bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential Relationship of Grip Strength With Body Composition and Lifestyle Factors Between Indian Urban and Rural, Boys and Girls
Authors: Ekbote Veena , Patel Prerna , Kasture Sonal , Vispute Smruti , Khadilkar Vaman , Gondhalekar Ketan , Khadilkar Anuradha
Published: March 2021

Grip strength (GS) is used as an index of overall health in children. The objectives of our study were to assess GS, gender differences in GS in 9 -18 year old urban (U) and rural (R) Indian children, study association of GS with body composition (BC) and assess determinants. This was part of a multicentre, cross sectional, school-based study (n=1978, mean age 13.3 ± 2.2 years) from 3 U and R states. Anthropometry, BC, dietary intake, physical activity, sunlight exposure and GS (in Kg) measurements were performed. The mean GS increased with age but plateaued in girls after 12 years; was higher in boys (19.6 ± 9.2) than girls (14.3 ± 5.3) (p < 0.05). Mean GS was higher in U (21.05 ± 9.7) than in R boys (17.8 ± 8.2) (p < 0.05), comparable in U (14.9 ± 5.2) and R girls (13.8 ± 5.5). GS in girls remained lower than boys after adjusting for muscle mass (MM). Difference between boys and girls reduced after body size (BMI) correction, but remained low in girls plateauing after 15 years. MM and age were significant determinants of GS in all children. On addition of lifestyle factors, GS was explained to varied degrees, the least in U girls, followed by R girls and R boys and the most in U boys. Conclusion: In boys, nutrition though body size and composition was largely responsible for the differences in GS and in girls, additionally socio-cultural factors also possibly impact GS.
Partition of tea saponin with a novel recyclable thermo-pH aqueous two-phase systems
Authors: Wei Yanli , Chen Xi , Yang Ting , Wan JunFen , Cao XueJun
Published: March 2021

Aqueous two-phase systems (ATPS) have the advantages of environmentally friendly, high mass transfer efficiency, mild extraction conditions. However, it is difficult to recycle these components, which limits the large-scale application of ATPS in industrial production. In this study, a novel recyclable ATPS of PN/PADB4.78 was constructed with a thermo-responsive polymer PN and a pH-responsive polymer PADB4.78 for the partition study of tea saponin. The recovery of PN reached 98.71% by adjusting the temperature to above its lower critical solution temperature (LCST, 33.0 °C ) and the recovery of PADB4.78 was 97.32% by regulating the pH to its isoelectric point (pI, 4.78). Meanwhile, the phase formation mechanism of ATPS was studied by surface tension and low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF-NMR). The effects of polymer concentration, pH, temperature, types and concentrations of salt were investigated on tea saponin partition. In the 1.5% PN/3.5% PADB4.78 ATPS, the optimal partition coefficient (K) and extraction recovery (ERb) of crude tea saponin were 0.15 and 92.13% in the presence of 1.5 mM KCl at pH=7.6 and 25℃, respectively. The K and ERb of tea saponin from tea seeds were 0.12 and 94.50% with 7.5 mM LiBr at pH=8.0 and 25℃, respectively.
Cardiogenic Parameters Effectively Predict Hemorrhagic Transformation in Patients with Non-Large Artery Atherosclerosis Infarction
Authors: Zhao Xiaoyong , Zhang Junqiao , Teng Xiaoyun , Wang Zhengang , Sun Yingui , Lu Keliang , Liu Wenbo , Wang Kaifang , Sun Meiyan , Zhang wenbo
Published: March 2021

Background: Non-large artery atherosclerosis (LAA) infarcts are relatively rare compared to LAA type infarcts. Hemorrhagic transformation (HT) is one of the complications of acute ischemic stroke (AIS), and we aim to investigate the risk factors for the development of HT in patients with non-LAA type AIS.Patients and methods：From January 2015 to January 2020, we included a total of 52 patients with non-LAA type AIS who met the criteria for the occurrence of HT, for which 136 patients without HT were matched. Patients were followed up every 3 months by phone or in the clinic, with a minimum of 1 year of follow-up per patient. The risk factors associated with prognosis were derived after univariate analysis and multifactorial logistic regression analysis, and a nomogram model was developed based on these risk factors. The accuracy of the model was evaluated by creating a calibration plot and the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC).Results: Through univariate analysis and logistics regression analysis, we found that the patient's creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB), ejection fraction (EF) and platelets (PLT) were independently related to the HT in patients with non-LAA type AIS. We accordingly developed smoothing curves to predict the probability of HT and found that the HT rate increased with increasing CK-MB and decreased with increasing EF and PLT. The nomogram based on these three factors had an area under curve (AUC) of 0.875 for the development group and 0.889 for the external validation group. The calibration plot showed a good prediction accuracy.Conclusions: Patients with non-LAA type AIS are relatively uncommon and presenting with HT is even rarer. Our nomogram built on cardiogenic parameters and PLT can accurately predict the occurrence of HT in these non-LAA type AIS patients, which has good clinical significance.
Individual structural MRI abnormality indexes are associated with molecular, histological and cognitive indicators for frontal glioma patients
Authors: Zhang Guo-Bin , Huang Hua-Wei , Wang Yong-Gang , Zhang Xiao-Kang , Li Hao-Yi , Duan Yun-Yun , Chen Hong-Yan , Liu Ya-Ou , Jing Bin , Lin Song
Published: March 2021

