bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neurotoxicity of Ortho-Phthalates: Recommendations for Critical Policy Reforms to Protect Brain Development in Children
Authors: Engel Stephanie M. , Patisaul Heather B. , Brody Charlotte , Hauser Russ , Zota Ami R. , Bennet Deborah H. , Swanson Maureen , Whyatt Robin M.
Published: February 2021

Robust data from longitudinal birth cohort studies and experimental studies of perinatally exposed animals indicate that exposure to ortho-phthalates can impair brain development and increase risks for learning, attention, and behavioral disorders in childhood. This growing body of evidence, along with known adverse effects on male reproductive tract development, calls for immediate action.

Exposures are ubiquitous; the majority of people are exposed to multiple ortho-phthalates simultaneously. We thus recommend that a class approach be used in assessing health impacts as has been done with other chemical classes. We propose critically needed policy reforms to eliminate ortho-phthalates from products that lead to exposure of pregnant women, women of reproductive age, infants, and children. Specific attention should be focused on reducing exposures among socially vulnerable populations such as communities of color, who frequently experience higher exposures.

Ortho-phthalates are used in a vast array of products and elimination will thus necessitate a multipronged regulatory approach at federal and state levels. The fact that manufacturers and retailers have already voluntarily removed ortho-phthalates from a wide range of products indicates that this goal is feasible.
Trends in Prevalence of Cigarette Smoking in Brazil: 2006–2019
Authors: Maia Emanuella Gomes , Stopa Sheila Rizzato , de Oliveira Santos Roberta , Claro Rafael Moreira
Published: February 2021

Objectives. To analyze trends in cigarette smoking among Brazilian adults from 2006 to 2019.

Methods. We performed a time-series analysis based on data from the Surveillance of Risk and Protective Factors for Chronic Diseases Telephone Survey (n = 730 309). We calculated the annual prevalence of current cigarette smokers, heavy smokers, and passive smokers in the workplace and investigated linear trends using Prais–Winsten regression, for the entire period and for the past 5 years. We performed the analyses for the total population and according to the sociodemographic characteristics.

Results. The prevalence of cigarette smoking, heavy smoking, and passive smoking in the workplace declined, respectively, an average of 3.99% per year, 5.65% per year, and 6.55% per year from 2006 to 2019. We observed this reduction regardless of gender, age, educational level, and geographic region. The magnitude of reduction in the prevalence of current cigarette smoking decreased in the past 5 years, while the magnitude of the change in heavy smoking increased.

Conclusions. The prevalence of cigarette smoking decreased in the time period studied. The smaller magnitude of reduction for current cigarette smoking in the most recent years might indicate a fatigue with the current policy scenario.
NEXT Harm Reduction: An Online, Mail-Based Naloxone Distribution and Harm-Reduction Program
Authors: Yang Carol , Favaro Jamie , Meacham Meredith C.
Published: February 2021

Needle EXchange Technology (NEXT) Harm Reduction is an online, mail-based platform designed for sending (1) naloxone kits to people at risk for overdose and (2) sterile syringes and other equipment directly to people who otherwise cannot access safe supplies. From its inception in 2017 through the end of 2019, NEXT Harm Reduction sent naloxone kits to 3609 individuals and 1230 packages of sterile syringes and supplies and received 335 reports of overdose reversals using naloxone provided by NEXT Harm Reduction and its affiliates.
MONITORING AND MANAGEMENT OF THE RIVER’S ECOLOGICAL STATE METHODOLOGY USING INTEGRAL BIOMARKERS AND QUALITY MANAGEMENT METHODS
Authors:   Institute of Natural and Technical Systems in Sochi, GORBUNOVA Tatiana , MATOVA Natalia ,   Institute of Natural and Technical Systems in Sochi
Published: February 2021

The water quality of most rivers near the settlements is below the optimal level, taking in account natural ecosystems condition and numerous needs of various users. Considering the environmental, economic and social importance of this factor, measures are required to improve natural reservoirs water quality management conducted by local civil autonomy and various levels of government. The goal of this work is to offer methodical recommendations on the system design of collecting, analyzing and forming the river’s water and ecosystems conditions database for the information support of complex management decision-making directed to accomplishment and preservation of the water bodies specified functional characteristics. Presently none of the existing methods of water environment assessment can take into account all possible biological communities’ responses to the various stress factors and their combinations impacts. For every type of impact the corresponding to it approaches in sampling and analysis methods are used; values of such methods are often difficult to collate and, especially, provide statistical evaluation of the water streams processes. The presented methods are based on the multimetric index application, which include parameters, reflecting biological communities biodiversity and stability in mountain type rivers, tolerance degree of the constituted them water organisms to external impacts and water environment toxicity for its inhabitants. Modern quality management, including quality of the processes, has a wide range of proven tools. The offered quality management process improvement method of the natural watersheds experiencing an anthropogenic pressure, is aiming to reach stability and guaranteed quality of the natural waters, based on the DMAIC quality management methodology and statistic quantitative methods united under the Six-Sigma approach. This article is the first in publications series devoted to the description of the methodology of the rivers ecological state monitoring and management using integrated biomarkers and quality management methods. Formed during the study organizational and methodical approaches can be applied to digital transformation of effective administrative decisions making process in sphere of water objects protection and development of the river’s catchment territory ecological planning within the project of the RF Construction Ministry “The Smart City”.
UAV PHOTOGRAMMETRY-BASED FOR OPEN PIT COAL MINE LARGE SCALE MAPPING, CASE STUDIES IN CAM PHA CITY, VIETNAM
Authors:   University of Mining and Geology, Long Nguyen , Ha Le Thi Thu ,   Hanoi University of Mining and Geology, Son Tong Si ,   University of Science and Technology of Hanoi, Huong Kim Thi Thu ,   Hanoi University of Mining and Geology
Published: February 2021

