bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antenatal Dexamethasone Treatment Induces Sex-dependent Up-regulation of NTPDase1/CD39 and Ecto-5ʹ-nucleotidase/CD73 in the Rat Fetal Brain
Authors: Manojlovic-Stojanoski Milica , Lavrnja Irena , Stevanovic Ivana , Trifunovic Svetlana , Ristic Natasa , Nestorovic Natasa , Sévigny Jean , Nedeljkovic Nadezda , Laketa Danijela
Published: February 2021

Dexamethasone (DEX) is frequently used to treat women at risk of preterm delivery, but although indispensable for completion of organ maturation in fetus, antenatal DEX treatment may exert adverse sex-dimorphic neurodevelopmental effects. Literature findings implicated oxidative stress in adverse effects of DEX treatment.. Purinergic signalling is involved in neurodevelopment, and controled by ectonucleotidases, among which in the brain are most abundant ectonucleoside triphosphate diphosphohydrolase 1 (NTPDase1/CD39) and ecto-5ʹ-nucleotidase (e5ʹNT/CD73), which jointly dephosphorylate ATP to adenosine. They are also involved in cell adhesion and migration, critical for brain development. Up-regulation of CD39 and CD73 after DEX treatment was reported in adult rat hippocampus. We investigated the effects of maternal DEX treatment on CD39 and CD73 expression and enzymatic activity in the rat fetal brain of both sexes, in the context of oxidative status of the brain tissue. Fetuses were obtained at embryonic day (ED) 21, from Wistar rat dams treated with 0.5 mg DEX/kg/day, at ED 16, 17, and 18, and brains were processed and used for further analysis. Sex-specific increase in CD39 and CD73 expression and in the corresponding enzyme activities was induced in the brain of antenatally DEX-treated fetuses, more prominently in males. The oxidative stress induction after antenatal DEX treatment, was confirmed in both sexes, altghough showing a slight bias in males. Due to involvement of purinergic system in crucial neurodevelopmental processes, future investigations are needed to determine the role of observed changes in the adverse effects of antenatal DEX treatment.
Utilization of liquid product through pyrolysis of LDPE and C/LDPE as commercial wax
Authors: Akgün Hasret , Yapıcı Ece , Günkaya Zerrin , ÖZKAN AYSUN , Banar Müfide
Published: February 2021

Background
In this study, pyrolysis of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and LDPE with aluminum (C/LDPE) wastes was carried out with different heating rates (5-10-20°C/min) at different temperatures (400-600-800°C). The effect of temperature and heating rate on liquid product yield was investigated. Product yields of LDPE and C/LDPE wastes were compared, and optimum liquid products were analyzed to utilize as commercial waxes for future use.
Methods
To determine the parameters of pyrolysis wastes was investigated with proximate, elemental analysis, and TGA. The as-produced liquid from pyrolysis of wastes was characterized by different characteristic tools, such as elemental analyses, GC-MS analyzes, 1H-NMR tests, FT-IR spectra, the density, melting point, and carbon residue to compare commercial waxes. The characterization process was continued for the parameters with the optimum liquid products.
Results
As a result of pyrolysis, the highest liquid product yield was achieved at 800°C with 5°C/min heating rate (85.87 %), and at 600°C with 5°C/min heating rate (71.3 %) for LDPE and C/LDPE, respectively. The results indicated that the derived liquid products are similar to commercial heavy wax.
A Novel ACTL6A Exonic Circular RNA Exacerbates Polycystic Ovary Syndrome via Recruiting TET1
Authors: Zhang Lingzhi , Wang Fang , Li Dongmei , Yan Yufeng , Wang Hongyan
Published: February 2021

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder prevailing among females at reproductive age. Circular non-coding RNAs (circRNAs) are essential “player” in PCOS. This study aimed to investigate the potentials of newly found circRNA, circ_ACTL6A in PCOS. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) was utilized to establish PCOS model in vivo. qRT-PCR and western blot were applied to determine the gene expression level. DNA methylation was determined by bisulfite sequencing assay. RNA pull-down, Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay, and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay was applied to verify gene interactions. CCK-8, colony formation and 5-Ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) assay were applied to determine cellular function of human granulosa-like tumor cell line (KGN) cells. The results showed that circ_ACTL6A was upregulated in PCOS, which was due to the upregulation of RNA splicing factor eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4A3 (EIF4A3) and its cognate protein actin like 6A (ACTL6A). Downregulation of circ_ACTL6A suppressed the cell viability, colony formation and proliferation of KGN cells in vitro. Moreover, knockdown of circ_ACTL6A suppressed the progression of PCOS, manifested by the improvement in insulin sensitivity, ovarian function and fertility. Furthermore, circ_ACTL6A recruited tet methylcytosine dioxygenase 1 (TET1) to suppress DNA methylation of ACTL6A. Overexpression of ACTL6A promoted the development of PCOS in vivo and in vitro. Taken together, circ_ACTL6A/ACTL6A may form a positive feedback in the progression of PCOS. This may be a potential therapeutic target for PCOS.
Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus Transmission and Hospital-Acquired Bacteremia in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Greece
Authors: DOUDOULAKAKIS ANASTASSIOS GEORGE , Spiliopoulou Iris , Giormezis Nikolaos , Syridou Garyfallia , Nika Angeliki , Bozavoutoglou Elisavet , Militsopoulou Maria , Kalogeras Georgios , Tsolia Maria , Lebessi Evangelia
Published: February 2021

