bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrogen rich product gas from air-steam gasification of Indian biomasses with waste engine oil as binder
Authors: Sharma Prashant , Gupta Bhupendra , Pandey Mukesh
Published: September 2021

Present study concerns with the production of H2 rich product gas by thermochemical energy conversion having biomass gasification as a route for the four biomasses i.e., Kasai Saw Dust, Lemon Grass, Wheat Straw and Pigeon Pea Seed Coat. The biomasses are from the family of woody biomass, grasses, agricultural waste and food process industry wastes. Waste engine oil as an additive is used, which also acts as a binder. Air gasification and Air-steam gasification is applied and compared for product gas composition, hydrogen yield and other performance parameters like lower heating value, energy yield. Product gas constituents, hydrogen production is examined with different steam to biomass ratio (S/B ratio) and equivalence ratio. The equivalence ratio varies from 0.20–0.40 and the steam to biomass ratio varies between 0–4. The waster engine oil is mixed with the biomasses with different percentage of 5 and 10 wt%. For enhancement of feedstock quality palletization process is applied. The H2 yield is greatly affected by the equivalence ratio. Results show maximum H2 production and higher calorific value of product gas at an air to fuel of 0.26 for all the biomass pallets. Also, the S/B ratio observed as important aspect for hydrogen enrichment. Hydrogen yield is maximum at 2.4 steam to biomass ratio. This study considers the rarely studied Indian biomasses with waste engine oil as an additive for hydrogen-rich product gas production and will be beneficial for small scale hydrogen-rich syngas production considering the central Indian region originated biomasses. Statement of Novelty (SON): Research work belongs to eco-friendly use of rarely studied Indian biomass pallets. Equivalence air to fuel ratio (E/R ratio), steam to biomass ratio (S/B ratio) and waste engine oil as additive have been considered to upgrade H2 content and Calorific Value (CV) of the product gas. Novelty of work include use of waste engine oil as additive to make biomass pallets.
The Leaf Microbiota of Arabidopsis Displays Reproducible Dynamics And Patterns Throughout The Growing Season
Authors: Almario Juliana , Mahmudi Maryam , Kroll Samuel , Agler Mathew , Placzek Aleksandra , Mari Alfredo , Kemen Eric
Published: September 2021

Background: Leaves are primarily responsible for the plant's photosynthetic activity. Thus, changes in the leaf microbiota, which includes deleterious and beneficial microbes, can have far reaching effects on plant fitness and productivity. Identifying the processes and microorganisms that drive these changes over a plant’s lifetime is, therefore, crucial. In this study we analyzed the temporal dynamics in the leaf microbiota of Arabidopsis thaliana, integrating changes in both, composition and microbe-microbe interactions via the study of microbial networks.Results: Field-grown Arabidopsis were used to monitor leaf bacterial, fungal and oomycete communities throughout the plant’s growing season (extending from November to March) over three consecutive years. Our results revealed the existence of conserved temporal patterns, with microbial communities and networks going through a stabilization phase of decreased diversity and variability at the beginning of the plant’s growing season. Despite a high turnover in these communities, we identified 19 'core' taxa persisting on Arabidopsis leaves across time and plant generations. With the hypothesis these microbes could be playing key roles in the structuring of leaf microbial communities, we conducted a time-informed microbial network analysis which showed core taxa are not necessarily highly connected network 'hubs' and 'hubs' alternate with time. Conclusions: Our study shows that leaf microbial communities exhibit reproducible dynamics and patterns, suggesting the possibility of predicting those patterns to drive microbial communities towards desired states.
Prognostic Value of A Risk Score Model Constructed By m6A Methylation Regulators In Breast Cancer
Authors: Qiu Xiaowei , Zhang Qiaoli , Xu Jingnan , Jiang Xin , Qi Xuewei , Chang Xin , Lei Yong , Huang Jinchang , Tian Yehong
Published: September 2021

Background: N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation modification can affect the tumorigenesis, progression, and metastasis of breast cancer (BC). Up to now, a prognostic model based on m6A methylation regulators for BC is still lacking. This study aimed to construct an accurate prediction prognosis model by m6A methylation regulators for BC patients.Methods: After processing of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) datasets, the differential expression and correlation analysis of m6A RNA methylation regulators were applied. Next, tumor samples were clustered into different groups and clinicopathologic features in different clusters were explored. By univariate Cox and Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) analysis, m6A regulators with prognostic value were identified to develop a prediction model. Furthermore, we constructed and validated a predictive nomogram to predict the prognosis of BC patients.Results: 19 m6A related genes were extracted and 908 BC patients enrolled from TCGA dataset. After univariate Cox and LASSO analysis, 3 m6A RNA methylation regulators (YTHDF3, ZC3H13 and HNRNPC) were selected to establish the prognosis model based on median risk score (RS) in training and validation cohort. With the increasing of RS, the expression levels of YTHDF3 and ZC3H13 were individually elevated, while the HNRNPC expressed decreasingly. By survival analysis and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve, we found that the overall survival (OS) of high-risk group was significantly shorter than that of the low-risk group based on Kaplan-Meier (KM) analysis in each cohort. Univariate and multivariate analysis identified the RS, age, and pathological stage are independent prognostic factors. A nomogram was constructed to predict 1- and 3-year OS and the calibration plots validate the performance. The C-index of nomogram reached 0.757 (95% CI:0.7-0.814) in training cohort and 0.749 (95% CI:0.648-0.85) in validation cohort, respectively.Conclusions: We successfully constructed a predictive prognosis model by m6A RNA methylation regulators. These results indicated that the m6A RNA methylation regulators are potential therapeutic targets of BC patients.
Lnc BACE1-AS Promotes The Progression of Osteosarcoma Through miR-762/SOX7 Axis
Authors: yanlong qu , Chunlei Wang , Tao Zhang , Li Yang , Xinyu Na
Published: September 2021

