bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Aestuariimicrobium ganziense sp. nov., a new Gram-positive bacterium isolated from soil in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, China
Authors: Geng Yu , Zhao Jiang-Yuan , Yuan Hui-Ren , Li Le-Le , Wen Meng-Liang , Li Ming-Gang , Tang Shu-Kun 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
A novel Gram-stain positive, oval shaped and non-flagellated bacterium, designated YIM S02566T, was isolated from alpine soil in Shadui Towns, Ganzi County, Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, PR China. Growth occurred at 23–35°C (optimum, 30°C) in the presence of 0.5-4 % (w/v) NaCl (optimum, 1%) and at pH 7.0–8.0 (optimum, pH 7.0). The phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequence revealed that strain YIM S02566T was most closely related to the genus Aestuariimicrobium, with Aestuariimicrobium kwangyangense R27T and Aestuariimicrobium soli D6T as its closest relative (sequence similarities were 96.3% and 95.4%, respectively). YIM S02566T contained LL-diaminopimelic acid in the cell wall. MK-9(H4) was the predominant menaquinone. The major fatty acid patterns were anteiso-C15:0 (60.0%). The major polar lipid was DPG. The genome size of strain YIM S02566T was 3.1 Mb, comprising 3078 predicted genes with a DNA G + C content of 69.0 mol%. Based on these genotypic, chemotaxonomic and phenotypic evidences, strain YIM S02566T was identified as a novel species in the genus Aestuariimicrobium, for which the name Aestuariimicrobium ganziense sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is YIM S02566T (= CGMCC 1.18751 T =KCTC 49477 T).
Plasticity of Pine Tree Roots to Podzolization of Boreal Sandy Soils
Authors: Fujii Kazumichi , Makita Naoki , Küttim Martin , Mouctar Kamara , Shinya Sugita 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Aims The morphological traits of fine roots change with forest succession and soil weathering. However, low tree species diversity in boreal forests may limit plastic responses of the roots to soil nutrient loss. We tested whether pine trees (Pinus sylvestris L.) have root plasticity to change fine root allocation to deeper soil horizons in response to varying degree of podzolization. Methods We compared root biomass in two sand dune chronosequences (aluminium (Al)/iron (Fe) oxide-poor coarse-textured sand vs. oxide-rich fine-textured sand) in Estonia. Results We found that faster podzolization in coarse-textured soil promotes migration of Al/Fe oxides and phosphorus (P) into deeper horizons and reshapes the depth distribution of fine root biomass. A decrease in P availability in the coarse-textured soil profile increases fine root biomass and length in both the organic and mineral horizons. In the fine-textured old soil, fine root distribution increases in the mineral soil (especially, spodic horizon) rich in oxide-bonded P.Conclusion Pine roots have two plasticities in low-diversity boreal forests – changing root morphological traits and changing depth distribution of root biomass, depending on the abundance of Al and Fe oxides and the depth distribution and dominant form of P.
Warm-white luminescence of Dy3+ and Sm3+ co-doped NaSrPO4 phosphors through energy transfer between Dy3+ and Sm3+ ions
Authors: Yan Wen , Li Junhan , Zhang Wentao , Gao Xi , Zhang Peicong 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Series of white-light-emitting NaSrPO4:Dy3+ phosphors were synthesized via a sol-gel method. Small amounts of Sm3+ ions were co-doped into the phosphors to enhance their luminescence. The effects of Dy3+/Sm3+ co-doping concentrations and synthesis temperature on the phosphors’ structures and luminescence properties were investigated. The results of X-ray diffraction confirmed that the characteristic diffraction peaks of the phosphors were in accord with those of the standard NaSrPO4 structure. Energy dispersive spectroscopy indicated that the NaSrPO4:Dy3+ samples were prepared with stoichiometric ratios of elements. Under ultraviolet light excitation of 348 nm, the NaSrPO4:Dy3+ phosphors emitted a white light which was composed of two emission peaks at 484 nm (blue) and 577 nm (yellow) corresponding to the magnetic dipole transition 4F9/2 → 6H15/2 and electronic dipole transition 4F9/2 → 6H13/2 of Dy3+ ions, respectively. Based on Sm3+ co-doping, a characteristic red emission at 602 nm arose and a warm-white light containing a lower CCT value was obtained. Besides, the luminescence lifetime of Dy3+ decreased while that of Sm3+ increased as dosages of Sm3+ were added, indicating efficient energy transfer from Dy3+ to Sm3+ happened. Therefore, NaSrPO4:Dy3+, Sm3+ phosphors are promising candidates for application in warm-white light-emitting diodes.
Physical and Chemical Aspects of the interaction of Chitosan and Cellulose acetate with ions Ca2+ and K+ using DFT methods
Authors: Atmani Hajar , Aboulouard Abdelkhalk , Bakkardouch Fatima Ezzahra , Laallam Latifa , Jouaiti Ahmed , Idrissi Mohammed El 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Motivated by the use of chitosan (Ch), and cellulose acetate (AC) as organic matrices in several therapeutic drugs, a theoretical study has been elaborated through the density functional theory method (DFT) to investigate the interaction mechanism between two essential ions for the human body Ca2+, K+ and two organic matrices chitosan (Ch), and cellulose acetate (AC). Many physical and chemical aspects have been carried out after the achievement of structural optimization. This involves structural parameters, molecular electrostatic potential (MEPs), interaction energy, reactivity indexes, frontier molecular orbitals (FMOs), quantum theory atoms in molecules (QTAIM) analysis and non-covalent interaction (NCI) analysis. The results of FMOs, MEPs and reactivity index studies have revealed that the site of interaction can be predicted. The calculation of electron interaction energies shows that those ions interact with the matrix of AC and Ch. Concretely, the Ca2+ ion interacted efficiently with the AC matrix. The structural analysis results show that the interaction of Ch and ions appear spontaneously (ΔG < 0) while the interaction of AC and ions (ΔG > 0), requires more energy to occur. Finally, the QTAIM analysis data indicates that the interactions of AC -ions and Ch-ions are non-covalent presenting an electrostatic character.