The epidemiology of methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) colonization and infections in a 30-bed, level III university-affiliated neonatal intensive care unit was retrospectively investigated (2014-2018). Virulence, resistance genes and clonality of 46 isolates were determined by PCRs and MLST. Of 1538 neonates, 77 (5%) had a positive culture for MRSA; four bacteremias occured. One major clone was identified, ST225 (23/40, 58%), imported from the same maternity hospital. Another clone, ST217, was predominant (4/6) among colonized health care workers. Four isolates classified as ST80 were PVL-positive, four tst-positive, and two etb-positive. Strengthening of infection control measures with emphasis on hand hygiene was applied.
Morphological and Mechanical Characterization of Al-4032/SiC/GMP Hybrid Composites
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Saini Pardeep , Singh Pradeep K.
Published: February 2021

The pattern of metal matrix composites can be enhanced by integrating the concept of hybrid composite to produce newer engineering materials. The morphological and mechanical characteristics of Al-4032/SiC/GMP hybrid composites have been investigated. The aluminium alloy (Al-4032) based hybrid composites have been fabricated through the bottom pouring stir casting set up, by reinforcing the silicon carbide (SiC) and granite marble powder ceramic particles as the reinforcement material at various fraction level i.e. 0, 3, 6, 9 weight% in equal proportion. The reinforcement particle size is up to 54 µm. The microstructural characterization of the hybrid composite samples has been carried out using optical microscope, SEM and XRD. The study reveals that the reinforcement hybrid particles (SiC + GMP) are almost uniformly distributed throughout the matrix phase. The mechanical properties (tensile strength, impact strength and microhardness) of the composite samples have been obtained and found to be better than the unreinforced alloy.
Increased Primaquine Total Dose in Patients with Multiple Plasmodium vivax Relapses Associated with Impaired CYP2D6 Activity: Report of Three Cases
Authors: Pina-Costa Anielle da , Silvino Ana Carolina Rios , Santos Edwiges Motta dos , Pedro Renata , Moreira Jose , Robleda Gabriela , Tavares Ana Danielle , Lupi Otilia , Henriques Karina , Daniel-Ribeiro Claudio Tadeu , Brasil Patricia , Sousa Tais , Siqueira Andre M
Published: February 2021

BackgroundThe relapsing nature of Plasmodium vivax infection is a major barrier to its control and elimination. Factors such as adequate dosing, adherence, drug quality, and pharmacogenetics can impact the effectiveness of radical cure of P. vivax and need to be properly evaluated. CYP2D6 pathway mediates the activation of primaquine (PQ) into an active metabolite(s) in hepatocytes, and impaired activity has been linked to higher risk of relapse. Cases presentationThree patients diagnosed with P. vivax malaria presented repeated relapses after being initially treated with chloroquine (25mg/kg) and primaquine (3.5mg/kg in 14 days) at a non-endemic travel clinic. Recurring episodes were subsequently treated with higher dose of primaquine (7mg/kg in 14 days), which prevented further relapses in two patients. However, one patient still presented 2 episodes after higher primaquine dose and was prescribed 300mg of chloroquine weekly to prevent further episodes. Impaired CYP2D6 function was observed in all of them. ConclusionLack of response to PQ was associated with impaired CYP2D6 activity in three patients presenting multiple relapses followed in a non-endemic setting. Higher PQ dosage was a safe and effectively prevented relapses in two patients and should be further investigated as an option in Latin America. It is important to investigate the factors associated with unsuccessful radical cure and alternative therapeutic options.
Anal human papillomavirus infection and its relations with abnormal anal cytology among MSM with or without HIV infection in Japan
Authors: Shiojiri Daisuke , Mizushima Daisuke , Takano Misao , Watanabe Koji , Ando Naokatsu , Uemura Haruka , Yanagawa Yasuaki , Aoki Takahiro , Tanuma Junko , Tsukada Kunihisa , Teruya Katsuji , Kikuchi Yoshimi , Gatanaga Hiroyuki , Oka Shinichi
Published: February 2021

Background Anorectal high-risk human papillomavirus (hr-HPV) infection is associated with anal malignancies. However, the epidemiological data is quite limited in Japan. Methods Anorectal swab was obtained from HIV-infected and –uninfected men who have sex with men (MSM). Only high-risk HPV genotypes were examined by the Hybrid Capture-based methodology. Anal cytology was determined by the modification of the Bethesda System classification. Results In total, 644 participants were included. No participant had history of HPV vaccination at inclusion. The overall prevalence of hr-HPV was 58.5% (95% confidence interval: 54.7-62.3). The most frequently detected hr-HPV genotypes in order were HPV-52, -16, and -58. Among the HPV infected subjects, 82.8% (312/377) were infected with at least one of the 9 valent vaccine covered genotypes. Incidence of abnormal cytology was positively correlated with the number of HPV genotypes infected rather than the difference in genotypes. Multivariate analysis identified the number of detected hr-HPV genotypes as well as HIV-infection were the independent risk factors for pre-cancer. Conclusion Nine valent vaccine preventable HPVs are currently prevalent among MSM in Japan. Also, increased numbers of hr-HPV genotypes were strongly associated with anorectal pre-cancer. Universal HPV vaccination should be considered for Japanese MSM.
Adsorption of Adipic acid in Al/B-N/P nanocages: DFT investigations
Authors: Al-Otaibi Jamelah S. , Mary Y.Sheena , Mary Y.Shyma , Serdaroglu Goncagül
Published: February 2021

