bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CATETERES NASOENTERAIS MAL POSICIONADOS: RELATO DE CASOS
Authors: Duarte Joana Márcia Martins , Rigotti Ariane Ranzani , Pereira Flávia Helena , Silva Geovanna Ribeiro Machado , Gimenes Fernanda Raphael Escobar
Published: August 2021

RESUMO Objetivo: relatar casos de cateteres nasoenterais mal posicionados, após inserção às cegas à beira leito. Método: são apresentados três casos, os quais ocorreram em uma instituição hospitalar localizada no estado de São Paulo. Os cateteres foram inseridos pelo enfermeiro conforme protocolo institucional, para posicionamento em nível entérico. Ausculta epigástrica e mensuração do pH foram os métodos empregados na confirmação do posicionamento dos cateteres e posteriormente foi realizado o exame de Raios-X, considerado exame de referência para confirmar o posicionamento de cateteres nasoenterais. Resultados: dos três cateteres mal posicionados, dois estavam com a extremidade distal projetada para a junção esofagogástrica e uma não foi visibilizada, apesar de a ausculta ter sido positiva e os valores de pH terem sido superiores a seis. Conclusão: os resultados revelaram importantes limitações de ambos os métodos na verificação do posicionamento de cateteres nasoenterais que foram inseridos recentemente às cegas à beira leito.
ASSISTÊNCIA DE ENFERMAGEM NA SÍNDROME DE ABSTINÊNCIA ALCOÓLICA: FLUXOGRAMA DE ATENDIMENTO
Authors: Silva Isabella Fernanda da , Boska Gabriella de Andrade , Oliveira Márcia Aparecida Ferreira de , Claro Heloísa Garcia , Araújo Renato de Angelo , Souza Maria Regina Camargo Ferraz
Published: August 2021

RESUMO Objetivo: realizar revisão da literatura e pela síntese de evidências elaborar um fluxograma de assistência de Enfermagem na síndrome de abstinência alcoólica (SAA). Método: foram executadas as primeiras etapas de elaboração de um protocolo clínico de Enfermagem. Na etapa “a” definiu-se o objetivo do protocolo; na etapa “b” realizou-se pesquisa da literatura científica para levantamento de evidências; e na etapa “c”, a partir das evidências, elaborou-se um fluxograma de assistência de Enfermagem na SAA. A coleta de dados ocorreu em janeiro de 2019 nas bases de dados: Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde, PubMed, CINAHL, PSYINFO e MEDLINE. Os resultados foram apresentados em tabelas e figuras. Resultados: oito estudos foram incluídos na revisão. As evidências subsidiaram a elaboração do fluxograma de assistência de Enfermagem na SAA sistematizado nas seguintes fases: acolhimento e abordagem dos usuários de álcool com manifestação de sinais e sintomas de SAA; rastreio; intervenções; e encaminhamento. Conclusão: com a síntese das evidências foi possível a elaboração de um fluxograma de assistência de Enfermagem na SAA, o qual pode contribuir para o aprimoramento das respostas em saúde a esse problema, bem como é suficiente para dar seguimento às etapas de validação de um protocolo clínico.
Bone Metastases, Skeletal-Related Events, and Survival in Patients With Metastatic Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer Treated With Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors
Authors: Qin Angel , Zhao Songzhu , Miah Abdul , Wei Lai , Patel Sandipkumar , Johns Andrew , Grogan Madison , Bertino Erin M. , He Kai , Shields Peter G. , Kalemkerian Gregory P. , Gadgeel Shirish M. , Ramnath Nithya , Schneider Bryan J. , Hassan Khaled A. , Szerlip Nicholas , Chopra Zoey , Journey Sara , Waninger Jessica , Spakowicz Daniel , Carbone David P. , Presley Carolyn J. , Otterson Gregory A. , Green Michael D. , Owen Dwight H.
Published: August 2021

Background: Bone metastases and skeletal-related events (SREs) are a frequent cause of morbidity in patients with metastatic non–small cell lung cancer (mNSCLC). Data are limited on bone metastases and SREs in patients with mNSCLC treated using immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), and on the efficacy of bone-modifying agents (BMAs) in this setting. Here we report the incidence, impact on survival, risk factors for bone metastases and SREs, and impact of BMAs in patients with mNSCLC treated with ICIs in a multi-institutional cohort. Patients and Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of patients with mNSCLC treated with ICIs at 2 tertiary care centers from 2014 through 2017. Overall survival (OS) was compared between patients with and without baseline bone metastases using a log-rank test. A Cox regression model was used to evaluate the association between OS and the presence of bone metastases at ICI initiation, controlling for other confounding factors. Results: We identified a cohort of 330 patients who had received ICIs for metastatic disease. Median patient age was 63 years, most patients were treated in the second line or beyond (n=259; 78%), and nivolumab was the most common ICI (n=211; 64%). Median OS was 10 months (95% CI, 8.4–12.0). In our cohort, 124 patients (38%) had baseline bone metastases, and 43 (13%) developed SREs during or after ICI treatment. Patients with bone metastases had a higher hazard of death after controlling for performance status, histology, line of therapy, and disease burden (hazard ratio, 1.57; 95% CI, 1.19–2.08; P=.001). Use of BMAs was not associated with OS or a decreased risk of SREs. Conclusions: Presence of bone metastases at baseline was associated with a worse prognosis for patients with mNSCLC treated with ICI after controlling for multiple clinical characteristics. Use of BMAs was not associated with reduced SREs or a difference in survival.
The Microbiome Colorectal Cancer Puzzle: Initiator, Propagator, and Avenue for Treatment and Research
Authors: Knippel Reece J. , Sears Cynthia L.
Published: August 2021

