bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Characterization of Nano Chitosan from Vannamei Shrimp Shell (Litopenaeus vannamei)
Authors: Kurniawidi Dian Wijaya , Alaa Siti , Nurhaliza Eva , Safitri Desti Olga , Rahayu Susi , Ali Muhamad , Amin Muhamad
Published: August 2022

Highlight Research

New method to synthesis nano chitosan from Vannamei shrimp with high Deacetylation Degree
Nano chitosan from Vannamei shrimp can adsorb heavy metal Fe up to 81.35%
Shrimp shells as an alternative adsorbents for Fe

 
Abstract
Shrimp cultivation produces shrimp wastes in several forms, including shells from the molting process. Shrimp shell waste can be used as a source of nano chitosan. Many researches have used nano chitosan for various applications, one of which is to adsorb heavy metal pollution. This present study aimed to extract chitosan from shrimp shells and investigate the ability of nano chitosan to adsorb Fe metal. The research began by isolating chitin and chitosan from shrimp shells through deproteinization, demineralization, and deacetylation. The obtained chitosan was afterward characterized using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR). Furthermore, the glassy ionic method was used to synthesize nano chitosan. Nano chitosan was characterized using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), and the Fe metal adsorption ability was measured using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). The FTIR results showed that the synthesized shrimp shells had successfully formed chitin compounds with the appearance of the C-O-C functional group, while the chitosan compounds with the appearance of O-H and N-H groups. The SEM characterization showed that nano chitosan with a size of 173.71 nm was successfully formed with identical morphology in the form of a flat (spherical), elongated, and irregular position. The nano chitosan was able to absorb Fe solution up to 81.35%. Therefore, nano chitosan from the shrimp shells is suitable as an adsorbent of heavy metal Fe.
Occurrence of Macro- and Micro-Plastics on Pasir Pandak Beach, Sarawak, Malaysia
Authors: Idrus Farah Akmal , Roslan Nur Sakinah , Harith Mohd Nasarudin
Published: August 2022

Highlight Research

The present of microplastics is more than macroplastics on the Pasir Pandak Beach
The existence of huge amount of smaller microplastics (<0.50 mm) were observed on this beach sediment
Types of macroplastics found are fragment, foam, and fiber; while microplastics are fiber, filament, fragment, and foam
The main polymers found are HDPE, PES, PP, and PS
Clean Coast Index indicated Pasir Pandak Beach as an extremely dirty beach

 
Abstract
Pasir Pandak Beach is close to human settlements, resorts, and food stalls. It becomes a place for gathering of beachgoers especially during weekend. As a result, the beach became polluted with rubbish, particularly plastics (e.g., macro- and micro-plastics). Hence, this study was done to determine the occurrence of macro- and micro-plastics on the Pasir Pandak Beach, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. Transect quadrat was used during the samples collection on the beach. The samples were then undergone the wet peroxide oxidation, filtering and classifying under dissecting microscope. Macroplastics were isolated for ATR-FTIR and SEM analyses, while microplastics were separated according to their sizes, colors, and types. Approximately 101.70 items/m2 of macro-plastics and 1084 items/m2 of micro-plastics were found in this study. Clean Coast Index (CCI) was also estimated and the calculated CCI value obtained was >20, which indicated as extremely dirty beach. Fragments of carpet/canvas/mat and hardware crate/item were the most abundance macroplastics found, followed by plastic ropes/fishing lines and bottle caps. HDPE, PES, PP, and PS were the main identified polymers. Fibers, filaments, fragments, and foams were identified for micro- and macro-plastics. Microplastics with smaller sizes of 0.25-0.50 mm were available abundantly and they comprise 63.47 % of the total microplastics found. Clear/white, black, and blue were the main colors for microplastics. SEM images presented that those adhering particles, grooves, pits, fractures, and flakes were the common patterns of degradation. No relationship was apparent between macro- and micro-plastics at each station. The abundance of macro- and micro-plastics showed that they were mainly controlled by the land-based input. As Pasir Pandak beach is busy with local communities and beachgoers, the presence of macro- and micro-plastics on the beach posing a severe threat for marine environment, thus further studies on the behavior of this emerging pollutant from beach to the seas are necessary.
On the Additive and Subtractive Representation of Even Numbers from Primes
Authors: Shehu Ali , Uka Jetmira
Published: August 2022

We demonstrate a new quantitative method to the sieve of Eratosthenes, which is an alternative to the sieve of Legendre. In this method, every element of a given set is sifted out once only, and therefore, this method is free of the Mobius function and of the parity barrier. Using this method, we prove that every sufficiently large even number is the sum of two primes, and that every even number is the difference of two primes in infinitely many ways.
Purification of High Molecular-Weight Antibacterial Proteins of Insect Pathogenic Brevibacillus Laterosporus Isolates
Authors: Babar Tauseef K. , Glare Travis R. , Hampton John G. , Hurst Mark R. H. , Narciso Josefina O. , Beattie Amy
Published: August 2022

