cancer patients. ﻿
Thin Endometrium and Cleavage Embryo Transfer Are Associated With Ectopic Pregnancy After in Vitro Fertilization‑embryo Transfer Cycles: a Matched Case–control Study Using Propensity Score Matching
Authors: Zhao Ying , Liu Dong'e , Liu Nenghui , Li Yumei , Yao Zhongyuan , Tian Fen , Xu Aizhuang , Li Yanping
Published: February 2021

Objective: To evaluate the relationship between the endometrial features (endometrial thickness(EMT), pattern and endometrium growth amplitude and rate) and the embryo stage transferred and ectopic pregnancy after IVF-ET based on the data of 628 matched cases. Methods: This was a 1:1 matched case-control study that enrolled 314 EP patients and 314 matched IUP patients from the ART center of Xiangya Hospital of Central South University from January 2014 to April 2020. Univariate analysis and multiple-stepwise logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the risk factors of EP, and a receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve was generated to predict EP. Results: 1. The EP group had a higher cleavage stage embryo transfer rate(94.57% vs 86.22%), a thinner endometrium on transformation day(the day when progesterone was added in the frozen embryo cycle or the trigger day in the fresh embryo cycle) (9.40(2.60) mm vs 9.80(2.60)mm) compared with IUP group. In fresh embryo cycles, the EP group had a higher endometrium pattern C proportion on transformation day, a smaller endometrium increment, and a slower endometrial growth rate compared with the IUP group. 2.The ROC curves were used to analyze the cut-off values of the EMT on transformation day, the endometrial growth amplitude and rate in fresh cycles, the results were 9.35mm, 4.90mm and 0.491 mm/d, respectively. The incidence of EP was significantly different between groups according to cut-off values. 3.The transferred embryo stage and EMT on transformation day were independent factors affecting outcome in the general population. The area under the curve(AUC) of the EMT and the stage of embryos transferred for EP prediction was 0.604, sensitivity was 0.702, and specificity was 0.465. The EMT on trigger day was an independent factor affecting outcome in the fresh cycles. The AUC of the EMT for EP prediction in fresh cycles was 0.605, sensitivity was 0.805, and specificity was 0.420. Conclusions: 1. Transferring cleavage stage embryo, and thin EMT on the transformation day were risk factors for EP. 2. Thin EMT and pattern C on transformation day may be related to abnormal endometrial receptivity and endometrial peristaltic waves. 3.The combined indicator of EMT and embryonic development stage could not well predict the occurrence of EP after ET.
Salvia Miltiorrhiza Extract Prevents Atherosclerosis Development via TLR4/ NF-κB Pathway
Authors: Wang Jiangli , Xu Hongjun , Zhao Wei , Cui Qingzhuo , Zhou Luyang , Zhou Yongjie , An Shengjun
Published: February 2021

Aim of the Study Aqueous extract from Salvia Miltiorrhiza has been traditionally used to treat cardiovasulcar diseases. This study aims to explore the anti-inflammatory mechanisms underlying attenuation of atherosclerosis development by aqueous extract from Salvia Miltiorrhiza. Materials and methods Male ApoE-/- mice were randomly allocated into the model, the SABP, and the rosuvastatin calcium groups (RC). After 8-wk-treatment, the lipid profiles in serum, the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and creatine kinase (CK) in heart tissue were measured and the morphology alterations of thoracic aorta and heart were assessed. The protein expression of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), TGF beta-activated kinase 1 (TAK1), nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in the heart tissue were determined by western blotting analysis. The serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), triglyceride (TG), and total cholesterol (TC) levels were increased and the high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level was decreased in ApoE-/- mice. Results SABP significantly decreased the serum lipid levels and improved histopathology in the thoracic aorta. In addition, SABP treatment reduced the expression of TLR4, TAK1, NF-κB, IL-6, and TNF-α, and inhibited the expression and activation of NF-κB in the heart of ApoE-/- mice. The LDH and CK in the heart did not differ significantly among different groups, and the heart did not have obvious pathological changes. Conclusions These findings indicated that SABP may exert an anti-atherosclerotic effect by lowering blood lipids and inhibiting inflammatory response via TLR4/ NF-κB signaling pathway.
Extremity Risk Factors of Sepsis for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Authors: Chan Yi-Chia , Chen Chao-Long , Wang Chih-Chi , Lin Chih-Che , Yong Chee-Chien , Chiu King-Wah , Wu Keng-Liang
Published: February 2021

