bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Global Epidemic Trend Analysis of Influenza Type B Drug Resistance Sites From 2006 To 2018
Authors: Li He , Dong Wei , Yu Die , Qian Dan , Yue Lihuan , Wang Jing , Jiu Yaming , Hu Yihong
Published: June 2021

Background: Influenza is a severe respiratory viral infection that causes significant morbidity and mortality, due to annual epidemics and unpredictable pandemics. At present, drugs used in influenza virus B infection treatment are mainly neuraminidase inhibitors (NAIs). With the extensive use of NAI drugs, the influenza virus B has carried different drug-resistant mutations. This study aims to analyze the drug resistance mutations of the NA sequence in Flu B and provide guidance for clinical medication.Methods: Near full-length sequences of the NA region of all influenza B viruses from January 1, 2006 to December 31, 2018 were downloaded from public databases GISAID and NCBI. Multiple sequence alignments were performed using Clustal Omega 1.2.4 software. Subsequently, phylogenetic trees were constructed by FastTree 2.1.11 and clustered by ClusterPickergui_1.2.3.JAR. Then, the major drug resistance sites and surrounding auxiliary sites were analyzed by Mega-X and Weblogo (http://weblogo.threeplusone.com/) tools.Results: Among the amino acid sequences of neuraminidase (NA) from 2006 to 2018, only Cluster 4 in 2018 carried D197N mutation of NA active site, while other drug resistance sites were conserved without mutation. According to the Weblogo analysis, a large number of N198, S295, K373, and K375 mutations were found in the amino acid residues at the auxiliary sites surround D197, N294, and R374 in the influenza B virus.Conclusion: We found the D197N mutation in Cluster 4 of the 2018 influenza B virus, with a large number of N198, S295, K373, and K375 mutations in the helper sites around N197, N294, R374 from 2006 to 2018. NA inhibitors are currently the only kind of specific antiviral agent for the influenza B virus, although these mutations cause mild NAIs resistance.
Comprehensive Evaluation and Analysis of the Salinity Stress Response Mechanisms Based on Transcriptome and Metabolome of Staphylococcus Aureus
Authors: Feng Ying , Gu Dizhou , Wang Ziyan , Lu Chenyang , Fan Jingfeng , Zhou Jun , Wang Rixin , Su Xiurong
Published: June 2021

Staphylococcus aureus possesses an extraordinary ability to deal with a wide range of osmotic pressure. To performed transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses on the potential mechanism of gradient salinity stress adaptation in S. aureus ZS01. The results revealed that CPS biosynthetic protein genes were candidate target genes for directly regulating the phenotypic changes of biofilm. Inositol phosphate metabolism was downregulated to reduce the conversion of functional molecules. Gluconeogenesis pathway was downregulated to reduce the production of endogenous glucose. Pyruvate metabolism pathway was upregulated to promote the accumulation of succinate. TCA cycle metabolism pathway was downregulated to reduce unnecessary energy loss. These self-protection mechanisms can protect cells from hypertonic environments, and help them focus on survival. In addition, we identified 10 hub genes. The findings will aid in the prevention and treatment strategies of S. aureus infections.
Using the Angle Index to Assess COVID-19 Damage at the Early Stage and Throughout 2020 in Comparison of Mathematical Models
Authors: Yang Daw-Hsin , Chien Tsair-wei , Chou Willy , Tsai Kang-Ting
Published: June 2021

Background:The negative impacts of COVID-19 are commonly assessed using the cumulative numbers of confirmed cases. However, whether different mathematical models yield disparate results based on varying time frames remains unclear. The angle index was proposed in this study to measure the negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.Methods:Data used in this work were downloaded from the GitHub website. Three mathematical models were examined in two time-frame scenarios during the COVID-19 pandemic (early 20-day stage and the entire year of 2020). The angle index was determined by the ratio of a cumulative number of confirmed cases (CNCCs) divided by the inflection point. To evaluate the model’s accuracy and the prediction power in the two time-frame scenarios, both the R2 model and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) were used. The following findings were obtained: (1) the exponential growth (EXPO) and item response theory (IRT) models are superior to the quadratic equation (QE) model at the earlier outbreak stage; (2) the IRT model had a higher model R2 and smaller MAPE than the EXPO model in 2020; (3) Hubei Province in China had the highest angle index at the early stage; and (4) India, California (US), and the UK had the highest angle indexes in 2020. Results:The following findings were obtained: (1) the exponential growth (EXPO) and item response theory (IRT) models are superior to the quadratic equation (QE) model at the earlier outbreak stage; (2) the IRT model had a higher model R2 and smaller MAPE than the EXPO model in 2020; (3) Hubei Province in China had the highest angle index at the early stage; and (4) India, California (US), and the UK had the highest angle indexes in 2020.Conclusion:The three proposed models are available for measuring the negative impacts of COVID-19. Thus, the IRT model (superior in the long term) and the EXPO model (better at the early stage) are recommended to epidemiologists and policymakers for the effective management of disease outbreak.
In situ Imaging for Multiplex Tumor Microbiome Interactions via Imaging Mass Cytometry on Single-Cell Level
Authors: Feng Zijian , Ding Xianting , Shen Guangxia , Hu Yuli , Wang Xin , Li Yiyang , Zhang Lulu , He Jie , Li Hongxia , Zhang Ting , Yu Youyi
Published: June 2021

