bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Exogenous Abscisic acid (ABA) on the Morphology, Phytohormones, and Related Gene Expression of Developing Lateral Roots in ‘Qingzhen 1’
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyun , Tahir Muhammad Mobeen , Li Shaohuan , Tang Ting , Mao Jiangping , Li Ke , Yang Weiwei , Shao Yun , Niu Jianxin , Zhang Dong
Published: July 2021

Lateral roots (LRs) are critical for plant stress tolerance and productivity. Understanding how hormones and genes interact in a fluctuating environment to coordinate LR development is a major challenge. Abscisic acid (ABA) is the primary stress-responsive hormone and mediates LR development in various plant species. However, the effect of exogenous ABA on LR development has not been elucidated in apple. In this study, ‘Qingzhen 1’ was treated with exogenous 5 µM ABA for 20 days to investigate the regulation mechanism of ABA on LR development. Morphological observations advocated that ABA inhibited both LR and shoot development in ‘Qingzhen 1’ apple plants, where the root number was 16.94%, the root length was 30.32%, the plant height was 10.88%, and the stem thickness was 8.08% lower than those in the control plants. Meanwhile, the endogenous ABA concentration was significantly increased, but the indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), zeatin riboside (ZR), and jasmonic acid (JA) concentrations were significantly decreased with ABA treatment. Furthermore, the expression levels of ABA-related genes (MdCYP707A2, MdABI1, MdAREB2, and MdABF3) were significantly upregulated, while the expression levels of auxin-related genes (MdYUCCA3, MdYUCCA8, MdPIN1 MdPIN2, MdPIN3, and MdARF19), root development-related genes (MdWOX5 and MdWOX11), and cell cycle-related genes (MdCYCD1;1 and MdCYCD3;1) were significantly downregulated at the early stage of ABA treatment, which act together on the inhibition of LR development. Taken together, the changes in hormone levels and gene expression resulted in inhibited LR development of apple plants in response to ABA.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Multidisciplinary Diagnostic Evaluations for Children and Adolescents With a Neurodevelopmental Disorder.
Authors: Cloet Eva , Anna Jansen , Mark Leys
Published: July 2021

Introduction Since the end of 2019, measures have been taken to control the spread of COVID-19. The effects of the pandemic-related precautionary measures on children with developmental disorders require specific attention as these children have greater healthcare needs and mental health concerns, and depend on community-based services for support. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, adequate access to multidisciplinary diagnostic evaluations for children and adolescents with suspected developmental disorders was already problematic. This article aims to explore the impact of the policy measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic on the accessibility, changes in working processes and action strategies after the first lockdown period. Methods A rapid response study was done after the first wave of the virus in Belgium. A questionnaire with open-ended questions was sent out to respondents of all centers for ambulatory rehabilitation, autism reference centers and centers for developmental disorders, three types of organizations identified as main providers of diagnostic evaluations for children and adolescents. Qualitative data were thematically analyzed in an iterative process including researcher triangulation.Results The response rate was 0.60. All centers reported an impact of COVID-19-related policy measures on accessibility, working processes, working practices, workload, planning, and time management, as well as on the quality of the diagnostic assessments and the contacts with clients. Suggestions to decrease the impact of the pandemic-related measures on the care trajectories of children with (suspected) developmental disorder include the definition of priority groups, a temporary increase of public financing to expand team capacity, a less rigid application of regulatory restrictions as well as a temporary assignment stop.Conclusion The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic reinforced the problem of accessibility of multidisciplinary diagnostic evaluations for children suspected of a neurodevelopmental disorder. The organization of health services should guarantee optimal care trajectories for all vulnerable children. Accessibility problems can be reduced by providing “bridging care”, helping children and families with needs to overcome “gaps” of care and support during waiting periods. In the long term, an in-depth exploration of mechanisms that strengthen interorganisational collaboration is required to structurally optimize the capacity and accessibility to care for children with suspected neurodevelopmental disorders.
A Simple Model for Simulating Infiltration in Two-Layer Soil Slope during Unsteady Rainfall and its Application in Slope Stability Analysis
Authors: Li Shaohong , Zhang Shixin , Liu Guoguo , Zhu Shuairun
Published: July 2021

Based on the Darcy's law and water balanceprinciple,some infiltration models have been proposed,but most of these models are not suitable for simulating infiltration into layered soils during unsteady rainfall. In this paper, a simple modelfor simulating water infiltration into the two-layer soil slopesduring unsteadyrainfallwasproposed, combined with the limit equilibrium methodto analyze the stability of thetwo-layer soil slope.The water infiltration rate of slopes depends on rainfall intensity and the actual infiltration capacity of soils. The proposedmodelhas been successfully applied to three cases (steady rainfall and homogeneous slope, unsteady rainfall and homogeneous slope,unsteady rainfall and two-layer soil slope), and it can be also combined with probabilistic methods to calculate the failure probability of slopes.Compared with the Richards model, the combination of the proposed model and the random field method can quickly obtain the failure probability of the slope.
Super-Enhancer-Associated TMEM44-AS1 Aggravated Glioma Progression by Forming a Positive Feedback Loop With Myc
Authors: Bian Erbao , Chen Xueran , Cheng Li , Cheng Meng , Chen Zhigang , Yue Xiaoyu , Zhang Zhengwei , Chen Jie , Sun Libo , Huang Kebing , Huang Cheng , Fang Zhiyou , Zhao Bing , Li Jun
Published: July 2021