Brevibacillus laterosporus (Bl) is a Gram-positive and spore-forming bacterium belonging to the Brevibacillus brevis phylogenetic cluster. Globally, insect pathogenic strains of the bacterium have been isolated, characterised, and some activities patented. Two isolates, Bl 1821L and Bl 1951, exhibiting pathogenicity against the diamondback moth and mosquitoes, are under development as a biopesticide in New Zealand. However, due to the suspected activity of putative antibacterial proteins (ABPs), the endemic isolates often grow erratically. Various purification methods including size exclusion chromatography, sucrose density gradient centrifugation, polyethylene glycol precipitation, and ammonium sulphate precipitation employed in this study enabled the isolation of two putative antibacterial proteins of ~30 kD and ~48 kD from Bl 1821L and one putative antibacterial protein of ~30 kD from Bl 1951. Purification of the uninduced cultures of Bl 1821L and Bl 1951 also yielded the protein bands of ~30 kD and ~48 kD on SDS-PAGE which indicated their spontaneous induction. Disc diffusion assay was used to determine the antagonistic activities of the putative ABPs. Subsequent transmission electron microscope (TEM) examination of purified putative antibacterial protein-containing solution showed the presence of encapsulin (~30 kD) and polysheath (~48 kD) like structures. Although only the ~30 kD protein was purified from Bl 1951, both structures were seen in this strain under TEM. Furthermore, while assessing the antibacterial activity of some fractions of Bl 1951 against Bl 1821L in size exclusion chromatography method, population of Bl 1821L persister cells was noted. Overall, this work added a wealth of knowledge for the purification of the HMW proteins (bacteriocins) of the Gram-positive bacteria including Bl.
Random Normalization and Thinning for Discrete Random Variables
Authors: Klebanov Lev , Šumbera Michal
Published: August 2022

Different variants of thinning for discrete random variables are studied. The thinning procedure allows to introduce an analog of scale parameter for positive integer-valued random variables. Sufficient and necessary conditions for the existence of such a scale are given.
A Simple Procedure to Preprocess and Ingest High-Resolution Ocean Color Data into Google Earth Engine
Authors: Maúre Elígio de Raús , Ilyushchenko Simon , Terauchi Genki
Published: August 2022

Data from ocean color (OC) remote sensing are considered a cost-effective tool for the study of biogeochemical processes globally. Satellite-derived chlorophyll, for instance, is considered an Essential Climate Variable since it is helpful in detecting climate change impacts. Google Earth Engine (GEE) is a planetary scale tool for remote sensing data analysis. Along with OC data, such tools allow an unprecedented spatial and temporal scale analysis of water quality monitoring in a way that has never been done before. Although OC data have been routinely collected at medium (~1 km) and more recently at high (~250 m) spatial resolution, only coarse resolution (≥4 km) data are available in GEE, making them unattractive for applications in the coastal regions. Data reprojection is needed prior to making OC data readily available in the GEE. In this paper, we introduce a simple but practical procedure to reproject and ingest OC data into GEE. The procedure is applicable to OC swath (Level-2) data and is easily adaptable to higher-level products. The results showed consistent distributions between swath and reprojected data, building confidence in the introduced framework. The study aims to start a discussion on making high resolution OC data readily available in GEE.
Deep Learning Approaches to Automatic Chronic Venous Disease Classification
Authors: Barulina Marina , Sanbaev Aschat , Okunkov Sergey , Ulitin Ivan , Okoneshnikov Ivan
Published: August 2022

Chronic venous disease (CVD) occurs in a substantial proportion of the world's population. If the onset of CVD looks like a cosmetic defect, then over time, it can develop into serious problems that require surgical intervention. The aim of the work is to use deep learning (DL) methods for automatic classification of the stage of CVD for self-diagnosis of a patient by using the image of the patient’s legs. The required for DL algorithms images of legs with CVD were obtained by using Internet Data Mining. For images preprocessing, the binary classification problem “legs - no legs” was solved based on Resnet50 with accuracy 0.998. The application of this filter made it possible to collect a data set of 11,118 good quality leg images with various stages of CVD. For classification of various stages of CVD according to CEAP classification, the multi classification problem was set and resolved by using two neural networks with completely different architecture - Resnet50 and DeiT. The model based on DeiT without any tuning shows better results than the model based on Resnet50 (precision = 0.770 (DeiT) and 0.615 (Resnet50)). To demonstrate the results of the work, a telegram bot was developed, in which fully functioning DL algorithms are implemented. This bot allows evaluating the condition of the patient's legs with a fairly good accuracy for the CVD classification.
Culture of Cancer Cells at Physiological Oxygen Levels Affects Gene Expression in a Cell-Type Specific Manner
Authors: Alva Ricardo , Moradi Fereshteh , Liang Ping , Stuart Jeff
Published: August 2022

