bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Occurrence of common core structure and genotype-specific signatures among the Vibrio of environmentally diverse vended crabs and shrimps from selected Lagos seafood markets, Nigeria
Authors: ODENIYI OLUBUSOLA A. , OLAWUYI ODUNAYO J. , OGUNSANYA OLUDAYO , UNUOFIN JOHN O.
Published: June 2022

Abstract. Odeniyi OA, Olawuyi OJ, Ogunsanya O, Unuofin JO. 2022. Occurrence of common core structure and genotype-specific signatures among the Vibrio of environmentally diverse vended crabs and shrimps from selected Lagos seafood markets, Nigeria. Biodiversitas 23: 3081-3090. This study investigated the occurrence of Vibrio species from the gastrointestinal tract of vended crabs and shrimps using Multiplex polymerase chain reactions (Multiplex PCR) method. Different primer pairs were used to detect the presence of hsp, sodB, SodB-R, ctx, toxR, and Vchol virulent genes in the samples. The phylogenetic relationships among the Vibrio species were determined and the polymorphic information content of selected Vibrio primer products was generated using Powermarker V3.25 Dendo-UPGMA program based on Jaccard’s coefficient. The detection of Vibrio virulence genes confirmed the presence of Vibrio species in the DNA extracts of 19 out of the 60 crustacean samples. Among the Vibrio species, Vibrio parahaemolyticus was the most frequently identified species (47.4%), followed by Vibrio cholerae (36.8%), and Vibrio mimicus (15.8%), while the presence of Vibrio vulnificus was not detected in the crab and shrimp samples. Phylogenetically, the Vp.tdh primer constituted the highest allele number, gene diversity and polymorphic information content of 18.00, 0.9444 and 0.9415, respectively, while the mean of the Vp.tdh and Vp.trh primer sequence combination was polymorphic (0.7153). Among the 19 positive Vibrio strains, different major clusters and subclusters were identified, indicating the relatedness between the identified species. The result of this study indicates that the innocuously vended crab and shrimp samples are indeed reservoirs of pathogenic Vibrio species whose consumption by humans might affect the health of the general populace.
An Algerian endemic species in danger to disappear due to pandemic, Origanum vulgare subsp. glandulosum (Desf.) Letsw
Authors: ADOUANI IMENE , BOULAACHEB NACIRA
Published: June 2022

Abstract. Adouani I, Boulaacheb N. 2022. An Algerian endemic species in danger to disappear due to pandemic, Origanum vulgare subsp. glandulosum (Desf.) Letsw. Biodiversitas 23: 3147-3155. Algeria is known for its rich flora, and the traditional use of medicinal plants is very ancient. The use of medicinal plants is extremely intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic. To enumerate the most used species by the Algerian population, two ethnobotanical surveys have been conducted from October to December 2021. Thirty herbalists were interviewed, and 165 respondents participated in an online survey. The results showed that a total of 25 species belonging to 16 botanical families had been reported to be used in different modes of preparation to prevent or treat the infection. One of the locally used species is Origanum vulgare subsp. glandulosum (Desf.) letsw. Generally, Algerians internally use this species as a tea or as a powder preparation with honey or only the powder with water to treat many health problems such as diarrhea, colds, coughs, respiratory infections, rheumatism, and menstrual symptoms. Otherwise, the powder of the plant is externally used alone or with olive oil to cure several illnesses such as rheumatism, and skin irritations. Due to the extensive use of this species during the pandemic, the demand in the market has increased, as also the price. Herbalists reported that they have received between 30-300 people affected or not by COVID-19 per day. The price went from 1500-5000 DA per kg (10.33-34.42 USD). Therefore, the increase rate is expected to be 50-80% for the demand, and 50-90% for the price. This increase in demand during COVID-19 has led to an exaggerated and random collection of species at different stages of the development of the plant. Although O. vulgare subsp. glandulosum is a common species, but it can be rare or even disappear due to the extensive collection without protective measures due to COVID-19. Therefore, it is important to engage policies for the conservation and cultivation of O. vulgare subsp. glandulosum.
Perceived biodiversity of fruit species for urban greenery in Indonesia: Case studies in Bogor, Jakarta, and Yogyakarta
Authors: RUWAIDA ISMI PUJI , SANTOSA EDI , SUSILA ANAS DINURROHMAN , WIDODO WINARSO DRAJAD , WACHJAR ADE , NASRULLAH NIZAR
Published: June 2022

Abstract. Ruwaida IP, Santosa E, Susila AD, Widodo WD, Wachjar A, Nasrullah N. 2022. Perceived biodiversity of fruit species for urban greenery in Indonesia: Case studies in Bogor, Jakarta, and Yogyakarta. Biodiversitas 23: 3166-3177. Urban greenery planning considering biodiversity scenarios is still rarely studied in Indonesia. This study aims to demonstrate edible fruit species (FS) as the scenario for urban greenery based on interviews with citizens in Indonesian cities. The study was carried out in the cities that have implemented smart city models i.e., Bogor, Jakarta, and Yogyakarta-Indonesia. Interviews were conducted in July-December 2019, involving 420 respondents. The results showed that 77.7% of all respondents agreed with the planting of FS as city greenery. In total for all cities, there were 79 species belonging to 32 families mentioned by the respondents consisting of 41 commercial and 38 underutilized FS. Each respondent was able to mention between 20.4 and 22.8 fruit species, irrespective of city. The ability to mention fruit species was affected by the respondent’s background, especially exposure during childhood to FS, frequency as a domestic tourist, mobility mode, and frequency of visiting city parks. The rationale for selecting FS was the benefit of fruit as a food source, followed by the benefit of ecology, economy, aesthetics, and health. Based on the significant cultural index, mango ranked first as the most preferred commercial fruit species, followed by rambutan, rose apple, orange, papaya, starfruit, guava, avocado, sapodilla, and longan; and for underutilized FS were shoe-button, pinang, nam nam, mulberry, cactus, canistel, cherry, and pear. Value of species richness, Shannon-Wienner, and Simpson diversity indices of FS within a city ranged 0.97 to 1.06, 3.62 to 3.83, and 0.97, respectively. Biodiversity scenarios could be useful information in the greenery planning of smart cities to coop with evolving broader environmental services.
the disease of expertise
Authors: Sitholé Tawona
Published: June 2022

