bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Artificial intelligence in the identification of prognostic DNA methylation biomarkers among patients with cancer: a scoping review of epigenome-wide studies
Authors: Yuan Tanwei , Hoffmeister Michael
Published: January 2022

DNA methylation signatures are becoming increasingly important in the perspective of precision oncology. Artificial intelligence (AI) represents a powerful tool that could properly analyze high-dimensional DNA methylation data. There has been a surge of epigenome-wide association studies that leverage the power of AI techniques to identify prognostically relevant DNA methylation biomarkers. But the methodological strategies used are quite heterogeneous. This scoping review will comprehensively summarize studies conducted in this direction. We will search PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science for studies published as of 30 August 2021 and identify eligible studies by inclusion criteria. We will extract study characteristics, assess methodological quality, and summarize AI methods and pipelines used by included studies. The potential limitation of this study would be the lack of well-established criteria to judge the validity of existing pipelines and to provide suggestions in terms of the selection of pipelines for future studies.
Social Status Predicts Different Mating and Reproductive Outcomes for Men and Women in China: Evidence from the 2010-2017 CGSS Data
Authors: Zhang Yikang , Santtila Pekka
Published: January 2022

Evolutionary psychological theories posit that higher social status is conducive to men’s reproductive success. Extant research from historical records, small scale societies, as well as industrialized societies, support this hypothesis. However, the relationship between status difference between spouses and reproductive outcomes has been investigated less. Moreover, even fewer studies have directly compared the effect of status and status difference between spouses on reproductive outcomes in men and women. Using data from the Chinese General Social Survey (CGSS) conducted between 2010 and 2017 (N = 55,875; 28,931 women) and operationalizing social status as standardized income and educational level (compared with same-sex peers), we examined how social status and relative status between spouses impact men’s and women’s mating and reproductive outcomes. We found that (1) men with higher social status were more likely to have long-term mating (being in a marriage and/or not going through marriage disruption) and reproductive success, mainly through having a lower risk of childlessness; (2) women with higher social status were less likely to have mating and reproductive success; and (3) relative status between spouses had an impact on the couple’s reproductive success so that couples, where the husband had higher status compared to the wife, had higher reproductive success. Thus, social status positively impacted men’s reproductive success, but relative status between spouses also affected mating and impacted childbearing decisions.
Factors Influencing Radon Transport in the Soils of Moscow
Authors: Gavrilev Sakhaiaan , Petrova Tatiana , Miklyaev Petr
Published: January 2022

This article delves into the factors that may influence radon flux, such as soil properties and weather conditions on the example of two experimental locations with different soil compositions, composed primarily of clay and sand respectively. The experimental location with sandy soil was previously observed to have anomalously high radon flux levels. Radon monitoring was performed routinely, approximately at the same time of day and in parallel on both of these locations to exclude the influence of diurnal variations. The results show that radon transport on these locations differs in mechanism: location with clay soil has diffusive radon transport, with an average radon flux density of 37.4 ± 24.9 mBq m-2 s-1 and a range of 0.3 – 167.8 mBq m-2 s-1, while the location with sandy soil has convective radon transport with an average radon flux density of 93.6 ± 51.2 mBq m-2 s-1 and a range of 9.8 – 302.2 mBq m-2 s-1. This corresponds to about 8.3% of RFD measurements on site with clay soils exceeding the national reference level of 80 mBq m-2 s-1 and 45.6% exceeding them on the site with sandy soils. Average radon flux density values were then compared to meteorological variables using Pearson correlation analysis with Student’s t-test. It was observed that radon flux density inversely correlates most strongly with ambient air temperature in both cases, while a weaker inverse correlation is observed with atmospheric precipitation and wind speed for the diffusive radon transport. Radon activity concentration in soil air correlates with the flux density and air temperature only in the case of convective radon transport and does not correlate with anything else.
The Oviposition Cue Indole Inhibits Animal-Host Attraction in Aedes Aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) Mosquitoes
Authors: Dekel Amir , Sar-Shalom Evyatar , Vainer Yuri , Yakir Esther , Bohbot Jonathan Daniel
Published: January 2022

Mosquitoes represent a major source of disease transmission and possess the uncanny ability to locate suitable animal-hosts, a feature mediated by their exquisite olfactory system. Insect repellents such as N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide, also called DEET, have been shown to activate and inhibit mosquito odorant receptors, resulting in behavioral modulation. This and other repellents available for personal protection against mosquitoes are topically applied on the skin and operate at a short range. In our search for potential long-range odorant repellents, we have hypothesized that the shared chemical similarities between indole and DEET may confer the former the ability to block odorant receptor function and inhibit human-host attraction. Using the two-electrode voltage clamp of Xenopus laevis oocytes as a pharmacological platform, we provide evidence that indole inhibits the Aedes aegypti (R)-1-octen-3-ol receptor OR8, a receptor involved in the decision of female mosquitoes to identify human hosts. Coincidentally, behavioral experiments in an arm-in-cage and flight tunnel assays suggest that indole inhibits animal-host seeking behavior in female Aedes aegypti. Together, our findings suggest that indole may be a candidate spatial repellent for the long-range protection of humans against mosquito bites.
Accumulation of biomedical waste due to COVID-19: Concerns and strategies for effective treatment to control the pandemic
Authors: Pavithiran Pon , Bhatia Arpit , Verma Anmol , Shah Nehal Ratnesh , Pratyush Prakash , Shanmugarajan Vigneswaran , Kim Sung Chul , Poongavanam GaneshKumar , Duraiswamy Sakthivadivel
Published: January 2022

