bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of micronutrient deficiency in development of heart disease in Graves’ disease
Authors: Kvitkova L. V. , Vinichenko D. S. , Smakotina S. A.
Published: November 2020

Purpose. To assess the contribution of impaired supply of the body with zinc, selenium and copper to the development of cardiovascular complications in patients with Graves’ disease (HD). Methods. The study included 113 women aged 25–60 years with a diagnosis of HD: 54.0 % (n = 61) with moderate thyrotoxicosis, 46.0 % (n = 52) with severe. The duration of the disease is 1–5 years. The control group consisted of 37 women 25–60 years old without thyroid pathology and cardiovascular complications (CVC). All patients were assessed: in the blood – the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone, free thyroxine, the concentration of antibodies to the thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor; in the hair – the concentration of zinc, selenium, copper; results of ultrasound examination of the thyroid gland, echocardiography, 24-hour monitoring of electrocardiography. Results. Selenium deficiency was found in AF in 70.9% of cases (n = 22), zinc in 77.4 % (n = 24), copper in 67.7 % (n = 21) of cases, in CHF, selenium deficiency in 76.9% (n = 40), zinc – 82.7 % (n = 43), copper – 76.9 % (n = 40). In the control group, selenium deficiency was detected in 15.5% (n = 6) (p = 0.01), zinc deficiency – in 27.0% (n = 10) (p = .01), copper deficiency – in 10.8 % (n = 4) (p = 0.01) cases. Using logistic regression, a diagnostic model and a table of CHF risk factors in points were compiled, taking into account the levels of selenium, zinc, copper in the hair. It is advisable to use the table in all patients with HD to determine the degree of risk of CHF; with an average and high risk of developing CHF, it is recommended to include preparations of selenium, zinc, copper in the treatment regimen for HD. Conclusion. The results obtained show that the deficiency of these microelements increases the likelihood of a severe course of HD, the development of CVO, and requires diagnosis and correction.
APPLICATION OF SYSTEM FOR DIAGNOSTICS OF QUARRIES’S LAND SURFACE
Authors: Brodnikova Sofia D. , Maslov Nikolai A.
Published: November 2020

Practical experience of diagnosing the open-pit earthwork based on the assessment of its condition using the functioning parameters of pit dump truck obtained from the system of remote monitoring of its technical state in changing road conditions is reviewed. The relationship between functioning parameters of the truck and road condition determining the stability of its design parameters in operation is found.
LABORATORY STUDIES OF VIBRATION INFLUENCE ON THE PERMEABILITYOF A COAL CORE CONTAINING A THROUGH CRACK
Authors: Rybalkin Leonid A. , Serdyukov Sergey V.
Published: November 2020

The degassing of coal seams unloaded from rock pressure is associated with the requirement to intensify the flow of gas to degassing wells. For this purpose, a hydraulic fracturing operation is performed. The paper considers the features of the integrated intensification of coal seams’ degassing performed by hydraulic fractures in the field of seismic vibrations. The work presents the results of laboratory studies of gas permeability changes in fractured coal containing a through crack under the influence of various geomechanical compression and amplitude frequency of seismic vibrations. The obtained results provide the opportunity to evaluate the possibility of seismic vibration’s implication to intensify the degassing of non-wedged hydraulic fractures in coal mines.
EVALUATION OF PARAMETERS OF HYDRAULIC IMPACT DEVICES OF ACTIVE BUCKET WITH DIRECT CONNECTION TO THE HYDRAULIC SYSTEM OF II GRADE EXCAVATOR
Authors: Gorodilov Leonid V. , Maslov Nikolai A. , Korovin Alexander N.
Published: November 2020

The impact power of hydraulic percussion system of active bucket of Belarus EO-2628 excavator with a capacity of 0.25 m required for the effective mining of rocks with ultimate compressive strength of 60-80 MPa and frozen soils of V-VIII category is determined. The diagram of direct connection of hydraulic impact devices to excavator hydraulic system is presented. Using the HPS software, the parameters and characteristics of impact devices are selected.
DEVELOPMENT OF AERODYNAMIC DIAGRAMS OF HIGH-LOADED REVERSE AXIAL FANS
Authors: Kosykh Pavel V.
Published: November 2020

Present-day achievements in the field of strength calculation and structural optimization allow creating main mine fans with higher tip speed than in currently used machines. The paper considers the features of calculating the aerodynamic diagrams of mine reverse axial fans with a tip speed over 200 m/s. It is shown that at such speed it is possible to obtain high-flow fans with significantly smaller dimensions than their existing counterparts. Aerodynamic diagrams with high reverse characteristics (flow rate of more than 0.7 from the direct mode for the network of the same aerodynamic characteristics as in direct mode) are developed. The aerodynamic characteristics of the developed diagrams are calculated in the ANSYS software package. It is shown that an increase in the tip speed contributes to an increase in reverse properties of fans compared to less high-speed machines designed for the same total pressure. The limiting values of axial velocity coefficient and pressure coefficient are determined, at which it is possible to obtain a fan without an inlet guide vane, with a monotonic dependence of total pressure on flow rate.
OPTIMIZING DESIGN PARAMETERS OF ROTATING BLADES OF MINE AXIAL FANS
Authors: Krasyk Aleksandr M. , Russky Evgeny Yu.
Published: November 2020