The Disease of Expertise, is a poem composed by poet, playwright, musician and researcherTawona Sitholé. Within the poem,Sitholé challenges the contemporary constructs of modernity, knowledge, and knowledge production in the scope of globalized economies. Utilizing Covid-19 and the corresponding global pandemic as a backdrop into the inquiry of knowledge, and economic development Sitholé incorporates his own lived experience and local knowledge to highlight contemporary issues relating to globalization, structural inequities, and questions of knowledge within the Global South.
Asaasa
Authors: Tordzro Naa Densua
Published: June 2022

Asaasa is not just a cloth that emerged from an old practice where remnants of fabrics or wax prints are stitched together to create a bigger piece of cloth or a piece quilt, but rather a metaphor for connectedness in life. This piece of work tells a story of migration, inequality, development, diversity, family and community through the Asaasa cloth, using it as a metaphor for connectedness as it emerges from poverty as a result of the various inequalities people face as they move from one country to the other in the Global South. Textiles are used in this article to tease out the idea of connectedness which is part of MIDEQ’s aim in the context of migration in the Global South. The piece is representation of how we capture our migration experiences and communicated them through the Asaasa cloth.
113  W Ho:YLF oscillator with good beam quality efficiently pumped by a Tm:YAP laser
Authors: Mi Shuyi , Wei Disheng , Tang Jinwen , Li Junhui , Yao Baoquan , Yang Ke , Dai Tongyu , Duan Xiaoming
Published: June 2022

We demonstrate a linearly polarized Tm:YAP slab laser pumped by fiber-coupled laser diodes. The maximum output power is 202 W at 1937.5 nm with a slope efficiency of 47.4% and an optical-to-optical efficiency of 35.6%. The beam quality

M
2

factors are 10.1 and 8.33 in

x

and

y

directions, respectively. Using the Tm:YAP laser as the pump source, the maximum power of the Ho:YLF oscillator is 113 W at 2063.3 nm, corresponding to an optical-to-optical efficiency of 55.9%. In addition, the beam quality factors of the Ho:YLF laser are

∼

1.5

at maximum power.
Generalized approach to quantum interference in lossy N-port devices via a singular value decomposition
Authors: Hernández Osmery , Liberal Iñigo
Published: June 2022

Modeling quantum interference in the presence of dissipation is a critical aspect of quantum technologies. Including dissipation into the model of a linear device enables for assessing the detrimental impact of photon loss, as well as for studying dissipation-driven quantum state transformations. However, establishing the input-output relations characterizing quantum interference at a general lossy N-port network poses important theoretical challenges. Here, we propose a general procedure based on the singular value decomposition (SVD), which allows for the efficient calculation of the input-output relations for any arbitrary lossy linear device. In addition, we show how the SVD provides an intuitive description of the principle of operation of linear optical devices. We illustrate the applicability of our method by evaluating the input-output relations of popular reciprocal and nonreciprocal lossy linear devices, including devices with singular and nilpotent scattering matrices. Our method also enables the analysis of quantum interference in large lossy networks, as we exemplify with the study of an N-port epsilon-near-zero (ENZ) hub. We expect that our procedure will motivate future research on quantum interference in complex devices, as well as the realistic modelling of photon loss in linear lossy devices.
Interface engineering enhanced near-infrared electroluminescence in an n-ZnO microwire/p-GaAs heterojunction
Authors: Li Jitao , Li Binghui , Meng Ming , Sun Lingling , Jiang Mingming
Published: June 2022

Interface engineering in the fabrication of low-dimensional optoelectronic devices has been highlighted in recent decades to enhance device characteristics such as reducing leakage current, optimizing charge transport, and modulating the energy-band structure. In this paper, we report a dielectric interface approach to realize one-dimensional (1D) wire near-infrared light-emitting devices with high brightness and enhanced emission efficiency. The light-emitting diode is composed of a zinc oxide microwire covered by a silver nanolayer (Ag@ZnO MW), magnesium oxide (MgO) buffer layer, and p-type gallium arsenide (GaAs) substrate. In the device structure, the insertion of a MgO dielectric layer in the n-ZnO MW/p-GaAs heterojunction can be used to modulate the device features, such as changing the charge transport properties, reducing the leakage current and engineering the band alignment. Furthermore, the cladding of the Ag nanolayer on the ZnO MW can optimize the junction interface quality, thus reducing the turn-on voltage and increasing the current injection and electroluminescence (EL) efficiency. The combination of MgO buffer layer and Ag nanolayer cladding can be utilized to achieve modulating the carrier recombination path, interfacial engineering of heterojunction with optimized band alignment and electronic structure in these carefully designed emission devices. Besides, the enhanced near-infrared EL and improved physical contact were also obtained. The study of current transport modulation and energy-band engineering proposes an original and efficient route for improving the device performances of 1D wire-type heterojunction light sources.
3D in-plane integrated micro reflectors enhancing signal capture in lab on a chip applications
Authors: Storti Filippo , Bonfadini Silvio , Donato Andrea Di , Criante Luigino
Published: June 2022

