bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Barriers to the Large-Scale Adoption of a COVID-19 Contact Tracing App in Germany: Survey Study
Authors: Blom Annelies G , Wenz Alexander , Cornesse Carina , Rettig Tobias , Fikel Marina , Friedel Sabine , Möhring Katja , Naumann Elias , Reifenscheid Maximiliane , Krieger Ulrich
Published: February 2021

Background

During the COVID-19 pandemic, one way to reduce further transmissions of SARS-CoV-2 is the widespread use of contact tracing apps. Such apps keep track of proximity contacts and warn contacts of persons who tested positive for an infection.

Objective

In this study, we analyzed potential barriers to the large-scale adoption of the official contact tracing app that was introduced in Germany on June 16, 2020.

Methods

Survey data were collected from 3276 adults during the week the app was introduced using an offline-recruited, probability-based online panel of the general adult population in Germany.

Results

We estimate that 81% of the population aged 18 to 77 years possess the devices and ability to install the official app and that 35% are also willing to install and use it. Potential spreaders show high access to devices required to install the app (92%) and high ability to install the app (91%) but low willingness (31%) to correctly adopt the app, whereas for vulnerable groups, the main barrier is access (62%).

Conclusions

The findings suggest a pessimistic view on the effectiveness of app-based contact tracing to contain the COVID-19 pandemic. We recommend targeting information campaigns at groups with a high potential to spread the virus but who are unwilling to install and correctly use the app, in particular men and those aged between 30 and 59 years. In addition, vulnerable groups, in particular older individuals and those in lower-income households, may be provided with equipment and support to overcome their barriers to app adoption.
Impact of Public Health and Social Measures on the COVID-19 Pandemic in the United States and Other Countries: Descriptive Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Zweig Sophia Alison , Zapf Alexander John , Xu Hanmeng , Li Qingfeng , Agarwal Smisha , Labrique Alain Bernard , Peters David H
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

The United States of America has the highest global number of COVID-19 cases and deaths, which may be due in part to delays and inconsistencies in implementing public health and social measures (PHSMs).

OBJECTIVE

In this descriptive analysis, we analyzed the epidemiological evidence for the impact of PHSMs on COVID-19 transmission in the United States and compared these data to those for 10 other countries of varying income levels, population sizes, and geographies.

METHODS

We compared PHSM implementation timing and stringency against COVID-19 daily case counts in the United States and against those in Canada, China, Ethiopia, Japan, Kazakhstan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, Vietnam, and Zimbabwe from January 1 to November 25, 2020. We descriptively analyzed the impact of border closures, contact tracing, household confinement, mandated face masks, quarantine and isolation, school closures, limited gatherings, and states of emergency on COVID-19 case counts. We also compared the relationship between global socioeconomic indicators and national pandemic trajectories across the 11 countries. PHSMs and case count data were derived from various surveillance systems, including the Health Intervention Tracking for COVID-19 database, the World Health Organization PHSM database, and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.

RESULTS

Implementing a specific package of 4 PHSMs (quarantine and isolation, school closures, household confinement, and the limiting of social gatherings) early and stringently was observed to coincide with lower case counts and transmission durations in Vietnam, Zimbabwe, New Zealand, South Korea, Ethiopia, and Kazakhstan. In contrast, the United States implemented few PHSMs stringently or early and did not use this successful package. Across the 11 countries, national income positively correlated (r=0.624) with cumulative COVID-19 incidence.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that early implementation, consistent execution, adequate duration, and high adherence to PHSMs represent key factors of reducing the spread of COVID-19. Although national income may be related to COVID-19 progression, a country’s wealth appears to be less important in controlling the pandemic and more important in taking rapid, centralized, and consistent public health action.
Stock Return Autocorrelation and Individual Equity Option Prices
Authors: Fang Fei
Published: February 2021

This study demonstrates empirically the impact of stock return autocorrelation on the prices of individual equity option. The option prices are characterized by the level and slope of implied volatility curves, and the stock return autocorrelation is measured by variance ratio and first-order serial return autocorrelation. Using a large sample of U.S. stocks, we show that there is a clear link between stock return autocorrelation and individual equity option prices: a higher stock return autocorrelation leads to a lower level of implied volatility (compared to realized volatility) and a steeper implied volatility curve. The stock return autocorrelation is more important in explaining the level of implied volatility curve for relatively small stocks. The relation between stock return autocorrelation and option price structure is more pronounced when market is volatile, especially during financial crisis. The stock return autocorrelation is more important in explaining the level of implied volatility curve for relatively small stocks. Thus, stock return autocorrelation can help differentiate the price structure across individual equity options.
Analysis of Aid Absorption in Burkina Faso: Could Donors’ Coordination Play an Effective Role?
Authors: Marie Kébré W. Jean
Published: February 2021

This study assesses absorption level of aid in Burkina Faso and analyzes the factors that determine this level. The analysis postulates that the level in absorbing aid is low and assumes that this level is determined by the multiplicity of donors and by mechanisms used to coordinate aid. To test this assumption, the study uses secondary data collected from 10 sectors of public administration over the period 2000-2019. Aid allocated to these sectors represented at least 75% of total aid received by the country during this period. The assessment indicate that about 58.46% of aid allocated to these sectors was effectively spent. Factors determining this absorption level were estimated using a Tobit model. The results conclude that the limiting factors lie both in donors’ behavior and in aid coordination mechanisms. Thus, better donors’ coordination could be an effective mechanism to improve aid absorption in these sectors.
The role of inflammation modulation in dental pulp regeneration
Authors:   Centre for Craniofacial Regeneration, University of Pittsburgh, 501 Salk Pavilion, 335 Sutherland Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA, Zaky SH , Shehabeldin M , Ray H , Sfeir C
Published: February 2021