This paper considers optimum designing of rotating blades of axial fans, which satisfy strength conditions at a tip speed of more than 140 m/s. Due to the high rotation velocities, cast blades lack the required strength; therefore, it is necessary to develop a lightweight design which allows increasing fan rotor speed. Mathematical methods for searching optimum design parameters by optimality criteria are used in this paper. The design obtained in this case will be closest to the optimum design, providing the given design parameters with the selected criterion. The optimum design was searched using the ANSYS software package based on topological optimization. Based on the solution of the optimization problem, the optimum mass distribution of airfoil blade of mine axial fan impeller is obtained. The optimum shape of impeller blade of the axial fan allows increasing the rotor speed and fan capacity by 1,8 times.
NASAL RECONSTRUCTION
Authors: Baba Peerzada Umar Farooq , Wani Adil Hafeez
Published: November 2020

A 65 year male presented with squamous cell carcinoma of left side of nose.
Comparison of Enzyme Secretion and Ferulic Acid Production by Escherichia coli Expressing Different Lactobacillus Feruloyl Esterases
Authors: Xu Zhenshang , Kong Jian , Zhang Susu , Wang Ting , Liu Xinli
Published: November 2020

Construction of recombinant Escherichia coli strains carrying feruloyl esterase genes for secretory expression offers an attractive way to facilitate enzyme purification and one-step production of ferulic acid from agricultural waste. A total of 10 feruloyl esterases derived from nine Lactobacillus species were expressed in E. coli BL21 (DE3) to investigate their secretion and ferulic acid production. Extracellular activity determination showed all these Lactobacillus feruloyl esterases could be secreted out of E. coli cells. However, protein analysis indicated that they could be classified as three types. The first type presented a low secretion level, including feruloyl esterases derived from Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus johnsonii. The second type showed a high secretion level, including feruloyl esterases derived from Lactobacillus amylovorus, Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus gasseri, and Lactobacillus helveticus. The third type also behaved a high secretion level but easy degradation, including feruloyl esterases derived from Lactobacillus farciminis, Lactobacillus fermentum, and Lactobacillus reuteri. Moreover, these recombinant E. coli strains could directly release ferulic acid from agricultural waste. The highest yield was 140 μg on the basis of 0.1 g de-starched wheat bran by using E. coli expressed L. amylovorus feruloyl esterase. These results provided a solid basis for the production of feruloyl esterase and ferulic acid.
A 3D Printed Device for Easy and Reliable Quantification of Fungal Chemotropic Growth
Authors: Schunke Carolin , Pöggeler Stefanie , Nordzieke Daniela Elisabeth
Published: November 2020

Chemical gradients are surrounding living organisms in all habitats of life. Microorganisms, plants and animals have developed specific mechanisms to sense such gradients. Upon perception, chemical gradients can be categorized either as favorable, like nutrients or hormones, or as disadvantageous, resulting in a clear orientation toward the gradient and avoiding strategies, respectively. Being sessile organisms, fungi use chemical gradients for their orientation in the environment. Integration of this data enables them to successfully explore nutrient sources, identify probable plant or animal hosts, and to communicate during sexual reproduction or early colony development. We have developed a 3D printed device allowing a highly standardized, rapid and low-cost investigation of chemotropic growth processes in fungi. Since the 3D printed device is placed on a microscope slide, detailed microscopic investigations and documentation of the chemotropic process is possible. Using this device, we provide evidence that germlings derived from oval conidia of the hemibiotrophic plant pathogenColletotrichum graminicolacan sense gradients of glucose and reorient their growth toward the nutrient source. We describe in detail the method establishment, probable pitfalls, and provide the original program files for 3D printing to enable broad application of the 3D device in basic, agricultural, medical, and applied fungal science.
The Mozart Effect on the Episodic Memory of Healthy Adults Is Null, but Low-Functioning Older Adults May Be an Exception
Authors: Silva Susana , Belim Filipa , Castro São Luís
Published: November 2020

Literature on the effects of passive music listening on cognitive performance is mixed, showing negative, null or positive results depending on cognitive domain, age group, temporal relation between music and task (background music vs. music before task, the latter known as Mozart effect), or listener-dependent variables such as musical preference. Positive effects of background music on the two components of episodic memory – item and source memory - for verbal materials seem robust and age-independent, and thus deserve further attention. In the current study, we investigated two potential enhancers of music effects on episodic memory: stopping music before task performance (Mozart effect) to eliminate music-related distraction and using preferred music to maximize reward. We ran a main study on a sample of 51 healthy younger adults, along with a pilot study with 12 older adults, divided into low- vs. high functioning according to cognitive performance in a screening test. Against our expectations, Bayesian analyses showed strong evidence that music had no advantage over silence or environmental sounds in younger adults. Preferred music had no advantage either, consistent with the possibility that music-related reward had no impact on episodic memory. Among older adults, low- but not high-functioning participants’ item memory was improved by music – especially by non-preferred music - compared to silence. Our findings suggest that, in healthy adults, prior-to-task music may be less effective than background music in episodic memory enhancement despite decreased distraction, possibly because reward becomes irrelevant when music is stopped before the task begins. Our pilot findings on older adults raise the hypothesis that low-functioning older participants relate to prior-to-task auditory stimulation in deviant ways when it comes to episodic memory enhancement.
Application of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles and Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria Reduces Genetic Impairment under Salt Stress in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L. ‘Linda’)
Authors: Hosseinpour Arash , Haliloglu Kamil , Tolga Cinisli Kagan , Ozkan Guller , Ozturk Halil Ibrahim , Pour-Aboughadareh Alireza , Poczai Peter
Published: November 2020

