bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The interaction of migration range, regional economic development level on social capital and public health services of internal migrants: evidence from the China Migrant Dynamic Survey in 2017
Authors: Yang Zhen , Jiang Chenghua
Published: April 2021

Objectives Studies have confirmed that both migration range (MR) and regional economic development level (REDL) have significant impacts on the accessibility of National Essential Public Health Services (NEPHS) for the internal migrants (IMs), but no studies have explored the interaction between MR and REDL, nor discussed the mechanism behind their influence.Method A sample of 115412 respondents from the China Migrant Dynamic Survey in 2017 was adopted, aged 18-59 years and residence duration more than one year. Beijing, Tianjin and Shanghai were excluded. The MR was divided into inter-provincial and intra-provincial migration. Social capital (SC) was divided into cognitive social capital (CSC) and structural social capital (SSC). The REDL was divided into high income provinces (HIPs) and low-middle income provinces (LMIPs). Cross-table, chi-square test, logistic regression and other statistical methods were used to analyze impacts of MR and REDL on IMs' SC, awareness of NEPHS and establishment of health records (EHR).Results (1) The SC of inter-provincial IMs is always lower than that of intra-provincial IMs. The CSC of IMs in HIPs is lower but their SSC is not the same. The MR difference of IMs' SC is greater in HIPs. (2) The IMs' level of NEPHS utilization in the inter-provincial group and the HIPs group is lower, and the MR difference of IMs' level of NEPHS utilization is greater in the HIPs. (3) The IMs' SC can significantly promote their NEPHS utilization level, but this relationship is affected by the dimensions of SC, MR and REDL.Conclusions MR and REDL may affect the IMs' SC through cultural exclusion and institutional exclusion, and further affect the IMs' NEPHS utilization. When promoting equalization of NEPHS in HIPs, it is necessary for HIPs to expand more primary health facilities to increase the NEPHS supply, and take measures to stimulate the inter-provincial IMs' sense of identity and social participation.
Stochastic finite element analysis of the diametral compression test of powder compacts and porous materials
Authors: Alvarado-Contreras Jose Andres , Lopez-Inojosa Alexis Andres
Published: April 2021

This paper presents a stochastic finite element approach for modeling the mechanical behavior of powder compacts and porous materials under diametral compression test conditions. The main goal is assessing the validity of the diametral compression test as an indirect technique to estimate tensile strengths of brittle or quasi-brittle materials exhibiting porosity heterogeneity. Thus, the study seeks to predict the influence of porosity randomness on stress distributions and the spatial location of the highest tensile stress on thin disc-shaped specimens. The proposed formulation uses a stochastic framework that couples a random spatial field to the finite element analysis to include non-deterministic features. Two case studies consider comparable targets for the mean porosity but different coefficients of variations. For each case study, a total of 1000 realizations are conducted under identical loading and boundary conditions. The predicted stress distributions are compared to the ones from homogenous closed-form solutions from the literature. Then, the expected magnitude and location of the maximum tensile stress are evaluated by statistical means. Findings from the stochastic model show that porosity randomness induces stress concentration around less dense volumes and location deviation of the maximum tensile stress from the center of the discs. Likewise, porosity heterogeneity could affect the accuracy of experimental diametral compression tests even for small variance cases; and so, the reliability of the mechanical properties derived from models based exclusively on the classic assumption of material homogeneity.
Glomus tumor of small intestine: case report and review of literature
Authors: Tan Yan , Wang Xinyi , Yang Guifang , Liu Lan , Fang Jun , Chang Ying , Zhao Qiu , Zhang Yafei
Published: April 2021

Glomus tumors are exceedingly rare tumors arising from the normal glomus body. Only a very few cases located in the small intestine were reported to date. Here, we present a case of glomus tumor of the jejunum in a 30-year-old female patient, and discuss its clinical, imaging, and pathologic features.
Do Landscape Elements Interfere in Hovenia Dulcis Thunb. Invasions in Subtropical Forest Fragments?
Authors: Brandalise Marciana , Milesi Silvia Vendruscolo , Sausen Tanise Luisa , Decian Vanderlei Secretti
Published: April 2021

Changes in characteristics of landscape adjacent to forest fragments due to anthropic actions result in increased invasion of non-native species and biodiversity loss. The aim of this study was to evaluate the invasion process of Hovenia dulcis (Thunb.) in forest fragments with different size and shape in order to relate the behavior of the invasion with landscape metrics. As a result, shape and size of the forest fragments do not influence the abundance of H. dulcis. However, a greater number of H. dulcis individuals are concentrated in the edge areas. The canopy, declivity and land use were not associated with the abundance of H. dulcis. The high abundance at the edge of forest fragments highlights the dynamics of the landscape in the study area that are marked by the agricultural matrix. The invasion process occurs regardless of the size and shape of the forest fragments.
Coal phase out and renewable electricity expansion under Paris targets
Authors: Pye Steve , Butnar Isabela , Mittal Shivika , Giarola Sara , Hawkes Adam , Beltramo Agnes , Usher Will , Brinkerink Maarten , Deane Paul , Benitez Liliana , Niet Taco , Shivakumar Abhishek
Published: April 2021

