bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Big data fuzzy C-means algorithm based on bee colony optimization using an Apache Hbase
Authors: Razavi Seyyed Mohammad , Kahani Mohsen , Paydar Samad
Published: May 2021

Clustering algorithm analysis, including time and space complexity analysis, has always been discussed in the literature. The emergence of big data has also created a lot of challenges for this issue. Because of high complexity and execution time, traditional clustering techniques cannot be used for such an amount of data. This problem has been addressed in this research. To present the clustering algorithm using a bee colony algorithm and high-speed read/write performance, Map-Reduce architecture is used. Using this architecture allows the proposed method to cluster any volume of data, and there is no limit to the amount of data. The presented algorithm has good performance and high precision. The simulation results on 3 datasets show that the presented algorithm is more efficient than other big data clustering methods. Also, the results of our algorithm execution time on huge datasets are much better than other big data clustering approaches.
Firms’ participation in the Swiss COVID-19 loan programme
Authors: Fuhrer Lucas Marc , Ramelet Marc-Antoine , Tenhofen Jörn
Published: May 2021

This paper analyses the determinants of firm participation in the Swiss COVID-19 loan programme, which aims to bridge firms’ liquidity shortfalls that have resulted from the pandemic. State-guaranteed COVID-19 loans are widely used by Swiss firms, with 20% of all firms participating, resulting in a sizeable programme of 2.4% of GDP. We use a comprehensive dataset to study the determinants of firm participation. Our results can be summarised as follows. First, participation was largely driven by the exposure of a firm to lockdown restrictions and to the intensity of the virus in the specific region. Second, we show that firms associated with lower liquidity ratios had a significantly higher probability of participating in the programme. Third, we find no clear evidence that firm indebtedness affected participation in the programme and no evidence that pre-existing potential “zombie firms” participated more strongly in the loan programme. Fourth, we show that the programme reached younger and smaller firms, which could be financially more vulnerable as they are less likely to obtain outside finance during a crisis. Overall, we conclude that given its objective, the programme appears to be successful.
Guillain-Barre syndrome in 220 patients with COVID-19
Authors: Finsterer Josef , Scorza Fulvio A.
Published: May 2021

This review summarises and discusses recent findings concerning the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and outcome of SARS-CoV-2-associated Guillain-Barre syndrome (SC2-GBS). By the end of December 2020, at least 220 patients with SC2-GBS have been published in 95 papers. SC2-GBS is most likely secondary due to an immune reaction against SARS-CoV-2 since the virus has not been found in the CSF of any SC2-GBS patient so far reported. SC2-GBS occurs in each age group and does not differ from non-SC2-GBS regarding clinical presentation and treatment, but the outcome of SC2-GBS is worse compared to non-CS2-GBS patients, and the prevalence/incidence of GBS most likely increased since the outbreak of the pandemic. Early diagnosis of SC2-GBS is warranted to apply appropriate treatment in due time and to improve the overall outcome from the infection.
An investigation about chronic prostatitis in ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Deves Eduardo , Novotny Rodrigo , Barazzetti Fernando Hartmann , Scheffer Mara Cristina , Pacheco Letícia Kramer , Zimmermann Adriana Fontes , Pereira Ivânio Alves , Bazzo Maria Luiza , Neves Fabricio Souza
Published: May 2021

Background

Chronic prostatitis has been a common disease reported with high frequency in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) even from decades ago. Infectious (Chlamydia trachomatis) or non-infectious (uric acid) prostatitis can hypothetically trigger vertebral inflammation in AS. This study aimed to assess the features of chronic prostatitis in patients with AS compared to healthy controls.

Methods

A cross-sectional study including male patients with AS and healthy controls who agreed to undergo a prostate examination was conducted. Structured clinical interviews, prostate physical examinations, and cytological, biochemical, and microbiological tests on urinary samples collected before and after standardized prostatic massage (pre- and post-massage test) were performed.

Results

Ninety participants (45 AS patients, mean age: 52.5 ± 10.0 years, with longstanding disease, 12.4 ± 6.9 years, and 45 controls, mean age: 52.8 ± 12.1 years) were included. National Institutes of Health - Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI) scores were similar in the AS and control groups (4.0 [1.0–12.0] vs. 5.0 [1.0–8.5], p = 0.994). The frequencies of symptoms of chronic prostatitis (NIH-CPSI Pain Domain ≥4) were also similar in both groups (23.3% vs. 22.7%, p = 0.953). Results of polymerase chain reaction tests for Chlamydia trachomatis were negative in all tested urinary samples, and uric acid concentrations and leukocyte counts were similar in all pre- and post-massage urinary samples.

Conclusions

In this study, chronic prostatitis occurred in male patients with AS, but its frequency and characteristics did not differ from those found in the healthy male population of similar age.
Association mapping and domestication analysis to dissect genetic improvement process of upland cotton yield-related traits in China
Authors: GUO Chunping , PAN Zhenyuan , YOU Chunyuan , ZHOU Xiaofeng , HUANG Cong , SHEN Chao , ZHAO Ruihai , YANG Qingyong , ZHU Longfu , SHAHZAD Raheel , MENG Fande , LIN Zhongxu , NIE Xinhui
Published: May 2021

Background

Cotton fiber yield is a complex trait, which can be influenced by multiple agronomic traits. Unravelling the genetic basis of cotton fiber yield-related traits contributes to genetic improvement of cotton.

