bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Roseoloviruses Downregulate the Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase PTPRC (CD45)
Authors: Whyte Melissa L. , Smith Kelsey A. , Buchberger Amanda , Berg Luecke Linda , Tjan Lidya Handayani , Mori Yasuko , Gundry Rebekah L. , Hudson Amy W.
Published: May 2021

Human herpesviruses-6 and -7 infect essentially 100% of the world's population before the age of 5 and then remain latent or persistent in their host throughout life. As such, these viruses are among the most pervasive and stealthy of all viruses.
Complete Genome Sequence of Halomonas venusta Type Strain DSM 4743, a Moderately Halophilic Marine Bacterium
Authors: Martinez-Abarca F. , Hernández-Soto L. M. , Ramírez-Saad H. C. , Aguirre-Garrido J. F.
Published: May 2021

Here, we report the genome sequence of
Halomonas venusta
strain DSM4743
T
, a moderately halophilic marine bacterium. This type species genome consists of a 4.3-Mb chromosome, with 3,777 protein-coding genes, 60 tRNA loci, and 6 complete rRNA operons, plus a 6.1-kb plasmid termed p4743-A.
Detection and Genome Sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 Variants Belonging to the B.1.1.7 Lineage in the Philippines
Authors: Tablizo Francis A. , Saloma Cynthia P. , Castro Marc Jerrone R. , Kim Kenneth M. , Yangzon Maria Sofia L. , Lapid Carlo M. , Maralit Benedict A. , Ayes Marc Edsel C. , Yap Jan Michael C. , Llames Jo-Hannah S. , Araiza Shiela Mae M. , Punayan Kris P. , Asin Irish Coleen A. , Tambaoan Candice Francheska B. , Chong Asia Louisa U. , Padilla Karol Sophia Agape R. , Cruz Rianna Patricia S. , Morado El King D. , Dizon Joshua Gregor A. , Cutiongco-de la Paz Eva Maria , de Guzman Alethea R. , Hao Razel Nikka M. , Zamora Arianne A. , Pacial Devon Ray , Magalang Juan Antonio R. , Alejandria Marissa , Carlos Celia , Ong-Lim Anna , Salvaña Edsel Maurice , Wong John Q. , Montoya Jaime C. , Singh-Vergeire Maria Rosario
Published: May 2021

We report the sequencing and detection of 36 severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) samples containing lineage-defining mutations specific to viruses belonging to the B.1.1.7 lineage in the Philippines.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Pseudomonas simiae Strain with Biocontrol Potential against
Aphanomyces
Root Rot
Authors: Godebo Ashebir T. , MacKenzie Keith D. , Walley Fran L. , Germida James J. , Yost Christopher K.
Published: May 2021

Aphanomyces euteiches
is a soilborne plant pathogen. It causes severe root rot in leguminous crop species. We report the complete genome sequence of a biocontrol strain,
Pseudomonas simiae
K-Hf-L9. The strain inhibited
Aphanomyces euteiches
mycelia and zoospores and suppressed root rot in field peas grown under controlled growth chamber conditions.
Genome Sequences of Neurotropic Lineage III Listeria monocytogenes Isolates UKVDL9 and 2010L-2198
Authors: Albrecht Taylor M. , Kucerova Zuzana , D’Orazio Sarah E. F.
Published: May 2021

We report the whole-genome sequence of
Listeria monocytogenes
UKVDL9 and an edited draft genome sequence of
L. monocytogenes
2010L-2198. Both are neurotropic lineage III strains; UKVDL9 was isolated from a sheep brain, and 2010L-2198 was isolated from a human subject with rhombencephalitis.
Complete Genome Sequence of Pseudomonas taiwanensis WRS8, a Plant Growth-Promoting and Biotite-Weathering Strain
Authors: Cheng Cheng , Wang Qi , Li Xuewei , Liu Yuanyuan
Published: May 2021

Pseudomonas taiwanensis
WRS8 is a biotite-weathering organism isolated from wheat root. Here, we report its complete genome sequence, which may shed light on its role in plant growth promotion and biotite weathering.
Complete Genome Sequences of Francisella marina Strains E95-16 and E103-15, Isolated from Maricultured Spotted Rose Snapper (
Lutjanus guttatus
) on the Pacific Coast of Central America
Authors: Tekedar Hasan C. , Griffin Matt J. , Hanson Larry A. , Waldbieser Geoffrey C. , Soto Esteban
Published: May 2021

In 2015 and 2016, a previously unrecognized
Francisella
sp. was isolated from disease outbreaks in maricultured spotted rose snapper (
Lutjanus guttatus
) on the Pacific coast of Central America. Polyphasic analysis demonstrated that these bacteria differed from any known
Francisella
spp. Here, the complete genomes from the recently described
Francisella marina
strains are released.
Complete Genome Sequence of
Bacillus
sp. Strain V3, Isolated from Mangrove Sediments in Wenzhou, China
Authors: Yan Ruihua , Michael Shija Vicent , Zhang Guangya , Zeng Runying , Li Xialan
Published: May 2021

We present the complete genome sequence of
Bacillus
sp. strain V3, which was isolated from mangrove sediments from Yanpu Bay, Wenzhou, China. The 4.44-Mb genome sequence of V3 will be useful for studying the functional genes with potential industrial application of this species from mangrove sediments.
Lumbar disc sequestration through the dura into the intrathecal space presenting as acute cauda equina
Authors: Ward Thomas Robert William , Sahemey Rajpreet , Sneath Robert , Solanki Sandeep
Published: May 2021

