bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increased Expression of TIGIT And KLRG1 Correlates With Impaired CD56Bright NK Cell Immunity In HPV16-Rrelated Cervical Intraepithelial Neoplasia
Authors: You Nie , Dandan Liu , Wen Yang , Yazhuo Li , Lihua Zhang , Xia Cheng , Ruyu Chen , Bingbing Yuan , Guangzheng Zhang , Hongwei Wang
Published: December 2021

Background: The onset and progression of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) are closely associated with the persistent infection of high-risk HPV (especially type16), which is mainly caused by immune escape. Natural killer (NK) cells play an important role against virally infected cells and tumor cells through a fine balance of signals from multiple surface receptors. Overexpression of non-MHC-I specific inhibitory receptors TIGIT, KLRG1, Siglec-7, LAIR-1, and CD300a on NK cells correlates with cellular exhaustion and immune evasion, but these receptors have not been investigated in CIN. The aim of the present study was to examine the potential role of NK cell non-MHC-I specific inhibitory receptors expression in immune escape from HPV16-related CIN patients .Methods: the subset distribution, IFN-γ and TNF-α expression levels and immunophenotype of TIGIT, KLRG1, Siglec-7, LAIR-1, and CD300a of NK cells were investigated in peripheral blood mononuclear cell samples by flow cytometry from 82 women, including HPV16(+) subjects with CIN 0, CIN I, and CIN II-III, and HPV subjects with CIN 0 (control). immunohistochemistry was applied to detect the expression of ligands for NK receptors in the cervical tissues. HPV types were identified by PCR assays.Results: The HPV16(+) subjects with high-grade lesions had an increased number of circulating peripheral blood CD56bright NK cells with reduced functionality and IFN-γ secretion. The expression levels of the inhibitory molecules TIGIT and KLRG1 on CD56bright NK cells increased in parallel with increasing CIN grade. In addition, TIGIT and KLRG1 related ligands, PVR, N-Cadherin and E-Cadherin expression level was also elevated with increasing CIN grade. Conclusions: Our results suggested that the reduced viability of CD56bright NK cells and increased TIGIT and KLRG1 expression represent an escape mechanism associated to persistent HPV16 infection and CIN progression. These results may facilitate the development of early-warning immune predictors and therapeutic strategies for HPV16-associated CIN based on the TIGIT and KLRG1 inhibitory pathways of NK cells.
Frequency of hypothyroidism after cardiac catheter in infants with congenital heart diseases: A single center prospective study
Authors: Elbaz Boshra , Elmarsafawy Hala , Laimon Wafaa
Published: December 2021

This study aims to determine the incidence, potential onset and clinical course of hypothyroidism following cardiac catheter (CC) in infants with congenital heart diseases (CHD) and to evaluate the predictors for hypothyroidism in this vulnerable group. This prospective study included 102 patients with CHD, aged ≤ 3 years who underwent CC. Thyroid function tests were assessed before CC, one day, one week, two weeks and four weeks after the procedure. 12% of the studied group showed hypothyroidism four weeks after CC. Univariate analysis revealed that the significant predictors of hypothyroidism following CC are aortic stenosis (RR=10.0 (1.49-66.99), P=0.018), duration of fluoroscopy (RR=1.12 (0.99-1.26), P=0.05), and total cumulative dose of iodinated contrast media (iCM) (RR=1.01 (1.003 -1.01), P=0.019). Multivariate analysis revealed that iCM cumulative dose was the only significant predictor of developing hypothyroidism (RR=1.00 (1.00-1.01), P=0.04). ROC curve analysis showed that the cut-off point of iCM dose for prediction of hypothyroidism evolution is 8.7 gm/kg (26.1 ml/kg), (sensitivity: 83.3%, specificity: 65.1%), while the cut-off point of fluoroscopy duration which predicts development of hypothyroidism is 24 minutes, (sensitivity: 83.3%, specificity: 65.9%). In a median follow-up duration of 20 months, acquired hypothyroidism after CC persists in 5% of this cohort. Conclusion: Exposure to higher dose of iCM and longer duration of fluoroscopy during CC are risk factors for evolution of hypothyroidism. We recommend assessment of thyroid profile 4 weeks after CC particularly in patients who received a dose of iCM higher than 8.7 gm/kg and/or exposed to fluoroscopy for more than 24 minutes.
Clptm1 Downregulation Exerts Antiepileptic Activity by Regulating GABAAR-mediated Inhibitory Synaptic Transmission in PTZ-induced Epileptic Model
Authors: Zhang Peng , Lin Lan , Mei Rong , Zhang Fengli , Chen Yangmei , Li Rong
Published: December 2021

Background: Disruption of GABAAR synaptic clustering and a decrease number in their cell surface are thought to contribute to the alteration in the balance between excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission, which contributes to seizure induction and propagation. Cleft lip and palate transmembrane protein 1 (Clptm1), a multi-pass transmembrane protein, has been showed that it is an intracellular molecule that controls forward trafficking of GABAAR. Clptm1 downregulating increased miniature inhibitory postsynaptic current (mIPSC) in vivo. Thus, Clptm1 controls phasic and tonic inhibitory transmission in brain. In this study, we hypothesized that Clptm1 may be involved in epileptic seizure by regulating GABAAR-mediated inhibitory synaptic transmission in epileptic model.Methods and Results: In PTZ-induced epileptic model, we found that Clptm1 was increased in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) patients as well as in epileptic model. Then, we showed that Clptm1 downregulation exerted antiepileptic activities in epileptic model, which was associated to the increased surface GABAARγ2 expression and mIPSCs amplitudes.Conclusions: Clptm1 downregulation exerted antiepileptic activities in epileptic model, thus, it may be a promising target for antiepileptic treatments.
Ionic Liquids Based on Chromotropic Acid: Excellent Lubricating Additives for Aqueous System
Authors: Wang Peng , Gao Peng , Ma Lin , Wen Ping , Han Yunyan , Dong Rui , Fan Mingjin
Published: December 2021