The integration of micro-optics in lab on a chip (LOCs) devices is crucial both for increasing the solid angle of acquisition and reducing the optical losses, aiming at improving the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). In this work, we present the thriving combination of femtosecond laser irradiation followed by chemical etching (FLICE) technique with CO2 laser polishing and inkjet printing to fabricate in-plane, 3D off-axis reflectors, featuring ultra-high optical quality (RMS ∼3 nm), fully integrated on fused silica substrates. Such micro-optic elements can be used both in the excitation path, focusing an incoming beam in 3D, and in the acquisition branch, harvesting the optical signal coming from a specific point in space. The flexibility of the manufacturing process allows the realization of micro-optics with several sizes, shapes and their integration with photonic circuits and microfluidic networks.
Transitioning a digital health innovation from research to routine practice: Two-way texting for male circumcision follow-up in Zimbabwe
Authors: Marongwe Phiona , Wasunna Beatrice , Gavera Jacqueline , Murenje Vernon , Gwenzi Farai , Hove Joseph , Mauhy Christine , Xaba Sinokuthemba , Mugwanya Raymond , Makunike-Chikwinya Batsirai , Munyaradzi Tinashe , Korir Michael , Oni Femi , Khaemba Antony , Barasa Mourice , Holec Marrianne , Sidile-Chitimbire Vuyelwa , Tshimanga Mufuta , Holeman Isaac , Barnhart Scott , Feldacker Caryl
Published: June 2022

Adult medical male circumcision (MC) is safe: global notifiable adverse event (AE) rates average below 2.0%. With Zimbabwe’s shortage of health care workers (HCWs) compounded by COVID-19 constraints, two-way text-based (2wT) MC follow-up may be advantageous over routinely scheduled in-person reviews. A 2019 randomized control trial (RCT) found 2wT to be safe and efficient for MC follow-up. As few digital health interventions successfully transition from RCT to scale, we detail the 2wT scale-up approach from RCT to routine MC practice comparing MC safety and efficiency outcomes. After the RCT, 2wT transitioned from a site-based (centralized) system to hub-and-spoke model for scale-up where one nurse triaged all 2wT patients, referring patients in need to their local clinic. No post-operative visits were required with 2wT. Routine patients were expected to attend at least one post-operative review. We compare 1) AEs and in-person visits between 2wT men from RCT and routine MC service delivery; and 2) 2wT-based and routine follow-up among adults during the 2wT scale-up period, January to October 2021. During scale-up period, 5084 of 17417 adult MC patients (29%) opted into 2wT. Of the 5084, 0.08% (95% CI: 0.03, 2.0) had an AE and 71.0% (95% CI: 69.7, 72.2) responded to ≥1 daily SMS, a significant decrease from the 1.9% AE rate (95% CI: 0.7, 3.6; p<0.001) and 92.5% response rate (95% CI: 89.0, 94.6; p<0.001) from 2wT RCT men. During scale-up, AE rates did not differ between routine (0.03%; 95% CI: 0.02, 0.08) and 2wT (p = 0.248) groups. Of 5084 2wT men, 630 (12.4%) received telehealth reassurance, wound care reminders, and hygiene advice via 2wT; 64 (19.7%) were referred for care of which 50% had visits. Similar to RCT outcomes, routine 2wT was safe and provided clear efficiency advantages over in-person follow-up. 2wT reduced unnecessary patient-provider contact for COVID-19 infection prevention. Rural network coverage, provider hesitancy, and the slow pace of MC guideline changes slowed 2wT expansion. However, immediate 2wT benefits for MC programs and potential benefits of 2wT-based telehealth for other health contexts outweigh limitations.
Physical activity and acute exercise benefit influenza vaccination response: A systematic review with individual participant data meta-analysis
Authors: Bohn-Goldbaum Erika , Owen Katherine B. , Lee Vivian Y. J. , Booy Robert , Edwards Kate M.
Published: June 2022