Purpose: The conventional examination of molecular characteristics for glioma requires surgical removal and could not be used in the surgery planning. The aim is to develop a method previewing glioma malignancy with regular structural MRI images. Methods: 52 glioma patients in frontal lobe (mean age 43.2±9.3 years, 34 male) and 117 healthy controls (mean age 32.6±9.8 years, 83 male) participated in the study. All patients underwent neurocognitive test and molecular examinations, including 1p/19q co-deletion, isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutation, telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) promoter mutation and O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) promotor methylation. A series of individual structural abnormality indexes based on preoperative structural MRI were proposed and explored the associations with these clinical indicators.Results: Individual structural abnormality maps displayed that bilateral hippocampus, parahippocampus, insula, putamen and thalamus were constantly affected by glioma regardless of the histological grade, tumor hemisphere and molecular status. Higher grade glioma patients suffered more structural abnormalities, especially in the contralateral hemisphere and non-tumor regions. The molecular indicators, including IDH1 mutation, 1p/19q co-deletion, TERT promoter mutations and MGMT promoter methylation, as well as neurocognitive performance were all significantly correlated to individual structural abnormality indexes.Conclusion: Our proposed individual structural abnormality indexes show great potentials to access the glioma pathological, neurocognitive and molecular indicators, which is very helpful for neurosurgeons to determine the personalized treatment strategies.
Air Quality Modeling for Sustainable Clean Environment Using ANFIS and Machine Learning Approaches
Authors: Taylan Osman , Alkabaa Abdulaziz , Alamoudi Mohammed , Basahel Abdulrahman , Balubaid Mohammad , Andejany Murad , Alidrisi Hisham
Published: March 2021

Air quality monitoring and assessment are essential issues for sustainable environmental protection. The monitoring process is composed of data collection, evaluation, and decision making. Several important pollution factors, such as SO2, CO, PM10, O3, NOx, H2S, location, and many others, have detrimental effects on air quality. Air quality cannot be precisely recorded and measured due to the total effect of pollutants that usually cannot be collectively prescribed by a numerical value. Therefore, evolution is required to take into account the complex, poorly defined air quality problems in which several naive and noble modeling approaches are used to evaluate and solve. In this study, hybrid data-driven machine learning, and neuro-fuzzy methods are integrated for estimating the air quality in the urban area for public health concerns. 1771 data are collected during three years for each pollution factor, starting from June 1, 2016, till September 30, 2019. The Back-Propagation Multi-Layer Perceptron (BPMLP) algorithm was employed with the steepest descent approach to reduce the mean square error for training the algorithm of the neuro-fuzzy model. Levenberg-Marquardt (LM) approach was also employed as an optimization method with Artificial neural networks (ANNs) for solving nonlinear least-squares problems in this study. These approaches were evaluated by fuzzy quality charts and compared statistically with the US-EPA air quality standards. Due to the effectiveness and robustness of soft computing intelligent models, the public's early warning will be possible for avoiding the harmful effects of pollution inside the urban areas, which may reduce respiratory and cardiovascular mortalities. Consequently, the stability of air quality models was correlated with the absolute air quality index. The findings showed remarkable performance of ANFIS and ANN-based Air Quality models for High dimensional data assessment.
Evaluation of Hydrogeochemical Processes and Dissolve Ion Chemistry in Satopanth Tal, Garhwal Himalaya, India
Authors: Das Subhrajit , Vasudevan Sivaprakasam
Published: March 2021

To grasp meltwater chemistry and geochemical processes influencing hydrogeochemistry, major ion chemistry of the glacial lake Satopanth Tal was carried out to provide relevant details on the dissolved ions sources, weathering, and hydrogeochemical processes as well as anthropogenic activities taking place throughout the lake setting. Twenty-one surficial water samples were collected and 12 different physicochemical parameters were analyzed to understand the hydrogeochemistry of the study area. The mean pH value was estimated to be 6.9 in the lake water, which indicates a marginally acidic. The ionic contribution through the organic matter decomposition has been indicated by the observation of dominancy of the total anions over the total cations. The most abundant anion was Cl− in Satopanth Tal, while Ca2+ and Mg2+ were significant cations in the water. The high ratios of (Ca2+ + Mg2+)/TZ+, (Ca2+ + Mg2+)/(Na+ + K+), HCO3̶/(Ca2+ + Mg2+), and the higher Ca+/ Na+, Mg+/ Na+ and HCO3̶/ Na+ ratio indicate the supremacy of the weathering of carbonate as a significant source of dissolved ions in the study area's lake water. The lower equivalent ratios of Na+/Cl− and K+/Cl− are measured and substantially comparable results are observed that have been expected from the Gibbs plot and the stable isotope analysis suggests a reasonably significant contribution to the chemical composition of the Satopanth Tal water by these ions from atmospheric precipitation. The correlation and factor analysis show that water chemistry at Satopanth Tal is primarily influenced by weathering processes such as weathering of carbonate and silicate, pyrite oxidation.
[68Ga]Ga-DOTA-FAPI-04 and [18F]FDG PET/CT in the Assessment of Pancreatic Tumors: A Comparison Study
Authors: Liu Qiufang , Shi Si , Xu Xiaoping , Hu Silong , Zhang Ji , Wang Chunmei , Yu Xianjun , Song Shaoli
Published: March 2021