A vital and healthy dental pulp (DP) is required for teeth to remain functional throughout a lifespan . Appreciating its value for the tooth, the regeneration of the DP is a highly researched goal. While inflammation of the DP marks the beginning of an eventual necrosis, it is also the prerequisite for the regenerative events of neovascularisation, stem cells mobilisation and reparative dentine deposition. In the light of a pro-regenerative inflammatory process, the present review discusses the role of macrophage population shift from pro- to anti-inflammatory in reversible versus irreversible pulpitis, while also analysing the overlooked contribution of pulp innervation and locally derived neuropeptides to the process. Then, the currently practiced (pulp capping and revascularisation) and researched (cells transplantation and cell homing) approaches for DP regeneration are discussed. Focusing on the role of cell homing in modulating inflammation, some potential strategies are highlighted to harness the inflammatory process for DP regeneration, mainly by reversing inflammation through macrophage induction. Next, some potential clinical applications are discussed – especially with capping materials – that could boost macrophage polarisation and complement system activation. Finally, current challenges facing the regeneration of the DP are presented, while underlining the importance of promoting an anti-inflammatory environment conducive to a regenerative process.
Therapeutic Efficacy of Moxifloxacin Mucoadhesive Hydrogel for Bacterial Keratitis
Authors: Bhoi Nipuna Kumar , Singhai A. K. , Jain Gaurav , Mishra Subhendu S.
Published: February 2021

Bacterial keratitis is a hypothetically devastating corneal infection due to the opportunity of fast development; corneal devastation either to be completed in 24–48 hours with even more contagious bacterial aetiological agents. Moxifloxacin mucoadhesive Hydrogel was prepared by using polymer Hydroxy Propyl Methyl Cellulose E50 LV by hydration method. Moxifloxacin was dissolved in small quantity of water and Benzalkonium Chloride was added to the Polymer solution. The formulations were evaluated for clarity, pH measurement, spread-ability test, drug content estimation, viscosity study, in vitro diffusion study and antibacterial activity. The developed formulation exhibits the sustained release over a period of 10 hour. The optimized formulation was further evaluated with antimicrobial activity. The results of the in-vitro antimicrobial activity of hydrogel were satisfactory.

Keywords: Corneal Infection, Hydrogel, Moxifloxacin, invitro release
In vitro antioxidant activity and gastroprotective effect of ethanolic extract from Cucumis melo L. var. inodorus fruit on ethanol-induced gastric ulcer in rats
Authors: Bouaziz Amel , Bentahar Assia , Djidel Saliha , Dahamna Saliha , Khennouf Seddik
Published: February 2021

The aim of this study was to estimate the content of polyphenols, flavonoids and tannins and to evaluate the antioxidant property and the antiulcer activity of the ethanolic extract of melon (Cucumis melo L. var. inodorus) pulp on ethanol-induced gastric ulcers in rats.  Ferric reducing power and hydroxyl radical scavenging tests were applied to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant activity. The polyphenolic and flavonoids contents of    melon extract were found to be 56.5 ± 2.49 mg GAE/g of dry extract and 0.43 ± 0.09 mg QE/ g of dry extract, respectively. Whereas the tannins content was 48. 30 ±  0. 9 mg ETA/ g of dry extract.  Melon pulp  extract exhibited  a good reducing potential   with  an  EC50 of  4.23 ± 0.08 mg/ml and high hydroxyl radical scavenging activity with IC50 of  1.83± 0.09 mg/ml. Oral administration of the melon pulp extract at doses of  200 and 600 mg/kg to rats  reduced gastric mucosal lesions  dose-dependently  with percentage protection of 56.56 and 93.79% compared to omeprazole (95.92 %) as reference drug. These results showed that the melon pulp extract had a good antioxidant activity and gastroprotective potential suggesting it use as an adjuvant in the treatment of gastric ulcer.

Keywords: Cucumis melo var. inodorus, Polyphenols, Flavonoids, Tannins, Ulcer, Rat.
Phenolic content and antioxidant activity of ethanolic extracts from Citrus sinensis L. and Citrus reticulata L. fruits
Authors: Bentahar Assia , Bouaziz Amel , Djidel Saliha , Khennouf Seddik
Published: February 2021

Citrus fruits, in particular the genus Citrus, are very rich in antioxidants which have beneficial effects on human health. The objective of this study was to evaluate the phenolic content and the antioxidant activity of the ethanolic extracts from orange (Citrus sinensis L.) and mandarin (Citrus reticulata L.) fruits. The quantitative estimation of the total phenolic content in the two extracts revealed their richness in these compounds. The results obtained showed that the polyphenols content were 159.66 ± 2.62 mg GAE / g of dry extract and 127.33 ± 2.32 mg GAE / g of dry extract for C. sinensis and C. reticulata, respectively.The quantification of flavonoids content showed that the ethanolic extracts of C. sinensis and C. reticulata contained 0.85 ± 0.01 mg QE / g of dry extract and 0.876 ± 0.073 mg QE / g of dry extract, respectively. Whereas, the tannins contents were 46.32 ± 1.02 mg TAE / g of dry extract for  C. sinensis and 47.65 ± 1.36 mg TAE / g of dry extract for C. reticulata. In vitro antioxidant activity was evaluated using two tests: the reducing power and the hydroxyl radical scavenger test. The evaluation of the two extracts by the ferric iron reducing power test showed an EC50 value of 0.882 ± 0.037 mg / ml for  C. sinensis extract and an EC50 of 1.085 ± 0.068 mg / ml for C. reticulata extract. In addition, C. sinensis and C. reticulata showed good hydroxyl radical scavenging effect with IC50 values of 0.303 ± 0.026 mg /ml and 0.572 ± 0.100 mg / ml for C. sinensis and C. reticulata, respectively. These results suggested that these fruit extracts could be good sources of phenolic compounds and ingredients with high antioxidant potential.

