bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Animal Brucellosis: Seroprevalence, Isolation and Molecular Detection in Southern and Central Ethiopia
Authors: Senbeta Bayeta , Jorga Edilu , Lakew Matios , Olani Abebe , Tadesse Biniam , Tuli Getachew , Belaineh Redeat , Abera Shubisa , Kinfe Getachew , Gebre Solomon
Published: July 2021

Background: Brucellosis is one of the most frequent contagious neglected bacterial diseases with serious veterinary and public health importance throughout the world. A cross-sectional study on animal brucellosis was conducted from October 2018 to July 2019 in southern and central Ethiopia with the objective of estimating seroprevalence and molecular detection. Blood samples were collected for serum extraction from a total of 4274 individual animals (cattle, small ruminants and camel) from 241 herds/flocks. Blood clots from seropositive animals were also tested for brucellosis via molecular techniques. Additionally, 13 vaginal swab samples were collected from animals with recent abortion history for bacterial isolation and molecular detection.Results: The extracted serum samples were tested using multispecies I-ELISA and the overall individual animal and herd level seroprevalence was 3.95% (169/4274) and 18.26% (44/241) respectively. The animal level seroprevalence at species level was 1.58%, 8.89%, 12.44% in bovine, small ruminants (sheep and goat) and camel, respectively. Herd level seroprevalence were 5.43%, 52.08%, 100% in bovine, small ruminant and camel, respectively. The animal and herd level seroprevalence of bovine from intensive and extensive systems was 1.1%, 2.87% and 9.2%, 50.00% respectively. Brucella species was isolated from 6/13 (46.15%) vaginal swab samples cultured on brucella selective agar, and shown to be B.melitensis using Real-Time PCR. All of the blood clots from seropositive animals were negative for the presence of Brucellaspp with PCR.Conclusions: In the regions sampled animals in all three categories – cattle, sheep/goats, and camels – mostly had low seroprevalence rates for brucellosis, without great differences from previous serosurveys done in Ethiopia. However, seropositivity for camels was higher than what has been reported previously. Also, there was a notable difference in this study in cattle seroprevalence when comparing extensive with intensive systems, with the extensive system being much higher.
Molecular epidemiology of tuberculosis in northeastern Ethiopia
Authors: Gashaw Fikru , Zewde Aboma , Tedla Endalkachew , Wondale Biniam , Mekonnen Yalemtsehay , Erko Berhanu , Ameni Gobena
Published: July 2021

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) is a major public health threat causing the highest morbidity and mortality in Ethiopia. However, there is shortage of information on the species and strains of mycobacteria that cause TB in Ethiopia. The objective of this study is to investigate the diversity of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb) isolated from TB patients in northeastern Ethiopia. Methods: A total of 384 smear positive pulmonary and extra-pulmonary TB cases were recruited on the basis of clinical examination and ZiehlNeelsen staining for further investigation. Mycobacterial culturing, region of difference (RD) 9-based polymerase chain reaction (PCR), spoligotyping and mycobacterial interspersed repetitive unit-variable-number tandem repeat (MIRU-VNTR) typing were used for the identification the species and strains. Descriptive statistical analysis was used for the expression of the results while proportions were compared using c2 test. Statistical significance was considered when p<0.05.Results: Smear positive pulmonary tuberculosis accounted for 74.5% (286/384). The disease proportion was highest in age group of 18–37 years. Culture positivity was confirmed only in 29.2% (112/384). Speciation of the culture positive isolates using RD9 indicated that 77.7% (87/112) were M. tuberculosis. Further identification of the isolates using spoligotyping indicated 92.9% (104/112) interpretable spoligotyping patterns of which 20.2% (21/104) were grouped under 10 clustered patterns. Further grouping of the spoligotypes indicated that 86.5% (90/104) of the isolates as orphan types. Grouping of the isolates into the major lineages showed 52.9%, 27.9% and 19.2% of the isolates as Euroamerican, Indio-oceanic and East African Indian lineages, respectively. Typing of 69 isolates using 24-loci MIRU-VNTR typing gave interpretable results for 56 isolates each of them having distinct MIRU-VNTR profile and were considered as 56 different genotypes (strains).Conclusion: M. tuberculosis was identified as the main cause of TB in northeastern Ethiopia and its strains were highly diversified.
Marine Fungal Metabolite Butyrolactone I Prevents Cognitive Deficits and Inflammation Evoked by AlCl3 in zebrafish
Authors: Nie Yingying , Yang Jingming , Liang Jinyue , Yang Zhiyou , Zhou Longjian , Liu Yayue , Ma Xiaoxiang , Qian Zhongji , Hong Pengzhi , Kalueff Allan V , Song Cai , Zhang Yi
Published: July 2021

