bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Null cyp1b1 Activity in Zebrafish Leads to Variable Craniofacial Defects Associated with Altered Expression of Extracellular Matrix and Lipid Metabolism Genes
Authors: Alexandre-Moreno Susana , Bonet-Fernández Juan-Manuel , Atienzar-Aroca Raquel , Aroca-Aguilar José-Daniel , Escribano Julio
Published: June 2021

CYP1B1 loss-of-function (LoF) is the main known genetic alteration present in recessive primary congenital glaucoma (PCG), an infrequent disease characterized by delayed embryonic development of the ocular iridocorneal angle and caused by poorly understood molecular mechanisms. To model CYP1B1 LoF underlying PCG, we developed a cyp1b1 knockout (KO) zebrafish line using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing. This line carries the c.535_667del frameshift mutation that results in a 72% mRNA reduction with residual mRNA predicted to produce an inactive truncated protein (p.(His179Glyfs*6)). Craniofacial defects and jaw maldevelopment were observed in 23% of somatic mosaic F0 crispant larvae (144 hpf). These early phenotypes were not detected in KO F3 larvae (144 hpf) but 27% of adult fishes (4 months) showed uni or bilateral craniofacial alterations, indicating the existence of incomplete penetrance and variable expressivity. These phenotypes increased to 86% in the adult offspring of inbred progenitors with craniofacial defects. No glaucoma-related phenotypes were observed in the cyp1b1 mutants. Transcriptomic analyses of the offspring (7dpf) of KO cyp1b1 progenitors with adult-onset craniofacial defects revealed that differentially expressed genes were functionally enriched in groups related with extracellular matrix and cell adhesion, cell growth and proliferation, lipid metabolism (retinoids, steroids, and fatty acids, and oxidation-reduction processes which included several cytochrome P450 genes) and inflammation. In summary, this study shows the complexity of phenotypes and molecular pathways associated with cyp1b1 LoF, with species-dependency, and provides evidence for dysregulation of extracellular matrix gene expression as one of the mechanisms underlaying pathogenicity associated with cyp1b1 disruption.
Deposits’ Morphology of the 2018 Hokkaido Iburi-Tobu Earthquake Mass Movements from LiDAR & Aerial Photographs
Authors: Gomez Christopher , Hotta Norifumi
Published: June 2021

On the 6th September at 03:08AM local time, the Iburi-Hokkaido Earthquake, only 33 km deep triggers >5,000 co-seismic mass-movements in the hills in a 25 km radius from the epicenter. Although the majority of the mass-movements occurred in complex-geometry valley with the coalescence of deposits, a small sub-set of 59 events deposited on the semi-horizontal val-ley-floor generating separated deposits that were studied in the present contribution. The aim of the present contribution was to contribute to the existing databases of empirical relationships based on planform and vertical dataset, and to define the scalars of those relations that charac-terize the mass-movements of the Iburi-Hokkaido earthquake, with the overarching goal of generating predictors for hazard-mapping. To reach these objectives, the methodology relies on LiDAR data flown in the aftermath of the earthquake as well as aerial photographs. Using Geo-graphical Information Science (GIS) tools planform and vertical parameters were extracted to calculate the power-law relations between areas and volume, between the Fahrböschung and the volume of the deposits, as well as other geometric relationships. Results have shown that the relation S=k〖V_d〗^(2/3) where S is the surface area of a deposit and Vd the volume, and k a scalar that is function of S: k=2.1842 ln⁡(S)-10.167 with a R2 of 0.52, and this relation is improved for the open-slope mass-movements but not the valley-confined ones, that present more varia-bility. The Fahrböschung for events that started as valley-confined mass-movements was Fc = -0.043ln(D) + 0.7082 with a R2 of 0.5m while for open-slope mass-movements, the Fo = -0.046ln(D) + 0.7088 with a R2 of 0.52. These results contribute to the growing co-seismic land-slide database and they can also be the base to understand the role of the counter-slopes and complex topography on the spread and distance travelled by the mass-movement deposits.
Physiological Traits of Thirty-Five Tomato Accessions (Solanum lycopersicum L.) in Response to Low Temperature
Authors: Rajametov Sherzod Nigmatullaevich , Yang Eun Young , Cho Myeong Cheoul , Jeong Hyo Bong , Lee Kwanuk
Published: June 2021

Tomato is exposure to diverse abiotic stresses. Cold stress is one of harsh environmental 12 stresses. Abnormal low temperature affects tomato growth and development including physiolog- 13 ical disorders, flower drops, and abnormal fruit morphology, causing the decrease of tomato yield 14 and a fruit quality. It is important to identify low temperature-(LT) tolerant tomato (Solanum lyco- 15 persicum L.) cultivars. This study focused on analyzing physiological traits of thirty-five tomato ac- 16 cessions with three fruit types (cherry, medium, and large sizes) under night temperature set-points 17 of 15°C for normal temperature (NT) and 10°C for LT, respectively. Plant heights (PH) of most to- 18 mato accessions in LT were remarkably decreased compared to those in NT. The growth of leaf 19 length (LL) and leaf width (LW) was reduced depending on the genotypes under LT. The number 20 of fruits (NFR), fruit set (FS), fruit yield (FY), and marketable yield (MY) was negatively affected in 21 LT. The FS in LT was significantly correlated with FY in LT in total populations (n = 35), cherry fruit 22 sub-populations (n = 20), and medium fruit sub-populations (n = 11). Moreover, the relevance of 23 NFL in LT with FY in LT was related to total populations (n = 35), cherry fruit sub-populations (n = 24 20), but not medium fruit sub-populations (n = 11). The results indicate the physiological traits of 25 FS in LT and FY in LT are crucial factors for selecting and determining LT-tolerant cultivars for 26 breeding programs in tomato plants depending on different fruit types.
X-ray Diffraction of Alkali-Activated Materials with CBPD
Authors: Vojvodikova Barbara , Prochazka Lukas , Bohacova Jana
Published: June 2021

