bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanism of Charge Accumulation of Poly(heptazine imide) Gel
Authors: Seo Goichiro , Saito Yuki , Nakamiti Miyu , Nakano Kyohei , Tajima Keisuke , Kanai Kaname
Published: May 2021

Photo-stimuli response in materials is a fascinating feature with many potential applications. A photoresponsive gel of poly(heptazine imide), PHI, termed PHIG, exhibits photochromism, photoconductivity, and photo-induced charge accumulation, and is generated using ionic liquids and PHI. Although there are several examples of ionic liquid gels that exhibit photochromism and photoconductivity, this is the first report of an ionic liquid gel that exhibits both these properties as well as charge accumulation. We conducted experimental and theoretical investigations to understand the mechanism of the photostimulus response of PHIG, especially charge accumulation. The proposed model explains both the mechanism of charge accumulation and dark photocatalysis by PHI and provides new concepts in the field of photo-functional materials.
Capture Silk Scaffold Production in the Cribellar Web Spider
Authors: SUN Yan , LEE Seung-Min , KU Bon-Jin , PARK Eun-Ah , Moon Myung-Jin
Published: May 2021

Spider capture silk is a kind of natural scaffold material that outperforms almost any synthetic material in its combination of strength and elasticity. Among the various kinds of silk threads, the cribellar thread is the most primitive type of prey-capturing thread found in spider webs. We analyze the functional organization of the sieve-like cribellum spigots and a specialized comb bristles of calamistrum for capture thread production in the titanoecid spider Nurscia albofasciata. It's outer surface of the cribellum is covered with thousands of tiny spigots, and this cribellum plate produces the non-sticky threads which composed of thousands of finest nanofibers. Average length of the cribellum spigot in N. albofasciata is 10 µm, and each cribellate spigot appeared as singular, long shafts with pagoda-like tiered tips. Each spigot has five distinct segments as a definitive characteristic of this spider. This segmented and flexible structure not only allows it to bend by itself and join together with adjacent spigots, but also enable to draw the silk fibrils from its cribellum with a row of leg bristles of calamistrum to form a cribellar prey capture thread.
Combined Efficacy of Cinnamomum Zeylanicum And Doxorubicin Against Leukemia Through Regulation of TRAIL And NF-Kappa B Pathways In Rat Model
Authors: Bukhari Sidra , Naeem Anum , Khan Inam Ullah , Siddique Muhammad Hamid , Ali Zain , Essa Asiya , Anis Riffat Aysha , Moran Lukas , Sultan Aneesa , Murtaza Iram , Vanhara Petr , Anees Mariam
Published: May 2021

Background: Recent discoveries in cancer therapeutics have proven combination therapies more effective than individual drugs. This study describes the efficacy of Cinnamomum zeylanicum and doxorubicin combination against benzene-induced leukemia. Methods and Results: Brine shrimp assay was used to assess the cytotoxicity of Cinnamomum zeylanicum, doxorubicin and their combination. After AML induction in Sprague Dawley rats, the same drugs were given to rat groups. Changes in organ weights, haematological profile, and hepatic enzymes were determined. Real-time PCR was used to elucidate the effect on the expression of STMN1, GAPDH, P53 and various TRAIL and NF-kappa B components. Cinnamomum zeylanicum reduced the cytotoxicity of doxorubicin. The combination treatment showed better anti-leukemic potential than any of the individual drugs as evident from STMN1 expression (p<0.001). It was particularly useful in reducing total white blood cell counts and recovering lymphocytes, monocytes and eosinophils along with hepatic enzymes ALT and AST (p<0.001). All doses recovered relative organ weights and improved blood parameters. The combination therapy was particularly effective in the inhibition of proliferation marker GAPDH (p<0.001) and NF-kappa B pathway components Rel-A (p<0.001) and Rel-B (p<0.05). Expressions of TRAIL components c-FLIP (p<0.001), TRAIL ligand (p<0.001) and caspase 8 (p<0.05) were also altered. Conclusion: Cinnamomum zeylanicum in combination with doxorubicin helps to counter benzene-induced cellular and hepatic toxicity and improve haematological profile. The anti-leukemic effects are potentially mediated through inhibition of GAPDH and NF-kappa B pathway and regulation of TRAIL pathway. Our data suggest the use of Cinnamomum zeylanicum with doxorubicin to improve anti-leukemic therapeutic regimes.
Effect of Prohexadione-calcium on the Shoot Growth, Fruits, Endogenous Hormones and Expression of GA-related Genes in ‘Fuji’ Apple (Malus Domestica Borkh.)
Authors: Wang Linlin , Song Yaofeng , chen Fengnan , Kang Dan , Zhang Linsen
Published: May 2021