Drug delivery clusters based on nanocages recently have been the most capable to study. Adipic acid (ADPA) interaction mechanism over nanocages of X(Al/B)12Y(N/P)12 was investigated. We analyzed various electronic, chemical and spectroscopic properties with nanocages of the adsorbed ADPA molecule. Adsorption energies were calculated to study the adsorption of ADPA with nanocages. Raman enhanced surface scattering is used to track the drug as an effective approach to vibrational spectroscopy. Detection of the drug has been investigated using the SERS properties of nanocages. Title drug acts as a donor of electrons and adsorbs at the electrophilic site of nanocages. Variations in chemical descriptors to recognize the sensing property of ADPA-nanocages are also noted. Analysis of various properties explains enhancement which makes it possible to detect the drug in other products.
Effect of Permanent Magnet Material on Failure-Pressure of Magnetic Fluid Seal
Authors: Zhang Tong , Li De-Cai , Li Yan-Wen
Published: February 2021

Material properties of permanent magnet in the magnetic fluid seal are important factors that determine the sealing effect. However, the relationship between the magnetic properties of permanent magnet and the failure-pressure has not been studied quantitatively in the available research. In this work, the relationship between material properties of permanent magnet and the failure-pressure of magnetic fluid seal was obtained from theoretical analysis and numerical simulation. The permanent magnet was changed in materials to calculate the failure-pressures of a typical magnetic fluid seal. The result shows that the failure-pressure of magnetic fluid seal grows with the maximum magnetic energy product of permanent magnet increases at the beginning, whereas there is a turning point. After that, the failure-pressure decreases as the maximum magnetic energy product increases.
An IBD-based mixed model approach for QTL mapping in multiparental populations
Authors: Li Wenhao , Boer Martin P. , Zheng Chaozhi , Joosen Ronny V.L. , Eeuwijk Fred A. van
Published: February 2021

Multiparental populations (MPPs) have become popular for QTL detection. Tools for QTL mapping in MPPs are mostly developed for specific MPPs and do not generalize to other MPPs. We present an IBD-based mixed model approach for QTL mapping in all kinds of MPP designs, e.g., diallel, Nested Association Mapping (NAM), and Multiparental Advanced Generation Intercrosses (MAGIC) designs. The first step is to compute identity-by-descent (IBD) probabilities using a general Hidden Markov model framework, called reconstructing ancestry blocks bit by bit (RABBIT). Next, functions of IBD information are used as design matrices, or genetic predictors, in a mixed model approach. The estimated parameters are random allelic effects associated with the parents. Family-specific residual genetic effects are added, and a polygenic effect is structured by kinship relations between individuals. Case studies of simulated diallel, NAM, and MAGIC designs proved that the IBD-based mixed model approach could increase true positive rates and mapping resolutions of QTLs in comparison to a widely used benchmark association mapping method. Successful analyses of various real data cases confirmed the wide applicability of our IBD-based mixed model methodology.
Accelerated endoplasmic reticulum and coagulation factor processing in platelets are linked with the hypercoagulable state of patients with lung cancer
Authors: Ercan Huriye , Mauracher Lisa-Marie , Grilz Ella , Hell Lena , Hellinger Roland , Schmid Johannes A. , Moik Florian , Ay Cihan , Pabinger Ingrid , Zellner Maria
Published: February 2021

Background

The risk of venous thromboembolism in cancer is nine times higher than in the general population and the second leading cause of death in these patients. Platelets play a key role in tumour growth, metastasis, and cancer-associated thrombosis. Despite this widely observed functional role of platelets in the prothrombotic state of certain cancers, the underlying molecular mechanisms are largely unknown.
Methods

In order to comprehensively expose cancer-related biochemical changes, we compared the platelet proteome of two types of cancer with a high risk of thrombosis (22 patients with brain cancer, 19 with lung cancer) to 41 matched healthy controls using unbiased two-dimensional differential in-gel electrophoresis. Cancer-related platelet proteins were statistically characterised by adjusted one-way ANOVA and planned comparisons post hoc tests. Significantly changed platelet proteins were identified by mass spectrometry. Afterward, selected cancer-associated platelet proteins were validated by 1-D and 2-D Western blots and/or functional assessments were made by association analysis with central haemostatic plasma parameters.
Results

The examined platelet proteome was unchanged in patients with brain cancer, but considerably affected in lung cancer with 15 significantly altered proteins. Amongst these, the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) proteins CALR, HSPA5 and P4HB were significantly elevated. Accelerated conversion of the fibrin stabilising factor has been detected in platelets of patients with lung cancer by elevated levels of a F13A1 55 kDa fragment. A significant correlation of this F13A1 cleavage product with plasma D-dimer levels suggests an enhanced degradation in platelets by the fibrinolytic system. Functional protein association network analysis showed that lung cancer-related protein profiles were involved in platelet degranulation and upregulated ER protein processing. The latter is important in the glycosylation of coagulation factors. As a possible outcome, plasma FVIII, an immediate end product for ER-mediated glycosylation, correlated significantly with the ER-executing chaperones CALR and HSPA5. In addition, several lung cancer-related platelet proteins such as decreased levels of ITGA2B are significantly linked to the plasmatic haemostasis factors D-dimer and fibrinogen.
Conclusions