BackgroundLong non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been considered as one type of gene expression regulator for cancer development, but it is not clear how these are regulated. This study aimed to identify a specific lncRNA that promotes the glioma progression.MethodsRNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and quantitative real-time PCR were performed to screen differentially expressed genes. CCK-8, transwell migration, invasion assays and a mouse xenograft model were performed to determine the functions of TMEM44-AS1. Co-IP, ChIP, Dual-luciferase reporter assays, RNA pulldown and RNA immunoprecipitation assays were performed to study the molecular mechanism of TMEM44-AS1 and the downstream target.ResultsWe identified a novel lncRNA TMEM44-AS1, which was aberrantly expressed in glioma tissues, and that increased TMEM44-AS1 expression was correlated with malignant progression and poor survival for patients with glioma. Expression of TMEM44-AS1 increased the proliferation, colony formation, migration, and invasion of glioma cells. Knockdown of TMEM44-AS1 in glioma cells reduced cell proliferation, colony formation, migration and invasion, and tumor growth in a nude mouse xenograft model. Mechanistically, TMEM44-AS1 is directly bound to the SerpinB3, and sequentially activated Myc signaling; Myc transcriptionally induced TMEM44-AS1 and directly bound to the promoter and super-enhancer of TMEM44-AS1, thus forming a positive feedback loop with TMEM44-AS. Further studies demonstrated that Myc interacts with MED1 regulates the super-enhancer of TMEM44-AS1. More importantly, a novel small-molecule Myc inhibitor, Myci975, alleviated TMEM44-AS1-promoted the growth of glioma cells. Finally, TMEM44-AS1 activated IL-6 signaling by recruiting EGR1 to the promoter of IL-6 in glioma cells. ConclusionsOur study implicates a crucial role of the TMEM44-AS1-Myc axis in glioma progression and provides a possible anti-glioma therapeutic agent.
Huge Cystadenocarcinoma of the Ovary Disguising as Degenerating Uterine Fibroid in Pregnancy: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Ande Adedapo , Isikhuemen Maradona , Kubeyinje Weyinmi , Ezeanochie Michael
Published: July 2021

Background: Ovarian malignancy is rare in pregnancy and constitutes 3 – 6% of all ovarian tumours associated with pregnancy. It is usually asymptomatic, detected during routine antenatal ultrasound scan. Treatment is mainly surgical. The aim of this report is to share our experience in the management of a referred case of papillary serous cystadenocarcinoma of the ovary disguising as degenerating uterine fibroid in pregnancy. The diagnostic challenges and treatment are highlighted with a view to improving care in our setting.Case presentation: A 29 year old gravida 2 para 1 with one living child was referred to our unit at 25 weeks gestation with complaint of progressive painful abdominal distension with dyspnoea noticed in the index pregnancy. Ultrasound scans were suggestive of uterine fibroid in pregnancy with degenerative changes for which she had conservative management. Due to worsening symptoms, she had laparotomy and a huge ovarian mass was removed alongside the affected ovary. Histology confirmed Serous Papillary Cyst Adenocarcinoma of the ovary. She is doing well on adjuvant chemotherapy. Conclusion: A high index of suspicion for ovarian malignancies in pregnancy, coupled with complementing MRI (when available) with ultrasound to differentiate degenerating uterine fibroids is suggested/recommended.
Cell isolation and Organoid Culture from Mouse Liver and Small Intestine
Authors: Chen Wenyi , Yao Qigu , Wang Ruo , Xu Yanping , Yu Jiong , Wu Jian , Li Lanjuan , Cao Hongcui
Published: July 2021

Background: Organoid culture enables disease modeling and drug screening in vitro. Organoids are from organs (e.g., brain, small intestine, kidney, lung, and liver). To facilitate the establishment of liver and small-intestinal organoids, we developed a protocol for collecting cholangiocytes and crypts and culturing organoids.Methods: Cholangiocytes were collected from intrahepatic bile ducts, gallbladder, and crypts from the small intestine using gravity settling and multi-step centrifugation methods, and embedded in Matrigel to grow into three-dimensional spheroids in suitable culture medium. Passaging, cryopreservation, and thawing were performed to assess organoid cell stability. RNA and DNA extraction, as well as immunostaining procedure were optimized. For preclinical modeling, the growth rate of cholangiocyte organoids (cho-orgs) was harmonized.Results: Large amount of Cholangiocytes and small intestine crypts were collected. Cholangiocytes developed into cyst-like structures after 3–4 days in Matrigel. After culture for 1–2 weeks, small-intestinal organoids developed buds and formed a mature structure. Cho-orgs from intrahepatic bile ducts grew more slowly but were longer lasting, expressed the cholangiocyte markers Krt19 and Krt7, and recapitulated the in vivo tissue organization.Conclusions: The protocol takes 2–4 weeks to establish a stable organoid growth system. Organoids could be stably passaged, cryopreserved, and recovered. The organoids retained tissue characteristics, including marker expression.
Quantification of KRAS Gene Mutations in the Resection or Venous Margins of Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinomas Is Not Predictive of Disease Recurrence
Authors: Amintas Samuel , Fernandez Benjamin , Chauvet Alexandre , Chiche Laurence , Laurent Christophe , Belleannée Geneviève , Marty Marion , Buscail Etienne , dabernat sandrine
Published: July 2021