In this paper, four ionic liquids based on chromotropate (CAILs) were prepared and applied to heighten the tribological performance of aqueous system on different metal friction contacts. Taking for the potential choice for water-based lubricating additive, CAILs exhibited excellent water solubility and corrosion resistance. Tribological results showed that the CAILs, especially the phenolic hydroxyl group decorated samples (TsnN4444 and TsnP4444), demonstrated extremely effective lubricating properties with the efficient friction and wear descent (69% and 83% for Fe, 47% and 94% for Cu, 74% and 69% for Al, respectively). Especially, the excellent load-carrying capacity was also presented with the highest PB (833N) and PD (1568N) values for TsnP4444. It is speculated that the CAIL molecular adsorption on the interface and further generation of tribochemical films are beneficial for their lubricating effects. resulting from the systematic discussion and analysis of CA, QCM, SEM, XPS, and FIB-TEM tests. However, TsN4444 and TsP4444 showed less effective lubricating performances and poor load-carrying capacities due to tribocorrosion of hydroxyl groups at the interface.
Effect of Cornus Mas L. Fruit Extract on Blood Pressure, Anthropometric and Body Composition Indices in Patients with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Yarhosseini Faezeh , Sangouni Abbas Ali , Sangsefidi Zohreh Sadat , Hosseinzadeh Mahdieh , Akhondi-Meybodi Mohsen , Ranjbar Alimohammad , Fallahzadeh Hossein , Mozaffari-Khosravi Hassan
Published: December 2021

Background:Obesity is an important factor in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Patients with NAFLD are at increased risk for hypertension. Some investigations have hypothesized that Cornus mas L. fruit can improve blood pressure and obesity. We investigated the effect of Cornus mas L. fruit extract on blood pressure variables, anthropometric and body composition indices in patients with NAFLD.Methods:This double-blind, randomized controlled trial was conducted on fifty patients with NAFLD. Patients received 20 cc/d Cornus mas L. fruit extract or placebo for 12 weeks. We measured diastolic blood pressure (DBP), systolic blood pressure (SBP), weight, waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), body fat mass (BFM), body fat percent (BFP) and fat free mass (FFM) at the baseline and after intervention.Results:The treatment group compared to the control group showed a significant reduction in DBP (-8.62 ± 11.86 vs. 0.53 ± 8.53; P = 0.009), SBP (-8.63 ± 14.37 vs. 0.0 ± 12.67; P = 0.04), BFM (-0.2 ± 3.9 vs. 0.7 ± 2.4; P = 0.02) and BFP (-0.2 ± 4.9 vs. 0.8 ± 2.8; P = 0.05) after adjusting for confounding factors. However, we found no significant difference between groups in weight, WC, HC, WHR and FFM (P > 0.05). Conclusions:Cornus mas L. can improve blood pressure. Further studies with higher dosages of extract are needed to clarify its effects on obesity. Trial registration: Registered on 30 September 2018 at Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials IRCT20180419039359N1 (https://www.irct.ir/trial/30707).
Angiopoietin-Like 4 Promotes Glucose Metabolism by Regulating Glucose Transporter Expression in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Mizuno Shodai , Seishima Ryo , Yamasaki Juntaro , Hattori Kaoru , Ogiri Masayo , Matsui Shimpei , Shigeta Kohei , Okabayashi Koji , Nagano Osamu , Liang Li , Kitagawa Yuko
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Angiopoietin-like 4 (ANGPTL4) was recently shown to be associated with cancer progression but little is known about its contribution to cancer metabolism. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the role of ANGPTL4 in glucose metabolism in colorectal cancer (CRC).
Methods

Immunohistochemical staining of CRC specimens classified 84 patients into two groups according to ANGPTL4 expression. Clinicopathological characteristics, gene mutation status obtained by next-generation sequencing, and fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) uptake measured by positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) were compared between the two groups. Furthermore, the impact of ANGPTL4 expression on cancer metabolism was investigated by a subcutaneous xenograft mouse model using the ANGPTL4 knockout CRC cell line and glucose transporter (GLUT) expression was evaluated.
Results

There were significantly more cases of T3/4 tumours (94.3% vs. 57.1%, P < 0.001) and perineural invasion (42.9% vs. 22.4%, P = 0.046) in the ANGPTL4-high group than in the low group. Genetic exploration revealed a higher frequency of KRAS mutation (54.3% vs. 22.4%, P = 0.003) in the ANGPTL4-high tumours. All the FDG uptake parameters were significantly higher in ANGPTL4-high tumours. In vivo analysis showed a significant reduction in tumor size due to ANGPTL4 knockout with lower expression of GLUT1 and GLUT3, and suppression of AKT phosphorylation.
Conclusion