A 64-year-old man was referred to A&E by his general practitioner with worsening back and acute bilateral leg pain and weakness with urinary retention. His MRI scan demonstrated spinal canal stenosis at the level of L1–L2 and a diagnosis of cauda equina syndrome (CES) was made. CES is a rare neurological condition caused by compression of the central spinal nerves at the termination of the cord. CES is a surgical emergency requiring urgent assessment and treatment. The patient underwent urgent surgical decompression; however, he required a second surgery for further decompression as repeat MRI showed persistent stenosis with further extension. Intraoperative Doppler ultrasonography revealed an intradural lesion, which was surgically excised and found to be a sequestrated lumbar disc in the intrathecal space. The patient showed significant neurological improvement post revision decompression.
Reactive non-sexually related acute genital ulcers associated with COVID-19
Authors: Krapf Jill M , Casey Rachel K , Goldstein Andrew T
Published: May 2021

Acute genital ulcers (AGU), known as Lipschütz ulcers, are painful vulvar ulcers typically affecting non-sexually active girls and women. AGU have been associated with viral infections, namely, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). Here, we describe a case of AGU in the setting of SARS-CoV-2 in a non-sexually active adolescent girl hospitalised for pain control and urinary retention, who failed a course of oral corticosteroids and then improved with colchicine. Testing for herpes simplex virus, EBV and Behcet’s syndrome were all negative. Testing for SARS-CoV-2 was positive. COVID-19 increases cytokines such as tumour necrosis factor alpha, which has been shown to affect endothelial cell adhesion and neutrophil chemotaxis, leading to aphthosis.
Chronic disaster impact: the long-term psychological and physical health consequences of housing damage due to induced earthquakes
Authors: Stroebe Katherine , Kanis Babet , Richardson Justin , Oldersma Frans , Broer Jan , Greven Frans , Postmes Tom
Published: May 2021

Objectives

To evaluate the long-term (psychosomatic) health consequences of man-made earthquakes compared with a non-exposure control group. Exposure was hypothesised to have an increasingly negative impact on health outcomes over time.

Setting

Large-scale gas extraction in the Netherlands causing earthquakes and considerable damage.

Participants

A representative sample of inhabitants randomly selected from municipal population records; contacted 5 times during 21 months (T1: N=3934; T5: N=2150; mean age: 56.54; 50% men; at T5, N=846 (39.3%) had no, 459 (21.3%) once and 736 (34.2%) repeated damages).

Main measures

(Psychosomatic) health outcomes: self-rated health and Mental Health Inventory (both: validated; Short Form Health Survey); stress related health symptoms (shortened version of previously validated symptoms list). Independent variable: exposure to the consequences of earthquakes assessed via physical (peak ground acceleration) and personal exposure (damage to housing: none, once, repeated).

Results

Exposure to induced earthquakes has negative health consequences especially for those whose homes were damaged repeatedly. Compared with a no-damage control group, repeated damage was associated with lower self-rated health (OR:1.64), mental health (OR:1.83) and more stress-related health symptoms (OR:2.52). Effects increased over time: in terms of relative risk, by T5, those whose homes had repeated damage were respectively 1.60 and 2.11 times more likely to report poor health and negative mental health and 2.84 times more at risk of elevated stress related health symptoms. Results for physical exposure were comparable.

Conclusion

This is the first study to provide evidence that induced earthquakes can have negative health consequences for inhabitants over time. It identifies the subpopulation particularly at risk: people with repeated damages who have experienced many earthquakes. Findings can have important implications for the prevention of negative health consequences of induced earthquakes.
Epidemiological characteristics of hypertension, impaired fasting capillary glucose and their comorbidity: a retrospective cross-sectional population-based study of rural adolescents in Southeast Nigeria
Authors: Ayogu Rufina N B , Nwodo Chinenye Juliet
Published: May 2021

Objective

To assess the prevalence of hypertension, impaired fasting capillary glucose (IFCG) and coexistence of both as well as determinants of these conditions among rural adolescents.

Design

A retrospective cross-sectional population-based study.

Setting

Three rural communities in southeast Nigeria.

Participants

A total of 401 adolescents (10 – 19 years) selected through a five-stage sampling technique completed the study. Sick adolescents, pregnant and nursing adolescent mothers were excluded.

Primary outcome measures

Prevalence and determinants of hypertension, IFCG and comorbidity of both were assessed through weight, height, blood pressure, fasting capillary glucose measurements and statistical analysis.

Results

Prehypertension (10.7%), hypertension alone (12.7%), IFCG alone (11.0%), diabetes (0.2%) and hypertension with IFCG (6.2%) were prevalent among the adolescents. The adolescents aged 15 – 19 years were less likely to be affected by hypertension alone (adjusted OR (AOR)=0.36, 95% CI 0.18 to 0.74, p<0.01). The likelihood of having hypertension alone was three times higher among those who smoked any substance (AOR=3.43, 95% CI 1.34 to 8.78, p<0.05) and 2.85 times higher among those who consumed alcohol (AOR=2.85, 95% CI 1.33 to 6.10, p<0.01). Meal skipping (AOR=2.69, 95% CI 1.16 to 6.25, p<0.05), consumption of fried/baked snacks (AOR=15.46, 95% CI 1.62 to 147.37, p<0.05) and vegetables (AOR=2.27, 95% CI 1.11 to 4.66, p<0.05) were also significant risk factors of hypertension alone. Skipping meals (AOR=2.15, 95% CI 0. 93 to 4.99, p>0.05) and longer than 7 hours of night sleep (AOR=1.88, 95% CI 0.94 TO 3.73, p>0.05) increased the risk of IFCG alone by twofold. Female adolescents (AOR=0.29, 95% CI 0.10 to 0.78, p<0.05) and those who consumed fried/baked snacks (AOR=0.09, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.37, p<0.01) were less likely to have hypertension with IFPG than males and those who consumed non-fried/baked snacks, respectively.

