bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Trophic Basis of Fish Assemblages in Temperate Estuarine and Coastal Ecosystems
Authors: Goddard Belinda K. , Becker Alistair , Harasti David , Smith James A. , Suthers Iain M.
Published: July 2021

More than half of the fish biomass of coastal rocky reefs depends on zooplankton; however, the trophic basis of estuarine fish assemblages remains unknown. We quantified the trophic basis (i.e. basal energy sources) of fish community biomass inhabiting three habitat types (seagrass, natural reef and artificial reef) in two estuaries, and at two coastal rocky reef sites. Estuarine fish assemblages were surveyed with Baited Remote Underwater Video (BRUVs). Species abundance, richness and biomass of fish were classified into 9 functional feeding groups (3 elasmobranch and 6 teleost). Comparable metrics for coastal fish assemblages were obtained from published surveys using BRUV, remote underwater video and visual census survey methods. Using the functional feeding group biomass and the group-specific diet composition, the breakdown of energy sources was calculated using a food web analysis. Estuarine reef habitats had different species and different functional feeding group composition than seagrass habitat. The majority of fish biomass in the seagrass habitat was supported by detritus (51% at one estuary) or macrophytes (58% at the other estuary). In contrast, zooplankton supported most fish biomass (45-59%) at the coastal reef locations, and in reef habitat in one estuary (35-43%), but not the other estuary (33-34%). The trophic basis of estuarine and coastal fish assemblages reveals their potential response to urbanisation including changes to habitat, nutrient supply and current flow.
Robust Behavioural Effects in Response to Acute, But Not Repeated, Terpene Administration in Zebrafish (Danio Rerio)
Authors: Szaszkiewicz Joshua , Leigh Shannon , Hamilton Trevor J.
Published: July 2021

Terpenes are fragrant aromatic compounds produced by a variety of plants, most notably cannabis and hops. With increasing legalization of recreational and medicinal cannabis there is growing interest to better understand the behavioural effects of terpenes and ultimately their therapeutic value. Our study investigated the dose-dependent impact of three terpenes (limonene 0.25, 0.5, 0.75%; β-myrcene 0.001, 0.01, 0.1%; and 0.0001, 0.001, 0.00125% linalool) on zebrafish (Danio rerio) behaviour when exposed both acutely and repeatedly over a 7-day period. Anxiety-like behaviour, boldness, and locomotion were assessed using the open field test and the novel object approach test. In the acute dosing experiment, limonene and β-myrcene treatment groups demonstrated a significant decrease in locomotion, a decrease in anxiety-like behaviour, and an increase in boldness, while linalool treatment groups had minor alterations in locomotion. Moreover, chronic exposure to limonene (0.39%) or β-myrcene (0.0083%) did not result in any significant behavioural effects, suggesting that anxiety-like behaviour, locomotion, and boldness were not impacted at these levels. In conclusion, our study provides support for an anxiolytic and sedative effect in zebrafish in response to acute limonene, β-myrcene, and linalool exposure.
Change and Variability in Antarctic Coastal Exposure, 1979-2020
Authors: Reid Phillip , Massom Rob
Published: July 2021

Increased exposure of Antarctica’s coastal environment to ocean waves due to loss of a protective sea-ice “buffer” has important ramifications for ice-shelf stability, coastal erosion, important ice-ocean-atmosphere interactions and shallow benthic ecosystems. Here, we introduce an important new climate and environmental metric based on the ongoing long-term satellite sea-ice concentration record, namely Coastal Exposure Length or CEL. This is a daily measure of (change and variability in) the length and incidence of Antarctic coastline lacking any protective sea-ice buffer offshore i.e., connected directly to the open ocean. On average and for 1979-2020, ~50% of Antarctica’s ~17,850-km coastline is fully exposed at mean annual maximum exposure each February (austral summer) with minimal exposure in winter. Regional contributions vary from 45% (Amundsen-Bellingshausen seas) to 58% (Indian Ocean and Ross Sea), with overall (circumpolar) annual exposure ranging from 38% (2019) to 63% (1993). The northern Antarctic Peninsula is the only region with year-round coastal exposure. The annual maximum length of Antarctic coastline exposed to fully open-ocean conditions decreased by ~30 km (or ~0.32%) per year for 1979-2020, but this slight negative trend is composed of distinct regional and seasonal contributions. The new findings provide previously-unavailable information on change around Antarctica’s vulnerable coastal margins, to aid improved modelling and prediction of the likely trajectory of the coastal system in coming decades in response to climate change (including a projected increase in Southern Ocean wave energy.
Fermentation Profile, Nutritional Value, and Microbial Population of C4 Grasses Silages with or Without Bacterial Additive
Authors: Bernardo Sarah E. E. , Chrisostomo Paulo H. B. , Camilo Michele G. , Baffa Danielle F. , Processi Elizabeth F. , Fernandes Alberto M. , de Oliveira Tadeu Silva
Published: July 2021

