bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human and Social Values Included in EFL Curricula for Basic Stage in Jordan
Authors: Sahm Tayseer Al-Ma'aitah
Published: August 2022

The study aims to indicate the most important human and social relations values included in the English language curricula for the basic stage in Jordan. To achieve the study objectives, the researcher prepared a checklist consisting of (17) values. The results indicate that there are (2744) human and social relations values in the English language textbooks of the basic stage in Jordan. This is due to the fact that textbooks encourage communication with others, in addition to the adaptation and integration with them, which is the goal of the educational process.  Also, the textbooks of the 6th grade contained the highest repetition of Human and Social Relations values, while the textbooks of the 2nd grade contained the lowest repetition of the same values.
An Experimental Study on the Biomechanical Effectiveness of Bone Cement-Augmented Pedicle Screw Fixation with Various Types of Fenestrations
Authors: Yoon Sang Hoon , Lee Sang Hyung , Jahng Tae-Ahn
Published: August 2022

Objective : To analyze the effects of the number and shape of fenestrations on the mechanical strength of pedicle screws and the effects of bone cement augmentation (BCA) on the pull-out strength (POS) of screws used in conventional BCA.Methods : For the control group, a conventional screw was defined as C1, a screw with cannulated end-holes was defined as C2, a C2 screw with six pinholes was defined as C3, and the control group type was set. Among the experimental screws, T1 was designed using symmetrically placed thru-hole type fenestrations with an elliptical shape, while T2 was designed with half-moon (HM)-shaped asymmetrical fenestrations. T3 and T4 were designed with single HM-shaped fenestrations covering three pitches and five pitches, respectively. T5 and T6 were designed with 0.6-mm and 1-mm wider fenestrations than T3. BCA was performed by injecting 3 mL of commercial bone cement in the screw, and mechanical strength and POS tests were performed according to ASTM F1717 and ASTM F543 standards. Synthetic bone (model #1522-505) made of polyurethane foam was used as a model of osteoporotic bone, and radiographic examinations were performed using computed tomography and fluoroscopy.Results : In the fatigue test, at 75% ultimate load, fractures occurred 7781 and 9189 times; at 50%, they occurred 36122 and 82067 times; and at 25%, no fractures occurred. The mean ultimate load for each screw type was 219.1±52.39 N for T1, 234.74±15.9 N for T2, 220.70±59.23 N for T3, 216.45±32.4 N for T4, 181.55±54.78 N for T5, and 216.47±29.25 N for T6. In comparison with C1, T1, T2, T3, T4, and T6 showed significantly different ultimate load values (p<0.05). However, when the values for C2 and the fenestrated screws were evaluated with an unpaired t test, the ultimate load value of C2 significantly differed only from that of T2 (p=0.025). The ultimate load value of C3 differed significantly from those of T1 and T2 (C3 vs. T1 : p=0.048; C3 vs. T2 : p<0.001). Linear correlation analysis revealed a significant correlation between the fenestration area and the volume of bone cement (Pearson’s correlation coefficient r=0.288, p=0.036). The bone cement volume and ultimate load significantly correlated with each other in linear correlation analysis (r=0.403, p=0.003).Conclusion : Fenestration yielded a superior ultimate load in comparison with standard BCA using a conventional screw. In T2 screws with asymmetrical two-way fenestrations showed the maximal increase in ultimate load. The fenestrated screws can be expected to show a stable position for the formation of the cement mass.
Attraction of cod Gadus morhua from coastal spawning grounds to salmon farms
Authors: Skjæraasen JE , Karlsen Ø , Langangen Ø , Meier S , Dunlop KM , van der Meeren T , Keeley NB , Myksvoll MS , Dahle G , Moland E , Nilsen R , Elvik Schrøder KM , Bannister RJ , Olsen EM
Published: August 2022

Wild fish aggregate at aquaculture net-pens, but the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. This study examined how salmon farms attract coastal Atlantic cod Gadus morhua from their inshore spawning grounds. Acoustic receivers were deployed at 5 known cod spawning grounds and 6 salmon Salmo salar farms located at varying distances from these grounds in a mid-Norway study site. Cod were caught at each spawning ground annually from 2017-2019, fitted with acoustic transmitters and released (n = 535). A total of 289 tagged cod (54%) were detected at the salmon farms, with more cod detected at farms closest to the focal spawning grounds and at operational farms. The latter result is likely linked to the availability of feeding opportunities at farm locations. Those cod that were detected by the receivers spent less time at farms farther from their release locations. For the farm-associated cod, 70% were detected for <1 wk at the farms. However, 48 cod spent >1 mo close to the farms, with 1 individual staying 720 d underneath the farm. A total of 135 cod visited 2 or more farms, with farms in proximity more connected in terms of inter-farm movement. Some of the cod utilizing these local spawning grounds likely have considerable dietary input from salmon feed.
Vacíos urbanos y desigualdad socioeconómica: temas que convergen en la frontera norte de México
Authors: Curzio Claudio , de la Torre Héctor
Published: August 2022