These new data on the differential behaviour of platelets in various cancers revealed F13A1 and ER chaperones as potential novel diagnostic and therapeutic targets in lung cancer patients.
Hand Hygiene During Facility-Based Childbirth in Cambodia: A Theory-Driven, Mixed-Methods Observational Study
Authors: Nalule Yolisa , Buxton Helen , Ir Por , Leang Supheap , Macintyre Alison , Pors Ponnary , Samol Channa , Dreibelbis Robert
Published: February 2021

Background

Despite current efforts to improve hand hygiene in health care facilities, compliance among birth attendants remains low. Current improvement strategies are inadequate, largely focusing on a limited set of known behavioural determinants or addressing hand hygiene as part of a generalized set of hygiene behaviours. To inform the design of a facility –based hand hygiene behaviour change intervention in Kampong Chhnang, Cambodia, a theory-driven formative research study was conducted to investigate the context specific behaviours and determinants of handwashing during labour and delivery among birth attendants.
Methods

This formative mixed-methods research followed a sequential explanatory design and was conducted across eight healthcare facilities. The hand hygiene practices of all birth attendants present during the labour and delivery of 45 women were directly observed and compliance with hand hygiene protocols assessed in analysis. Semi-structured, interactive interviews were subsequently conducted with 20 key healthcare workers to explore the corresponding cognitive, emotional, and environmental drivers of hand hygiene behaviours.
Results

Birth attendants’ compliance with hand hygiene protocol was 18% prior to performing labour, delivery and newborn aftercare procedures. Hand hygiene compliance did not differ by facility type or attendants’ qualification, but differed by shift with adequate hand hygiene less likely to be observed during the night shift (p = 0.03). The midwives’ hand hygiene practices were influenced by cognitive, psychological, environmental and contextual factors including habits, gloving norms, time, workload, inadequate knowledge and infection risk perception.
Conclusion

The resulting insights from formative research suggest a multi-component improvement intervention that addresses the different key behaviour determinants to be designed for the labour and delivery room. A combination of disruption of the physical environment via nudges and cues, participatory education to the midwives and the promotion of new norms using social influence and affiliation may increase the birth attendants’ hand hygiene compliance in our study settings.
Association Between Obesity Grade and the Age of the First Acute Coronary Syndrome: Cross-sectional Observational Study
Authors: Demirci Deniz , Demirci Duygu E.
Published: February 2021

Background: The study evaluates how obesity grade is associated with age during the first acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and examines the effect of cardiovascular (CV) risk factors and the age of first ACS in patients with severe obesity. The effect of the degree of obesity on the age of first ACS may disappear in the absence of other CV risk factors Methods: We enrolled consecutive patients diagnosed with first episode of ACS between 2014 and 2019, and categorized them by body mass indices (BMI). Independent variables affecting the age of first ACS were examined by linear regression analysis. Results: A total of 1005 patients (mean age, 57.5 ± 12.3 years; 19.3% female) were included. Patients with ACS with severe obesity were younger than those with ACS in the grade-I obesity, overweight, and normal-weight groups (52.8 ± 9.9 vs.55.3 ± 10.9, 56.8 ± 11.4, and 61.4 ± 4.2, respectively, p < 0.001). BMI had a strong, inverse linear relationship with earlier age of first ACS. After adjustment CV risk factors, patients with severe obesity may experience first ACS sooner than those with normal-weight, overweight, and grade-I obesity (–3.4, −5.6, and –7.1 years, respectively; p < 0.001). However, males and females with severe obesity without CV risk factors experienced first ACS episode 22 and 27 years later, respectively. Conclusion: Patients with severe obesity experience first ACS episode 7.1 years earlier than those with normal-weight. Absence of CV risk factors in people with obesity can improve the potential negative effect of obesity on the ACS age. Trial registration: NCT04578964, 08 October 2020
Cytotoxicity assessment of stabilized black phosphorus nanosheets tailored by directly conjugated polymeric micelles: theranostic effect against human breast cancer cells
Authors: Biedulska M. , Jakóbczyk P. , Sosnowska M. , Dec B. , Muchlińska A. , Zaczek A. J. , Nidzworski D. , Bogdanowicz R.
Published: February 2021

The novel procedure of few-layer black phosphorus (FLBP) stabilization and functionalisation was here proposed. The cationic polymer PLL and non-ionic PEG have been involved into encapsulation of FLBP to allow sufficient time for further nanofabrication process and overcome environmental degradation. Two different spacer chemistry was designed to bind polymers to tumor-homing peptides. The efficiency of functionalisation was examined by RP-HPLC, microscopic (TEM and SEM) and spectroscopic (FT-IR and Raman) techniques as well supported by ab-initio modelling. The cell and dose dependent cytotoxicity of FLBP and its bioconjugates was evaluated against HB2, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cell lines. Functionalisation allowed not only for improvement of environmental stability, but also enhances theranostic effect by abolished the cytotoxicity of FLBP against HB2 cell line. Moreover, modification of FLBP with PLL caused increase of selectivity against highly aggressive breast cancer cell lines. Results indicate the future prospect application of black phosphorus nanosheets as nanocarrier, considering its unique features synergistically with conjugated polymeric micelles.
CO2 laser cutting of glass-fibre-reinforced unsaturated polyester (GFRUP): an experimental investigation
Authors: Rejani Ali Rezaei , Hashemzadeh Majid
Published: February 2021

