bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome-wide Identification and Expression Analysis of the CAD Gene Family in Walnut (Juglans Regia L.)
Authors: Wu Pengyu , Yu Shangqi , Fu Jiazhi , Guo Zhongzhong , Li Dong , Zhang Rui
Published: January 2022

Lignin deficiency in the endocarp of walnuts causes nuts exposed, lead a inconvenience in processing and transportation of walnuts, and easy to produce insect damage, mildew, affecting the quality of walnuts. Cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase (CAD) is the final enzyme in the phenylpropanoid metabolic pathway in lignin, converting cinnamaldehyde to cinnamyl alcohol and catalyzing the synthesis of lignin monomers. To investigate the lignin metabolism pathway in walnut, the JrCAD genes were characterized. In this study, all 18 JrCADs were identified and phylogenetic relationships, gene structure, protein motifs, collinearity and expression pattern of the JrCADs were also analyzed. All JrCADs could be divided into three groups based on phylogenetic tree. Transcriptome data demonstrated that JrCADs have different expression patterns in walnut endocarp at development stages. Combined with qRT-PCR data, we finally identified several candidate JrCADs that involved in the process of endocarp sclerosis. These results provide valuable candidate genes for dissecting the functions and molecular mechanisms of lignin accumulation in walnut.
Proteomic Clusters Underlie Heterogeneity in Preclinical AD Progression
Authors: Wisch Julie , Butt Omar H. , Gordon Brian A. , Schindler Suzanne E. , Fagan Anne M. , Yang Chengran , Boerwinkle Anna H. , Benzinger Tammie L.S. , Holtzman David M. , Morris John C. , Cruchaga Carlos , Ances Beau M.
Published: January 2022

Background: Heterogeneity in progression to AD poses challenges for both clinical prognosis and clinical trial implementation. In the absence of a well-defined understanding of future disease trajectory, participants may receive unnecessary treatment or true effects of pharmacological intervention may be obscured. We identified early differences in preclinical Alzheimer Disease (AD) biomarkers, assessed patterns for developing preclinical AD across the Amyloid-Tau-(Neurodegeneration) (AT(N)) framework, and considered potential sources of difference by analyzing the CSF proteome.Methods: 108 participants enrolled in longitudinal studies at the Knight Alzheimer Disease Research Center (ADRC) who completed four or more lumbar punctures and were cognitively normal at baseline were included. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) measures of Aβ42, pTau181, and Neurofilament Light chain (NfL) as well as proteomics values were evaluated. Imaging biomarkers, including positron emission tomography (PET) amyloid and tau and structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were repeatedly obtained when available. This allowed for staging individuals according to the AT(N) framework.Results and Conclusion: Growth mixture modeling, an unsupervised clustering technique, identified three patterns of biomarker progression as measured by CSF pTau181 and CSF Aβ42. Two groups (AD Biomarker Positive and AD Biomarker Intermediate) had distinct progression from normal biomarker status to having biomarkers consistent with preclinical AD. A third group (AD Biomarker Negative) did not develop abnormal AD biomarkers over time. Participants grouped by CSF trajectories were successfully re-classified using only proteomic profiles (AUCAD Biomarker Positive vs AD Biomarker Negatives = 0.970, AUCAD Biomarker Positive vs. Intermediate AD Biomarkers = 0.750, AUCIntermediate AD Biomarkers vs. AD Biomarker Negative = 0.698). We highlight heterogeneity in the development of AD biomarkers in cognitively normal individuals. We identified individuals who became AD Biomarker Positive before age 50. A second group, AD Biomarker Intermediate, developed elevated CSF ptau181 in their mid-60’s before becoming amyloid positive in their mid-70’s. A third group were AD Biomarker Negative over repeated testing. Our results could influence the selection of participants for specific treatments (e.g. amyloid-reducing vs. other agents) in clinical trials. CSF proteome analysis highlighted additional potential opportunities for non-AT(N) focused therapies, including blood brain barrier-, liver-, and neuroinflammatory-related targets.
A Novel Accessory Protein ArCel5 from Cellulose-Gelatinizing Fungus Arthrobotrys sp. CX1
Authors: Yuan Yue , Chen Chunshu , Wang Xueyan , Shen Shaonian , Guo Xiaoyu , Chen Xiaoyi , Yang Fan , Li Xianzhen
Published: January 2022

Improved understanding of the mechanism of cellulose pretreatment by accessory proteins is beneficial for increasing the hydrolysis efficiency of cellulosic substrates. Here, we report a protein ArCel5 isolated from the cellulose-gelatinizing fungus Arthrobotrys sp. CX1. ArCel5 with lower specific hydrolysis activity could effectively disrupt the structure of filter paper and might function as an accessory protein. ArCel5 is a multi-domain protein including a CBM1 family carbohydrate-binding module, a glycosylation linker, and a GH5 family catalytic domain. Based on analyses of adsorption capacity, SEM, hydrature index, FTIR, XRD, and synergistic activity, we demonstrated that CBM1 and linker played an essential role in the binding affinity of the protein and the decrystallization of filter paper, which further encouraged the synergistic action between ArCel5 and cellulases. Notably, glycosylation modification further strengthened the function of the linker region. Overall, the results of this study provide insight into the cellulose decrystallization mechanism of a novel accessory protein ArCel5 that will benefit future applications.
Arsenic Concentration in Groundwater of Meherpur District, Southwestern Bangladesh: Sources of Arsenic, Quality Evaluation for Irrigation and Health
Authors: Rahman Md. Shazzadur , Reza A.H.M. Selim , Ahsan Aminul , Siddique Md. Abu Bakar
Published: January 2022

