bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Heavy Metals Bioremediation and Water Softening Using Ureolytic Metschnikowia Pulcherrima and Raoultella Planticola Strains
Authors: Eltarahony Marwa , Kamal Ayman , zaki sahar , Abdelhaleem Desouky 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
This study employed the ureolytic fungal Metschnikowia pulcherrima (29A) and bacterial Raoultella planticola (VIP) strains in Pb 2+ and Hg 2+ removal using the promising CaCO 3 bio precipitation technique. Out of fifty isolates, strains 29A and VIP were selected based on their highest ureolytic activity followed by MIC assay using 350 ppm of Pb 2+ and Hg 2+ . The maximum urease activity recorded 884 and 639 U/mL for 29A and VIP strains at 24 and 30h of incubation, respectively. Complete removal of Pb 2+ was achieved at 42h and 90h for 29A, VIP correspondingly, while Hg 2+ was totally removed at 60h and 102h for 29A, VIP respectively. Remarkable removal of Ca 2+ (>95%) was achieved by the end of the experiments, which would address the hardness problem in the water treatment process. Further, EDX, SEM and, XRD were used to characterize the remediated precipitates. EDX profiles showed characteristic peaks of C, O and, Ca 2+ besides Pb 2+ and Hg 2+ . SEM illustrated the presence of microbial imprints and calcinated cells in the remediated bioliths. However, XRD confirmed the transformation of soluble metals to insoluble forms entrapped in calcite or vaterite lattice. Such a bioremediation approach ensures the detoxification and sequestration of heavy metals in a stable and durable matrix; obstructing their leach from carbonate complex trap to the environment.
A novel strategy for transmural stent removal in necrotizing pancreatitis undergoing endoscopic transmural necrosectomy: a nested, case-control study
Authors: Zhu Yong , Ding Ling , Xia Liang , He Wenhua , Xiong Huifang , Liu Pi , Shu Xu , Liu Zhijian , Zhu Yin , Chen Youxiang , Lv Nonghua 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
BackgroundAlthough metal stents have been widely used in the endoscopic step-up approach for necrotizing pancreatitis (NP), the exact timing of transmural stent removal has not been well studied. Here, we report a novel strategy for stent removal and compare it with the conventional strategy.MethodsThis retrospective, nested, case-control study analyzed all adult NP patients who underwent endoscopic transmural necrosectomy (ETN). Clinical outcomes were compared between case group (a novel strategy in which the stents were removed during the last necrosectomy when the ETN endpoint was achieved) and 1:1 necrosis extent matched control group (the conventional strategy in which the stents were removed after necrosectomy when clinical symptoms were relieved and collection was nearly completely resolved, as confirmed by imaging).ResultsBaseline characteristics was comparable between case group (n=37) and control group (n=37). Three (8.1%) patients in case group and one (2.7%) patient in control group needed additional ETN after stent removal (P >0.05). Nearly all patients (case: 97.3%; control: 94.6%) achieved clinical success. There was no difference in disease-related (case: 40.5%; control: 37.8%) or stent-related (case: 27.0%; control: 16.2%) complications. Case group had a trend of shorter length of stent placement (median: 20.0 days vs. 29.5 days, P >0.05).ConclusionsCompared to the convention strategy, the novel strategy of transmural stent removal during last necrosectomy avoids one endoscopy procedure and is feasible, with no need for additional ETN after stent removal, similar improvement in clinical outcomes, and no increase in complications. Prospective multicenter studies regarding the timing of transmural stent removal are needed to further validate our conclusions.
