bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Problems of patients with aphasia in a psychosocial context
Authors: Żulewska-Wrzosek Justyna
Published: February 2021

Aphasia is an acquired speech disorder resulting from a brain damage. It affects language both in its expression and reception. Disturbances in the language communication process lead to serious disorders in the psychosocial functioning of a person. Language is the most important tool for establishing verbal interactions and attaining your intentions in communication. Consequently, aphasia can lead to social isolation and loss of social roles. The article deals with the problems of psychosocial functioning of patients with aphasia. The first part outlines issues related to aphasia. We define types of aphasia, its symptoms and causes. The rest of the article is devoted to the presentation of psychosocial situation of people with aphasia. Then, attention is paid to the role of social support in better adaptation of patients to life in the new social and family situation, and includes guidelines to facilitate communication with a person suffering from aphasia.
Cash benefits from social assistance in the light of the jurisprudence of administrative courts – selected problems. Part 2
Authors: Łakoma Sywia
Published: February 2021

The aim of this study is to present social assistance benefits in cash in terms of the jurisprudence of administrative courts. The analysis of the provisions of the Act on Social Assistance and the case law related to the indicated subject matter confirms that the granting of optional benefits in cash – which are the subject of this part of the article – takes place under administrative approval. As a result, meeting the positive prerequisites for a given benefit, with the simultaneous lack of negative prerequisites, does not have to mean that the expected aid is to be obtained. In this case, the principles and objectives of social assistance, including the principle of subsidiarity, are of a great importance. This principle results, first of all, in the obligation to independently undertake actions – by persons or families interested in receiving assistance – in order to overcome a difficult life situation. Only when this is not possible, support is provided by social assistance bodies. Then, however, great importance – which is emphasized in the judicature – is attached to the cooperation of individuals or families with social assistance bodies. The jurisprudence presented in the study also confirms that the significance for granting optional benefits is the use by an individual in the past or at the time of applying for of other social assistance specific benefits. These circumstances, in the best case, may affect the amount of the benefit granted, but may also result in refusal of performing its payment, among others, due to the justified needs of other people. Additionally, the judicature points out that the refusal to grant optional cash benefits may also be affected by the limited financial capacity of the social assistance body (Article 3 (4) of the Act on Social Assistance). This is one of the elements that distinguish these benefits from obligatory benefits in cash, including, in particular, the periodic allowance, where the limited financial capacity of the social assistance body may only affect the amount of the benefit, but may not be the basis for refusal to grant it.
Modeli in vitro endokrine trebušne slinavke
Authors: Milojević Marko , Stožer Andraž , Maver Uroš
Published: February 2021

Želja po razvoju tkivnih nadomestkov, potrebe po preučevanju mehanizmov bolezni v kontroliranih pogojih, pomanjkljivosti živalskih modelov in etične omejitve so bile povod za razvoj področja naprednih modelov in vitro. Te definiramo kot alternativne eksperimentalne sisteme, ki z uporabo modernih tehnik tkivnega inženirstva in aditivne proizvodnje posnemajo strukturo in funkcionalnost tkiv ali organov in vitro. Enostavni modeli in vitro se že uporabljajo v številne namene, vendar zaradi mnogih pomanjkljivosti ne posnemajo dovolj dinamičnih odzivov izvornih tkiv. Za izgradnjo funkcionalno kompleksnejših modelov in vitro je celice potrebno gojiti v tridimenzionalnem (3D) okolju ali bioloških nosilcih. Splošno morajo biološki nosilci posnemati mikroarhitekturo, hierarhično strukturo, fizikalne lastnosti in sestavo izvornega tkiva. Toda napredek k izgradnji kompleksnejših modelov omejuje predvsem difuzija plinov in hranil v notranjost konstrukta. Tehnika 3D tiska je trenutno najobetavnejša rešitev za proizvodnjo naprednih bioloških nosilcev, ki odpravljajo te pomanjkljivosti. 3D tisk poleg zmožnosti sočasne uporabe več biološko kompatibilnih materialov omogoča nalaganje materiala z mikrometrsko prostorsko ločljivostjo pri pogojih, primernih celicam. Vse od zasnove področja modelov in vitro je zaradi želje po preučevanju nastanka sladkorne bolezni razvoj funkcionalnega modela trebušne slinavke eden od osrednjih, a še nedoseženih ciljev. Zlati standard za bazične in translacijske raziskave trebušne slinavke pa je kljub nekaterim pomanjkljivostim metoda tkivne rezine, medtem ko trenutni najnaprednejši 3D zgrajeni modeli trebušne slinavke in vitro posnemajo le osnovne funkcije organa. Namen tega članka je predstavitev modelov in vitro s poudarkom na modelih trebušne slinavke. Predstavil bo tipe modelov in ključne elemente, ki jih je treba pri izgradnji upoštevati. Poudarek bo na kompleksnejših 3D zgrajenih modelih in vitro in tkivnih rezinah, materialnih lastnostih bioloških nosilcev ter tehniki 3D tiska za izgradnjo naprednih bioloških nosilcev. Menimo, da je sočasni razvoj znanosti o materialih, mikroproizvodni tehnologiji in celičnih kulturah izjemno obetavna pot k izgradnji funkcionalnega modela trebušne slinavke in vitro.
Differential binding of SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein variants to its cognate receptor hACE2 using molecular modeling based binding analysising molecular modeling based binding analysis
Authors:   Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Interdisciplinary Sciences & Technology, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi - 110062, India, Krishnan Anuja
Published: February 2021

