bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early Detrusor Application of Botulinum Toxin A Results in Reduced Bladder Hypertrophy and Fibrosis after Spinal Cord Injury in a Rodent Model
Authors: Bushnell Juliana M. , Cates Lindsay N. , Hyde Jeffrey E. , Hofstetter Christoph P. , Yang Claire C. , Khaing Zin Z.
Published: October 2022

Following spinal cord injury (SCI), pathological reflexes develop that result in altered bladder function and sphincter dis-coordination, with accompanying changes in the detrusor. Bladder chemodenervation is known to ablate the pathological reflexes, but the resultant effects on the bladder tissue are poorly defined. In a rodent model of contusion SCI, we examined the effect of early bladder chemodenervation with botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A) on bladder histopathology and collagen deposition. Adult female Long Evans rats were given a severe contusion SCI at spi-nal level T9. The SCI rats immediately underwent open laparotomy and received detrusor injec-tions of either BoNT-A (10 U/animal) or saline. At 8 weeks post injury, the bladders were col-lected, weighed, and examined histologically. BoNT-A injected bladders of SCI rats (SCI-BoNT-A) weighed significantly less than saline injected bladders of SCI rats (SCI-saline) (241 ± 25 mg vs. 183 ± 42 mg; p<0.05). Histological analyses showed that SCI resulted in significantly thicker bladder walls due to detrusor hypertrophy and fibrosis compared to bladders from uninjured animals (339 ± 89.0 m vs. 193 ± 47.9 m; p<0.0001). SCI-BoNT-A animals had significantly thinner bladder walls compared to SCI-saline animals (202 ± 55.4 m vs. 339 ± 89.0 m; p<0.0001). SCI-BoNT-A animals had collagen organization in the bladder walls similar to that of uninjured animals. Detrusor chemodenervation soon after SCI appears to preserve bladder tissue integrity, by reducing the development of detrusor fibrosis and hypertrophy associated with SCI.
Interleukin 6 and Interferon Gamma Haplotypes Are Related to Cytokine Serum Levels in Dogs in an Endemic Leishmania infantum Region
Authors: Álvarez Luis , Rentero-Garrido Pilar , Marín-García Pablo-Jesús , Llobat Lola
Published: October 2022

Background: The Ibizan Hound is a canine breed native to the Mediterranean region, where leishmaniasis is an endemic zoonosis. Several studies indicate a low prevalence of this disease in dogs, whereas other canine breeds present a high prevalence. However, the molecular underlaying mechanisms yet remains unknown. Methods: In this study, we analyze the haplotypes of genes encode cytokines related to immune response of Leishmania infantum infection in twenty-four Boxer and twenty-four Ibizan hound apparently healthy using CanineHD DNA Analysis BeadChip including 165,480 mapped positions. Results: The results show that several haplotypes of genes encoding Interleukin 6 (IL6) and Interferon gamma (IFNG) are related to Interferon gamma (IFN-γ), and Interleukins (IL) 2 and 18 serum levels. Our results indicate that the regulation of immune response is different in the two canine breeds analyzed and are related to the haplotype compositions of the genes encoding these cytokines. Conclusions: Future studies are needed to elucidate whether these differences and haplotypes are related to different phenotypes in immune response and expression gene regulation to L. infantum infection in dogs.
SARS-CoV-2 Omicron (B.1.1.529) Variant: A Challenge with Covid-19
Authors: Mohseni Afshar Zeinab , Tavakoli Pirzaman Ali , Karim Bardia , Hosseinzadeh Rezvan , Babazadeh Arefeh , Hosseinzadeh Dariush , Rouhollah Miri Seyed , Sio Terence T. , Sullman Mark J. M. , Barary Mohammad , Ebrahimpour Soheil
Published: October 2022

Since the beginning of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, there have been multiple peaks of the SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus virus 2) infection, mainly due to the emergence of new variants, each with a new set of mutations in the viral genome, which have led to changes in the pathogenicity, transmissibility, and morbidity. The Omicron variant is the most recent variant of concern (VOC) to emerge and was recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) on November 26, 2021. The Omicron lineage is phylogenetically distinct from earlier variants, including the previously dominant Delta SARS-CoV-2 variant. Previous research has reported the most common clinical manifestations of the Omicron variant to be fever, runny nose, sore throat, severe headache, and fatigue. The reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test, rapid antigen assays, and chest computed tomography (CT) scans can help diagnose those with the Omicron variant. Furthermore, many agents are expected to have therapeutic benefits for those infected with the Omicron variant, including TriSb92, molnupiravir, nirmatrelvir, and their combination, corticosteroids, and interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor blockers. Despite being milder than previous variants, the Omicron variant threatens many lives, particularly among the unvaccinated, due to its higher transmissibility, pathogenicity, and infectivity. This review summarizes the essential features of the Omicron variant, including its history, genome, transmissibility, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, management, and the effectiveness of existing vaccines against this VOC.
Air Acoustic Sensing based on High-performance DAS and Ultra-simple Transducer Structure
Authors: Tang Jianfang , Hu Minghao , Zheng Xuanyu , Peng Fei
Published: October 2022