This paper provides insights into the implications of a global coal phaseout in the power generation sector across different regions under international climate targets. Using modelled scenarios, we highlight the strong rate of decline in new build and decommissioning of existing coal assets, and the growth in renewable capacity to not only fill the gap but meet growing demand for electricity. We find that key uncertainties exist across many of these pathways towards system decarbonisation. We also explore how regionally connected grids can help in transitioning away from coal whilst ensuring supply of electricity. Focusing on potential interconnection between India and the Gulf region, we find that this can be an important strategy for helping enable the transition based on increasing renewables, with regional interconnection encouraging coal phase-out even without a specific coal phase-out target. The technical modelling in this report requires further consideration, in respect of the other multiple benefits of a transition towards low carbon generation, but also the policy mechanisms that will enable delivery of what is a hugely challenging transition.
Seroprevalence and risk factors associated with West Nile infection in human in Madagascar: a cross-sectional serological survey
Authors: Olive Marie-Marie , Broban Anaïs , Andriamandimby Soa Fy , Dorsemans Anne-Claire , Ravalohery Jean-Pierre , Andriamamonjy Seta , Rakotomanana Fanjasoa , Rogier Christophe , Heraud Jean-Michel
Published: April 2021

Background: West Nile virus (WNV) is a vector-borne virus maintained through an arthropod-borne transmission cycle involving bird hosts and Culex mosquito species. The disease affects humans in North America, Europe, Africa and Indian Ocean islands including Madagascar. In Madagascar, despite the surveillance of WNV, unreported WNV encephalitis (WNE) are suspected. In order to improve WNE surveillance efficiency and optimize the available resources we aimed to estimate WNV human seroprevalence in different areas of the island, and to identify the environmental factors and areas favorable to WNV transmission in human.Methods: Between 2011 and 2013, during a national cross-sectional serological survey 1,680 individuals were sampled. Sera were tested for IgG directed against WNV using ELISA and Hemagglutination Inhibition assays. Then, we analyzed human serological results using Generalized Linear Mixed Models, with the individual serological status as the response, and environmental variables and human related factors as explanatory variables. Results : The overall human WNV seropositivity rate was 12.7% (95% CI [11.2-14.4]). Human seroprevalence was positively associated with humid environment (p<0.005) whereas cold and highlands environment had a significant negative effect on seroprevalence (p<0.001). Outdoor work had also a significant positive effect on seroprevalence (p<0.01, OR = 1.99).Conclusions: Our results indicate a heterogeneous circulation of WNV in human and highlights that humid environment of the northwestern part of the island is at-risk for WNV circulation whereas cold environment of the highlands is not favorable for WNV transmission in human. The identification of at-risk environments for WNV circulation in humans should help to improve the surveillance of the disease in Madagascar and is a first step to target future studies on acute encephalitis.Trial registration: The protocol was approved by the Malagasy competent authorities, the Malagasy Ethic National Committee (authorization N°066/MSAMP/CE, 26th July 2011).
Phylogeny of Graphostromatacea with Three Species Isolated in China
Authors: Li Qirui , Gong Xiaofeng , Zhang Xu , Pi Yinhui , Long Sihan , Wu Youpeng , Shen Xiangchun , Kang Yingqian , Kang Jichuan
Published: April 2021

Three species possessing characteristics of Graphostromataceae were observed in China. Morphology of the described species with illustrations and their phylogeny based on regions of internal transcribed spacers (ITS), the second largest subunit of the RNA polymerase II (RPB2), β-tubulin (TUB2) and α-actin (ACT) are provided. Two new species and one new record from China were identified. Morphologically, Biscogniauxia glaucae sp. nov. differs from B. atropunctata var. maritima, B. citriformis var. macrospora, B. fuscella and B. mediterranea by its stromata with raised margins, with clear outlines, with punctate ostioles openings and ascospores which are equilateral with broadly rounded ends, with a straight germ slit on the more concave side, nearly full spore length, lacking appendages and sheathes. ITS sequence difference between Graphostroma guizhouensis sp. nov and type strain of G. platystomum is 7%, which support identifying it as a new species. Camillea broomeana with scanning electron microscope description of ascospores was illustrated as a new record from China. Cryptostroma was proposed in Graphostromataceae based on molecular data. Vivantia was accepted in Graphostromataceae based on its morphological characteristics and Nodulisporiurn anamorphs which is similar with that of Biscogniauxia.
Pulmonary Embolism Risk Factors in the General Trauma Population: A Nested Case-Control Study Using Nationwide Trauma Registry Data in Japan
Authors: Iriyama Hiroki , Komori Akira , Kainoh Takako , Kondo Yutaka , Naito Toshio , Abe Toshikazu
Published: April 2021

Background: Data assessing specific risk factors for post-traumatic pulmonary embolism (PE) are scarce.Methods: This was a nested case-control study using the Japan Trauma Data Bank between 2004 and 2017. We enrolled patients aged ≥ 16 years, Injury Severity Score ≥ 9, and length of hospital stay ≥ 2 days, with PE and without PE, using propensity score matching. We conducted logistic regression analyses to examine risk factors for PE.Results: We included 719 patients with PE and 3,595 patients without PE. Of these patients, 1,864 [43.2%] were male, and their median Interquartile Range (IQR) age was 73 [55–84] years. The major mechanism of injury was blunt (4,282 [99.3%]). Median [IQR] Injury Severity Score (ISS) was 10 [9–18]. In the multivariate analysis, the variables spinal injury [odds ratio (OR), 1.40 (1.03–1.89)]; long bone open fracture in upper extremity and lower extremity [OR, 1.51 (1.06–2.15) and OR, 3.69 (2.89–4.71), respectively]; central vein catheter [OR, 2.17 (1.44–3.27)]; and any surgery [OR, 4.48 (3.46–5.81)] were independently associated with PE.Conclusions: Spinal injury, long bone open fracture in extremities, central vein catheter placement, and any surgery were risk factors for post-traumatic PE.
Improvement of fucosylated oligosaccharides synthesis by α- L -fucosidase from Thermotoga maritima in water-organic cosolvent reaction system
Authors: Robles-Arias Mónica , García-Garibay Mariano , Alatorre-Santamaría Sergio , Tello-Solís Salvador R , Guzmán-Rodriguez Francisco , Gómez-Ruiz Lorena , Rodríguez-Serrano Gabriela , Cruz-Guerrero Alma
Published: April 2021