c-Abl&nbsp;Tyrosine Kinase Mediated Neuronal Apoptosis in Subarachnoid Hemorrhage by Modulating the LRP-1-Dependent Akt/GSK3β&nbsp;Survival Pathway
Authors: yan cong , yu hong wei , liu yao , wu pei , wang chun lei , zhao hong bo , yang kong bin , shao qi , zhong ying qiang , zhao wen yang , li jing wei , liu nan , di jing long , li chen , bao lu hao , gao cheng 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Accumulating evidence suggests that neuronal apoptosis plays a critical role in early brain injury (EBI) after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), and the inhibition of apoptosis can induce neuroprotective effects in SAH animal models. c-Abl has been reported to promote neuronal apoptosis in Alzheimer's disease and cerebral ischemia, but its role in SAH had not been illuminated until now. In the present study, the effect of c-Abl on neuronal apoptosis induced by SAH was investigated. c-Abl protein levels and neuronal apoptosis were markedly increased 24 h after SAH, and the inhibition of endogenous c-Abl reduced neuronal apoptosis and mortality and ameliorated neurological deficits. Furthermore, c-Abl inhibition decreased the expression of cleaved caspase-3 (CC-3) after SAH. These results demonstrate the proapoptotic effect of c-Abl in EBI after SAH. Additionally, c-Abl inhibition further enhanced the SAH-induced phosphorylation of Akt and glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)3β. LY294002 abrogated the beneficial effects of targeting c-Abl and exacerbated neuronal apoptosis after SAH. SAH decreased LRP-1 levels and downregulated LRP-1 by RAP and LRP-1 small interfering RNA (siRNA) induced a dramatic decrease in Akt/GSK3β activation in the presence of c-Abl siRNA. This is the first report showing that the c-Abl tyrosine kinase may play a key role in SAH-induced neuronal apoptosis by regulating the LRP-1-dependent Akt/GSK3β survival pathway. Thus, c-Abl has the potential to be a novel target for EBI therapy after SAH.
Buffering Effect of in-patient Psychiatric Care on the Link Between Fear of Covid-19 and Mental Health Consequences
Authors: Bloch Yuval , Shemesh Sharon , Grossman-Giron Ariella , Maoz Hagai , Cohenmehr Erica , Hertzberg Libi , Nitzan Uri , Tsur-Bitan Dana 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background& AimesPsychiatric admissions during the covid-19 pandemic were limited ignoring their possible benefit. The study focused on assessing the effect of the fear of covid on the mental health and well-being of in-patients as opposed to outpatients MethodsDuring the first lockdown, forty-four in-patients and day care patients (in-patient group) and 74 outpatients (out-patient group) were recruited after an informed consent procedure. Fear from the infection was assed using the Fear of COVID-19 (FCV-19S), severity of mental health symptomatology was evaluated with the outcome questionnaire-45 (OQ-45)., wellbeing was assessed with the Psychological well-being scale (PWB).OutcomesThere was no difference between the in-patient group and out-patient group in their fear of COVID-19 levels. FCV-19 predicted changes in the outpatient OQ total score (B=2.21, p<0.001), OQ interpersonal relation subscale (B=0.34, p=0.01), PWB total score (B=-0.05, p<0.001), PWB environmental mastery subscale (B=-.07, p<0.001) and PWB positive relation subscale (B=-0.05, p<0.001), but not in the inpatient group.ConclusionsMental health and well-being of the out-patient group that had less therapeutic contact –unlike the in-patient group-correlated with the fear of covid. Supporting the hypothesis that intensive psychiatric therapy had a protective effect from the mental health consequences of “fear of covid”.
RUSLE Model Based Annual Soil Loss Quantification for Soil Erosion Protection in Fincha Catchment, Abay River Basin, Ethiopia.
Authors: Tamiru Habtamu , Wagari Meseret 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: The quantity of soil loss as a result of soil erosion is dramatically increasing in catchment where land resources management is very weak. The annual dramatic increment of the depletion of very important soil nutrients exposes the residents of this catchment to high expenses of money to use artificial fertilizers to increase the yield. This paper was conducted in Fincha Catchment where the soil is highly vulnerable to erosion, however, where such studies are not undertaken. This study uses Fincha catchment in Abay river basin as the study area to quantify the annual soil loss, where such studies are not undertaken, by implementing Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) model developed in ArcGIS version 10.4. Results: Digital Elevation Model (12.5 x 12.5), LANDSAT 8 of Operational Land Imager (OLI) and Thermal Infrared Sensor (TIRS), Annual Rainfall of 10 stations (2010-2019) and soil maps of the catchment were used as input parameters to generate the significant factors. Rainfall erosivity factor (R), soil erodibility factor (K), cover and management factor (C), slope length and steepness factor (LS) and support practice factor (P) were used as soil loss quantification significant factors. It was found that the quantified average annual soil loss ranges from 0.0 to 76.5 t ha-1 yr-1 was obtained in the catchment. The area coverage of soil erosion severity with 55%, 35% and 10% as low to moderate, high and very high respectively were identified. Conclusion: Finally, it was concluded that having information about the spatial variability of soil loss severity map generated in the RUSLE model has a paramount role to alert land resources managers and all stakeholders in controlling the effects via the implementation of both structural and non-structural mitigations. The results of the RUSLE model can also be further considered along with the catchment for practical soil loss quantification that can help for protection practices.