Fiber distributed optical fiber acoustic sensor (DAS) is generally used in distributed long-distance acoustic/vibration measurement. We found that DAS with excellent performance of low self-noise and anti-fading in combination with the plastic structure in daily life as an acoustic transducer can achieve high-sensitivity acoustic measurement at a single point rather than designing a state-of-the-art acoustic transducer or using special enhanced scattering fiber. The simple acoustic transducer we proposed for DAS can reach the sensitivity level of -106.5dB re. 1rad/μPa at a sensing range of 5.1 km, which can meet many demands on the industrial site.
PERAN KECERDASAN TERHADAP MINAT BERWIRAUSAHA GENERASI Z
Authors: Ani Muttaqiyathun  , Ema Nurmaya  , Yogi Saputra
Published: October 2022

Generasi Z adalah generasi yang dilahirkan setelah generasi Y atau generasi millenial. Sebagian besar peneliti memperkirakan generasi ini lahir dalam kurun waktu 20-25 tahun terakhir, meskipun banyak peneliti masih memperdebatkan mengenai persisnya tahun kelahiran mereka. Generasi Z ini sekarang sudah menginjak dewasa, bahkan sudah mulai banyak yang mewarnai dunia kerja terutama dalam bidang bisnis. Para pakar meyakini mereka akan menjadi pemutar roda perekonomian dunia dalam waktu dekat ini. Ketertarikan untuk menekuni dunia bisnis yang tinggi pada generasi Z inilah yang mendorong dilakukannya penelitian ini. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis peran beberapa jenis kecerdasan yang mempengaruhi minat berwirausaha bagi generasi Z. Obyek penelitian difokuskan pada mahasiswa yang tercatat aktif di perguruan tinggi di Yogyakarta pada tahun 2021 dan telah menempuh mata kuliah kewirausahaan. Sampel ditentukan sebanyak minimal 100 responden. Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan kuesioner melalui googleform. Selanjutnya analisis data dilakukan dengan menggunakan teknik analisis regresi berganda. Temuan dari penelitian ini bahwa kecerdasan intelektual, kecerdasan emosional dan kecerdasan spiritual berpengaruh positif signifikan terhadap minat berwirausaha pada generasi Z. Sedangkan kecerdasan adversitas dinyatakan tidak berpengaruh pada minat wirausaha generasi Z.
PERAN WORK-LIFE BALANCE DAN STRESS KERJA DALAM MENCIPTAKAN KEPUASAN KERJA SERTA PENGARUHNYA TERHADAP KUALITAS PELAYANAN YANG DIBERIKAN OLEH TENAGA KESEHATAN RUMAH SAKIT DI KARAWANG
Authors: Rizan Mohamad , Hanoum Farah Chalida , Kresnamurti Agung
Published: October 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pengaruh work-life balance dan stres kerja terhadap kualitas pelayanan yang dimediasi oleh kepuasan kerja perawat pada rumah sakit swasta di Karawang. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah survei kausal/penjelasan dengan data primer dikumpulkan melalui observasi partisipatif, wawancara, dan penyebaran kuesioner di food court/restoran/café yang beroperasi di beberapa rumah sakit di Karawang dengan menggunakan teknik purposive sampling dan penyebaran kuesioner secara kebetulan. Untuk total 200 responden, analisis data dilakukan menggunakan Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) dengan bantuan software Lisrel versi 8.80. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa: pertama, work-life balance berpengaruh positif signifikan terhadap kepuasan kerja. Kedua, stres kerja berpengaruh negatif signifikan terhadap kepuasan kerja. Ketiga, keseimbangan kehidupan kerja memiliki dampak positif yang besar terhadap kualitas layanan. Keempat, stres kerja berpengaruh negatif terhadap kualitas pelayanan. Kelima, kepuasan kerja berpengaruh positif besar terhadap kualitas pelayanan. Keenam, work-life balance berpengaruh secara signifikan dan positif terhadap kualitas layanan yang dimediasi oleh kepuasan kerja. Ketujuh, stres kerja yang dimediasi oleh kepuasan kerja berpengaruh secara signifikan dan negatif terhadap kualitas pelayanan. Penelitian memiliki keterbatasan generalisasi tertentu karena dirancang untuk melihat faktor-faktor yang mengikutinya. Disarankan dalam penelitian selanjutnya, objek di luar perawat untuk penelitian lebih lanjut harus dimasukkan. Dimungkinkan untuk mengembangkan model penelitian dengan populasi dan sampel yang lebih bervariasi karena dapat menjadi masukan yang berharga bagi perusahaan.
ROLE OF ISOVECTOR-ISOSCALAR COUPLING ON CHARGE RADIUS OF HEAVY AND SUPERHEAVY NUCLEI
Authors: Liliani Netta
Published: October 2022

We have investigated the effect of the isovector-isoscalar coupling on the finite nuclei and nuclear matter properties, the neutron skin thickness of 208Pb, and the charge radius on heavy and superheavy nuclei calculated by the relativistic mean-field (RMF) model. In this work, we generates two parameter sets, i.e., PTE16 and PTE31. The numbers 16 and 31 denote the isovector-isoscalar coupling terms, while T and E denote the tensor coupling and electromagnetic exchange terms, respectively. We found that PTE16 and PTE31 are compatible with the constraints obtained by R. Essick, et al., arXiv: 2102.10074v1 [nucl-th] (2021). We also found that the increase of the isovector-isoscalar coupling terms gives a significant effect on the binding energy and the charge radius on heavy nuclei except for the charge radius of 208Pb. Increased of the isovector-isoscalar coupling terms make the values of charge radius prediction increase too, but vice versa for the neutron skin thickness and nuclear matter prediction. PTE31 yields symmetry energy J = 31.521 MeV, slope L = 57.643 MeV, and neutron skin thickness = 0.21419 fm. While the β2 correction (for deform nuclei) does not always give a significant effect on the charge radius.
COVID-19 Testing in African American Churches Using a Faith–Health– Academic Partnership
Authors: Berkley-Patton Jannette , Thompson Carole Bowe , Templeton Turquoise , Burgin Tacia , Derose Kathryn P. , Williams Eric , Thompson Frank , Catley Delwyn , Simon Stephen D. , Allsworth Jenifer E.
Published: October 2022

