bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physiological effects of wearing N95 respirator on medical staff during prolong work hours in Covid-19 departments
Authors: shechtman liran , Benhaim Gal , irony avinoah , Ben-Zvi Ilan , Steel Laurence , Chatterji Sumit , Huszti Ella , Levy Liran
Published: January 2024

Objective: Since the emergence of coronavirus disease, health care
professionals in high-risk environments are mandated to wear N95
respirators for prolonged periods. The effect of this prolonged use on
cardio-respiratory variables and gas-exchange is poorly defined. The
objective of the current study was to determine gas exchange
abnormalities and physiological changes among healthcare workers during
a 4-hour emergency department (ED) shift while wearing the N95
respirator. Methods: This was a single-center prospective observational
study that consisted of medical staff working at the Sheba Medical
Center ED. Physiological effects and gas exchange variables were
obtained under normal breathing conditions and after 4-hour shifts while
continuously wearing an N95 respirator. Comparisons of paired
measurements were performed using a non-parametric Wilcoxon
matched-pairs signed-rank test. Results: Forty-one subjects were
included in the study. Prolonged N95 respirator use was associated with
a significant decline in plasma pH [7.35mmHg vs. 7.34mmHg, P=0.02],
PvO2 [23.2 mmHg vs. 18.6 mmHg, P<0.001] and a concurrent
increase in EtCO2 [32.5mmHg vs. 38.5mmHg, p<0.0001]. PvCO2
and bicarbonate levels did not differ. No significant change was
observed for heart rate or oxygen saturation. Conclusion: Using an N95
respirator for prolonged periods by healthcare professionals may provoke
changes in gas exchange. The clinical significance of these changes in
terms of symptoms or longer-term health status is unknown and remains to
be determined. Key Words: N95 Respirator, Physiological effects, SARS
CoV 2.
Ab initio prediction of the interaction between Pa and ammonia in the gas phase: microscopic mechanism, topological analysis and reaction rate constant
Authors: shan na , Gao Tao
Published: January 2024

As an important candidate nuclear fuel in the future advanced nuclear
energy system, actinide nitrides have attracted many scholars’ attention
due to their good thermal conductivity and economic safety. In this
research, DFT and TST are used to reasonably predict the formation
process of actinide nitrides, and the detailed reaction mechanism was
obtained, including two dehydrogenation channels and a new isomerization
channel. The results show that the HPa-NH2 structure is the lowest
energy point in the whole reaction, and the dehydrogenation path of the
planar structure is the lowest energy path of the system. In addition, a
series of topological analyses are to analyze the bond formation
behavior during the reaction in depth. Finally, considering the
one-dimensional tunneling effect, the variational transition state
method (VTST) is used to predict the reaction rate constant in the range
of 298K to 2000K. The results show that the one-dimensional tunneling
effect has less influence on the reaction, and the planar
dehydrogenation channel is more easy to happen. This research is very
important for the systematic understanding of actinide compounds and the
properties of the materials related to the compounds, and can provide
theoretical data comparison for subsequent related experimental studies
on protactinium imines.
First molecular detection of Equine Herpesvirus type 3 (EHV-3) in Chile.
Authors: Troncoso Ignacio , Calvanese Rolando , Saravia Fernando , Muñoz-Leal Sebastián , Zegpi Nhur-Aischa , Ortega Rene
Published: January 2024

Equine coital rash (ECE) is a highly contagious benign disease that
induces lesions on the external genitals, and it is caused by the equine
herpesvirus type 3 (EHV-3). The disease is globally distributed and
affects only equids. However, its presence in Chile has not been
documented from a genetic point of view. Here, we performed PCR
screenings for EHV-3 in genital lesions of external genitals in four
horses belonging to a riding station at Bulnes, Ñuble Region, Chile. We
sequenced a fragment of the glycoprotein g ( gG) gene of this
alphaherpesvirus, from three horses which signology compatible
with ECE. The sequences were identical between them and 99.7% similar
to a haplotype of EHV-3 detected in Brazil. A phylogenetic analysis
pointed that our consensus sequence forms a clade with homologue
isolates obtained from Japan, Russia and Brazil. Our results show the
presence of EHV-3 for the first time in horses with ECE in Chile.
Phenotype and severity of asthma determines bronchial epithelial immune responses to a TLR3 agonist
Authors: Porsbjerg Celeste , Nieto-Fontarigo Juan , Cerps Samuel , Ramu Sangeetha , Menzel Mandy , Hvidtfeldt Morten , A Silberbrandt , L Froessing , Klein Ditte , Sverrild Asger , Uller Lena
Published: January 2024

Background Asthma is characterized by an aggravated immune
response to respiratory viral infections: This phenomenon is a
clinically well-recognized driver of acute exacerbations, but how
different phenotypes of asthma respond immunologically to virus is
unclear. Objectives To describe the association between
different phenotypes and severity of asthma and bronchial epithelial
immune responses to viral stimulation. Methods In the
Immunoreact study, healthy subjects (n=10) and 50 patients with asthma
were included; 30 (60%) were atopic, and 34 (68%) were eosinophilic;
15 (25%) had severe asthma. All participants underwent bronchoscopy
with collection of bronchial brushings. Bronchial epithelial cells
(BECs) were expanded and stimulated with the viral replication mimic
poly (I:C) (TLR3 agonist) in vitro. The expression of
TLR3-induced pro-inflammatory and anti-viral responses of BECs were
analyzed using RT-qPCR and multiplex ELISA and compared across asthma
phenotypes and severity of disease. Results Patients with
atopic asthma had increased production of IL-4, IFN-β, IL-6, TNF-α, and
IL-1β after poly (I:C) stimulation compared to non-atopic patients,
whereas patients with eosinophilic asthma and non-eosinophilic asthma
did not differ in the response to poly (I:C). Patients with severe
asthma displayed a decreased antiviral IFN-β, and increased expression
of IL-8, most pronounced in atopic and eosinophilic asthmatics.
Interestingly, release of IL-33 and TSLP in response to poly (I:C) was
increased in severe eosinophilic asthma, but not in severe atopic
asthma. Conclusions The bronchial epithelial immune response to
a viral mimic stimulation differs between asthma phenotypes and
severities, which may be important to consider when targeting novel
asthma treatments.
Real-time Assessment of the Esophagus and Left Atrial Posterior Wall by Intra-left Atrial Echocardiography
Authors: Hayashi Katsuhide , Okumura Ken , Okamatsu Hideharu , Kaneko Shozo , Negishi Koudai , Tsurugi Takuo , Tanaka Yasuaki , Nakao Koichi , Sakamoto Tomohiro , Koyama Jyunjiro
Published: January 2024