The effects of water activity (aw), pH, and temperature on transglycosylation activity of α-L-fucosidase from Thermotoga maritima in the synthesis of fucosylated oligosaccharides were evaluated using different water - organic cosolvent reaction systems. The optimum conditions of transglycosylation reaction were the pH range between 7 and 10, and temperature 90–95°C. The addition of organic cosolvent decreased α-L-fucosidase transglycosylation activity in the following order: acetone > dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) > acetonitrile (0.51 > 0.42 > 0.18 mM/h). However, the presence of DMSO and acetone enhanced enzyme-catalyzed transglycosylation over hydrolysis as demonstrated by the obtained transglycosylation/hydrolysis rate (rT/H) values of 1.21 and 1.43, respectively. The lowest rT/H was calculated for acetonitrile (0.59), though all cosolvents tested improved the transglycosylation rate in comparison to a control assay (0.39). Overall, the study allowed the production of fucosylated oligosaccharides in water-organic cosolvent reaction media using α-L-fucosidase from Thermotoga maritima as biocatalyst.
Tunable Nonlinear Band Gaps in a Sandwich-Like Meta-Plate
Authors: Xue Yu , Li Jinqiang , Wang Yu , Li Fengming
Published: April 2021

This paper aims to explore the actual working mechanism of sandwich-like meta-plates by periodically attaching nonlinear mass-beam-spring (MBS) resonators for low-frequency wave absorption. The nonlinear MBS resonator consists of a mass, a cantilever beam and a spring that can provide negative stiffness in the transverse vibration of the resonator, and its stiffness is tunable by changing the parameters of the spring. Considering the nonlinear stiffness of the resonator, the energy method is applied to obtain the dispersion relation of the sandwich-like meta-plate and the band-gap bounds related to the amplitude of resonator is derived by dispersion analysis. For the finite sized sandwich-like meta-plate with the fully free boundary condition subjected to external excitations, its dynamic equation is also established by the Galerkin method. The frequency response analysis of the meta-plate is carried out by the numerical simulation, whose band-gap range demonstrates good agreement with the theoretical one. Results show that the band-gap range of the present meta-plate is tunable by the design of the structural parameters of the MBS resonator. Furthermore, by analyzing the vibration suppression of the finite sized meta-plate, it can be observed that the nonlinearity of resonators can widen the wave attenuation range of meta-plate.
Comparison of Robotic Versus Laparoscopic Partial Nephrectomy For Renal Tumors With A RENAL Nephrometry Score≥7: A System Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhou Jin-Biao , Xiao Xin , Shi Tian-Li , Huang Xiao-Hui , Jiang Yu-Li
Published: April 2021

Background To compare the perioperative outcomes of robotic partial nephrectomy (RPN) versus laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) for complex renal tumors with a RENAL nephrometry score≥7. Methods We searched PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane Central Register for studies from 2000 to 2020 to evaluate the perioperative outcomes of RPN and LPN in patients with a RENAL nephrometry score≥7. We used RevMan 5.2 to pool the data. Results Seven studies were acquired in our study. No significant differences were found in the estimated blood loss (WMD: 34.49; 95% CI: -75.16-144.14; p=0.54), hospital stay (WMD: -0.59; 95% CI: -1.24–0.06; p=0.07), positive surgical margin (OR: 0.85; 95% CI: 0.65–1.11; p =0.23), major postoperative complications(OR: 0.90; 95% CI: 0.52–1.54; p=0.69) and transfusion (OR: 0.72; 95% CI: 0.48–1.08; p =0.11) between the groups. RPN showed better outcomes in the operating time (WMD: -22.45; 95% CI: -35.06 to -9.85; p=0.0005), postoperative renal function (WMD: 3.32; 95% CI: 0.73–5.91; p=0.01), warm ischemia time (WMD: -6.96; 95% CI: -7.30–-6.62; p <0.0001), conversion rate to radical nephrectomy (OR: 0.34; 95% CI: 0.17 to 0.66; p=0.002) and intraoperative complications (OR: 0.52; 95% CI: 0.28–0.97; p=0.04).Conclusions RPN showed better perioperative clinical outcomes than LPN for the treatment of complex renal tumors with a RENAL nephrometry score≥7.
Clinical And Laboratory Findings Of Late Onset Sepsis In Extremely Low Birth Weight Infants According To Causative Organisms
Authors: Park Kyung Hee , Bae Mi Hye , Lee Na Rae , Han Young Mi , Byun Shin-Yun
Published: April 2021

