bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mailed letter versus phone call to increase diabetic retinopathy screening engagement by patients in a team-based primary care practice: a prospective, single-masked, randomized trial.
Authors: Stamenova Vess , Nguyen Megan , Onabajo Nike , Merritt Rebecca , Sutakovic Olivera , Mossman Kate , Wong Ivy , Ives-Baine Lori , Bhatia R. Sacha , Brent Michael. , Bhattacharyya Onil
Published: February 2021

Background: Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness among adults, but vision loss is preventable through regular screening. Urban areas in Canada have large numbers of unscreened individuals and teleophthalmology programs have been used to improve access and uptake of screening. The purpose of this study was to test different patient engagement approaches to expand teleophthalmology program to team-based primary care clinic in the city of Toronto, Canada.Methods: A teleophthalmology program was set up in a large urban academic team-based primary care practice. Patients over 18 years of age, with type 1 or type 2 diabetes were randomized to one of four engagement strategies: a phone call, a letter, a letter plus phone call, or usual care. Outreach was conducted by administrative staff within the clinic. The primary outcome was booking an appointment for diabetic retinopathy screening through a teleophthalmology program at the time of the call or within one week for the mail intervention. Results: A total of 23 patients in the phone, 28 in the mail, 32 in the mail and phone, and 27 in the control (usual care) were included in the analysis. After the intervention, 88% of patients in the phone intervention, 11% of patients in the mail group, and 100% in the mail and phone group booked an appointment with the teleophthalmology program compared to 0% in the control group. Phoning patients positively predicted patients booking a teleophthalmology appointment (p< .0001), while sending a letter had no effect. Conclusions: Patient engagement to book diabetic retinopathy screening via teleophthalmology in an urban academic team-based primary care practice using telephone calls was much more effective than letters or usual care. Practices that have access to a local DR screening programs and have the required resources to undertake such engagement strategies should consider using them as a means in improving their DR screening rates.
Electrical manipulation of antiferromagnetic easy axis in IrMn/NiFe exchange-biased structures
Authors: Kang Jaimin , Ryu Jeongchun , Choi Jong-Guk , Lee Taekhyeon , Park Jaehyeon , Lee Soogil , Kim Kab-Jin , Park Byong-Guk
Published: February 2021

Electrical control of antiferromagnetic moment is a key technology of antiferromagnet-based spintronics, which promises favourable device characteristics of ultrafast operation and high-density integration compared to conventional ferromagnet-based devices. To date, the manipulation of antiferromagnetic moments has been demonstrated in epitaxial antiferromagnets with broken inversion symmetry or antiferromagnets interfaced with a heavy metal, in which spin-orbit torque (SOT) drives the antiferromagnetic domain wall. Here, we report electrical manipulation of the antiferromagnetic easy axis in IrMn/NiFe bilayers without a heavy metal. We show that the direction of the antiferromagnetic easy axis and associated exchange bias is gradually modulated between up to ±22 degrees by in-plane current, which is independent of the NiFe thickness, however. This suggests that spin currents arising in the IrMn layer exert SOTs on uncompensated antiferromagnetic moments at the interface and then rotate the antiferromagnetic moments coherently. Furthermore, the memristive features are preserved in sub-micron devices, facilitating nanoscale multi-level antiferromagnetic spintronic devices.
Evaluation of Eleven SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Tests by using Samples from Patients with Defined IgG Antibody Titers
Authors: Lagerqvist Nina , Maleki Kimia , Verner-Carlsson Jenny , Olausson Mikaela , Dillner Joakim , Wigren Julia , Monsen Tor , Forsell Mattias , Eriksson Jenny , Bogdanovic Gordana , Muschiol Sandra , Ljunggren Joel , Repo Johanna , Kjerstadius Torbjörn , Muradrasoli Shaman , Brytting Mia , Björndal Åsa Szekely , Åkerlund Tomas , Nilsson Charlotta , Klingström Jonas
Published: February 2021

We evaluated the performance of eleven SARS-CoV-2 antibody tests using a reference set of heat-inactivated samples from 278 unexposed persons and 258 COVID-19 patients, some of whom contributed serial samples. The reference set included samples with a variation in SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody titers, as determined by an in-house immunofluorescence assay (IFA). The five evaluated rapid diagnostic tests had an IgG-based specificity of 99.0% and a sensitivity that ranged from 56.3–81.6% and decreased with low IFA titers. The specificity was > 99% for five out of six platform-based tests, and when assessed using samples collected ≥ 22 days after symptom onset, two assays had a sensitivity of > 96%. These two assays also detected samples with low IFA titers more frequently than the other assays. In conclusion, the evaluated antibody tests showed a heterogeneity in their performances and only a few tests performed well with samples having low IFA IgG titers, an important aspect for diagnostics and epidemiological investigations.
SY-707, an ALK/FAK/IGF1R Inhibitor, Suppresses Growth and Metastasis of Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Liu Ping , Sun Yinghui , Liu Shuang , Niu Jing , Liu Xijie , Li Binghui , Chu Qiaoyun
Published: February 2021