In Bangladesh, groundwater arsenic poisoning has become one of the biggest concern because of its use for irrigation and domestic purposes. High arsenic concentration in groundwater, soil and crops around the study area are of the greatest environmental concern and a matter of interest about human health. Groundwater, soil and crops samples collected from Bholadanga, Meherpur district, southwestern Bangladesh to measure arsenic concentration and human health risk assessment. pH value of collected groundwater samples range from 7.17 to 8.09 which exhibit lightly acidic nature.The average abundance of major cations is Ca2+ > Mg2+ > Na+> K+ and among major anions is HCO3- >Cl- > NO3-> SO42- whereas Ca2+ is the dominant cations and HCO3- dominant anions. Arsenic as well as other cations and metal like Fe, Mn, Cr, Cd, Pb, Co, Ni and so on were determined for all sorts of samples in order to assess their concentration and possible health hazard with a different statistical approaches. Principal component and cluster analyses suggested significance metal concentration in samples. At the shallow aquifer (50 – 60 m of depth) concentration of arsenic in groundwater varies from 13.1 to 292 µg/L. In groundwater approximately all the trace metals concentration are within the WHO and DOE limit except Mn, As and Fe. So groundwater of the study area are contaminated with arsenic and which is not compatible for drinking as well as irrigation purposes. Piper Tri-linear, Durov and Schoeller Semi Logarithmic diagram have been prepared based on chemical analysis of major cations and anion data and these three diagrams express that groundwater of the study area is Ca-HCO3 type, where Ca and HCO3 is the principal cations and anion, respectively. Genetically groundwater collected from the study area is ‘normal chloride water’ based on chloride, ‘normal sulfate water’ based on sulfate and ‘elevated nitrate present’ based on nitrate concentration. Based on SAR, TH, SSP, KR, MH, TH, Na%, PI and PS values, it can be concluded that the groundwater collected from the investigated area is compatible for agricultural activities. Cancer risk, daily ingestion of metal, potential hazard quotient and carcinogenic risk are used to calculate possible health hazard in the study area. Average cancer risk value is 0.0057 from drinking water suggest that people of that area are at high cancer risk according to USEPA.
Health State Utilities of Patients With Hepatitis B and C and Hepatitis-related Conditions in Japan
Authors: Sugimori Hiroki , Hirao Maki , Igarashi Ataru , Yatsuhashi Hiroshi , Ikeda Shunya , Masaki Naohiko , Yotsuyanagi Hiroshi , Yoda Takeshi , Odajima Takeshi , Takura Tomoyuki , Hirao Tomohiro
Published: January 2022

Objective: Health state utilities are global measurements of quality of life and have been used to evaluate health outcomes for the cost-utility analysis. This study aimed to estimate the health state utilities of patients with hepatitis B (HB), hepatitis C (HC), and hepatitis-related diseases in Japan. Materials and methods: We distributed a self-administered questionnaire, including the EuroQol 5-Dimension 5-Level (EQ-5D-5L), to 9,952 outpatients with several clinical conditions caused by HB or HC virus infection (such as asymptomatic chronic hepatitis, chronic hepatitis, compensated cirrhosis, and decompensated cirrhosis) and estimated the condition-specific utilities of patients with HB or HC. In patients with more severe conditions (patients with acute hepatitis, fulminant hepatitis, and hepatocellular carcinoma and patients undergoing post-liver transplantation), the utilities of these severe conditions were estimated by three hepatitis experts using the EQ-5D-5L. Results: The means of the utilities for acute hepatitis, fulminant hepatitis, asymptomatic chronic hepatitis, chronic hepatitis, compensated cirrhosis, compensated cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma stage I/II, hepatocellular carcinoma stage III/IV, and post-liver transplantation were 0.529, −0.111, 0.904, 0.868, 0.845, 0.722, 0,675, 0,428, and 0.651 and 0.876, 0.821, 0.737, 0.671, 0.675, 0.428, and 0.651 in HB and HC, respectively.Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that comprehensively assessed the health state utilities of patients with HB, HC, and hepatitis-related conditions in Japan using the EQ-5D-5L.
The Effect of Intra-articular Injection of Hyaluronic Acid in Frozen Shoulder: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: FU Weili , Mao BeiNi , Peng Run , Zhang Zhong , Zhang KaiBo , Li Jian
Published: January 2022