Salinity is an edaphic stress that dramatically restricts worldwide crop production. Nanomaterials and plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) are currently used to alleviate the negative effects of various stresses on plant growth and development. This study investigates the protective effects of different levels of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) (0, 20, and 40 mg L−1) and PGPBs (no bacteria, Bacillus subtilis, Lactobacillus casei, Bacillus pumilus) on DNA damage and cytosine methylation changes in the tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L. ‘Linda’) seedlings under salinity stress (250 mM NaCl). Coupled Restriction Enzyme Digestion-Random Amplification (CRED-RA) and Randomly Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) approaches were used to analyze changes in cytosine methylation and to determine how genotoxic effects influence genomic stability. Salinity stress increased the polymorphism rate assessed by RAPD, while PGPB and ZnO-NPs reduced the adverse effects of salinity stress. Genomic template stability was increased by the PGPBs and ZnO-NPs application; this increase was significant when Lactobacillus casei and 40 mg L−1 of ZnO-NPs were used.A decreased level of DNA methylation was observed in all treatments. Taken together, the use of PGPB and ZnO-NPs had a general positive effect under salinity stress reducing genetic impairment in tomato seedlings.
CAX1a TILLING Mutations Modify the Hormonal Balance Controlling Growth and Ion Homeostasis in Brassica rapa Plants Subjected to Salinity
Authors: Navarro-León Eloy , López-Moreno Francisco Javier , Atero-Calvo Santiago , Albacete Alfonso , Ruiz Juan Manuel , Blasco Begoña
Published: November 2020

Salinity is a serious issue for crops, as it causes remarkable yield losses. The accumulation of Na+ affects plant physiology and produces nutrient imbalances. Plants trigger signaling cascades in response to stresses in which phytohormones and Ca2+ are key components. Cation/H+ exchangers (CAXs) transporters are involved in Ca2+ fluxes in cells. Thus, enhanced CAX activity could improve tolerance to salinity stress. Using the TILLING (targeting induced local lesions in genomes) technique, three Brassica rapa mutants were generated through a single amino acidic modification in the CAX1a transporter. We hypothesized that BraA.cax1a mutations could modify the hormonal balance, leading to improved salinity tolerance. To test this hypothesis, the mutants and the parental line R-o-18 were grown under saline conditions (150 mM NaCl), and leaf and root biomass, ion concentrations, and phytohormone profile were analyzed. Under saline conditions, BraA.cax1a-4 mutant plants increased growth compared to the parental line, which was associated with reduced Na+ accumulation. Further, it increased K+ concentration and changed the hormonal balance. Specifically, our results show that higher indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and gibberellin (GA) concentrations in mutant plants could promote growth under saline conditions, while abscisic acid (ABA), ethylene, and jasmonic acid (JA) led to better signaling stress responses and water use efficiency. Therefore, CAX1 mutations directly influence the hormonal balance of the plant controlling growth and ion homeostasis under salinity. Thus, Ca2+ signaling manipulation can be used as a strategy to improve salinity tolerance in breeding programs.
The Effect of Replacing Wildrye Hay with Mulberry Leaves on the Growth Performance, Blood Metabolites, and Carcass Characteristics of Sheep
Authors: Sun Hua , Luo Yang , Zhao Fangfang , Fan Yaotian , Ma Jingnan , Jin Yaqian , Hou Qirui , Ahmed Gulzar , Wang Hongrong
Published: November 2020

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of partially substituting for conventional forage, Chinese wildrye (CW), with mulberry leaves (ML) on the growth, digestion, ruminal fermentation, blood metabolites, and meat quality of sheep in a 65-day feedlot study. Thirty-two four-month-old male small-tailed Han sheep (25.15 ± 1.03 kg) were randomly assigned to one of four treatments. The dietary treatments consisted of four proportions of ML (0, 8, 24, and 32%) as a substitute for CW (designated as ML0, ML8, ML24, and ML32, respectively). Rumen digesta and blood samples were collected at day 63 of the trial. Carcass traits were assessed after slaughter at the end of performance period. The results from this study revealed no differences in average daily bodyweight gain (ADG), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and final body weight (FBW) among treatments. The apparent digestibility of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), and acid detergent fiber (ADF) was higher in the sheep fed with ML than in those fed CW. The ML24 treatment had a higher digestibility of crude protein (CP) and ether extract (EE). There were no differences (p = 0.13) in ruminal pH values among the treatments. However, there was more microbial protein (p < 0.01) in ML24 and ML32 treatments than the ML0 treatment. Ruminal concentrations of acetate and butyrate were significantly different among treatments, although no difference in concentrations of total volatile fatty acid were found. Additionally, no differences were detected for serum parameters except blood urea nitrogen (BUN). No differences were observed for carcass weight (p = 0.62), dressing percentage (p = 0.31) or longissimus dorsi muscle (LM) area (p = 0.94) among treatments. However, intramuscular fat was higher in the ML24 treatment than in the ML0 treatment. (p < 0.01). There were higher pH values of the 24-h longissimus dorsi in the ML24 treatment than in the ML0 treatment. In addition, the saturated fatty acid (SFA) content was lower (p < 0.01) and the monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) content higher (p < 0.01) in the ML24 treatment than in the ML0 treatment. In conclusion, the partially substitution of mulberry leaves for Chinese wildrye in the diet of sheep had a beneficial influence on the growth performance, blood metabolites and carcass characteristics. The inclusion of 24% (air dry basis) mulberry leaf hay in the ration of sheep is recommended based on these findings.
Oxidative Stress in ESRD Patients on Dialysis and the Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Rysz Jacek , Franczyk Beata , Ławiński Janusz , Gluba-Brzózka Anna
Published: November 2020