Background: Upper and lower gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy is performed to survey malignancy before living donor liver transplantation (LDLT). However, sepsis may occur following elective endoscopy. Methods: This retrospective study reviewed the medical records of 642 cirrhotic recipients who underwent endoscopy from 2008 to 2016. We analyzed the incidence and risk factors of post-endoscopy sepsis during 2008-2012 (experience cohort). Our protocol changed after 2013 (validation cohort) to include antibiotic prophylaxis.Results: In experience cohort, 36 cases (10.5%) of the 342 LDLT candidates experienced sepsis within 48 hours after endoscopy. The sepsis rate was significantly higher in patients with hepatic decompensation than patients without (22.2% vs. 9.6% vs. 2.6% in Child C/B/A groups respectively; x2= 20.97, P <0.001). Using multivariate logistic regression analysis, the factors related to post-endoscopy sepsis were the Child score (OR 1.46; 95% CI 1.24-1.71), Child classes B and C (OR 3.80 and 14.13; 95% CI 1.04-13.95 and 3.97-50.23, respectively), hepatic hydrothorax (OR 4.85; 95% CI 1.37-17.20), and antibiotic prophylaxis (OR 0.08; 95% CI 0.01-0.64). In validation cohort, antibiotics were given routinely, and all cases of hepatic hydrothorax (n=10) were drained. Consequently, 4 (1.3%) episodes of sepsis occurred among 300 LDLT candidates, and the incidence was significantly lower than before (1.3% vs. 10.5%, P <0.001).Conclusions: Patients with decompensated cirrhosis and hepatic hydrothorax have higher risk of sepsis following endoscopy. In advanced cirrhotic patients, antibiotic prophylaxis and drainage of hydrothorax may be required to prevent sepsis before elective GI endoscopy.
German Translation and Pre-testing of Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) and Expert Recommendations for Implementation Change (ERIC)
Authors: Regauer Verena , Seckler Eva , Campbell Craig , Phillips Amanda , Rotter Thomas , Bauer Petra , Müller Martin
Published: February 2021

Background: Implementation frameworks may support local implementation strategies with a sound theoretical foundation. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) facilitates identification of contextual barriers and facilitators, and the Expert Recommendations for Implementation Change (ERIC) allows selecting adequate implementation strategies. Both instruments are already used in German-speaking countries; however, no standardised and validated translation is available thus far. The aim of this study was to translate the CFIR and ERIC framework into German, in order to increase the use of these frameworks and the adherence to evidence-based implementation efforts in German-speaking countries.Methods: The translation of the original versions of the CFIR and ERIC framework was guided by the World Health Organisation’s recommendations for the process of translating and adapting both conceptual frameworks. Accordingly, a four-step process was employed: First, forward translation from English into German was conducted by a research team of German native speakers with fluent knowledge of the English language. Second, a bilingual expert panel comprising one researcher with German as his mother tongue and expert command of the English language and one English language expert and university teacher reviewed the translation and discussed inconsistencies with the initial translators. Third, back-translation into English was conducted by an English native speaking researcher. The final version was pre-tested with 12 German researchers and clinicians who were involved in implementation projects using cognitive interviews.Results: The translation and review process revealed some inconsistencies between the original version and the German translations. All issues could be solved by discussion. Central aspects of the items were confirmed in 60% to 70% of the items, and modifications were proposed in 30% of the items. Finally, we revised one CFIR-item heading after pre-testing. The final version was given consent by all involved parties.Conclusions: Now, two validated and tested implementation frameworks to guide implementation efforts are available in the German language and can be used to improve adherence to and use of evidence-based implementation strategies into practice.
Application of an Auxiliary Wheel Cleaning System in the Grinding of SPK Tool Steel
Authors: adibi hamed , Hatami Omid , Rezaei Seyed Mehdi
Published: February 2021

Grinding operation is one of the most complex and accurate machining processes whose performance is highly dependent on the surface conditions of the grinding wheel. As the friction between abrasive grains and the workpiece results in a large amount of heat, the use of coolant can prevent the workpiece surface from burning, microstructure alteration, subsurface damages, and hardness variation. To get better the cleaning of the abrasive grains on the surface of the wheel during the grinding process, this paper is focused on the performance of an auxiliary compressed air jet system during grinding of hard-to-grind materials. Moreover, the wheel loading of the grinding wheel will also be evaluated. Different incident angles of the compressed air nozzle (0˚, 30˚, 45˚, and 60˚) were examined. Furthermore, conventional flood coolant, as well as drying with and without a cleaning system, was applied for comparison purposes. Surface roughness, tangential forces, specific energy, wheel loading analysis, and SEM images were evaluated where the incident angle of 45˚ led to the best results. Wheel loading resulted in the accumulation of chips between abrasive grains to the top of cutting grains. Detection and identification of loading has been operated based on image processing technique.
Improving the Reporting Quality of Instrument Cross-cultural Adaptation: the IRICA Statement
Authors: Hou Zhengkun , LIU Feng-bin , TAN Yuan-kun , CHEN Xin-lin , CHEN Zhuo-qun
Published: February 2021