Background Focal adhesion kinase (FAK), a multi-functional cytoplasmic tyrosine kinase, plays a critical role in cancer migration, proliferation and metastasis via regulating multiple signaling pathways. SY-707 is an ALK/FAK/IGF1R multi-kinase inhibitor and now evaluated in Phase II clinical trial for ALK positive non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).Methods HTRF (Homogeneous Time-Resolved Fluorescence) assay was used to analyze kinase enzyme activity to determine inhibitory activities of SY-707 on other kinases. ATP content, PE-Annexin V and would healing assays were used to examine cell proliferation, cell cycle and migration when cells were treated with SY707. Then, SD rat and beagle dog models were used to evaluate the pharmacokinetics profile, and mouse xenograft model was used to evaluate the in vivo anti-cancer activities of SY707. Results In this study, we assessed preclinical anti-growth and anti-metastasis potency of SY-707 in breast cancer cells. SY-707 was able to inhibit the growth of breast cancer cell lines and induced cell apoptosis by suppressing the FAK signaling pathways. Moreover, SY-707 exerted inhibition on cell migration and adhesion in a dose-dependent manner. In T47D xenograft mice, SY-707 had significant anti-tumor activities lonely or synergistically with Paclitaxel. Meanwhile, SY-707 also displayed significant suppression on spontaneous metastasis of tumor to the lung in 4T1 murine breast cancer xenograft model. Conclusions SY-707 illustrated potent anti-proliferation and anti-migration potential in breast cancer in vitro and in vivo, implying its therapeutic application for the treatment of breast cancer in future clinical trials.
Xihuang Pill inhibits the development of DMBA combined estrogen and progesterone induced breast precancerous lesions rats by PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Fan Huanfang , Li Dehui , Guo Na , Sun Chunxia , Dong Jingfei , Su Yifan , Gu Yiting , Liu Jiao
Published: February 2021

Objective.

To study the inhibitory effect of Xihuang Pill on the development of DMBA combined estrogen and progesterone induced breast precancerous lesions rats by PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, and to explore the effect of Xihuang Pill in preventing and treating breast cancer. Method. Establishment of a rat model of breast precancerous lesion with DMBA combined estrogen and progesterone sequential induction for 10 weeks. Xihuang Pill was administered by gavage continuously for 4 weeks. Take rat breast tissue and stain with hematoxylin- eosin (HE). The pathomorphological changes were observed with light microscope; TUNEL staining to detect cell apoptosis in breast tissue; Western blot was used to detect the protein expression of P-PI3K, P-AKT (S473), P-AKT (T308), PTEN, P-Tuberin/TSC2, P-Tuberin (p-S939), p-mTOR, P-4E-BP1 in breast tissues. The qRT-PCR was used to detect the gene expression of PTEN mRNA and VEGF mRNA. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the protein expression of P-S6, p-p70s6k and VEGF. Result. Compared with the disease model group, the low, middle and high dose Xihuang Pill groups could significantly reduce the degree of breast pathology, and the number of apoptosis of breast precancerous lesions cells increased with the increase of Xihuang Pill dose; The expression levels of P-PI3K, P-AKT (S473), P-AKT (T308), p-mTOR, P-4E-BP1, p-S6, p-p70S6K, VEGF protein and VEGF mRNA dropped with the increase of Xihuang Pill dose. The expression levels of PTEN, P-Tuberin/TSC2, P-Tuberin (p-S939) protein and PTEN mRNA elevated with the increase of Xihuang Pill dose. Conclusion. Xihuang Pill can promote the apoptosis of breast precancerous lesion cells and reduce the proliferation of vascular endothelial cells, and then inhibit the progression of breast precancerous lesions. Its mechanism probably associated with the regulation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway related gene protein expression.
Garenoxacin is effective against bacteria invading cells such as Streptococcus pyogenes and Haemophilus influenzae
Authors: Iuchi Hiroyuki , Ohori Junichiro , Kiyama Satoshi
Published: February 2021

Background: Recurrent tonsillitis is one of the most common otolaryngological disorders caused by bacteria invading cells such as Streptococcus pyogenes (S. pyogenes) and Haemophilus influenzae. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of antibacterial drugs against bacteria that have invaded cells.Results: The intracellular invasion of Detroit 562 cells by five strains of nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) and four strains of Streptococcus pyogenes was investigated. The antibacterial drugs used were garenoxacin (GRNX), clarithromycin (CAM), amoxicillin (AMPC), cefditoren pivoxil (CDTR-PI), and levofloxacin (LVFX). Both NTHi and S. pyogenes fully invaded Detroit 562 cells in 6 h. Both NTHi and S. pyogenes had reduced susceptibility to CAM. GRNX, CAM, and LVFX were effective against bacteria invading the cells, but AMPC and CDTR-PI were not effective. GRNX was the most effective.Conclusion: GRNX was the most effective agent against bacteria invading cells.
Identification of tRNA-derived small RNAs and their potential roles in the hippocampus of nicotine exposure rats
Authors: Shao Jiali , Fei Yanxia , Su Chen , Zou Wangyuan , Yang Jinfeng
Published: February 2021