Alkali-activated materials are alternative building binders, where secondary raw materials are processed. Possibility to use landfilled waste materials in their preparation, increases their potential application in construction practice, and therefore they are subject to extensive research, especially in recent years. This paper briefly summarizes interesting results of an experiment aimed at verifying the possibility of applying cement by-pass dust (CBPD) in the preparation of alkali-activated materials. The research work was focused on the possibilities of using these wastes for the preparation of small elements of garden architecture. The paper briefly evaluates in particular the results of X-ray diffraction, which were subjected to three types of binder pastes differing in the amount of used activator. In the experiment, a mixture of blast furnace granulated slag, fly ash and cement by-pass dust was alkali activated with sodium metasilicate.
The RELEVANCE OF THE CIPPO MODEL IN THE EVALUATION OF INDUSTRIAL WORK PRACTICES PROGRAMS IN INTEGRATED ISLAMIC VOCATIONAL SCHOOL
Authors: Nur Anisah
Published: June 2021

This study aims to evaluate the industrial work practice program at the Integrated Islamic Vocational School through the Context, Input, Process, Product and Outcome approaches. This research is a quantitative description. The method in this study using a questionnaire. The research sample was one principal, two deputy head of industrial relations, one deputy head of curriculum, four teachers who supervised the industrial practice program, and 133 students. The results of the study show the suitability or relevance of the dimensions: 1) Context consists of the goals, competencies and work ethic of students as well as links and matches; 2) Input consists of planning, provisioning, curriculum, students, human resources, infrastructure and financing; 3) Process, consisting of mapping, implementation, monitoring, effectiveness; 4) Product consists of a competency test and certification; 5) Outcome consisted of student absorption and change in attitude skills. The results of the research can contribute to evaluating the overall industrial work practice program from various dimensions, so that it can increase the competency absorption of Integrated Islamic Vocational Schools in the business and industrial world.
Macrodystrophia Lipomatosa of the Foot
Authors: Southard Edward J. , Sands Andrew K. , Boyajian David A. , Sieczka Elizabeth , Bryk Eli , Vigorita Vincent J.
Published: June 2021

Case:

A 37-year-old man presented with pain and macrodactyly of a toe. Imaging and histology demonstrated findings consistent with macrodystrophia lipomatosa (MDL). We compared our findings with control tissue obtained from an identical site of a fresh-frozen cadaveric foot from the same anatomical site. Pacinian corpuscles (PCs) in the MDL tissue were increased in number, size, and shape compared with the control tissue and demonstrated edematous interstitial lamellae and vacuolar degenerative change. We also document the magnetic resonance imaging findings of the PCs.

Conclusion:

Peculiar abnormalities of PCs in MDL underline nerve damage and may be a contributing factor in the pain associated with this unusual condition.
Tension-Sided Femoral Neck Stress Fracture in an Adolescent with Vitamin D Deficiency and Osteomalacia
Authors: Vij Neeraj , Ranade Ashish S. , Gupte Supriya , Oka Gauri A. , Belthur Mohan V.
Published: June 2021

Case:

An adolescent girl presented with groin pain without any history of trauma. Imaging showed a tension-sided stress fracture of the femoral neck. Vitamin D deficiency (VDD), and raised alkaline phosphatase and parathyroid hormone levels were found. Pain relief was not achieved with nonoperative treatment. Considering the risk of fracture progression and displacement, the fracture was fixed with cannulated cancellous screws. Fracture healed without any complications.

Conclusion:

A tension-sided femoral neck stress fracture, with VDD and osteomalacia, is a rare cause of hip pain in an adolescent. Surgical fracture stabilization is necessary in addition to medical treatment.
The Great Mimicker: Atypical Gout Presentations from an Orthopaedic Oncology Perspective
Authors: Rose Christy W. , Wallace Anna H.
Published: June 2021

We present 5 cases of atypical gout presentation in which the initial diagnostic workup suggested disease processes ranging from benign osseous lesions, such as giant cell tumor of bone or aneurysmal bone cyst, to neoplastic or metastatic lesions. As gout can mimic more nefarious conditions, it should be considered in the initial diagnostic workup of lytic and expansile lesions in a patient with the appropriate risk factors. A rational and systematic approach to any soft-tissue or osseous lesion typically results in prompt diagnosis and treatment. Providers who do not have extensive experience treating soft-tissue or osseous lesions should consider referring to an orthopaedic oncologist, especially when a diagnosis of a benign lesion cannot be definitively made.
Ensaio sobre a aderência ao modelo nacional de bengala eletrônica Smart Mobb® como recurso auxiliar à mobilidade de pessoas com cegueira ou baixa visão
Authors: Rodrigues Amanda , Texeira Caio Henrique , Lima Eliana , Moraes Antonio Carlos , Santos Vagner Rogério
Published: June 2021