Conclusion

This study reported relatively low prevalence of hypertension alone, IFCG alone, hypertension with IFCG and epidemiological characteristics that can become focus of interventions to curtail the emergence of cardiovascular events at an early age. Awareness creation through health and nutrition education is emphasised.
Cross-sectoral communication by bringing together patient with cancer, general practitioner and oncologist in a video-based consultation: a qualitative study of oncologists’ and nurse specialists’ perspectives
Authors: Hansen Dorte Gilså , Trabjerg Theis Bitz , Sisler Jeffrey James , Søndergaard Jens , Jensen Lars Henrik
Published: May 2021

Shared care models in the field of cancer aim to improve care coordination, role clarification and patient satisfaction. Cross-sectoral communication is pivotal. Involvement of patients may add to intended mechanisms.

A randomised controlled trial ‘The Partnership Study’ tested the effect of bringing together patient, general practitioner (GP) and oncologist for a consultation conducted by video.

Purpose

As part of the process evaluation, this study aimed to explore experiences, attitudes and perspectives of the oncological department on sharing patient consultations with GPs using video.

Methods

Four semistructured interviews with five oncologists and four nurse specialists were conducted in February 2020. We focused on the informants’ experiences and reflections on the potential of future implementation of the concept ‘inviting the GP for a shared consultation by video’. The analyses were based on an inductive, open-minded, hermeneutic phenomenological approach.

Results

A total of six overall themes were identified: structuring consultation and communication, perceptions of GP involvement in cancer care, stressors, making a difference, alternative ways of cross-sector communication and needs for redesigning the model. The concept made sense and was deemed useful, but solving the many technical and organisational problems is pivotal. Case-specific tasks and relational issues were targeted by pragmatically rethinking protocol expectations and the usual way of communication and structuring patient encounters. Case selection was discussed as one way of maturing the concept.

Conclusion

This Danish study adds new insight into understanding different aspects of the process, causal mechanisms as well as the potential of future implementation of video-based tripartite encounters. Beyond solving the technical problems, case selection and organisational issues are important. Acknowledging the disruption of the usual workflow, the introduction of new phases of the usual encounter and the variety of patient–GP relationships to be embraced may help to better understand and comply with barriers and facilitators of communication and sharing.

Trial registration number

NCT02716168.
Application of Andersen’s behavioural model of health services use: a scoping review with a focus on qualitative health services research
Authors: Lederle Mareike , Tempes Jana , Bitzer Eva M
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Qualitative methods have become integral in health services research, and Andersen’s behavioural model of health services use (BMHSU) is one of the most commonly employed models of health service utilisation. The model focuses on three core factors to explain healthcare utilisation: predisposing, enabling and need factors. A recent overview of the application of the BMHSU is lacking, particularly regarding its application in qualitative research. Therefore, we provide (1) a descriptive overview of the application of the BMHSU in health services research in general and (2) a qualitative synthesis on the (un)suitability of the model in qualitative health services research.

Methods

We searched five databases from March to April 2019, and in April 2020. For inclusion, each study had to focus on individuals ≥18 years of age and to cite the BMHSU, a modified version of the model, or the three core factors that constitute the model, regardless of study design, or publication type. We used MS Excel to perform descriptive statistics, and applied MAXQDA 2020 as part of a qualitative content analysis.

Results

From a total of 6319 results, we identified 1879 publications dealing with the BMSHU. The main methodological approach was quantitative (89%). More than half of the studies are based on the BMHSU from 1995. 77 studies employed a qualitative design, the BMHSU was applied to justify the theoretical background (62%), structure the data collection (40%) and perform data coding (78%). Various publications highlight the usefulness of the BMHSU for qualitative data, while others criticise the model for several reasons (eg, its lack of cultural or psychosocial factors).

Conclusions

The application of different and older models of healthcare utilisation hinders comparative health services research. Future research should consider quantitative or qualitative study designs and account for the most current and comprehensive model of the BMHSU.
Randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of Probiotics To Eliminate COVID-19 Transmission in Exposed Household Contacts (PROTECT-EHC): a clinical trial protocol
Authors: Tang Helen , Bohannon Lauren , Lew Meagan , Jensen David , Jung Sin-Ho , Zhao Aaron , Sung Anthony D , Wischmeyer Paul E
Published: May 2021

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic has proven to be an unprecedented challenge to worldwide health, and strategies to mitigate the spread and severity of COVID-19 infection are urgently needed. Emerging evidence suggests that the composition of the gut microbiome and modification of microbial ecology via probiotics can affect susceptibility to a wide range of infections, including respiratory tract infections. In this study, we aim to evaluate the effects of the probioticLactobacillus rhamnosus GG(LGG) versus placebo on COVID-19 infection status and the gut microbiome in subjects with a household contact who has tested positive for COVID-19.

