bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Stock Split and Dividend Announcement on Trading Volume in Companies Listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange
Authors: Kusuma Chandrasisilia Celvina , Hariyanto Wiwit
Published: February 2022

This study aims to determine whether stock spills and dividend announcements affect the trading volume of companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange for the 2017-2019 period with a total of 14 companies. This study uses a quantitative approach. By using secondary data where data collection is at the IDX, Faculty of Economics and Business, Muhammadiyah University of Sidoarjo or from the IDX official website. Data collection is done by tracing financial statements, annual reports and audit reports, trading volume reports and previous journals. The results of this study state that partially the Stock split variable has no significant effect on Trading Volume, while the Dividend Announcement variable has a significant effect on Trading Volume.
Factors Affecting the ICI during Indonesia's Economic Recession During the Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Dewi Amilia Ristika , Widodo Heri
Published: February 2022

The study used in this study aims to determine the factors that can affect the JCI, namely the rupiah exchange rate, inflation, and interest rates during the Indonesian economic recession during the Covid-19 pandemic. The research method used in this study uses quantitative and The secondary data used is secondary data from the BEI and BI which was collected from 6 Nov 2020 to 3 Feb 2021 with a data collection technique, namely the documentation method. Saturated sampling is used in the sampling technique. So that obtained as many as 59 samples. While the techniques used in data analysis in this study are classical assumption test and multiple linear regression analysis as hypothesis testing. JCI. However, inflation in a partial test does not have a significant effect on the JCI.
The Role of Servant Leadership, Organizational Support and Knowledge Sharing in Improving Tax Employee Performance
Authors: Maulana Jeffri , Abadiyah Rifdah
Published: February 2022

This study aims to determine the effect of Servant Leadership and Organizational Support on Employee Performance with Knowledge Sharing as an intervening variable at DGT Tax Services Sidoarjo Barat. This research is a type of quantitative research with hypothesis testing. The sample used in this study were all employees of the West Sidoarjo Tax Service DJP as many as 148 employees. The sampling technique used the probability sampling method. The analytical tool used in this research is a path analysis technique with the help of software for the operating system called Smart-PLS (Partial Least Square) Version 3.2.9. The data used in this study are questionnaire data and data sourced from the DGT of Tax Services in West Sidoarjo. Data collection techniques using questionnaires, interviews, observations, and documentation. The results of this study prove that Hypothesis 1: Servant Leadership variable has a significant effect on Knowledge Sharing, while Organizational Support has a significant effect on Knowledge Sharing, and Knowledge Sharing has a significant effect on Employee Performance. Hypothesis 2: Servant Leadership variable has no significant effect on employee performance, while organizational support has a significant effect on employee performance. Hypothesis 3: Organizational Support Variable has no significant effect on Employee Performance through Knowledge Sharing as an intervening variable, while Servant Leadership has a significant effect on Employee Performance through Knowledge Sharing as an intervening variable
Resilience in North East Ghana: Impact Evaluation of the Climate Resilient Agricultural and Food Systems (CRAFS) project
Authors: Pretari Alexia
Published: February 2022

This evaluation is presented as part of the Effectiveness Review Series 2017/18 on resilience programming. The Climate-Resilient Agricultural and Food Systems (CRAFS) project took place in four districts of the Upper East, Northern and Upper West regions, between April 2015 and March 2018, by Oxfam, PAS-Garu, PARED, ProNet North and NANDRIDEP. Project activities took place at district, community, household and individual level and included raising awareness on climate change impact, the need to adapt to it, and the restoration of the natural resource base. This evaluation used a quasi-experimental approach to assess the impact of the project activities in building resilience capacities. Multi-dimensional indices of resilience, and of resilience capacities were developed at the household level, taking into account household level characteristics, individual level characteristics for women and men within the household, and intra-household dynamics. Overall, CRAFS had a positive and significant impact on the overall resilience index, driven by a positive impact on adaptive and transformative capacities. Find out more by reading the full report now.
Making Market Systems Work for Women Farmers in Tajikistan: A final evaluation of Oxfam's Gendered Enterprise and Markets programme in Tajikistan
Authors: Morgan Miranda , Stewart Alastair
Published: February 2022

Gendered Enterprise and Markets (GEM) is Oxfam GB’s approach to market systems development. The GEM approach facilitates change in market systems and social norms, with the aim of ensuring more sustainable livelihood opportunities for marginalized women and men. The GEM DFID AidMatch Programme (June 2014–February 2018) worked within the soya, milk and vegetable value chains targeting women smallholder farmers in areas of poverty. The programme aimed to benefit 63,600 people (10,600 smallholder households) living in Zambia, Tajikistan and Bangladesh through increases in household income, women having greater influence over key livelihood decisions within their households and communities, and engaging in livelihoods more resilient to shocks, such as natural disasters and market volatility. In Tajikistan, the Gendered Enterprise and Markets (GEM) programme has been implemented in five districts of Khatlon Province by Oxfam in partnership with local public organizations, League of Women Lawyers of Tajikistan (LWL) and Neksigol Mushovir. The GEM programme in Tajikistan sought to directly improve the livelihoods of an estimated 3,000 smallholder farmers (60 percent women) in fruit and vegetable value chains through improved production skills, resilience to climate risks, access to market opportunities and greater engagement with market players, and strengthened ability to influence private sector and government actors. The evaluation was designed to investigate if and how the GEM programme might have contributed to its intended outcomes – not only in the lives of individual women smallholder farmers targeted by the programme but also to changes in their communities and the larger market system. It also sought to capture any potential unintended outcomes of the programme.
TNFα and MMP1 in brain microvascular endothelial cells regulate blood-brain barrier dysfunction in psychotic disorders
Authors: Lizano Paulo , Pong Sovannarath , Santarriaga Stephanie , Bannai Deepthi , Karmacharya Rakesh
Published: February 2022

In schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, tight junction deficits in brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) lead to blood brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction. Using an in vitro model of human BBB function, we show that BMECs derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells of schizophrenia patients show reduced BBB integrity and increased small molecule permeability when compared to healthy control BMECs. Stratification based on BBB function in schizophrenia and bipolar disorder patients identified a BBB-deficit subtype with reduced barrier function, increased permeability to larger molecules, and decreased claudin-5 (CLDN5) levels. BMECs from the BBB-deficit group show increased MMP1 activity, which correlated with reduced CLDN5 levels and worse BBB function, which were rescued by tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα and MMP1 inhibition. These results show intrinsic deficits in BMECs in psychotic disorders that result in BBB disruption and further identify TNFα and MMP1 as potential targets for ameliorating BBB deficits.
Evaluation of Lifetime Cancer Risk in Some Vegetables and Soil Samples in Two Main Cities in Ogun State: Human and Ecological Risk
Authors: OMOTOSHO Omolola E. , Akinola Olusegun , Omeje Maxwell , OMOTOSHO Temidayo , Evbuomwan Sarah , Emetere Moses , Ayoade Femi , Rabiu Babatunde
Published: February 2022

The spate of health challenges via the ingestion of radionuclides is still of concern especially in regions that have no clear documentation of background of radioactive sources. The present study evaluated the activity concentrations of naturally occurring radioactive nuclides in plants and their corresponding soil collected at Ibeshe and Covenant University community areas of Ogun State, Nigeria. The activity concentrations and other radiological risks from consuming the leafy vegetables were also estimated. The results show that the mean concentration of 226Ra, 232Th, 40K in the agricultural soil were found to be 24.18±2.31, 20.93±2.27, 20.95±1.9 for Ibeshe and 58.76±4.84, 26.06±1.93, 33.87±2.23, respectively for Covenant University. Whereas, for the leafy vegetables, the mean concentration of 226Ra, 232Th, 40K were found to be 5.02±0.9, 7.98±1.70, 427.82±29.75 for Ibeshe and 17.57±2.35, 22.19±3.0, and 424.17±25.15 for Covenant University Community. In comparison, all these values are within the recommended limits of 32.00 and 45.00, 420.00, Bqkg-1for 226Ra, 232Th, 40K according to the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effect of Atomic Radiation (UNCEAR) except the mean value for Covenant University soil for 232Th which is slightly higher. The values obtained were comparable to the internationally recommended values. The mean value for excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) for Ibeshe North is 31.08, while that of Canaanland (CU) is 239.03, respectively is lower than the recommended limits of other published papers 1.72 x 104 according to International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP). These lower radiological risks indicate apparently that the chemical carcinogenic pollutants in the samples may be the major risk, inducing chemical parameters in the study area. This study will serve as a baseline data for any radiologically induced diseases. Significantly, it will serve as a baseline data for any radiologically induced diseases from vegetables in Nigeria and suggests further research on chemical toxicity risks on the same samples.
The High-Level Expression Analysis of RhPA In The RhPA/gGH Double-Transgenic Rabbits And Its Thrombolysis Activity In Vitro
Authors: Song Shaozheng , Luo Yaoling , Li Dan , Yan Ying , Zhuang Qinmin , Ye Junsong , He Zhengyi
Published: February 2022

Objective: In this study, the rhPA/gGH double transgenic rabbits were constructed, and the expression level of rhPA,rabbit growth and development features were analyzed, which might provide a new idea for obtain rhPA high level expression transgenic animals.Method: Two rhPA transgenic rabbits fertilized eggs were microinjected with linearized GH plasmid to obtain the rhPA/gGH rabbits.The integration of rhPA/gGH gene was detected by PCR. The rhPA expression level in transgenic rabbit milk was detected by ELISA and Western blotting,and FAPA was performed to detect the in vitro thrombolytic activity of rhPA.The body weight of transgenic rabbits at different growth stages were measured to test the effect of gGH gene on rhPA/gGH double transgenic rabbits growth and development .Result: A total of 151 rhPA transgenic rabbits fertilized eggs were obtained through superovulation, 125 of them were microinjected with linearized GH plasmid and transplanted into 8 surrogate mother rabbits.Six surrogate mother rabbits were pregnant, with a pregnancy rate of 75.0% (6/8)，16 rhPA/gGH gene double transgenic rabbits were identified by PCR (10♂,6♀). The rhPA expression levels in rhPA single-transgenic rabbit whey were 0.27–0.63g/L, while the rhPA expression leves were 4.98-12.24 g/L in the rhPA/gGH double-transgenic rabbits whey. The rhPA expression levels of rhPA/gGH double-transgenic rabbit whey were significantly increased by about 17.2–23.8 times, and had higher thrombolytic activity in vitro. There was no significant difference in body weight between rhPA/gGH double transgenic rabbits, rhPA single transgenic or non-transgenic rabbits from birthday to 10 months age(P>0.05). Conclusion: The rhPA/gGH double transgenic rabbits were successfully constrected, which was proved that the introduction of gGH gene could significantly increase the rhPA expression level in the milk of transgenic rabbits and without affecting the growth and development of transgenic rabbits, which laid a foundation for the preparation of transgenic rabbits with higher recombinant protein expression level in the future, and also provide new ideas and new methods for the establishment of mammary gland bioreactor.
Prolonged and extended impacts of SARS-CoV-2 on the olfactory neurocircuit
Authors: Paessler Slobodan , Kishimoto-Urata Megumi , Urata Shinji , Kagoya Ryoji , Imamura Fumiaki , Nagayama Shin , Reyna Rachel A. , Maruyama Junki , Yamasoba Tatsuya , Kondo Kenji , Hasegawa-Ishii Sanae
Published: February 2022