Background: Frozen shoulder (FS) is a common progressive disorder that causes restricted motion and refractory pain undermining quality of life. Intra-articular hyaluronic acid (HA) injection is a widely adopted conservative therapy relieving symptomatic FS, whereas the effect of which were contradictory and unclear in current literatures. The aim of the present study is to investigate whether intra-articular HA administration facilitates symptomatic pain relief and functional improvements in patients diagnosed with shoulder FS.Methods: The PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library electronic databases and Google scholar were searched, from inception to 15th Jan 2022. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing intra-articular HA administration with any other non-surgical treatment in patients with FS were included. Risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool and meta-analyses were undertaken to pool the data of visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, range of motion (ROM) in external rotation, abduction, and flexion, as well as Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), Constant score and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES).Results: The present study included 7 RCTs involving 504 patients. The results provided no support for superior pain control in patients undergoing HA injection compared with any other treatment (p = 0.75). Furthermore, HA group failed to exert superior improvements to other treatments in ROM concerning abduction (p = 0.69) and flexion (p = 0.33). However, HA injection was observed to facilitate functional recovery in external rotation (p = 0.003). In addition, the pooled data showed a significant higher SPADI score in control group than in HA group (p=0.01), while no statistical significance between two groups was observed in Constant score (p=0.36) and ASES (P=0.76). Conclusions: The current meta-analysis suggested that HA is a beneficial treatment procedure in improving the ROM of the shoulder for patients with FS, whereas the effect in relieving pain may be equal to the existing therapy. In conclusion, Intra-articular HA injection is recommended for FS patients.
Visualization of Non-Newtonian Convective Fluid Flow With Internal Heat Transfer Across a Rotating Stretchable Surface Impact of Chemical Reaction
Authors: . Zeeshan , Khan Ilyas
Published: January 2022

This study investigates the mixed convection flow of a Jeffery non-Newtonian fluid persuaded by a stretchable surface with heat transfer rate. The relevant set of difference equations was changed to ordinary equations by using transformation matrix. To create numerical solutions for velocity and concentration fields, the Runge-Kutta fourth order method along with shooting approach is utilized. Graphs depict the effects of various variables on motion and concentration fields, like the Hartman number, Schmidt number, and chemical reaction parameter. On\(f'{\text{ and }}g'\), the performance of\({\Omega _1}\) and \({M_1}\) is same. The thickness of the boundary layer is reduced when the value of \({M_1}\) is increased. As Sc grows, the concentration fields \({T_0}\) and \({T_1}\) decline. The destructive response (\(\Upsilon\)> 0) has the effect of lowering the concentration profiles. For destructive (\(\Upsilon\)> 0) and generative (\(\Upsilon\)< 0) chemical reactions, the concentration fields \({T_0}\) and \({T_1}\) observed opposite effects. By raising\({M_1}\), the surface mass transfer reduces. The statistical findings of the heat-transfer rate are as well documented and scrutinized.
Growing Up with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: School and Social Life in the Time of Social Media
Authors: Miri Sirine , Ferjani Hanene Lassoued , Nessib Dorra Ben , Triki Wafa , Maatallah Kaouther , Kaffel Dhia , Hamdi Wafa
Published: January 2022

BackgroundJuvenile idiopathic arthritis is a chronic inflammatory condition interfering with daily activities, social integration and scholar attendance in children because of pain and joint inflammation during disease flares. Online resources might help children with JIA improve their social interactions and enhance their knowledge about their disease and the available therapeutic strategies. This study aims to reveal the social issues encountered by teenagers prone to JIA and determine their perception about the impact of social media on their daily life.Methods: We conducted phone interviews with children suffering from JIA, aged between 8-16 years old. Results:Individual interviews were held with 22 adolescents diagnosed with JIA. Fifty-two percent felt like outcasts and rejected by their peers because of their illness. Most of the participants expressed a need for their friends to be informed about their JIA diagnosis. Twenty-two-point seven percent stated playing sports for more than 5 hours a week. 31.8% found their physical performance not affected by their disease. Ninety-seven of the participants confirmed that they’re using social media on average 3 hours a day. YouTube and Facebook were ranked respectively as the first and the second preferred platforms. Seventeen percent of children viewed these platforms as positive and helpful in dealing with JIA, especially by taking their mind off of the pain, dealing with the stress resulting from the lack of mobility, and facilitating interactions with others.Conclusion: Social integration in children with JIA is still challenging. Social media is a helpful tool to relieve pain and improve children’s social interactions.
Bioengineered and Biocompatible Silver Nanoparticles From Thalictrum Foliolosum DC and Their Biomedical Applications
Authors: Chandraker Sandip Kumar , Lal Mishri , Dhruve Preeti , Yadav Amit Kumar , Singh Rana P , Varma Rajender S. , Sukla Ravindra
Published: January 2022

Bioengineered nanoparticles display unique characteristics at the cellular, atomic, and molecular levels with their geometric shapes dictating suitable actions and use. In the present study, bioengineered and bio-compatible silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were obtained from Thalictrum foliolosum DC leaf extract (TFLE) which served as a capping and reducing agent. The effects of different parameters, such as varied concentrations of AgNO3 (0.2, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 mM), TFLE (24.5, 24, 23.5, and 23 mL), pH (2, 4, 6, 7, and 8), and temperature (20, 40, 60, and 80 °C) were examined on the synthesis of Thalictrum foliolosum-assisted AgNPs (TF@AgNPs) and their characterization accomplished by UV-Vis and FTIR spectroscopy, XRD, TEM, SEM, and Zeta potential analyses. TEM and XRD results revealed that TF@AgNPs were spherical with ~18.27 ± 3.9 nm size. The biological studies indicate potential antifungal, antioxidant, and anticancer properties besides H2O2 sensing, for the ensued TF@AgNPs, suggesting their numerous biomedical appliances. A clean, cost-effective, and safer method for the procurement of bioengineered TF@AgNPs that precludes the use of any hazardous elements with no adverse effects are some additional sustainable attributes.
Fabrication of antibacterial PVA/Bentonite/Ag Composite Nanofibers with Bio-AgNPs synthesized with Fusarium sporotrichioides
Authors: Mokhtari-Hooseini Zahra Beagom , Hatamian-Zarmi Ashrafalsadat , Mahdizadeh Soheila , Ebrahimi-Hosseinzadeh Bahman , Alvandi Hale
Published: January 2022