Background: Osteosarcoma (OS) is a rare malignant primary tumor of mesenchymal origin affecting bone that occurs in adolescents and children. LncRNAs are important regulators of tumorigenesis and development. This study aimed to explore the role and molecular basis of LncRNA BACE1-AS in OS. Methods and results : Through the analysis of differential expressed lncRNAs in OS tissues by GEO database, LncRNA BACE1-AS displayed a remarkably lower expression. This found could also be observed in both OS tissues and cell lines by qRT-PCR. Furthermore, using Cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8), transwell, wound healing and westernblot assays, overexpression LncRNA BACE1-AS remarkably reduced cell proliferation, migration and invasion abilities in OS. In addition, LncRNA BACE1-AS was validated as a sponge of miR-762 through the prediction of lncRNASNP. Further, luciferase reporter and RIP assays were conducted to confirm the binding sites between LncRNA BACE1-AS and miR-762. SOX7 was a target of miR-762 and could be regulate by LncRNA BACE1-AS. Moreover, inhibition of miR-762 could attenuate the role of sh-LncRNA BACE1-AS in OS cells, at meanwhile reduced the expression of SOX7. Conclusion : In this study, LncRNA BACE1-AS regulated proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis of OS cells by miR-762/SOX7 axis, implying that LncRNA BACE1-AS was a potential target for OS therapy.
Development of Lignocellulase Enzyme Cocktail—A Logical Use of Statistical Experimental Design Techniques
Authors: Obeng Eugene Marfo , Ongkudon Clarence M.
Published: September 2021

The derivation of reduced sugars from lignocellulosic biomass requires an optimum blend of cellulolytic enzymes and reaction conditions that favour high sugar yield. In this respect, statistical design of experiment strategies become useful, but the technique is often misguided such that enzyme redundancy becomes overlooked. Herein, we demonstrate a systematic approach that involves simplex lattice mixture design and central composite design for optimizing enzyme cocktails for the saccharification of lignocellulosic biomass. The simplex lattice mixture design yielded 0.3333: 0.3333: 0.3333 of Celluclast (5%), Hemicellulase (5%) and Laccase (2%), respectively, as the optimum enzyme blend (volume) ratio for the saccharification of hydrothermally pretreated empty palm fruit bunch (EPFB, 10% solid loading). A subsequent application of central composite design resulted in 40 oC, pH 6 and 24 hrs as the optimum saccharification conditions. The individual Celluclast (5%) and Hemicellulase (5%) yielded a reduced sugar equivalence (RSE) of 1.77 mg/mL and 1.67 mg/mL, respectively. However, the blended enzyme cocktail upon subjection to simplex lattice mixture design and subsequent central composite design yielded an RSE of 2.215 mg/mL and 2.431 mg/mL, respectively. The overall results exemplify the significance of enzyme synergism in lignocellulosic biomass saccharification. The approach herein is intended as an easy-to-copy plan for optimizing enzyme cocktails.
A Follow-up Study on the Degeneration of Adjacent Segments After TLIF and Foraminal Endoscopy
Authors: shunmin wang , luo xi , wang yuan , guo yongfei , shi jiangang
Published: September 2021

Objective To compare the clinical outcomes of transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) and endoscopic discectomy in the treatment of postoperative adjacent segment degeneration in patients with lumbar disc herniation (LDH). Methods From 2014 to 2017, 87 patients who were diagnosed with single-levelLDH and received surgery of TLIF (group X, n = 43) or endoscopic discectomy (group F, n = 44) were retrospectively analyzed. X-ray, MRI, CT and clinical symptoms were recorded before operation and at the last follow-up. The neurological function was originally evaluated by the Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score. Radiological evaluation included the height of intervertebral space (HIS), intervertebral foramen height (FH), intervertebral foramen area (FA), lumbar lordosis (CA) and intervertebral disc degeneration Pfirrmann score.Results There was no significant difference in average operation age, JOA improvement rate, reoperation rate and complications between the two groups. The average blood loss, average hospital stays and average operation time in group F were lower than those in group X. During the last follow-up, HIS, CA and FA decreased in both groups, and the changes in group X were more significant than those in group F (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in postoperative FH between the two groups, but it decreased more in group X (P < 0.05).Conclusion Both TLIF and endoscopic surgery can achieve good results in the treatment of LDH, but the risk of lumbar adjacent segment degeneration after intervertebral foraminal surgery is lower.
The Metabolite β-Hydroxybutyrate of Lactobacillus Plantarum YZX21 Improves Type 2 Diabetes By Promoting Intestinal Secretion of GLP-1
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Liang Xi , Tong Lingjun , Lv Youyou , Lu Haiyan , Zhao Maozhen , Gong Pimin , Liu Tongjie , Yi Huaxi , Zhang Lan Wei
Published: September 2021