The current emergence of novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2 and its ceaseless expansion worldwide has posed a global health emergency that has adversely affected the humans. With the entire world striving to understand the newly emerged virus, differences in morbidity and infection rate of SARS-CoV-2 have been observed across varied geographic areas, which have been ascribed to viral mutation and evolution over time. The homotrimeric Spike (S) glycoprotein on the viral envelope surface is responsible for binding, priming, and initiating infection in the host. Our phylogeny analysis of 1947 sequences of S proteins indicated there is a change in amino acid (aa) from aspartate (Group-A) to glycine (Group-B) at position 614, near the receptor- binding domain (RBD; aa positions 331-524). The two variants are reported to be in circulation, disproportionately across the world, with Group-A dominant in Asia and Group-B in North America. The trimeric, monomeric, and RBD of S protein of both the variant groups (A & B) were modeled using the Swiss-Model server and were docked with the human receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) employing the PatchDock server and visualized in PyMol. Group-A S protein’s RBD bound imperceptibly to the two binding clefts of the hACE2 protein, on the other hand, Group-B S protein’s RBD perfectly interacted inside the binding clefts of hACE2, with higher number of hydrogen and hydrophobic interactions. This implies that the S protein’s amino acid at position 614 near the core RBD influences its interaction with the cognate hACE2 receptor, which may induce its infectivity that should be explored further with molecular and biochemical studies.
ENDEAVOURING TO IMPROVE GLIOBLASTOMA MULTIFORME PATIENT PROGNOSIS – A LITERATURE REVIEW OF BIOMARKERS AND NOVEL THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES
Authors: Hutton Dana
Published: February 2021

Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) patients typically deteriorate at a rapid rate, and survive an average of 15 months from diagnosis – despite clinical intervention with the current approach of maximal surgical resection and adjuvant chemoradiotherapy. Tumour recurrence and treatment resistance remain inevitable with this standard treatment protocol, and therefore, we must endeavour to investigate more efficacious alternatives which offer better patients better prognosis and quality of life. GBM is a highly heterogeneous tumour: both between the cells within the tumour itself, and between individual patients. This makes finding a single effective treatment regimen a significant challenge – with a simple, ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach proven to be inadequate. There is therefore great indication to: 1) identify tumour-specific genetic signatures; 2) determine suitable predictive and prognostic biomarkers; 3) develop treatment strategies with specific molecular targets; and 4) develop efficacious agents that have the ability to cross the blood-brain-barrier (BBB) - which impedes the delivery of chemotherapeutics to the tumour site. This review discusses novel therapeutic approaches (e.g. precision medicine, microRNAs, magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS), immunotherapy, nanoparticles) which either improve intratumoral delivery of current chemotherapeutics, or act themselves as a more targeted agent – and therefore, may have the potential to improve the diagnostic burden faced by individuals with this devastating illness.
POSTERIOR CIRCULATION ISCHAEMIC STROKE IMAGING – CORRELATES AND PERSPECTIVES
Authors: Ng Alexander
Published: February 2021

Posterior circulation ischaemic stroke (PCIS) is a disease of high mortality and morbidity. However, current research predominantly focuses on the anterior circulation, specifically the internal carotid artery. Recommendations of change are required for the improvement of clinical outcomes. This article discusses the neuroimaging techniques used for diagnosis and three new research perspectives in neuroradiology concerning PCIS, which are namely (1) clinically significant anatomical variants, (2) artery-artery embolisation and, (3) collateralisation. The anatomical variants discussed include: (a) vertebral artery hypoplasia/agenesis, (b) Artery of Percheron, and (c) vertebrobasilar dolichoectasia. Such research perspectives are expected to increase clinical awareness and diagnostic accuracy, ensuring prompt treatment, improved patient care and ameliorated treatment outcomes. This article also suggests that, in the field of collateralisation in PCIS, prognostication can be improved by the construction of risk stratification models and synthesis of new therapeutic strategies.
Seismic stratigraphic analysis for hydrocarbon exploration in the Beta Field, Coastal Swamp Depobelt, Niger Delta
Authors: Adeleye Mutiu Adesina , Yekeen Kazeem Oladayo , Amidu Sikiru Adetona
Published: February 2021

Hydrocarbon exploration analysis from a seismic stratigraphic approach was carried out within the Beta Field, Coastal Swamp Depobelt, Niger Delta, to identify system tracts and sequence boundaries that could be associated with potential hydrocarbon accumulation. 3D seismic volume and data from four wells were analyzed. Depositional sequences, system tracts, sequence boundaries, and candidate maximum flooding surfaces were picked from logs, while reflection patterns and terminations were interpreted from seismic sections. Log shapes from gamma rays in combination with seismic facies analysis were interpreted in order to delineate lithology, depositional environments and depositional sequences. Seismic attributes were extracted and were draped on gridded surfaces from the interpreted seismic horizons. These were integrated with structure maps to obtain structural and stratigraphic trends, and the possible presence of reservoir sand. Five depositional sequences and nine seismic facies were identified within the field. The depositional sequences were designated Sequences S1 to S5 based on the depth of the occurrences and stacking patterns. This study reveals a progression from fluvial depositional settings to the shelf. The main reservoirs identified are the sand units of the highstand and lowstand within three depositional sequences (S1, S4 and S5) although interbedded sands within the TST of S4 and S5 are also suspected of being potential reservoirs. The channel sand deposits within the study area are suspected to be hydrocarbon bearing as they occurred within the complex fault trapping system popular in the Niger Delta. The application of seismic stratigraphy, as shown in this study, serves to encourage exploration in the Niger Delta where it could be effectively employed for reducing risk in hydrocarbon exploration.
A determination of areas of biocorrosion development on the route of a main gas pipeline in the Western region of Ukraine
Authors: Polutrenko Myroslava , Kryzhanivs’kyy Yevstakhiy , Fedorovych Yaroslav
Published: February 2021