Urban empty spaces can be understood as those vacant lands waiting to be built. In legal terms, its regime can vary between public and private. This article analyzes the nature of its geospatial distribution, examining the correlation between this urban phenomenon and the socioeconomic inequality of the population of three border cities in northern Mexico (Mexicali, San Luis Río Colorado, and Nuevo Laredo). A descriptive-comparative methodology was implemented based on statistical techniques and digital and physical surveys of the vacant lands in these cities. The results indicate that poverty levels and the number of empty urban spaces are directly related (positively correlated). In conclusion, a comparative discussion is presented between the three cities is presented. Also, the main differences and coincidences identified are pointed out.
La ciudadanía transnacional y el voto desde el extranjeroen México 2018:el caso Guanajuato en las elecciones para presidente de la república y gobernador
Authors: Vilches Hinojosa Miguel , Aguilar López Jesús
Published: August 2022

This paper descriptively discusses the vote of Mexicans and people born in Guanajuato, Mexico living in the United States during the 2017-2018 electoral process. This presidential and gubernatorial election represented a substantial change in the electoral behavior of the Mexican diaspora. The phenomenon is relevant because it is the first time in the political history of this entity that people from Guanajuato living abroad were able to vote to elect a governor and senators. The analysis focuses on the concept of transnational citizenship, which involves the exercise of migrants’ political rights and their consequent impact on the reconfiguration of the State, especially at the subnational level, in addition to being an expansion of political rights that led to the implementation of a series of mechanisms by the federal and local electoral body to disseminate and make this right accessible.
Computation Method for Combinatorial Geometric Series and its Applications
Authors: Annamalai Chinnaraji
Published: August 2022

Nowadays, the growing complexity of mathematical and computational modelling demands the simplicity of mathematical and computational equations for solving today’s scientific problems and challenges. This paper presents combinatorial geometric series, innovative binomial coefficients, combinatorial equations, binomial expansions, calculus with combinatorial geometric series, and innovative binomial theorems. Combinatorics involves integers, factorials, binomial coefficients, discrete mathematics, and theoretical computer science for finding solutions to the problems in computing and engineering science. The combinatorial geometric series with binomial expansions and its theorems refer to the methodological advances which are useful for researchers who are working in computational science. Computational science is a rapidly growing multi-and inter-disciplinary area where science, engineering, computation, mathematics, and collaboration use advance computing capabilities to understand and solve the most complex real life problems.
Exact Equation of Ellipse Perimeter by Analytical Method
Authors: Soltani Abolfazl
Published: August 2022

As you know, we do not have any exact equation for calculating the perimeter of an ellipse. In this article, we obtain this equation analytically. This is the equation we have been looking for, at least since Leonhard Euler and Maclaurin.
The technique to solve equations of the first degree. A case study
Authors: Páez David-Alfonso , Eudave-Muñoz Daniel , Macías-Esparza Ana Cecilia
Published: August 2022

In Mexico we can find upper secondary teachers who, sometimes, are forced to teach mathematics even though their profile is different. This document is aimed to identify the technique –mathematical methods– that a teacher from the Mexican Telebachillerato subsystem (high school) uses to help students to solve the type of tasks related to first-degree equations. This proposal is part of a research project where thirteen teachers participated, and who allowed to be observed twice teaching mathematical contents according to their study program. The purpose of observation works was to make them a discussion object with the participants. This is a study case research. The results show that the teacher creates a technique focused on obtaining determinants to solve types of task about system of equations, but the theory which proves its functionality is reduced to a more didactic than mathematical discourse. In the classroom, techniques to solve problems are taught, but these remain unprotected from mathematical theories (mathematical argument) that can validate their functionality, the student is the one who has to infer o build his own theory from the teacher’s technique.
Research progress in membrane fusion-based hybrid exosomes for drug delivery systems
Authors: Liu Anqi , Yang Gang , Liu Yuehua , Liu Tingjiao
Published: August 2022

Liposomes are the earliest and most widely used nanoparticles for targeted drug delivery. Exosomes are nanosized membrane-bound particles and important mediators of intercellular communication. Combining liposomes and exosomes using various membrane fusion methods gives rise to a novel potential drug delivery system called membrane fusion-based hybrid exosomes (MFHE). These novel MFHEs not only exhibit potential advantageous features, such as high drug loading rate and targeted cellular uptake via surface modification, but are also endowed with high biocompatibility and low immunogenicity. Here, we provide an overview of MFHEs’ various preparation methods, characterization strategies, and their applications for disease treatment and scientific research.
2-Dimensional in vitro culture assessment of ovarian cancer cell line using cost effective silver nanoparticles from Macrotyloma uniflorum seed extracts
Authors: Lavudi Kousalya , Harika Venkata Satya , Kokkanti Rekha Rani , Patchigolla Swaroopa , Sinha Anupriya , Patnaik Srinivas , Penchalaneni Josthna
Published: August 2022