The use of lightweight Unmanned Aerial Vehicle with the aerial photogrammetry approach to construct the Digital Surface Model (DSM) has been effectively applied for various types of topography. However, the ability to carry out this approach for huge active open coal mines is insufficiently investigated, furthermore, the influences of topographical factors on the accuracy of DSM are ambiguous. This experiment attempts to apply the UAV method for the two active coal mines with the total area of 7.99 km2 , exploited at a range from -300 m to 300 m altitude to figure out the effect of topographic factors on the accuracy of DEM constructed from UAV images. A total of 972 UAV images and 17 ground control points have been coupled to construct DSM of the mines. Besides, 16 checking points located at different elevations are used to evaluate the accuracy of DEM and to define the influence. DEMs are generated with the maximum RMSE of 0.086 m, 0.099 m, and 0.170 m corresponding to X, Y, and Z dimensional errors. The results show the unclear correlation between the vertical accuracy of DEM and the relative elevation (R2=0.064), the general slope of the mines, and the number of ground control points using in the coal mines as well.
XEROPHILIC ENDEMES OF THE FLORA OF THE RUSSIAN CAUCASUS AND THEIR RELATED RELATIONS
Authors:   Institute of Natural Resources of the Chechen Academy of Sciences, TAISUMOV Musa , MAGOMADOVA Raisa ,   Chechen State Pedagogical University, ASTAMIROVA Marjan ,   Chechen State Pedagogical University, UMAROV Mukhadi ,   Academy of Sciences of Chechen Republic
Published: February 2021

The article is devoted to the study of endemics of xerophilous flora of various regions of the Russian Caucasus, adjacent and remote territories (Western Mediterranean, Caucasus, Greater Caucasus, Transcaucasia. Asia Minor and Western Asia, Eastern Mediterranean, Pontic region, Palaearctic). The purpose of the study is to identify their species composition, genetic links between them, which are necessary for solving the problems of florogenesis. The article analyzes the results of many years of floristic research in different territories of the Caucasus, publications on the flora of these, adjacent and alienated territories. The study used methods of historical reconstruction, morphological-ecological-geographical analysis, including the method of evolutionary series, as well as the method of phlorogenetic analysis and synthesis. Information on the genetic and geographical relationships of the taxa under discussion was obtained by analyzing the position of the species in the genus system (in the case of monotypic genera, the position in the family system), which made it possible to identify the closest relatives, determine their geographic localization, and suggest the time and directions of migration flows of ancestral species. As a result of the analysis of the distribution of 52 species of endemics of the xerophilic flora of the studied regions of the Russian Caucasus, as well as the flora of adjacent and remote areas, possible genetic links between them were revealed. The closest relationships of endemic euxerophytes were noted within the territory of the Greater Caucasus (26.3%), they are significant with endemic species of the Western Mediterranean, Anterior and Asia Minor (9.6% each) and weaker - with species of the Eastern Mediterranean (5.1%), The Pontic region and the Palaearctic (1.3% each). Based on the analysis of the relationship of paleoand neoendemics, it was concluded that the process of formation of the endemic nucleus of the flora of euxerophytes took place at least in three stages: due to heterochronous waves of migration from distant western and eastern centers of formation of xerophilic flora of the Ancient Mediterranean, through the formation of secondary centers in Asia Minor and Western Asia, and then in the Western Mediterranean; the most recent most intensive speciation, which took place in the territories of Inland Dagestan, the Central Caucasus and Northwestern Transcaucasia, on a Caucasian genetic basis in Tertiary speciation centers, led to the loss of many types of distant family ties. The results obtained expand our understanding of migration processes and the history of the formation of the flora of the Caucasus.
MATHEMATICAL MODELING OF WATER WAVE MOTION IN A RESERVOIR CAUSED BY THE INTRUSION OF A LANDSLIDE ARRAY
Authors:   Geophysical Institute – Branch of the Federal State Budgetary Institution of Science of the Federal Scientific Center “Vladikavkaz Scientific Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences”, MUZAEV Illarion , SOZANOV Valery ,   North Ossetian State University after K. L. Khetagurov
Published: February 2021