A determination of soil corrosivity on three sections of a main gas pipeline in the Western region of Ukraine has been carried out. We have distinguished areas of development of biocorrosive processes with the participation of sulphate-reducing bacteria (SRB). Soil evaluation by the degree of corrosivity has been conducted. We used weight, titrimetric, gravimetric methods, pH-metry, ten-fold limit dilution method and Postgate nutrient medium B for culturing SRB. It has been established that the soil in the first area selected along the lower generatrix of the main gas pipeline has a high degree of corrosivity. It was ascertained that corrosive metal damage increases in the “ferrozone” with the growth of metal exposition time from 24 to 72 hours. The soil selected in the middle part and from above the pipeline refers to soils with a normal degree of corrosive activity. Innovative biostable insulating coatings based on bituminous-polymerous mastic MBPID-1 have been developed, modified with organic inhibitors from the class of quaternary ammonium salts and amines. Regularities of influence of nature of nitrogen-containing corrosion inhibitors of industrial production M, N, L, H and K on the corrosion rate of 17G1S steel for 180 days have been established. It was found that the corrosion rate of steel specimens remained unchanged throughout the study in variants with the presence of inhibitors H and K in the test systems, which indicated their bioresistance to the effect of SRB bacteria.
Pulmonary embolism in pregnancy with COVID‐19 infection: A case report
Authors: Goudarzi Sogand , Firouzabadi Fatemeh Dehghani , Mahmoudzadeh Fatemeh , Aminimoghaddam Soheila
Published: February 2021

Pregnant women in the third trimester are at the highest risk. Contracting COVID‐19 increases the complications. Hence, it is critical for pregnant women, especially during the third trimester, with slightest COVID‐19 symptoms to visit as soon as possible. Early diagnosis considerably contributes to saving both the mother and the fetus.
Preparation of Peptide Selenoesters from Their Corresponding Acyl Hydrazides†
Authors: Li Yunxue , Liu Jiazhi , Zhou Qingqing , Zhao Jie , Wang Ping
Published: February 2021

Main observation and conclusion

Selenoesters are useful substitutes for traditional thioesters in protein ligation chemistry due to their high reactivity in the trans‐thio/selenoesterification reaction. However, existing synthetic routes to access peptide selenoester require a selenoesterification reaction between a selenide and a protected peptide with a free carboxylate at the C‐terminus. Herein, we introduce an efficient method to convert peptide acyl hydrazide, a convenient thioester surrogate, into the desired selenoester for peptide ligation. Our methodology can be applied to fully de‐protected peptides with various C‐terminal amino acid residues in high yield without racemization. We believe that this method provides a useful alternative to access peptide C‐terminal selenoesters for protein ligation.
Structural characterization of the self‐association domain of swallow
Authors: Loening Nikolaus M. , Barbar Elisar
Published: February 2021

Swallow, a 62 kDa multidomain protein, is required for the proper localization of several mRNAs involved in the development of Drosophila oocytes. The dimerization of Swallow depends on a 71‐residue self‐association domain in the center of the protein sequence, and is significantly stabilized by a binding interaction with dynein light chain (LC8). Here, we detail the use of solution‐state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to characterize the structure of this self‐association domain, thereby establishing that this domain forms a parallel coiled‐coil and providing insight into how the stability of the dimerization interaction is regulated.
Artificial weathering of surfaces from laminated phenol-formaldehyde resin impregnated compressed wood: impact of top veneer type and overlay application
Authors: Passauer Lars , Schubert Jürgen , Schulz Tino , Flade Philipp , Weiß Björn , Burkhardt Henry
Published: February 2021

Panels from laminated phenol-formaldehyde resin (PF) impregnated and compressed wood (Compreg) with top veneers from European species of beech, maple and white birch were prepared, each without or coated with resin pre-impregnated overlay papers. To clarify the outdoor resistance of Compreg surfaces, long-term artificial weathering experiments were performed. Weather-related color changes, gloss retention and microscopic and surface topographical surface alterations were examined. It has been observed that the application of PF impregnated paper overlays and combinations of them with melamine formaldehyde resin (MF) treated films significantly improved the weather resistance of Compreg surfaces. The extent of UV and moisture-induced surface damages of Compreg has been shown to also be dependent on the veneer types used as surface top layer. Highest surface and color stabilization against weather was achieved providing Compreg with top veneers from maple combined with PF overlays or applying both MF and PF impregnated overlay films as surface finish.
Identification of long noncoding RNAs with machine learning methods: a review
Authors: Xu Lei , Jiao Shihu , Zhang Dandan , Wu Song , Zhang Haihong , Gao Bo
Published: February 2021