Nicotine use is highly prevalent and brings a huge burden on individuals, society, health-care systems and economic development. The existing mechanisms underlying nicotine’ actions can’t illuminate all basic and clinical problems thoroughly. Transfer RNA-derived small RNAs (tsRNAs) is a novel class of small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs), possessing potential regulatory functions in various diseases. However, the roles of tsRNAs in nicotine exposure have not been determined yet. In this study, firstly we established nicotine exposure model by subcutaneously injecting (sc.) with 0.5mg/kg of nicotine twice daily for 14 consecutive days, and conducted some behavioral observations (the pain threshold and body weight gains). Secondly, we identified the differentially expressed profiles of tsRNAs in rat hippocampus on saline or nicotine delivery conditions by using ncRNA-Seq, and then predicted the promising functions of the putative genes of the tsRNAs by bioinformatic method. The results shown that there were 26 differentially expressed tsRNAs (7 up-regulated and 19 down-regulated tsRNAs) (Fold change > 1.5; P < 0.05), of which the tRF-5 was the most common type. Eight tsRNAs were selected to validate the sequencing result by RT-qPCR. Then, based on the sequencing and RT-qPCR data, five candidate tsRNAs (tRF-1-T28-His-GTG-1, tRF-5c-Glu-CTC-1, tRF-5c-Glu-CTC-3, tRF-5c-Gly-GCC-2-M2, tRF-5c-Glu-TTC-4) were finally selected for further bioinformatic analysis. The GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis suggested that the five candidate tsRNAs might play regulatory roles through the cholinergic synapse pathways, dopaminergic synapse pathways, etc. In conclusion, our results indicated that tsRNAs were dysregulated in the rat hippocampus after nicotine exposure, and among them, tRF-5c-Glu-CTC-1 was the most promising one, which might lay a novel foundation for further research into nicotine’ actions.
Antibiogram Profile of Antibacterial Multidrug Resistance in Democratic Republic of Congo: Situation in Bukavu City Hospitals
Authors: Kadima Justin Ntokamunda , Irenge Christian Ahadi , Mulashe Patient Birindwa , Kasali Félicien Mushagalusa , Wimba Patient
Published: February 2021

Background

Bacterial strains carrying multidrug resistance traits are gaining ground worldwide, especially in countries with limited resources. This study aimed to evaluate the spreading of multidrug-resistant bacteria strains in Bukavu city hospitals in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Methods

We analyzed 758 antibiogram data recorded in files of patients consulted between January 2016 and December 2017 at three reference hospitals selected as sentinel sites, namely the Panzi General Reference Hospital (HGP), BIO -PHARM hospital (HBP), and Saint Luc Clinic (CSL).
Results

Of 758 isolates tested, the laboratories identified 12 bacterial strains in 712 isolates, of which 223(29.42%) presented MDR profile, including Escherichia coli (11.48%), Klebsiella pneumonia (6.07%), Enterobacter (5.8%), Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase-negative staphylococci (1.58%), Proteus mirabilis (1.85%), Salmonella enterica (1.19%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (0.53%), Streptococcus pneumonia (0.4%)), Citrobacter (0.13%), Neisseria gonorrhea (0.13%), Enterococcus faecalis (0.13%) and Morganella morganii (0.13%). Infected patients were significantly adults (73.1% vs. 21.5%) compared to children and mainly women (63.7% vs. 30.9%; p = 0.001).
Conclusion

The observed expansion requires that hospital therapeutic committees set up an effective clinical management system and define the right combinations of antibiotics.
Is It Really Safe to Discontinue Anticoagulant Treatment Before Ptosis Surgery From Serious Bleeding?
Authors: Minwook Chang , Kangmin Lee
Published: February 2021

The study aimed to evaluate the surgical effect of discontinuing anticoagulants preoperatively in patients with blepharoptosis. Patients were classified into two groups depending on anticoagulant treatment or otherwise. All patients taking anticoagulant discontinued with the treatment one week prior to surgery in accordance with our clinical guidelines. Preoperative and postoperative marginal reflex distance 1(MRD1) and ecchymosis grade were compared.Group 1 (anticoagulant treatment cessation) included 93 eyelids, and group 2 (control) included 98 eyelids. The preoperative MRD1 showed no significant difference between groups. Group 1 showed a significantly higher rate of severe ecchymosis (41.8 vs. 22.4%, p = 0.004) at 1 week of surgery as well as 'persistent ecchymosis (58.8 vs. 7.3%, p=0.000) postoperatively at 1 month. Postoperative MRD1 was significantly lower in group 1 at 1 week (p=0.019). However, the MRD1 and degree of improvement in lid height was not significantly different between the two groups (p = 0.499, p = 0.058) at 1 month postoperatively.
Genetic control of RNA splicing and its distinctive role in complex trait variation
Authors: Yang Jian , Qi Ting , Wu Yang , Zhang Futao , Zeng Jian
Published: February 2021

Most genetic variants identified from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) in humans are noncoding, indicating their role in gene regulation. Prior studies have shown considerable links of GWAS signals to expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs), but the links to other genetic regulatory mechanisms such as splicing QTLs (sQTLs) are underexplored. Here, we introduce a transcript-based sQTL method (named THISTLE) with improved power for sQTL detection. Applying THISTLE along with LeafCutter, an event-based sQTL method, to brain transcriptomic data (n=1,073), we identified 7,491 genes with sQTLs with P<5×10^(-8) (the largest brain cis-sQTL collection to date), ~68% of which were distinct from eQTLs. Integrating the sQTL data into GWAS for ten brain-related complex traits (including diseases), we identified 107 genes associated with the traits through the sQTLs, ~68% of which could not be discovered using eQTL data. Our study demonstrates the distinctive role of most sQTLs in genetic regulation of transcription and complex trait variation.
Identification of differentially expressed genes and signalling pathways related to ovarian endometriosis based on integrated bioinformatic analysis
Authors: Lin Kainan , Pan Zhenyan , He Renke , Wang Hanchu , Zhou Kai , Mu Liangshan
Published: February 2021