Keywords: Citrus sinensis, Citrus reticulata, Polyphenols, Flavonoids, Tannins, Antioxidant activity.
Whether Cord Blood or Venous Blood Procalcitonin Level for Better Prediction of Maternofetal Infections in Algerian Newborns?
Authors: Adouani Imene , Djabi Farida , Hang TaiJun , Guemeche Souad
Published: February 2021

This prospective study aims to measure and compare the level of umbilical cord blood and venous blood procalcitonin (PCT) for a better and more rapid prediction of maternofetal infections in Algerian newborns. The study was conducted at the hospital of child and mother of Setif in Algeria from 2016 to 2018. 164 Algerian term suspected newborns born alive to mothers with Maternofetal infection (MFI) risk factors were included. 69 non-infectious newborns born alive to mothers without MFI risk factors served as the control group. The venous blood and cord blood in each group were collected. PCT levels were determined and compared to CRP levels. Receiver operating curves (ROC) were generated to detect the best cut-off values for sensitivity and specificity. Levels of both cord blood and venous blood procalcitonin were significantly higher in the suspected group than those in the control group (P<0.05). According to the ROC curve, at the cut-off value of cord blood PCT of 0.595 ng/mL, the sensitivity and specificity were 92.3 %, 91.8 % respectively. At the cut-off value of venous blood PCT of 1.12 ng/mL, the sensitivity and specificity were 100%, 80.5% respectively. The diagnostic value of cord blood PCT for maternofetal infections is higher than venous blood PCT.

Keywords:   Algerian term newborns, Cord blood, Procalcitonin, Maternofetal infections.
Gastroprotective and antioxidant properties of ethanolic extract from pear fruit (Pyrus communis L.)
Authors: Djidel Saliha , Bouaziz Amel , Bentahar Assia , Khennouf Seddik
Published: February 2021

The objective of this study was to evaluate the phenolic content, in vitro antioxidant activity and the gastroprotective effect of the ethanolic extract of pear fruits (Pyrus communis L.). The amount of polyphenols and flavonoids contents of ethanolic extract were found to be 77,50 ± 2,50 mg GAE/g of dry extract and 0,31 ± 0,003 mg QE/ g of dry extract, respectively. Whereas the amount of tannins was 61,43 ± 0,009 mg TAE/ g of dry extract. Hydroxyl radical scavenging and reducing power tests were used to evaluate the antioxidant activities of this extract. The scavenging effect of ethanolic extract against hydroxyl radicals showed IC50 value of 2.71 ± 0.02 mg/ ml. Reducing power test indicated the ability of ethanolic extract of pear fruits to reduce Fe+2 to Fe+3  with EC50value of 1.043±0.01 mg/ml. The treatment of rats with the ethanolic extract at  dose of 200 mg/kg reduced the ulcerogenic effect of ethanol with value of protection rate of 94.44%, but the protection rate decreased in 600 mg/kg treated group  to 90.17%.  In conclusion, natural antioxidants derived from pear fruits can prevent gastric ulcer through their antioxidant activity 

Keywords: Pyrus communis L., Polyphenols, Antioxidant activity, Ulcer, Rat.
Synthesis, spectroscopic characterization and biological application of copper complex of 5-carbethoxy-2-thiouracil
Authors: Kumar Brajesh , Suman Abhishek
Published: February 2021

5-carbethoxy-2-thiouracil (eitotH2) reacts with CuX (X= Cl, Br, I) halides to give the formula [CuX(eitotH)2]2 dinuclear complexes, while the formula [CuX(PPh3)2(eitotH)2] mononuclear mixed ligand complexes result when reaction is carried out in the presence of two equivalent of triphenylphosphine (PPh3). The new copper (I) complexes were studied against two tumor cell lines, A549 (human pulmonary carcinoma cell line) and HeLa (human epithelial carcinoma cell line) and one regular immortalized cell line, MRC5 (human fetal lung fibroblast). In comparison to the phosphine free ones that hindered cell proliferation only at relatively high concentration, the mixed ligand complexes with triphenylphosphine were found to be extremely cytotoxic.

Keywords: Copper (I), 5-carbethoxy-2-thiouracil (eitotH2), Triphenylphosphine, in vitro cytotoxicity, carcinoma cell lines
A Comprehensive Review on Floating Drug Delivery System (FDDS)
Authors: Bhosale Aishwarya Rajendra , Shinde Jitendra V , Chavan Rajashree S.
Published: February 2021

The main goal of any drug delivery system is to achieve desired concentration of the drug in blood or tissue, which is therapeutically effective and non-toxic for a prolonged period. Current pharmaceutical scenario focuses on the formulation of floating drug delivery system (FDDS). FDDS are low density systems that float over the gastric contents and remain buoyant in the stomach for a prolonged period of time without affecting the gastric emptying rate. The aim of writing this review is to compile the current literature with special focus on the principal mechanism of floatation to attain gastric retention. Effervescent FDDS release CO2 gas, thus reduce the density of the system and remain buoyant in the stomach for a prolonged period of time and released the drug slowly at a desired rate so it can be used to prolong the gastric residence time in order to improve the bioavailability of drug. The review briefly describes the mechanism, types of floating system, advantages, limitation, factors affecting floating system, drug candidates suitable for floating, evaluation parameters and application of the system. These systems are useful to several problems encountered during the development of a pharmaceutical dosage form and the future potential of FDDS.

