bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Curcumin sensitizes prolactinoma to bromocriptine by activating the ERK/EGR1 and inhibiting AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway
Authors: Tang Chao , Zhu Junhao , Yuan Feng , Yang Jin , Cai Xiangming , Ma Chiyuan
Published: June 2021

Background

Although bromocriptine (BRC) as first-line drugs are recommended for treating patients with prolactinoma, a minority of patients with prolactinoma resistance to BRC. Curcumin (Cur) has been shown to inhibit proliferation of prolactinoma cell lines. The aim of this study is to investigate whether Cur could enhance the growth-inhibitory effect of BRC resistance on prolactinoma cell lines and its possible mechanism.
Methods

CCK-8 kit was used to test cell growth. Cell-cycle analysis and apoptosis was performed by flow cytometry. Electron microscopy was used to test autophagosome. The mRNA expression profiles were analysed using the Affymetrix Gene-Chip array. Western blotting was used to test protein expression. The SPSS version 17.0 software was applied for statistical analysis.
Results

Our data showed that Cur enhanced the growth-inhibitory effect of BRC on GH3 and MMQ cell proliferation. BRC and Cur both induced cell apoptosis, and Cur could significantly increase the apoptosis of BRC on pituitary adenoma cells through the ERK/EGR1 signaling pathway. Moreover, Cur could enhance the autophagic cell death (ACD) of BRC on tumor cell by inhibiting the AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway. The same results were confirmed in vivo study.
Conclusion

Cur sensitizes rat pituitary adenoma cell to BRC by activating the ERK/EGR1 and inhibiting AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway.
Presepsin and (1,3)-β-D-Glucan as a Tool for Predicting Candida Sepsis and Monitoring the Effectiveness of Treatment in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Dobias Radim , Kanova Marcela , Petejova Nadezda , Pisti Stefan Kis , Bocek Robert , Krejci Eva , Struzkova Helena , Cachova Michaela , Tomaskova Hana , Havlicek Vladimir , Hamal Petr , Raska Milan
Published: June 2021

Background: To improve the accuracy in invasive candidiasis diagnostics, a new biomarker panel has been developed and validated on a 165-patient cohort of critically ill adults.Methods: The serum levels of inflammatory biomarkers, C-reactive protein, presepsin (PSEP), procalcitonin (PCT), and of panfungal (1,3)-β-D-glucan (BDG), were correlated with culture-confirmed candidemia or bacteremia in 58 or 107 patients, respectively. The diagnostic effect of the host and pathogen biomarkers was expressed using sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV).Results: For invasive candidiasis, the best performing BDG exhibited 96.6% sensitivity, 97.2% specificity, 94.9% PPV and 98.1% NPV at a cut-off of 200 pg/mL (P ≤ 0.001). PSEP exhibited 100% sensitivity and 100% NPV at a cut-off of 700 pg/mL. Furthermore, PSEP was more accurate for 28-day mortality prediction (AUC = 0.74) than PCT (AUC = 0.31; PCT cut-off 0.5 ng/mL). Finally, PSEP showed a significant serum decrease as early as 14 days after echinocandin therapy initiation (P = 0.0012).Conclusions: At concentrations of BDG > 200 pg/mL and PSEP > 700 pg/mL, the probability of invasive candidiasis in critically ill adults is close to 100% defining a borderline between non-invasive superficial Candida colonization and invasive candidiasis.Trial registration: The study was approved by the University Hospital Ostrava Ethics Committee for Multicenter Clinical Trials (no. 448/2018) and registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT03584594), date of registration June 28,2018.
Carvedilol Versus Propranolol in the Prevention of Variceal Rebleeding in Hepatic Schistosomiasis: Efficacy and Safety
Authors: Razafindrazoto Chantelli Iamblaudiot , Razafindrabekoto Lova Dany Ella , Laingonirina Domoina Harivonjy Hasina , Raveloson Raveloson , Rasolonjatovo Anjaramalala Sitraka , Rakotozafindrabe Andry Lalaina Rinà , Rabenjanahary Tovo Harimanana , Razafimahefa Soloniaina Hélio , Ramanampamonjy Rado Manitrala
Published: June 2021

Background: The betablockers combined with endoscopic variceal band ligation (EVL) is the most effective prevention of variceal rebleeding. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of carvedilol compared to propranolol as secondary prevention of variceal bleeding in hepatic schistosomiasis. Methods: All patients with portal hypertension due to schistosomiasis presenting for EVL with at least one episode of variceal bleeding were included and randomized into propranolol + EVL and Carvedilol + EVL groups. Results: Sixty-one patients were selected and randomized into the propranolol group (n=30) and carvedilol group (n=31). We noted less recurrence of bleeding in the carvedilol group (n=1) than in the propranolol group (n=3) (3.33% vs 10%; p=0.30). Bleeding recurrence occurred after 30 days in the carvedilol group and after 5, 45 and 90 days in the propranolol group. At 4 months, a significant reduction in mean arterial pressure (-4.13 mmHg; 95%CI: -6.27 and -1.99; p <0.05) and heart rate (-12.13 mmHg; 95%CI: -13.92 and -10.35; p<0.05) was found in the carvedilol group. There was no significant difference between the two groups on the mean difference in mean arterial pressure. A patient in the carvedilol group presented breathing difficulty. No adverse effects have been demonstrated in the propranolol group. Conclusion: Carvedilol is as effective as propranolol in the prevention of variceal rebleeding in hepatic schistosomiasis.
Development and Psychometrics Test of Home Blood Pressure Monitoring Perception Scale for Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Zheng Jing , Wang Yamin , Zhao Wenbo , Li Huiqun , Shang Hongli , Pei Qianqian , Chen Yanru
Published: June 2021