ANGPTL4 regulates the expression of GLUTs by activating the PI3K-AKT pathway and thereby promoting glucose metabolism in CRC. These findings establish a new functional role of ANGPTL4 in cancer progression and lay the foundation for developing a novel therapeutic target.
Acid Black 194 Dye Clarifications Onto Natural And Acid/Base Activated Smectitic Clays
Authors: Chakroun Salima , Elleuch Haitham , Sghaier Dalel , Gaied Mohamed
Published: December 2021

The present work is concerned the Acid Black 194 dye adsorption by Two smectitic clays (BJ and AJ) aged upper Eocene were sampled from Atlas Central of Tunisia in Kairouan region. Technical characterization was carried out using calcimetry and X-ray diffraction. The activation studies of clays by HCl/ Na2CO3 have been conducted to improve their physicochemical properties. The optimum result of the surface area after acid activation (aa) was 398 m2/g for BJ aa and AJ aa, after basic activation (ab) the surface area was 460 m2 /g for BJ ab and 440 m2/g for AJ ab. The characterization by XRD, chemical analysis and SEM observations, were performed before and after optimum activation.Moreover, the raw and activated samples (aa/ab) under the optimum activation conditions were used in the effluent treatment. Adsorption tests were made by batch system at 25 °C in different pH (2-12) and by varying the adsorbent amount (0.025-0.1 g). The best adsorption results were recorded with pH = 11 and amount adsorbent 0.025 g. The raw clay adsorption capacity was slightly better than activated samples. The best yield was given by BJ (94%). Therefore, clay can be used in various applications without any characteristic modification.
Chicken or the egg: Vitamin D deficiency in Chronic Kidney Disease of Uncertain Etiology in Sri Lanka
Authors: Godawita R , Nayanamali MAA , Silva KDRR , Abeysundara HTK , Antonypillai CN , Nanayakkara N
Published: December 2021

Background

Vitamin D deficiency is a poorly studied nutritional disorder in CKDu. There are no published studies on vitamin D levels in CKDu; a unique environmental nephropathy in tropical countries. This study was aimed to describe the prevalence of vitamin D, iron and vitamin B12 status in CKDu patients and to determine associations between vitamin D status and socio demographic factors, nutritional status and dietary intake of vitamin D.
Method

This was a cross sectional survey conducted among the CKDu patients in Wilgamuwa area, in Mathale district located in the Central province of Sri Lanka. Data was collected by laboratory evaluation, clinical examination and interviewer administered questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS statistical software.
Results

Out of the 150 of respondents, 74.0% (n = 111) had vitamin D deficiency, 72.0% (n = 108) had anemia, and 3.3% (n = 5) had vitamin B12 deficiency, in both genders. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of anemia, low serum ferritin and vitamin B12 deficiency between males and females. Gender was significantly associated with the vitamin D deficiency (p<0.05). Females were 7.69 times more likely to have vitamin D deficiency compared to males. Vitamin D deficiency was 1.7 times higher among those who received social welfare benefits than those who did not receive it. High intake of fish was protective against vitamin D deficiency.
Conclusion

Isolated Vitamin D deficiency was the most prevalent nutritional deficiency among CKDu patients of Sri Lanka. Correction of these deficiencies may have a favorable effect on CKDu outcome.
The Usefulness of Dual Channel Elastomeric Pump for Intravenous Patient-Controlled Analgesia in Geriatrics: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Prospective Study
Authors: Lee Chung Hun , Cho Soo Ah , Oh Seok Kyeong , Choi Sang Sik , Kong Myoung Hoon , Kim Young Sung
Published: December 2021

Background: Intravenous patient-controlled analgesia (IV-PCA) is well applied in postoperative period. However, determining an appropriate opioid dose was difficult. A previous study suggested the usefulness of variable-rate feedback infusion. In this study, we used a dual-channel elastomeric infusion pump to provide changes in PCA infusion rate by pain feedback.Methods: 90 patients of ASA I-III and 65 to 79 years undergoing orthopedic surgery were participated in the study. All patients were applied a dual-chamber PCA. Patients were randomly allocated into treatment group (Group D; PCA drugs were divided into both chambers.) or control group (Group C; PCA drugs were contained only in the constant flow chamber, but normal saline was contained in the adjustable flow chamber.) The primary outcome was the amount of fentanyl consumption via PCA bolus. The secondary outcome variables were pain score, total fentanyl consumption, rescue analgesic use, patient satisfaction, recovery scores and adverse events including postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV).Results: Group D showed decreased fentanyl consumption in PCA bolus. Moreover, group D showed in a decrease in rescue analgesic use and better patient satisfaction. The incidence of PONV was much higher in group C. There was no difference in other adverse events.Conclusions: We showed the usefulness of dual chamber IV-PCA to change the flow rate to the pain feedback without any complication. Our results suggested noble implications that may improve existing IV-PCA equipment.Clinical trial registration: The study registered at UMIN clinical trial registry (registered date: 05/03/2020, registration number: UMIN000039702).
A Comparison of Ondansetron and Lidocaine in Reducing Injection Pain of Propofol: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Wasinwong Wirat , Termthong Sarocha , Plansangkate Prae , Tanasansuttiporn Jutarat , Kosem Riam , Chaofan Surewan
Published: December 2021