Results

In this study, 503 upland cotton varieties covering the four breeding stages (BS1–BS4, 1911–2011) in China were used for association mapping and domestication analysis. One hundred and forty SSR markers significantly associated with ten fiber yield-related traits were identified, among which, 29 markers showed an increasing trend contribution to cotton yield-related traits from BS1 to BS4, and 26 markers showed decreased trend effect. Four favorable alleles of 9 major loci (R2 ≥ 3) were strongly selected during the breeding stages, and the candidate genes of the four strongly selected alleles were predicated according to the gene function annotation and tissue expression data.

Conclusions

The study not only uncovers the genetic basis of 10 cotton yield-related traits but also provides genetic evidence for cotton improvement during the cotton breeding process in China.
Research frameworks, methodologies, and assessment methods concerning the adaptive reuse of architectural heritage: a review
Authors: Li Yuan , Zhao Long , Huang Jingxiong , Law Andrew
Published: May 2021

With the growing trend towards preserving global architectural heritage, the adaptive reuse of built heritage buildings is becoming increasingly popular; as commentators have noted, this popularity can in part be attributed to the economic, cultural, and social benefits they provide to urban communities. In considering adaptive reuse, urban developers and planners seek to reach an equilibrium in the battle between time and space. Both academically and practically, the adaptive reuse of heritage buildings requires compatible, appropriate, and scientific means for assessing built heritage assets; however, currently, research in this area is still relatively meagre. To address this gap, this paper investigates research frameworks, methodologies, and assessment methods that concern the adaptive reuse of architectural heritage. In this paper, we examine the current literature on the paradigms for applying mixed methodologies: the multi-criteria decision model (MCDM) and the preference measurement model (PMM). Specifically, in examining the extant literature, we explore the ways in which these methods are discussed, compared, and evaluated, and the positive functions of these methods are also highlighted. In addition, this review examines a range of cases to better clarify the research frameworks, methodologies, and assessment methods used in the study of the adaptive reuse of architectural heritage.
Pembrolizumab Plus Ipilimumab Following Anti-PD-1/L1 Failure in Melanoma
Authors: Olson Daniel J. , Eroglu Zeynep , Brockstein Bruce , Poklepovic Andrew S. , Bajaj Madhuri , Babu Sunil , Hallmeyer Sigrun , Velasco Mario , Lutzky Jose , Higgs Emily , Bao Riyue , Carll Timothy C. , Labadie Brian , Krausz Thomas , Zha Yuanyuan , Karrison Theodore , Sondak Vernon K. , Gajewski Thomas F. , Khushalani Nikhil I. , Luke Jason J.
Published: May 2021

PURPOSE

Combination of antiprogrammed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) plus anti–cytotoxic T-cell lymphocyte-4 (anti-CTLA-4) immunotherapy shows greater response rates (RRs) than anti-PD-1 antibody alone in melanoma, but RR after initial anti-PD-1 and programmed death ligand-1 (PD-L1) antibody progression awaits robust investigation. Anti-CTLA-4 antibody alone after anti-PD-1/L1 antibody progression has a historical RR of 13%. We report the results of the first prospective clinical trial evaluating ipilimumab 1 mg/kg plus pembrolizumab following progression on anti-PD-1 immunotherapy.

METHODS

Patients with advanced melanoma who had progressed on anti-PD-1/L1 antibody as immediate prior therapy (including non–anti-CTLA-4 antibody combinations) were eligible. Patients received pembrolizumab 200 mg plus ipilimumab 1 mg/kg once every 3 weeks for four doses, followed by pembrolizumab monotherapy. The primary end point was RR by irRECIST. After 35 patients, the trial met the primary end point and was expanded to enroll a total of 70 patients to better estimate the RR.

RESULTS

Prior treatments included 60 on anti-PD-1 antibody alone and 10 on anti-PD-1/L1 antibody–based combinations. Thirteen patients had progressed in the adjuvant setting. The median length of prior treatment with anti-PD-1/L1 antibody was 4.8 months. Response assessments included five complete and 15 partial responses, making the irRECIST RR 29% among the entire trial population. The median progression-free survival was 5.0 months, and the median overall survival was 24.7 months. The median duration of response was 16.6 months. There was no difference in median time on prior anti-PD1/L1 or time to PD1 + CTLA4 initiation between responders and nonresponders. Grade 3-4 drug-related adverse events occurred in 27% of patients. Responses occurred in PD-L1–negative, non-T-cell–inflamed, and intermediate tumor phenotypes.