Background: Home blood pressure monitoring (HBPM) has been proved to be beneficial to blood pressure control for both patients with hypertension and patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, what are the psychodynamic predictors like perception for the establishment and persistence of HBPM have not been deeply explored, and there is a lack of instruments for assessing psychodynamic characteristics on HBPM from patients’ perspectives, which has limited the in-depth understanding of HBPM behavior. The study aimed to develop an instrument for evaluating HBPM perception in patients with CKD, and to test the reliability and validity of the instrument. Methods: The original item pool of the HBPM perception scale was developed according to the framework of the health promotion model and literature review. The psychometric characteristics of the instrument were examined with a sample of 436 CKD patients in China. Internal consistency reliability, split-half reliability, test-retest reliability and construct reliability were used to verify the reliability of the scale. And content validity, construct validity and criterion-related validity were used to test the validity of the scale.Results: The expert consultation showed satisfactory content validity of the HBPM perception scale and produced a first draft of the survey with 43 items. By exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), we found evidence for the construct validity of the following factors: perceived benefits of HBPM, perceived barriers of HBPM, perceived self-efficacy of HBPM, situational influences and commitment to a plan of HBPM, and immediate competing demands and preferences. The finalized five-component HBPM perception scale has 27 items. CFA suggested the model fit the data well (ꭓ2=679.649, df=310, ꭓ2/df=2.192, root mean square error of approximation =0.074, confirmatory fit index=0.902). The HBPM perception scale was positively associated with the Self-Efficacy for Managing Chronic Disease 6-item Scale ( r= 0.256, p＜0.001). The Cronbach’s α coefficient of all dimensions was above 0.750, the split-half reliability was above 0.624, and the test-retest reliability was above 0.749. The construct reliability of dimensions ranged from 0.749 to 0.951. Conclusion Given reasonable psychometric properties, the HBPM perception scale is a valid and reliable instrument that can be used to assess the perception of HBPM.
Causal Relationship between Postoperative Recurrence and PD-L1 and EGFR Mutations in NSCLC: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Kojima Kensuke , Sakamoto Tetsuki , Kasai Takahiko , Kagawa Tomoko , Yoon Hyungeun , Atagi Shinji
Published: June 2021

Although information on the PD-L1 expression and EGFR mutations in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is important for determining therapeutic strategies, the causality between these two factors and postoperative recurrence and the association between each factor have remained unclear. We retrospectively assessed the PD-L1 expression and EGFR mutations in tumors of 280 NSCLC patients. The causality between the PD-L1 expression, EGFR mutations and postoperative recurrence were evaluated by a multivariate Cox proportional hazard analysis. The association between the PD-L1 expression and EGFR mutations was evaluated by a multinomial logistic regression analysis. The adjusted hazard ratio (HR) in cases with high (≥ 50%) PD-L1 expression was 4.83 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.51–15.5). The adjusted HRs in cases with EGFR major and minor mutations were 0.42 (95% CI: 0.14–1.25) and 0.63 (95% CI: 0.18–2.15), respectively. The high expression of PD-L1 (≥ 50%) was significantly associated with exon 21 L858R mutation (Ex21) of EGFR (adjusted odds ratio, 0.10; 95% CI, 0.01–0.87). The high expression of PD-L1 was an independent risk factor for postoperative recurrence in NSCLC, whereas EGFR mutations were not. The high expression of PD-L1 was negatively associated with Ex21. These findings may help identify NSCLC patients with an increased risk of postoperative recurrence.
Randomized Trial of Surveillance with Abbreviated MRI in Breast Cancer Survivors – Does it impact patient anxiety and cancer detection rate?
Authors: Seely Jean Morag , Fonseca Marina Mohallem , Alhassan Tasmeen , Nisha Yashmin , Koszycki Diana , Schwarz Betty Anne , Segal Roanne , Arnaout Angel , Ramsay Tim , Lau Jacqueline
Published: June 2021