Background: Probiotics and their metabolites regulate type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) by promoting GLP-1 secretion, but the mechanism has not yet been fully clarified. Results: In order to reveal the effect of Lactobacillus plantarum（L. plantarum）YZX21 on the regulation of T2DM, type 2 diabetic C57BL/6 mice induced by a high-fat diet and streptozotocin (STZ) were divided into different groups and were daily treated with L. plantarum YZX21 for 8 weeks. We identified that L.plantarum YZX21 reduced blood glucose, insulin levels and HOME-IR. Histopathology was found that L.plantarum YZX21 restored the mouse islet cells morphology and increased insulin secretion. The Elisa and immumohistochemical staining revealed concentration of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) was increased in the mice colon. UPLC-MS/MS based widely-targeted metabolomics analysis was used to identify the differential intestinal metabolites in the mice colon. It was found that the metabolite β-Hydroxybutyrate(BHB) of L.plantarum YZX21 had a negative associated with T2DM. Subsequent, type 2 diabetic C57BL/6 mice was established and used to verify hpyerglycemic effest by daily treated with BHB for 8 weeks. It was found that BHB improved pathoglycemia, insulin resistance and increased the intestinal GLP-1 levels, especially reduced free fatty acid (FFA) levels. The expression of receptors G protein-coupled receptor (GPR) was verified by RT-PCR. The GPR109a receptor was significantly stimulated which was up-regulated the expression of GLP-1, but not GPR41 and GPR43 in the mice colon.Conclusions: We found that the hypoglycemic effect of L.plantarum YZX21 was demonstrated by increasing the intestinal GLP-1 levels in the diabetic mice. Through the widely-targeted metabolomics, we identify the close correlation between serum concentrations of BHB and T2DM. In T2DM mice model, BHB reduced the FFA levels and increased the intestinal GLP-1 levels, which is associated with the downregulated expression of GPR109a. These results demonstrated that L.plantarum YZX21 alleviated T2DM by upregulating BHB/GPR109a/GLP-1 associated pathway.
Human Antigen D (HuD) Promotes Tumorigenesis And Invasion of Small Cell Lung Cancer Via Targeting lncRNA LYPLAL1-DT /miR-204-5P/Profilin 2 Axis
Authors: Li Shuxin , Lv Jianyi , Zhang Xing , Li Zhihui , Huo Xueyun , Guo Meng , Liu Xin , Gao Ran , Gong Jianan , Li Changlong , Li Weiying , Zhang Tongmei , Wang Jinghui , Chen Zhenwen , Du Xiaoyan
Published: September 2021

Background: Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is one of the most malignant tumors with poor prognosis. RNA-binding protein (RBP) human antigen D (HuD) has been indicated in the process of tumorigenesis and progression of lung tumors, as well as long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA). However, the role of HuD and lncRNA in SCLC remains unknown. Methods: Realtime PCR were used to examine the circulating levels of LYPLAL1-DT in the 46 SCLC patients and 18 normal controls. Assays of dual- luciferase reporter system, RNA pull-down were performed to determine that LYPLAL1-DT could sponge miR-204-5p to upregulate the expression of PFN2. Migration and invasion assay, CCK8 and colony formation assay were used to detect the malignant effect of HuD and LYPLAL1-DT. Tumor xenograft model was established and IHC assay was performed to determine how HuD and LAPLAL1-DT impact in vivo. Results: We revealed that HuD was highly expressed in SCLC tissues and cell lines. HuD boosts the proliferation, migration, invasion of SCLC cells by increasing the PFN2 mRNA stability, which promotes cytoskeleton formation. HuD also enhanced the stability of lncRNA LYPLAL1-DT, which expressed highly in the serum of patients with SCLC and acted as an oncogenic lncRNA in SCLC cells as confirmed in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, LYPLAL1-DT functioned as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) for sponging miR-204-5p, leading to the upregulation of its target PFN2 to promote SCLC cell proliferation and invasion. In summary, our data reveal a regulatory pathway in which HuD stabilizes PFN2 mRNA and LYPLAL1-DT, which in turn increases PFN2 expression by binding to miR-204-5p, and ultimately promotes tumorigenesis and invasion in SCLC.Conclusions: Our findings reveal novel regulatory axes involving HuD/PFN2 and lncRNA LYPLAL1-DT/miR-204-5p/PFN2 in the development and progression of small cell lung cancer (SCLC), providing novel prognostic indicators and promising therapeutic targets.
Bi-Doped SnO2 Transparent Conducting Thin Films Deposited By Spray Pyrolysis: Structural, Electrical, Optical And Photo-Thermoelectric Properties
Authors: Khademi N. , Bagheri-Mohagheghi Mohammad , shirpay A.
Published: September 2021

In this research, light and heavy Bi-doped SnO2 thin films were prepared on glass substrates by spray pyrolysis technique. The effect of heavy doped-Bi on the structural, morphological, electrical, photo-thermo-electrical, optical properties of SnO2 films has been investigated. The Bi/Sn atomic ratios (x = [Bi/Sn]) were varied from 0 to 0.30 in the spray solution. X-ray diffraction analysis showed the formation of SnO2 tetragonal rutile structure in low doped deposited films and amorphous structure for heavy Bi-doped SnO2. Also, the SnO2-Bi2O3 binary thin films were formed for x= [Bi/Sn] =0.05. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images indicated that nanostructure of the condensed films has a rectangular-particle growth toward particle- spherical growth. The Hall effect measurements have shown n-type conductivity in all deposited films. The lowest sheet resistance of 39.3 MΩ/□ and highest carrier concentration of n=4.53 × 1018 cm−3 were obtained for the thin film deposited with x = 0.10. The maximum of the Seebeck coefficient (S)=325 μVK−1 and figure of merit (ZT) = 1.85 was obtained for the thin film deposited with x = 0.20. The average transmittance of films varied over the range of T=72%-84%. The band gap values of samples were obtained in the range of Eg=3.52–3.88 eV for direct band gap. From the photoconductivity studies, the sample prepared with x = 0.20 exhibited the highest photoconductivity among the SnO2: Bi thin films.
Cost-Utility Analysis of Antibiotics Compared with Operative Treatment in Uncomplicated Acute Appendicitis.
Authors: Poprom Napaphat , Pattanaprateep Oraluck , Wilasrusmee Chumpon , Rattanasiri Sasivimol , McKay Gareth , Attia John , Thakkinstian Ammarin
Published: September 2021