Chronic kidney disease is highly prevalent worldwide. The decline of renal function is associated with inadequate removal of a variety of uremic toxins that exert detrimental effects on cells functioning, thus affecting the cardiovascular system. The occurrence of cardiovascular aberrations in CKD is related to the impact of traditional risk factors and non-traditional CKD-associated risk factors, including anemia; inflammation; oxidative stress; the presence of some uremic toxins; and factors related to the type, frequency of dialysis and the composition of dialysis fluid. Cardiovascular diseases are the most frequent cause for the deaths of patients with all stages of renal failure. The kidney is one of the vital sources of antioxidant enzymes, therefore, the impairment of this organ is associated with decreased levels of these enzymes as well as increased levels of pro-oxidants. Uremic toxins have been shown to play a vital role in the onset of oxidative stress. Hemodialysis itself also enhances oxidative stress. Elevated oxidative stress has been demonstrated to be strictly related to kidney and cardiac damage as it aggravates kidney dysfunction and induces cardiac hypertrophy. Antioxidant therapies may prove to be beneficial since they can decrease oxidative stress, reduce uremic cardiovascular toxicity and improve survival.
Enzymatic Potential of Bacteria and Fungi Isolates from the Sewage Sludge Composting Process
Authors: Robledo-Mahón Tatiana , Calvo Concepción , Aranda Elisabet
Published: November 2020

The aim of this study was the isolation and characterisation of the fungi and bacteria during the composting process of sewage sludge under a semipermeable membrane system at full scale, in order to find isolates with enzymatic activities of biotechnological interest. A total of 40 fungi were isolated and enzymatically analysed. Fungal culture showed a predominance of members of Ascomycota and Basidiomycota division and some representatives of Mucoromycotina subdivision. Some noticeable fungi isolated during the mesophilic and thermophilic phase were Aspergillus, Circinella, and Talaromyces. During the maturation phase, some lignin modifying enzyme producers, like Purpureocillium, Thielavia, Bjerkandera, or Dichotomyces, were found. Within this group, Thielavia and Bjerkandera showed high activity with production of laccases and peroxidases. In the bacterial culturome, a total of 128 strains were selected and enzymatically analysed. Bacillales, Actinomycetales, Pseudomonadales, and Lactobacillales were the orders most represented in culture-bacteria. Bacillus pumilus, B. stratosphericus, B. safensis, and Pseudomonas formosensis were the species most efficient in enzyme production, particularly peroxidases, polyphenol oxidases ammonifying activity, and amylases. These results showed that sewage sludge composting piles could represent a source of microorganisms which have adapted to adverse conditions.
Analysis of Metrological Requirements in Occupational Health and Safety Regulations Related to the Emerging Risk of Exposure to Vibrations
Authors: Lorente-Pedreille Raquel María , Brocal Francisco , Saenz-Nuño María A. , Sebastián Miguel A.
Published: November 2020

In occupational exposure to vibration, the risk assessment process is defined through a regulatory framework that presents some relevant metrological problems. This framework considers methods based on estimation and on measurements. Estimation methods could employ existing information that is provided for each manufacturer to each individual tool or application to carry out such estimation. The use of estimation methods has some problems, such as substantial uncertainty. When using measurement methods, some metrological aspects are not fully defined. Therefore, a new and emerging risk appears due to certain methodologic limitations. Consequently, the variation between the estimated and the actual values could overestimate the level of occupational exposure to vibrations. Thus, with this paper, a critical analysis of this emerging metrological problem is provided. For this, a critical analysis of the metrological requirements regarding European standards is developed. To this end, the estimation method and measure method are investigated, considering, in both cases, the main factors related to uncertainty, reliability, and traceability. With this structure, a set of metrological limitations have been identified, thus pointing towards future lines of research that allow the improvement of the process of assessing the level of occupational exposure to vibrations.
Lengthening Transmission Distance of Continuous Variable Quantum Key Distribution with Discrete Modulation through Photon Catalyzing
Authors: Zhou Zhengchun , Zou Shanhua , Huang Tongcheng , Guo Ying
Published: November 2020