Increasing access to COVID-19 testing in influential, accessible community settings is needed to address COVID-19 disparities among African Americans. We describe COVID-19 testing intervention approaches conducted in Kansas City, Missouri, African American churches via a faith–health–academic partnership. Trained faith leaders promoted COVID-19 testing with church and community members by implementing multilevel interventions using a tailored toolkit and standard education information. The local health department conducted more than 300 COVID-19 tests during or after Sunday church services and outreach ministry activities. (Am J Public Health. 2022;112(S9):S887–S891. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2022.306981 )
Peran penyuluhan pajak terhadap inefisiensi pemungutan pajak di Indonesia
Authors: Dewi Nova Sari , Mahi Benedictus Raksaka
Published: October 2022

Salah satu strategi dalam menghimpun pajak di wilayah Indonesia adalah melalui penyuluhan perpajakan sebagai upaya peningkatan kesadaran wajib pajak. Terbitnya PERMAN-RB No.49 dan PERMAN-RB No. 50 tahun 2020 menunjukkan fungsi penyuluhan pajak memegang peranan penting dalam penerimaan pajak. Studi ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pengaruh kegiatan penyuluhan perpajakan terhadap inefisiensi pemungutan pajak di Indonesia. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah Stochastic Frontier Analysis dengan pendekatan one step estimation pada 319 Kantor Pelayanan Pajak Pratama di tahun pajak 2017-2020. Variabel output yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah capaian realisasi penerimaan pajak, sedangkan variabel input yang digunakan adalah capital per labour. Penelitian ini juga menggunakan variabel kontrol yaitu kepadatan penduduk, pendidikan, jumlah tenaga kerja informal, jumlah Wajib Pajak (WP) UMKM yang terdaftar di Kantor Pelayanan Pajak (KPP), serta jumlah WP non UMKM yang terdaftar di KPP. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan tingkat efisiensi KPP Pratama di Indonesia dengan rata-rata efisiensi teknis tahun 2017-2020 adalah sebesar 89,45%, sehingga terindentifikasi 10,45% yang dapat dioptimalkan untuk mendapatkan tingkat operasional yang paling efisien. Penyuluhan pajak mempunyai pengaruh negatif terhadap inefisiensi kantor pelayanan pajak pratama
Pengembangan kualitas dan keunggulan kepemimpinan dalam organisasi: peran moderasi nilai-nilai kearifan lokal
Authors: Sahertian Pieter , Jawas Umiati , Kodrat David Sukardi
Published: October 2022

Various research results show that everything that is expected of a leader, what a leader can and cannot do, as well as the status and influence exerted by a leader is the result of the culture in the country where the leader performs his function. Therefore, to be an effective leader one must have the capacity that is obtained through developing leadership skills in the social context in which he is located. This study aims to analyze the effect of developing leadership skills and local wisdom values in forming leadership excellence in Indonesia. The research method used quantitative. The research sample was the leaders of Javanese, Sundanese, Betawi, Minang, Bugis, Batak, Madurese, Balinese, Banjar, Menado, Mataram, Flores and Papuan ethnic groups with a total of 710 respondents. A cluster and purposive sampling technique were used because the leaders as the unit of analysis were grouped into clusters based on ethnicity and region and then the leaders who were selected based on the objectives of the study. SEM analysis was used to data analysis and hipothesis testing.  This study shows that the development of leadership abilities and local wisdom values can significantly increase the dimensions of leadership excellence. Besides, the values of local wisdom are able to moderate the influence of developing leadership abilities on leadership excellence.
Race/Ethnicity-Specific Associations Between Breastfeeding Information Source and Breastfeeding Rates among U.S. Women
Authors: Quintero Stephanie , Strassle Paula D. , Tobón Amalia Londoño , Ponce Stephanie , Alhomsi Alia , Maldonado Ana I. , Ko Jamie S. , Wilkerson Miciah J. , Nápoles Anna María
Published: October 2022

Objectives.
To assess race/ethnicity-specific associations between breastfeeding information sources and breastfeeding initiation and duration.
Methods.
We used data from the 2016–2019 Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System. Race/ethnicity-stratified multinomial logistic regression was used to estimate associations between information source (e.g., family/friends) and breastfeeding rates (0 weeks/none, < 10 weeks, or ≥ 10 weeks). All analyses were weighted to be nationally representative.
Results.
Among 5,945,018 women (weighted), 88% reported initiating breastfeeding (≥ 10 weeks = 70%). Information from family/friends (< 10 weeks: aORs = 1.58–2.14; ≥10 weeks: aORs = 1.63–2.64) and breastfeeding support groups (< 10 weeks: aORs = 1.31–1.76; ≥10 weeks: aORs = 1.42–2.77) were consistently associated with breastfeeding initiation and duration across all racial/ethnic groups; effects were consistently smaller among Alaska Native, Black, and Hispanic women (vs White women). Over half of American Indian and one-quarter of Black women reported not initiating/stopping breastfeeding due to return to school/work concerns.
Conclusions.
Associations between breastfeeding information source and breastfeeding rates vary across race/ethnicity. Culturally tailored breastfeeding information and support from family/friends and support groups could help reduce breastfeeding disparities. Additional measures are needed to address disparities related to concerns about return to work/school.
Student Perspectives on the Use of Universal Design for Learning in Virtual Formats in Higher Education
Authors: Wells Melissa
Published: October 2022