Objetivo: O objetivo deste trabalho foi identificar, por meio da interposição de questionário, pontos favoráveis e pontos potencialmente impeditivos à compra da Smart Mobb® como tecnologia assistiva auxiliar à mobilidade de pessoas com deficiência visual. Métodos: A aplicação do questionário foi realizada na Fundação Dorina Nowill para Cegos, instituição especializada no atendimento e reabilitação de pessoas com deficiência visual. A entrevista consistiu em perguntas sobre o perfil socioeconômico, social, tecnológico, sob o contexto das tecnologias assistivas, e de saúde, relativas ao indivíduo e às dificuldades que ele enfrenta no dia a dia por causa do seu quadro de deficiência visual. Resultados: Foram entrevistados oito candidatos. Os resultados indicaram que a Smart Mobb® possui características que apresentam identidade com as preferências relatadas pelas pessoas que participaram do estudo, apresentando inconsistência apenas quanto ao valor médio mensal estimado para venda e ao que esses indivíduos estão dispostos a pagar. Conclusão: Verificou-se que existe o desejo, por parte dos potenciais demandantes, quanto a soluções em tecnologias assistivas que carreguem maior teor tecnológico e que surjam como proposta de solução para o problema da mobilidade urbana. Com relação ao preço, a maioria dos entrevistados está disposta a pagar um percentual médio mensal abaixo do mínimo estipulado para a aquisição da bengala eletrônica Smart Mobb®, o que configura um potencial fator impeditivo à adesão.
Vantagens custo-efetivas da utilização de ureteroscópios flexíveis descartáveis em comparação com o uso de ureteroscópios flexíveis reprocessáveis
Authors: Sper Nathalia
Published: June 2021

Objetivo: Analisar o custo-efetividade da utilização de ureteroscópios flexíveis descartáveis em comparação com o uso de ureteroscópios flexíveis reprocessáveis. Métodos: Revisão integrativa de literatura realizada nos bancos de dados SciELO, LILACS e MEDLINE, utilizando os descritores “ureteroscopia”, “resistência à flexão”, “marketing”, “análise de custo-benefício” e “esterilização”, cujo objeto trata das vantagens custo-efetivas da utilização do ureteroscópio flexível descartável. Resultados: Trinta e cinco artigos foram encontrados, sendo quatro utilizados no estudo. Além disso, características de sete modelos de ureteroscópios flexíveis comercializados no Brasil mais conhecidos atualmente foram apresentadas. Os resultados foram baseados na análise conjunta dos artigos selecionados e características dos modelos de flexíveis apresentados e discutidos em duas categorias: a evolução dos ureteroscópios flexíveis e marketing mix – ureteroscópios flexíveis de uso único. Conclusão: Apesar da escassez de pesquisas que se aprofundem em custos de utilização de um ureteroscópio flexível de uso único, comparado a um reprocessável, são notórios os benefícios advindos das inovações agregadas a esses dispositivos, dando retorno positivo tanto para o profissional que faz seu uso deles quanto para o paciente, fazendo-se necessário analisar mais profundamente a possibilidade de migração da “cultura” de uso de ureteroscópios flexíveis reprocessáveis para os descartáveis.
Teenage stroke: a brief insight with a description of two cases
Authors: Ferraù Ludovica , Giammello Fabrizio , Fazio Maria Carolina , Grillo Francesco , Vinci Sergio Lucio , Toscano Antonio , Musolino Rosa Fortunata , Dell'Aera Cristina
Published: June 2021

Introduction:Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in teenagers occurs infrequently and is a real emergency with serious consequences for patients and their families. Both thrombectomy and thrombolysis are well tolerated but are still debated. Nowadays there are not sufficient data concerning the outcome of these treatments and only few studies and case reports proved their efficacy and safety.Case presentation:Herein we present two reports of AIS in adolescents, for which different therapeutic approaches were performed, achieving a successful outcome in both cases without short or long-term complications.Conclusions:The early recognition of teenage stroke is not always easy, due to the variability of causes and symptoms, but a good outcome can be achieved with reperfusive treatments performed as quickly as possible.
The Association Between Serum Liver Enzymes And Cancer Mortality
Authors: Albhaisi Somaya , Qayyum Rehan
Published: June 2021

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Interpreting levels of liver enzymes is often challenging because they may be influenced by metabolic processes beyond the liver. Given their pathophysiologic roles in inflammation and oxidative stress, higher levels of these enzymes may be associated with increased risk of mortality. However, studies have found inconsistent results. Thus, we examined the association of liver enzymes levels with cancer mortality in the general U.S. adult population. METHODS: We used the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 1999 to 2016. Kaplan-Meier survival curve comparisons were examined across quartiles of liver enzymes. Cox proportional hazards models were built to examine the relationship between cancer mortality and liver enzymes quartiles without and with adjustment for potential confounding factors. RESULTS: During the 338,882 person-years follow-up, 1059 participants had cancer-related deaths. There was a nonlinear U-shaped relationship between serum alanine and aspartate aminotransferase (ALT and AST) levels and cancer mortality. There was no relationship between cancer mortality and gamma glutamyltransferase (GGT), however, each 10 IU/L increase in GGT after median was associated with 1% higher mortality risk (HR=1.01; 95% CI=1.00, 1.02; P=0.001). Only subjects with high levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) had higher cancer mortality (HR=1.63; 95CI=1.30, 2.05; P<0.001 and HR=1.52; 95%CI=1.20, 1.94; P=0.001 respectively).CONCLUSIONS: Only the lowest and highest serum ALT and AST levels are associated with increased cancer mortality. For ALP, the relationship is present at higher levels. The association with GGT was not robust to different analyses. The mechanisms underlying the observed relationships need further exploration.
Prolactin as a marker of active disease in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Castillo Jorge Medina , Villa Nayeli Nicté López
Published: June 2021

