bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computational Investigations on Acceptor Substituent Influence of Metal-free Efficient Chromophores for Optoelectronic Properties
Authors: Ammasi Arunkumar , Munusamy Anbarasan Ponnusamy , Shkir Mohd
Published: September 2022

In this study, the computational studies of the PO3H2, CONHOH and SO2H (A1-A3) molecules were investigated for optoelectronic applications on the basis of tetrahydroquinoline (C1-1) dye. Besides, a detailed calculation of the molecular structures, energy levels, driving force of injection, regeneration, Non-linear optical (NLO) property, chemical hardness, excitation binding energy, light-harvesting efficiency (LHE), absorption spectra and photovoltaic (PV) parameters were all discussed in details using density functional theory (DFT) and time-dependent DFT (TD-DFT) methods. The optoelectronic properties of C1-1 based A1-A3 molecules are originated to be tuned by changing the position of the acceptor. To get a maximum absorption spectrum of C1-1, Becke’s three-parameter and Lee-Yang-Parr (B3LYP), coulomb-attenuating method-B3LYP (CAM-B3LYP) and Head-Gordon model (ωB97XD) were used for the TD-DFT method. Results reveal that the TD-ɷB97XD and 6-31G(d) combined functionals were provided reliable effects to the C1-1. Therefore, absorption spectra of the A1-A3 dyes were followed by the TD-ɷB97XD/6-31G(d) techniques. The designed A1 (PO3H2) dye displayed a smaller energy gap and red-shifted broadened spectra than the other dyes and C1-1, it can be utilized to get a better PV properties. In addition, NLO properties of the A1-A3 chromophores were calculated by the polarizability and first-order hyperpolarizability. Consequently, A1 dye has a superior value of the NLO activity. This study will deliver a valuable reference to the upcoming molecular proposal of tetrahydroquinoline dyes for optoelectronic applications.
The protective effect of low-dose minocycline on brain microvascular ultrastructure in a rodent model of subarachnoid hemorrhage.
Authors: de Carrillo Daria Gendosz , Student Sebastian , Bula Daniel , Mielańczyk Łukasz , Jędrzejowska-Szypułka Halina
Published: September 2022

The multifaceted nature of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) pathogenesis is poorly understood, to date, no pharmacological agent has been found to be efficacious for the prevention of brain injury when used for acute SAH intervention. This study was undertaken to evaluate the beneficial effects of low-dose neuroprotective agent minocycline on brain microvascular ultrastructures which are not studied in detail. We studied SAH brain injury using in vivo pre-chiasmatic subarachnoid hemorrhage rodent model. We analyzed the qualitative and quantitative ultrastructural morphology of capillaries and surrounding neuropil in the rodent brains with SAH and/or minocycline administration. Here, we report that low-dose minocycline (1 mg/kg) displayed protective effects on capillaries and surrounding cells from significant SAH-induced changes. Ultrastructural morphology analysis revealed also that the minocycline stopped endothelial cells from abnormal production of vacuoles and vesicles, that compromise BBB transcellular transport. The reported ultrastructural abnormalities as well as neuroprotective effects of minocycline during SAH were not directly mediated by inhibition of MMP-2, MMP-9, or EMMPRIN. However, SAH brain tissue treated with minocycline was protected from development of other morphological features associated with oxidative stress and the presence of immune cells in the perivascular space. These data advance the knowledge on the SAH effect on the ultrastructure of brain tissue in the SAH rodent model and the neuroprotective effect of minocycline when administered in low-doses.
Supplementation of Lactobacillus reuteri isolated from red jungle fowl along with mannanoligosaccaride improves growth performance, immune response and gut health in broiler Chicken
Authors: JaiswaL Sudhir Kumar , Tomar Simi , Saxena Vishesh , S Balraj , Uniyal Sandeep
Published: September 2022