Purpose Pancreatic tumors are characterized by abundant desmoplasia including cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) that express fibroblast activation protein (FAP). Gallium-68-labeled fibroblast-activating protein inhibitor (FAPI) is promising probe for positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) imaging of various types of cancers. This work aims to compare the diagnostic performances of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-FAPI-04 and [18F]FDG PET/CT in detecting primary pancreatic tumors and metastasis prospectively.Methods We collected patients with pancreatic tumors during May 1 to August 1, 2020. All the patients underwent [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-FAPI-04 and [18F]FDG PET/CT within 5 days at diagnosis, recurrence detection or therapeutic evaluation. The clinical information, PET/CT image characteristics, maximum standardized uptake (SUVmax) value of pancreatic tumors and metastases, target-to-background ratio (TBR) of the liver metastases were collected for analysis. The pathological results or follow-up clinical diagnostic results were obtained. Results A total of 45 patients (18 females and 27 males; median age of 62.4 years; range: 42 - 84 years) were enrolled for analysis, including 37 patients with pancreatic cancers and 8 patients with other types of pancreatic tumors. [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-FAPI-04 PET/CT detected abnormal pancreatic uptake in 36 patients (97.30%) with a SUVmax of 14.0 ± 5.4 (range 5.4 to 25.1), while 34 patients (91.89%) with abnormal pancreatic uptake with a SUVmax of 7.6 ± 3.9 (2.9 to 20.4) were detected by [18F]FDG PET/CT. Moreover, [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-FAPI-04 detected more lymph nodes (LNs) and metastases than [18F]FDG. The SUVmax of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-FAPI-04 in LNs and TBR of liver metastases was higher than that of [18F]FDG (LNs: 6.1 ± 2.7 vs. 4.4 ± 1.6, TBR: 5.0 ± 3.1 vs. 2.9 ± 1.4 p < 0.0001), respectively. [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-FAPI-04 PET/CT successfully unregulated the clinical stage in 2 patients, visualized recurrence in 1 patient, and detected residual active tumor tissues in 2 patients with discordant imaging results (FAPI+/FDG-). In addition, there was nearly no [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-FAPI-04 or [18F]FDG uptake in pancreatic cystic neoplasms. Most of neuroendocrine neoplasms showed negligible [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-FAPI-04 uptake. Conclusion Compared with [18F]FDG PET/CT, [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-FAPI-04 PET/CT detected pancreatic tumors and associated metastases with a higher sensitivity and SUVmax value. However, false-positive uptake of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-FAPI-04 in pancreatitis, cholangitis, some benign liver disease, and inflammatory LNs was also prominent.
Experiences and Perceptions of Perinatal Depression Among New Immigrant Chinese Parents: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Li Qiao , Xue Wenqing , Gong Wenjie , Quan Xin , Li Quanlei , Xiao Lina , Xu Roman , Caine Eric D. , Poleshuck Ellen L.
Published: March 2021

Background: Immigrant status, acculturation level, race and ethnicity have been found to contribute to the utilization of mental health services in the perinatal period. This study explored perinatal experiences and perceptions among Chinese immigrant mothers and their spouses, as well as the possible barriers and facilitators that affect their health care utilization.Methods: We recruited 13 women ages 18-35 years born in mainland China, living in Rochester, New York, and residing less than five years in the United States, whose primary language was Mandarin Chinese and who had given birth to at least one live infant within the past seven years. Participants’ age was at least 18 years old at the time of delivery. Five spouses also participated. We divided women in two focus groups and held one for men, with data collection including questionnaires and semi-structured focus group interviews conducted in December 2014. Data were analyzed following thematic analysis.Results: Four themes emerged: experiences of perinatal depression; perceptions of perinatal depression; general preventive and coping strategies; and attitude towards mobile health in perinatal period. Participants had limited knowledge of perinatal depression and had difficulty distinguishing between normal perinatal mood fluctuations and more severe symptoms of depression. They discussed immigrant-related stress，conflicts with parents/in-laws while “doing the month”, the perceived gap between the ideal of “perfect moms” and reality, and challenges with parenting as the causes of perinatal depression. Women approved of screening for the condition but were conservative about follow-up interventions. As for the management of perinatal depression, participants preferred to deal with the problem within the family before seeking external help due to potential stigma as well as Chinese traditional culture. However, they were receptive to using mobile health applications to receive information and support.Conclusion: Recent immigrant Chinese parents to the United States had limited knowledge of perinatal depression and did not make full use of mental health services for support due to language and cultural barriers. Future research should explore what interventions may serve as an acceptable approach to overcoming these gaps.Trial registration: Not applicable.
Novel Soliton Molecules and Wave Interactions for A (3+1)-Dimensional Nonlinear Evolutionary Equation
Authors: Tang Xiaoyan , Cui Chao Jie , Liang Zu feng , Ding Wei
Published: March 2021

New wave excitations are revealed for a (3+1)-dimensional nonlinear evolution equation to enrich nonlinear wave patterns in nonlinear systems. Based on a new variable separation solution with two arbitrary variable separated functions obtained by means of the multilinear variable separation approach, localized excitations of N dromions, N x M lump lattice and N x M ring soliton lattice are explored. Interestingly, it is observed that soliton molecules can be composed of diverse "atoms" such as the dromions, lumps and ring solitons, respectively. Elastic interactions between solitons and soliton molecules are graphically demonstrated.
Structure, Dielectric and Multiferroic Properties of Bi0.85Nd0.15Fe0.98Zr0.02O3 in Ba and Ti Co-Doping
Authors: Zeng Lizhu , Lu Yuming , Zhang Lujia , Gong Xin , Tang Jianfeng , Li Guannan
Published: March 2021