Objetives. To determine the correlation between prolactin levels and disease activity classified based on the Mexican lupus erythematosus disease systemic activity index (MEX SLEDAI).Methods. In this cross-sectional observational study, serum prolactin, age, sex, treatment, as well as manifestations of active disease were determined. Disease activity was evaluated using the Mexican Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Activity Index (MEX-SLEDAI). The correlation of MEX-SLEDAI with prolactin was determined using the Spearman correlation coefficient. The significance of differences between continuous variables was determined with the non-paired Student’s t test and the significance of differences between categorical variables was determined with Chi-square test.Results. 55 patients were included, 10 (18.1%) had MEX-SLEDAI ≥ 7 and 45 (81.8%) less than 7. A positive correlation was found with a Spearman rho 0.387 (p = 0.004) between the MEX-SLEDAI and the levels serum prolactin. Subjects with active disease and hyperprolactinemia had 80% manifestations at the renal level (p = 0.001).Conclusion. There is significant correlation between prolactin levels and disease activity. Hyperprolactinemia were detected in patients with renal activity as well as those with MEX-SLEDAI ≥ 7.
Multi-Objective Optimization of Support Structures for Metal Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Qaid Wadea Ameen , Al-Ahmari Abdulrahman , Mohammed Muneer Khan , Kaid Husam
Published: June 2021

Electron-beam melting (EBM) is a rapidly developing metal additive manufacturing (AM) method. It is more effective with complex and customized parts manufactured in low volumes. In contrast to traditional manufacturing it offers reduced lead time and efficient material management. However, this technology has difficulties with regard to the construction of overhang structures. Production of overhangs using EBM without support structures results in distorted objects, and the addition of a support structure increases the material consumption and necessitates post-processing. The objective of this study was to design support structures for metal AM that are easy to remove and consume lower support material without affecting the quality of the part. The design of experiment methodology was incorporated to evaluate the support parameters. The multi-objective optimization minimizing support volume, support removal time along with constrained deformation was performed using multi objective genetic algorithm (MOGA-II). The optimal solution was characterized by a large tooth height (4 mm), large tooth base interval (4 mm), large fragmented separation width (2.5 mm), high beam current (6 mm), and low beam scan speed (1200 mm/s).
Methane-Assisted Catalytic Desulfurization in an Environmentally Benign Way
Authors: Song Hua , Xu Hao , He Peng , Li Zhaofei , Meng Shijun , Li Yimeng , Chang Lo-Yueh , Liu Lijia , Wen Xiaodong , Klein Brittney , Michaelis Vladimir , Qi Jizhen , Wu Dongchang , Liu Xi
Published: June 2021

Petroleum is one of the most important natural resources for human beings, while the contained sulfur heteroatoms lead to a series of problems1. Therefore, a desulfurization process to reduce sulfur content is mandatory for clean petroleum utilization. Hydrodesulfurization is currently mature in industry, while this process is costly, energy intensive and environmentally unfriendly due to CO2 emission and H2S production2,3. Alternative cost-effective desulfurization process with environmentally benign sulfur-containing products remains unreported. Here we demonstrate that the desulfurization of a heavy oil model compound dibenzothiophene can be successfully achieved under methane environment over creatively designed dual catalyst system, generating a new sulfur-containing product CS2. Control experiments indicate that the presence of methane as well as catalyst components for direct desulfurization and methane activation are all required. The reaction process is better understood by extensive evidences from isotope labeling experiments, catalyst and product characterizations, density functional theory calculations and verification experiments, based on which a reasonable catalytic mechanism is proposed. It is found that methane-assisted desulfurization requires more stringent conditions, where sulfur vacancy abundance, methane activation capability and surface sulfur transfer are all indispensable. This study pioneers a transformational desulfurization route, which is more economically and environmentally attractive for petroleum processing industry.
Numerical investigation and application of 3D multi-phase non-Newtonian rheology model for debris flow
Authors: Li Rui , Teng Yuliang
Published: June 2021

A 3D multiphase debris flow model – DebrisInterMixingFoam was studied. An improvement to include the VOF field updating in the iteration of updating the flow field variables was proposed. The improved model was first validated by a debris flow deposition on slope plane case. Then the model was applied to two benchmark debris flow cases and a real debris flow event. In all cases, the model results were favorably compared with the experimental data or field investigation data. As there were only two key parameters to be calibrated in DebrisInterMixingFoam, it was easy to be used to model debris flow. The numerical results showed that this model can achieve good accuracy for debris flow simulation after calibrations of these two key parameters.
Effectiveness of jogging, eye movement exercises, and diaphragmatic breathing in patients with migraine: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Rahimi Mohammad Dawood , Alidoosti Fatemeh , Hassani Pouriya , Ghasemi Mohammad Mahdi , Fadardi Javad Salehi
Published: June 2021