The impact of SARS-CoV-2 on the olfactory pathway was studied over several time points using Syrian golden hamsters. We found an incomplete recovery of the olfactory sensory neurons, prolonged activation of glial cells in the olfactory bulb, and a decrease in the density of dendritic spines within the hippocampus. These data may be useful for elucidating the mechanism underlying long-lasting olfactory dysfunction and cognitive impairment as a post-acute COVID-19 syndrome.
Effects of occupational exposure to dust, gas, vapor and fumes on chronic bronchitis and lung function impairment
Authors: Zheng Xueyan , Zheng Yijin , Liao Tingting , Xu Yanjun , Liu Li , Wang Ye , Xiao Ni , Li Chuan , Meng Ruilin , Guan Weijie , Lin Lifeng , He Zhaoxuan
Published: February 2022

Objectives: We sought to investigate the effects of occupational exposure to vapors, gases, dust and fumes (VGDF) on chronic bronchitis and lung function impairment. Methods: We conducted chronic obstructive pulmonary disease surveillance in six cities of south China between 2014 and 2019. We recorded the diagnosis of chronic bronchitis, respiratory symptoms, occupational exposure to VGDF and other covariates by using a structured questionnaire. Logistic regression and multivariate linear regression model were adopted for analysis. Results: A total of 7418 and 5249 participants were included. Cough (OR: 1.60, 95%CI: 1.22 to 2.08) and phlegm (OR: 1.49, 95%CI: 1.19 to 1.85) correlated significantly with the exposure to dust. There was an increased risk of cough (OR: 1.53, 95%CI: 1.11 to 2.07) for occupational exposure to gas/vapor/fume. Dual exposure to dust and gas/vapor/fume was associated with a significantly increased risk of chronic bronchitis (OR: 1.74, 95%CI: 1.20 to 2.52), as well as cough (OR: 1.43, 95%CI: 1.15 to 1.79) and phlegm (OR: 1.49, 95%CI: 1.24 to 1.79). Gas/vapor/fume was associated with the reduced ratio of forced expiratory volume in one second and forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) (β: -1.05, 95%CI: -1.85 to -0.26) and maximal mid-expiratory flow(MMEF) (β: -0.15, 95%CI: -0.23 to -0.07). Dual exposure to dust and gas/vapor/fume was significantly associated with decreased FEV1/FVC (β: -0.74, 95%CI: -1.28 to -0.20) and MMEF (β: -0.06, 95%CI: -0.12 to -0.01) . Results of sensitivity analysis did not materially change. Conclusions: VGDF exposure was associated with chronic bronchitis, respiratory symptoms and impaired lung function, suggesting that VGDF contribute to the pathogenesis and progression of COPD.
Intraspecific variability in herbivore response to elemental defences is caused by the metal itself
Authors: Godinho Diogo Prino , Branquinho Cristina , Magalhães Sara
Published: February 2022

Some plants are able to accumulate on their leaves metals taken from the soil, using this as a defence against herbivorous arthropods. However, herbivore response to metal accumulation in plants is known to be variable. While some species and taxonomic groups are less affected than others, hormetic effects have also been observed in spider-mites, herbivorous crop pests. Still, knowledge on the range and causes of intraspecific variation in the response of herbivores to metal accumulation is lacking. Here, using two species of spider-mites, Tetranychus urticae and T. evansi , we tested the variation of 17 populations in response to cadmium-accumulating tomato plants and the drivers of such variation. We observed a non-linear, hormetic response of mites to plants with cadmium in some, but not all, populations. The same pattern was recaptured in artificial diets with different concentrations of cadmium but not in artificial diets with sugars, which change in the plant in response to cadmium. This indicates that herbivores on metal-accumulating plants respond to metals, not to the variations in leaf carbohydrates. Therefore, metals exert different effects on herbivores according to the amount accumulated, but independently of other plant traits. This knowledge is key to the understanding of the mechanisms underlying herbivore responses to metal-based plant defences and to pesticides containing heavy metals. Additionally, our findings draw attention to the need of considering intraspecific variation and non-linearities when studying the effects of metals and other contaminants on herbivorous arthropods.
A metric driving local action for global biodiversity conservation
Authors: Rossberg Axel , O'Sullivan Jacob , Terry Christopher , Shnerb Nadav
Published: February 2022