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are noncoding RNAs with a length greater than 200 nucleotides. Studies have shown that they play an important role in many life activities. Dozens of lncRNAs have been characterized to some extent, and they are reported to be related to the development of diseases in a variety of cells. However, the biological functions of most lncRNAs are currently still unclear. Therefore, accurately identifying and predicting lncRNAs would be helpful for research on their biological functions. Due to the disadvantages of high cost and high resource-intensiveness of experimental methods, scientists have developed numerous computational methods to identify and predict lncRNAs in recent years. In this paper, we systematically summarize the machine learning-based lncRNAs prediction tools from several perspectives, and discuss the challenges and prospects for the future work.
Scale-up of a Composite Cultured Skin Using a Novel Bioreactor Device in a Porcine Wound Model
Authors: Dearman Bronwyn L , Greenwood John E
Published: February 2021

Extensive deep-burn management with a two-stage strategy can reduce reliance on skin autografts; a biodegradable polyurethane scaffold to actively temporize the wound and later an autologous composite cultured skin (CCS) for definitive closure. The materials fulfilling each stage have undergone in vitro and in vivo pretesting in “small” large animal wounds. For humans, producing multiple, large CCSs requires a specialized bioreactor. This article reports a system used to close large porcine wounds. Three Large White pigs were used, each with two wounds (24.5 cm × 12 cm) into which biodegradable dermal scaffolds were implanted. A sample from discarded tissue allowed isolation/culture of autologous fibroblasts and keratinocytes. CCS production began by presoaking a 1-mm-thick biodegradable polyurethane foam in autologous plasma. In the bioreactor cassette, fibroblasts were seeded into the matrix with thrombin until established, followed by keratinocytes. The CCSs were applied onto integrated dermal scaffolds on day 35, alongside a sheet skin graft (30% of one wound). Serial punch biopsies, trans-epidermal water loss readings (TEWL), and wound measurements indicated epithelialization. During dermal scaffold integration, negligible wound contraction was observed (average 4.5%). After CCS transplantation, the control skin grafts were “taken” by day 11 when visible islands of epithelium were clinically observed on 2/3 CCSs. Closure was confirmed histologically, with complete epithelialization by day 63 post-CCS transplantation (CCS TEWL ~ normal skin average 11.9 g/m2h). Four of six wounds demonstrated closure with robust, stratified epithelium. Generating large pieces of CCS capable of healing large wounds is thus possible using a specialized designed bioreactor.
Small-molecule-mediated OGG1 inhibition attenuates pulmonary inflammation and lung fibrosis
Authors: Tanner L. , Single A.B. , Bonghir R.K.V , Oomen R. , Wallner O. , Helleday T. , Kalderen C. , Egesten A.
Published: February 2021

Interstitial lung diseases such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) are caused by persistent micro-injuries to alveolar epithelial tissues together with aberrant repair processes. Despite substantial advancement in our understanding of IPF progression, numerous questions remain concerning disease pathology. IPF is currently treated with pirfenidone and nintedanib, compounds which slow the rate of disease progression but fail to treat underlying causes of disease. The DNA repair enzyme 8-oxoguanine DNA glycosylase-1 (OGG1) is upregulated following TGF-β exposure in several fibrosis-associated cell types. Currently, no pharmaceutical solutions targeting OGG1 have been utilized in the treatment of IPF. In this study, a novel small molecule OGG1 inhibitor, TH5487, decreased myofibroblast transition and associated pro-fibrotic markers in fibroblast cells. In addition, TH5487 decreased pro-inflammatory cytokine production, inflammatory cell infiltration, and lung remodeling in a murine model of bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis. Taken together, these data strongly suggest that TH5487 is a potent, specific, and clinically-relevant treatment for IPF.
Fiber density and matrix stiffness modulate distinct cell migration modes in a 3D stroma mimetic composite hydrogel
Authors: Hiraki Harrison L. , Matera Daniel L. , Wang William Y. , Zarouk Alexander A. , Argento Anna E. , Buschhaus Johanna M. , Humphries Brock A. , Luker Gary D. , Baker Brendon M.
Published: February 2021

The peritumoral stroma is a complex 3D tissue that provides cells with myriad biophysical and biochemical cues. Histologic observations suggest that during metastatic spread of carcinomas, these cues influence transformed epithelial cells, prompting a diversity of migration modes spanning single cell and multicellular phenotypes. Purported consequences of these variations in tumor escape strategies include differential metastatic capability and therapy resistance. Therefore, understanding how cues from the peritumoral stromal microenvironment regulate migration mode phenotypes has prognostic and therapeutic value. Here, we utilize a synthetic stromal mimetic in which matrix fiber density and bulk hydrogel stiffness can be orthogonally tuned to investigate the contribution of these two key matrix attributes on MCF10A migration mode phenotypes, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and invasive potential. We developed an automated computational image analysis framework to extract migratory phenotypes from fluorescent images and determine 3D migration metrics relevant to metastatic spread. Using this analysis, we find that matrix fiber density and bulk hydrogel stiffness distinctly contribute to a variety of MCF10A migration modes including amoeboid, single mesenchymal, multicellular clusters, and collective strands. Taking advantage of the tunability of this material platform, we identify a combination of physical and soluble cues that induces distinct heterogeneous migration modes originating from the same MCF10A spheroid and use this setting to examine a functional consequence of migration mode – apoptotic resistance. We find that cells migrating as part of collective strands are more resistant to staurosporine-induced apoptosis than either disconnected multicellular clusters or individual invading cells. Improved models of the peritumoral stromal microenvironment that help elucidate relationships between matrix attributes and cell migration mode can contribute to ongoing efforts to identify efficacious cancer therapeutics that address migration plasticity-based therapy resistances.
Microbial diversity in tropical marine sediments assessed using culture-dependent and culture-independent techniques
Authors: Demko Alyssa M. , Patin Nastassia V. , Jensen Paul R.
Published: February 2021

