bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Altered Static and Dynamic Voxel-mirrored Homotopic Connectivity in Patients With Frontal Glioma
Authors: Hu Guanjie , Ge Honglin , Yang Kun , Liu Dongming , Liu Yong , Jiang Zijuan , Hu Xiao , Xiao Chaoyong , Zou Yuanjie , Liu Hongyi , Hu Xinhua , Chen Jiu
Published: June 2021

Contralateral regions play critical role in functional compensation in glioma patients. Voxel-mirrored homotopic connectivity (VMHC) characterizes the internal functional connectivity of the brain, which is considered to have a regional functional basis. This study aims to investigate the alterations of brain regional function and VMHC in patients with frontal glioma, and further investigate physiological significance of these alterations. We enrolled 22 patients with frontal glioma and 22 demography matched healthy controls (HC). We determined degree centrality (DC), regional homogeneity (ReHo), and VMHC to investigate the alterations of regional function and internal functional connectivity in patients. Furthermore, partial correlation analysis was conducted to explore the relationship between these indicators and cognitive functions.Compared with HC, patients showed decrease in static VMHC, DC, ReHo and dynamic ReHo (dReHo) within right middle frontal gyrus (MFG.R), left middle frontal gyrus (MFG.L), right precuneus(PCUN.R), left precuneus(PCUN.L), left limbic lobe (LIMB.L), right superior frontal gyrus (SFG.R), right postcentral gyrus (POCG.R), right inferior parietal lobule (IPL.R), but increase in dynamic VMHC (dVMHC) within PCUN.R and PCUN.L. Meanwhile, MFG.R with decreased VMHC, LIMB.L with decreased DC, LIMB.L with decreased ReHo, and PCUN.R with increased dVMHC were significantly positively correlated with cognitive function, but the SFG.R with decreased DC was significantly negatively correlated with memory. This study preliminarily confirmed glioma not only cause regional dysfunction, but also disturb long-distance functional connectivity, and the long-distance functional connectivity showed strong instability in patients with frontal glioma. Meanwhile, the altered functional indicators may compensate cognitive function in patients with frontal glioma.
Plantations on Forest Gaps and Edges Disturbs the Ecology of Threatened Understory Flora: A Case of Critically Endangered Gentiana Kurroo
Authors: Mir Aabid Hussain , Tyub Sumira , Rashid Irfan , Khan Imran , Sheikh Mehraj , Kamili Azra N
Published: June 2021

Background: Within biodiversity hotspots, forest habitats have been disproportionately reduced and conservation efforts are insufficient, making restoration ventures extremely important. However, the impacts of restoration efforts on native threatened understory biodiversity residing in forest gaps and open edges have been seldom investigated. The current study attempts to fill this knowledge gap by investigating the ecology of a critically endangered understory plant namely Gentiana kurroo, across different successional stages of forest plantations including, open grassland (OG), 3-5-year-old plantation (YP), 5-15-year-old plantation (OP) and a mature forest (MF).Results: The highest population of the species was observed in OG, followed by YP, OP and MF. The regeneration was blocked by the plantation as evidenced by a ‘poor’ status in MF and OP, ‘fair’ at the YP and was ‘good’ only at OG. With an increase in canopy openness, the number of regenerating individuals increased, indicating the negative effect of the closed canopy on regeneration. The ordination projections show that the species density responds negatively with the stand basal area of the woody layer, litter depth, and tree density, but responds positively with soil organic carbon, available phosphorus, and reduction in the plantation. Conclusion: The present study suggests that plantations are more likely to benefit when established on degraded land rather than a replacement of the natural ecosystems, though those systems were initially forested or not. The results have significant implications in designing forest restoration programs, particularly on sites with a high diversity of threatened understory species. Thus, we propose that the forest restoration projects should be designed in a way that favours sensitive understory species without compromising the supply of timber and other non-timber forest products.
Negative Regulators of Inflammation Response To The Dynamic Expression of Cytokines in DF-1 and MDCK Cells Infected by Avian Influenza Viruses
Authors: Zhao Bingqian , Li Huizi , Cao Suilan , Zhong Wenxia , Li Baojian , Jia Weixin , Ning Zhangyong
Published: June 2021

The H5N1 and H9N2 avian influenza viruses (AIVs) seriously endanger the poultry industry and threaten human health. Characteristic inflammatory responses caused by H5N1 and H9N2 AIVs in birds and mammals result in unique clinical manifestations. The role of anti-inflammatory regulators, PTX3, Del-1 and GDF-15, in H5N1 and H9N2- AIV-mediated inflammation in birds and mammals has not yet been verified. Here, the expression of PTX3, Del-1 and GDF-15 in DF-1 and MDCK cells infected with H5N1 and H9N2 AIVs and their effect on inflammatory cytokines were analyzed. Infection with both AIVs increased PTX3, Del-1 and GDF-15 expression in DF-1 and MDCK cells. Infection with H9N2 or H5N1 AIV in DF-1 and MDCK cells with overexpression of all three factors, either alone or in combination, inhibited the expression of tested inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, co-expression of PTX3, Del-1 and GDF-15 enhanced the inhibition, irrespective of the cell line. The findings from this study offer insight into the pathogenic differences between H5N1 and H9N2 AIVs in varied hosts. Moreover, our findings can be used to help screen for host-specific anti-inflammatory agents.
Comparison of the Diagnostic Performance of Changes in Signal Intensity and Volume From Multiparametric MRI for Assessing Response of Rectal Cancer to Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Tan Zhengwu , Zhang Lan , Cheng Lan , Xie Lingling , Lin Zhenyu Lin , Han Ping , Li Xin
Published: June 2021