Background: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) patients eligible for curative surgery undergo unpredictable disease relapse. Post-surgery tools’ prognostic value is insufficient. Even patients with good pathological response after neo-adjuvant treatment (NAT) remain susceptible to recurrent PDAC. Molecular analysis of R0 margins may identify patients with worse prognosis. Methods: Retrospective analysis of patients, either eligible for up-font surgery (UFS, n=17) or resected patients who underwent NAT with good pathological responses (n=18), collected progression-free and overall survivals 33 months ±17 months post-surgery and examined the molecular status of mutant KRAS by droplet digital PCR.Results: Expectedly, KRAS mutant allele frequencies (MAF) were higher in UFS than in NAT tumor tissues or remnants, and in the ypT1 than the ypT0 tumors in the NAT group. Mutant KRAS positivity or MAFs in margins did not identify patients with detectable pathological disease in the NAT group, nor was it predictive of shorter recurrence-free or overall survival within or between groups. KRAS-double positivity in both venous and tumor resection margins did not identify patients with worse prognosis, regardless of the groups.Conclusion: The cohorts ‘sizes were small due to limited numbers of patients meeting the inclusion criteria, but KRAS-positivity or MAFs in resection and venous margins did not carry prognostic value. Comparison of margins from good versus bad responders receiving NAT may carry a better clinical value.Trial registration: The up-front surgery, PANC-CTC, cohort was granted French Ministry of Research “Comité de Protection des Personnes, CPP” approval under the number 2016-A00431-50. Its clinical trial number is #NCT03032913. The Neoadjuvant Therapy (NAT) good responder cohort was retrospectively registered. Patients ‘consents were collected and the study was declared and approved by Bordeaux University Hospital ethic comity.
WITHDRAWN: Thermal Evolution of Andean Iron Oxide-Apatite (IOA) Deposits as Revealed by Magnetite Thermometry
Authors: Palma Gisella , Reich Martin , Barra Fernando , Ovalle J. Tomás , Real Irene , Simon Adam C.
Published: July 2021

Magnetite is the main constituent of iron oxide–apatite (IOA) deposits, which are a globally important source of Fe and other elements such as P and REE, critical for modern technologies. Geochemical studies of magnetite from IOA deposits have provided key insights into the ore-forming processes and source of mineralizing fluids. However, to date, only qualitative estimations have been obtained for one of the key controlling physico-chemical parameters, i.e., the temperature of magnetite formation. Here we reconstruct the thermal evolution of Andean IOA deposits by using magnetite thermometry. Our study comprised a >3000 point geochemical dataset of magnetite from several IOA deposits within the Early Cretaceous Chilean Iron Belt, as well as from the Pliocene El Laco IOA deposit in the Chilean Altiplano. Thermometry data reveal that the deposits formed under a wide range of temperatures, from purely magmatic (~1000–800 °C), to late magmatic or magmatic-hydrothermal (~800–600 °C), to purely hydrothermal (<600 °C) conditions. Magnetite cooling trends are consistent with genetic models invoking a combined igneous and magmatic-hydrothermal origin that involve Fe-rich fluids sourced from intermediate silicate magmas. The data demonstrate the potential of magnetite thermometry to better constrain the thermal evolution of IOA systems worldwide, and help refine the geological models used to find new resources.
Anterolateral Necrotic Lesion Serves as an Early Warning Sign of Developing Collapse in Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head
Authors: Wei Qiu-Shi , He Min-Cong , He Xiao-Ming , Lin Tian-Ye , Yang Peng , Chen Zhen-Qiu , Zhang Qing-Wen , He Wei
Published: July 2021

Objective: Load bearing capacity of the bone structure of anterolateral weight-bearing area plays an important role in the progressive collapse in osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH). The purpose of this study is to assess the efficacy of combined evaluation of anteroposterior (AP) and frog-leg lateral (FLL) view to diagnose collapse.Methods: Between December 2016 to August 2018, a total of 478 hips from 372 patients with ONFH (268 men, 104 women; mean age 37.9±11.4 years) were retrospectively evaluated. All patients received standard AP and FLL views of hip joints. Japanese Investigation Committee (JIC) classification system was used to classified necrotic lesion in AP view. Anterior necrotic lesion was evaluated by FLL view. All patients with precollapse ONFH underwent non-operative hip preserving therapy. The collapse rate was calculated and compared with Kaplan–Meier survival analysis with radiological collapse as endpoints.Results: Forty-four (44/478, 9.2%) hips were classified as type A, 65 (65/478, 13.6%) as type B, 232 (232/478, 48.5%) as type C1, and 137 (137/478, 28.7%) as type C2. Three hundred cases (300/478, 62.5%) were collapsed at the initial time point. Two hundred and twenty six (226/300, 75.3%) hips and 298 (298/300, 99.3%) hips collapse were identified with AP view and FLL view, respectively. An average follow-up of 37.0±32.0 months was conducted to evaluate the occurence of collapse in 178 precollapse hips. During follow-up period, collapse occurred in 89 hips (50.0%). Seventy-seven (77/89, 86.5%) hips was determined with AP view alone and 85 (85/89, 95.5%) hips were determined with combination of AP and FLL views. The collapse rate at five years were reported as 0% and 0%, 16.2% and 24.3%, 58.3% and 68.1%, and 100% and 100% according to combination of AP and FLL views or AP view alone for types A, B, C1, and C2, respectively.Conclusion: The collapse can be diagnosed more accurately by combination of AP and FLL views. Besides, JIC type A and type B ONFH can be treated with conservative hip preservation, but precollapse type C2 ONFH should be treated with joint-preserving surgery. Type C1 needs further study to determine which subtype has potential risk of collapse.
LCE Violation for the Relational to Quantum Transition
Authors: Gupta Chitradeep
Published: July 2021