Whether the vaccine adjuvant potential of acute exercise is uniform among different populations, e.g., inactive persons, is unknown. This meta-analysis examines influenza vaccine antibody responses and the effect of physical activity, acute exercise, and their interaction. Inclusion criteria comprised randomized controlled trials with acute exercise intervention and influenza vaccination antibody measurements at baseline and 4–6 weeks, and participant baseline physical activity measurement; there were no exclusion criteria. Searching via six databases (Medline, Embase, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, and Physiotherapy Evidence) and two clinical registries (WHO and NIH), nine studies were identified and assessed with the Cochrane revised risk-of-bias tool. Data analysis comprised one-stage random-effects generalized linear mixed-effects models with random intercept. Seven of nine identified studies, all of high risk of bias, provided data for 550 included participants. Clinical measures of antibody response tended to be higher in the acute-exercised participants compared to rested controls and physically active compared to inactive. Physical activity significantly increased H1 strain seroconversion (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.69, 95%CI: 1.02–2.82) among all participants and titer response (aOR 1.20, 95%CI: 1.03–1.39) among the acute exercise group. Increasing age frequently reduced immunogenic responses whereas body mass index and sex had little-to-no effect. Adjuvant effects were more pronounced with interventions exercising the same arm in which the vaccination was administered. H1 response was increased by both physical activity and the acute exercise-physical activity interaction. Given the observed modifications by age and the subset analysis suggesting the benefit is more pronounced in older populations, future attention is due for acute exercise-PA interactions to impact vaccination response in the at-risk population of older adults. Further, we identify localized exercise as the likely most-effective protocol and encourage its use to augment the available evidence.
Factor quinolinone inhibitors disrupt spindles and multiple LSF (TFCP2)-protein interactions in mitosis, including with microtubule-associated proteins
Authors: Yunes Sarah A. , Willoughby Jennifer L. S. , Kwan Julian H. , Biagi Jessica M. , Pokharel Niranjana , Chin Hang Gyeong , York Emily A. , Su Kuan-Chung , George Kelly , Shah Jagesh V. , Emili Andrew , Schaus Scott E. , Hansen Ulla
Published: June 2022

Factor quinolinone inhibitors (FQIs), a first-in-class set of small molecule inhibitors targeted to the transcription factor LSF (TFCP2), exhibit promising cancer chemotherapeutic properties. FQI1, the initial lead compound identified, unexpectedly induced a concentration-dependent delay in mitotic progression. Here, we show that FQI1 can rapidly and reversibly lead to mitotic arrest, even when added directly to mitotic cells, implying that FQI1-mediated mitotic defects are not transcriptionally based. Furthermore, treatment with FQIs resulted in a striking, concentration-dependent diminishment of spindle microtubules, accompanied by a concentration-dependent increase in multi-aster formation. Aberrant γ-tubulin localization was also observed. These phenotypes suggest that perturbation of spindle microtubules is the primary event leading to the mitotic delays upon FQI1 treatment. Previously, FQIs were shown to specifically inhibit not only LSF DNA-binding activity, which requires LSF oligomerization to tetramers, but also other specific LSF-protein interactions. Other transcription factors participate in mitosis through non-transcriptional means, and we recently reported that LSF directly binds α-tubulin and is present in purified cellular tubulin preparations. Consistent with a microtubule role for LSF, here we show that LSF enhanced the rate of tubulin polymerization in vitro, and FQI1 inhibited such polymerization. To probe whether the FQI1-mediated spindle abnormalities could result from inhibition of mitotic LSF-protein interactions, mass spectrometry was performed using as bait an inducible, tagged form of LSF that is biotinylated by endogenous enzymes. The global proteomics analysis yielded expected associations for a transcription factor, notably with RNA processing machinery, but also to nontranscriptional components. In particular, and consistent with spindle disruption due to FQI treatment, mitotic, FQI1-sensitive interactions were identified between the biotinylated LSF and microtubule-associated proteins that regulate spindle assembly, positioning, and dynamics, as well as centrosome-associated proteins. Probing the mitotic LSF interactome using small molecule inhibitors therefore supported a non-transcriptional role for LSF in mediating progression through mitosis.
Factors associated with vaccination against Covid-19 in pregnant and hospitalized postpartum women: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: de Andrade Pereira Silva Marcela , Ribeiro Helena Fiats , Oliveira Rosana Rosseto de , Pelloso Fernando Castilho , Pujals Constanza , Pedroso Raíssa Bocchi , Carvalho Maria Dalva de Barros , Pelloso Sandra Marisa
Published: June 2022

Objective

To analyze the characteristics associated with vaccination against Covid-19 in pregnant and postpartum women with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome in Brazil and to investigate a possible association between vaccination and the clinical course and outcome of the disease.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of hospitalized pregnant and postpartum women diagnosed with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) by SARS-CoV-2, presenting onset of signs and symptoms between May and October 2021. Secondary data were used, available in the Influenza Epidemiological Surveillance Information System (SIVEP-Gripe). Data were analyzed using the SPSS statistical program, medians were applied to present continuous variables and frequencies, and proportions were calculated for categorical variables, using logistic and multivariate regression analysis.

Results

The final study population included 3,585 pregnant and postpartum women, of whom 596 (16.6) were vaccinated: 443 (74.3%) received one dose and 153 (25.7%) received two doses. They were factors associated with non-vaccination against Covid-19 age ≤ 19 anos (OR: 2.57; IC95% 1.40;4.71), non-white women (OR: 1.34; IC95% 1.07;1.67) and those who required ventilatory support (OR: 1.51; IC95% 1.19;1.90) and invasive ventilation (OR: 2.05; IC95% 1.37;3.08). On the other hand, vaccination was associated with advanced maternal age (OR: 0.60; IC95% 0.48;0.76), presence of comorbidities (OR: 0.57; IC95% 0.45;0.72) and loss of taste (OR: 0.63; IC95% 0.48;0.82).