The construction of dams and reservoirs in mountainous and foothill areas poses a number of urgent tasks for designers and researchers related to the wave movement of water in a reservoir with a complex geometric configuration. The collapse of significant masses of rock into the reservoir basin as a result of a landslide phenomenon provokes high surface waves, leading to catastrophic natural disasters in the form of victims and destruction. Designers, construction organizations and maintenance services are required to assess the expected wave increase in water level through the dam crest, as well as the zone and degree of flooding of the area in the reservoir bays and along the river gorge, depending on the geometric, kinematic and dynamic characteristics of potentially possible landslide massifs, mudslides and avalanche flows. In this way, you can predict and then prevent or mitigate the consequences and damage that can cause the formation of destructive waves. In addition to the above problem, this article develops a mathematical model of the wave movement of water in a reservoir, when the movement is caused by the intrusion of a landslide rock mass or a high-speed mudflow into its bowl. The model is the initial boundary value problem of hydrodynamics and hydraulics of gravitational waves. In contrast to previous works, the developed mathematical model takes into account the planned non-prismatic configuration of the reservoir and changes in the water depth in the longitudinal direction of the reservoir. Taking these factors into account significantly clarifies the numerical values of the amplitude of the wave formed, as well as the values of the flow rate, speed and volume of water poured over the dam crest. In the General initial-boundary value problem, the coefficients of the main differential equation are variables that depend on the spatial coordinate. In the General formulation, this creates great difficulties in the analytical solution of the problem and has not been solved by anyone in the whole world to date. In this article was found and applied original and effective substitution, i.e. replacing a variable that in two special cases based on the coefficients from the spatial coordinates that led basic differential equation initial-boundary value problem to the equation with constant coefficients, and thus substantially easier way of solving the initial-boundary value problem. In the above-mentioned special cases, the initial-boundary value problem is solved by strict analytical methods of mathematical physics. For each case, a set of calculation formulas is obtained for calculating the amplitude of the waves formed, as well as for the flow rate and volume of water poured over the dam crest.
FUNCTIONING AND DYNAMICS OF LANDSCAPES IN THE DESIGN OF HIGHWAYS IN MOUNTAINOUS CONDITIONS
Authors:   Institute оf Mining and Metallurgy (State Technological University), KORTIEV Levan , KORTIEV Alan ,   Institute оf Mining and Metallurgy (State Technological University), VANEEV Sarmat ,   Institute оf Mining and Metallurgy (State Technological University), KULUMBEGOV Robert ,   South Ossetian State University
Published: February 2021

Introduction. Roads, as linear engineering structures in mountainous conditions for the sake of traffic safety, should provide a smooth interface and their harmonious combination with the surrounding landscape with the use of longitudinal slopes and radii on curves that reduce accidents and injuries. Anthropogenic intervention on the mountain natural landscape, for the purpose of road construction, is not always safe, because weak soils come into dynamics and the functioning of the road is complicated. For this , it is necessary to conduct a spatial analysis and an integrated approach to the issue, covering all aspects of landscape design of the road to eliminate negative consequences. The essence of the question. The design of highways in mountainous areas without observing the landscape principles of safe operation and with less dynamic shifts of the roadbed leads to a violation of the relief forms, with the implementation of large volumes of earthworks necessary to ensure the projected slope. Research methods. In the process of writing the article, the following methods were used: analysis - in the search and analysis of literature on the subject; observation and comparison in the study and selection of the optimal option. Conclusions: 1. When designing highways in mountain landscapes, it is necessary to find a harmonious combination of the functioning of the road and the landscape itself. 2. A scientifically based analysis and correct choice of landscape design elements in the operation of the road will reduce the dynamics of slope phenomena, the number of accidents, the cost of road maintenance, which contribute to improving safety on mountain roads.
INTEGRATED MONITORING OF SLOPE PROCESS IN INDIA AND RUSSIA
Authors:   Vellore Institute of Technology, GANAPATHY P , ZAALISHVILI Vladislav ,   Geophysical Institute – А Branch of the Federal State Budgetary Institution of Science of the Federal Scientific Center "Vladikavkaz Scientific Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences", CHANDRASEKARAN S ,   Vellore Institute of Technology, MELKOV Dmitry ,   Geophysical Institute – А Branch of the Federal State Budgetary Institution of Science of the Federal Scientific Center "Vladikavkaz Scientific Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences"
Published: February 2021

The common approach to landslide prediction is the integration of the observed landslide displacements, soil properties, and rainfall estimation into predictive models. In general, monitoring the evolution of an unstable slope may provide valuable information to gain a better understanding of the active prediction and early warning processes for potential geodisasters. With this background an initiation has taken between India and Russia to develop cost effective methodology to monitor landslides under the Indo Russian Bilateral Collaborative Projects by DSTRFBR. Based on the hazard assessment The Nilgiris District in Tamil Nadu and Wayanad and Idukki Districts in Kerela area identified for further detailed study on monitoring Vulnerable slopes. On the territory of North Ossetia three sites of different mass volume and differenent activity rates were selected. Landslides that have not moved for years (for example Luarskiy landslide) commonly reactivate if ground water levels change dramatically, particularly when water penetrates old ground cracks, or construction activity creates slope modification that reduces stability.
The 45thAnnual Report of the California Bird Records Committee: 2019 Records
Authors: Benson Thomas A. , House Deborah J. , McCaskie Guy , Rinkert Alex M. , Searcy Adam J. , Terrill Ryan S.
Published: February 2021