This research paper deals with the pollution impact of biomedical waste (BMW) generation due to the COVID-19 pandemic, at both global and national levels. This discussion is important in the light of clear scientific evidence that apart from the airborne transmission of the disease, the virus also survives on different surfaces carrying with it the risk of infection. Moreover, an investigation is conducted on the generation of biomedical waste in tons/day in India during the COVID period and future projections are also made. In addition, a pioneering study has been carried out to estimate the usage of facemasks in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic in India. This paper also provides a feasible solution by adopting a modern perspective towards the handling of BMW generated in the context of the SARS-Cov-2 virus at isolation wards and crematoriums. Stratagem approaches are suggested for the segregation and safe disposal of BMW. The latest availability of disposal facilities has been discussed based on the source data provided by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Even though a variety of disposal mechanisms are currently being followed in India, deliberations are made with Quantitative and Qualitative disposal deploying the popular incineration technology. The impact of the existing incineration technology on the environment and human health is extensively studied. The study is concluded with the suggestions of an effective measure to control the generation of BMW during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Exploring the association between birthweight and breast cancer using summary statistics from a perspective of genetic correlation, mediation, and causality
Authors: Zhang Meng , Qiao Jiahao , Zhang Shuo , Zeng Ping
Published: January 2022

Background

Previous studies demonstrated a positive relationship between birthweight and breast cancer; however, inconsistent, sometimes even controversial, observations also emerged, and the nature of such relationship remains unknown.
Methods

Using summary statistics of birthweight (n=264,498 for own birthweight and 179,360 for offspring birthweight) and breast cancer (n=266,081), we assessed the fetal/maternal-specific genetic correlation between them via LDSC and prioritized fetal/maternal-specific pleiotropic genes through MAIUP. Relying on summary statistics we conducted Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses to evaluate the fetal/maternal-specific origin of causal relationship between birthweight, age of menarche, age at menopause and breast cancer.
Results

With summary statistics we identified a positive genetic correlation between fetal-specific birthweight and breast cancer (rg=0.123 and P=0.013) as well as a negative but insignificant correlation between maternal-specific birthweight and breast cancer (rg=-0.068, P=0.206); and detected 84 pleiotropic genes shared by fetal-specific birthweight and breast cancer, 49 shared by maternal-specific birthweight and breast cancer. We also revealed fetal-specific birthweight indirectly influenced breast cancer risk in adulthood via the path of age of menarche or age at menopause in terms of MR-based mediation analysis.
Conclusion

This study reveals that shared genetic foundation and causal mediation commonly drive the connection between the two traits, and that fetal/maternal-specific birthweight plays substantially distinct roles in such relationship. However, our work offers little supportive evidence for the fetal origins hypothesis of breast cancer originating in utero.
Incidence and Risk Factors Associated with Technique Failure in the First Year of Peritoneal Dialysis: A Single Center Retrospective Cohort Study in Southern China
Authors: Yang Xiao , Dong Xiao , Wu Haishan , Ye Hongjian , Yi Chunyan , Diao Xiangwen , Liu Ruihua , Mao Haiping , Huang Fengxian , Yu Xueqing
Published: January 2022

Background: Technique failure is more likely to occur during the first 12 months after peritoneal dialysis (PD) initiation, which is a great challenge encountered in PD patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence and risk factors associated with technique failure within the first year of PD patients in Southern China.Methods: Incident PD patients who were followed up for at least one year at The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University from January 1, 2006 to December 31, 2015 were included. Technique failure was defined as transfer to hemodialysis (HD) for more than 30 days or death within the first year after start of PD. A competitive risk regression analysis was used to explore the incidence and risk factors of the technique failure. Results: Overall, 2,290 incident PD patients were included in this study, with a mean age of 48.2 ± 15.7 years, 40.9% female and 25.2% with diabetes. A total of 173 patients (7.5%) had technique failure during the first year of PD. Among them, the patient death account for 62.4%(n=108) and transferring to HD account for 37.6% (n=65). The main reasons for death were cardiovascular diseases (n=32, 29.6%), infection (n=15, 13.8%) and for conversion to HD were catheter dysfunction (n=28, 16.2%), infection (n=22, 12.7%). The risk factors for the technique failure included advanced age (HR 2.78, 95%CI 1.82-4.30), low body mass index (BMI＜18.5 kg/m2: HR 1.77, 95%CI 1.17-2.67), history of congestive heart failure (HR 2.81, 95%CI 1.58-4.98), or HD (HR 1.49, 95%CI 1.05-2.10), peritonitis (HR 2.02, 95%CI 1.36-3.01) ;while higher serum albumin (HR 0.93, 95%CI 0.89-0.96) and using employee medical insurance to pay expenses (HR 0.47, 95%CI 0.32-0.69) were associated with reduced risk.Conclusions: Advanced age, poor nutritional status, history of HD or congestive heart failure, and peritonitis are related factors that increase the risk of technique failure in first year of PD, while patients' type of medical insurance may also have an influence on early technique failure.
Uncertainty Health Risk Assessment and Regional Control of Drinking Water: A Case Study of Hanyuan County, Southwest Mountainous Area, China
Authors: Lin Zhengjiang , Liu Ying , Cheng Zhihui , Zhao Rui , Zhang Han
Published: January 2022