Establishing global secure networks is a potential implementation of continuous-variable quantum key distribution (CVQKD) but it is also challenged with respect to long-distance transmission. The discrete modulation (DM) can make up for the shortage of transmission distance in that it has a unique advantage against all side-channel attacks; however, its further performance improvement requires source preparation in the presence of noise and loss. Here, we consider the effects of photon catalysis (PC) on the DM-involved source preparation for improving the transmission distance. We address a zero-photon-catalysis (ZPC)-based source preparation for enhancing the DM–CVQKD system. The statistical fluctuation is taken into account for the practical security analysis. Numerical simulations show that the ZPC-based source preparation can not only achieve the long-distance transmission, but also contributes to the reasonable increase of the secret key rate.
Experimental Investigations on Nonlinear Flutter Behaviors of a Bridge Deck with Different Leading and Trailing Edges
Authors: Li Wenjie , Laima Shujin
Published: November 2020

Recently, the nonlinear flutter behavior of long-span suspension bridges has attracted attention. Unlike the classical theory of bridge flutter, the stable limit cycle oscillations (LCO) have occurred for some bluff aerodynamic configurations when the inflow velocity exceeded a specific critical value. To explore the influence of aerodynamic configurations on flutter behaviors a series of flutter tests for spring-suspended sectional models were conducted. When the leading edges and trailing edges with various shapes were installed at the sectional models, different flutter types occurred. In the test, the self-excited forces and flutter responses were measured. Then, the characteristics of coupling vibration and aerodynamic hysteresis of the two kinds of flutter were analyzed and compared. Finally, the role of the phase difference between self-excited forces and displacements was discussed in the mechanism difference of the classical flutter and the postflutter LCO. As the leading edge became the bluffer, the results showed that the type of flutter gradually transformed from classical divergent flutter to postcritical LCO and the torsional mode played a more important role in the flutter than in the vertical mode. For the postflutter LCO, there was a negative feedback pattern, i.e., as the vibration amplitude increased, the phase difference gradually decreased, and the energy input to the dynamic system did not grow rapidly, which limited the further vibration divergence and resulted in a stable LCO.
Crystal Plasticity Finite Element Method for Slip Systems Evolution Analysis of α/β Duplex Titanium Alloys during Quasi-Static Tensile Testing
Authors: Qian Yan , Fan Qunbo , Liu Xin , Wang Duoduo , Zhou Yu
Published: November 2020

The crystal plasticity finite element method, modeled on a realistic microstructure image, was developed to investigate the evolution of slip systems in grains of α/β titanium alloys during quasi-static tensile testing. By analyzing the data of slip evolution of simulation during the overall plastic deformation process, it was found that the prismatic slip systems in the α phase and the {112} <111> slip systems in the β phase played a leading role. By calculating the Schmid factors, it was found that the values calculated from the local stress, which was represented by major principal stress, were larger than the values calculated from the primary uniaxial tensile direction, which was due to the deviation of the local stress direction from the primary uniaxial tensile direction. Furthermore, the deviation of local stress of α phase was different from that of β phase, which was related to the deformation mechanism. During the deformation, the stress and strain were concentrated in the grains of the α phase, producing a driving effect on the neighboring grains of the β phase. Subsequently, the incompatible deformation produced the concentration of strain at the grain/interphase boundary, thus strengthening the grain interactions and leading to the deviation.
The South African Nurse’s Knowledge of Occupational Human Immunodeficiency Virus Postexposure Prophylaxis in the Era of Controlled and Stable HIV Prevalence
Authors: Rasweswe Melitah Molatelo , Peu Mmapheko Doriccah
Published: November 2020

Knowledge is a crucial aspect of nursing. Nurses, just like any other healthcare workers (HCWs), are empowered with the knowledge of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Postexposure Prophylaxis (PEP) protocol to be followed, including post-exposure to blood and body fluids (BBFs). The utilization of HIV PEP demonstrated its capabilities to prevent HCWs from HIV infections. However, the practice in healthcare settings remains a challenge, as many HCWs do not adhere to the protocol. This study investigated how knowledgeable nurses are about HIV PEP in the era of controlled and stable HIV prevalence. Ninety-four nurses completed a self-administered questionnaire to provide information. A biostatistician assisted with data analysis, using Microsoft Excel converted to the STATA 13 format. Most (77.0%) were female with a mean age of 30 ± 9 years. The degree of knowledge was low, although the results showed that 90.43% of nurses had been informed about HIV PEP. Eighty (84%) did not know where to access HIV PEP, and (55.32%) were unaware of HIV PEP guidelines. A comparison between knowledge and work experience revealed that those with five years and less experience are less knowledgeable. There is a need to improve nurses’ knowledge of HIV PEP to reduce the risk of HIV acquisition from work-related activities.
Newly Developed Anti-Buckling Fixture to Assess the In-Plane Crashworthiness of Flat Composite Specimens
Authors: Babaei Iman , Garg Ravin , Vigna Lorenzo , Paolino Davide Salvatore , Belingardi Giovanni , Cascone Lucio , Calzolari Andrea , Galizia Giuseppe
Published: November 2020