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in higher education may be a useful tool in supporting the heterogenous higher education student population, specifically in supporting student academic outcomes and retention. Using survey responses of undergraduate degree-seeking students, this mixed-methods study explored the students’ perceptions and impact of UDL in virtual learning modalities (online courses, independent studies, and virtual study groups). Participants used a Likert-type survey to assess the student-reported prevalence of UDL techniques in higher education in various virtual learning modalities. Students also discussed the strategies that impacted their experience as learners and the mode of study in which they felt most successful. Implications for practice and research are also presented.
The investigation of resting-state functional connectivity of pulvinar in old age individuals and Parkinson’s patients
Authors: Velioglu Halil Aziz , AYYILDIZ BEHCET , AYYILDIZ SEVILAY , Sutcubasi BERNIS , Hanoglu Lutfu , Bayraktaroglu Zubeyir , Yildirim Suleyman , Sakul Ufuk , Yulug Burak
Published: October 2022

The pulvinar is largest thalamic nucleus and has been subdivided into anterior pulvinar (PuA), inferior pulvinar (PuI), medial pulvinar (PuM) and, lateral pulvinar (PuL). Although the function of pulvinar is well known, its role in neurodegenerative diseases is still unclear. We aimed to examine the functional connectivity of PuA, PuI, PuM and, PuL in healthy controls (HC) and patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Resting-state fMRI and T1 weighted images of 15 healthy control (HC), and 12 PD patients were used in this study. SPM12 and CONN software were used to preprocessing the imaging data using published pipelines. Seed based resting-state fMRI analyses were carried out to compare the functional connectivity changes between groups. Besides, voxel-based morphometry (VBM) analysis was performed to compare gray matter volume differences between two groups. The bilateral PuI, PuL and PuM exhibited a decreased functional connectivity in the PD group compared to the HC group in the bilateral thalamus, posterior cingulate cortex, cerebellum, and brainstem. Moreover, pulvinar nuclei in each hemisphere had significantly smaller volume in the patients with PD compared to HC. This study highlights that the patients with PD have a smaller volume in pulvinar nuclei in each hemisphere compared to HC. The pulvinar showed less connectivity in the PD group compared to the HC, the diminished connectivity may be associated with hallucination, executive function, and working memory dysfunctions in PD.
Fenton reagent oxidation treatment of nitropyrazole wastewater
Authors: Ming Liu , Shuai ZHANG , Rushui ZHENG , Linxiu ZHAO , Duanlin CAO , Fanfan SHENG , Yongxiang LI
Published: October 2022

In this paper, Fenton reagent was used to oxidize 3,4-dinitropyrazole wastewater, and the effects of FeSO4•7H2O dosage, H2O2 dosage, initial pH, reaction time and reaction temperature on the treatment effect were studied.The results show that the oxidation of Fenton reagent can effectively remove 3,4-dinitropyrazole from nitropyrazole wastewater. When the dosage of FeSO4•7H2O is 13.2g•L− 1 and the dosage of H2O2 is 82mL•L− 1. When the initial pH is 2, the reaction time is 120min and the reaction temperature is 30℃, the removal rate of 3,4-dinitropyrazole in the wastewater reaches 97%, and the removal rate of COD reaches 62.9%;The reaction kinetics study showed that the degradation of 3,4-dinitropyrazole in the reaction process conformed to the second-order kinetic model;UV-Vis absorption spectrum analysis showed that the absorbance of wastewater samples before and after treatment decreased significantly.After the Fenton oxidation treatment, the water quality of the wastewater changed and the biodegradability of the wastewater was significantly improved.
An estimation of the endoscopist's musculoskeletal injury risk for right and left lateral decubitus positions during colonoscopy: a field-based ergonomic study (S197)
Authors: Landry Maxim , Mackey Sarah , Hossain Intekhab , Fairbridge Nicholas , Greene Alison , Borgaonkar Mark , Cullen Kimberley , Pace David , De Carvalho Diana
Published: October 2022