Multiferroic (1- x)Bi0.85Nd0.15Fe0.98Zr0.02O3- xBaTiO3 (x = 0, 0.275, 0.3, 0.325, 0.35, 0.375, 0.4) ceramics were synthesized by the conventional solid state reaction method. X-ray diffraction studies confirm the phase transition from rhombohedral perovskite structure to pseudocubic structure with the introduction of BaTiO3. The results of the refinement indicate the BaTiO3 is successfully doped into the crystal lattice. The microstructure analysis shows that the average grain size increases with the introduction of BaTiO3. An increase in remanant polarization has been achieved at room temperature as the BaTiO3 concentration increasing. A greatly reduced leakage current density of about two orders of magnitude is observed in x = 0.375 (J = 2.4×10− 7 A/cm2) ceramic. The dielectric properties have been enhanced by the addition of BaTiO3, which is attributed to the reduction in Fe2+ ions and oxygen vacancies. Due to the grain effect and structure transition caused by the doping of BaTiO3, the magnetization reveals a slight decrease while the coercive field for x = 0.325 (Hc = 1785.8 Oe) increases to 6.4 times of the undoped ceramic.
Sperm Retrieval Gold Standard Predictors: TXNDC2, PRM1 and PRM2, Joint Molecular Markers Associated With Testis Pathology
Authors: Javadirad seyed-Morteza , Mokhtari Mohammad
Published: March 2021

The necessity of PRM1/2 in male azoospermia has been approved, but the association of TXNDC2 deficiency with the phenotype, sperm retrieval and pathology has not been approved. Here we identified a joint cooperation of TXNDC2 and protamines in evaluating testis pathology and sperm retrieval. Extensive meta-analysis on human arrays of idiopathic, untreated and with unknown cause of azoospermia was done. After several steps of data quality controls, QC passed data were pooled and batch effect corrected. As Redox imbalance has been shown as a two edge sword toward fertility, wet lab studies began with candidated protamination and thioredoxin genes. Logistic regression model of TXNDC2 alongside PRM1 and PRM2 genes was built and collective ROC analysis indicated a sensitivity of 96.8% and specificity of 95.5% with the ROC value of 0.993 (SE=0.0075, 95% CI: 0.978-1.000). In conclusion, TXNDC2, PRM1 and PRM2 in joint, have a robust power to predict sperm retrieval and to correlate with severe pathology of azoospermia.
Overcoming Barriers to the Adoption of Locating Technologies in Dementia Care: A Multi-stakeholder Focus Group Study
Authors: Freiesleben Silka Dawn , Megges Herlind , Herrmann Christina , Wessel Lauri , Peters Oliver
Published: March 2021

Background: Locating technologies are a subtype of assistive technology that aim to support persons with dementia by helping manage spatial orientation impairments and provide aid to caregivers by intervening when necessary. Although a variety of locating devices are commercially available, their adoption has remained low in the past years. Several studies have explored barriers to the adoption of assistive technologies from the perspective of professional stakeholders, but in-depth explorations for locating technologies are sparse. Additionally, the inputs of business professionals are lacking. The aim of this study was to expand knowledge on barriers to the adoption of locating technologies from a multi-stakeholder professional perspective, and to explore strategies to optimize adoption.﻿Methods: In total, 22 professionals working in business (n = 7), healthcare (n = 6) and research (n = 9) fields related to gerontology and gerontechnology participated in our focus group study. Perceptions on the value of using locating technologies for dementia care, barriers to their adoption, as well as salient services and information dissemination strategies were explored. After verbatim transcription, transcripts were analysed following an inductive data-driven content analysis approach in MAXQDA.Results: Six key adoption barriers centering on: (1) awareness-, (2) technological-, (3) product characteristic- and (4) capital investment-based limitations, (5) unclear benefits, as well as (6) ethical concerns emerged. The interplay between barriers was high. Five core themes on services and information dissemination strategies centering on: (1) digital autonomy support, (2) emergency support, (3) information dissemination actors, (4) product acquisition, and (5) product advertising were extracted.Conclusions: Our study with interdisciplinary stakeholders expands knowledge on barriers to the adoption of locating technologies for dementia care, and reinforces recommendations that an interdisciplinary strategy is needed to optimize adoption. Also, our findings show that focusing on services to increase digital autonomy and on information dissemination strategies has been largely overlooked and may be particularly effective.
Epidemiology and resource use in Spanish type 2 diabetes patients without previous cardiorenal disease: CaReMe Spain study
Authors: Sicras-Mainar Antoni , Sicras-Navarro Aram , Palacios Beatriz , Sequera Miren , Blanco Julia , Hormigo Antonio , Manito Nicolas , Alcázar-Arroyo Roberto , Botana-Lopez Manuel Antonio
Published: March 2021