Methods and analysis

In this double-blinded, randomised, placebo-controlled trial, we will randomise 1132 subjects having a household contact who has recently (≤7 days) tested positive for COVID-19 to daily oral LGG or placebo for 28 days. We hypothesise that taking LGG as a probiotic will protect against COVID-19 infection and reduce the severity of disease in those who become infected (primary endpoint: decreased symptoms), and will be associated with beneficial changes in the composition of the gut microbiome. Stool samples and nasal swabs will be collected to evaluate the microbiome by 16S rRNA sequencing and the presence of SARS-CoV-2 by PCR, respectively. We will also conduct multivariate analysis of demographic, behavioural, temporal, and other variables that may predict development of symptoms and other outcomes.

Ethics and dissemination

This trial is conducted under a Food and Drug Administration Investigational New Drug for LGG, has received ethics approval by the institutional review board of Duke University and enrolment has begun. We plan to disseminate the results in peer-reviewed journals and at national and international conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT04399252.
Factors predicting successful vaginal birth after caesarean section: protocol for evidence-based consensus recommendations using a Delphi survey
Authors: Zhu Weiying , Ai Ling , Feng Ying , Yuan Haiyan , Wang Yu , Wang Meitang , Mei Zubing
Published: May 2021

Introduction

With the wide adoption of the two-child policy in China since 2016, a large percentage of women with a history of caesarean delivery plan to have a second child. Accordingly, the rate of vaginal birth after caesarean (VBAC) delivery is increasing. Women attempting repeat VBAC may experience multiple morbidities, which is also one of the leading causes of maternal and perinatal mortality. However, it remains to be addressed how we evaluate factors for successful VBAC. This study aims to use a novel approach to identify a set of potential predictive factors for successful VBAC, especially for Chinese women, to be included in prediction models which can be most applicable to pregnant women in China. We plan to assess all potential predictive factors collected through a comprehensive literature review. Then the certainty of the evidence for the identified potential predictive factors will be assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation process. Finally, a two-round international Delphi survey will be conducted to determine the level of consensus.

Methods and analysis

This study will apply a methodology through an evidence-based approach. A long list of potential predictive factors for successful VBAC will be extracted and identified through the following stages: First, an up-to-date systematic review of the published literature will be conducted to extract identified potential predictive factors for successful VBAC. Second, an online Delphi survey will be performed to achieve expert consensus on which factors should be included in future prediction models. The online questionnaires will be developed in the field of patient, maternal and fetal-related factors. A two-round international Delphi survey will be distributed to the expert panel in the field of perinatal medicine using Google Forms. Experts will be asked to score each factor using the 9-point Likert rating scale to establish potential predictive factors for the successful VBAC. The expert panel will determine on whether to include, potentially include or exclude predictive factors, based on a systematic review of clinical evidence and the Delphi method.

Ethics and dissemination

The study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of the Jiaxing Maternity and Children Healthcare Hospital (approval number: 2019–79). The results of this study will be submitted to international peer-reviewed journals or conferences in perinatal medicine or obstetrics.
Study protocol of the Edinburgh and Lothian Virus Intervention Study in Kids: a randomised controlled trial of hypertonic saline nose drops in children with upper respiratory tract infections (ELVIS Kids)
Authors: Ramalingam Sandeep , Graham Catriona , Oatey Katherine , Rayson Phillip , Stoddart Andrew , Sheikh Aziz , Cunningham Steve
Published: May 2021

Introduction

Edinburgh and Lothians’ Viral Intervention Study Kids is a parallel, open-label, randomised controlled trial of hypertonic saline (HS) nose drops (~2.6% sodium chloride) vs standard care in children <7 years of age with symptoms of an upper respiratory tract infection (URTI).

Methods and analysis

Children are recruited prior to URTI or within 48 hours of developing URTI symptoms by advertising in areas such as local schools/nurseries, health centres/hospitals, recreational facilities, public events, workplaces, local/social media. Willing parents/guardians, of children <7 years of age will be asked to contact the research team at their local site. Children will be randomised to either a control arm (standard symptomatic care), or intervention arm (three drops/nostril of HS, at least four times a day, until 24 hours after asymptomatic or a maximum of 28 days). All participants are requested to provide a nasal swab at the start of the study (intervention arm: before HS drops) and then daily for four more days. Parent/guardian complete a validated daily diary, an end of illness diary, a satisfaction questionnaire and a wheeze questionnaire (day 28). The parent/guardian of a child in the intervention arm is taught to prepare HS nose drops. Parent/guardian of children asymptomatic at recruitment are requested to inform the research team within 48 hours of their child developing an URTI and follow the instructions already provided. The day 28 questionnaire determines if the child experienced a wheeze following illness. Participation in the study ends on day 28.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by the West of Scotland Research Ethics Service (18/WS/0080). It is cosponsored by Academic and Clinical Central Office for Research and Development—a partnership between the University of Edinburgh and National Health Service Lothian Health Board. The findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations and via the study website.

Trial registration number

NCT03463694.
Analytical validation of GMEX rapid point-of-careCYP2C19genotyping system for the CHANCE-2 trial
Authors: Meng Xia , Wang Anxin , Zhang Guojun , Niu Siying , Li Wei , Han Sifei , Fang Fang , Zhao Xingquan , Dong Kehui , Jin Zening , Zheng Huaguang , Chen Kelin , Li Hao , Yang Chengyuan , Wang Yongjun
Published: May 2021

Background and purpose

Rapid genotyping is useful for guiding early antiplatelet therapy in patients with high-risk nondisabling ischaemic cerebrovascular events (HR-NICE). Conventional genetic testing methods used inCYP2C19genotype-guided antiplatelet therapy for patients with HR-NICE did not satisfy the needs of the Clopidogrel in High-Risk Patients with Acute Nondisabling Cerebrovascular Events (CHANCE)-2 trial. Therefore, we developed the rapid-genotyping GMEX (point-of-care) system to meet the needs of the CHANCE-2 trial.