To evaluate the health risks of drinking water in Hanyuan County, 96 samples of peripheral drinking water were collected from 30 sites in the area. The samples were then analysed for physicochemical properties including Fe, Mn, NH 3 -N, , F-, Pb, Hg, As, Cr 6+ , Cd, and so on. The health risks of ten trace elements in drinking water were probabilistically assessed using the health risk assessment model and Monte Carlo simulation. On this basis, sequential indicator simulations were used to classify the health risk levels of drinking water in the region, to conduct hierarchical management and control. The results showed that except for , all other indicators met World Health Organisation standards and China’s drinking water sanitation standards. Drinking water presents a specific carcinogenic risk to adults, and the cumulative contribution of As and Cr 6+ exceeds 95%, and has a specific non-carcinogenic risk to children if the cumulative contribution of F - , , and As exceeds 90%. Grade I, II, and III non-carcinogenic risk areas accounted for 0.89%, 24.72%, and 74.39% of the total area of Hanyuan County, respectively, while grade I, II, and III carcinogenic risk areas accounted for 27.71%, 45.56%, and 26.73% of the total Hanyuan County area, respectively. Finally, according to the health risk characteristics of each control area, corresponding zoning control suggestions were proposed.
Dynamical photon-photon interaction mediated by a quantum emitter
Authors: Jeannic Hanna Le , Tiranov Alexey , Carolan Jacques , Ramos Tomás , Wang Ying , Appel Martin , Scholz Sven , Wieck Andreas , Ludwig Arne , Rotenberg Nir , Midolo Leonardo , Ripoll Juanjo , Sørensen Anders S. , Lodahl Peter
Published: January 2022

Single photons constitute a main platform in quantum science and technology: they carry quantum information over extended distances in the future quantum internet1 and can be manipulated in advanced photonic circuits enabling scalable photonic quantum computing. The main challenge in quantum photonics is how to generate advanced entangled resource states and efficient light-matter interfaces offer a path way. Here we utilize the efficient and coherent coupling of a single quantum emitter to a nanophotonic waveguide for realizing quantum nonlinear interaction between single-photon wavepackets. This inherently multimode quantum system constitutes a new research frontier in quantum optics. We demonstrate control of a photon with another photon and experimentally unravel the dynamical response of two-photon interactions mediated by a quantum emitter, and show that the induced quantum correlations are controlled by the pulse duration. The work will open new avenues for tailoring complex photonic quantum resource states.
Amphiregulin Regulates Differentiation of Dental Pulp Stem Cells by Activation of Mitogen-activated Protein Kinase and the Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase Signaling Pathways
Authors: He Wenxi , Li Junqing , Wang Zhihua , Wang Juan , Guo Qian , Fu Yi , Dai Zihan , Wang Minghao , Bai Yu , Liu Xin , Cooper Paul , Wu Jiayuan
Published: January 2022

Background: Human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) have received widespread attention in the fields of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Although amphiregulin (AREG) has been shown to play a vital function in the biological processes of various cell types, its effects on DPSCs is still unknown. The aim of this study was to explore the specific role of AREG as a biologically active factor in the regeneration of dental pulp tissue.Methods: The growth of hDPSCs, together with their proliferation and apoptosis, in response to AREG was examined by CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry. We explored the effects of AREG on osteo/odontogenic differentiation in vitro and investigated the regeneration and mineralization of hDPSCs in response to AREG in vivo. The effects of AREG gain-and loss-of-function on DPSC differentiation were investigated following transfection using overexpression plasmids and shRNA, respectively. The involvement of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) or phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathways in the mineralization process and expression of odontoblastic marker proteins after AREG induction was investigated by using Alizarin Red S staining and western blotting. Results: AREG (0.01-0.1µg/mL) treatment of hDPSCs from 1 to 7 days minimally increased hDPSCs growth and marginally affected apoptosis compared with negative controls. AREG exposure significantly promoted hDPSCs differentiation, shown by increased mineralized nodule formation and the expression of odontoblastic marker protein expression. In vivo micro-CT imaging and quantitative analysis showed significantly greater formation of highly mineralized tissue in the 0.1μg/mL AREG exposure group in DPSC/NF-gelatin-scaffold composites. AREG also promoted extracellular matrix production, with collagen fiber, mineralized matrix, and calcium salt deposition on the composites, as shown by H&E, Masson, and Von Kossa staining. Furthermore, AREG overexpression boosted hDPSCs differentiation while AREG silencing inhibited it. During the differentiation of DPSCs, AREG treatment led to phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and PI3K/Akt. Notably, a specific inhibitor of ERK, JNK, and PI3K/Akt signaling markedly reduced AREG-induced differentiation, as well as levels of phosphorylated ERK and JNK in hDPSCs. Conclusions: Data indicated that AREG enabled odontoblastic differentiation and facilitated the regeneration and mineralization processes in hDPSCs.
Numerical Simulation of Flow Characteristics In Compound Channels With Emergent Vegetation
Authors: Zhu Yunze , Pan Cunhong , Sun Yihao
Published: January 2022