The shoot growth of ‘Fuji’ apple is vigorous, which causes a poor lighting condition and a high cost to prune. Prohexadione-calcium (ProCa) has been proven to regulate the shoots growth, fruits and return flowering in apple abroad but there are fewer studies on its effect on the shoot growth, fruits and return flowing in ‘Fuji’ apple in China. Moreover, the mechanism of its action is incompletely understood. So different treatments were applied as foliar sprays to dwarf self-rooted ‘Fubrax Red Fuji ’/M9-T337 trees at 3, 14, 35 and 56 DAPF (Days after petal fall). The results showed that at the end of the growing season, spraying ProCa effectively inhibited the growth of shoots compared to control and one spray of 500 and 750 mg L-1 ProCa, two sprays of 250 mg L-1 ProCa and four sprays of 250 mg L-1 ProCa showed the highest reduction. ProCa had very slight effect on yield, quality and return flowing. During the growing season, two applications of ProCa of 250 mg L-1 on 3 and 14 DAPF significantly reduced the content of GA 1+3 , IAA and ZR but increased the content of ABA in long terminal shoot leaves in at least one time point. The expression patterns of GA-regulated genes showed that ProCa down-regulated MdGA3ox transcript level at 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 DAPF and down-regulated MdCPS, MdGA20ox, MdRGL1a, MdSLY1 transcripts in at least one time point. This study provided a valuable insight to regulate the vegetative growth of ‘Fuji’ apple and explored the mechanism of ProCa action.
Institutional Level Drivers of Gender Inequitable Scientific Career Progression in Sub-saharan Africa
Authors: Liani Millicent L. , Nyamongo Isaac K. , Pulford Justin , Tolhurst Rachel
Published: May 2021

Background: This study sought to find out how institutional environments, including values, policies, and their implementation shape inequities in scientific career progression for women and men, and their disadvantages in relation to their multiple social identities in Sub-saharan Africa (SSA). The findings are drawn from a wider research study that was aimed at gaining an in-depth understanding of the barriers and enablers of gender equitable scientific career progression for researchers in SSA. This was nested within the context of ‘Developing Excellence in Leadership, Training and Science in Africa’ (DELTAS Africa) – a health-based scientific research capacity strengthening initiative.Methods: The study adopted an exploratory qualitative cross-sectional study design. In-depth interviews (IDIs) with trainees/research fellows at various career stages supported and/or affiliated to three purposively selected DELTAS Africa Research Consortia was the main method of data collection. In addition, key informant interviews (KIIs) with consortia research leaders/directors, co-investigators, and the consortia management team were also conducted to corroborate information gathered from the IDIs, and also to provide additional insights on the drivers of intersectional gender inequitable career progression. In total, fifty-eight IDIs (32 female and 26 male) and twenty KIIs (4 female and 16 male) were conducted. The interviews were carried out between May and December 2018 in English. The data was analysed inductively based on emergent themes.Results: Three interrelated themes were identified. First: characterisation of the institutional environment as highly complex and competitive, pertaining to progression opportunities and funding structure. Second: Inequitable access to support systems within institutions. Third: Informal rules: Everyday experiences of negative practices and culture at workplace characterised by negative stereotypical attitudes; gender biases; sexual harassment, bullying and intimidation.Conclusions: We contend that understanding and addressing the social power relations at the meso-institutional environment and macro level contexts could benefit career progression of both women and men researchers through improving working culture and practices, resource allocation and better rules and policies thus fostering positive avenues for systemic and structural policy changes.
Forest Fire Risk Estimation in a Typical Temperate Forest in Northeastern China using the Canadian Forest Fire Weather Index, Case of Autumn 2019 and 2020
Authors: Masinda Maombi Mbusa , Li Fei , Liu Qi , Sun Long , Hu Tongxin
Published: May 2021

China's forest cover has increased by about 10% as a result of sustainable forest management since the late 1970s. The forest ecosystems area affected by fire is increasing at the alarming rate of roughly 600.000 ha per year. The northeastern part of China, with a forest cover of 41.6%, has the greatest percentage of acres affected by forest fires. This study combines field and satellite weather data to determine factors that influence dead fuel moisture content (FMC). It assesses the use of the Canadian forest fire weather index (FWI) to determine the daily forest fire danger in a typical temperate forest in northeastern China in the fall season. Based on the Wilcoxon test for paired samples, the observed and predicted values of FMC showed similar variation in 63.6% of sampling sites, with p-value > 0.05; and 36.4 % of sampling sites presented lower predicted values of FMC than observed values, with p-value < 0.05. The Canadian Forest Fire Danger Rating System estimated the fire danger level as very low, low, moderate, high, or very high in our Maoer mountain forest ecosystems.
Changing profile of platelet activity and turnover indices during treatment response of immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Ou Chewei , Chang Hung , Hung Yu-Shin , Kuo Ming-Chung , Li Pei-Ling , Lin Tung-Liang
Published: May 2021