Background
Propofol injection pain is common. Previous studies found that ondansetron can also block sodium channels.
Objective
The primary outcome was the efficacy of ondansetron compared to lidocaine and placebo for the reduction of propofol injection pain.
Method
This trial was conducted in 240 patients, American Society of Anesthesiologists classification I-III and aged between 18-65 years old, undergoing elective surgery, and having a 20-gauge intravenous catheter at the hand dorsum. Each group of 80 patients received 8 mg of ondansetron in the O Group, 40 mg of lidocaine in the L Group and normal saline in the C Group. The study medications were blindly given then 1 minute later, the propofol was administered via the syringe pump at the rate of 600 ml/hr. for 30 seconds. Thereafter, the syringe pump of propofol was temporarily paused, and the patients were asked to rate his/her pain.
Result
The incidence of pain was lowest in the L group (66.2%) compared with the O (82.5%) and the C groups (85.0%) (P<0.01). The median pain score in the L, O, and C groups were 2 (0-4), 4 (2-5), and 4.5 (2-6), respectively (P<0.01). The incidences of no pain, mild, moderate, and severe pain were also significantly different in the L group (33.8%, 37.5%, 21.2%, and 7.5%, respectively) compared with those in the O group (17.5%, 31.2%, 31.2%, and 20.0%, respectively) and the C groups (15.0%, 22.5%, 40.0%, and 22.5%, respectively) (P<0.01)..
Conclusion
Pretreatment with intravenous lidocaine, rather than ondansetron, can reduce the incidence and intensity of propofol-induced pain.
El no retorno de los jóvenes rurales desplazados en Caldas
Authors: Velasquez Ortiz Yonathan Amed
Published: December 2021

Se analizó el desarraigo de los jóvenes del sector rural de Caldas víctimas del desplazamiento forzado. A partir de las categorías desarraigo y re-arraigo se establece un catálogo axiológico constitucional de los derechos fundamentales, los principios Francis Deng y de los derechos humanos vulnerados.
Los jóvenes no desean regresar a sus lugares de origen por el ostracismo al que se enfrentan y la imposibilidad de reintegración familiar y social. El enfoque de la investigación fue el histórico hermenéutico desde la revisión documental y entrevistas donde, los principios rectores del desplazamiento interno permitieron examinar sus principales motivaciones, necesidades e impacto.
AS BASES CONSTITUTIVAS DO PROCESSO DIVISIONISTA DO ESTADO DO PIAUÍ
Authors: De LIMA Wendell Teles , TANANTA Cleuter Tenazor , OLIVEIRA Ana Maria Libório de
Published: December 2021

O processo de redivisão atual do Estado do Piauí leva a proposição de criação ao sul do estado, contextualizado o fenômeno, observou-se o surgimento de uma nova unidade interiorizada no território brasileiro. Fruto da expansão econômica e do estabelecimento de atores territorializantes. E suas ações devem ser analisadas de forma relativizada com a atualidade.  Correlações são necessárias para entender que os processos divisionistas não são aleatórias, o surgimento da Gurgueia é ligado a esse fenômeno. Para sua compreensão foi desenvolvida uma pesquisa bibliográfica, baseada na compressão das propostas divisionistas, que têm relação com a modificação piauiense, que visa analisar e identificar as propostas direcionadas ao Piauí com objetivo de aprofundar a proposta de divisão atual.
Physical-chemical properties of the surface water from shallow lakes of the Matita-Merhei Unit, Danube Delta, Romania: current state and environmental significance
Authors:   National Research and Development Institute for Marine Geology and Geoecology, GeoEcoMar, Catianis Irina , Grosu Dumitru , Constantinescu Adriana Maria , Tiron Dutu Laura , Dobre Oana
Published: December 2021

This study aimed to assess the water quality of certain lakes (Bogdaproste, Trei Ozere and Radacinos) belonging to the Danube Delta, Romania. Deltaic ecosystems are subject to natural and man-made environmental stressors. If in the past these ecosystems were largely threatened by eutrophication and organic/inorganic pollution, nowadays, we must focus on hydro morphological impact. This refers to the physical character and water content of the aquatic environment, impoundment (dams and flood gate), channelization and embankments, as well as clog/siltation of lakes. Environmental parameters are those physical, chemical and biological indicators used to characterize a freshwater body, and, which vary in time and space. In this regard, 44 water samples were collected in the dry season from the three lakes, for analysis of physical-chemical quality indicators. A series of physical (T, EC, TDS, turbidity, TSS, transparency) and chemical parameters (pH, DO, nutrients, SiO2, TOC, SO42-, ORP, technophilic elements) were considered. The results obtained in the physical-chemical analyses revealed that the majority of parameters were found in line with enforcing environmental regulations. Despite that, P-PO43- and Cd concentration results of some samples were found above certain permissible limits set by the normative. Probably, these inadvertences can be associated with local conditions of the transitional deltaic environment. Further analysis is required conducting repeated measurements with the same question, meaning a routine monitoring, especially P-PO43- and Cd. Finally, it was concluded that the results of this study showed a good quality of water in investigated lakes that did not pose potential health and environmental problems related to the biota.
Ranking the dietary treatments of broiler chickens in order to reduce nitrogen pollution of the environment
Authors:   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology, Vasile Gabriela Geanina , Tenea Anda Gabriela , Serban Ecaterina Anca , Catrina Gina Alina , Badescu Valeriu , Vlaicu Petru Alexandru ,   National Research‐Development Institute for Animal Biology and Nutrition
Published: December 2021