Nowadays, membranes and filters made of nanofibers are extensively considered in various fields, such as medicine, water purification, etc. Using an environmentally-friendly method, this study fabricated a nanofiber-based on PVA, bentonite, and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with good mechanical strength. Due to conventional AgNPs synthesis methods' toxicity, AgNPs were synthesized by Fusarium sporotrichioides. The MGYP culture medium and the AgNO3 12 M were optimal for Bio-AgNPs synthesis. Bio-AgNPs particle size and zeta potentials were 58 nm and -16.8 mV, respectively. The growth inhibition zone of Bio-AgNPs in E. coli and S. aureus was 0.53 and 0.80 mm, respectively and comparable with chloramphenicol. Then, the optimized Bio-AgNPs and a sample with chemical synthesis AgNPs were used to prepare the PVA/nano-Bentonite/nano-Ag (PVA/NB/AgNPs) nanofiber. The presence of silver in the nanofibers was confirmed through EDX and XRD methods. The diameter of nanofibers was 230 nm. The antibacterial activity of PVA/NB/Bio-AgNPs nanofibers was significantly better against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria compared to PVA/NB/Chem-AgNPs nanofibers. The produced membrane is suitable for water treatment, food packaging, and wound dressing because of its good thermal, mechanical, and antibacterial properties.
Differences in Antibiotic Resistance of MDR Enterobacteriaceae between Broiler and Laying Farms in Which Two mcr-1 Positive Plasmids Revealed their Risk of Resistance
Authors: Zong Shuaizhou , Xu Dingting , Zheng Xiner , Wang Peng , Han Jianzhong , Qu Daofeng
Published: January 2022

Background: Existing studies on poultry (broilers and layers) suggest that strong screening of antibiotics leads to the wide spread of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). However, due to the different breeding cycle, antibiotic use and breeding environment characteristics of layers and broilers, they have different antibiotic resistance risks. Until now, there are few studies on the difference in risk of antibiotic resistance between broilers and layers, which is still a gap in our knowledge. Results: In the current study, high-throughput sequencing-based metagenomic revealed that firmicutes and bacteroidetes were the dominant bacteria in broiler and layer farms. Aph(3’’’)-III and ermF were the ARGs with the highest absolute abundance in broiler farms, which was higher than that of laying farms. TetW was the highest absolute abundance of ARG in laying hens, but it was still lower than broiler chickens. Three hundred fecal samples were used to isolate multidrug-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (MDRE). It was found that the detection rates of mcr-1, aph(3')-Ia, aadA2, blaOXA-1, blaCTX-M, fosB, qnrD, sul1, tetA and catA1 in broiler source MDRE were significantly higher than that in laying farms (P<0.05). Further studies showed that a chimeric plasmid p20432-mcr which carried the novel integron In1866 was isolated from broiler source MDRE. High frequence of conjugation (10-1 to 10-3) and wide range of hosts made p20432-mcr likely play an important role for the high detection rate of mcr-1, aph(3')-Ia and aadA2 in broiler farms. Conclusions: We comprehensively compared the prevalence of pathogen MDRE and their ARGs in the two environments and the mechanism of transmission. It is found that the mcr-1 positive plasmid p20432-mcr has a wide host range which may play an important part in the high detection rate of ARGs in broiler source MDRE. These findings will help to optimize disinfection and antibiotic resistant bacteria surveillance programs in poultry farms, especially in broilers.
Theoretical Material Research with First Principle Calculation Aiming at High-efficiency Hydrogen Production Using Solar Thermochemical Energy
Authors: Tomohiko Ishii , Nishimura Takaki , Kodama Tatsuya , Genta Sakane
Published: January 2022

In recent years, hydrogen energy has been attracting attention, and the hydrogen gas production using solar thermal energy has been conducted. The studies of Kodama et al. were reported that the cyclic reaction can efficiently produce the hydrogen gas through a two-step thermal redox reaction with the cerium oxide. The transition metal doping into the cerium oxide improved the reaction efficiency. In our work, we considered the doping effect on the thermal two-step redox reaction. As a result of the calculation by the DV-Xα method, it was clarified that the doped cerium oxide becomes a strong bond, the large BOP value without changing the ceria crystal structure in the two-step thermal redox reaction. The theoretical calculation results corresponded to the reaction efficiency improvement of the thermal reaction in experimental results.
Drug Cost Avoidance Analysis of Cancer Clinical Trials in Spain: A Study on Cost Contributors and Their Impact
Authors: Domingo Sánchez-Martínez , Federico Salas-Lucia , Hanzi Jiang , Paula Ruiz-Carreño , Luis Alonso Romero José
Published: January 2022