The microbial communities associated with marine sediments are critical for ecosystem function yet remain poorly characterized. While culture-independent (CI) approaches capture the broadest perspective on community composition, culture-dependent (CD) methods can capture low abundance taxa that are missed using CI approaches. The aim of this study was to assess microbial diversity in tropical marine sediments collected from five shallow water sites in Belize using both CD and CI approaches. CD methods captured approximately 3% of the >800 genera detected across the five sites. Additionally, 39 genera were only detected using CD approaches revealing rare taxa that were missed with the CI approach. Significantly different communities were detected across sites, with rare taxa playing an important role in the delineation of sediment communities. This study provides important baseline data describing shallow water sediment microbial communities and evidence that standard cultivation techniques may be more effective than previously recognized.

Originality-Significance Statement

Marine sediments host some of the most diverse microbial communities on the planet. While these communities are critical for global nutrient cycling, the oceanic food web, and the maintenance of ecosystem dynamics, they remain poorly studied. Studies that have assessed sediment communities typically use culture-independent approaches, which have known biases and can miss ecologically important taxa. Here we describe microbial diversity in marine sediments using both culture-dependent and culture-independent approaches. Our culturing approach, sequencing communities as opposed to individual colonies, revealed an additional 39 genera that were not detected with culture-independent methods. Additionally, we cultured numerous, as-yet undescribed species, suggesting that traditional culturing practices can be more efficient than commonly thought. Moreover, our results indicate rare taxa play an important role in distinguishing microbial communities at different sites, thus highlighting the importance of deep sequencing and incorporating culture-dependent approaches for diversity assessments.
Genital and systemic immune effects of the injectable, contraceptive norethisterone enanthate (NET‐EN), in South African women
Authors: Molatlhegi Refilwe P. , Ngcobo Samkelisiwe , Liebenberg Lenine J. P. , Ngcapu Sinaye , Mabhula Amanda , Leslie Alasdair , Mchunu Nobuhle , Zondi Mthobisi M. , Adamson John H. , Govender Katya , Samsunder Natasha , Karim Salim S. Abdool , Karim Quarraisha Abdool , Passmore Jo‐Ann S. , Sivro Aida , McKinnon Lyle R.
Published: February 2021

Problem

Injectable hormonal contraceptives (IHC) have been associated with altered mucosal and systemic milieu which might increase HIV risk, but most studies have focused on DMPA and not NET‐EN, despite the growing popularity and lower HIV risk associated with the latter in observational studies.

Method of study

We used high‐performance liquid chromatography in combination with tandem triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (HPLC‐LC‐MS/MS) to measure steroid hormones in plasma samples of CAPRISA004 study participants. Concentrations of 48 cytokines were measured in the cervicovaginal lavage (CVL) and plasma, and their expression was compared between participants with detectable NET‐EN (n = 201) versus non‐detectable IHC (n = 90). Each log10 cytokine concentration was tested as an outcome in linear‐mixed models, with NET‐EN detection as the main explanatory variable. Multivariable models were adjusted for potential confounders.

Results

In bivariate analysis, detectable NET‐EN was associated with reduced cervicovaginal M‐CSF (P = 0.008), GM‐CSF (P = 0.025) and G‐CSF (P = 0.039), and elevated levels MIF (P = 0.008), IL‐18 (P = 0.011), RANTES (P = 0.005) and IL‐1Rα (P < 0.001). Lower G‐CSF (P = 0.011) and elevated IL‐1Rα (P = 0.008) remained significant in adjusted models. Multivariable analyses of plasma samples obtained from NET‐EN‐detectable women showed a significant increase in IP‐10 (P = 0.026) and reductions in TNF‐β (P = 0.037), RANTES (P = 0.009), and M‐CSF (P < 0.001). While similar growth factor reduction in CVL was noted for both DMPA and NET‐EN, similar trends were not observed for endogenous progesterone.

Conclusions

Detectable NET‐EN was associated with reduced growth factors in the plasma and genital tract; particularly G‐CSF and M‐CSF. Our results suggest that while NET‐EN is not inflammatory, it may have important immunological effects.
Regular narrow QRS tachycardia. What is the mechanism?
Authors: Mohanan Nair Krishna Kumar , Prabhu Mukund Aravind , Balaguru Sridhar , Namboodiri Narayanan , Valaparambil Ajitkumar
Published: February 2021

A 45‐years‐old lady with no structural heart disease on echocardiogram presented with recurrent episodes of palpitation. There was no baseline preexcitation. Twelve lead surface electrocardiograms (ECG) recorded during one of the episodes are provided. What is the likely mechanism of the tachycardia?