Purpose Endometriosis is a common gynaecological disease; however, the specific mechanism and the key molecules involved in endometriosis have not been elucidated. This study aimed to identify key genes associated with poor prognosis and further uncover underlying mechanisms. Methods Data regarding mRNA expression profiles used in this study were retrieved from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, and a total of three mRNA expression profiles were included in subsequent analyses (GSE31515, GSE58178 and GSE120103). We divided all differentially expressed genes (DEGs) into up-regulated and down-regulated groups. Then, we conducted Gene Ontology (GO) analysis, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis and protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis using R software.Results A total of 304 DEGs were identified between endometriosis tissues and normal endometrium tissues using integrated analysis, including 185 up-regulated genes and 119 down-regulated genes. GO analysis revealed that the up-regulated DEGs of endometriosis were closely associated with voltage-gated calcium channel activity, whereas the down-regulated DEGs were enriched in uterus development. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis indicated that the up-regulated DEGs were mainly involved in cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, whereas down-regulated DEGs were enriched in protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum. In addition, PPIs of these DEGs were visualized using the Cytoscape platform and the Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes (STRING). PPI analysis identified 10 potential DEG-related protein targets, including CCND1, IL6, CCL2, COL1A2, PTGS2, VCAM1, COL3A1, ELN, SERPINE1, and HSP90B1. Conclusion In conclusion, the present study reveals that voltage-gated calcium channel activity, uterus development, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction and protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum may be involved in the development of endometriosis. In addition, these identified DEGs may exhibit clinical significance for the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis.
Chemogenomics Mapping of Potential Drugs and Targets for Treatment of Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Ma Shifan , Xie Xiang-Qun
Published: February 2021

Multiple myeloma (MM) is the second common hematological malignancy affecting about 352,000 worldwide. Some subgroups of MM patients still cannot benefit from the currently available anti-MM drugs and therefore are at high risk of death. The pathological mechanism of MM remains to be unraveled. The identification of a global gene signature for MM might lead toward development of novel diagnostics and therapeutic interventions. Here, we identified common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) shared by 30 MM microarray data sets and compared the common DEGs with those induced by genetic or chemical perturbations. We found some potential therapeutic targets for MM treatment, for example RARA, FGFR1, PML, ROR1, SLAMF7, MTDH and Daxx. as modulating them can reverse the MM-induced gene signature. Based on our analysis results, we also predicted and validated some drug reposition, such as Imatinib, Decitabine, Dexamethasone, Vincristine, Paclitaxel, as well as Bortezomib plus Bafilomycin A1 combination for MM treatment by a literature search, data mining, and in vitro bioassays. This study could provide guidance and indications for the development of MM specific diagnostic biomarkers, indication predictors and therapeutic treatment.
Prevalence and Correlates of Cancer-related Fatigue in Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Bustos Alejandro Álvarez , Pedro Cristina G. de , Elías María Romero , Ramos Javier , Osorio Pablo , Cantos Blanca , Maximiano Constanza , Méndez Miriam , Luces Carmen Fiuza , Otero Marta Méndez , Martín Silvia , Cebolla Héctor , Casado Ana Ruiz
Published: February 2021

Purpose To identify potential correlates of CRF after curative breast cancer (BC) treatment. The hypothesis was that fatigue would be more severe among women treated with cardiotoxic drugs, with poor physical condition and those who exercised less.Methods Prospective observational cross-sectional design. Fatigue was evaluated through Perform Questionnaire (multi-item, multi-dimensional). Patient-reported assessments and objective information regarding clinical data, physical activity (PA) and physical condition were analysed as potential correlates of CRF.Results 180 women who remained free of disease were recruited. Prevalence of fatigue interfering with quality of life was 43%. Weight, BMI, treatment with trastuzumab and time spent walking one mile were positively associated with fatigue. Age, time from diagnosis, self-reported walking time, basal and recovery heart rate were negatively associated. Previous chemo, radio or hormonal therapy, objectively assessed weekly PA, cardio-respiratory condition, muscular strength and adherence to Mediterranean diet were not associated with CRF. However, an interesting unexpected negative association with nut intake was found.Conclusions CRF is a prevalent problem after BC treatment. Objectively assessed PA, cardiorespiratory fitness and muscular strength did not predict CRF. The association of CRF with trastuzumab and low intake of nuts should be confirmed in further studies. A deeper insight in heart rate variability is warranted. Future research should include longitudinal studies and determination of biomarkers. Implications for Cancer Survivors BC survivors, especially younger and overweight women, should be informed about fatigue as a potential persistent symptom through all stages of the cancer trajectory and into survivorship. They also should be routinely screened for CRF.
Molecular Mechanism of Methyl-Dependent and Spatial-Specific DNA Recognition of c-Jun Homodimere
Authors: Bie Lihua , Fei Jun-wen , Gao Jun
Published: February 2021