AIMS: To achieve a consensus on the reporting checklists for instrument Cross-Cultural Adaptation (CCA) research.METHODS: Firstly, we clarified the research rationality with literature review and established the preliminary checklist pool based on information extracting. Then, using the focus group and expert interview, we optimized the checklists. Finally, the international Delphi surveys were conducted to evaluate the agreement degree, importance and familiarity of the checklists. In data analysis, 21 indicators were included for quantitative assessments, accompanied with group discussions.RESULTS: A total of 61 articles was included for rational analysis and 70 items were extracted to establish the checklist pool. After focus group and experts interview research, a checklist draft contains 25 items was put forward. In the three-rounds of international Delphi surveys, 14(70.00%), 11(68.75%) and 11(68.75%) questionnaires were completed. Basing on the quantitative analysis and group discussions, 1, 1 and 9 items were deleted, added and modified. Finally, we formed the checklist for Improving the Reporting quality of Instrument cross-cultural adaptation (IRICA) which contains 24 items subhead under 6 sections: Title and structured summary, Rationale and Objective, Authorization, Participants Criteria, Forward Translations, Forward Synthesis, Backward Translations, Backward Synthesis, Experts Qualitative Review, Pilot Testing, Field Testing, Statistical methods, Participants, Series Instruments, Main results, Other analyses, Summary of evidence, Comparison of instruments, Limitations, Copyright owner interaction, Application attentions, Conclusions, Appendix, Funding. CONCLUSIONS: The IRICA statement can be used to guide users to report instrument CCA research in a standard manner, and assist to evaluate the reporting quality and study design.
Upregulation of B3GNT3 Correlates With Poor Prognosis and Decreased Immune Cell Infiltration In Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Chen Long-Jiang , Zhai Lu-Lu , Wang Wei , Wu Lun , Yao Li-Chao , Xiang Feng , Li Wei-Bo , Tang Zhi-Gang
Published: February 2021

While previous studies have suggested that B3GNT3 is associated with tumorigenesis and progression of several tumors, its expression level and clinical significance in pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAAD) remains unclear. Our study aimed to investigate the role of B3GNT3 in PAAD. B3GNT3 RNA sequencing and clinicopathological data were collected from the TCGA, GEO and GTEx databases. We assessed the expression and prognostic value of B3GNT3 in PAAD using R program and attached packages. Additionally, we investigate the correlation between B3GNT3 expression and tumor-infiltrating immune cells using CIBERSORT and the “correlation” module of GEPIA. Finally, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was used to elucidate B3GNT3 related signaling pathways in PAAD. Results showed that B3GNT3 expression was significantly higher in tumor tissues compared to normal tissues (P <0.05). Increased B3GNT3 expression was correlated with advanced histologic grade and stage (Ⅰ Vs Ⅱ). Patients with high B3GNT3 expression had a worse OS (HR = 1.713, P = 0.0005). Moreover, a negative correlation between increased B3GNT3 expression and immune infiltrating level of naive B cells, CD8 T cells, and CD4 memory activated T cells was revealed by CIBERSORT analysis. Then, further analysis verified the correlation using the “correlation” module of GEPIA. Finally, GSEA suggested that functional enrichment of B3GNT3 was mainly involved in pathways in cancer, p53 signaling pathway, TGF beta signaling pathway, catabolic and transport processes of proteins, etc. Collectively, these results suggested that overexpression of B3GNT3 might affect the infiltration of immune cells and could act as a potential prognostic biomarker of PAAD.
Investigation of Galactomannan/deacetylated Chitosan Nanocomposite Films and their Anti-bacterial Properties
Authors: Liu Wanying , Ling Zhe , Huang Caoxing , Lai Chenhuan , Yong Qiang
Published: February 2021