A)–12 lead surface electrocardiogram during the tachycardia. (B)–12 lead surface electrocardiogram during the tachycardia showing the response to spontaneous ventricular premature beat

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ASSESSMENT OF SUBCLINICAL MASTITIS EFFECTS ON LIVE WEIGHT, BODY CONDITION SCORE (BCS) AND EXTERNAL UDDER MEASUREMENTS OF DORPER SHEEP
Authors: Wan-Azemin Amirah , Kari Asmad , Alias Nadiawati
Published: February 2021

Mastitis is an inflammation of the mammary gland that can be classified as clinical and subclinical mastitis. The clinical mastitis can be diagnosed based on clinical signs, whilst subclinical mastitis mostly through somatic cell count (SCC). This study was carried out to determine the subclinical mastitis effects on live weight, body condition score (BCS) and external udder traits of Dorper sheep. A total 16 Dorper ewes were selected and screened for mastitis using the Californian mastitis test (CMT). The live weight, BCS and external udder traits (i.e. udder length (UL), udder width (UW), rear udder depth (RUD), cistern depth (CD) and teat length (TL) of the ewes were measured. The subclinical mastitis did not affect the live weight and BCS of Dorper ewes. Whilst for external udder measurements; the highest average of udder length, udder width, rear udder depth and cistern depth were indicated in CMT score as strong positive which shows that the measurement values of external ewes’ udder are increased when the strength detection of CMT scores increased and vice versa. However, all of the external udder parameters measured were not statistically (P>0.05) affected by the mastitis infection scores. The present results indicate that live weight, BCS and all external udder parameters did not influence the subclinical mastitis detected in the milk’s samples of the ewes. This study suggests that subclinical mastitis does not directly affected by morphology alteration of external udder traits, live weight or BCS, however it is likely affect the quality of milk produced.
Synthesis of palm oil based polymeric ester through cationic addition polymerisation method
Authors: Irawan Yan , Juliana Ika , Budianto Emil
Published: February 2021

In this study, the synthesis of palm oil-based polymeric ester for application as a polymeric surfactant was carried out by a cationic addition polymerisation method through two steps. The initial step is a synthesis of fatty acid methyl esters oleate (FAMEO) through esterification reaction between oleic acid and methanol. The optimum conditions of the esterification reaction were carried out at a temperature of 70–80oC for 4 hours with the addition of 1wt% sulfuric acid as a catalyst. The molar ratio between oleic acid and methanol was 1:3. FAMEO was analysed using GCMS to determine the methyl ester content. The second step is the polymerisation of FAMEO. The polymerisation reaction of FAMEO was carried out at 120, 140, and 160oC with 1wt%, 3wt% and 5wt% of boron trifluoride dihydrate as a catalyst and an initiator of polymerisation reaction for 4 to 24 hours of reaction. The reaction conversion of the product was 66%. The polymeric ester was analysed H-NMR. Meanwhile, the molecular weight of that product was 1714 g/mol which analysed using GPC and the PDI was 1.12346 or equal to 1.12. It means that the polymerisation technique was controlled or living polymerisation, which indicates that the distribution type of this product was narrow monodisperse.
Identification and characterization of potential compost degrading bacteria from agro-waste
Authors: Mohd Khalif Saldatul As Wani , Nordin Nurul Zahidah , Alias Nadiawati
Published: February 2021

Agricultural industry plays a significant role in the global economic growth. It is estimated more than 15% of total waste in Asia are contributed by agro waste. Bacteria is known as one of the useful organisms actively found to surround the waste industry. They are considered as chemical decomposers and act as driving agent of composting that changes the chemistry of organic waste to simple compounds. Thus, this study was conducted to isolate and identify potential compostdegrading bacteria from agriculture waste at several sampling areas in Besut district, Terengganu, Malaysia. A total of 49 bacteria strains were isolated using Tryptic Soya Agar (TSA) from seven groups of raw agro wastes (paddy husk, paddy straw, paddy soil, rock melon waste, rock melon soil, corn waste, and corn soil). Primary screening for potential enzyme production was carried out using selective media containing different substrates (sucrose, xylan, starch, skim milk, and pectin). Only 13 bacterial strains were found positive for protease, nine bacteria strains positive for xylanase, and three bacteria strains were found positive for amylase. Identification of bacteria strains were performed using phenotypic, biochemical tests, and genotypic approaches by 16S rRNA gene sequence. Based on NCBI BLAST analysis, we have identified several bacteria strains: Bacillus cereus (strain B), Alcaligenes faecalis (strain C), Micrococcus sp. (strain D), Pseudomonas stutzeri (strain E), Enterobacter cloacae (strain G), and Serratia marcescens (strain J). Strain F and strain H were identified under distinct family of Enterobacteriaceae, while strain I was identified from Pseudomonadeles order which might represent a new type of proteobacteria strain. These potential waste degrading bacteria could be further analyzed and studies for their true potential in many areas including agriculture and industrial waste management as an approach to reduce waste accumulation in eco-friendly way.
Analyzing the major ions and trace elements of groundwater wells in Kuala Langat, Selangor
Authors: Harun Hazimah Haspi , M. K. Mohamad Roslan , Nurhidayu S. , Asha’ari Zulfa Hanan , Mohd Kusin Faradiella
Published: February 2021