Purpose: Abbreviated breast MRI substantially reduces the image acquisition and reading times and has been reported to have similar diagnostic accuracy as a full diagnostic protocol but has not been evaluated prospectively with respect to impact on patient anxiety in breast cancer survivors and cancer outcomes.Methods: This prospective controlled trial of parallel design was performed at an academic center on women with a personal history of breast cancer who were randomized into two groups: surveillance with MG or MG plus A-MRI. Primary outcome was anxiety compared between the two and measured by four validated questionnaires at three different time-points during the study. Other parameters including the CDR, abnormal interpretation rate (AIR), and positive predictive value for biopsy (PPV3) were compared between modalities of MG and A-MRI. Tissue diagnoses or 1 year of follow-up were used to establish the reference standard. Linear mixed models were used to analyze anxiety and Fisher’s exact test to compare imaging outcomes.Results: 198 patients were allocated to either MG alone (94) or A-MRI plus MG (104). Anxiety scores in all questionnaires were similarly elevated in both groups (50.99+/-4.6 with MG vs 51.73+/-2.56 with MRI,p>0.05) and did not change over time. MRI detected 5 invasive cancers and 1 DCIS, and MG detected 1 DCIS. MRI had higher incremental CDR(48/1000(5/104) vs MG 5/1000(1/198,p=0.01)) and higher AIR 25%(26/104) vs MG 4.5%(9/198,p<0.00001), with no difference in PPV3:MRI 28.6%(6/21)vs MG 16.7%(1/6,p=0.557).Conclusion:Compared to mammography alone, A-MRI had significantly higher incremental cancer detection in breast cancer survivors. Despite a higher rate of recalls and biopsies, A-MRI had no adverse impact on anxiety.
Biological efficiency and nutritional composition of Pleurotus djamor cultivated on bagasse of Agave salmiana
Authors: de Lucio Brianda Susana Velázquez , Domínguez Edna María Hernández , Jiménez Xochitl Tovar , Ortega Laura Sofia Castillo , Godínez Gerardo Díaz , Jurado Alejandro Tellez , Cervantes Jorge Alvarez
Published: June 2021

The objective of the present study was to use molecular techniques to identify a wild mushroom isolated from A. salmiana, and then evaluate its biological efficiency, production rate, and nutritional and morphological characteristics when grown on A. salmiana bagasse with various concentrations of urea as a source of nitrogen. Two types of inoculum were employed: in grain (WG) and pellet (WP) form. The substrate was supplemented with total nitrogen concentrations (TN) of 0.77, 0.95, 1.14, 1.32, and 1.5% to evaluate its effect on the biological efficiency (BE), production rate (PR), and morphological and nutritional characteristics of the fruiting bodies. The molecular analysis of the ITS region permitted the amplification of a product of 750 pb. The mushroom was identified as Pleurotus djamor. After supplementing the substrate with urea, a BE of 70% was obtained in the sample inoculated with WG at 1.32% TN. Observations found that the TN concentration of 1.5% produced malformations in the fruiting bodies. The analysis of the sporocarps indicated a raw protein content (RP) of 15–26% and that the mushroom’s nutritional composition changed according to the inoculum utilized and the percentage of nitrogen in the substrate. This is the first report on the isolation of P. djamor on A. salmiana as an atypical substrate, and so represents an opportunity for further study and commercialization. To its chemical composition and high availability, A. salmiana bagasse is a suitable alternative substrate for cultivating edible mushrooms, specifically P. djamor.
Microbial Methanol Sink of a Grass and a Flower Host Species From a Temperate Grassland
Authors: Kanukollu Saranya , Remus Rainer , Ruecker Alexander Martin , Tschiskale Caroline Buchen , Hoffmann Mathias , Kolb Steffen
Published: June 2021

Background: Managed grasslands are global sources of atmospheric methanol, which is one of the most abundant volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the atmosphere and promotes oxidative capacity for tropospheric and stratospheric ozone depletion. The phyllosphere is a favoured habitat of plant-colonizing methanol-utilizing bacteria. These bacteria also occur in the rhizosphere, but their relevance for methanol consumption and ecosystem fluxes is unclear. The estimated global methanol emission rate is considerably higher than those escaped into the atmosphere. Thus, methanol utilizers in the plant microbiota might be key for the mitigation of methanol emission through consumption. However, information about grassland plant microbiota members, their biodiversity and metabolic traits, and thus key actors in the global methanol budget is largely lacking.Results: We investigated the methanol utilization and consumption potentials of two common plant species (Festuca arundinacea and Taraxacum officinale) in a temperate and fertilized grassland. The selected grassland exhibited net methanol emission. The detection of 13C derived from 13C-methanol in 16S rRNA of the plant microbiota by stable isotope probing (SIP) revealed distinct methanol utilizer communities in the phyllosphere, roots and rhizosphere but not between plant host species. The phyllosphere was colonized by members of Gamma- and Betaproteobacteria. In the rhizosphere, 13C-labelled Bacteria were affiliated with Deltaproteobacteria, Gemmatimonadates, and Verrucomicrobiae. Less-abundant 13C-labelled Bacteria were affiliated with well-known methylotrophs of Alpha-, Gamma-, and Betaproteobacteria. Additional metagenome analyses of both plants were consistent with the SIP results and revealed Bacteria with methanol dehydrogenases (e.g., MxaF1 and XoxF1-5) of known but also unusual genera (i.e., Methylomirabilis, Methylooceanibacter, Gemmatimonas, Verminephrobacter). 14C-methanol tracing of alive plant material revealed divergent methanol oxidation rates in both plant species but similarly high rates in the rhizosphere and phyllosphere.Conclusions: The rhizosphere has been shown to be an overlooked hotspot for methanol consumption in grasslands. We also identified unusual methanol utilizers in the phyllosphere and rhizosphere. We did not observe a plant host-specific methanol utilizer community. Our results suggest a model for methanol turnover in which both the sources (plants) and sinks (microbiota) of a volatile are separated but in the same ecological unit.
Genome Wide Identification, Phylogeny and Expression Profiling Analysis of Shattering genes in Rapeseed and Mustard Plants
Authors: Afridi Mahideen , Ahmad Khurshid , Malik Shahana Seher , Rehman Nazia , Yasin Muhammad , Yasin Muhammad Talha , Hussain Adil , Khan Muhammad Ramzan
Published: June 2021