Background: Tumor regression grade (TRG) correlates with prognosis in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC), but there is controversy regarding the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for determining TRG. This study to evaluate the diagnostic value of change rate in signal intensity (SI) and volume (V) from MRI to TRG following preoperative chemoradiotherapy (CRT) in patiens with LARC.Materials and methods: This retrospective analysis examined 82 LARC patients who were admitted to our institution between Oct 2017 and Oct 2019. Patients underwent pre- and post-CRT T2-weighted (T2W), diffusion-weighted (DW)/apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), and contrast-enhanced T1-weighted (ceT1W) MRI. Change rate of volume and relative SI ratio(%△V and %△SIR) from each sequence were determined. All LARCs were confirmed pathologically and classified into TRG 0, 1, 2 and 3. Descriptive statistics and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, with calculation of area under the curve (AUC), were used to compare the diagnostic performances. Results: Sixteen patients had TRG-0, 15 had TRG-1, 35 had TRG-2, and 16 had TRG-3. Except for ADC-%△SIR, the remaining%△V and %△SIR on T1W, DWI, and ceT1W had significant differences among the four groups. %△V and/or %△SIR did not distinguish TRG-1 from TRG-2 nor TRG-2 from TRG-3, but differences between other TRGs were identified by %△V and/or %△SIR on T2W, DWI, and ceT1W. The combined use of DW-%△V and T2W-%△SIR provided the best diagnostic performance in distinguishing of TRG-0 from TRG-2 (AUC: 0.954) and from TRG-3 (AUC: 1.000).Conclusions: Preoperative MRI of LARC patients can determine TRG and may improve selection of the preoperative therapy.
Pharmahuasca Reduces ROS Production and inflammatory Gene Expression in the Brain in a Model of PTSD: Exploration by RNA Sequencing
Authors: Kelley D. Parker , Venable Katy , Billac Gerald , Destouni Aspasia , Ebenezer Philip , Stadler Krisztian , Nichols Charles , Barker Steven , Francis Joseph
Published: June 2021

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with cognitive deficits, oxidative stress and inflammation. N,N-dimethyltryptamine (DMT) is a known neuroprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and psychoplastogen with antidepressant effects. Therefore, we tested the capacity of DMT, the monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) harmaline, and “pharmahuasca” (DMT + harmaline) to reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and inflammatory gene expression and modulate neuroplasticity-related gene expression in a predator exposure and psychosocial stress rat model of PTSD. We administered DMT (2 mg/kg IP), harmaline (1.5 mg/kg IP), or pharmahuasca every other day for 5 days. We measured ROS production in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus (HC) by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy (EPR) and extracted total RNA from the PFC for sequencing. We also performed in vitro assays to measure the affinity and efficacy of DMT and harmaline at the 5HT2AR. DMT and pharmahuasca reduced ROS production in the PFC and HC, while harmaline had mixed effects. RNA sequencing implicated genes related to ROS production, inflammation, neurotransmission, and neuroplasticity. DMT, but not harmaline exhibits both affinity and efficacy at the human 5HT2AR. DMT and pharmahuasca exhibit broad effects that may facilitate the treatment of PTSD by reducing ROS production and inflammatory gene expression, and inducing neuroplasticity.
Altered Speech Patterns in Subjects with Post-Traumatic Headache Due to Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Chong Catherine , Zhang Jianwei , Li Jing , Wu Teresa , Dumkrieger Gina , Nikolova Simona , Ross Katherine , Stegmann Gabriela , Liss Julie , Schwedt Todd J , Jayasuriya Suren , Berisha Visar
Published: June 2021

Background/Objective: Changes in speech can be detected objectively before and during migraine attacks. The goal of this study was to interrogate whether speech changes can be detected in subjects with post-traumatic headache (PTH) attributed to mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) and whether there are within-subject changes in speech during headaches compared to the headache-free state. Methods: Using a series of speech elicitation tasks uploaded via a mobile application, PTH subjects and healthy controls (HC) provided speech samples once every three days, over a period of 12 weeks. The following speech parameters were assessed: vowel space area, vowel articulation precision, consonant articulation precision, average pitch, pitch variance, speaking rate and pause rate. Speech samples of subjects with PTH were compared to HC. To assess speech changes associated with PTH, speech samples of subjects during headache were compared to speech samples when subjects were headache-free. All analyses were conducted using a mixed-effect model design.Results: Longitudinal speech samples were collected from nineteen subjects with PTH (mean age=42.5, SD=13.7) who were an average of 14 days (SD=32.2) from their mTBI at the time of enrollment and thirty-one HC (mean age=38.7, SD=12.5). Regardless of headache presence or absence, PTH subjects had longer pause rates and reductions in vowel and consonant articulation precision relative to HC. On days when speech was collected during a headache, there were longer pause rates, slower sentence speaking rates and less precise consonant articulation compared to the speech production of HC. During headache, PTH subjects had slower speaking rates and altered vowel articulation compared to when they were headache-free. Conclusions: Compared to HC, subjects with acute PTH demonstrate altered speech as measured by objective features of speech production. For individuals with PTH, speech was altered during headache vs. when they were headache-free, suggesting that speech alterations were related to PTH and not solely due to the underlying mTBI.
From Feasibility to Outcomes: the Case of a Postpartum Depression Prevention Intervention in Shelter
Authors: Kerker Bonnie D. , Weiss Dara , Lewis Kristen , Willheim Erica , Clark Melissa R. , Milian Jacqueline
Published: June 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Correlation of Gut Microbiota with Efficacy of Chemotherapy in Patients with Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma
Authors: YUAN Li , ZHANG Yan , ZHANG Wei , WEI Chong , WANG Wei , ZHAO Danqing , ZHOU Daobin , LI Jingnan
Published: June 2021