Analysis of the Economic Burden of Noncommunicable Diseases in Dalian City of China, Based on the “System of Health Accounts 2011”
Authors: Fang Quan , Zhang Shunli , Zang Shuang , Zhan Huan , Liu Boxi , Wang Xin 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Objectives: Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Understanding the distribution of diseases can provide a basis for policy formulation and intervention. This study analyses the status of the NCDs spending based on “System of Health Accounts 2011” (SHA 2011), to provide health policy advice to China, and give guidance for other areas in the world.Methods: Data were collected by multi-stage stratified random sampling in 2018. The medical expenses of patients with NCDs were calculated based on SHA 2011, Analyze from funding sources, dimensions of institutional flow, and financing scheme. The factors influencing the cost of hospitalization were analyzed by linear regression. All analyses were conducted by software SPSS 25.0 and STATA 15.0.Results: A total of 392 institutions and 2,478,359 valid items were included for study. The current curative expenditure (CCE) of NCDs was 15.914 billion CNY. 61.78% of NCDs financing came from public financing scheme. The proportion of family health financing (32.56%) was higher. The expenditures were mainly in general hospitals (74.95%). Elderly patients account for the majority (76.35%). Drug expenses, length of stay, and institution level were the major factors affecting hospitalization expenses.Conclusions: NCDs are the main economic burden of diseases in Dalian, and its resources are not allocated reasonably. To reduce the economic burden of NCDs, the government needs to optimize resource allocation, and rationalize institutional flows and functions.
Factors Influencing Early Antiretroviral Therapy Initiation Amongst HIV Infected Prisoners: A Qualitative Exploration in South Ethiopia
Authors: Fuge Terefe Gone , Tsourtos George , Miller Emma R 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background: Early initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) reduces the development of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), non-AIDS related comorbidities and mortality, and prevents transmission. However, the prevalence of delayed ART initiation amongst prisoners in low-and middle-income countries is high and the contributing factors to this are relatively unknown.Methods: Qualitative interviewing was employed to understand the prisoners’ lived world with regard to ART initiation and associated barriers and facilitators in the South Ethiopian prison system. We interviewed eight inmates living with HIV and AIDS (ILWHA) and eleven stakeholders who had a role in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) care provision for incarcerated people. A phenomenological approach was used to analyse the interview data in which meaning attributed to the lived experiences of the participants was abstracted.Findings: In this study, participants discussed both barriers to, and facilitators of, early ART initiation during incarceration. The barriers included a lack of access to voluntary counselling and testing (VCT) services, poor linkage to care due to insufficient health staff training, uncooperative prison security systems and loss of privacy regarding disclosure of HIV status. Insufficient health staff training and uncooperative prison security systems both contributed to a loss of patient privacy, ultimately resulting in treatment refusal. Although most participants described the importance of peer education and support for enhancing HIV testing and treatment programs amongst prisoners, there had been a decline in such interventions in the correctional facilities. Service providers suggested opportunities that a prison environment offers for identification and treatment of HIV infected individuals and implementation of peer education programs.Conclusions: Our study identified crucial barriers to and facilitators of early ART initiation amongst prisoners, a key HIV priority population group. Interventions that address the barriers while strengthening the facilitators may enhance a greater utilisation of ART.
Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown on the mental and physical health of adults with Prader-Willi Syndrome
Authors: Mosbah Helena , Coupaye Muriel , Jacques Flavien , Tauber Maithé , Clément Karine , Oppert Jean-Michel , Poitou Christine 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Background
Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with hypothalamic dysfunction leading to obesity and behavioral disabilities, including eating disorders (EDs). We evaluated the effects of the COVID-19 infection and lockdown on mental and physical health in PWS. At the end of April, 85 adults with PWS completed a self-administered questionnaire, including lockdown conditions, physical activity (PA), ED, and medical and behavioral outcomes. Body weight was measured at home and self-reported.
Results
Patients (53% women, 45% disomic) were assessed, with a mean age of 28.1±8.7 years and body mass index (BMI) of 37±11 kg/m². Seventy percent lived in the Paris region (France) and were confined with their parents. The mean weight change was 1.0±3.3 kg. We compared patients showing weight loss (n=39, -3.3±2.9 kg) to patients showing weight gain (n=22, +2.3±1.5 kg): the BMI was lower (34.6±9.2 versus 40.4±9.5 kg/m², p=0.02), PA increased (26% versus 5%, p=0.04), and EDs improved (51% versus 14%, p=0.005). Behavioral disorders increased for 13% of the cohort. Three individuals (3.5%) were diagnosed with non-severe COVID-19.
Conclusion
Lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic was associated with positive effects for most French adults with PWS, with weight loss probably associated with a more favourable environment during this period. We observed no severe forms of COVID-19.
Synthesis, Antibacterial, and Cytotoxicity Evaluation of Oleanolic Acid-4-aminoquinoline Based Hybrid Compounds
Authors: Khwaza Vuyolwethu , Oyedeji Opeoluwa O. , Aderibigbe Blessing A. , Morifi Eric , Fonkui Thierry Y. , Ndinteh Derek T. , Steenkamp Vanessa 
Published: February 2021