Background: The recurrent and progressive presence of maladaptive stress response-related activities or electrophysiological dysresponsiveness are apparent in a brain with migraine. Objectives: Various methods have been suggested to regulate stress response-related activities in a brain with migraine, including jogging, eye movement exercises, and diaphragmatic breathing. Methods: A three-group, double-blind, and randomized design with pre-test, post-test, and follow-up assessments was used to test the effectiveness of jogging, eye movement exercises, and diaphragmatic breathing in the treatment of patients with migraine. International Classification of Headache Disorders 3rd edition (ICHD-3) was used to diagnose the patients with migraine, who were randomly assigned to one of the three study groups to perform either 12 consecutive weeks of (a) jogging plus eye movement exercises (n = 22) ;(b) jogging plus diaphragmatic breathing (n = 19); or (c) treatment as usual (TAU), receiving prescribed medication (n = 22) group. Results: The results of a series of MANCOVA showed that patients in the two experimental groups showed significant (p < .05) reductions in the frequency, duration, and intensity of their migraine attacks compared to the TAU group. Moreover, the frequency of menstrual cycle-dependent headache attacks and over the counter drugs use were reduced, and the quality of sleep and drinking water were improved at post-test and a 12-month follow-up. Conclusion: The results suggest that jogging plus eye movement exercises or jogging plus diaphragmatic breathing can be used as effective alternative interventions in the treatment of migraine.
The impact of COVID-19 on digital data practices in museums and art galleries in the UK and the US
Authors: Noehrer Lukas , Gilmore Abigail , Jay Caroline , Yehudi Yo
Published: June 2021

In the first quarter of 2020, the doors of museums around the world shut and their operations at physical sites were reduced in line with necessary security measures. This heralded the beginning of an uncertain future for museums and galleries as the COVID-19 pandemic hit and the only means to stay ‘open’ was to turn towards the digital. In this paper, we investigate how the physical closure of museum buildings due to lockdown restrictions caused shockwaves within their digital strategies and changed their data practices potentially for good. The methodology of the research involves a review of the impact of COVID-19 on the museum sector, based on literature and desk research, with a focus on the implications for three museums and art galleries in the United Kingdom and the United States, and their mission, objectives, and digital data practices. We also present analysis of ten qualitative interviews with expert witnesses working in the sector, representing different roles and types of institutions, undertaken between April and October 2020. Our research finds that digital engagement with museum content and practices around data in institutions have changed and that digital methods for organising and accessing collections for both staff and the general public have become more important. We present evidence that strategic preparedness influenced how well institutions were able to transition during closure and that metrics data became pivotal in understanding this novel situation. Increased engagement online changed traditional audience profiles, challenging museums to find ways of accommodating new forms of engagement in order to survive and thrive in the post-pandemic environment. Our findings point to a longer term shift in the operating models for museums and the need to realise economic value and diversify income streams through digital means, which have not yet been clearly established. The research suggests that the unprecedented situation brought on by the pandemic will shape future museum audiences and their interactions with institutions virtually and physically, posing challenges to museums and their constituents that require structural changes and adaptations, but also present opportunities to successfully survive in an ever-more connected world.
Global Trends in Clinical Trials-SARSCOV-2
Authors: Ray Suman , Dubey Prashant
Published: June 2021

It was on March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) outbreak as a pandemic. According to WHO reports, there have been 156,496,592 confirmed cases of COVID-19, including 3,264,143 deaths, globally, as of 8 May 2021. COVID-19 is contributing to an unconscionable loss of life. Several clinical studies involving COVID-19 are currently in human trials. This study is based on a comprehensive analysis of all clinical trials involving COVID-19 as on May 8, 2021. In total, 5619 studies were identified at “ClinicalTrials.gov” and further classified as observational or interventional study types. The results showed a total of 3156 interventional studies and 2429 observational studies. Phase wise distribution of interventional clinical trials indicate that maximum clinical trials are in phase 2 stage. Observational studies has 6 completed studies with results and interventional trial has 23 completed studies with results. Overall, the study reveals the perspective view of the global clinical translational trends involving COVID-19.
An Intrusion Detection and Prevention Protocol for Internet of Things based Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Krishnan Rajkumar , Krishnan R. Santhana , Robinson Y. Harold , Julie E. Golden , Long Hoang Viet , Sangeetha A. , Subramanian M. , Kumar Raghvendra
Published: June 2021