Background: Co-detection of multiplex cancer subtypes and bacteria subtypes in situ is crucial for understanding tumor microbiome interactions in tumor microenvironment. Current standard techniques such as immunohistochemical staining and immunofluorescence staining are limited for their multiplicity. Simultaneously visualizing detailed cell subtypes and bacteria distribution across the same pathological section remains a major technical challenge. Results: Herein, we developed a rapid semi-quantitative method for in situ imaging of bacteria and multiplex cell phenotypes on the same solid tumor tissue sections. We designed a panel of antibody probes labeled with mass tags, namely prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell hybrid probes for in situ imaging (PEHPSI). For application demonstration, PEHPSI stained two bacteria subtypes (lipopolysaccharides (LPS) for Gram-negative bacteria and lipoteichoic acid (LTA) for Gram-positive bacteria) simultaneously with four types of immune cells (leukocytes, CD8+T-cells, B-cells and macrophages) and four breast cancer subtypes (classified by a panel of 12 human proteins) on the same tissue section. Conclusions: We unveiled that breast cancer cells are commonly enriched with Gram-negative bacteria and almost absent of Gram-positive bacteria, regardless of the cancer subtypes (triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), HER2+, Luminal A and Luminal B). Further analysis revealed that on the single-cell level, Gram-negative bacteria have a significant correlation with CD8+T-cells only in HER2+ breast cancer, while PKCD, ER, PR and Ki67 are correlated with Gram-negative bacteria in the other three subtypes of breast cancers. On the cell population level, in TNBC, CD19 expression intensity is up-regulated by approximately 25% in bacteria-enriched cells, while for HER2+, Luminal A and Luminal B breast cancers, the intensity of biomarkers associated with the malignancy, metastasis and proliferation of cancer cells (PKCD, ISG15 and IFI6) is down-regulated by 29-38%. The flexible and expandable PEHPSI system permits intuitive multiplex co-visualization of bacteria and mammalian cells, which facilitates future research on tumor microbiome and tumor pathogenesis.
Risk Factors for Digital Stress in German Public Administrations
Authors: Wrede Sammy Joelle Shirley , Anjos Dominique Rodil dos , Kettschau Jan Patrick , Claaßen Kevin
Published: June 2021

Objective: While the digitization of the working world progresses, the demands on employees are changing. Not least this is true for the setting of public administrations in Germany which is currently affected by the transformation to E-Government. This study aims at identifying and describing a risk cluster of digitally stressed employees in those public administrations. Methods: An online sample of 710 employees from three public administrations in North Rhine-Westphalia was asked about digital stress (7 items) and several potential risk factors (19 items) which were derived from current research. In a first step, a hierarchical agglomerative cluster analysis is used to detect the risk cluster. This is followed by a comparison to the group of the remaining employees regarding their risk profiles. Results: The analysis states, that the cluster of digitally stressed takes around ten percent of the public administration’s employees of the total sample. Employees in the risk cluster are less satisfied with on-site work overall, experience less collegial support on-site, experience less collegial support in the home office, resign more often, are more likely to feel overwhelmed, are less educated, are older in age and more often have relatives in need of care.Conclusion: This work managed to identify and describe a group of digitally stressed, rather than left-behind employees in public administrations to bring awareness to potentially destructive factors in the digital transformation process, but eventually to social inequalities as well. The findings offer the basis for interventions to arise as well as it evokes potential for further research.
A Retrospective Study on the Clinical Effect of Uterine Artery Embolization Combined with Cervical Double Balloon for Patients with Complete Placenta Previa Undergoing Pregnancy Termination in the Second Trimester
Authors: Li Ruobing , Du Shuguo , Peng Jing , Zheng Xuan , Wu Shiyao , Ma Hongwen , Yang Hui , Li Min , Tang Fei , Qin Qi , Zhao Yun , Yin Heng
Published: June 2021

Background Pregnancy termination in the second trimester is a complex and delicate situation for patients with complete placenta previa (CPP), which has less been reported. The objective of this research was to investigate and evaluate the clinical effect of uterine artery embolization(UAE) combined with cervical double balloon(CDB) for patients with CPP. Methods We conducted a retrospective study based on a large medical center. The medical records of patients who were diagnosed with CPP and treated UAE combined with CDB for termination in the second trimester in our hospital from January 2017 and March 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. The clinical outcomes were analyzed.Results A total of 11 patients with CPP were included in this study. Prenatal diagnosis of CPP was realized by trans-vaginal ultrasound. The average age was 34.2 years old, and the gestational week was 21.6 weeks. Of the selected patients, 3 cases (3/11) had previous caesarean delivery, 5 cases were at older maternal age (≥35 years old), 10 cases underwent emergency UAE for prenatal bleeding equal or up to 400 mL and 1 case underwent prophylactic UAE for placenta percreta, and all cases underwent CDB to promote cervical ripening. It was worth noting that 5 cases (5/11) of selected patients underwent curettage to take out fetus and placenta. The uterus preservation was achieved in all 11 patients. The complications associated with conservative management included prenatal hemorrhaging (10/11), blood transfusion (5/11), fever (2/11), and septicemia (1/11). The mean dilation of cervix was from 0cm to 1.9cm, the length of cervix was from 3.5cm to 0.6cm and the Bishop scores were from 1.5 to 7.3 after using CDB, the changes of cervical conditions were statistically significant (p＜0.05). The levels of WBC and CRP were higher after termination with medicine+UAE+CDB and/or curettage. Conclusion The adjuvant therapy of UAE, CDB, and/curettage step by step is a preferred choice for patients with CPP who underwent pregnancy termination in the second trimester.
Hydrogen Peroxide Can Be a Plausible Biomarker in Cyanobacterial Bloom Treatment
Authors: Asaeda Takashi , Rahman Mizanur , Abeynayaka Helayaye Damitha Lakmali
Published: June 2021