The present study was undertaken to investigate the effect of supplementation of Lactobacillus reuteri isolated from the intestine of red jungle fowl along with mannanoligosaccride (MOS) on growth performance, intestinal microbial count, immunity and expression of growth and immune related genes in broiler chicken. Lactobacillus reuteri was isolated from in the GIT tract of red jungle fowl and was utilized for growth bioassay in broiler. For this total 360 CARIBRO-Vishal broiler chicks were weighed individually and randomly allocated to nine treatment groups, each having five replicates with eight chicks in each following complete randomized block design (CRD). The experiment was conducted for 6 weeks duration. The nine treatment groups were control fed basal diet (T1), basal diet + Antibiotic growth promoter, bacitracin methylene disalicylate (BMD) @20mg/kg feed (T2), basal diet + commercial probiotic @ 0.1 g/kg feed (T3), basal diet + Lab isolated Lactobacillus reuteri @ 1x106 CFU/g of fermented feed (T4), basal diet + Lab isolated Lactobacillus reuteri @ 1x107 CFU/g of fermented feed (T5), basal diet + Lab isolated Lactobacillus reuteri @ 1x108 CFU/g of fermented feed (T6), basal diet + Lab isolated Lactobacillus reuteri @ 1x106 CFU/g of fermented + 0.1% MOS (T7), basal diet + Lab isolated Lactobacillus reuteri @ 1x107 CFU/g of fermented + 0.1% MOS (T8), basal diet + Lab isolated Lactobacillus reuteri @ 1x108 CFU/g of fermented feed + 0.1% MOS (T9). 20% of daily basal ration for broiler chicken was autoclaved and inoculated with 15% of Lactobacillus isolate broth culture having a viable count of 106, 107, and 108 CFU/ml and fermented at 37°C for 24 h before adding to daily ration afresh and was mixed well. Results of the present study revealed T9 group supplemented with Lab isolated Lactobaillus reuteri at the dose of 1x108 CFU/g along with 0.1% MOS significantly (P < 0.05) improves body weight, body weight gain, immune response both humoral and cell mediated without effecting the feed intake and feed conversion ratio (FCR). Also the pathogenic bacteria count (Salmonella and E.coli) was significantly (P < 0.05) lower in the GIT of T9 group as compared to other groups. The significantly (p < 0.05) higher relative expression of growth related genes, IGF-1 and IGF-1R and immune related gene, IL-6 whereas IL-10 and TLR-4 expression were significantly (P < 0.05) down regulated in T9 group (Lab isolated Lactobacillus reuteri @ 1x108 CFU/g of fermented feed + 0.1% MOS). So, it can be concluded from the present study that lactobacillus reuteri isolated for the GIT of the red jungle fowl along with MOS is effective in improving the growth performance, immune response and gut health of commercial CARIBRO-Vishal broiler chicken.
Effects of Direct Health Facility Financing on Health System Performance and How It Is Implemented in the Public Primary Health Facilities in Tanzania: A non-controlled before and after mixed method study.
Authors: Kapologwe Ntuli , Ruhago George , Kibusi Stephen , Samky Hendry , Mtei Gemini , Kengia James , Malima Sarah , Kalolo Albino
Published: September 2022

Background: In Tanzania, the introduction of Direct Health Facility Financing (DHFF) is viewed as one of the innovative health sector reform initiatives, with the main focus of improving quality of health services provision. DHFF empowers primary health care actors’ autonomy in decision making to improve health system performance in the stride forward to reach Universal Health Coverage (UHC). The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of DHFF on health system performance and how it is implemented in the Public Primary Health Facilities (PPHFs) in Tanzania.Methods: This study used a non-controlled before- after convergent mixed-method study design, with a process evaluation embedded at midline, in data collection and analysis. The study was conducted between January 2018 and September 2019. Quantitative data collection was done through administration of questionnaire to 844 existing patients and 238 Health care workers in 42 Public Primary Health Facilities of seven regions whereas qualitative data was collected using semi-structured individual interview guide for 14-indepth interviews with health facility in-charges, members of health facility governance committee, district medical officers and district DHFF coordinators and 7 Focus Group Discussions with service providers and users representatives. We used descriptive and inferential statistics to analyse quantitative data whereas a thematic analytical approach was used for qualitative data.Results: A total of 844 patients were studied on seven domains of Health System Responsiveness (HSR) both in the before and after studies. All domains of HSR were found to have positive significant difference between baseline and end-line except for two domains i.e., confidentiality and communication. Also, of all 42 investigated public primary health facilities. Majority (88.9%) of Dispensaries and 60% of Health Centres were below the required staffing level. There were significant differences on structural quality of maternal health services before-and-after studies with scoring 2.38% and 30.9% respectively. Moreover, there were significant differences in all indicators after DHFF introduction except those for IPT-2, use of modern family planning methods and Mebendazole consumption. Furthermore, about 238 health care providers were studied on the Fidelity of Implementation (FoI), of whom about 76% had knowledge on DHFF initiative implementation issues. However, only 28% had high FoI. Conclusion: In general, it is clear that, DHFF have had an effect on the health system performance. FoI was low despite training been offered to HCPs (Health Care Providers), this calls for more investment on this aspect so that to have a resilient health system.
Long-term outcomes of CO 2 laser cauterization for 238 children congenital pyriform sinus fistula
Authors: Long Ting , Liu Yuwei , Tai Jun , Zhang Jie , Li Yanzhen , Zhang Xuexi , Liu Zhiyong , Wang Shengcai , Ni Xin , Liu Qiaoyin , Sun Nian
Published: September 2022

Background: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of single CO2 laser cauterization management for children CPSF, we collected patients underwent CO2 laser cauterization for internal fistula and accessed the long-term outcomes.Methods: Retrospective and single-center study was conducted. Microlaryngoscopy management of CO2 laser cauterization was implemented to children with CPSF to the end point as internal fistula completely closed through one or several procedures. After the standard therapeutic strategy, all patients received return visits at regular interval. Here we tested and summarized the predicting factors for effect modification and the medium and long-term outcomes. Results: We totally enrolled 238 patients cured by once or several operations of CO2 laser cauterization, with 149 (62.6%) needed one operation. The median follow-up time was 3.45 ± 1.37 years (ranging from 1.04 to 6.38 years). There were only 3 (1.26%) patients got relapse of neck infection. Throughout, none patients suffered permanent complications. We also found that the age at the first operation of CO2 laser cauterization was proved to be an independent risk factor associated with the operation frequency, in contrast to the previous therapeutic measures such as open neck surgery or incision and drainage. Conclusions: Our study found that the therapeutic strategy of CO2 laser cauterization for children CPSF showed low recurrence rate and few complications. Additionally, it suggested that the CO2 laser cauterization could be implemented to children once diagnosis confirmed without age limit. These confirm that the single CO2 laser cauterization can be a preferred first-line treatment option for children CPSF.
Investigation of neomycin biodegradation conditions using ericoid mycorrhizal and white rot fungal species
Authors: Stenholm Åke , Hedeland Mikael , Pettersson Curt
Published: September 2022