Background: Late onset sepsis (LOS) remains a significant source of morbidity and mortality in extremely low birth weight (ELBW) infants. Early and accurate diagnosis is very important but is difficult due to the similarities in clinical manifestation between the causative microorganisms. We tried to identify the differences between causative microorganisms in clinical and laboratory findings, when sepsis was suspected in ELBW infants.Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on preterm infants born at less than 28 weeks of gestation with a birth weight of less than 1,000 g between January 2009 and December 2019. Clinical and laboratory findings of suspected LOS were assessed. We classified them into three groups according to blood culture results (gram-positive, gram-negative, and fungal groups) and compared them. Results: A total of 107 patients were included after using the exclusion criteria, with 45 (31.5%) in the gram-positive group, 35 (17.5%) in the gram-negative group, and 27 (11.5%) in the fungal group. There were no significant differences in mean gestational age, birth weight, and neonatal morbidities, except for the age of onset, which was earlier in the fungal group than in the bacterial groups. White blood cell (WBC) counts were the highest in the gram-negative group and the lowest in the fungal group. The mean platelet counts were significantly lower in the fungal group (137,000/mm3, 100,000/mm3, and 61,000/mm3 in the gram-positive, gram-negative, and fungal groups, respectively; p< 0.001). C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were significantly higher in the gram-negative group, while glucose was significantly higher in the fungal group. Conclusion: In conclusion, we showed that there are some differences in laboratory findings, according to causative microorganisms, in the LOS of ELBW infants. WBC and CRP were increased in gram-negative infection, and thrombocytopenia and hyperglycemia were predominant in fungal infection. These data may be helpful for choosing empirical antibiotics when sepsis is suspected.
Displacement Evolution of Reverse-Dip Rock Slope Considering the Change of the Reservoir Level
Authors: Xie Liangfu , Zhang Jiabing , Qin Yongjun , Wang Jianhu , Qiao Wei , Qian Jiangu
Published: April 2021

This paper investigates the toppling deformation characteristics of the displacement evolution in different portions for a reverse-dip rock slope, through a case study of Xiaodongcao slope in Chongqing city, China. Firstly, the elevation, slope angle, and aspect were obtained by the field survey, and then they were adopted in the partitioning process related to geological and geometrical conditions by the ArcGIS packages. Secondly, the spatiotemporal cloud map of the displacement was obtained by discrete monitoring data of surface displacement of the slope. Finally, the topping deformation was determined by superposing the cloud map of the displacement and the geometrical partition, considering the change of the reservoir level. The main findings are summarized as follows: (1) the horizontal displacement is close to the total one, meaning that the slope topping deformation is mainly in the horizontal orientation.(2) In the front and middle edges of the slope, the horizontal displacement is pronounced, which increases with the increase of the reservoir level and vice versa. The vertical displacement mainly occurs in the trailing of the slope, which increases when the reservoir level changes. (3) The area in relation to the strong superposed displacement increases with the variation of the reservoir level. The largest area of superposed displacement is distributed at medium gradient, low elevation and north aspect zones.
Controlling The Root System Architecture In Rice: Impact of Genes, Phytohormones And Root Microbiota
Authors: Verma Pankaj K , Verma Shikha , Pandey Nalini
Published: April 2021

BackgroundIn order to feed expanding population, new crop varieties were generated which significantly contribute to world food security. However, the growth of these improved plants varieties relied primarily on synthetic fertilizers, which negatively affect the environment as well as human health. Plants adapt to adverse environmental changes by adopting root systems through architectural changes at the root-type and tissue-specific changes and nutrient uptake efficiency. ScopePlants adapt and operate distinct pathways at various stages of development in order to optimally establish their root systems, such as change in the expression profile of genes, changes in phytohormone level and microbiome induced Root System Architecture (RSA) modification. Many scientific studies have been carried out to understand plant response to microbial colonization and how microbes involved in RSA improvement through phytohormone level and transcriptomic changes.ConclusionIn this review, we spotlight the impact of genes, phytohormones and root microbiota on RSA and provide specific, critical new insights that have been resulted from recent studies on rice root as a model. First, we discuss new insights into the genetic regulation of RSA. Next, hormonal regulation of root architecture and the impact of phytohormones in crown root and root branching is discussed. Finally, we discussed the impact of root microbiota in RSA modification and summarized the current knowledge about the biochemical and central molecular mechanisms involved.
Dissecting the Chromosome-Level Genome of The Asian Clam (Corbicula Fluminea)
Authors: Zhang Tongqing , Yin Jiawen , Tang Shengkai , Li Daming , Gu Xiankun , Zhang Shengyu , Suo Weiguo , Liu Xiaowei , Liu Yanshan , Jiang Qicheng , Zhao Muzi , Yin Yue , Pan Jianlin
Published: April 2021

The Asian Clam (Corbicula fluminea) is a valuable commercial and medicinal bivalve, which is widely distributed in East and Southeast Asia. As a natural nutrient source, the clam is high in protein, amino acids, and microelements. The genome of C. fluminea has not yet been characterized; therefore, genome-assisted breeding and improvements cannot yet be implemented. In this work, we present a de novo chromosome-scale genome assembly of C. fluminea using PacBio and Hi-C sequencing technologies. The assembled genome comprised 4,728 contigs, with a contig N50 of 521.06 Kb, and 1,215 scaffolds with a scaffold N50 of 70.62 Mb. More than 1.51Gb (99.17%) of genomic sequences were anchored to 18 chromosomes, of which 1.40 Gb (92.81%) of genomic sequences were ordered and oriented. The genome contains 38,841 coding genes, 32,591 (83.91%) of which were annotated in at least one functional database. Compared with related species, C. fluminea had 851 expanded gene families and 191 contracted gene families. The phylogenetic tree showed that C. fluminea diverged from Ruditapes philippinarum, ~ 228.89 million years ago (Mya), and the genomes of C. fluminea and R. philippinarum shared 244 syntenic blocks. Additionally, we identified 2 MITF members and 99 NLRP members in C. fluminea genome. The high-quality and chromosomal Asian Clam genome will be a valuable resource for a range of development and breeding studies of C. fluminea in future research.
Whole Genome Analysis of the Extensively Drug Resistant Clinical Klebsiella Pneumonia Isolates from the Military Hospital in Vietnam
Authors: Van Ha Thi Thu , Thuy Vo Thi Bich , Hieu Nguyen Duc , Son Nguyen Thai
Published: April 2021