Quantization historically was never as much a problem as it was a solution to a problem and the problem was the failure of the classical material evolution statement. Under the axiomatic assumption that quantum theory is founded in Heisenberg’s principle and Feynman’s evolution we show that the QM path integral exists at the negation of the evolution of local conservation of energy(LCE) which in its presence fails with arbitrarily many interference terms. Along with LCE violation we uncover another GR-QM contradiction between the local arrow of time and the uncertainty principle. Every contradiction ∼ (p)∩(q) is also a transition in p changing to q. The problem is GR is also caught up in an implication trail and cannot go through multiple parallel changes for LCE violation in presence of the QM path integral. To improve the recovery we go to an alternate projection of GR that has a set of independent frame invariant statements with a Lorentz invariant distinction of space and time.
Effect of napping on a bean bag chair on sleep stage, muscle activity, and heart rate variability
Authors: Nishida Masaki , Ichinose Atsushi , Murata Yusuke , Shioda Kohei
Published: July 2021

Although ample evidence has demonstrated that daytime napping is beneficial for health and cognitive performance, bedding for napping has not yet been scientifically investigated. In this study, we assessed the effect of a bean bag chair (BC), which would automatically adjust according to body shape and size, on daytime napping and physiological parameters related to sleep, such as electroencephalogram (EEG), electromyogram (EMG), and heart rate variability (HRV). Fourteen healthy participants were enrolled within the context of a randomized, single-blind, crossover study to evaluate the effects of a BC in comparison with those of a urethane chair manufactured to have a similar shape (UR). EEG analyses revealed no significant differences in sleep architecture or frequency components; however, a significant decrease was found in EMG recordings in the trapezius muscle, which represents the neck region (p = 0.024). Additionally, a significant main effect of bedding in the LF/RF ratio (F [1, 20] = 4.314, p = 0.037) was revealed. These results suggest that napping with a BC may provide a comfortable napping environment involving muscle relaxation and proper regulation of autonomic nervous function.
Fascia Repair With Vicryl Suture in 636 Urologic Surgeries
Authors: Rad Hamed Mohseni , Ghazi Ahmad
Published: July 2021

Objective: The procedure for closing the fascia after surgery should be quick, easy, and persistent, yet comfortable for the patient. Polydioxanone thread is not widely available in Iran and we use Vicryl kind instead for almost all patients. This study was conducted in two years from January 2018 to January 2020 at Imam Reza and Imam Khomeini Medical Center in Ardabil. Fascia was treated with Vicryl suture of 0 or 1 in a double layer and in continues form for all patients in the Urology Department.Results: 636 patients were evaluated in these two years. The fascia healing was at the site of inguinal, midline Gibson and flank. The fascia relief is bilaterally treated with Vicryl suture and continuously in all urologic surgeries with a very low rate of wound infection and hernia at the place of operation. At the same time, the amount of pain at the place of operation and the formation of sinus sores is very low.
Semi-Supervised Generative and Discriminative Adversarial Learning for Motor Imagery-based Brain–Computer Interface
Authors: Ko Wonjun , Jeon Eunjin , Yoon Jee Seok , Suk Heung-Il
Published: July 2021

Convolutional neural networks (CNNs), which can recognize structural/configuration patterns in data with different architectures, have been studied for feature extraction. However, challenges remain regarding leveraging advanced deep learning methods in BCIs. We focus on problems of small-sized training samples and interpretability of the learned parameters and leverages a semi-supervised generative and discriminative learning framework that effectively utilizes synthesized samples with real samples to discover class-discriminative features. Our framework learns the distributional characteristics of EEG signals in an embedding space using a generative model. By using artificially generated and real EEG signals, our framework finds class-discriminative spatio-temporal feature representations that help to correctly discriminate input EEG signals. It is noteworthy that the framework facilitates the exploitation of real, unlabeled samples to better uncover the underlying patterns inherent in a user’s EEG signals. To validate our framework, we conducted experiments comparing our method with conventional linear models by utilizing variants of three existing CNN architectures as generator networks and measuring the performance on three public datasets. Our framework exhibited statistically significant improvements over the competing methods. We investigated the learned network via activation pattern maps and visualized generated artificial samples to empirically justify the stability and neurophysiological plausibility of our model.
Uptake Rate of Risk-reducing Salpingo-oophorectomy and Surgical Outcomes of Female Germline BRCA1/2 Mutation Carriers: A Retrospective Cohort Study at a Tertiary Institutional Hospital in Korea
Authors: Lim Hyunji , Kim Se Ik , Hyun Sowoon , Lee Gwang Bin , Seol Aeran , Lee Maria
Published: July 2021

Background: This study investigated the uptake rate of risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO) and surgical outcomes of germline BRCA1/2 mutation carriers at Seoul National University Hospital (SNUH). We examined records of 824 women who underwent germline BRCA1/2 gene testing at SNUH between 2005 and 2020. Among them, we identified women with a pathogenic mutation on either the BRCA1 or the BRCA2 gene and excluded ovarian cancer patients. Characteristics of participants who underwent RRSO (RRSO group) were compared to those who did not (non-RRSO group). Surgical outcomes and pathologic results were investigated in the RRSO group.Results: There were 117 BRCA1/2 mutation carriers included in this analysis. The uptake rate of RRSO was 70.1% (82/117). Older age (mean: 48.8 vs. 42.1 years; P = 0.002) and higher employment rate (65.9% vs. 14.3%; P < 0.001) were observed in the RRSO group than in the non-RRSO group. However, no differences in other factors such as personal and family history of breast cancer were observed between the two groups. In the RRSO group, the median time interval between the genetic test and RRSO was 10.0 months, and there were three (3.7%) incidental cases of high-grade serous carcinoma. However, one patient in the non-RRSO group developed primary peritoneal cancer after 103.8 months of surveillance.Conclusions: The uptake rate of RRSO in BRCA1/2 mutation carriers was about 70%. Considering incidental cancer cases in women without abnormal findings on preoperative evaluation, it would be recommended to perform RRSO soon after the genetic test.
SAT in P does not imply Chaos in the security system
Authors: Ruiz Juan Manuel Dato
Published: July 2021