A little packaging is a wonderful thing, a lot of packaging is a nightmare, particularly when landfills around the world threaten to engulf our living space. The topic of edible packaging is still of interest to the food industry and other organization funding research to solve packaging dilemmas. In this research, galactomannan (GM) was used as raw material and deacetylated chitosan (DE-ChN) was used as strengthening modifier to prepare GM based packaging films. The chemical structure of the composite film was analyzed with SEM and FTIR. The properties influence for films of different DE-ChN content were studied. The obtained GM/DE-ChN nanocomposite films showed superior hydrophobicity and high tensile strength. The nanocomposite films against Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae showed great antibacterial properties. Moreover, the GM and GM/DE-ChN nanocomposite film showed no toxicity to RAW264.7 macrophage cells. The final obtained GM/DE-ChN packaging film provides a foundation for the potentials for futural plastic packaging alternatives.
Persistence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in Nasopharynx, Blood, Urine and Stool of Patients with COVID 19: A Hospital-based Longitudinal Study
Authors: Joukar Farahnaz , Kalurazi Tofigh Yaghubi , Khoshsorour Mahmoud , Taromian Sonbol , Mahfoozi Lida , Balou Heydar Ali , Jafarinezhad Alireza , Pourkazemi Aydin , Hesni Ezat , Asgharnezhad Mehrnaz , Shenagari Mohammad , Jahanzadi Issa , Naghipour Mohammadreza , Maroufizadeh Saman , Mansour-Ghanaei Fariborz
Published: February 2021

Background: This study was conducted to determine the persistence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the nasopharynx, blood, urine and stool of patients with COVID-19.Methods: In this hospital based longitudinal study, 100 confirmed COVID-19 cases were recruited, between March and August 2020 in Guilan province (Northern Iran). Nasopharynx, blood, urine and stool samples were obtained from each patient at the time of hospital admission, discharge, followed by one week after discharge and every 2 weeks until all samples were negative for SARS-CoV-2 RNA by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Survival analysis was used to identify the duration of virus persistence over time.Results: Positive blood, urine, stool RT-PCR were detected in 24%, 7% and 6% of patient respectively. The median duration of virus persistence in blood, urine and stool were 7 days (95% CI: 6.07–7.93), 6 days (95% CI: 4.16–8.41) and 13 days, 95% CI: 6.96–19.4), respectively. The maximum duration of virus persistent in blood, urine and stool were 17, 11 and 42 days from admission, respectively. Conclusions: According our results, until obtaining definite evidence of the duration of infective viral shedding, prolonged isolation duration at least 25 days from admission to hospital and strict hygienic measures for about one month were recommended.
Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Improve Testicular Steroidogenesis Machinery Dysfunction In Benzo [α] Pyrene Challenged Rats
Authors: Daoud Niveen M. , Mohamed S Aly , Ezzo Omaima H. , Ali Naglaa A.
Published: February 2021

Although Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) in low doses have potentially positive effects on reproduction by their antioxidant effects, the defensive role of Zinc nanomaterials against environmental pollutants that affect male reproduction has not been adequately studied. We designed our study to assess the impact of ZnO NPs towards reproductive dysfunction induced by Benzo[α]Pyrene (B[a]P). Forty-eight mature male rats were randomly distributed into six equal groups: G1; negative control, G2&3- positive control I &II (either 10 or 30 mg ZnO NPs / kg BW); G4. (150 mg Bap / kg BW), G 5 & 6 (Co- administrated B[a]P with different concentrations of ZnO NPs). Oxidative stress biomarkers, semiquantitative real-time PCR for steroidogenic enzymes (CY11A1, StAR, and 3β- HSD), testosterone levels and histopathology in the liver, kidney, and testicles were examined for this investigation. B[a] P treated group showed significant deterioration in all reproductive parameters and induced oxidative stress. Co-administration ZnO NPs eased oxidative stress and effectively increased the expression of CY11A1, StAR, and 3β- HSD and improved histopathological changes in the examined organs. Our results using the selected doses and with Nano particle properties confirm that ZnO NPs have an obvious ameliorative effect against B[a] P.
Application of the Self-calibrated Palmer Drought Severity Index for Estimation of Drought Impact on Maize Grain Yield in Pannonian Part of Croatia
Authors: Pandžić Krešo , Likso Tanja , Pejić Ivan , Šarčević Hrvoje , Pecina Marija , Šestak Ivana , Tomšić Davor , Mahović Nataša Strelec
Published: February 2021