Both platelet count and function change after treatment of immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). Platelet function can be measured by plasma markers, including platelet activity (e.g. soluble P-selectin [sP-selectin] and soluble CD40 ligand [sCD40L]) and platelet turnover markers (e.g. glycocalicin [GC]). Patients were classified into no response (NR, including new diagnosis), partial response (PR) and complete response (CR). One hundred and sixteen samples (29 CR, 32 PR, and 55 NR) from 79 patients were collected. Plasma markers (sP-selectin, sCD40L and GC) were measured by ELISA. Platelet counts and mean platelet volume (MPV) were obtained in the clinical laboratory using GenS System-2. The results showed that responsive patients (PR + CR) had higher levels of sP-selectin (P = 0.026) and sCD40L (P = 0.001). Although there was no difference in MPV (P = 0.077) or GC (P = 0.078), there was a marked decrease of GC index (P < 0.001) in responsive patients. Paired sample analysis showed no difference in sP-selectin, sCD40L, MPV or GC but significant difference in GC index (P = 0.017) between NR and PR. Another paired sample analysis showed no difference in sP-selectin, sCD40L, MPV or GC but significant difference in GC index (P = 0.029) between PR and CR. Patients with refractory and newly diagnosed disease had significant difference in GC (P = 0.020) and sCD40L (P = 0.001), despite similarly low platelet counts. In conclusion, platelet activity markers (sP-selectin and sCD40L) and GC indices change in parallel with treatment response. Plasma levels of GC and sCD40L may be predictors of treatment response.
Potentially Inappropriate Prescribing in a Falls Clinic Using the STOPP & START Criteria
Authors: Chiam Rosalind , Saedon Nor'izzati , Khor Hui Min , Subramaniam Sukanya A/P , Nasir Siti Sakinah binti Mohmad , Hashim Noor Fatin Izzati binti Abu , Tan Maw Pin
Published: May 2021

Background
Potentially inappropriate prescribing which may lead to adverse drug events and linked to polypharmacy is becoming increasingly common in older patients.
Objective
This study applied the STOPP/START criteria to a clinical registry to determine the burden and profile of potentially inappropriate prescribing among patients attending a falls clinic.
Setting
University of Malaya Medical Centre Falls Clinic
Method
Data of individuals aged ≥ 65 years referred to the falls and syncope clinic were extracted from the falls registry. Potentially inappropriate prescribing was determined with the STOPP/START version 2 criteria. The relationship between potentially inappropriate prescribing with polypharmacy (≥ 5 medications), comorbidities and clinical variables were determined using Pearson’s chi-square and potential confounders adjusted for with multivariate regression.
Main outcome measure
Potentially inappropriate medicines and/or omitted medicines using STOPP/START criteria
Results
Data from 421 individuals, aged 77.8 ± 6.7 years and 53.4% women, were included. Potentially inappropriate prescribing was present in 311 (74%). Potentially inappropriate medicines use accounted for 84.6% of the 325 prescriptions. 361/659 instances (54.8%) were falls-risk-increasing drugs, with vasodilators (49.3%) being the main potentially inappropriate medicine identified. Of the 177/421 with polypharmacy, 169/177 (95.5%) were exposed to ≥ one potentially inappropriate medicine. 129 instances of potentially omitted medicines were observed in 109 prescriptions (25.9%).
Conclusion
STOPP/START criteria are useful to identify potentially inappropriate prescribing at the falls and syncope clinic. This finding has important implications for medication review strategies at falls clinic. Future research should determine whether identifying potentially inappropriate prescribing may reduce adverse falls outcomes among patients in this setting.
Impact of The COVID-19 Pandemic on Emergency Admission For Stroke Patients: A Cohort Study in Japan
Authors: Tani Takuaki , Imai Shinobu , Fushimi Kiyohide
Published: May 2021

Background: Hospitalization rates have reportedly reduced on account of measures such as the declaration of a COVID-19-related state of emergency. Appropriate treatment of stroke immediately after its onset contributes to improved survival, and delay in hospitalisation after onset affect stroke severity and mortality. This study aimed to determine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on emergency hospitalisation of stroke patients in Japan and the associated changes in stroke severity and mortality. Methods: This was an observational study that used nationwide administrative data. The participants were selected from the data of hospitalised patients diagnosed with stroke. We cross-sectionally observed the background factors of patients during April and May 2020, when COVID-19-related state of emergency was declared, and the same period in 2019. We also modelled monthly trends in the numbers of emergency stroke admissions, of stroke admissions at each level of Japan Coma Scale (JCS), and of deaths within 24 h using interrupted time series regression (ITS). Results: There was no difference between the pre- and the COVID-19 pandemic periods in the pre-hospital baseline characteristics of patients. No significant change was seen through ITS in the number of emergency stroke admissions between the COVID-19 and the pre-COVID-19 pandemic periods (risk ratio [RR]=0.96, 95% confidence interval [95%CI]: 0.90–1.02, P=0.159). There was a significant difference in the JCS3 of impaired consciousness in emergency stroke patients, which was more severe during the COVID-19 pandemic than pre-COVID-19 pandemic (RR=1.16, 95%CI: 1.04–1.28, P=0.005). There was no change in the mortality rate of patients with COVID-19 compared to those without COVID-19, but there were significantly more deaths within 24 h of admission. (No deaths within 24 h: RR=0.97, 95%CI: 0.88–1.06, P=0.446; deaths within 24 h: RR=2.80, 95%CI: 2.40–3.27, P<0.001). Conclusions: COVID-19 infection prevalence increased the number of deaths and severity of illness within 24 h of hospitalisation in Japan. However, there was no association between the number of hospital admissions or deaths with baseline characteristics. These results suggest no problems in accepting hospitalised patients during the COVID-19 pandemic, but the delay in visiting the hospital after disease onset may have increased stroke severity.
The Effect of Decision-aid Based Counseling on Cervical Cancer Screening Behavior Among Women: a Quasi-experimental Study
Authors: Malekzadeh Elnaz , Nourizadeh Roghaiyeh , Farshbaf-Khalili Azizeh , Mehrabi Esmat , Hakimi Sevil
Published: May 2021