Background: Non-synchronized pods shattering in the Brassicaceae family bring upon huge yield losses around the world. The shattering process was validated to be controlled by eight different genes in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana, including SHATTERPROOF1, SHATTERPROOF2, FRUITFULL, INDEHISCENT, ALCATRAZ, NAC, REPLUMLESS and POLYGlACTOURANAZE. To obtain gene family & examine their expression patterns into fresh & mature silique, then completed genome wide identification, characterization, and expression analysis of shattering genes in B. napus and B. juncea.Results: Complete genome analysis of B. napus and B. juncea revealed 32 shattering genes, which were identified and categorize based on protein motif structure, exon-intron organization and phylogeny. The phylogenetic study revealed that these shattering genes contain little duplications that were determined with a distinct chromosome number. Motifs of 32 shattering proteins were also observed where motifs 6 were found to be more conserved. A single motif was observed for other genes like BrnS7, BrnS8, BrjS23 and BrjS26. Comparative genomics for synteny analysis was performed that validated a conserved pattern of blocks among these cultivars. RT-PCR based expressions profile showed higher expression of shattering genes in B. juncea as compared to B. napus. FUL gene was expressed more in the mature silique. ALC gene was not expressed in the fresh silique of B. napus but highly expressed in the mature silique. Conclusion: This study authenticates that shattering genes exist in the local cultivars of Brassica. ALC exhibited strong expression in both the mature and fresh silique of B. juncea. Our results showed that shattering genes expression occurred more in B. juncea as compared to B. napus. It also contributes to the screening of more candidate gene for further investigation and characterization.
Sine Scleroderma, Limited Cutaneous and Diffused Cutaneous Systemic Sclerosis Survival and Predictors of Mortality
Authors: Chaves Sebastien De Almeida , Porel Tiphaine , Mounié Mickael , Alric Laurent , Astudillo Léonardo , Huart Antoine , Lairez Olivier , Michaud Martin , Prevot Gregoire , Ribes David , Sailler Laurent , Gaches Francis , Adoue Daniel , Pugnet Gregory
Published: June 2021

Background: Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is associated with a variability of mortality rate in the literature.Objective: To determine the mortality and its predictors in a long-term follow- up of a bi-centric cohort of SSc patients.Methods: A retrospective observational study by systematically analyzing the medical records of patients diagnosed with SSc in Toulouse University Hospital and Ducuing Hospital. Standardized Mortality Ratio (SMR), mortality at 1, 3, 5, 10 and 15 years of disease and causes of death were described. Predictors of mortality using Cox regression were assessed.Results: 375 patients were included: 63 with diffuse cutaneous SSc, 279 with limited cutaneous SSc and 33 with sine scleroderma. The SMR ratio was 1.88 (95% CI 1.46-1.97). The overall survival rates were 97.6% at 1 year, 93.4% at 3 years, 87.1% at 5 years, 77.9% at 10 years and 61.3% at 15 years. 69 deaths were recorded. 46.4% were SSc related deaths secondary to interstitial lung disease (ILD) (34.4%), pulmonary hypertension (31.2%) and digestive tract involvement (18.8%). 53.6% were non-related to SSc: cardiovascular disorders (37.8%) and various infections (35.1%) largely distanced those from cancer (13.5%). Four significant independent predictive factors were identified: carbon monoxide diffusing capacity (DLCO) < 70% (HR=3.01; p=0.0053), C-reactive protein (CRP) >5 mg/l (HR=2.13; p=0.0174), cardiac involvement (HR=2.86; p=0.0012) and the fact of being male (HR=3.25; p=0.0004).Conclusion: Long term data confirmed high mortality of SSc. Male sex, DLCO <70%, cardiac involvement and CRP> 5mg/l were identified as independent predictors of mortality.
Complementary Food Hygiene Practice among Mothers or Caregivers in Bale Zone, Southeast Ethiopia: A Community Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Bedada Shumi , Tegegne Mekonnen , Benti Tomas
Published: June 2021

Introduction: Foodborne diseases are a major public health problem which predominantly affects infants and young children. Appropriate complementary food hygiene practice is very important to reduce the prevalence of foodborne illnesses. However, the information regarding this practice is not available and assessed before. Thus, the study was aimed to assess complementary food hygiene practices among mothers of children aged 6-23 months.Methods: A community based cross-sectional study was conducted in Robe town on a samples of 517 mother-child pairs, which were selected by using systematic sampling technique. Data was collected using pre-tested and structured questionnaire, and each variable was described in the frequency and percentage. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with complementary food hygiene practice. Odds ratios with 95% confidence interval were used to assess levels of significance. Result: The result indicated that 55% of participated mothers scored above the mean score of food hygiene practices. Mothers of children aged 12-23 months had higher odds to practice good food hygiene measures than those of aged 6-11 months [AOR, 1.82 95% CI (1.21, 2.73)]. Mothers whose children attended growth monitoring session practice good food hygiene than their counterpart [AOR, 2.74 95% CI (1.49, 5.06)]. Mothers having media exposure, and having knowledge on critical times of hand washing had relatively good food hygiene measures [AOR, 0.73 95 CI (1.14, 2.62)]. Among food hygiene measures; handwashing with water and soap were low before eating food (17%), before feeding children (21%) and before preparing food (32%) when compared with after visiting the toilet (81%) and touching dirt (68%). Conclusion and recommendation: The study identified that food hygiene practices in the current study were mainly associated with child age, growth monitoring follow-up, maternal awareness about critical times of hand washing, and media exposure. So, improving knowledge of mothers on critical times of handwashing, strengthening growth monitoring follow-up and media promotion are important measures to improve food hygiene practices among mothers of infants and young children.
Complete Genomic Sequence and Phylogenomics Analysis of Agrobacterium Strain AB2/73: A New Rhizobium Species with a Unique mega-Ti Plasmid
Authors: Hooykaas Marjolein J.G. , Hooykaas Paul J.J.
Published: June 2021