BackgroundMounting evidences indicate that oxidative stress and neuroinflammation are related to neurodegenerative disorders (NDs). Butyrolactone I (BTL-I), a marine fungal metabolite, was previously reported as an in-vitro neuroprotectant and inflammation inhibitor. However, little is known about its in-vivo effects. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) could be used as a convenient model in evaluation of toxicology and central nervous system (CNS) diseases. MethodsHere, we employ the in-vivo and in-silico methods to investigate the anti-NDs potential of BTL-I. Specifically, we established cognitive deficits model in zebrafish by intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of AlCl3 (21 μg), and assessed their behaviors in the T-maze test. Proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), as well as acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, glutathione (GSH) levels were assayed 24 h after the AlCl3 injection. The intestinal flora of the zebrafish were investigated by 16 S rDNA high-throughput analysis. A marine fungal metabolite, butyrolactone I (BTL-I) was used to modulate zebrafish cognitive deficits evoked by AlCl3. The absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) and drug-likeness properties of BTL-I were studied by in-silico tool of ADMETlab.ResultsBTL-I dose-dependently ameliorated AlCl3-induced cognitive deficits in zebrafish. While, AlCl3 treatment elevated the levels of central and peripheral proinflammatory cytokines, increased AChE activity, and lowered GSH in the brain of zebrafish, these effects except GSH reducing were reversed by 25–100 mg/kg BTL-I administration. 16S rDNA high-throughput sequencing of intestinal flora of zebrafish showed that AlCl3 decreased Gram-positive bacteria and increased proinflammatory Gram-negative bacterial while BTL-I contributed to maintain the predominance of beneficial Gram-positive bacteria. The in-silico analysis indicated that BTL-I exhibits acceptable drug-likeness and ADMET profiles.ConclusionsThe present findings suggest BTL-I as a potential therapeutic agent for preventing CNS deficits caused by inflammation, neurotoxicity, and gut flora imbalance.
A Study on Pregenomic RNA and Factors Related to Hepatitis B Virus Infection Based on Real World
Authors: Yan HaoZhen , Peng Ting-Ting , Guo Xu-Guang , Yang Li-Li , Liu Chong-Wen , Huang Zhi-Hao , Ouyang Shi
Published: July 2021

Objective: To study the clinical significance and influencing factors of pgRNA based on real world.Methods: A total of 421 patients who were tested for pgRNA were selected. According to the baseline data, the subjects were divided into negative and positive group. Chi-square test and logistic regression were used to analyze the influencing factors of pgRNA status. Based on the follow-up data, rank sum test and linear regression were used to analyze the influencing factors of pgRNA change magnitude.Results: 153 (36.3%) of the 421 subjects were pgRNA negative and 268 (63.7%) were pgRNA positive. Logistic regression analysis showed that positive HBV DNA (OR: 40.51), positive HBeAg (OR: 66.24), tenofovir treatment (OR: 23.47) and entecavir treatment (OR: 14.90) were independent risk factors for positive pgRNA. Univariate linear regression showed that pgRNA change magnitude of patients treated with entecavir was higher than that of patients treated with tenofovir. Multivariate linear regression showed that age was an independent factor influencing pgRNA change magnitude.Conclusions: The pgRNA of patients who were young, female, HBV DNA-positive, high-HBsAg, HBeAg-positive is higher than the detection line. HBV DNA, HBeAg are independent risk factors for positive pgRNA. Different antiviral regimens have significantly different effects on pgRNA status. There was a significant correlation between pgRNA and FIB-4, suggesting that pgRNA is related to liver fibrosis. The decrease in pgRNA was greater in young patients than in non-young patients. The decrease in pgRNA was greater in patients treated with tenofovir than in patients treated with entecavir.
Identification and Validation of Novel Endogenous Controls for qPCR Normalization in SK-BR-3 Breast Cancer Cell Line
Authors: Jain Nityanand , Mitre Ingrida , Nitisa Dina , Pirsko Valdis , Cakstina Inese
Published: July 2021

