bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
‘We definitely need more SLTs’: The transgender community’s perception of the role of speech and language therapy in relation to their voice, language, and communication needs
Authors: Creaven Frances , O’Malley-Keighran Mary-Pat
Published: July 2020

According to Sydor (2013), it is critical to include all vulnerable, hard-to-reach groups in research in order to identify their specific needs. Transgender individuals can be considered as belonging to such groups. Speech, language, and non-verbal communication are often strongly related to gender. For transgender individuals experiencing mismatches between existing communication behaviours and their true gender, changes to these aspects of communication can help improve quality of life and mental health. Research has indicated that speech and language therapy (SLT) can successfully support the transgender (TG) community’s communication needs but, internationally, this intervention is under-utilised (Gelfer and Tice 2013; Hancock and Garabedian 2013). This qualitative study aimed to investigate the TG community’s understanding of the role of SLT in relation to their voice, language, and communication needs. It also explored how the TG community access the available care pathways and what factors are considered when making decisions relating to their participation in SLT. Two main themes, communication and SLT were identified. This study identified a continuing need to raise awareness of the breadth of the role of SLT within the TG community. As there is no defined referral pathway to SLT services, the research highlighted a need for the SLT profession to provide details of all trans-competent clinicians and to ensure that other members of the medical profession who interact with the trans community utilise this information to provide appropriate referrals.Keywords: transgender; communication needs; speech and language therapy; qualitative research; hard-to-reach; thematic analysis
Soluções para as cidades e impacto das TIC’s
Authors: Flexor Carina Ochi , Alves Guilherme Ricardo Oliveira
Published: July 2020

Com o desenvolvimento da técnica, permitindo a criação de artefatos de captação de dados e soluções de gerenciamento em tempo real, por exemplo, as administrações das cidades recorrem, cada vez mais, a intervenções que utilizam tecnologias da informação e comunicação, denotando as cidades inteligentes. Este artigo tem a intenção de discutir a noção acerca das smart cities e evidenciar algumas das suas problemáticas. De abordagem dedutiva, a partir de pesquisa exploratória e revisão de literatura, o artigo aponta para a emergência de soluções que viabilizem as cidades em diversos aspectos, indicando, entretanto, tensionamentos sociais.
EKSPRESI TNF-α DAN CALCINEURIN PADA ASIMTOMATIS APIKAL PERIODONTITIS AKIBAT INDUKSI Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Sietho Randy Carlos , Rukmo Mandojo , Prasetyo Edhie Arif , Yuanita Tamara
Published: July 2020

Background. Gram positive bacteria strain are the major cause of endodontic failure as asymptomatic apical periodontitis. One of the dominant group of bacteria is Enterococcus faecalis that still persistent in root canal system post endodontic therapy procedures. This bacteria has lipoteichoic acid on its membrane that can cause induction of cytokines expression such as Tumor Necrosing Factor-α (TNF-α) and Calcineurin Purpose. This experiment to demonstrated asymptomatic apical periodontitis that induced with Enteroccus faecalis produce raising amount of TNF-α and Calcineurin expression cells in pericapical tissue of wistar rat. Method. The upper right molar teeth of the rat was drilled until perforation then exposed by BHIB 10µl (control positive group), E.faecalis 106 CFU in BHIB 10µl (experimental group) and without drilling (control negative group) then observed until 21th days and counting the amount of TNF-α and Calcineurin expression cells. Conclusion.The results show that asymtomatic apical periodontitis that was induced E.faecalis produce increasing amount of TNF-α and Calcineurin expression cells in periapical tissue wistar rat.
Perbedaan Daya Antibakteri Ekstrak Temulawak (Curcuma xanthorrhiza Roxb.) 3,125% dan Chlorhexidine 0,2% terhadap Lactobacillus acidophilus
Authors: Zubaidah Nanik , Juniarti Devi Eka , Basalamah Firza
Published: July 2020

Background: Caries is a process of demineralization of hard tissues of teeth due to the activity of bacterial metabolism. Lactobacillus acidophilus as one of the cariogenic bacteria that important process of deep caries. Efforts that can be used to inhibit cariogenic bacteria for example using antibacterial agents such as chlorhexidine that have been shown to inhibit Lactobacillus acidophilus bacteria, but chlorhexidine has some side effects. It takes basic herbal ingredients as an alternative agent that can inhibit the growth of cariogenic microorganisms, one of them is temulawak extract. Purpose: This research was conducted to compare antibacterial agent between Curcuma xanthorrhizaRoxb and chlorhexidine 0,2% to inhibit Lactobacillus acidophilus. Methods: The research was a laboratory experimental study. Temulawak extract was made by maceration method with etanol 96% and certain dilution was performed to obtain concentration of temulawak extract 100%, 50%, 25%, 12,5%, 6,25%, 3,125%, 1,56%, 0,781%. A preliminary study was conducted to determine the value of KHM and KBM of temulawak extract against Lactobacillus acidophilus were known by counting the growth of bacteria colonies on muellerhinton media in CFU/ml. From the calculation of the number of colonies Lactobacillus acidophilus, obtained KHM value of 3.125% and KBM value of 6.25%. Further research is conducted by comparing antibacterial ability of temulawak extract used KHM concentration and chlorhexidine 0,2% by using diffusion method by measurement of inhibiton zoneResult: Measurement result of inhibition zone by using calipers show that chlorhexidine 0,2% have inhibiting zone (in mm) 15.1; 15.2; 15.4; 14.9; 15.0; 15,15; 15.5; 15.7; 15.8; 16.0; 14.6; 15.2; 14,85; 15,1; 15.3; 15,2, while the measurement of inhibition zone of temulawak extract 3,125% are (in mm) 10,0; 10.3; 10.2; 9.9; 9.8; 10.1; 10.3; 10.1; 10.45; 10.1; 9.95; 9.85; 8.85; 9.35; 9.45; 9.4. Conclusion: Chlorhexidine 0,2% more potential as antibacterial agent than temulawak extract 3.125% to inhibit Lactobacillus acidophilus.
Kekasaran Permukaan Resin Komposit Nanofilled dan Nanohybrid Setelah Paparan Asap Rokok Kretek
Authors: Chandra Johanna , Setyowati Laksmiari , Setyabudi Setyabudi
Published: July 2020