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the use of bacterial additive (Lactobacillus plantarum and Propionibacterium acidipropionici) on chemical composition, in vitro gas production, pH, losses, aerobic stability, and microbial population of corn, pearl millet, and sorghum silages in plastic bags silos (without vacuum). The experiment was carried out in a randomized block design, in a 2 × 3 factorial scheme, with or without additive ([Control] without additive and Lactobacillus plantarum [2.5 × 1010 cfu/g] and Propionibacterium acidipropionici [2.5 × 1010 cfu/g] Biomax corn, Lallemand, Saint-Simon, France [LP]) and three crops of agricultural interest; pearl millet, sorghum, and corn, with four replicates per treatment. We performed chemical analyses and in vitro gas production to determine the nutritional value of the silages. We also evaluated the aerobic stability, ammoniacal nitrogen (NH3), pH, and microbial population of the silages. The additive increased the crude protein content (P = 0.0062) in corn and sorghum and decreased the LIG content (P = 0.0567). The gas production was not affected (P > 0.05) by the additive and neither between crops. In aerobic stability, we observed that the additive affected the temperature of the sorghum silage (P = 0.0123). The additive decreased NH3 (P = 0.0095) content. The additive increased (P = 0.0441) the lactic acid bacteria population in the pearl millet, corn, and sorghum silages. Thus, the bacterial additive did not improve the fermentation profile and nutritional value of corn, pearl millet, and sorghum silages in plastic bag silos.
Predictors of Teenage Pregnancy in Zambia Between 2007-2018
Authors: Packer Claire H. , Muntalima Nelly-Claire , Langer Ana , Mbizvo Michael T.
Published: July 2021

Background: In Zambia, 29% of adolescents aged 10-19 have begun childbearing. Early childbearing has been shown to have detrimental social and medical outcomes. As far as we are aware, there has been no study in Zambia that has investigated the drivers of teenage pregnancies over a 10-year period. Using DHS data, we sought to determine predictors of teenage pregnancies among teenagers in Zambia between the years of 2007 and 2018. Methods: We analyzed survey data of 11,194 adolescents from the 2007, 2014 and 2018 Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS), which are nationally representative. Analyses were conducted with Stata/SE software and we examined rates of teenage pregnancy based on multiple predictors of interest. Chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression models were employed for statistical comparison using a p-value of 0.05 to indicate statistical significance. Results:After exclusions, 11,194 adolescents under the age of 19 were included in our analysis, with a 29% prevalence of teenage pregnancy. Teenagers were more likely to become pregnant if they were married, had younger sexual debut, had less education, were illiterate, lived in rural areas, or were of the poorest wealth index than if they were not. Among adolescents with teenage pregnancies, utilization of sexual and reproductive health services among teen mothers significantly increased between 2007 and 2018. On multivariate analysis, teenage pregnancy was found to be significantly different given predictors when compared to the reference group, with significant effect modification due to marital status. Conclusion: Our study identified significant demographic, intrapersonal, and socioeconomic factors that have impacted rates of teenage pregnancy in Zambia over the past 10 years. Understanding these drivers can inform programmatic interventions targeting reduction of teenage pregnancies.
A Novel Coumarin-Based Fluorescent Probe With Aggregation Induced Emission for Detecting Cn− and Its Applications in Bioimaging
Authors: Deng Sha , Lei Qiao , Cai Junzhe , Jiang Yuliang , Shen Jian
Published: July 2021

Although cyanogen ion (CN-) plays important role in industry which also bring acute environmental pollution. More serious, trace CN- enters the human body can cause serious consequences and even death. Therefore, it is of great significance to detect trace CN- with high sensitivity. Herein, a novel aggregation-induced emission (AIE) probe C-BH was synthesized based on coumarin matrix. Probe C-BH showed high selectivity and sensitivity toward CN- by dual channel response due to the excited state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT). The low detection limit was calculated to be 0.05 µM. Moreover, probe C-BH was successfully used for imaging CN- in living cells and zebrafish due to its low toxicity and excellent optical properties.
Influence of Crossbreeding of Ghezel Ram With Grey Shirazi Ewe on Growth Performance, Feed Efficiency and Carcass Traits of Fattening Lambs
Authors: Karimi Abdolhamid , Abarghuei Mohammad Javad , Boostani Alidad
Published: July 2021

In this investigation, performance, feed efficiency and carcass traits of 48 weaned crossbred Grey Shirazi × Ghezel and purbred Grey Shirazi fattening lambs (mean live weight, 28.5 ± 0.5 kg and age, 115 ± 5 days) were evaluated. Lambs were divided into 4 groups contain the GM group (12 purebred male lambs of Grey Shirazi ewe × Grey Shirazi ram), the GF group (12 purebred female lambs of Grey Shirazi ewe × Grey Shirazi ram), the CM group (12 crossbred male lambs of Grey Shirazi ewe × Ghezel ram) and the CF group (12 crossbred female lambs of Grey Shirazi ewe × Ghezel ram). The dry matter intakes (DMI), average daily gain (ADG) and carcass traits in the lambs were determined. The DMI was greater in CF lambs compared to GF lambs (P < 0.001). Feed conversion ratio (FCR) was higher in male lambs comparing to female lambs (P = 0.001). The final body weight, ADG, live weight at the slaughtering and hot carcass weight (HCW) were lower in GF lambs compared to another lambs (P < 0.001, P = 0.003). Cold carcass weight (CCW) in CM lambs was higher than in other groups. The Longissimus dorsi (LD) area was higher in crossbreed male lambs (P = 0.001). Crossbreeding improved grow performance (final body weight and ADG) in male and female lambs. Carcass trait was improved by crossbreeding especially in male lambs. Sex effect on growth performance and carcass traits was noticeable and male lambs had superior growth.
Antimicrobial Resistance Profile of Clinically Isolated Bacteria at Wolaita Sodo University Teaching Referral Hospital
Authors: Anjulo Temesgen , Seid Habtamu , Sidamo Temesgen , Balcha Tamrat , Abiso Temesgen Lera
Published: July 2021