Keywords: Floating drug delivery system, Absorption Window, Effervescent system, floating lag time.
Value of pulmonary annulus index in predicting transannular patch in tetralogy of Fallot repair
Authors: lyu zhenyu , jin mei , yang yifei
Published: February 2021

Objective: It is very important to accurately assess the transannular
patch (TAP) in the surgical treatment of tetralogy of Fallot（TOF）.
Methods: 130 patients who were diagnosed with TOF and underwent TOF
repair. 112 cases were included in this study. They were divided into
TAP group and no TAP group; the values of pulmonary annulus and aortic
annulus were measured. GA ratio, PAI, PAAI, the pulmonary annulus
Z-score and main pulmonary artery (MPA) Z-score were calculated to do
statistically analyze. Results: A total of 112 patients were included in
the study.62 cases (55.8%) did not transannular patch, 50 cases
(44.2%) undergoing transannular patch. The pulmonary annulus Z-score,
main pulmonary artery Z-score and PAI in TAP group were smaller than
those in no TAP group (P < 0.05). ROC analysis showed that
when the cutoff value of pulmonary annulus at -1.98 ,the area under
curve (AUC) was 0.88, the sensitivity was 80%, the specificity was
71%; when the cut-off value of PAI at 0.53 ,AUC was 0.85, the
sensitivity was 75%, the specificity was 80%; when the cutoff value of
GA ratio at 0.55 ,AUC was 0.85, the sensitivity was 76%, and the
specificity was 80%. The area under the PAAI curve (AUC) was 0.85, the
sensitivity was 76%, and the specificity was 79%. Conclusion: The
predictive effect of pulmonary annulus index as a simple and effective
predictor of TAP in TOF radical operation is the same as that of
pulmonary annulus Z-score.
Intrinsic Cardiac Autonomic Nervous System: what do clinical electrophysiologists need to know about the ‘heart brain’?
Authors: Aksu Tolga , Gopinathannair Rakesh , Gupta Dhiraj , Pauza Dainius
Published: February 2021

It is increasingly recognized that the autonomic nervous system (ANS) is
a major contributor in many cardiac arrhythmias. Cardiac ANS can be
divided into extrinsic and intrinsic parts according to the course of
nerve fibers and localization of ganglia and neuron bodies. Although the
role of extrinsic part has historically gained more attention, the
intrinsic cardiac ANS may affect cardiac function independently as well
as influence the effects of the extrinsic nerves. Catheter based
modulation of the intrinsic cardiac ANS is emerging as a novel therapy
for management of patients with brady and tachy arrhythmias resulting
from hyperactive vagal activation. However, distribution of intrinsic
cardiac nerve plexus in the human heart and the functional properties of
intrinsic cardiac neural elements remain insufficiently understood. The
present review aims to bring the clinical and anatomical elements of the
ICANS together, by reviewing neuroanatomical terminologies and
physiological functions, in order to guide the clinical
electrophysiologist in the catheter lab, and to serve as a reference for
further research.
Cost-effectiveness of an app-based treatment for urinary incontinence in comparison to care as usual in general practice: A pragmatic randomised controlled trial over 12 months
Authors: Loohuis Anne , Worp Henk van der , Wessels Nienke , Dekker Janny , Hove Marijke Slieker-ten , Berger Marjolein , Vermeulen Karin , Blanker Marco
Published: February 2021

Objective: Long-term cost-effectiveness of app-based treatment for
female stress, urgency, or mixed urinary incontinence (UI) compared to
care-as-usual in primary care. Design: A pragmatic, randomised
controlled, superiority trial. Setting: Primary care in the Netherlands
from 2015 to 2018, follow-up at 12 months. Population: Women with ≥2
UI-episodes per week, access to mobile apps, wanting treatment. 262
women randomised equally to app or care-as-usual; 89 (68%) and 83
(63%) attended follow-up. Methods: The standalone app included
conservative management for UI with motivation aids (e.g., reminders).
Care-as-usual delivered according to the Dutch GP guideline for UI. Main
outcome measures: Effectiveness assessed by the change in symptom
severity score (ICIQ-UI-SF) and the change in quality of life
(ICIQ-LUTS-QoL, EQ-5D-5L) on superiority with linear regression on an
intention-to-treat basis. Cost-effectiveness and -utility from a
societal perspective, based on Incontinence Impact Adjusted Life Years
(IIALYs) and Quality Adjusted Life years (QALYs). Results: Clinically
relevant improvement of UI severity for both app (-2.17 ± 2.81) and
care-as-usual (-3.43 ± 3.6), with a non-significant mean difference of
0.903 (-0.66 to 1.871). Costs were lower for app-based treatment with
\euro-161 (95%CI: -180 to -151) per year.
Cost-effectiveness showed small mean differences in effect for IIALY
(0.04) and QALY (-0.03) and thus larger ICER (-3,696) and ICUR
(\euro6,379). Conclusion: App-based treatment is a viable
alternative to care-as-usual for UI in primary care in terms of
long-term cost-effectiveness. Funding: Dutch Organisation for Health
Research and Development (ZonMw: 837001508), sub-funding P.W. Boer
Foundation Dutch Trial Register identifier: Trial NL4948
(www.trialregister.nl/trial/4948).
Highly efficient detoxification of dinitrotoluene through overexpressing bacterial nitroreductase in switchgrass
Authors: Su Kunlong , Wu Zhenying , Liu Yuchen , Jiang Shanshan , Wang Yan , Fu Chuanxiang
Published: February 2021

Dinitrotoluene (DNT) has been extensively used in manufacturing
munitions, polyurethane foams, and other important chemical products.
However, it is highly toxic and mutagenic to most organisms. Here, we
synthesized a codon optimized bacterial nitroreductase gene, NfsI, for
plant expression. The kinetic analysis indicates that the recombinant
NfsI can detoxify both 2,4-DNT and its sulfonate (DNTS), while it has a
97.6-fold higher catalytic efficiency for 2,4-DNT than DNTS.
Furthermore, we overexpressed NfsI in switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.),
which is a multiple purpose crop used for fodder and biofuel production
as well as phytoremediation. The 2,4-DNT treatment inhibited root
elongation of wild type switchgrass plants and promoted reactive oxygen
species (ROS) accumulation in roots. In contrast, overexpression of NfsI
in switchgrass significantly alleviated 2,4-DNT-induced root growth
inhibition and ROS overproduction. Thus, the NfsI overexpressing
transgenic switchgrass plant removed 94.1% 2,4-DNT after 6 days, whose
efficiency was 1.7-fold higher than control plants. Moreover, the
comparative transcriptome analysis suggests that 22.9% of
differentially expressed genes induced by 2,4-DNT may participate in
NfsI-mediated 2,4-DNT detoxification in switchgrass. Our work sheds
light on the function of NfsI during DNT phytoremediation for the first
time, revealing the application potential of switchgrass plants
engineered with NfsI.
Comparison on soil organic carbon and nitrogen dynamics between urban impervious surfaces and vegetation
Authors: Dou Xiaolin , Lu Meng , Chen Liding
Published: February 2021