Background: Cigarette smoking is a public health problem that may influence physical properties of dental composites. Surface roughness is one of the physical properties of restorative materials that can influence their success. The use of nanofilled and nanohybrid composites in dentistry has substantially increased over the past few years. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the surface roughness of nanofilled and nanohybrid composite resins exposed to kretek cigarette smoke. Methods: Twelve cylindrical specimens were prepared of each material and divided into two groups (n=6). For the control groups, the specimens were immersed in distilled water for 24 hours at 37oC and the water was renewed daily. For the experimental groups, the specimens were exposed daily to kretek cigarette smoke, then washed and stored in distilled water at 37oC. After 21 days, specimens were measured using a Surface Roughness Tester and the data was statistically analyzed. Result: Independent-T Test revealed that there were statistically significant differences in the surface roughness between control and experimental groups both nanofilled and nanohybrid, and between experimental groups nanofilled and nanohybrid. Conclusion: The exposure to kretek cigarette smoke can significantly increase the surface roughness of nanohybrid composites more than nanofilled composites.
Ekspresi MMP-1 dan TGF-β1 setelah aplikasi dentin bonding berbasis HEMA
Authors: Soetojo Adioro , Rahmah Mulia , Subiyanto Ari , Mudjiono Moch.
Published: July 2020

Background: Dentin bonding adalah bahan untuk melekatkan resin komposit terhadap dentin. Komponen utama penyusun dentin bonding adalah 2-hydroxyethyl methacrilate (HEMA). Setelah polimerisasi, terdapat monomer sisa yang akan berdifusi ke dalam tubuli dentin sampai ke dalam pulpa yang dapat mempengaruhi sel odontoblas. Objective: Menganalisis ekspresi MMP-1 dan TGF-β1 pada dentin gigi tikus yang diberikan dentin bonding HEMA dan HEMA murni. Methods: Gigi molar pertama rahang atas tikus wistar dipreparasi klas 1 tanpa aplikasi bahan selama 3 hari (kelompok 1), kemudian diaplikasikan HEMA murni selama 3 hari (kelompok 2), dentin bonding HEMA selama 3 hari (kelompok 3). Kemudian gigi ditumpat dengan Fuji II LC. Tikus wistar di dekaputasi dan rahangnya direseksi pada hari ke 3 kemudian diproses untuk pemeriksaan histokimia. Result: Ekspresi MMP-1 pada penggunaan dentin bonding HEMA lebih sedikit dibandingkan dengan HEMA murni,  ekspresi  TGF-β1 pada penggunaan dentin bonding lebih banyak dibandingkan dengan HEMA murni. Conclusion : Ada perbedaan bermakna pada ekspresi MMP-1 dan TGF-β1 antara penggunaan dentin bonding HEMA dibandingkan dengan HEMA murni
CAREGIVER TRAINING ON CARE FOR PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA IN MEDAN, NORTH SUMATERA
Authors: Martina Siska Evi
Published: July 2020

Background: Dementia is a syndrome due to brain disease, usually chronic or progressive and there is a dysfunction of noble function. The most common type of dementia is alzheimer’s dementia. Purpose: Improving the capability of caregiver for taking care people living with dementia. Method: The method used in this community engagement was coaching and training for caregivers who are generally families of the elderly with dementia. Caregiver is also taught about treatments and strategies that can be taken to meet the elderly’s daily needs. Demonstrations are also carried out on some care techniques for the elderly that are often not understood by caregiver. Result: The 15 participants who were present were all very active and enthusiastic involved during the activity. All participants were able to follow the activity well and gave many questions they had never known. Participants were able to demonstrate several techniques for treating people with dementia. The results of the questionnaire showed 100% of participants understood about dementia and dementia care. Conclusion: This activity could be regular program for improving capability of caregiver for taking care people living with dementia.
Importance de l’endommagement de l’amidon dans les aliments pour animaux
Authors: CHAMP M. , COLONNA P.
Published: July 2020

Les principales modifications de l’état de l’amidon, qui se produisent au cours des étapes de transformation et de fabrication des aliments pour animaux, sont l’augmentation de surface spécifique, une diminution de la cristallinité et une dépolymérisation de l’amylose et de l’amylopectine. Les différentes méthodes in vitro qui permettent d’étudier les facteurs influençant les cinétiques d’hydrolyse de l’amidon sont présentées. La microscopie permet des observations qualitatives. Les déterminations quantitatives sont fondées sur la susceptibilité aux amylases, les solubilités en milieux aqueux et alcooliques ainsi que l’absorption d’eau. Ces différents tests permettent de prédire la digestibilité de l’amidon dans la partie supérieure du tractus digestif. L’analyse par réflectance dans le moyen infra-rouge pourrait devenir un outil de contrôle en ligne.
Bilan critique des opérations de repeuplement en petit gibier
Authors: PÉPIN D.
Published: July 2020