Glass-fibre reinforced unsaturated polyester (GFRUP) is one the thermoset composites that has many applications in manufacturing productions. CO2 laser cutting of this composite has been significantly developed in industries. It is believed that the presence of glass fibre network in the matrix of thermoset affect the laser cutting process of this composite. In addition, the three-dimensional matrix of monomers along with carbon atoms in the atomic network's joints can also influence the laser cutting parameters. The aim of this research is to experimentally investigate the effect of these complicated structural properties on the CO2 laser cutting of GFRUP sheets. First, the maximum cutting speeds, in which the cut occurs, was obtained for various sheet thicknesses using a variety of powers. The kerf width was measured with using an optical stereo-microscope. Then, the laser cutting mechanism was discussed using the SEM of the cut edge surfaces. The volume cutting efficiency was also studied. The results indicate that the upper kerf width is wider than the lower kerf width. The upper kerf width is larger than the spot size of 0.3 mm. The chaotic striations on the cut edge surface are the re-solidified glass fibres and can be seen as something like stalactites which are in black due to the carbon dust. Opening of the lower kerf due to the shrinkage of the re-solidified glass fibre is reported as a phenomenon. The cutting efficiency decreases as sheet thickness increases.
Atypical DNA methylation, sRNA size distribution and female gametogenesis correlate with genome compaction in Utricularia gibba
Authors: Cervantes-Pérez Sergio Alan , Yong-Villalobos Lenin , Florez-Zapata Nathalia M.V. , Oropeza-Aburto Araceli , Rico-Reséndiz Felix , Amasende-Morales Itzel , Lan Tianying , Martínez Octavio , Vielle-Calzada Jean-Philippe , Albert Victor A. , Herrera-Estrella Luis
Published: February 2021

The most studied DNA methylation pathway in plants is the RNA Directed DNA Methylation (RdDM), a conserved mechanism that involves the role of noncoding RNAs to control the expansion of the noncoding genome. Genome-wide methylation levels have been reported to correlate with genome size. However, little is known about the catalog of noncoding RNAs and the impact on DNA methylation in compact plant genomes. Because the small genome size of the carnivorous plant Utricularia gibba we investigate the noncoding RNA landscape and global DNA methylation in a compact genome. Here, we report that, compared to other angiosperms, U. gibba has an unusual distribution of noncoding RNAs and reduced global DNA methylation levels, as determined by a novel strategy based on long-read DNA sequencing with the Pacific Bioscience platform and confirmed by whole-genome bisulfite sequencing. Moreover, reduced DNA methylation correlates with lack of a functional RdDM pathway, as U. gibba DICER-LIKE 3 (DCL3), encoding a DICER endonuclease that produces 24-nt small-interfering RNAs lost key domains required for complete function. Our findings unveil that lack of a functional DCL3 in U. gibba correlates with a decreased proportion of 24-nt small-interfering RNAs, low genome methylation levels, and developmental abnormalities during female gametogenesis that are reminiscent of RdDM mutant phenotypes in Arabidopsis thaliana. It would be interesting to further study the biological implications of the DCL3 truncation in U. gibba, as it could represent an initial step in the evolution of apomixis in compact genomes.
First Simultaneous Detection of Electron and Positron Bunches at the Positron Capture Section of the SuperKEKB Factory
Authors: Suwada Tsuyoshi , Rehman Muhammad Abdul , Miyahara Fusashi
Published: February 2021

The direct simultaneous detection of electron and positron bunch signals was successfully performed for the first time with wideband pickups and a detection system at the positron capture section of the SuperKEKB factory. The time interval between the electron and positron bunches, their bunch lengths, and bunch intensities depending on the phase of accelerating structures were measured to investigate their capture process and to maximally optimize the positron intensity. The results show that the time intervals were measured in the range of 135–265 ps, and the line-order switch of the electron and positron bunches in the axial direction was clearly observed as a function of the phase. The positron (electron) intensity was maximized at the optimal phase (180 deg shifted from the optimum). These series of measurements have never been experimentally conducted so far. It is demonstrated that the positron intensity can be systematically optimized with this system as functions of beam parameters in multidimensional spaces for any positron capture section.
Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte Ratio Associated With an Increased Risk of Mortality in Patients With Critical Limb Ischemia
Authors: Su Min-I , Liu Cheng-Wei
Published: February 2021

Purpose: Association of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) with mortality has not been comprehensively explored in critical limb ischemia (CLI) patients. We investigated the association between the NLR and clinical outcomes in CLI.Materials and methods: We retrospectively enrolled consecutive CLI patients during 1/1/2013–12/31/2018. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis determined NLR cutoffs for 1-year in-hospital, all-cause and cardiac-related mortality, and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) and limb events (MALEs).Results: Among 195 patients (age, 74.0 years, SD: 11.5; 51.8% male; BMI, 23.4 kg/m2, SD: 4.2), 14.4% exhibited acute limb ischemia. After 1 year, patients with an NLR>8 had higher in-hospital mortality (21.1% vs. 3.6%, P<0.001), all-cause mortality (54.4% vs. 13.8%, P<0.001), cardiac-related mortality (28.1% vs. 6.5%, P<0.001), MACE (29.8% vs. 13.0%, P=0.008), and MALE (28.1% vs. 13.0%, P=0.021) rates than those with an NLR<8. In multivariate logistic regression, an NLR≥8 was significantly associated with all-cause (P<0.001) and cardiac-related (adjusted HR: 5.286, 95% CI: 2.075-13.47, P<0.001) mortality, and an NLR≥6 was significantly associated with MALEs (adjusted HR: 2.804, 95% CI: 1.292-6.088, P=0.009).Conclusion: CLI patients with high NLRs had higher risks of 1-year all-cause and cardiac-related mortality and MALEs. The NLR can be used for prognostic prediction in these patients.
lncRNA028466 Regulates Th1/Th2 Cytokines Expression and Associated with Echinococcus Granulosus Antigen P29 Immunity
Authors: Wang Chan , Yang Songhao , Niu Nan , Tao Jia , Du Xiancai , Yang Jihui , Zhu Mingxing , Wang Yana , zhao wei
Published: February 2021