Aim:
To prepare a class of oleanolic-based compounds.

Background:
Conventional drugs used to treat infectious diseases suffer from limitations such as drug toxicity and drug resistance. The resistance of microbes to antimicrobial agents is a significant challenge in treating microbial infections. Combining two or more drugs with different modes of action to treat microbial infections results in a delay in developing drug resistance by the microbes. However, it is challenging to select the appropriate choice of drugs for combination therapy due to the differences in stability and pharmacokinetic proﬁle of the drugs.Therefore, developing hybrid compounds using the existing drugs is a promising approach to design effective antimicrobial agents.

Objectives:
To prepare oleanolic-based hybrid compounds followed by characterization, in vitro antibacterial, and cytotoxicity evaluation.

Methods::
Oleanolic acid-4-aminoquinoline-based hybrid compounds weresynthesized via esterification and amidation. The compounds werecharacterized using FTIR, NMR, and UHPLC-HRMS. Oleanolic acid was isolated from the flower buds of Syszygium aromaticum (L.) Merr. & L.M.Perry, a specie from Kingdom Plantae, order Mytales in Myrtaceae family. Their antibacterial and cytotoxicity activity was determined against selected strains of bacteria assessed using the microdilution assay and sulforhodamine B assay against selected cancer cell lines.

Results:
The synthesized hybrid compounds exhibited antibacterial activity against the
Gram-positive bacteria Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC13047), Bacillus subtilis (ATCC19659),
Staphylococcus aureus as well as Gram-negative bacteria, Klebsiella oxytoca
(ATCC8724), Escherischia coli (ATCC25922), and Proteus vulgaris (ATCC6380)
with minimum inhibitory concentrations of 1.25 mg/mL compared to oleanolic
acid (2.5 mg/mL). Compounds 13 and 14 displayed cytotoxicity in vitro against the
cancer cell lines (MCF-7 and DU 145) compared to the oleanolic acid (IC50 ˃ 200
μM).