S’appuyant sur une synthèse bibliographique des travaux disponibles, cet article établit un bilan critique des opérations de repeuplement menées en France à propos du Lapin de garenne, du Lièvre, de la Perdrix grise et de la Perdrix rouge. L’enchaînement des circonstances ayant entraîné la raréfaction progressive de ce petit gibier est tout d’abord très brièvement rappelé, le point de départ pouvant être attribué à l’introduction du virus de la myxomatose. Le recours à des lâchers comparatifs conduits par le service technique de l’Office National de la Chasse et la réalisation de quelques études plus ponctuelles par l’INRA permettent d’évaluer les chances de succès de ces tentatives de reconstitution ou de renforcement de populations naturelles dans divers contextes. Pour les lagomorphes, à côté de nombreux résultats chiffrés qui démontrent la forte variabilité dans le taux de survie des sujets introduits en fonction de facteurs variés (qualité de l’habitat d’accueil, époque du lâcher, aménagement des lieux du lâcher, statut des animaux), l’accent est mis sur la prise en compte nécessaire de la dynamique de leur comportement individuel et social. Pour les perdrix, on recommande d’une part d’entreprendre les opérations de repeuplement nécessaires sur de vastes unités géographiques pour qu’un nombre minimum de couples puisse s’implanter et se reproduire, et d’autre part d’utiliser uniquement des oiseaux d’origine locale sous peine de risquer une contamination génétique du stock naturel. Au vu de ces résultats, on souligne que la meilleure action en faveur du petit gibier reste une gestion raisonnée des populations naturelles.
Système d’élevage des génisses laitières. Comparaison des races Holstein et Normande
Authors: TROCCON J.L. , DABURON E. , GALLARD Y. , MULLER A.
Published: July 2020

L’élevage de 432 génisses nées entre 1978 à 1987 au domaine INRA du Pin aux Haras a fait l’objet d’une étude rétrospective. Deux troupeaux de vaches primipares ont été constitués, l’un vêlant à 2 ans, destiné à un système d’alimentation intensif des vaches (Système I), l’autre vêlant plus tardivement, destiné à un système d’élevage économe des vaches (Système II). Dans les deux troupeaux, les vêlages des primipares ont lieu à l’automne. Pour un système donné, la conduite a été aussi uniforme que possible d’une année à l’autre. Les génisses élevées ont été pour les 2/3 de race Holstein et pour 1/3 de race Normande. Un tiers étaient nées de vaches primipares et 8% étaient nées jumelles. Les génisses vêlées dans le système I sont nées en moyenne le 24/11 (n=201) au lieu du 25/01 dans le système II (n=185). La période considérée concerne la phase de la naissance à 3 ans. Elle inclut la période d’élevage et la première lactation dans le système I, la période d’élevage seule dans le système II. A la fin de la période considérée, les poids ajustés (âge fixe) sont plus élevés dans le système II. Les vaches du système I ont produit 5145 kg de lait. Les potentiels de croissance des génisses Holstein et Normande sont comparables sinon que les filles des primipares de race Normande ont un croît réduit dans le jeune âge. Le potentiel laitier des filles de primipares est normalement supérieur à celui des filles de multipares comme résultant des progrès génétiques et alimentaires. Les jumelles (système I) ont subi un taux de réforme plus élevé en première lactation. Les génisses et les vaches en fin de lact
Etat corporel des vaches allaitantes Charolaises : signification, utilisation pratique et relations avec la reproduction
Authors: PETIT M. , AGABRIEL J.
Published: July 2020

Le "volant" des réserves corporelles d’une vache Charolaise de 700 kg est d’environ 130 kg. Il est constitué par les dépôts adipeux (85 kg) et du muscle (26 kg) et correspondent essentiellement à des lipides (environ 95 kg). Les dépôts sous-cutanés ont l’accroissement relatif le plus rapide, ce qui permet d’estimer l’état corporel global par une note allant de 0 à 5. La mobilisation des réserves se fait de manière hiérarchique, les lipides sont utilisés en premier, leur part dans la perte de poids semblant peu varier autour de 75%. Il faut que la vache soit très amaigrie (perte de poids supérieure à 80 kg) pour que cette proportion diminue notablement. La reconstitution des réserves est d’autant plus rapide que les vaches sont maigres, et ce sont les lipides qui sont déposés en dernier. La reconstitution dépend aussi de la capacité d’ingestion de la vache, et donc en partie de son format. L’utilisation des réserves permet une économie notable des apports alimentaires, à condition que l’efficacité de la reproduction de la vache ne soit pas atteinte (allongement de la période d’anoestrus, fertilité..). Les seuils de note d’état minimale au vêlage proposés varient de 2,0 à 2,5 suivant les niveaux alimentaires pendant la période de reproduction. La durée de lactation permet de gérer l’état corporel à la rentrée à l’étable, et d’anticiper l’état au vêlage suivant, en fonction des ressources alimentaires disponibles. L’état corporel est un indicateur indispensable à la conduite économe des vaches allaitantes..
Knowledge and Awareness of Islamic Financial in Europe And America Countries
Authors: Ernawati Ernawati , Asri Mansyur
Published: July 2020