The soil carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) dynamic was usually considered as a
minor change based on a static process in the sealed soil under decades
of impervious surface (IS). However, no systematic studies concerning
the soil organic carbon (SOC) and nitrogen (SON) dynamic were conducted
under IS in contrast with urban vegetation (i.e., forest, grass). Here
we utilized fractional distillation of soils as well as stable isotopic
analysis to examine soil C&N cycles after 20 and 30 years of vegetation
planting and IS construction in Guangzhou and Shenzhen, Pearl River
Delta, China. Soil samples including bare soil (CK) and four land use
treatments were split into different chemical fractions. Then we
analyzed the C&N content, C/N ratio, δ13C, δ15N, C&N recalcitrant
indices (RIC, RIN), and the mean residence time (MRT). We found that the
soil C&N increased first (i.e., 20 years) because of enhanced C&N
stocks in both labile (LP) and recalcitrant pool (RP), and then
stabilized or decreased (i.e., 30 years) with the IS ages in both
cities. IS had a lower SOC decomposition rate and thus resulted in the
five to ten times longer MRT (about 259–465 years) than that in
vegetated soils (about 39–55 years). Moreover, the SOC&SON always
showed a decoupling relation in labile pools (i.e., LC and LN) in
forests in both cities. The study showed the IS remarkably altered the
soil C&N dynamics, showing a great difference in SOC&SON fractions
composition and turnover compared with vegetation.
Antifungal prophylaxis with micafungin three times a week in children after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation
Authors: Garrido-Colino Carmen , Haro-Díaz Ana , Bardón-Cancho Eduardo , Navarro-Gómez Marisa , Beléndez Cristina , Huerta-Aragonés Jorge , García-Morin Marina , Fernández-Llamazares Cecilia , Burillo Almudena , Cela Elena
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND The use of azoles for antifungal prophylaxis after familial
allogeneic stem cell transplantation in children (SCT) is hindered by
adverse events and drug interactions especially in children affected by
sickle cell disease. Intermittent, higher dose of micafungin could be an
alternative. METHODS A prospective, observational, longitudinal,
single-center study was conducted between May 2015 and June 2018. The
study included 30 patients between 2 and 18 years old who underwent
allogeneic SCT and received prophylaxis with micafungin on alternating
days after the bone marrow engraftment phase. FINDINGS Fifty transplants
performed, 30 included prophylaxis against IFIs, with micafungin in an
alternating pattern according to the previously described protocol. The
indication for HSCT was hemoglobinopathies in 76.7%, acute leukemia in
20.0% and Fanconi anemia in 3.3%. The prophylaxis duration was 2.33
months (1.53 to 3.98). In our study, 40.0% (12/30) of the patients had
acute GVHD, and 6.7% (2/30) had chronic GVHD, which prolonged the
duration of alternating prophylaxis. No serious adverse effects of the
use of micafungin were observed in any of the patients. There was also
no breakthrough Invasive fungal infection (IFI) during alternating
prophylaxis. CONCLUSION: In selected patients, micafungin was well
tolerated without breakthrough IFI in our study.
CAN PROSTATE-SPECIFIC ANTIGEN DENSITY AND FREE / TOTAL PROSTATE-SPECIFIC ANTIGEN RATIO PREDICT CLINICALLY SIGNIFICANT PROSTATE CANCER (GLEASON ≥ 7) IN PATİENTS DIAGNOSED PROSTATE CANCER ON BIOPSY WITH A PROSTATE-SPECIFIC ANTIGEN LEVEL OF 2.5 -10 NG/ML?
Authors: Bicaklioglu Fatih , Aydin Hasan , Güçtaş Ahmet Özgür , Aksoy Hamit Zafer
Published: February 2021

Introduction Many men with non-clinically significant PCa (N-CSPCa) will
not progress to become symptomatic within their lifetime. If we can
predict clinically significant PCa (CSPCa), we can prevent patients from
unnecessary biopsies, overdiagnoses, and overtreatment. The purpose of
this study was to determine whether PSAD and f/t PSA can predict CSPCa
(Gleason ≥ 7) in patients diagnosed with prostate cancer on biopsy with
a PSA level of 2.5-10 ng/ml or not. Materials and Methods 78 patients
who underwent TRUSG-guided prostate biopsy with PSA 2.5-10.0 in our
clinic between March 2017 - August 2020 and whose pathology result was
reported as prostate adenocarcinoma, were retrospectively evaluated. In
addition to the demographic content of the patients, PSA, free PSA,
prostate size (with TRUSG), rectal examination findings and prostate
biopsy pathology results were recorded. Clinically significant prostate
cancer was defined as a Gleason score 7. Results The mean age of the
patients was 66.9 ± 8.4, PSA value was 6.9 ± 1.8, free / total PSA ratio
was 18 ± 8.1%, and PSA density was 0.150 ± 0.078. The P values of PSA,
free PSA, PSAD, f/t PSA, and prostate volume between CSPCa and N- CSPCa
groups were 0.010, 0.780, 0.001, 0.084, and 0.030, respectively. The
area under the ROC curve (AUC) of the PSAD for predicting CSPCa was
0.719 with a 95% Cl (0.604–0.835), and the standard errors were 0.062
and 0.059, respectively. When PSAD cutoff was 0.130 for predicting
CSPCa, sensitivity and specificity were 75% and 63%, respectively.
Conclusion PSAD can be used for predicting CSPCa, but f/t PSA can not.
PSAD is not a strong stand-alone tool with its sensitivity and
specificity, but we suggest that PSAD can be a part of future nomograms
for predicting CSPCa and future protocols for active surveillance. Key
words:prostate-specific antigen; clinically significant prostate cancer
Blood Pressure Response to Exercise in Unaffected Relatives of Polycystic Kidney Disease Patients
Authors: Coskun Ezgi Yenigun , Turgut Didem , Cevher Simal Koksal , Yucel Cigdem , Aypak Cenk , Dede Fatih
Published: February 2021