DNA methylation is important in regulation of gene expression and normal development because it alters the interplay between protein and DNA. Experiments have shown that a single 5-methylcytosine at different CpG sites (mCpG) might have different effects on specific recognition, but the atomistic origin and dynamic details are largely unclear. In this work, we investigated the mechanism of monomethylation at different CpG sites in the cognate motif and the cooperativity of full methylation. By constructing four models of c-Jun/Jun protein binding to the 5’-XGAGTCA -3’(X represents C or methylated C) motif, we characterized the dynamics of the contact interface using the all-atom molecular dynamics method. Free energy analysis of MM/GBSA suggests that regardless of whether the C12pG13 site of the bottom strand is methylated, the effects from mC25pG26 of the top strand are dominant and can moderately enhance the binding by ~ 31kcal/mol, whereas mC12pG13 showed a relatively small contribution, in agreement with the experimental data. Remarkably, we found that this spatial-specific influence was induced by different regulatory rules. The influence of the mC25pG26 site is mainly mediated by steric hindrance. The additional methyl group leads to the conformational changes in nearby residues and triggers an obvious structural bending in the protein, which results in the formation of a new T-ASN-C triad that enhances the specific recognition of TCA half-sites. The substitution of the methyl group at the C12pG13 site of the bottom strand breaks the original H-bonds directly. Such changes in electrostatic interactions also lead to the remote allosteric effects of protein by multifaceted interactions but have negligible contributions to binding. Although these two influence modes are different, they can both fine-tune the local environment, which might produce remote allosteric effects through protein-protein interactions. Further analysis reveals that the discrepancies in these two modes are primarily due to their location. Moreover, when both sites are methylated, the major determinant of binding specificity depends on the context and the location of the methylation site, which is the result of crosstalk and cooperativity.
Investigating the Resilience of Nurses During the COVID-19 Pandemic A Cross-Sectional Survey from Lebanon
Authors: Alameddine Mohamad , Bou-Karroum Karen , Ghalayini Wahida , Abiad Firas
Published: February 2021

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic placed frontline nurses under great pressure, influencing their physical and psychological wellbeing. Resilience has been recognized as a protective factor in times of crisis. Purpose: Investigate the degree of resilience, and associated factors, of nurses practicing at a major public hospital and COVID-19 main referral center in Lebanon. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey investigating nurses’ demographic characteristics, job satisfaction, turnover intentions, exposure to violence, and resilience levels. Multiple linear regression was used to determine factors related to resilience. Findings: The study had a response rate of 86% and a mean resilience score of 66.91 (SD = 13.34). Nurses’ resilience is positively associated with job satisfaction and male gender and negatively associated with intention to quit and exposure to violence. Discussion: Enhancing the resilience of nurses improves their job satisfaction and retention at time of crisis, and would help support the effectiveness and efficiency of care services.
Coagulation Status in Women With Missed Abortion
Authors: Yang Shuo , Chen Dandan , Wang Junxiong , Qiao Rui , Cui Liyan
Published: February 2021

Background: Missed abortion is a special type of spontaneous miscarriage, as well as a complex and multifactorial reproductive health problem that affects people all over the world. The purpose of this study was to assess the status of coagulation function in a large series of reproductive-age women diagnosed as missed abortion. Likewise, we want to explore the association between coagulation and missed abortions, in order to evaluate whether they could be used as early predictive factors for missed abortions.Methods: A total of 11182 women who suffered from missed abortion from Peking University Third Hospital and 5298 healthy age –matched early pregnancy women were enrolled in our study. Coagulation function test (prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time), fibrinolysis status detection (fibrinogen, D-Dimer), anticoagulation function tests (protein C, protein S and antithrombin III) and lupus anticoagulants (LAC) were examined on an automated coagulation analyzer. In addition, platelet counts were detected by automated hematology analyzer. Platelet aggregation (PAgT) were tested by light transmission aggregometry (LTA). All tests were taken according to standard operating procedures of the instruments.Results: Compared with healthy pregnancy, the level of D-Dimer and platelet count were higher, and the antithrombin III (AT-III) activity was lower(P<0.05). 13.1% patients with missed abortion were positive for LAC, and platelet aggregation was increased in 47.4% patients. There were no significant differences in the levels of PT, aPTT, TT, fibrinogen, protein C and protein S between the patients with missed abortion and healthy pregnancy. Moreover, multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that D-Dimer, dRVVT-R, AT-III and PAgT had significant predictive value for missed abortion.Conclusion: These findings provide evidence of hypercoagulability in patients with missed abortion. Lupus anticoagulant, PAgT and D-Dimer were the strongest predictors of missed abortion. These data suggest that treatment of the lupus anticoagulant and antiplatelet aggregation could be considered in missed abortion.
Investigation of Ti Doping on the Structural, Optical and Magnetic Properties of ZnO Nanoparticles
Authors: P Raji , Kumar K Balachandra
Published: February 2021

Ti - doped ZnO (TixZn1-xO x= 0.00, 0.05, 0.10, 0.15) nanoparticles have been synthesized through co - precipitation approach. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), photoluminescence (PL), UV-Visible spectroscopy, and Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM) have been used to characterize the samples. X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis manifested the hexagonal wurtzite structure. The crystallite size decreased from 37 ​nm to 29 ​nm as dopant concentration is increased. Fourier transform infrared analysis showed the absorption bands of ZnO, with few within the intensities. SEM investigation showed the irregular shape and agglomeration of the particles. Ti, Zn, and O composition were determined from EDX analysis and confirmed the purity of the samples.PL spectra showed a near band edge emission and visible emission.Vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) demonstrated pure and doped samples exhibited ferromagnetism behavior at room temperature.
A Sensitivity Analysis of the Anisotropy of Hydraulic Conductivity to the Seepage, Deformation and Stability of Anti-Dipping Layered Rock Slopes: A Case Study of the Pulang Area in Southwestern China
Authors: Zhang Guangkeng , Lu Guangyin , Xia Chengzhi , Wu Lianrong , Xu Zongming , Bai Ying , Li Jialu
Published: February 2021