Background
Colonoscopy exposes endoscopists to awkward postures and prolonged forces, which increases their risk of musculoskeletal injury. Patient positioning has a significant impact on the ergonomics of colonoscopy. Recent trials have found the right lateral decubitus position is associated with quicker insertion, higher adenoma detection rates, and greater patient comfort compared to the left lateral decubitus position. However, this patient position is perceived as more strenuous by endoscopists.
Methods
Nineteen endoscopists were observed performing colonoscopies during a series of four-hour endoscopy clinics. Durations of each patient position (right lateral decubitus, left lateral decubitus, prone, and supine) were recorded for all observed procedures (n = 64). Endoscopist injury risk was estimated by a trained researcher for the first and last colonoscopies of the shifts (n = 34) using Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), an observational ergonomic tool that estimates risk of musculoskeletal injury by scoring postures of the upper body and factors such as muscle use, force, and load. The total RULA scores were compared with a Wilcoxon Signed-Rank test for patient position (right and left lateral decubitus) and time (first and last procedures) with significance taken at p < 0.05. Endoscopist preferences were also surveyed.
Results
The right lateral decubitus position was associated with significantly higher RULA scores than the left lateral decubitus position (median 5 vs. 3, p < 0.001). RULA scores were not significantly different between the first and last procedures of the shifts (median 5 vs. 5, p = 0.816). 89% of endoscopists preferred the left lateral decubitus position, primarily due to superior ergonomics and comfort.
Conclusion
RULA scores indicate an increased risk of musculoskeletal injury in both patient positions, with greater risk in the right lateral decubitus position.
Role of chest CT scan in patients with preexisting cancer and COVID-19 Pneumonia
Authors: Khorasanizadeh Faezeh , Kaviani Soori , Salamroudi Shadi , SadatSeyedsalehi Monireh , Gity Masoumeh , Zendehdel Kazem
Published: October 2022

Background: Detection of COVID-19 in cancer patients is challenging due to probable preexisting pulmonary infiltration caused by many infectious and non-infectious etiologies. We evaluated chest CT scan findings of COVID-19 pneumonia in cancer patients and explored its prognostic role in mortality.
Methods: We studied 266 COVID-19 patients with a history of cancer diagnosis between 2020 and 2022. Chest CT images were reported based on Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) structural report and the CT score and pattern of involvement were noted. We used multivariate logistic regression models to determine the association between CT scan findings and mortality of the cancer-COVID-19 patient.
Results: The mean age was 56.48 (±18.59), and 53% were men. Gastrointestinal (29.3%), hematologic (26.3%), and breast (10.5%) cancers were the most frequent types of cancer. The prevalence of atypical or indeterminate findings in the chest CT was 42.8%. Most radiologic findings were consolidation mixed with ground-glass opacity (44.4%), pleural effusion (33.5%), and pure ground-glass opacity (19.5%). The risk of death was higher among those who had typical chest CT for COVID-19 (OR=3.47; 95% CI 1.14-8.98) and those who had a severity of score higher than 18 (OR=1.89, 95% CI 1.07-3.34). Also, presence of consolidation (P-value: 0.04), pleural effusion (P-value: 0.000), centrilobular nodules (P-value: 0.013) and architectural distortion (P-value: 0.005) were associated with a poorer prognosis.
Conclusion: Less than half of COVID-19 patients with a history of cancer had typical imaging features of COVID-19. Radiologists should be aware of atypical, rare, or subtle chest CT findings in patients with pre-existing cancer.
Do we properly quantify P from Mehlich 1 or Mehlich 3 extracting solutions?
Authors: Pogorzelski Denison , Santos Wedisson Oliveira , Pimentel Gabriel Grossi , Matias Patrícia Cardoso , Vergutz Leonardus , Ballotin Fabiane Carvalho
Published: October 2022

Aims
The performance of colorimetric methods for P quantification is usually overlooked by researchers and not suitable to errors. Here, we investigated the performance of two blue colorimetric methods for P quantification, Braga & Defelipo (1974) (B&D) and Murphy & Riley (1962) (M&R), using two commonly soil P extractants, Mehlich-1 (M1) and Mehlich-3 (M3).
Methods
Specifically, we evaluated the color development time and its stability in different soil extractant solution proportions (1:1 or 1:4 v/v), the optimum wavelength, limits of detection and element quantification.
Results
Our results indicate that M3 leads to lower limits of detection and quantification for both colorimetric methods, particularly for B&D. For M1, the volumetric ratio (1:1 or 1:4) did not influence color development and both B&D and M&R methods showed a fast color development. However, B&D showed greater color stability (from 5 to 600 min) and an optimum wavelength of 711 nm, while M&R was stable from 27 to 600 min an optimum wavelength of 889 nm. For M3 soil extractant, there are important issues, such as M&R being unstable and B&D presenting slow color development. In addition, the spectral profile obtained from soil extractant was different from the one obtained by the calibration curve without soil for both M&R and B&D.
Conclusions
Therefore, the adoption original methods on P quantification in M3 extracting solution represents a potential source of error, leading to wrong P fertilizer recommendations. Thus, the best option for P quantification in M3 extracts seems to be the use of ICP.
Acetyl-acetyl-L-leucine for Niemann-Pick type C: a multinational double-blind randomized placebo-controlled crossover study
Authors: Fields Taylor , Bremova-Ertl Tatiana , Billington Ian , Churchill Grant , Evans William , Fields Cassandra , Galione Antony , Kay Richard , Matheison Toni , Martakis Kyriakos , Patterson Marc , Platt Frances , Factor Mallory , Strupp Michael
Published: October 2022