Because of the headway of data and correspondence advances, the utilization of Internet of Things (IoT) gadgets has expanded dramatically. In the improvement of IoT, WSN plays out a crucial part and involves easy keen gadgets for data gathering. In any case, such savvy gadgets have requirements regarding calculation, preparing, memory, and energy assets. Alongside such requirements, the major difficulties for WSN is to accomplish dependability with the security of communicated information in a weak climate alongside pernicious hubs. This paper intends to build up an Anomalous intrusion detection protocol (AIDP) and Intrusion Prevention Protocol (IPP) for interruption evasion in IoT dependent on WSN to expand the organization's time frame and information reliability. Right off the bat, the proposed convention makes dissimilar energy-efficient groups dependent on the natural characteristics of hubs. Also, in view of the (k, n) limit related Shamir mystery sharing plan, the unwavering quality also, the security of the tangible data within the base station (BS) and group head are accomplished. The proposed security conspires demonstrates a trivial answer to adapt to interruptions produced by malignant hubs. The trial results utilizing the organization test system (NS-2) show that the proposed directing convention accomplished improvement as far as organization lifetime, end to end delay as 24%, packet delay ratio as 30%, when contrasted and the current work under unique organization geographies.
Performance of Filterbeds and Macrophytes in Vertical Constructed Wetland for Treating Domestic Sewage Effluent
Authors: Thammaiah Vanitha , Hebbara Manjunatha , Virupakshappa Manjunatha Mudukapla
Published: June 2021

An experiment with different filterbeds and macrophytes was carried-out to study their phytoremediation capacity on the efficiency of domestic wastewater treatment through constructed wetland (CW) during November to March, 2017-18 at University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad campus, Karnataka, India. Twenty treatment combinations involving five types of filterbeds (FB-1: gravel, FB-2: gravel-sand-gravel, FB-3: gavel-sand-brick-gravel, FB-4: gravel-sand-charcoal-gravel and FB-5: gravel-sand-(charcoal+brick)-gravel) and four macrophytes (MP-1: Typha latifolia, MP-2: Brachiaria mutica, MP-3: Canna indica and MP-4: Phragmites sps.) were evaluated for treating domestic wastewater. After 120 days from start, across treatment combinations, water electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved and suspended solids (TDS-TSS), biological oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), sodium, sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), residual sodium carbonate (RSC), bicarbonates, total nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium (N-P-K) and boron (B) were reduced by more than 40 per cent due to wetland treatment. The system enhanced the mineralization of organic nitrogen to ammoniacal nitrogen (NH4+-N) and nitrate nitrogen (NO3-N) fractions. Among filterbeds, Type-5 caused higher reduction in pH, EC, BOD, COD and Organic-N while, Type-4 proved efficient in removing total solids and lowering pH in the sewage effluent. The Type-3 filterbed removed more suspended solids, potassium and ammoniacal nitrogen. Among the macrophytes, Brachiaria (paragrass) removed more nitrogen and potassium while, Phragmites removed more nitrogen, phosphorus and boron. The flexibility of implementation allows the CW to be adapted to different sites with different configurations, being suitable as main, secondary or tertiary treatment stage.
Isolation and Molecular identification of native As-resistant bacteria: As(III) and As(V) removal capacity and possible mechanism of detoxification
Authors: Rodriguez-Castrejón Ulises Emiliano , Serafin-Muñoz Alma Hortensia , Alvarez-Vargas Aurelio , Jimenez Gustavo Cruz , Noriega-Luna Berenice
Published: June 2021

The study of arsenic resistant microorganisms with high arsenic removal capacity is fundamental for the development of economically sustainable technologies for the treatment of water contaminated with this metalloid. In this work, the isolation and identification of 4 native strains was carried out.: Rhodococcus gordoniae, Microbacterium hydrocarbonoxydans, Exiguobacterium indicum and Pseudomonas kribbensis . R.gordoniae was identified as the bacterium with the highest growth capacity in both As(III) and As(V). E.indicum removed about 74.8% of Arsenate, As(V), and 61.7% of Arsenite , As(III), while R.gordoniae removed about 81.6 % of As(III), and 77.2% of As(V), while that M.hydrocarbonoxydans was able to remove up to 79.9% of As(III) and 68.9% of As(V). Finally, it was observed that P. kribbensis removed about 80.2% of As(V). This study also contributes to the possible detoxification mechanisms employed by these bacteria, the knowledge of which could be crucial in the successful implementation of in situ bioremediation programs.
To a question on possibilities of high-resolution NMR spectroscopy in the Earth magnetic field
Authors: Kupriyanov Pavel , Kirilenko Vladimir , Chizhik Anna , Chizhik Vladimir
Published: June 2021

The low signal-to-noise ratio is a characteristic feature of NMR experiments in the Earth magnetic field. The main problem of such studies is the ineffectiveness of signal accumulation due to fluctuations of the Earth magnetic field because of magnetic interferences from laboratory equipment and other magnetic field sources. Taking into account the fact that generally in the Earth magnetic field proton-containing liquids have spectra with a central strong line, a relatively simple method has been found to neutralize the Larmor frequency fluctuations. The NMR signal processing algorithm is described. The home-built NMR-equipment allows us to clearly register the splitting in proton spectra, for example, due to the J-interaction with such nuclei as 29Si or 13C at their natural abundance (4.7 and 1.1%, respectively).
A Path Analysis To Investigate The Interaction Between Serum, Urinary And Demographic Factors Influencing Urine Calcium In Kidney Stone Formers
Authors: Taheri Fatemeh , Taheri Maryam , Sanaz Tavasoli , Nasrin Borumandnia , Abbas Basiri
Published: June 2021