Our research focused on generating AgNPs using Macrotyloma uniflorum (MU) seed extracts and studied their efficacy in combating tumor growth using the 2-Dimensional method for ovarian cancer cell line-PA-1. Characterization studies including a UV-visible spectrophotometer confirmed the surface plasmon resonance peak of 436 nm. Particle size determination data validated the nanoparticle diameter of 91.8 nm. Synthesized AgNPs possess a negative charge of -28.0 mV, which was confirmed through the zeta potential study. Structural characterization studies including XRD determined the crystal phase of AgNPs at four distant peaks at 2θ (38.17, 44.36, 64.52, and 77.46) and were assigned to 111, 200, 220, and 311 planes of the FCC. FTIR studies have confirmed the presence of O-H, N-H, C=O, ethers, C-Br, and C-I groups in AgNPs respectively. DPPH study has confirmed the presence of free radicles and we observed that at 500 μg/ml concentration, 76.08% of free radicles were formed which shows their efficiency. MTT assay shows the efficacy of MU-AgNPs in reducing the cell viability. At lower concentrations of MU-AgNP, 66% viability was observed and 9% of viability was observed at higher dose. ROS production (21%) was observed using MU-AgNPs with respect to 0.45% in controls, which affirms the capacity to induce DNA damage via apoptosis. Standard drug camptothecin generated 26% of ROS production which confirms higher potential of AgNPs in inducing DNA damage in tumor cells without causing lethality to the healthy cells. Further, the Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) study using a standard Caspase-3 marker confirms the generation of apoptotic bodies using two different concentrations of MU-AgNPs. At 40 μg, 64% of apoptotic cell death was observed, whereas, using 20 μg, 23% of apoptosis was recorded via fluorescent intensity. Propidium iodide-based Cell cycle study has shown a significant decrease in G0/G1 phase compared to control (88.8%), which further confirmed the apoptotic induction. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) studies using JC-1 dye, showed a significant increase in green fluorescence owing to lowered membrane potential, thus ensuring the breakdown of mitochondrial potential compared to untreated and standard drugs. With the obtained results, we are concluding that MU-AgNPs has a tremendous capacity to suppress the ovarian cancer cell proliferation in vitro by inducing DNA damage and apoptosis.
Coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering cell imaging and segmentation with unsupervised data analysis
Authors: Boildieu Damien , Guerenne-Del Ben Tiffany , Duponchel Ludovic , Sol Vincent , Petit Jean-Michel , Champion Éric , Kano Hideaki , Helbert David , Magnaudeix Amandine , Leproux Philippe , Carré Philippe
Published: August 2022

Coherent Raman imaging has been extensively applied to live-cell imaging in the last 2 decades, allowing to probe the intracellular lipid, protein, nucleic acid, and water content with a high-acquisition rate and sensitivity. In this context, multiplex coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (MCARS) microspectroscopy using sub-nanosecond laser pulses is now recognized as a mature and straightforward technology for label-free bioimaging, offering the high spectral resolution of conventional Raman spectroscopy with reduced acquisition time. Here, we introduce the combination of the MCARS imaging technique with unsupervised data analysis based on multivariate curve resolution (MCR). The MCR process is implemented under the classical signal non-negativity constraint and, even more originally, under a new spatial constraint based on cell segmentation. We thus introduce a new methodology for hyperspectral cell imaging and segmentation, based on a simple, unsupervised workflow without any spectrum-to-spectrum phase retrieval computation. We first assess the robustness of our approach by considering cells of different types, namely, from the human HEK293 and murine C2C12 lines. To evaluate its applicability over a broader range, we then study HEK293 cells in different physiological states and experimental situations. Specifically, we compare an interphasic cell with a mitotic (prophase) one. We also present a comparison between a fixed cell and a living cell, in order to visualize the potential changes induced by the fixation protocol in cellular architecture. Next, with the aim of assessing more precisely the sensitivity of our approach, we study HEK293 living cells overexpressing tropomyosin-related kinase B (TrkB), a cancer-related membrane receptor, depending on the presence of its ligand, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Finally, the segmentation capability of the approach is evaluated in the case of a single cell and also by considering cell clusters of various sizes.
ER-mitochondria contact sites; a multifaceted factory for Ca2+ signaling and lipid transport
Authors: Sassano Maria Livia , Felipe-Abrio Blanca , Agostinis Patrizia
Published: August 2022

Membrane contact sites (MCS) between organelles of eukaryotic cells provide structural integrity and promote organelle homeostasis by facilitating intracellular signaling, exchange of ions, metabolites and lipids and membrane dynamics. Cataloguing MCS revolutionized our understanding of the structural organization of a eukaryotic cell, but the functional role of MSCs and their role in complex diseases, such as cancer, are only gradually emerging. In particular, the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-mitochondria contacts (EMCS) are key effectors of non-vesicular lipid trafficking, thereby regulating the lipid composition of cellular membranes and organelles, their physiological functions and lipid-mediated signaling pathways both in physiological and diseased conditions. In this short review, we discuss key aspects of the functional complexity of EMCS in mammalian cells, with particular emphasis on their role as central hubs for lipid transport between these organelles and how perturbations of these pathways may favor key traits of cancer cells.
Pediatric patients with familially inherited sitosterolemia: Two case reports
Authors: Su Shun-Qing , Xiong Di-Sheng , Ding Xiu-Mei , Kuang Jin-An , Lin Yue-Chun
Published: August 2022

Background

Sitosterolemia is a rare recessive genetic abnormality of hyperlipidemia; it is characterized by increased levels and accumulation of sitosterol in the plasma and local tissues.