Background: The present study was designed to determine the effect of decision-aid-based counseling on changing cervical cancer screening behavior among women. Methods: This quasi-experimental study was conducted on 154 women aged 21-59 with no pap smear history during the past three years. The participants were assigned to the intervention and control groups through randomized block design with block sizes of 4 and 6 and a 1:1 allocation ratio. The data were collected using the socio-demographic and midwifery questionnaire, stages of change checklist, and shared decision making (SDM) and DC questionnaire before and six months after the intervention by interview and then analyzed by SPSS24 software. The chi-square, independent t-test, ANCOVA tests were used. Results: A significant difference was observed between the two groups in terms of changing the stages of cervical cancer screening behavior six months after the intervention. After the intervention, the frequency of individuals entered the preparation or action stage was more than the control group (P<0.001). The mean score of SDM in the intervention group was significantly higher than the control group [35.48 (1.18) vs. 27.56 (1.18) (Adjusted mean difference: 7.92; 95% CI: 5.59 to 10.25; P<0.001)]. The mean score of total DC in the intervention group was significantly lower than the control group [29.16 (1.09) vs. 34.14 (1.09) (Adjusted mean difference: -4.97; 95% CI: 1.09 to 8.04; P<0.001)].Conclusions: It is suggested to apply decision-aid based counseling along with rutin trainins for promotimg the stages of cervical cancer screening behavior, increasing the , and reducing the DC regarding performing screening.
The jump and stagnation of mass with speed
Authors: Jun Dong , Dong Na
Published: May 2021

In the general theory of relativity the four-dimensional space-time described the accelerated motion or moves in a gravitational field of a mass body, from the perspective of integral geometry, although it is a curved Riemannian geometric space, but for any instantaneous position of the moving mass body, there is a local Flat Space of Riemannian geometric space. The local Flat Space is a Mincowski space in which the inertial coordinate system can be used in the local small area. Between the proper coordinate systems of two interacting moving masses, or between a series of follow-up proper coordinate systems experienced by a mass body moving in any way, there must be a coordinate transformation relationship similar to the traditional special theory of relativity. However, they have an important difference: In these instantaneous local inertial systems, the speed of light is no longer the constant c of vacuum, the effect of gravitational field or acceleration on the speed of light is the same as that of a medium with a dielectric constant of ε and a permeability of μ. Using the special theory of relativity with variable speed of light that the author has established can discuss relevant relativity physics issues in these instantaneous local inertial systems. This article uses the special theory of relativity with variable speed of light to infer the functional relationship between a moving mass and the change of speed. In addition to obtaining the traditional continuous increasing function relationship, a step function relationship with stepped discontinuous changes is also obtained. At the same speed, the mass can have two values, such as a ladder upgrade one level; the same mass can be matched with two different speeds, such as one step extension forward on the same step stair. From the perspective of the increase in speed, the mass is stagnant on the step platform (the speed increases, the mass does not change), and it jumps in the step up ladder (the speed does not change, the mass has a jump change). This obviously incorporates the main image of quantum theory into the theory of relativity, which is the result that all physics researchers care about and expect.
Unsteady squeezing flow of Cu-Al2O3 /water hybrid nanofluid in a horizontal channel with magnetic field
Authors: Khashi’ie Najiyah Safwa , Waini Iskandar , Ari Norihan Md , Pop Ioan
Published: May 2021

The proficiency of hybrid nanofluid from Cu-Al2O3/water formation as the heat transfer coolant is numerically analyzed using the powerful and user-friendly interface bvp4c in the Matlab software. For that purpose, the Cu-Al2O3/water nanofluid flow between two parallel plates is examined where the lower plate can be deformed while the upper plate moves towards/away from the lower plate. Another considerable factor are the wall mass suction/injection and the magnetic field which applied on the lower plate. The reduced ordinary (similarity) differential equations are solved using the bvp4c application. The validation of this novel model is conducted by comparing a few of numerical values for the reduced case of viscous fluid. The results imply the potency of this heat transfer fluid which can enhance the heat transfer performance for both upper and lower plates approximately by 7.10% and 4.11%, respectively. An increase of squeezing parameter deteriorates the heat transfer coefficient by 4.28% (upper) and 5.35% (lower), accordingly. The rise of suction strength inflates the heat transfer at the lower plate while the presence of magnetic field shows reverse result.
Humic Acid and Jasmonic Acid Improves the Growth and Antioxidant Defense System in Salt Stressed - Forage Sorghum Plants
Authors: Ali Adam Yousif Adam , Ibrahim Muhi Eldeen Hussien , Zhou Guisheng , Elsiddig Aboagla Mohammed Ibrahim , Jiao Xiurong , Zhu Guanglong , meng Tian Yao , Ahmed Irshad , Gabralla Ebtehal
Published: May 2021