Conclusions

Demographic, ethnic-racial and clinical characteristics were associated with the vaccination status of pregnant and postpartum women with SARS by SARS-CoV-2 in Brazil. Vaccination against Covid-19 in the obstetric population has already shown positive results in the evolution of severe cases, which reiterates its importance. It is essential that health services advance vaccination against Covid-19 in the obstetric population, especially adolescentes and non-white women.
Role of maternal and child health services on the uptake of contraceptive use in India: A reproductive calendar approach
Authors: Bansal Anjali , Shirisha P. , Mahapatra Bidhubhusan , Dwivedi Laxmi Kant
Published: June 2022

Background

According to the latest round of National Family Health Survey—4 (NFHS (2015–16)) maternal and child health care (MCH) services improved drastically compared to NFHS-3. Previous studies have established that the uptake of MCH services increases the likelihood of early adoption of contraceptives among women. So, our study aims to examine if the early initiation of contraceptive has proportionately improved with the recent increase in MCH services.

Methods

This study used the reproductive calendar of NFHS-4, 2015–16, to evaluate contraceptive initiation within 12 months after the last birth among 1,36,962 currently married women in India. A complementary log-log regression model was created to examine the link between the time of initiation of contraception and MCH care at the national level.

Results

It was found that only a quarter of women within 12 months from last birth have adopted the modern contraceptive method. Among those majority of the females adopted sterilization mostly at the time of birth. The multivariable model identified, that the period of initiation of contraceptive depends on the gender composition of children and access to MCH services. It was found that the odds of early initiation of contraceptive use was higher when a women have only son (AOR = 1.15,95% CI– 1.22, 1.18) compared to women with only daughter. Also, it was found that women who have availed MCH services were more likely to adopt contraceptives earlier.

Conclusion

The number of women availing MCH services has increased in India, but it did not result in a proportional increase in initiation of contraception after childbirth. Facilitating family planning services alongside MCH services will be beneficial in low-resource settings. It is a golden opportunity to educate and encourage women for early adoption of contraceptive.
Male circumcision uptake during the Botswana Combination Prevention Project
Authors: Marukutira Tafireyi , Ussery Faith , Kadima Etienne , Mills Lisa A. , Moore Jan , Block Lisa , Bachanas Pam , Davis Stephanie , Schissler Tracey , Mosha Roselyn , Komotere Onneile , Diswai Thebeyame , Ntsuape Conrad , Lebelonyane Refeletswe , Bock Naomi
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) uptake has been slow in some countries, including Botswana. To inform demand creation efforts, we examined sociodemographic characteristics and referral procedures associated with VMMC uptake in the Botswana Combination Prevention Project (BCPP) and examined the effectiveness of referral of men to MC services from HIV testing venues.

Design

BCPP was a community-randomized trial evaluating the impact of a combination HIV prevention package which included VMMC on community HIV incidence. We conducted a sub-analysis of VMMC uptake in intervention communities.

Methods

During the initial VMMC campaign in 15 intervention communities, baseline male circumcision (MC) status was assessed among men eligible for HIV testing. Uncircumcised male community residents aged 16–49 years with negative/unknown HIV status were mobilized and linked to study VMMC services. Outcomes included MC baseline status and uptake through study services. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were performed to identify factors associated with MC uptake.

Results

Of 12,864 men eligible for testing, 50% (n = 6,448) were already circumcised. Among the uncircumcised men (n = 6,416), 10% (n = 635) underwent MC. Of the 5,071 men identified as eligible for MC through HIV testing services, 78% declined referral and less than 1% of those were circumcised. Of those accepting referral (n = 1,107), 16% were circumcised. Younger (16–24 years) (aOR: 1.51; 95%CI:1.22,1.85), unemployed men (aOR:1.34; 95%CI: 1.06,1.69), and those undergoing HIV testing at mobile venues (aOR: 1.88; 95%CI: 1.53,2.31) were more likely to get circumcised. Fear of pain was the most prevalent (27%) reason given for not being circumcised.

Conclusion

Younger, unemployed men seeking HIV testing at mobile sites in Botswana were more likely to get VMMC. Addressing unique barriers for employed and older men may be necessary. Given the simplicity of VMMC as an intervention, the HIV testing programs offer a platform for identifying uncircumcised men and offering information and encouragement to access services.
Adherence to additional medication for management of HIV-associated comorbidities among older children and adolescents taking antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Rehman Andrea M. , Simms Victoria , McHugh Grace , Mujuru Hilda , Ngwira Lucky G. , Semphere Robina , Moyo Brewster , Bandason Tsitsi , Odland Jon O. , Ferrand Rashida A.
Published: June 2022

Background

Management of co-morbidities among persons living with HIV is an emerging priority, which may require additional medication over and above life-long antiretroviral therapy (ART). We explored factors associated with adherence to the trial drug among children and adolescents with perinatally acquired HIV taking antiretroviral therapy (ART) in the Bronchopulmonary Function in Response to Azithromycin Treatment for Chronic Lung Disease in HIV-Infected Children (BREATHE) trial.

Methods

The BREATHE trial recruited 6–19 year olds with perinatally acquired HIV and co-morbid chronic lung disease as measured by FEV1. This two-site trial was individually randomised (1:1), double-blind and placebo-controlled. Participants received a once-weekly weight-based dose of 1–5 tablets of azithromycin (AZM: 250mg) or placebo, taken orally. We used pharmacy dispensing records and count of returned pills to measure adherence to study medication. Logistic regression was used to explore factors associated with adherence coverage. Poisson regression with Lexis expansion for time was used to explore whether adherence modified the effect of azithromycin on the incidence of acute respiratory exacerbation, a secondary outcome of the trial. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02426112.