Case descriptions

The study subjects were two siblings (brother and sister) who had sitosterolemia with systemic multiple xanthomas as the main manifestation. The main clinical manifestations were hypercholesterolemia, premature atherosclerosis, arrhythmia, systemic multiple xanthomas, etc. After genetic testing, it was found that the patients had a compound heterozygous mutation of c.1324+1de1G in exon 7 and exon 9 of chromosome 2p21 of the adenosine triphosphate binding cassette transporter G family member 5(ABCG5) gene; the mutation at c.904+1G>A was of maternal origin, and the mutation at c. 1324+1de1G was of paternal origin. The compound heterozygous mutation of these two genes led to a metabolic disorder of plant sterols in vivo.

Conclusion

Sitosterolemia is an autosomal recessive disease that could be effectively controlled after dietary control and oral lipid-lowering therapy with Ezetimibe. Xanthomas, which affects function and appearance, could be surgically removed, and primary wound healing could be achieved.
Landslide displacement prediction based on CEEMDAN and grey wolf optimized-support vector regression model
Authors: Wang Chenhui , Lin Gaocong , Guo Wei , Meng Qingjia , Yang Kai , Ji Jieyan
Published: August 2022

Landslide prediction is very important and challenging for reducing geological hazards. In the Three Gorges Reservoir area, landslides show stepped deformation due to seasonal rainfall and periodic fluctuation of reservoir water level. The purpose of this study is to use complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise and grey wolf optimization to support the vector regression method for displacement prediction. Firstly, the cumulative displacement is decomposed by CEEMDAN to obtain both trend term and fluctuation term displacement. Secondly, according to the cumulative displacement, rainfall, and reservoir water level data, the influencing factors related to the displacement of the trend term and the fluctuation term are determined. Then, the GWO-SVR model is used to predict the trend and fluctuation displacement. The final prediction result is obtained by adding the calculated predicted displacement values of each component. The Shuizhuyuan landslide in the Three Gorges Reservoir area, China, was taken as an example, and the long-term displacement data of monitoring point SZY-03 were selected for analysis. The results show that the root mean square error (RMSE) and coefficient of determination (R2) between the measured displacement values and the prediction values were 0.9845 and 0.9964, respectively. The trained model has high computational accuracy, which proves that the GWO-SVR model can be used for displacement prediction of this type of landslide in the Three Gorges Reservoir area.
Distant organ metastasis patterns and prognosis of neuroendocrine cervical carcinoma: a population-based retrospective study
Authors: Li Qing , Yu Jie , Yi Hanjie , Lan Qiongyu
Published: August 2022

Background

Neuroendocrine carcinoma of the cervix (NECC) is a rare pathological form of cervical cancer. The prognosis of NECC with distant organ metastases is unclear. In our study, the patterns and prognosis of distant organ metastasis of NECC were investigated.

Methods

Data were obtained from the surveillance epidemiology and end results (SEER) database from 2000 to 2018. Cox regression, Kaplan–Meier and log-rank analyses were conducted.

Results

NECC was prone to single and multi-site metastases. The median overall survival (OS) was greatly decreased in patients with distant metastasis (P < 0.0001). Other characteristics such as age ≥60 years, poorer grade, higher T stage, those without surgery, no radiotherapy, and no chemotherapy were predictors of poor prognosis.

Conclusions

Metastasis is an independent prognostic factor for patients with NECC. Surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy give an overall survival advantage for patients with distant organ metastases.
Rheological Behavior of Air in the Two-Pass Solar Collector
Authors: Dhaundiyal Alok
Published: August 2022

This study pivoted on the flow behavior of air streams across solar air collectors provided with wooden baffles under the absorber plates. The two-pass system was used for both flat and finned surfaces. The von Kármán momentum integral and Blasius equations were solved with the help of PDPE and ODE45 techniques. The solution was assumed to be a part of the initial value problem (IVP). The energy analysis of both solar air collectors was carried out using the Hottel–Whillier–Bliss equation (HWB) equation. The Sankey diagram was used for energy distribution across the solar collectors. The gray box modeling approach was adopted to comprehend the airflow behavior across the channel. The objective of this study is to examine the intrinsic behavior of the proposed design. The displacement of boundary to compensate for the momentum of air stream (θt) decreased by 31.25%–62.50% with an increase in mass flow rate (m)˙of 24.69%–49.38% for the flat plate collector (FPC). Similarly, the shear stress posed by the absorber plate (τw) dropped by 15.89%–37.20% with the augmentation of the mass flow rate. The momentum thickness for the flat plate with triangular fin (FPTF) increased relatively by 31.25%, compared to FPC at 8.10 g·s−1. The estimated value of collector efficiency (ηI) FPTF soared up by 4%–11.51% when it was juxtaposed against the corresponding values derived for FPC. The wall shear stress near the absorber plate followed that of a second-order Gaussian model. It was noticed in this study that the addition of the fin slowed down the shear effect and the momentum defect of airstream at the same mass flow rate.
Single-chamber microbial electrosynthesis reactor for nitrate reduction from waters with a low-electron donors’ concentration: from design and set-up to the optimal operating potential
Authors: Lust Rauno , Nerut Jaak , Gadegaonkar Sharvari S. , Kasak Kuno , Espenberg Mikk , Visnapuu Triinu , Mander Ülo
Published: August 2022