Background: The Agrobacterium strain AB2/73 has a unique host range for the induction of crown gall tumors, and contains an exceptionally large, over 500 kbp mega Ti plasmid. We used whole genome sequencing to fully characterize and comparatively analyze the complex genome of strain AB2/73, including its Ti plasmid and virulence factors. Results: We obtained a high-quality, full genomic sequence of AB2/73 by a combination of short-read Illumina sequencing and long-read Nanopore sequencing. The AB2/73 genome has a total size of 7,266,754 bp with 59.5% GC for which 7,012 genes (6,948 protein coding sequences) are predicted. Phylogenetic and comparative genomics analysis revealed that strain AB2/73 does not belong to the genus Agrobacterium, but to a new species in the genus Rhizobium, which is most related to Rhizobium tropici. In addition to the chromosome, the genome consists of 6 plasmids of which the largest two, of more than 1 Mbp, have chromid-like properties. The mega Ti plasmid is 605 kbp in size and contains two, one of which is incomplete, repABC replication units and thus appears to be a cointegrate consisting of about 175 kbp derived from an unknown Ti plasmid linked to 430 kbp from another large plasmid. In pTiAB2/73 we identified a complete set of virulence genes and two T-DNAs. Besides the previously described T-DNA we found a larger, second T-DNA containing a 6b-like onc gene and the acs gene for agrocinopine synthase. Also we identified two clusters of genes responsible for opine catabolism, including an acc-operon for agrocinopine degradation, and genes putatively involved in ridéopine catabolism. The plasmid also harbours tzs, iaaM and iaaH genes for the biosynthesis of the plant growth regulators cytokinin and auxin. Conclusions: The comparative genomics analysis of the high quality genome of strain AB2/73 provided insight into the unusual phylogeny and genetic composition of the limited host range Agrobacterium strain AB2/73. The description of its unique genomic composition and of all the virulence determinants in pTiAB2/73 will be an invaluable tool for further studies into the special host range properties of this bacterium.
Avoiding the “Great Filter”: A Projected Timeframe for Human Expansion Off-World
Authors: Jiang Jonathan , Rosen Philip , Fahy Kristen
Published: June 2021

A foundational model has been developed based on trends built from empirical data of space exploration and computing power through the first six plus decades of the Space Age which projects earliest possible launch dates for human-crewed missions from cis-lunar space to selected Solar System and interstellar destinations. The model uses computational power, expressed as transistors per microprocessor, as a key broadly limiting factor for deep space missions’ reach and complexity. The goal of this analysis is to provide a projected timeframe for humanity to become a multi-world species through off-world colonization, and in so doing all but guarantees the long-term survival of the human race from natural and human-caused calamities that could befall life on Earth. Beginning with the development and deployment of the first nuclear weapons near the end of World War II, humanity entered a ‘Window of Peril’ which will not be safely closed until robust off-world colonies become a reality. Our findings suggest the first human-crewed missions to land on Mars, selected Asteroid Belt objects, and selected moons of Jupiter and Saturn can occur before the end of the 21st century. Launches of human-crewed interstellar missions to exoplanet destinations within roughly 40 lightyears of the Solar System are seen as possible during the 23rd century and launch of intragalactic missions by the end of the 24th century. An aggressive and sustained space exploration program, which includes colonization, is thus seen as critical to the long-term survival of the human race.
Comparison of Two designs of Inverted F antenna in n78 band
Authors: Gharat Sarvesh
Published: June 2021

This paper consists of comparison of design of two inverted F shape antennas in n78 band (3500 MHz). The antennas shown in this paper have rectangular ground plate. First design has a conducting surface over ground plate which has an inverted F shaped strip in the same plane. The other design of antenna which is considered here has vertical shorting strip placed on it, which again has a rectangular plate perpendicular to it. Considering different parameters like radiation pattern, gain, VSWR and reflection coefficient here we will see the best results of both the antennas in n78 band and talk about the design which can be used in most of our applications
Hand hygiene practice and determinant factors among Community Health Care Providers in Community Clinic: an observational study in Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Md Hafizur , Hassan Md. Nazmul , Khan Md Shafiqul Islam , Hasanuzzaman Md , Awal Nurullah
Published: June 2021

Background

Healthcare-associated infections caused by poor hand hygiene (HH) practices can affect both the care seekers and the health care providers (HCPs) while providing primary health care. No study has been conducted on the compliance of HH practices among the primary level HCPs in Bangladesh.
Objective

The study aimed to assess the compliance rates of HH and its determinant factors among Community Health Care Providers (CHCPs) in Community Clinics (CC).
Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2019 to February 2020 among 150 randomly selected CHCPs with functional HH facilities in Patuakhali district, Bangladesh. Structured interviews and observation tools were used to collect data.
Results