Background: Normalization of gene expression using internal controls or reference genes (RGs) has been the method of choice for overcoming and standardizing the technical variations in reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reactions (RT-qPCR). Conventionally, ACTB and GAPDH have been used as reference genes despite evidence from literature discouraging their use, especially as single internal controls. Hence, it becomes crucial to identify suitable controls. In the present study we identified and investigated novel reference genes in SK-BR-3, an HER2-enriched breast cancer cell line. To identify novel candidate reference genes, we compiled and analyzed transcriptomic data from 82 HER2-E breast cancer samples from TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas) database. Twelve genes with relatively stable expression were selected for further analysis. Additionally, 13 RGs from literature were selected for analysis. The expression variations of the candidate genes in SK-BR-3 were studied over five successive passages (p) in two parallel cultures S1 and S2 and in acute and chronic hypoxia using various algorithms. Finally, the most stable RGs were selected and validated for normalization of the expression of three genes of interest (GOIs) in normoxia and hypoxia using Pfaffl’s method.Results: HSP90AB1, DAD1, PFN1, RPL13A and PUM1 were the top five most stable RGs in the SK-BR-3 cell line. However, upon normalization of the GOIs, RPL13A was not a suitable RG candidate. Although geNorm suggests use of two reference genes, as a good practice, we investigated the reference genes in triplets. Accordingly, after normalization of GOIs in hypoxia, we found that the remaining four genes when used in triplets (in any combination) successfully normalized the experimental variations in RT-qPCR experiments.Conclusions: HSP90AB1, DAD1, PFN1 and PUM1 can be used in any combination of three (triplets) for optimizing intra- and inter-assay gene expression differences in the SK-BR-3 cell line. Additionally, we discourage use of conventional RGs (ACTB, GAPDH, RPL13A, RNA18S and RNA28S) as internal controls for RT-qPCR in SK-BR-3 cell line.
Immediately Restored Fixed Full-arch Prosthesis on Implants Placed in Both Fresh and Healed Sockets by Means of Flat-one-bridge Technique. A 7-year Retrospective Study. Running Head: Prosthetic Passivation of Implants in Full-arch Bridges
Authors: Giammarinaro Enrica , Marconcini Simone , Covani Ugo , Mascolo Andrea , corso Marco Del , Caso Guerino
Published: July 2021

Background: Aim of this retrospective study was to document the long-term clinical efficacy of a surgical-prosthetic technique (Flat-one-Bridge) involving immediate restoration of both post-extractive and non-post-extractive implants supporting full-arch restorations. Methods: Implants were placed adapting the axis to the available bone. Flat definitive abutments were connected at surgery and never disconnected in order to compensate for eventual implants dis-parallelism. Bone grafting was performed when needed. Patients received a screw-retained provisional restoration within 48 hours of surgery and a final screw-retained prosthesis within one year. Results: Sixty-six patients received 494 implants distributed in 75 prosthesis. The median follow-up was 86 months (range 82-168 months). Only three implants failed at the last follow-up. Implant survival was 99.6%. Conclusion: The Flat-one-Bridge prosthetic protocol is a viable procedure with excellent long-term outcomes. No difference could be observed between post-extractive and non post-extractive implants in terms of clinical success.
Association between Greenness Structures and Frailty in an Elderly Prospective Longitudinal Cohort in China
Authors: He Qile , Chang Hao-Ting , Wu Chih-da , Ji John
Published: July 2021

Background: Frailty is the accumulation of aging-induced deficits, leading to vulnerability and death. There is evidence of negative associations between greenspaces measured with normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and frailty. However, NDVI is not as informative as greenness structure indices which reflect characters such as shape and connectivity. We aim to study the association between greenness structures and frailty in an elderly Chinese cohort. Methods: We included older adults from 2008-2014 waves of the China Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS). We used greenspace indices from satellite to quantify greenspace structures at county-level: area-edge, shape, and proximity, and calculated frailty index (FI) as a health outcome. We did cross-sectional analyses using linear regression and logistical regression, and longitudinal analyses using the generalized estimating equations (GEE). All models were adjusted for covariates. Results: Among 8,776 participants at baseline, the mean LPI, SHAPE, COHESION, and FI were 7.93, 8.11, 97.6, and 0.17. The correlation between NDVI and greenness structure was unnoticeable. In cross-sectional analyses, we found negative consistent dose-response relationships for greenspace structures and frailty, especially in females, city residents, people without a spouse, and with deteriorated frailty. Compared to participants living in the lowest quartile of greenness structure, those in the highest quartile of LPI, SHAPE, and COHESION had 32%, 44%, and 37% lower odds of frailty. However, we did not find a significant association in longitudinal analyses due to higher mortality rate and FI of participants without follow-up surveys.Conclusions: The larger value of area-edge, shape, and proximity is related to a lower likelihood of frailty. Assessing complex shapes and connecting fragmentary greenspaces are informative to public health through city planning.
Cross-Infection and Infection Control in Dental Clinics In Nablus and Tulkarm Districts
Authors: Menawi Wafaa , Sabbah Areej , Kharraz Lubna
Published: July 2021