Background
Niemann-Pick disease type C (NPC) is a rare autosomal recessive neurodegenerative lysosomal disease characterized by multiple symptoms such as progressive cerebellar ataxia and cognitive decline. The modified amino acid N-acetyl-leucine has been associated with positive symptomatic and neuroprotective, disease-modifying effects in various studies, including animal models of NPC, observational clinical case studies, and a multinational, rater-blinded Phase IIb clinical trial. Here, we describe the development of a study protocol (Sponsor Code “IB1001-301”) for the chronic treatment of symptoms in adult and pediatric patients with NPC.
Methods
This multinational double-blind randomized placebo-controlled crossover Phase III study will enroll patients with a genetically confirmed diagnosis of NPC patients aged 4 years and older across 16 trial sites. Patients are assessed during a baseline period and then randomized (1:1) to one of two treatment sequences: IB1001 followed by placebo or vice versa. Each sequence consists of a 12-week treatment period. The primary efficacy endpoint is based on the Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia, and secondary outcomes include cerebellar functional rating scales, clinical global impression, and quality of life assessments.
Discussion
Pre-clinical as well as observational and Phase IIb clinical trials have previously demonstrated that IB1001 rapidly improved symptoms, functioning, and quality of life for pediatric and adult NPC patients and is safe and well tolerated. In this placebo-controlled cross-over trial, the risk/benefit profile of IB1001 for NPC will be evaluated. It will also give information about the applicability of IB1001 as a therapeutic paradigm for other rare and common neurological disorders.
Trial registrations:
The trial (IB1001-301) has been registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05163288) and www.clinicaltrialsregister.eu (EudraCT: 2021-005356-10).
Association of the major dietary patterns with the risk of prediabetes among population from south-west of Iran: findings from Hoveizeh Cohort study
Authors: Sajadi Pegah , Hosseini Seyed Ahmad , Cheraghian Bahman , Mansoori Anahita
Published: October 2022

Introduction: Type 2 diabetes (T2DM) has become a growing concern in recent years due to its great risks for public health. Nowadays dietary pattern has drawn considerable attention regarding the relationship between diet and diseases. In the present study we aimed at identifying major dietary patterns and their relationship to prediabetes.
Methods: In this case control study 5377 individuals (1335 people with prediabetes and 4042 controls) were recruited from Hoveizeh cohort study part of the Persian cohort study. A semi quantitative food frequency questionnaire was used to collect participants’ dietary intake, and major dietary patterns were identified by factor analysis. Adherence to the patterns was divided in to quartiles and the relationship between dietary patterns and prediabetes was then assessed using logistic regression analysis. The correlation between patterns and components of lipid profile was also assessed by logistic regression.
Results: four major patterns were identified: 1) fruits and vegetables 2) traditional 3) Sweets and snacks 4) prudent. None of which was associated with prediabetes after adjusting for confounding factors. But fruits and vegetables pattern was associated with low HDL.c (fourth VS first quartile OR: 1.539, 95%CI: 1.094–2.164). Also prudent pattern was negatively associated with high LDL.c (fourth VS. first quartile OR: 0.769, 95%CI: 0.622–0.952)
Conclusion: although No significant association was found between identified dietary patterns and the risk of prediabetes, an association was found between fruits and vegetables pattern and low HDL.c in people with prediabetes due to high consumption of refined grains. There was also a negative association between prudent pattern and high LDL.c because of high amounts of olive oil and vegetable oil and low intake of hydrogenated oil and animal fat.
Study on Diagrid Structural System Used in High Rise Building by Using Etabs
Authors: Shajahan Mohammed , Hemalatha Chelpuri
Published: October 2022

Now a days. The reinforcement concretes frames are mostly used in the world. With increasing population, the land is scarce and expensive, where the high-rise building is representing the best solution for the solving the problem. The evolution of the tall buildings structural systems based on the new concepts with newly adopted high strength materials and construction methods have to developed the stiffness and lightness. recently diagrid system is adopted in the high rise building to improve efficiency and flexibility in architectural planning. In this study, the 4 models are prepared for the 12-storey building by providing open space core section in the structure is prepared with 4 different angles i.e., 50.2 0 (2-storey connection), 67.40 (4-storey connection module), 74.2 0(6- storey connection module), 820 (12 storey connection) from that finding optimum angle for the 12-storey model in all criteria. After the 12-storey building analysis, compare the results with the optimum angle for the 12-storey building and simple frame building in terms of storey displacement, storey drifts and materials consumption for different model and also apply the optimum angle for the 24-storey building of diagrid system compared with the 24-storey simple frame structure in terms of all criteria.
Dramatic Change in Crustal Thickness across the Taiwan Orogeny Constrained by Moho-refraction Recorded by Formosa Array
Authors: Shih Min-Hung , Lai Ya-Chuan , Lin Cheng-Horng
Published: October 2022

The Taiwan orogenic belt is formed by the strong convergence between the Philippine Sea Plate and the Eurasian Plate. The detailed mountain building process is still under debated largely due to the poor constraint of the deep crustal structures, particularly the geometry at the Moho-depth. Here the Moho-refracted P waves are identified from the seismic data recorded by a dense seismic array (Formosa Array) in northern Taiwan. Although the refracted seismic energy is often weak at each individual station, the waveform similarity recorded at the nearby stations provides a reliable constraint for estimating the apparent velocity recorded by the dense seismic array. The forward modeling of the observed Moho-refracted P waves shows a significantly larger crustal thickness (~ 52 km) beneath the Backbone Ranges than beneath the adjacent Hsuehshan Ranges (~ 36 km). Such a result is not only confirming the Moho variations along a few of the NW-SE profiles from the previous studies, but also showing the strong Moho variation is well extended along the NE-SW directions. The dramatic change in the crustal thickness across the Taiwan orogeny strongly indicate that the orogenic deformation in Taiwan might extend beyond the shallow crust, possibly involving in the deep crust and upper mantle.
Mutations in the nonstructural protein coding region regulate gene expression from replicon RNAs derived from venezuelan equine encephalitis virus
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Lin Guibin
Published: October 2022