The effect of combined stresses, photoinhibition and nutrient depletion, on the oxidative stress of cyanobacteria was measured in laboratory experiments, to develop the biomass prediction model. Phormidium ambiguum was exposed to various photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) intensities and phosphorous concentrations with fixed nitrogen concentration. The samples were subjected to stress assays by detecting hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) concentration and antioxidant activities of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). H2O2 concentration decreased to 30 µmolm-2s-1 of PAR, then increased further with higher PAR intensity. Regarding phosphorus concentration, H2O2 concentration generally decreased with increasing phosphorus concentration. SOD and CAT activities were proportionate to the H2O2 protein-1. No H2O2 concentration detected outside of cells indicated the biological production of H2O2, and the accumulated H2O2 concentration inside cells was parameterized with H2O2 concentration protein-1. Over 30 µmolm-2s-1 of PAR, H2O2 concentration protein-1 had a similar increasing trend with PAR intensity, independently of phosphorous concentration. Meanwhile, with increasing phosphorous concentration, H2O2 protein-1 decreased in a similar pattern regardless of PAR intensity. Protein content decreased with increasing H2O2 gradually up to 4nmol H2O2 mg-1protein, which provides a threshold to restrict the growth of cyanobacteria. With these results. an empirical formula was developed to obtain the cyanobacteria biomass.
On Site Production of [18F]-PSMA1007 Using Different [18F]-fluoride Activities. Practical, Technical and Economical Impact.
Authors: Maisto Costantina , Morisco Anna , de Marino Roberta , Elisabetta Squame , Porfidia Valentina , D'ambrosio Laura , Martino Daria Di , Gaballo Paolo , Aurilio Michela , Buonanno Monica , Esposito Aureliana , Raddi Marco , Lastoria Secondo
Published: June 2021

BackgroundProstate-Specific Membrane Antigen is overexpressed in prostate cancer and it is considered a good target for staging of primary and recurrences as well as for radioligand therapy. Different PSMA-analogues have been investigated, labeled with [68Ga], showing excellent imaging properties; although, only small amounts can be produced for single synthesis. Recently, a fluorinated PSMA-inhibitor, [18F]-PSMA-1007, has been introduced, ensuring large-scale productions. In this study, the radiosynthesis of [18F]-PSMA-1007 using low (A), medium (B) and high (C) starting activities of [18F]-Fluoride, has been fully tested. The following parameters radiochemical yield, radiochemical purity and stability of [18F]-PSMA-1007 have been measured in 65, consecutive batches to verify the effects of the three different conditions. In addition, the analysis of the costs for the production has been performed. ResultsThe radiochemical yield percentage for low and medium range of activities of [18F]-Fluoride was 52%, while for the high range it decreases to 40%. The radiochemical purity was 99% in all three tested starting activities. [18F]-PSMA-1007 did not show radiolysis up to 8 hours after the end of synthesis, confirming that the radiopharmaceutical is stable an suitable for PET studies in humans. Furthermore, stability studies performed in fetal bovine serum demonstrated radiochemical stability at 37°C for 120’. ConclusionsA starting activity of [18F]-Fluoride of 90 GBq (range B) enables a final amount of [18F]-PSMA-1007 of about 50 GBq, which is powerful for different choices: to perform up to 25 PET/CT scans in a referral institution for prostate cancer, and/or to supply the eventual peripheral PET centers.
Stability-Considered Lane Keeping Control of Commercial Vehicles Based on Improved APF Algorithm
Authors: Tang Bin , Yang Zheng-Yi , Jiang Hao-bin , Lin Zi-yan , Xu Zhan-xiang , Hu Zi-tian
Published: June 2021

With regard to the lane keeping system, path tracking accuracy and lateral stability at high speeds need to be taken into account especially for commercial vehicles due to the characteristics of larger mass, longer wheelbase and higher mass center. To improve the performance mentioned above comprehensively, the control strategy based on improved artificial potential field (APF) algorithm is proposed. In the paper, time to lane crossing (TLC) is introduced into the potential field function to enhance the accuracy of path tracking, meanwhile the vehicle dynamics parameters including yaw rate and lateral acceleration are chosen as the repulsive force field source. The lane keeping controller based on improved APF algorithm is designed and the stability of the control system is proved based on Lyapunov theory. In addition, adaptive inertial weight particle swarm optimization algorithm (AIWPSO) is applied to optimize the gain of each potential field function. The co-simulation results indicate that the comprehensive evaluation index respecting lane tracking accuracy and lateral stability is reduced remarkably. Finally, the proposed control strategy is verified by the HiL test.
Shortleaf Spikesedge-Driven Silver Nanoparticles for The Reduction of Methylene Blue Dye
Authors: ISA NORAIN , Osman Mohamed Syazwan , Hamid Haslinda Abdul , Samsulrizal Nurdiana , Inderan Vicinisvarri , Lockman Zainovia
Published: June 2021