Methods

Healthy individuals and patients with history of cardiovascular diseases (n=408) were enrolled from six centres of the CHANCE-2 trial. We compared the laboratory-based genomic test results with Sanger sequencing test results for accuracy verification. Next, we demonstrated the accuracy, timeliness and clinical operability of the GMEX system compared with laboratory-based technology (YZY Kit) to verify whether the GMEX system satisfies the needs of the CHANCE-2 trial.

Results

Genotypes reported by the GMEX system showed 100% agreement with those determined by using the YZY Kit and Sanger sequencing for all threeCYP2C19alleles (*2, *3 and *17) tested. The average result’s turnaround times for the GMEX and YZY Kit methods were 85.0 (IQR: 85.0–86.0) and 1630.0 (IQR: 354.0–7594.0) min (p<0.001), respectively.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that the GMEX system is a reliable and feasible point-of-care system for rapidCYP2C19genotyping for the CHANCE-2 trial or related clinical and research applications.
Physical activity and aging research: opportunities abound
Authors: Varesco G. , Hunter S.K. , Rozand V.
Published: May 2021

Aging is associated with large between-subjects variability in motor function among older adults, which can compromise identifying the mechanisms for age-related reductions in motor performance. This variability is in part explained by differences among older adults in habitual physical activity. Quantifying and accounting for physical activity levels of the participants in aging studies will help differentiate those changes in motor function associated with biological aging rather than those induced by inactivity.

Novelty: Quantification of physical activity levels in studies with older participants will help differentiate the effects of aging rather than physical inactivity.
Alternate host screening of Thekopsora areolata in Scandinavia: a new record on Prunus grayana
Authors: Zhang Ke , Olson Åke , Samils Berit , Kaitera Juha
Published: May 2021

The cherry spruce rust caused by Thekopsora areolata (Fr.) Magnus results in significant losses in spruce seed production in the forest industry. The pathogen is present in Asia and Europe but absent from North America where it has been considered as a potential threat and listed as a quarantine organism by the United States Department of Agriculture. A comprehensive list and in-depth information regarding the alternate hosts of this pathogen are important for conducting epidemiological studies and for optimal disease control. Prunus padus L. is the main alternate host reported for T. areolata. In this study, we investigated the susceptibility of domestic and exotic Prunus spp. and other potential alternate host-plant species native to Scandinavia to T. areolata infection through a field survey and aeciospore inoculation experiments in the greenhouse and laboratory. No new susceptible species were found. In Sweden, a new record of Prunus grayana Maxim. with low susceptibility to T. areolata was found. In addition, we updated the list of currently confirmed alternate hosts of T. areolata according to field observations and inoculation results. Prunus padus and Prunus serotina Ehrh., as well as their hybrids and subspecies of Prunus padus, are highly susceptible, while Prunus depressa Pursh, Prunus grayana, Prunus spinosa L., and Prunus tenella Batsch are considered slightly susceptible.
On the temperature of gravitation in the de Sitter space-time
Authors: Santos A. F. , Ulhoa S. C. , Furtado T. F. , Khanna Faqir C.
Published: May 2021

The temperature associated with gravitation as presented in the Unruh effect and Hawking temperature serves to link different areas of physics, such as gravity, statistical mechanics, and quantum physics. In this paper, teleparallel gravity is considered to study temperature effects on the de Sitter space-time. The effects of temperature are introduced using the thermo field dynamics formalism. The gravitational Stefan-Boltzmann law is obtained. Then the temperature of gravitation in the de Sitter space-time is calculated. Here an Unruh-type effect is discussed. This effect relates the temperature and the acceleration of a particle in the de Sitter space-time. The gravitational Casimir effect is calculated. The result shows that there is a transition between an attractive and a repulsive Casimir effect.
Inverse correlation of fluctuations of cerebral blood and water concentrations in humans
Authors: Borchardt Viola , Korhonen Vesa , Helakari Heta , Nedergaard Maiken , Myllylä Teemu , Kiviniemi Vesa
Published: May 2021

Near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) measures concentrations of oxygenated (HbO) and deoxygenated (HbR) hemoglobin in the brain. Recently, we demonstrated its potential also for measuring concentrations of cerebral water ($$\hbox {cH}_{2}\hbox {O}$$cH2O). We performed fNIRS measurements during rest to study fluctuations in concentrations of$$\hbox {cH}_{2}\hbox {O}$$cH2O, HbO and HbR in 33 well-rested healthy control subjects (HC) and 18 acutely sleep-deprived HC. Resting-state fNIRS signal was filtered in full-band, cardiac, respiratory, low-, and very-low-frequency bands. The sum of HbO and HbR constitutes the regional cerebral blood volume (CBV). CBV and$$\hbox {cH}_{2}\hbox {O}$$cH2Oconcentrations were analyzed via temporal correlation and phase synchrony. Fluctuation in concentrations of$$\hbox {cH}_{2}\hbox {O}$$cH2Oand CBV was strongly anti-correlated across all frequency bands in both frontal and parietal cortices. Fluctuation in concentrations of$${\hbox {cH}}_{2}{\hbox {O}}$$cH2Oand CBV showed neither a completely synchronous nor a random phase relationship in both frontal and parietal cortices. Acutely sleep-deprived subjects did not show significant differences in temporal correlation or phase synchrony between fluctuations in$${\hbox {cH}}_{2}{\hbox {O}}$$cH2Oand CBV concentrations compared with well-rested HC. The reciprocal interrelation between fluctuations in CBV and$${\hbox {cH}}_{2}{\hbox {O}}$$cH2Oconcentrations is consistent with the Munro–Kellie doctrine of constant intracranial volume. This coupling may constitute a functional mechanism underlying glymphatic circulation, which persists despite acutely disturbed sleep patterns.
Two-Dimensional Manifolds of Controlled Chen System
Authors: Ma Suqi
Published: May 2021