As part of the coastal wetland ecosystems, mangroves thrive at the interface between land and water. The slope connecting the main river channel and floodplain has been found with different angle. The vegetation density also influence the penetration of the flow. This research studied the hydrodynamics in a partially vegetated compound channel by using the 2DH RANS model in Delft3D. The numerical model is calibrated with the results of flume experiments. The drag coefficient with a value of 0.8 and the background horizontal eddy viscosity with a value of 10-4 m2/s are suggested according to calibration of the model. The influence of different slope angle and vegetation density on flow characteristics is studied. It is concluded from the model results that a denser vegetation patch leads to stronger momentum exchange at the edge of vegetation patch. It is also found that a slope angle around 1/10, which is the most typical slope angle in Mekong estuarine system, leads to the strongest eddy structure and the largest amount of momentum transport into the vegetation patch. It implies that a slope angle around 1/10 might be the equilibrium state of topography in mangrove coast.
Lymphocele or Seroma After Modified Radical Mastectomy for Breast Cancer: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
Authors: CRESTANI Adrien , Katia MAHIOU , Marie-Lucile BODET , Alice ROOSEN , Claire BONNEAU , Roman ROUZIER
Published: January 2022

Seroma or lymphocele remains the most common complication after mastectomy and lymphadenectomy for breast cancer. Many different techniques are available to prevent this complication. We searched MEDLINE, clinicaltrials.gov, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases for publications addressing the issue of prevention of lymphocele or seroma after mastectomy and axillary lymphadenectomy. Quality was assessed using a standardised tool. Incidence of seroma or lymphocele were collected. Fifteen randomized controlled trials including a total of 1,766 patients undergoing radical mastectomy and axillary lymphadenectomy for breast cancer were retrieved. The incidence of lymphocele or seroma in the study population was 24.2% (411/1698): 25.2% (232/920) in the test groups and 23.0% (179/778) in the control groups. Neither modification of surgical technique (RR= 0.86; 95%CI [0.72, 1.03]) nor application of a medical treatment (RR= 0.96; 95%CI [0.72, 1.29]) was effective in preventing lymphocele. On the contrary, decreasing the drainage time increased the risk of lymphocele (RR= 1.88; 95%CI [1.43, 2.48). To conclude, despite the heterogeneity of study designs, drainage appears to be the most effective technique.
A Comparative Analyses of Dexamethasone and Neem Leaf Extract for Treating Cigarette-Smoke Induced Liver Injury in Swiss Mice
Authors: Verma Anushree , Sini Subhashini , Srivash Vishal , Khajuria Yashasvi
Published: January 2022

Cigarette smoke induces cytokines and lipid peroxidation in liver cells contributing to one of the causes for mortality across the globe. Dexamethasone is widely used for medication yet it decreases the levels of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase in macrophages. Therefore, present study focused on the comparison between dexamethasone and Azadirachta indica leaf extract for treating hepato-injury caused by cigarette smoke in mice. The phytochemical screening of A. indica ethanolic leaf extract revealed the abundance of sterols, proteins, alkaloids, flavanoids and diterpenes that could have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. In this context, Swiss mice were treated with cigarette smoke, dexamethasone and A. indica leaf extract. Dexamethasone treated mice exclusively resulted in mortality rate of 20%. These mice expressed elevated inflammatory cells with higher levels of liver markers, alanine aminotransferase (ALT; 56.00 IU/L) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST; 64.90 IU/L). Moreover, these mice revealed the prevalence of relative oxygen species (ROS) at 32500 RFU and eosinophil peroxidase (EPO) level at 1.97 absorbance units with declined superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels of 4.3 n kat/mg. Whereas, tissue recovery was spotted in the mice treated with A. Indica leaf extract with highly declined levels of liver markers, AST (10.20 IU/L) and AST (15.90 IU/L). Furthermore, these mice resulted in lesser amount of ROS at 21900 RFU and EPO levels at 1.08 absorbance unit with increased SOD levels of 7.17 n kat/mg. This is the first report demonstrating in vivo effects of Azadirachta indica ethanolic leaf extract in treating cigarette smoke induced hepatic chronic inflammation in animal model which gave better results when compared to dexamethasone.
Impact of Industrially Affected Soil on Human: a Soil-human and Soil-plant-human Assessment
Authors: Jolly Yeasmin Nahar , Sakib M. Sadman , Shahadat M. Ashemus , Rakib Md. Refat Jahan , Rahman Arafat , Akter Shirin , Kabir Jamiul , Mamun Khan M. , Rahman M. Safiur , Begum Bilkis Ara , Rahman Rubina
Published: January 2022