Background: Antibiotic resistance is a serious threat to the human populations everywhere. However, less attention is given to its concern in sub-Saharan Africa including Ethiopia. There is information gap for the prescribers regarding antibiotic resistance and its pattern. The aim of this study was to review the antimicrobial resistance pattern of bacteria in Wolaita Sodo University Teaching Referral Hospital. Methods: Three years retrospective data of cultures and records of 330 patients were used to analyze the antibiotic sensitivity pattern. The statistical softwares including Epidata 3.5.1 and SPSS version 21 were used. Laboratory records lacking age, sex, culture isolation or drug susceptibility test data were excluded. Results: Out of 330 samples extracted from the microbiology laboratory, 150 samples were culture positive for bacteria isolates. From positive culture growth, 73.3% were gram positive bacteria whereas 26.7% were gram negative. Staphylococcus aureus was the most prevalent isolate among gram-positive isolates as Escherichia coli was for gram negative isolates. Overall antimicrobial resistance of gram positive isolates was 54.2% where as that of gram negative bacteria was 60.0%.Conclusion: As per this study, S. aureus and E. coli were the pathogenic isolates of highest prevalence among gram positive and gram-negative bacteria, respectively, in the study population. Most of the isolated pathogens showed high resistance towards the commonly prescribed antimicrobial agents.
Novel Mutations Detected from Drug Resistant Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Isolated from North East of Thailand
Authors: Thwe Ei Phoo , Namwat Wises , Pinlaor Porntip , Rueangsak Kulrattana , Sangka Arunnee
Published: July 2021

The emergence of drug-resistant tuberculosis is a major global public health threat. Thailand is one of the top 14 countries with high tuberculosis, tuberculosis co-infected with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and multi-drug resistant tuberculosis rates. Immediate detection of drug-resistant tuberculosis is necessary to reduce mortality and morbidity by effectively providing treatment to ameliorate the formation of resistant strains. Limited data exist of mutation profiles in Northeastern Thailand. Here, 65 drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates were used to detect mutations by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and DNA sequencing. In the katG gene, mutations occurred in 47(79.7%) among 59 isoniazid resistant samples. For rpoB gene, 31 (96.9%) were observed as mutations in 32 rifampicin resistant isolates. Of 47 katG mutation samples, 45 (95.7%) had mutations in katG 315 codon and 2 (4.3%) showed novel mutations at katG 365 with amino acid substitution of CCG-CGG (Pro-Arg). Moreover, 18 (58.1%) mutations at rpoB 531, 11 (35.5%) mutations at rpoB 516, 10 (32.3%) mutations at rpoB 526 and 1 (3.2%) mutation at rpoB 533 were found between 31 rifampicin resistant samples. Common and novel mutations of the rpoB and katG genes in Northeastern Thailand were generated. DNA sequencing showed high accuracy, while conventional polymerase chain reaction could be applied as an initial marker for screening rifampicin and isoniazid drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis in Northeastern Thailand. Mutations reported here should be considered when developing new molecular diagnostic methods for implementation in Northeastern Thailand.
Antiphospholipid Antibodies in Patients with Covid-19: Trend Over Time
Authors: Mancuso Silvia , Truglia Simona , Sorice Maurizio , Alessandri Cristiano , Pasquali Flavia , Capozzi Antonella , Riitano Gloria , Mastroianni Claudio Maria , Riccieri Valeria , Misasi Roberta , Conti Fabrizio
Published: July 2021

Purpose Aim of the study was to investigate whether aPL positivity correlated with thrombosis in COVID-19 patients and whether it was transient or persistent. Methods We enrolled COVID-19 patients who underwent aPL tests: Lupus Anticoagulant (LA); IgM, IgG, IgA anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL); and IgM, IgG anti-β2-Glycoprotein-I antibodies (aβ2GPI). Results Twenty-eight out of 73 (38.4%) patients resulted positive for at least one aPL assay: 32.8% for IgA aCL, 6.8% for IgM aCL and 4.1% for IgM aβ2GPI. No patients tested positive for IgG aPL or LA at the first determination. Seven (9.6%) patients developed thrombotic events during hospitalization, with 4 of them resulting positive for aPL. In patients with thrombotic events during hospitalization the risk of death was increased 9-fold (LR+8.9, p=0.003). Patients with double positivity for aCL and aβ2GPI IgM had a LR+ of 6.3 to have thrombotic events (p=0.012) and a LR+ of 4.9 to have elevated D-dimer levels (p=0.027). In 10 out of 28 positive patients, aPL was detected in a second occasion at least 12-weeks apart and two patients confirmed the positivity. Conclusion Results suggest that double positivity for aCL and aβ2GPI IgM increases the risk of thrombosis in COVID-19, unlike IgA aCL positivity. APL positivity may be persistent, and it is advisable to monitor it over time.
Dynamic Landscape of Mitochondrial Cytidine-To-Uridine RNA Editing in Tobacco (Nicotiana Tabacum) Shows its Tissue Specificity
Authors: Fang Jing , Jiang Xiaohan , Wang Tengfei , Deng Zhiyu , Zhang Aidi , Zhang Xiujun
Published: July 2021