Despite superior specific mechanical characteristics of carbon-fiber-reinforced polymers (CFRPs), a lack of understanding of their fracture mechanisms under different impact conditions has limited the application of CFRP energy-absorbing structures. To avoid complex and expensive tests on the final structure, it is more convenient to test flat elements. To prevent catastrophic crushing due to the global buckling, flat specimens must be supported by a specific fixture. Previously developed fixtures had shortcomings like tearing of the specimen, jamming of the fixture, short crushable length, or they were specifically designed only for one failure mode. This newly designed fixture overcomes the limitations of previously published solutions. The final configuration includes cylindrical anti-buckling columns 10 mm in diameter and spaced 65 mm apart with adjustable heights. The fixture is designed for rectangular specimens with dimensions of 150 × 100 mm and different thicknesses up to 16 mm, like the ones mandated by the ASTM D7137 standard test method for compression after impact analysis. Other features of this new fixture are the possibility to study the effects of different defects on the crashworthiness of composites, higher crushing area, and integration with Instron drop tower and hydraulic testing machines.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic Lockdown on Air Pollution in 20 Major Cities around the World
Authors: Fu Franck , Purvis-Roberts Kathleen L. , Williams Branwen
Published: November 2020

In order to fight against the spread of COVID-19, the most hard-hit countries in the spring of 2020 implemented different lockdown strategies. To assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown on air quality worldwide, Air Quality Index (AQI) data was used to estimate the change in air quality in 20 major cities on six continents. Our results show significant declines of AQI in NO2, SO2, CO, PM2.5 and PM10 in most cities, mainly due to the reduction of transportation, industry and commercial activities during lockdown. This work shows the reduction of primary pollutants, especially NO2, is mainly due to lockdown policies. However, preexisting local environmental policy regulations also contributed to declining NO2, SO2 and PM2.5 emissions, especially in Asian countries. In addition, higher rainfall during the lockdown period could cause decline of PM2.5, especially in Johannesburg. By contrast, the changes of AQI in ground-level O3 were not significant in most of cities, as meteorological variability and ratio of VOC/NOx are key factors in ground-level O3 formation.
Water Constraints and Flood-Recession Agriculture in the Senegal River Valley
Authors: Sall Mamadou , Poussin Jean-Christophe , Bossa Aymar Yaovi , Ndiaye Ramatoulaye , Cissé Madiama , Martin Didier , Bader Jean-Claude , Sultan Benjamin , Ogilvie Andrew
Published: November 2020

Flood recession farming practiced in flood-prone areas and on the banks of rivers and lakes in arid or semi-arid environments essentially depends on the soil water stock after the flood has receded. During these last few decades, this coveted agriculture is increasingly challenged by severe water constraints, due to increased hydrological hazards and development projects aimed at controlling floods. These challenges are difficult to anticipate, and are the subject of a great deal of uncertainty regarding the sustainability of development projects in the concerned areas. In this study, recent hydraulic data of the Senegal River were analyzed to understand the constraints related to the river management in flood-prone areas. Satellite imagery analysis techniques were used to estimate flooded areas and establish relationships with the river regime. Agricultural practices implemented by farmers were also analyzed to evaluate the resilience of this cropping system to the risk of water stress. The results confirmed many constraints of different importance related to the objectives assigned to the management of dams under multiple water use context. It clearly came out that the water resource management rules relegate flood-recession agriculture to the lowest priorities. In addition, there are safety issues related to unexpected effects of flooding on the water structures and in the nearby inhabited localities of flood-prone areas. Knowing some characteristics of the flooding and of the river’s levels and their relationships can be useful within the framework of an organized climate service that would help farmers and communities to better anticipate constraints.
Mosses as Bioindicators of Heavy Metal Air Pollution in the Lockdown Period Adopted to Cope with the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Yushin Nikita , Chaligava Omari , Zinicovscaia Inga , Vergel Konstantin , Grozdov Dmitrii
Published: November 2020

The coronavirus disease, COVID-19, has had a great negative impact on human health and economies all over the world. To prevent the spread of infection in many countries, including the Russian Federation, public life was restricted. To assess the impact of the taken actions on air quality in the Moscow region, in June 2020, mosses Pleurosium shreberi were collected at 19 sites considered as polluted in the territory of the region based on the results of the previous moss surveys. The content of Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Ni, and Pb in the moss samples was determined using atomic absorption spectrometry. The obtained values were compared with the data from the moss survey performed in June 2019 at the same sampling sites. Compared to 2019 data, the Cd content in moss samples decreased by 2–46%, while the iron content increased by 3–127%. The content of Cu, Ni, and Pb in mosses decreased at most sampling sites, except for the eastern part of the Moscow region, where a considerable number of engineering and metal processing plants operate. The stay-at-home order issued in the Moscow region resulted in a reduction of vehicle emissions affecting air quality, while the negative impact of the industrial sector remained at the level of 2019 or even increased.
MCM2 and Carbonic Anhydrase 9 Are Novel Potential Targets for Neuroblastoma Pharmacological Treatment
Authors: Garbati Patrizia , Barbieri Raffaella , Cangelosi Davide , Zanon Carlo , Costa Delfina , Eva Alessandra , Thellung Stefano , Calderoni Matilde , Baldini Francesca , Tonini Gian Paolo , Modesto Paola , Florio Tullio , Pagano Aldo
Published: November 2020