Background: Infection control had many developments in the COVID 19 pandemic, despite this, there were many complications in different health care facilities as well as dentists’ clinics due to the lack of infection control knowledge and compliance failure.Aim: To assess the level of knowledge and compliance with the infection control measures in the dental clinics in Nablus and Tulkarm districts.Method: A universal Sampling was used to assess the infection control program at the dental clinics in Nablus and Tulkarm District. The study sample involved 265 dentists. Data was collected using a questionnaire which has been sent via email between July and August 2020. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, One-way ANOVA and Post-Hock tests have been used. Statistical significance was set at ″P <0.05″. Cronbach's alpha has been conducted to ensure the reliability and validity of the questionnaire.Findings: The results showed that the total positive response regard all infection control domains were (70.0%). Whereas the participants gave the highest positive response for personnel protective equipment i.e gloving (96.10%), they gave the instruments related controls the lowest responses i.e instruments sterilization were (59.40%). The analyzed data showed significant statistical differences in the compliance with infection control measures between Nablus and Tulkarm districts “p < 0.05” in the interest of dentists from Tulkarm.Conclusion: The findings of this study showed that there is a moderate compliance to infection control protocol in Nablus and Tulkarm dental clinics. Thus, there is a need to strengthen the adherence to infection control measures.
Prevalence of Depression and Associated Factors Among Post Stroke Patients at St Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, A.A, Ethiopia
Authors: Worku Surafel , Tesfaye Markos , Deresse Enque , Agumasie Marishet
Published: July 2021

BackgroundDepression is one of the most common neuropsychiatric complications after stroke. ObjectiveTo assess the prevalence and factors associated with depression among stroke patients among post stroke patients at St Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, A.A, EthiopiaMethodA hospital based cross sectional study design was conducted among 159 post stroke patients who were on follow up at SPHMMC neurology OPD from March-July, 2018 by using Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Bivariate as well as multivariate logistic regressions were used to identify associated factors. 𝑝 value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.Results The prevalence of post stroke depression is 43.4 %. Factors associated with increased risk of depression after strokes are age between 45 and 64 and shorter duration after the diagnosis of strokes (less than 3 months and between 3 to 6 months). Conclusion and recommendationPSD occurs in nearly half of the stroke patients. Age and time from diagnosis of stroke affect development of depression after stroke. We recommend that every stroke patient should be screened for depression as part of a comprehensive post stroke care.
Naringenin Protects Rats against Ang-II Induced Cardiac Hypertrophy and Fibrosis by Downregulating TGF-β1/Smads Signaling Pathways
Authors: Chen Xiaowei , Zhao Xi , Wang Han , Liu Hengdao
Published: July 2021

Background:Naringenin (Nrg), a flavone found in several plant foods with various biological properties, has been shown prevention of cardiac remodeling. However, themechanisms underlying this suppression of cardiac remodeling has not been known clearly.Methods: Male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were AngII infused via osmotic minipumps for 4 weeks and were given Nrg by gavage (100mg/kg/day) at the same time. In vitro experiments used cardiomyocyte and cardiac fibroblasts(CF) treated with AngII or AngII plus Nrg.Cardiac remodeling was assessed using the echocardiography and histological analysis. And, the effect of Nrg on TGF-β1/Smadssignaling pathway was investigated.Results: Treatmentwith Nrg(100mg/kg/day) decreased the ratio of heart weight to tibia length and hypertrophy markers in rats given AngII infusion. In vitro experiments demonstrated that AngII-induced cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and proliferation of CFs were significantly inhibited by Nrg administration. Nrg inhibited activation of the TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling pathway stimulated by AngII. Conclusions: Nrgsupplementation prevented cardiac remodeling via down-regulating the TGF-β1/Smad2/3 signaling pathway both in cardiomyocyte and CFs, and attenuating cardiac remodeling in AngII-induced rats model.
Multivariate Analysis of Potential Pleiotropic Genes For Breast, Ovarian And Cervical Cancers Using Gene-Based Association Analysis
Authors: Jia XiaoCan , Shi Nian , Feng Yu , Zhu Huili , Wang Yuping , Lu Jie , Yang YongLi , shi Xuezhong
Published: July 2021