Microbial electrosynthesis is a promising solution for removing nitrate from water with a low concentration of electron donors. Three single-chamber microbial electrosynthesis reactors were constructed and operated for almost 2 years. The single-chamber reactor design saves on construction costs, and the pH of the solute is more stable than that in the case of a two-chamber reactor. Nitrate reduction started at the working electrode potential of −756 mV versus standard hydrogen electrode (SHE), and subsequently, the working electrode potential could be increased without hindering the process. The optimal potential was −656 mV versus SHE, where the highest Faradaic efficiency of 71% and the nitrate removal rate of 3.8 ± 1.2 mgN-NO3/(L×day) were registered. The abundances of nitrite reductase and nitrous oxide reductase genes were significantly higher on the working electrode compared to the counter electrode, indicating that the process was driven by denitrification. Therefore, a microbial electrosynthesis reactor was successfully applied to remove nitrate and can be utilized for purifying water when adding organic compounds as electron donors is not feasible, that is, groundwater. In addition, at the lower working electrode potentials, the dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonium was observed.
Does the transfer of agricultural labor reduce China’s grain output? A substitution perspective of chemical fertilizer and agricultural machinery
Authors: Lu Hua , Huan Haoting
Published: August 2022

The continuous increase in China’s grain output has significantly contributed to food security and poverty alleviation worldwide. Whether the massive nonagricultural transfer of the agricultural labor force in China could affect grain production and the extent of the effects of such changes have become important practical issues. By using panel data from major grain-producing provinces in China from 1995 to 2017 and based on farmer behavior theory, this paper constructs an econometric model and a mediation effect model to empirically test the influencing mechanism and causal relationship between agricultural labor force transfer (ALT) and grain output from the substitution perspective of chemical fertilizer and agricultural machinery application. The findings reveal that ALT has no substantial negative impact on China’s grain output but is conducive to promoting grain production. ALT can directly promote grain production and partially promote it through the use of agricultural machinery and the application of chemical fertilizers as mediation variables. These findings have important policy implications for promoting grain production and the nonagricultural transfer of the agricultural labor force in China. Moreover, this work can improve the international community’s understanding of the seventeen consecutive increases in China’s grain output and provide a reference for grain production worldwide. In the future, a heterogeneity analysis can be carried out in grain main-marketing areas and producing and marketing balance areas in China, and the relationship between agricultural machinery and the environment is worthy of further studies.
Towards carbon neutrality: Improving resource efficiency of the rare earth elements in China
Authors: Ge Zewen , Geng Yong , Dong Fanli , Liang Jingjing , Zhong Chen
Published: August 2022

Rare earth elements (REEs) are essential for promoting clean energy technologies and making high-performance materials because of their unique physical and chemical properties. In order to respond to climate change, the Chinese government has promised to achieve carbon neutrality before 2060. Under such a circumstance, the demand for REEs will increase significantly. However, several challenges exist in current REEs supply chain management in China. This policy brief discusses these challenges from a life cycle perspective, covering REEs mining, smelting, manufacturing, waste management, and recycling. Policy recommendations on future REEs supply chain management are then proposed, including adequate mining quota, a strategic REEs list, innovative high-tech applications, and circular economy.
Effects of the PLK4 inhibitor Centrinone on the biological behaviors of acute myeloid leukemia cell lines
Authors: Mu Xing-Ru , Ma Meng-Meng , Lu Zi-Yi , Liu Jun , Xue Yu-Tong , Cao Jiang , Zeng Ling-Yu , Li Feng , Xu Kai-Lin , Wu Qing-Yun
Published: August 2022

Polo-like kinase 4 (PLK4), a key regulator of centriole biogenesis, is frequently overexpressed in cancer cells. However, roles and the mechanism of PLK4 in the leukemiagenesis of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remain unclear. In this study, the PLK4 inhibitor Centrinone and the shRNA knockdown were used to investigate roles and the mechanism of PLK4 in the leukemiagenesis of AML. Our results indicated that Centrinone inhibited the proliferation of AML cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner via reduced the expression of PLK4 both in the protein and mRNA levels. Moreover, colony formation assay revealed that Centrinone reduced the number and the size of the AML colonies. Centrinone induced AML cell apoptosis by increasing the activation of Caspase-3/poly ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP). Notably, Centrinone caused the G2/M phase cell cycle arrest by decreasing the expression of cell cycle-related proteins such as Cyclin A2, Cyclin B1, and Cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1). Consistent with above results, knockdown the expression of PLK4 also inhibited cell proliferation and colony formation, induced cell apoptosis, and caused G2/M phase cell cycle arrest without affecting cell differentiation. All in all, this study suggested that PLK4 inhibited the progression of AML in vitro, and these results herein may provide clues in roles of PLK4 in the leukemiagenesis of AML.
Early Implanon discontinuation and associated factors among Implanon women users visiting public health facilities, in Kembata zone of Southern Ethiopia: An institution based cross-sectional study
Authors: Beyene Gemechu Nigusie , Assefa Nega , Mokonnon Taklu Marama , Ejigu Habtamu Bekele , Yadeta Tesfaye Assebe
Published: August 2022