Objective: Analyze the cost contributors and their impact on the drug cost avoidance (DCA) resulting from cancer clinical trials over the period of 2015-2020 in a tertiary-level hospital in Spain (HCUVA). Methods: We performed a cross-sectional, observational, retrospective study of a total of 53 clinical trials with 363 patients enrolled. We calculated the DCA from the price of the best standard of care (i.e.: drugs that the institution would otherwise fund). A linear regression model was used to determine cost contributors and estimate their impact. Results: The total DCA was ~5.1 million euros (31 clinical trials; 177 enrollees), representing 30% and 0,05% approximately of the annual pharmaceutical expenditures at the HCUVA and for the Spanish Health System, respectively. Cancer type analysis showed that lung cancer had the highest average DCA by trial, indicating that treatments in these trials were the most expensive. Linear regression analysis showed that the number of patients in a trial did not significantly affect that trial's DCA. Instead, cancer type, phase trials, and intention of treatment were significant cost contributors to DCA. Compared to digestive cancer trials, breast and lung trials were significantly more expensive, (p < 0.05 and p < 0.1, respectively). Phase III trials were more expensive than Phase II (p < 0.05) and adjuvant trials were less expensive than palliative (p < 0.001). Conclusion: We identified key cancer clinical trial characteristics that significantly impacted the estimated DCA. Our work provides the groundwork to explore DCA contributors with potential to enhance public relations material and serve as a negotiating tool for budgeting, thus playing an important role to inform decisions about resource allocation.
Identification of foodborne botulism with mixed serotypes A, B and E and their in vivo profiles in four types of clinical specimens
Authors: Xie Jianwei
Published: January 2022

Background

Diagnosis of mixed botulism caused by multiple serotypes of botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) is still a challenge due to the lack of reliable detection method. The present study develops a feasible laboratorial method to detect BoNTs in clinical samples and aims to provide insights into in vivo profiles of different toxin serotypes.
Methods

An isotope dilution Endopep-MS method for simultaneously detection of seven serotypes of BoNT was established and further applied to diagnosis of mixed botulism through one-step immunocapture procedure. A comprehensive analysis of four types of clinical specimens, i.e., serum, vomitus, urine, and gastric mucosa samples, from four suspected patients was performed.
Results

The established robust multiplex Endopep-MS method was applied to accurately identify and monitor BoNT/A, B and E in specimens during a clinically and therapeutically relevant timeframe. Serotypes and concentrations of BoNT in specimens revealed a good correlation with symptoms and progresses of disease. Additionally, serum was evidenced to be more suitable for detection BoNT/A with a detection window up to 12 days. Urine sample, although scarcely used in foodborne botulism diagnosis, was validated to be suitable for testing BoNTs with a longer detection window up to 25 days.
Conclusions

This is the first comprehensive analytical research on in vivo profiles of serotypes A, B and E in different types of specimens from mixed botulism cases to the best of our knowledge, and our method and findings facilitate the toxin detection and identification by clinical diagnostic laboratories.
The Status of Sharp Injury and Risk Factors among Health Care Staffs in the Bule Hora Hospital, South Ethiopia, 2020
Authors: Gelchu Shiferaw
Published: January 2022

Background

Sharp injury is a penetrating cut wound from a needle or other sharp object which may additionally bring in contacting with blood or other body fluids of patients who may be having an infectious disease. Every year, more than half million of health care workers encounter needle stick injury that leads exposure to dangerous blood borne pathogens. This study was conducted to assess the magnitude of needle stick injury and contributing factors among health care staffs in the Bule Hora Hospital, south Ethiopia.
Methods

Facility based cross-sectional study was carried out from June20- July 30, 2020 among health care workers in the Bule Hora Hospital. The sample size for this study was 383. Descriptive statistics, bivariate and multivariable logistic regression were done. Statistical significance adjusted at P< 0.05.
Results

Nearly half of 166(45.4%) of the study subjects had experienced Sharp injury. The activities mainly causing injuries were; waste collection (37.5%), giving injection (29.2%), and uncooperativeness of the patients (9.7%). Study participants that had not got training on prevention of occupational risks were two times more likely exposed to sharp injuries, AOR=1.67(1.47-3.53). Health care workers working > 40 hours per week were nearly four times more likely exposed, AOR=3.74(1.68-8.28) to sharp injury.
Conclusion

Even though the magnitude of sharp injury was similar to the other studies, the prevalence in the study area was high. Lack of training and prolonged working hours were risk factors identified in this study for sharp injury, Therefore, health care workers should get training on prevention of workplace hazards and working hours must be regulated.
Dirac Equation Redux by Direct Quantization of the 4-Momentum Vector
Authors: Andoni S.
Published: January 2022