In the search for methods to biodegrade recalcitrant compounds, the use of saprotrophic fungi and white rot fungi, in particular belonging to the phylum Basidiomycota, has gained interest. This group of fungi possesses a battery of unspecific extracellular enzymes that can be utilized in the biodegradation of preferably phenolic compounds. In this work, it was investigated under which conditions the white rot fungus Trametes versicolor and the ericoid mycorrhizal fungus Rhizoscyphus ericae (belonging to the phylum Ascomycota) could be used to biodegrade the antibiotic aminoglycoside neomycin at co-metabolic conditions in which external nutrients were supplied. Furthermore, it was also investigated whether a biodegradation could be accomplished using neomycin as the sole nutrient. At selected conditions, the biodegradation of neomycin using Rhizoscyphus ericae was monitored by oxidation products of D-ribose which is a hydrolysis product of neomycin. The results show that both species can biodegrade neomycin 70% under co-metabolic conditions during an one-week time course and that Rhizoscyphus ericae is able to use neomycin as sole nutrient and to approximatively biodegrade it 60% under chosen non co-metabolic conditions. The results are of general interest in the search for fungal species that can biodegrade recalcitrant compounds without the need of external nutrients. The key future application area that will be investigated is purification of waste from recombinant protein production in which neomycin, nutrients and E. coli with neomycin resistance genes are present.
Development and validation of a new multiplex for upgrading Y-STRs population databases from 12 to 23 markers and its forensic casework application
Authors: Navarro-López Belén , Baeta Miriam , Granizo-Rodríguez Eva , Moreno-López Olatz , Kleinbielen Tamara , Ferragut Joana Francesca , Picornell Antònia , de Pancorbo Marian M
Published: September 2022

Y chromosomal short tandem repeats (Y-STRs) are used in forensic investigations as a useful complementary tool to autosomal markers. The ongoing development of new kits with an increasing number of markers makes it necessary to update populations typed in the Y-STR Haplotype Reference Database to reach at least 23 Y-STRs. A novel Y-STR multiplex panel was developed to offer a cost-efficient alternative to update Y-STR haplotypes from 12 to 23 loci. This panel includes the eleven markers, DYS448, DYS456, DYS458, DYS635, Y-GATA H4, DYS576, DYS481, DYS549, DYS533, DYS570 and DYS643, as well as DYS385a/b for traceability purpose. Developmental validation of this panel was conducted following the recommendations of the Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods (SWGDAM), showing high sensitivity, tolerance to common inhibitors as well as high species specificity. It was efficient for degraded DNA samples and for detection of male mixtures. When applying it for extending the current data of the Ibiza population, both the discrimination capacity and the haplotype diversity increased from 0.5952 to 0.9048 and from 0.9808 to 0.9977, respectively. Together, the study demonstrates the suitability of this panel in forensic casework.
Asymmetrical radiological changes in the Paraspinal muscles in patients with idiopathic scoliosis: Prospective study
Authors: Zaghloul Khaled M , Sobh Donia M , Deniwar Mohamed Adel , Awad Basem Ibrahim
Published: September 2022

ObjectivesThe aim of this study is to assess the CT and MRI appearance of theparaspinous muscles in patients with idiopathic scoliosis comparing both the convex and concave sides of the curve. The relation between the degrees of muscular abnormality and the Cobb angle is also assessed.Methods18 patients with idiopathic scoliosis were referred to Mansoura university hospital clinics in the period from September 2015 to February 2017. This observational prospective study includes patients with idiopathic scoliosis. Patients with secondary scoliosis due to other abnormalities were not included in this study. Verbal consent was obtained from the patient’s parents and institutional Board review acceptance at Mansoura University was done.ResultsBoth MRI and CT demonstrated the atrophy of the paraspinous muscles in patients with AIS in the form of reduction in the size of the muscle fibers, T1 & T2 hyperintenities within the muscle fibers by MRI and low density within the muscles fibers by CT as well as widening of the fatty spaces between the muscle bundles. Assessing the paraspinal muscles along the whole spine, we found that in all patients, the atrophic changes were more pronounced at the apex of the curve.ConclusionCT and MRI are effective non-invasive modalities to assess the changes in the paraspinal muscles. They demonstrate atrophic changes and fatty degeneration of the paraspinal muscles, more evident at the concave side of the apex of the primary curve. The degree of fatty degeneration is proportional with the Cobb’s angle.
Automated lung ultrasound image assessment using artificial intelligence to identify fluid overload in dialysis patients
Authors: TAN Grace Feng Ling , Du Tiehua , LIU Justin Shuang , CHAI Chung Cheen , Nyein Chan Maung , LIU Allen Yan Lun
Published: September 2022