Background: Cystic echinococcosis (CE) is a parasite disease that was caused by Echinococcus granulosus (Eg). The recombinant Echinococcus granulosus antigen P29 (rEg.P29) has been shown to conferred effective immunity to sheep and mice during Echinococcus granulosus secondary infection in our previous study. In our study, we strove to research the ability of Long noncoding RNA 028466 (lncRNA028466) as a regulator for the protective immunity mediated by rEg.P29 vaccination and studied the effects of lncRNA028466 on CD4+T cells differentiation in mice spleen.Methods: Female BALB/c mice were divided into two groups and were vaccinated subcutaneously with rEg.P29 antigen and PBS as a control (12 mice each group). Following prime-boost vaccination, CD4+T, CD8+T，and B cells from the spleen were isolated by flow cytometry. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was performed to measure the expression of lncRNA028466 in these three kinds of cells. Then, lncRNA028466 was over-expressed and knock-downed. Furthermore, were d by qRT-PCR and ELISA were performed to evaluate the production of IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-4, and IL-10, as well as was flow cytometry was performed to detect the differentiation of Th1 and Th2 subgroups. Results: lncRNA028466 was significantly decreased after the second-week of immunization with rEg.P29 antigen. The proportion of CD4+T cells was increased after rEg.P29 immunization. Subsequent overexpression and knockdown of lncRNA028466 in naive CD4+T cells were performed to detect changes in Th1 and Th2 cytokines expression. Overexpression of lncRNA028466 facilitated the production of IL-4, IL-10 and suppressed the production of IFN-γ, IL-2. Furthermore, after transfection with siRNA028466, IL-2 production was facilitated and IL-10 production was suppressed in naive CD4+T cells.Conclusions: Immunization with rEg.P29 down-regulated the expression of lncRNA028466, which was related to a higher Th1 immune response, a higher Th2 immune response with lncRNA028466 overexpression, a higher IL-2 mRNA expression, and a lower IL-10 mRNA expression with lncRNA028466 knockdown. Our results suggest that lncRNA028466 may be involved in rEg.P29-mediated immune response by regulating cytokines expression of Th1 and Th2.
Prehabilitation interventions for patient undergoing Primary Replacement Arthroplasty: Protocol for scoping review
Authors: Jayaraman-Pillay Prithi , Chetty Verusia , Maddocks Stacy
Published: February 2021

BackgroundOsteoarthritis ranks fifth among all forms of disability worldwide 1 and it is estimated that 30.8 million adults have osteoarthritis 2. Primary replacement arthroplasty is the surgical treatment of choice to decrease pain and improve quality of life in late-stage OA 5. The current situation in South Africa, which is a lower- and middle-income countries LMICs, is that the waiting lists for arthroplasty is extensive with steep costs involved in the management of these patients in public sector hospitals which serves most of the population 7. Physiotherapist can have an impact on this situation by implementing measures to reduce length of stay postoperatively in the hospital by prehabilitation (Prehab). Hence a need to conduct a scoping review to identify the trends in literature regarding the content as well as the gaps.MethodsThe methodology will involve a literature search as described by Arksey and O’Malley19. The scoping review methods will adopt the framework proposed by the Joanna Briggs Institute guidelines. Literature searches will be conducted in the following electronic databases PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar and peer-reviewed journal papers will be included based on predetermined inclusion criteria. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method studies will be included to consider different aspects of measuring the effects of physical activity and exercise. Two reviewers will screen all citations and full-text articles and the main reviewer will abstract data, organize them into themes and sub-themes, summarize them, and report the results using a narrative synthesis. The study methodological quality will be appraised using a Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool.DiscussionThe proposed scoping review will map the breadth of knowledge available on topic of Prehab interventions in patients scheduled to undergo joint arthroplasty in terms of exercise prescription principles and other ways to implement pre-operative optimisation. The scoping review is the first part of a study that aims to design a prehab program suitable for a resource constrained LMICs health care system wherein the demographic and physical characteristics of its health users are unique and independent to the context. Systematic review registration: Open Science Framework https://osf.io/9fdsh/
Determination of the Occurrence of Toxoplasma Gondii, Giardia Duodenalis and Cryptosporidium spp. in leafy Greens in Marrakech using a Molecular Method
Authors: Berrouch salma , Escotte-Binet Sandie , Madline Atika , Aubert Dominique , Nast Eva , Carbona Stéphanie La , Hoummadi Laila , Dubey Jitender , Hafid Jamaleddine , Villena Isabelle
Published: February 2021