The Cytidine-to-Uridine (C-to-U) RNA editing is a prevalent nucleoside modification at RNA level in plants. However, it is unclear whether the dynamics of C-to-U RNA editing is related to its tissues. In this study, we explored the tissue specificity of mitochondrial RNA editing based on RNA-seq data from tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) root, stem, leaf, and flower tissues. As a result, a total of 331 RNA editing sites involving in 54 mitochondrial genes were identified. Among these identified RNA editing sites, 78 sites were confirmed tissues-specific. The results revealed dynamic landscape of conserved editing sites in editing efficiency among different tissues. To investigate the mechanism of tissue specificity of mitochondrial RNA editing in Nicotiana tabacum, the expression of RNA editing factor PPR genes was analyzed. The result shows that the expression level of PPR genes in each tissue also varies from different tissues, indicating the heterogeneity of RNA editing in different tissues might result from the tissue specificity of PPR genes expression. Our analyses provide insights into understanding landscape, regulation and function of RNA editing events in plants.
COVID-19: Factors Associated with Psychol­­­ogical Distress, Fear, and Coping Strategies among Community Members Across 17 Countries
Authors: Rahman Muhammad Aziz , Islam Sheikh Mohammed Shariful , Tungpunkom Patraporn , Sultana Farhana , Alif Sheikh M , Banik Biswajit , Salehin Masudus , Joseph Bindu , Lam Louisa , Watts Mimmie Claudine , Khan Sabria Jihan , Ghozy Sherief , Chair Sek Ying , Chien Wai Tong , Schoenfeldt-Lecuona Carlos , El-Khazragy Nashwa , Mahmud Ilias , Mawali Adhra Hilal Al , Maskari Turkiya Saleh Al , Alharbi Rayan Jafnan , Hamza Amr , Keblawi Mohamad Ali , Hammoud Majeda , Elaidy Asmaa M , Susanto Agus Dwi , Moni Ahmed Suparno Bahar , AlQurashi Alaa Ashraf , Ali Almajdoub , Wazib Amit , Sanluang Cattaliya Siripattarakul , Elsori Deena H , Yasmin Farhana , Taufik Feni Fitrani , Kloub Manal Al , Ruiz Mara Gerbabe , Elsayed Mohamed , Eltewacy Nael Kamel , Laham Nahed Al , Oli Natalia , Abdelnaby Ramy , Dweik Rania , Thongyu Ratree , Almustanyir Sami , Rahman Shaila , Nitayawan Sirirat , Al-Madhoun Sondos , Inthong Suwit , Alharbi Talal Ali , Bahar Tamanna , Ginting Tribowo Tuahta , Cross Wendy M.
Published: July 2021

Background: The current pandemic of COVID-19 impacted the psychological wellbeing of populations globally. Objectives: We aimed to examine the extent and identify associated factors of psychological distress, fear of COVID-19, and coping.Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study across 17 countries during Jun-2020 to Jan-2021. Levels of psychological distress (Kessler Psychological Distress Scale), fear of COVID-19 (Fear of COVID-19 Scale), and coping (Brief Resilient Coping Scale) were assessed. Results: A total of 8,559 people participated; mean age (±SD) was 33(±13) years, 64% were females and 40% self-identified as frontline workers. More than two-thirds (69%) experienced moderate-to-very high levels of psychological distress, which was 46% in Thailand and 91% in Egypt. A quarter (24%) had high levels of fear of COVID-19, which was as low as 9% in Libya and as high as 38% in Bangladesh. More than half (57%) exhibited medium to high resilient coping; the lowest prevalence (3%) was reported in Australia and the highest (72%) in Syria. Being female (AOR 1.31 [95% CIs 1.09-1.57]), perceived distress due to change of employment status (1.56 [1.29-1.90]), comorbidity with mental health conditions (3.02 [1.20-7.60]) were associated with higher levels of psychological distress and fear. Doctors had higher psychological distress (1.43 [1.04-1.97]), but low levels of fear of COVID-19 (0.55 [0.41-0.76]); nurses had medium to high resilient coping (1.30 [1.03-1.65]). Conclusions: The extent of psychological distress, fear of COVID and coping varied by country; however, some groups were more vulnerable than others. There is an urgent need to prioritise health and well-being of these people through well-designed intervention that may need to be tailored to meet country specific requirements.
WITHDRAWN: Diagnosis of Gout is not Associated with Growth of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms
Authors: Thanigaimani Shivshankar , Phie James , Quigley Frank , Bourke Michael , Bourke Bernie , velu Ramesh , Golledge Jonathan
Published: July 2021

IntroductionGout is a systemic inflammatory disease which has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events but its association with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) progression is unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of gout with growth of small AAA. MethodsPatients with initial AAA diameter measuring 30-54mm were recruited from surveillance programs at four Australian centres. Maximum AAA diameter was measured with a standardised and reproducible protocol to monitor AAA growth. Presence of gout was defined by clinical diagnosis by clinician or prescription of medications used to treat gout. Linear mixed effects modelling was performed to examine the independent association of gout with AAA growth. ResultsA total of 637 participants, including 66 (10.3%) diagnosed with gout, received a median of 4 (Inter-quartile range (IQR): 3, 6) scans over a median follow-up of 1.8 (IQR: 1.0, 3.0) years. In unadjusted analyses, participants with diagnosis of gout had a slower mean annual AAA growth of -0.3 mm/year (95% CI: -0.7, 0.2; p=0.25) than those without gout. After adjusting for potential confounders including initial AAA diameter, body mass index, prior stroke and anti-hypertensive medication prescription, gout was not significantly associated with AAA growth (-0.3 mm/year; 95% CI: -0.7, 0.2; p=0.24). Sensitivity analyses investigating the impact of initial AAA diameter on the association of gout with AAA growth found no interaction. ConclusionThis study suggests diagnosis of gout is not associated with growth of small AAA.
Effect of Glioma Stem Cells-derived Extracellular Vesicles on Glucose Metabolism Reprogramming in Glioma via the miR-26a/KLF4/PI3K/Akt axis
Authors: Jia Jiaoying , Peng Yong , Wang Ming , Ma Wenjia , Liu Min , Zhang Mingming , Yu Mengqiang
Published: July 2021