Difficulties identifying appropriate biodiversity impact metrics remain a major barrier to inclusion of biodiversity considerations in environmentally responsible investment. We propose and analyse a simple science-based local metric: the sum of the proportions that all local populations contribute to their global species abundances, with a correction for species close to extinction. It links mathematically to a widely used global biodiversity indicator, the Living Planet Index, for which we propose an improved formula that directly addresses the known problem of singularities caused by extinctions. We show that, in an ideal market, trade in our metric would lead to near-optimal conservation resource allocation, emphasising support of extinction-threatened species. Barriers to adoption are low, as use of the metric does not require an institutional certification system. Used in conjunction with other metrics, potential areas of application include biodiversity related financial disclosures and voluntary or legislated no net biodiversity loss policies.
Predominance of BRCA2 mutation and estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer among BRCA1/2 mutation carriers.
Authors: Pujol Pascal , Yauy Kévin , Coffy Amandine , Duforet-Frebourg Nicolas , Gabteni Sana , Daurès Jean-Pierre , Penault-Llorca Frédérique , Thomas Frédéric , Hughes Kevin , Turnbull Clare , Galibert Virginie , Rideau Chloé , Collet Laetitia , You Benoit , Geneviève David , Philippe Nicolas
Published: February 2022

Background: PARP inhibitor (PARPi) agents can improve progression-free survival of patients with breast cancer (BC) who carry a germline BRCA1 or BRCA2 pathogenic or likely pathogenic variant (gBRCA1/2) in both the metastatic and adjuvant setting. Therefore, we need to redefine the criteria of women and tumor phenotype that should be tested for gBRCA1/2. Objective: We studied the relative distribution of gBRCA1 and gBRCA2 in unselected populations of women with BC and in unaffected individuals. We also analyzed the proportion of estrogen receptor (ER)-positive (ER+) tumors in unselected BC patients with gBRCA1/2.Design: We performed a meta-analysis of studies of unselected BC that analyzed the relative contribution of gBRCA1 versus gBRCA2 and ER+ tumors among gBRCA1/2 carriers. We then performed a meta-analysis of gBRCA1/2 carriage in unaffected individuals, from genome-wide population studies, the gnomAD databank, and case–control studies. Results: The BRCA2 gene was involved in 54% of BC in unselected patients with gBRCA1/2 (n=108,699) and 59% of unaffected individuals (n=238,973) as compared with 38% of gBRCA1/2 family cohorts (n=29,700). The meta-analysis showed that 1.66% (95% CI 1.08-2.54) and 1.71% (95% CI 1.33-2.2) of unselected BC patients carried a gBRCA1 and gBRCA2, respectively. In unaffected individuals, the frequency of heterozygosity for gBRCA1 and gBRCA2 was estimated at 1/434 and 1/288, respectively. Nearly 0.5% of unaffected individuals in the studied populations carried a gBRCA1/2. Overall, 58% of breast tumors occurring in women carrying a gBRCA1/2 were ER+ (n=86,870).Conclusion: This meta-analysis showed that gBRCA2 carriage is predominant in unselected BC and in unaffected individuals. ER+ tumors among women with gBRCA1/2-related BC is predominant and has been underestimated. Because PARPi agents improve progression-free survival with ER+ gBRCA1/2 BC in both the adjuvant and metastatic setting, BC should be considered regardless of ER status for BRCA1/2 screening for therapeutic purposes.
Green synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles using Ceratonia siliqua L. aqueous extract: Optimization, characterization, stabilization and evaluation of its antibacterial activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria
Authors: Demirezen Derya Aksu , Yılmaz Şeyda , Yılmaz Dilek Demirezen , Yıldız Yalçın Şevki
Published: February 2022

This study focused on the optimization of reaction parameters for a simple and reliable method for the green synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles (gIONPs). The potential of aqueous extract of the Ceratonia siliqua L. (carob pod) as a reducing, capping, and stabilizing agent for gIONPs synthesis, and the antibacterial activity of as-synthesized gIONPs was investigated. The synthesis parameters were determined as the concentration of iron ion, the concentration of extract, pH of extract, temperature, stirring rate, and reaction time. The significance of the studied factors in controlling the particle size distribution of nanoparticles was quantitatively evaluated via analysis of variance (ANOVA). Iron oxide nanoparticles were produced at the optimum parameters with an average zeta potential of + 40.75 ± 1.22 mV, hydrodynamic size of 78 ± 22 nm, and a polydispersity value of 0.42 ± 0.06, respectively. gIONPs showed the highest inhibition zones of 24 mm and 21 mm in 250 mg/mL concentration against Gram-negative Escherichia Coli and Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus, respectively. Antibacterial activity was observed when compared with the standard antibiotics. The findings of the study revealed that the highly stable and antibacterial iron oxide nanoparticles can be synthesized through the adjustment of the reaction parameters by eliminating chemicals.
Growing up during a public health crisis: A qualitative study of Born in Bradford early adolescents during Covid-19
Authors: Lockyer Bridget , Endacott Charlotte , Dickerson Josie , Sheard Laura
Published: February 2022