Backgrounds: Localization of the esophagus and the left atrium (LA)
posterior wall thickness (LAPWT) should be taken into account when
delivering radiofrequency energy. Intracardiac echo (ICE) advanced into
the LA is useful in visualizing LA and surrounding structure by its high
and real-time resolution. Methods: In 73 patients (mean age, 68±12;
paroxysmal AF in 45), 3-dimensional (3D) esophagus image was created
with CARTO Soundstar® and its location was compared with contrast
esophagography saved in Carto UNIVU™. LAPWT adjacent to the esophagus
was measured at 4 levels: left superior PV (LSPV), intervenous carina
(IC), left inferior PV (LIPV), and LIPV bottom. A target AI value was
260 (25W power) on the esophagus region. Results: All patients had the
esophagus posterior to the left PV antrum. Creating 3D esophagus and
measurement of LAPWT with ICE was done without any complications. ICE
esophagus image was completely overlapped with contrast esophagography.
LAPWT (mm) was 2.8 (interquartile range, 2.5-3.2), 2.2 (1.9-2.5), 1.9
(1.8-2.1), and 2.1 (1.9-2.4) for LSPV, IC, LIPV and LIPV bottom,
respectively, while LA roof thickness 3.2 (2.9-3.6) (P<0.0001
by ANOVA). No residual conduction gap on the esophagus after the first
circumferential PV isolation was found in 64 of 73 (88%) patients.
Conclusions: ICE inserted into the LA can reliably locate and display
the esophagus and its relationship to the LA. LAPWT was thinnest at LIPV
level. AI-guide ablation targeting a relatively low target AI value 260
on the esophagus seemed to be effective.
Predictors of poor outcome in covid-19 infection, in a cohort of pediatric cancer patients, during the second wave in India.
Authors: Mohapatra Debabrata , Prabhakar Prashant , Seth Rachna , Meena Jagdish , Gupta Aditya
Published: January 2024

The second wave of COVID 19, far outnumbered the first, in cases and
deaths. We report outcome of pediatric cancer patients with COVID-19
during the second wave, from a tertiary center in India. Out of 41
patients who tested positive; 51% were asymptomatic, 36% had mild
symptoms, 12 required admissions in ward and 4 in intensive care.
Mechanical ventilation, systemic steroids, Remdesivir and IVIG were
required in those admitted to intensive care unit. Out of 4 deaths
(9.7%), 3 occurred in adolescent age and 2 had superimposed
bacterial/viral infections. Other contributors to mortality were:
cachexia, airway obstruction, disease relapse.
Solitary wave solution, breather wave solution and rogue wave solution for a KP-equation
Authors: Niu Zhenjie , Wang Zenggui
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we investigate KP equation by the Hirota bilinear method
and obtain its bilinear form successfully. On the basis of above
bilinear form, a number of explicit solutions including one-solitary
wave solution, two-solitary wave solution and their generalized form
N-solitary wave solution are obtained successfully. Moreover, in view of
the homoclinic breather limit method, we also express breather wave
solutions and rogue wave solutions of KP-equation. Finally, with
mathematical software Maple, we obtained overhead views, perspective
views and wave propagation pattern of solutions in different parameter
areas.
Reorganizing the device clinic: remote monitoring of cardiac implantable electronic devices during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Ebrille Elisa , Amellone Claudia , Lucciola Maria Teresa , Suppo Marco , Antonacci Giuseppe , Gotta Franco , Birolo Marco , Orlando Fabrizio , Favro Elisa , Giammaria Massimo
Published: January 2024

COVID-19 pandemic has caused a necessary reorganization of the elective
outpatient device clinic. Remote monitoring (RM) of cardiac implantable
electronic devices (CIEDs) has been validated as a safe and effective
tool to follow patients, limiting the need for in-person visits. We
provided a snapshot of the current clinical practice in a tertiary
electrophysiology center in Italy, suggesting a potential model of care
for patients with CIEDs. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, patients with
implantable cardioverter defibrillators/cardiac resynchronization
therapy (ICD/CRTs) were evaluated in the device clinic twice a year and
patients with pacemakers (PMs) once a year; loop recorder (ILR) patients
were followed remotely only. In the COVID-19 period RM was implemented
for all compatible CIEDs. Patients with RM were not seen in clinic
anymore and were followed with RM. In the COVID-19 period, 100% of
newly implanted devices received RM (82 ILR, 194 PMs, 80 ICDs/CRTs),
compared to 68% in the same months of 2019 (106/106 ILR, 83/203 PMs,
78/82 ICD/CRTs), p<0.01. Moreover, 502 previously implanted
patients with RM compatible devices were contacted and received RM. By
the end of February 2021, 1676 patients were remotely monitored at our
Institution, with a potential saving of outpatient visits of 1683
visits/year, against an average of 8514 RM transmissions/year needing
evaluation. RM of CIEDs is essential to reduce in-person visits during
the COVID-19 pandemic. The potential for elective outpatient
appointments reduction has to be counterbalanced by the sustainability
of a large number of transmissions and data to analyze.
COVID-19 and Vaccine Hesitancy: Could Health Literacy be the Solution?
Authors: Kocaay Funda , Yığman Fatih , Unal Nursemin
Published: January 2024