Background Hypertension is an early finding of autosomal dominant
polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) and is related to different
mechanisms. Cyst expansion related renin secretion or early endothelial
dysfunctions are some of these hypotheses. Different course of
hypertension in ADPKD preoccupies that relatives of ADPKD patients may
also be under risk for this underlying mechanisms. In this study, we
aimed to find blood pressure response problems to exercise as an initial
vascular problem in unaffected relatives of hypertensive ADPKD patients.
Methods The cross-sectional study included 24 unaffected relatives
(siblings and children) of ADPKD patients and 30 healthy controls that
performed a cycle ergometer test. Additionally, as a marker for
endothelial function, nitric oxide (NO) and asymmetric dimethylarginine
(ADMA) levels at baseline and post exercise were measured. Results
Systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP)
increases were similar in both groups during the 1st, 3rd, and 6th min
of exercise. During the exercise recovery phase SBP decreased in both
groups; however, in the relatives of ADPKD patients DBP remained high at
the end of the 6th min, suggesting impaired capacity for
exercise-induced vasodilatation. Baseline NO and ADMA, and 1-min NO and
ADMA were similar in both groups. Conclusion Abnormal blood pressure
response to exercise stress was observed in unaffected normotensive
relatives. The observed abnormal DBP response pattern to exercise
suggests that arterial vascular responses might be already altered in
unaffected relatives of hypertensive ADPKD patients; however, long-term
clinical trials are needed to clarify the significance of these
findings.
Uydu Ekipman Tasarımında Yeni Bir Hibrit Hata Türü Etkileri ve Kritiklik Analizi (HTEKA) Yaklaşımı
Authors: YAMAN Nazım , BURUNKAYA Mustafa
Published: February 2021

Uzay donanım geliştirme projelerinde, zorlu çevre koşulları, radyasyon etkileri ve bakım yapılabilme zorlukları güvenilirliği ilk sıraya taşımaktadır. Lakin düşük güvenilirlikli ekipmanlar görev ömrünü tamamlayamadan arızalanıp uydunun kaybına sebep olmaktadırlar. Bu sorunu ortadan kaldırmak için geliştirme fazında güvenilirlik tahmini, parça stres azaltma, en kötü durum, Hata Türü Etkileri ve Kritiklik Analizi (HTEKA) gibi analizler Avrupa Uzay Standardizasyon İşbirliği kapsamında çıkartılan rehber dokümanlara göre yapılmaktadır. Rehber dokümanı ECSS-Q-ST-30-02C olan HTEKA, olası hataların belirlenip değerlendirildiği en kapsamlı güvenilirlik analizidir. Bu çalışmanın amacı yeni bir yaklaşım olan hibrit HTEKA sürecini ortaya koymak, görev kritik ekipman olan Uydu Güç Kontrol Birimi (GKB) örneği üzerinde sonuçlarını göstermektir. GKB güneş panellerinden aldığı enerjiyi koşullandırıp pil şarj/deşarj işlemlerini gerçekleştirerek uydu ekipmanlarına güç sağlamaktadır. HTEKA’da hata türleri detaylıca belirlenmez, gerçekleşme olasılığı hassas hesaplanmazsa uydu görevi kaybedilir. Bunu sağlamak için ekipmanın elektronik kartları donanımsal bloklara ayrılmış ve hata türleri bu donanımsal blokların fonksiyonları üzerinden türetilmiştir. Güvenilirlik analizinden gelen hata oranları, önce elektronik kartlara ardından küçük donanımsal bloklara dağıtılarak hata türlerinin gerçekleşme olasılıkları daha hassas hesaplanmıştır. Sonuç olarak GKB’nin bir elektronik kartı üzerinden hibrit HTEKA yapılarak hata türleri incelenmiş ve kritikliği değerlendirilmiştir. Böylelikle olası tüm hata türleri incelenip, kritiklikleri doğru tespit edilerek ekipman hatasından dolayı uydunun kaybedilme ihtimali en aza indirilmiştir.
Recursos educativos abiertos y políticas institucionales en universidades públicas mexicanas: estudio de caso
Authors: Torres Velandia Serafín Ángel
Published: February 2021