Results

The 347 participants (median age 15.3, 51% male) consumed 14,622 doses of study medication over 16,220 person-weeks under study. Adherence was higher for those randomised to AZM (73.4%) than placebo (68.4%) and declined over the 48 weeks of the study (Score test for trend <0.02). Those with unsuppressed HIV viral load at baseline had 2.08 (95% CI: 1.19, 3.63) times the odds of non-adherence than those with viral suppression. Differences were also observed between trial sites.

Conclusion

The majority of children and adolescents tolerated the addition of a once-weekly dose of medication to their pill burden. Barriers in adhering to treatment for co-morbid conditions are likely common to barriers in adhering to ART. Control of co-morbidities will therefore present additional challenges in HIV care.
The choice of Madrid as the capital of Spain by Philip II in the light of the knowledge of his time: A transport network perspective
Authors: Pablo-Martí Federico , Alañón-Pardo Ángel , Myro Rafael
Published: June 2022

The suitability of Madrid as the capital of Spain is analyzed from different perspectives, questioning the belief that this choice was eminently personal or political but lacked economic rationality. The paper analyzes Madrid’s advantages over other possible capitals from the point of view of both intrinsic characteristics and those that depend on the transport network, such as the problem of supplies or the impact on the development of the surrounding territory. To deal with these questions it is necessary to consider logistical aspects that require an adjusted view of the existing transport network at that time. Using little-known primary sources and a novel methodology based on Delaunay triangulation, the 16th century Spanish transport network is reconstructed with a much higher level of accuracy than ever before. With this information, two maps are prepared that could be used for logistical analysis from a complex network perspective. The first map evaluates the real effects of the choice using an adjusted representation of the territory whilst the second map aims at avoiding the common fallacy of judging decisions made in the past applying current geographical know-how. This map, constructed with the planimetry of the 16thcentury, indicates how the somewhat deficient knowledge of Philip II with respect to the geographical reality of the day may have favored the choice of Madrid over Toledo, converting some Mediterranean coastal cities into more attractive options. The choice of Madrid as capital appears to be very reasonable in view of the different criteria used. Regarding supply difficulties, our results depart from traditional inclinations by deliberating the fact that the absence of a port in Madrid does not pose an insuperable problem. The latter is the case given that the advantages of maritime transport are far fewer than those usually considered, with Madrid’s geographical position offering significant advantages in terms of road transport.
Maternal and neonatal risk factors for autism spectrum disorder: A case-control study from Egypt
Authors: Arafa Ahmed , Mahmoud Omaima , Salah Hisham , Abdelmonem Ahmed Ali , Senosy Shaimaa
Published: June 2022

Background

The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been increasing steadily in Egypt and worldwide. Detecting risk factors for ASD could help initiate screening and risk prevention approaches. Herein, this study aimed to detect several maternal and neonatal risk factors for ASD in Egypt.

Methods

In this case-control study, mothers of children with ASD who were visiting Beni-Suef University Hospital in Egypt (n = 268) were compared to mothers of children without ASD attending one primary school with a kindergarten (n = 504) regarding their preconception, conception, and postconception characteristics. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. The odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to investigate the possible associations between the collected data and the odds of ASD.

Results

In the multivariable-adjusted models, urban residence: OR (95% CI) = 2.33 (1.60–3.38), relative father: 2.63 (1.74–3.96), history of diabetes: 5.98 (1.99–17.97), previous abortion: 2.47 (1.20–13.38), assisted fertility: 4.01 (1.20–13.38), family history of ASD: 7.24 (2.00–26.24), multiple pregnancy: 11.60 (2.54–53.07), exposure to passive smoking during pregnancy: 2.95 (1.86–4.68), vaginal bleeding during pregnancy: 3.10 (1.44–6.67), hypertension with pregnancy: 3.64 (1.06–12.51), preterm labor: 2.64 (1.26–5.57), neonatal convulsions: 14.88 (5.01–44.20), and admission to neonatal intensive care unit 2.13: (1.21–3.74) were associated with the increased odds of ASD. On the other hand, the intake of vitamins during pregnancy: 0.09 (0.06–0.16) and C-section: 0.44 (0.27–0.70) were associated with the decreased odds of ASD.

Conclusion

This study detected several maternal and neonatal risk factors for ASD in Egyptian children.
Adherence to insulin therapy and associated factors among type 1 and type 2 diabetic patients on follow up in Madda Walabu University Goba Referral Hospital, South East Ethiopia
Authors: Chefik Feleke Hailu , Tadesse Tesfaye Assefa , Quisido Bruce John Edward , Roba Adem Esmael
Published: June 2022

Background

Non-adherence to insulin therapy is a major global public health issue that has a causal relationship with increased diabetic complications that leads to further increase in the health care cost. However, adherence to insulin therapy and associated factors among diabetic mellitus (DM) patients are still not studied adequately in Ethiopia.

Objective

To assess the adherence to insulin therapy and associated factors among type 1 and type 2 diabetic patients on follow-up at Madda Walabu University—Goba Referral Hospital, South East Ethiopia.

Method

An institution-based, cross-sectional study was employed among 311 both type 1 and type 2 diabetic patients, Madda Walabu University—Goba Referral Hospital from March 4 to April 30, 2020. Study participants were recruited with simple random sampling method. Adherence to insulin therapy was measured by 8-item Morisky medication adherence scale. Therefore from these 8-items, those who score 6 or more are considered as adherent to insulin therapy. The data were collected through interviewer administered questionnaires by trained graduating class nurse students. The data were entered to Epidata version 3.1, and analyzed with SPSS version 25. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with adherence to insulin therapy. Statistical significance were declared at p <0.05.