Background: The association between the parasitic illnesses and the consumption of contaminated food is more and more described. However, there is still a lack of studies investigating the occurrence of parasitic contamination in food matrices. The aim of the present study was to assess the presence of T. gondii and Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts and G. duodenalis cysts, in three leafy greens (coriander, lettuce and parsley) commonly consumed raw.Methods: A total of 152 leafy green samples were collected in Marrakech from April 2018 to October 2019. Parasites were eluted and concentrated before detection of their DNA by real-time qPCR. Results: The analysis revealed an overall rate of contamination of 32.2% (49/152), with 29.6% (45/152) positive for T. gondii, 2.6% (4/152) for G. duodenalis, while Cryptosporidium spp was not detected. Conclusion: The results showed that leafy greens vegetables available in markets of Morocco are subjected to protozoan parasites contaminations. Thus, humans can be exposed to these parasites through vegetables consumption. Further investigations can be performed to acquire new epidemiological data on the health risk of these protozoan diseases in Morocco.
Radiological Classification and Clinical Results of Arthroscopic and Open Surgical Release for Elbow Osteoarthritis: A Two-Center Comparative Case Series
Authors: Tatebe Masahiro , Morita Akimasa , Kurahashi Toshikazu , Hirata Hitoshi
Published: February 2021

Background This study aimed to compare the image classification and clinical results in cases of debridement arthroplasty for elbow osteoarthritis and to compare between open and arthroscopic surgery performed at two independent facilities. Methods Of the 51 patients who underwent surgery for elbow osteoarthritis performed by two doctors, 36 patients whom we were able to observe for more than 6 months were included. One doctor performed open surgery at one hospital, while another doctor performed arthroscopic surgery at the other hospital. There were 15 cases of open surgery (group O) and 21 cases of arthroscopic surgery (group A). All patients were examined for the range of motion, Hand20 score, and pain. The degree of osteoarthritis was examined using the Broberg and Morrey classification and Hastings and Rettig classification. The intra- and interobserver degree of agreement of the two classifications were analyzed using intraclass correlation coefficients.ResultsThe range of motion improved in both groups. There were no significant differences between the two groups with respect to incidence of ulnar symptoms, operation time, postoperative Hand20 score, postoperative pain, and degree of radiological osteoarthritis. The intra- and interobserver degree of agreement for radiological classifications were moderate to substantial and moderate, respectively. There was no correlation between the clinical results and radiological classifications. One patient in group A showed ectopic ossification but no serious complications or adverse events, such as nerve damage, were observed in either group. ConclusionsAt the time of the final follow-up, nearly the same results were observed in both groups. No relationship was found between symptoms and radiological osteoarthritis classification scores. Level of EvidenceTreatment study Level III
Personalisiertes Lernen mit digitalen Medien als Herausforderung für die Schulentwicklung
Authors: Schaumburg Heike
Published: February 2021

Ein zentraler Mehrwert digitaler Medien im inklusiven Unterricht ist die technische Unterstützung der Individualisierung von Lernprozessen. Unter dem Stichwort des «digital gestützten personalisierten Lernens» wird diese seit etwa einem Jahrzehnt von vielen Schulen weltweit erprobt. Mittlerweile liegen zahlreiche Forschungsarbeiten vor, die in der Debatte um Inklusion und Digitalisierung bislang weitgehend ignoriert werden. Das Anliegen des vorliegenden Textes ist es deshalb, den Stand der Forschung zum digital gestützten personalisierten Lernen aufzuarbeiten, um daraus Erkenntnisse abzuleiten, die auch für die Weiterentwicklung inklusiv-medialer Schul- und Unterrichtskonzepte relevant sind. Der nach den Vorgaben des ENTREQ-Statements erstellte systematische Forschungsbericht fasst die Ergebnisse von 18 Studien zusammen, in denen die Erfahrungen zahlreicher Pilotversuche ausgewertet wurden. Im Mittelpunkt steht dabei die Frage, wie sich die Einführung von digital gestütztem personalisiertem Lernen auf die Schulentwicklung auswirkt. Unter Verwendung des Drei-Wege-Modells der Schulentwicklung (Rolff und Thünken 2020; Rolff 1998) fasst der Überblick die Ergebnisse auf Unterrichts-, Personal- und Organisationsebene zusammen. Die Ergebnisse zeigen ein breites Spektrum von Umsetzungen. Ein bedeutender Mehrwert des digital gestützten personalisierten Lernens wird in der Bereitstellung zusätzlicher lernprozessbezogener Daten gesehen. Zahlreiche Barrieren auf allen drei Ebenen der Schulentwicklung behindern eine umfassende Implementierung.
Implementation of media practices in the work of libraries for children and youth
Authors: Polishchuk Tetiana , Kravchuk Oleksandra
Published: February 2021

The relevance of the study is due to the expansion of the media space of Ukrainian libraries for children and youth and the use of media practices on their pages in social networks. The aim is to study and compare the applied media practices by domestic libraries for children and youth, to consider new forms of work with the use of media content by libraries for young people and to illustrate their attractiveness to the user. To solve the tasks, the method of analysis of library content in new media, methods of comparison, generalization and sociocommunication were used. The presence of libraries in new media attracts the attention of young people, and information and communication technologies become intermediaries between the book collection and the user. An important component of the attractiveness of the library’s page in social networks is not only the expansion of new channels of communication, but also the creation of the author’s media content.
Publishing of Volodymyr Vynnychenko works by Kharkiv cooperative publishing house «Rukh»
Authors: Podolyaka Nadiya
Published: February 2021