BackgroundGlioma represents one of the most intractable malignancy occurring in central nervous system. Glioma stem cells (GSCs) constitute a type of seed cells with self-renewal and multi-directional differentiation potentials. This study investigated the mechanism of GSCs-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) in glucose metabolism reprogramming in glioma.MethodsGlioma cells were treated with different concentrations (10, 20 and 30 μg/mL) of GSCs-EVs. Glucose consumption and lactic acid and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production were measured and expressions of key enzymes in glycolysis pathway (PFK1, HK2 and PKM2) were detected. The proliferation, invasion and migration of glioma cells were measured. miR-26a expression in GSCs-EVs-treated cells was detected. The targeting relationship between miR-26a and KLF4 was predicted and verified. The phosphorylation levels of PI3K and Akt were detected. Glioma cells were co-incubated with GSCs-EVs and pcDNA-KLF4 to verify the role of PI3K/Akt pathway in glucose metabolism reprogramming.ResultsGlucose consumption and lactic acid and ATP production were promoted, and expressions of PFK1, HK2 and PKM2 were increased in GSCs-EVs-treated cells. GSCs-EVs facilitated proliferation, invasion and migration of glioma cells. miR-26a expression was enhanced in GSCs-EVs-treated cells. GSCs-EVs carried miR-26a into glioma cells and promoted glucose metabolism reprogramming. miR-26a inhibitor reduced the promoting effect of GSCs-EVs on glucose metabolism reprogramming. miR-26a repressed KLF4 expression and activated the PI3K/Akt pathway in glioma cells.ConclusionmiR-26a carried by GSCs-EVs promoted glucose metabolism reprogramming in glioma via targeting KLF4 and activating the PI3K/Akt pathway. This study may offer new insights for targeted intervention of glioma.
Targeting the Radiation-Induced ARv7-Mediated circNHS/miR-512-5p/XRCC5 Signaling With Quercetin Signaling Increases Prostate Cancer Radiosensitivity
Authors: Chen Dong , Chou Fu-Ju , Chen Yuhchyau , Tian Hao , Wang Yaqin , Niu Yuanjie , Huang Chiping , You Bosen , Yeh Shuyuan , Xing Nianzeng , Chang Chawnshang
Published: July 2021

BackgroundRadiation therapy (RT) with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is an effective therapy to suppress the locally advanced prostate cancer (PCa). However, we unexpected found that RT could also inducing the androgen receptor splice variant 7 (ARv7) expression to decrease the radiosensitivity. MethodsThe study was designed to target ARv7 expression with Quercetin or ARv7-shRNA led to enhancing increase the radiation sensitivity to better suppress the PCa that involved the modulating the circNHS/miR-512-5p/XRCC5 signaling.ResultsMechanism studies revealed that RT-induced ARv7 may function via altering the circNHS/miR-512-5p/XRCC5 signaling to decrease the radiosensitivity. Results from preclinical studies using multiple in vitro cell lines and in vivo mouse models concluded that combining RT with small molecule of Quercetin to target full-length AR and ARv7 could lead to better efficacy to suppress PCa progression. Conclusion﻿Together, these results suggest that ARv7 may play key roles to alter the PCa radiosensitivity, and targeting this newly identified ARv7 mediated circNHS/miR-512-5p/XRCC5 signaling with Quercetin may help us to develop a novel RT to better suppress the progression of PCa.
Total Replacement of Millet Silage with BRS-716 Biomass Sorghum Silage in Crossbred Dairy Heifers Diets: Nutrient Intake and Digestibility, Microbial Protein Synthesis, Ingestive Behavior, and Growth Performance
Authors: Hora Fernanda Ferreira da , Júnior Vicente Ribeiro Rocha , Monção Flávio Pinto , Rigueira João Paulo Sampaio , Cordeiro Matheus Wilson Silva , Cruz Fernanda Naiara Fogaça da , Souza Ícaro Daniel Alves dos Santos , Alencar Amanda Maria Silva , Albuquerque Carlos Juliano Brant , Leal Dijair Barbosa
Published: July 2021

This study addressed the different proportions of millet and sorghum silage biomass BRS 716 (BRS-716 silage) in the diet of crossbred heifers ½ to ¾ Holstein x Zebu on their nutrient intake, and digestibility, microbial protein synthesis, nitrogen balance, ingestive behavior, and growth performance. Five experimental diets with 0, 25/75, 50/50, 75/25, and 100% of BRS-716 silage in compared to millet silage were evaluated. The roughage: concentrate ratio in the total dry matter (DM) of the diets was 75:25. The diets were evaluated in ten heifers with an initial body weight of 264.95 ± 19.4 kg (± SEM), following the experimental design in two 5 x 5 Latin squares, simultaneously. The increase in the proportion of BRS-716 silage in the diet of crossbred dairy heifers did not change the dry matter intake (DMI), total digestible nutrients, indigestible neutral detergent fiber (iNDFI), and metabolizable energy. The means observed for DMI, and iNDFI were 7.85 kg/day, and 1.18 kg/day, respectively. For the excretion of purine derivatives, and microbial synthesis, there was no significant effect (P > 0.05), the mean microbial crude protein synthesis was 503.37 g/day. The different proportions of the BRS-716 silage, and millet silage did not change the final body weight (P = 0.89), weight gain (P = 0.08), feed efficiency (P = 0.50), and the body measurements of heifers (P > 0.05). The final body weight and average daily gain of heifers were 278.46 kg, and 0.795 kg/day, respectively. The millet silage, and BRS-716 silage in the diet of crossbred Holstein x Zebu heifers, used exclusively or combined in different proportions, allow dry matter intake, and nutrients, digestibility, nitrogen balance, microbial crude protein synthesis, ingestive behavior, and performance similar body.
Research of an Optical Device Based on a Anisotropic Epsilon-Near-Zero Metamaterial
Authors: Wang zhibin , Cheng qiufan , Li xin , Li zhiquan , Meng shuhan
Published: July 2021