This study aims to determine the correlation between knowledge and awareness with industrial development, state religious status and state location. The data is sourced from secondary references of IFG-IFDI publication for the 2019 period on 42 countries in the European and American Continent. Data is processed through correlation analysis. The results show that  Islamic financial knowledge correlates with the level of scientific awareness.  Islamic financial knowledge and awareness of Islamic finance are positively correlated with the development of 4 (four) segments of Islamic finance, namely: Islamic banking, takaful, other Islamic finance, and sukuk; and does not correlate with the Islamic funds. The countries with a Muslim majority population will be more active in developing activities related to the Islamic financial industry.  There other side, there is no significant correlation between knowledge and awareness of Islamic finance with the continet location of the country. The research findings recommend an inclusive awareness movement so that it unites the academic and the public aspects in Islamic financial campaigns.
The Effect Of Fe Tablet Consumption On Hemoglobin (Hb) Increase In Pregnant Women: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Cahya Skania Pratiwi , Dasuki Djaswadi , Utami Fitriana Siswi
Published: July 2020

Anemia is still a problem in developing countries. The World Health Organization states that there are still more than 50 percent of women in the world suffering from anemia. anemia can cause life-threatening bleeding, miscarriage, low birth weight and premature birth. WHO defines anemia as a condition where the hemoglobin level is less than 11 mg / dL in the first and last trimester or 10.5 mg / dL in the second trimester or the hematocrit level is less than 37 percent. The study aim to determine the effect of Fe tablets consumption on hemoglobin (Hb) level increase in pregnant women and to find out the factors related to the compliance of pregnant women taking Fe tablets.  This Systematic Literature Publication and Science uses databases with the period 2008-2018. The selection of articles was based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The Appraisal study employed The Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Tools. Taking Fe tablets is very influential in increasing levels of Hb in pregnant women who suffer from anemia. Effective iron supplements to reduce anemia in pregnancy. Support from family and closest people has an important role in increasing adherence to taking Fe tablets.
Nobiltà, ‘divizie’ e riflesso in Dante
Authors: Nava Mora Augusto
Published: July 2020

L’articolo illustra il modo in cui Dante ha utilizzato le fonti medievali nel campo dell’ottica e degli exempla dei bestiari per costruire analogie al fine di ragionare delle ricchezze e della nobiltà. Il testo analizza, in particolare, Purg. XVII 1-9, Cv. II iv 16-17, III vii, ix, alcuni frammenti della canzone Le dolci rime e il relativo commento in Cv. IV. Alla fine dell’articolo si espone il contrappunto filosofico che Dante offre alle vicende storiche del suo tempo.
Opinion: Challenges for Indonesia Zero Hunger Agenda in the Context of COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Paramashanti Bunga Astria
Published: July 2020

The rapid spread of COVID-19 has not only threatened the lives of infected persons but also affected a broader community socially and economically. The pandemic has also challenged Goal 2 of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to eradicate all forms of hunger by 2030. The most disadvantaged society may have a greater risk of malnutrition and poor health as they cannot access safe, nutritious, affordable, and sustainable diets. At this moment, saving lives by focusing on the health-care system should not be the only priority, emphasis should be made in other essential aspects, including agri-food sector, in order not to cause the additional burden of hunger, malnutrition, and overall health.
Nationwide survey on the use of local antibiotics during anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in Norway
Authors: Sailer Monica Alessandria , Skråmm Inge , Sivertsen Einar Andreas , Lygre Stein Håkon , Årøen Asbjørn
Published: July 2020

The authors have withdrawn this preprint due to author disagreement.
Effects of Electrokinetics on Arsenic Mobility and Accumulation in Mott Dwarf Napier Grass for Treatment of Mine Tailings
Authors: Wanitsawatwichai Kitsadee , Sampanpanish Pantawat
Published: July 2020

The authors have withdrawn this preprint due to author disagreement.
The value of hydrogen and methane breath test in predicting colorectal polyps
Authors: Zhang Xueyuan , Liu Xujuan , Xie Wenrui , Ding Wenjing , He Xingxiang
Published: July 2020

BackgroundTo investigate the value of hydrogen and methane breath test in predicting colorectal polyps. Methods382 patients were enrolled in this study. They were divided into colorectal polyps group and Non polyps group as control. Hydrogen and methane breath test was used in both groups for small intestinal bacteria overgrowth (SIBO) diagnosis. All patients were examined by colonoscopy to investigate colorectal polyps. Diamine oxidase, D-lactate and Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) were measured in all patients to evaluate the intestinal barrier function.Results 1) The age of colorectal polys group is significantly higher than control group (P=0.000); the prevalence of colorectal polyps increases with age. 2) The prevalence of colorectal polys in male is significantly higher than female (P=0.004); 3) Lactuloses breath test (LBT) was used for small intestinal bacteria overgrowth (SIBO) diagnoses. Prevalence of hydrogen dominate SIBO and methane dominate SIBO in colorectal polys group were significantly higher than control group (P = 0.000, 0.013);4) The prevalence of constipation was higher in colorectal polys group than control group (P=0.023);5) The peoples who had high hydrogen production peoples showed less intestinal barrier function damage and lower LPS level than peoples who had low hydrogen production (P=0.029, 0.049);6) The sensitivity and specificity of SIBO is 75.5% and 51.0% respectively in SIBO diagnosis.ConclusionThe occurrence of colorectal polyp increase with age, the year 46 is a cut off age for peoples need colonoscopy examination. Male has a higher prevalence than female. Intestinal hydrogen may play a role in prevent intestinal mucosa damage via its antioxidant function. SIBO shows a positive relationship with colorectal polyp. Hydrogen and methane breath test is a useful mass prescreening method for colorectal polyp risk.
Simultaneous Oil Sono-Extraction And Sono-Transesterification (In Situ) Of Soybean And Sunflower Seeds For The Production Of Biodiesel
Authors: Dolores Reyman Díaz , Almudena Quiñones Grande
Published: July 2020