Background: Appendicitis is the most common acute abdominal condition affecting general surgical practice. Although appendectomy has been considered the “gold standard” treatment, it has been associated with post-operative complications. Recently, conservative treatment with antibiotics has been considered as an alternative. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate if antibiotics could be cost-effective when compared to laparoscopic appendectomy (LA) or open appendectomy (OA).Methods: A prospective study was undertaken to estimate health-related quality of life using a European Quality of Life–5 Dimensions questionnaire for antibiotic and operative treatment and to ascertain indirect and direct non-medical costs in a cohort between November 2018 and October 2019. An incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) at 1 month and a net benefit at 1 year after surgery were estimated. A Tornado diagram was plotted to determine one-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses; a cost-effectiveness (CE) scatter plot and CE acceptability curve were also generated.Results: ICERs were estimated from cost-utility analysis comparisons between individual antibiotics (beta-lactam, quinolone, and cephalosporin + metronidazole), LA, and OA in uncomplicated acute appendicitis. Antibiotics showed improved cost utility compared to operative treatments with an ICER of -9,585.66 USD per utility gained at 1 month, and the net benefit at 1 year was 3,250.08 USD. Conclusions: Base on short term evaluation, antibiotics might represent a lower cost treatment option with better cost utility compared to operative treatment options in uncomplicated acute appendicitis patients. As such, antibiotic treatment might be considered as an alternative option where resources are limited to minimize complication rates associated with operative treatments.
Provocation of Dry Eye Disease during COVID-19 Lockdown
Authors: Neti Nutnicha , Prabhasawat Pinnita , Chirapapaisan Chareenun , Ngowyutagon Panotsom
Published: September 2021

To assess the impact of COVID-19 lockdown measures on dry-eye symptoms in a community-based population, a cross-sectional study was conducted during the first wave of the COVID-19 outbreak in Thailand. An online survey was distributed via social media between June and July 2020. The questionnaire elicited information on demographics, dry-eye symptoms, viewing habits, and mental health status. There were 535 respondents. Thirty-seven percent reported having been diagnosed with dry-eye disease (DED). During the lockdown, the mean dry-eye symptom score (DESS) of overall participants dropped significantly from 81.6±15.9 to 79.8±17.4 (P<0.001). The mean, daily, visual display terminal (VDT) usage increased from 10.55±5.16 hours to 13.08±5.65 hours (P<0.001). A negative correlation between age and VDT usage was observed in both the normal and lockdown situations. One-quarter of all participants had an abnormal mental health status. The female gender (OR 1.86; 95% CI 1.14–3.04) and increased VDT usage during the lockdown (OR 5.68; 95% CI 3.49–9.23) were independently associated with worsening dry-eye symptoms. The lockdown measures abruptly altered the behaviors and lifestyles of the overall population. Excessive exposure to VDTs were associated with deteriorated dry-eye symptoms, and it possibly contributed to the increased DED incidence in the general population.
Household Food Insecurity and Unavailability of Toilet Facility Contribute to Adverse Health Outcomes of Under-five Children in Bangladesh: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Islam Mohammad Ashraful , Rahman Mahfuzur , Uddin Md. Fakhar , Tariqujjaman Md. , Karmakar Gobinda , Rahman Mohammad Ashikur , Kelly Matthew , Gray Darren , Ahmed Tahmeed , Sarma Haribondhu
Published: September 2021

BackgroundDespite recent progress in rural economic development and food production, the prevalence of household food insecurity (FI) and use of unimproved toilet facilities are widespread in Bangladesh. Limited studies have sought to understand the relationship of household FI and sanitation, separately and in combination, with child morbidity. This paper aimed to assess the effect of FI and unimproved toilet facility of households on adverse health outcomes of children less than five years of age in Bangladesh.MethodsWe used data from a cross-sectional survey that was conducted as part of an evaluation of the Maternal, Infant and Young Child Nutrition (MIYCN) Program in Bangladesh. The study population included children aged 6-59 months and their caregivers, identified using a two-stage cluster-sampling procedure. Child morbidity status was the outcome variable, and household FI status and type of toilet used were considered the main exposure variables in this study. We performed logistic regression, calculated adjusted odds ratios (AOR) to assess the association of child morbidity with household FI and unimproved toilet facility after adjusting for potential confounders. ResultsA total of 1,728 households were eligible for this analysis. About 23% of the households were food-insecure, and a large number of households had improved toilet facilities (93.4%). In the multivariable logistic regression model, we found that children in food-insecure households with unimproved toilet facility had 5.88 (AOR: 5.88; 95% CI 2.52, 13.70) times more chance, of being morbid compared to the children of food-secure households with improved toilet facility. A similar association of FI and toilet facilities with each of the morbidity components was observed, including diarrhea (AOR:3.6; 95% CI 1.79, 7.89), fever (AOR:3.47; 95% CI 1.72, 6.99), difficult or fast breathing with cough (AOR:3.88; 95% CI 1.99, 7.59), and difficult or fast breathing with blocked or running nose (AOR:1.29; 95% CI 0.56, 2.95).ConclusionsOur study shows that household FI and unimproved toilet facility jointly have more deteriorative effects on child morbidity than either of these conditions alone. Therefore, it is important to consider these two critical factors while designing a public health intervention for reducing morbidity among under-five children.
Detachable Dissolvable Microneedles: Intra-epidermal and Intradermal Diffusion, Effect on Skin Surface, and Application in Hyperpigmentation Treatment
Authors: Sawutdeechaikul Pritsana , Kanokrungsee Silada , Sahaspot Thanyapat , Thadvibun Kamonwan , Banlunara Wijit , Limcharoen Benchaphorn , Sansureerungsikul Titiporn , Rutwaree Teeranut , Oungeun Miranda , Wanichwecharungruang Supason
Published: September 2021