Background Fluid assessment is challenging, and fluid overload poses a significant problem among dialysis patients, with pulmonary oedema being the most serious consequence. Our study aims to develop a simple objective fluid assessment strategy using lung ultrasound (LUS) and artificial intelligence (AI) to assess the fluid status of dialysis patients. Methods This was a single-centre study of 76 hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis patients. The fluid status of dialysis patients was assessed via a simplified 8-point LUS method using a portable handheld ultrasound device (HHUSD), clinical examination and bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS). The primary outcome was the performance of 8-point LUS using a portable HHUSD in diagnosing fluid overload compared to physical examination and BIS. The secondary outcome was to develop and validate a novel AI software program to quantify B-line count and assess the fluid status of dialysis patients. Results Our study showed a moderate correlation between LUS B-line count and fluid overload assessed by clinical examination (r=0.475, p<0.001) and BIS (r=0.356. p<0.001). The use of AI to detect B-lines on LUS in our study for dialysis patients was shown to have good agreement with LUS B lines observed by physicians; (r=0.825, p<0.001) for the training dataset and (r=0.844, p<0.001) for the validation dataset. Conclusion Our study confirms that 8-point LUS using HHUSD, with AI-based detection of B lines, can provide clinically useful information on the assessment of hydration status and diagnosis of fluid overload for dialysis patients in a user-friendly and time-efficient way.
Clinical reasoning and Basic science Knowledge: Assessing the Relationship in Medical Students
Authors: Golabchi Mohammad Rasoul , Moeinzadeh Firouzeh , Heshmat-Ghahdarijani Kiyan , Najimi Arash , Omid Athar
Published: September 2022

Backgroundvarious studies have investigated the impact of basic sciences knowledge on clinical diagnosis for skilled and novice physicians but, it is still a matter of controversy why and how clinical diagnosis and clinical reasoning are related to basic sciences knowledge.ObjectiveThis study aimed to explore the correlation between basic science knowledge with clinical reasoning skills by evaluating the correlation between the scores of the basic sciences course with the score of the clinical reasoning exam.MethodsA clinical reasoning exam was used to evaluate the clinical reasoning skills of all medical interns of two internal medicine rotations. Scores were evaluated for correlation with the basic sciences course scores and basic sciences national comprehensive exam results. statistical analysis was performed using an independent t-test, stepwise regression, and Pearson correlation coefficient.ResultsAll of the basic sciences course scores and basic sciences national comprehensive exam results correlated positively significant with the total score of the clinical reasoning exam and the score of the clinical reasoning exam were most closely correlated with the average score of the basic sciences course rather than to each course individually. The only predictive factor for clinical reasoning skills is the average score of basic sciences course. No significant gender differences were observed in the data analysis.ConclusionThe results of this study suggest that learning basic sciences knowledge has positive correlations with clinical reasoning skills. However, this correlation is small to moderate based on the course. Our findings support the view that learning basic science knowledge is effective in the formation of clinical reasoning skills.
Molecular identification and phylogenesis analysis of gastrointestinal nematode in different populations of Kazakh sheep
Authors: yan Xiaofei , He Sangang , Liu Yiyong , Han Bing , Zhang Ning , Deng Haifeng , Wang Yuqi , Liu Mingjun
Published: September 2022

Three dominant species of gastrointestinal nematodes, Haemonchus contortus, Trichostrongylus spp., and Teladorsagia circumcincta from the various populations of Kazakh sheep were subjected to molecular identification and phylogenetic analysis. The internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS-2) sequences of ribosomal DNA (rDNA) was used as the target sequence and specific primers. The results showed that all the three species had their ITS-2 specific bands amplified. The infection rates based on fecal DNA were 35.59% of H. contortus, 25.55% of Trichostrongylus spp., and 11.24% of T. circumcincta respectively, and the infection rates based on larva DNA were 19.75% of H. contortus, 23.54% of Trichostrongylus spp., and 10.03% of T. circumcincta respectively. The results were consistent with the PCR results of fecal samples and larval DNA from Trichostrongylus spp. and T. circumcincta, except H. contortus. The phylogenetic tree showed that the ITS-2 sequences of the three species were on the same branch as the ITS-2 sequences of the same species in NCBI, and on different branches from those of the ITS-2 sequences of different families, genera and species. The same 93 fecal samples were analyzed by molecular identification and saturated saline solution floatation method respectively. The molecular identification of hatched larva from fecal samples exhibited an infection rate of 100.00% with respect to the three dominant species, higher than the infection rate of 96.77% by the saturated saline solution floatation method. Therefore, the present molecular identification is more reliable in specificity and accuracy of these three species.
Hofstetter’s equations overestimate the amplitude of accommodation in human eye: An analyses of 5433 subjects
Authors: Khan Sumera , Mufti Serwan Muttayab , Ali Mahboob , Ahmad Iftikhar
Published: September 2022