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge, this is the first prospective study in melanoma of pembrolizumab plus low-dose ipilimumab after anti-PD-1/L1 immunotherapy failure, demonstrating significant antitumor activity and tolerability.
Towards establishing extracellular vesicle-associated RNAs as biomarkers for HER2+ breast cancer
Authors: Hisey Colin L. , Tomek Petr , Nursalim Yohanes N.S. , Chamley Lawrence W. , Leung Euphemia
Published: May 2021

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are emerging as key players in breast cancer progression and hold immense promise as cancer biomarkers. However, difficulties in obtaining sufficient quantities of EVs for the identification of potential biomarkers hampers progress in this area. To circumvent this obstacle, we cultured BT-474 breast cancer cells in a two-chambered bioreactor with CDM-HD serum replacement to significantly improve the yield of cancer cell-associated EVs and eliminate bovine EV contamination. Cancer-relevant mRNAs BIRC5 (Survivin) and YBX1, as well as long-noncoding RNAs HOTAIR, ZFAS1, and AGAP2-AS1 were detected in BT-474 EVs by quantitative RT-PCR. Bioinformatics meta-analyses showed that BIRC5 and HOTAIR RNAs were substantially upregulated in breast tumours compared to non-tumour breast tissue, warranting further studies to explore their usefulness as biomarkers in patient EV samples. We envision this effective procedure for obtaining large amounts of cancer-specific EVs will accelerate discovery of EV-associated RNA biomarkers for cancers including HER2+ breast cancer.
Cytotoxic T cells response with decreased CD4/CD8 ratio during mammary tumors inhibition in rats induced by non-contact electric fields
Authors: Alamsyah Firman , Pratiwi Rarastoeti , Firdausi Nisrina , Irene Mesak Pello Jessica , Evi Dwi Nugraheni Subekti , Ghitha Fadhlurrahman Ahmad , Nurhidayat Luthfi , Purwo Taruno Warsito
Published: May 2021

Background: Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide and is the leading cause of death amongst women with cancer. One novel therapy used for breast cancer treatment constitutes non-contact electric fields and is called electro-capacitive cancer therapy (ECCT) with intermediate frequency and low intensity. The objective of this study was to examine the effect of ECCT on mammary tumors growth in rats and observing the immune responses that play a role in fighting the tumor.

Methods: Female SD rats were used and divided into four groups, namely control (NINT), placebo (NIT), non- therapy (INT), and therapy (IT) groups with 6 biological replicates in each group. Rats in INT and IT groups were treated with 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene for mammary tumor induction. Only rats in NIT and IT groups were exposed to ECCT individually for 10 hours per day for 21 days. The size of all tumors was measured with a digital caliper. The distributions of PCNA, ErbB2, caspase-3, CD68, CD4, and CD8-positive cells were observed with immunohistochemistry and scoring with ImageJ.

Results: The growth rate of mammary tumors in IT group was significantly lower (p<0.05) than that in INT group. The number of mitotic figures and the percentage of PCNA, caspase-3, and CD68-positive cells in IT group were significantly lower (p<0.05) than those in INT group. Conversely, the percentage of CD8-positive T cells in IT group was significantly higher (p<0.05) than that in INT group. Moreover, the CD4/CD8 ratio in IT group was found to have decreased. Some tumor tissues were blackened and detached from the surrounding tissue, resulting in an open wound which then healed upon exposure.

Conclusions: Non-contact electric fields exposure showed inhibition on mammary tumor growth in rats while inducing CD8+ T cells, leading to tumor cell death and potentially helping wounds heal.
The impact of Indonesian oil price (CPI) and macroeconomics on investments in the manufacturing sector in Indonesia
Authors: Handri Handri , Mulyaningsih Hendrati Dwi , Hidayat Achmad Kemal , Kurniawan Rudi , Rachmawati Ani Wahyu
Published: May 2021

Background: Indonesia consumes oil as the main energy source in the production process and as a result of the development of the manufacturing industry. Thus, investment in manufacturing stocks will be affected by oil price fluctuations and macroeconomic conditions. Changes in oil prices will affect the performance of the manufacturing sector which in turn affects manufacturing stock prices. This paper aims to examine the impact of Indonesia's oil price shocks and macroeconomic factors on stock price movements in the manufacturing sector.

Methods: This study uses monthly data for the 2009-2016 period in the manufacturing sector, and 67 stocks were selected on the basis consistently available in the period of the research. The cointegration and causality technique was used in this paper; firstly we applied a unit-panel root test, Secondly, we performed a residual test to indicate whether there was cointegration among variables in the long run equilibrium, and short the short run, we used a Granger causality test.

Results: The panel unit root test (both Shin and Fisher) and the Pedroni cointegration residual test show that the data is stationary at 1%  level of significance, thus all variables simultaneously achieve long-run equilibrium, and in the short run, the Granger causality test shows that there is one way direction causality

Conclusions: For long-term investment in manufacturing stocks, investors must consider the exchange rate, as it is also as a determining factor in influencing the movement of manufacturing stock prices, inflation, and the production index. Meanwhile, weakening of the rupiah in the short run will also determine investment conditions due to the dependency on raw materials for production from foreign sources. The price of oil as an energy source in the manufacturing sector does not have a long-term relationship with other variables.
Brace versus cast following surgical treatment of distal radial fracture: a prospective randomised study comparing quality of recovery
Authors: Sellbrant Irén , Blomstrand Johanna , Karlsson Jon , Nellgård Bengt , Jakobsson Jan
Published: May 2021

Background: Immobilisation following surgical treatment of distal radial fractures (DRF) is traditionally performed with a dorsal cast splint. There is an interest in changing the rigid cast to a removable brace. This can reduce the risk for cast-corrections, complications and improve recovery of function.