Rehabilitation interventions to support return to work for women with breast cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Algeo Naomi , Bennett Kathleen , Connolly Deirdre 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background
Research recommends the development and evaluation of interventions to support women with breast cancer in returning to, or managing, work. Despite this, there has historically been a paucity of rehabilitation interventions to support women with breast cancer to maintain or return to their work role.
The aim of this systematic review was
to examine key characteristics of rehabilitation interventions, and
their effectiveness on work outcomes for women with breast cancer,
compared to usual care.
Methods

A systematic review was conducted of
controlled studies of rehabilitation interventions with work
outcomes for women with breast cancer.
Six databases were systematically searched: EMBASE, Web of Science, MEDLINE (OVID), CINAHL, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL). Results are presented either as pooled odds ratio (OR) or pooled effect size (hedges g) between groups, with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Narrative synthesis was conducted on intervention outcomes not suitable for meta-analysis.
Results
Five thousand, five hundred and thirty-five studies were identified. Nine out of 28 abstracts met inclusion criteria. Heterogeneity of interventions and outcomes precluded meta-analysis for most outcomes. Of the interventions included in meta-analysis, no significant differences compared to usual care were found for sick leave (2 studies (12 months); OR 1.11 (95% CI: 0.66 to 1.87), number of sick days taken (2 studies (six months); difference in effect: -0.08, (95% CI: -0.48 to 0.38) or working hours (2 studies (12 months); 0.19, (95% CI: -0.20 to 0.64). Only one study, with a multidisciplinary intervention, showed a significant difference for work outcomes when compared to usual care. Work-specific content featured in three interventions only, none of which provided conclusive evidence for improvement in work outcomes. Enhanced physical and psychological sequalae, and quality of life was observed in some studies.
Conclusion
There remains a lack of effective and methodologically rigorous rehabilitation intervention studies for breast cancer survivors. The development and evaluation of effective rehabilitation interventions to support return to work is warranted.
Genome Assessment of Antibiotic Resistance Genes in Probiotic Bacteria and a Literature Review
Authors: Fatahi-Bafghi Mehdi , Naseri Sara , Alizehi Ali 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Having various clinical applications, probiotic bacteria are currently used in the diet. There are reports of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in these bacteria that can be transferred to other microflora and pathogenic bacteria. The aim of the study is to examine whole-genome sequence analysis in bacteria with probiotic properties. Moreover, this study follows existing issues about the importance and presence of ARGs in these bacteria the dangers of which may affect human health in the years to come. In the present study, 126 complete probiotic bacterial genomes were collected and analysed for ARGs. The results of the study shows there are various antibiotic resistant genes of in these bacteria some of which can be transmitted to other bacteria. We propose microorganisms be applied as a probiotic element in various types of products, antibiogram be conducted for a large number of antibiotics and analysis of complete genome sequence for ARGs prediction.
Multiplex PCR assay for the identification of eight Anopheles species belonging to the Hyrcanus, Barbirostris, and Lindesayi groups (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Bang WooJun , Kim Heung-Chul , Ryu Jihun , Lee Hyeon Seung , Lee So Youn , Kim Myung Soon , Chong Sung Tae , Klein Terry A. , Choi Kwang Shik 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background

Genus Anopheles mosquitoes are the primary vectors of human malaria, which is a serious threat to public health worldwide. To reduce the spread of malaria and identify the malaria infection rates in mosquitoes, accurate species identification is needed. Malaria reemerged in 1993 in the Republic of Korea (ROK), with numbers peaking in 2004 before decreasing to current levels. Eight Anopheles species (Anopheles sinensis, An. pullus, An. belenrae, An. lesteri, An. kleini, An. sineroides, An. koreicus, and An. lindesayi) are distributed throughout Korea. Members of the Anopheles Hyrcanus Group currently cannot be identified morphologically. The other species of Anopheles can be identified morphologically, except when specimens are damaged in traps. The purpose of this study was to develop a rapid and accurate method for simultaneous molecular identification of the eight Anopheles species present in the ROK.