Purpose The set of Hofstetter equations is a widely used theoretical framework for predicting the temporal evolution of amplitude of accommodation (AA). However, studies have reported discrepancies between the measured values of AA and prediction from Hofstetter’s formulas. Here, the relationship between AA and age was investigated in a comprehensive cohort of subjects and compared with Hofstetter equations. Methods Based on the PRISMA strategy, an extensive online survey was performed to collect the reported values of AA as a function of age. Regression analyses were employed to derive three equations, describing the minimum, maximum and mean declining trend of the AA data with age. This set of equation was subsequently compared with the corresponding three equations from Hofstetter. Results The AA data were collected for large number of subjects (n = 5433). Subsequent analyses revealed that the AA values predicted by all three Hofstetter equations are consistently higher than the corresponding values predicted by the regression equations derived in the current study. Specifically, the intercepts and slopes for the minimum, maximum and mean of equations from Hofstetter and from this study were (15, 18.5, 25) vs. (9, 14.9, 22.4) and (-0.25, -0.3, -0.4) vs. (-0.15, -0.24, -0.35), respectively. Conclusions The findings of this study support the postulate that the Hofstetter’s equations overestimate the declining AA as function of age.
Rising incidence of steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome in childhood: a 5-year retrospective observational descriptive study in a south-east Nigerian tertiary hospital
Authors: Mbanefo Ngozi R , Uwaezuoke Samuel N , Muoneke Vivian U , Odetunde Odutola I , Okafor Henrietta U
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Nephrotic syndrome is the commonest glomerular disease of childhood. Majority of the idiopathic cases frequently respond to steroid therapy and are regarded as steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SSNS). Several studies have reported a change in this usual pattern to steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS) in Nigerian children.Aim: This study aims to determine if there is a rising incidence of SRNS in children seen at a tertiary hospital in Enugu, south-east Nigeria. Subjects and methods: A retrospective observational descriptive study was conducted in children with nephrotic syndrome seen at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Ituku-Ozalla Enugu, over 5 years (from 2016 to 2020). The demographic variables, clinical data (including steroid-sensitive and renal-transplant cases) and histopathological pattern (including indications for renal biopsy) were documented using a study proforma. Results: Out of a total of 150 patients, 105 (70%) were males while 45 (30%) were females. Ninety-six (64%) were aged between 1-10 years whereas fifty-four 54 (36%) were adolescents aged 11 - 18 years. Forty-eight (32%) were aged 1 - 5years. Their mean age was 8.67 ± 4.69 years. One hundred and eighteen (78.7%) had idiopathic nephrotic syndrome while 21.3% had secondary nephrotic syndrome from post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (16/32, 50%) lupus nephritis (6/32, 18.7%), sickle-cell nephropathy (5/32, 15.6%), HIV-nephropathy (3/32, 9.4%), and hepatitis B infection (2, 6.3%). One hundred and six (71%) initially had SSNS; twelve (11.3%) and seven (6.6%) later became frequent-relapsers and steroid-dependent, respectively. Forty-four (29.3%) patients initially had SRNS. Sixty-eight patients had renal biopsy; the commonest indication being steroid-resistance. The commonest histological pattern was focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), seen in 63.2% of these patients. Only four (9%) had renal transplant. Conclusion: Although the prevalence of SSNS is higher in this clime, there is a rising incidence of SRNS. This trend may be attributed to incident cases of FSGS.
Mechanisms and Conditions of Ti and Cr Incorporation in Mantle Phlogopite: The Results of Atomistic Simulation
Authors: Bendeliani Aleksandra A. , Eremin Nikolay N. , Bobrov Andrey V.
Published: September 2022

Modeling of eight mechanisms for the incorporation of Ti4+ and Cr3+ impurity components into phlogopite was carried out by a semi-empirical method using the GULP (General Utility Lattice Program) software. The calculation of thermodynamic mixing properties in the range of 1–7 GPa and 373–1573 K and the analysis of the structure geometry for the simulated solid solutions provided the following energy-preferred schemes of isomorphic substitution: VI(Mg2+) + 2IV(Si4+) = VI(Ti4+) + 2IV(Al3+) and VI(Mg2+) + 2IV(Al3+) = VI(□)+ 2IV(Ti4+), VI(Mg2+) + IV(Si4+) = VI(Cr3+) + IV(Al3+), and 3VI(Mg2+) = VI(Al3+) + VI(Cr3+) + VI(□). It is shown the scheme 2VI(Mg2+) = VI(Ti4+) + VI(□) illustrating entrance of Ti with the formation of a vacancy is realized in the case of microconcentrations of Ti only. Accumulation of high Ti contents associates with the formation of a vacancy in the octahedral site. This provides incorporation of Ti via the schemes VI(Mg2+) + 2IV(Al3+) = VI(□)+ 2IV(Ti4+) and (Mg,Fe2+) + 2OH- = Ti4+ + 2O2- only. It is shown that incorporation of high Cr concentrations (>5.5 wt % Cr2O3) is accompanied by an increase in the number of vacancies in the octahedral site with an increase in the proportion of the dioctahedral component K(Al,Cr,□)AlSi3O10(OH)2.
Germination, Growth, and Secondary Metabolite Contents of Radish Sprouts (Raphanus sativus L.) as Affected by Plasma Activated Water Process Time
Authors: Kim Sungjin , Noh Seungwon , Kim Daewoong , Park Jongseok
Published: September 2022