Background
Whilst children and young people have not often been at forefront of the immediate Covid-19 pandemic health response there has been concern about the indirect consequences of Covid-19 on children’s physical and mental health and what the effect of the pandemic will be throughout their lifetimes. Early adolescence is a time of transition and reorientation. This study considers the impact of the first UK Covid-19 lockdown on early adolescents.
Methods
The study topic was identified through a consultation process which aimed to provide appropriate evidence to local decision makers in Bradford, UK and plan for future interventions. Children and their parents were sampled from the Born in Bradford cohort. 41 interviews (with 20 families: 20 parents and 21 children) were carried out between August and September 2020. Interview data was analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.
Results
The transitional age of the children interviewed had an important influence on their experience Covid-19 and the first UK lockdown. Their age combined with lockdown and school closures meant that they missed out on key learning and social opportunities at a crucial time in their lives. Covid-19 and lockdown also disrupted their daily mental wellbeing and led to increased anxiety, lethargy and low moods, during a period of personal change and social transition.
Conclusion
For children at the start of their adolescence undergoing change and formation, the experiences and feelings Covid-19 has set in motion will likely have an impact on their mental and cognitive functioning as they develop further. It is important to acknowledge these early adolescent experiences and continue to monitor and provide targeted support to this group of young people.
Thermodynamic basis for the demarcation of Arctic and alpine treelines
Authors: Kumar Praveen , Martin Meredith Richardson , Sonnentag Oliver , Marsh Philip
Published: February 2022

At the edge of alpine and Arctic ecosystems all over the world, a transition zone exists beyond which it is either infeasible or unfavorable for trees to exist, colloquially identified as the treeline. We explore the possibility of a thermodynamic basis behind this demarcation in vegetation by considering ecosystems as open systems driven by thermodynamic advantage – defined by vegetation’s ability to dissipate heat from the earth’s surface to the air above the canopy. To deduce whether forests would be more thermodynamically advantageous than existing ecosystems beyond treelines, we construct and examine counterfactual scenarios in which trees exist beyond a treeline instead of the existing alpine meadow or Arctic tundra. Meteorological data from the Italian Alps, United States Rocky Mountains, and Western Canadian Taiga-Tundra are used as forcing for model computation of ecosystem work and temperature gradients at sites on both sides of each treeline with and without trees. Model results indicate that the alpine sites do not support trees beyond the treeline, as their presence would result in excessive CO2 loss and extended periods of snowpack due to temperature inversions (i.e., positive temperature gradient from the earth surface to the atmosphere). Further, both Arctic and alpine sites exhibit negative work resulting in positive feedback between vegetation heat dissipation and temperature gradient, thereby extending the duration of temperature inversions. These conditions demonstrate thermodynamic infeasibility associated with the counterfactual scenario of trees existing beyond a treeline. Thus, we conclude that, in addition to resource constraints, a treeline is an outcome of an ecosystem’s ability to self-organize towards the most advantageous vegetation structure facilitated by thermodynamic feasibility.
ncRNAs-mediated upregulation of GTSE1 is involved in the poor prognosis and tumor immune infiltration of Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Wen Dong , Xiayu Kuang , Canxuan LI
Published: February 2022

Aims: Examine GTSE1 expression and function in renal clear cell carcinoma, as well as the nc-RNA that is upstream of GTSE1.Methods: The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) provided clinical and RNA-seq data for ccRCC patients, and the expression of GTSE1, its connection with clinical data, prognosis and tumor immune infiltration, and prediction of upstream noncoding RNAs (nc-RNAs) of GESE1 were analyzed using R language and public tumor databases.Results: In ccRCC, GTSE1 is highly expressed and is linked to a high clinical stage and a poor prognosis. In ccRCC, the PVT1 / has-mir-23b-3p / GTSE1 axis has been identified as the most likely upstream ncRNA related route of GTSE1. Furthermore, GTSE1 expression was linked to tumor immune cell infiltration, immune cell biomarker expression, and immunological checkpoint expression.Conclusions: Upregulation of GTSE1 by ncRNA is linked to poor prognosis and ccRCC tumor immune infiltration. GTSE1 has the potential to be a useful predictive biomarker as well as a therapeutic target.
In vitro protocol for bud induction from adventitious roots of purple sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam)
Authors: Hu Genhai , Chao Maoni , Fu Yuanzhi , Zhang Xiaohong
Published: February 2022