Self-replicating RNA (repRNA) derived from venezuelan equine encephalitis (VEE) virus is a promising platform for gene therapy and confers prolonged gene expression due to its self-replicating capability, but repRNA suffers from a suboptimal transgene expression level due to its induction of intracellular innate response which may result in inhibition of translation. To improve transgene expression of repRNA, we introduced point mutations in the non-structural protein 1-4 (nsP1-4) coding region of VEE replicon vectors. As a proof of concept, inflammatory cytokines served as genes of interest and were cloned in either their wild type or several mutant replicon vectors, followed by transfection in mammalian cells. Our data show that VEE replicons bearing nsP1GGAC-nsP2T and nsP1GGAC-nsP2AT mutations in the nsP1-4 coding region significantly enhance transgene expression. Thus, the newly discovered mutant VEE replicon vectors could serve as promising gene expression platforms to advance VEE-derived repRNA-based gene therapies.
UK prescribing practice of anticoagulants in patients with chronic kidney disease: A nephrology and haematology-based survey
Authors: Parker Kathrine , Choudhuri Satarupa , Lewis Penny , Thachil Jecko , Mitra Sandip
Published: October 2022

A survey to gain insight into anticoagulant prescribing practice in the setting of chronic kidney disease (CKD) across the UK was disseminated via renal and haematology networks. Areas of anticoagulant use included patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE), requiring thromboprophylaxis for VTE, Atrial Fibrillation (AF) and nephrotic syndrome.
An online-survey was disseminated via British Haematology Society, UK Kidney Association, and Renal Pharmacy Group over a five month period. All responses were voluntary and anonymous.
Among 117 responses there were 49 nephrology doctors, 47 renal pharmacists and 20 haematology clinicians. A specialist multidisciplinary team to discuss the specific anticoagulant management of these patients was only available to 3% (4/117) respondents. Renal function estimate used for anticoagulant dosing was mainly Cockcroft-Gault for pharmacists and haematology but lab-based estimates were used by nephrology doctors. Therapeutic dose of Low Molecular Weight Heparin was mostly likely to be reduced by one-third when used for VTE treatment, with the majority of units undertaking anti-Xa monitoring in CKD stage 5 and dialysis. Direct-acting Oral Anticoagulants s are being used in patients with nephrotic syndrome, those with CKD stage 5 and on dialysis for VTE and AF in the absence of license in these indications.
This survey highlighted the significant differences between anticoagulant prescribing in CKD between two professional specialties and marked variation between centres in anticoagulant management strategies employed for these patients. With gaps still existing in the evidence base and answers to these not expected within the next few years, development of a best-practice guideline would be warranted to support clinicians in this field.
Modelling the seismic response of a maar volcanic structure
Authors: Labuta Martin , Oprsal Ivo , Burjánek Jan
Published: October 2022

In this study, we determine the properties of the maar volcanic structure using ambient vibration analysis. We performed several ambient vibrations surveys at Mýtina maar (West-Bohemia, Czechia) to map amplification by site-to-reference spectral ratios and to estimate average shear wave velocities by array methods. As the maar diatreme is formed by a deep concave body of broken rock, strong three-dimensional resonances develop. The site-to-reference amplification factors reach a value of 20 in the central part of the maar. Using the noise data, we demonstrate possibility of mapping the lateral dimensions of the maar infills by ambient noise measurements. To understand these observations, we developed a simplified 3D viscoelastic velocity model and simulated synthetic ambient vibrations by the finite difference method. The simulated response fitted both, measured fundamental frequencies, and the amplification levels. The maximum depth of the crater was estimated to be at least 800 m.
Comparative analyses and phylogenetic relationships of thirteen Pholidota species (Orchidaceae) inferred from complete chloroplast genomes
Authors: Li Lin , Wang Wanyao , Zhang Guoqiang , Wu Kunlin , Fang Lin , Li Mingzhi , Liu Zhongjian , Zeng Songjun
Published: October 2022

Background The orchid genusPholidotaLindl. ex Hook. is ecologically important as some species has long been used in traditional medicine. However, the systematic status of the genus and intergeneric relationships inferred from previous molecular studies are unclear due to insufficient sampling and lack of informative sites. So far, the taxonomy ofPholidotaremains controversial and only limited genomic information has been available. In this study, the complete chloroplast (cp) genomes of thirteenPholidotaspecies were sequenced and analyzed to gain insight into the phylogeny ofPholidotaand mutation patterns in their cp genomes. Results All examined thirteenPholidotacp genomes exhibited typical quadripartite circular structures, with the size ranging from 158,786 to 159,781 bp. The annotation contained a total of 135 genes in each cp genome, i.e., 89 protein-coding genes, 38 tRNA genes, and eight rRNA genes. The codon usage analysis indicated the preference of A/U-ending codons. Repeat sequence analysis identified 444 tandem repeats, 322 palindromic repeats and 189 dispersed repeats. A total of 525 SSRs, 13,834 SNPs and 8,630 InDels were detected. Six mutational hotspots were identified as potential molecular markers. These molecular markers and highly variable regions are expected to facilitate future genetic and genome studies. Phylogenetic analyses confirm that the genusPholidotais polyphyletic, with species grouped into four main clades:Pholidotas.s. was well-supported as the sister to a clade comprising two members ofCoelogyne; the other two clades clustered together with species ofBulleyiaandPanisea, respectively; speciesP. ventricosawas placed at basal position, deviated from those three clades. Conclusion This is the first study to comprehensively examine the genetic variations and systematically analyze the phylogeny and evolution ofPholidotabased on plastid genome data. These findings contribute to a better understanding of plastid genome evolution ofPholidotaand provide new insights into the phylogeny ofPholidotaand its closely related genera within the subtribe Coelogyninae. Our research has laid the foundation for future studies on the evolutionary mechanisms and classification of this economically and medicinally important genus.
Better together against genetic effect heterogeneity:
a sex-combined interaction analysis of testosterone
levels in the UK Biobank data
Authors: Lin Boxi , Sun Lei
Published: October 2022