Salinity is one of the primary abiotic stresses that cause several negative physiological and biochemical changes due to the oxidative stress caused by the generation of ROS. The effect of foliar application of jasmonic acid (JA) and humic acid (HA) as a fertilizer on growth and biochemical attributes exposed to salinity stress was investigated. Soil treated with NaCl at levels of 0 (S0), 2 (S1), and 4 g NaCl kg-1 dry soil (S2) and fertilized with 0 (HA0), 3 (HA1), and 6 g HA kg-1 dry soil (HA2). The plant spray with three JA levels (0, 5, and 10mM JA). Under salinity, JA and HA significantly improved all parameters tested. Salinity stress increased carotenoid, soluble protein content, SOD and MDA. In contrast, salinity stress reduced plant height, leaf area index, relative growth rate, proline content, POD, CAT, and APX. Under S2, HA2 rate increased plant high (9.69%), relative growth rate (70.79%) and CAT (45.47). While, HA1 increased leaf area index (12.45%), chlorophyll content (22.32%), carotenoid contents (38.05%), SOD (20.93), MDA (17.95%), POD (24.64%) and APX (21.67%). At S2, the highest plant height, chlorophyll content, soluble protein content and APX value recorded at 5mMJA, while, the highest value of leaf are index, carotenoid contents, proline, MDA, POD and CAT was achieved at 10mMJA. This study revealed that the level of 10 mM JA and HA1 had a positive effect on forage sorghum plants physiological responses. Furthermore, the results showed that jasmonic acid and humic acid successfully mitigated salinity stress's adverse effects.
Evaluating the Association of State Regulation of Community Health Workers on Adoption of Standard Roles, Skills, and Qualities by Employers in Select States: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Jones Tammie M. , Schulte Alex , Ramanathan Suhashini , Assefa Meron , Rebala Srilatha , Maddox Peggy J.
Published: May 2021

BackgroundThe occupation of Community Health Worker (CHW) has evolved to support community member navigation of complex health and social systems. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics formally recognized the occupation of Community Health Worker (CHW) in 2009. Since then, various national and state level efforts to professionalize the occupation have been undertaken. The Community Health Workers Core Consensus (C3) project released a set of CHW roles and competency recommendations meant to provide evidence-based standards for CHW roles across work settings. Some states have adopted the recommendations, however, there are a variety of approaches regarding the regulation of the occupation. As of 2020, 19 U.S. states have implemented voluntary statewide CHW certification programs. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between state regulation of CHWs and adoption of standard roles, skills, and qualities by employers in select states.MethodsThis mixed methods study used purposive sampling of job ads for CHWs posted by employers from 2017-2020 in select states. Natural language processing was used to extract content from job ads and preprocess the data for statistical analysis. ANOVA, chi-square analysis, and MANOVA was used to test hypotheses related to the relationship between state regulation of CHWs and differences in skills, roles, and qualities employers seek based seniority of state regulatory processes and employer types.ResultsWe observe that the mean job ads with nationally identified roles (F(6, 80549) = 109.43, p = 0.000), skills (F(6, 80549) = 136.13, p = 0.000), and qualities (F(6, 80549) = 257.29, p = 0.000) included varies significantly between individual states, by state type, and by employer type. ConclusionsEmployment of CHWs is increasing as a means to provide culturally competent care, address the social determinants of health, and improve access to health and social services for members of traditionally underserved communities. Employers in states with CHW certification programs were associated with greater adoption of occupational standards set by state and professional organizations. Wide adoption of such standards may improve recognition of the CHW workforce as a valuable resource in addressing the needs of marginalized and difficult to serve groups.
The effect of taping on maximum plantar pressure and ground reaction force in people with flat foot after applying a fatigue protocol
Authors: Aghakeshizadeh Fatemeh , Letafatkar Amir , Ataabadi Peyman Aghaei , Hosseinzadeh Mahdi
Published: May 2021

Background: People suffering from flat foot show more movements in hindfoot and midfoot joints as compared to the others. The anti-pronation tapings are supposed to provide temporary external support for the medial longitudinal arch. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of two types of anti-pronation taping on the lower limb kinetics in flat foot people before and after performing a physical fatigue protocol. Methods: 20 male and female with flat foot aged 22.39 ± 2.02 years old were studied under three conditions (untaping, reverse-6 taping and low-dye taping) either before or after fatigue states. The maximum plantar pressure and ground reaction force were measured by an RSscan foot scan system during walking. Results: A statistically significant difference was observed after applying two types of taping (reverse-6 vs. low-dye taping) in the maximum plantar pressure perceived in metatarsus 1 (P = 0.016) and lateral heel (P = 0.044). In the post-fatigue conditions, there were significant differences between the two taping types in metatarsus 4 (P = 0.024). The maximum ground reaction force in toe 1 (P = 0.001), toe 2-5 (P = 0.001), metatarsus 5 (P = 0.001), and medial heel (P = 0.001) was significantly different between reverse-6 and Low-dye tapings. Conclusions: The results indicated that the low-dye and reverse-6 taping types can reduce the pressure on the medial side of the foot, and push it towards the lateral side. It is therefore suggested using taping as an effective treatment for redistribution of the pressure and force in sole of the foot in people with flat foot.
Understanding Issues Around Use of Oral Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis Among Female Sex Workers in India.
Authors: Sahay Seema , Verma Archana , Shewale Suhas , Bangar Sampada Dipak , Bijeshkumar Athokpam , Angolkar Mubashir , Subramanian Thilakavathi , Chandhiok Nomita
Published: May 2021