The analysis of trace elements and major ions on groundwater wells in Kuala Langat become the aim of this paper for the purposes to investigate the quality of the groundwater to be considered as a suitable alternative water source for domestic purposes. The groundwater sampling was conducted in thirteen stations of groundwater wells. The groundwater samples were taken from the groundwater wells which scatter in agricultural areas in Kuala Langat, Selangor. The major ions parameters have analyzed in the groundwater samples were calcium, magnesium, potassium, bicarbonate, chloride, and sulfate (Ca2+, Mg2+, K+, Na+, HCO3 -, Cl-, SO4 2-). Meanwhile, the trace element parameters were aluminum, iron, manganese, strontium, zinc, and copper (Al, Fe, Mn, Sr, Zn, and Cu). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was conducted to determine the influence of major ions and trace elements concentration in groundwater. Chloride, potassium, magnesium, strontium, calcium, and bicarbonate (Cl-, Na+, K+, Mg2+, Sr2+, Ca2+, and HCO3 -) were principal parameters in the first component of PCA analysis. The concentration of trace elements shows iron is the high concentration in groundwater samples. Hence, the concentration of iron in current sampling shows exceed the recommended level for raw water of the Ministry of Health. The influences from seawater intrusion and Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR) in groundwater also have been discussed.
Very Severe and Refractory Noninfectious Cystitis in Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Potential Role of Rituximab Therapy
Authors: Ocampo-Piraquive Vanessa , Mondragón-Lenis Inés , De los Rios Juan G. , Cañas Carlos A.
Published: February 2021

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease with various clinical manifestations, including, rarely, a form of interstitial cystitis (lupus cystitis, LC). LC can be asymptomatic and usually has discrete symptoms that improve with conventional therapies available for SLE and/or typical interstitial cystitis. A very severe and refractory form is rarely described. In this study, we present four patients with SLE and a very severe form of noninfectious cystitis refractory to the different forms of treatment described. The clinical descriptions of the cases, demographic factors, manifestations associated with SLE, and clinical and paraclinical manifestations related to cystitis, treatments, and outcomes are provided. A proposal for the pathogenesis of this condition is based on the common findings of these patients, including the fact that three were in SLE remission and all four receiving rituximab as induction and/or maintenance therapy.
Novel Numerical Scheme for Singularly Perturbed Time Delay Convection-Diffusion Equation
Authors: Woldaregay Mesfin Mekuria , Aniley Worku Tilahun , Duressa Gemechis File
Published: February 2021

This paper deals with numerical treatment of singularly perturbed parabolic differential equations having large time delay. The highest order derivative term in the equation is multiplied by a perturbation parameter

ε

, taking arbitrary value in the interval

0
,
1

. For small values of

ε

, solution of the problem exhibits an exponential boundary layer on the right side of the spatial domain. The properties and bounds of the solution and its derivatives are discussed. The considered singularly perturbed time delay problem is solved using the Crank-Nicolson method in temporal discretization and exponentially fitted operator finite difference method in spatial discretization. The stability of the scheme is investigated and analysed using comparison principle and solution bound. The uniform convergence of the scheme is discussed and proven. The formulated scheme converges uniformly with linear order of convergence. The theoretical analysis of the scheme is validated by considering numerical test examples for different values of

ε

.
Preoperative Predictors for 90-Day Mortality after Pancreaticoduodenectomy in Patients with Adenocarcinoma of the Ampulla of Vater: A Single-Centre Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Fernandez-Placencia Ramiro , Berrospi-Espinoza Francisco , Uribe-Rivera Karla , Medina-Cana Jose , Chavez-Passiuri Ivan , Sanchez-Bartra Nestor , Paredes-Galvez Kori , Luque-Vasquez Vasquez Carlos , Celis-Zapata Juan , Ruiz-Figueroa Eloy
Published: February 2021

Background. The standard treatment for ampullary adenocarcinoma is pancreaticoduodenectomy. Identification of preoperative risk factors might help the clinician to select patients fit for resection and potentially decrease morbidity and mortality after PD. We conducted a cohort study to determine the preoperative factors related to 90-day severe morbidity and mortality after PD. Methods. We conducted a retrospective cohort study in patients with a diagnosis of ampullary adenocarcinoma who underwent an open PD between January 2010 and December 2019 at our tertiary centre. Results. Independent preoperative predictors of mortality were the albumin-bilirubin (ALBI) grade 3 (OR: 21.7; CI 95: 2.1–226.9;p=0.01) and the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) <90 mL/min/1.73 m2 (OR: 17.7; CI 95: 1.8–172.6;p=0.013). The eGFR <90 mL/min/1.73 m2 (OR = 6.6; CI 95: 1.9–23.4;p=0.003) and prothrombin time (OR = 1.5; CI 95; 1.1–2.1;p=0.005) were independent predictors for severe morbidity. Conclusion. These findings suggest that baseline renal function measured by the eGFR and liver function categorized with the ALBI grading are predictors of severe morbidity and mortality. Thus, they should be considered when selecting patients for PD or the use of neoadjuvant treatments. Further research is warranted.
Use of Laser in Sleep Disorders: A Review on Low Laser Uvulopalatoplasty
Authors: Kakkar Mayank , Malik Shaima , Gupta Bhumija , Vaid Nikhilesh , George Robby , Singh Shilpa
Published: February 2021