Background.To determine baseline characteristics, the first manifestation of cardiovascular or kidney disease (CVKD) and associated resource use in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients during 7 years of follow up. Methods.Observational-retrospective secondary data study using medical records of patients aged ≥18 years with T2DM and without prior CVKD during 2013-2019. The index date was 01/01/2013 (fixed date). The manifestation of CVKD was defined by the first diagnosis of heart failure (HF), chronic kidney disease (CKD), myocardial infarction (MI), stroke or peripheral artery disease (PAD). The main variables were baseline characteristics, manifestation of CVKD, mortality, resource use and costs (health, indirect related). Descriptive analyses and Cox model were applied to the data.Results.26,542 patients were selected (mean age: 66.6 years, women: 47.8%, mean duration of T2DM: 17.1 years). 18.7% (N=4974) developed a first CVKD manifestation during the 7 years [distribution: HF (22.4%), CKD (36.6%), MI (14.5%), stroke (15.3%) and PAD (11.3%)]. Overall mortality was 8.3% (N=2,214). The mortality risk of the group that developed HF or CKD as the first manifestation compared to the CVKD-free cohort was higher [HR: 2.5 (CI95%: 1.8-3.4) and 1.8 (95%CI: 1.4-2,3)], respectively. The cumulative costs per patient of HF (€50,942.8) and CKD (€48,979.2) were higher than MI (€47.343.2) and stroke (€47,070.3) and similar to PAD (€51,240,0) vs. €13,098.9 in patients who did not develop CVKD, p<0.001.Conclusions.In T2DM patients, HF and CKD were the first most common manifestations over the 7 years of follow up and had higher mortality and re-hospitalization rates. HF and CKD were associated with the highest resource use and costs for the Spanish National Health System.
In Vitro Bioactivities of Isoindolin-1-3-Phosophonate Compounds
Authors: Hamdi Naceur , Jellali Hamida , Nasr Ibrahim S. Al , Coco Walid , Khan Tariq A. , Deniou Eric , Sauthier Mathieu
Published: March 2021

In this work an efficient synthesis of isoindolin-1-one-3-phosphonates under catalyst- and solvent-free conditions was reported to afford the desired compounds in excellent yields with potent pharmacological properties. The synthetic method involves the preparation of isoindolin-1-one-3-phosphonates by a ‘one-pot’ three-component reaction of 2-formylbenzoic acid with primary amines and dimethyl phosphite under solvent and catalyst free-conditions. All new compounds were characterized by by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, FT-IR and elemental analysis techniques. The synthesized compounds were screened for their antimicrobial activities against gram-positive bacterial strains (Micrococcus luteus, Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus), a gram-negative bacterial strain (Salmonella typhimurium) and a fungus (Candida albicans). Compound 4a was found to be the most active against antimicrobial against L. M. luteus, L. monocytogenes and C. albicans with an inhibition zone of 35, 22 and 38 mm respectively. They were additionally also investigated for their anti-parasitical activities against Leishmania major promastigotes and amastigotes and Toxoplasma gondii in vitro. The compounds 4a,b are the most active against L. major amastigotes and promastigotes with EC50 < 1 µM. Cytotoxicity investigations of the isoindolin-1-one-3-phosphonates were conducted in two human cancer cell lines, MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 all the compounds gave anticancer activity < 1.5 µM. We can conclude that 4a is a good drug candidate for all the biological assays, further studies for SAR detection and in vivo evaluation are highly recommended.
Diagnostic Value of High-resolution Ultrasound for the Evaluation of Capsular Distension in Temporomandibular Joint Effusion
Authors: Talmaceanu Daniel , Lavinia  , Csutak Csaba , Bolog Nicolae , Leucuta Daniel , Rotar Horatiu , Tig Ioan , Buduru Smaranda
Published: March 2021

Objectives. The aim of this study was to evaluate if the increased temporomandibular joint (TMJ) capsular thickness, measured by ultrasound (US), is associated with the presence of effusion, diagnosed using MRI imaging.Methods. 102 patients with signs and symptoms of temporomandibular disorders were included in the study. Each patient underwent US and MRI examination, 1 to 7 days following clinical examination. The US was performed with an 8–40 MHz linear transducer operating at 20 MHz. MRI was performed using an 1.5 T MRI device. The ROC curve was analyzed to identify the optimal cut-off value for capsular distention, which can be used as an indirect sign of TMJ effusion.Results. The capsular width values were found to be between 0.7-3.6mm. The best cut-off value was 2.05 mm with sensitivity of 55.9% and specificity of 94.7% (p<0.05). The next optimal cut-off value was 1.75 mm with sensitivity of 67.6% and specificity of 82.4%. The area under the ROC curve was 0.78 (95 % CI 0.68, 0.87). Conclusions. Ultrasound measured capsular width can be used as an indirect sign of TMJ effusion. The most accurate cut-off value obtained in this study was 2.05 mm.
Synthesis of Novel Halogenated Heterocyclic compounds and their uses as Target SARS-CoV-2 main Protease (Mpro) and Potential Anti-Covid-19
Authors: Mohareb Rafat , Almutairi Fahad M. , Elfiky Abdo A. , Mahmoud Mahmoud A.A. , Wardakhan Wagnat W. , Mohamed Mervat S. , Abdelhameed Ali Saber
Published: March 2021

Since the first appearance of the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) in Wuhan, China, in December 2019, it has been spreading globally with devastating ramifications. The lack of anti-COVID-19 treatment to date warrants urgent research into potential therapeutic targets. Virtual drug screening techniques enable the identification of novel compounds that are capable of targeting the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) main protease (Mpro). The latter plays a fundamental role in mediating viral replication and transcription, rendering it an attractive drug target. In this study, twenty six novel halogenated, heterocyclic compounds, which can inhibit Mpro, were tested by molecular docking combined with molecular dynamics simulation. Three compounds showed the highest binding affinity to the protein active site and their binding modes coincide with that of Nelfinavir. The binding of the halogenated compounds to Mpro may inhibit the replication and transcription of SARS-CoV-2 and, ultimately, stop the virallife cycle. In times of dire need for anti-COVID-19 treatment, this study lays the groundwork for further experimental research to investigate the efficacy and potential medical uses of these compounds to treat COVID-19. Novel compounds including fused thiophene, pyrimidine and pyran derivatives were tested against human RNA N7-MTase (hRNMT) and selected viral N7-MTases such as SARS-CoV nsp14 and Vaccinia D1-D12 complex to evaluate their specificity and their molecular modeling was also studied in the aim of producing anti covid-19 target molecules.
Integrative Transcriptomic, and Proteomic Analysis of Flavonoid Biosynthesis During Fruit Maturation In Chinese Raspberry “Rubus Chingii Hu”
Authors: Li Xiaobai , Sun Jian , Jiang Jingyong , Chen Zhen , Jackson Aaron
Published: March 2021