The cost of biodiesel production could be reduced by applying a simultaneous oil extraction and transesterification process (in situ). In situ sono-transesterification to allow direct production of biodiesel from soybean and sunflower seeds are presented in this study. All experiments were conducted using ultrasound (20kHz, 106W). In the sunflower case, the results showed a higher yield of extraction (94%) for a 1/5 (g/mL) ratio and one minute of sonication. In the soybean case, the extraction process is less efficient, reaching only 59% of the oil contained in the seed for a soybean/n-hexane ratio of 1/10 (g/mL) and one minute of sonication. Parameters such as the methanol/oil ratio, reaction time and catalyst concentration in the in situ sono-transesterification process of these vegetable seeds were also optimised in this study. In both cases, a percentage of conversion to biodiesel greater than 99% was achieved with just one minute of sonication.
Evaluation of the Disease Burden of Sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jacob Disease with the Surveillance Data from 2013 to 2017 in China
Authors: Gao Chen , Zhang Lina , Xiao Kang , Zhou Wei , Wang Yuan , Chen Cao , Shi Qi , Dong Xiao-Ping
Published: July 2020

Background Sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jacob disease (sCJD) is the commonest type of human prion disease and cause 100% fatality. The morbidity of sCJD is about 1 to 2 cases/million/year worldwide.Methods The disease burden of sCJD and the indirect economic burdens in China were evaluated based on the data of Chinese National CJD Surveillance from 2013 to 2017. Results The Disability-Adjusted Life Year (DALY) of sCJD was measured with 753 probable sCJD patients. The total DALY of 753 sCJD cases in the past five surveillance years was 16202.62 person-years. The Years of Life Lost (YLL) was the predominant component for DALY reaching to more than 95%, while the Years Lost due to Disability (YLD) accounted for less than 5% only. The highest DALY was noticed in the group of 45-50 year-old (6541.49), followed by the groups of 60-69 year-old (6311.25). Furthermore, the indirect economic burdens of 753 sCJD patients were estimated with the official capital data. Total indirect economic burden for five years was 372.08 million RMB (1US $=6.9 RMB), with the average of 494,133 RMB per case. The patients aged 45-59 year-old were the predominant population that accounted for approximate 73% of total indirect economic burden. Although still lacking of the exact annual incidence of sCJD in China, the DALY intensity of sCJD in China could be estimated and predicted as 2.2 to 4.4 person-years /100,000 with the global morbidity of sCJD. Conclusion This is the first disease burden assay for sCJD in China, which will supply fundamental evidence for further development of medical strategy.
Gene Regulation Network and prognosis analyses of PCK1 in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Ma Hongbin , Li Yong , Gong Xiaomei , Yang Liang , Feng Feiling
Published: July 2020

Background: The cytoplasmic isoform of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PCK1) is a rate-limiting enzyme in gluconeogenesis. Mounting studies have shown that PCK1 plays a key role in human cancers including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In this study, the mRNA expression, the prognostic value and the gene networks of PCK1 in HCC were investigated.Methods: Expression analysis of PCK1 in HCC was obtained from Oncomine, UALCAN, Human Protein Atlas (HPA) and HCC samples. Prognostic value related to PCK1 expression in HCC patients were evaluated by Kaplan–Meier Plotter. The function effects were analyzed by constructing xenograft tumor mice. Gene functional enrichment was performed via LinkedOmics and GeneMANIA.Results: PCK1 expression at mRNA level and protein level was both downregulated in liver cancer tissues compared with normal liver tissues. The decreased expression of PCK1 at protein level was also validated in collected HCC samples. What’s more, PCK1 expression was negatively associated with cancer stages, tumor grades and metastasis nodal of HCC. Meanwhile, decreased mRNA expression of PCK1 was associated with poor overall survival of HCC patients. Furthermore, PCK1 overexpression in xenograft tumor of nude mice repressed hepatoma tumor growth and made hepatoma mice survive longer. Next, enrichment and functional interaction analysis of PCK1 in HCC by using LinkedOmics and GeneMANIA suggested that PCK1 and neighbor genes were involved in the spliceosome, cell cycle, DNA replication pathways.Conclusions: In sum, our results reveal the PCK1 expression patterns, the potential prognosis value and predicted functional network in HCC, which illuminates the key role of PCK1 in HCC development.
Reconfigurable all-dielectric metalens with diffraction-limited performance
Authors: Shalaginov Mikhail , An Sensong , Zhang Yifei , Yang Fan , Su Peter , Liberman Vladimir , Chou Jeffrey , Roberts Christopher , Kang Myungkoo , Ríos Carlos , Du Qingyang , Fowler Clayton , Agarwal Anu , Richardson Kathleen , Rivero-Baleine Clara , Zhang Hualiang , Hu Juejun , Gu Tian
Published: July 2020