There are a large number of papers that claim that there are problems that once solved lead to an efficient solution of a wide range of problems, classified as NP. In this paper we will not only question the existence of this class of NP-co problems, but we will also explain their limitations in engineering and give a polynomial-time solution to SAT, one of these emblematic problems. The resolution will be so trivial that it will even be possible to practice it on paper.
The Influence of by-Products From Brewery Spent Grain Hydrolysis on Lactic Acid Fermentation Efficiency
Authors: Lech Magdalena
Published: July 2021

The brewery spent grain (BSG) is a lignocellulosic waste material produced in a huge amount around the world. Strict environmental protection law requires proper utilization. BSG can be transformed into easy-fermentable carbohydrates as a result of hydrolysis. This may be a low-cost raw material for biotechnological fermentation. The literature provides a lot of information that hydrolysis of lignocellulose creates by-products which can be potentially noxious to bacteria cells employed in fermentation. This research examined the influence of most of these by-products: furfural, acetic, formic, gallic, and levuilnic acid, on the LA fermentation effectiveness. These components were introduced to Lactobacillus cultures in various concentrations. The rate of cell growth, glucose consumption, and lactic acid production were measured. This components affects in various extent on LA formation in the culture. In any case, there is a critical value of them harms the fermentation, due to the reduced ability of bacteria propagation. Lower concentrations of bio-catalyst lead to an LA production efficiency drop. The LA concentrations in flasks after one day of propagation with the 2.1 [g/L] of appropriate inhibitor drop app. [%] 16 (F), 22 (GA), 8 (LevA), 40 (AA), and 100 (FA) in comparison to the flask without any inhibitor.
Sirtuin3 rs28365927 functional mutation confers to the high risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in Chinese Han population
Authors: Chen Li-Jie , Guo Jing , Zhang Song-xia , Xu Ying , Zhao Qing , Zhang Wei , Xiao Jian , Chen Yao
Published: July 2021

Background

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a multifactorial condition associated with aging, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, genetic factors and more. Although genetic traits are among the most important risks factors for NAFLD, the understanding of their influence is still quite limited. The present study aimed at identifying novel SNPs that may confer a risk for NAFLD in the Han Chinese population.
Methods

Based on the "two-hit hypothesis", candidate SNPs, including Sirtuin3 rs28365927, were genotyped by MassARRAY in B-type ultrasonography-proven NAFLD patients (n = 292) and healthy controls (n = 387).
Results

In a model analysis of individuals matched based on gender and age that compared 223 NAFLD and 223 non-NAFLD patients, the rs28365927 GA + AA genotype was a significant risk factor for the development of NAFLD in a dominant model. Rs28365927 was significantly associated with a higher NAFLD risk in both an additive model (A vs G) and genotypic model (GA vs GG). Among the NAFLD patients, serum levels of total bilirubin (TBIL), DBIL direct bilirubin (DBIL) and glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (ALT) in rs28365927 A allele carriers (GA + AA) were 11.1%, 14.7% and 41.5% higher, respectively, than in non-carriers (GG). Furthermore, among the NAFLD patients, the carriers of Rs28365927 allele A were positively correlated with higher ALT levels.
Conclusion

Sirtuin3 rs28365927 is an independent risk factor for NAFLD in the Han Chinese population.
Biomechanical Study of Cortical Bone Trajectory Screws in Intervertebral Fixation of Lumbar Tuberculosis
Authors: Zhang Chen-Wei , Shi Shi-Yuan , Hu De-Xin , Hu Shen-Ping , Hu Jin-Ping , Zhang Peng , Xu Rui , Fei Jun
Published: July 2021