Present study was sketched to estimate the level of heavy metals (Cr, Fe, Cu, Zn, As and Pb) in the industrially affected soil, their source apportionment, degree of pollution and estimation of probable health risk by direct soil exposure and via dietary intake of vegetables grown in the affected soil. Mean concentrations of Cr, Fe, Cu, Zn, As and Pb was found 61.27, 27274, 42.36, 9.77, 28.08 and 13.69 and 0.53, 119.59, 9.76, 7.14, 1.34 and 2.69 mg/kg for affected soil and vegetable samples, respectively. The origin of Fe, Cu, Zn and Pb were found lithogenic, while Cr and As were anthropogenic. A moderate enrichment was noted by Cr, As, and Pb in the entire sampling site, indicating a progressive depletion of soil quality. Bioaccumulation factor (BCF) value for all the vegetables were recorded BCF<1; however Metal pollution index (MPI) value stipulate a pretty high value in the vegetable samples. Health effect on account of direct exposure of contaminated soils manifested more hazardous than dietary intake of heavy metal contaminated vegetables and children were found more vulnerable receptors compare to adults. However, this study can be used as a reference towards similar types of study to evaluate heavy metal contaminated soil impact on the population of Bangladesh and other countries as well.
The Effect of Synbiotic Supplementation on Fatigue and Sleep Quality in End-Stage Renal Disease Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis : Study Protocol for a Double-Blind Controlled Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Jesmi Ali Asghar , Jangpoor Mina , Mahdavifar Neda
Published: January 2022

Background: Chronic kidney disease is one of the public health issues in the world. Imbalances in the gut microbiome have been revealed to contribute to the progression of multiple diseases including Chronic Kidney disease. The consumption of probiotics and synbiotics in the treatment of various diseases has a significant progression. The present study will investigate the effects of synbiotics supplement on intestinal microbiome through monitoring of inflammatory factor C Reactive Protein and Hemoglobin and ultimately its effect on fatigue and sleep quality of End Stage Renal Disease patients undergoing hemodialysis.Design and Methods: Sixty patients with End Stage Renal Disease who undergoing haemodialysis will be recruited in this double-blind randomized controlled trial. Participants will be randomly assigned via permuted block randomization to intervention and control group. The intervention group received 500 mg of synbiotic (lactoker) twice a day for eight weeks and the control group received placebo for the same period. The "Chalder Fatigue" and "Pittsburgh Sleep Quality" questionnaires, Hemoglobin and C Reactive Protein level will be assessed at the beginning, week four and at the end of the study.Discussion: To our best knowledge, this is the first randomized controlled trial that will determine the effect of symbiotic supplement on the intestine microbiota and its probable impacts on Hemoglobin and C Reactive Protein as an inflammatory factor level and consequently its effect on fatigue and sleep quality of End Stage Renal Disease patients undergoing hemodialysis.Trial registration: IRCT20210117050055N1. Registered on 2021-02-21. https://www.irct.ir/trial/53770
First Approval of Generic Mometasone Furoate Nasal Suspension Spray in Japan: Similarities and Differences Between Japan and the USA
Authors: Kuribayashi Ryosuke , Kasuga Miho , Kuwana Kimika , Yamaguchi Toru
Published: January 2022

The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) in Japan approved the first generic version of Nasonex in February 2018. The Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency requires in vitro, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic or clinical endpoint data to approve generic nasal spray drug products. However, the MHLW has not published basic principle for approving nasal generic drug products. Therefore, this article summarizes the data used for the approval of the first generic Nasonex based on publicly available data. Additionally, we compare the bioequivalence evaluations regarding the human studies based on the generic version of Nasonex between Japan and the USA.
Results And Epidemiological Impact of The Directly Observed Antiparasitic Treatment For Canine Echinococcosis.
Authors: Montalvo Raúl , Huiza Alina , Nuñez Vladimir , Quiñonez Pilar , Montalvo Jorge , Rojas Armida , Ochoa Salome
Published: January 2022

Cystic echinococcosis (CE) continues to be one of the main health problem in cattle regions. Controlling the disease requires new therapeutic strategies. The objective was evaluated the results of an intervention program based on the directly observed antiparasitic treatment to dogs in an endemic area of ​​CE. Methods: A quasi-experimental study of a single cohort of dogs from a CE endemic area was conducted. To identify infected dogs, stool samples were analyzed for coproantigens by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, before and after the direct and observed administration of praziquantel 5 mg per kg orally every 30 days for 3 consecutive months once a year for two years. Results: A total of 252 dogs entered the study, of which 119 (47%) dogs presented positive results for E. granulosus at the beginning of the intervention. The adverse effects that occurred with the administration of praziquantel were vomiting (13%), diarrhea (2.4%) and lethargy (2%); 229 dogs completed the 2 treatment cycles with praziquantel. The presence of some positive coproantigen was evident in 03 (1.3%) dogs after the intervention. In conclusion: Antiparasitic chemotherapy administered directly to dogs was able to reduce the prevalence of canine echinococcosis after 2 years of intervention.
Leukocyte Ratios and Prognosis in Dogs with Primary Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia: A Pilot Study
Authors: Alaimo Chiara , De Feo Giulia , Lubas George , Gavazza Alessandra
Published: January 2022