Active metasurfaces, whose optical properties can be modulated post-fabrication, have emerged as an intensively explored field in recent years. The efforts to date, however, still face major performance limitations in tuning range, optical quality, and efficiency especially for non mechanical actuation mechanisms. In this paper, we introduce an active metasurface platform combining phase tuning covering the full 2π range and diffraction-limited performance using an all-dielectric, low-loss architecture based on optical phase change materials (O-PCMs). We present a generic design principle enabling binary switching of metasurfaces between arbitrary phase profiles and propose a new figure-of-merit tailored for active meta-optics. We implement the approach to realize a high-performance varifocal metalens operating at 5.2 μm wavelength. The metalens is constructed using Ge2Sb2Se4Te1 (GSST), an O-PCM with a large refractive index contrast (Δn > 1) and unique broadband low-loss characteristics in both amorphous and crystalline states. The reconfigurable metalens features focusing efficiencies above 20% at both states for linearly polarized light and a record large switching contrast ratio of 29.5 dB. We further validate aberration-free and multi-depth imaging using the metalens, which represents the first experimental demonstration of a non-mechanical active metalens with diffraction-limited performance.
Relationship Of A Community Physical Activity Program With The Number Of Antihypertensive Drugs Used By Elderly Women With Arterial Hypertension: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Lira Claudio Andre Barbosa de , Santos Rafaela Gomes dos , Gomes Ariádny Brandão , Santos Douglas de Assis Teles , Andrade Marilia Santos , Nikolaidis Pantelis Theodoros , Knechtle Beat , Rosemann Thomas , Vancini Rodrigo Luiz
Published: July 2020

Background: Physical activity is an important tool to manage systemic arterial hypertension. However, less is known about the relationship of physical activity with the number of antihypertensive drugs used by older adults. The aim of this study was to compare the number of antihypertensive drugs used by older female adults (aged ≥ 60 years) with a low level of physical activity with the number used by those with a high level of physical activity, and to verify how many participants used more than two antihypertensive drugs. The habitual level of physical activity was evaluated by the Baecke questionnaireMethods: Twenty-eight physically active older women with systemic arterial hypertension who participated in a physical activity program for community-dwelling older female adults were divided into two groups: participants who presented lower habitual physical activity levels were placed in group 1 and participants that presented higher habitual physical activity levels were placed in group 2, according to the Baecke questionnaire. In addition, the number of antihypertensive drugs used by participants was collected.Results: The number of prescribed antihypertensive tablets was 2.0 (median) for both groups investigated. There was no significant difference between groups regarding the number of antihypertensive tablets prescribed (p>0.05). There was no statistical difference in proportion of participants from the lower physical activity group used more than two antihypertensive drugs.Conclusions: The level of habitual physical activity did not affect the number of antihypertensive tablets used by hypertensive elderly women.
In-Utero Mother-to-Child SARS-CoV-2 Transmission: Viral Detection and Fetal Immune Response
Authors: Fenizia Claudio , Biasin Mara , Cetin Irene , Vergani Patrizia , Mileto Davide , Spinillo Arsenio , Gismondo Maria Rita , Perrotti Francesca , Callegari Clelia , Mancon Alessandro , Cammarata Selene , Beretta Ilaria , Nebuloni Manuela , Trabattoni Daria , Clerici Mario , Savasi Valeria
Published: July 2020

Pregnancy is known to increase the risk of severe illnesses in response to viral infections. Therefore, the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection during gestational ages might be detrimental and the potential vertical transmission should be thoroughly studied.Herein, we investigated whether SARS-CoV-2 vertical transmission is possible and, in case, whether this results in a fetal involvement. Additionally, we analyzed the role of the antibody and the inflammatory responses in placenta and plasma from SARS-CoV-2-positive pregnant women and fetuses.31 SARS-CoV-2 pregnant women were enrolled. Real-time PCR was performed to detect the virus on maternal and newborns’ nasopharyngeal swabs, vaginal swabs, maternal and umbilical cord plasma, placenta and umbilical cord biopsies, amniotic fluids and milk. Maternal and umbilical cord plasma, and milk were tested for specific anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. RNA expression quantification of genes involved in the inflammatory response was performed on four selected placentas. On maternal and umbilical cord plasma of the same subjects, secreted cytokines/chemokines were quantified.SARS-CoV-2 is found in at-term placentae and in the umbilical cord blood, in the vaginal mucosa of pregnant women and in milk. Furthermore, we report the presence of specific anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgM and IgG antibodies in the umbilical cord blood of pregnant women, as well as in milk specimens. Finally, a specific inflammatory response is triggered by SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnant women at both systemic and placental level, and in umbilical cord blood plasma.Our data strongly support the hypothesis that in-utero vertical transmission is possible in SARS-CoV-2 positive pregnant women. This is essential for defining proper obstetric management of COVID-19 pregnant women, or putative indications for mode and timing of delivery.
Rational Engineering of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Towards Improved Tolerance to Multiple Inhibitors in Lignocellulose Fermentations
Authors: Brandt Bianca A. , García-Aparicio Maria D.P. , Görgens Johann F. , Zyl Willem Heber Van
Published: July 2020