Background

Contraceptive practice is the basis of fertility and plays a significant role in minimizing maternal morbidity and mortality. Implanon is one of the most effective long-acting contraceptive methods that prevents pregnancy for 3 years. Early Implanon discontinuation can lead to many negative reproductive health consequences. Therefore, this study assessed the magnitude of early Implanon discontinuation among female Implanon users visiting public health facilities to discontinue Implanon in the Kembata zone of southern Ethiopia.

Methods

An institution-based cross-sectional study design was carried out from 1 March 2020 to 30 March 2020. Simple random sampling techniques were used to select 454 women who had discontinued Implanon. The data were collected using a pretested and structured questionnaire. The collected data were entered into Epi Data version-3.1 and then exported to STATA version-16 for analysis. A descriptive analysis along with bivariate and multivariate regression was performed to identify factors associated with early Implanon discontinuation. Statistical significance was declared at a p < 0.05 along with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

In the present study, 438 women were interviewed, which corresponds to a response rate of 96.48%. The magnitude of early Implanon discontinuation was 56.4%, 95%CI (51.6, 61.2). Primary educational status [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 2.92, 95%CI (1.56, 5.46)], rural residency [AOR = 1.76, 95%CI (1.06, 2.92)], women with no history of modern contraceptive use [(AOR = 2.14, 95%CI (1.14, 4.03)], those who experienced service dissatisfaction [AOR = 3.05, 95%CI (1.52, 6.12)], women who experienced as Implanon side effect [AOR = 3.36, 95%CI (2.09, 5.42)], and women who were not appointed after insertion [(AOR = 2.17, 95%CI (1.18, 4.79)] have shown an association with early Implanon discontinuation.

Conclusion

The present study indicated that the magnitude of early Implanon discontinuation was high. Educational level, rural residency, women who experienced side effects, those who experienced service dissatisfaction, women with no history of contraceptive use, and those who missed follow-up appointments were associated with Implanon discontinuation. Family planning service providers should focus on Implanon side effects during pre-insertion counseling. The recommended intervention is to recognize modifiable factors like improving client satisfaction with the service, appointing for follow up after insertion, and providing quality family planning services.
Bioinformatics analysis of potential pathogenesis and risk genes of immunoinflammation-promoted renal injury in severe COVID-19
Authors: Chen Zhimin , Chen Caiming , Chen Fengbin , Lan Ruilong , Lin Guo , Xu Yanfang
Published: August 2022

Renal injury secondary to COVID-19 is an important factor for the poor prognosis of COVID-19 patients. The pathogenesis of renal injury caused by aberrant immune inflammatory of COVID-19 remains unclear. In this study, a total of 166 samples from 4 peripheral blood transcriptomic datasets of COVID-19 patients were integrated. By using the weighted gene co-expression network (WGCNA) algorithm, we identified key genes for mild, moderate, and severe COVID-19. Subsequently, taking these genes as input genes, we performed Short Time-series Expression Miner (STEM) analysis in a time consecutive ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) -kidney dataset to identify genes associated with renal injury in COVID-19. The results showed that only in severe COVID-19 there exist a small group of genes associated with the progression of renal injury. Gene enrichment analysis revealed that these genes are involved in extensive immune inflammation and cell death-related pathways. A further protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis screened 15 PPI-hub genes: ALOX5, CD38, GSF3R, LGR, RPR1, HCK, ITGAX, LYN, MAPK3, NCF4, SELP, SPI1, WAS, TLR2 and TLR4. Single-cell sequencing analysis indicated that PPI-hub genes were mainly distributed in neutrophils, macrophages, and dendritic cells. Intercellular ligand-receptor analysis characterized the activated ligand-receptors between these immune cells and parenchyma cells in depth. And KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that viral protein interaction with cytokine and cytokine receptor, necroptosis, and Toll-like receptor signaling pathway may be potentially essential for immune cell infiltration leading to COVID-19 renal injury. Finally, we validated the expression pattern of PPI-hub genes in an independent data set by random forest. In addition, we found that the high expression of these genes was correlated with a low glomerular filtration rate. Including them as risk genes in lasso regression, we constructed a Nomogram model for predicting severe COVID-19. In conclusion, our study explores the pathogenesis of renal injury promoted by immunoinflammatory in severe COVID-19 and extends the clinical utility of its key genes.
The role of cell-mediated immunity against influenza and its implications for vaccine evaluation
Authors: Janssens Yorick , Joye Jasper , Waerlop Gwenn , Clement Frédéric , Leroux-Roels Geert , Leroux-Roels Isabel
Published: August 2022