Result

A total of 311 patients participate in the study with response rate of 100%. Among these only 38.9% of them were adherent to insulin therapy with a CI of [33.5, 44.3]. Having glucometer (AOR = 3.88; 95% CI [1.46, 10.35]), regular hospital follow-up (AOR = 3.13; 95% CI [1.12, 8.70]), being knowledgeable (AOR = 3.36; 95% CI [1.53, 7.37]), and favorable attitudes (AOR = 4.55; 95%CI [1.68, 12.34]) were the factor associated with adherence to insulin therapy.

Conclusion

This study concluded that adherence to insulin therapy was low in the study area. Having glucometer, regular hospital follow-up, being knowledgeable, and favorable attitudes were the factor associated with adherence to insulin therapy. Attention should be paid to help diabetic patients on acquiring knowledge regarding the need of consistent adherence to insulin therapy and its complications.
Cigarette smoke toxin hydroquinone and misfolding pancreatic lipase variant cooperatively promote endoplasmic reticulum stress and cell death
Authors: Kassay Norbert , Toldi Vanda , Tőzsér József , Szabó András
Published: June 2022

Mutation-induced protein misfolding of pancreatic secretory enzymes and consequent endoplasmic reticulum stress can cause chronic pancreatitis. A recent study revealed that cigarette smoke also increases the risk of the disease through endoplasmic reticulum stress. Here, we investigated the cumulative cellular effect of the G233E misfolding human pancreatic lipase variant and hydroquinone; a main toxic constituent of cigarette smoke, using mammalian cell lines. We found that hydroquinone reduces cell viability on a dose-dependent manner through programmed cell death, and diminishes lipase secretion without affecting its expression. Interestingly, hydroquinone decreased the viability more markedly in cells expressing the G233E lipase variant, than in cells producing wild-type lipase. The more substantial viability loss was due to increased endoplasmic reticulum stress, as demonstrated by elevated levels of X-box binding protein 1 mRNA splicing and immunoglobulin binding protein, NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 and C/EBP homologous protein expression. Unresolved endoplasmic reticulum stress, and especially up-regulation of the pro-apoptotic transcription factor C/EBP homologous protein were likely responsible for the increased cell death. Our observations demonstrated that the combination of hydroquinone and misfolding pancreatic lipase variant promote increased levels of endoplasmic reticulum stress and cell death, which may predispose to chronic pancreatitis.
Andrei Tarkovsky: 'Ivan's Childhood'
Authors: Efird Robert
Published: June 2022

KinoSputniks closely analyse some key films from the history of Russian and Soviet cinema. Written by international experts in the field, they are intended for film enthusiasts and students, combining scholarship with an accessible style of writing. This KinoSputnik on Andrei Tarkovsky's debut feature Ivan's Childhood examines the production, context and reception of the film, whilst offering a detailed reading of its key themes.

Through a close examination of its intricate narrative structure, unique stylistic approach and deep philosophical underpinnings, this KinoSputnik provides a thorough analysis of a truly remarkable debut film, from an artist now considered a towering figure of Russian culture.

Primary readership will be among film studies students and film enthusiasts.

A list of all books in the series is here on the Intellect website on the series page KinoSputnik
Green Synthesis of SP-SeNPs as Promising Antioxidant Agent and Pancreatic Lipase Inhibitor
Authors: Shawky Suzan , Ali Ali A. , Hussein Mohammed Abdalla
Published: June 2022

The purpose of this study was to evaluate pancreatic lipase inhibitory activity and antioxidant effect of
Spirulina platensis containing selenium nanoemulsion nanoparticles (SP-SeNPs). The SP-SeNPs were
prepared and characterized to find mean particle size and zeta potential to evaluate the possible
lipoprotein lipase and pancreatic lipase inhibitory as well as antioxidant and free radical scavenging
activities. Different antioxidant tests were employed, namely, reducing power, chelating activity on
Fe2+, free radical-scavenging and total antioxidant activities. The obtained results showed that the
shapes of SP-SeNPs were spherical and the mean particle size was 39.86 ± 0.14 nm and negative zeta
potential was +33.14. The SP-SeNP at 60 ppm and epicatechin (100 ppm) produce the same ratio of
inhibition 18%. However, lipoprotein lipase activity was increased to less than 20 and 27 % at 80 and
100 ppm SP-SeNPs. Also, the present results indicate that the SP-SeNPs at concentration of 80 and
100 ppm showed inhibitory effects more than epicatechin (100 ppm) against pancreatic lipase activity.
However, the reducing power of SP-SeNPs and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), butylated hydroxy
anisole (BHA) and α-tocopherol decreased in the order of BHA> SP-SeNPs >BHT > α-tocopherol.
The chelating activity of samples increased with increasing incubation times with FeCl2. However, the
chelating activity of SP-SeNPs of 1.50 mg/mL was nearly equal to EDTA at 0.037 mg/mL (43.67%)
for an incubation time of 60 min. This indicates that the chelation property of the samples on Fe2+ ions
may afford protection against oxidative damage. The SP-SeNPs of 6 mg/mL had the highest radical
scavenging activity when compared with 0.6 mg/mL Trolox. The antioxidant activity of SP-SeNPs
and both standards decreased in the order of SP-SeNPs > α-tocopherol > Trolox > BHA > BHT. The
results suggested that the inhibitory activity of SP-SeNPs is closely related to the tertiary structural
change in lipoprotein lipase and pancreatic lipase. Also, the antioxidant activity of SP-SeNPs could be
due to presence of carotenoids, ω-3 or ω-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid, γ-linolenic acid, sulpholipides,
glycolipids, potassium, zinc and selenium, vitamin A, vitamin E and a variety of minerals.
A Fast, Sensitive and Validated Analytical Method for Quantitation of Imidacloprid Pesticide
Residual in Mangifera indica Matrix by LC-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS/MS)
Authors: Patel Meet , Patel Alpesh , Prabhu Padmaja , Pandya Mayank
Published: June 2022