The composition and diversity of gut microbiota (GMB) have been reported to be associated with the occurrence and progression as well as treatment outcome in many diseases. Our previous study demonstrated that the GMB was changed significantly and Proteobacteria phylum was the dominant microbiota in untreated diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) patients compared with healthy controls. This study aims to investigate the association of GMB with treatment outcomes in patients with DLBCL. 17 Patients with DLBCL and 18 healthy volunteers were recruited at Peking Union Medical College Hospital. The GMB of fecal samples was analyzed using 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing. We examined GMB compositions in 3 contexts: DLBCL patients (17) compared with healthy controls (18), DLBCL patients pretreatment (17) compared with posttreatment (17), and the association of GMB with chemotherapy treatment outcomes (10 complete remissions, 7 non-complete remisisons). We found that the GMB was changed considerably in posttreatment DLBCL patients. More specifically, the abundance of Proteobacteria phylum decreased significantly in patients following 4 courses of chemotherapy, although no significant difference from healthy comtrols(CG). In addition, the abundance of Lactobacillaceae, Lactobacillus, Lactobacillus fermentum were significantly higher and became dominant gut microbiota in DLBCL patients with complete remission, ,which may be associated with chemotherapy intervention and tumor extinction. Lactobacillus fermentum may have an inhibitory effect on DLBCL contributing to the disease remisison. The composition of gut microbiota in DLBCL patients changed from the healthy condition to the pretreatment condition, and then turned to the posttreatment condition after chemotherapy, which echoed the pathological succession of gut microbiota in DLBCL patients. Results from our current study together with previous research will provide a rational foundation for further investigation on the pathogenesis of gut microbiota in DLBCL to facilitate drug development and foster novel strategy for the better management of patients with DLBCL.
Novel Optical Solitons to the Perturbed Gerdjikov-Ivanov Equation Via Collective Variables
Authors: Hassan Zara , Raza Nauman , Gomez Francisco
Published: June 2021

The objective of this research is to study the collective variable (CV) technique to explore an important form of Schrödinger equation known as the Gerdjikov-Ivanov (GI) equation which expresses the dynamics of solitons for optical fibers in terms of pulse parameters. These parameters are temporal position, amplitude, width, chirp, phase, and frequency known as collective variables (CVs). This is an effective and dynamic mathematical gadget to obtain soliton solutions of non-dimensional as well as perturbed GI equations. Moreover, an established numerical scheme that is the fourth-order Runge-Kutta method is exerted for the numerical simulation of the revealing coupled system of six ordinary differential equations which represent all the CVs included in the pulse ansatz. The CV approach is used to determine the evolution of pulse parameters with the propagation distance and illustrated it illustrated it graphically. Furthermore, Figures show the compelling periodic oscillations of pulse chirp, width, frequency and amplitude of soliton. For various values of super-Gaussian pulse parameters, the numerical behavior of solitons to illustrate variations in CVs is provided. Other significant aspects with regards to the current investigation are also inferred.
Air Pollution-Regulated E-Cadherin Mediates Contact Inhibition of Proliferation via the Hippo Signaling Pathways in Emphysema
Authors: Chang Jer-Hwa , Lee Yueh-Lun , Laiman Vincent , Han Chia-Li , Jheng Yu-Teng , Lee Kang-Yun , Yeh Chi-Tai , Kuo Han-Pin , Chung Kian Fan , Heriyanto Didik Setyo , Hsiao Ta-Chih , Wu Sheng-Ming , Ho Shu-Chuan , Chuang Kai-Jen , Chuang Hsiao-Chi
Published: June 2021