BackgroundWe aimed to explore the biomechanical stability and advantages of cortical bone trajectory (CBT) screws in the treatment of lumbar spine tuberculosis and provide biomechanical basis for the choice of clinical fixation methods. Methods16 pig spine specimens (T12-L5) were selected to simulate the lumbar spine(L2-L3) tuberculosis bone destruction model in vitro. The 16 specimens were randomly divided into 4 groups, and short segments (pedicle screws of the diseased vertebrae) were assigned respectively. Fixation (group A), short-segment fixation (group B), fixation with pedicle screw (group C), fixation with CBT screw (group D), 4 specimens in each group , Each specimen in each group was subjected to biomechanical testing in the state of complete specimen (state 1) and L2-3 spinal tuberculosis model bone graft fusion and internal fixation (state 2). Load each specimen on the spine 3D exercise machine, respectively apply moments of 2N·m, 2.5N·m, 1N·m, 3N·m, meanwhile record the movement of the specimens in the four directions of flexion，extension，lateral bending and torsion ROM, compare Simultaneously analyze each group of ROM. ResultsThe ROMs of flexion, extension, lateral bending, and torsion in group A in state 1 and state 3 modes were （8.47±1.76）°、 （7.01±1.10）°、 （5.03±0.92）°、 （4.48±0.41）°and （4.78±0.07）°、 （2.91±0.16）°、 （2.66±0.09）°、 （2.23±0.05）°; the ROMs of flexion, extension, lateral bending and torsion in group B in state 1 and state 3 modes were （7.32±0.75）°、 （5.35±0.69）°、 （3.44±0.51）°、 （3.36±1.02）°and（3.51±0.29）°、 （1.74±0.04）°、 （1.53±0.31）°、 （1.23±0.08）°; The ROMs of flexion, extension, lateral bending, and torsion in group C in state 1 and state 3 modes were （10.01±0.39）°、 （9.05±0.25）°、 （7.42±1.06）°、 （6.92±1.15）°and （7.21±0.17）°、 （5.07±0.02）°、 （5.12±0.74）°、 （4.58±0.01）°; The ROMs of flexion, extension, lateral bending, and torsion in group D in state 1 and state 3 modes were （9.20±1.37）°、 （7.38±0.88）°、 （6.89±1.22）°、 （6.00±0.52）°and （6.06±0.16）°、 （3.99±0.02）°、 （3.85±0.08）°、 （3.47±0.10）°. The ROM value of each fixed mode group under the state of bone graft fusion and internal fixation was lower than that of the intact state, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05)，The t values are 4.531, 5.346, 6.008, 4.149; 9.481, 16.181, 11.814, 4.769; 4.349, 8.002, 4.473, 4.800; 5.041, 4.146, 12.232, 10.58. Conclusion﻿CBT screw disease intervertebral fixation can not only provide sufficient mechanical stability, but also provide stronger stability when using the same fixed segment, and The fixed segments are minimized.
Evaluation of miRNA Expression in Glioblastoma Stem-like Cells: a Comparison Between Normoxia and Hypoxia Microenvironment
Authors: Macharia Lucy Wanjiku , Muriithi Wanjiru , Nyaga Dennis Kirii , Coelho-Aguiar Juliana de Mattos , Spohr Tania Cristina Leite de Sampaio e , Neto Vivaldo Moura
Published: July 2021

Purpose: Glioblastoma is one of the most aggressive and incurable brain tumors whose progression is driven in part by a small sub population of cells termed as glioblastoma stem cells responsible for the tumor’s low therapy efficacy. Hypoxia, a common phenomenon in glioblastoma also promotes the maintenance and the expansion of the stem cell population whose survival is aided by miRNAs. Methods: GBM stem-like cells cultures were isolated and the relationship between the microenvironments and the in vitro “stemness” of the cells was investigated by evaluating the expression of miRNAs and selected genes. Results: We found miR-128a-3p, 34-5p and 181a-3p to be down-regulated while miR-17-5p and miR-221-3p to be up-regulated in the stem-like cells. When a comparison was made between the stem-like cells cultured under normoxia and hypoxia, a fold down-regulation difference of 3.5 to 5, 2 to 5 and 2 to 4 for miR-34-5p, 128a-3p and 181a-3p was observed respectively and a fold upreulation of 3.5 to 4 and 2.5 to 4 was observed for miR-221-3p and 17-5p respectively. There was an increased expression of HIF-1/2, SOX2, OCT4, VEGF, GLUT-1, BCL2 and survivin under hypoxia. Conclusion: Hypoxia enhanced the expression of several tumor stem cell signature genes, involved in the regulation of stemness, metabolism, angiogenesis and anti-apoptotic property. Most importantly, the miRNA dysregulation in the stem-like cell population adds another layer of gene expression associated with gliomagenesis and maintenance of CSC pointing to new signaling mechanisms whose disruption can be used to successfully target this crucial subpopulation.
Modeling and Design of Mott Selector for ReRAM Based Non-Volatile Memory Cell in Crossbar Architecture
Authors: Farjadian Mohammadreza , Shalchian Majid
Published: July 2021

In this work, we developed a model for a non-volatile memory cell, based on the electrical model for TiOX/HfOx ReRAM cell and the hybrid electro-thermal model of VO2 Mott selector developed recently by our team. Both models are calibrated and validated with experimental data, and the operating characteristics of one-selector-one-ReRAM (1S1R) memory cell are studied. The length of the selector layer is varied as a design parameter to meet the design requirements for proper read, write and erase operations. Simulation results suggest that modified selector cell with 60 nm length of VO2 layer meets all the requirements for proper operations with the cell write voltage of 1.6 V and erase voltage of 2.5 V. The access time for this structure is studied by benchmarking with experimental data and is estimated to be less than 10.5 ns for write operating and less than 16ns for the erase operation.
Self-Isolation Negatively Impacts Self-Management of Diabetes During the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic
Authors: Pardhan Shahina , Islam Md. Saiful , López-Sánchez Guillermo F. , Upadhyaya Tirthalal , Sapkota Raju
Published: July 2021

Background/Aim: People with diabetes are at a greater risk of serious complications from Coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Self-management of diabetes is therefore of paramount importance. The purpose of this study is to compare self-management of diabetes pre-COVID-19 and during COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: 679 participants with diabetes completed an online structured questionnaire. Outcome variables that were analysed were: (i) fluctuation of blood glucose levels, (ii) access to diabetes medicine, (iii) access to healthy diet, and (iv) physical activity. Adjusted multiple regression analysis ascertained significant associations for each outcome variable against exposure variables such as demographics (age/gender), history of diabetes (duration, treatment, and complications) and the need for self-isolation. Results: Multiple regression analysis showed that self-isolation was significantly associated with greater fluctuation in blood glucose levels (OR=1.8, 95% CI=1.2-2.6, p=0.005), worsened access to diabetes medicine (OR=1.9, 95% CI=1.1-3.1, p=0.02) and reduced access to healthy diet (OR=3.0, 95% CI= 2.0-4.6, p<0.001). Fluctuating blood glucose was also significantly associated with having at least one complication of diabetes (OR=2.2, 95 % CI=1.2-3.9, p=0.008) and worsened access to diabetes medicine was significantly higher in people who were on insulin (OR=2.1, 95% CI=1.3-3.3, p=0.001). Conclusions: Self-isolation impacted various factors that influence self-management of diabetes. A targeted approach to improved access to diabetes medicine and healthy diet for people needing to self-isolate is vital in order to ensure that they are able to self-manage their diabetes effectively.
Impact of Thoracic Trauma on the Mortality of Multi-trauma Patients: It Matters - Results From a French Road Trauma Registry 1997-2016
Authors: Benhamed Axel , Ndiaye Amina , Lieutaud Thomas , Douplat Marion , Gossiome Amaury , Laumon Bernard , Gadegbeku Blandine , Tazarourte Karim
Published: July 2021