The effect of a genetic variant on a complex trait may differ between female and male, and in the presence of such genetic effect heterogeneity, sex-stratified analysis is often used. For example, genetic effects are sex-specific for testosterone levels, and sex-stratified analysis of testosterone in literature provided easy-to-interpret, sex-specific effect size estimates. However, from the perspective of association testing power, sex-stratified analysis may not be the best approach. As sex-specific genetic effect implies SNP×Sex interaction effect, jointly testing SNP main and SNP×Sex interaction effects may be more powerful than sex-stratified analysis or the standard main-effect testing approach. Moreover, since individual data may be unavailable, it is then of interest to study if the interaction analysis can be derived from sex-stratified summary statistics. We considered several different sex-combined methods and evaluated them through extensive simulation studies. We observed that a) the joint SNP main and SNP×Sex interaction analysis is most robust to a wide range of genetic models, and b) this joint interaction testing result can be obtained by quadratically combining sex-stratified summary statistics (i.e. squared sum of the sex-stratified summary statistics). We then reanalysed the testosterone levels of the UK Biobank data using sex-combined interaction analysis, which identified 27 new loci that were missed by the sex-stratified approach and the standard sex-combined analysis. Finally, we provide supporting association evidence for nine new loci, uniquely identified by the sex-combined interaction analysis, from earlier association studies of either testosterone level or steroid biosynthesis pathway where testosterone is synthesized. We thus recommend sex-combined interaction analysis, particularly for traits with known sex differences, for most powerful association testing, then followed by sex-stratified analysis for effect size estimation and interpretation.
Nitrate-dependent anaerobic methane oxidation in subtropical mangrove soils and the environmental and ecological implication
Authors: Lin Ling , Wang Feifei , Cao Wenzhi
Published: October 2022

Nitrate-dependent anaerobic methane oxidation (N-DAMO) links the oxidation of greenhouse gases with the removal of nitrogen oxide, and such a linkage constitutes distinctive carbon-nitrogen coupling. This study utilizes a laboratory slurry incubation, carbon isotope tracing, and metagenomic techniques to explore the N-DAMO process in mangrove soils and measure its reaction rate. In addition, review on the N-DAMO processes in fifty-two different ecosystems around the world is conducted to further reveal the environmental and ecological impact of the N-DAMO process in mangrove soils. The results indicated that the N-DAMO rate in mangrove soil was 63.62 ± 0.39 nmol CO2-C g− 1 d− 1, and the N-DAMO process converted over 60% of the CH4 generated by mangrove soils to CO2. Without the N-DAMO process, the CH4 emissions of mangrove soils would increase by 2.5 folds. Moreover, the nitrogen removal rate of this process was 169.66 ± 1.04 nmol N g− 1 d− 1, which demonstrated an obvious purification effect. Hence, the N-DAMO process is critical to balance C/N values in mangrove soils. Existing studies have shown that high-levels of N-DAMO exist in rivers/lakes, peatlands, and wetland ecosystems. Among the wetland ecosystems, the rate of the N-DAMO process in mangrove soils is higher. This study deepens the understanding of coupling biogeochemical cycle of carbon and nitrogen and provides a scientific basis for an accurate assessment of blue carbon sink functionality in mangrove soils.
DNase I and chitosan enhance efficacy of ceftazidime to eradicate Burkholderia pseudomallei biofilm cells
Authors: Pakkulnan Rattiyaphorn , Thonglao Nuttaya , Chareonsudjai Sorujsiri
Published: October 2022

Biofilm-associated Burkholderia pseudomallei infection contributes to antibiotic resistance and relapse of melioidosis. Burkholderia pseudomallei biofilm matrix contains extracellular DNA (eDNA) that is crucial for biofilm establishment. However, the contribution of eDNA to antibiotic resistance by B. pseudomallei remains unclear. In this study, we first demonstrated in vitro that DNase I with the administration of ceftazidime (CAZ) at 24 h considerably inhibited the 2-day biofilm formation and reduced the number of viable biofilm cells of clinical B. pseudomallei isolates compared to biofilm treated with CAZ alone. A 3–4 log reduction in numbers of viable cells embedded in the 2-day biofilm was observed when CAZ was combined with DNase I. Confocal laser-scanning microscope visualization emphasized the competence of DNase I followed by CAZ supplementation to significantly limit B. pseudomallei biofilm development and to eradicate viable embedded B. pseudomallei biofilm cells. Furthermore, DNase I supplemented with chitosan (CS) linked with CAZ (CS/CAZ) significantly eradicated shedding planktonic and biofilm cells. These findings indicated that DNase I effectively degraded eDNA leading to biofilm inhibition and dispersion, subsequently allowing CAZ and CS/CAZ to eradicate both shedding planktonic and embedded biofilm cells. These findings may be applied in development of novel approaches for management of biofilm-associated infections.