Although genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have a dramatic impact on susceptibility locus discovery in gynecological malignancies, the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) identified by this prevailing univariate approach only explain a small percentage of heredity. The extensive previous studies have repeatedly shown breast, ovarian and cervical cancers have common genetic mechanisms and the overlapping pathophysiological pathways. Novel multivariate analytical methods are necessary to identify shared pleiotropic genes. In this study, a total of 40,859 SNPs mapped in 11,597 gene regions were performed to identify potential common variants by using metaCCA and VEGAS2 analysis. Gene enrichment and protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis were used to explore potential biological pathways and connectivity. After metaCCA analysis, 4,203 SNPs (P<1.22×10−6) and 1,886 pleotropic gene (P<4.31×10−6) were identified. By screening the results of gene-based P-values, the existence of 3 confirmed pleiotropic genes and 16 novel genes that achieved statistical significance in the metaCCA analysis and were also associated with at least one cancer in the VEGAS2 analysis were identified. The enrichment analysis showed the biological pathways of these genes were mainly enriched in 4 signaling pathways and 11 differentially expressed genes were found to encode interacting proteins in PPI network analysis. Altogether, we identified novel genetic variants of breast, ovarian and cervical cancers and provided evidence of biological functions which developed new insights for the diagnosis and treatment of these cancers.
Lipocalin-2 Mediated Polarization of Neutrophil in Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Guo Zhiliang , Xu Guoli , Xu Jiaping , Huang Yaqian , Liu Chunfeng , Cao Yongjun
Published: July 2021

Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury is a difficult point in the treatment of ischemic stroke. Lipocalin-2 (LCN2) and neutrophils play an important role in I/R injury. We explored the effect of anti-LCN2 antibody (LCN2mAb) and to further clarify the relationship between LCN2mAb and neutrophil polarization (N1/N2 neutrophils) in I/R injury. A mouse middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model was used to induce transient cerebral ischemia. LCN2mAb was administered 1h before MCAO; Anti-Ly6G was administered for 3d before MCAO. The expression of LCN2 and Ly6G was Measured by western blot. Infarct size,behavior and the blood-brain barrier (BBB) damage were assessed. The polarized N2 neutrophils were measured by western blot and Flow Cytometry. Using HL-60 as a cell model explores the role of LCN2mAb in the polarity transition of neutrophils. The expression of LCN2 and Ly6G in the brain at different time points reached a peak after I/R 24h and then gradually decreased. As demonstrated previously, LCN2mAb-treated mice had neuroprotective effects in cerebral infarction volume, behavior, and blood-brain barrier damage. The expression of Ly6G was not significantly different, but the expression of N2 neutrophils was increased. The expression of anti-inflammatory factor CD206 was significantly increased, and pro-inflammatory factor TNF-α was significantly reduced. Compared with mice treated with Anti-Ly6G, Anti-Ly6G-LCN2mAb combined treatment of I/R, there was no further improvement in behavior and pathology. Based on HL-60 as a cell model, N1-HL-60 cells were pretreated with LCN2mAb, and N2-HL-60 cells were significantly increased. LCN2 may affect the prognosis of ischemic stroke by mediating neutrophils polarization.
Use of Patient Specific 3D Printed Neurovascular Phantoms To Simulate Mechanical Thrombectomy
Authors: Sommer Kelsey , Bhurwani Mohammad Mahdi Shiraz , Tutino Vincent , Siddiqui Adnan , Davies Jason , Snyder Kenneth , Levy Elad , Mokin Maxim , Ionita Ciprian N
Published: July 2021