The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) methodology was used to rank the tested nutritional solutions and to choose the best nutritional solution in order to reduce environmental pollution with nitrogen. The evaluation methodology consisted in comparing by three evaluators the diets based on the zootechnical performances/thigh meat quality / environmental impact. The diets of tested nutritional solutions were contained either medicinal or aromatic plants (basil, thyme, sage) in a proportion of 1% (batch 2), respectively essential oils (0.05%) of the same plants (batch 1). The application of the AHP methodology indicated that the best nutritional alternative was obtained for basil, either in the form of essential oil or vegetal material.
Options to improve the coagulation process operation in a drinking water treatment plant. Case study
Authors:   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology, Pacala Adina , Samonid Maria Laura ,   Water Treatment Company Aquatim S.A., Timisoara, Romania, Murariu Bogdan
Published: December 2021

Aluminum salts are widely used across Romania in surface water treatment as coagulants. It is well-known that the efficiency of these coagulants has a complex dependency on the nature of the raw water, being affected by temperature, pH, and suspended solids. The objective of this case study was to compare the coagulation-flocculation efficiency process of raw water from the Bega River, at low temperature and turbidity, taking into account the use of alternative coagulating agents such as alum, poly aluminum chloride (PAC), and their mixing in 1:1 ratio. The raw water samples were treated using the "Jar Test" procedure, comparable with the current plant conditions at Timisoara Waterworks and taking into account possible operational improvements. For the mixture method applied in which was combined alum and PAC in 1:1 mixing ratio were achieved lower concentrations in aluminum residual, TOC, and turbidity.
Stoichiometry of carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus in wastewater from Romania
Authors:   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology, Pirvu Florinela , Paun Iuliana , Niculescu Marcela , Iancu Vasile Ion , Pascu Luoana Florentina , Chiriac Florentina Laura
Published: December 2021

Water resources crisis can lead to a new concept of wastewater treatment. Wastewater cannot be considered waste but can be a renewable or non-renewable energy source. Nutrients from wastewater could be recycled and not disposed of. A circular economy can be created that can be based on the ability of algae to absorb and store nutrients: carbon (C), nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P). This study investigates the stoichiometry between carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus in wastewater from three geographical regions of Romania. The concentrations of inorganic nitrogen, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, and total organic carbon were compared and evaluated. Three wastewater sampling points located in different areas were monitored, in the period 2013-2017 for the sampling point located in the central-northern part of the Romanian Plain and in the period 2015-2017 for the other two studied areas. The obtained results showed very high values of total nitrogen concentrations with values between 28.2 mg/L and 107.2 mg/L for the southeastern part of Romania. The values of the stoichiometric ratio’s C/N, C/P, N/P have varied over time with maximums in the autumn and winter seasons which indicates the existence of significant contamination of wastewater. It may be possible in the future to improve the performance of wastewater treatment by adjusting C, N, and P parameters.
Chemical characterization methods for biodegradable organic wastes with relevance for the composting process. Case study
Authors:   National Research and Development Institute for Industrial Ecology, Catrina Gina Alina , Kim Lidia , Serbanescu Agnes , Cernica Georgiana , Bumbac Costel , Sburlis Marius ,   SC Salubris SA, Slatina, Romania
Published: December 2021

The study aimed to develop some methods for the compositional characterization of biodegradable waste with relevance to the composting process at the laboratory level. For testing, four waste fractions were selected, such as waste-based on dehydrated sludge, waste from parks (leaves, branches), market waste (mixture of vegetable and fruit), and cardboard waste. For metals and phosphorus, several microwave digestion methods were applied. The ammonium nitrogen content (NH4-N) was determined using a number of extraction procedures (water, CaCl2, and KCl). Three certified reference materials were used for testing the validity of the results. Recovery percentages higher than 90% were obtained. The developed and validated methods are suitable for biodegradable waste characterization used in composting processes.
Amino Acid and Biogenic Amine Adductions Derived from Reactive Metabolites
Authors: Zhang Zhengyu , Peng Ying , Zheng Jiang
Published: December 2021

Reactive metabolites (RMs) are products generated from the metabolism of endogenous and exogenous
substances. RMs are characterized as electrophilic species chemically reactive to nucleophiles. Those nucleophilic
species may be nitrogen-containing bio-molecules, including macro-biomolecules, such as protein and DNA, and
small biomolecules, i.e., amino acids (AAs) and biogenic amines (BAs). AAs and BAs are essential endogenous
nitrogen-containing compounds required for normal development, metabolism, and physiological functions in organisms,
through participating in the intracellular replication, transcription, translation, division and proliferation, DNA
and protein synthesis, regulation of apoptosis, and intercellular communication activities. These biological amines
containing an active lone pair of electrons on the electronegative nitrogen atom would be the proper N-nucleophiles
to be attacked by the abovementioned RMs. This review covers an overview of adductions of AAs and BAs with
varieties of RMs. These RMs are formed from metabolic activation of furans, naphthalene, benzene, and products of
lipid peroxidation. This article is designed to provide readers with a better understanding of biochemical mechanisms
of toxic action.
Investigating the Effects of Aqueous and Alcoholic Extracts of Allium hirtifolium
and Allium jesdianum on Keratinase Activity of Trichophyton Mentagrophytes
Authors: Madani Mahboobeh , Shakib Pegah , Sarlak Maryam , Nasiri Zahra , Shahanipour Kahin , Tognoni Elena
Published: December 2021

Background:

Trichophyton spp., as pathogenic species to humans and animals, cause
different forms of dermatophytosis through the production of particular enzymes, playing an essential
role in tissue invasion. Among these, herein, keratinase was investigated, for the specific case
of Trichophyton mentagrophytes, as a target of the effects of Allium hirtifolium and Allium jesdianum
extracts, thus pharmacological potential of these plants was studied against keratinase activity.