Background

The over using of antibiotics in hospitals, communities and agriculture has raised drug resistance in Vietnam. Recently, Klebsiella pneumoniae (K.pneumoniae) emerged as the main agent causing hospital infections because of the alarming resistance to carbapenem and high mortality. The purpose of this study was to identify the antibiotic resistance pattern, gene carbapenemase expression and mutation that related to drug resistance mechanisms of K.pneumoniae isolated from clinical samples in the Military Hospital 103 in Vietnam.
Methods

Seventeen extensively drug resistant (XDR) strains were completed whole genome sequence, analyzed by bioinformatics, and confirmed using PCR and Sanger sequence methods.
Results

K.pneumoniae showed resistance to almost fifteen antibiotics with very high rates of over 70%, only sensitive to colistin 100%. There is a correlation between carpabenem resistance and XDR status in the K.pnemoniae group. Analysis Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) reported the total of 9/17 strains belong to ST15, after that ST11 (4/17), ST656 (2/17), ST 16 (1/17) and ST395 (1/17). Most of the K.pneumoniae isolates harbored the widely distributed ESBL genes, e.g. NDM, SHV, OXA, KPC, TEM and CTX-M, in which, the most prevalent carbapenemase genes were NDM-1, NDM-4, OXA-48, OXA-181 and KPC-2. Especially, two strains demonstrated resistance to a wide range of antibiotics and showed the novel drug resistance gene mutation, namely Pro187Ala in NDM-4 gene and Gly25Ser in KPC-2 gene of MH16-335M and MH17-011M, respectively.
Conclusion

Our study adds new and significant DNA sequence data on K.pneumoniae strains and demonstrates the value of whole-genome sequencing in characterizing multidrug resistance in clinical isolates.
Impact of Helicobacter Pylori Eradication Therapy on Gastric Microbiome
Authors: Mao Liqi , Zhou Yanlin , Wang Shuangshuang , Chen Lin , Hu Yue , Yu Leimin , Xu Jingming , Lyu Bin
Published: April 2021

Background: Helicobacter pylori (Hp) eradication therapy has been used in clinical practice for many years. Yet, the effect of this therapy on existing gastric microflora has not been well understood. In this study, we explored the effect of eradication therapy on the microbial community in the stomach and the specific recovery after the successful eradication therapy. Methods: Among the 89 included patients, 23, 17, 40, and 9 were enrolled into the Hp-negative, Hp-positive, Successful eradication, and Failed eradication groups, respectively. Four subgroups were further divided according to disease status (Hp-negative chronic gastritis [N-CG], Hp-negative atrophic gastritis [N-AG], successful-eradication chronic gastritis [SE-CG], and atrophic gastritis with successful eradication [SE-AG]). During the endoscopic examination, one piece of gastric mucosa tissue was obtained from the lesser curvature side of the gastric antrum and gastric corpus, respectively. 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used to analyze the gastric mucosal microbiome. Results: In Hp negative group, the gastric microbiota was dominated by five phyla: Firmicutes , Proteobacteria , Actinobacteria , Bacteroidetes, and Fusobacteria . Two Hp-related genera were selected as potential biomarkers: Curvibacter and Acinetobacter . After successfully eradicating Hp, the bacterial flora in the stomach recovered to a considerable extent, and the failure of eradication was almost unchanged compared with Hp positive subjects. SE-CG was characterized by an increase in Firmicutes taxa and a decrease in Proteobacteria taxa compared with N-CG. SE-AG was characterized by a decrease in Firmicutes relative to N-AG. Finally, no differences were found in pairwise comparisons of nitrate and nitrite reductase functions among the four subgroups. Conclusions: After Hp infection, the diversity and relative abundance of gastric microflora were significantly decreased. Yet, gastric microbiota could be partially restored to the Hp-negative status after eradication; however, this effect was incomplete and might contribute to the long-term risks.
Supervillin contributes to LPS-induced inflammatory response in THP-1 cell-derived macrophages
Authors: Zhou Jun , Que Yuhui , Pan Lihua , Li Xu , Zhu Chao , Jin Lai , Li Shengnan
Published: April 2021