The article considers the editorial aspects of preparation for the publication of works by the classic of Ukrainian literature, public and political figure V. Vynnychenko. It is emphasized that in the 20-30s of the twentieth century. It was at the Rukh Kharkiv Cooperative Publishing House that the first attempt was made to publish a complete collection of the writer’s works. A historical parallel was drawn between the two fates of the editor I. Lyzanivsky and the writer V. Vynnychenko, which helped to find a common ground and to draw conclusions. Particular attention is paid to V. Vynnychenko’s correspondence with the Publishing Board. Various aspects of preparing a complete collection of works are illustrated with examples, supported by considerations and explanations. The historical section of the facts made it possible to determine the violation of the use of V. Vynnychenko’s works without the consent of the author, which shows the inconsistency of the actual state of the economy of that time and the law declared in the laws.
Peculiarities of type­forming features of modern medical and biological publications «World Of Medicine And Biology»
Authors: Sushkova Olena
Published: February 2021

The purpose of the article is to analyze the journal «World Of Medicine And Biology» to determine the characteristics of the type-forming features of modern medical and biological publications as a segment of the information space. The stated topic in this context is considered for the first time, which will expand the concept of the scientific periodical’s functions of medical and biological content, its type-forming features, and the problem range of topics. This is the relevance of scientific research. In the course of the research the main type-forming features are determined, which in different sequence of their influence form the type of modern medical-biological publication as a segment of information space. They include the publishing form, frequency, and duration of publication, region of distribution, format, volume; functional, organizational and editorial, classroom, and informational features.
First report of Cactodera milleri Graney and Bird, 1990 from Colorado and Minnesota
Authors: Skantar Andrea M. , Handoo Zafar A. , Kantor Mihail R. , Hafez Saad L. , Hult Maria N. , Kromroy Kathryn , Sigurdson Kimberly , Grabowski Michelle
Published: February 2021

In 2019, Cactodera milleri cysts were discovered from soil samples collected from a Chenopodium quinoa field, located in Mosca, Alamosa county, Colorado, USA. Approximately 200 lemon shaped cysts and several hundred juveniles were recovered from the affected quinoa plants. The same species was also identified from several counties in Minnesota from samples submitted over the years by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture as part of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) efforts to survey states for the presence of Pale Potato Cyst Nematode. The cysts and juveniles (J2) were recovered from soil samples through sieving and Baermann funnel extraction. The nematode species was identified by both morphological and molecular means as Cactodera milleri (Graney and Bird, 1990). To our knowledge this represents the first report of Cactodera milleri from Colorado and Minnesota.
The Case of COVID-19 impact on the level of non-performing loans of conventional commercial banks in Indonesia
Authors: Epa Hardiyanti Siti , Hakim Aziz Lukmanul
Published: February 2021

This study aims to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on the increase in bad credits at conventional commercial banks in Indonesia. The data used in this study are secondary data sourced from the Ministry of Health and from the Financial Services Authority (OJK), each of which consists of 50 data samples. The data analysis technique used in this study is simple regression analysis to determine the magnitude of the influence of COVID-19 on non-performing loans. The results of the data analysis show that COVID-19 has a significant effect on non-performing loans, and the COVID-19 variable can be used as an external indicator of the increase in non-performing loans for commercial banks in Indonesia. The implication of the research is that other researchers can make COVID-19 an external indicator of an emergency beyond human ability that can affect the level of non-performing loans. For banking, this study can be used as a reference when considering credit risk management policy during the COVID-19 pandemic.
AcknowledgmentThe researchers are grateful to University of Sultan Ageng Tirtayasa for financial support. In addition, the authors sincerely apologize for the errors and mistakes found in this paper.
INVESTIGAÇÃO DIALÓGICA NA SALA DE AULA DE CIÊNCIAS: ETNOPESQUISA-FORMAÇÃO COM PROFESSORES DE CIÊNCIAS DA NATUREZA
Authors: Guidotti Charles Dos Santos , Heckler Valmir
Published: February 2021

O artigo apresenta compreensões de uma etnopesquisa-formação com professores, acerca da investigação dialógica na sala de aula de Ciências. Abrange a constituição do campo empírico, delimitada a análise de 43 relatos produzidos por professores do campo da Ciências da Natureza (Química, Física, Biologia e Ciências) em formação nas edições dos anos 2016 e 2017 do projeto de extensão CIRANDAR, desenvolvido em uma Universidade Pública Brasileira em parceria com Escolas de Educação Básica. Constitui-se a análise a partir da linguagem expressa nas produções textuais, com base na questão norteadora do estudo o que é isso que se mostra da investigação nos relatos dos professores de Ciências em formação no CIRANDAR? Assume-se a etnopesquisa-formação em uma abordagem fenomenológica hermenêutica como meio de construção epistemológica.  As informações foram analisadas seguindo os princípios da Análise Textual Discursiva (ATD), em que emergiram quatro categorias finais. Neste texto, apresentamos compreensões referentes à categoria IV) Investigação dialógica na sala de aula de Ciências em que a investigação dialógica é assumida pelo coletivo de professores analisado, como estratégia didático-pedagógica desencadeada pela problematização, com questionamentos dos estudantes e professores ao operar, de forma coletiva, informações e linguagem científica no constituir, negociar e comunicar significados na sala de aula de Ciências.