Rubus chingii, is a red-fruited species of Rubus native to China, which is a popular and nutritious fruit in China. However, change in flavonoid composition and content during fruit maturation is poorly understood. This study examined flavonoids and the genes/proteins during four fruit ripening phases using LC-MS/MS. As a result, six major kinds of anthocyanins were first identified in R. chingii, which primarily consisted of flavanol-anthocyanins, are new to Rubus. Apart from anthocyanins, concentrations of fruit flavonoids were much higher than most berries including raspberries, and it is this that contributes to their high phenolic concentrations and antioxidant capabilities. In contrast to other known raspberries, R. chingii had a decline in flavonoids during fruit maturation, which was due to down-regulation of genes/proteins involved in phenylpropanoid and flavonoid biosynthesis. Surprisingly, anthocyanin continuously decreased during fruit coloration. This suggests that anthocyanins are not responsible for the fruit’s reddish coloration. The biosynthesis of these flavanol-anthocyanins consumed two flavonoid units both produced through the same upstream pathway. Their presence indicates a reduction in the potential biosynthesis of anthocyanin production. Also, the constantly low expression of RcANS gene down-regulated overall anthocyanin biosynthesis. The lack of RcF3’5’H gene/protein hindered the production of delphinidin glycosides. Flavonoids primarily comprising of quercetin/kaempferol-glycosides were predominately located at fruit epidermal-hair and placentae. The profile and biosynthesis of R. chingii flavonoids are unique to Rubus. It could be used to broaden the genetic base of raspberry cultivars and to improve their fruit quality.
Bayesian Ridge Regression Shows the Best Fit for Ssr Markers in Psidium Guajava Among Bayesian Models
Authors: Silva Flávia Alves , Viana Alexandre Pio , Corrêa Caio Cezar Guedes , Santos Eileen Azevedo , Oliveira Julie Anne Vieira Salgado , Andrade José Daniel Gomes , Ribeiro Rodrigo Moreira , Glória Leonardo Siqueira
Published: March 2021

Markers are an important tool in plant breeding, which can improve conventional phenotypic breeding, generating more accurate information outcoming better decision making. This study aimed to apply and compare the fit of different Bayesian models BRR, BayesA, BayesB, BayesB (setting the value from very low to Π = 10-5 ) and BayesC and Bayesian Lasso (LASSO) for predictions of the genomic genetic values of productivity and quality traits of a guava population. A randomized block design with two replications was used. Seventeen full-sib families were evaluated. Fruit mass, pulp mass, soluble solids content, number of fruits, and production per plant were measured. These variables were used in the genomic prediction with SSR markers, obtained through the CTAB extraction method with 200 primers.The Bayesian ridge regression model showed the best results for all variables and was chosen to predict the individuals' genomic values according to the cross-validation data.A good stabilization of the Markov and Monte Carlo chains was observed with the mean values corresponding to the observed phenotypic means. Heritabilities showed good predictive accuracy. The model showed strong correlations between some variables, allowing indirect selection.
Macrophage-mannose receptor CD206 to discriminate connective tissue disease-associated usual interstitial pneumonia from IPF
Authors: Gui Xianhua , Ding Hui , Shi ShenYun , Ding Jingjing , Huang Mei , Dai Jinghong , Xiao Yonglong , Cao Min , Cai Hourong
Published: March 2021

Background: Soluble mannose receptor, sCD206, is a marker of alternatively activated macrophages. Activated macrophages play important roles in connective tissue disease (CTD) and lung fibrosis. Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a common complication of CTD, which leads to poor prognosis, especially in a pattern with usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP). Similarly, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is also characterized by UIP. Compared with IPF, the prognosis of CTD-associated UIP is tightly correlated with early treatment. In the present study, we aimed to evaluate the clinical significance of sCD206 in discriminating CTD-associated UIP from IPF. Methods: The serum level of sCD206 was determined in 48 patients with CTD-associated UIP, 54 IPF patients and 27 healthy controls. The clinical significance of sCD206 was also evaluated. Result: Patients with CTD-associated UIP had a higher level of sCD206 compared with healthy controls and IPF patients (p<0.001, p<0.001, respectively). A cutoff value of sCD206 at 523.8 ng/mL could be a useful marker for distinguishing CTD-associated UIP from IPF. Moreover, 15 decedents with CTD-associated UIP exhibited a greater level of sCD206 compared with 33 survivors (p=0.030), and the elevated sCD206 level was associated with a higher mortality rate (log-rank test, p=0.003). Age and gender-adjusted multivariate Cox regression analysis showed that sCD206 (>444.2 ng/mL) was an independent predictor of survival (p= 0.026). Conclusions: Collectively, the serum level of sCD206 could be a useful marker for distinguishing CTD-associated UIP from IPF and associated with a poor survival of CTD-associated UIP.
Analysis of clinical prognostic factors in bladder cancer-associated double primary cancer
Authors: Zhang Xiaoping , Yang Guanglin , Mo Linjian , Li Tianyu , Cheng Jiwen
Published: March 2021