Ten-day self-calibrating Palmer Drought Severity Index (scPDSI) has been computed, based on observed 10-day mean air temperature, relative humidity and precipitation totals, as a parameter of drought impact on grain yield of 32 market leading maize hybrids in 2017 and 2018 over 8 experimental locations in Pannonian part of Croatia. In addition, time series of the same climate variables for the closest “official” weather stations of Croatian Meteorological and Hydrological Service (DHMZ) for the period 1981-2018 have been used for scPDSI calibration and calculation. According to 10-day scPDSI, 2018 showed to be a „regular year“ while 2017 had a „moderate drought“ causing a maize grain yield reduction of 13%, compared to 2018. In spite some differences in climate aridity of central and eastern Croatia, a significant correlation between summer months’ 10-day scPDSI and maize grain yield has been determined. The highest average correlation coefficients across all maize hybrids for three summer months were determined for the last decade (10-day period) of July and consecutive three decades in August. The dependence of grain yield on scPDSI value is not the same for all hybrids indicating various tolerances of different hybrids to drought stress. The grain yield reduction was primarily affected by insufficient grain filling (smaller 1000-kernel weight) and to some extent by reduction of number of grains. For practical use, within the set of given 32 tested hybrids, the level of determined drought tolerance of a hybrid has to be considered along with its relative grain yield performance.
Gravity, the origin of the mass in the Cosmos.
Authors: Pavía Francisco , Alvarez Marcelino
Published: February 2021

The most accepted theory for the evolution of the Cosmos is the Big Bang theory, which suggests that, at the beginning, the entire mass-energy of the Cosmos was concentrated within an extremely small, dense and hot singularity. Here, we present a new physical formula that, although obtained in an extremely simple way, has significant implications in Cosmology. This equation indicates that the mass of the Cosmos has grown proportionally with time. This growth equates to a Planck mass for each unit of Planck Time, which is, the mass of 200000 suns per second. Finally the total energy of the Cosmos is demonstrated to be zero.
A Quantitative Study on Muslim Milk Mother's Understanding Towards the Islamic Concept of Wet Nursing
Authors: Hamjah Salasiah Hanin , Rahim Norsyamlina Che Abdul , Hashim Nurhidayah Muhammad , Bahari Nora’inan , Kusrin Zuliza Mohd. , Majid Latifah Abdul , Saidon Rafeah , llias Muhamad Zariff
Published: February 2021

Background: The practice of wet nursing or breastfeeding of another woman’s child in Malaysia is on the rise due to the emergence of public awareness about the importance and benefits of breast milk. However, it is concerning that lack of understanding of the Islamic law on wet nursing among the milk mothers, especially those relating to mahram (unmarriageability), nasab (lineage) and inheritance is a problem in the society. Hence, this study aims to determine milk mothers’ knowledge about the legal implications of wet nursing and understand the factors influencing the practice. Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study that was carried out from January to July 2019. This study was conducted on 100 women who had breastfed another child in Selangor. Data were obtained using a validated questionnaire (Cronbach alpha=0.8) and processed using the SPSS software.Results: Results showed that the majority of respondents understand the law on wet nursing especially on marriage, conditions and method of feeding. Nevertheless, the respondents still need to understand further the laws relating to nasab (lineage), guardianship and inheritance involving the milk child. This study also showed various factors that have influenced the wet-nursing practice in society. Conclusions: This study has several significant implications includes creating awareness to enhance knowledge relating to wet-nursing practice. Researches related to wet nursing and matters connected to it should continue so as to bring about much good to society.
Drainage Ditches Contribute Considerably to the CH4 Budget of a Drained and a Rewetted Temperate Fen
Authors: Köhn Daniel , Welpelo Carla , Günther Anke , Jurasinski Gerald
Published: February 2021

Small water bodies including (former) drainage ditches can be hotspots for methane (CH4) emissions from peatlands. We assessed the CH4 emissions of a drained and a rewetted temperate fen including emissions of active and former drainage ditches over the course of 2.5 years, covering three vegetation periods. Ditch CH4 emissions in the rewetted fen were significantly higher than in the drained fen. In the rewetted fen ditches contributed up to 91 % of the annual CH4 budget, despite covering only 1.5 % of the area. In the drained fen CH4 emissions were solely made up of ditch emissions. When including CH4 uptake by the peat soil, the CH4 balance of the drained fen was neutral. Dissolved organic carbon concentrations likely had an enhancing effect on CH4 emissions while nitrate and sulphate in the ditch water seem to have had an inhibitory effect. Air and water temperature controlled seasonal variability of ebullitive as well as diffusive CH4 emissions. Ebullition contributed less than 10 % to the overall CH4 budget in the ditches. Drainage ditches represent a hotspot of CH4 emissions and need therefore be taken into account when assessing the success of rewetting projects of peatlands.
Too Much of a Good Thing – Using Water to Control the Aquatic Invasive Yellow Flag Iris (Iris Pseudacorus L.)
Authors: Tarasoff Catherine , Gillies Sharon
Published: February 2021