Standard cell culture is routinely performed at supraphysiological oxygen concentrations (~18% O2). Conversely, oxygen levels in most tissues range from 1%–6% (physioxia). Such hyperoxic conditions can alter reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, energy metabolism, mitochondrial network dynamics, and response to drugs and hormones. The aim of this project was to investigate the transcriptional response to different oxygen levels and whether it is similar across cell lines, or cell-line specific. Using RNA-seq, we performed differential gene expression and functional enrichment analyses in four human cancer cell lines, LNCaP, Huh-7, PC-3, and SH-SY5Y cultured at either 5% or 18% oxygen for 14 days. We found that oxygen levels affected transcript abundance of hundreds of genes, with the affected genes having little overlap between cell lines. Functional enrichment analysis also revealed different processes and pathways being affected in each cell line. Interestingly, we found that the top differentially expressed genes are involved in cancer biology. Further, we observed several hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) targets upregulated at 5% oxygen, suggesting a role of HIF at physiological oxygen conditions. Finally, oxygen strongly induced transcription of mitochondrial genes in most cell lines, in a cell-type specific manner too. We conclude that cellular response to oxygen is widely cell-type specific, emphasizing the importance of maintaining physioxia in cell culture.
Trained Immunity as a Prospective Tool against Emerging Respiratory Pathogens
Authors: Joseph John
Published: August 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the vulnerability of current vaccine technologies characterized by a slow onset of action and antigen-specific immune response. Although parental vaccines offer long-term protection against homologous strains, they rely exclusively on adaptive immune memory to produce neutralizing antibodies that are ineffective against new vaccine variants. Moreover, growing evidence highlights the multifaceted functions of trained immunity to elicit a rapid and enhanced innate response against unrelated stimuli or pathogens to subsequent triggers. This review discusses the protective role of trained immunity against respiratory pathogens and the experimental models essential for evaluating novel inducers of trained immunity. We further elaborate on the potential of trained immunity to leverage protection against emerging pathogens via recognition of diverse antigens by pathogen recognition receptors (PPRs) on innate immune cells. We also propose integrating trained- with adaptive- immunity to shape next-generation vaccines by coupling each one's unique characteristics.
Exploring Lectin-Glycan Interactions: A Novel Glycan based Drug Discovery Approach for SARS-CoV-2 and its Challenges
Authors: Madasu Pavan K , Chandran Thyageshwar
Published: August 2022

The Severe acute respiratory syndrome-Corona virus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) which is responsible for recurring pandemics takes advantage of host-cell processes including the glycosylation pathway. The heavily glycosylated spike protein assists viruses in attachment and penetration. The N-glycans of N-terminal domain N165 and N234 play a significant role in conformational dynamics of the receptor-binding domain (RBD) with angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). In addition, the deletion of N-glycan sites N331 and N334 have been associated with reduced infectivity. This signifies the importance of targeting the N-glycans making them unavailable for interacting with the ACE2 receptor, ultimately leading to reduced infectivity. These glycans can be specifically targeted and can be used for designing SARS specific drugs or neutralizing molecules. In the current study, lectins Griffithsin, Cyanovirin-N, Cyanovirin homolog, and BanLec H84T were used to target the spike protein's N-glycans. Molecular docking programs AutoDock Vina and HADDOCK were used to study lectin-glycan interactions. The interactions look convincible in accordance with the lowest interaction energies best-fit approach but the characteristic feature (scoring functions) of the docking programs are questionable concerning Lectin-Glycan interactions exist in nature. There is a high need of the hour for developing specific algorithms for docking glycans with a preferential selection of terminal residues.
Burden of Pediatric SARS-CoV-2 Hospitalizations during the Omicron Wave in Germany
Authors: Doenhardt Maren , Gano Christin , Sorg Anna-Lisa , Diffloth Natalie , Tenenbaum Tobias , von Kries Rüdiger , Berner Reinhard , Armann Jakob P.
Published: August 2022

(1) Background: When the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 first emerged in Germany in January 2022, data on related disease severity among children and adolescents was not yet available. Given Omicron’s high transmissibility, the ability to assess its impact on admission and hospitalization rates in children’s hospitals is critical for the purpose of understanding the scope of its burden on the German health care system. (2) Methods: From January 24, 2022 to July 31, 2022, SARS-CoV-2 cases admitted to German pediatric hospitals were monitored via a national, clinician-led reporting system (CLRS) established by the German Society for Pediatric Infectious Diseases (DGPI). Cases treated on general wards and intensive care units, as well as patient age and need for respiratory support were recorded. (3) Results: From January to July 2022, a median of 1.7 cases (range 0.4–3) per reporting pediatric hospital per day were hospitalized on general wards, whereas a median of 0.1 cases (range 0–0.4 cases) were on intensive care units. Of all hospitalized patients, 4.2% received respiratory support. (4) Conclusions: Despite the high incidence rates documented in connection with the Omicron variant in early 2022, the number of pediatric hospital admissions, and especially the number of cases with need for intensive care treatment and respiratory support due to a symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection, remained relatively low. Higher Omicron incidence rates had only a modest impact on SARS-CoV-2-related admissions and hospitalization in German children’s hospitals.
Metode Bayesian untuk Estimasi Parameter Distribusi Eksponensial pada Data Tersensor
Authors: Reza Anjab Ramadhan  , Widyanti Rahayu  , Ibnu Hadi
Published: August 2022