Background: The fermentation of lignocellulose hydrolysates to ethanol require robust xylose capable Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains able to operate in the presence of microbial inhibitory stresses. This study aimed at developing industrial S. cerevisiae strains with enhanced tolerance towards pretreatment-derived microbial inhibitors, by identifying novel gene combinations that confer resistance to multiple inhibitors (thus cumulative inhibitor resistance phenotype) with minimum impact on the xylose fermentation ability. The strategy consisted of multiple sequential delta-integrations of double gene cassettes containing one gene conferring broad inhibitor tolerance (ARI1, PAD1 or TAL1) coupled with an inhibitor specific gene (ADH6, FDH1 or ICT1). The performances of the transformants were compared with the parental strain in terms of biomass growth, ethanol yields and productivity, as well as detoxification capacities in a synthetic inhibitor cocktail, sugarcane bagasse hydrolysate as well as hardwood spent sulphite liquor.Results: The first and second round of delta-integrated transformants exhibited a trade-off between biomass and ethanol yield. Transformants showed increased inhibitor resistance phenotypes relative to parental controls specifically in fermentations with concentrated spent sulphite liquors at 40% and 80% v/v concentrations in 2% SC media. Unexpectedly, the xylose fermentation capacity of the transformants was reduced compared to the parental control, but certain combinations of genes had a minor impact (e.g. TAL1 + FDH1). The TAL1+ ICT1 combination negatively impacted on both biomass growth and ethanol yield, which could be linked to the ICT1 protein increasing transformant susceptibility to weak acids and temperature due to cell membrane changes. Conclusions: The integration of the selected genes was proven to increase tolerance to pretreatment inhibitors in synthetic or industrial hydrolysates, but they were limited to the fermentation of glucose. However, some genes combination sequences had a reduced impact on xylose conversion.
Using exosomal miRNAs extracted from follicular fluid to investigate their role in porcine oocyte development
Authors: Hu Junhe , Dong Jinyi , Zeng Zhi , Wu Juan , Tan Xiansheng , Tang Tao , Yan Jiao , Jin Chenzhong
Published: July 2020

Follicular development is crucial to normal oocyte maturation, with follicular size closely related to oocyte maturation. To better understand the molecular mechanisms behind porcine oocyte maturation, we obtained exosomal miRNA from porcine follicular fluid (PFF). These miRNA samples were then sequenced and analyzed regarding their different follicular sizes, as described in the methods section. First, these results showed that this process successfully isolated PFF exosomes. Nearly all valid reads from the PFF exosomal sequencing data were successfully mapped to the porcine genome database. Second, we used hierarchical clustering methods to determine that significantly expressed miRNAs were clustered into A, B, C, and D groups in our heatmap according to different follicle sizes. These results allowed for the targeting of potential mRNAs genes related to porcine oocyte development. Third, we chose ten, significantly expressed miRNAs and predicted their target genes for further GO analysis. These results showed that the expression levels of neurotransmitter secretion genes were greatly changed, as were many target genes involved in the regulation of FSH secretion. Notably, these are genes that are very closely related to oocyte maturation in growing follicles. We then used pathway analysis for these targeted genes based on the originally selected ten miRNAs. Results indicated that the pathways were mainly related to the biosynthesis of TGF-beta and its signaling pathway, which are very closely related to reproductive system functions. Finally, these exosomal miRNAs obtained from PFF may provide a valuable addition to our understanding of the mechanism of porcine oocyte maturation. It is also likely that these exosomal miRNAs could function as molecular biomarkers to choose high-quality oocytes and allow for in vitro porcine embryo production.
Prognostic Role of MicroRNA Let-7 in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhang Xiaoting , Kang Huaning , Chen Guihong , Li Xiaofeng
Published: July 2020

BackgroundRecent studies have shown that MicroRNAs can be used as potential biomarkers to the prognosis in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Hence, we conducted this meta-analysis to evaluate the prognostic role of microRNA let-7 in NSCLC patients.MethodsPubMed, Web of Science, Medline and the Cochrane Library were searched for relevant studies. Eligible studies were met specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Stata 15.1 was used to calculate the pooled parameters.ResultsA total of 11 studies involving 2278 NSCLC patients were included in this meta-analysis. Subgroup analyses established that the heterogeneity was connected with ethnicity and follow-up time. The results suggested that the low expression of microRNA let-7 indicates a poor overall survival rate, with a hazard ratio value of 0.99 (95% CI: 0.64-1.34, P <0.05).ConclusionsLow expression of microRNA let-7 is closely related to the poor prognosis of NSCLC, so microRNA let-7 may become a new biomarker to evaluate the prognosis of NSCLC patients.
IL-19 Induced by IL-13/IL-17A in the Nasal Epithelium of Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis Upregulates MMP-9 Expression via ERK/NF-kB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Li Xia , Huang Jiancong , Chen Xiaohong , Lai Xiaoping , Huang Zizhen , Li Yue , Li Shuaixiang , Chang Lihong , Zhang Gehua
Published: July 2020

Background

Tissue remodeling is a crucial characteristic of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Imbalance between matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) is crucial for the pathologic tissue remodeling in CRS. Elevation of interleukin (IL)-19 or MMP-9 levels in patients with CRS had been proven in previous studies. Here, we aimed to investigate the role of IL-19 in mediating MMP-9 expression in CRS.
Methods

Nasal tissue samples were collected from individuals having chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), CRS without nasal polyps (CRSsNP), and controls. Expression of IL-19, its receptors (IL-20R1/IL-20R2), and MMP-9 were investigated. Human nasal epithelial cells (HNECs) were stimulated by IL-19; ERK phosphorylation, NF-κB pathway activation, and MMP-9 level were detected. We also explored the effect of type1/2/3 cytokines on IL-19 production.
Results

Expression levels of IL-19, its receptors (IL-20R1/IL-20R2), and MMP-9 were increased in nasal tissues from individuals with CRSwNP compared to those with CRSsNP as well as the controls. IL-19 significantly elevated the production of MMP-9 in HNECs. Furthermore, IL-19 could activate the ERK and NF-κB pathways, accompanied by increased MMP-9 production in HNECs. Conversely, both ERK and NF-κB inhibitors significantly attenuated the role of IL-19 in MMP-9 production. siRNA knockdown of IL-20R1 suppressed ERK and NF-κB pathway activation, thereby decreasing MMP-9 expression. IL-13 and IL-17A were found to stimulate IL-19 production in HNECs.
Conclusion