Supervillin (SVIL), the largest member of villin/gelsolin family, is an actin-binding and membrane-associated protein, that can also be localized to the nucleus. It has been reported that the mRNA expression of SVIL in neutrophils could be increased by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), but the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Moreover, SVIL was also observed to be involved in the regulation of macrophages’ movement. However, it is not clear whether SVIL is involved in the LPS-induced inflammatory response in macrophages. This work was to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms of LPS regulating SVIL expression in macrophages and hence the possible role of SVIL in LPS-induced inflammation. Our data showed that in THP-1-derived macrophages, LPS stimulation significantly increased SVIL mRNA and protein expression. Inhibition of TLR4 by Resatorvid (Res) completely reversed the expression of SVIL and inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α) induced by LPS. Additionally, ERK1/2 and NF-κB inhibitors (U0126 and BAY) significantly reduced SVIL and IL-6, IL-1β & TNF-α expression. Furthermore, down-regulation of SVIL by SVIL-specific shRNA significantly attenuated the expression of IL-6, IL-1β & TNF-α induced by LPS. Taken together, as a downstream molecule of TLR4/NF-κB and ERK1/2, SVIL was involved in the inflammatory response of LPS-induced elevated IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α in macrophages.
Prognostic Value of Serum MICA Levels as a Marker of Severity in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Farzad Faramarz , Yaghoubi Neda , Azad Farahzad Jabbari , Mahmoudi Mahmoud , Mohammadi Mojgan
Published: April 2021

Purpose: The global pandemic of COVID-19 and high mortality rates, necessitate the development of diagnostic and prognostic tools and expansion of testing capacity. The existing approaches to identification and characterization of SARS-COV-II infection are usually based on viral genome detection or measuring COVID-19-specific antibody levels. Despite being valuable, these methods are unable to anticipate disease outcomes in patients. Given the point that the innate immune cells, particularly NK cells, ‌contribute significantly to anti-viral defense, this research aimed to determine the prognostic value of serum secretory MHC class I polypeptide–related sequence A (sMICA) levels as an important ligand for NKG2D receptor, the master regulator of NK cell development and responsiveness.Methods: Serum levels of MICA were measured by ELISA assay. Sera (n = 60) were collected from SARS-CoV-2 positive patients and disease severity was assessed by clinical criteria. The patient group consisted of 30 cases with mild disease and 30 severely ill patients examined versus 30 controls. Results: Our data revealed that serum levels of MICA were considerably higher in patients compared with controls, particularly in cases with severe complications (P<0.0001). Conclusion: Higher serum levels of MICA may be associated with respiratory failure in COVID-19 and can serve as a marker of clinical severity for patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection in particular whenever the clinical manifestations are not sufficient to make a confident prediction.
Manure Applications Combined With Chemical Fertilizer Improves Soil Functionality, Microbial Biomass and Rice Production in a Paddy Field
Authors: Iqbal Anas , He Liang , McBride Steven G , Ali Izhar , Akhtar Kashif , Khan Rayyan , Zaman Maid , We Shangqin , Guo Zixiong , Jiang Ligeng
Published: April 2021

Synthetic fertilizer with organic fertilizer (OF) is an approach for the improvement of soil health and quality without compromising crop yield. Therefore, a two-year field experiment was conducted to explore optimal chemical fertilizer (CF) management strategies in the context of OF, such as cattle manure (CM) and poultry manure (PM) fertilization to Ultisol soil to improve soil microbial biomass production, enzyme activities and nutrient contents, as well as grain yield of rice. A total of six treatments in the following combinations were used: i.e., T1— CF0; T2—100% CF; T3—60% CM + 40% CF; T4—30% CM + 70%CF; T5—60% PM + 40% CF, and T6—30% PM + 70% CF. Results showed that the combined fertilization significantly increased soil enzymatic activities such as soil invertase, acid phosphatase, urease, catalase, ꞵ-glucosidase, and cellulase as compared to sole CF application. Similarly, the integrated manure and inorganic fertilizers led to significant increases in soil microbial biomass carbon (MBC), microbial biomass nitrogen (MBN), soil pH, soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen (TN), available nitrogen (AN), available phosphorous (AP) and grain yield of rice. Average increases in soil MBC, MBN, SOC AN, and AP in the 0–20 cm soil depth were 62.2%, 54.5%, 29.2%, 17.4%, and 19.8%, respectively, across the years in treatment T3 compared with T2. Interestingly, the linear regression analysis displayed that soil enzymatic activities were highly positively correlated with MBC and MBN. Furthermore, the PCA exhibited that the improved soil enzyme activities and microbial biomass production played a key role in the higher grain yield of rice. Overall, the results of this study demonstrate that the combined use of CF and OF in paddy soil could be beneficial for the farmers in southern China by improving soil functionality and yield of rice on a sustainable basis.
Is There a Clinical Significance of Very Low Serum Immunoglobulin E Level?
Authors: Al Serdar , Asilsoy Suna , Uzuner Nevin , Atakul Gizem , Atay Özge , Kangallı Özge , Al Işık Odaman , Karaman Özkan
Published: April 2021

Purpose: It has been well known that high serum immunoglobulin (Ig) E levels are associated with allergies, parasitic infections and some immune deficiencies; however, the potential effects and clinical implications of low IgE level on the human immune system are not well known. To determine the disorders accompanying very low IgE levels in children and adults. Methods: The patients whose IgE levels were determined between January 2015 and September 2020 were analyzed, and the ones with an IgE level <2.5 IU/mL were included in the study. Demographic data, immunoglobulin levels, auto-antibody results, and the diagnoses of the patients were noted from the electronic recording system of the hospital. Result: The IgE levels were measured in 34,809 patients (21,875 children, 12,934 adults), and 180 patients had IgE levels <2.5 IU/mL. Eighty patients were children (0.37%), 100 were adults (0.77%). There was a malignant disease in 45 (11 of them children) (25%), autoimmune diseases in 30 (4 of them children) (16.7%) and immunodeficiency in 19 (16 of them children) (10.6%) of the patients. The most common reasons were other disases, immunodeficiency and malignancy in children; and malignancy, autoimmune disorders and other diseases in the adults, in rank order. The IgE level did not show any correlation with the levels of other immunoglobulins.Conclusion: Although rare, a low IgE level has been shown to accompany malignancies, autoimmune disorders and immune deficiencies. Patients with very low IgE levels should be carefully monitored for systemic disorders.
Turnover and Retention Strategies Among Mental Health Workers Debbie L. Youngdoctor of Business Administrationtrophy Club, Texas Debyoungwahu@yahoo.com, (254) 421-4134orcid Id Https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6073-8160
Authors: Young Debbie L
Published: April 2021