Study Objective. The objective of this study is to find the effectiveness of the low laser therapy on uvulopalatoplasty/soft palate in sleep apnea patients and snoring. Also, this study aims to touch base on the effectiveness of the Er:YAG and combined use of Er:YAG and Nd:YAG lasers for the uvulopalatoplasty. Methods. A comprehensive and systematic literature review was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase, Web of Science, the US National Institutes of Health Trials Registry, WHO Library, and Medline. The search strategies were developed to cover publications from January 2010 through March 2020. The past 10 years of the search were performed to report the data following systematic review and meta-analysis protocol (PRISMA-P) 2015 statement. Results. With the help of keywords, the total number of abstracts identified was 946. These abstracts were further reviewed as per inclusion and exclusion criteria, and 106 abstracts were identified to match the selection criteria. Further review of full articles resulted in 12 articles that matched the inclusion criteria for the study. Conclusion. Er:YAG can be a good alternative and least invasive therapy for managing snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. Er:YAG therapy is considered to nonsurgical intervention with minimum side effects and can be performed chairside.
A De Novo sSMC (22) Characterized by High-Resolution Chromosome Microarray Analysis in a Chinese Boy with Cat-Eye Syndrome
Authors: Li Jinjie , Zhang Yue , Diao Yanjun , Li Rui , Jiang Liqing , Zhou Lei , Liu Jiayun , Duan Weixun , Yang Liu
Published: February 2021

We report a 15-year-old boy with cat-eye syndrome (CES) without short stature or intellectual disorder. The boy was confirmed by cytogenetic and high-resolution chromosome microarray analysis (CMA). The G-banding karyotype confirmed the de novo of the patient. Also, the CMA result showed 1.76 Mb tetrasomy of proximal 22Q11.1 ⟶ 22Q11.21 consistent with CES {arr22q11.1q11.21 (16,888,899–18,644,241) X4}, a typical small type I CES chromosome. The patient has many of the basic characteristics of CES; however, he is taller than his peers instead of shorter. It is rarely reported in the past since short stature is a common feature of this syndrome. Furthermore, the boy has no intellectual disorder and attends a normal school since he was six-year-old. What bothered him most were recurrent respiratory infections, retromicrognathia, and heart defects.
Some Convergence Results for a Class of Generalized Nonexpansive Mappings in Banach Spaces
Authors: Abdeljawad Thabet , Ullah Kifayat , Ahmad Junaid , de la Sen Manuel , Khan Muhammad Naveed
Published: February 2021

This paper investigates fixed points of Reich-Suzuki-type nonexpansive mappings in the context of uniformly convex Banach spaces through an

M

∗

iterative method. Under some appropriate situations, some strong and weak convergence theorems are established. To support our results, a new example of Reich-Suzuki-type nonexpansive mappings is presented which exceeds the class of Suzuki-type nonexpansive mappings. The presented results extend some recently announced results of current literature.
Challenges of applying circulating biomarkers for abdominal aortic aneurysm progression
Authors: Li Yuan , Yang Dan , Zheng Yuehong
Published: February 2021

As a prevalent potentially life-threatening condition, abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) presents increasing risk of rupture as its diameter grows. However, rapid progression and rupture may occasionally occur in smaller AAAs. Earlier surgery for patients with high risk of disease progression may improve the outcome. Therefore, more precise indicators for invasive treatment in addition to diameter and abdominal symptoms are demanded. This systematic review aimed to identify potential circulating biomarkers that may predict growth rate of AAA. Cochrane and PubMed library were searched (until August 2020) for researches which reported circulating biomarkers associated with AAA expansion, and 25 papers were included. Twenty-eight identified biomarkers were further classified into five categories (inflammation and oxidative stress, matrix degradation, hematology and lipid metabolism, thrombosis and fibrinolysis, and others), and discussed further with their correlation and regression analysis results. Larger prospective trials are required to establish and evaluate prognostic models with highest values with these markers.
Comparative assessment of biodegradable-antireflux heparine coated ureteral stent: animal model study
Authors: Soria Federico , de La Cruz Julia E. , Caballero-Romeu Juan Pablo , Pamplona Manuel , Pérez-Fentes Daniel , Resel-Folskerma Luis , Sanchez-Margallo Francisco M.
Published: February 2021

Background

Double J ureteral stents are widely used on urological patients to provide drainage of the upper urinary tract. Unfourtunately, ureteral stents are not free from complications, as bacterial colonization and require a second procedure for removal. The purpose of the current comparative experimental study is to evaluate a new heparin-coated biodegradable antireflux ureteral stent (BraidStent®-H) to prevent urinary bacterial colonization.

Methods

A total of 24 female pigs were underwent determination of bacteriuria and nephrosonographic, endoscopic and contrast fluoroscopy assessment of the urinary tract. Afterward, were randomly assigned animals to Group-I, in which a 5Fr double-pigtail ureteral stent was placed for 6 weeks, or Group-II, in which a BraidStent®-H was placed. Follow-up assessments were performed at 1, 3, 6, 8, 12 weeks. The final follow-up includes the above methods and an exhaustive pathological study of the urinary tract was accomplished after 20 weeks.

Results

Bacteriuria findings in the first 48 h were significant between groups at 6 h and 12 h. Asymptomatic bacteriuria does not reach 100% of the animals in Group-II until 48 h versus Group-I where it appears at 6 h. The weekly bacteriuria mean rate was 27.7% and 44.4% in Group I and II respectively, without statistical significance. In Group II there were no animals with vesicoureteral reflux, with statistical significance at 3 and 6 weeks with Group-I. The 91.2% of stents in Group-II were degraded between 3 and 6 weeks, without obstructive fragments. Distal ureteral peristalsis was maintained in 66.6–75% in Group-II at 1–6 weeks.

Conclusions

The heparin coating of BraidStent® allows an early decrease of bacterial colonization, but its effectiveness is low at the long term. Heparin coating did not affect scheduled degradation rate or size of stents fragments. BraidStent®-H avoids the side effects associated with current ureteral stents, thus should cause less discomfort to patients.