A new efficient in vitro plant regeneration system characterized by rapidly sequential organogenesis using leaf explants has been developed in sweet potato [ Ipomoea batatas L. (Lam.)]. The optimal regeneration plant response was obtained in the varieties Ning Purple Potato No. 1 with a four-step protocol: The first stage was callus induction of leaf explants for 40 days on MS medium containing 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) (0.8 mg L -1 ), the second stage was adventitious roots being induced from callus on solid MS medium with 0.6 mg L −1 6-BA and 0.3 mg L −1 NAA, A different proportions combination of of 6-BA and NAA could induce adventitious roots. The third stage was adventitious buds being induced from adventitious roots, solid MS medium with 2.0 mg L −1 ZT, 1.0mg L -1 KT and 1.0 mg L −1 GA 3 produce a maximum of number of adventitious shoots after 12 week. In the third stage the combination of hormones and the longer induction time was important. the fourth stage was acclimation of nutrient solution. The key of this method was that refining seedlings does not require humidity control and there is no need to pre-open the flask to acclimatize. We had developed an efficient protocol to generate plants. As the method is simple, rapid and consistently reproducible, it may be of value in germplasm maintenance and gene transfer studies.
The CD274/TIGIT- and immune microenvironment-combined mutiCox risk model for predicting the overall survival of metastatic PRAD patients: a potential strategy for clinical application
Authors: zheng hao , Ye Chen , Xiao Guangan , Kong Chen , Ji Jin , Chen Yuangui , Qin Shengfei , huang caiguo , cao zhi
Published: February 2022

Purpose: The five-year overall survival rate in metastatic prostate cancer (M-PRAD) is extremely low. In this study, we constructed a more accurate and reliable prediction model for the overall survival (OS) of M-PRAD by combining the expression of PD-L1 and TIGIT with the immune microenvironment, providing a more accurate decision-making basis for clinical treatment.Patients and Methods: This study, 200 in-house patients with PRAD who underwent prostatectomy between January 2002 and December 2017 were included. In addition, 496 PRAD patients from TCGA database and 102 PRAD patients from SU2C-PCF Dream Team Dataset were included. The immunohistochemical slices in this test were assessed by two pathologists at least 10 years of experience. Kaplan-meier survival curve, ROC curve and multivariate (muti) Cox regression analysis were calculated using R language.Results: PD-L1 was down-regulated while TIGIT was up-regulated expression in PRAD tumor tissues compared with adjacent normal tissues, and differentially expressed PD-L1 and TIGIT can be used to assess OS in patients with M-PRAD. Univariate survival analysis showed that tumor-associated lymphocytes (TILs), B cells, dendritic cells (DCs), MHC_class_I, And T_cell_co-stimulation cannot be used as a clinical indicator to evaluate the OS of M-PRAD patients. However, the mutiCox model of PD-L1 and TIGIT combined with these six immune indicators were more accurately and reliably to predict the OS of M-PRAD.Conclusion: These data indicate that the prediction model developed in this study helps timely clinical decisions in M-PRAD patients.
High-throughput Detection of T-DNA Insertion Sites for Multiple Transgenes in Complex Genomes
Authors: Edwards Brianne , Hornstein Eli D. , Wilson Nathan J. , Sederoff Heike
Published: February 2022

Background: Genetic engineering of crop plants has been successful in transferring traits into elite lines beyond what can be achieved with breeding techniques. Introduction of transgenes originating from other species has conferred resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses, increased efficiency, and modified developmental programs. The next challenge is now to combine multiple transgenes into elite varieties via gene stacking to combine traits. Generating stable homozygous lines with multiple transgenes requires selection of segregating generations which is time consuming and labor intensive, especially if the crop is polyploid. Insertion site effects and transgene copy number are important metrics for commercialization and trait efficiency.Results: We have developed a simple method to identify the sites of transgene insertions using T-DNA-specific primers and high-throughput sequencing that enables identification of multiple insertion sites in the T1 generation of any crop transformed via Agrobacterium. We present an example using the allohexaploid oil-seed plant Camelina sativa to determine insertion site location of two transgenes.Conclusion: This new methodology enables the early selection of desirable transgene location and copy number to generate homozygous lines within two generations.
Homoeolog gene expression analysis reveals novel expression biases in upland hybrid cotton under intraspecific hybridization
Authors: Shahzad Kashif , Zhang Xuexian , Zhang Meng , Guo Liping , Qi Tingxiang , Tang Huini , Wang Hailin , Mubeen Iqra , Qiao Xiuqin , Wu Jianyong , Xing Chaozhu
Published: February 2022

Hybridization is useful to enhance yield potential of agronomic crops in the world. Cotton has genome doubling due to alloteraploidy process and hybridization process in coordinate with duplicated genome can produce more yield and adaptability. Therefore, expression of homoeolog gene pairs between hybrids and inbred parents are vital to characterize genetic source of heterosis in cotton. Investigation results of homoeolog gene pairs between two contrasting hybrids and their respective inbred parents identified 36853 homoeolog genes in hybrids. It was observed both high and low hybrids had similar trends in homoeolog gene expression patterns in each tissue under study. An average of 96% of homoeolog genes had no biased expression and their expressions were derived from the equal contribution of both parents. Besides, very few homoeolog genes (An average of 1%) showed no biased or novel expression in both hybrids. The functional analysis described secondary metabolic pathways had a majority of novel biased homoeolog genes in hybrids.These results contribute preliminary knowledge about how hybridization affects expression patterns of homoeolog gene pairs in upland cotton hybrids. Our study also highlights the functional genomics of metabolic genes to explore the genetic mechanism of heterosis in cotton.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Evaluation Of The Degeneration Of The Multifidus And Erector Spinae Muscles In Patients With Chronic Mechanical Low Back Pain, Patients With Herniated Disc, And Healthy Individuals
Authors: Yazici Alikemal , Yerlikaya Tuba , Oniz Adile
Published: February 2022