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to explore retention strategies that healthcare administrators use to retain mental health workers in community mental health clinics. The study was guided by the question What strategies do HCAs use to retain their MHWs with more than 2 years of experience? MethodsA qualitative case study analysis was performed. Interviews were conducted with six healthcare administrators at Fort Worth area community mental health clinics. Interviews were coded using thematic analysis. To increase the study’s reliability and validity, the interview guide was field checked by experts and member checking performed on interview transcripts.ResultsThe healthcare administrators identified six strategies for retention: providing good benefits packages, promoting worker health and wellness, providing competitive salaries, giving workers flexible scheduling options, incentivizing workers with rewards and positive reinforcement, and maintaining open communication channels.ConclusionsThe results from this study have positive implications for mental health workers, patients, and community mental health clinics. The strategies identified in this study can be implemented to increase worker satisfaction and reduce turnover. In doing so, patients will receive higher quality care and organizations will be more attractive to prospective employees.
Quality of Life in Keratoconus: Evaluation With Keratoconus Outcomes Specific Questionnaire (KORQ)
Authors: pinto roberto damian pacheco , Abe Ricardo Yuji , Gomes Flavia Cid , Barbisan Paulo Rodolfo Tagliari , Martini Alexandre Fattah , Borges Daniel de Almeida , Fernandes Arthur gustavo , Arieta Carlos Eduardo Leite , Alves Monica
Published: April 2021

Purpose: To assess quality of life in keratoconus patients using the Keratoconus Outcomes Research Questionnaire (KORQ) translated and validated to Portuguese language. KORQ is the only validated keratoconus specific questionnaire and has high rating for psychometric properties.Methods: In this cross-sectional study enrolled 100 patients with keratoconus from a tertiary referral eye hospital, from April 2018 to June 2019. Associations between age, gender, allergic conjunctivitis, keratoconus stage, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), maximum simulated keratometry (Kmax), steep keratometry (K2), pachymetry, treatments performed, hydrops and KORQ scores were evaluated with univariate (Wilcoxon test and the Kruskal Wallis test) and multivariate linear regression with stepwise backward modeling. Lower scores of KORQ are associated with better quality of life, as well as higher scores are associated with greater impairment of functional activities and symptoms.Results: Out of the 100 patients, mild, moderate and severe keratoconus, was observed in 15%, 46% and 39% of participants, respectively. Univariate analysis showed lower values for function scores with male gender (p<0.05) and both functional and symptoms scores statistically associated with BCVA<0.3 (LogMAR) (p<0.05). Multivariate analysis indicated significantly lower functional scores in individuals with BCVA<0.3 (p<0.001) and those with history of crosslinking treatment (p=0.022), while symptom scores were only statistically associated with BCVA<0.3 (p<0.001).Conclusions: In patients with keratoconus, BCVA in the better eye and history of crosslinkig are factors were associated with better quality of life scores using KORQ.
The microRNA miR-18a Links Proliferation and Inflammation During Photoreceptor Regeneration in the Injured Zebrafish Retina
Authors: Magner Evin , Sandoval-Sanchez Pamela , Hitchcock Peter F , Taylor Scott M
Published: April 2021

In mammals, photoreceptor loss causes permanent blindness, but in zebrafish (Danio rerio), Müller glia function as intrinsic stem cells, producing progenitor cells that regenerate photoreceptors and restore vision. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) critically regulate neurogenesis in the brain and retina, but the roles of miRNAs in injury-induced neuronal regeneration are largely unknown. The miRNA miR-18a regulates photoreceptor differentiation in the embryonic retina. The purpose of the current study was to determine the function of miR-18a during injury-induced photoreceptor regeneration. RT-qPCR, in-situ hybridization (ISH) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) showed that miR-18a expression increases throughout the retina by 1-day post-injury (dpi) and continues to increase through 5 dpi. Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) labeling showed that at 7 and 10 dpi, when regenerated photoreceptors are normally differentiating, there are more proliferating Müller glia-derived progenitors in homozygous miR-18a mutant (miR-18ami5012) retinas compared with wild type (WT), indicating that miR-18a negatively regulates injury-induced proliferation. At 7 and 10 dpi, miR-18ami5012 retinas have fewer mature photoreceptors than WT, but there is no difference at 14 dpi, revealing that photoreceptor regeneration is delayed. BrdU labeling showed that the excess progenitors in miR-18ami5012 retinas migrate to other retinal layers besides the photoreceptor layer. Inflammation is critical for photoreceptor regeneration and RT-qPCR showed that, in the absence of miR-18a, inflammation is prolonged. Suppressing inflammation with dexamethasone rescues the miR-18ami5012 phenotype. Together, these data show that during injury-induced photoreceptor regeneration, miR-18a regulates proliferation and photoreceptor regeneration by regulating key aspects of the inflammatory response during photoreceptor regeneration in zebrafish.
Der Hochschullehrgang Coding und Robotik für Lehrkräfte an der Pädagogischen Hochschule Burgenland
Authors: Leitgeb Thomas , Zimmermann Alexander , Rollett Wolfram
Published: April 2021