Background: Hypercalciuria is one of the most important urinary risk factors in kidney stone formers. This study aimed to delineate the interaction of some demographic, serum, and urinary risk factors influencing 24-hour urinary (24-U) calcium excretion.Methods: This study was secondary data analysis, using data from 593 kidney stone patients referred to the Labbafinejad kidney stone prevention clinic from March 2015 to May 2019. The study considered serum, urinary and demographic factors that interact to influence 24-U calcium using path analysis.Results: The results showed that age and weight had an indirect effect on 24-U calcium. Among serum variables, PTH and creatinine had a significant direct effect on 24-U calcium. In comparison, 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)D) and phosphorus appeared to influence 24-U calcium through serum parathormone. Regarding 24-U metabolites, 24-U sodium, 24-U Urea, and 24-U citrate had a significant direct effect on 24-U calcium. Moreover, 24-U creatinine has a significant direct and indirect effect on 24-U calcium through 24-U citrate and 24-U Urea as mediating variables. 24-U citrate had the most effect on 24-U calcium, following 24-U creatinine, 24-U Urea, 24-U sodium, serum creatinine, and weight.Conclusion: Except for serum calcium, all other predictors had direct and/or indirect effects on 24-U calcium. Serum 25(OH)D had a negligible indirect effect on 24-U calcium. Controlling dietary intake of protein and sodium and bodyweight seems very important in kidney stone formers with hypercalciuria.
SOS1, SERK1 and WEE1, Confer a Defence Response to Salt Stress with Increasing NaCl in Alfalfa (Medicago Sativa L.) Callus
Authors: Yazıcılar Büşra , Bezirganoglu ismail
Published: June 2021

Alfalfa is an important forage that contributes wildlife habitat and soil conservation worldwide and has a high nutritional feeding quality and N fixation potential. However, alfalfa production is seriously reduced by abiotic stress factors. In this study, SOS1 ,SERK1, WEE1 genes were expressed in alfalfa callus cells to control NaCl stress under in vitro conditions. The important callus traits in terms of NaCl resistance were found among the genotypes. Higher sugar contents were accumulated in tested genotypes than in control callus when all were exposed to NaCl stress. Based on proline assay, there were inverse relationships between NaCl acclimated-callus and tested genotypes. Na+ and K+ showed an increasing trend in response to the increasing concentration of NaCl. The results showed that callus growth increased salt stress related gene expression. SOS1, SERK1 and WEE1 gene expression levels peaked at 50 mM while highest Na+ and K+ and sugar content happened at 110 mM NaCl. As a result of flow cytometry analysis, there were often endopolyploidy in the tested genotypes. Our findings indicated that the SOS1, SERK1 and WEE1 genes was effective in promoting the alfalfa callus cells in response to salt stress induced by NaCl.
Hierarchical Structure in Activities of Daily Living and Long-Term Disability Trajectories in the Elderly Chinese Population: A 20-Year Cohort Study
Authors: Han Yaofeng , Xue Jihui , Pei Wei , Fang Ya
Published: June 2021

Background: The global burden of disability is rising. Understanding the hierarchical structure of activities of daily living (ADL) and the disability trajectory of elderly people is pivotal to developing early interventions. Purpose: We aimed to determine the hierarchical structure of the ability to perform ADL and further describe the disability trajectory of the elderly before death. Methods: A longitudinal item response theory model (LIRT) was constructed from 28 345 elderly participants in the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey, in which ADL were measured by the Katz scale for up to 20 years from 1998 to 2018, until the participants' death. The disability values estimated from the LIRT were fitted to a mixed-effects model to examine how the disability trajectories varied with different demographic characteristics. Results: The difficulty parameters showed that ADL losses began with bathing-partial (B=-1.396, SE=0.003), then toileting-partial, bathing-total, dressing-partial, transferring-partial, dressing-total, feeding-partial, continence-partial, toileting-total, feeding-total, transferring-total, and ended with continence-total (a=3.647, SE=0.013). Disability trajectories varied with sex (β=0.041, SE=0.001), place of residence (β=0.010, SE=0.001), and marital status (β=0.144, SE=0.001). Females, people who lived in urban areas, and those who lived without a spouse had poorer disability status. Conclusion: Losses in the ability to perform ADL have a hierarchical structure. Demographic characteristics affect disability trajectories among the elderly Chinese population.
Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome in the United States National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011-2018
Authors: Liang Xiaopeng , Or Benjamin , Tsoi Man Fung , Cheung Ching Lung , Cheung BM
Published: June 2021