From its last report through 2019, the California Bird Records Committee reached decisions on 204 records involving 225 individuals of 62 species and one species group, endorsing 176 records of 197 individuals. These include the first accepted state record of the Yellow-browed Warbler (Phylloscopus inornatus), bringing California’s total list of accepted species to 676, of which 13 represent established introductions. Other especially notable records detailed in this report include the state’s third Common Eider (Somateria mollissima), third Common Ringed Plover (Charadrius hiaticula), fourth and fifth Red-flanked Bluetail (Tarsiger cyanurus), a significant incursion of Cassin’s Sparrows (Peucaea cassinii) into the eastern Mojave Desert, and the first Spotted Redshank (Tringa erythropus) in 30 years.
Hypoxia-related gene FUT11 promoted pancreatic cancer progression via maintaining the stabilization of PDK1
Authors: Cao Wenpeng , Zeng Zhirui , Pan Runsang , He Zhiwei , Wu Hao , Zhang Xiangyan , Chen Hui , Nie Yingjie , Yu Zijiang , Lei Shan
Published: February 2021

Background

Hypoxia participated in the occurrence and development of pancreatic cancer (PC). However, genes associated with hypoxia respond and their regulated mechanism in PC cells were unclear. The current research was aimed to illuminate the role and hypoxia regulated mechanism of fucosyltransferase 11 (FUT11) in the progression of PC.
Methods

After predicting FUT11 as a key hypoxia associated gene in PC using bioinformatics analysis. The expression of FUT11 in PC using quantitative real-time fluorescent PCR, western blot and immunohistochemistry. The effects of FUT11 on PC cells proliferation and migration under normoxia and hypoxia were detected using Cell Counting Kit 8, 5-ethynyl-2’-deoxyuridine assay, colony formation assay and transwell assay. Spleen capsule injected liver metastasis and subcutaneously injected model were performed to confirm the effects of FUT11 in vivo. Furthermore, western blot, luciferase assay and immunoprecipitation were performed to explore the regulated relationship among FUT11, hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF1α) and pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 1 (PDK1) in PC.
Results

FUT11 was markedly increased of PC cells in hypoxia, up-regulated in the PC clinical tissues, and predicted a poor outcome. Inhibition of FUT11 reduced PC cell growth and mobility of PC cells under normoxia and hypoxia conditions in vitro, and growth and mobility in vivo. FUT11 bind with PDK1 and regulated the expression PDK1 under normoxia and hypoxia. FUT11 knockdown significantly increased the degradation rate of PDK1 under hypoxia, while treatment with MG132 can relieve the degradation of PDK1 induced by FUT11 knockdown. Overexpression of PDK1 in PC cells under hypoxia conditions reversed the suppressiv impacts of FUT11 knockdown on PC cell growth and mobility. In addition, HIF1α bound to the enhancer of FUT11 and increased its expression, as well as co-expressing with FUT11 in PC tissues. Furthermore, overexpress of FUT11 partially rescued the suppressiv effects of HIF1α knockdown on PC cell growth and mobility in hypoxia conditions.
Conclusion

Our data further implicate that hypoxia-induced FUT11 in PC contributes to proliferation and metastasis by maintaining the stability of PDK1, and suggest FUT11 maybe a novel and effective target for treatment of pancreatic cancer.
The efficiency and mechanism of vermicompost in enhancing the composting of swine manure as an additive
Authors: Hao Xiaoxia , Ma Xinyuan , Bai Lin
Published: February 2021

Vermicompost was used as an additive in swine manure composting, and the expression of bacterial functional genes on biotransformation of nutrient was investigated. Results showed that vermicompost extended the thermophilic period to 12 days, decreased the NH4+ -N/NO3− -N ratio to 0.85 and increased GI value to 166%. With vermicompost addition, higher relative abundances of Firmicutes were observed in substrate at the beginning. The dominant phyla of Proteobacteria was decreased in thermophilic stage, as well as its pathogenic related genera Acinetobacter and Stenotrophomonas, while the potentially beneficial genera Actinomadura and Chryseolinea were increased. And the activities of primary functional genes associated with metabolisms of carbohydrate, amino acid and xenobiotics at the level 2 and fatty acid metabolism at the level 3 were enhanced during the thermophilic phase. Besides, most dominant genera showed strengthened correlations with NO3−-N and GI with vermicompost amendment, and they were the strongest environmental factors for bacterial communities. Network analysis showed dominant genera Pseudomonas, Acinetobacter, Stenotrophomonas Oceanobacter associated metabolic pathways increased from two to three with vermicompost added in substrate. These results indicated that vermicompost promoted the composting efficiency by increasing the potentially beneficial bacteria, decreasing pathogenic bacteria and enhancing the metabolic capacity of bacterial communities.
Multiple abiotic and biotic drivers of soil water storage capacity in temperate forests recovering from disturbances
Authors: Liu Shufang , Yuan Zuoqiang , Ali Arshad , Sanaei Anvar , Ding Fan , Zheng Di , Fang Shuai , Jia Zhaojie , Tao Zhao , Lin Fei , Ye Ji , Wang Xugao , Hao Zhanqing
Published: February 2021

Background and aims

Soil water storage capacity acts as a vital forest function to intercept rainfall and retain water for plant growth processes. However, whether or how plant functional trait diversity and composition regulate soil water storage capacity remains poorly understood.
Methods

Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to detect the direct and indirect effects of multiple biotic (i.e., functional trait composition and functional diversity) and abiotic (topography and soil organic carbon) factors on soil water storage capacity, i.e., in terms of soil capillary water storage content (CW), soil non-capillary water storage content (NCW), and soil saturated water storage content (TSW), in temperate forests recovering from different logging disturbance intensity levels.
Results