The aim of the study was to compare quality of recovery (QoR) between brace and traditional cast for immobilisation during the first postoperative week.

Methods: 60 patients with American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status 1–3, scheduled for surgical treatment of DRF under a supraclavicular block (SCB) in a day-surgery setting were randomised into two groups of immobilisation post-surgery; brace (n=30) versus traditional cast (n=30). Study objectives were: differences in self-assessed QoR using the QoR-15 questionnaire, postoperative oral oxycodone consumption, perioperative time events and unplanned healthcare contacts one week postoperatively.

Results: 54 patients, 46 females/eight males were included in the analysis; 27 with brace and 27 with traditional cast. QoR-15 sum median scores improved significantly from baseline/preoperative to day 7 (brace p=0.001, cast p=0.001) with no differences between the two groups. The only difference found was that patients in the brace group had significantly worse pain score 24-hours post-surgery (p=0.022). No significant differences were seen in sum median oxycodone consumption the first three postoperative days. No differences were found in perioperative events or unplanned healthcare contacts.

Conclusions: Brace appears to be a feasible option to traditional cast for immobilisation following surgical treatment of DRF. The early QoR was similar in both groups apart from more pain in the brace group the first 24 postoperative hours.
Male genital injuries attending a tertiary hospital in a western region of Nepal: A two-year snapshot.
Authors: Atreya Alok , Baral Suman , Menezes Ritesh G , Nepal Samata
Published: May 2021

Background: Male genital injuries are urological emergencies which if not promptly treated with correct therapeutic intervention may lead to chances of loss of fertility due to infections and anatomical disruption of normalcy. This study highlights the clinical scenarios, etiology and outcome of male genital injury cases that were managed at a tertiary care center in Nepal. Such injuries are not frequently encountered as lack of reporting by patients means cases are rare. The present study is the first from Nepal which depicts a comprehensive report on male genital injuries.  

Methods: A retrospective analysis of discharge summaries was carried out and the cases of male genital injuries were reviewed during June 2020. All the treated cases during the two-year period from April 2018 to April 2020 at Lumbini Medical College, Nepal were included in the study. 

Results: There were eight cases of genital trauma admitted and treated during the study period. All the patients were males and age ranged from six to 71 years with a mean age of 33 ± 21.45 years. Fall injury and road traffic accidents (RTA) were observed to be the primary cause in the majority of cases. 

Conclusion: Superficial injuries to the penis and scrotum do not require surgical exploration and could be managed conservatively. However, deeper and complicated injuries, testicular preservation, the functionality of the part and cosmetic issues are taken into consideration which might require a multi-disciplinary approach. Apart from the medical issues pertaining to genital injuries, there are legal and psychological aspects of such events too which should not be ignored.
Interprofessional diabetes and oral health management: what do primary healthcare professionals think?
Authors: Lau Phyllis , Tran Anthony , Chen Matthew , Boyce Evelyn , Martin Rachel , Calache Hanny
Published: May 2021

Background: Diabetes and periodontitis have a bi-directional relationship. And yet, collaborations between primary healthcare practitioners in diabetes and oral health care are minimal. This study explored the views of general practice and oral health professionals on the link between diabetes and periodontitis, and interprofessional diabetes and oral health management.

Methods: A sequential mixed-methods exploratory research design was used. General practice and oral health professionals were recruited from four community health centres in Melbourne. Quantitative surveys explored participants’ experiences, attitudes and knowledge of diabetes and oral health management and interprofessional collaboration; qualitative follow-up interviews explored survey responses with selected participants.

Results: 58 participants completed the online surveys; 22 then participated in semi-structured interviews. Participants generally had strong intentions to collaborate interprofessionally in diabetes and oral health management. Most general practice and oral health professional participants were willing to perform simple screening for periodontitis or diabetes respectively. Themes from the interviews were grouped under three domains: ‘attitude towards diabetes and oral health management’, ‘subjective norms’ and ‘perceived behavioural control’; and an overarching domain to describe participants’ ‘current practice’. Existing siloed primary healthcare practices and lack of formal referral pathways contribute to poor interprofessional collaboration. Most participants were unsure of each other’s responsibilities and roles. Their lack of training in the relationship between general and oral health, compounded by systemic barriers including time constraint, high dental costs, long public dental waiting list and unintegrated health information systems, also impeded interprofessional care.

Conclusions: The diabetes and oral health link is not properly recognised or managed collaboratively by relevant primary healthcare professionals in Australia. There is, nonetheless, strong intentions to engage in interprofessional diabetes and oral health care to contribute to improved patient outcomes. Primary healthcare professionals need dedicated and accredited interprofessional training and competencies, formal referral systems and sustainable health policies to facilitate collaboration.
ReStOre@Home: Feasibility study of a virtually delivered 12-week multidisciplinary rehabilitation programme for survivors of upper gastrointestinal (UGI) cancer - study protocol
Authors: O'Neill Linda , Guinan Emer , Brennan Louise , Doyle Suzanne L. , O'Connor Louise , Sheill Grainne , Smyth Emily , Fairman Ciaran M. , Segurado Ricardo , Connolly Deirdre , O'Sullivan Jacintha , Reynolds John V. , Hussey Juliette
Published: May 2021

Background: Exercise rehabilitation programmes, traditionally involving supervised exercise sessions, have had to rapidly adapt to virtual delivery in response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic to minimise patient contacts. In the absence of an effective vaccine, the pandemic is likely to persist in the medium term and during this time it is important that the feasibility and effectiveness of remote solutions is considered.  We have previously established the feasibility of the Rehabilitation Strategies following Oesophago-gastric Cancer (ReStOre) intervention - a face to face multidisciplinary rehabilitation programme for upper gastrointestinal (UGI) cancer survivors. This study will examine the feasibility of a virtually delivered 12-week multi-component ReStOre@Home programme.