In this work, a novel design of an electro-tunable narrow channel based on an anisotropic epsilon-near-zero (AENZ) metamaterial is presented. The ENZ condition can be flexibly tuned by an applied gate voltage. This permittivity-tunable channel is composed of alternating layers of graphene and nanoglass with a thickness of 3nm. Additionally, this channel is utilized in a dual output light modulator to expand its application. Numerical analysis results show that the maximum transmittance of incident light can reach 96.7%, and the extinction ratio (ER) of the device is 14.8dB when the gate voltage is added to 4.96V at the near-infrared wavelength based on the finite element method (FEM). This ultracompact optical device may open a new realm in highly integrated photonic circuits, especially on the nano-chips.
Comparison of Clinical Performance and Subjective Outcomes Between Two Diffractive Trifocal Intraocular Lenses (IOLs) and One Monofocal IOL in Bilateral Cataract Surgery
Authors: Imburgia Aurelio , Gaudenzi Francesco , Mularoni Kira , Mussoni Gloria , Mularoni Alessandro
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To compare clinical outcomes and subjective experience after bilateral implantation of two diffractive trifocal and one monofocal intraocular lenses (IOLs). Methods: Fourty-eight patients were allocated to receive bilateral implantation of the RayOne Trifocal IOL (Rayner), the AcrySof IQ PanOptix IOL (Alcon), or the AcrySof IQ SN60WF IOL (Alcon). At 1-month, 3-month, and 12-month follow-up visits, the tested outcomes were monocular and binocular uncorrected and corrected distance, intermediate at 70 cm, and near at 30 cm visual acuities, subjective refractive outcomes, defocus curves, contrast sensitivity and ocular aberrometry. Subjective patient satisfaction in terms of visual disturbance and spectacle independence was also evaluated. Results: Each group comprised 32 eyes (16 patients). Refractive outcomes of RayOne and PanOptix IOLs were comparable. Both trifocal IOLs demonstrated superior visual acuity to the AcrySof monofocal IOL at near and intermediate ranges and along the defocus curves at all points other than at 0.0 D. The patient satisfaction results were comparable between the RayOne and PanOptix trifocal IOL groups. Conclusion: Both trifocals performed similarly providing good visual outcomes at all distances, demonstrating superior visual acuity compared to the monofocal IOL. Patients implanted with these trifocal IOLs reported similar levels of quality of vision and satisfaction. The RayOne trifocal and PanOptix IOLs are a valuable alternative for patients wishing to seek spectacle independence and low visual disturbances when undergoing cataract surgery.
Sarcopenia, Obesity, and Cardiometabolic Risk Factors Among the Elder Population in Taiwan
Authors: Chang Chun-Yung , Lin Ming-Hsun , Kuo Chih-Chun , Lu Chieh-Hua , Wu Der-Min , Tsai Ming-Kai , Chu Nain-Feng
Published: July 2021

Background: Sarcopenia and obesity have become important public health and clinical issues worldwide, especially in an aging society like Taiwan. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cardiometabolic risk factors among the different weight status and grip strength status among elder individuals in Taiwan.Methods: We administered a series of community-based health surveys among the elder population in Chiayi County, Taiwan, from 2017 to 2019. Anthropometric characteristics, handgrip strength, and cardiometabolic risk profiles were measured using standard methods. History of chronic diseases was also asked. The questionnaires, including questions regarding any history of chronic diseases, were administered to the subjects under the assistance of a research technician.Results: This study recruited 3739 subjects (1600 males and 2139 females). The non-obese group had lower blood glucose (BG) levels compared to the obese group (100.3 ± 32.2 mg/dl vs 109.1 ± 34.3 mg/dl for the male subjects; 102.8 ± 32.1 mg/dl vs. 112.5 ± 40.3 mg/dl for the female subjects). The grip strength was negatively associated with BG in both sexes (β = −0.357, p < 0.001 for the male subjects male and β = −0.385, p < 0.05 for the female subjects). Relationship between the grip strength and the risk of cardiometabolic disease showed that for every 1 kg increase in the grip strength, there was a 4.1% and 4.5% decrease in the risk for developing diabetes in male and female subjects, respectively (OR = 0.959, 95% CI = 0.940–0.979 for males and OR = 0.955, 95% CI = 0.932–0.978 for females).Conclusions: A higher handgrip strength is associated with a lower BG level and lower risk for developing diabetes mellitus among elder population in Taiwan. Health promotion studies to increase muscle mass along with early rehabilitation programs should focus on the obese and sarcopenic population to prevent cardiometabolic comorbidities.
Who Would Benefit from Nasointestinal tube in Small Bowel Obstruction?—A Matched Case-Control Study
Authors: Wang Hui , Zhang Jun-rong , Chen Shuai , Hou Ping , Chen Qing-feng , Weng Zong-qi , Shang-guan Xin-chang , Lin Bing-qiang , Chen Xianqiang
Published: July 2021