To overcome the lack of effective pharmacological treatments for high-risk neuroblastoma (HR-NB), the development of novel in vitro and in vivo models that better recapitulate the disease is required. Here, we used an in vitro multiclonal cell model encompassing NB cell differentiation stages, to identify potential novel pharmacological targets. This model allowed us to identify, by low-density RT-PCR arrays, two gene sets, one over-expressed during NB cell differentiation, and the other up-regulated in more malignant cells. Challenging two HR-NB gene expression datasets, we found that these two gene sets are related to high and low survival, respectively. Using mouse NB cisplatin-treated xenografts, we identified two genes within the list associated to the malignant stage (MCM2 and carbonic anhydrase 9), whose expression is positively correlated with tumor growth. Thus, we tested their pharmacological targeting as potential therapeutic strategy. We measured mice survival and tumor growth rate after xenografts of human NB treated with cisplatin in the presence of MCM2/carbonic anhydrase 9 inhibitors (ciprofloxacin and acetazolamide). MCM2 or carbonic anhydrase 9 inhibition significantly increased cisplatin activity, supporting their possible testing for NB therapy.
Shedding Light on the Effects of Moderate Acute Exercise on Working Memory Performance in Healthy Older Adults: An fNIRS Study
Authors: Stute Katharina , Hudl Nicole , Stojan Robert , Voelcker-Rehage Claudia
Published: November 2020

Numerous studies have reported the beneficial effects of acute exercise on executive functions. Less is known, however, about the effects of exercise on working memory as one subcomponent of executive functions and about its effects on older adults. We investigated the effects of acute moderate-intensity exercise on working memory performance, the respective cortical hemodynamic activation patterns, and the development and persistence of such effects in healthy older adults. Forty-four participants (M: 69.18 years ± 3.92; 21 females) performed a letter 2-back task before and at three time points after (post 15 min, post 30 min, and post 45 min) either listening to an audiobook or exercising (15 min; 50% VO2-peak). Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) was used to assess cortical hemodynamic activation and brain-behavior correlations in the fronto-parietal working memory network. Overall, we found no group differences for working memory performance. However, only within the experimental group, 2-back performance was enhanced 15 min and 45 min post-exercise. Furthermore, 15 min post-exercise frontal activation predicted working memory performance, regardless of group. In sum, our results indicate slight beneficial effects of acute moderate-intensity exercise on working memory performance in healthy older adults. Findings are discussed in light of the cognitive aging process and moderators affecting the exercise-cognition relationship.
Rhizopus oryzae Lipase, a Promising Industrial Enzyme: Biochemical Characteristics, Production and Biocatalytic Applications
Authors: López-Fernández Josu , Benaiges M. Dolors , Valero Francisco
Published: November 2020

Lipases are biocatalysts with a significant potential to enable a shift from current pollutant manufacturing processes to environmentally sustainable approaches. The main reason of this prospect is their catalytic versatility as they carry out several industrially relevant reactions as hydrolysis of fats in water/lipid interface and synthesis reactions in solvent-free or non-aqueous media such as transesterification, interesterification and esterification. Because of the outstanding traits of Rhizopus oryzae lipase (ROL), 1,3-specificity, high enantioselectivity and stability in organic media, its application in energy, food and pharmaceutical industrial sector has been widely studied. Significant advances have been made in the biochemical characterisation of ROL particularly in how its activity and stability are affected by the presence of its prosequence. In addition, native and heterologous production of ROL, the latter in cell factories like Escherichia coli, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Komagataella phaffii (Pichia pastoris), have been thoroughly described. Therefore, in this review, we summarise the current knowledge about R. oryzae lipase (i) biochemical characteristics, (ii) production strategies and (iii) potential industrial applications.
Conditional Ablation of Myeloid TNF Improves Functional Outcome and Decreases Lesion Size after Spinal Cord Injury in Mice
Authors: Ellman Ditte Gry , Lund Minna Christiansen , Nissen Maiken , Nielsen Pernille Sveistrup , Sørensen Charlotte , Lester Emilie Boye , Thougaard Estrid , Jørgensen Louise Helskov , Nedospasov Sergei A. , Andersen Ditte Caroline , Stubbe Jane , Brambilla Roberta , Degn Matilda , Lambertsen Kate Lykke
Published: November 2020

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating condition consisting of an instant primary mechanical injury followed by a secondary injury that progresses for weeks to months. The cytokine tumor necrosis factor (TNF) plays an important role in the pathophysiology of SCI. We investigated the effect of myeloid TNF ablation (peripheral myeloid cells (macrophages and neutrophils) and microglia) versus central myeloid TNF ablation (microglia) in a SCI contusion model. We show that TNF ablation in macrophages and neutrophils leads to reduced lesion volume and improved functional outcome after SCI. In contrast, TNF ablation in microglia only or TNF deficiency in all cells had no effect. TNF levels tended to be decreased 3 h post-SCI in mice with peripheral myeloid TNF ablation and was significantly decreased 3 days after SCI. Leukocyte and microglia populations and all other cytokines (IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, and IFNγ) and chemokines (CCL2, CCL5, and CXCL1) investigated, in addition to TNFR1 and TNFR2, were comparable between genotypes. Analysis of post-SCI signaling cascades demonstrated that the MAPK kinase SAPK/JNK decreased and neuronal Bcl-XL levels increased post-SCI in mice with ablation of TNF in peripheral myeloid cells. These findings demonstrate that peripheral myeloid cell-derived TNF is pathogenic in SCI.
Fumed SiO2-H2SO4-PVA Gel Electrolyte CO Electrochemical Gas Sensor
Authors: Zhang Yuhang , Cheng Dongliang , Wu Zicheng , Li Feihu , Fang Fang , Zhan Zili
Published: November 2020