Methods: This single arm feasibility study will recruit 12 patients who have completed curative treatment for oesophago-gastric cancer. Participants will complete the 12-week ReStOre@Home programme consisting of exercise (aerobic and resistance training), 1:1 dietary counselling and group education sessions through virtual delivery. Underpinned by the Medical Research Council (MRC) Framework, feasibility will be determined by recruitment rates, adherence, retention, incidents, and acceptability. Acceptability will be assessed qualitatively through post-intervention interview and the Telehealth Usability Questionnaire. Secondary outcomes will be assessed pre and post-intervention and will include measures of physical performance (cardiopulmonary exercise test, short physical performance battery, hand grip strength, Godin Leisure Time Questionnaire, and body composition), health related quality of life (European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Core Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC-QLQ-C30) and oesophago-gastric cancer specific subscale (EORTC-QLQ-OG25), fatigue (Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI-20), and venous blood samples will be collected for the UGI Cancer Survivorship Biobank.

Discussion: The ReStOre@Home feasibility study will provide important data regarding the amenability of a multidisciplinary programme designed for UGI cancer survivors to virtual delivery.

Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04603339 (26/10/2020)
The effect of exercise interventions on inflammatory markers in major depressive disorder: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Grunberg Diana , Martin Jason A. , Cryan John F. , O’Halloran Ken D. , Kelleher Eric , Dinan Timothy G. , Clarke Gerard
Published: May 2021

Background:Depression currently affects 4.4% of the global population, and 93.7% of this population suffer from major depressive disorder (MDD) according to 2017 statistics. MDD patients are more likely to suffer from co-morbidities such as cardiovascular disease and high body mass index (BMI), thus contributing to its large cost to society. Throughout the literature, there are known links between inflammation and MDD. Interestingly, while exercise is considered a promising intervention for MDD, the mechanism(s) of action remain unclear, thereby preventing the creation of optimal, cost-saving, exercise “prescriptions” for those with MDD.Thus, the aim of this review and meta-analysis is to summarize and analyse the current literature exploring how quantified exercise interventions modulate inflammatory molecules in MDD patients.

Methods:Electronic databases (APA PsycINFO, and PubMed/MEDLINE (EBSCO interface), EMBASE) will be searched using a detailed search strategy comprised of three search term themes: exercise, depression/MDD, and inflammation/inflammatory molecules. Only quantified exercise interventions performed in adult humans with MDD validated via a recognized diagnostic criterion will be included. Studies should also include a MDD control group and explore changes in inflammatory molecules. Examples of these molecules include: C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1b), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a), homocysteine, d-dimer and myeloperoxidase (MPO). After eligible studies are identified, standardized data extraction will be employed and the risk of bias in each study will be appraised using the Cochrane handbook checklists. In the event of two or more homogenous studies exploring exercise effects over a similar period of time, raw mean differences or standardized mean differences will be pooled using random effects analysis. This systematic review and meta-analysis will be reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.

Dissemination:This systematic review and meta-analysis will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals.

PROSPERO registration:CRD42020186006 (31/08/2020)
Plasmids conferring resistance to extended-spectrum beta-lactamases including a rare IncN+IncR multireplicon carrying blaCTX-M-1 in Escherichia coli recovered from migrating barnacle geese (Branta leucopsis)
Authors: Kurittu Paula , Khakipoor Banafsheh , Brouwer Michael S.M. , Heikinheimo Annamari
Published: May 2021

Background:Increasing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global threat and wild migratory birds may act as mediators of resistant bacteria across country borders. Our objective was to study extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) and plasmid-encoded AmpC (pAmpC) producingEscherichia coliin barnacle geese using whole genome sequencing (WGS) and to identify plasmids harboringblagenes.

Methods:Barnacle geese feces (n=200) were collected during fall 2017 and spring 2018 from an urban area in Helsinki, Finland. ESBL/AmpC-producingE. coliwere recovered from nine samples (4.5%) and isolates were subjected to WGS on both short- and long-read sequencers, enabling hybrid assembly and determination of the genomic location ofblagenes.

Results:A rare multireplicon IncN+IncR was recovered from one isolate carryingblaCTX-M-1in addition toaadA2b,lnu(F), andqnrS1. Moreover, rarely detected IncY plasmids in two isolates were found to harbor multiple resistance genes in addition to the human-associatedblaCTX-M-15. Poultry-associatedblaCMY-2was identified from the widely distributed IncI1 and IncK plasmids from four different isolates. One isolate harbored an IncI1 plasmid withblaCTX-M-1andflor. A chromosomal point mutation in the AmpC promoter was identified in one of the isolates. WGS analysis showed isolates carried multiple resistance and virulence genes and harbored multiple different plasmid replicons in addition tobla-carrying plasmids.