BackgroundThoracic trauma is the third most common cause of death in multi-trauma patients and is associated with poor short-term outcomes since it is responsible for up to 25% of trauma-related deaths. One of the most frequent mechanism is road traffic accident (RTA), affecting particularly young patients. The primary objective of the present study was to investigate the influence of severe injuries in each body region on the mortality of multi-trauma patients with a particular attention to thoracic trauma. Secondary objectives were to investigate risk factors for mortality in multi-trauma patients but also to describe the epidemiology and injury pattern of these patients when presenting with at least one abbreviated injury scale (AIS) ≥2 thoracic injury (AISThorax≥2).MethodsRetrospective study that included RTA occurring from January 1997 to December 2016. Patients of all ages included in the Rhône RTA registry, with at least one AIS ≥2 injury in any body region were included. Two subgroups were defined according to whether patients presented at least one AISThorax≥2 injury or not. Multivariate regression analysis with mortality as outcome was performed. ResultsA total of 46,526 patients had at least one AIS≥2 injury, among them 6,382 (13.7%) had at least one AISThorax≥2 injury. In the AISThorax≥2 group, the median [IQR] ISS was 14 [6-7] and 16.2% (n=1,031) patients died. Severe (AIS≥3) head (OR=26.8, 95%CI [20.4;35.2]) and thoracic (OR=12.2, 95%CI [8.4;17.7]) injuries were associated with death; as was age [40-59 years (OR=1.3, 95%CI [1.1;1.5]), 60-79 years (OR=2.1, 95%CI [1.7;2.6]), and ≥80 years (OR=5.5, 95%CI [4.2;7.3])], male sex (OR=1.5, 95%CI [1.3;1.7]), RTA occurring in a highway (OR=1.9, 95%CI [1.5;2.4]) or in a rural road (OR=1.8, 95%CI [1.5;2.1]). The most frequent thoracic injury was that of the chest wall (62.1%, n=5,419). The most frequent concomitant AIS≥2 injuries affected the head (29.1%), upper extremities (26.8%), and lower extremities (25.8%).ConclusionsThe present study found that the severity of thoracic trauma was an independent and significant risk factor for death in multi-trauma patients as was age, being a car occupant and having a crash in a rural road or a highway.
Frequency and Risk Factors of Narrow Angles in Patients with Pseudoexfoliation: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Owaifeer Adi Mohammed Al , AlObaida Ibrahim , Alzuhairy Sultan , Raheman Syed J , Aljasim Leyla , Edward Deepak P
Published: July 2021

Purpose To determine the frequency and risk factors of narrow angles in pseudoexfoliation (PXF) patients.Methods A prospective case-control study was conducted during the period from March 2017 to December 2020. Adult patients (above 40 years) presenting with PXF were consecutively enrolled (study group). Cases were matched with individuals above 40 years presenting to a comprehensive ophthalmology clinic without evidence of PXF (control group).Results We enrolled 196 PXF patients and 98 controls. The occurrence of narrow angles was 25% in the PXF group and 5.1% in the control group (P = 0.0001). Compared to controls, PXF patients were older (72.6 ± 9.6 vs. 64.4 ± 8.5, P < 0.0001) and had a lower mean ACD (2.79 ± 0.4 vs. 3.05 ± 0.4, P < 0.0001). There was no difference in AL measurements between both groups (23.3 ± 1.4 vs. 23.7 ± 1.0, P = 0.0714). After stratification by age group and gender, the risk of narrow angles was higher in PXF patients above 60 years (OR, 5.71; 95% CI, 1.01-32.27; P, 0.048). There was no gender difference in the risk of developing narrow angles. Conclusion Narrow angles are more frequently encountered in PXF patients compared to controls. Advanced age (> 60 years) is significantly associated with an increased likelihood of developing narrow angles.
Spatial Distribution and Regional Difference of Carbon Emissions Efficiency of Industrial Energy in China
Authors: Liu Fang , Tang Lu , Liao Kaicheng , Ruan Lijuan , Liu Pingsheng
Published: July 2021

The three-stage super-efficiency slack-based measure and data envelopment analysis (SBM-DEA) model with undesirable outputs is used to calculate carbon emissions efficiency of industrial energy (CEEIE) of 30 provinces in China from 2000 to 2017. Then ArcGIS software is used to illustrate the spatial distribution of CEEIE, and Dagum Gini ratio is calculated to decompose the regional difference. The results show that the spatial distribution of CEEIE changes from disorder to order and provinces characterized with high or low CEEIE cluster in space over time. The total Dagum Gini coefficient indicates that the provincial difference in CEEIE across China is gradually expanding, which is mainly induced by the difference between regions. Our findings attach more importance to regional integration policies for carbon emissions reduction in China.
Identification of biomarker in brain-specific gene regulatory network using structural controllability analysis
Authors: Chen Zhihua , Chen Siyuan , Qiang Xiaoli
Published: July 2021