The community-weighted mean of specific leaf area (CWMSLA) increased CW but decreased NCW directly, whereas improved NCW and TSW indirectly via soil organic carbon. Disturbance influenced soil water storage capacity mainly in indirect ways via promoting CWMSLA and soil organic carbon. Elevation increased NCW and TSW but decreased CW directly, and it also had indirect effects on soil water storage capacity via decreasing CWMSLA and soil organic carbon. Moreover, soil organic carbon influenced NCW and TSW directly or mediated the effects of elevation, disturbance, and CWMSLA on soil water storage capacity.
Conclusions

The quick return on investments trait of CWMSLA shows a positive effect on soil water storage capacity (CW and TSW), supporting the mass ratio mechanism in temperate forests recovering from disturbances. Soil organic carbon also presents additional importance to soil water storage capacity.
Selection of tobacco etch virus protease variants with enhanced oxidative stability for tag-removal in refolding of two disulfide-rich proteins
Authors: Enkhtuya Bayar , Ren Yuanyuan , Hu Yafang , Chen Yinghua , Hu Jiong , Yu Xuelian , Wang Weiyu , Fan Jun
Published: February 2021

Tobacco etch virus protease (TEVp) is a powerful enzymatic reagent for removing fusion tag. In this work, we constructed nine TEVp variants with introducing one to three mutations of C19S, C110S and C130S into the soluble TEVp variant, TEVp5M. Using the C-terminal green fluorescent protein (GFP) variant reporter, all constructs showed different solubility levels among four E. coli strains. The TEVp5M containing the C110S and/or C130S mutations in the hyperoxic strain showed the enhanced the cleavage activity. Addition of dithiothreitol to the cultural medium increased the activity of certain constructs produced in the BL21(DE3), contrary to the added hydrogen peroxide, due to cytoplasmic redox change measured by the redox sensitive GFP construct. The more cysteine residues in the purified TEVp5M were modified specifically than those in the other variants. All purified constructs showed similar specific activities in the presence of 5 mM dithiothreitol. In the buffer containing the compounds to aid disulfide bond formation of the refolded protein, the double mutant TEVp5MC110S/C130S exhibited the highest cleavage efficiency. This variant was efficient for removing the fusion tag after refolding of cellulose-binding module tagged disulfide-rich proteins including bovine enteropeptidase and maize peroxidase absorbed on the regenerated amorphous cellulose.
Efficacy and Safety of Heated humidified high-flow nasal cannula for Preventing Extubation Failure in Neonates: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Liu Jia , Qiu Hongyan , Zheng Baihua , Jin Lu , Chen Jing
Published: February 2021

Background: Heated humidified high-flow nasal cannula (HHHFNC) is gaining popularity as a mode of respiratory support. We updated a meta-analysis examining the efficacy and safety of HHHFNC compared with nasal continuous positive airway pressure (NCPAP) for infants. Methods: Literature searches were conducted using PubMed, Cochrane Library, OVID, Embase, Web of Science, Chinese Biomedical Literature, Weipu Journal, Wanfang, and CNKI databases up to December 2020. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of HHHFNC versus NCPAP in preventing extubation failure for infants were included. Results: A total of 13 RCTs research literatures involving 2395 infants were included in the Meta-analysis. The meta-analysis showed the following results. (1) In terms of efficacy, there were no significant differences between two groups in the treatment failure rate (RR: 1.00, 95%CI: 0.73 to 1.36, P=0.99) and reintubation rate (RR: 0.86, 95%CI: 0.70 to 1.06, P=0.16). While in term of safety, HHHFNC had a significant advantage over NCPAP in reducing the incidence rates of nasal trauma (RR: 0.27, 95%CI: 0.13 to 0.56, P=0.0005) and frequent hemorrhoid (RR: 0.40, 95%CI: 0.23 to 0.70, P=0.001).(2) In terms of secondary outcome measures, there were no significant differences between two groups in hospital mortality rate and incidence rates of BPD, ROP, IVH and duration of reaching full enteral feeding(P>0.05). HHHFNC demonstrated lower incidence of NEC (RR: 0.65, 95%CI: 0.43 to 0.98, P=0.04) than NCPAP. Conclusion:this meta-analysis showed that HHHFNC appears to be similar to NCPAP in efficacy of preventing extubation failure in infants. It is associated with significantly lower odds of nasal trauma, frequent hemorrhoid and NEC.
Two new species of Amanita section Roanokenses with a radicating basal bulb
Authors: Zhong Juan , Li Gui-Wu , Pu Jin-Bao , Chen Zuo-Hong , Zhang Ping
Published: February 2021

Two new species of Amanita sect. Roanokenses (Amanitaceae, Agaricales, Basidiomycota), Amanita alboradicata and A. fulvopyramis are proposed here on morphological and molecular evidence. The described and illustrated are based on morphological studies of collections from Jilin, Zhejiang and Hunan provinces in China. Nuclear ribosomal large subunit (nrLSU), RNA polymerase II second largest subunit (rpb2) and translation elongation factor 1-α (tef1-α) sequences analyses supported establishment of these two new species and revealed their phylogenetic positions. Both new species possess long radicating basal bulbs. Amanita alboradicata is characterized by a white or dirty white pileus covered with angular warts. Amanita fulvopyramis is characterized by the brown orange to light brown, pyramidal to verrucose volval remnants on the pileus, and light brown to brown lamellae. Holotypes are deposited in the Mycological Herbarium of Hunan Normal University.
Exploring Polypharmacy Burden Among elderly patients with chronic diseases in Chinese community: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Wang Yongli , Li Xiaodan , Jia Dongmei , Lin Beilei , Fu Bo , Qi Bei , Zhang Zhenxiang
Published: February 2021