BackgroundEmpowering female sex workers (FSWs) through women controlled HIV prevention option has been in focus globally. FSWs are important target for oral PrEP (Pre Exposure Prophylaxis). A multi-centric qualitative study was conducted to explore the FSWs’ willingness to use oral PrEP in India.MethodsSeventy three qualitative interviews and 02 focus group discussions were conducted at 3 high HIV prevalent states in India during 2013-14. Study explored issues around willingness to use oral PrEP. The study was approved by the respective institutional ethics committee of the study sites. Thematic analysis using grounded theory approach was used to analyze the data in N-VIVO version 8.0. ResultsThematic analysis showed events of forced condom-less sex. FSW believed that oral PrEP could provide independence, financial gains, and privacy and therefore hoped to use it as an alternative to male condom. However, any impact on physical/ aesthetic attributes and reproductive system were not acceptable and could become a barrier. Provider initiated oral PrEP was not preferred. Providers voiced safety monitoring concerns. Adherence emerged as a challenge because of: 1) alcohol use; 2) taking PrEP tablet each day being too mundane; 3) Stigma because Oral PrEP is ARV based. Alcohol use and dread of repetitive dose brings forth the need for long acting oral PrEP. ConclusionOral PrEP is acceptable among FSWs; it should be rolled out alongside strong messages on STI protection and PrEP as compliment to condoms. PrEP roll out requires educating communities about HIV treatment versus prevention. Long-acting oral PrEP could address both ‘mundane’ and alcoholism and sustain adherence.
Evaluation of fNIRS Signal Components Elicited by Cognitive and Hypercapnic Stimuli
Authors: Reddy Pratusha , Izzetoglu Meltem , Shewokis Patricia , Sangobowale Michael , Diaz-Arrastia Ramon , Izzetoglu Kurtulus
Published: May 2021

Functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) measurements are confounded by signal components originating from multiple physiological causes, whose activities may vary temporally and spatially (across tissue layers, and regions of the cortex). Furthermore, the stimuli can induce evoked effects, which may lead to over or underestimation of the actual effect of interest. Here, we conducted a temporal, spectral, and spatial analysis of fNIRS signals collected during cognitive and hypercapnic stimuli to characterize effects of functional versus systemic responses. We utilized wavelet analysis to discriminate physiological causes and employed long and short source-detector separation (SDS) channels to differentiate tissue layers. Multi-channel measures were analyzed further to distinguish hemispheric differences. The results highlight cardiac, respiratory, myogenic, and very low frequency (VLF) activities within fNIRS signals. Regardless of stimuli, activity within VLF band had the largest contribution to the overall signal. The systemic activities dominated the measurements from the short SDS channels during cognitive stimulus, but not hypercapnic stimulus. Importantly, results indicate that characteristics of fNIRS signals vary with type of the stimuli administered as cognitive stimulus elicited variable responses between hemispheres in VLF band and task-evoked temporal effect in VLF, myogenic and respiratory bands, while hypercapnic stimulus induced a global response across both hemispheres.
ELK4-mediated lncRNA SNHG22 promotes gastric cancer progression through interacting with EZH2 and regulating miR-200c-3p/Notch1 axis
Authors: Mao Xiaqiong , Ji Tao , Liu Aiguo , Weng Yunqi
Published: May 2021

Background

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play important regulatory roles in the initiation and progression of various cancers. However, the biological roles and the potential mechanisms of lncRNAs in gastric cancers remain unclear.
Methods

The expression of SNHG22 in gastric cancer was analyzed in public databases (TCGA) and validated via qRT-PCR. SNHG22 knockdown cell lines were construced, and cell proliferation and invasion were analyzed. CHIP and luciferase reporter assays were performed to clarify the transcriptional role of ELK4. RNA pull-down followed MS and RIP assays were employed to identify the interaction between SNHG22 and EZH2. Luciferase reporter assays and RIP assays were used to confirm the regulation of SNHG22 on Notch1 by sponging miR-2003-3p.
Results

Knockdown of SNHG22 inhibited the proliferation and invasion ability of GC cells. Moreover, we identified that the transcriptional factor, ELK4, could promote SNHG22 expression in GC cells. In addition, using RNA pull-down followed MS assay, we found that SNHG22 directly bound to EZH2 to suppress the expression of tumor suppressor genes. At the same time, SNHG22 sponged miR-200c-3p to increase Notch1 expression.
Conclusions

Taken together, our findings demonstrated the role of SNHG22 on promoting proliferation and invasion of GC cells. And we revealed a new regulatory mechanism of SNHG22 in GC cells. SNHG22 is a promising lncRNA biomarker for diagnosis and prognosis and a potential target for GC treatment.
The Evaluation of Gastrointestinal Nematodes in Faecal Samples Using Multiplex Real-Time PCR Assays
Authors: Reslová Nikol , Skorpikova Lucie , Kyrianova Iveta Angela , Vadlejch Jaroslav , Höglund Johan , Skuce Philip , Kasny Martin
Published: May 2021