Aim: Practices such as the use of masks, cleaning measures, and social
distancing have come to the fore to prevent the COVID-19 pandemic. In
addition to this, the most important way to fight the epidemic seems to
be vaccination. However, “vaccine hesitancy” is seen as an important
obstacle to attempts to control the pandemic. With this study, we have
aimed to evaluate the effects of having inadequate or incorrect
information, one of the possible determinants of attitudes towards the
COVID-19 vaccine. Study Design: A cross-sectional design was used.
Methods: The data were collected via an online questionnaire from
patients who agreed to participate in the study. Sociodemographic Data
Form, Turkey Health Literacy Scale-32 (THLS-32) and Anti-Vaccine Scale
are filled by 496 participants in total. Results: According to the
results of our study, 7.5% of the participants stated that they would
not be vaccinated and 14.3% are indecisive. We have found a negative
correlation between vaccine refusal and health literacy, thus confirming
the main hypothesis of our study. Also, education year was a negative
predictor of vaccine hesitation. Conclusions: Currently, the most
important approach in fighting the pandemic is the vaccination of
society. Having the right information is extremely important to fight
vaccine refusal attitudes. The fight against vaccination requires joint
efforts from governments and media resources, including social media.
Outcome of using Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG) in critically ill COVID-19 patients’: a ‎retrospective, ‏multi-centric cohort study
Authors: Salehi Mohammadreza , Mehni Mahdi Barkhori , Akbarian Mohammadmehdi , Ghazi Samrand Fattah , Rad Nasim Khajavi , Moghaddam Omid Moradi , Moghaddam Saeed reza Jamali , Emam Masoumeh Hosseinzadeh , Abtahi Sayed Hamidreza , Moradi Maryam , Ghiasvand Fereshteh
Published: January 2024

Abstract Background: To access the effect of Intravenous immunoglobulin
‎‎(IVIG) in critically ill corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19)
patients. Method: In this retrospective matched cohort study, records of
three tertiary centers with large number of COVID-19 admissions were
evaluated and used. Based on treatment options, ‎patients were divided
into two groups, standard COVID-19 treatment (109 patients) and IVIG
treatment (74 patients) patients. Also, the effect of IVIG in different
dosages was evaluated. Patients with IVIG treatment were divided into
three groups of ‎low (0.25 gr/kg), medium (0.5 gr/kg), and high (1
gr/kg) dose. Data analysis was performed using independent t-test and
‎One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) to compare the ‎outcomes between
two groups, including duration of hospitalization, intensive care unit
(ICU) length of stay, and mortality rate.‎ Result: The duration of
hospitalization in the IVIG group ‎were significantly longer than
standard treatment (13.74 days vs. 11.10 days, p<0.05). There
was not a significant difference between the two groups in ICU length of
stay, number of intubated patients and duration of mechanical
ventilation (P>0.05).‎ Also initial ‎outcomes in IVIG
subgroups were compared separately with the standard ‎treatment group.
The results indicated that only the duration of hospitalization ‎in the
IVIG subgroup with medium dose is significantly longer than the standard
‎treatment group (P<0.01). Conclusion: Using IVIG is not
beneficial for COVID-19 patients based on no remarkable differences in
duration of hospitalization, ICU length of stay, duration of mechanical
ventilation and even mortality rate.
Sensitivity to treatment-related changes of Chinese version of Tinnitus Functional Index in thirty-nine tinnitus patients
Authors: Shen Yong-Cong , Li Yi , liu ji
Published: January 2024

Sensitivity to treatment-related changes in tinnitus severity using the
Chinese version of Tinnitus Functional Index (TFI-CH) should be further
investigated in the mainland Chinese population and for a fixed,
well-controlled intervention (repetitive transcranial magnetic
stimulation). Good agreement was observed between visual analog scale
(VAS) and TFI-CH total scores before and after treatment, with both
measures showing significantly reduced after treatment (both p
< 0.001). There was good agreement between the response rates
to the intervention between the VAS and TFI-CH total scores. The TFI-CH
emotional subscale contributed most strongly to overall tinnitus
severity, and the reduction in severity was best predicted by emotional
benefit. The TFI-CH is suitable to evaluate treatment-related changes in
Chinese tinnitus patients.
Estimations for conformable fractional integrals via convex functions
Authors: Numan Selim
Published: January 2024

In this paper, some estimations in general form of sum of left and right
sided conformable fractional integrals for convex functions are studied.
Also some similar fractional inequalities for functions whose
derivatives in absolute value are convex, have been obtained
Depressed sodium with antidepressant: A rare side effect from duloxetine in a child with acute leukemia
Authors: Baig Muhammad , Madden Kevin , Moody Karen
Published: January 2024