Background: In the long-term use of multiple medications for elderly patients with chronic diseases, medication problems are prominent, which seriously affects their quality of life. The burden of medications of patients plays a central role in affecting their medication beliefs, behaviors and disease outcomes. Paying attention to the burden of medications of patients may be a solution Its medication issues provide a new perspective. The objective was to use the Chinese version of Living with Medicines Questionnaire-3(C-LMQ-3) to quantify the medicines burden of elderly patients with chronic diseases in the Chinese community, and assess the relevant demographic characteristics of sub-populations with high medicines burden. Methods: The survey was distributed to elderly ≥60 years with chronic disease using ≥ 5 medicines, C-LMQ-3 scores and domain scores were compared by elderly patient characteristics using descriptive statistics and statistical tests. Results: A total of 430 responses were analyzed, the participants ranged in age between 60 to 91 years old, and the average age was 73.57 years (SD: 7.87). Most were female (61.7%), had a middle school education (38.5%). Moreover, 54.1% of the participants lived with spouse only, 16.2% with both spouse and children, and 10.0% lived alone. Regression analysis indicated that higher C-LMQ-3 scores were associated with those who were with low education level, 60–69 years-old, using ≥11 medicines, using medicines ≥3 times a day, Income per month(RMB)≤3000，and who having higher monthly self-paid medication(RMB)≥300 (p<0.01). Burden was mainly driven by cost-related burden, concerns about medicines, and the lack of autonomy over medicine regimens. Conclusion: Elderly patients with chronic diseases in mainland China have a heavy burden of multiple medications. Chinese health care providers should focus on evaluating and paying attention to such patients, and formulate relevant intervention strategies to ensure medication adherence and daily medication management of elderly patients with polypharmacy.
Cone-Beam Computed Tomography as a Prediction Tool for Osteoporosis in Postmenopausal Women: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Isayev Abulfaz , Koval Svitlana , Velieva Nigiar , Isedisha Luljeta , Javed Mamoona , Kamburoğlu Kivanç
Published: February 2021

Objective: To analyze the capability of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) to accurately identify low bone mass density in women.Methods: A systematic search of Medline, Embase, Scopus, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, and Science Direct was conducted to identify the relevant articles. A detailed inclusion and exclusion criterion was developed and implemented to screen the abstracts. Full texts of the selected studies were then evaluated to establish their inclusion or exclusion in our review. Cochrane risk of bias criterion was used to determine the methodological quality of the included studies. All relevant data were extracted, and the results were summarized narratively.Results: Ten studies met out inclusion-exclusion criteria and were included in this systematic review. All of the included studies assessed primary research on the capacity of CBCT to accurately diagnose insufficient bone mineral density. The results indicated that CBCT has good sensitivity and specificity, and high accuracy in predicting osteoporosis. Four of the included studies measured qualitative values while others concentrated on quantitative values and found lower values in osteoporosis patients compared to osteopenic and healthy patients. All of these studies compared CBCT grayscale values with DEXA scores which strengthened our confidence in the accuracy of CBCT diagnostic capability.Conclusion: Given the common use of CBCT in dental practices and the high prevalence of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women, the evidence on the capacity of CBCT to predict osteoporosis is somewhat finite. Although this systematic review provides good evidence regarding the ability of CBCT for predicting osteoporosis, further research is needed to confirm the evidence and enhance its generalisability.
Metabolomics Profiling of EUS-FNA Sample Predicts Advanced Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma Prognosis
Authors: Chen Ke , Zhou Changming , He Yiping , Liu Jianqiang , Yang Xiujiang
Published: February 2021

Background

Effective anti-tumor medicine for individual cases with different prognosis risks is urgent for pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAC) therapy. Metabolic therapy is a promising strategy for PAC. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) is a suitable technique for the biopsy of pancreatic mass. Here, we first perform metabolome analysis with EUS-FNA samples to identify prognostic biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets in advanced PAC.
Methods

PAC underwent EUS-FNA between October 2018 to March 2019 were enrolled. The cytological sample was delivered for liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS).
Results

A total of 60 advanced PAC with median survival of 390 days were enrolled for metabolome analysis, and 402 unique metabolites were identified. In multivariate analysis, a two-metabolite (cholesterol glucuronide and taurocholic acid 3-sulfate) risk score [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.983, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.362–2.887, p < 0.001] was constructed and proved to be independent predictors for overall survival. The C-index of the risk score was 0.64 (95% CI: 0.70–0.59). Patients in the high-risk and low-risk groups stratified by the risk score suffered different prognosis (median survival time 194 versus 480 days, p < 0.001). The area under the curve at 1 year was 0.685. The nomogram was depicted by combining the risk score with clinical parameters. The C-index was 0.67 (95% CI: 0.73–0.62). Finally, WGCNA identified three distinct modules and major enriched in glucose-alanine cycle and α-linolenic acid metabolism.
Conclusions