This study was performed to investigate the effects of plasma-activated water on germination, growth, and functional properties of radish sprouts. The experimental design involved radish seeds cultivated in different concentrations of plasma-activated water for seven days, with plasma water generated by 10, 20, or 30 minutes of plasma discharge in water. The underwater plasma discharge produced nitrate ions and hydrogen peroxide(H2O2) and changed the pH and electrical conductivity. The plasma-activated water improved germination, and the longer the underwater plasma generation time, the better the effect. In terms of growth, plasma-activated water treatment oxidized the roots and negatively affected plants. Functional substance analysis showed that the levels of indolic and aliphatic glucosinolates increased, with 30 min of plasma treatment leading to the highest results. Similarly, the phenolic content increased with increasing plasma discharge time, with the 30 min treatment increasing phenolic content by 288.8% compared to the control. The results of this study suggest that plasma-activated water can increase the functional components of plants during hydroponic cultivation. However, more research is required to solve these growth disorders observed with plasma-activated water use.
Risk Factors and Outcomes of Cytomegalovirus Reactivation in the Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Tfaily Mohamad Ali , Azzo Joe-David , Gharamti Amal , Ghanem Marwan , Kanafani Zeina A.
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation has long been recognized as an important viral syndrome in the immunocompromised host. The disease is less well described in critically-ill patients. We evaluated the risk factors for the development of CMV reactivation in patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). We also compared the outcomes of CMV reactivation in ICU patients to those of patients with hematological malignancies.Methods: This is a retrospective study composed of three arms: patients admitted to the ICU with reactivation (ICU+/CMV+ arm), patients admitted to the ICU who did not develop CMV reactivation (ICU+/CMV- arm, and patients with hematological malignancies on the hematology ward without CMV reactivation (ICU-/CMV+ arm).Results: Patients who were admitted to ICU for surgical causes had a decreased risk of CMV reactivation. On the other hand, receiving corticosteroids and vasoactive drugs were associated with an increased risk of CMV reactivation with adjusted odds ratios (aOR) of 2.4 and 25.3, respectively. Mortality was higher in ICU+/CMV+ patients compared to ICU-/CMV+ patients. In the ICU+/CMV+ population, male sex and being on mechanical ventilation after CMV reactivation were independent predictors of mortality (aOR 4.6 and 5.0, respectively). Conclusions: CMV reactivation in ICU patients is a potentially serious disease requiring close attention. The findings from our study help in identifying patients in the ICU at risk for CMV reactivation, thereby warranting frequent screening. Patients at high risk of death (male, on mechanical ventilation) should receive prompt treatment and intensive follow-up.
Analysis of risk factors and nomogram prediction model of adverse reactions in patients with periprosthetic joint infections administered with vancomycin
Authors: Xue Zhaoxi , Maimatiaimaier Yilixiati , Guo Wentao , Tian Yu , Xu Boyong , Cao Li
Published: September 2022

Background
This study aims to investigate the risk factors for adverse reactions when vancomycin is administered to patients with periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) and construct its nomogram prediction model for the occurrence of vancomycin-related adverse reactions (VRAR).
Methods
This retrospective case-control study analyzed the clinical data of 203 patients with PJI intravenously treated with vancomycin and admitted to the Department of Joint Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University between January 2015 and May 2022. The patients were divided into an adverse reaction group (n = 67) and a non-adverse reaction group (n = 136) based on whether they developed vancomycin-related adverse reactions (VRAR). Clinical data from patients in both groups were used to establish the risk factors for the occurrence of VRAR by lasso-logistic regression models. The R Programming language was used to construct a nomogram prediction model for the occurrence of VRAR in patients with PJI. Further, we plotted the ROC curves and calibration curves to confirm the accuracy of the model.
Results
The predictive factors included age, obesity (BMI ≥ 28 kg/m2), hypertension, treatment course (≥ 2 weeks), and vancomycin combined with other anti-infective drugs. Internal validation of the model revealed a C-index of 0.863 (95% CI: 0.809–0.916), indicating good discrimination of the model. All the calibration curves were extremely close to the standard curve, indicating good calibration of the model.
Conclusions
In summary, this study constructed a nomogram prediction model for the occurrence of VRAR in patients with PJI. Consequently, we noted that the established nomogram prediction model has good discrimination and accuracy. The model provides an intuitive and individualized analysis of VRAR risk in patients with PJI, screens the high-risk group, and helps improve the capacity of clinicians to detect VRAR early in patients with PJI.
Trial registration
Retrospectively registered.
Seed Characteristics Determine Species Composition of Degraded Alpine Meadow Communities
Authors: Yan Weimin , Yang Yuanwu , Li Xilai
Published: September 2022

Climate change and human activities are increasing the disturbance to alpine meadows in Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, these changes are reducing the abundance of previously-dominant Gramineae and sedges, with forbs establishing dominance through secondary succession. Forbs replaced native Gramineae and sedges as dominant species. To explain the formation mechanism of this succession, this paper studied the seed characteristics of 14 common plants in alpine meadow communities, including seed number, 1000-grain weight, germination rate, pappus characteristics, fall velocity. It is revealed that seed pappus characteristics are the key factors in determining the dominance of species on the secondary bare land of degraded alpine meadows. The results of the comprehensive evaluation method show that Asteraceae have higher diffuse ability than Gramineae, sedges, Apiaceae and Leguminosae due to lower falling speed of Asteraceae, caused by their pappus. The redundancy analysis results further explain the reasons for the emergence of corresponding dominant species in different degradation stages of alpine meadows. These results are helpful for understanding changes in plant communities in alpine meadows under grazing disturbance. They also provide a theoretical basis for the sustainable utilization and management of the alpine meadow ecosystem and restoration of degraded grassland.
In silico investigation of a series of D-A-D structured chain thiophene photosensitizers for photodynamic therapy
Authors: Qin Zheng-Kun , Liu Xu-Hui , Zhang Hai-Han , Wang Shi-Ping , Wu Xin-Zhao , Pu Xin , Ji Ye , Yang Jia-Yu , Guo Xi-Lian , Wang Jia , Song Ming-Xing , Bai Fu-Quan
Published: September 2022