Duloxetine is indicated for the treatment of chemotherapy induced
neuropathic pain in adults. It is also indicated for anxiety, depression
and fibromyalgia in children. A rare side effect of syndrome of
inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) secretion has been reported
in adults but not in pediatrics or pediatric oncology patients. We
present a case of a 10-year-old child with acute lymphoblastic leukemia
who developed SIADH after duloxetine was given for chemotherapy-induced
neuropathic pain and co-morbid anxiety. The SIADH resolved after
duloxetine was stopped. This case highlights a rare side effect of
duloxetine and caution should be taken when prescribing duloxetine to
children.
ON GENERALIZATION OF HERMITE HADAMARD FEJER INEQUALITY
Authors: Turhan Sercan , Kunt Mehmet , İşcan İmdat
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we have obtained new Hermite Hadamard Fejer type
inequality different from the classical fejer inequality. With the help
of this inequality, we have achieved Hermite Hadamard inequality for all
of the Riemann Liouville and Conformable fractional integral that are
both available and can be obtained.
New solitary solutions of perturbed optical metamaterial with Kerr law nonlinearity
Authors: Sahoo S. , Tripathy A.
Published: January 2024

Background: This paper deals with the investigation of the newly
obtained solitary solutions of perturbed optical metamaterial with Kerr
law nonlinearity. Methods: Two novel analytical techniques namely, the
extended Riccati equation rational expansion (ERERE) method and the
extended rational exp(-(φ’/φ)(ξ))-expansion (EREE) method are applied
two develop new solitary solutions. Results: The resultant wave profiles
are periodic wave solution, singular kink, anti-peakon, dark, singular
anti-kink, anti-kink, grey and singular soliton solutions. Conclusion:
The detailed dynamics of the retrieved solutions are the most potent
influence of the proposed methods which shows the efficacy and
fruitfulness of the methods.
Strain Echocardiography and Cardiac MRI Evaluation of a Symptomatic Myopericarditis after the Pfizer-BioNTech mRNA COVID-19 Vaccine
Authors: Özdemir Emre , Karaca Banu , Özdemir Selin
Published: January 2024

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic and the accompanying new generation
vaccines have entered our lives with many unknown effects. Method and
result: This is a case report of myopericarditis diagnosed with fever
and chest pain 3 days after the 2nd dose of Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19
mRNA Vaccine in an 18-year-old man. The diagnosis was confirmed by
cardiac MRI(CMR), but we presented that this diagnosis and follow-up
could be made accurately with strain echocardiography(SE). Conclusion:
It would be beneficial for the cardiologists who perform the primary
follow-up of these patients to know that it is possible with SE to
support the diagnosis and follow-up of these patients, even if CMR is
not accesible.
An Outlook for the Optical Properties of Nitrotriazole and Nitrofuroxan based on the Quantum Chemistry Calculation
Authors: Lyu Ruiqi , Wang Linyuan , Deng Hongbo , Wei Yue , Chen Jia , Wang Rong , Huang Zhiyu
Published: January 2024

High-energy materials have revealed so many properties, however, many
optical properties need to be solved urgently. The traditional
technology of analyzing optoelectronic materials cannot avoid the
structure and electric density. In the process of incomplete electron
transfer, the direct fluorescence phenomenon produced by nitro compounds
is even rarer. The uncertainty of the choice of fluorescent matrix
materials and the flexible situational conditions prompted us to apply
density function theory (DFT) to explore the optical and fluorescent
properties of 5,5’-Dinitro-2H,2H’-3,3’-bi-1,2,4-triazole (DNBT),
4,4’-Dinitroazolefurazan (DNAF) and
4,4’-Dinitro-3,3’-4,3’-ter-1,2,5-oxadiazole (DNTO). In the orbital
energy range of -2.5eV to 0 eV, the order of intensity is
DNBT> DNAF> DNTO. The calculated results of UV
spectra show that each compound has maximum absorbance at specific
wavelengths of 175nm, 183nm and 192nm. We speculate that all electrons
are localized by the conjugate structure, especially on the N-O-N bond
or N=C-N bond, which can be described as redundant orbital
hybridization. In addition, the absorbance of DNBT on different crystal
planes reflects the N=N conjugated structure is a factor that affects
electronic excitation. We found that DNBT has the highest absorbance on
the (1,0,0) crystal plane, while the maximum absorbance of DNAF and DNTO
is on the (0,0,1) crystal plane. It is expected that these findings will
be widely used in comprehensive material devices and imporove the
concept in industry technology.
Surface Engineering Achieving Highly Environment-Stable Red-Emitting Fluorides for White Light Emitting Diodes
Authors: Yang Jing , Luo Peilan , Wan Pingping , Ye Menglin , Qiu Zhongxian , Zhang Jilin , Lian Shixun , Li Chengzhi , Zhou Wenli
Published: January 2024

Poor water stability is the main problem of commercialized Mn4+-doped
fluorides for white light emitting diode (LED) application. This work
proposes a surface engineering strategy to rebuild a Mn-free fluoride
shell on the fluoride to effectively resist the destruction of water
molecules. By simple processing using glyoxylic acid (GA) solution, the
moisture resistance of the red-emitting fluorides can be significantly
improved. The photoluminescence (PL) quantum efficiency (QE) the
surface-engineered K2SiF6:Mn4+ (KSFM-GA) still maintain 98.43% after
water immersion for 360 h, in sharp contrary to the untreated one (PLQE
decreased to 59.79%). Additionally, PL intensity of hydrolysed KSFM can
recover to 99.1% by treatment of the reducing GA solution. By using the
high-stability KSFM-GA red phosphor, the as-fabricated high-performance
warm-white-LED device can still maintain 84.6% in luminous efficacy,
higher than that (79.6%) with untreated KSFM, after 500 hours of aging
in a high temperature (85 oC) and high humidity (85%) environment.
Dysbiosis of vaginal microbiota associated with increased risk of preterm premature rupture of fetal membrane and chorioamnionitis in singleton gestations with ultrasound-indicated cerclage
Authors: Wang Xao-Xiao , Fang Jiao-Ning , Zhang Jun , Jiang Xiao-Xiang , Lin Zhi , Pan Mian
Published: January 2024