IL-19, promoted by IL-13 and IL-17A, contributes to the upregulation of secretion of the tissue remodeling factor MMP-9 in patients with CRS.
Runx2 deficiency in osteoblasts promotes myeloma resistance to bortezomib by increasing thrombospondin 1-mediated TGF-ß1 activation and suppression immunity in the bone marrow
Authors: Zhang Chao , Xu Xiaoxuan , Trotter Timothy N. , Gowda Pramod S. , Lu Yun , Suto Mark J. , Javed Amjad , Murphy-Ullrich Joanne E. , Li Juan , Yang Yang
Published: July 2020

Background: Multiple myeloma (MM) is a plasma cell malignancy that thrives in the bone marrow (BM). Although the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib (BTZ) is one of the most effective front-line chemotherapeutic drugs for MM, 15–20% of high-risk patients do not respond to this drug or become resistant to treatment. The mechanisms driving this chemoresistance remain unclear. Previous studies showed that the tumor microenvironment contributes to cancer chemoresistance. Our recent studies demonstrated that Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) deficiency in osteoblasts (OBs) creates a cytokine-rich and immunosuppressive microenvironment in the BM and promotes MM progression. However, the impact of Runx2 deficiency in OBs on the efficacy of BTZ in treatment of MM is still unknown. Methods: We assessed the effects of OB-Runx2 deficiency on the outcome of BTZ treatment in OB-Runx2 +/+ and OB-Runx2 -/- mouse models with MM using bioluminescence imaging, ELISA and flow cytometry. In addition, we used a co-culturing in vitro system to explore the mechanism of BTZ resistance and assessed this system by MTT assays and Western blot analysis. Results: We discovered that OB-Runx2 deficiency induces MM cells resistance to BTZ via the suppression of immunity and increased active TGF-β1 in the BM. We further demonstrated that depletion of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) by gemcitabine or inhibition of TGF-ß1 activity by SRI31277, a compound that blocks thrombospondin 1 (TSP1)-mediated TGF-ß1 activation, restores anti-tumor immunity in the BM and overcomes BTZ resistance induced by OB-Runx2 deficiency. In addition, SRI31277 also directly inhibits the activity of canonical (Smad2/3) and non-canonical (Erk1/2) signaling pathways of TGF-ß1 in 5TGM1-Luc MM cells and sensitizes MM cells to BTZ, resulting in increased apoptosis of MM cells. Conclusions: OB-Runx2 deficiency promotes BTZ resistance in MM cells through the regulations of MDSCs and TSP1-mediated TGF-ß1 activation in the BM. These data identify novel mechanisms of BTZ resistance in MM and suggest new strategies to overcome BTZ resistance in treatment of MM.
Severe Pneumonia with and without Adenovirus Infection in Children Under the Age of 5 in Guangzhou, 2009-2019: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Zheng Lingling , Liao Weiyao , Li Kuanrong , Li Ling , Liang Feng , Liang Huiying
Published: July 2020

Background: To identify the differences of epidemiology, clinical features, laboratory findings and clinical outcomes of severe pneumonia children under 5 years old among with and without ADV infection.Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted in three pediatric hospitals in Guangzhou, China. All children under the age of 5 for sever pneumonia and admitting ICU during 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2019. Demographics, complications, the first routine laboratory findings, therapeutic records and clinical outcome were collected from electronic medical records. We compared characteristics of children with and without ADV infection.Results: ADV were detected in 75 (4.7%) of 1595 severe pneumonia children. Cases with ADV infection were more likely to be male, older than one year old, combined other microbial infections, but less likely to have mixed virus infections and combined with cardiovascular disease, and had more abnormal laboratory results than cases without ADV infection. Antiviral therapy was rarely used in children with severe pneumonia, but antibiotic therapy was commonly used in severe pneumonia children, especially cases with ADV infection (91.9%). Children infected with ADV were also hospitalized longer and had a higher mortality within 30 days of hospitalization.Conclusions: Severe pneumonia children under 5 years old with ADV infection had more abnormal laboratory findings and more severe clinical outcomes than cases without ADV infection. More attention should be focused on the harm caused by ADV infection.
Whether CAR-T cell bridging to allo-HSCT increases the incidence of graft-versus-host disease in patients with high-risk chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Gong Jiaojiao , Wang Qian , Su Yan , Ai Hao , Han Lu , Fu Yuewen , Wei Xudong , Song Yongping , Yin Qingsong
Published: July 2020

Background The TP53 aberration[both del(17p) and TP53 mutations], a high-risk prognostic factor in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)/small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL), is closely related to drug-resistance, rapid disease progression, and short-term survival. Although novel agents, such as ibrutinib, idelalisib, as well as venetoclax, have shown good responses, allogenic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) has been considered the only approach offered with curative intent.Case presentation We reported a case of young high-risk CLL/SLL patient with Ritcher’s transformation received ibrutinib plus CAR-T cells after the BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax resistance, and then bridging to allo-HSCT when she had a complete remission (CR). Unfortunately, the patients died on day + 99 after transplantation due to intestinal grade IV acute graft-versus-host-disease (aGVHD) which could not be reversed by intensified immunosuppressive agents, including high-dose glucocorticoid, anti-CD25 monoclonal antibody basiliximab, and small-molecular inhibitors ruxolitinib, ibrutinib, as well as fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT).Conclusion TP53 aberrations in CLL/SLL patients are prone to large cell transformation, and have a poor prognosis, especially in venetoclax-resistant patients. Ibrutinib combined with CAR-T cells offered a treatment option, but whether bridging allo-HSCT following CAR-T cells increased severe aGVHD remained unclear.