This study investigated the therapeutic activity of a series of chain thiophene photosensitizers (PS) using theoretical simulation approaches. Density functional theory and its time-dependent extension (DFT, TD-DFT) were used to calculate the parameters for the determination of various photophysical properties of PSs, such as electronic absorption spectrum, singlet-triplet state energy gap, and to discuss the electron-hole relationship between excited states and orbitals. The calculations show that these photosensitizers have a practical inter-system crossing (ISC) transition from the first singlet excited state to the lower triplet state excited state with sufficient energy to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS). These suitable properties make these series of PSs promising for photodynamic therapy (PDT) applications. these photosensitizer molecules in this work can provide a theoretical reference for further experimental researches.
Transmission of trypanosomiasis by tsetse flies in three active HAT foci of the Republic of Congo
Authors: Bemba Irina Anne Emmanuelle , Lenga Arsene , Awono-Ambene Herman Parfait , Antonio-Nkondjio Christophe
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT) is a neglected tropical disease still endemic in the Republic of Congo. Despite continuous detection of HAT cases in the country, there is still not enough data on trypanosome infections in tsetse flies, trypanosome species and tsetse flies species distribution in endemic foci. The present study is intended to fill this gap and improve understanding on trypanosome circulation in three active foci in the centre and south of Congo.Methods: Pyramid traps were set in various places in villages to collect tsetse flies both during rainy and dry season. Once collected, tsetse flies were identified using morphological keys. DNA extracted from flies was processed by PCR for species identification and for detection of trypanosome. A second PCR was ran for different trypanosome species identification.Results: A total of 1291 tsetse flies were collected. The average apparent density of fly per day was 0.043 in Mpouya, 0.73 in Ngabé and 2.79 in Loudima. Glossina fuscipes quazensis was the predominant tsetse fly found in Ngabé and Mpouya, while Glossina palpalis palpalis was the only tsetse fly found in Loudima. A total of 224 (17.7%) flies were detected infected by trypanosomes; 100 (7.91%) by Trypanosoma congolense savannah, 22 (1.74%) by Trypanosoma congolense forest, 15 (1.19%) by Trypanosoma vivax, 83 (6.56%) by Trypanosoma brucei (s.l.) and 2 (0.16%) undetermined species. A total of 57 co-infections between T. brucei (s.l.) and T. congolense savannah or T. brucei (s.l.) and T. congolense forest were found only in G. p. palpalis. Loudima recorded the highest number of infected tsetse flies.Conclusion: The study provided updated information on the dynamics of tsetse fly populations as well as on the transmission of trypanosome species in the different active HAT foci in Congo. The data suggest high transmission of animal trypanosomes and possibly human trypanosomes in these foci. The study stress the need for active surveillance in these endemic foci.
Planning for Bike-sharing System: Predicting Potential Usage with Spatial Regression Models
Authors: Sun Sai , Hu Lingqian
Published: September 2022

The rapid growth of bike-sharing usage spurs a large amount of empirical research. However, much research focuses on existing bike-sharing services, without considering the gaps between revealed and potential demand, while some potential demand cannot be met without a supply of bike-sharing facilities. To address this gap, this research develops a two-step approach: the first step proposes an equitable supply of bike-sharing stations based on neighborhood characteristics, and the second step predicts potential bike-sharing usage with the proposed supply scenario. Using data from a station-based bike-sharing system in the city of Chicago, we specify and evaluate the new methodological approach with transformed spatial regression models. Results identify neighborhoods that have potential demand but are under-served. Our approach provides a tool for providing an equitable supply of bike-sharing services and promoting wide adoption of bike-sharing across diverse neighborhoods.
Cleaner and Sustainable Synthesis of High Quality Monoglycerides by use of Enzyme Technologies: Techno-economic and Environmental study for Monolaurin
Authors: Mustafa Ahmad , Fathy Sara , Kutlu Ozben , Niikura Fumiya , Inayat Abrar , Mustafa Muhamad , Abdellatief Tamer M.M. , Bokhari Awais , Samuel Olusegun David , Pastore Carlo , Bitonto Luigi , Mohsen Reham
Published: September 2022

Currently, monoglycerides (MG) are produced using a complicated energy intensive technology that contributes negatively toward greenhouse gas mitigation. This work suggests a cleaner and simpler one-step enzymatic production of α-monolaurin in an inert membrane reactor, where the reaction and enzyme separation are conducted simultaneously in one unit. Candida antarctica lipase (Lipozyme 435) was used to catalyze the esterification reaction between lauric acid and glycerin in a solvent-free system under mild temperatures. Response surface methodology was used to optimize the reaction conditions. The optimal conditions were a molecular sieve of 14.85% w/w, a temperature of 56.95°C, an enzyme amount of 5.38% w/w, and a molar ratio of 4.75% w/w. The gas chromatography (GC) analysis showed that the α-monolaurin percentage was 49.5% when the enzymatic process (ENZ) was used. The conventional chemical (CHEM) and autocatalytic (AUT) esterification methods were also performed to study their proportional MG yields. The GC results showed the MG percentages of 43.9% and 41.7% for CHEM and AUT, respectively. Economic analysis was also conducted for the suggested enzymatic technique, and the findings were compared with those of the CHEM and AUT technologies. Using a plant capacity of 4950 t/year and 11% interest for the proposed ENZ process, the total capital investment of α-monolaurin production was preferably four times less than that of the CHEM process and three times less than that of the AUT method, presenting investment possibilities. However, the ENZ process showed the least profitability (net profit per day) among the three processes. Nevertheless, the return on investment and net present value for the ENZ process were preferably higher than those of CHEM and AUT because of its interestingly lower inside battery limit plant cost and less energy consumption. The AUT/CHEM processes generated a total carbon dioxide (CO2) exhaust of t CO2 678.7 eq./year. In contrast, the ENZ process exhausted a total CO2 of only 50 t CO2 eq./year. The present integrated techno-economic and environmental study of α-monolaurin production emphasizes the green and cost benefits of the proposed ENZ technology.
Safety and efficacy of exercise in patients with bone metastases: Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hu Chengzhe , Yang Jiandong , Liu Chen , Zheng Zihao , Zhong Mingkai , Cui Fei
Published: September 2022