Parameter is a value that describe the characteristics of a population. But the parameterof a real data, the value is unknown. To estimate the value of the parameter,there are several methods, which are maximum likelihood estimation method (MLE)and Bayesian parameter estimation method. In Bayesian method, the prior informationis applied to update the current data. The prior is determined based on the informationin the data. This mini thesis is using censored data with exponential distribution, andusing the conjugate prior. Followed by squared error loss function (SELF), the estimatedvalue function ot the λ parameter is ˆλ =α+Σ_{i=1}^{n}δ_{i}β+Σ_{i=1}^{n}t_{i}with α and β are hyperparameters,Σ_{i=1}^{n}δ_{i} is the number of objects that experienced the event and Σ_{i=1}^{n}t_{i} is the numberof the survival time. When the function was applied on Stanford heart transplant data,the value of ˆλ = 0.00089, which means the patient’s failure (death) probability is lowand the patient’s probability to survive is high.
The Model Of Religious Moderation In Social Life: Study of Living Religion in Badongan, Kudus
Authors: Zuhri Achmad , Bakhruddin A.
Published: August 2022

This study explain the model of religious moderation in social life with the concept of living religion in Badongan community, at Tumpangkrasak village, Kudus Central Java. Here, people of Badongan are heterogeneous community consisting of interfaith even cross ethnicity. As known, Badongan has a mosque and two churches that are close together, but this does not necessarily cause conflict and clash because of a difference of their beliefs. This study uses descriptive qualitative method; the data is done by interview, and observation. The results of this study indicate that the religious moderation model has been strengthening tolerance values, eliminating social barriers in social activities, and getting along in harmony in every social activity. Such behavior can be entrenched because it is inseparable from the advice of the ancestors of Badongan who prioritize tolerance between religion communities, the view of citizens in society is far from negative attitudes and good communication between members of the community.
Local Humanitarian Leadership Index: A snapshot of progress towards local humanitarian leadership outcomes in the humanitarian coordination architecture in Jordan, Lebanon and Syria
Authors: Cliffe Emma
Published: August 2022

This index outlines what needs to change in order to achieve local humanitarian leadership in the Syria crisis response. It summarizes research undertaken on the engagement of local and national actors in the international humanitarian coordination architecture in Jordan, Lebanon and Syria, and is accompanied by three country case studies. The index is designed to support local and national non-government organizations to advocate for reforms so they can increase their engagement within the humanitarian coordination system, and use these spaces to advocate for their desired changes in the response. Donors, UN agencies and INGOs bear the main responsibility for enabling those reforms. The recommendations in each section provide practical solutions to address the barriers and challenges identified in the research.
The treatment and outcome of superior mesenteric artery embolism: a hospital-based survey
Authors: ITO Ryogo , Aoba Taro , Yoshihara Motoi , Hiramatsu Kazuhiro
Published: August 2022

Objectives
The treatment for superior mesenteric artery embolism is controversial because of the low prevalence of this disease. This study aimed to examine the treatment options for superior mesenteric artery embolism.
Methods
We retrospectively reviewed the clinical data of twenty patients with superior mesenteric artery embolisms at the Toyohashi Municipal Hospital from April 2010 to March 2020. Clinical characteristics, findings, treatment and outcomes were evaluated.
Results
The overall median age of the patients was 80 years old. In 16 cases, the obstructed regions of the superior mesenteric artery were proximal to the ileocecal artery bifurcation. Nine cases had pneumatosis intestinalis. Two patients underwent surgery, twelve patients received endovascular intervention and four patients received heparin treatment. Five patients died in the hospital. A comparative study of the outcomes after endovascular intervention showed that the nonsurvivor group had a significantly higher rate of pneumatosis intestinalis than the survivor group (P = 0.046). The patients that had obstructions proximal to the ileocecal artery bifurcation and the presence of pneumatosis intestinalis had a high mortality rate of 60% after endovascular intervention.
Conclusions
Determining if there is the presence of pneumatosis intestinalis and finding the obstructed region of the superior mesenteric artery are useful for evaluating the appropriate treatment for superior mesenteric artery embolisms.
Symbiotic Wolbachia bacteria in coccinellid parasitoids: genetic diversity, horizontal transfer and recombination
Authors: Shaikevich Elena , Romanov Denis
Published: August 2022

Parasitoids, which constitute about 25% of all insects and attack arthropods of virtually all taxa, are considered the most suitable vectors for horizontal transmission of the symbiotic bacterium Wolbachia among insects. The parasitoids studied in this article develop in the larvae and pupae of ladybirds. For the first time, Wolbachia was found in parasitic wasp species of the genus Homalotylus (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) and from the subfamily Tetrastichinae (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae). To characterize the Wolbachia strains, six bacterial housekeeping genes were examined and compared with previously published Wolbachia gene sequences. The same bacterial strains were found in all individuals of each species of parasitic wasps collected in different places and at different times, which indicates the absence of contamination and testifies to the heritability of the symbionts in the studied chalcids. No evidence was found that the parasitic wasps were infected with Wolbachia , identical to the symbionts of their ladybirds hosts. We found one Wolbachia strain, w Hom-2, which is a product of bacterial recombination from unrelated insects, including ladybirds. The lack of correspondence between the molecular phylogenies of Wolbachia strains and mithochondrial DNA of their hosts indicate horizontal transfers of Wolbachia among parasitic wasps of the genus Homalotylus and from the subfamily Tetrastichinae.
Digital image steganalysis based on spatial rich model features and dimensionality reduction
Authors: Gu Xiangyuan , Wang Kun , Wang Jiaxing , Yu Hang
Published: August 2022