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of risk factors presaging the development of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. It is a risk factor for severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This study aims to estimate the prevalence of MetS in the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011-2018.Methods: This cohort study included 22370 eligible participants aged ≥20 years from the NHANES 2011-2018. MetS was defined as the presence of at least three of these components: central obesity, reduced high-density lipoprotein, elevated triglycerides, elevated blood pressure and elevated fasting blood glucose. The prevalence of MetS was estimated taking into account the complex sampling. The time trend was evaluated using logistic regression. Annual percentage changes (APC) were used to measure the trends in MetS prevalence.Results: The prevalence of MetS was 36.2% (95% CI, 32.3-40.3), 34.8% (95% CI, 32.3-37.4), 39.9% (95% CI, 36.6-43.2) and 38.3% (95% CI, 35.3-41.3) in 2011-2, 2013-4, 2015-6, 2017-8, respectively (P for trend =.08). Among the MetS components, the prevalence of elevated glucose increased from 48.7% (95% CI, 45.9-51.5) in 2011-2 to 64.3% (95% CI, 61.0-67.4) in 2017-8 [P for trend <.001; APC=11.7, (95% CI, 3.5-21.0)]. The prevalence of MetS in non-Hispanic Asian increased from 21.8% (95% CI, 16.7-28.0) in 2011-2 to 31.2% (95% CI, 27.4-35.3) in 2017-8 [P for trend <.001; APC=14.6, (95% CI, 2.5-34.8)].Conclusions: The prevalence of MetS remained stable from 2011 to 2018, but increased among non-Hispanic Asians. Lifestyle modification is needed to prevent metabolic syndrome and the associated risks of diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Regulation of the p75 Neurotrophin Receptor Attenuates Neuroinflammation and Stimulates Hippocampal Neurogenesis in Experimental Streptococcus Pneumoniae Meningitis
Authors: Zhang Dandan , Zhao Shengnan , Zhang Zhijie , Xu Danfeng , Lian Di , Wu Jing , He Dake , Sun Kun , Li Ling
Published: June 2021

Background: Streptococcus pneumoniae meningitis is a destructive central nervous system (CNS) infection with acute and long-term neurological disorders. Compelling evidence provided by previous studies suggests that p75NTR signaling influences cell survival, apoptosis, and proliferation in brain-injured conditions. However, the role of p75NTR signaling in regulating pneumococcal meningitis (PM)-induced neuroinflammation and altered neurogenesis remains largely to be elucidated.Methods: p75NTR signaling activation in the pathological process of PM was assessed. During acute PM, a small-molecule p75NTR modulator LM11A-31 or vehicle was intranasally administered for 3 days prior to S.pneumoniae exposure. At 24h post-infection, clinical severity, histopathology, astrocytes/microglia activation, neuronal cell apoptosis and death, inflammation-related transcription factors and inflammatory factors were evaluated. Additionally, p75NTR was knocked down by the adenovirus-mediated short-hairpin RNA (shRNA) to ascertain the role of p75NTR in PM. During long-term PM, the intranasal administration of LM11A-31 or vehicle was continued for 7 days after successfully establishing the PM model. Hippocampal neurogenesis was evaluated by double-labeling immunofluorescence with EdU, DCX and NeuN. Results: Our results revealed that both 24h (acute) and 7,14,28day (long-term) groups of infected rats demonstrated increased p75NTR expression in the brain. During acute PM, modulation of p75NTR through pretreatment of PM model with LM11A-31 significantly alleviated S.pneumoniae-induced clinical severity, histopathological injury and the activation of astrocytes and microglia. LM11A-31 pretreatment also significantly ameliorated neuronal cell apoptosis and death. Moreover, we found that blocking p75NTR with LM11A-31 decreased the expression of inflammation-related transcription factors (NF-κBp65, C/EBPβ) and proinflammatory cytokine (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6 and iNOS) in the cortex and hippocampus. Furthermore, p75NTR knockdown induced significant changes in histopathology and inflammation-related transcription factors expression. Importantly, combined LM11A-31 adjuvant therapy significantly improved hippocampal neurogenesis.Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the p75NTR signaling plays an essential role in the pathogenesis of PM. Targeting p75NTR has benefit effects on PM rats by alleviating neuroinflammation and promoting hippocampal neurogenesis. Thus, the p75NTR signaling may be a potential therapeutic target to improve the outcome of PM.
“Low Cost" Negative Pressure Wound Therapy for Acute and Chronic Wounds Healing - About 3 Cases
Authors: SIFI Nazim , BOUGUENNA Ryad , KACI Lamia
Published: June 2021

Background: Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is an alternative to standard treatment of acute wounds (such as traumatic or post-operative wounds) but also in that of chronic wounds (such as ulcers or stage 3 and 4 pressure ulcers). However, the exorbitant cost of VAC (vaccum assisted closure) devices for our limited resources health facilities, and their unavailability led us to opt for a "low cost" solution using wall suction and disposable materials readily available in all surgical departments. Materials and methods: After surgical debridement in 3 patients with both acute and chronic lesions evolving in septic environment, we replaced polyurethane foam by that from surgical scrub brushes, the tubing and its suction port by nasogastric tube, the hydrocolloid for the protection of wound edges by tulle gras (vaseline gauze), the adhesive film ensuring sealing by an incise drape, and the therapy unit by wall suction and exudates collection bottle. We cut up the foam to make it correspond to the wound, in size and depth, and then, using straight forceps, we create a tunnel in it, large enough to allow the introduction of the nasogastric tube. We then carefully place the foam in the wound. After that, we proceed to application of incise drape to cover foam dressing and connect the end of the probe to wall suction system via suction bottle. Therapy is initiated by setting vacuum gauge to a continuously delivered negative pressure of -125 mmHg.Results: The size of all wounds reduced considerably and rapidly with the installation of budding granulation tissue which appeared as early as the first dressing change enabling subsequently the best possible conditions for directed healing or coverage procedures (skin graft or flaps). The healing was obtained for all our patients.Conclusions: In this "low cost" NPWT, the negative pressure produced by wall vacuum promotes effective management of acute and chronic wounds, including complex ones, by rapidly "producing" good quality granulation leading to healing, while reducing the cost of therapy, the number of dressings and the length of hospital stay.Trial registration: Retrospectively registered