Conclusions:Our findings suggest that wild migratory birds serve as a limited source of ESBL/AmpC-producingE. coliand may act as disseminators of the epidemic plasmid types IncI1 and IncK but also rarely detected plasmid types carrying multidrug resistance. Human and livestock-associated ESBL enzyme types were recovered from samples, suggesting a potential for interspecies transmission. WGS offers a thorough method for studying AMR from different sources and should be implemented more widely in the future for AMR surveillance and detection. Understanding plasmid epidemiology is vital for efforts to mitigate global AMR spread.
Development of a patient reported outcome questionnaire to measure the impact of postpartum blood loss in women with moderate and severe anaemia: A study using a multi-faceted approach
Authors: Miller Lori , Chaudhri Shahana , Beaumont Danielle , Kayani Aasia , Javid Kiran , Chaudhri Rizwana , Edwards Phil , Brenner Amy , Roberts Ian , Shakur-Still Haleema
Published: May 2021

Background: Globally, over one-third of pregnant women are anaemic and are at increased risk of postpartum haemorrhage (PPH).  Tranexamic acid (TXA) given within 3 hours of birth significantly reduces death due to bleeding in women with PPH. However, for many, treatment is too late to prevent death from PPH. The WOMAN-2 trial aims to see if giving TXA can prevent PPH and other outcomes in women with moderate and severe anaemia. Assessing the impact of postpartum blood loss on women’s own perceptions of their health and well-being is an important outcome for the WOMAN-2 trial. This study aimed to develop a conceptual framework and questionnaire to measure the impact of postpartum blood loss on participant-reported outcomes (PRO) in women with moderate and severe anaemia.

Methods: A conceptual framework and PRO questionnaire were developed using a multifaceted, iterative process. Factors influencing anaemic women’s postpartum experience were identified from review of the literature and through group discussion with them.  De novo items were combined with those from an existing instrument (Multi-dimensional Fatigue Symptom Inventory, Short Form (MFSI-SF)). Content validity was tested among a group of obstetricians and anaemic postpartum women, revised and then pilot tested among 124 women with moderate and severe anaemia following vaginal birth. 

Results: Women with moderate and severe anaemia who experienced PPH reported more fatigue on the MFSI-SF (p=0.001); reported feeling more ill (p=0.004); and had greater difficulty breastfeeding (p=0.039), compared to those who did not experience PPH. Compared to women with moderate anaemia, women with severe anaemia reported experiencing worse symptoms of anaemia (p=0.001) and scored worse on the MFSI-SF (p=0.007).

Conclusions: Significant differences between the scores of women who developed PPH and those who did not and the scores between women with moderate and severe anaemia indicate that the questionnaire had satisfactory construct validity.
Clinical Advisory Group: drive for change
Authors: Rankin Andrew
Published: May 2021

Andrew Rankin discusses the values that drive the Clinical Advisory Group and its commitment to patient-centred care, the need for safe and ethical product supply and reporting and managing adverse events
A Headspace Gas Chromatographic Method for Determination of Formic acid Content in Isosulfan Blue and in Various Drugs
Authors: Takale Nilesh , Kaliyaperumal Neelakandan , Mannathusamy Gopalakrishnan , Govindasamy Rajarajan
Published: May 2021

The Pharmaceutical industry uses formic acid in the manufacturing of various drug substances or API. At the time of manufacturing of API formic acid is use as an oxidizing agent. Formic acid is the simplest carboxylic acid. It also called methanoic acid.Formic acid present in API at high concentrations is very hazardous but in low concentrations is very beneficial. The developed and validated method was short, precise, cost effective and reproducible with FID detector and easy to use. The method is a selective and superficial analytical method for determination of formic acid in different drug substances. We report here the development and validation study of headspace gas chromatographic method to determine formic acid in different drug substances we are reported here. As per this method, the drug sample was dissolved in 0.1% (v/v) of concentrated sulfuric acid in isopropyl alcohol (IPA) in a GC headspace vial and 0.1% (v/v) of concentrated sulfuric acid in isopropyl alcohol used as a diluent. A AB-Inowax capillary column (30 m x 0.32 mm I.D. and 0.5 µm film thickness) was used under gradient conditions with FID. The formic acid peak was well separated from all other solvents that are used in synthesis of particular drug substance. The LOD and LOQof the method for formic acid are 82 ppm and 249 ppm respectively. Formic acid are low toxic class-III solvent as per ICH guideline.
A New Frontier Drug Development in Nanomedicine and Itsanti-Urolithiatic Activity of Kalanchoe Pinnata
Authors: Priya F. Janeeta , Rose A. Leema , Vidhya S. , Arputharaj A , Akshana S. , Fathima U. F. Rameez
Published: May 2021