Background: The determination of appropriate treatment methods for patients with chronic low back pain may be possible with the determination of the cause of the pain. Therefore, it can be considered that identification of the morphological changes of the paraspinal muscles in patients with chronic low back pain and comparison with control subjects is necessary to explain the relationship of these with pain. The aim of this study was to examine degeneration in the lumbar musculus multifidus (LMF) and lumbar musculus erector spinae (LES) in patients with mechanical chronic low back pain, patients with chronic low back pain with lumbar herniated disc and no radiculopathy, and healthy individuals, and through comparison of the results according to gender, pain and lumbar segments, to examine the relationship with low back pain. Material and Method: The study included 35 patients with mechanical low back pain, 38 patients with lumbar herniated disc and no radiculopathy, and a control group of 36 healthy subjects. The patients were evaluated in respect of LMF and LES cross-sectional area (CSA), total CSA (TCSA=LMF+LES), fat infiltration and asymmetry on axial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) slices at the L3-S1 level. Results: The mean CSA values of the right and left LMF and LES showed significant differences between the groups (p<0.001, p=0.002, p=0.002, p=0.010, respectively). The mean values obtained in the healthy control group were lower than those of the other two groups. Fat infiltrations showed a difference between the right-left LMF and left LES groups (p=0.007, p<0.001, p=0.026, respectively). Asymmetry was not observed between the CSA and TCSA of the right and left sides. No significant relationship was determined between the duration of low back pain and the CSA and TCSA values and fat infiltration. Conclusıon: A relationship was determined between fat infiltration in LMF and mechanical low back pain and LDH. The low CSA and TCSA values in the healthy control group suggest that it is due to a pseudohyertrophy mechanism. This shows that when evaluating muscle mass, rather than CSA and TCSA, the functional cross-sectional area (FCSA) or muscle atrophy associated with fat infiltration should be measured.
A Comprehensive Model to Predict Severe Acute Graft-Versus-Host Disease after Haploidentical Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Shen Meng-Zhu , Hong Shen-Da , Lou Rui , Chen Rui-Ze , Zhang Xiao-Hui , Xu Lan-Ping , Wang Yu , Yan Chen-Hua , Chen Huan , Chen Yu-Hong , Han Wei , Wang Feng-Rong , Wang Jing-Zhi , Liu Kai-Yan , Huang Xiao-Jun , Mo Xiao-Dong
Published: February 2022

Background: Acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) remains the major cause of early mortality after haploidentical related donor (HID) hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). We aimed to establish a comprehensive model which could predict severe aGVHD after HID HSCT.Methods: Consecutive 470 acute leukemia patients receiving HID HSCT according to the protocol registered at https://clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03756675) were enrolled, 70% of them (n = 335) were randomly selected as training cohort and the remains 30% (n = 135) were used as validation cohort. Results: The equation was as follows: Probability (grade III-IV aGVHD) = 1/1 + exp(-Y), where Y= –0.0288 × (age) + 0.7965 × (gender) + 0.8371 × (CD3+ / CD14+ cells ratio in graft) + 0.5829 × (donor/recipient relation) – 0.0089 × (CD8+ cell counts in graft) – 2.9046. The threshold of probability was 0.057392 which helped separate patients into high- and low-risk groups. The 100-day cumulative incidence of grade III-IV aGVHD in the low- and high-risk groups was 4.1% (95%CI, 1.9%–6.3%) versus 12.8% (95%CI, 7.4%–18.2%) (P = 0.001), 3.2% (95%CI, 1.2%–5.1%) versus 10.6% (95%CI, 4.7%–16.5%) (P = 0.006), and 6.1% (95%CI, 1.3%–10.9%) versus 19.4% (95%CI, 6.3%–32.5%) (P = 0.017), respectively, in total, training, and validation cohort. The rates of grade III-IV skin and gut aGVHD in high-risk group were both significantly higher than those of low-risk group. This model could also predict grade II-IV and grade I-IV aGVHD. Conclusions: We established a model which could predict the development of severe aGVHD in HID HSCT recipients.
WITHDRAWN: Paracrine Proteins from 3D Dynamic Culture of MSCs Promote Wound Healing in Second-grade Burn Models
Authors: Lu Cheng , Liang Jinchao , Zhang Zhongxia , Wang Yingwei , Shan Yingyi , Zhuang Tingting , Xu Liling , Zheng Youling , Zhang Jianhua , Wang Xiaoying , Wu Zheng
Published: February 2022