Background: Air pollution has been linked to emphysema in chronic obstruction pulmonary disease (COPD). However, the underlying mechanisms in the development of emphysema due to air pollution remain unclear. The objective of this study was to investigate the role of components of the Hippo signaling pathway for E-cadherin-mediated contact inhibition of proliferation in the lungs after air pollution exposure. E-Cadherin-mediated contact inhibition of proliferation via the Hippo signaling pathway was investigated in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats whole-body exposed to air pollution, and in alveolar epithelial A549 cells exposed to diesel exhaust particles (DEPs), E-cadherin-knockdown, and high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) treatment. Underlying epithelial differentiation, apoptosis, and senescence were also examined, and the interaction network among these proteins was examined. COPD lung sections were used to confirm the observations in rats. Results: Expressions of HMGB1 and E-cadherin were negatively regulated in the lungs and A549 cells by air pollution, and this was confirmed by knockdown of E-cadherin and by treating A549 cells with HMGB1. Depletion of phosphorylated (p)-Yap occurred after exposure to air pollution and E-cadherin-knockdown, which resulted in decreases of SPC and T1α. Exposure to air pollution and E-cadherin-knockdown respectively downregulated p-Sirt1 and increased p53 levels in the lungs and in A549 cells. Moreover, the protein interaction network suggested that E-cadherin is a key activator in regulating Sirt1 and p53, as well as alveolar epithelial cell differentiation by SPC and T1α. Consistently, downregulation of E-cadherin, p-Yap, SPC, and T1α was observed in COPD alveolar regions with particulate matter (PM) deposition. Conclusions: Our results indicated that E-cadherin-mediated cell-cell contact directly regulates the Hippo signaling pathway to control differentiation, cell proliferation, and senescence due to air pollution. Exposure to air pollution may initiate emphysema in COPD patients.
Biomechanical Evaluation and Comparison of Clinically Relevant versus Non-relevant Leg Length Inequalities
Authors: Michalik Roman , Rissel Viola , Miglorini Filippo , Siebers Hannah , Betsch Marcel
Published: June 2021

BackgroundLeg length inequalities (LLIs) are a frequent condition in every population. It is common clinical practice to consider LLIs of 2cm and more as relevant and to treat those. However, the amount of LLIs that need treatment is not clearly defined in literature and the effect of real LLIs on the musculoskeletal system above and below 2cm have not been studied biomechanically before.Research question: Are the spine and pelvis affected differently in patients with LLIs <2cm and ≥2cm.MethodsBy using surface topography, we evaluated 32 patients (10 females, 22 male) with real LLIs of ≥2cm (mean: 2.72cm; n=10) and compared their pelvic position and spinal posture to patients with LLIs <2cm (mean: 1.24cm; n=22) while standing and walking. All patients were measured with a surface topography system during standing and while walking on a treadmill. To compare patient groups, we used Student t-tests for independent samples.ResultsPelvic obliquity was significantly higher in patients with LLI ≥2cm during the standing trial (p=0.045) and during the midstance phase of the longer leg (p=0.023) while walking. Further measurements did not reveal any significant differences (p=0.06-0.706).ConclusionThe results of our study suggest that relevant LLIs of ≥2cm mostly affect pelvic obliquity and do not lead to significant alterations in the spinal posture during a standing trial. Additionally, we demonstrated that LLIs are better compensated when walking, showing almost no significant differences in pelvic and spinal posture between patients with LLIs smaller and greater than 2 cm. This study shows that LLIs ≥2cm can still be compensated; however, we do not know if the compensation mechanisms may lead to long-term clinical pathologies.
Title: Preoperative albumin-to-fibrinogen ratio predicts postoperative pulmonary complications in patients after minimally invasive esophagectomy
Authors: Peng Zhang , Song Zhao
Published: June 2021

Background
Postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) are the most common postoperative complications in patients with esophageal cancer. Prediction of PPCs by establishing a preoperative physiological function parameter model can help patients make adequate preoperative preparation, reduce treatment costs, and improve prognosis and quality of life. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between albumin-to-fibrinogen ratio (AFR), prognostic nutritional index (PNI), albumin-to-globulin ratio (AGR), neutrophils-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte (PLR), and monocyte-to -lymphocyte ratio (MLR) and other preoperative laboratory tests and PPCs in patients after esophagectomy.
Methods
Retrospective analysis was performed on total 712 consecutive patients who underwent esophagectomy in the Department of Thoracic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from July 2018 to December 2020. Patients were divided into training (535 patients) and validation (177) groups for comparison of baseline data, perioperative indicators, and laboratory examination data. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to evaluate the efficacy, sensitivity and specificity of AFR, and Youden’s index was used to calculate the cut-off values of AFR. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to assess the risk factors for PPCs in training group.
Results
112 (20.9%) in training group and 36 (20.3%) in validation group developed PPCs. The AUC value predicted by AFR using ROC curve analysis was 0.817, sensitivity 76.2% and specificity 78.7% in training group while AUC 0.803, sensitivity 69.4% and specificity 85.8%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that smoking index, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA), AFR, and recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy were independent risk factors for PPCs.
Conclusion
Preoperative AFR can effectively predict the occurrence of PPCs in patients with esophageal cancer
Global carbon sequestration through continental chemical weathering in a climatic change context
Authors: Lechuga-Crespo Juan Luis , Sauvage Sabine , vanVliet Michelle , Ruiz-Romera Estilita , Probst Jean-Luc , Sanchez-Perez Jose-Miguel
Published: June 2021

Here, we simulate carbon dioxide (CO2) sequestration in 300 major world river basins (about 70% of global surface area) through carbonates dissolution and silicate hydrolysis. For each river basin, the daily timescale impacts under both the RCP 2.6 and RCP 8.5 climate scenarios were assessed relative to a historic baseline (1969-1999) using a cascade of models accounting for the hydrological evolution under climate change scenarios. Here we show that global temporal evolution of the CO2 uptake presents a general increase in the annual amount of CO2 consumed from 0.247 Pg C·y-1 to 0.261 and 0.273 Pg C·y-1, respectively for RCP 2.6 and RCP 8.5. Besides, despite showing a general increase for the global daily carbon sequestration, both climate scenarios present a decrease between June and August. Such projected changes have been mapped and evaluated against changes in hydrology, identifying hot spots and moments for the annual and seasonal periods.
Label Propagation Community Detection Algorithm Based on Density Peak Optimization
Authors: Ma Yan , Chen Guoqiang
Published: June 2021