Background: The ability of the patient specific 3D printed neurovascular phantoms to accurately replicate the anatomy and hemodynamics of the chronic neurovascular diseases has been demonstrated by many studies. Acute occurrences, however, may still require further development and investigation and therefore we studied acute ischemic stroke (AIS). The efficacy of endovascular procedures such as mechanical thrombectomy (MT) for the treatment of large vessel occlusion (LVO), can be improved by testing the performance of thrombectomy devices and techniques using patient specific 3D printed neurovascular models.Methods: 3D printed phantoms were connected to a flow loop with physiologically relevant flow conditions, including input flow rate and fluid temperature. A simulated blood clot was introduced into the model and placed in the proximal Middle Cerebral Artery (MCA) region. Clot location, composition, length, and arterial angulation were varied and MTs were simulated using stent retrievers. Device placement relative to the clot and the outcome of the thrombectomy were recorded for each situation. Digital subtraction angiograms (DSA) were captured before and after LVO simulation. Recanalization outcome was evaluated using DSA as either ‘no recanalization’ or ‘recanalization’. Forty-two 3DP neurovascular phantom benchtop experiments were performed. Results: Clot angulation within the MCA region had the most significant impact on the MT outcome, with a p-value of 0.016. Other factors such as clot location, clot composition, and clot length correlated weakly with the MT outcome.Conclusions: This project allowed us to gain knowledge of how such characteristics influence thrombectomy success and can be used in making clinical decisions when planning the procedure and selecting specific thrombectomy tools and approaches.
Marine Turf of an Invasive Alga Ousts Lugworms From Lower Shore
Authors: Reise Karsten , Lackschewitz Dagmar
Published: July 2021

Bare sandy flats at and below low tide level were observed in 2020 to have been invaded by an introduced grass-like alga, Vaucheria cf. velutina (Xanthophyceae). A dense algal turf accumulated and stabilized mud where resident seniors of the lugworm Arenicola marina had reworked rippled sand. Algae and worms were incompatible. Initially, rising patches with algal turf alternated with bare pits where lugworms crowded. Their bioturbation inhibited young algae, while the felt of established algal rhizoids clogged feeding funnels of worm burrows. Eventually, the mosaic pattern of competitors gave way to a coherent algal turf without lugworms. Concomitantly, a rich small-sized benthic fauna took advantage of the novel algal turf. This exotic Vaucheria has the potential for taking over at the lower shore of the Wadden Sea (eastern North Sea, European Atlantic).
Real-world Outcomes of First-line Afatinib in Patients with Non-small Cell Lung Cancer and Uncommon EGFR Mutations in South Korea
Authors: Kim Mi-Hyun , Choi Chang Min , Lee Sung Yong , Park Cheol Kyu , Chang Yoon Soo , Lee Kye Young , Kim Seung Joon , Jang Tae-Won , Yang Sei Hoon , Ryu Jeong Seon , Lee Jeong Eun , Lee Shin Yup , Park Chan Kwon , Lee Sang Hoon , Jang Seung Hun , Yoon Seong Hoon
Published: July 2021

Uncommon epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) are heterogeneous and show variable prevalence and clinical responses to EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitors. We investigated the characteristics of uncommon EGFR mutations and the clinical efficacy of afatinib in patients. In this multicenter, retrospective study, we analyzed patients with NSCLC and uncommon EGFR mutations; these were categorized according to their incidence: (1) major uncommon mutations (G719X and L861Q), (2) compound mutations, and (3) minor uncommon mutations (exon 20 insertion, S768I, and de novo T790M). Sixty-four patients (9.1%, 64/703) with uncommon EGFR mutations were identified in 16 South Korean institutes. Afatinib demonstrated activity against major uncommon (median time of treatment [TOT]: 20.3 months, 95% CI: 5.0-27.9; overall survival (OS): 30.6 months, 95% CI: 33.5–34.0) and compound mutations (median TOT: 11.9 months, 95% CI: 3.6–9.6; OS: 29.1 months, 95% CI: 12.1–65.4). Minor uncommon mutations showed unfavorable responses to afatinib (median TOT: 3.8 months, 95% CI: 2.1–4.2; OS: 8.5 months, 95% CI: 4.7–18.2). S768I mutation was present in 14 patients (1.99%, 14/703). Median TOT and OS were not significantly different between S768I and resistant exon 20 mutations. Afatinib is active in patients with NSCLC harboring major uncommon and compound EGFR mutations.
Prospective Evaluation of XRCC-1 as a Biopredictor for Survival Outcomes in Patients of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC): A Meta-analysis
Authors: Yang Fan , Zhou Liu-qing , Wang Yan-jun
Published: July 2021