Objective: To investigate dysbiosis of the vaginal microbiota related to
increased risk of preterm premature rupture of fetal membrane (PPROM)
and chorioamnionitis in singleton gestations with ultrasound-indicated
cerclage. Design: Retrospective observational study. Setting: Fujian
Maternity and Child Health Hospital. Population: 44 singleton gestations
with ultrasound-indicated cerclage, including 13 cases of PPROM and 31
cases of normal-term delivery. Methods: Composition of the vaginal
microbiota was assessed prior to cervical cerclage at 18–24 weeks of
gestation, using MiSeq-based 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Main Outcome
Measures: To characterize the vaginal microbial profile of women who
later experienced PPROM and chorioamnionitis. Results: Furthermore, the
vaginal microbiota of women who later experienced PPROM was relatively
enriched with Streptococcus anginosus and Prevotella timonensis
(P=0.042, P=0.032, respectively), while that of women who later
experienced normal-term delivery was relatively enriched with
Lactobacillus. Further, enrichment for Prevotella was noted in patients
diagnosed with chorioamnionitis in the PPROM group (6 of 13, 53.8%),
which was absent in women with normal histology in the PPROM group
(P=0.012). Conclusions: Together, these results indicate that dysbiosis
of the vaginal microbiota is a risk element for subsequent PPROM and
chorioamnionitis in singleton gestations with ultrasound-indicated
cerclage. These findings may contribute to the development of methods to
identify pregnancies at high risk for cerclage failure following PPROM.
Funding: This work was supported by a grant from the Fujian Maternity
and Child Health Hospital Innovation Project (YCXZ 18-21). Keywords:
Vaginal microbiota, PPROM, chorioamnionitis, ultrasound-indicated
cerclage, Prevotella.
A tale of two reef sharks: evolutionary history of Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos and similarities with Carcharhinus melanopterus as revealed by population genomics data
Authors: Lesturgie Pierre , Planes Serge , Mona Stefano
Published: January 2024

We investigated the evolutionary history of the grey reef shark
(Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos) in the Indo-Pacific (IP) by
harnessing the power of thousands of RAD-seq loci sequenced in 175
individuals across its range. We bring strong evidences of the
occurrence of a range expansion (RE) originating close to the
Indo-Australian Archipelago (IAA) from which two stepping-stone waves
(east and westward) started, colonizing almost the entire IP.
Consequently, the demographic history of C. amblyrhynchos is best
explained by a meta-population model, for which we estimated a
homogenous connectivity throughout its range
(Nm~10 per generation) by means of coalescent
modeling coupled with an Approximate Bayesian Computation framework. An
isolation by distance model further highlights the absence of either
genetic barriers or preferential migration corridors, despite the
dependency of C. amblyrhynchos from coral reefs occurrence. This
is consistent with the long-distance swims observed, suggesting that the
strong genetic structure at the IP scale
(F~0.56 between its ends) is
rather the consequence of its large current distribution. We contrasted
these results with those previously obtained for the sympatric but
strictly lagoon-associated Carcharhinus melanopterus, a species
well known for its restricted dispersal ability. While C.
melanopterus exhibits a similar RE dynamic, it is characterized by
stronger genetic structure and a non-homogeneous connectivity largely
dependent on local coral reefs availability. The comparison between the
two species sheds new light on shark evolution, emphasizing the role of
IAA as source of biodiversity and of dispersal ability in shaping the
extent of population structure and genetic diversity.
Host microbiome responses to the Snake Fungal Disease pathogen (Ophidiomyces ophidiicola) are driven by changes in microbial richness
Authors: Romer Alexander , Grinath Joshua , Moe Kylie , Walker Donald
Published: January 2024

Dermatophytic pathogens are a source of disturbance to the host
microbiome, but the temporal progression of these disturbances is
unclear. Here, we determined how Snake Fungal Disease progression
resulted in disturbance to the host microbiome. To assess disease
effects, 22 Common Watersnakes (Nerodia sipedon) were collected and half
inoculated with O. ophidiicola. Epidermal swabs were collected weekly
for use in microbiome and pathogen load characterization. For the
inoculated treatment only, we found a significant effect of time on
richness and Shannon diversity. When accounting for differences in
assemblage richness, we found that microbial assemblages becoming more
dissimilar across time in the inoculated but not the control group.
Accounting for richness, average microbiome composition differed between
treatments, but there was no interaction between treatment and time.
These results suggest that changes in composition of the microbiome
associated with disease occur due to disease-associated changes in
microbial richness.
On the dynamics of the singularly perturbed Logistic difference equation with two different continuous arguments
Authors: EL-Sayed A. M. A , Salman Sanaa , Abo-Bakr Ali
Published: January 2024

Here, we study the dynamics of the singularly perturbed logistic
difference equation with two different continuous arguments. First of
all, local stability of the fixed points is investigated by analyzing
the corresponding characteristic equations of the linearized equations.
Secondly, we illustrate that the considered system exhibits Hopf
bifurcation. A discretized analogue of the original system is obtained
using the method of steps. Local stability and bifurcation analysis of
the discretized system are investigated. Explicit conditions for the
occurrence of a variety of complex dynamics such as fold and
Neimark-Sacker bifurcations are reached. We compare the results with
those of the associated difference equation with continuous argument
when the perturbation parameter $\epsilon
\longrightarrow 0$ and with those of the logistic delay
differential equation with two different delays when
$\epsilon \longrightarrow 1$. Finally,
numerical simulations including Lyapunov exponent, bifurcation diagrams
and phase portraits are carried out to confirm the theoretical analysis
obtained and to illustrate more complex dynamics of the system.
A Novel Structural Viscosity Model for Coal Slag Melts
Authors: Weiwei Xuan , Guhl Stefan , Zhang Yongquan , Zhang Jiansheng , Meyer Bernd
Published: January 2024