Invasions of Iris pseudacorus L. (yellow flag iris) into wetland environments can result in changes to the functioning of the ecosystem. Field-based and greenhouse studies were initiated to study the effect of water depth on regrowth rates of cut stems of yellow flag iris. The field-based experiment occurred at 41 independent populations around the perimeter of a single wetland. The greenhouse experiment was conducted to further study the effect of water depth and duration of submersion on rhizome mortality. In both studies, treatments were compared against controls. In the field-study, yellow flag iris regrowth was significantly affected by water, though there was no relationship between water depth and percent regrowth. In the greenhouse study, there was a significant positive relationship between duration of submersion and percent mortality of rhizomes. And, there was no relationship between water depth and percent mortality; indicating that as little as 5 cm of water is sufficient to kill yellow flag iris rhizomes, if the stems are cut to the base of the plant. Our results indicate a simple technique can control yellow flag iris within aquatic ecosystems without the need for chemicals or laborious hand removal.Nomenclature: yellow flag iris, Iris pseudacorus (L.) IRPS
Skyrmion crystal formation and magnetic field
Authors: Hu X. C. , Wu H. T. , Wang X. R.
Published: February 2021

The roles of magnetic field and temperature in thermodynamic formation of skyrmion crystals (SkXs) have not been well-revealed to date. Here we present a unified theory about SkX formation and its fascinating thermodynamic behaviours. A chiral film can have many metastable states with an arbitrary number of skyrmions up to a maximal value. A perpendicular magnetic field makes a film with Qm skyrmions the lowest energy state. Qm first increases with the magnetic field up to an optimal value and then decreases with the field. The film with the largest Qm at the optimal field is an SkX. Outside of a field window, states consisting of various stripes with low skyrmion number densities are thermal equilibrium phases while an SkX is metastable. Within the field window, SkXs are the thermal equilibrium states below the Curie temperature. However, the time to reach an SkX state from a stripy phase would be too long at a low temperature. This causes a widely spread false belief that SkXs are metastable and stripy states are thermal equilibrium phase at low temperature and at the optimal field. Our theory opens a new avenue for SkX manipulation and skyrmion-based applications.
MWCNT/rGO/natural rubber latex dispersions for innovative, piezo-resistive and cement-based composite sensors
Authors: Verdolotti Letizia , Santillo Chiara , Rollo Gennaro , Romanelli Giovanni , Lavorgna Marino , Liguori Barbara , Lama Giuseppe , Preziosi Enrico , Senesi Roberto , Andreani Carla , Prisco Marco Di
Published: February 2021

The present study is focused on the development and characterization of innovative cementitious-based composite sensors. In particular, multifunctional cement mortar composites with enhanced functional, piezo-resistive, properties are designed with Multiwall Carbon Nanotube-MWCNTs and reduced Graphene Oxide-rGO dispersed in a natural-rubber latex aqueous dispersion, by exploiting both the concept of confining of the conductive filler in the polymeric phase. The manufactured cement-based composites were characterized by means of Inelastic Neutron Scattering to assess the hydration reactions and the interactions of natural rubber with the hydrated cement phases and by Electron Scanning Microscopy and X-Ray diffraction to evaluate the morphological and mineralogical structure, respectively. Piezo-resistive properties to assess electro-mechanical behavior in strain condition are also measured. The results show that the presence of natural-rubber latex permits to obtain a three-dimensional rGO/MWCNTs segregate structure which catalyzes the formation of hydrated phases of the cement and increases the piezo-resistive sensitivity of mortar composites, representing a reliable approach in developing innovative mortar-based piezoresistive strain sensors.
Prospective Association Between Depressive Symptoms and Stroke Risk Among Middle-aged and Older Chinese
Authors: Cui Yimin , Zhu Chunsu , Lian Zhiwei , Han Xueyan , Xiang Qian , Liu Zhenming , Zhou Ying
Published: February 2021