Delivering bioactive compounds into skin tissue has long been a challenge. Using ex vivo porcine and rat skins, here we demonstrate that a detachable dissolvable microneedle (DDMN) array, a special dissolvable microneedle that allows needle detachment from the base within 2 min post administration, can effectively embed a model compound into epidermis and dermis. Diffusion of the compound from the needle embedding sites to the nearby skin tissue is demonstrated at various post administration periods. The relationship between the time that a conventional dissolvable microneedle array is left on skin without needle detachment from the base and the degree of skin surface abrasion at each microneedle penetration spot is also demonstrated on skin of human volunteers. Co-loading glutathione with vitamin C (vitC) can stabilize vitC in the DDMN. DDMN loaded with vitC and glutathione can help erasing post-acne-hyperpigmentation spots.
Climate change in Carpathian forests: natural logging in Sibiu area Romania case study Identifying the effects of climate change in the forests in the Sibiu area: forest wind damage
Authors: BRATU Iulian Alexandru
Published: September 2021

Climate change is becoming more acute, including in terms of individual perception. Forest, as an ecosystem, has a special role to play in mitigating climate change, protecting the soil, water and air. There are forests of scientific interest, preservation of the Eco fund and forest Geno fund, as well as recreational forests, so that the ecological functions are fulfilled in the optimum. Also, alongside the social function, green energy generation is one of the main attributes of the forest. In addition to preserving biodiversity, the forestry administration has as objectives the provision of the necessary resources for the short, medium and long-term development of local communities. Forest management that harmoniously combines ecological, economic and social functions cannot be sustained, at least in the information age, without relying on information technology. This article aims to address the issue of information technology in the forest administration, identifying needs and providing viable, high quality, open source solutions.
Capacitive Sensor Accuracy Optimisation by the Frequency Range Appropriate Choice
Authors: Ghemari Zine , Belkhiri Salah
Published: September 2021

Measuring rotating machine vibrations requires an electronic instrument called a vibration sensor. In this work, the vibration sensor with capacitive detection is chosen to measure the vibrations movement. In order to fulfill the objectives of reducing the measurement error and achieving high sensor accuracy, this sensor is modeled by the application of motion law. The results obtained by the developed model simulation showed that it was possible to extract a formula linked to relative frequency of the vibrating structure and to the capacitive sensor natural frequency, this makes it possible to reduce the measurement error and improve the capacitive sensor accuracy
The Use And Benefits of 3D Digital Microscope In Hepatic Artery Reconstruction During Living Donor Liver Transplant
Authors: Lin Ching-Min , Lin Shih-Lung , Hung Yu-Ju , Hsieh Chia-En , Chen Yao-Li , Chang Chien-Hsiang
Published: September 2021

Background: To compare the intraoperative process of hepatic artery anastomosis using conventional microscope and novel 3D digital microscope and to share our institute’s experience for better surgical training.Method: A retrospective cohort study with 46 hepatic artery reconstructions in living donor liver transplant patients via operational microscope (Control group) and 3D digital microscope Mitaka Kestrel View II (Study group). We then discuss and share our institution’s experience to improve surgical training. Results: Both operation instruments provide effective and comparable results. There was no statistical significance regarding operational objective results between conventional microscope and exoscope. Both instruments have no hepatic artery size limit, and both have complete vessel patency rate. Conclusions: There was no statistical differences regarding hepatic artery anastomosis between microscope and exoscope cohorts. However, exoscope provided better ergonomics in the operation room and lessen musculoskeletal strain, allowing surgeons to work in a more neutral and comfortable posture and allow first assistant to learn and assist more effectively. Using exoscope with micro-forceps and modified tie technique make artery reconstruction easier.
Families’ Experiences of Suicide Victims in South Korea: A Phenomenological Study
Authors: Lee Eun Joo , Lee Soo Jung
Published: September 2021

Background: When a family commits suicide, family members experience feelings of hurt, denial, shock and anger, resentment, shame, and guilt. If left untreated, they become physically and psychologically vulnerable and the risk of suicidal ideation is high, so clinical intervention in the survivors of suicide is required. This study aimed to explore the experiences of families of suicide victims in South Korea.Methods: This research was designed to a qualitative phenomenological study conducted by using Colaizzi’s methods. Participants were 7 bereaved families living in Changwon City, South Korea. Data were collected through in‐depth and individual interviews with participants from June to December 2018.Results: A total of 25 meaning units, 11 theme clusters, and 5 themes emerged. The 5 themes of south Korean bereaved families’ experience were: shock and confusion, pain of loss, disconnection interpersonal relationships, reality wanting to give up, and life to live. Conclusion: The bereaved families are at high risk of suicidal thoughts or suicide attempts, so active individual professional counseling should be provided for them.
Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids ω-3 and ω-6 Regulate the Proliferation Invasion and Angiogenesis of Human Gastric Cancer Through COX/PGE Signaling Pathway
Authors: Ma JIachi , Zhang Chensong , Liang Wanqing , Li Lei , Du Jun , Pan Chengwu , Chen Bangling , Chen Yuzhong , Wang Yuanpeng
Published: September 2021