Methods

Anopheles spp. used in this study were collected near/in the demilitarized zone in the ROK, where most malaria cases are reported. DNA from 165 of the Anopheles specimens was used to develop a multiplex PCR assay. The internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) region of each species was sequenced and analyzed for molecular identification.
Results

DNA from a total of 165 Anopheles specimens was identified to species using a multiplex diagnostic system. These included: 20 An. sinensis, 21 An. koreicus, 17 An. lindesayi, 25 An. kleini, 11 An. lesteri, 22 An. sineroides, 23 An. belenrae, and 26 An. pullus. Molecular weights determined by electrophoresis were 1112 bp for An. sinensis, 925 bp for An. koreicus, 650 bp for An. lindesayi, 527 bp for An. kleini, 436 bp for An. lesteri, 315 bp for An. sineroides, 260 bp for An. belenrae, and 157 bp for An. pullus.
Conclusion

A multiplex PCR assay was developed to identify Anopheles spp. distributed in the ROK. This method can be used to accurately identify Anopheles species that are difficult to identify morphologically to determine species distributions and malaria infection rates.
&nbsp;The Early Maternal Environment Shapes the Parental Response to Offspring UV Ornamentation
Authors: García-Campa Jorge , Müller Wendt , Hernández-Correas Ester , Morales Judith 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Parents allocate resources to offspring to increase their survival and to maximize their own fitness, while this investment implies costs to their condition and future reproduction. Parents are hence expected to optimally allocate their resources. They should invest equally in all their offspring under good conditions, but when parental capacity is limited, parents should invest in the offspring with the highest probability of survival. Such parental favouritism is facilitated by the fact that offspring have evolved condition-dependent traits to signal their quality to parents. In this study we explore whether the parental response to an offspring quality signal depends on the intrinsic capacity of the parents, here the female. We first manipulated the intrinsic capacity of blue tit (Cyanistes caeruleus) females through lutein-supplementation during egg laying, and we subsequently blocked the UV/yellow reflectance of breast feathers on half of the nestlings in each brood. However, we did not find evidence that the female intrinsic capacity shaped parental favouritism for offspring UV/yellow colouration, as there were no differences in parental feeding or sibling competition. However, we found that males were more responsive than females to nestling UV/yellow when rearing capacity was high, as indicated by the prey-testings (when a parent places a prey item into a nestling’s gape but removes it again). Furthermore, when considering a more integrative measure, offspring growth, we did find the expected interaction effect. In control nests, UV-blocked nestlings gained less body mass than their non-UV-blocked siblings, whereas in lutein-supplemented nests UV-blocked nestlings gained more mass than their siblings. Overall, our results emphasize the female’s environment at an early reproduction stage shaped the role of offspring UV/yellow during family interactions illustrating plasticity in parental feeding rules.
The Chloroplast Genome Evolution of Venus Slipper (Paphiopedilum): IR Expansion, SSC Contraction, and Highly Rearranged SSC Regions
Authors: Guo Yan-Yan , Yang Jia-Xing , Zhang Guo-Qiang , Liu Zhong-Jian 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: Paphiopedilum is the largest genus of slipper orchids. Previous studies showed that the phylogenetic relationships of this genus are not well resolved, and sparse taxon sampling documented inverted repeat (IR) expansion and small single copy (SSC) contraction of the chloroplast genomes of Paphiopedilum. Here, we sequenced, assembled, and annotated 77 plastomes of Paphiopedilum species. The phylogeny based on the plastome resolved the relationships of the genus except for the phylogenetic position of two unstable species. We used phylogenetic and comparative genomic approaches to elucidate the plastome evolution of Paphiopedilum.Results: The plastomes of Paphiopedilum have conserved genome structure and gene content except in the SSC region. The large single copy/inverted repeat (LSC/IR) boundaries are relatively stable, while the boundaries of inverted repeat/small single copy (IR/SSC) boundaries varied among species. Corresponding to the IR/SSC boundary shifts, the chloroplast genomes of the genus experienced IR expansion and SSC contraction. The IR region incorporated one to six genes of the SSC region. Unexpectedly, great variation in the size, gene order, and gene content of the SSC regions was found, especially in the subg. Parvisepalum. Furthermore, Paphiopedilum provides evidence for the ongoing degradation of the ndh genes in the photoautotrophic plants. The estimated substitution rates of the protein coding genes show accelerated rates of evolution in clpP, psbH, and psbZ. Genes transferred to the IR region due to the boundary shift also have higher substitution rates.Conclusions: We found IR expansion and SSC contraction in the chloroplast genomes of Paphiopedilum with dense sampling, and the genus shows variation in the size, gene order, and gene content of the SSC region. This genus provides an ideal system to investigate the dynamics of plastome evolution.