Conclusion:
The present study revealed that the modification of C28 of OA enhanced its biological properties.
Formulation, Characterisation and In vitro Cytotoxic Effect of Lens culinaris Medikus Seeds Extract Loaded Chitosan Microspheres
Authors: Vohra Kripi , Mehta Meenu , Garg Vandana , Dua Kamal , Dureja Harish 
Published: February 2021

Objective:
The aim of present study was to formulate chitosan microspheres loaded with
ethanolic extract of Lens culinaris Medikus (L.culinaris) seeds (ME) and to explore its anticancer
potential against lung cancer (A549) cell line.

Methods:
Central composite design was applied to prepare and optimise the chitosan microspheres.
The prepared microspheres were evaluated for its physicochemical characterisation, in
vitro drug release and anti-cancer potential in vitro.

Results:
L.culinaris loaded chitosan microspheres were prepared successfully with suitable particle
size, entrapment efficiency and drug release. The developed ME were spherical shaped with the
particle size of 2.08 μm. The drug entrapment efficiency and cumulative drug release was found
1.58±0.02% and 81.95±0.35%, respectively. Differential scanning calorimetry studies revealed no
interaction between drugs and polymers used. The cytotoxic effect of the optimised formulation revealed
a significant response as compared to the ethanolic extract of L.culinaris seeds (IC50: 22.56
μg/ml vs. 63.58 μg/ml), which was comparable to that of reference drug, doxorubicin (22 μg/ml).
These observations demonstrate that the optimised microspheres are effective against lung cancer
(A549) cells.

Conclusion:
The significant cytotoxic response of the developed microspheres may be attributed
due to its low particle size, high entrapment efficiency and prolonged drug release profile.
Improvement in Cognitive Abilities, Mental and Emotional Wellbeing of Teenagers following a Meditation Retreat: An Open-Trial Pilot Study
Authors: Kanchibhotla Divya , Subramanian Saumya , Kulkarni Shashank 
Published: February 2021

Background:
Today’s teenagers face several challenges that result in
poor mental health, depression and anxiety. Several studies in the past decade have
explored meditation as adjunctive therapy for mental illness however, the long-term
residual benefits of meditation have rarely been studied.

Objective:
The aim of the study was to investigate the benefits of a four day
meditation retreat on cognitive abilities, mental and emotional well-being of
teenagers.

Methods:
303 teenagers participated in this study. Cognitive abilities of the
students were measured using the Six letter cancellation test (SLCT). Mental and
emotional well-being was measured using World Health Organization Well-being
index (WHO-5) and Strength and Difficulties questionnaire (SDQ), respectively.
Data analysis was performed using paired sample t-test and repeated measure
ANOVA.

Results:
Teenagers demonstrated a 33% increase in average accuracy for SLCT
post intervention. WHO-5 mental well-being index scores also increased
significantly (p<0.001). The participants experienced a significant reduction in
emotional problems and hyperactivity as measured by SDQ. The benefits of the
retreat continued to persist, when measured after 40 days of the intervention.

Conclusion:
A well-structured meditation retreat has significant and long-term
benefits on teenagers’ mental well-being, emotional stability and cognitive capacity.
Influence of Health Beliefs on Adherence to COVID-19 Preventative Practices: International, Social Media–Based Survey Study
Authors: Hsing Julianna C , Ma Jasmin , Barrero-Castillero Alejandra , Jani Shilpa G , Pulendran Uma Palam , Lin Bea-Jane , Thomas-Uribe Monika , Wang C Jason 
Published: February 2021

Background
Health behavior is influenced by culture and social context. However, there are limited data evaluating the scope of these influences on COVID-19 response.

Objective
This study aimed to compare handwashing and social distancing practices in different countries and evaluate practice predictors using the health belief model (HBM).

Methods
From April 11 to May 1, 2020, we conducted an online, cross-sectional survey disseminated internationally via social media. Participants were adults aged 18 years or older from four different countries: the United States, Mexico, Hong Kong (China), and Taiwan. Primary outcomes were self-reported handwashing and social distancing practices during COVID-19. Predictors included constructs of the HBM: perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, perceived benefits, perceived barriers, self-efficacy, and cues to action. Associations of these constructs with behavioral outcomes were assessed by multivariable logistic regression.