Background: To investigate the effect of polyunsaturated fatty acids ω-3 and ω-6 and their metabolites prostaglandin PGE2 and PGE3 on the proliferation, invasion and neovascularization of gastric cancer.Methods: RT-PCR and ELISA were used to detect the gene and protein expression of COX-1 and COX-2 in gastric cancer cell lines, respectively. The effects of ω-3, ω-6, PFG2 and PEG3 on the proliferation, invasion and neovascularization of gastric cancer cells were detected by cell proliferation, invasion and neovascularization assay in vitro. COX-2 siRNA was synthesized by short gene interfering RNA (siRNA) technique and transfected into gastric cancer cells, and the expression of COX-2 protein in gastric cancer cell lines was detected again by Western blot. The effects of COX-2 gene silencing on proliferation, invasion and neovascularization of gastric cancer cells were detected by WST-1 assay, transwell chamber assay and gastric cancer neovascularization assay, respectively.Results: COX-2 was only expressed in MKN74 and MKN45 cell lines, while COX-1 was expressed in four gastric cancer cell lines. In gastric cancer cell lines with positive COX-2 expression, ω-6 and PEG2 could significantly enhance the proliferation, invasion and neovascularization of gastric cancer cells, and after transfection with COX-2 siRNA, the effects of ω-6 and PEG2 on enhancing the proliferation, invasion and neovascularization of gastric cancer cells were significantly attenuated; ω-3 and PEG3 could inhibit the proliferation, invasion and neovascularization of gastric cancer cells. In gastric cancer cell lines with negative COX-2 expression, ω-6 and PEG2 had no significant effect on the proliferation, invasion and neovascularization of gastric cancer; ω-3 and PEG3 could significantly inhibit the proliferation, invasion and neovascularization of gastric cancer.Conclusion: ω-6 PUFAs reinforce the metastatic potential energy of gastric cancer cells via COX-2/PGE2; ω-3 PUFAs inhibit the metastatic potential energy of gastric cancer via COX-1/PGE3.
Surgery versus intervention in congenital heart disease as a risk factor for executive dysfunction: a case control study
Authors: Mani Arash , Nasiri Maryam , Amoozgar Hamid , Amirghofran Ahmad Ali , Nejati Vahid
Published: September 2021

Background

Improving surgical and interventional modalities for treating congenital heart disease increased these children's living expectancy, a leading cause of cognitive and behavioral problems. This study compared executive functions among surgically, interventionally treated congenital heart disease, and aged match control.
Methods

This was a retrospective cross-sectional study. We enrolled thirty children treated with surgery, 30 interventionally treated patients and 30 healthy controls. We compared these participants in the executive functions domains by Stroop test, trail making test, cancellation test, visual and auditory memory span test, and behavioral problems using the parent form strength and difficulty questionnaire. Executive performance in memory span and sustained attention was lower in the surgical group than in the intervention group (P˂0.05).
Results

Both groups of patients had lower flexibility, memory recall, simple and complex working memory, visual attention, and simple and complex selective attention performance (P < 0.05). The effect of behavioral problems on daily life was higher in surgical patients than in the intervention group (P˂0.0001). Both groups of patients had higher emotional problems, conduct problems, and communication problems than the normal group (P˂0.0001).
Conclusion

Interventionaly treated patients had better performance in comparison to surgically-treated patients. Regardless of the severity of the disease or treatment, patients with congenital heart malformations had poor performance compared to normal subjects and suffered from behavioral disorders affecting their daily lives. It is essential to include diagnostic and therapeutic interventions in treating these patients' executive function and behavioral problems.
Design and Selection of Pyrazolo[3,4-d][1,2,3] Triazole-based High-energy Materials
Authors: Jin Xinghui , Liu Luhao , Zhou Jianhua , Hu Bingcheng
Published: September 2021

In this study, we design a series of bridged energetic compounds based on pyrazolo[3,4-d][1, 2, 3]triazole to screen potential energetic materials with excellent detonation properties and acceptable sensitivities. The electronic structures, heats of formation, detonation velocity, detonation pressure, and impact sensitivity of the designed compounds were calculated using density functional theory. The results showed that the designed compounds have high positive heats of formation in the range of 1035.4 (A7) to 2851.4 kJ mol−1 (D2). Moreover, the designed compounds have high crystal densities and heats of detonation, which significantly enhance detonation pressures and velocities. The detonation pressures and velocities are in the ranges of 6.23 (A1) to 9.65 km s−1 (D3) and 15.7 to 43.9 GPa (E8), respectively. The impact sensitivity data also suggest that the designed compounds have impact sensitivities in an acceptable range. Considering detonation pressures, detonation velocities, and impact sensitivities, six compounds (C3, C5, D3, D5, E3, and F3) were screened as potential materials with high energy density, excellent detonation properties, and low impact sensitivities. Finally, the electronic structures of the screened compounds were simulated to provide further understanding on the physicochemical properties of these compounds.
Theoretical Investigation of the Modeling of Indole –dichlormethane Hydrogen Bonding in Different Solvents
Authors: Al-Otaibi Jamelah S. , Mary Y.Sheena , Mary Y.Shyma
Published: September 2021