Experimental Investigation of a Pilot-Scale Concerning Ex-Situ Bioremediation of Petroleum Hydrocarbons Contaminated Soils
Authors: Micle Valer , Sur Ioana 
Published: March 2021

Abstract

The soil samples were taken from the site of a former oil products depot from an industrial area (Romania). The soil samples taken were analyzed from a physical and chemical point of view: texture, ph, soil micronutrient content, metals concentration and petroleum hydrocarbon concentration (PHCs). The soil contaminated with TPH (4280 mgkg-1) was disposed in the form of a pile (LxWxH:3000x1400x500 mm). Experiments a pilot-scale were conducted over 12 weeks at constant pH (7.5–8), temperature (22–32oC), nutrient contents C/N/P ratio 100:10:1, soil aeration time (8 hour/day) and moisture (30%). Samples were taken every two weeks for the monitoring of the TPH and the microorganisms content. During experiment every two weeks were added microoganisms (Pseudomonas and Bacillus). Results of the analyzes regarding the concentration of PHCs were revelead a linear decrease of the concentration of PHCs after only two weeks of treatment. This decrease in concentration was also achieved in the following weeks. Following the analysis performed on the model at the pilot scale regarding the depollution process, it can be concluded that a soil contaminated with petroleum hydrocarbons can be efficiently depolluted by performing an aeration of 8 h/day, adding microorganisms Pseudomonas and Bacillus to ensure the conditions for increasing in the total number of germs (colony forming units–CFU) from 151x105 to 213x107 CFU/gram of soil, after 12 weeks of soil treatment - the depollution efficiency achieved is 83%.
Optimizing Telemedical Care in Neurological Outpatients by Characterizing the Patients’ Needs in Physician-Patient Relationship - Content Analysis of Guideline-Based Interviews
Authors: Hamann Till , Lemke Stella , Kropp Peter , Rimmele Florian , Jürgens Tim P. , Frielitz Fabian 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
BackgroundThe use of new concepts in patient care, such as video-consultation, reminder systems and online-evaluation portals is becoming increasingly important in the physician-patient relation and in the care of outpatients. This study examines the acceptance of these approaches in a neurological setting and characterizes the patients’ preferences.MethodsWe analyzed 16 guideline-based qualitative interviews with neurological patients using qualitative content analysis (inductive category formation). ResultsThe patients commented on benefits and challenges of integrating new concepts of medical care. They identified advantages of telemedical care, including time savings for both the patient and the physician, the prospect of more intensive care and the possibility of quick response in case of urgent needs. Several challenges were reported, such as the limitations for patients with chronic or complex diseases and limited options for diagnostic procedures (such as physical examination)For individual neurological patient’s needs, telemedical and telecommunication structures could be discussed which support the respective requirements of the patients such as answering questions while having a recall, avoiding of the journey and time-savings. Also, they are rejecting evaluation portals and are skeptical about telecare in the treatment of neurological diseases.Discussion/ConclusionsThe neurological patients can be characterized as individuals with different ideas of an optimal physician-patient relationship. A successful integration of new concepts in medical care depends on fulfilling the individual patient’s needs. Regardless of the preferred form of the physician-patient relationship, there are specific instruments that can intensify the relationship. These individual needs of the patients must be inquired about and implemented.