Objective: This study aims to explore prognostic factors in bladder cancer-related DPC(double primary cancer). Method: Patients with bladder cancer admitted to the Department of Urology of the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University from November 2012 to October 2019 were screened. They were divided into simple bladder cancer (n = 27) and bladder cancer-related DPC (n = 27). Differences in sex, average age, smoking history, radiotherapy history, intravenous chemotherapy history, SII, NLR, PLR, PNI, and serum tumor markers between the two groups were analyzed. Factors related to prognosis evaluation were determined. Results: Smoking history, radiotherapy history, intravenous chemotherapy history, SII, NLR, PLR, and PNI were significantly different between the simple bladder cancer group and the bladder cancer-related DPC group (P<0.05). No significant difference in serum tumor markers CA153, CA199, CA125, CA242, CA724, and CEA, sex, and average age of onset was found between the two groups (P>0.05). In the univariate analysis, patient type, SII, PLR, NLR, and PNI had significant effects on survival rate (P<0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that the type of patient was an independent factor affecting survival. The survival rate of patients with bladder cancer-related DPC was lower than that of patients with simple bladder cancer (P<0.001). Conclusion: The incidence of DPC associated with bladder cancer is positively correlated with the history of smoking, radiotherapy, and intravenous chemotherapy. Dynamic monitoring of changes in SII, NLR, PLR and PNI after treatment of the first primary cancer is helpful to evaluate the risk of DPC in patients. The prognosis of patients with bladder cancer-related DPC is worse than that of patients with simple bladder cancer.
Drought of early time in growing season decreases community aboveground biomass, but increases belowground biomass in a desert steppe
Authors: Li Xiangyun , Zuo Xiaoan , Yue Ping , Zhao Xueyong , Hu Ya , Guo Xinxin , Guo Aixia , Xu Chong , Yu Qiang
Published: March 2021

Background: Increasing drought induced by global climate changes is altering the structure and function of grassland ecosystems. However, there is a lack of understanding of how drought affects the allocation and trade-off of above- and belowground biomass in desert steppe. We conducted a four-year (2015-2018) drought experiment to examine the responses of community above-and belowground biomass (AGB and BGB) to manipulated drought and natural drought in the early period of growing season (from March to June) in a desert steppe. We compared the associations of drought with species diversity (species richness and density), community-weighted means (CWM) of five traits, and soil factors (soil Water, soil carbon content, and soil nitrogen content) for grass communities. Meanwhile, we used the structural equation modeling (SEM) to elucidate whether drought affects AGB and BGB by altering species diversity, functional traits and soil factors.Results: We found that drought reduced the species richness, and species modified the CWM of traits to cope with drought. Manipulated drought had the effect on soil water content, but not on soil carbon and nitrogen content. We also found that the experimental and natural drought decreased AGB, while natural drought increased BGB. AGB was correlated with species richness, density, plant height and soil water, while BGB was correlated with CWM of plant height, CWM of specific leaf area, CWM of leaf dry matter content, CWM of leaf nitrogen content, soil water, soil carbon and nitrogen content. The SEM results indicated that the experimental and natural drought indirectly decreased AGB by reducing species richness and plant height, while natural drought and soil nitrogen content directly affected BGB. Conclusions: These results suggest that species richness and functional traits can modulate the effects of drought on AGB, however natural drought and soil nitrogen determine BGB. Our findings demonstrate that the long-term observation and experiment are necessary to understand the underlying mechanism of the allocation and trade-off of community above-and belowground biomass.
One-step Green Preparation of Nano-silver Aqueous Solution, Characterization, and Its Antibacterial Potential for Cut Carnation Flowers
Authors: Pang Zhenpei , Li Hongmei , Lin Guidong , Sun Yunhao , Zhou Hongjun , He Shenggen
Published: March 2021

The green synthesis of nano-silver (NS) has gained increasing attention owing to its cost-effectiveness and environmental friendliness. Herein, we have described a novel one-step green preparation method of stable NS aqueous solution using Tollens reagent as the silver ion source, D-fructose as the reduction agent, and polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) as the stabilizing and capping agent. The optimum preparation parameters were 40 mL 10 g L−1 PVP, 100 mL 0.116 mol L−1 D-fructose, and 200 mL 0.001 mol L−1 Tollens at a reaction temperature of 25 °C for 2 h. The prepared NS solution had a pH value of 7.10, with approximately spherical NS particles in the range of 13.95–87.36 nm. The resulting NS solution was stable under normal temperature, boiling water bath, and acidic environment; however, it did not exhibit stability under an alkaline environment. The NS solution had a remarkable absorption peak at 410 nm in its ultraviolet visible spectrum. Moreover, it exerted strong inhibitory effect on the growth of the bacteria isolated from the vase water of cut carnation ‘Prince’ flowers. These findings indicate that the obtained NS aqueous solution is potentially a practical and effective antibacterial agent for preserving cut carnations and other cut flowers.
Pre-Procedural Glucose Levels and the Risk for Contrast-Induced Nephropathy in Diabetic Patients Undergoing Coronary angiography or Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Zhang Hong , Fu Han , Zhang Peng , Yang Shicheng , Fu Naikuan
Published: March 2021