Background: This study aimed to assess the association between baseline symptoms and changes in depressive symptoms and stroke incidents. Methods: We used data from the Chinese Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study conducted in 2013, 2015, and 2018. In total, 10,100 individuals aged ≥ 45 years and without a history of stroke in 2013 were included. Depressive symptoms were measured using the 10-item version of the Center for Epidemiological Studied Depression scale (elevated depressive symptoms cutoff ≥ 10). We assessed whether baseline depressive symptoms and changes them, assessed by two successive surveys (stable low/no, recent onset, recently remitted, and stable high depressive symptoms) were associated with stroke incidents reported through 2018. Logistic regression analyses adjusted for baseline characteristics were performed. Results: For baseline depressive symptom analysis (n = 10,100), 545 (5.4%) had reported stroke incidents in the following 5-year period. Individuals with elevated depressive symptoms in 2013 experienced a markedly higher stroke risk (OR 1.53, 95% CI 1.28–1.84) compared with those without elevated depressive symptoms. In the analysis of changes in depressive symptoms (n = 8,491, 430 (5.1%) stroke events), participants with stable high (OR 2.01, 95% CI 1.58–2.56) and recent-onset (OR 1.39, 95% CI 1.04–1.85) depressive symptoms presented higher stroke risk compared to those with stable low/no depressive symptoms, while recently remitted symptoms (OR 1.12, 95% CI 0.80–1.57)) were not associated with stroke risk.Conclusion: In conclusion, stable high and newly started depressive symptoms were associated with increased stroke risk, whereas the improvement of depressive symptoms was not related to increase in stroke risk, suggesting that stroke risk may be decreased by effective management of depressive symptoms.
In Silico Docking Studies of Ag Nanoparticles and Its Derivatives Against NS5B Protein of Hepatitis-C Virus
Authors: Akram Arslan , Ahmad Waseem , Arif Muhammad Maaz , Saqib Khaleeq Ahmad , Pirzada Rameez-ul-Hassan , Malik Arif , Naqvi Syed Zeeshan Haider
Published: February 2021

Nanotechnology refers to the synthesis of nanomaterials (1-100nm) and their applications. Nanoscience can deal with individual atoms and molecules. In recent times, an agreement has started to rise about the informatics foundation expected to accumulate, curate, and share data among every one of the fields in nanotechnology. Nanoinformatics is fulfilling this demand. It is the science about figuring out which data is important to the nanoscale science and after that creating and implementing viable systems for gathering, approving, sharing, analyzing, modeling, and applying that information. Nanoinformatics is essential for efficient production and relative description of nanomaterials. The present study focused on the prediction of interactions of three ligands i.e. silver nanoparticles, tyrosine capped silver nanoparticles, and silver oxide nanoparticles with NS5B protein of HCV. ΑutoDock 4, Discovery Studio, ChemDraw Ultra, OpenBabel, and Chimera software were used. Computational docking helps to evaluate conformations of small ligands attached to macromolecular proteins. NS5B plays a crucial role in HCV replication. It weighs about 66-KDa. It is an RNA-dependent RNA membrane-associated polymerase. The results were obtained from AutoDock 4 and visualized in Discovery Studio and Chimera. Silver nanoparticles showed interactions with LYS81, LYS172, LYS173, TYR176, and ASP177. Tyrosine capped silver nanoparticles formed bonds with SER218, ASP220, GLU357, and LEU362 in the palm region. Silver oxide nanoparticles interacted with LEU260, TYR261, ARG280, and ALA281 in the finger domain. All these three ligands showed promising results to inhibit the NS5B enzyme halting HCV replication.
Early Soft Tissue Response to Zirconium Oxide and Titanium Healing Abutments in Vivo: A Dog Study
Authors: Wang Min , Zhang Shuang , Chen Longjie , Zou Haixiao , Wang Yining , Xia Haibin
Published: February 2021

Background: This study aimed to investigate clinical characteristics and early soft tissues response to zirconium oxide (Zr) and titanium (Ti) abutments in dogs. Methods: Eight implants-four at each hemi-mandible were inserted after bilateral mandibular third and fourth premolars and first molars extraction. Two Zr and two Ti healing abutments were connected in each unilateral mandible 8 weeks later. The ligation method was used to make peri-implant mucositis model. The twenty-four abutments were divided into four groups, Zr and Ti healing abutments with ligation (ZrL, TiL) and non-ligation (ZrN, TiN) groups. Clinical index, peri-implant crevicular fluid (PICF) and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-1β), soft tissue responses were tested. Two-way analysis of variance was used to analyze the data. Results: The results showed that the clinical index were similar around Zr and Ti healing abutments. PICF in ZrL and TiL groups were significantly higher than those in ZrN and TiN groups. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated inflammatory cells were non-significant differences. Conclusion: These data indicate soft tissue responses to Zr healing abutments with peri-implant mucositis was comparable to those to Ti healing abutments in vivo, and can provide theoretical foundation for Zr’s clinical application.
An investigation on the contamination of microorganisms on privacy curtains in hospital
Authors: Liang Wei , Wang Xinyang , Lu Xingxing , Liu Haibing , Hou Dong
Published: February 2021