Good HH compliance among CHCPs was found to be 16.7% (95% CI: 11.3–21.3). Out of all 1218 possible HH opportunities, only 255 (20.9%) resulted in any HH action. Presence of 70% alcohol-based hand sanitizer at the point of care (aOR: 6.4, 95% CI: 1.1–38.3), HH training (aOR: 4.6, 95% CI: 1.1–18.9), displayed visual cues (aOR: 4.4, 95% CI: 1.1–17.7), knowledge about HH (aOR: 3.8, 95% CI: 1.1–13.6, p = 0.04), and number of HH opportunities (aOR: 0.6, 95% CI: 0.4–0.8) were factors associated with HH compliance.
Discussion

Overall HH compliance among CHCPs was quite low. It was recommended to implement multimodal HH improvement strategies including a continuous training program, supply of alcohol-based hand rub, reminder, provision of five moments of HH in the training modules, and feedback on HH performance.
The Relationship between Double Burden of Malnutrition and Mental Health among Adult Females
Authors: Gholizadeh Mohammad , setayesh Leila , Yarizadeh Habib , Mirzababaei Atieh , Mirzaei Khadijeh
Published: June 2021

Background: The coexistence of overweight or obesity with concurrent deficiency of one or more nutrients, referred to as double burden of malnutrition (DBM). A number of mental health impairments have been associated with a wide variety of nutrient deficiencies. In the current environment, the co-occurrence of obesity, overweight and mental health impairments have emerged as a significant global health concern. Although DBM is relevant for a number of health outcomes, the ubiquitous involvement of vitamin D across multiple systems and tissues suggests D insufficiency as a viable target for nutritional modification. Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the contribution of DBM to mental health among adult females.Methods: Study participants included 231 females ages 18-59 years who presented to one of the 25 health centers in Tehran. Women were overweight or people with obesity and BMI ranging from 25 to 40 Kg/m2. The 147-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used to estimate their dietary intake. Body composition was measured by bioelectric impedance assay, anthropometrics including waist circumference (WC) hip circumference were determined and BMI was calculated. Mental health status was assessed using the depression, anxiety, and stress scales-21 (DASS-21). Venipuncture was performed to assess plasma vitamin D level and lipid profile. Results were analyzed by SPSS software.Results: The mean ± standard deviation (SD) age, weight, and BMI of the participants were 36.49±8.38, 80.89±12.45 kg and 31.04±4.31 Kg/m2, respectively. DBM was significantly associated with stress after adjusting for potential confounders including age, energy and marital status in the model 1 (OR;1.28, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.00-1.65 P=0.04) in comparison to crude model (OR=1.22; 95% CI=0.96-1.55 P=0.09). No significant relationship was seen among DBM and DASS-21 outcomes were observed. Conclusions: In this cohort, stress and DBM were significantly associated. However, the directionality of the relationship is unclear. Vitamin D insufficiency is associated with mental health and obesity in opposing directions. Whether vitamin D supplementation can decrease mental health impairments requires further evaluation.Registered number; IR.TUMS.VCR.REC.1398.819We intake register number in May of 2020
The effects of government ownership and the global financial crisis on implicit taxes of Chinese companies
Authors: Man Yoon Sung , Qu Di
Published: June 2021

The government has implemented various tax incentive policies to support the generation and growth of corporate profits, leading to what is known as an implicit tax. In actuality, there is no implicit tax phenomenon because this phenomenon occurs in a perfectly competitive market where there are no barriers to entry, transaction costs, or transaction friction. Since most Chinese companies are owned by the Chinese government and are not fully capitalist markets, the possibility of more implicit taxes is not expected to occur. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate whether the Chinese government’s ownership of enterprises and the global financial crisis have had an effect on the realization of the implicit tax phenomena. The results of this study are as follows. First, the pre-tax return on equity (PTROE) of listed Chinese companies had a statistically significant positive relationship with the pre-tax subsidy on equity (PTSE). Second, for companies with a higher level of Chinese government-owned interest, PTROE had a statistically significant positive relationship with PTSE; so this result shows that Chinese companies receive tax benefits, but an implicit tax in the market is not realized. Third, during the global financial crisis, the PTROE of Chinese companies showed an insignificant negative relationship with PTSE. In addition, companies owned by the Chinese government showed an insignificant negative relationship between PTROE and PTSE during the global financial crisis. This study provides policy implications that government ownership equity and macroeconomic events influence the level of freedom in a market economy.
Linguistic Signs in Slang Used in Drug Trading Transactions in Padang City
Authors: Astuti Amelia Yuli , Denafri Bram
Published: June 2021

The research discussed the linguistic sign in slang language used in drug transactions. Slang language was found based on interviews conducted with drug dealers and drug users in Ranah Parak Rumbio, South Padang subdistrict, Padang City. The aim of the research was to determine the signifier and signified found in drug slang language. Furthermore, the research determined the order of signification by analyzing the meaning of slang language based on its context. The data were obtained using the direct observation method. This was achieved by using interview techniques. The interviews were conducted with three informants. There were two men who used to be drug dealers and former drug users, and a woman who was an observer and anti-drug activist. Furthermore, the data were analyzed by using equalizing and differentiation techniques. Data analysis was carried out using semiotic by referring to the linguistic signs theory proposed by Saussure and the theory of order of signification by Barthes. In conclusion, it is found that slang is formed in word categories, abbreviations, and phrases. Then, the factors of language are also considered, such as time and place of the background, the number of participants in the interaction, talking topic, and interaction function. These factors then determine the use of slang terms between drug users and dealers.
Phonological Description of Teochew Dialect in Pontianak West Kalimantan
Authors: Thamrin Lily
Published: June 2021