Methodology:

Sampling was carried out on 20 bald patients from medical diagnostic laboratories
and mycology centers, with suspected dermatophytosis of scalp. For confirming the presence of Trichophyton
mentagrophytes in the specimens, different laboratory procedures were applied. Trichophyton
mentagrophytes isolates were cultured on a screening medium containing keratin to verify
production of the keratinase enzyme. The best enzyme-producing isolate was selected by measuring
diameter of transparent halo around colony to be used in subsequent stages. Afterwards, the optimized
conditions maximizing enzyme production and activity were determined. Finally, the inhibitory
effect of different dilutions of aqueous and alcoholic extracts of Allium jesdianum and Allium
hirtifolium on extracellular keratinase activity was studied.

Results:

Sixteen out of 20 fungal isolates were identified as the Trichophyton mentagrophytes. The
most desirable reduction on keratinase activity was reported for dilution values of 50 and 100
mg/ml of both aqueous and ethanolic extracts of A.jesdianum, though much more significant decrease
belonged to the latter, and for dilution values of 25 and 100 mg/ ml of both aqueous and
ethanolic extracts of A.hirtifolium.

Conclusion:

Concerning our results, it is suggested that paying special attention to these natural
compounds for the treatment of dermatophytosis could be remarkably effective, considering significant
production of keratinase observed in T. mentagrophytes, and they are beneficial, as they have
no side effects and offer an alternative to currently available medications, which are under the restriction
of drug resistance.
Consumer Willingness to Pay for The Purchase of Spicy Acid Catfish at Pondok Gurih Restaurant, Pekanbaru
Authors:   Mahasiswa Jurusan Sosial Ekonomi Perikanan, Fakultas Perikanan dan Kelautan, Universitas Riau, Yuliasma Fitri , Warningsih Trisla , AN Darwis ,   Dosen Jurusan Sosial Ekonomi Perikanan, Fakultas Perikanan dan Kelautan, Universitas Riau
Published: December 2021

This research was conducted at Pondok Gurih Restaurant, Pekanbaru which aims to calculate the value of the willingness to pay of consumers and to analyze the factors that affect the willingness to pay of consumers for the purchase of catfish spicy acid. This research can be used as information material for the restaurant to improve the quality and facilities for consumer demand. The research method used is a survey method that used primary data and secondary data. The data collection techniques through interviews. The sample in this study are consumers who eat at the restaurant and are willing to be interviewed. The number of respondents used in this study was 100 people. The data analysis method used in this research is logistic regression. The results showed that the average cost to be paid by consumers was IDR 87,410 with the lowest WTP value of IDR 40,000 and the highest was IDR 150,000. Then the variables that significantly affect the consumer's desire to pay are age, income, education, and product quality. The variables that did not have a significant effect were gender, service quality, and occupation. Suggestions for businesses are to continue to improve product quality.
Predicting future happiness on the basis of personality traits and values
Authors: Kajonius Petri J.
Published: December 2021

Personality traits and values are known to be some of the best predictors for happiness, but what is yet to be investigated is whether these also can account for beliefs in future happiness. Using an Mturk sample (N = 317), personal future happiness and global future happiness (the future of the world) were regressed on personality traits (Big Five) and values (Schwartz's 10 Values). The results showed that personality and values predicted beliefs in personal future happiness, but not global future happiness. Personality also accounted for twice the variance compared to values. These findings confirm the well-established literature on personality and happiness.
Planning for Simultaneous Regional/Urban and Tourism Development with Case Studies
Authors:   Professor Engineering Dr., Managing Director, and senior researcher at the Knowledge and Implementation Consulting Engineering Co - Iran, Shahraki Abdol Aziz
Published: December 2021

This research suggests optimal planning and designing techniques for tourism complexes in urban master planning. Firstly, it explains the importance of the tourism industry through the theories of scholars and experts. It also emphasizes the connection between the development of urban economies and the tourism industry. This helps integrate the tourism industry and comprehensive regional/urban planning. It starts with planning and designing the tourism complexes in the early stages of the municipality’s master plan. This research paper suggests urban land-use policies and location techniques. This paper brings out land-use policies and centralized and symmetric urban design models for regional/urban sustainable development. It charts the following steps to meet the goal: determining a location for a tourism complex, setting a spatial table of required construction, preparing a land-use map, preparing a map album, developing investment and construction contracts. This paper assists civil engineers, urban and regional planners, tourism industry bodies, and students to develop rationally and optimally.
Virtual Reality Simulation for Disaster Preparedness Training in Hospitals: Integrated Review
Authors: Jung Younhyun
Published: December 2021

Background

A critical component of disaster preparedness in hospitals is experiential education and training of health care professionals. A live drill is a well-established, effective training approach, but cost restraints and logistic constraints make clinical implementation challenging, and training opportunities with live drills may be severely limited. Virtual reality simulation (VRS) technology may offer a viable training alternative with its inherent features of reproducibility, just-in-time training, and repeatability.