Background: Epidemiologic studies have demonstrated that X-ray repair cross-complementary group 1 (XRCC1) is one of the susceptibility factors in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma(HNSCC) patients. However, its clinical prognostic impact remains controversial. Thus, a meta-analysis was performed to clarify the survival value of XRCC1 in HNSCC patients.Methods: Following the Preferred Reporting Items or Systematic Reviews Meta Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines, literature searches were systematically performed by PubMed, EMBASE and Web of Science with a manual retreive to evaluate the prognostic consequence of XRCC1 in HNSCC patients. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were collected to estimate the correlation between XRCC1 and the survival outcomes of HNSCC patients.Results: Ten studies including 2086 HNSCC patients who satisfied the inclusion and exclusion criteria were included in this meta-analysis. The meta-analysis showed that high XRCC1 expression and Arg399Gln and Arg194Trp were significantly correlated with poorer overall survival (OS), with HRs of 1.97 (95% CI, 1.36–2.84, P<0.001), 1.30 (95% CI, 1.12–1.51, P<0.001), and 1.65 (95% CI, 1.18–2.32 P<0.05), respectively.Conclusion: XRCC1 was associated with poorer survival outcomes in HNSCC patients. Hence, XRCC1 is a potential therapeutic target for HNSCC.
Morphotype Classification Criteria, Nomenclature of Shea Varieties [Vitellaria Paradoxa (C.F. Gaertn)], And Influence of Sociocultural Factors on Perceived Shea Natural Variation Across Parklands in Benin
Authors: Merinosy Michée Fustelle F. , Achigan-Dako Enoch Gbenato , Gnanglè Paul Césaire , Kassa Eugène , Boffa Jean-Marc
Published: July 2021

Background: Local knowledge and perception are crucial to undertake the domestication of useful species such as Vitellaria paradoxa that makes significant contribution to rural household economy in Africa. This study aims to document shea morphotypes diversity based on folk knowledge especially the main criteria farmers used to distinguish shea trees and to examine the influence of sociodemographic characteristics on that knowledge. Methods: 405 respondents were surveyed across shea parklands in Benin using semi-structured questionnaire. We used the relative citation frequency of criteria followed by Kruskal-Wallis test to evaluate the influence of sociodemographic attributes on local knowledge of Shea morphotypes variation. Factorial Correspondence Analysis described the links between the different morphotypes and parklands, and Principal Components Analysis was used to characterize farmers perception on morphotypes’ abundance, fruits and butter yields. Results: Respondents identified 13 morphotypes based on the five most cited criteria which are fruit size (55.5%), tree fertility (15.40%), bark colour (10.51%), timing of production (5.38%) and pulp taste (3.42%). The citation frequency of classification criteria varied significantly depending on the age, the education level and the sociolinguistic group of the respondent. The Bembèrèkè zone shea parkland revealed higher diversity of morphotypes traits. The small fruit type (‘Yanki’) was reported to be widespread. It produces higher fruit and butter yields according to respondents. Conclusions: From our findings, farmers perceived an important diversity of shea traits that are used to classify morphotypes with economic or sociocultural importance. The revelation of that natural variation in shea tree is a key step toward the development of shea improvement program that could focus on the morphotype Yanki reported to be potentially high in fruit production and butter yield.
The Evaluation of Five Commercial Bacteriophage Cocktail Against Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus Isolated From Nasal Swab Samples
Authors: Erol Hilal Basak , Kaskatepe Banu , Bakkaloglu Zekiye , Yildiz Serap Suzuk
Published: July 2021