The research aimed to describe the phonological system of the Pontianak Teochew dialect spoken by the Chinese community in West Kalimantan, including vocals, consonants, and tones, using descriptive method. The phonological escription in question included both phonetic and phonemic descriptions with the subject of language that objectively and accurately describes the current aspects of Teochew’s phonology. The phonetic system of the Pontianak Teochew language would be articulately identified based on the way sounds are formed by human speech tools, namely through consonants, vocals and diphthong. The research data were obtained from three Pontianak Teochew informants who used the Teochew dialect as their daily conversation language. The informants were around 70-75 years old. Based on the research results, there are 18 consonant phonemes, 88 vocal phonemes, and eight tones. The research results show that the Pontianak Teochew dialect has its own characteristics that distinguish it from the other regional Teochew dialects.
Developing Culture-Based English Instructional Materials to Improve Students’ Thinking, ELT Achievement, and Classroom Interaction
Authors: Prayati Zukhairatunniswah , Haerazi Haerazi , Irawan Lalu Ari , Vikasari Rully May
Published: June 2021

The research aimed to provide students’ learning and target needs of incorporating culture-based English instructionalmaterials in enhancing students’ critical thinking skills, ELT achievement, and classroom interaction at the Central Lombok middle schools. The research was a quantitative study. The 350 students and 10 English teachers were involved in the research. The average of students’ age ranged from 12-13 years old, while the English teachers were certified Englishteachers at the middle schools. They had also been from five to seven years of teaching practice experience. The data were collected using a questionnaire to see the students’ and teachers’ needs that were focused on target needs and learning needs. The target needs comprised the learning goals, lacks, and wants, while the learning needs included learning inputs, students’ roles, and classroom management. The data were analyzed using some steps; computation, display, drawing conclusion, and verification processes. Based on the data analysis, the target needs show that students are expected to get English proficiencies by providing them various cultural materials, namely local arts, traditional games, traditional rates, traditional technologies, and traditional pieces of literature. It can bring them to think critically to improve ELT achievement and build classroom interaction. At the same time, the analysis of learning needs informs that students need an appropriate English learning approach. They show they have an intention to be autonomous learners.
Orçamento Base Zero: uma análise da implantação em uma empresa brasileira de geração de energia elétrica
Authors: Tavares Ronaldo , Hattore Jéssica Ramirez , Garcia Elias
Published: June 2021

As organizações públicas têm empreendido esforços para melhorar a eficácia e tornar mais transparentes os seus orçamentos. A adoção de técnicas para o detalhamento de planos orçamentários não se configura como uma novidade no setor público, onde se constata a difusão do modelo de orçamento base zero. Este estudo tem por objetivo examinar o processo introdutório de implantação do método base zero proposto por Pyhrr (1977), assim como as percepções, vantagens e desvantagens encontradas em uma usina hidroelétrica. O estudo de caso foi elaborado na Itaipu Binacional, com uma abordagem qualitativa de análise de conteúdo. Conclui-se que o método proposto tem como vantagens a possibilidade de redução de custos, a melhoria na qualidade e disponibilidade de informações e proatividade dos gerentes; como desvantagem observa-se a dificuldade inicial da implantação devido à complexidade do método.
Acoustic Infrastructure: The Sounds and Politics of Radio Tests in American Emergency Broadcasting
Authors: Stuhl Andy Kelleher
Published: June 2021

Background: The Emergency Alert System (EAS) is an emergency broadcasting infrastructure that originated in American radio and serves as the basis for systems in newer media and in Canada. Its design of self-propagating acoustic signals anticipates a nation-scale catastrophe but also subordinates smaller crises.

Analysis: Adopting theory from infrastructural media studies, this article examines the reasoning and functionality evident in regulatory proceedings, broadcaster and media researcher assessments, and the sonic structure of test and warning signals.

Conclusion and implications: A machinic approach to addressing media publics took shape in the acoustic operations of the EAS. Tied to a deregulatory drive that has eroded radio’s emergency function, the EAS produces a suspended temporality that must be understood as a combined effect of the infrastructure, its content, and its context.
The Bridge Spanning Past, Present, and Future: Time Infrastructure
Authors: Shields Rob
Published: June 2021

Background: This article considers the temporal aspects and effects of infrastructure that bridges past, present, and future rather than connecting places or delivering services.

Analysis: Four “moments” of time infrastructure will be considered in the case of a reconstructed heritage wooden bridge: heritage sites that link to the past, undertakings that mark the present, endeavours that project the current society forward into the future, and the forgetful overlooking of infrastructure as a taken-for-granted and abject temporality.

Conclusion and implications: This requires a topological approach, studying “infrastructurality” as heterochronic and as a liminal “super-object” that transcends its normative presence and Euclidean dimensions.
Infrastructure that Sings: Kwawaka'wakw Social Media for Wild Salmon in the Broughton Archipelago
Authors: Roburn Shirley
Published: June 2021

Background: As an exercise in decolonizing infrastructural approaches to communications, this article applies the framework of “Two-Eyed Seeing” to the example of Kwawaka'wakw social media communications related to the occupation of fish farms in the Broughton Archipelago in 2017.