The Dirac equation (DE) is a cornerstone of quantum physics. We prove that direct quantization of the 4-momentum vector p with modulus m (rest energy, c = 1) yields a coordinate-free and manifestly covariant equation. Remember that standard DE is not manifestly covariant. In coordinate representation, this is equivalent to DE with spacetime frame vectors replacing Dirac’s gamma-matrices. The two sets obey to the same Clifford algebra. Adding an independent Hermitian vector x5 to the spacetime basis {xu} allows accommodating the momentum operator in a real vector space with a complex structure arising alone from vectors and multivectors. The real vector space generated from the action of the Clifford product onto the quintet {x0,x1,x2,x3,x5} has dimension 32, the same as the equivalent real dimension for the space of Dirac matrices. x5 proves defining for the combined CPT symmetry, distinction of axial vs. polar vectors, left and right handed rotors & spinors, etc. Therefore, we name it reflector and {x0,x1,x2,x3,x5} – a basis for spacetime-reflection (STR). The pentavector I = x05123 commutes with all elements of STR and it depicts the pseudoscalar of STR. We develop the formalism by deriving all the essential results from the novel STR DE: conserved probability currents, symmetries, nonrelativistic approximation and spin 1/2 magnetic angular momentum. All key symmetries of DE have a clear and rich geometric interpretation in STR. In simple terms, we demonstrate how Dirac matrices are a redundant representation of spacetime-reflection directors.
Insecticide compatibility with abundance and diversity of predatory fauna in wheat (Triticum aestivum) ecosystem
Authors: Jambagi Suresh R. , Kambrekar D. N. , Mallapur C. P. , Naik V. Rudra
Published: January 2022

Assessment of the potential effects of insecticides on the natural enemies is an important part of IPM. The use of natural enemies in combination with selected insecticides which have no effect on them is effective in depressing the population density of the insect pest. In this context, an effort was made to know the diversity of predatory fauna and effect of seed dressers, soil applied chemicals and foliar spraying insecticides on their abundance in wheat during rabi, 2019-20. The investigation registered the activity of green lacewing (Chrysoperla sp.), coccinellids (Coccinella transversalis, Cheilomenes sexmaculata, Illeis cincta), syrphids and spider (Oxyopes sp.). Meanwhile, the results also revealed the peak activity of green lacewing, coccinellids, syrphids and spiders in seed treatment with thiamethoxam 30 FS @ 5 ml/kg seeds (1.20, 1.40, 0.73 and 0.67 per meter square area, respectively) followed by soil application of carbofuran 3G @ 30 kg/ha (1.17, 1.37, 0.70 and 0.62 per meter square, respectively) and both were found on par with untreated check (1.39, 1.51, 0.81 and 0.78 per meter square, respectively). Whereas, the least population was recorded in soil application of carbofuran 3G @ 30 kg/ha followed by a foliar application of cypermethrin 10 EC @ 0.5 ml/l (0.22, 0.24, 0.14 and 0.12 per meter square, respectively) over rest of the treatments. These results endorsed the biocompatibility of seed dressers (Thiamethoxam 30 FS), soil applied chemicals (Carbofuran 3G) and detrimental effects of foliar spraying insecticides (Cypermethrin 10 EC, Emamectin benzoate 5SG and Nimbecidine 1500 ppm) on population dynamics of natural enemy.
Experience of using a probiotic strain of Enterococcus in long-term nutritional support for premature children
Authors: Gonchar N. V. , Fedorova M. S. , Alekhina G. G. , Suvorov A. N.
Published: January 2022

Objective. To evaluate the experience of using a probiotic strain of enterococcus in long-term nutritional support of premature infants.

Characteristics of children and research methods. The children were selected in 2014–2015. The study included 11 premature babies of the first year of life, treated with antibiotics for a long time. Inclusion criteria: prematurity of any severity, signed informed consent from parents to conduct an outpatient rehabilitation program for children, including long-term nutritional support with a probiotic strain of enterococcus. Exclusion criteria: gross congenital malformations; hereditary metabolic diseases, severe forms of organic pathology of the central nervous system. Exclusion criteria: severe forms of somatic and infectious pathology, use of other probiotics. The probiotic strain of enterococcus – E. faecium L3 (No. RU. 77.99.26.009.Е.002272.02.11) in the liquid form (biomass grown on a dairy-free basis) with a titer of at least 108 CFU/ml was orally administered to children 1 ml 2 times a day while eating. The authors evaluated safety and clinical efficacy of long-term use of the probiotic strain of enterococcus.

Results. The authors noted the effectiveness of long-term use of a probiotic strain of enterococcus as nutritional support for premature infants for adequate psychomotor and physical development. They revealed the disappearance of the manifestations of atopic dermatitis while taking a probiotic strain of enterococcus. In the course of the study, the safety of long-term intake of a probiotic strain of enterococcus was established as an integral part of the rehabilitation program for premature babies, who completed their nursing in a hospital.