BackgroundMesenchymal stem cell paracrine proteins (MSC-PP) offer promising therapeutic potential in the treatment of skin repair. However, there are major challenges of low yield, unknown therapeutic components and insufficient delivery of MSC-PP, thereby limiting the clinic therapeutic application. In the present study, we aimed to establish a three-dimensional dynamic culture system to improve the paracrine activity of UMSC-PP towards the application by modified PEG thermogel to achieve sustained release effect for the treatment of second-grade burn wounds. Methods The 3D dynamic culture was constructed with porous gelatin microcarrier crosslinked with hyaluronic acid (PGM-HA). Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UMSC) were isolated and cultured in two-dimensional(2D) flasks. P3 UMSC was seeded on PGM-HA at a density of 5,000 cells /cm2 in the 3D dynamic culture system. The culture supernatants were collected and purified by dialysis to collect UMSC-PP. UMSC-PP from 2D and 3D cultures were characterized by mass spectrometric analysis. PEG thermogel was modified from the existing injectable PEG hydrogel. The therapeutic efficacy of mixture of UMSC-PP and PEG was investigated in rabbits second-grade burn models. Results 3D dynamic culture could decrease cell’s apoptosis and improve paracrine proteins effect. And UMSC-PP of 3D dynamic culture system contains proteins that could promote cell proliferation and migration, enhance cell adhesion, and angiogenesis. Moreover, polyethylene glycol (PEG) temperature-sensitive hydrogel was used to carry UMSC-PP to achieve sustained release effect in skin burn rabbit model. Four groups were set to evaluate therapeutic effect in rabbit deep burn skin model: saline control group, PEG group, UMSC-PP group and UMSC-PP+PEG group. The UMSC-PP+PEG group increased the wound healing rate with no abnormal scar compared with the control group. Furthermore, Lgr6+ cell amounts were improved around the wounds in the UMSC-PP+PEG group. In conclusion, combing UMSC-PP from 3D dynamic culture system and PEG hydrogel could produce a sustained and stable therapeutic effect on skin wounds, and regulate the composition and proportion of the extracellular matrix to repair the wound in the direction of normal tissue.Conclusion UMSC-PP from 3D culture contained better therapeutic components, and the mixture of UMSC-PP and PEG thermogel exhibited a powerful healing process by producing a sustained release on the wound and regulating the composition and proportion of the extracellular matrix, decreasing scar formation and wound area.
Visual Sensing And Controlling of The Keyhole In Robotic Plasma Arc Welding
Authors: Wang Weixi , Yamane Satoshi , Wang Qi , Shan Liang , Sun JinSheng , Wei Zhong , Hu Kai , Lu Jidong , Hirano Takaaki , Hosoya Kazumichi , Nakajima Toru , Yamamoto Hikaru
Published: February 2022

With an advantage of "single-sided welding and double-sided forming", plasma arc welding (PAW) has a great application potential in modern industrial production. The welding quality can be guaranteed by sensing and controlling of the keyhole. However, it is difficult to make an on-line observation on the back of base metal, and realize a dynamic registration of the visual sensor and welding torch. In this study, it has investigated the relationship between the welding condition and image feature of keyhole. Image processing is designed to obtain the feature image and conduct a template matching of the keyhole. The target feature of weld zone will be extracted and processed in real time. Besides, it has designed a digital controller for the welding robot and power source in this study, and discussed control method to stabilize the keyhole and achieve good welding quality. Eventually, experiments are conducted to inspect the comprehensive performance of the welding control system with varying disturbance. This study is of important significance for the visual sensing and controlling of the keyhole in PAW. It will provide technical support for the weld quality control, and promote the development of welding technology based on machine vision in intelligent manufacturing field.
Development of a Multidimensional Housing and Environmental Quality Index (HEQI): Application to the American Housing Survey
Authors: Chu MyDzung Thi , Fenelon Andrew , Rodriguez Judith , Zota Ami R. , Adamkiewicz Gary
Published: February 2022

Background: Substandard housing conditions and hazardous environmental exposures indoors contribute to significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Housing indices that capture the multiple dimensions of healthy housing are important for tracking conditions over time and identifying vulnerable households. However, most indices focus on physical deficiencies and repair costs and omit indoor environmental exposures, as few data sources routinely collect this data at the national level. Methods: We developed a national, multidimensional Housing and Environmental Quality Index (HEQI) based on the World Health Organization’s Housing and Health Guidelines and applied it to the national American Housing Survey (AHS) 2019 data. The HEQI consisted of ten domains associated with poor health: indoor combustion sources, dampness and mold, pests and allergens, lead paint risk, high indoor temperatures, low indoor temperatures, household crowding, injury hazards, inadequate water and sanitation, and ventilation. We evaluated the validity and performance of the HEQI against three housing characteristics (i.e., year built, monthly rent costs, unit satisfaction rating) and two established indices (i.e., Adequacy index, Poor Quality Index). Results: Approximately 79% (92 million) of U.S. households reported at least one HEQI risk factor (mean per household: 1.5; range: 0,19). Common risk factors included indoor combustion sources (e.g. gas stoves, fireplaces) (62.0%), dampness and mold (15.4%), inadequate water and sanitation (11.7%), and injury hazards (11.6%). Prevalence of pest and allergens, low indoor temperature, and injury hazards were associated with older housing, lower rent costs, and worse unit satisfaction. Compared to established housing indices, the HEQI captured four new environmental domains and at least 62% (57.7 million) more households with environmental risk factors like mold, cockroaches, crowding, indoor combustion sources, and higher building leakage. Conclusions: Indoor environmental exposures are prevalent in U.S. households and not well-captured by established housing indices. The HEQI is a national, multidimensional tool that can be used to monitor indoor environmental exposures and housing quality trends in the U.S. The mounting evidence linking residential environmental exposures with adverse health outcomes underscore the need for this data in the AHS and other national surveys.