El movimiento de recursos educativos abiertos (REA) se circunscribe en la tendencia de ciencia abierta e impacta en el ámbito de la educación superior. La investigación tuvo como objetivo identificar el estado actual de las políticas educativas institucionales de las universidades públicas estatales en relación con los REA y la percepción de los docentes e investigadores de la Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos (UAEM), México. Se utilizó una metodología con perspectiva cualitativa y enfoque exploratorio descriptivo. Al claustro de profesores se envió, en febrero del 2020, una guía de consulta con posibilidad de respuestas libres y abiertas, con el propósito de conocer las percepciones que tienen respecto a las políticas educativas existentes en su institución para el diseño y elaboración de REA. Se obtuvo un total de 25 contribuciones que integraron el corpus de análisis. Con base en el estudio exploratorio de las 35 universidades públicas estatales que registró la Secretaría de Educación Pública (SEP) se obtuvieron los siguientes hallazgos: dichas universidades carecen de políticas institucionales que les permita integrar los REA a los programas institucionales de desarrollo educativo que se han implementado en cada una de ellas. Igualmente, no disponen de repositorios de materiales educativos abiertos, a excepción de la UAEM, que es la única que publica una metabase de recursos educativos, a cargo del Programa de Formación Multimodal. Extraña que en los resultados de la consulta la mayoría ignora la existencia de políticas institucionales ad hoc y del mencionado repositorio. Se sugiere que las universidades públicas, frente a la grave crisis causada por el coronavirus 19, apliquen las políticas y estrategias relevantes que la Coalición Mundial para la Educación 2020, liderada por la Organización de las Naciones Unidas para la Educación, la Ciencia y la Cultura (Unesco), ha propuesto en función del desarrollo de sistemas de educación abierta y flexible en beneficio de estudiantes y jóvenes que enfrentan, fueras de sus aulas, la continuidad de sus estudios.
Adsorption of Oligomeric Peroxides on Aerosil and Magnesium Oxide and Their Behavior on the Water-Air Phases Interface
Authors:   Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, 6, Kyryla and Mefodia St., 79005 Lviv, Ukraine, Dutka Volodymyr , Oshchapovska Nataliya ,   Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, 6, Kyryla and Mefodia St., 79005 Lviv, Ukraine
Published: February 2021

Oligomeric peroxide adsorption of sebacic acid on aerosil and magnesium oxide was studied. Adsorption process parameters were found. It is shown that the adsorption takes place through the hydrogen bonds formation between OH– groups of adsorbents surface and peroxide groups. The adsorption process suggests the behavior of peroxide compounds on the water-air phase’s interface. Monomolecular film formations on water surface for oligomeric peroxides were studied. It was found that calculated values of the area extrapolated to zero pressure (S0) depend on the solvent which was used to apply the peroxide in the phases interface. Oligomeric peroxide monolayers considered as condensation-type monolayers. Thermal decomposition of oligomeric peroxide and its di- and monoperoxide analogues was studied. It was shown that total constants of thermal degradation rate k for oligomeric peroxide are higher than those for di- and monoperoxide analogues. There is a correlation between S0 calculated values and the constants of thermal degradation rate for oligoperoxide. The less is S0 value the higher is k value. The conformational state of the macromolecule was preserved during transferring the oligomeric peroxide solution in an organic solvent to the phases interface that affects k values.
Chemical Leaching of Al3Ni and Al3Ti Alloys at Room Temperature
Authors:   Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, 6, Kyryla & Mefodia St., 79005 Lviv, Ukraine, Saldan Ivan , Orovčik L’ubomir ,   Institute of Materials & Machine Mechanics, Slovak Academy of Sciences, 9, Dúbravská cesta, 84513 Bratislava, Slovakia, Dobrovetska Oksana ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, 12, S. Bandery St., 79013 Lviv, Ukraine, Bilan Oleh ,   Industrial Company “Autonomous Power Sources”, 2, Lvivska St., Velyki Mosty 80074, Ukraine, Kuntyi Orest ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, 12, S. Bandery St., 79013 Lviv, Ukraine
Published: February 2021

Al3Ni and Al3Ti alloys were prepared by arc melting and exposed to chemical leaching in 5M NaOH at room temperature. In case of Al3Ni alloy, Al reached phases react with the leaching solution to produce nanoporous nickel with a pore diameter in the range of ~10–20 nm. Only pure Al phase of Al3Ti alloy chemically reacts with the production of a dense wrinkled surface with a wrinkle size of ~50–100 nm.
Adsorption of Pb Ions from Oily Wastewater by Anthraquinone Modified Carbon Nanotube
Authors:   Department of Chemical Engineering, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran, Nansa Vahid Moghaddam , Otadi Maryam ,   Department of Chemical Engineering, Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran, Heydarinasab Amir ,   Department of Chemical Engineering, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran, Amiri Rahebeh ,   Department of Chemistry, Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
Published: February 2021

The aim of this research was to investigate the adsorption properties of anthraquinone modiﬁed carbon nanotube (ACNT) in oily wastewaters containing Pb ions. The modiﬁed adsorbents were characterized using Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy and SEM analysis. The adsorption and regeneration studies were conducted in batch mode using a Taguchi (L16) orthogonal array to optimize experimental runs. The controllable factors used in this study consisted of: pH of the solution (A); adsorbent dosage (B); adsorbent type (C); contact time (D); temperature (F). The effects of each factor were studied at four levels on the removal efficiency of metals from aqueous solution. Concentrations of metal ions were assessed by atomic absorption spectrometer. The total optimum adsorptive removal of lead ions was obtained with C0 = 10 mg•l-1, T = 338 K, pH = 6, m = 0.020 mg and t = 60 min. The Langmuir model was representative to simulate adsorption isotherms. The adsorption kinetics of Pb adsorption by ACNT was modeled using the pseudo-first order, the pseudo-second order, and intraparticle diffusion kinetics equations. The results indicate that the pseudo-second order kinetic equation and intraparticle diffusion model were adequate to describe the adsorption kinetics.
Correlation between Diameter of Microorganisms and Efficiency of Microorganisms Destruction under Gas/Cavitation Conditions
Authors:   Lviv Рolytechnic National University, 12, Bandera St., 79013 Lviv, Ukraine, Koval Iryna
Published: February 2021