Community structure detection in complex network structure and function to understand network relations, found its evolution rule, monitoring and forecasting its evolution behavior has important theoretical significance, in the epidemic monitoring, network public opinion analysis, recommendation, advertising push and combat terrorism and safeguard national security has wide application prospect. Label propagation algorithm is one of the popular algorithms for community detection in recent years, the community detection algorithm based on tags spread the biggest advantage is the simple algorithm logic, relative to the module of optimization algorithm convergence speed is very fast, the clustering process without any optimization function, and the initialization before do not need to specify the number of complex network community. However, the algorithm has some problems such as unstable partitioning results and strong randomness. To solve this problem, this paper proposes an unsupervised label propagation community detection algorithm based on density peak. The proposed algorithm first introduces the density peak to find the clustering center, first determines the prototype of the community, and then fixes the number of communities and the clustering center of the complex network, and then uses the label propagation algorithm to detect the community, which improves the accuracy and robustness of community discovery, reduces the number of iterations, and accelerates the formation of the community. Finally, experiments on synthetic network and real network data sets are carried out with the proposed algorithm, and the results show that the proposed method has better performance.
Visceral Adiposity Index and Atherogenic Index of Plasma as Useful Predictor of Cardiovascular Diseases Risk: Evidence From A Cohort Study in Iran
Authors: Hamzeh Behrooz , Pasdar Yahya , Mirzaei Narmin , Faramani Roya Safari , Najafi Farid , Shakiba Ebrahim , Darbandi Mitra
Published: June 2021

Background
Visceral Adiposity index (VAI) and atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) are relatively new indicators for predicting Non-Communicable disease (NCDs). The aim of this study was to assess the association AIP and VAI with risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).
Methods
This was a cross-sectional analysis conducted on 7362 individuals aged 35 to 65 years participated in Ravansar Non-Communicable Diseases (RaNCD) cohort study. AIP was calculated based on the value of triglyceride and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). VAI was calculated using Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), triglyceride, and HDL-C. All participants were stratified into three groups based on AIP and VAI tertiles. Logistic regression models were used to assess the association of AIP and VAI with CVDs.
Results
The mean of AIP and VAI was significantly higher in CVDs patients than in non-CVDs (P < 0.001). After adjusting for age, sex, BMI and physical activity the risk of CVDs in the second and third tertile of AIP were 1.22 (95% CI: 1.02, 1.45) and 1.40 (95% CI: 1.19, 1.66) times higher comparing to the first tertile, respectively. Risk of CVDs in the second and third tertile of VAI were 1.28 (95% CI: 1.06, 1.53) and 1.52 (95% CI: 1.25, 1.83) times higher than the first tertile, respectively; while adjusting for age, sex, hypertension and dyslipidemia and smoking.
Conclusion
According to the findings, AIP and VAI were positively associated with CVDs. Therefore, AIP and VAI can be useful in identifying high-risk subgroups of CVDs in general population.
Pro-angiogenic and osteogenic effects of adipose tissue-derived pericytes synergistically enhanced by Nel-like protein-1
Authors: An Hyun-Ju , Ko Kyung Rae , Baek Minjung , Chung Yoonhui , Lee Hyunhae , Kim Hyungkyung , Kim Do Kyung , Lee So-Young , Lee Soonchul
Published: June 2021

Background
One of important objectives of regeneration of vascularized tissues is to develop agents for osteonecrosis. We aimed to determine pro-angiogenic and osteogenic efficacies of adipose tissue-derived (AD) pericytes combined with Nel-like protein-1 (NELL-1) to investigate their therapeutic effects for osteonecrosis.
Methods
The experimental groups were configured to evaluate additional effects of NELL-1 on pericytes (i.e., Control, the group treated with only NELL-1, the group treated with only pericytes, and the group treated with pericytes and NELL-1). Tube formation and cell migration were assessed to determine pro-angiogenic efficacy. In vivo vessel formation was evaluated using the chorioallantoic membrane assay. A mouse model with a 2.5-mm necrotic bone fragment at the femoral shaft was used as a substitute for osteonecrosis in humans. Bone formation was assessed radiographically (plain radiographs, three-dimensional images, and quantitative analyses). Histomorphometric analyses were also performed. To identify factors related to additional effects of NELL-1, microarray, qRT-PCR analysis, and western blot were performed.
Results
The results for pro-angiogenic efficacy indicated there were synergistic effects of pericytes and NELL-1 on tube formation, cell migration, and vessel formation. For the results for osteogenic efficacy, the mouse models of osteonecrosis treated with pericytes and NELL-1 revealed the greatest bone formation in radiographic images and quantitative analyses, compared with other settings. The corresponding models treated with pericytes and NELL-1 revealed robust bone and vessel formation in the histomorphometric analyses. Using additional arrays, we found an association of FGF2 between the effects of NELL-1.
Conclusion
Combinational therapy using AD pericytes and NELL-1 has potential as a novel treatment for osteonecrosis.
Predictive Value of The Combined Detection of Platelets, D-Dimer, and Procalcitonin On Severe Heat Stroke
Authors: lei wang , shan jiang dai , Yi zhang , yu jia han , hua shen jun
Published: June 2021