Latterly, the green synthesis of metallic nanoparticles has stock pile and terminal interest over the last decade due to their idiosyncratic properties that make them felicitous in various fields of science and technology. In this study the silver nanoparticles can be manufacture by using the leaf extract of Kalanchoe pinnata plant using microwave radiation method. The nanoparticles that are synthesized by plants are non-toxic and eco-friendly and it is characterized by using UV-Visible, FT-IR , X-ray diffraction (XRD) and TEM.The crystalline natures of the synthesized silver nanoparticles were identified by XRD and its shape was confirmed by TEM analysis. Anti-urolithiatic activity of synthesized silver nanoparticles was accomplished which reduces the growth of kidney stone which was appraisal by using the In-Vitro growth of urinary calculi.
Physicochemical Analysis of Ground Water Quality, Hydrochemical Characterization of the Doukkala Plain, Morocco
Authors: Doubi Mostafa , Nimour Abderazzak , Derma Ahmed , Aboulouafa Mohammed , Touir Rachid , Erramli Hamid
Published: May 2021

This study concerns the analysis of the physico-chemical parameters (T°, pH, EC, NO3-, Cl-, PO43-, HCO3-, SO42-, Ca2+, Mg2+, K+ and Na+) of groundwater from the Doukkala, in order to establish its pollution diagnosis. Thus, water samples were taken at 8 stations in January and July.The results show that the wells are characterized by a geochemical facies Chloride and sulphate of calcium and magnesiu and potassium chloride or sodium sulphate. According to Moroccan standards and the values of certain parameters such as temperature, hydrogen potential, conductivity, alkalis, alkaline earth metals, sulphates, chlorides the studied the ground water was classified from good to poor quality (CNS, 1994).
Biosynthesis of Gold Nanoparticles by Essential Oil of Diplotaxis Acris Characterization and Antimicrobial Activities
Authors: Oueslati Mohamed Habib , Tahar Lotfi Ben , Alzahrani A. Khuzaim , Basha Jamith , Elkader Omar H. Abd
Published: May 2021

The present work reports a green biosynthesis of gold nano particles (EO-AuNPs) using an essential oil (EO) as a reducing agent of the Au(III) in HAuCl4. The EO was extracted by hydro-distillation from Diplotaxis acris flowers. A total of 16 compounds were detected from the EO oil by using GC–MS and 5-methylsulfanylpentanenitrile was identified as the major component (73.60 %). The biosynthesized EO-AuNPs were characterized performing UV–Vis, IR,XRD and TEM analyses.The UV-Vis revealed the typical features of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) of AuNPs at ~526 nm. The FT-IR spectrum of the biosynthesized nano particles exhibited the features of the nitrile (-C≡N) functional group indicating that the -C≡N-bearing EO components are likely acting as reducing and stabilizing agents for the formation of EO-AuNPs. The plausible scheme of EO-AuNPsformation was proposed.The TEM analysis showed that the EO- AuNPs were almost spherical in shape with an average particle size of 12.7 nm. In addition, the antimicrobial activity was carried out by diffusion of agar wells method. The results proved that the EO-AuNPs displayed a potential antimicrobial against gram negative strains, with a maximum zone of inhibition of 16 mm for E. coli at a concentration of 100 µg / ml.
Corrosion behavior of GeO2 and Sc2O3 Coatings on AZ31 Alloy
Authors: Sutha L. , Cyril A.
Published: May 2021

In this work, GeO2 (germanium dioxide) and Sc2O3 (scandium trioxide) were developed as coatings on AZ31 alloy using polymer binder. The coatings were characterized using X-ray crystallography procedure (XRD), infrared spectrum of absorption or emission of a solid procedure (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy procedure, surface examination by FESEM. The corrosion studies were analyzed using a three electrode system in 3.5% NaCl electrolyte. The bare AZ31 alloy showed open circuit potential (Ecorr) of -1.7 V (SCE) and the corrosion current density (icorr) of 3.4 x 10-4 mA/cm2, while the Sc2O3 coated AZ31 alloy exhibited Ecorr of -1.4 V (SCE) and the icorr of 5.4 x 10-9 mA/cm2 and while the GeO2 coated AZ31 alloy exhibited Ecorr of -1.3 V (SCE) and the icorr of 2.59 x 10-9 mA/cm2. The results reveal that the GeO2 coated AZ31 alloy demonstrated higher corrosion resistance than of bare AZ31 alloy and Sc2O3 coated AZ31 alloy.
Reactions of MoOCl4 and MoO2Cl2 with Heterocyclic Thioamides
Authors: Rani Deepika , Singh Gursharan , Sharma Seema
Published: May 2021

MoOCl4/MoO2Cl2 were reacted with 2-mercaptopyridine (IUPAC: pyridine-2-thiol)/4-phenylimidazole-2-thiol (IUPAC: 4-phenyl-1, 3-dihydroimidazole-2-thione)/6-mercaptopurine (IUPAC: 1, 7-dihydro-purine-6-thione) in acetonitrile medium using equal/twice molar concentrations at normal temperature. The reactions yielded products: MoOCl3(C5H4NS-SNH4C5).2HCl, [1]; Mo3O3Cl12(C5H4NS-SNH4C5)(CH3CN)2, [2]; Mo2OCl6(C9H7N2S)4, [3] and Mo2O2Cl8(C5H4N4S)(CH3CN), [4]. The various techniques used for characterization of compounds are: Fourier transform infrared, proton nuclear magnetic resonance, 13C nuclear magnetic resonance, liquid/gas chromatography mass spectrometry and C, H, N, S, Mo, Cl analysis. The products are prone to oxidation/hydrolysis by air/moisture, so all procedures were executed in vacuum line using dry nitrogen atmosphere. Elemental analysis and fragments recorded in mass spectrometry are in tune with the formulae proposed.
Kinetic Studies of Adsorption Process of Zambian Kapiri Mposhi Zeolites
Authors: Xavier Marina G.
Published: May 2021