Results
We analyzed a total of 71,851 participants, with 3070 from the United States, 3946 from Mexico, 1201 from Hong Kong (China), and 63,634 from Taiwan. Of these countries, respondents from the United States adhered to the most social distancing practices (χ23=2169.7, P<.001), while respondents from Taiwan performed the most handwashing (χ23=309.8, P<.001). Multivariable logistic regression analyses indicated that self-efficacy was a positive predictor for handwashing (odds ratio [OR]United States 1.58, 95% CI 1.21-2.07; ORMexico 1.5, 95% CI 1.21-1.96; ORHong Kong 2.48, 95% CI 1.80-3.44; ORTaiwan 2.30, 95% CI 2.21-2.39) and social distancing practices (ORUnited States 1.77, 95% CI 1.24-2.49; ORMexico 1.77, 95% CI 1.40-2.25; ORHong Kong 3.25, 95% CI 2.32-4.62; ORTaiwan 2.58, 95% CI 2.47-2.68) in all countries. Handwashing was positively associated with perceived susceptibility in Mexico, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, while social distancing was positively associated with perceived severity in the United States, Mexico, and Taiwan.

Conclusions
Social media recruitment strategies can be used to reach a large audience during a pandemic. Self-efficacy was the strongest predictor for handwashing and social distancing. Policies that address relevant health beliefs can facilitate adoption of necessary actions for preventing COVID-19. Our findings may be explained by the timing of government policies, the number of cases reported in each country, individual beliefs, and cultural context.
Maxillary arch development with Invisalign system:
Authors: Lione Roberta , Paoloni Valeria , Bartolommei Lorenzo , Gazzani Francesca , Meuli Simonetta , Pavoni Chiara , Cozza Paola 
Published: February 2021

ABSTRACTObjectivesTo evaluate tooth movements during maxillary arch expansion with clear aligner treatment.Materials and MethodsThe study group included 28 subjects (16 females, 12 males, mean age 31.9 ± 5.4 years) collected prospectively from January 2018 to May 2019. Inclusion criteria were European ancestry, posterior transverse discrepancy of 3–6 mm, permanent dentition stage, presence of second permanent molars, mild or moderate crowding, and good compliance with aligners. Treatment protocol included nonextraction strategies, application of Invisalign clear aligner system, and no auxiliaries other than Invisalign attachments. Linear and angular measurements were performed before treatment (T1), at the end of treatment (T2), and on final virtual models (T2 ClinCheck). A paired t-test was used to compare T2-T1 and T2-T2 ClinCheck changes. The level of significance was set at 5%.ResultsStatistically significant differences were found for all measurements, except for ones at the upper second molars. The greatest increase in maxillary width was detected at the upper first and second premolars: +3.5 mm for the first premolar and +3.8 mm for the second premolar at T2. Comparison of T2-T1 angular outcomes showed statistically significant changes in the inclinations of all teeth except for the second permanent molars. T2-T2 ClinCheck showed significant differences for both linear and angular measurements for maxillary canines, resulting in poor predictability.ConclusionsMaxillary arch development revealed a progressive reduction of the expansion rate and buccal tipping in the anterior, lateral, and posterior regions, with the greatest net increase at the first and second premolars. Clinical attention should be paid to maxillary canine movements, and overcorrection should be planned for them during dentoalveolar expansion.
Celebrities and Influencers: Have They Changed the Game of Online Marketing?
Authors: Dar Tariq Mehmood , Tariq Neelofer 
Published: February 2021

Online marketing is termed as marketing 2.0, mainly because the ‘2’ here indicates how much double the marketing provides. Doubling in terms of profits, customers reach, and most importantly, brand image. Thereby, the dilemma arises where most of the brands, often even after having the right quality products, fail to satisfy their customers or, in the other case, fail to grow the virtual communities of their target audience. However, the following review article entails all the information needed regarding influential marketing & celebrity endorsements. Thus, to give marketers a new hope and scope in their blank world of Online Social networks.
The paper contains an extensive literature review of 20 peer-reviewed articles published in reputable business journals. These consist of valuable details regarding the dos and perks of optimizing celebrity endorsements and influential marketing.
Moreover, proceeding to the review portion, recommendations have been incurred to further benefit the readers & provide them a fresh insight into the two dilemmas and how brands can use these marketing paradigms to win the game of online marketing.