Background: The occurrence of nosocomial infection(NI) is closely related to the environment. As an important part of hospital environment, the contamination of privacy curtain by microorganism is an important factor of NI.Methods: 360 samples of privacy curtains were sampled and distributed in common ward (CW) and Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Each curtain had three sampling heights, which were 100cm, 150cm and 200cm away from the ground. The samples were collected by cotton swab method and cultured in incubator for 48h.Results: The contamination rate of curtain in CW was 48.89%, higher than that in ICU ( P < 0.05). The contamination rate of samples at 3 months frequency was higher than that at 1 month frequency ( P <0.05).The contamination rate of the curtains in CW and ICU at the frequency of 1 month was lower than that at the frequency of 3 months ( P <0.05). In this two cleaning frequency，the contamination rate of curtains with a height of 200cm was lower than that of samples with a height of 150cm and 100cm. The main microorganisms on privacy curtains were coagulase negative Staphylococcus.Conclusion : The contamination rate of sampling in ICU is lower than that in CW. The contamination in the higher position of the curtain is less than that in the lower part. It can reduce the contamination of microorganisms on the curtain and save the cost of hospital cleaning by removing the curtain in sections and cleaning regularly.
Finding patients’ perception and attitudes to neurosurgery: A qualitative approach
Authors: Cherkil Sandhya , Cherian Liza , Gopi Devika , Panikar Dilip , Narayanan Prashant , Nair Anup
Published: February 2021

Objective: Undergoing a neurosurgical procedure is thought to be traumatic and anxiety provoking which can affect treatment decisions. This study aims to explore the attitude and perception of neurosurgery.Method: Eight semi-structured open-ended questions were administered to 47 patients who underwent neurosurgery from 2018 October to 2019 April. Two questions which were common to pre and post-operative conditions explored the patients’ emotional responses before and after the surgery. The two other questions explored the communication between the patient and the doctor. To determine the moderating factors responsible for the attitude-change, two additional questions were administered postoperatively. The patients were interviewed a week before and two days after the surgery. The patient responses in verbatim were recorded and were subjected to open and axial coding.Results: After thematic analysis the emerging themes were noted. The overarching themes were 1) The patients experience worry before the surgery. 2) The patients are comfortable in their communication with the doctor before getting operated. 3) Post-surgery, the patients experience a dip in their worry. 4) A significant percentage of patients is happy with the information received from their doctor. 5) Majority of the patients reports satisfaction with the communication between them and the doctor. 6) There is a section of patients who are not comfortable despite the information they have received.Conclusion: The patients experience anxiety before and after the surgery and have concerns about the future. The communication skills of the treating doctor have a moderating effect on the patients’ perception of neurosurgery.
Dietary Diversity Among Indian Adolescents: Evidence From UDAYA Study
Authors: Bansal Anjali , Arora Pooja , Sharma Radhika , Misra Archa
Published: February 2021

Background: Adolescence is a period transition from childhood to adulthood , in which they undergo various rapid changes from physical appearances to changes in the food habits. During this period, childbearing age starts, particularly for women, which is one of the most precarious time wherein optimum nutritional status need to be achieved. So, Eating healthy during adolescence is important as rapid physical growth increases the need of several nutrients.Methods: In our study, we have used the UDAYA longitudinal study design which provides a unique opportunity to determine the role of dietary pattern at one time point to the changes at the time 2. For analysis, cross-tabulation and chi-square test is used to test independence of various groups. Binary logistic regression is used to identify determinants of minimum dietary diversity (Yes=1, No=0) of the adolescents. Adjusted odds ratio are computed for Uttar Pradesh and Bihar separately, as well as for combined sample.Results: In the present study, the average adherence to the dietary pattern in our adolescents was 58%, while in Bihar it was 61% , and in UP it was 56%. Using the logistic regression analysis, we found that there was significant difference in the MDD of adolescents by their socio-economic characteristics. But no differentials were found among young and old adolescents in UP and Bihar. Also, food consumption score index (A.O.R.=2.6, 95% CI (2.1-3.1), and media exposure of adolescents at wave1 (A.O.R.=2.1, 95% CI (1.7-2.7) were found significant in depicting the MDD at wave2. Conclusions: India launched ICDS scheme in 1975s to strengthen the nutritional status of young children in the country, but the recent data of NFHS-5 (2019-20), shows that the nutritional status of the country improved only marginally, or rather decreased in some parts. Strengthening and proper evaluation of ICDS programme can help to improve the pro-nutrition among the adolescents. Also, there should be a specific state policy to address the needs of adolescents, and various educational programmes should be conducted in schools where students along with their parents should be educated about the need of healthy dietary habits.