In this paper, in order to study the influencing effects of anisotropy ratios and anisotropy directions on the seepage, deformations and stability of the anti-dipping layered rock slopes, Geo-studio software was used in this study to carry out this test based on the unsaturated seepage, fluid-solid coupling, and stability theory numerical analysis of carbonaceous slate slopes in Pulang area. The results showed that the maximum surface water content of the layered rock slopes gradually decreased with increases of the water conductivity anisotropy ratio and decreases in the anisotropy angle of the anti-dipping layered rock slopes. In addition, the rainfall infiltration depths in the middle sections of the slopes were observed to be the most affected by the anisotropy ratio and dip angles of the rock formations. Meanwhile, the bottom sections of slopes were the least affected by the anisotropy ratio and the dip angles of the rock formations. In regard to the anti-dipping rock slopes, it was found that the anisotropy ratio and rock layer dip angles should be considered in the deformation and stability analyses. When the seepage of an anti-dipping layered slope was considered to be isotropic, the safety factors often were overestimated. As the anisotropy ratio decreases and the anti-tilt angles of the layered planes increases, the safety factors of the slopes will gradually decrease. This study provided a feasible scheme for evaluating the seepage, deformations and stability of the anti-dipping layered rock slopes in southwest China’s Pulang area.
WITHDRAWN: Identification of Chatter Vibrations and Active Vibration Control by Using Sliding Mode Controller on Dry Turning of Ti6al4v
Authors: GUVENC Mehmet Ali , BILGIC Hasan Huseyin , MISTIKOĞLU Selçuk
Published: February 2021

In recent years, with the development of sensor technologies, communication platforms, cyber physical systems, storage technologies, internet applications and controller infrastructures, the way has been opened to produce competitive products with high quality and low cost. In turning, which is one of the important processes of machining, chatter vibrations are among the biggest problems affecting product quality, productivity and cost. There are many techniques proposed to reduce chatter vibrations for which the exact cause cannot be determined. In this study, an active vibration control based on Sliding Mode Control (SMC) has been implemented in order to reduce and eliminate chatter vibration, which is undesirable for the turning process. In this context, three-axis acceleration data were collected from the cutting tool during the turning of Ti6Al4V. Finite Impulse Response (FIR) filtering, Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) analysis and integral process were carried out in order to use the raw acceleration data collected over the system in control. The system was modeled mathematically and an active control block diagram was created. It was observed that chattering decreased significantly after the application of active vibration control. The surface quality formed by the amplitude of the graph obtained after active control has been compared and verified with the data obtained from the actual manufacturing result.
Hepatic Adenomatosis in Aicardi Syndrome: A Clinical Report and Review of The Literature
Authors: Boninsegna Enrico , Simonini Emilio , Crosara Stefano , Semeraro Antonia , Colopi Stefano
Published: February 2021

Aicardi Syndrome is a rare X-linked dominant genetic disorder characterized by callosal agenesis, generalized seizures, chorioretinal lacunae and vertebral anomalies. Uncommon neoplasms have been previously observed in affected patients. We describe the case of a 19-year-old woman with Aicardi Syndrome developing multiple giant mass lesions in the liver. Histopathology revealed hepatic adenomas.
Design and Fabrication of High Performance Photoanode of Fe2(MoO4)3/RGO Hybrid Composites For Triiodide Reduction in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Thulasi Selvam , Arunprasad Veeranan , KARTHIK SIVA , Elatharasan G. , Senthil P.
Published: February 2021

Discovery of electrode materials with superior light harvesting performance with high conductivity nature have become more and more urgent for the field of photovoltaics and portable electronic devices. Here in, synthesis of Fe2(MoO4)3/reduced graphene oxide (RGO) nanocomposite was prepared by simple hydrothermal approach and used as high efficient dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The decoration of RGO into the Fe2(MoO4)3 was proved by various physic-chemical studies such as XRD, SEM, TEM, Raman, UV, PL and BET analysis. Due to the synergic effect between the Fe2(MoO4)3 and RGO the light absorption property is significantly improved as well the high surface area (112.5 m2/g) and pore size (38.7 nm) was achieved than compared with bare Fe2(MoO4)3 (88.5 m2/g and 17.8 nm). The Fe2(MoO4)3/RGO hybrid photoanode establish to display an outstanding catalytic activity toward the reduction of triiodide to iodide in a dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) and can provide a solar cell efficiency of 9.65%, which is superior to a Pt-based DSSC (6.17%). The better electro-catalytic ability of Fe2(MoO4)3/RGO electrode is obtained by a synergistic effect that resulted in the high specific surface area and intrinsic reactivity of the photocathode materials.
Causes and Effects of Tree Removal in University of Ibadan Campus
Authors: Agbaogun Sulaimon Olaniyan , Jimoh Saka Oladunni
Published: February 2021