The human gut microbiome has an ever-increasing role in the instigation and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). Recent investigations have focused on identifying the key causative bacterial species and the composition and structure of the microbiome as a whole that ultimately lead to tumorigenesis in the colon. Understanding the bacterial mechanisms that promote CRC provides a rich area for the development of new screening modalities and therapeutics that may improve patient outcomes. This article reviews the various mechanisms that bacteria in the gut use to induce and/or promote tumor formation, discusses the application of the microbiome in the prevention and therapy of CRC, and provides directions for future research endeavors aiming to develop a more complete understanding of this complex phenomenon.
Simulation of dendrite collision behavior based on cellular automata-lattice Boltzmann model
Authors: Zhang Shi-Jie , Wang Ying-Ming , Wang Qi , Li Chen-Yu , Li Ri ,   School of Materials Science and Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, China
Published: August 2021

In the alloy solidification process, the movement behavior of free dendrites in the melt is one of the key issues in studying the formation process of the alloy solidification structure. The cellular automata-lattice Boltzmann coupling model has become a main numerical model for numerical simulation of solidification microstructure in recent years. In this paper, cellular automata and lattice Boltzmann model for simulating dendrite growth are improved to simulate the movement of equiaxed grains in undercooled melt. In the improved model, the Galilean invariant momentum exchange method is used to calculate the fluid force, the motion equation of the center of mass is solved to calculate the motion displacement of the dendrite, the motion of the dendrite is realized through the dynamic mesh technology, and the rigid sphere model is used to deal with the collision of the dendrite. The settlement of a single dendrite in the undercooled melt of Al-4.7% Cu alloy, the settlement of two round particles in the Newtonian fluid, and the elastic collision of two dendrites are all simulated by this model. The simulation results show that this model can maintain the morphology of dendrites well in the process of calculating dendrite growth motion, and this model can calculate the collision process of irregular dendrites. The movement of dendrite disturbs the melt around it, resulting in a significant change in the concentration of melt around it, which affects the growth of dendrite and aggravates the asymmetry of dendrite growth.
Hypoxia triggers collective aerotactic migration in Dictyostelium discoideum
Authors: Cochet-Escartin Olivier , Demircigil Mete , Hirose Satomi , Allais Blandine , Gonzalo Philippe , Mikaelian Ivan , Funamoto Kenichi , Anjard Christophe , Calvez Vincent , Rieu Jean-Paul
Published: August 2021

Using a self-generated hypoxic assay, we show that the amoebaDictyostelium discoideumdisplays a remarkable collective aerotactic behavior. When a cell colony is covered, cells quickly consume the available oxygen (O2) and form a dense ring moving outwards at constant speed and density. To decipher this collective process, we combined two technological developments: porphyrin-based O2-sensing films and microfluidic O2gradient generators. We showed thatDictyosteliumcells exhibit aerotactic and aerokinetic response in a low range of O2concentration indicative of a very efficient detection mechanism. Cell behaviors under self-generated or imposed O2gradients were modeled using an in silico cellular Potts model built on experimental observations. This computational model was complemented with a parsimonious ‘Go or Grow’ partial differential equation (PDE) model. In both models, we found that the collective migration of a dense ring can be explained by the interplay between cell division and the modulation of aerotaxis.
N501Y mutation of spike protein in SARS-CoV-2 strengthens its binding to receptor ACE2
Authors: Tian Fang , Tong Bei , Sun Liang , Shi Shengchao , Zheng Bin , Wang Zibin , Dong Xianchi , Zheng Peng
Published: August 2021

SARS-CoV-2 has been spreading around the world for the past year. Recently, several variants such as B.1.1.7 (alpha), B.1.351 (beta), and P.1 (gamma), which share a key mutation N501Y on the receptor-binding domain (RBD), appear to be more infectious to humans. To understand the underlying mechanism, we used a cell surface-binding assay, a kinetics study, a single-molecule technique, and a computational method to investigate the interaction between these RBD (mutations) and ACE2. Remarkably, RBD with the N501Y mutation exhibited a considerably stronger interaction, with a faster association rate and a slower dissociation rate. Atomic force microscopy (AFM)-based single-molecule force microscopy (SMFS) consistently quantified the interaction strength of RBD with the mutation as having increased binding probability and requiring increased unbinding force. Molecular dynamics simulations of RBD–ACE2 complexes indicated that the N501Y mutation introduced additional π-π and π-cation interactions that could explain the changes observed by force microscopy. Taken together, these results suggest that the reinforced RBD–ACE2 interaction that results from the N501Y mutation in the RBD should play an essential role in the higher rate of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 variants, and that future mutations in the RBD of the virus should be under surveillance.
SARS-CoV-2 shedding dynamics across the respiratory tract, sex, and disease severity for adult and pediatric COVID-19
Authors: Chen Paul Z , Bobrovitz Niklas , Premji Zahra A , Koopmans Marion , Fisman David N , Gu Frank X
Published: August 2021

Background:

Previously, we conducted a systematic review and analyzed the respiratory kinetics of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) (Chen et al., 2021). How age, sex, and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) severity interplay to influence the shedding dynamics of SARS-CoV-2, however, remains poorly understood.