Slag viscosity is one of the most important parameters for the operation
of an entrained-flow gasifier. Complementary to established empirical
viscosity models, this paper presents a structure-based viscosity model
considering individual structure effects of major components. Based on
the degree of polymerization and bond energy, a structural parameter RS,
which reflects the network stability of melts, is calculated using a
molecular dynamics simulation and correlated with the viscosity. The
model coefficients are developed according to the viscosities of 54
published samples. A comparison is made with two commonly used viscosity
models, the Urbain model and the modified Urbain model. The results
indicate that the new model offers better predictions. Furthermore, 32
experimental samples used to verify the new model. This model also
reveals that the network stability (RS) can be regarded as a direct
structural parameter for quantitative correlations with slag properties.
The modified Pöschl-Teller potential
Authors: Eyube Edwin , Samaila Hassan , Nwabueze Chikere , Dlama Yabwa , Bitrus Bako
Published: January 2024

In the present studies, modified Pöschl-Teller potential (MPTP) is
constructed from second Pöschl-Teller potential through conditions to be
satisfied by a diatomic molecule potential. Expressions for bound state
energy eigenvalues and molar entropy are derived for the MPTP. The
equations obtained are applied to seven diatomic molecules: 7Li2 (a
3Σu+), Na2 (c 1Πu), CO (X 1Σ+), MgO (X 1Σ+), SO (X 3Σ-), SiO (X 2Σ+),
and TiO (X 2Σ+). Numerical data are analyzed using average absolute
deviation (AAD) from the dissociation energy and mean absolute deviation
(MAD) from the Rydberg-Klein-Rees (RKR) data. The AAD and MAD results
show that MPTP is superior over the improved Pöschl-Teller potential,
and it is approximately equivalent to the improved Tietz potential for
most of the diatomic molecules investigated. Expression of analytical
molar entropy of the MPTP accurately predicts molar entropy of gaseous
CO molecule with a MAD of 0.1993% from experimental data obtained from
the literature.
Effects of improved sodium uptake ability on grain yields of rice plants under low potassium supply
Authors: Ochiai Kumiko , Oba Kousuke , Oda Kanoko , Miyamoto Takuji , Matoh Toru
Published: January 2024

Sodium uptake is a factor that determines potassium use efficiency in
plants as sodium can partially replace potassium in plant cells. Rice
(Oryza sativa) roots usually exclude sodium but actively take it
up when the plant is deficient in potassium. In rice roots, a sodium
transporter OsHKT2;1 mediates the active sodium uptake. We previously
revealed that variation in the expression of OsHKT2;1 underlie
the variation in sodium uptake between a low-sodium-uptake indica
cultivar, IR64, and a high-sodium-uptake japonica cultivar, Koshihikari.
In the present study, we evaluated IR64 and its near-isogenic line
IR64-K that carrying OsHKT2;1 and neighboring genes inherited
from Koshihikari for grain yields. IR64-K had a greater average grain
yield and harvest index than IR64 in a pot culture experiment with three
levels of potassium fertilizer. The differences were most significant
under treatment without potassium fertilizer. IR64-K also showed a
slightly higher grain yield than IR64 when grown in a paddy field
without potassium fertilizer application. These results suggest that the
enhanced ability of sodium uptake improves grain yields of rice plants
under low-potassium-input conditions.
DE NOVO TRANSCRIPTOME OF Mammillaria bombycina (CACTACEAE) UNDER IN VITRO CONDITIONS AND IDENTIFICATION OF GLYOXALASE GENES
Authors: Enriquez-González Carolina , Garcidueñas-Piña Cristina , Enríquez-Aranda Sergio , Loera-Muro Abraham , Ocampo Gilberto , Balch Martin Eugenio Perez-Molphe , Morales-Domínguez Francisco
Published: January 2024

Mammillaria bombycina is a cactus distributed in the central region of
Mexico. This species is in danger of extinction, and its in vitro
cultivation has, therefore, been established for reinsertion into its
natural habitat. Due to this species’ relatively easy propagation, its
use has been ideal for analysis at the gene level. In this contribution,
a de novo transcriptome of M. bombycina was produced under in vitro
conditions. The samples were sequenced using an Illumina platform,
obtaining an average of 24 million clean readings. From the assembly and
annotation, 84,975 transcripts were generated, 55% of which were
unigenes. Among these, the presence of 13 isoforms of genes belonging to
glyoxalase I, II, and III were identified. An analysis of qRTPCR
expression of these genes was performed under in vitro and ex vitro
conditions and dehydration at 6 and 24 h. The highest expression was
observed under greenhouse conditions and dehydration at 24 h, according
to the control. The de novo assembly of the M. bombycina transcriptome
remains a study model for future work in cacti.
Biosafety and Biomedical Waste Management In Pakistan: A Case Study of Major Cities Near Pak-Afghan Border
Authors: Khalid Shah , Shumail Hoor , Hani Umme
Published: January 2024