The textile industry is a heavy producer of wastewater, which may result in the discharge of toxic dyes into the environment. Methylene blue (MB) is an example of the most used dye in the textile industry. It is difficult to degrade MB under normal conditions due to its highly stable molecules. Therefore, a catalyst route is desired in MB reduction. The catalyst chosen in this work was silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesised by a biological method utilising shortleaf spikesedge extract (SSE) as a reducing agent. The formations of SSE driven AgNPs were monitored using visual observation (colour), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The different process variables (concentration of AgNO3, concentration of SSE, reaction time, temperature and pH) upon synthesis of SSE driven AgNPs were evaluated based on the absorbance of surface plasmon resonance (SPR) band. The TEM image showed that SSE driven AgNPs are highly dispersed with a quasi-spherical shape and an average particle size of approximately 17.64 nm. For the catalytic study, the reduction of MB was evaluated using two systems. A detailed batch study of the removal efficiency (%RE) and kinetics was done at ambient temperature, various MB initial concentrations, and reaction time. The batch study for System 2 clearly showed that SSE driven AgNPs exhibited 100% reduction of MB at 30–100 mg/L initial concentration (sample coding of MB30, MB50, MB70 and MB100) between 1.5 and 5.0 min reaction time. The kinetic data best fitted a pseudo-first-order kinetic model with the highest reaction rate of 2.5715 min-1. The reduction of MB occurs via the electron relay effect. These findings demonstrate that the SSE driven AgNPs are a promising candidate with potential influence on coloured wastewater.
Genome Identification and CtCP1 Gene expression of Cysteine Protease in Carthamus Tinctorius under Abiotic Stress
Authors: Hong Yingqi , Yanxi Lv , Jianyi Zhang , Hoang Nguyen Quoc Viet , Youbao Li , Nan Wang , Xiuming Liu , Na Yao
Published: June 2021

BackgroundCysteine protease (CP) plays an important role in plant senescence. In this study, the whole genome evolution information of CPs was analyzed by using safflower, and the function of CtCP1 under l abiotic stress was analyzed.Results25 CPs members were identified in the safflower genome and divided into 9 subfamilies. Gene structure analysis showed that the possible evolutionary conservatism and functional similarity of the same family members. qRT-PCR at different florescence showed that the expression of CPs gene was the highest in the decline period, and CtCP1 gene changed significantly under abiotic stress. We cloned the qRT-PCR of CtCP1, at different florescence and stress, which showed that the expression of CtCP1 was the highest in the decline stage and low temperature. In order to study the function of CtCP1 gene, we obtained the overexpression CtCP1 line (OE) and the inhibition CtCP1 expression line (Anti) in Arabidopsis thaliana. The results of transgenic lines under low temperature stress showed that inhibition of CtCP1 expression enhanced the resistance of Carthamus tinctorius to low temperature, and overexpression of CtCP1 weakened the resistance of Carthamus tinctorius to low temperature.ConclusionWe have identified the cysteine protease genome of safflower and CtCP1 gene expression under abiotic stress
Periodontal Measurement on Digital Images Reveals Risk of Overestimation in Clinical Periodontal Probing in Periodontitis Patients
Authors: Chung Hye-Min , Park Jin-Young , Ko Kyung-A , Choi Seong-Ho , Lee Jung-Seok
Published: June 2021

Aim: To compare the supra-alveolar gingival dimension (GD) and the clinical pocket probing depth (PD) by combining data from an intraoral scanner (IOS) and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), and identify the clinical features affecting the clinical PD.Materials and Methods: 1,071 sites from 11 patients were selected for whom CBCT, IOS images, and periodontal charts were recorded at the same visit. CBCT and IOS data were superimposed. GD was measured on cross-sectional images of the probed sites. The level of agreement and correlation between GD and PD were assessed for the entire population and also within groups (treated vs untreated, bleeding on probing [BOP] vs no BOP, and PDs of 0–3 mm vs 4–5 mm vs ≥6 mm).Results: The difference between GD and PD was 0.82±0.69 mm (mean±standard deviation), and they were positively correlated (r=0.790, p<0.001). The mean difference was smaller for sites with PD ≥4 mm than for those with a PD of 0–3 mm. The correlations between GD and PD were stronger for untreated sites, sites with BOP, and sites with a larger PD.Conclusion: The pocket PD is prone to overestimation. The digital representation of the supra-alveolar GD is similar to the PD.
Evaluation of a Web-Based Randomized Controlled Trial Educational Intervention Based on Media Literacy on Preventing Substance Abuse Among College Students, Applying the Integrated Social Marketing Approach: A Study Protocol
Authors: Jormand Hanieh , Bashirian Saeed , Barati Majid , Rezapur-Shahkolai Forouzan , Babamiri Mohammad
Published: June 2021