Background: The diagnosis of gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infections in ruminants is routinely based on morphological/morphometric analysis of parasite specimens recovered by coprological methods and followed by larval culture techniques. Such an approach is laborious, time-consuming, requires a skilled expert and moreover suffers from certain limitations. Molecular tools are able to overcome the majority of these issues, providing accurate identification of nematode species and, therefore, may be valuable in sustainable parasite control strategies.Methods: Two multiplex real-time PCR assays for specific detection of six main GIN species, including an internal amplification control to avoid false negative results, were designed targeting SSU rRNA and COI genetic markers, as well as established ITS1/2 sequences. The assays were optimized for analysis of DNA extracted directly from sheep faeces and verified for Haemonchus contortus, Teladorsagia circumcincta, Trichostrongylus colubriformis, Nematodirus battus, Chabertia ovina, and Ashworthius sidemi. Semi‑quantitative evaluation of infection intensity was enabled using a plasmid construct and a dilution series of sheep faeces with a known number of nematode eggs. Assays were tested on 44 individually collected faecal samples from three farms and results were compared to those from faecal egg counts (FEC) using the Concentration McMaster technique, and larval cultures (LC).Results: Multiplex real-time PCR assays showed great specificity to target nematodes. During the analysis of faecal samples, the assays proved to have higher sensitivity in strongylid-type egg detection over FEC by revealing 3 false negative samples, while showing moderate agreement in evaluation of infection intensity. The multiplex assays further clarified GIN species identification compared to LC, which had confused determination of Teladorsagia spp. for Trichostrongylus spp.Conclusions: Our multiplex assays proved to be a rapid and accurate approach enabling simultaneous and reliable GIN species identification from faeces and semi-quantitative estimation of the number of eggs present. This approach increases diagnostic value and may add a high degree of precision to evaluation of anthelmintic efficacy, where it is important to identify species surviving after treatment.
Oscillatory persistent currents in quantum rings
Authors: Vasilchenko Alexander A.
Published: May 2021

The density functional theory is used to study persistent currents in two-dimensional quantum rings containing several electrons. We find a series of magic numbers for the total angular momentum of electrons in the strong magnetic field and show that changes in the angular momentum of electrons lead to persistent current oscillations. We suggest an empirical expression for the period of persistent current in quantum rings and examine the effect of Coulomb interaction on the properties of persistent currents.
Evidence-based Environmental and Public Health Practices to Respond to the COVID-19 Crisis
Authors: Raimi Morufu Olalekan , Raimi Aziba-anyam Gift , Adias Teddy Charles
Published: May 2021

Background: Given the unprecedented novel nature and scale of coronavirus and the global nature of this public health crisis, which upended many public/environmental research norms almost overnight. However, with further waves of the virus expected and more pandemics anticipated. The COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 opened our eyes to the ever-changing conditions and uncertainty that exists in our world today, particularly with regards to environmental and public health practices disruption.Objectives: This paper explores environmental and public health evidence-based practices toward Responding to Covid-19.Methods: A literature review tried to do a deep dive by using a variety of search engines including Research Gate, Google Scholar, Summon, PubMed, Scopus, Hinari, Dimension, CAB Abstract, OARE Abstract, Academia, Mendeley, SSRN search strategy to retrieve research publications, “grey literature” and expert working group reports.Results: To achieve improved population health, more widespread adoption of evidence-based strategies is recommended, particularly in this uncertain time. As only together can evidence-informed decision-making (EIDM) can become a reality which include effective policies and practices, transparency and accountability of decisions, and equity outcomes; these are all more relevant in resource-constrained contexts, such as Nigeria. Effective and ethical EIDM though requires the production and use of high-quality evidence that are timely, relevant and structured. One way to do so is through co-production. Co-production (or co-creation or co-design) of environmental/public health evidence considered as a key tool for addressing complex global crises such as the high risk of severe COVID-19 in different nations.Discussion: A significant evidence-based component of environmental/public health (EBEPH) consist of decisions making based on best accessible, evidence that is peer-reviewed; using data as well as systematic information systems; community engagement in policy making; conducting sound evaluation; do a thorough program-planning frameworks; as well as disseminating what is being learned. As researchers, scientists, statisticians, journal editors, practitioners, as well as decision makers strive to improve population health, having a natural tendency toward scrutinizing the scientific literature aimed at novel research findings serving as the foundation for intervention as well as prevention programs. The main inspiration behind conducting research ought to be toward stimulating and collaborating appropriately on public/environmental health action. Hence, there is need for a “Plan B” of effective behavioural, environmental, social and systems interventions (BESSI) to reduce transmission.
Four new Keratinophyton species (Onygenaceae) from Europe
Authors: Labuda Roman , Bernreiter Andreas , Hochenauer Doris , Kubátová Alena , Kandemir Hazal , Schüller Christoph
Published: May 2021

Four new Keratinophyton species (Ascomycota, Pezizomycotina, Onygenales), K. gollerae, K. lemmensii, K. straussii and K. wagneri, isolated from soil samples originating from Europe (Austria, Italy and Slovakia) are described and illustrated. The new taxa are well supported by phylogenetic analysis of the internal transcribed spacer region (ITS) region, the combined data analysis of ITS and the nuclear large subunit (LSU) rDNA, and their phenotype. Based on ITS phylogeny, within the Keratinophyton clade, K. lemmensii is clustered with K. durum, K. hubeiense, K. submersum and K. siglerae, while K. gollerae, K. straussii and K. wagneri are resolved in a separate terminal cluster. All four new species can be well distinguished from other asexual morphs in the genus Keratinophyton based on phenotypical characteristics alone. Ten new combinations are proposed for Chrysosporium asexual morphs which are resolved in the monophyletic Keratinophyton clade.
Indicators of exhaustion and stress markers in endurance horses
Authors: DJOKOVIĆ STEFAN , MARKOVIĆ LAZAR , DJERMANOVIĆ VLADAN , TRAILOVIĆ RUŽICA
Published: May 2021