Background: Nasointestinal tubes (NITs) have been increasingly used in patients with small bowel obstruction (SBO); However, severe adverse events (SAEs) of NITs might threaten the lives of patients. The indications of NITs need to be identified. This study was designed to explore the indications for the insertion of NITs in patients with SBO and to suggest the optimal strategies for individuals based on the outcomes of SAEs.Methods: After propensity score matching, 68 pairs were included (Success group and failure group). The occurrence of SAEs and the clinical parameters were compared between the SAE group and the non-SAE group. Independent risk factors were evaluated among the subgroups. A novel scoring system was established to detect the subgroups that would benefit from NITs insertion.Results: Successful implementation of NITs could avoid hypochloremia (p=0.010), SAEs (p=0.001), pneumonia (p=0.006). SAEs occurred in 13 of 136 (9.6%) patients who accepted NITs insertion treatment. Risk factors for SAEs included tumors (p=0.002), reduced BMI (p=0.048), reduced hemoglobin (p=0.001), abnormal activated partial thromboplastin time (p=0.015) and elevated white blood cells (p=0.002). A novel risk scoring system consists of hemoglobin before NITs insertion (95% CI: 0.685, 0.893) and bowel obstruction symptoms relieved after NITs insertion (95% CI: 0.575, 0.900) had the highest area under curve (AUC) for predicting the occurrence of SAEs. We divided the risk score system into 3 grades, with the increasing grades, the rates of SAEs surged from 1.3% (1/74) to (6/11) 54.5%.Conclusion: NITs successfully insertion could avoid SAEs occurrence in SBO conservative treatment. SBO patients without anemia and could be relieved after NITs insertion could be the potential benefit group for this therapy.
Epidemiological Features and Intra-operative Pattern of Gastrointestinal Tract Injury: a Single Center, Descriptive Study.
Authors: Bananzadeh Ali Mohammed , Borazjani Roham , fard Hossein Abdolrahimzadeh , Paydar Shahram
Published: July 2021

Background: Delayed diagnosis of gastrointestinal tract injury (GITI) could lead to terrify results and increase morbidity and mortality. Therefore, surgeons should be well-trained regarding the pattern and features of GITIs. In the recent study, we aimed to describe the epidemiological features and intra-operative characteristics of all patients sustaining GITIs.Methods: A 2-year retrospective, cross-sectional study was conducted in the only referral trauma center in the south of Iran, from June 2018 to September 2020. A well-formed search was conducted within the database of our center to find patients with GITIs. Demographic data, on-arrival vital signs, and the outcomes were extracted from the patients' medical records and our center's database. In addition, intraoperative features of injuries were extracted from the operation note.Result: Totally, 247 patients were detected 142 (57.5%) had blunt abdominal trauma. The most common mechanism of injury was motor vehicle accidents (116 patients, 46.9%), followed by stabbing (21.9%) among all populations. Of note, patients following blunt injuries were significantly older [38.22 (16.62)] than those with penetrating insults, had longer hospital length of stay (both P-values <0.001), and had significantly higher mortality rate (P-value= 0.001).The most frequent isolated injury following a blunt trauma was small bowel (S.B) (66.9%), colon (21.0%), and duodenum (7%), respectively. However, in penetrating injury, S.B (26.7%), colon (21.9%), and stomach (13.3%) were the three most frequent injured sites. Liver injury was the most common associated injury following blunt (58.1%) and penetrating (48.1%) trauma Conclusion: Our study has shown that GITIs are not as uncommon as previously thought. Therefore, all physicians should always search for and consider GITIs in patients sustaining abdominal trauma to avoid patients' morbidity and mortality.
Cholinergic signalling influences the expression of immune checkpoint inhibitors, PD-L1 and PD-L2, in human colorectal cancer tissues and cell lines
Authors: Kuol Nyanbol , Godlewski Janusz , Kmiec Zbigniew , Fraser Sarah , Apostolopoulos Vasso , NURGALI KULMIRA
Published: July 2021

Background

Cancer cells express immunosuppressive molecules, such as programmed death ligands (PD-L)1 and PD-L2, enabling evasion from the host's immune system. Cancer cells synthesize and secrete acetylcholine (ACh), acting as an autocrine or paracrine hormone to promote their proliferation, differentiation, and migration.
Methods

We correlated the expression PD-L1, PD-L2, cholinergic muscarinic receptor 3 (M3R), alpha 7 nicotinic receptor (α7nAChR), and choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) in colorectal cancer (CRC) tissues with the stage of disease, gender, age, risk, and patient survival. The effects of a muscarinic receptor blocker, atropine, and a selective M3R blocker, 4-DAMP, on the expression of immunosuppressive and cholinergic markers were evaluated in human CRC (LIM-2405, HT-29) and intestinal epithelial (T4056) cells.
Results

Increased expression of PD-L1, M3R and ChAT at stages III-IV was associated with a high risk of CRC and poor survival outcomes independent of patients' gender and age. α7nAChR and PD-L2 were not changed at any CRC stages. Atropine and 4-DAMP suppressed proliferation and migration of human CRC and T4056 cells, induced apoptosis, decreased PD-L1, PD-L2 and M3R expression in CRC cells via inhibition of EGFR and phosphorylation of ERK and STAT3.
Conclusions

The expression of immunosuppressive and cholinergic markers may increase the risk of recurrence of CRC. These markers might be used in determining prognosis and treatment regimens for CRC patients. Blocking cholinergic signalling may be a potential therapeutic for CRC through anti-proliferation and anti-migration via inhibition of EGFR and phosphorylation of ERK and STAT3. These effects allow the immune system to recognize and eliminate cancer cells.
Analysis on the Levels of Hope and Influencing Factors of Infertile Women with First-time and Repeated IVF-ET Cycle
Authors: Ni Ying , Huang Limin , Tong Chenye , Qian Wen , Fang Qiong
Published: July 2021