BackgroundTo explore the clinical characteristics of patients with severe heat stroke, we explored the early sensitive indicators of heat stroke (HS) patients, with a view to early intervention for HS patients. MethodsFrom July 30, 2015 to October 5, 2020, 70 inpatients with severe heat stroke admitted to the Second Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University, Jiangsu Province were selected as the research objects. The general information and clinical test indicators of the patients were recorded, and all patients were assessed for acute physiology (APACH Ⅱ) upon admission. According to the severity of heatstroke, they were divided into three groups: control group (heat cramps and heat exhaustion), EHS, and CHS to compare the differences in indicators of each group. Further draw the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC).Results1. According to the severity of heat stroke, 28 cases were divided into the control group, 24 cases in the EHS group, and 18 cases in the CHS group. The body temperature of the EHS group and the CHS group was significantly higher than that of the control group (both P<0.05), but there was no statistical difference in the body temperature of the EHS group and the CHS group; the DD, PCT, and APACH of the EHS group were significantly higher than those of the control group and the CHS group (both P＜0.05); PLT, CRP, Na, GLU of EHS group were lower than those of control group and CHS group (all P＜0.05), and the decrease of PLT was more significant; CHS group HbA1C was significantly higher than that of control group and EHS group (all P <0.05). 2. ROC curve analysis the areas under the curves of DD, PCT, and PLT are 0.670, 0.705, 0.791, respectively, the sensitivity is 40.48%, 100%, 73.81%, and the specificity is 96.43%, 32.14%, 78.57%, respectively. Using the combined analysis of the three series tests, the area under the curve was 0.838, the sensitivity was 71.43%, and the specificity was 85.71%. ConclusionsEHS patients have higher DD, PCT, APACH, but PLT, CRP, Na, and blood sugar are lower. At the same time, the significant decrease of PLT and the increase of PCT and DD may be early sensitive indicators of HS. The combined detection of the three can be used as a reference basis for early diagnosis of HS and critical illness.
USAGE OF MIXTURE OF JACKFRUITLATEX AND ACTIVATED CHARCOAL POWDER AS THE COUNTER ELECTRODE IN PHOTO-ELECTROCHEMICAL CELLS
Authors:   Demonstrator, Department of Engineering Technology, Faculty of Technological Studies, UvaWellassa University,Passara Road, Badulla, Sri Lanka., Dissanayake P.N. , Sirimanne P.M. ,   Professor, Department of Science and Technology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, UvaWellassa University, Passara Road, Badulla, Sri Lanka.
Published: June 2021

The counter electrode plays major role in achieving of maximum performance in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). A mixture of jack-fruit latex and activated charcoal is used for the first time in DSSCs as counter electrode material. Maximum short-circuit photo-performances of 3.2 mAcm-2was achieved for the TiO2|mercurochrome|(I-/I3-) solar cells at optimal amount of binder percentage of 15% of jackfruit latex, under AM 1.5 conditions.
RE-DEFINING NIGERIAS TAX SYSTEM AMIDST DIGITALISATION OF THEBUSINESS ENVIRONMENT
Authors:   Authors are of the Department of Accounting, Babcock University, Ilisan, Ogun State, Nigeria., Aigbodion Asein Abel , Rufus Akintoye Ishola ,   Authors are of the Department of Accounting, Babcock University, Ilisan, Ogun State, Nigeria.
Published: June 2021

Technology, internet and e-commerce have redefined business models and practices such that values are created in environments different from where profits are earned and taxes are subsequently paid. Suchpractices, which exacerbatebase erosion and profit shifting, negatively affect the collectible tax revenues by governments in several jurisdictions including Nigeria,making it difficult for them to meet their social contract obligations to their citizens.Using an expost facto research design and qualitative research methodology, this exploratory study assessed the capacity of the Nigerian government to address the challenges imposed on its tax system by the emerging digitalized economy. The study observed that the issue of taxation in digitalized economy has not received the desiredlegislative and governancepriority attention largely because of the dearth of knowledge about its complexities as well as the undue dependence on revenue from crude oil.The study therefore recommends that the revenue authorities should set up a think tank comprising chartered accountants, tax practitioners, information technology experts, academics and regulators to develop a comprehensive framework to address the issue from a national perspective while the ECOWAS Commission should be prodded and supported by its member-states to take on the issue at the sub-regional level as OECD is currently doing for its member-states in Europe, USA, Japan and Canada.
THE MODERATING EFFECT OF SELF - REGULATION ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PUBLIC SERVICE MOTIVATION AND WELL - BEING OF PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE PERSONNEL
Authors:   Researcher, College of Criminal Justice Education,University of Mindanao, Davao City, Philippines., Maglinte Sr. B. , Gempes G. ,   Professor, Professional Schools, University of Mindanao, Davao City, Philippines.
Published: June 2021