Background:Substance abuse is the actual psychosocial harm, especially in young people confronted with content marketing in nowadays media environment, a risk factor for experiencing substance abuse. Based on the literature review, education designed based on the cognitive-behavioral model and planning models, such as using a social marketing framework, is the most effective method to prevent addictive substance abuse. Also, Media literacy related to substance abuse and the prototype willingness model is considered a new integrated approach to present the intervention measures' desired results.Methods:The present study evaluates an intervention program based on media literacy on substance abuse prevention among students using an integrated social marketing approach. This study aims to complete the SMART model's sixth and seventh stages, implementing intervention and evaluation. Participants will be students of Hamadan University, Iran. Randomization will occur at the university and school levels, and gather data will appear at two-time (i.e., pre-test and three months follow-up). Intervention group Students will obtain both substance abuse prevention education and substance abuse media literacy (SAML) educations between pre-test and three months post-test. Students in the delayed-intervention will be given this education after study accomplishment; this group will receive their regular courses except for substance abuse prevention and media literacy titles during education intervention. The outcome variables are intentions and substance abuse behavior based on prototype willingness and substance abuse media literacy.Discussion:Evaluation of Substance abuse prevention and substance abuse media literacy education must be careful to ensure that they effectively enable people, especially in youth in the new media ecology and unique 'Infomedia' ecosystems, in the current digital society. The SAML education plan's evaluation has the first web-based education program in universities. No prior research has psychometrically considered SAML in students in the SMART model's sixth and seventh stages. Trial registration: IRCT20200914048719N1
Prevalence and impact of metabolic syndrome in patients with alcohol use disorder
Authors: Hernández-Rubio Anna , Sanvisens Arantza , Bolao Ferran , Cachón-Suárez Isabel , Garcia-Martín Carme , Short Antoni , Bataller Ramón , Muga Roberto
Published: June 2021

Background

the metabolic syndrome (MetS) is an inflammatory disorder predisposes to type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD). We aimed to analyze the prevalence and associations of MetS in patients with alcohol use disorder.
Methods

cross-sectional study in heavy drinkers admitted for treatment of alcohol use disorder between 2013 and 2017. Medical comorbidity, anthropometric data, alcohol use and biological parameters were obtained at admission. MetS was established according to the harmonized definition of 2009. Logistic regression models were used to analyze associations of MetS.
Results

728 patients (22% women) were included; median age was 47 years (IQR:40-53.5) and median alcohol consumption was 160 g/day (IQR:115–240). Overall, 9.2%, 26.7%, and 6.8% of the patients had type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and CVD, respectively. BMI was 25.0 kg/m2 (IQR:22.1–28.7) and prevalence of MetS was 13.9%. The multivariate analysis showed a significant dose-response effect of estimated glomerular filtration (eGFR) and MetS: relative to patients with eGFR > 90 mL/min, those with eGFR (60–90 mL/min) and those with eGFR < 60 mL/min were 1.93 times (95% CI: 1.18–3.15) and 5.61 times (95% CI: 1.66-19.0) more likely to have MetS, respectively. In addition, MetS was significantly associated with hyperuricemia (OR = 2.28, 95% CI: 1.36–3.82) and elevated serum GGT (OR = 3.67, 95% CI: 1.80–7.46). Furthermore, for every increase of 1 year in age, the probability of MetS increased significantly (OR = 1.03, 95% CI: 1.01–1.05).
Conclusions

MetS in heavy drinkers is independently associated with reduced kidney function and metabolic risk factors including hyperuricemia and elevated serum GGT.
Evaluation of Vimentin as a Potential Poor Prognostic Indicator and Salivary Biomarker for Oral Cancers and Pre-Cancers by Mass Spectrometry Based Proteomics
Authors: Sivagnanam Ananthi , Shyamsundar Vidyarani , Krishnamurthy Arvind , Thangaraj Soundara Viveka , Srini C.V Divyambika , Kasirajan Hemashree , Ramani Pratibha , RAMSHANKAR VIJAYALAKSHMI
Published: June 2021

Background : Oral tongue squamous cell carcinoma (OTSCC) is an aggressive cancer with high morbidity and mortality rates, despite multimodality management. There are currently no clinically relevant molecular markers to help identify patients at a higher risk of recurrence and failure. Methods: 2D-DIGE coupled with tandem mass spectrometry was performed on tissues obtained from early staged OTSCC along with its paired apparently adjacent normal tissue samples (n=10). Top upregulated protein was validated using another independent set of tissue samples by Immunohistochemistry (n=346), comprising of retrospective early stage OTSCC (n=150) and prospective series of oral pre-cancers, normal and oral cancers (n=195). For further validation of protein expression, saliva samples collected from Oral Cancer and pre-cancer samples were analysed by ELISA (n=80). Results: We found vimentin, the mesenchymal protein to be the most upregulated protein in tongue tumour tissues compared to adjacent apparent normal tissues. Vimentin was found to be significantly overexpressed in oral pre-cancers along with cancers compared to normal tissues. Conclusion: Vimentin detection in saliva can be useful diagnostic test to detect oral precancers that may have malignant potential needing closer follow up. Salivary ELISA for vimentin can additionally be useful for disease monitoring in oral cancers.
“Thermal Eraser” to Mitigate Screening Current by Optimal Control on Spatial Temperature Distribution in a High Temperature Superconductor Magnet
Authors: Bang Jeseok , Kim Jaemin , Lee Jung Tae , Kim Geonyoung , Park Jeonghwan , Park Seong Hyeon , Noguchi So , Hahn Seungyong
Published: June 2021

The so-called “screening current” in high temperature superconductor (HTS) is a well-known phenomenon that has detrimental effects on performance of an HTS magnet. To date, many research efforts have been devoted to suppressing screening current in an HTS magnet. Here we report a customized electric-heater, named “Thermal Eraser”, to mitigate the screening current. The key idea is to optimally control spatial temperature distribution in an HTS magnet using the customized heater and the consequent temperature-dependent local critical current of HTS wires of the magnet. To validate the idea, a Thermal Eraser was designed, constructed, and installed in an actual single-pancake HTS coil. And the Thermal Eraser plus test coil system was operated at temperatures ranging 7-40 K in our in-house conduction-cooling cryogenic facility. The feasibility of the Thermal Eraser was demonstrated in terms of two aspects: 1) creation of the designated spatial temperature distribution within the HTS test coil as designed; and 2) quantitative evaluation of its effectiveness to mitigate screening current using both experimental and numerical results. We confirmed that the screening current induced field in the test coil was reduced by 0.6 mT after activation of the Thermal Eraser, which implies 60% reduction of screening current in the HTS test coil. The results demonstrate that the Thermal Eraser is a viable option to effectively reduce the screening current in an HTS magnet.
Use of Non-invasive Ventilation in Motor Neuron Disease – A Retrospective Cohort Analysis
Authors: Walsh Laura J , Deasy Kevin F , Gomez Fernando , O’Sullivan Elizabeth , Eustace Joseph , Ryan Aisling M , Murphy Desmond M
Published: June 2021