Spatial rich model (SRM) is one of typical steganalytic features based on rich model and SRMQ1 is its subset. Since they only adopt several quantization step values in constructing features, the performance of steganographic detection is limited. To promote the performance, this paper conducts digital image steganalysis based on spatial rich model features and dimensionality reduction. It first exploits more quantization step values to construct steganalytic features. Then, taking submodel as a unit and adopting Fisher score, Kolmogorov-Smirnov (KS) test and principal component analysis (PCA) to process features of each submodel respectively. Following that, utilizing feature selection based on Fisher score to process steganalytic features and selecting some informative features. Finally, the first 12753 and 34671 features are selected and then compared with SRM and SRMQ1. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed feature set can achieve better detection accuracy.
Linguistic validation, validity, and reliability of the British English version of the Workplace Activity Limitations Scale in employed people with rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondyloarthritis, osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia .
Authors: Hammond Alison , Tennant Alan , Ching Angela , Parker Jennifer , Prior Yeliz , Gignac Monique , Verstappen Suzanne , O'Brien Rachel
Published: August 2022

Purpose: The Workplace Activity Limitations Scale (WALS) is a patient reported outcome measure of work ability developed in Canada for use in arthritis. The aims of this study were to linguistically validate a British English version of the WALS, and then psychometrically test this in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), ankylosing spondyloarthritis (AS), osteoarthritis (OA) and fibromyalgia (FM).Methods: Phase 1: The WALS was forward translated, reviewed by an expert panel and cognitive debriefing interviews conducted. Phase 2: Participants completed a postal questionnaire booklet. Construct validity was examined by fit to the Rasch measurement model. Concurrent validity included testing between the WALS and the Work Limitations Questionnaire-25 (WLQ-25). Two weeks later, participants were mailed a second questionnaire booklet for test-retest reliability. Results: Phase 1: Minor wording changes were made. Phase 2: 831 employed participants completed questionnaires: 267 men; 564 women; 53.5 (SD 8.9) years of age; with condition duration 7.7 (SD 8.0) years. The WALS satisfied Rasch model requirements when implemented in a bi-actor equivalent solution. A WALS Rasch transformation table was created. Concurrent validity was strong with the: WLQ-25 (RA rs = 0.78; AS rs = 0.83; OA rs = 0.63; FM rs = 0.64). Internal consistency was consistent with group use (α = 0.80 to 0.87). Test-retest reliability was excellent (ICC (2,1) at 0.90 or above. Conclusions: A reliable, valid British English version of the WALS is now available for use in the United Kingdom.
Estimation and feasibility of correction modelling for mother-reported child height and weight at 2 years using data from the Australian CHAT trial
Authors: Cheng Yan , Xu Huilan , Rissel Chris , Phongsavan Philayrath , Buchanan Limin , Taki Sarah , Hayes Alison , Baur Louise A , Wen Li Ming
Published: August 2022

Background
Correction modelling using reported BMI values has been employed in adolescent and adult populations to improve the accuracy of self-reporting.
Objective
This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of establishing correction modelling for mother-reported child height and weight at 2 years using data from an Australian trial in 2019.
Methods
Correction modelling for BMI was conducted using mother-reported and objectively measured height and weight of 2-year-olds. Mother-reported height, weight and BMI values of 2-year-old children were adjusted based on objectively measured anthropometric data using linear regression models. ‘Direct’ and ‘indirect’ corrections were applied to the correction of BMI values. We defined the direct collection as using corrected BMI values that were predicted directly by the model and indirect correction as using corrected weight and height values to calculate corrected BMI values.
Results
Corrected BMI values via the indirect correction showed higher sensitivity or similar specificity in predicting overweight status, compared to the direct correction, and also showed higher agreement with measured values compared to the mother-reported measures.
Conclusions
Corrected self-reported measures via an indirect correction had a better accuracy and agreement with the objectively measured data in the BMI values and classification of overweight, compared to the mother-reported values.
Studies on fruit developmental stages and maturity of Indian Olive (Elaeocarpus floribundus Bl.)
Authors: Dey Koyel , Ghosh Arkendu , Bauri Fatik Kumar , Sahu Pradip Kumar
Published: August 2022

Stage of fruit maturity at harvest is the most important factor determining final fruit quality and storage life. Fruit ripening involves a series of complex biochemical reactions and metabolic changes such as hydrolysis of starch, production of carotenoids, anthocyanins and phenolics and the formation of volatile compounds. There is less information regarding physico-chemical changes that may occur during different stages of maturity of ndian olive. Keeping these in view, the present study was carried out during 2015-17 to study the physico-chemical changes during the growth and developmental stages. In this experiment, different physical (Fruit weight, specific gravity, length & breadth) and chemical (TSS, titratable acidity, total sugar, ascorbic acid & total phenol) observations were taken at 5 days interval. Fruit weight was increased from 8.94g (5 days after fruit set) to 22.49g (40 days after fruit set). Highest TSS (9.96obrix) and highest ascorbic acid (48.86mg/100g) was recorded at 40 days after fruit set and it was declined at senescence stage. The growth and developmental stages followed simple sigmoid growth curve following cubic trend model.
International Recruitment of Mental Health Nurses to the National Health Service: A Challenge for the UK
Authors: Phiri Peter , Sajid Sana , Baykoca Ardic , Shetty Suchith , Mudoni Daisy , Rathod Shanaya , Delanerolle Gayathri
Published: August 2022