Our community is unaware of the basic concepts of biosafety and
biomedical waste management. Biosafety is the containment and safe
handling of hazardous materials and infectious agents while biomedical
waste management includes the proper segregation and disposal of waste
materials generated in health care facilities. Laboratories and hospital
administrations should ensure biosafety and proper biomedical waste
disposal to protect the humans, animals and the environment from the
harmful effects infectious agents. Need for such management practices
has been significantly increased in the face of new drug resistant
bacteria and new strains of viruses. This survey was carried out from
July-December 2020 in order to look into the biosafety and biomedical
waste management practices followed in major and most populous cities of
Pakistan in area bordering Afghanistan i.e. Peshawar, Mardan, Charsaddah
and Nowshehra. During the survey laboratories and hospitals (including
veterinary hospitals) of both public and private sector were selected
and assessed through pre-scheduled and random visits to clearly observe
the situation. It was observed during the surveys that majority of the
laboratories and hospitals were not following the standard Biosafety and
Biomedical Waste Management guidelines, lacking the proper use of
personal protection equipment’s (PPE), spill management, disinfection,
decontamination, waste segregation and disposal. Inadequate biosafety
measure and waste management give rise to a great number health and
environmental problems. Therefore, it is recommended that biosafety and
biomedical waste management concerns should be communicated with all
stakeholders for designing strategies and action plans to cope with this
alarming situation.
Root growth and biomass partitioning of nine juvenile Sahelian agroforestry tree species under drought and irrigation treatments
Authors: Gning Fatou , Jourdan Christophe , Marone Diatta , Ngom Daouda , Ræbild Anders
Published: January 2024

Understanding the root traits of tree species is of great importance for
selection of trees in dry zone agroforestry systems. We investigated
root growth of nine dryland tree species in West Africa and assessed the
effect of drought stress on biomass allocation to root systems as
function of soil depth. Seedlings were planted in 2m tubes inserted into
the soil and subjected to three watering treatments: top irrigation, low
irrigation at 50 cm depth, and drought. After 8 and 12 months, we
assessed root growth and architecture, and supplemented with assessments
of water potential, leaf phenology, and above-ground growth. Results
showed large differences in rooting profile of the tree species. Drought
induced faster root growth and all species reached the maximum depth
after 12 months. Rooting depth was reduced under top irrigation for
Adansonia digitata, Sterculia setigera and Anacardium occidentale that
concentrated root biomass in the upper soil layers, while Acacia
senegal, Acacia nilotica and Faidherbia albida had deeper root systems.
Acacia species showed clear differences in leaf water potential between
treatments while A. digitata and S. setigera appeared to be water
conserving under drought. We discuss results in terms of
isohydry/an-isohydry and evergreen vs. deciduous habits.
Physiologically-based pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic (PBPK/PD) modeling as a tool for antiviral drug dose regimens for COVID-19
Authors: Saeheng Teerachat , Karbwang Juntra , Na-Bangchang Kesara
Published: January 2024

Background and Purpose: Ritonavir-boosted lopinavir and chloroquine were
withdrawn for COVID-19 treatment according to WHO recommendation.
However, lopinavir is still being used for COVID-19 treatment in a
clinical practice guideline without supportive evidence. We demonstrated
the utility of physiologically-based pharmacokinetic
(PBPK)/pharmacodynamic (PD) models to support clinical use of lopinavir
and the withdrawal of chloroquine for COVID-19 treatment. Experimental
approach: The developed whole-body PBPK models were validated against
clinical data. Model validation was performed using acceptable methods.
The inhibitory effect (%E) was calculated to demonstrate drug efficacy.
The recommended drug regimen for COVID-19 was the combination of 400/100
mg lopinavir/ritonavir given twice daily and 300 mg base chloroquine
given twice daily for 14 days. Key Results: This study successfully
developed whole-body PBPK models (AAFEs of 1.2-fold). For patients with
a 70 kg body weight, %E for chloroquine in epithelial lining fluid
(ELF) and bronchial epithelial cells (BEC) were about 2% and 12%,
respectively. The corresponding values for lopinavir were 66% and
87.4%, respectively. With the increased body weight to 90 kg, %E for
lopinavir in BEC dramatically dropped to lower than 60%, while that in
ELF was slightly decreased (86.87%). Conclusion and Implications: The
results support the decision of withdrawing chloroquine and using
lopinavir in asymptomatic (with positive antigen kit test) or mild
COVID-19 cases. In addition, results support the administration of
antiviral drugs within the ten days of infection to prevent treatment
failure.
Assessment of SARS-CoV-2 immunity in convalescent children and adolescents
Authors: Ip Patrick , Tsang Hing Wai , Chua Gilbert T , KW Kelvin , SC Joshua Wong , WW Tu , SY Janette Kwok , Wong WHS , Wang Xiwei , Zhang Yanmei , Duque Jaime Rosa , Chan Godfrey , WK Chu , CP Pang , KH Paul Tam , Lau YL , Wong Ian , WH Leung , Yuen Kwok-Yung , YW Mike Kwan
Published: January 2024

Background: Persistence of protective immunity for SARS-CoV-2
is important against reinfection. Knowledge on SARS-CoV-2 immunity in
pediatric patients is currently lacking. We opted to assess the
SARS-CoV-2 adaptive immunity in recovered children and adolescents,
addressing the pediatrics specific immunity towards COVID-19.
Method: Two independent assays were performed to investigate
humoral and cellular immunological memory in pediatric convalescent
COVID-19 patients. Specifically, RBD IgG, CD4+, and CD8+ T cell
responses were identified and quantified in recovered children and
adolescents. Results: SARS-CoV-2-specific RBD IgG detected in
recovered patients had a half-life of 121.6 days and estimated duration
of 7.9 months compared with baseline levels in controls. The specific T
cell response was shown to be independent of recovery time. Both CD4+
and CD8+ T cells showed robust responses not only to spike (S) peptides
(a main target of vaccine platforms) but were also similarly activated
when stimulated by membrane (M) and nuclear (N) peptides. Importantly,
we found the differences in the adaptive responses were correlated with
the age of the recovered patients. The CD4+ T cell response to
SARS-CoV-2 S peptide in children aged <12 years correlated
with higher SARS-CoV-2 RBD IgG levels, whereas higher level of CD8+ T
cells in children aged ≥12 years, suggesting the importance of a T
cell-dependent humoral response in younger children under 12 years.
Conclusion: Both cellular and humoral immunity against
SARS-CoV-2 infections can be induced in pediatric patients. Our
important findings provide fundamental knowledge on the immune memory
responses to SARS-CoV-2 in recovered pediatric patients.
Experimental models for pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies of antifungals in the cryptococcosis treatment
Authors: Wirth Fernanda , Staudt Keli , Araujo Bibiana , Ishida Kelly
Published: January 2024