Methods:

We updated our systematic dataset, collected individual case characteristics, and conducted stratified analyses of SARS-CoV-2 shedding dynamics in the upper (URT) and lower respiratory tract (LRT) across COVID-19 severity, sex, and age groups (aged 0–17 years, 18–59 years, and 60 years or older).

Results:

The systematic dataset included 1266 adults and 136 children with COVID-19. Our analyses indicated that high, persistent LRT shedding of SARS-CoV-2 characterized severe COVID-19 in adults. Severe cases tended to show slightly higher URT shedding post-symptom onset, but similar rates of viral clearance, when compared to nonsevere infections. After stratifying for disease severity, sex and age (including child vs. adult) were not predictive of respiratory shedding. The estimated accuracy for using LRT shedding as a prognostic indicator for COVID-19 severity was up to 81%, whereas it was up to 65% for URT shedding.

Conclusions:

Virological factors, especially in the LRT, facilitate the pathogenesis of severe COVID-19. Disease severity, rather than sex or age, predicts SARS-CoV-2 kinetics. LRT viral load may prognosticate COVID-19 severity in patients before the timing of deterioration and should do so more accurately than URT viral load.

Funding:

Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) Discovery Grant, NSERC Senior Industrial Research Chair, and the Toronto COVID-19 Action Fund.
Masteroppgaver som viktige bidrag til kunnskapsbasert helsefremmende arbeid?
Authors: Rønningen Grete Eide , Ausland Liv Hanson , Torp Steffen
Published: August 2021

I denne kvalitative studien undersøkes hvordan masteroppgavene kan bidra til kunnskapsbasen i helsefremmende arbeid. Studien er basert på en gjennomgang av masteroppgaver i helsefremmende arbeid fra perioden 2008 – 2018 ved ett universitet i Norge, samt et fokusgruppeintervju med den akademiske faggruppen tilknyttet dette masterstudiet. Data er analysert ved hjelp av innholdsanalyse. Analysen viser at masteroppgavene speiler emnet som beskrevet i internasjonale konsensusdokumenter om undervisning og forskning i helsefremmende arbeid, og svarer på forskningsbehov relatert til helsefremmende praksis. For at masteroppgavene skal kunne bidra til fagets forskningsbase, kreves fagfellevurderte publikasjoner. Slike publikasjoner forutsetter innsats fra både studenten og veilederen, noe som kan være en utfordring for begge parter på grunn av mangel på ressurser. Det er behov for organisatorisk tilrettelegging for å skape en kultur for publisering av masteroppgaver i vitenskapelige tidsskrifter.

Abstract

Master’s theses as important contributions to knowledge-based health promotion?

This qualitative study examines how master's theses can contribute to the knowledge base of health promotion.  The study is based on a review of master's theses published from 2008 – 2018 in one university in Norway, and a focus group interview with university academics working at the current health promotion program. Data were analyzed using content analysis. The analysis shows that the master's theses mirror the subject matter as described in international consensus documents on teaching and research on health promotion. In addition, they provide new knowledge about local health promotion practice and research needs. For master's theses to be able to contribute to the research base, peer-reviewed publications are required. Such publications require efforts from both the student and the supervisor and can be difficult to achieve due to lack of resources. There is a need for organizational support to create a culture for publishing master’s theses in scientific journals.
Kan en felles læringsarena gi sykepleiestudenter økt klinisk kompetanse?
Authors: Henny  , Hammer Rigmor , Skagøy Bente , Remen Nesje Ingunn , Pettersen June , Dahlborg Lyckhage Elisabeth
Published: August 2021

Studiens hensikt var å finne ut om samarbeidsdager mellom studenter, praksisveiledere og praksislærere kan gi læring som har betydning for studentenes utvikling av klinisk kompetanse. Stedet, rommet og sosiale samspill har betydning for læreprosesser, ifølge Etienne Wenger og Kari Martinsen. «Det tredje rommet» er brukt som en metafor om rommet der mennesker med kompetanse i teoretisk kunnskap og praksiskunnskap møtes sammen med studenter. Samarbeidsdager mellom studenter, praksisveiledere og praksislærere ble gjennomført for fire andreårs studentgrupper (N=23). Fokusgruppeintervju ble brukt for å samle inn data. De transkriberte intervjuene ble analysert gjennom meningsfortetning basert på Amedeo Giorgis fenomenologiske analysemetode. Essensen fra studentenes erfaringer fra samarbeidsdagene er at «Det tredje rommet» er en trygg arena der studentenes kliniske kompetanse ble stimulert og økt. Fire temaer beskriver studentenes erfaring: praksisforberedthet, trygghet, refleksjon og samarbeidslæring. Et styrket samarbeid mellom akademia og helseforetak gjennom arbeidsfellesskap i «Det tredje rommet» kan fremme sykepleiestudenters læring.
Abstract
Is a common learning arena a "Room of Possibility” that gives nursing students increased clinical competence?
The aim of the study was to find out whether collaboration days between students, practice supervisors and nurse teachers can provide learning that facilitates students' development of clinical competence. The place, space and social interaction are important for learning processes, according to Etienne Wenger and Kari Martinsen. "The Third Room" is used as a metaphor about the room where people with competence in theoretical knowledge and practical knowledge collaborate with students. Collaboration days between students, practical nurse supervisors and nurse teachers were conducted for four second-year student groups (N=23). Focus groups were used to collect data. The transcribed interviews have been analyzed through meaning condensation. An essential structure of the students 'experiences from the collaboration days describes The Third Room as a good arena where the students' clinical competence was stimulated and increased. Four themes describe the student’s experiences; preparedness for practice, confidence, reflection and collaborative learning. A strengthened collaboration between universities and hospitals through working communities in The Third Room can facilitate nursing students' learning.
covid19.Explorer: a web application and R package to explore United States COVID-19 data
Authors: Revell Liam J.
Published: August 2021