The purpose of this study was to determine the moderating effect of self-regulation on the relationship between public service motivation and well-being of Philippine National Police Personnel among the three major cities in DavaoProvince situated at Region XI. A validated questionnaire was used in gathering the data from the 400 police personnel in the region. Correlational research design was employed using hierarchical regression and modgraph. The result of this study revealed that self-regulation has no significant moderating effect on the relationship between public service motivation and well-being of police personnel involved in this study. Police personnel who have higher and lower level of self-regulation demonstrated the same degree of well-being as being influenced by public service motivation. Although the significant moderating effect of self-regulation on the relationship between public service motivation and well-being was not proven, result revealed that separately public service motivation and self-regulation are important contributors to well-being.
THE STUDY OF INNOVATION CAPABILITY, CROSS-CHANNEL CAPABILITY AND FIRM PERFORMANCEOF VIETNAMESE RETAIL ENTERPRISES
Authors:   Business Administration Faculty,Thuongmai University, Hanoi City, Vietnam., Nguyen Linh
Published: June 2021

This study aims to investigate the impact of innovation capability on cross-channel capability and the effect of cross-channel capability on firm performance of an organization. On the base of literature review, this study suggests a research hypothesis model, and uses quantitative research method to examine. Research data is collected from 201 Vietnamese retail enterprises. The Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) by Smart-PLS is used for data analysis. The research result indicates that there is a significant and positive impact of innovation capability on cross-channel capability. Besides that, the finding shows that cross-channel capability plays an important role in improving firm performance. Based on the findings, some recommendations are suggested to enhance firm performance by generating cross-channel capability and innovation capability of Vietnamese retailers.
RELASHIONSHIP BETWEEN CLINICAL AND THERAPEUTICAL CARACTERISTICS AND INSIGHT IN SCHIZOPHRENIA
Authors:   Department Of Psychiatry, Ibn Nafis Hospital, Marrakech, Morocco., Fahiri F. El , Berghalout M. ,   Department Of Psychiatry, Ibn Nafis Hospital, Marrakech, Morocco., Sak H. ,   Department Of Psychiatry, Ibn Nafis Hospital, Marrakech, Morocco., Adali I. ,   Department Of Psychiatry, Ibn Nafis Hospital, Marrakech, Morocco.
Published: June 2021

Schizophrenia is a chronic disease which affects 1% of world population and represents a major public health issue. It is often associated with a severe and persistent lack of awareness of the disorder. Our prospective study was carried out at the psychiatric service of Mohammed VI Academic Medical Center in Marrakech on 100 patients hospitalized between August 2012 and February 2013, for schizophrenia diagnosed according to DSM-IV R criteria. The aim of our study was to assess their insight, and identify clinical and therapeutic features associated with this insight. Insight has been assessed by Birchwood insight scale. The bivariate analysis has identified some significant results: poor insight was associated with unvoluntary commitment status and poor treatment adherence.In conclusion, lack of insight in schizophrenia is an important dimension that can have an impact on the therapeutic alliance, treatment adherence and prognosis.
FACTORS AFFECTING ENGLISH LEARNING OUTCOMES -APPLYINGSTRUCTURAL EQUATION MODELING (SEM)
Authors:   Foreign Trade University., Hong Nhung Pham , Tung Linh Nguyen ,   Electric Power University., Trong Luong Vu ,   VNU - University of Education., Thi Thuy Tang ,   VNU - University of Education.
Published: June 2021

This study aims to present an overview of researches on factors affecting the results of students learning foreign languages, especially English, from previous studies. The results of retrospective analysis of documents and studies have shown the gaps of research methods in analyzing the factors affecting English learning outcomes of students and recommended the use of structural equation modeling methods (SEM) to predict students English learning outcomes based on both subjective and objective factors.
LOCALLY ADVANCED BLADDER EWINGS SARCOMA: AN EXCEPTIONAL CASE REPORT
Authors: Hanena SM. , Amine ED-Degouj , Tidahy R. , Ahsaini M. , Mellas S. , Ammari J. EL , Tazi MF. , Fassi JM. EL , Farih MH.
Published: June 2021

Extra skeletal Ewings sarcoma is a rare entity. The primary bladder localization is exceptional, their diagnosis is difficult because it is extremely rare in this place and because of diagnostic difficulties posed by a group of very heterogeneous tumors. Its clinical presentation is similar to that of transitional cell carcinoma, however the two entities must be distinguished because the protocols for treatment are different. The diagnosis is dependent on the pathological examination with the immunohistochemical and cytogenetic study. We report the case of a 36-year-old man with locally advanced Ewing sarcoma of the bladder.
CARBON NANOTUBES REINFORCED ZIRCONIA COMPOSITES FOR ARTFICIAL HIP JOINTS BEARING SURFACES
Authors:   Center for Materials Technology, Agency for the Assessment and Application of Technology (BPPT), Indonesia., Suhendra Nandang , Efendi Harahap Muslim ,   Center for Materials Technology, Agency for the Assessment and Application of Technology (BPPT), Indonesia., a Masmui ,   Center for Materials Technology, Agency for the Assessment and Application of Technology (BPPT), Indonesia., Susanto Herri ,   Center for Materials Technology, Agency for the Assessment and Application of Technology (BPPT), Indonesia., Ulma Saudi Aghni ,   Center for Materials Technology, Agency for the Assessment and Application of Technology (BPPT), Indonesia., P. Arjasa Oka ,   Center for Materials Technology, Agency for the Assessment and Application of Technology (BPPT), Indonesia., Raharjo Jarot ,   Center for Materials Technology, Agency for the Assessment and Application of Technology (BPPT), Indonesia., Dwi Handoko Aryo ,   Research Center for Geotechnology, Indonesian Institute of Sciences (LIP), Indonesia.
Published: June 2021