A two-metabolite risk score and nomogram with the ability to predict survival of PAC were generated. The two metabolites both showed an association with bile acid accumulation. The glucose-alanine cycle and α-linolenic acid metabolism were highly active in advanced PAC, which might be the target in future therapy.
Analysis of the left atrial function using two-dimensional strain in patients with recent diagnosis of hereditary hemochromatosis
Authors: Saad Ariel Karim , Aladio José Martín , Yamasato Florencia , Volberg Veronica Ines , Ballerga Esteban Gonzalez , Sorda Juan Antonio , Daruich Jorge , Hoz Ricardo Alfredo Perez de la
Published: February 2021

BackgroundHereditary Hemochromatosis (HH) is a genetic condition associated with a systemic iron overload. Heart failure is an important cause of mortality. It has been demonstrated early stages of systolic and diastolic left ventricular dysfunction in previous studies. The aim of the study is to compare the left atrial (LA) function between asymptomatic HH patients and a control group using 2D speckle tracking.MethodsProspective study. LA strain, LA strain rate and LA volumetric parameters during the reservoir, conduit and contraction phases were studied. The LA Stiffness Index was calculated by the ratio between E/e and LA reservoir strain.Results30 patients with HH (90% males, 47 ± 18 years old) and 30 healthy controls (85% males, 45 ± 13 years old) were included. LA volume was similar in both groups. No differences were observed in LA ejection fraction (EF), LA passive EF and LA active ejection fraction between both groups. On the contrary, the HH group had lower LA strain during the reservoir (31.5 ± 6.5% vs 38.3 ± 7.9%; p = 0.002), and conduit phases (-18 ± 7% vs -23.3 ± 6.4%; p = 0.01) and lower LA conduit strain rate (-1.7 ± 0.7 seg− 1 vs -2.1 ± 0.5 seg− 1; p = 0.02) than controls. The LA stiffness index was significantly higher in the HH group (0.25 ± 0.9 vs 0.19 ± 0.6; p = 0.01).ConclusionsEarly abnormalities in the LA function could be detected by using 2D speckle tracking study despite no evidence of changes in atrial size or volumetric parameters.
Physiological and Transcriptomic Responses of Antioxidant System and Nitrogen Metabolism in Tomato Roots Treated With Nitrogen Starvation and Re-Supply
Authors: Dong Yanyan , Wang Manqi , Wu Fanzhang , Yan Jinping , Li Kunzhi , Xu Huini
Published: February 2021

Nitrogen (N) is one of the essential macronutrients that plays important roles in plant growth and development. To better understand the response of antioxidant system and N metabolism under N starvation and re-supply condition, physiological and transcriptomic analysis were performed in tomato roots. The malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) contents increased significantly in tomato seedlings after N starvation for 24 h. The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and monodehydroascorbate reductase (MDHAR), the ratio of ASA/DHA and GSH/GSSG, the NO3- contents, nitrate reductase (NR) activity were decreased after N starvation treatment and increased after N re-supply for 24 h. Compared with the control, 1766 genes were up-regulated and 2244 genes were down-regulated after N starvation in tomato. These differentially expressed genes (DEGs) are mainly enriched in functional items such as cellular process, metabolic process and catalytic activity. The KEGG pathways revealed that the DEGs were mainly involved in phenpropane biosynthesis, amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism, and N metabolism. The expression patterns of tomato SlSOD, SlCAT, SlAPX, SlMDHAR, thioredoxin (SlTrxh), peroxiredoxin (SlPrx) and glutaredoxin (SlGrx) genes, and nitrate transporter SlNRT2.4, SlNR, glutamine synthetase (SlGS2), nitrite reductase (SlNiR) decreased after N starvation and increased after N re-supply, which were validated by qRT-PCR. Our results provide a basis for understanding the response of tomato to N deficiency and re-supply and a theoretical reference for cultivation regulation.
Antagonistic Effect on the Lethality of Earthworm (Eisenia Fetid L.) Being Exposed to Binary Mixtures of Metribuzin, Halosulfuron, and Flumioxazin
Authors: Kalkhoran Elham Samadi , Alebrahim Mohammad Taghi , Alebrahim Mohammad Taghi , Abad Hamid Reza Mohammaddust Chamn , Streibig Jens Carl , Ghavidel Ali
Published: February 2021

Frequent use of herbicides might impose a risk for nontarget species, such as earthworms. The objective was to test the combined toxic effect of binary herbicide mixtures: metribuzin:halosulfuron and metribuzin: flumioxazin on a nontarget earthworm in two test systems. Two experiments on filter paper and two on artificial soil determined lethality and chronic toxicity on the earthworm. Results showed the flumioxazin had no high toxicity in contact filter paper test, with the lethal concentration (LC50) of 153.10 µg a.i cm-2 at 48 h. In the artificial soil test, flumioxazin LC10 was 0.65 mg a.i kg-1 on day 14. Metribuzin showed high toxicity to earthworms in the filter paper test with LC50 17.17 µg a.i cm-2 at 48 h but LC10 of metribuzin. Halosulfuron and metribuzin were highly toxic with LC10 value 0.24 and 0.47 mg a.i kg-1 on day 14. The herbicides' mixed effect showed in both test systems antagonistic effect, meaning that the mixtures retracted the herbicides' action in the earthworms relative to a Concentration Addition reference model. A chronic toxicity test showed that earthworm catalase was stimulated by metribuzin:halosulfuron (50:50%) and metribuzin (100%).
Molecular Docking Study of Bio-Inhibitors Extracted From Marine Macro Alga Ulva Fasciata Against Hemolysin Protein of luminescence Disease Causing Vibrio Harveyi
Authors: Sivakumar Krishnamoorthy , Kannappan Sudalayandi , Vijayakumar Balakrishnan , Poochirian Jithendran Karingalakkandy , Balasubramanian Sivamani , Akshaya Panigraghi
Published: February 2021