The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) has been dealing with a shortage in the nursing workforce for the past few decades. With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and post-Brexit effects, it is important now more than ever to concentrate on recruiting new staff and retaining current staff in the National Health Service. The increasing demand for mental health services stresses the importance of prioritising recruitment of mental health nurses. One of the main strategies being implemented to combat this shortage is the recruitment of internationally trained mental health nurses. Whilst this is a favourable solution, the multiple challenges this proposal brings makes it hard for the National Health Service to practically implement this to increase staff numbers. In this discursive position paper, we consider the difficulties the National Health Service is currently facing in terms of recruiting mental health nurses and then discuss the importance of and need for international recruitment including the strategies that are currently being implemented. The challenges and obstacles associated with this proposed resolution will also be addressed.
STAT3/ miR-486 /CCL20 regulates the migration and invasion of human lung adenocarcinoma cells
Authors: Zheng Pengdou , Jiang Weiling , Luo Miao , Wang Lingling , Liu Lu , Zhou Yuhao , Zhang Huojun , Mao Zhenyu , Zhou Ling , Liu Huiguo
Published: August 2022

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) was one of the most important subtypes of lung cancer, which had attracted much attention due to its high morbidity and mortality in tumors for a long time. Although the threat of LUAD to human health had been reduced due to the continuous upgrading and innovative medical methods, the 5-year survival rate of lung adenocarcinoma was less than a quarter. There was a growing need to better understand the molecular mechanisms that influence the development of LUAD. Using bioinformatics methods, we identified 95 genes that were significantly upregulated in LUAD cells compared to normal epithelial cells by differential analysis. These genes were involved in antigen processing and presentation, chemokine signaling pathway, IL-17 signaling pathway, Toll-like receptor signaling pathway, etc. Among them, CCL20 had attracted attention due to its close association with other up-regulated genes and its influence on the survival of LUAD patients. In this study, single-cell transcriptome analysis and basic experiments confirmed that CCL20 was significantly overexpressed in LUAD, and that the STAT3/ miR-486 /CCL20 axis regulated the vitality, invasion and apoptosis of LUAD cells.
Effect of salinity change on MBR and the construction of an activated sludge model
Authors: Zhong Changming , Huang Lin , Luo Ling , Yuan Ye , Ye Jinmao , Zhong Hui
Published: August 2022

Tungsten smelting wastewater has high salt content and low C/N ratio, making it challenging to treat microbially. In this paper, membrane bioreactor (MBR) increased the concentration of microorganisms and strengthened the processing capacity. During the acclimation period of 3%−5% salinity, the removal rates of COD and NH4+-N fluctuated with salinity changed. Still, the COD, NH4+-N, and TN removal at the end of acclimation was 92.3%, 78%, and 65.78%, respectively. The 16s rRNA sequencing showed that nitrosating bacteria and microorganisms adapted to extreme environments were dominant. Using the ASM1 model and experimental data, a mathematical model suitable for simulating MBR treatment of high-salt wastewater was established. The average deviation between the simulation results and the actual average was within 5%, exhibiting a good prediction.
The effects of ALDH2 Glu487Lys polymorphism on vasovagal syncope patients undergoing head-up tilt test supplemented with sublingual nitroglycerin
Authors: xia guang , JF Jin , Ye Yong , Wang Xiaodong , Hu Bo , JL Pu
Published: August 2022

Background and objective: Head-up tilt test (HUTT) is clinically advantageous for diagnosing patients with vasovagal syncope (VVS). Nitroglycerin is mainly used as a stimulant during HUTT, and mitochondrial aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) is involved in the metabolism of nitroglycerin (NTG). ALDH2 is the most common variant in the East Asian population. This study aimed to assess the effects of ALDH2 Glu487Lys polymorphism (ALDH2 rs671) on VVS patients undergoing HUTT supplemented with sublingual NTG (HUTT-NTG).Methods: Patients with recurrent VVS (at least 2 times) who were admitted to the syncope center of our hospital were enrolled. All VVS patients have undergone HUTT. The polymorphism of Glu487Lys gene (rs671) of ALDH2 was measured by the TaqMan polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The results of HUTT-NTG of VVS patients with different ALDH2 genotypes were compared and their hemodynamic characteristics were assessed.Results: A total of 199 VVS patients were enrolled, including 101 patients in the ALDH2*1/*1 group and 99 patients in the ALDH2*2 group. Among patients undergoing HUTT-NTG, 70.3% of patients in the ALDH2*1/*1 group and 68.4% of patients in the ALDH2*2 group were positive, and the difference between the two groups was not statistically significant (P=0.77). The proportions of VASIS I, VASIS II, and VASIS III were 40.6%，8.9%，and 20.8% in the ALDH2*1/*1 group, respectively, and the corresponding proportions in the ALDH2*2 group were 36.7%, 11.2%, and 20.4%, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups (P=0.91). The hemodynamic characteristics of different genotypes in VVS patients undergoing HUTT-NTG were compared, and no statistically significant difference was found. The median time of syncopal episode occurred after NTG administration in the ALDH2*1/*1 group was 6 min (interquartile range [IQR]: 5.0-9.0), and it was 6.0 min in the ALDH2*2 group (IQR: 4.25-8, P = 0.64).Conclusion: ALDH2 Glu487Lys polymorphism did not affect the outcome of VVS patients undergoing HUTT-NTG, and no significant change in the hemodynamic characteristics of different genotypes was found.
Analysis of genetic diversity and population structure in Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua from China using SSR markers
Authors: Liu Heng , Cheng He , Xu Jun , Hu Jiayi , Zhao Chenchen , Xing Lihua , Wu Zhendong , Peng Daiyin , Yu Nianjun
Published: August 2022

Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua is a perennial herb of the Liliaceae family, which is a traditional medicinal and dietary herb in China. The large-scale introduction of cultivation, asexual reproduction and geographical differences have caused confusion in germplasm resources and variation in plant morphology. Therefore, based on the phenotypic trait identification analysis, 96 Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua germplasm were used as materials to analyze the genetic diversity and genetic structure of germplasm resources from seven different regions using SSR molecular marker technology. Ten polymorphic primer pairs were screened from 50 pairs of SSR primers, and a total of 70 alleles were detected, with an average of 7 alleles per locus. The polymorphic information content (PIC) generated ranged from 0.40–0.86 with a mean value of 0.72. Genetic structure and clustering analyses divided Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua into three populations (JZ population, QY population, and JD population). The genetic diversity analysis showed that the population mean allele number, observed heterozygosity (Ho), expected heterozygosity (He), and Shannon's index (I) were 6.90, 0.46, 0.57, and 1.08, respectively. The three populations were genetically differentiated from each other. The plants of the three populations have been changed from morphology to genetics. In this study, the rich genetic diversity of Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua was detected with fewer polymorphic primers, indicating the unique advantage of SSR marker technology in the analysis of genetic diversity of closely related species, and providing a reference for scientific management of Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua germplasm resources and molecular marker-assisted breeding.
Driving under the Influence of Cannabis: Perceptions from Canadian Youth
Authors: Donnan Jennifer R. , Drakes Dalainey H. , Rowe Emily C. , Najafizada Maisam , Bishop Lisa D.
Published: August 2022

Background
Cannabis legalization is intended to protect the public from potential harm by restricting access and promoting greater awareness of cannabis-related risks. Youth are at a greater risk for experiencing road-related harms due to their own or others' use of cannabis. This qualitative research explored youths' perceptions about cannabis and road safety.
Methods
A qualitative study using focus groups (FG) was conducted with youth (age 13–18) and young adults (age 19–25) who resided in Newfoundland and Labrador. Using semi-structured interview questions, the facilitator asked participants to share their opinions about cannabis and road safety. All sessions were hosted virtually using Zoom with recruitment until saturation was met. All sessions were audio recorded, de-identified, and transcribed. Analysis utilized an inductive thematic approach using NVivo.
Results
Six youth (n = 38) and five young adult (n = 53) FG were conducted. Five prominent themes emerged throughout discussions across both age groups including: a) normalization of driving under the influence of cannabis, b) knowledge and awareness, c) perceptions of risk, d) modes of transportation, and e) detection. Variation in perceptions appeared to be influenced by lack of awareness of the impact of cannabis on driving ability, residence in urban versus rural locations, type of vehicle driven (e.g., car vs. off-road vehicles), and gender.
Conclusion
The themes uncovered from this research will help inform future enhancement of cannabis policy to ensure the safety of all citizens. These findings will also support the inclusion of youth-focused education that will equip youth with informed decision-making strategies regarding road safety. Furthermore, these findings can be utilized to inform the refinement of cannabis driving policies to ensure the safety of all citizens on or off the road.
Overcoming Hancornia speciosa seed recalcitrance: harvest season and storage time
Authors: de Souza Juliana Lopes , Nunes Valdinete Vieira , de Freitas Bruno Antonio Lemos , Santos Heloisa Oliveira dos , MANN RENATA SILVA
Published: August 2022

Storage of desiccation-tolerant seeds is one of the most effective germplasm conservation strategies; however, several species of tropical and subtropical humid forests have seeds that are sensitive to desiccation, and recalcitrant seeds, making conservation a challenge. Recalcitrant seeds deteriorate during storage due to high respiration rates and metabolic activity, and protocols employing osmoprotective solutions aim to minimize those effects to maintain seed viability for a more extended period. Hancornia speciosa, a fruit tree considered a priority for research in Brazil, is a desiccation-sensitive species. Thus, this study aimed to assess the physiological parameters of viability, vigor, and enzymatic activity of H. speciosa seeds stored in an osmoprotective solution. Germination percentage, water content, electrical conductivity, shoot, root, seedling length, peroxidase activity, and heat-resistant protein concentration were determined for seeds collected during summer and winter harvests. In addition, gene sequences were explored through gene ontology using Blast analysis to identify the biological and molecular processes associated with enzymatic action during storage. Summer-collected seeds performed better in viability and vigor and are recommended for storage in the osmoprotective solution. After being stored in the solution, seeds collected in the winter improved germination and vigor. H. speciosa seeds harvested in the summer or winter and stored in the osmoprotective solution remain viable for up to 90 days. Peroxidase and heat-resistant proteins are active; these enzymes' expression regulation should be investigated in future studies.
Team cohesiveness and efficacy explained outcomes in interprofessional education
Authors: Ganotice Fraide A. , Chan Linda , Shen Xiaoai , Lam Angie Ho Yan , Wong Gloria Hoi Yan , Liu Rebecca Ka Wai , Tipoe George L.
Published: August 2022