Batch adsorption studies were done on aqueous solutions of Pb(NO3)2 at varying solute concentration, adsorbent dose, contact time, temperature, calcination temperatures and pH. Residual concentrations of the solute were found out using AAS and optimum conditions were studied. Adsorbent used in this study is locally available silicate rich mineral which closely resembles zeolites. The net negative charge on the framework of hydrated aluminosilicates is responsible for ion exchange property. Freundlich model was used to validate the results obtained from batch experiments plotting lnCe vs lnqe. Objective of this work is to study the kinetics of adsorption considering the interplay of particle diffusion in addition to proving the effectiveness as an adsorbent. A diffusion model also was also applied apart from kinetic model to analyze the experimental results more specifically. For maximizing the efficiency of the adsorption process and minimizing the time involved, variables like temperature, reactants and pH were manipulated using kinetic studies. It establishes the optimum reaction conditions for various experimental parameters in the process of adsorption.
Effect of pH and Irradiation Power in the Synthesis of Gold Nanoparticles by using Binahong (Anredera cordifolia) Leaves Extract
Authors: F Foliatini , N Nurdiani
Published: May 2021

Au nano particles have been successfully synthesized using extract of binahong (Anredera cordifolia) leaves at various pH, irradiation power and irradiation time. The synthesis was conducted using microwave oven for some minutes, at certain adjusted experimental condition. pH of solution was varied from 2 – 10, irradiation power was adjusted in the range of 30% - 100% of total power of 800W, and iiradiation time was studied in the range of 30 – 120 second. The experimental results showed at low pH, the nonspherical particle was more commonly formed. The stabilization of particles took place more effectively at the higher pH. At low pH, the nano particles were below 50 nm in size and were in form of triangle, rod, rhombic, cubic, or truncated form of these shapes. UV-Vis spectra also indicated that both microwave irradiation power and time significantly affect the morphology of particles. These research provide clear explanation about the effect of the pH and irradiation time over the AuNP synthesis by using greener method, which can be further studied in optimizing experimental parameters for conducting industrial scale synthesis.
Synthesis, characterization, structural exploration and quantum chemical calculations of (E)-8-(1-((4-aminobenzyl)imino)ethyl)-7-hydroxy-4-methyl-coumarin
Authors: K. N Chethan Prathap , S. V Niranjana , N. K Lokanath
Published: May 2021

Coumarin derivatives are one of the very important compounds of high biological interest. A novel coumarin derivative (E)-8-(1-((4-aminobenzyl)imino)ethyl)-7-hydroxy-4-methyl-coumarin was synthesized using substituted acetyl coumarin and 4-aminobenzylamine. Following the detailed spectroscopic characterization, the structure of the compound was confirmed using XRD studies. The novel coumarin derivative crystallizes in monoclinic crystal system in P21/c space group and displays diverse intermolecular interactions. One-dimensional array along b-axis and R_2^2 (18) supramolecular architectures are”0 formed mediated by N24—H24…O1 and C17—H17…O10 hydrogen bonds respectively. Hirshfeld surface analysis quantified that H…H, C…H and O…H contacts are the major contributors to the crystal structure with a contribution of 42.9%, 32.7% and 20.1% of total interactions respectively. Further, structural optimization was carried out using quantum chemical DFT calculations that displayed high correlation with XRD structure. The electronic absorption spectrum from TDDFT calculations is matching well with the results of UV-visible spectrum.
Understanding cost-utility analysis studies in the trauma and orthopaedic surgery literature
Authors: Kamaraj Achi , Agarwal Nikhil , Seah K. T. Matthew , Khan Wasim
Published: May 2021

Cost-utility analysis (CUA) studies are becoming increasingly important due to the need to reduce healthcare spending, especially in the field of trauma and orthopaedics. There is an increasing need for trauma and orthopaedic surgeons to understand these economic evaluations to ensure informed cost-effective decisions can be made to benefit the patient and funding body. This review discusses the fundamental principles required to understand CUA studies in the literature, including a discussion of the different methods employed to assess the health outcomes associated with different management options and the various approaches used to calculate the costs involved. Different types of model design may be used to conduct a CUA which can be broadly categorized into real-life clinical studies and computer-simulated modelling. We discuss the main types of study designs used within each category. We also cover the different types of sensitivity analysis used to quantify uncertainty in these studies and the commonly employed instruments used to assess the quality of CUAs. Finally, we discuss some of the important limitations of CUAs that need to be considered. This review outlines the main concepts required to understand the CUA literature and provides a basic framework for their future conduct.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2021;6:305-315. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.6.200115