Um an einer zunehmend digitalisierten Welt beruflich und gesellschaftlich teilnehmen zu können, bedarf es umfangreicher und tiefer Kenntnisse bezüglich informatischer Konzepte. Vor diesem Hintergrund erscheint eine Erweiterung des herkömmlichen schulischen Curriculums um die systematische Implementierung von Computational Thinking (CT) –also dem Lösen von Problemen bzw. Aufgaben mit Hilfe algorithmischer Lösungsstrategien unter Rückgriff auf grundlegende Konzepte der Informatik (Wing 2006, 33) – sinnvoll und notwendig. Weltweit wurde dies bereits in vielen Ländern umgesetzt (Bocconi u. a. 2016). Der Lehrkräfteprofessionalisierung wird für die erfolgreiche Implementation von CT in der Schule eine besondere Bedeutung zugesprochen (Pollak und Ebner 2019). Im österreichischen Burgenland wurde zur Förderung von CT für die Primarstufe eine integrative Lehrplanverankerung vorgenommen und für die Sekundarstufe I das Wahlpflichtfach Coding und Robotik eingeführt (Leitgeb 2019). Um die Lehrkräfte entsprechend fort- bzw. weiterbilden zu können, wurde an der Pädagogischen Hochschule Burgenland ein zweijähriger Hochschullehrgang (HLG) Coding und Robotik entwickelt und implementiert. Im vorliegenden Beitrag werden der theoretische Rahmen und Hintergrund, die theoretische Konzeption, die inhaltliche und didaktische Ausgestaltung sowie die Ziele dieses HLG vorgestellt. Ferner werden Ergebnisse einer nach dem ersten Studienjahr durchgeführten Begleitevaluation präsentiert.
Identification and Characterization of the CCoAOMT Gene Family in Apple, Chinese White Pear, and Peach
Authors: Li Leli , Tao Shutian , Zhang Huangwei , Huang Weijian , Dunwell Jim M. , Li Meng
Published: April 2021

Lignin is one of the main components of plant cell walls, which provides mechanical support for plants and also contributes to resisting against plant pathogenic fungi. In the fruit industry, the lignin content can affect the quality of fruit. The biosynthesis of lignin involves a variety of enzymes, of which caffeoyl-CoA 3-O-methyltransferase (CCoAOMT) is a class of methyltransferases that plays an essential role in lignin biosynthesis. Studies have been conducted on the CCoAOMT gene family in several species, including arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), black poplar (Populus nigra), and cotton (Gossypium hirsutum). Still, there is relatively little research on this gene family in the Rosaceae. In this study, we used bioinformatics to identify and characterize the CCoAOMT gene family in apple (Malus domestica), chinese white pear (Pyrus bretschneideri), and peach (Prunus persica). In total, 35 CCoAOMT genes were identified in the three Rosaceae species: 8 from chinese white pear, 12 from apple, and 15 from peach. By using structure analysis and collinearity analysis, we found 12 conserved motifs and 12 pairs of CCoAOMT genes with collinearity. In the phylogenetic tree, the gene family was mainly divided into two groups. The genes had different expression patterns during the growth and development stage of fruit, a finding that is consistent with the pattern of lignin accumulation. This study will be beneficial for further study of CCoAOMT genes.
Obtaining and estimating the potential of protein nutraceuticals from highly mineralized collagen-containing beef raw materials
Authors: Mezenova N. Yu. , Agafonova S. V. , Mezenova O. Ya. , Baidalinova L. S. , Grimm T.
Published: April 2021

Highly mineralized collagen-containing beef raw materials (tibia, fibula and costal bones) are a source of valuable protein nutraceuticals. They include high molecular weight proteins, oligopeptides and amino acids, which anabolic and physiological potential is used insufficiently. Protein nutraceuticals were obtained by high-temperature hydrolysis of beef raw materials in combination with enzymolysis by proteolytic enzyme preparations Alcalase 2,5 L, Protamex, Protosubtilin G3x. The water-soluble fraction of hydrolysates was studied after its separation and freeze-drying on the content of nitrogenous compounds, fats, minerals, formol-titrated nitrogen, fractional molecular composition. The mathematical dependencies of accumulation of low molecular weight products of protein hydrolysis on enzymolysis duration and doses of different enzyme preparations were obtained. The rational technological scheme of complex processing of beef raw materials with production of protein, fat and mineral-protein additives was proposed. The protein weight fraction in the freeze-dried protein hydrolysates was 69.5–89.6%. All studied protein additives contained peptides with a molecular weight of not more than 100 kDa. The content of low-molecular weight oligopeptides with a molecular weight of less than 10 kDa in the protein additives obtained by enzymatic thermal hydrolysis was more than 90%. The amino acid composition of protein additives produced by different hydrolytic methods was analyzed. Sensory and functional-technological properties of freeze-dried protein compositions were studied. The amino acid potential, high assimilability and physiological activity of protein nutraceuticals from collagen-containing beef raw materials were established. It is recommended to use them in the composition of specialized biologically active additives (BAAs) to food of the osteotropic direction in recipes of specialized and personalized products as a source of amino acids and active peptides.