Conclusion. The continuation of studies to assess the clinical efficacy of long-term intake of probiotics in children of the first year of life who were born prematurely and received antibiotics for a long time can be considered very promising.
Bronchial obstruction in pre-school children
Authors: Markovskaya A. I. , Potapova N. L. , Gaymolenko I. N. , Mizernitskiy Yu. L.
Published: January 2022

Based on the analysis of foreign and domestic literature, the authors present the approaches to determining the phenotypes of bronchial obstructive syndrome in preschool children. They outline the data on the main foreign studies devoted to the peculiarities of the bronchial obstruction syndrome course depending on age and clinical outcome. They discuss the risk factors leading to the recurrent course of bronchial obstruction, tools for predicting bronchial asthma, and the choice of phenotype-dependent therapy strategy.
Diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension associated with congenital heart disease. Part 2. Echocardiography
Authors: Baryshnikova I. Yu. , Shmalts A. A.
Published: January 2022

The calculated systolic, diastolic and mean pulmonary artery pressure, the ratio of the sizes of the right and left ventricles of the heart, the eccentricity index of the left ventricle, systolic excursion of the fibrous ring of the tricuspid valve, systolic movement of the myocardium at the level of the fibrous ring of the tricuspid valve and the area of the right atrium are the main echocardiographic indicators for assessing idiopathic and similar forms of pulmonary hypertension according to the current Russian, Eurasian and European guidelines for pulmonary hypertension in children and adults, as well as the recommendations of the 6th World Symposium on Pulmonary Hypertension. The article explores the possibilities and limitations of modern echocardiography in the diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension associated with congenital heart defects.
New data on the effect of A-type botulinum toxin on the colon smooth muscles in the experiment
Authors: Pimenova E. S. , Korolev G. A. , Zagrebina A. A. , Romanova O. E. , Morozov D. A.
Published: January 2022

A-type botulinum toxin blocks presynaptic production of acetylcholine, thereby disrupting neuromuscular transmission, and leading to flaccid muscle paresis. Injection of toxin into the internal anal sphincter is a new, minimally invasive, effective method of treating children with hypertonicity / achalasia of the sphincter, pelvic muscle dyssynergia, stool retention, secondary fecal incontinence from rectal overflow. The effect of A-type botulinum toxin on smooth muscles of hollow organs has not been yet studied.

Objective. To analyze the effect of A-type botulinum toxin on the tone of the smooth muscles of the colon in the experiment.

Material and methods. The scientists examined 15 laboratory Sprague Dawley rats. The effect of A-type botulinum toxin on the tone of the smooth muscles of the large intestine was assessed by measuring the stress of the intestinal wall and intraluminal pressure.

Results. The scientists revealed a decrease in pressure in the rectum on the 10th day after the injection of A-type botulinum toxin into the segment of the descending colon. The indices of the intestinal wall tension did not differ before the administration of A-type botulinum toxin, as well as in 10 and 20 minutes. The tension in the administration area of A-type botulinum toxin decreased by 81% on the 10th day after injection. There was an indirect decrease in smooth muscle tone in the segments of the colon above and below the injection by 49 and 80%, respectively.

Conclusion. The decrease in rectal pressure on the 10th day after the administration of A-type botulinum toxin directly depends upon the decrease in the biovoltage of the overlying sections. Further basic research is needed to assess the effect of the toxin on non-targeted smooth muscle.
MATERIAIS LAMELARES DE TI APLICADOS EM PROCESSOS FOTOCATALÍTICOS
Authors: Martins Nailma , Barbosa Luele , Cota Vitor , Mourão Henrique
Published: January 2022

Ti-LAYERED MATERIALS APPLIED IN PHOTOCATALYTIC PROCESSES. Titanium (Ti)-layered materials have interesting characteristics for photocatalytic applications, such as the high specific surface area and ease of intercalation of species in the interlamellar region, which are extremely favorable for the surface processes. In this sense, this review addresses the data available in the literature related to the preparation, structure and main photocatalytic applications of Ti-layered materials. The main synthesis methodologies of these materials were addressed: the hydrothermal, which is mainly used to obtain powders (containing TiO2 or titanates) and the anodization process that is commonly used to obtain films composed mainly of TiO2 nanotubes. Prominent photocatalytic applications for semiconductors were also addressed, focusing on the use of pure or associated Ti-layered materials for the photodegradation of emerging pollutants, photoreduction of CO2 or metals, hydrogen production and the inactivation of microorganisms. It was possible to observe that, despite these being extremely promising materials and with outstanding efficiency in some processes, such materials can still be considered little explored and deserve greater attention from researchers in the area.
Effect of temperature on fermentative VFAs production from waste sludge stimulated by riboflavin and the shifts of microbial community
Authors: Liu Jingya , Huang Jingang , Li Huanxuan , Shi Binfang , Xu Yueheng , Liu Jie , Zhang Dong , Tang Junhong , Hou Pingzhi
Published: January 2022

Fermentative volatile fatty acids (VFAs) production from waste activated sludge (WAS) under moderate temperature is a promising way for resource and energy regeneration in municipal wastewater treatment plants (MWTPs). In this study, the effect of temperature on VFAs production and the associated microbial community from riboflavin-assisted WAS fermentation were investigated. Three fermentative reactors under 25, 35 and 55 °C were operated for 30 days, respectively. The results indicated that riboflavin enhanced VFAs production from WAS fermentation under moderate temperatures (25 °C, 35 °C), increasing conversion of organic matters to bioavailable substrates for the subsequent acidification process. Although a small dosage of riboflavin (1.0 ± 0.05 mM) hardly inhibited the methanogenic process, it could mediate the electron sink for VFAs under lower temperatures. This in turn increased the accumulation of acetic and propionic acids (up to 234 mg/g of volatile suspended solids) and their proportions relative to the total VFAs, being efficient electron donors and carbon sources for nutrient removal in MWTPs. Furthermore, microbial communities were shifted in response to temperature, and riboflavin stimulated the special fermentative bacteria under room temperature and mesophilic conditions. The study suggested a feasible and eco-friendly method to improve VFAs production from crude WAS at a relatively lower temperature.
Acute Ectopic Pancreatitis Mimicking Peptic Ulcer Disease: A Case
Report
Authors: Hwang Jiyoung , Kim Jun Hyeok , Bae Sung Hwan , Hong Seong Sook , Jin Yoon Mi
Published: January 2022

Background:

The ectopic pancreas is an anatomically separate pancreatic tissue from normal
glands with its own vascular and ductal system; it is most commonly found in the upper gastrointestinal
tract. The ectopic pancreas is usually asymptomatic, but it can present with symptoms associated
with complications, including bleeding, inflammation, and neoplasm without abnormalities in the
normal pancreas.