Trees on the university of Ibadan campus environment are positioned in a remarkable and notable manner; however, they may also present potential hazards to the infrastructure and humans they coexist with. The numerous benefits of trees can be negated due to poor tree health and anthropogenic activities and as such they may become hazardous. The study aims at evaluating the causes and effects of tree removal on University of Ibadan Campus, Oyo State Nigeria. University of Ibadan was stratified into 4 locations which are: Residential areas, Administrative areas, Parks and Gardens and Academic Areas. 323 trees comprising of 38 species were identified and the locations where they were removed was identified also. Also, 200 respondents were sampled to assess the perceived effects of removal of campus trees and some members of campus biodiversity management committee were interviewed to ascertain the reasons behind tree removal on campus. With the aid of data form, oral interviews, site assessments, G.P.S and structured questionnaires, the trees removed in the last ten years, the reasons for their removal and perceived effects of tree removal on campus were ascertained.The results revealed that the most trees removed on campus were Delonix regia 22.3% and Albizia glaberima 15.8% while the least removed were Anarcadium occidentale, Bridelia micrantha, Cocos nucifera, Ficus mucuso, Morinda Lucinda, Pinus carribea, Tabebuia rosea and Terminalia superba with 0.3% each.Residential areas had the highest number of tree removal on campus while the parks and gardens and administrative areas had the least. Trees removed were because of so many reasons in which old age, threat to buildings, tree defects and wind throwing are more prominent.In conclusion, the study revealed that the tree species removed had no specific relationship with the reasons for their removal but the reasons for removal of the trees had an association with the locations where they were removed. Also, it revealed that almost all the trees removed on campus was because they were or may later have some negative impacts on lives, environment and properties and mostly to forestall dangers. Since there will always be some common interactions between the environment, lives, properties and trees on campus, the study recommends effective management of campus trees and removal in cases where necessary and also replacement of removed trees especially because of root rots, insect infestation, dead trees and old age should be encouraged.
Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4 modulates Long-chain Acyl-CoA synthetase 4 to Promote Lipid Peroxidation and Regulate Ferroptosis in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Zhou Xiang , Wang Weiming , Zhang Baofu , Chen Xiaohu , Zheng Jiuyi , Guo Pengyi , Zhao Jungang , Bao Wenming , Chen Guorong , Shan Yunfeng , Yu Zhengping , Wang Yi , Chen Gang
Published: February 2021

Background: The global mortality rate of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is one of the highest among all cancers, and curative chemotherapeutics are essentially nonexistent. Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4) plays a critical role in ferroptosis, a recently discovered regulated mechanism of necrotic cell death that has an important function in colorectal cancer. However, whether DPP4 contributes to ferroptosis in pancreatic cancer has remained unknown. Methods: DPP4 expression status was evaluated in PDAC tissues using tissue chip immunohistochemistry. The effects of DPP4 re-expression on cell proliferation, the cell cycle and energy metabolism were determined. DPP4-related cancer pathways was identiﬁed by RNA-seq analyses. The clinical impact of DPP4 in driving ferroptosis and attenuating gemcitabine sensitivity was assessed in DPP4 knockout (KD) mice orthotopic xenograft models of PDAC.Results: We found that DPP4 is expressed at low levels in PDAC, and that it significantly inhibited cell proliferation by causing G1–S cell cycle arrest, inhibiting energy metabolism, and promoting erastin-induced ferroptosis in vitro; it also suppressed tumor growth in transgenic orthotopic xenograft mouse models (P < 0.001). Importantly, the sensitivity of cells overexpressing DPP4 to gemcitabine and ferroptosis was respectively decreased and increased. Mechanistically, DPP4 facilitated ferroptosis by binding long-chain acyl-CoA synthetase 4 (ACSL4), and interaction with DPP4 stabilized ACSL4 by inhibiting its ubiquitin-mediated degradation and subsequent lipid peroxidation. Conclusions: These findings identify a novel role of DPP4 in ferroptosis and suggest a potential therapeutic strategy with which to overcome gemcitabine resistance in PDAC.
The Association between Serum Potassium Level and 30-day Mortality for Patients with Cardiac Arrhythmias in the Emergency Department: Secondary Analysis of a Cohort Study
Authors: Chang Le , Chen Xinglin , Lian Cheng
Published: February 2021

Background: Clinical evidence shows that mortality in relation to the potassium ranges was U-shaped in patients with hypertension, heart failure and cardiovascular disease. However, evidence is lacking for patients with cardiac arrhythmias in the emergency department. Present study aimed to clear the relationship between serum potassium level and mortality for patients with cardiac arrhythmias in the emergency department.Methods: Using data from a retrospective cohort study, we identified 7532 visits involving 3882 patients with cardiac arrhythmias referred for any reason to the emergency department (ED) between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2015. All-cause mortality within 30-days after the date of visit to the ED. We estimated the risk of mortality using multivariable logistic-regression model.Results: There were 448 deaths (5.9%). The probability of mortality rose rapidly when potassium higher than the turning point (potassium ≥ 4.3 mmol/L) with a adjusted OR of 1.13 (95% CI:1.09, 1.16) for every 0.1 mmol/L increment of potassium. Moreover, the probability of mortality decreased when potassium lower than the turning point (potassium < 4.3 mmol/L) with a adjusted OR of 0.95 (95% CI:0.91, 0.98). Conclusions: Higher serum potassium, even at a low level, was associated with a higher risk of 30-day mortality for patients with cardiac arrhythmias in the emergency department. The probability of mortality rose rapidly when potassium higher than the turning point (may at 4.3 mmol/L).
The Effects of Sub-lethal dose of Insecticides on Honeybee Behavior and Transcriptome
Authors: Zhang Zuyun , Li Zhen , Huang Qiang , Zeng Zhijiang
Published: February 2021