Canine immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) is a life-threatening condition that is commonly associated with neutrophilia and monocytosis. Leukocyte ratios have been found to have prognostic value in humans and animals affected by a range of inflammatory, infectious, and neoplastic disorders. We hypothesized that in primary IMHA, neutrophil to lymphocyte (NLR), neutrophil to monocyte (NMR), band neutrophil to segmented neutrophil (BNR) and monocyte to lymphocyte (MLR) ratios would be higher in dogs that did not survive to discharge. Medical records of dogs diagnosed with IMHA at two veterinary teaching hospitals were retrospectively reviewed. Twenty-three of the 72 included dogs do not survive to discharge. NLR, NMR, BNR and MLR ratios were compared between dogs that survived to discharge and dogs that died or were euthanized. None of the ratios were significantly different between survivors and non-survivors (P = 0.14-0.99). Area under the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve for prediction of non-survival ranged from 0.5 (95% confidence interval 0.38-0.62) for MLR to 0.61 (0.49-0.72) for NMR and was not significantly different from 0.5 for any ratio (P = 0.29-0.99). After exclusion of 31 dogs that received one or both of immunosuppression and blood transfusion before presentation, the area under the ROC curve for prediction of survival was significantly different from 0.5 for MLR (0.78, P = 0.01) and NMR (0.78, P = 0.0002). This pilot study suggests MLR and NMR may be of prognostic value in untreated dogs with IMHA.
Dietary Supplementation of Phytoncide and Soybean Oil Increases Milk Conjugated Linoleic Acid and Depresses Methane Emissions in Lactating Holstein Cows
Authors: Lee HongGu , Kim TaeBin , Bae MunHee , Lee JaeSung , Nejad Jalil Ghassemi
Published: January 2022

The objective of this study was to determine whether adding phytoncide oil (PO) and soybean oil (SBO) to the dairy cow diet could increase milk conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and depress methane (CH4) emissions in lactating Holstein cows. Rumen fermentation was conducted at four levels of SBO (0, 1, 2, and 4%, on DM basis) and two levels of PO (0 and 0.1%, on DM basis) with in vitro experiment. To evaluate blood parameters, fecal microbe population, milk yield fatty acid compositions, and methane production, in vivo experiment was conducted using 38 Holstein dairy cows divided into two groups of control (fed TMR) and treatment (fed TMR with 0.1% PO and 2% SBO as DM basis). In the in vitro study (Experiment 1), PO or SBO did not affect ruminal pH. However, SBO tended to decrease ruminal ammonia-N (p = 0.099). Additionally, PO or SBO significantly decreased total gas production (p = 0.041 and p = 0.034, respectively). Both PO and SBO significantly decreased methane production (p < 0.05). In addition, PO significantly increased both CLA (c9, t11 and t10, c12 CLA) (p < 0.001). Collectively, 0.1% PO and 2% SBO was selected that improved CLA and methane production most effectively and did not induce abnormal ruminal fermentation. In the in vivo study (Experiment 2), 0.1% PO with 2% SBO (PSO) did not affect CBC. However, it decreased BUN and MG levels in blood (p = 0.021 and p = 0.01, respectively). PSO treatment decreased pathogenic microbes (p < 0.05). It increased milk yield (p = 0.017) but decreased percentage of milk fat (p = 0.013) and decreased MUN level (p < 0.01). In addition, PSO treatment increased both CLA and PUFA in milk (p < 0.01). Finally, it decreased methane emissions from dairy cows. These results provide compelling evidence that PSO supplemented with a TMR-based diet can simultaneously increase CLA synthesis and decrease methane production with no influence on the percentage of milk fat in lactating Holstein cows.
Rapid Assay of Plastic Biodegradation Using Simply Fabricated Polyethylene Nanoparticles
Authors: hesami faeze , Gharavi Sara , Asgarani Ezat , Zarrabi Mahboobeh , Soudi Mohammadreza , Moosavi-Nejad Zahra
Published: January 2022

Synthetic polymers, such as polyethylene (PE), are produced daily in large quantities and due to their unique properties, like durability and low cost, consumed in various capacities around the world subsequently accumulating in terrestrial and marine environments. In recent years, the toxicological effects of these plastic particles on the environment, food chain, and public health as well as bioremediation approaches for the removal of these wastes has been the focus of several studies. Easy access to nano and micro sized PE particles in these approaches is crucial and urgent. In this research, we report a simple, fast, cost-effective method for the production of nano polyethylene particles (NPE) which are stable, capable of dispersion in water and without chemical modifications. PE particles were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) analysis. As a result, particles were made with a wide range of sizes 72-1005 nm (but mostly at size of 500 nm) with PDI of 0.88. The non-toxic nature of these nanoparticles for microorganisms were tested by MTT assay. The relevance of this method for the production of NPE is especially prominent in toxicity assessment studies which evaluate the effects of these particles in living organisms. Moreover, this method can be used to generate particles for efficient selection of PE-degrading microorganisms from the environment and scaled up for industrial use to facilitate the degradation process of PE and conversion of wastes to high-value products.
Iterative learning control for time-delay non-linear DPS hyperbolic type
Authors: Meryem Hamidaoui , Shao Cheng , Haouassi Samia
Published: January 2022

In this paper, we examine the application of the iterative learning control to a class of nonlinear varying time-delay distributed parameter system hyperbolic types. The proposed algorithm is based on the PD-type iterative learning control algorithm with initial state learning. Initially, we present the system and the control law utilized. Subsequently, we presented some dilemmas. Then, adequate conditions for monotone convergence of the tracking error are established under the suitable assumption. Similarly, we give a precise convergence analysis based on formerly given lemmas and Gronwall’s inequality for the system. Finally, we illustrate the effectiveness of the method using a numerical example.
Intensity of Insecticide Resistance in the Major Malaria Vector Anopheles Funestus From Chikwawa, Rural Southern Malawi
Authors: Kumala Justin , Koekemoer Lizette L , Coetzee Maureen , Mzilahowa Themba
Published: January 2022