Objective

This integrated review examines the scientific evidence pertaining to the effectiveness of VRS and its practical usefulness in training health care professionals for in-hospital disaster preparedness.

Methods

A well-known 4-stage methodology was used for the integrated review process. It consisted of problem identification, a literature search and inclusion criteria determination, 2-stage validation and analysis of searched studies, and presentation of findings. A search of diverse publication repositories was performed. They included Web of Science (WOS), PubMed (PMD), and Embase (EMB).

Results

The integrated review process resulted in 12 studies being included. Principle findings identified 3 major capabilities of VRS: (1) to realistically simulate the clinical environment and medical practices related to different disaster scenarios, (2) to develop learning effects on increased confidence and enhanced knowledge acquisition, and (3) to enable cost-effective implementation of training programs.

Conclusions

The findings from the integrated review suggested that VRS could be a competitive, cost-effective adjunct to existing training approaches. Although the findings demonstrated the applicability of VRS to different training scenarios, these do not entirely cover all disaster scenarios that could happen in hospitals. This integrated review expects that the recent advances of VR technologies can be 1 of the catalysts to enable the wider adoption of VRS training on challenging clinical scenarios that require sophisticated modeling and environment depiction.
The Effects of Virtual Reality Treatment on Prefrontal Cortex Activity in Patients With Social Anxiety Disorder: Participatory and Interactive Virtual Reality Treatment Study (Preprint)
Authors: Lee Hojun , Choi JongKwan , Jung Dooyoung , Hur Ji-Won , Cho Chul-Hyun
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND

Attempts to use virtual reality (VR) as a treatment for various psychiatric disorders have been made recently, and many researchers have identified the effects of VR in psychiatric disorders. Studies have reported that VR therapy is effective in social anxiety disorder (SAD). However, there is no prior study on the neural correlates of VR therapy in patients with SAD.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to find the neural correlates of VR therapy by evaluating the treatment effectiveness of VR in patients with SAD using portable functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS).

METHODS

Patients with SAD (n=28) were provided with 6 sessions of VR treatment that was developed for exposure to social situations with a recording system of each participant’s self-introduction in VR. After each VR treatment session, the first-person view (video 1) and third-person view (video 2) clips of the participant’s self-introduction were automatically generated. The functional activities of prefrontal regions were measured by fNIRS while watching videos 1 and 2 with a cognitive task, before and after whole VR treatment sessions, and after the first session of VR treatment. We compared the data of fNIRS between patients with SAD and healthy controls (HCs; n=27).

RESULTS

We found that reduction in activities of the right frontopolar prefrontal cortex (FPPFC) in HCs was greater than in the SAD group at baseline (t=–2.01, P=.049). Comparing the frontal cortex activation before and after VR treatment sessions in the SAD group showed significant differences in activities of the FPPFC (right: t=–2.93, P<.001; left: t=–2.25, P=.03) and the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) (right: t=–2.10, P=.045; left: t=–2.21, P=.04) while watching video 2.

CONCLUSIONS

Activities of the FPPFC and OFC were associated with symptom reduction after VR treatment for SAD. Our study findings might provide a clue to understanding the mechanisms underlying VR treatment for SAD.

CLINICALTRIAL

Clinical Research Information Service (CRIS) KCT0003854; https://tinyurl.com/559jp2kp
A 9-Year Teledermoscopy Service: Retrospective Service Review (Preprint)
Authors: Teoh Novell Shu Chyng , Oakley Amanda
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND

A teledermoscopy service was established in January 2010, where patients attended nurse-led clinics for imaging of lesions of concern and remote diagnosis by a dermatologist.

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to review the number of visits, patient characteristics, the efficiency of the service, and the diagnoses made.

METHODS

We evaluated the waiting time and diagnosis of skin lesions for all patient visits from January 1, 2010, to May 31, 2019. The relationships between patient characteristics and the diagnosis of melanoma were specifically analyzed.

RESULTS

The teledermoscopy clinic was attended by 6479 patients for 11,005 skin lesions on 8805 occasions. Statistically significant risk factors for the diagnosis of melanoma/melanoma in situ were male sex, European ethnicity, and Fitzpatrick skin type 2. Attendance was maximal during 2015 and 2016. The seasonal variation in visits 2011-2018 revealed a consistent peak at the end of summer and a dip at the end of winter. In the year 2010, 306 patients attended; 76% (233/306) of these were discharged to primary care and 24% (73/306) were referred to hospital for specialist assessment. For patients diagnosed by the dermatologist with suspected melanoma from January 1, 2010, to May 31, 2019, the median waiting time for an imaging appointment was 44.5 days (average 57.9 days, range 8-218 days). The most common lesions diagnosed were benign naevus (2933/11,005, 27%), benign keratosis (2576/11,005, 23%), and keratinocytic cancer (1707/11,005, 15%); melanoma was suspected in 5% (507/11,005) of referred lesions (Multimedia Appendix 1). The positive predictive value of melanoma/melanoma in situ was 61.1% (320 true positives and 203 false positives). The number needed to treat (ie, the ratio of the total number of excisions to the number with a histological diagnosis of melanoma/melanoma in situ) was 2.02.