Appearing at the end of 2019, a novel virus (later identified as SARS-CoV-2) was characterized in the city of Wuhan in Hubei Province, China. As of the time of writing, the disease caused by this virus (known as COVID-19) has already resulted in over three million deaths worldwide. SARS-CoV-2 infections and deaths, however, have been highly unevenly distributed among age groups, sexes, countries, and jurisdictions over the course of the pandemic. Herein, I present a tool (the covid19.Explorer R package and web application) that has been designed to explore and analyze publicly available United States COVID-19 infection and death data from the 2020/21 U.S. SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. The analyses and visualizations that this R package and web application facilitate can help users better comprehend the geographic progress of the pandemic, the effectiveness of non-pharmaceutical interventions (such as lockdowns and other measures, which have varied widely among U.S. states), and the relative risks posed by COVID-19 to different age groups within the U.S. population. The end result is an interactive tool that will help its users develop an improved understanding of the temporal and geographic dynamics of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, accessible to lay people and scientists alike.
Association of serum fetuin-B with insulin resistance and pre-diabetes in young Chinese women: evidence from a cross-sectional study and effect of liraglutide
Authors: Xia Xuyun , Xue Shiyao , Yang Gangyi , Li Yu , Liu Hua , Chen Chen , Li Ling
Published: August 2021

Background and Aims

Fetuin-B has been reported to be involved in glucose and lipid metabolism and associated with the occurrence of diabetes. The main purpose of this study is to explore the changes of circulating fetuin-B in young women with pre-diabetes and to analyze the relationship between fetuin-B and the occurrence and development of IR.

Methods

A total of 304 women were enrolled in this study and subjected to both OGTT and EHC. A subgroup of 26 overweight/obese womenwas treated with Lira for 24 weeks. serum fetuin-B concentrations were measured by ELISA.

Results

In IGT and IR-NG groups, serum fetuin-B levels were higher than those in the NGT group. The serum fetuin-B levels in the IGT group were higher than those in the IR-NG group. serum fetuin-B was positively correlated with BMI, WHR, 2h-BG, FIns, HbA1c, and HOMA2-IR, but negatively correlated with the M-value in all study populations. Multiple stepwise regression analysis showed that the M-value was independently and inversely associated with serum fetuin-B. Logistic regression analysis showed that serum fetuin-B was independently associated with IGT and significantly increased the risk of IGT. During the OGTT, serum fetuin-B increased significantly in the NGT group, but there were no significant changes in other groups. During the EHC, serum fetuin-B increased in the IGT group, but there was no change in other groups. After Lira intervention, serum fetuin-B decreased significantly in IGT women.

Conclusions

serum fetuin-B levels are elevated in young women with IR or IGT and may be associated with IR.
Systematic Review on Relation Between Surface Treatment and Outcome of Delayed Replantation of Permanent Anterior Avulsed Teeth
Authors: Mehta Shaili , Verma Jayeeta
Published: August 2021

Introduction: One of the most severe dental injury is Tooth Avulsion or exarticulation. Tooth avulsion is the complete displacement of tooth out of the socket. The common treatment employed for avulsed teeth is replantation, the prognosis of which depends on the handling of the tooth specimen and time lag between avulsion and replantation of the teeth. Surface treatment of root surface of avulsed teeth prior to delayed replantation is a common practice and a variety of agents and methods have been used for the same. The literature lacks evidence that establishes a definitive relation between surface treatment and prognosis of delayed replantation of avulsed teeth. Aim: To understand the effect of surface treatment and outcome after replantation of avulsed anterior permanent teeth with an extraoral dry time of more than 60 minutes. Materials and Methods: The protocol for systematic review was registered on PROSPERO, registration number was CRD42020222919. A search was performed on case reports and case series available on delayed replantation of avulsed anterior permanent teeth on databases like Medline/PubMed, Google Scholar, and Cochrane from the year 2000 to 2018.The MESH terms and keywords like tooth avulsion*, tooth fractures*, tooth injuries*, traumatology*, delayed replantation methods and delayed replantation standards with Boolean operators were used for data identification and screening. After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, total five articles were included. Results: The duration of storage of the teeth were variable with cases reported from 24 hours to 72 hours of extraoral dry time. All five reports used different methods for surface treatments. No complications were reported after 12 months in three cases. No complication was reported after 24 months in one case. After 12 weeks, one article reported ankylosis and infraocclusion after replantation. Conclusion: As a result of data heterogenicity and a short follow-up period of the articles, a clear relation between surface treatment and delayed replantation of an avulsed teeth could not be established. However, it can be safely concluded that surface treatment of avulsed teeth prior to delayed replantation results in a better prognosis and predictable outcomes.
Developmentally Appropriate Practice and Music Education in the Primary School
Authors: Adjepong Benjamin
Published: August 2021

Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP) is an educational approach which refers to teaching strategies that consider children’s age, interests, abilities and experiences to help them achieve challenging and achievable goals. The approach which hinges on three pillars: age, individual and culture has gained popularity in countries such as the United States of America, Taiwan and South Korea. DAP underpins National Association for Music Education (NAfME) beliefs about young children’s developmentally and individually appropriate musical experiences. The aim of this paper is to present an overview of the relationship between DAP and music education in primary schools. The discussions centred around the following themes: Children’s musical potential, children’s unique interests and abilities, children’s play, an exemplary musical sound, activities and material, performance goals, diverse learning environment, effective adult role models, and a pleasant physical and social environment. It is suggested that training workshops should be organised for teachers for effective integration of DAP in the classroom to optimise children’s learning in music. Inclusion of DAP as a theme for study in the music curriculum content in the Universities and Colleges of Education in Ghana for the preparation of primary school teachers is also recommended. Carrying out a real classroom study through observations, questionnaires or interviews is recommended for future researches on related subjects.
More on Symmetric Brothers of a Node in a Perfect Binary Tree
Authors: Wang Xingbo
Published: August 2021

The paper makes an extensive study on the symmetric brothers of a node in a perfect binary tree. Through proving several new properties of the symmetric brothers of a node, it reveals how the symmetric brothers and the symmetric ancestors distribute on the tree and how they are beneficial for designing a searching algorithm of special purpose. Detail mathematical reasoning and proofs are shown together with concrete examples to demonstrate the mathematical traits. The paper is helpful for designing algorithms in blind search related aspects.
Assessment of Genetic Variability and Transmissibility Index in Rice Genotypes (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Sheera Ashish , Aftab Nashra , Rout Sandeep , Mishra Udit Nandan , Sharma Bupesh , Sivasankar R.
Published: August 2021

Aim: To assess the Genetic Variability among the accession/ genotype and its contributing traits.

Methodology: A field experiment was conducted using 35 genotypes including 2 checks of rice during the season of kharif, 2017, at the Field Experimental Centre, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, SHUATS, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh to evaluate genetic variation and heritability of yield and related traits. The experiment was designed with a randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. Analysis of variance revealed significant difference among the genotypes for all traits indicating existence of genetic variability among the accessions.

Results: Highest genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) were recorded for Spikelet’s per panicle, tillers per hill, panicle per hill and grain filling. High heritability in broad sense was obtained for days to 50% flowering (99.6%), days to maturity (98.7%), test weight (97.9%), harvest index (96.9%) and grain yield per hill (96.6%) which is indicating the high heritable portion of variation. High to medium estimate of heritability in genetic advance were obtained for grain yield (38.51), spikelet’s/ panicle (37.94), panicle/ hill (36.97) were indicating the roles of additive gene action and good scope of selection using their phenotype performance.

Interpretation: Considering, all of these characters, spikelet’s per panicle, days to 50% flowering and days to maturity were important yield related traits and could be used for selection in future rice breeding programme.
A Review on Neurotoxins from Clostridium botulinum against Neuro-muscular Disorders
Authors: Nalapur Sravani , Ambati Rangarao
Published: August 2021

Neuro-muscular disorders cause a series of serious complications in the human body, where some lead to considerable morbidity and mortality ocassionally. Neurological diseases result in dystrophy, inhibited growth, etc. This present review aimed to emphasize the employment of neurotoxins against neuro degenerative disorders. The source of neurotoxins includes botulinum (Clostridium botulinum), snakes like Vespa orientalis and some medically important arthropods like hornets and spiders. The review not only describes the potential of the neurotoxins in the treatment but also elucidates the mechanism of action of lethal toxins like botulinum. Safety and dosage regimens of various toxins with the help of proven study data would aid in endorsing researchers for further research on toxins making them more superior targeted drugs.
The Prevalence of Hepatitis B and C among HIV Positive Patients in Some Hospitals in Rivers State
Authors: Erasmus M. A. , Akani N. P. , Amadi L. O. , Williams J. O.
Published: August 2021

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), and Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) are all blood borne pathogens that are still global health challenges and were known to be endemic in Nigeria. Little work had been done on Hepatitis-B and C co-infection among HIV positive patients in the three Senatorial Districts of Rivers State. A case- control, hospital- based study was conducted among subjects from Rivers state University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH), Zonal Hospital, Bori and Zonal Hospital, Ahoada to determine the prevalence of Hepatitis B and C co-infection in these areas. Three hundred and seventy-five subjects of (10-69 years) and both sexes were included in the study. A structured questionnaire was administered to obtain demographic parameters of the participants. The samples collected were screened and confirmed for hepatitis-B and C using standard techniques. The overall prevalence rates of HBV, HCV and HBV/HCV in this study are 4.5%, 2.1% and 0.8% respectively while the prevalence among HIV positive participants were; 4.6%, 2.8% and 1.1% respectively. Bori had the highest prevalence of HBV and HCV, (5.3% and 4.2%) while Ahoada had the highest prevalence of triple infection (2.1%). The prevalence of HIV/HBV, HIV/HCV and HIV/HBV/HCV infection was more among subjects within age range of 30-39 years (7.0%, 5.6% and 4.2%) and lowest within the age range of 20-29 years (2.3%, 0% and 0%). Conclusively, the research findings show that the prevalence of hepatitis B and C co-infection among HIV patients in these hospitals are high. Thus, every HIV positive patient should be screened and educated on the danger of co-infection for better management of the patient.
Phytochemical Screening and Antioxidant Activity of Salvia hispanica
Authors: Dib Hanane , Seladji Meryem , Bencheikh Fatima Zohra , Faradji Meriem , Benammar Chahid , Belarbi Meriem
Published: August 2021