An accurate and precise analytical method was performed for the quantitation of imidacloprid pesticide
residue in the matrix of Mangifera indica (alphonso), specific species of Indian mango of Valsad
District, Gujarat. The validation of the analytical technique was carried out using UPLC-ESI-MS/MS
and was done in accordance with the regulatory recommendations. The projected technique is based
on QuEChERS Method with a mixture of diluents used followed by clean up with the PSA. Three
concentration levels (0.50, 2.55 and 5.10 μg/kg) were used to validate the approach and the outcomes
ranged between 70 to 120%, with relative standard deviations (% RSD) of ≤ 20%. The detection and
quantification limits were derived at the concentration of 0.010 and 0.50 μg/kg, respectively with a
significant %ME of 9.90%. The quantitation of imidacloprid pesticide residue in the mango matrix
can be done at a lower quantification level by UPLC-ESI-MS/MS.
A Fluorescence and Molecular Docking Study on the Interaction of
4′-Hydroxychalcone with Bovine Serum Albumin and Human Serum Albumin
Authors: Patar Madhumita , Jalan Ankita , Moyon N. Shaemningwar
Published: June 2022

The interaction of 4′-hydroxychalcone (4′HC) with bovine serum albumin (BSA) and human serum
albumin (HSA) was studied under physiological condition (pH=7.0). The fluorescence intensity of
both serum albumins was quenched in presence of 4′HC at different temperatures. Stern-Volmer analysis
and bimolecular quenching constants indicates the presence of static quenching in BSA. Whereas,
fluorescence quenching of HSA is due to both the mechanism of static and dynamic quenching. The
formation of ground state complex is further confirmed by absorption spectroscopy. The interaction of
4′HC with BSA is stronger than with HSA. FRET study shows the possible energy transfer between
4′HC with BSA and HSA. The binding site of the protein was identified by molecular docking study.
The FTIR and CD analysis indicates conformational change in both the serum albumins. The
thermodynamic study indicates that the association of BSA and HSA with 4′HC is spontaneous,
enthalpy driver and involves electrostatic force of interaction.
Cu(II) and Ni(II) Complexes of Bidentate E-N-(4-Isopropyl benzylidene)isonicotinohydrazide:
Synthesis, Characterization, DNA Cleavage and Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Geetha R. , Rajasekar K. , Balasubramaniyan S. , Selvarani R. , Veeravel C.
Published: June 2022

The reaction of Cu(NO3)2·3H2O and Ni(NO3)2·6H2O with
E-N-(4-isopropylbenzylidine)isonicotinohydrazide derived from isonicotinic acid hydrazide with
4-isopropyl benzaldehyde were synthesized and characterized structurally by physico-chemical and
spectral techniques. The metal-ligand ratio in metal complexes is in the order of metal:ligand1:ligand2
(1:1:1) indicating the formulae of the complexes as [M(SB)2(NO2)2] (where M = Cu2+ & Ni2+, SB =
C16H17N3O). The magnetic moment and electronic spectral data suggest tetragonal geometry for Cu(II)
complex and octahedral geometry for Ni(II) complex around the central metal ions. The FT-IR and
Far-IR spectroscopic data suggest the bidentate nature of ligand. The geometry of the Cu(II) complex
and its covalence is confirmed by EPR spectral data. The Thermal decomposition of metal complexes
has been identified using thermogravimetric analysis. The conductometric measurements proved the
non-electrolytic behaviour of all the compounds. With the help of the agarose gel electrophoresis
method, the DNA cleavage studies of Schiff base metal complexes were predicted. Also, the in-vitro
antioxidant activity of Cu(II) complex was determined by a free radical scavenging assay.
Synthesis of Nickel Oxide Nanoparticles from Syzygium cumini Plant Fruit Pulp Extract:
Study of their Antibacterial, Antifungal and Cytotoxic Activities on CHO Cells
Authors: Kolahalam Lalitha Ammadu , Prasad K.R.S. , Krishna P. Murali , Supraja N.
Published: June 2022

The nickel oxide nanoparticles were synthesized using Syzygium cumini plant fruit pulp in a simple,
ecofriendly and cost-effective procedure using the green chemistry route. The prepared nickel oxide
nanoparticles were characterized by UV-visible (UV-Vis), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR)
spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction spectrometry (XRD), zeta potential (ZE), particle size (DLS),
field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM) analysis. The synthesized nanoparticles showed
on an average of 16 to 31 nm in size. The synthesized nanoparticles were tested on several Gram-positive
and Gram-negative bacteria and also on fungi, which showed less toxicity to them. Finally, the
synthesized nanoparticles cytotoxic activity was tested on Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cell lines,
which showed cytotoxicity with IC50 value of 2.66 μg/mL.