Background
While team cohesiveness and collective efficacy have been construed as important characteristics of a high functioning team, the psychological mechanism through which they promote positive outcomes remains unknown. Yet this mechanism is important to teachers and programme implementers to yield actionable intervention that can be used to craft effective practices for optimizing team outcomes. This is especially true in interprofessional education (IPE) in medical education, where team-based approach in patient management is promoted. Drawing from the social-cognitive theory, we examined a hypothesized model where team cohesiveness predicts collaboration outcomes (teamwork satisfaction, overall satisfaction with the team experience, and IPE goal attainment) via collective efficacy.
Methods
We used data from Chinese medicine, medicine, nursing, and social work students in Hong Kong (n = 285) who were enrolled in IPE. They were invited to respond to scales in two time points. We performed mediation analysis using structural equations modelling to test the hypothesized indirect effect model: team cohesiveness → collective efficacy → outcomes.
Results
Results of structural equation modelling revealed that collective efficacy fully mediated the relationships between team cohesiveness and all three team outcomes, providing support for the hypothesised model [RMSEA = .08, NFI = .90, CFI = .93, IFI = .93, TLI = .93]. Team cohesiveness predicted the achievement of collaboration outcomes via collective efficacy.
Conclusions
The findings demonstrated the important roles of team cohesiveness and collective efficacy in promoting successful team collaboration. Team cohesiveness predicted collective efficacy, and collective efficacy, in turn, predicted collaboration outcomes. This study contributed in theorising the pathways towards successful team collaboration outcomes.
Coffee Arabica Nutrient Deficiency Detection System Using Image Processing Techniques
Authors: Tenaye Firezer , Diriba Chala , Bedaso Muktar
Published: August 2022

This study mainly focused on the detection of Coffee Arabica nutrient deficiency by using image processing techniques. Coffee nutrition deficiency techniques are very traditional and time taking which means the agronomists simply detect deficiencies by observing the leaves of the coffee and decide by guessing. The study employed experimental research design which involves dataset preparation, designing classification model and evaluation. In addition, Python programming languages were used. The researcher has 422 total nutritional deficient Coffee plant leaves image data set, from this data first the researcher split 20 percent for testing which is 84 images and 338 training image data, and further from the remaining training data, the researcher again split20 percent validation data which is 10 images. The three pre-trained deep learning models were used to evaluate the experiments. The evaluation of the system indicated the performance of Mobile Net (0.9882), VGG16 Net (0.6471) and Inception_V3 (0.8095). Therefore, testing and training value of Mobile Net model was more accurate than the rest of two models. Finally, the prototype for detection of Coffee nutrient deficiency developed by using Mobile Net deep learning model. For the feature the researchers suggest doing more researchers by using others CNN architectures and more datasets.
Combined Application of Dinitrofluorobenzene and Ovalbumin Induced AD-Like Dermatitis With Upregulated Helper T Cell Cytokines and Prolonged Th2 Response
Authors: Jiang Pengju , Wu Yaguang , Liu Lu , Zhang Lian , Song Zhiqiang
Published: August 2022

Backgroud: Progression of acute-to-chronic atopic dermatitis is accompanied by multiple helper T cell cytokine responses, but the mechanisms and relative importance of these changes remains unclear. There is no animal model for atopic dermatitis that recapitulates these cytokine responses.Objective: We sought to build a novel mouse model for Atopic Dermatitis(AD) that recapitulates these helper T cell responses and some dynamic changes of cytokine responses in the progression of AD.Methods: Female BALB/c mice were subjected to the application of Dinitrofluorobenzene(DNFB) and Ovalbumin(OVA) to induce AD-like dermatitis. Skin lesions and serum were collected from mice of acute and chronic phase to detect the changes of cytokine responses and other features of AD.Results: Combined application of DNFB and OVA successfully induced AD-like dermatitis and histological changes as well as epidermal barrier dysfunction. In acute phase of AD-like dermatitis, Th2-associated cytokines were mainly increased in serum and skin lesions. In chronic phase of AD-like dermatitis,Th2-associated cytokines were still highly expressed, while Th1- and Th17-associated cytokines were also gradually increased. Compared with acute phase, the JAK-STAT signaling pathway was highly expressed in chronic phase of AD-like dermatitis.Conclusion: The combined application of DNFB and OVA could be used to build a new mouse model for atopic dermatitis. This mouse model recapitulates the helper T cell responses and some dynamic changes of cytokine responses in the progression of acute-to-chronic in human AD. JAK-STAT signaling pathway plays a pivotal role in the chronicity of AD.