Background Motor neuron disease (MND) is a neurodegenerative disorder which leads to progressive muscle weakness including respiratory muscle function decline. The introduction of non-invasive ventilation (NIV) has been shown to improve quality of life, survival and slow the rate of pulmonary function decline. Better compliance with the machine (using it for greater than 4 hours per day) has been shown to have the greatest long-term benefit. Methods A retrospective chart analysis of patients who attended the MND clinic from 2014-2019 at a tertiary-referral, academic, teaching hospital was carried out to evaluate if NIV and greater compliance with NIV was associated with improved survival. Information regarding NIV use, compliance, pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and basic patient demographics was collected. In total 111 patients were included in the study. Results The mean age at diagnosis was 63.8 years and 61.3% were males. 66.7% of our patient cohort used NIV and of this 44.1% were compliant. There was a statistically significant longer survival in those who used NIV (P=0.002) and in those who used NIV optimally (P=0.02) when both groups were compared to those who did not use NIV. In the bulbar MND group those who were compliant with NIV survived longer than who those who did not use NIV (P=0.001). Patients with bulbar onset MND had worse SNIP and peak cough flow values at diagnosis.Conclusion We found a significantly longer survival with the use of NIV, the use of NIV optimally and with use of NIV in those with bulbar onset MND compared to those who did not use NIV.
Network Pharmacology and Experimental Verification Reveal an Protective Role of Jiedu Tongluo Tiaogan Formula on INS-1 Cells and HepG2 Cells From High Glucose-mediated Injury via the PI3K/Akt Pathways
Authors: Zhang Qi , Piao Chunli , Jin Wenqi , Jin De , Wang Han , Tang Cheng , Zhao Xiaohua , Zhang Naiwen , Gao Shengnan , Lian Fengmei
Published: June 2021

Background: T2DM is considered to be a chronic low-grade inflammatory disease, because of its high morbidity and mortality, diabetes poses a tremendous potential threat to public health. Our previous studies have shown that a traditional Chinese medicine formula, Jiedu Tongluo Tiaogan Formula (JDTL) exerts favorable hypoglycemic effect, however, its molecular mechanism and the interaction among various components need to be further elucidated. This study aimed to explore the mechanism of JDTL in the treatment of T2DM using an integrated strategy of system pharmacology, bioinformatics analysis, and experimental verification. Materials and Methods: First, the compounds of JDTL were searched from public databases, and the "compound-target " network was constructed to predict the potential active components and targets. Subsequently, bioinformatics analysis was used to identify potential targets and signaling pathways, including PPI, GO pathways and KEGG pathways. Finally, the pharmacological effects and mechanisms of JDTL were verified by molecular docking and cell experiments. Results: Analysis by GO and KEGG pathway enrichment revealed that these targets were associated with lipopolysaccharide, membrane microdomain, cytokine receptor binding, and JDTL could regulate the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Furthermore, we have proved that JDTL could improve the mRNA expression and protein expression of IRS1, AKT, and PI3K in the INS-1 cell and HepG2 cells. Conclusion: The present study elucidated the active ingredients, potential targets, and molecular mechanism of JDTL in the treatment of T2DM, and revealed the characteristics of JDTL in multi-component, multi-target and multi-channel. It also provided an important scientific basis for new drug development and mechanism research of T2DM.
A Pilot Randomised Controlled Trial of the Peer Tree Digital Intervention Targeting Loneliness Iin Young People: A Study Protocol
Authors: Lim Michelle H , Thurston Lily , Eres Robert , Rodebaugh Thomas L , Alvarez-Jimenez Mario , Penn David L , Kostakos Vassilis , Gleeson John FM
Published: June 2021

Background: Young people are vulnerable to experiencing problematic levels of loneliness which can lead to poor mental health outcomes. Loneliness is a malleable treatment target and preliminary evidence has shown that it can be addressed with digital platforms. Peer Tree is a strengths-based digital smartphone application aimed at reducing loneliness. The study aim is to reduce loneliness, and assess the acceptability, usability, and feasibility of Peer Tree in young people enrolled at university. Methods: This will be a pilot randomised controlled trial (RCT) comparing a strengths-based digital smartphone application (Peer Tree) with a treatment as usual (TAU) condition. Forty-two young people enrolled at university will be recruited for this pilot RCT. Participants with suicidality risk, acute psychiatric symptoms in the past month, or a current diagnosis of a mood or social anxiety disorder will be excluded. Allocation will be made on a 1:1 ratio and will occur after the initial baseline assessment. Assessments are completed at baseline, post-intervention, and at follow-up. Participants in the TAU condition complete the same three assessment sessions. The primary outcomes of the study will be self-reported loneliness as well as the acceptability, usability, feasibility and safety of Peer Tree. Depression, social anxiety, and quality of life variables will also be measured as secondary outcomes. Discussion: This trial will report the findings of implementing Peer Tree, a smartphone application aimed at reducing loneliness in university students. Findings from this trial will highlight the initial efficacy, acceptability and feasibility of using digital positive psychology interventions to reduce subthreshold mental health concerns. Findings from this trial will also describe the safety of Peer Tree as a digital tool. Results will contribute evidence for positive psychology interventions to address mental ill-health.Trial registration: Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry, ACTRN12619000350123. Registered 6th March 2020
Genetic diversity assessment of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates of patients with tuberculosis in Karaj, Iran
Authors: Farnad Morassa Sadat , Momtaz Hassan , Mosavari Nader , Khosravi Yahya , Tadayon Keyvan
Published: June 2021