This research focuses on the properties and capabilities of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as reinforcing agents in ceramic composite bearing components. The addition of CNT to pure ceramics can form composites with much better performance than conventional ceramics for various applications. The study was started from the pure ceramics in their use as a component of bearing total hip arthroplasty and the damage that occurred after implantation. The study covers factors that cause degradation of conventional ceramics introduction of properties and use of CNTs as new reinforcing agents for ceramic composite materials widely used sintering method and the heat and pressure parameters used during the sintering process to meet the standards for the manufacture of Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) bearing component. The contact and buckling behaviors of the CNTs influence the composites friction properties. The presence of CNT until 20 wt% of CNT exhibited improve wear resistance with lower friction with the increase of weight percent. CNT reinforced ceramic coating might be capable to withstand high load-bearing conditions. Plastic deformation can be one of the critical processes in wear in the ceramics wear mechanism. Other processes are cracking and chemical reaction. The microstructures and porosity take an important role in indicating the ceramics wear properties and wear mechanisms.
MARKETING STRATEGIES TOWARDS ACHIEVEMENT IN BAKERY BUSINESS IN PHETCHABURI AND PRACHUAP KIRIKHAN PROVINCES
Authors:   Business Asminstration (Managment), Faculty of Business Administration, Rajamangala University of Technology Rattanakosin, Wang Klai Kangwon Campus Prachup Kirikhan, Thailand., Punoiam Kanjana , Anuyahong Bundit ,   English Department, College of General Education and Languages, Thai-Nichi Institute of Technology Bangkok, Thailand., Pengnate Wipanee ,   English Department, College of General Education and Languages, Thai-Nichi Institute of Technology Bangkok, Thailand.
Published: June 2021

The purposes of this study were 1) to investigate marketing strategies towards achievement in bakery business in Phetchaburi and Prachuap kirikhan Provinces and 2) to study additional suggestions The research samples were 140- bakery business in Phetchaburi and Prachuap kirikhan Provinces derived through Simple Random Sampling technique. The instruments used for collecting the data were the rating-scale and open-ended questionnaire. Frequency, Mean scores, Standard Deviation and content analysis were used for data analysis. The findings were 1) marketing strategies were used at the highest level and additional suggestions 2) Product, Price, quality and staff and cleanliness were highly concern in order to increase in customers loyalty.
SURGICAL ACCESS OF BILATERAL TRANSMIGRATED IMPACTED MANDIBULAR CANINES: A RARE PHENOMENON - CASE REPORT
Authors:   MDS, Post Graduate Trainee (PGT) Dept. of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery KDDC Mathura, Uttarpradesh, India., Majhi Sourav
Published: June 2021

Bilateral transmigration of impacted mandibular permanent canines,an extremely uncommon occurrence.The mid-symphyseal region is where,the intraosseous tooth migration takes place.The tooth does not erupt in its usual occusal position and it crosses the mandible\'s midline. Here, a 28 year old male reported to the department of oral surgery,with chief complaints of pain and sensitivity in the lower front teeth region since 1 month. The mandibular right and left deciduous canines were seen to be retained on intraoral inspection. Orthopantomogram revealed mandibular right and left horizontal impacted permanent canines migrated towards the midline and situated below the apices of incisives.The two impacted canines were surgically removed,along with retained deciduous canines were also extracted out normally under local anaesthesia and under preoperative intravenous antibiotic medications. A follow-up on the patient is underway.
EFFECT OF WEDELIA TRILOBATA ESSENTIAL OIL ON THE GERMINATION AND SEEDLING GROWTH OF COWPEA
Authors:   Department of Botany, University of Kerala, Kariavattom, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India., S. Krishnan Layana , R Rajalakshmi ,   Department of Botany, University of Kerala, Kariavattom, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India.
Published: June 2021

Wedelia trilobata is an invasive weed of the family Asteraceae.Objective of the study was to find out the impact of essential oil on the germination and seedling growth of cowpea. Different concentrations of essential oil(200, 400, 600, 800 and 1000ppm) were used,a controlwas kept without oil. Cowpea seeds were sown in these essential oil in petriplates,at the end of test period all the germination parameters were measured. All the germination parameters showed that treatment had no negative impact on germination. While root length,shoot length,embryo axis length,seedling length showed a significant variation in treatments compared to control. GC-MS analysis of essential oil revealed that it is a mixed chemotype and Î±-pinene (10.859 %), caryophyllene oxide (5.325%) and spathulenol (7.911%) are the major compounds.
HISTORY OF COINS IN KERALA
Authors:   Centre for Heritage Studies, Hill Palace, Tripunithura, Kerala, India., A. Remya
Published: June 2021

Coins are as important as the inscription in history. Numismatics, the study of coins, is a multi-disciplinary science in the sense it requires information in palaeography, prehistoric studies, engravings and history, however it is itself one of the fundamental hotspots for the reproduction of history. Kerala was conceivably occupied with exchanging exercises from 3000 BCE with Sumerians and Babylonians. Phoenicians, Greeks, Egyptians, Romans, Jews, Arabs, Chinese and Europeans were pulled in by an assortment of wares, particularly flavors, cotton textures and other resources. Trade, invasion and civilizations were influenced the coin history. The evolution of coinage in Kerala throws light to history too. The present paper is an attempt to review the studies on numismatics of Kerala and thus to history too.