Diabetes mellitus is an independent risk factor for Contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) in patients undergoing Coronary arteriography (CAG)/percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). This study aimed to evaluate whether pre-procedural glucose levels in diabetic patients who received CAG/PCI had an impact on the occurrence of postoperative CIN. We reviewed the incidence of pre-procedural glucose and postoperative CIN in 532 patients with CAG/PCI from June 1, 2020 to January 31, 2021 in Tianjin Chest Hospital, and divided the preoperative pre-procedural glucose levels into 5 groups. Blood samples were collected at admission, 48h and 72h after operation to measure the serum creatinine (Scr) value of patients. We found Patients with elevated pre-procedural glucose had higher BMI, and they were more often on therapy with PCI. They also had higher basal, 24h and 48h Scr. (Table 1) The incidence of CIN in the 5 groups of patients were: 6.9%, 10.7%, 14.1%, 20.1%, 26.0%. (p = 0.030) The multivariate analysis confirmed that in the main high-risk subgroup, patients with elevated pre-procedural glucose levels (≥ 158mg/dl) had a higher risk of CIN disease. (Fig. 2) Trend test showed the change of HR (1.000, 1.646, 2.285, 3.227, 4,788). (Table 2) We come to the conclusion that in diabetic patients undergoing CAG/PCI, elevated pre-procedural glucose is independently associated with the risk of CIN, and with the increase of pre-procedural glucose level, the incidence of CIN gradually increases.
A Modified Surgical Ablation for AF with Mitral Valve Surgery
Authors: wang huishan , Han Jinsong , Wang Zengwei , Yin Zongtao , Jin Yan , Zhang Jian , Han Hongguang
Published: March 2021

Background: The cut-and-sew maze (CSM) procedure has excellent efficacy for the elimination of long-standing persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) concomitant with mitral valve surgery. Because of the complexity and prolongation of cardiopulmonary bypass, CSM has not been widely used. The aim of this study was to examine a modified maze procedure that preserves the “cut-and-sew” procedure in the left atrium and uses cryoablation in the right atrium along with cavotricuspid isthmus (CTI).Methods: From December 2013 to December 2018, 229 patients underwent CSM, and 43 underwent the modified maze procedure during mitral valve surgery. Propensity score matching analysis was used to perform selective 1:2 ratio matching of the 43 patients undergoing the modified maze procedure with 86 patients undergoing CSM. Early operative outcomes were analysed for differencesResults: The absence of AF recurrence without the use of anti-arrhythmic drugs (AADs) was calculated at 2 years by a generalized linear model analysis. One (1.1%) early death occurred in the CSM group, and no deaths occurred in the modified maze group (P=0.722). The aortic cross-clamp durations were 76.30±8.86 minutes for the modified maze and 92.38±10.88 for the CSM procedure (P<0.001). There were no late strokes or deaths during the two-year follow-up. The modified maze group showed similar rates of absence of AF without the use of AADs as the CSM group within the 2 years (P=0.332). Conclusion: This modified maze simplifies the “cut-and-sew” procedure and reduces operating time while retaining the efficacy of CSM.
Effect of retinoic acid combined with narrow-band ultraviolet B on matrix metalloprotein 13（MMP13）in psoriasis
Authors: XI Chan , XIONG Chuanxi , WANG Huiping , LIU Yuanjun , Luo Suju
Published: March 2021

Matrix metalloproteinase 13 (MMP13) is a zinc-containing endopeptidase secreted by keratinocytes and skin fibroblasts and participates in many inflammatory diseases. Drugs for retinoic acid include tazarotene and acitretin. Tazarotene/acitretin and narrow-band ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) irradiation are used as a general treatment for psoriasis. However, their impact on MMP13 expression has yet to be determined. In this study, we measured the expression of MMP13 in patients with psoriasis, and investigated the effects of tazarotene and/or NB-UVB on MMP13 expression in a mouse model of psoriasis. After exposure to acitretin and/or NB-UVB, immortalized human HaCaT keratinocytes were analyzed for viability and MMP13 expression. Our results showed that MMP13 protein levels increased in skin lesions and serum samples in patients with psoriasis. Treatment with acitretin and NB-UVB irradiation alone or in combination suppressed cell viability and MMP13 expression in HaCaT cells. Consistently, tazarotene treatment and/or NB-UVB irradiation attenuated imiquimod-induced psoriasis-like dermatitis and inhibited MMP13 expression in a mouse model. Taken together, these results indicate that tazarotene/acitretin and NB-UVB irradiation can inhibit the expression of MMP13 in keratinocytes and psoriasis mouse models. Targeting MMP13 may represent a promising therapeutic strategy against psoriasis.
TiO2 Nanofibers Decorated with Monodispersed WO3 Heterostruture Sensors for High Gas Sensing Performance Towards H2 Gas
Authors: Kumaresan M , Venkatachalam M. , Saroja M. , Gowthaman P.
Published: March 2021

A simple spin coating method was used to prepare the WO3-TiO2 heterostructural nanofibers (HNFs). Various kinds of techniques, including XRD, SEM, TEM, EDS and XPS, have described the structures, chemical constitutions and morphologies of the samples. Following the decoration of the WO3 nanocubes on the surface of TiO2 nanofibers, XPS findings confirmed the presence of W5+ and the excess proportion of both chemisorbed reactive oxygen and oxygen vacancies. WO3 incorporated TiO2 thin film sensor showed high sensing response (78%), rapid response (20 s) and recovery time (23 s) with respect to other gas molecules (NH3, NO2, LPG and SO2). The finding demonstrates that the WO3-TiO2 sensor showed good selective response towards H2 gas. A unique path was created by this work to build hetero-highly ordered mesoporous metal oxides junctions for applications in H2 gas sensor based devices.