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) is an old issue that is presently measured as a significant challenge. Molecular characterization of Mycobacterium tuberculosis has contributed to TB control. The present survey was aimed to assess the genetic diversity of M. tuberculosis strains isolated from patients with TB in Karaj, Iran.
Methods

Seventeen M. tuberculosis isolates from 2012 to 2013 were collected and subjected to an IS6110 restriction fragment length polymorphism (IS6110-RFLP) analysis. Demographically, 6 females and 14 males who had Iranian citizenship were included in this study.
Results

Sixteen different genetic types were obtained after enzymatic digestion and RFL analysis. Copy numbers of IS6110 in each isolate ranged from 0 to 12. The majority of isolates (66%) harbored copy numbers between 6 and 12. Each isolates harbored 6.9 copies of the IS6110 marker. Nine isolates harbored 10 to 12 copies of the IS6110 marker, 5 isolates harbored 6 to 10 copies, and 2 others harbored copies less than 6. No copy of IS6110 was found among the 4 isolates. No relationship was found between gender and copy numbers.
Conclusions

The high genetic diversity found amongst the M. tuberculosis isolates maybe show different sources of infection and the importance of reemerging of the TB. However, further surveys should perform to assess other molecular epidemiologic aspects of M. tuberculosis in Iran.
Direct-to-consumer Strategies to Promote Deprescribing in Primary Care: A Pragmatic Feasibility Study
Authors: Linsky Amy , Kressin Nancy R. , Stolzmann Kelly , Pendergast Jaquelyn , Rosen Amy K. , Bokhour Barbara G. , Simon Steven R.
Published: June 2021

Background – Deprescribing, or the intentional discontinuation or dose-reduction of medications, is a patient-centered approach to reduce harms associated with inappropriate medication use. We sought to determine how direct-to-patient educational materials impacted patient-provider discussion about and deprescribing of potentially inappropriate medications.Methods – We conducted a pre-post with historical control group pilot feasibility trial at an urban VA medical center. We included patients in one of two medication-based cohorts: 1) proton pump inhibitor (PPI), defined as use of any dose for 90 consecutive days, or 2) hypoglycemia risk, defined by diabetes diagnosis; prescription for insulin or sulfonylurea; hemoglobin A1c <7%; and age >65 years, renal insufficiency, or cognitive impairment. The intervention consisted of mailing medication-specific patient-centered EMPOWER (Eliminating Medications Through Patient Ownership of End Results) brochures, adapted to a Veteran patient population, two weeks prior to scheduled primary care appointments. Our primary outcome – deprescribing – was defined as clinical documentation of target medication discontinuation or dose-reduction. Our secondary outcome was documentation of a discussion about the target medication (yes/possible vs. no/absent). Covariates included age, sex, race, specified comorbidities, medications, and utilization. We used chi-square tests to examine the association of receiving brochures with each outcome.Results – The 348 subjects (253 intervention, 95 historical control) were primarily age >65 years, white, and male. Compared to control subjects, intervention subjects were more likely to have deprescribing (36 [14.2%] vs. 4 [4.2%], p=0.009) and discussions about the target medication (31 [12.3%] vs. 1 [1.1%], p=0.001). Conclusions – Targeted mailings of EMPOWER brochures temporally linked to a scheduled visit in primary care clinics are a low-cost, low-technology method that successfully increased both deprescribing and documentation of patient-provider medication discussions in a Veteran population. Leveraging the ability of patients to drive medication prescribing changes within clinical encounters has potential to reduce drug burden and decrease adverse drug effects and harms.
Comparative Study of Reactive and Non-reactive Spark Plasma Sintering Routes for The Production of TaB2-TaC Composites
Authors: Akarsu Melis Kaplan , Akin Ipek , Sahin Filiz , Goller Gultekin
Published: June 2021

The influence of two different spark plasma sintering-based processing routes (i.e., reactive SPS (RSPS) and non-reactive SPS) on the properties of TaB2-TaC composites was investigated. Ta2O5 and B4C powders were used as starting materials in the RSPS method, and synthesis and densification of TaB2-TaC composites were accomplished in a facile single step. The effect of sintering temperature and time on the microstructure and densification of the in-situ RSPS were investigated. The obtained results were compared with non-reactive spark plasma sintered TaB2-TaC composites. The highest densification (~ 99.5 %) was achieved for the TaB2-TaC composite with 6.64 vol% TaC after reactive sintering at 1550 °C under 40 MPa with a 5 min holding time. Although lower SPS temperature was used in the RSPS method, better densification and higher Vickers hardness were obtained compared to the non-reactive SPS. While platelet-shaped TaC formation was observed in both processes, the average grain size was smaller in the sample produced by the RSPS method. On the other hand, no significant difference was detected in fracture toughness and oxidation behavior of the composites produced by RSPS and non-reactive SPS.
Metabolites of Gut Microbiome Are Associated With Glucose Metabolism in Non-diabetic Obese Adults: A Chinese Monozygotic Twin Study
Authors: Yu Ke , Yu Cai-Guo , Yin Xing-Qi , Wang Zong-Wei , Wang Xiao-Bo , Wang Li-Li , Guo Shuang , An Ya-Xin , Zhao Dong
Published: June 2021