The conventional CO electrochemical gas sensor uses aqueous H2SO4 solution as electrolyte, with inevitable problems, such as the drying and leakage of electrolyte. Thus, research on new alternative electrolytes is an attractive field in electrochemical gas sensors. In this paper, the application of a new fumed SiO2 gel electrolyte was studied in electrochemical gas sensors. The effects of fumed SiO2 and H2SO4 contents on the performance of the CO gas sensor were investigated. The results showed that the optimized composition of the SiO2 gel electrolyte was 4.8% SiO2, 38% H2SO4, and 0.005% polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). Compared with aqueous H2SO4, the gel electrolyte had better water retention ability. The signal current of the sensor was proportional to the CO concentration. The sensitivity to CO was 78.6 nA/ppm, and the response and recovery times were 31 and 38 s, respectively. The detection limit was 2 ppm. The linear range was from 2 to 500 ppm. The gel electrolyte CO sensor possesses equivalent performance to that with aqueous electrolyte.
Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis: Current Perspectives
Authors: Paolilo Renata Barbosa , Deiva Kumaran , Neuteboom Rinze , Rostásy Kevin , Lim Ming
Published: November 2020

Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is an immune-mediated central nervous system (CNS) disorder, characterized by polyfocal symptoms, encephalopathy and typical magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, that especially affects young children. Advances in understanding CNS neuroimmune disorders as well as the association of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody (MOG-Ab) with both monophasic and recurrent forms of ADEM have led to new insights into its definition, management and outcome. In this review, we aim to provide an update based on current epidemiologic, clinical, radiological and immunopathological aspects and clinical outcome of ADEM.
Revival of Charge Density Waves and Charge Density Fluctuations in Cuprate High-Temperature Superconductors
Authors: Di Castro Carlo
Published: November 2020

I present here a short memory of my scientific contacts with K.A. Müller starting from the Interlaken Conference (1988), Erice (1992 and 1993), and Cottbus (1994) on the initial studies on phase separation (PS) and charge inhomogeneity in cuprates carried out against the view of the majority of the scientific community at that time. Going over the years and passing through the charge density wave (CDW) instability of the correlated Fermi liquid (FL) and to the consequences of charge density fluctuations (CDFs), I end with a presentation of my current research activity on CDWs and the related two-dimensional charge density fluctuations (2D-CDFs). A scenario follows of the physics of cuprates, which includes the solution of the decades-long problem of the strange metal (SM) state.
The Stoichiometry of TCNQ-Based Organic Charge-Transfer Cocrystals
Authors: Gao Jiaoyang , Zhai Huifei , Hu Peng , Jiang Hui
Published: November 2020

Organic charge-transfer cocrystals (CTCs) have attracted significant research attention due to their wide range of potential applications in organic optoelectronic devices, organic magnetic devices, organic energy devices, pharmaceutical industry, etc. The physical properties of organic charge transfer cocrystals can be tuned not only by changing the donor and acceptor molecules, but also by varying the stoichiometry between the donor and the acceptor. However, the importance of the stoichiometry on tuning the properties of CTCs has still been underestimated. In this review, single-crystal growth methods of organic CTCs with different stoichiometries are first introduced, and their physical properties, including the degree of charge transfer, electrical conductivity, and field-effect mobility, are then discussed. Finally, a perspective of this research direction is provided to give the readers a general understanding of the concept.
Direct Observation of Molecular Orbitals Using Synchrotron X-ray Diffraction
Authors: Kitou Shunsuke , Hosogi Yuto , Kitaura Ryo , Naito Toshio , Nakamura Toshikazu , Sawa Hiroshi
Published: November 2020

The physical properties of molecular crystals are governed by the frontier orbitals of molecules. A molecular orbital, which is formed by superposing the atomic orbitals of constituent elements, has complicated degrees of freedom in the crystal because of the influence of electron correlation and crystal field. Therefore, in general, it is difficult to experimentally observe the whole picture of a frontier orbital. Here, we introduce a new method called “core differential Fourier synthesis” (CDFS) using synchrotron X-ray diffraction to observe the valence electron density in materials. By observing the valence electrons occupied in molecular orbitals, the orbital state can be directly determined in a real space. In this study, we applied the CDFS method to molecular materials such as diamond, C60 fullerene, (MV)I2, and (TMTTF)2X. Our results not only demonstrate the typical orbital states in some materials, but also provide a new method for studying intramolecular degrees of freedom.
Chest CT Findings after 4 Months from the Onset of COVID-19 Pneumonia: A Case Series
Authors: Urciuoli Luigi , Guerriero Elvira
Published: November 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Although the reference standard for SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis is real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), computed tomography (CT) is recommended for both initial evaluation and follow-up. There is a growing body of published evidence about CT evolution during the course of COVID-19 pneumonia. Here, we report six confirmed cases of COVID-19 patients who underwent unenhanced chest CT on admission and after 4 months from the onset of symptoms. Chest-CT at first admission showed the typical CT features of COVID-19. Interestingly, the follow-up CT revealed the persistence of lung abnormalities in five cases even if all the patients were completely asymptomatic. Further studies are needed for a comprehensive understanding of the disease progression and the resulting late imaging modifications.