CONCLUSIONS

Diagnoses were comparable to the experience of other teledermoscopy services. Teledermoscopy using a nurse-led imaging clinic can provide efficient and convenient access to dermatology by streamlining referrals to secondary care and prioritizing patients with skin cancer for treatment.
Peer Review of “COVID-19 Outcomes and Genomic Characterization of SARS-CoV-2 Isolated From Veterans in New England States: Retrospective Analysis” (Preprint)
Authors: Mbwogge Mathew
Published: December 2021

UNSTRUCTURED

This is a peer review report for ms#31503.
Organic Removal Treatment Using Microbubble Generator (MBG) in Eutrophic Disorder Condition
Authors: Yulianti Tri , Sri Puji Saraswati  , Johan Syafri Mahathir Ahmad  , Wiratni Budhijanto
Published: December 2021

The Techno Park basin, built as an extension of a small tributary of the Code River primarily acts as a retention basin for runoff during the rainy season. It improves the quality of water that has been degraded by domestic wastewater discharge from the surrounding community. Therefore, this study aims to assess the extent to which water quality of the basin can be improved with aeration technology. The aeration technology is a Microbubble Generator (MBG) built using a 100 Watts submersible pump with three horizontal nozzles at a depth of 40 cm from the water surface. Furthermore, the profiles of dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration were measured at the basin’s inlet and outlet, as well as the depths of 1 m below surface water and the bottom of the basin. Diurnal DO was measured to investigate the causes of supersaturation. The aeration performance was also determined from the COD parameters at the inlet and outlet. Discharge measurements were then conducted on the tributary/drainage channel to the inlet basin. The result showed that the DO supersaturation concentration has been attributed to the contribution of photosynthesis from phytoplankton such as algae. Furthermore, no change in DO concentration was observed in a range of 1 m depth from the surface of the water to the bottom (0.3 - 0.14 mg-DO/l). In this eutrophic state, DO increased exponentially during the daytime hours and then decreased during the night. The daily measurement showed an increase in the average DO of 2.31 mg/l (standard deviation of 1.56 mg/l), with average CODinlet fluctuations of 18.79 mg/l (standard deviation of 13.56 mg/l) and average CODoutlet of 14.38 mg/l (standard deviation 2.94 mg/l). Due to additional DO concentration coming from eutrophication during daylight, it was not possible to make a precise assessment of the effectiveness of the MBG aerator.
The Analysis of Beam-Column Joint Reinforced with Cross Bars according to SK SNI T-15-1991-03 on Cyclic Loads
Authors: Araby Zardan , Samsul Rizal  , Abdullah  , Mochammad Afifuddin
Published: December 2021

The primary structural component supporting the other structural loads in a building is the beam-column joint. It is considered a critical area of a building which needs to be accurately designed to ensure energy is dissipated properly during the occurrence of an earthquake. Beam-column joint has the ability to offer a proper structure required to transform cyclic loads in the inelastic region but also has a direct impact on the components connected to it during the occurrence of any failure. This is one of the reasons the beam-column connection needs to be designed carefully. Therefore, this study focused on designing a beam-column joint with reinforcement according to SK SNI T-15-1991 in order to withstand cyclic loads. The test specimen used was observed to have a concrete compressive strength of 19.17 MPa while the dimension of the beam was 120 x 30 x 40 cm and the column was 30 x 30 x 200 cm, having 8Ø13.4 mm bars with 310.03 MPa yield strength (fy) as well as Ø9.8-100 mm stirrup reinforcement with (fy) 374.59 MPa. The test was initiated through the provision of 0.75 mm, 1.5 mm, 3 mm, 6 mm, 12 mm, 24 mm monotonic cyclic loads at the end of the beam up to the moment the specimen cracked. A maximum load of 68.35 kN for the compression and 49.92 kN for the tension was required to attain the cyclic load capacity. The maximum load was attained at 50.98 mm displacement. Furthermore, beam-column with 23.93 mm displacement caused a reduction in capacity. Meanwhile, the load at 24 mm produced the cycle's highest dissipation energy of 13.25 but this can be increased through the addition of stirrups to provide stiffness in the joint. The stiffness value was also observed to have increased after the structural repairs.
Financialized savings in public water governance: An illustrative case study in the arid American West
Authors: Gibson Christopher W.
Published: December 2021

How does financialization of the economy impact public governance of natural resources? One way includes a shift in how savings and cash accumulation are understood and practiced within public agencies. This article proffers that in the second half of the twentieth century, it became a taken-for-granted understanding that long-term savings should be held in financial investment accounts instead of traditional savings accounts. As a result of this, municipal organizations act as fiscally independent investors, marshaling economic resources to pursue strategic objectives that align with financialized institutional logics. Using a case study of the largest supplier of drinking water in the US, this article examines how the use of financial investments by a major public resource agency, Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, evolved since first establishing an investment policy in the 1940s. Today, this organization maintains investments worth over one billion dollars. Analysis of archival documents suggests that financial activities, even if yielding dwindling returns over time, are counted upon as a source of revenue, deployed to obtain favorable bond ratings, used for access to earmarked funds, and leveraged to acquire land in water-strategic locations. Considering the ubiquity of these financial practices among medium to large-sized municipal governing bodies, the results of this study are suggestive and generalizable across substantive governing fields and in other locations. Ultimately, this study shows that public governance agencies are intertwined with private capital flows, problematizing the oft-assumed distance between public and private actors. The article also interrogates the influence that financial markets have over of public policy, showing that elected governance officials engage in the commodification of money, encouraging the further commodification of environmental resources.