Analysis: Kwawaka'wakw social media communications worked to enact a “living infrastructure,” upholding reciprocal relations with salmon and ocean waters, in support of the mutual flourishing of the waters, salmon, and people.

Conclusions and implications: Kwawaka'wakw nations and their allies drew on social media to shift communicational channels beyond mainstream media. This supported Kwawaka'wakw in building relationships with broader publics, who helped pressure government to make change.
Sharbat- E- Unnab: A Review on Potent Unani Formulation
Authors: Anju , , Javed Ghazala
Published: June 2021

Unani System of Medicine is also known as Greco-Arabic medicine, and developed into an elaborate scientific medical system by Arab and Persian physicians, such as Rhazes (850-925AD), Avicenna (980-1037AD), Al-Zahrawi and Ibn Nafis. It is practiced in India since eighth century AD and is a recognized Indian traditional system of medicine with good infrastructure for education; research and manufacturing unitswhich are well regulated by the Government. In Unani medicine there are well developed pharmacopeia and pharmaceutical processings for single & compound formulations for the treatment of several local and systemic ailments. The most important formulation among various Unani formulations is Sharbat-e-Unnab, a Unani pharmaceutical preparation acting as Dafa-e-Sual (antitussive), Khashunat-e-Halaq (sore throat), Musaffi-e-Khoon (blood purifier), Musakkin-e-Hiddat-e-Khoon (suppressive blood heat) etc. Unnab (Ziziphus jujuba Mill. / Jujube) fruit is the main ingredient of the formulation. Unnab is also an ingredient of Unani Joshanda which has been recommended for relief in upper respiratory tract symptoms in mild cases of COVID-19. Few scientific studies related to Sharbat Unnab have been conducted in problems like Acne vulgaris and Primary Hypertension. Apart from this Unnab, the main ingredient has also been studied for its antioxidant and anti-cancerous activities. This formulation is being used by Unani physicians since time immemorial. Therefore, this paper will describe the brief review of the formulation along with its ingredient.

Keywords: Sharbat-e-Unnab, Unani medicine, Sharbat, Unnab, Ziziphus Jujuba Mill.
Targeting β-glucan synthase for Mucormycosis “The 'black fungus” maiming Covid patients in India: computational insights
Authors: Sharma Arun Dev , Kaur Inderjeet
Published: June 2021

Black fungus also known as Mucormycosis, has recently devastated some states of India. It has been declared pandemic now. Inhibitors of glucon synthesis pathways have been evaluated to curtail the Mucormycosis but still at infancy stage. Due to key role in glucon synthesis, in the present study β -glucan synthase has been regarded as a suitable target for drug design. In-silico docking and pharmacological study was designed to evaluate the effect of potent bioactive molecule 1-8 cineole present in essential oils of eucalyptus plant leaves against β -glucan synthase enzyme. Till date there is no work is undertaken on in-silico analysis of this compound against β -glucan synthase. Patch-dock analysis was used for docking.  Ligand Protein 2D and 3D Interactions were also studied.  Drug likes and toxicity profile was also evaluated. Cancer cell line toxicity profile was also studied. The calculated parameters such as docking score indicated effective binding of 1-8 cineole to β -glucan synthase -protein. Interactions results indicated that, β -glucan synthase enzyme and 1-8 cineole   complexes forms hydrogen and hydrophobic interactions. 1-8 cineole also depicted sufficient level of cancer cell line toxicity.  Drug likeliness profiles by assaying absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity (ADMET) studies provided guidelines and mechanistic scope for identification of 1-8 cineole as potent anti-fungal drug. Therefore, essential oil from eucalyptus may represent potential herbal treatment to act as anti-fungal drug.

Keywords: COVID-19, black fungus, Eucalyptus oil, Herbal Drug
Opioid Use Disorder: Screening, Diagnosis, and Management
Authors: Randhawa Privia , Nolan Seonaid
Published: June 2021

Over the past decade, the opioid crisis in Canada has been worsening. In 2019, over 3,800 people across Canada died due to an apparent opioid-related cause, which represents a 26% increase from just 3 years prior. Given North America’s ongoing opioid crisis, and the contribution opioid-prescribing practices have had to date, a critical need exists to ensure that health care providers are not only educated about safe opioid prescribing but also are knowledgeable about how to effectively screen for, diagnose, and treat an individual with opioid use disorder.
RésuméAu cours des dix dernières années, la crise des opioïdes au Canada n’a cessé de s’aggraver. En 2019, plus de 3 800 personnes au Canada sont décédées d’une cause apparemment liée à la consommation d’opioïdes, ce qui représente une augmentation de 26 % par rapport à seulement trois ans auparavant. Étant donné la crise des opioïdes qui sévit actuellement en Amérique du Nord et la contribution des pratiques de prescription d’opioïdes qui ont eu cours jusqu’ici, un besoin critique est à combler pour veiller à ce que les fournisseurs de soins soient non seulement formés sur la prescription sécuritaire des opioïdes, mais aussi bien informés sur le dépistage, le diagnostic et le traitement efficace d’un trouble lié à la consommation d’opioïdes.