Background: There is a growing interest worldwide to identify novel functional foods able to exert important biochemical activities with low or without toxic effect. Accordingly, the use of Salvia hispanica L. (chia) a Mexican herb, has tremendously grown as an agriculture crop owing to the nutritional and medicinal values. The objective of this study was to evaluate phytochemical composition of chia seeds and prove their claim for functional properties.

Materials and Methods: The determination of total phenolic, flavonoid and condensed tannin contents of chia seeds were carried out by the Folin-Ciocalteu, the aluminum trichloride and the vanilline acid spectrometric methods. Antioxidant activities of chia seeds extracts were assessed using free radical scavenging assay DPPH, Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Potential FRAP and β-Carotene bleaching assay.

Results: Chia seeds contain high levels of total phenolic and flavonoid contents 19.06±0.14 mg GAE/ g DW and 12.3±0.04 mg CE/g DW, respectively. The content of condensed tannins was estimated at 8.32±0.01 mg CE/g DW. The flavonoid extract showed a higher antioxidant potential against DPPH, FRAP and the bleaching of β-Carotene (0.27±0.00, 0.06±0.03 and 0.39±0.01 mg/mL, respectively).

Conclusion: Following the obtained results, we should explore the use of this seeds in food products due its nutritional and chemical composition, possible human health benefits and role as a functional food.
School Outcomes of Students with and At Risk for Disabilities in Poverty: An Evaluation of School-Based Interventions in the U.S.
Authors: Kim Sunyoung , Yan Min-Chi , Wang Jing , Lequia Jenna
Published: August 2021

Poverty as a cultural factor affects students' school success and outcomes. In the current literature review, we aimed at providing a comprehensive analysis of intervention research designed to support school outcomes of students aged 3 to 21 years with disabilities or at risk for developing disabilities in high-poverty contexts. Eighteen studies were included in this review (16 group designs, 1 single case design, and 1 group design with embedded single case), with a total of 1782 student participants. Results indicated that most of the research studies designed for students in poverty focused on their language skills (e.g., reading, vocabulary, literacy) with various interventions. Most of the group design studies met the quality indicators (Gersten et al., 2009) with a low standard, although all single case studies met the quality indicators by higher than 80% (Kratochwill et al., 2013). As for the analysis of cultural responsiveness, we found that most studies provided limited information reflecting culturally responsive research (Trainor & Bal, 2014). Discussion and implication for practice and research are provided.
Manganese Ferrite Nanoparticles Encapsulated into Vitamin E/Sphingomyelin Nanoemulsions as Contrast Agents for High‐Sensitive Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Díez‐Villares Sandra , Ramos‐Docampo Miguel A. , da Silva‐Candal Andrés , Hervella Pablo , Vázquez‐Ríos Abi J. , Dávila‐Ibáñez Ana B. , López‐López Rafael , Iglesias‐Rey Ramón , Salgueiriño Verónica , Fuente María de la
Published: August 2021

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is one of the most powerful non‐invasive imaging modalities used in clinics due to its great spatial resolution and excellent soft‐tissue contrast, though still less sensitive than other techniques such as the nuclear imaging modalities. This lack of sensitivity can be improved with the use of contrast agents based on nanomaterials. In recent years, researchers have focused on the development of magnetic nanoparticles, given their role as enhancers of the contrast signal based on the magnetic resonance. Manganese ferrite nanoparticles stand out, given their high magnetic susceptibility and magnetic soft nature. Herein, 10 nm MnFe2O4 nanoparticles, functionalized with the natural antioxidant vitamin E (VitE‐MFO) are encapsulated into simple, biodegradable and non‐toxic nanoemulsions (NEs), by a reproducible one‐step method obtaining stable 150 nm‐sized magnetic nanoemulsions (VitE‐MFO‐NEs). After encapsulation, the superparamagnetic properties of VitE‐MFO are maintained and MR imaging studies reveal an extremely high transverse relaxivity for VitE‐MFO‐NEs (652.9 × 10−3 m−1 s−1), twofold higher than VitE‐MFO value. Moreover, VitE‐MFO‐NEs show great in vivo biocompatibility and good signal in in vivo and ex vivo MRI, which indicates their great potential for biomedical imaging enhancing the negative MR contrast and significantly improving the sensitivity of MRI.
PEG‐Polymer Encapsulated Aggregation‐Induced Emission Nanoparticles for Tumor Theranostics
Authors: Dai Jun , Dong Xiaoqi , Wang Quan , Lou Xiaoding , Xia Fan , Wang Shixuan
Published: August 2021