Shrimp grow-out and hatchery systems are being affected by bacterial disease particularly Vibrios. The use of chemotherapeutic agents in aquaculture practices has to lead to the development of resistance among aquatic bacteria. Thus, health management becomes of major importance in aquaculture. Under this situation, progressing bio-inhibitors from marine resources are most appropriate to be considered against pathogenic bacteria. Molecular docking is an appropriate tool in structural biology and computer-assisted drug design to predict and neutralize a target protein of known diseases. In this study, marine macroalga Ulva fasciata was aimed at developing inhibitors against luminescence disease-causing pathogenic bacteria Vibrio harveyi. U. fasciata was collected from the intertidal zone of Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, India. Extract of U. fasciata was tested against growth and virulence factors of V. harveyi during Penaeus monodon larviculture. For molecular docking, the homology modeling of virulence of hemolysin protein of V. harveyi was designed and used for docking studies against the compounds of U. fasciata as identified by GC-MS analysis. Extract of U. fasciata@200 mg mL-1 had exhibited reductions on Cumulative Percentage of Mortality (32.40%) in postlarvae against the challenge of V. harveyi infection. In docking analysis, the bio-inhibitor Methyl dehydroabietate showed the highest binding affinity among compounds docked. Statistical analysis had revealed significant differences (p<0.05) in trials. Therefore, it was proved that the bio-inhibitors from U. fasciata will be a better option for controlling luminescence disease-causing V. harveyi in shrimp grow-out practices.
Transcriptomic Profiling of Synovial Sarcoma Reveals Novel Transcriptional and Post-Transcriptional Abnormalities
Authors: Sun Zhengwang , Xu Qiyue , Huang Quan , Yin Mengchen , Zhang Hongqiang , Chen Geng , Chen Yong , Yan Wangjun
Published: February 2021

BackgroundSynovial sarcoma (SS) is a rare type of cancer but relatively common in soft tissue tumors. The transcriptome landscape of SS is crucial for understanding the SS biology; however, the transcriptomic profile of SS is still poorly understood.MethodsHere we collected 10 paired SS and adjacent normal tissues, and then performed deeply total RNA sequencing to systematically dissect the transcriptomic changes of SS in terms of differential expression, alternative splicing, gene fusion, and circular RNAs. ResultsBy comparing SS with adjacent normal tissues, we identified 2309 upregulated and downregulated genes in SS. Those upregulated genes could lead to the upregulation of cell cycle, ribosome, and DNA replication pathways, while the downregulated genes may result in the downregulation of a set of metabolic biological processes and signaling pathways. Moreover, 2511 genes (including 21 splicing factors) were differentially alternative spliced, indicating that the deregulation of alternative splicing could be one important factor contributes to the tumorigenesis. Additionally, we not only detected the common fusion events of SS18-SSX1/SSX2 in SS, but also uncovered 11 novel gene fusions. Interestingly, 49 circular RNAs (circRNAs) were differentially expressed and their parental genes could function in muscle contraction and muscle system processes. Interaction network reconstruction and exploration revealed that these differentially expressed circRNAs may function as the miRNA sponge to regulate the expression of an abundance of differentially expressed and alternatively spliced genes. ConclusionsCollectively, our results provide novel insights into the transcriptome and underlying mechanism of SS, which could benefit the diagnosis and treatment of SS.
A Comparative Analysis of Relationship Between Innovation and Transport Sector Carbon Emissions in Developed and Developing Mediterranean Countries
Authors: Çakar Nigar Demircan , Gedikli Ayfer , Erdoğan Seyfettin , Yıldırım Durmuş Çağrı
Published: February 2021

Innovation technologies have been recognized as an efficient solution to alleviate carbon emissions stem from transport sector. The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of innovation on carbon emissions stemming from the transportation sector in the Mediterranean countries. Based on the available data, Albania, Algeria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia, and Turkey are selected as the 8 developing countries; and Cyprus, France, Greece, Israel, Italy, Spain are selected as the 6 developed countries and included in the analysis. Due to data constraints, the analysis period has been determined as 1997-2017 for the developing Mediterranean countries, and 2003-2017 for the developed Mediterranean countries. After determining the long-term relationship with the panel cointegration method, we obtained the long-term coefficients with FMOLS and DOLS methods. The empirical test results indicated that the increments in the level of innovation in developing countries have a negative impact on carbon emissions due to transportation if the innovation results from an increase in patents. However, the trademark increase does not have a statistically significant effect on carbon emissions. In developed countries, it is observed that both the patent application increases and the trademark increases have a positive effect on carbon emissions.