BackgroundMalaria vector control using insecticide-based approaches, has proven to be an effective strategy. However, widespread insecticide resistance among malaria vector populations across sub-Saharan Africa threatens to derail control efforts. This study was conducted in Chikwawa district, an area in rural southern Malawi characterised by persistent malaria transmission and reports of insecticide resistance in the local mosquito population. The study aimed to characterise the intensity of insecticide resistance within a population of Anopheles funestus, a major vector of malaria in this district.MethodsLive adult females belonging to the An. funestus group were collected from households by indoor aspiration. A modified CDC bottle assay was used for phenotypic quantification of resistance to deltamethrin, permethrin and alpha-cypermethrin at 1X, 2.5X, 5X and 10X the recommended diagnostic doses. WHO tube assays were used to determine susceptibility to bendiocarb, dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and pirimiphos-methyl insecticides at diagnostic concentrations. ResultsAnopheles funestus exposed to 10x concentrations was highly resistant to alpha-cypermethrin (mortality 95.4%) whereas there was 100% mortality to both deltamethrin and permethrin at the same dose. Despite susceptibility at 10X, mortality to deltamethrin and permethrin at 5X was 96.7% and 97.1% respectively, indicating moderate resistance to the two insecticides. WHO susceptibility assays indicated strong resistance against bendiocarb (mortality 33.8%, exposed n= 93) whereas there was full susceptibility to DDT (mortality 98.9%, n= 103) and pirimiphos-methyl (mortality 100%, n= 103).ConclusionsStrategies for managing resistance, particularly against pyrethroids, must be urgently implemented to maintain the effectiveness of bed nets, which remain the primary vector control intervention in the area. This includes the wide scale introduction of third generation synergist ITNs and next-generation dual active ingredient ITNs. The use of effective non-pyrethroids such as pirimiphos-methyl, clothianidin and potentially DDT, could provide a window of opportunity for IRS across the district. This would support the current Malawi Insecticide Resistance Management Plan which aims at rotating insecticides to minimise selection pressure and slow down the evolution of resistance to approved insecticides. This will help to prevent malaria vector control failure and improve progress towards malaria elimination.
Inhibitory Effect of Baicalin on 2019-NCOV Invasion
Authors: Geng Xue , Zhou Meng , Sun Rong , Wei Xia , Zhu Qing-fen
Published: January 2022

Objective To study the the inhibitory effect of baicalin on novel Coronavirus (2019-NCOV) entry process in vitro. Methods The pseudovirus system of SARS-CoV-2 S protein constructed with luciferase reporter gene was used in the study. A luciferase kit was used to detect the changes of luciferase expression in Huh-7 cells, and then the virus inhibition curve was plotted. Results Baicalin can significantly inhibited the infection rate of pseudovirus. There was no significant difference in the virus inhibition curve between the baicalin&virus pre-incubation group and co-incubation at different concentrations, indicating that baicalin could not directly bind to virus, but inhibited the virus S protein mediated cell fusion process. We futher found that, the inhibition rate of baicalin to virus decreased significantly in the 4h group, but had no significant difference in the 0h and 2h groups at the concentration of 0.125mg/ mL, indicating that baicalin may have an inhibitory effect on virus invasion stage rather than adsorption stage, and the mediated inhibition stage occurred within 4h. Conclusion Baicalin may mediate the fusion of SARS-CoV-2 S protein with cell surface receptor and exert anti-novel coronavirus activity by playing a role in inhibitting virus invasion in non-adsorption stage.
Beyond 10 MHz Organic Electrochemical Transistors for Printed Multi-valued Logic Circuits
Authors: Lim Dong Un , Jo Sae Byeok , Cho Jeong Ho
Published: January 2022

Printable electronics requires solution-processable transistors that can perform high-speed operations with high gains, with which its applicability can embrace bio-interfacing, neuromorphic computing, and even high-functioning logical circuitry. Although organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs) with superior transconductance and biocompatibility have emerged as feasible candidates, the intrinsic coupling between ionic and electronic carriers leads to limited response times falling behind other transistor technologies. Here, we overcome such limitations by introducing a vertically stacked dual-channel architecture enabling an unprecedentedly high operation speed with multiple logic states. Specifically, a simple implementation of dual-ion penetration mechanisms allows facile manifestations of stable and equiprobable ternary logic states, to which state-of-the-art accessing frequency over 10 MHz is realized. Furthermore, printed arrays of ternary logic gates with full voltage swing within 1V is demonstrated.
Fire and water: global fire impacts on physicochemical properties of freshwater ecosystems
Authors: Morales Jenny J. , Paes Nayara D. S. , Silva Andressa C. M. , Teixido Alberto L
Published: January 2022