Theoretical vibrational spectra of indole (IND) and its binary combination with dichloromethane (DC) in various solvents were computed to track the impact of molecular interactions on drug spectral characteristics. When transitioning from plain drug to complexes, 3561.26 cm− 1 mode of the IND displays a substantial shift in peak location. The 3561.26 band shows (~ 15.58) red shift upon dilution. The geometry of drug and IND-DC complex in various solvents was calculated using quantum chemical calculation utilizing DFT.
Encapsulation of Rat Bone Marrow Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (rBMMSCs) in Collagen Type I Containing Platelet-Rich Plasma for Osteoarthritis Treatment in Rat Model
Authors: Ebrahimi-barough somayeh , Islam Md Shahidul , Mahtab Mamun Al , Shirian Sadegh , Aghayan Hamid Reza , Arjmand Babak , Allahverdi Amir , Ranjbar Faezeh Esmaeili , Sadegh Amin Bigham , Ai Jafar
Published: September 2021

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of degenerative joint disease, affecting more than 25% of the adult though prevalent in the elderly population. Most of the current therapeutic modalities aim at symptomatic treatment and lingering the disease progression. In recent years, regenerative medicine such as stem cell transplantation and tissue engineering has been suggested as a potential curative intervention for OA. The objective of current study was to assess the safety and efficacy of an injectable tissue-engineered construct composed of BMMSCs, PRP, and Collagen type I in rat model of OA.To produce collagen type I, PRP and BMMSCs, male Wistar rats were ethically euthanized. After expansion and characterization of rat BMMSCs (rBMMSCs), tissue-engineered construct was formed by combination of appropriate amount of collagen type I, PRP and rBMMSCs. In vitro studies were conducted to evaluate the effect of PRP on chondrogenic differentiation capacity of encapsulated cells. Then tissue-engineered construct was injected in knee joint of rat model of OA (24 rat in 4 groups:OA, OA+MSC, ‎OA+Collagen+MSC+PRP, OA+MSC+Collagen).After 6 weeks, the animals were euthanized and knee joint histopathology examinations were performed to evaluate the effect of each treatment on OA.Tissue-engineered construct was successfully manufactured and in vitro assays demonstrated that relevant chondrogenic genes and proteins expression were higher in PRP group than the others. Histopathological findings of the knee joint samples showed favorable regenerative effect of rBMMSCs+PRP+Collagengroup comparing to others.In this study, we introduced an injectable tissue-engineered product composed of rBMMSCs+PRP+Collagenwith potential regenerative effect on cartilage damage caused by OA.
LncRNA-ZFAS1 Induces Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition of Pancreatic Cancer Cells During Nutrient Deprivation by Promoting AMPK-Mediated Phosphorylation and Stabilization Of ZEB1 Protein
Authors: ZENG ZHU , Han Shengbo , Wang Yang , Huang Yan , Hu Yuhang , Xu Fengyu , Zhao Yong , Huang Mengqi , Tang Jiang , Wang Decai , Zhao Gang
Published: September 2021

Background: Nutrient deprivation is a distinct feature of the tumor microenvironment that plays a crucial role in various cancers. However, the contribution and regulatory mechanism of nutrient deprivation on metastasis of pancreatic cancer (PC) have not been identified. Methods: PC cells were treated with normal medium, glucose-depletion or glutamine-depletion medium to observe the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). RT-qPCR and western blot assay were applied to evaluate the alteration of mRNA and protein of zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1), a crucial EMT regulator factor. Co-IP assay was utilized for evaluating the interaction between AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and ZEB1. LncRNA microarray was adopted to detect the potential lncRNA, which facilitates the association between AMPK and ZEB1. Gain- and loss-of-function experiments were performed to evaluate the roles of ZNFX1 antisense RNA 1 (ZFAS1) in EMT and metastasis of PC. Results: The present study reveals that nutrient deprivation including glucose and glutamine deprivation significantly induces EMT of PC cells, which is dependent on stabilization of ZEB1. We further discover that nutrient deprivation induces upregulation of lncRNA ZFAS1, which promotes the association between AMPK and ZEB1 to phosphorylate and stabilize ZEB1 protein. Notably, ZEB1 reciprocally promotes the transcription of ZFAS1 by binding to the promoter of ZFAS1, forming feedback with ZFAS1. Consistently, depletion of ZFAS1 obviously inhibits nutrient deprivation-induced EMT of PC cells and lung metastasis of PC in nude mice. Meanwhile, clinical data displays that ZFAS1 is overexpressed in PC tissues and correlated with high expression of ZEB1 and Vimentin (VIM), low expression of E-cadherin (E-cad), as well as poor prognosis in PC patients. Conclusions: Our study implicates that glucose and glutamine deprivation promotes EMT and metastasis of PC through lncRNA-mediated stabilization of ZEB1.
Effects of combined intervention of computer-aided self-regulation learning (CA-SRL) and cognitive training on generalization ability and cognitive function in post-stroke patients with cognitive impairment: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: He Youze , Yang Ting , Bao Yaqi , Xiao Tianshen , Wu Tiecheng , Wu Jingsong
Published: September 2021