In the field of tumor imaging and therapy, the aggregation‐caused quenching (ACQ) effect of fluorescent dyes at high concentration is a great challenge. In this regard, the aggregation‐induced emission luminogens (AIEgens) show great potential, since AIEgens effectively overcome the ACQ effect and have better fluorescence quantum yield, photobleaching resistance, and photosensitivity. Polyethylene glycol (PEG)‐polymer is the most commonly used carrier to prepare nanoparticles (NPs). The advantage of PEGylation is that it can greatly prolong the metabolic half‐life and reduce immunogenicity and toxicity. Considering that the hydrophobicity of most AIEgens hinders their application in organisms, the use of PEG‐polymer encapsulation is an effective strategy to overcome this obstacle. Importantly, bioactive functional groups can be modified on PEG‐polymers to enhance the biological effect of NPs. The combination of powerful AIEgens and PEG‐polymers provides a new strategy for tumor imaging and therapy, which is promising for clinical application.
Full‐Color Electrophoretic Display Using Charged Colloidal Arrays of Core–Shell Microspheres with Enhanced Color Tunability in Non‐Polar Medium
Authors: Park Eunseon , Lee Seungju , Lee Hyunjung , Lee Wonmok
Published: August 2021

In this study, core–shell microspheres of poly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA) and poly(t‐butylmethacrylate) (PtBMA) are synthesized and dispersed in a non‐polar medium exhibiting a structural color in the visible range. The charge stabilization of the PMMA–PtBMA microsphere is achieved because of preferential adsorption of the charged inverse micelles of aerosol‐OT (AOT) on the microsphere surface. While the PtBMA shell enables the dispersion of the microspheres in isoparaffinic fluid, the PMMA core provides an enhanced refractive index contrast with the medium. In comparison to PtBMA‐only microsphere, incorporation of PMMA core not only increases the average refractive index but also increases the surface charge density of the microsphere, which is attributed to strong attraction between the inverse micelles and the microsphere. The optimized crystalline colloidal array (CCA) of the PMMA–PtBMA microsphere shows stronger structural colors than those of the PtBMA‐only spheres because of an enhanced index contrast with the liquid medium, and an improved color tunability is also achieved. A CCA exhibits approximately 50% light transmittance, demonstrating a semi‐transparent display. The repeated voltage biases proved that a CCA has excellent stability. Finally, a low‐angular dependency of the PMMA–PtBMA CCA is confirmed, which is an advantageous feature as an electrophoretic display.
Bipolar Molecules with Hybridized Local and Charge‐Transfer State for Highly Efficient Deep‐Blue Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes with EQE of 7.4% and CIEy ∼ 0.05
Authors: Zheng Yu , Zhu Xiangyu , Ni Zhigang , Wang Xianhui , Zhong Ziting , Feng Xin Jiang , Zhao Zujin , Lu Hua
Published: August 2021

Donor−acceptor molecules with hybridized local and charge transfer (HLCT) excited state have been demonstrated to be an efficient strategy for achieving high performance electroluminescence by harvesting both singlet and triplet excitons. In this study, a series of bipolar D−A molecules with twisted bridge are synthesized and these chromophores exhibit good thermal, morphological and photophysical properties, electrochemical stabilities as well as HLCT excited state features. Excellent deep‐blue electroluminescence (EL) performances are achieved using CSiTPI (external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 7.1% and CIEx,y coordinates of (0.16, 0.06) in a nondoped OLED) and DSiTPI (EQE of 7.4% and CIEx,y of (0.16, 0.05) in a doped OLED) as emitters with small full width at half maxima (FWHM, 45−48 nm). Devices using DSiTPI and CSiTPI as hosts are also fabricated and all the devices show high EL performances and small efficiency roll‐offs. A green device with DSiTPI acquires maximum current, power, and EQE of 78.5 cd A−1, 72.5 lm W−1, and 20.8%. The research demonstrates that excellent deep‐blue EL performances with good color purity can be achieved using D−A emitters with highly twisted bridge in HLCT OLEDs.
Enhancing the Switching Performance of CH3NH3PbI3 Memristors by the Control of Size and Characterization Parameters
Authors: Gogoi Himangshu Jyoti , Mallajosyula Arun Tej
Published: August 2021

This paper analyzes the effects of scaling and measurement conditions on the performance of hybrid organic inorganic perovskite (HOIP) devices having bipolar resistive switching characteristics. Electroforming voltage, SET current, and ON/OFF ratios are found to be area dependent. Linear voltage sweep and pulse voltage characterization showed that parameters such as compliance current, voltage scan rate, pulse width, amplitude, and frequency significantly alter the device switching parameters. The CH3NH3PbI3 memristors fabricated has FORMING, SET, and RESET voltages of 1.18, 0.17, and −0.13 V, respectively, along with an ON/OFF ratio of 1.3 × 103. It has been found that, both the RESET voltage and current significantly increase with scan rate, whereas the ON/OFF ratio increases significantly with compliance current. In case of voltage pulse characterization, the ON/OFF ratio can be enhanced by increasing the pulse amplitude and width. Additionally, the experimental data fitting to a SPICE based analytical model establishes that the HOIP memristor current conduction is dominated by tunneling process in the OFF state and is ohmic in the ON state. Based on the results, the authors arrive at a general protocol that can be used to characterize memristors made of HOIPs and other related materials such that they can operate optimally.
Episodic defoliation rapidly reduces starch but not soluble sugars in an invasive shrub, Tamarix spp.
Authors: Hultine Kevin R. , Dehn Donna , Bush Susan E. , Acharya Kumud , D'Antonio Carla , Dudley Tom L. , Healey John , Hull Julia B. , Koepke Dan F. , Long Randall W. , Potts Dan L.
Published: August 2021