BackgroundEvidence suggests gut microbiome is associated with diabetes. However, it’s unclear whether this association remains in non-diabetic subjects. We conducted a monozygotic twin study, in which the participants are without diabetes, and are not taking any medications, to explore the potential association.MethodsNine pairs of adult monozygotic twins were enrolled and divided into two twin-pair groups (a and b). Clinical and laboratory measurements were conducted. Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) was assessed. Fecal samples were collected to analyze the microbiome composition by 16S rDNA gene amplicon sequencing. Liquid chromatography mass spectrometry was performed to detect the metabolites. ResultsThe participants aged 53 years old averagely, with 8 (88.9%) pairs were women. All the participants were obese with VAT higher than 100 cm2 (152.2±31.6). There was no significant difference of VAT between the twin groups (153.6±30.4 cm2 vs. 150.8±29.5 cm2, p=0.54). Other clinical measurements, including BMI, lipid profiles, fasting insulin and blood glucose, were also not significantly different between groups (p≥0.056), whereas HbA1c level of group a is significantly higher than group b(5.8±0.3 % vs. 5.6±0.2 %, p=0.008). The number and richness of OUTs are relatively higher in group a, and 13 metabolites were significantly different between two groups. Furthermore, several of the 13 metabolites could be significantly linked to special taxons. The potential pathway involved drug metabolism-other enzymes, Tryptophan metabolism and Citrate cycle.Conclusion﻿Gut microbiome composition and their metabolites may modulate glucose metabolism in obese adults without diabetes, through Tryptophan metabolism, Citrate cycle and other pathways.
Influence of SiO2 nanofillers on polymer-based ZnO nanocomposite flexible sheets as high dielectric and thermally stable materials
Authors: Pervaiz S. , Kanwal N. , Rasheed A. , Khan Ijaz Ahmad , Saleem M.
Published: June 2021

Polymer-based nanocomposite (NCs) with high dielectric constant and low-loss factor have remarkable applications in light emitting and energy storage devices. Flexible sheets of polymer-based zinc oxide silica (PB-ZnO-SiO 2 ) NCs are synthesized by co-precipitation method. The development of ZnO and SiO 2 planes confirms the synthesis of polycrystalline PB-ZnO-SiO 2 NCs. Peak intensity of ZnO planes is decreased with increasing wt.% of SiO 2 nanofillers. Surface morphology of synthesized PB-ZnO-SiO 2 NCs is associated with increasing wt.% of nanofillers. EDX spectrum confirms the presence of C, O, Zn and Si in the synthesized sheets. FTIR analysis confirms the presence of chemical bounding between the involved elements. Above 450 o C, the weight loss of S-1 is found to be 90.42% which is decreased to 49.32% for sample S-6. Dielectric properties like dielectric permittivity (13.71) with low loss factor (0.025), impedance (Z′=0.16 MΩ) and large AC conductivity (19.92 mS/m) are observed for sample S-6. The values of dielectric constant, low loss factor, low impedance and high AC conductivity of S-6 are 5.11, 0.53, 0.029 and 2.98 times higher than the value of S-1 respectively. These finding confirm that the synthesized flexible sheets are promising candidates for better light emitting and energy storage devices at high temperature.
Bifidobacterium Bifidum Isolated From Chicken Intestine Along With Polyvinylpyrrolidone Showed Synergistic Effects on Reduction of AFB1 Contamination- in Vitro Study
Authors: Aalipanah sorour , Fazeli Mohhammad Reza , Sepahi Abbas Akhavan , Shariatmadari Farid
Published: June 2021

Background: Food contamination with aflatoxin is one of the most important concerns of health professionals. One of the best ways to reduce aflatoxin content in food is to use probiotics. Therefore, this study was performed to isolate Bifidobacterium from the chick intestine and its probiotic activities and also its application with Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) to reduce aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) toxin in the medium were investigated.Results: Samples were isolated from the chicken intestine. Biochemical and molecular evaluations indicated isolation of Bifidobacterium bifidum strain from chicken intestine. To measure probiotic activities, pH, bile, and salt tolerance tests were used. The selected B. bifidum had good probiotic activity. Then, the antimicrobial activity of isolate against gastrointestinal pathogens and the antibiotic susceptibility test were done. The selected strain showed antimicrobial activities on S. enterica, E. coli, and P. vulgaricus and was found to be resistant against Amikacin, Ampicillin, Erythromycin, and Ceftazidine antibiotics. Then, the effect of selected isolate and PVP on reducing AFB1 in the medium was studied using ELISA and HPLC. The selected strain showed the ability to reduce the concentration of AFB1 in the medium (50% reduction) and when used in combination with PVP showed the synergistic effects in reducing the concentration of AFB1 from the medium (up to 90%).Conclusion: In conclusion, it was found that selected B. bifidum strain together with PVP could have synergistic effects in reducing AFB1 toxin in medium up to 90%.