Freshwater ecosystems are intensely endangered, entailing declines in the biodiversity and ecosystem services. Fire may affect physicochemical water quality parameters of these environments by transference of ash and toxic substances into water bodies, altering nutrient and oxygen concentrations, temperature or turbidity. However, major knowledge gaps in the impacts of fire on freshwater habitats are prevalent. We conducted a global systematic review by searching articles in the Web of Science related to the impacts of fire on the physicochemical water properties of freshwater ecosystems. We estimated ecological and geographic biases, quantified the set of physicochemical parameters investigated, and provided an overview of fire-mediated alterations. We found 54 articles published between 1976 and 2019, with a significant increase during the last decade. Research was strongly biased towards a few western countries, mostly across North America, Europe and Australia. Lotic systems were considerably more studied than lentic systems. Overall, 57 chemical and 17 physical parameters were evaluated, comprising 304 and 77 cases, respectively. Fire altered 68% of the cases studied and this alteration was proportionally similar between chemical (66%) and physical (75%) properties. Nutrient concentration, metal ions, alkalinity, turbidity and temperature were recurrently increased parameters by fire, whereas oxygen mostly decreased. Our study demonstrates that fire commonly affects water quality parameters of freshwater ecosystems. Biases and resulting gaps may steer future sampling efforts and promote a broader understanding of the impacts of fire on these environments. Our results may ultimately guide applicable conservation policies for biodiversity and water management strategies of freshwater habitats.
Computational investigation of pyrrolidin derivatives as novel GPX4/MDM2–p53 inhibitors using 2D/3D-QSAR, Molecular docking, Molecular dynamics simulations and MM-GBSA free energy
Authors: TABTI Kamal , SBAI Abdelouahid , ELMCHICHI Larbi , MAGHAT Hamid , LAKHLIFI Tahar , BOUACHRINE Mohammed
Published: January 2022

The p53 is a tumor suppressor protein that adjusts cell cycle and growth arrest as well as genes that restore DNA damage and apoptosis. Murine double minute 2 (MDM2) is a main p53 antagonist. We created a novel QSAR model using a series of highly active spiro [pyrrolidin-3,2-oxindoles] that consisted of 29 compounds that were experimentally validated to inhibit the MDM2-p53 interaction. Three optimal models have been developed CoMFA/E+S, CoMSIA/S+H+A and HQSAR have revealed good statistical results, but the CoMSIA mode only which validates all the external validation tests applied successfully. Based on the CoMSIA/S+H+A model was carefully chosen to design four compounds with values ​​of inhibitory activity greater than the highly active compound in the data set. The Newly designed compounds were docked in the target receptor binding site (ID: 4LWU). The newly designed compound Pred 01 showed the highest affinity with a value of -9.4kcal / mol, while compound N°04 which represents the data set and control compound (Nutlin-3) showed binding energies of the order of -8.8 kcal / mol and -8.2kcal / mol, respectively. In addition, the roles of lipinski and veber were estimated, the results obtained demonstrate that the proposed molecules involve good oral bioavailability and an ability to diffuse through different biological barriers. For in-depth study, The Pred01 / receptor, N°04 / receptor and Nutlin-3 / receptor complexes were selected via dynamic simulation analyzes with a simulation time of 100 ns and, also their free binding energy was examined operating the MM-GBSA approach. The molecular docking results obtained accentuate the crucial residues responsible for the ligand / protein interaction, providing insight into the mode of interaction. The MD simulation analysis confirms the conformational stability of the selected complexes during the MD trajectory, and the fluctuations recorded are insignificant. The results of MM-GBSA reveal that the new compound Pred 01 exhibits the lowest free energy, which confirms the result of molecular docking.
Cytotoxicity and anticancer drug release behavior of Methionine - coated magnetite nanoparticles as carriers in vitro
Authors: Yeganeh Faten Eshrati , Yeganeh Amir Eshrati , Far Bahareh Farasati , Akbarzadeh Iman , Quazi Sameer , Safdar Muhammad
Published: January 2022

An innovative and customized drug delivery system for in vitro cancer treatment has been developed successfully by a simple one-step method. A CoFe2O4@Methionine core-shell nanoparticle was prepared by the reflux assay, in which amino acid on the surface makes the ferrite biocompatible, enhances the chemical stability of the compound, and increases the drug loading capacity. The synthesized nanoparticles were evaluated using SEM, TEM, FTIR, and VSM, while XRD and TGA analysis verified the presence of a coating amino acid on the surface of CoFe2O4. The appearance of a new peak for C≡N in the FTIR spectrum validates the synthesis of a letrozole-loaded carrier. Both uncoated CoFe2O4 and methionine-coated CoFe2O4 nanoparticles behave super-paramagnetically at room temperature, with saturation values of 46 emu/g and 16.8 emu/g, respectively. SEM and TEM were used to characterize the morphology and size of samples, revealing that the average particle size was around 28–29 nm. The loading of Letrozole and the effect of pH (5, 7.4) on the release behavior of the carrier were studied. The result of the drug release in pH (5) was about 88% higher than pH (7.4). Also, the preparation has been evaluated for determining its cytotoxicity using MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and MCF10A cell lines as an in vitro model, and the results of in vitro experiments showed that CoFe2O4@Methionine could significantly reduce cancer in the cell model. These results demonstrate that core-shell nanoparticles were prepared that are biocompatible and have potential use as drug delivery.