Premise

Plants rely on pools of internal nonstructural carbohydrates (NSCs: soluble sugars plus starch) to support metabolism, growth, and regrowth of tissues damaged from disturbance such as foliage herbivory. However, impacts of foliage herbivory on the quantity and composition of NSC pools in long‐lived woody plants are currently unclear. We implemented a controlled defoliation experiment on mature Tamarix spp.—a dominant riparian woody shrub/tree that has evolved with intense herbivory pressure—to test two interrelated hypotheses: (1) Repeated defoliation disproportionately impacts aboveground versus belowground NSC storage. (2) Defoliation disproportionately impacts starch versus soluble sugar storage.

Methods

Hypotheses were tested by transplanting six Tamarix seedlings into each of eight cylinder mesocosms (2 m diameter, 1 m in depth). After 2.5 years, plants in four of the eight mesocosms were mechanically defoliated repeatedly over a single growing season, and all plants were harvested in the following spring.

Results

Defoliation had no impact on either above‐ or belowground soluble sugar pools. However, starch in defoliated plants dropped to 55% and 26% in stems and roots, respectively, relative to control plants, resulting in an over 2‐fold higher soluble sugar to starch ratio in defoliated plants.

Conclusions

The results suggest that defoliation occurring over a single growing season does not impact immediate plant functions such as osmoregulation, but depleted starch could limit future fitness, particularly where defoliation occurs over multiple years. These results improve our understanding of how woody plants cope with episodic defoliation caused by foliage herbivory and other disturbances.
The phenotypic spectrum of AMER1‐related osteopathia striata with cranial sclerosis: The first Canadian cohort
Authors: Heikoop David , Brick Lauren , Chitayat David , Colaiacovo Samantha , Dupuis Lucie , Faghfoury Hanna , Goobie Sharan , Mendoza Roberto , Napier Melanie , Nowaczyk Margaret , Oh Rachel , Silver Josh , Prasad Chitra , Saleh Maha
Published: August 2021

Osteopathia striata with cranial sclerosis (OSCS; OMIM# 300373) is a rare X‐linked disorder caused by mutations of the AMER1 gene. OSCS is traditionally considered a skeletal dysplasia, characterized by cranial sclerosis and longitudinal striations in the long bone metaphyses. However, OSCS affects many body systems and varies significantly in phenotypic severity between individuals. This case series focuses on the phenotypic presentation and development of individuals with OSCS. We provide an account of 12 patients with OSCS, ranging from 5 months to 38 years of age. These patients were diagnosed with OSCS after genetic testing confirmed pathogenic mutations in AMER1. Patient consent was obtained for photos and participation. Data were collected regarding perinatal history, dysmorphic features, and review of systems. This case series documents common facial dysmorphology, as well as rare extraskeletal features of OSCS, including two patients with intestinal malrotation and two patients with pyloric stenosis. We share four apparently nonmosaic males with OSCS (one de novo and three maternal variants). We also provide a clinical update on a patient who was previously published by Chénier et al. (2012). American Journal of Medical Genetics Part A, 158, 2946–2952. More research is needed to investigate the links between genotype and phenotype and assess the long‐term comorbidities and overall quality of life of individuals with OSCS.
Amine‐functionalized nano‐NaY zeolite for the synthesis of N‐acetyl pyrazoles and dihydropyrimidines
Authors: Razavian Mofrad Raheleh , Kabirifard Hassan , Tajbakhsh Mahmood , Firouzzadeh Pasha Ghasem
Published: August 2021

An efficient base‐catalyzed synthesis of dihydropyrimidines and N‐acetyl pyrazoles is reported using 1‐(2‐aminoethyl)piperazine‐modified nano‐NaY zeolite (ZeSi–AP) under mild and green conditions. The structure of the catalyst was identified by using FT‐IR, XRD, TGA, DTA, DLS, SEM, TEM, and elemental analyses. This heterogeneous catalyst has many benefits, such as a simple work‐up procedure, high product yield, and it is easily regenerated and reused at least for four cycles without losing its activity.
Thermally stable poly (acrylic acid‐acrylamide‐biomass‐fly ash) composites with improved temperature resistance and salt resistance
Authors: Liu Yanxia , Yan Yangtian , Zhao Lin , Zhang Yagang , Zhang Letao , Zan Xingjie
Published: August 2021

Engineering functional materials from biomass and industrial waste is of great significance for sustainable chemistry and engineering. Bio‐based poly (acrylic acid‐acrylamide‐biomass‐fly ash) (PAABF) composites with appropriate densities were designed. Graft copolymer composites were prepared for the first time by combining biomass and fly ash as graft materials with acrylic acid and acrylamide as monomers. The results showed that PAABF composites have a three‐dimensional network structure. Cellulosic biomass (sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, cattail cellulose) and fly ash improved the thermal stability, water absorption, water retention, temperature resistance, and salt resistance of the composites. PAABF composites can be used as water plugging profile control agent for oilfield with high‐salinity and deep burial.