Emerging study suggests the application of self-regulation learning (SRL) for improving generality abilities in post-stroke patients. It is proposed that SRL could generate an added effect on computer-aided cognitive training (CACT). This study aimed to examine the efficacy of the combined intervention of computer-aided SRL (CA-SRL) training and CACT for generalization ability and cognitive function in patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI). A total of 75 patients were randomly assigned into CA-SRL group, demonstration learning (DL) group and traditional learning (TL). Over three weeks, patients in these three groups underwent CA-SRL or DL training combining with cognitive training respectively. After intervention, all outcomes have significantly improved after intervention (P < 0.05). CA-SRL group showed better improvements in all trained tasks among groups, especially in "wash the dishes" and “change the bed”. The analysis of generalization ability found CA-SRL groups obtained the highest scores among groups in untrained tasks. Mean changes of MoCA in both CA-SRL and TL groups were significantly higher than the DL group (P < 0.001, P = 0.002) after adjusting education year and Lawton Instrumental ADL Scale. In general, the combination of CA-SRL and CACT is effective for PSCI patient and it has a better effect in promoting the skills generalization from cognitive gains than traditional training.
Cinnabarinic Acid from Trametes Coccinea Fruiting Bodies Exhibits Antibacterial Activity Through Inhibiting the Biofilm Formation
Authors: Kakoti Merilin , Dullah Samim , Hazarika Dibya Jyoti , Barooah Madhumita , Boro Robin Chandra
Published: September 2021

Wild mushrooms are rich sources of natural compounds with potent bioactive properties. Several important metabolites have been reported from mushrooms, which possess clinically important bioactive properties like antibacterial activity, anticancer activity, antidiabetic activity and antioxidant activity. In this study, we have evaluated the antimicrobial activity of Trametes coccinea fruiting body extracts against different bacterial isolates viz. Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus and Escherichia coli. Fruiting bodies of three T. coccinea samples, of which two were collected from Santipur, Arunachal Pradesh and one collected from Jorhat, Assam, were used for extraction using methanol. The extracts showed potent antimicrobial activity against all the test bacteria. Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) of the extracts against Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus and Escherichia coli was recorded as 400 µg/ml, 400 µg/ml and 300 µg/ml respectively. Further, the bioactive compounds of the extract were separated and detected using Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC). Presence of Cinnabarinic acid (CBA), a potent antimicrobial compound was detected in TLC, which was further confirmed through High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Electrospray Ionization-Mass Spectrometry (ESI-MS). Cinnabarinic acid was able to inhibit the formation of biofilms in Bacillus subtilis and B. cereus, suggesting that the compound can be beneficial in the management of biofilm based antimicrobial resistance.
The Effect of Oxidation Temperature on the (1000–1300) Cm−1 Band in FT-IR Spectra of Silicon Oxide Synthesized by Thermal Oxidation of Silicon Wafers
Authors: Kayed Kamal , Kurd Dalal Baba
Published: September 2021

In this work, silicon wafers were thermal treated in air at temperatures varied in the range 800–1200°C. The annealed samples were investigated using FTIR, X-ray diffraction, FTIR and optical reflection spectroscopy. The effect of annealing temperature on the (1000–1300) cm− 1 band in FT-IR spectra of the prepared samples was investigated. The results showed that thermal oxidation at temperatures less than 1200°C leads to enhance the phenomenon of the splitting of longitudinal optical and transverse optical stretching motions. This phenomenon was verified by observing the appearance of two overlapping peaks in the region (1000–1300) cm− 1 in FT-IR spectra. The results also showed that the splitting process leads to the formation of defects in the crystal structure of silicon, which in turn leads to the formation of silicon nanoparticles.
Evaluation of e-health literacy with the DMVEC.it website in undergraduate student: a pre-test and post-test study
Authors: Conte Alessandro , Brunelli Laura , Moretti Valentina , Valdi Giulia , Guelfi Maria Renza , Masoni Marco , Anelli Filippo , Parpinel Maria , Arnoldo Luca
Published: September 2021

Background

The struggle against fake medical news, especially spread by web sources, is a main issue in public health. Even among college students, there is a lack of eHealth literacy (eHL) skills. The Italian Medical Doctors Federation (FNOMCeO) promoted a website as a first-aid communication kit for notions in health hot-topics named “dottoremaeveroche” (DMVEC). This study aims to evaluate its effectiveness in improving eHL.
Methods

Between April 2019 and October 2020, college students attending the first year of medical and communication theory course at the University of Florence (Italy) joined a web-based survey before and after accessing the DMVEC website. The 8-item self-assessment IT-eHEALS tool was used to examine subject’s eHL, in addition to questions on source’s features and its quality. All responses were rated on a 5-points Likert scale. Changing of abilities perception was assessed using Wilcoxon test.
Results

362 students joined the survey, 329 medical and 33 communication ones. Participants felt moderately confident in eHL, with an initial IT-eHEALS overall mean score of 3.6 ± 0.7 for medical students and of 3.2 ± 0.8 for communication students. Medical students had a good perception on how to find helpful health sources (mean score of 3.9 ± 0.8) and communication students felt sure in discerning sources quality (mean score of 3.5 ± 1.0). Instead, their confidence in using web information to make health decisions was low (medical students: mean score of 2.9 ± 1.1; communication students: mean score of 2.8 ± 1.1). All items improved after the use of DMVEC, with overall mean score of IT-eHEALS increasing to 4.3 ± 0.6 (p < 0.01) for medical students and to 4.1 ± 0.8 (p < 0.01) for communication students. Also the items with the lowest scores improved, even if remained the most critical (medical students: mean score of 3.9 ± 1.2; communication students: mean score of 3.6 ± 1.4; p < 0.01).
Conclusions

Low levels of eHL can damage public health efforts, as seen during COVID19 pandemic. DMVEC effectiveness in college students demonstrated the benefit of online educational interventions that, with further implementation, could help in tackling infodemic and fake news spreading.