Case Presentation:

We report a 31-year-old female with acute ectopic pancreatitis involving gastric
antrum and proximal duodenum mimicking peptic ulcer disease, without pancreatitis in the normal
pancreas.

Conclusion:

Ectopic pancreatitis is a rare condition and can mimic more common diseases depending
on the anatomical location.
Managing the Turf of An Urban Golf Course: Energy Consumption and Greenhouse Gas Emission
Authors:   Centre for Urban Greenery and Ecology, National Parks Board, 1E Cluny Road, 259601, Singapore, Ow Lai Fern , Chan Eugenie ,   Lifelong learning, Continuing Education Training Academy, Ngee Ann Polytechnic, 535 Clementi Road, 599489, Singapore
Published: January 2022

This study investigated energy consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emission across various playing surfaces (e.g., greens, tees, fairways, and roughs) in an urban parkland golf course. The turfs of golf courses require frequent maintenance to ensure high aesthetic and play quality. Maintenance includes aeration, mowing, irrigation, and fertilization. The annual energy-based carbon footprint was found to be the highest for fairways, followed by greens, tees, and roughs. However, CO2 exchange in the grass was found to be the highest for roughs, followed by fairways and greens. The higher energy consumption in fairways might be attributed to intensive maintenance and its larger surface area. Higher values of CO2 exchange for roughs might be attributed to biomass as these areas of the course were mowed lesser than the other areas. The maintenance activities such as mowing, hollow tining, and irrigation were the most energy-demanding, while GHG emissions occurred primarily due to mowing, fertilizer application, grass clippings, and CO2 turfgrass exchange. Therefore, the strategies to minimize energy consumption and GHG emissions in golf courses include the use of electric-powered equipment and a reduction in the frequency of energy-demanding maintenance activities, including those that emit large quantities of CO2. Planting more shrubs and trees along the golf course might offset the emissions and thus, turn golf courses into a carbon sink for GHG emissions. However, sustaining a low carbon footprint is not always simple for golf courses as the expectations of golfers for aesthetics and play quality might need to be prioritized against environmental concerns.
Attitudes Toward Mobile Apps for Pandemic Research Among Smartphone Users in Germany: National Survey
Authors: Buhr Lorina , Schicktanz Silke , Nordmeyer Eike
Published: January 2022

Background

During the COVID-19 pandemic, but also in the context of previous epidemic diseases, mobile apps for smartphones were developed with different goals and functions, such as digital contact tracing, test management, symptom monitoring, quarantine compliance, and epidemiological and public health research.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the potential for the acceptance of research-orientated apps (ROAs) in the German population. To this end, we identified distinctive attitudes toward pandemic apps and data sharing for research purposes among smartphone users in general and with a focus on differences in attitudes between app users and nonusers in particular.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional, national, telephone-based survey of 1003 adults in Germany, of which 924 were useable for statistical analysis. The 17-item survey assessed current usage of pandemic apps, motivations for using or not using pandemic apps, trust in app distributors and attitudes toward data handling (data storage and transmission), willingness to share coded data with researchers using a pandemic app, social attitudes toward app use, and demographic and personal characteristics.

Results

A vast majority stated that they used a smartphone (778/924, 84.2%), but less than half of the smartphone users stated that they used a pandemic app (326/778, 41.9%). The study focused on the subsample of smartphone users. Interestingly, when asked about preferred organizations for data storage and app distribution, trust in governmental (federal or state government, regional health office), public-appointed (statutory health insurance), or government-funded organizations (research institutes) was much higher than in private organizations (private research institutions, clinics, health insurances, information technology [IT] companies). Having a university degree significantly (P<.001) increased the likelihood of using a pandemic app, while having a migration background significantly (P<.001) decreased it. The overwhelming majority (653/778, 83.9%) of smartphone users were willing to provide their app data for state-funded research. Regarding attitudes toward app usage, striking differences between users and nonusers were found. Almost all app users (317/327, 96.9%) stated they would be willing to share data, whereas only 74.3% (336/452) of nonusers supported data sharing via an app. Two-thirds (216/326, 66.3%) of app users fully or rather agreed with the statement that using a pandemic app is a social duty, whereas almost the same proportion of nonusers entirely or rather disagreed with that statement (273/451, 60.5%).

Conclusions

These findings indicate a high potential for the adoption of ROAs among smartphone users in Germany as long as organizational providers engaged in development, operation, and distribution are state-funded or governmental institutions and transparency about data-using research institutions is provided.