Background: Cancer patients may enhance their physical function and quality of life via exercise. However, there are few quantitative data to determine if exercise is safe and effective for the patients with bone metastases.Methods: Embase, PubMed and Cochrane Controlled Trials Register Databases were searched to May 5, 2022.Results: 692 items were found. Five studies totaling 234 patients were included in the analysis after thorough screening. The interventions included soccer, aerobic exercise, and resistance training. There were no adverse effects connected to exercise. The results of the mixed-efficacy study showed that exercise improved bone mineral density more than regular nursing (P=0.009). It also had a clinically significant effect on body composition and pain, but there was no difference between the groups (P > 0.05).Conclusions: Exercise seems to be safe for people with bone metastases, and it can increase bone density, improve body composition, and alleviate pain.
Imaging a microfocus X-ray focal spot with a thin coded aperture
Authors: Davis Graham Roy , Beckenbach Thomas , Meyer Pascal
Published: September 2022

Imaging of the focal spot size in X-ray generators can be achieved by means of a pinhole in a highly attenuating material, such as gold. For microfocus generators with spot sizes of only around 10 microns or less, the material must be very thin to avoid an impractical aspect ratio. With a 90 kV source, only 11% attenuation is attained with 5 µm gold. For a pinhole that is smaller than the focal spot, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) may be less than 1. To image the focal spot of a medical X-ray generator, a coded aperture has been used previously to reduce the exposure time required, however the same technique does not appear to have been used to increase the SNR when the attenuation is very low. Such a method is used here, using a no-two-holes-touching variation of a modified uniformly redundant array (MURA). In a prototype sample, with only 5 µm gold having 2.75 µm holes, the focal spot of a microfocus X-ray generator used in a micro-CT system could be clearly visualised and quantified. Directionality of the aberrations made focussing of the X-ray spot more intuitive and reduced the time required to obtain an optimal, quantifiable focus.
Maps portfolio of Octopus vulgaris off Mauritania
Authors: AHMED-BABOU Dedah , DEMARCQ Hervé , MEISSA Beyah , BEZ Nicolas
Published: September 2022

This study introduces the concept of map portfolio as the set of principal maps that best explain the spatial distributions of a given species over time. An application is developed on octopus’s distribution off Mauritania over the past thirty years. The maps that make up the portfolio are the subset of the empirical orthogonal maps that allow to recover 60% of the input spatiotemporal variability and whose amplitude through time is significantly correlated with abundance. During the hot season, one single map explains half of the overall variability of the initial data, while during the cold season, the portfolio of octopus is made of four maps, the amplitudes of the second one being negatively correlated with upwelling intensity six months before. The size of a portfolio represents the number of spatial patterns from which the octopus mainly composed its distribution over time. Assuming that specific but hidden processes explain each biomass distribution of the portfolio, the size of a map portfolio could be a proxy for the systems’ resilience. In case of large portfolios, a process could decrease without damaging the overall system if compensated by another one. A small portfolio could be symptomatic of more fragile systems.
Nonlinear Interaction of 3D Kinetic Alfv'en Wave with Null Point and Turbulence Generation in the Solar Corona.
Authors: Patel Garima , Pathak Neha , Uma R. , Sharma R.P.
Published: September 2022

In the present paper, we have studied the nonlinear Kinetic Alfv'en Waves (KAW) in the vicinity of the null point. We have considered the nonlinearity due to ponderomotive effects associated with KAW in the solar corona. A 3D model equation representing the dynamics of KAW is developed in this Null point scenario. Using numerical methods, we have solved the model equation for solar corona parameters. The pseudospectral method and the finite difference method have been applied to tackle spatial integration and temporal evaluation, respectively. The outcome of the simulation demonstrates the formation of localized structures. With the evolution of time, these localized structures become more chaotic. Chaotic structures (turbulent) can efficiently transfer energy. The power spectrum of these turbulent structures shows the Kolmogorov spectral index of nearly -5/3 in the inertial range followed by a steeper spectrum of nearly -3.3 (in the range of -2 to -4). These structures also lead to the generation of the current sheet. To understand the physics of our model, we have also done a semi-analytical study for our model equation. Semi-analytical calculations reveal that the current sheet structures have scale sizes of the order of ion gyro-radius. The relevance of this investigation to the current observations by Parker Solar Probe has also been discussed.