Cryptococcus spp. are basidiomycete fungi with a unique phenotypic
peculiarity, the mucopolysaccharide capsule that circulate all the cell
body. Cryptococcus spp. are broadly found in the environment, but there
are two species are associated to disease in humans and other animals:
Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii complexes. Experimental
studies on cryptococcosis in mammal animal model have demonstrated the
occurrence of CNS infection and similarities in the fungal pathogenicity
with clinical and immunological features of the human infection. There
is still a lack of studies involving pharmacokinetics and
pharmacodynamics (PK/PD) in animal models of cryptococcosis in the
literature and these experimental models are useful to understand this
mycosis and antifungal effectiveness for improving the therapeutic
schemes. The scope of this review is to describe and discuss the main
mammal animal models for PK/PD studies of antifungals used in the
cryptococcosis treatment. Alternative models and computational methods
are also addressed. Therefore, all approaches to PK/PD studies are
relevant to investigate the drug-infection interaction and consequently
to improve the cryptococcosis therapy.
SARS-CoV2 serology assays: utility and limits of different antigen based tests through the evaluation and the comparison of four commercial tests
Authors: gdoura mariem , halouani habib , mrad mehdi , sahli donia , chamsa wafa , elmabrouk manel , salem kamel ben , hogga nahed , Triki Henda
Published: January 2024

Introduction: SARS-CoV2 serology testing is multipurpose provided to
choose an efficient test. We evaluated and compared 4 different
commercial serology tests, three of them had the Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) approval. Our goal was to provide new data to help
to guide the interpretation and the choice of the serological tests.
Methods: Four commercial tests were evaluated: Cobas®Roche®(total anti-N
antibodies), VIDAS®Biomerieux®(IgM and IgG anti-RBD antibodies),
Mindray®(IgM and IgG anti-N and anti-RBD antibodies) and Access®Beckman
Coulter®(IgG anti-RBD antibodies). Were tested: a positive panel (n=72
sera) obtained from COVID-19 confirmed patients and a negative panel
(n=119) of pre-pandemic sera. Were determined the analytical
performances and was drawn the ROC curve to assess the manufacturer’s
threshold. Results: A large range of variability between the tests was
found. Mindray®IgG and Cobas® tests showed the best overall sensitivity
79,2%CI95%[67,9-87,8]. Cobas® showed the best sensitivity after
D14; 85,4%CI95%[72,2-93,9]. The best specificity was noted for
Cobas®, VIDAS®IgG and Access® IgG(100%CI95%[96,9-100]). Access®
had the lower sensitivity even after D14 (55,5% CI95%[43,4-67,3]).
VIDAS®IgM and Mindray®IgM tests showed the lowest specificity and
sensitivity rates. Overall, only 43 out of 72 sera gave concordant
results (59,7%). Retained cut-offs for a significantly better
sensitivity and accuracy, without altering significantly the
specificity, were: 0,87 for Vidas®IgM(p=0,01), 0,55 for
Vidas®IgG(p=0,05) and 0,14 for Access®(p<10-4). Conclusion:
Although FDA approved, each laboratory should realize its own evaluation
for commercial tests. Tests variability may raise some concerns that
seroprevalence studies may vary significantly based on the used serology
test.
Combined exposure to birch pollen and thunderstorms affects respiratory health in Stockholm, Sweden
Authors: Lõhmus Mare , Lind Tomas , MacLachlan Laura , Ekebom Agneta , Gedda Björn , Östensson Pia , Georgelis Antonios
Published: January 2024

Background: Thunderstorm asthma is a term used to describe surges
in acute respiratory illnesses following a thunderstorm and is often
attributed to an intense exposure to aeroallergens. Several episodes of
epidemic thunderstorm asthma have been observed worldwide; however, no
such cases have been described in Sweden. In Sweden, the most prominent
exposure to air-borne pollen occurs during the blooming of the birch. We
aimed to explore the potential associations between the respiratory
health and the combined exposure to thunderstorms and birch pollen.
Methods: We investigated the association between the daily
numbers of outpatient visits due to respiratory cases and the combined
exposure to thunderstorms and birch pollen during a period of May 1
- August 31 in 2001-2017, in
Stockholm County, Sweden, by using time series analysis with log linear
models. Results: We detected a significant increase in the number
of outpatient visits on both the same day and the day after the
occurrence of a thunderstorm, when either the concentrations of ambient
birch pollen or the number of thunderstorm-associated lighting
discharges were within the highest categories. Conclusions: It is
possible that co-exposure to heavy thunderstorms and high concentrations
of birch pollen affects the respiratory health of the Stockholm
population. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study
addressing the thunderstorm-related respiratory illnesses in Sweden and
the effect of birch pollen. Other similar studies are needed before any
conclusions can be drawn; however, our study may be important for future
public health advice related to thunderstorm asthma.