The values of еffective rate constants of microorganisms destruction (kd) were compared, depending on the diameter of cells and gas nature bubbling under cavitation conditions. The efficiency of cell destruction under Ar/US is larger by 2–2.5 times compared to He/US, O2/US and CO2/US. Yeast cells were destroyed faster than bacteria (kd (yeast cells) >> kd (bacteria cells)) that is explained by the cells size. The cell stability under cavitational conditions is reversely proportional to the cell diameter. Considering the cell sizes, the presented dependencies of kd = ƒ(dcells) can be successfully used as a standard not only for qualitative determination, but also for evaluating the efficiency of cavitation treatment of water in the presence of O2, CO2, Ar and He.
Bench Motor Testing of Blended Fuels on their Basis
Authors:   V.P. Kukhar Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry and Petrochemistry of National Academy of Science of Ukraine, 1, Murmanska St., 02094 Kyiv, Ukraine, Konovalov Serhiy , Patrylak Liubov ,   V.P. Kukhar Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry and Petrochemistry of National Academy of Science of Ukraine, 1, Murmanska St., 02094 Kyiv, Ukraine, Zubenko Stepan ,   V.P. Kukhar Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry and Petrochemistry of National Academy of Science of Ukraine, 1, Murmanska St., 02094 Kyiv, Ukraine, Okhrimenko Mykhaylo ,   V.P. Kukhar Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry and Petrochemistry of National Academy of Science of Ukraine, 1, Murmanska St., 02094 Kyiv, Ukraine, Yakovenko Angela ,   V.P. Kukhar Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry and Petrochemistry of National Academy of Science of Ukraine, 1, Murmanska St., 02094 Kyiv, Ukraine, Levterov Anton ,   A.M. Pydgorny Institute of Engineering Problems of National Academy of Science of Ukraine, 2/10, Pozharsky St., 61046 Kharkiv, Ukraine, Avramenko Andriy ,   A.M. Pydgorny Institute of Engineering Problems of National Academy of Science of Ukraine, 2/10, Pozharsky St., 61046 Kharkiv, Ukraine
Published: February 2021

Alkaline transesterification of sunflower oil by n-butanol and ethanol on alkoxide-containing dried solutions of potassium hydroxide has been carried out. Complex character of spontaneous dividing of butanolysis products, accompanying with formation of three different species of glycerol layers, was observed. One of the later was found to be high-alkaline pure glycerol. Bench motor testing of biodiesel/diesel blends demonstrated slightly better power performance of butyl esters comparing with ethyl esters and regular decrease of harmful emissions (CO2, CO, NOx, CH) while increasing biodiesel fraction in mixture.
Influence of Surfactants on Copper-CNTs Electrodeposition
Authors:   National Metallurgical Academy of Ukraine, 4, Gagarina Ave., 49600 Dnipro, Ukraine, Roslyk Iryna , Stovpchenkoko Ganna ,   Paton Electric Welding Institute of NAS of Ukraine, 11, K.Malevych St., 03150 Kyiv, Ukraine, Galchenko Galyna ,   National Metallurgical Academy of Ukraine, 4, Gagarina Ave., 49600 Dnipro, Ukraine
Published: February 2021

Influence of different types of surfactants on electrodeposition of copper- and carbon-bearing (graphite, carbon nanotubes (CNTs)) composite powder has been experimentally investigated. The size of powder particles decreased, and corrosion resistance increased when surfactants were added. Addition of cationic surfactant CTAB to the electrolyte with simultaneous ultrasonic treatment for CNTs dispersion gives maximum effect.
Phase Equilibrium of Petroleum Dispersion Systems in Terms of Thermodynamics and Kinetics
Authors:   State Higher Educational Institution ", Tertyshna Olena ,   Ukrainian State University of Chemical Technology",   8, Gagarina Ave., 8, 49005, Dnipro, Ukraine, Zamikula Konstantin ,   State Higher Educational Institution "Ukrainian State University of Chemical Technology" 8, Gagarina Ave., 8, 49005, Dnipro, Ukraine, Tertyshny Oleg ,   State Higher Educational Institution "Ukrainian State University of Chemical Technology" 8, Gagarina Ave., 8, 49005, Dnipro, Ukraine, Zinchenko Olena ,   PJSC "Ukrtatnafta", 3, Svishtovska St., 39610 Kremenchuk, Ukraine, Topilnytskyi Petro ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, 12, Bandery St., 79013, Lviv, Ukraine
Published: February 2021

The process of paraffin formation has been considered, including the peculiarities of the paraffin structure as a result of phase transitions with a decreasing temperature. Mathematical models for thermodynamic and kinetic calculations of the "solid-liquid" system phase equilibrium have been developed. To shift the "fuel oil-paraffin" balance towards the liquid, it is necessary to reduce the activity ratio of solid and liquid phases by introducing into the system a substance with a lower solubility parameter. To increase the stability, as well as structural and mechanical characteristics of fuel oil, the additive of plant origin was synthesized. The phase transitions in fuel oil depending on the temperature when adding different amounts of additives have been studied.
Influence of Initiators on the Adhesion Properties of Bitumen Modified by Natural Origin Epoxide
Authors:   Lviv Polytechnic National University, 12, Bandera Str., 79013 Lviv, Ukraine, Starchevskyy Volodymyr , Hrynchuk Yurii ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, 12, Bandera Str., 79013 Lviv, Ukraine, Matcipura Pavlo ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, 12, Bandera Str., 79013 Lviv, Ukraine, Reutskyy Volodymyr ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, 12, Bandera Str., 79013 Lviv, Ukraine
Published: February 2021

The article is presenting a modification of bituminous binder with ecological epoxidized rapeseed oil (BERO) in the presence of the initiator (hardener). Adipic acid (AA), maleic anhydride (MA) and polyethylene polyamine (PEPA) were used as the initiators. The effect of modification temperature and, as well as initiator nature, on the bitumen properties was determined. Bitumen modified with BERO was evaluated by the following indicators: softening temperature, penetration, ductility, and adhesion to the glass. The optimal initiator : rapeseed oil epoxide (ERO) : bitumen ratio was found to be 0.15:3:100; it allows obtaining bitumen with improved properties, in particular, adhesive properties increase by 2‒3 times depending on the nature and content of the initiator. To improve the formula composite and evaluation of asphalt mixtures the additional researches will be conducted.