Background: Brain tumor research has been stapled for human health while brain network research is crucial for us to understand brain activity. Methods: Here the structural controllability theory is applied to study three human brain-specific gene regulatory networks, including forebrain gene regulatory network, hindbrain gene regulatory network and neuron associated cells cancer related gene regulatory network, hose nodes are neural genes and the edges represent the gene expression regulation among the genes. The nodes are classified into two classes: critical nodes and ordinary nodes, based on the change of the number of driver nodes upon its removal. Eight topological properties out-degree DO, in-degree DI, degree D, betweenness B, closeness CA, in-closeness CI, out-closeness CO and clustering coefficient CC) are calculated in this paper and the results prove that the critical genes have higher score of topological properties than the ordinary genes. Then two bioinformatic analysis are used to explore the biologic significance of the critical genes. Results: On the one hand, the enrichment scores in several kinds of gene databases are calculated and reveal that the critical nodes are richer in essential genes, cancer genes and the neuron related disease genes than the ordinary nodes, which indicates that the critical nodes may be the biomarker in brain-specific gene regulatory network. On the other hand, GO analysis and KEGG pathway analysis are applied on them and the results show that the critical genes mainly take part in 14 KEGG pathways that are transcriptional misregulation in cancer, pathways in cancer and so on, which indicates that the critical genes are related to the brain tumor. Finally, by deleting the edges or routines in the network, the robustness analysis of node classification is realized, and the robustness of node classification is proved. Conclusion: The comparison of neuron associated cells cancer related GRN and normal brain-specific GRNs (including forebrain and hindbrain GRN) shows that the neuron-related cell cancer-related gene regulatory network is more robust than other types.
Metformin versus sulphonylureas for new onset atrial fibrillation and stroke in type 2 diabetes mellitus: a population-based study
Authors: Zhou Jiandong , Zhang Guoming , Chang Carlin , Chou Oscar Hou In , Lee Sharen , Leung Keith Sai Kit , Wong Wing Tak , Liu Tong , Wai Abraham Ka Chung , Cheng Shuk Han , Zhang Qingpeng , Tse Gary
Published: July 2021

Background

To compare the rates of incident atrial fibrillation (AF), stroke, cardiovascular mortality, and all-cause mortality between metformin and sulphonylurea users in type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

This was a retrospective population-based cohort study of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients receiving either sulphonylurea or metformin monotherapy between January 1 st , 2000 and December 31 st , 2019. The primary outcome was new-onset AF or stroke. Secondary outcomes were cardiovascular, non-cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. Propensity score matching (1:2 ratio) between sulphonylurea and metformin users was performed, based on demographics, CHA-DS-VASc score, Charlson comorbidity index, past comorbidities, and medication use. Cox regression was used to identify significant risk factors. Competing risk analysis was conducted using cause-specific and subdistribution hazard models. Sensitivity analysis using propensity score stratification, high dimensional propensity score and inverse probability of treatment weighting were conducted.

Results

A total of 36228 sulphonylurea users and 72456 metformin users were included in the propensity score-matched cohort. Multivariable Cox regression showed that sulphonylurea users had higher risks of incident AF (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.89, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.75-2.77; P<0.0001), stroke (HR: 3.23, 95% CI: 3.01-3.45; P<0.0001), cardiovascular mortality (HR: 3.60, 95% CI: 2.62-4.81; P<0.0001), and all-cause mortality (HR: 4.35, 95% CI: 3.16-4.75; P<0.0001) compared to metformin users. Similarly significant results were observed using cause-specific and subdistribution hazard models. Sensitvity analysis using other propensity score techniques also yielded higher risks in sulphonylurea users.

Conclusions

Sulphonylurea use was associated with higher risks of incident AF, stroke, cardiovascular mortality and all-cause mortality compared to metformin.
Co@ag Core–Shell Nanomaterials: Preparation and Application in the Purification of Yellow River Water
Authors: Zhang Guochao , Zhao Yingying , Lai Yanjun , He Shuai , Gao Qi , Zhang Yunchao , Song Xiaoxia
Published: July 2021

In this study, we prepared a new type of recyclable Co@Ag core–shell nanomaterials with a very simple method named displacement reaction. Co@Ag core–shell nanomaterials were prepared in AgNO3 solution with cobalt nanomaterials as the core, while the surface was coated with silver nanomaterials. Co@Ag core–shell nanomaterials were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and oscillating sample magnetometer (VSM).We found that the diameter of the Co@Ag core–shell nanomaterials was about 100nm, which was exhibited in form of elemental elements andobvious magnetic properties.In order to evaluate the bacteriostatic effect of Co@Ag core–shell nanomaterials, we used qualitative and quantitative methods to assess the bacteriostatic effect of these materials on standard strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC27853, Gram - negative bacterium), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923, Gram-positive bacterium), Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922, Gram-negative bacterium) and Candida albicans (ATTC 90029, yeast) in Yellow River water in vitro. The results show that Co@Ag core–shell nanomaterials have a significant antibacterial effect. In addition, Co@Ag core–shell nanomaterials can be recycled through an external magnetic field to reduce environmental pollution. Interestingly, the reclaimed Co@Ag core–shell nanomaterials can still have antibacterial activity and can be reused. These results indicate that Co@Ag core–shell nanomaterials may have potential application as disinfectants for water.