We focus on the two-dimensional stable manifold of Chen system. Based on the Chen system, a new system with nonlinear control is put forward, which exhibits brand new dynamical phenomena such as the coexistence of heteroclinic orbits with periodic solutions, or two new attractors. The emergence of manifold surface is found by tangential self-intersection. The two-dimensional unstable manifold of saddle-focus tends to another equilibrium solution asymptotically, the underlying heteroclinic bifurcation and the “twins” unstable manifolds are bulit from two saddle-focus respectively.
K2S2O8 mediated synthesis of 5-aryldipyrromethanes and meso-substituted A4-tetraarylporphyrins
Authors: Laha Joydev K. , Hunjan Mandeep Kaur
Published: May 2021

The synthesis of dipyrromethanes from pyrrole and arylglyoxylic acids in the presence of K2S2O8at 90 [Formula: see text]C is reported affording dipyrromethanes in very good yields. Unlike an excess pyrrole traditionally used in dipyrromethane synthesis, the current method uses a stoichiometric amount of pyrrole avoiding any use of Brønsted or Lewis acid. A gram scale synthesis of 5-phenyldipyrromethane is also achieved demonstrating potential scale up of dipyrromethanes using this method feasible. Subsequently, dipyrromethanes were converted to A4-tetraarylporphyrins also in the presence of K2S2O8at 90[Formula: see text]C. A direct synthesis of A4-tetraphenylporphyrin from excess pyrrole and phenylglyoxylic acid in the presence of K2S2O8 at 90[Formula: see text]C is also reported.
Synthesis and cellular properties of a 131substituted chlorin e6-nevirapine conjugate
Authors: Zhang Guanyu , Wang Maodie , Collins Brittany R. , Vicente M. Graça H. , Smith Kevin M.
Published: May 2021

The synthesis of a chlorin e6-nevirapine conjugate is reported, in which the nevirapine moiety is attached to the 131-position of chlorin e6 via a diethylene glycol linker. This conjugate was found to be nontoxic in the dark (IC[Formula: see text] > 200 [Formula: see text]M), but highly phototoxic (IC[Formula: see text] = 0.21 [Formula: see text]M at 1.5 J/cm[Formula: see text] toward human HEp2 cells. The chlorin e6-nevirapine conjugate accumulated within cells in multiple organelles, including the Golgi, lysosomes and mitochondria. On the other hand, nevirapine was found to be nontoxic to HEp2 cells.
Bioinformatic and chemoneurocytological analysis of the pharmacological properties of vitamin B12 and some of its derivatives
Authors: Gromova Olga A. , Torshin Ivan Yu. , Maiorova Larissa A. , Koifman Oscar I. , Salnikov Denis S.
Published: May 2021

More than three thousand five hundred biological properties of vitamin B[Formula: see text] and four of its derivatives (aquacobalamin, cyanoaquacobyrinic acid heptamethyl ester, dicyanocobyrinic acid heptamethyl ester and stable yellow corrinoid) have been assessed by bioinformation analysis. Based on the data obtained (including the assessments of the interaction of molecules with the proteins of rat proteome), conclusions were drawn about the potential effects and safety of the investigated substances. In particular, it has been shown that heptamethyl esters of cyanoaquacobyrinic and dicyanocobyrinic acids, as well as a stable yellow corrinoid (antivitamin), can be recommended for further study as analgesics, anti-inflammatory drugs and, also, antitumor agents aimed at the therapy of glioblastoma, hepatoblastoma and T-cell leukemia. Estimates of the LD50 constants for rats and the TD50 and IC50 constants for rat muscle cells in culture, along with the results of assessments of the interaction of molecules with the rat proteome, showed that all the compounds studied were of low toxicity. At the same time, cyanocobalamin and aquacobalamin are distinguished by the least cumulative properties in comparison with other studied compounds. Chemoneurocytological analysis of compounds showed that cyanocobalamin and aquacobalamin may have the greatest neuroprotective effects: increase in the concentration of the substances by 1 mmol/l causes the estimate of neuronal survival to increase by 25%.
European option pricing using Gumbel distribution
Authors: Purohit Seema Uday , Lalit Prasad Narahar
Published: May 2021

A risk-neutral-density (RND) function plays a key role in determining option prices accurately. The RND function is useful in understanding the negative skewness and the excess kurtosis of the stock returns. RND models bases on the log-normal distribution (for example, Black–Scholes (BS) model (Black, F and M Scholes (1973). The pricing of options and corporate liabilities, The Journal of Political Economy 3, 637–654)) are less accurate to capture the negative skewness and the excess kurtosis of stock returns (Markose, S and A Alentorn (2011). The generalized extreme value distribution, implied tail index, and option pricing, The Journal of Derivatives 18(3), 35–60). The Extreme Value Theory (EVT) is useful in addressing the tail behavior of stock returns. The tail shape parameter in a Generalized Extreme Value (GEV) distribution class helps control tails’ size and shape. This paper model, the RND function in pricing the European call option, is modeled using a GEV distribution class, namely, a Gumbel distribution. It then compares GEV distribution option values with the BS values. It observes that the BS model underprices the call option values near maturity compared to those obtained by the GEV model. The Gumbel distribution for stock returns is useful in reducing the pricing bias of the BS model.
An analysis of COVID-19 impacts on S&P 500 and FinTech index
Authors: Chan Calvin , Wang Han , Kong Ying , Lin Jian Wu
Published: May 2021