Exposure to insecticides is the main cause of honeybee (Apis mellifera) population decline. At sub-lethal doses, these chemicals have been shown to negatively affect honeybee physiological development and behavior. Previously, we found the insecticide imidacloprid and deltamethrin significant reduced honeybee dancing and foraging efficiency. As a follow up, we performed a deep RNA-seq analysis to reveal the gene regulatory mechanisms underlying the altered foraging behavior. Genes involved in detoxification were up-regulated in both imidacloprid and deltamethrin treatment groups. Gene members in immune pathways, odorant receptors and major royal jelly protein families showed significant up or down regulation in treatment groups compared with controls. This fluctuating gene expression profile reflects that multifaceted aspects of honeybee physiology were affected by the two insecticides, leading to inaccurate communication and impaired learning and memory. Our findings reveal candidate molecular mechanisms under impaired dance performance in honeybees exposed to insecticides.
Design, Syntheses and Antitumor Activities Evaluation of 1,5-diaryl Substituted Pyrazole Secnidazole Ester Derivatives
Authors: Teng Qing-Hu , Sun Gui-Xia , Luo Shu-Ying , wang kai , Liang Fu-Pei
Published: February 2021

According to the drug hybridization principle, a series of novel 1,5-diaryl substituted pyrazole secnidazole ester derivatives (6aa-6gc) have been synthesized by the combinations of various 1,5-diarylpyrazole-3-carboxylic acids with secnidazole. The in vitro antitumor/cytotoxicities activities against tumor and normal cell lines, including NCI-H460 (lung tumor cell), MCG-803 (gastric tumor cell), Skov-3 (ovarian tumor cell), BEL-7404 (liver tumor cell) and HL-7702 (normal liver cell), have been evaluated using MTT assay. All compounds showed promising inhibitory activities against four tumor cell lines. The IC50 of 6bc against the BEL-7404 cell was 2.03 μM, and those of 6fc against the NCI-H460, MCG-803 and Skov-3 were 1.34, 0.14 and 0.87 μM, respectively. All these values were much lower than those of the cisplatin. Furthermore, 6fc and 6bc were also verified to be considerable safe for normal human liver cell, since the lower IC50 values than cisplatin. Based on these results, the cell cycle analysis, apoptosis ratio detection, and mitochondrial membrane potential assay of 6fc and 6bc were further performed aiming to investigate their inhibition mechanism of BEL-7404 cells. It is revealed that they have effectively inhibited the cell growth by arresting the BEL-7404 cells at S phase and induced apoptosis through the mitochondria-mediated pathway.
Foliar-applied Silicon and its Nanoparticles Stimulates Physio-chemical Changes to Improve Growth, Yield and Active Constituents of Coriander (Coriandrum Sativum L.) Essential oil Under Different Irrigation Regimes
Authors: Afshari Minoo , Pazoki Alireza , Sadeghipour Omid
Published: February 2021

Purpose Silicon (Si) plays beneficial role in alleviating biotic and abiotic stresses but comparative investigations with Si nanoparticles (Si-NPs) under water restriction on medicinal plants is not recognized. The aim of this study was to observe the Si and Si-NPs effects on growth, physio-chemical attributes, and essential oil (EO) profile in aerial parts of coriander (coriandrum sativum L.) under water stress. Methods A split-plot experiment was conducted with irrigation regimes (irrigation after 60, 90, and 120 mm evaporation from Class A pan) in the main plots and foliar application of Si (in the form of Na2SiO3) and Si-NPs in the subplots during 2019 and 2020. Results The results represented drought particularly severe stress decreased biological yield and relative water content (RWC) but increased total soluble sugar (TSS). Both Si and Si-NPs improved plant growth and yield through improved RWC, TSS, total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC). Moderate drought stress with Si-NPs was highly effective on TPC, TFC, EO percentage and yield. The main EO constitutes were n-Decanal (20.8-27.6%), 2E-Dodecanal (13.3-16.7%), 2E-Decanal (13.9-18.7%), 2E-Tridecen-1-al (7.3-10.5%), Dodecanal (7.2-10.6%), and n-Nonane (4.3-8.7%). Heat map analysis (HMA) showed foliar application of Si and Si-NPs were significantly distinguished from control treatment, which was mainly explained by EO yield and TFC attributes. Conclusion Foliar-applied Si-NPs was the rapidly and highly effective practice to reach the optimum antioxidant capacity and EO yield of coriander plants when experience moderate drought stress.
Nutrient and Stoichiometric Characteristics of Underground Fissures Soil in Karst Rocky Desertification Regions
Authors: Cen Longpei , Dai Quanhou , Yan Youjin , Hu Gang , Jiao Quan , Yi Xingsong
Published: February 2021

Aims Underground fissure soil is an important soil resource in karst rocky desertification area, but there are few reports on its physical and chemical properties and soil ecological stoichiometry. This study aims at investigating the physicochemical properties, nutrient content and stoichiometric characteristics of subsurface fissured soils in karst areas, which will help to understand their intrinsic linkage mechanisms and provide a scientific basis for making full use of fissured soils.Methods Typical karst fissures were selected through a combination of field investigation and in-laboratory analysis, and soil physicochemical properties were determined through field sampling and indoor tests. Results We found that as the depth of the fissure soil layer increases, the silt content and clay content increase and the sand content and soil water content continue to decrease. The fissure soil is basically weakly alkaline. The TN content does not change much from the surface to the lower part of the fissure, and the AN, TP and AP contents in the fissure generally decrease. In general, SOC, nitrogen and phosphorus are mainly concentrated in the surface soil compared to the other soil layers in the fissure; the C/N, N/P and C/P ratios are higher in the upper part of the fissure; C/P and N/P are higher and C/ N is lower in SL, while the opposite is true in AL. Conclusions The low nutrient content and high ecological stoichiometry of karst rift soils suggest that rift soils in karst areas need more soil nutrient management, and improvement of quality status.