Influenza vaccines remain the most effective tools to prevent flu and its complications. Trivalent or quadrivalent inactivated influenza vaccines primarily elicit antibodies towards haemagglutinin and neuraminidase. These vaccines fail to induce high protective efficacy, in particular in older adults and immunocompromised individuals and require annual updates to keep up with evolving influenza strains (antigenic drift). Vaccine efficacy declines when there is a mismatch between its content and circulating strains. Current correlates of protection are merely based on serological parameters determined by haemagglutination inhibition or single radial haemolysis assays. However, there is ample evidence showing that these serological correlates of protection can both over- or underestimate the protective efficacy of influenza vaccines. Next-generation universal influenza vaccines that induce cross-reactive cellular immune responses (CD4+ and/or CD8+ T-cell responses) against conserved epitopes may overcome some of the shortcomings of the current inactivated vaccines by eliciting broader protection that lasts for several influenza seasons and potentially enhances pandemic preparedness. Assessment of cellular immune responses in clinical trials that evaluate the immunogenicity of these new generation vaccines is thus of utmost importance. Moreover, studies are needed to examine whether these cross-reactive cellular immune responses can be considered as new or complementary correlates of protection in the evaluation of traditional and next-generation influenza vaccines. An overview of the assays that can be applied to measure cell-mediated immune responses to influenza with their strengths and weaknesses is provided here.
Vertical structural variability of diurnal internal tides inside a mesoscale anticyclonic eddy based on single virtual-moored Slocum glider observations
Authors: Lim Gyuchang , Park JongJin
Published: August 2022

The vertical structural variability of the diurnal internal tide (DIT) with a mode-1 wavelength of ~420 km inside a mesoscale baroclinic anticyclonic eddy was examined based on observations by a single virtual-moored (VM) Slocum glider. During the glider observational period from 10 to 19 September 2018, the eddy traveled northward at approximately 50 km, allowing the glider to scan a cross section of 50 km wide and 800 m deep inside the eddy. VM observations showed that DIT experienced a noticeable vertical structural variability near the eddy center. In a range of 30 km horizontally from the eddy center (inner center), DIT’s vertical displacements were significantly intensified in the 400–800-m depth below the eddy. In the range of 30–50 km from the eddy center (outer center), DIT was almost uniformly distributed from the surface to 800-m depth. Owing to the spatiotemporally restricted dataset by the glider, the significance of DIT’s modulation observed inside the eddy can be questionable. As a result of comparing DIT’s vertical structural variability in two domains in terms of available potential energy (APE) and horizontal kinetic energy (HKE) using CTDs inside the eddy and ADCPs outside the eddy, DIT’s vertical structure inside the eddy was significantly distinguished from that outside the eddy. The relative vorticity inside the eddy was estimated based on the satellite dataset; it was negatively great in the inner center (approximately 0.35 – 0.25f) and small in the outer center (approximately 0.2 – 0.1f). These observational behaviors indicate a close relationship between them; the vorticity-dependent modulation of the DIT seems to be observationally confirmed inside the eddy. Further, in order to examine the energy transferring behavior in low vertical modes, a wavenumber spectral analysis was performed on the DIT displacements and the lowest four wavenumbers, Kz (1) through Kz (4), showed a similar behavior to those observed in DIT’s vertical structural variability inside of the eddy; the relative power of the sum of Kz (2) ~ Kz (4) with respect to Kz (1) was strong in the inner center and weakened in the outer center. These results seem to support that the wave–eddy interaction is non-uniform inside the eddy and partially depends on the relative vorticity.
Seasonal and decadal variations in absorption properties of phytoplankton and non-algal particulate matter in three oceanic regimes of the Northwest Atlantic
Authors: Devred Emmanuel , Perry Tim , Massicotte Philippe
Published: August 2022