COVID-19 developed into an extremely serious pandemic by the middle of 2020. It has caused enormous negative impacts such as a crush to the global market. In this study, we tested the correlation between COVID-19 and stock market in a more intuitive way with the COVID-19 transmission rate and recovery rate. They were generated by using Unscented Kalman Filter method incorporated with SEIR model. Since the Unscented Kalman Filter method analyzes data at daily intervals, we can study the trend of COVID-19 development and the fund index rate change in detail.
Exchange rate policies and reforms adopted by India until 2010: A literature analysis
Authors: Narayanan Hariharan
Published: May 2021

Exchange rate is a rate at which one currency can be exchanged into another currency. This paper will concentrate on the exchange rate policy, policy reforms and measures undertaken by India. It also will deal with the INR appreciations and depreciations from 1993–1994 to 2010–2011. It will give the clear comprehensive literature and measure of exchange rate policy and various reforms adopted by India, chronology of money, INR fluctuations and RBI interventions to curb volatility. This study is historical, descriptive and analytical which concentrates for a period of 10 years starting from 2000 to 2010. The various policy measures issued by RBI to contain the volatility in the domestic foreign exchange market and also to prevent speculative sentiments to build up pressure on the orderly functioning of the market are studied.
Design of risk sharing for risk-linked annuities
Authors: Diffouo Pauline Ngugnie , Devolder Pierre
Published: May 2021

In this paper, we propose two financial-longevity risk-sharing methods based on an existing risk-linked annuity. Within a specific framework, we first propose the risk-sharing group self-annuitization (GSA), where different proportions of financial and longevity risks are shared between a group of annuitants and the insurer. Secondly, we propose the complete risk-sharing GSA. We implicitly define a set of annuity products which depend on the risk proportion borne by a group of annuitants. The defined set of annuities goes from the classical annuity to the GSA.
Dynamic links between renewable energy, commodities, and financial stock markets: Implications for portfolio diversification
Authors: Mroua Mourad , Bouattour Hejer , Naifar Nader
Published: May 2021

This paper investigates the dynamic links between renewable energy, commodities, and financial stock markets and analyzes the performance of renewable energy investment in an international portfolio diversification strategy across different financial market conditions. By using the dynamic spillover approach, the empirical results show that the renewable energy and oil markets are net emitters of shocks to stock markets. By applying the nonparametric stochastic dominance approach and comparing the optimal maximum Sharpe ratio (MSR) diversified portfolios, the results suggest that the renewable energy index can be a good substitute for traditional diversification, especially during tranquil periods.
The Hong Kong Society of Rheumatology Consensus Recommendations for COVID-19 Vaccination in Adult Patients with Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases
Authors: So Ho , Mok Chi Chiu , Yip Ronald Man Lung
Published: May 2021

Patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases are potentially at risk of more serious Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection and increased mortality due to immunosuppressive therapies and disease-related medical comorbidities. Uncertainty about the safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccines is a major deterrent for patients to participate in the vaccination program. The Hong Kong Society of Rheumatology took the lead to publish a set of consensus statements for COVID-19 vaccination in adult patients with autoimmune rheumatic diseases through a Delphi exercise that involved the senior members of the Society. This serves as a guide to rheumatologists and other specialists, nurses, healthcare professionals, and public regarding COVID-19 vaccination in autoimmune rheumatic diseases.
Using a ‘speedy’ unspiked K–Ar methodology to investigate age patterns in giant mafic dyke swarms
Authors: Oliveira Alisson Lopes , Hollanda Maria Helena Bezerra Maia , Siqueira Roberto , Macêdo Filho Antomat Avelino
Published: May 2021

We present the results of a geochronological investigation that was conducted on mafic rocks (dolerites) that form two giant dyke swarms in NE Brazil, whose intrusion was correlated to the break-up of the West Gondwana supercontinent and the opening of the Atlantic Ocean. Despite their impressive dimensions, these swarms lack any geological information, which motivated us to develop a speedy, low-cost analytical protocol, modified from the Cassignol unspiked K–Ar technique, to define age patterns. The results were interpreted in light of basic statistical treatments and, although some limitations were mostly related to grain-size heterogeneities, they successfully matched other
40
K-based ages (conventional K–Ar and
40
Ar/
39
Ar) reported in the literature and showed that the dyke swarms share two main age intervals of rock formation identified as the Early Cretaceous and Late Jurassic.
La Sociología de las Emociones en América Latina
Authors: Ariza Marina
Published: May 2021

Se aborda el desarrollo de la sociología de las emociones en América Latina entre 2000 y 2019, como un campo de conocimiento reciente en proceso de institucionalización. Seis áreas temáticas—diversas y heterogéneas—nuclean la investigación durante el período: ( a) cambio social, sociabilidad y emociones; ( b) movimientos sociales y sentimientos; ( c) género, genera-ciones, afectividad, cuidado; ( d) migración y emociones; ( e) trabajo, afectividad y emociones; ( f) reflexiones teóricas y propuestas analíticas. La valoración crítica del campo arroja tres tensiones analíticas que dificultan su consolidación: en el recorte disciplinario (sociología; sociología y antropología de las emociones; filosofía y sociología); en las perspectivas de análisis (sociológicas; socioculturales; filosóficas); en el objeto de investigación (emociones; emociones y cuerpo; cuerpo y emociones), con implicaciones para la investigación social.
Aberrant activity in an intact residual muscle is associated with phantom limb pain in above-knee amputees
Authors: Therrien Amanda S. , Howard Cortney , Buxbaum Laurel J.
Published: May 2021