Purpose: To explore the hope level and influencing factors of infertile women with first-time and repeated in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET).Methods: Patients were divided into First (first-time) and Repeat (≥2 cycles) groups, then questionnaire survey was conducted. The questionnaire included demographic information, Herth hope index (HHI) scale, Locke-Wallace short marital-adjustment test scale and social support rating scale. Multiple linear regression was used to analyze the associated influencing factors with hope level.Results: A total of 298 IVF-ET patients were recruited in the study, including 150 (50.3%) in the first cycle and 148(49.7%) in the repeated cycle. The HHI score of the repeated cycle was significantly lower than that of the first cycle (34.4 ± 3.5 vs. 37.5± 3.7, P<0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis indicated that repeated IVF-ET and age was independently negatively correlated with HHI, with a standardized coefficient β of -0.895 and -0.223, both P＜0.001. While high education level (P=0.002), high monthly income(P=0.020), high degree of short marital-adjustment test(P＜0.001) and social support rating(P＜0.001) were independently positively correlated with HHI.Conclusion: The infertile women with repeated IVF-ET have a low hope level. Maintaining a good marriage adjustment, establishing a good social support and relationship network, may effectively improve their hope level.
Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio and Chemotherapy Response Score as prognostic markers in ovarian cancer patients treated with Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy
Authors: Liontos Michalis , Andrikopoulou Angeliki , Koutsoukos Konstantinos , Markellos Christos , Skafida Efthymia , Fiste Oraianthi , Kaparelou Maria , Thomakos Nikolaos , Haidopoulos Dimitrios , Rodolakis Alexandros , Dimopoulos Meletios-Athanasios , Zagouri Flora
Published: July 2021

BackgroundNeoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) followed by interval debulking surgery (IDS) is the recommended approach in patients with advanced epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). However, most patients eventually relapse despite the initial high response rate to chemotherapy. Chemotherapy response score (CRS) and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) have been identified as potential biomarkers of platinum resistance and disease prognosis. We retrospectively evaluated 132 patients with stage IIIc or IV ovarian/fallopian tube/primary peritoneal cancer who had received NACT followed by IDS from 01/01/2003 to 31/12/2018. CRS was assessed on omental specimens collected from IDS according to ICCR guidelines. ResultsMedian age was 64.57 years (SD: 9.72; range 39.2 - 87.1). Most ovarian tumors were serous epithelial (90.9%; 120/132). An elevated NLR (defined as > 3) was observed in 72% (95/132) of patients in contrast with 28% (37/132) of patients characterized by low NLR status. Median PFS (mPFS) and median overall survival (mOS) were 13.05 months (95% CI: 11.42-14.67)) and 34.69 months (95% CI: 23.26 - 46.12) respectively. In univariate analysis, CRS3 score was significantly associated with prolonged mPFS (CRS1/2: 12.79 months vs CRS3: 17.7 months; P= 0.008). CRS score was not associated with mOS (P=0.876). High NLR was not significantly associated with mPFS (P=0.128), however it was significantly associated with poor mOS (P=0.012). In multivariate analysis, only performance of surgery maintained its statistical significance with both PFS (P=0.001) and OS (P=0.008).ConclusionNLR could serve as a useful predictor of OS but not PFS in ovarian cancer patients receiving NACT. In accordance with our previous study, CRS score at omentum was found to be associated with PFS but not OS in ovarian cancer patients treated with NACT and IDS.
Reactive Zinc Extraction in MRDC Column; Case Study by Mathematical Modelling and Applying the Droplet Size Distribution with Forward Mixing Approach
Authors: Shakib Benyamin , Torkaman Rezvan , Torab-Mostaedi Meisam , Saremi Mojtaba , Asadollahzadeh Mehdi
Published: July 2021

In this survey, the reactive mass transfer data are determined for zinc extraction from chloride solution using D2EHPA in the MRDC extraction column. The numerical analysis for evaluating the column performance is applied to describe mass balance equations. Four mathematical models (backflow, forward mixing, plug flow, and axial dispersion) are investigated to compute the mass transfer coefficients of the dispersed phase. The solvent extraction experiments showed that the optimum zinc transport efficiency in rotor speed of 410 rpm in this column is equal to 98.85% and 99.85 for extraction and stripping stages, respectively. The model's achievement is compared with the solvent extraction data and a significant validity is obtained by coupling the forward mixing approach. The mathematical modeling expresses that the coefficients of axial dispersion and backflow based on the continuous phase increase by an increase in the rotor speed and inlet continuous phase rate. While these coefficients reduce at a higher inlet dispersed phase rate. The FMM method is preferred to predict the reactive mass transfer rate in the MRDC column due to the lowest relative deviation. The experimental study and mathematical modeling in this report provide beneficial information about the metallurgical industry to design solvent extraction equipment.
A Combination Approach of Pseudotime Analysis And Mathematical Modeling For Understanding The Drug-Resistant Mechanisms
Authors: Magi Shigeyuki , Ki Sewon , Ukai Masao , Domínguez-Hüttinger Elisa , Naito Atsuhiko , Suzuki Yutaka , Okada Mariko
Published: July 2021

Cancer cells acquire drug resistance through the following nonresistant, pre-resistant, and resistant stages. Although the molecular mechanism of drug resistance is well investigated, the process of drug resistance acquisition remains largely unknown. Here we elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the process of drug resistance acquisition by sequential analysis of gene expression patterns in tamoxifen-treated breast cancer cells. Single-cell RNA-sequencing indicates that tamoxifen-resistant cells can be subgrouped into two, one showing altered gene expression related to metabolic regulation. The other showed high expression levels of adhesion-related molecules and histone-modifying enzymes. Pseudotime analysis showed a cell transition trajectory to the two resistant subgroups that stem from a shared pre-resistant state. An ordinary differential equation model based on the trajectory fitted well with the experimental results of cell growth. Based on the established model, it was predicted and experimentally validated that inhibition of transition to both resistant subtypes would prevent the appearance of tamoxifen resistance.