Seasonal and inter-annual absorption properties of phytoplankton and non-algal particulate matter were studied in relation to phytoplankton biomass, as indexed by chlorophyll-a concentration, and presence of diatoms, as indexed by fucoxanthin concentration, using a 20-year time series of in situ data collected in the Northwest Atlantic. We found significant differences in the spatiotemporal variations of the bio-optical properties for three oceanic regimes: mesotrophic (Scotian Shelf), oligotrophic (Northwest Atlantic Basin, NAB), and subartic (Labrador Sea). The Scotian Shelf and NAB exhibited similar phenology with the spring and autumn blooms associated with low phytoplankton specific absorption, while only relatively high fucoxanthin concentration occurred in spring. The NAB showed a smaller seasonal variation than the Scotian Shelf in agreement with its oceanic conditions. The Labrador Sea showed a single phytoplankton bloom in spring followed by a continuous decrease in biomass the rest of the year. The relationship between phytoplankton absorption coefficient at 443 nm and chlorophyll-a concentration was consistent with other studies with coefficients that were region-dependent. Absorption by non-algal particulate matter remained between 5% and 60% of phytoplankton absorption with a mean of 15%. The slope of the non-algal particulate absorption varied with seasons and regions and appeared to depend on the trophic status with high values (i.e., up to 0.04) occurring during bloom conditions. We also introduced a new index, the phytoplankton apparent absorption wavelength (PAAW), a wavelength-weighted sum of absorption expressed in nanometers that provides information on the phytoplankton biomass and assemblage in a simple manner. Time series analysis of the PAAW revealed a decrease of this property in spring on the Scotian Shelf, NAB, and Labrador Sea and an increase in autumn on the Scotian Shelf and NAB, suggesting a shift in these ecosystems.
Diabetic retinopathy as a predictor of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in subjects with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Barrot Joan , Real Jordi , Vlacho Bogdan , Romero-Aroca Pedro , Simó Rafael , Mauricio Didac , Mata-Cases Manel , Castelblanco Esmeralda , Mundet-Tuduri Xavier , Franch-Nadal Josep
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the predictive value of diabetic retinopathy (DR) and its stages with the incidence of major cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) persons in our large primary healthcare database from Catalonia (Spain). A retrospective cohort study with pseudo-anonymized routinely collected health data from SIDIAP was conducted from 2008 to 2016. We calculated incidence rates of major cardiovascular events [coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke, or both—macrovascular events] and all-cause mortality for subjects with and without DR and for different stages of DR. The proportional hazards regression analysis was done to assess the probability of occurrence between DR and the study events. About 22,402 T2DM subjects with DR were identified in the database and 196,983 subjects without DR. During the follow-up period among the subjects with DR, we observed the highest incidence of all-cause mortally. In the second place were the macrovascular events among the subjects with DR. In the multivariable analysis, fully adjusted for DR, sex, age, body mass index (BMI), tobacco, duration of T2DM, an antiplatelet or antihypertensive drug, and HbA1c, we observed that subjects with any stage of DR had higher risks for all of the study events, except for stroke. We observed the highest probability of all-cause death events (adjusted hazard ratios, AHRs: 1.34, 95% CI: 1.28; 1.41). In conclusion, our results show that DR is related to CHD, macrovascular events, and all-cause mortality among persons with T2DM.
Metagenomic-based characterization of the gut virome in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Huang Liansha , Wu Xiaoling , Guo Shumin , Lv Ying , Zhou Peng , Huang Guangrong , Duan Zuzhen , Sun Wen
Published: August 2022

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex disease that afflicts women of reproductive age, and its pathological mechanism has not been well explained. The gut microbiota is believed to be closely related to the development of PCOS. Although an important component of the gut microbiome, the role of the gut virome in the development of PCOS is still unclear.

Methods

In this study, we profiled and compared the gut viral community of 50 patients with PCOS and 43 healthy women based on the analysis of their fecal whole-metagenome dataset.

Results

The gut virome of PCOS patients exhibited a significant decrease in within-sample viral diversity and a remarkable alteration of the overall virome composition compared with that of healthy controls. At the family level, Siphoviridae was significantly depleted in the gut virome of patients, while Quimbyviridae was enriched. We identified 1,089 viral operational taxonomic units (vOTUs) that differed in relative abundance between the two groups, of which 455 vOTUs were enriched in PCOS patients (including numerous Bacteroidaceae phages) and 634 were enriched in controls (including numerous viruses predicted to infect Oscillospiraceae, Prevotellaceae, and Ruminococcaceae). Functional comparison of the PCOS-enriched and control-enriched vOTUs uncovered the viral functional signatures associated with PCOS. Furthermore, we demonstrated gut viral signatures for disease discrimination and achieved an area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.938, demonstrating the potential of the gut virome in the prediction of PCOS.

Conclusion

Our findings reveal specific alterations in viral diversity and taxonomic and functional compositions of the gut virome of PCOS patients. Further studies on the etiology of PCOS and the gut viral community will offer new prospects for treating and preventing PCOS and its related diseases.
Oleaginous yeast Rhodotorula toruloides biomass effect on the metabolism of Arctic char (Salvelinus alpinus)
Authors: Brunel Mathilde , Burkina Viktoriia , Pickova Jana , Sampels Sabine , Moazzami Ali A.
Published: August 2022

Sustainability issues arise when using fish oil and vegetable oils in fish feed production for aquaculture purposes. Microbial production of single cell oil is a potential alternative as a lipid ingredient in the production of fish feed. In this study, we replaced the vegetable oils with the oleaginous yeast R. toruloides biomass in the diet of Arctic char (S. alpinus) and investigated the effects on health and composition. Measurement of fish growth parameters showed a higher liver weight and hepatosomatic index in the experimental group of fish fed partly with yeast biomass compared to a control group fed a diet with vegetable oils. No significant differences in the lipid content of muscle and liver tissues were found. The fatty acid profiles in the muscle of both fish groups were similar while the experimental fish group had a higher amount of monounsaturated fatty acids in the liver. Histology of livers showed no significant difference in the number of lipid droplets. The size of hepatic lipid droplets seemed to be related to liver fat content. Quantification of metabolites in the liver revealed no differences between the fish groups while plasma metabolites involved in energy pathways such as alanine, 3-hydroxybutyrate, creatinine, serine, betaine, and choline were significantly higher in the experimental fish group.