Prolonged training and physical effort in endurance horses can influence the performance of the endurance horses negatively. The negative impact of the event is especially noticeable if venues are demanding, i.e. bad weather conditions or demanding grounds, high altitude and especially in cases of insufficiently fit horses. One of the most important factors that influence equine performance is abundance of oxygen in the blood, which is directly related to the air oxygen content and changes with atmospheric pressure, so that high altitude and low air pressure demand additional work from horses and accelerate fatigue. The authors goal was to investigate the influence of workload in endurance racing on sport horse organism. A total of 18 trained and competing endurance horses enrolled in a 60 km long endurance race organized on Zlatibor Mountain were included in our survey. Due to the difficult track 8 horses were disqualified due to lameness, and high heart rate and respiration. Only 10 horses completed the race and these animals were submitted to basic physical, clinical and laboratory examinations, in order to evaluate fatigue and stress reaction in endurance horses in Serbia. Results of the clinical and laboratory testing obtained show significant changes in all parameters evaluated which we attributed to physical effort in all 10 horses that finished the race in comparison with the values obtained before the race. In conclusion, 10 horses finished the race and were tested, and they indicated significant alterations in physiological parameters showing stress reaction. The evaluated parameters decreased into physiological interval values during the 5 days following the race.
Groundwater Potential Zonation using Integration of Remote Sensing and AHP/ANP Approach in North Kashmir, Western Himalaya, India
Authors: Mir Sajad , Bhat M. S. , Rather G. M. , Mattoo Durdanah
Published: May 2021

The demand for groundwater resource estimation has increased radically attributed to the growing population and rapid urbanization. To analyze the groundwater scenario the present study aims to delineate the groundwater potential zones (GWPZ’s) using the integrated remote sensing (RS) and Geographic Information System (GIS) based approach and AHP/ANP model in Western Himalaya. For the groundwater potentiality analysis, the thematic layers that were selected for the preparation of GWPZ map include lithology, Topographic Wetness Index (TWI), Topographic Position Index (TPI), slope, drainage density, lineament density, land use land cover and rainfall. The ﬁnal output GWPZ map can be categorized as high (39.57%), moderate (16.23%), low (31.91%), and very low (12.29%). In light of the growing demand for groundwater, the estimated area under good groundwater capacity appears to be inadequate. As a result, the state government in general, as well as the water resources and planning departments, must develop appropriate strategies to combat the impending water scarcity. To relieve pressure on groundwater resources, the study recommends increasing the use of surface water from the sub-regional basin. With the applicability of remote sensing and GIS technology coupled the integration of AHP/ANP model the comprehensive groundwater prospecting is achieved and groundwater as quintessential resource can be harnessed and utilized as anthropogenic stresses and changing climate has accentuated the demands for water consumption.
Effect of excitation frequency on nonlinear vibration of crack fault in multi-stage gear transmission system
Authors: Zhang Hongwei , Wang Xin , Zhao Qiaorong , Li Taotao
Published: May 2021

In a multi-stage gear transmission system, the motion state of the system will change with the excitation frequency, and the frequency characteristics will also change accordingly. If this change is not taken into account, there is often a great deviation in identifying and judging system faults according to unified standards, especially when the system has such early undetectable fault as crack. In this paper, the dimensionless differential equations of motion of multistage gear transmission system are established. The stiffness model of gear tooth crack is established by potential energy method. The changes of the motion state of the system with the increase of excitation frequency are obtained by calculating the displacement bifurcation diagram of cracked gear tooth. The influences of crack fault on each motion state are studied by using time domain, frequency domain, phase diagram and Poincaré cross section, and the fault frequency characteristics are summarized. By comparing the theoretical and experimental data of the vibration response characteristics of the system, the motion state of the system can be effectively determined and the crack fault can be identified.
Semi-numerical analysis of a two-stage series composite planetary transmission considering IHB and MsP methods
Authors: Wang Yongmei , Wang Xigui , Fu Baixue , Ruan Jiafu , An Siyuan
Published: May 2021

This study conducts an analytical investigation of the dynamic response characteristics of a two-stage series composite system (TsSCS) with a planetary transmission consisting of dual-power branches. An improved incremental harmonic balance (IHB) method, based on the arc length extension technique, is proposed. The results are compared with those of the numerical integration method to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the improved method. Following that, the multi-scale perturbation (MsP) method is applied to the TsSCS proposed in this paper. The frequency response equations of the primary resonance, subharmonic resonance, and superharmonic resonance are solved to generate the frequency response characteristic curves of the planetary transmission system in this method. A comparison between the results obtained by the MsP method and the numerical integration method proves that the former is ideal and credible in most regions. Considering the parameters of TsSCS excitation frequency and damping, the nonlinear response characteristics of steady-state motion are mutually converted. The effects of the time-varying parameters and the nonlinear deenthing caused by the gear teeth clearance on the amplitude-frequency characteristics of TsSCS components are studied in this special topic.