This study is the first to assess residual muscle activity during movement of a phantom limb in individuals with lower limb amputations. We find that phantom foot movement is associated with aberrant recruitment of a residual thigh muscle and that this aberrant activity is related to phantom limb pain.
Comparative Evaluation of Accuracy of Different Apex Locators: Propex IQ, Raypex 6, Root ZX, and Apex ID with CBCT and Periapical Radiograph—In Vitro Study
Authors: Mahmoud Okba , Awad Abdelmagied Mawada Hassan , Dandashi Ahmad Hisham , Jasim Bakr Nssaief , Tawfik Kayali Hussam Alddin , Al Shehadat Saaid
Published: May 2021

Objectives. This study aimed to validate the accuracy of working length (WL) measurements obtained with the newly introduced Propex IQ apex locator and to compare it with the latest generations of other electronic apex locators, CBCT, and conventional periapical radiographs by using the actual WL measurements obtained by using an endodontics microscope as a reference. Materials and Methods. Thirty-five extracted single-rooted human mandibular first premolars with curvatures from 10° to 20° were selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria and cut at the cementoenamel junction to achieve a standard reference point for WL determination. The actual WL was obtained by inserting a size-15 k-file in the root canal until the tip of the file was visible under an endodontic microscope. The definitive WL was measured using Propex IQ (Dentsply Sirona), Raypex 6 (VDW Dental), Root ZX (Morita), and Apex ID (Kerr Dental). In addition, radiographic WL was obtained using periapical radiographs and CBCT. One-way ANOVA was used for comparisons of the WL values, with a

p

value < 0.05. The percentage of success of each method for determination of the definitive WL was assessed using cross-tabulation and chi-square tests. Results. CBCT radiographs and Propex IQ apex locator yielded the most accurate WL measurements in comparison with the actual WL measurements (

p
<
0.05

). Raypex 6, Root ZX, and Apex ID yielded more accurate WL measurements than conventional periapical radiographs (

p
<
0.05

). Periapical radiographs yielded the least accurate WL measurements in comparison with the actual WL values (

p
<
0.05

). Conclusions. Within the limitations of this study, the Propex IQ apex locator showed higher accuracy than Raypex 6, Root ZX, and Apex ID for WL determination in the root canal. Nevertheless, CBCT radiographs yielded the maximum accuracy for WL measurements.
Deep Multimodal Fusion Autoencoder for Saliency Prediction of RGB‐D Images
Authors: Huang Kengda , Zhou Wujie , Fang Meixin
Published: May 2021

In recent years, the prediction of salient regions in RGB‐D images has become a focus of research. Compared to its RGB counterpart, the saliency prediction of RGB‐D images is more challenging. In this study, we propose a novel deep multimodal fusion autoencoder for the saliency prediction of RGB‐D images. The core trainable autoencoder of the RGB‐D saliency prediction model employs two raw modalities (RGB and depth/disparity information) as inputs and their corresponding eye‐fixation attributes as labels. The autoencoder comprises four main networks: color channel network, disparity channel network, feature concatenated network, and feature learning network. The autoencoder can mine the complex relationship and make the utmost of the complementary characteristics between both color and disparity cues. Finally, the saliency map is predicted via a feature combination subnetwork, which combines the deep features extracted from a prior learning and convolutional feature learning subnetworks. We compare the proposed autoencoder with other saliency prediction models on two publicly available benchmark datasets. The results demonstrate that the proposed autoencoder outperforms these models by a significant margin.
Thermosensitive Chitosan-β-Glycerophosphate Hydrogels as Targeted Drug Delivery Systems: An Overview on Preparation and Their Applications
Authors: Rahmanian-Devin Pouria , Baradaran Rahimi Vafa , Askari Vahid Reza
Published: May 2021

Today, with the advances in technology and science, more advanced drug delivery formulations are required. One of these new systems is an intelligent hydrogel. These systems are affected by the environment or conditions that become a gel, stay in the circumstance for a certain period, and slowly release the drug. As an advantage, only a lower dose of the drug is required, and it provides less toxicity and minor damage to other tissues. Hydrogels are of different types, including temperature-sensitive, pH-sensitive, ion change-sensitive, and magnetic field-sensitive. In this study, we investigated a kind of temperature-sensitive smart hydrogel, which has a liquid form at room temperature and becomes gel with increasing temperature. Chitosan-β-glycerophosphate hydrogels have been researched and used in many studies. This study investigates the various factors that influence the gelation mechanism, such as gel formation rates, temperature, pH, time, and gel specificity. Hydrogels are used in many drug delivery systems and diseases, including nasal drug delivery, vaginal drug delivery, wound healing, peritoneal adhesion, ophthalmic drug delivery, tissue engineering, and peptide and protein delivery. Overall, the chitosan-β-glycerophosphate hydrogel is a suitable drug carrier for a wide range of drugs. It shows little toxicity to the body, is biodegradable, and is compatible with other organs. This system can be used in different conditions and different medication ways, such as oral, nasal, and injection.