Infections due to methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) are a growing concern for public health resulting in increase in morbidity, length of hospital stay, and cost of treatment. MRSA nasal-swab screening may give clinicians additional information for decision of empiric antimicrobial agents. While increasing antibiotic resistance leads to new treatment approaches, bacteriophages are one of the most promising methods for these alternatives. It was aimed to determine the effectiveness of bacteriophages against MRSA isolates. Nasal swab samples were collected from outpatients without any evidence of infection who applied to Hatay, Mersin and Gaziantep family and immigration health centers. A series (35) were isolate from Turkish patients, G series (64) were isolated from Syrian immigrants. Methicillin resistance were determined by phenotypically and genotypically. Also, antibiotic susceptibilities of all isolates were determined against erythromycin, clindamycin, gentamicin, linezolid, rifampicin, and mupirosin. The total antimicrobial resistance rates of isolates were found 11%, 28%, 8%, 5%, 16%, 19%, and 29% respectively. The high susceptibility rate against ciprofloxacin (88.8%) was remarkable. The overall susceptibility of MRSA strains to ENKO, INTESTI, PYO, SES, and STAPHYLOCOCCAL bacteriophages was 67.7%, 55.5%, 53.5%, 61.6% and 44.4%, respectively. The antibiotic susceptibility rates (except erythromycin), and efficacy of bacteriophages were higher in group A. Considering that high efficacy rates were not achieved in the study and the sensitivity rates of Turkish isolates to all phages were found higher than Syrian isolates, searching for phages in the geography where the pathogen is common, may be helpful to obtain suitable phages for treatment.
2 μm Passively Mode-Locked Thulium-doped Fiber Lasers with Ta2AlC-deposited Tapered, Side- polished and D-shaped Fibers
Authors: Ahmad H. , Azri M. F. M. , Ramli R. , Samion M. Z. , Yusoff N. , Lim K. S.
Published: July 2021

In this work, mode-locked thulium-doped fiber lasers operating in the 2 µm wavelength region were demonstrated using tantalum aluminum carbide (Ta2AlC)-based saturable absorbers (SAs) utilizing the evanescent wave interaction. The Ta2AlC MAX Phase was prepared by dissolving the Ta2AlC powder in isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and then deposited onto three different evanescent field-based devices, which were the tapered fiber, side-polished fiber (SPF), and D-shaped fiber. Flame-brushing and wheel-polishing techniques were used to fabricate the tapered and D-shaped fibers, respectively, while the side-polished fiber was purchased commercially. All three SA devices generated stable mode-locked pulses at center wavelengths of 1937, 1931, and 1929 nm for the tapered, side-polished, and D-shaped fibers. The frequency of the mode-locked pulses was 10.73 MHz for the tapered fiber, 9.58 MHz for the side-polished fiber, and 10.16 MHz for the D-shaped fiber. The measured pulse widths were 1.678, 1.734, and 1.817 ps for each of the three SA devices. The long-term stability of the mode-locked lasers was tested for each configuration over a 2-hour duration. The lasers also showed little to no fluctuations in the center wavelengths and the peak optical intensities, demonstrating a reliable, ultrafast laser system.
Screening of Unruptured Intracranial Aneurysms in 50 to 60-year-old Female Smokers – a Pilot Study
Authors: Huhtakangas Justiina , Numminen Jussi , Pekkola Johanna , Niemelä Mika , Korja Miikka
Published: July 2021

Background: The prevalence of unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIAs) is around 2 to 3% in the general population. We hypothesized that the prevalence of small UIAs is higher among 50 to 60-year-old female smokers, since the incidence of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is exceptionally high in 60 to 70-year-old female smokers. Methods: Ethics approval for this pilot study of 50 women was obtained from the hospital ethics committee. In order to minimize recruitment bias, preliminary invitation letters were sent to 50 to 60-year-old women who were known to be active smokers. Those interested in participating were further informed about the study rationale and protocol. Following written consent, participants filled a detailed questionnaire and underwent computed tomography angiography (CTA) analysis. All abnormalities were recorded. Results: Of the 158 preliminary invitation letters, 70 potential participants initially replied. Of these, 50 returned questionnaires and written consents, 43 of which underwent CTA analysis. Most (39; 91%) were postmenopausal, and 9 (21%) were hypertensive. Two reported a family history (≥ 1 first-degree members) of intracranial aneurysms. UIAs (maximum sizes of 2, 2, 3, 3 and 7 mm) were found in five (12%) female smokers. One woman was operated on, and the remaining four were treated with non-invasive preventive actions (smoking cessation and follow-ups). Conclusion: Small UIAs, which may be best suited for non-invasive preventive actions, may be relatively common in 50 to 60-year-old female smokers. Whether this kind of targeted screening leads to improved health in female smokers requires further investigation.
Transcriptome Insights into the Effect of Sterigmatocystin on Growth and Aflatoxin B1 Production by Aspergillus Flavus
Authors: Zhao Yarong , Zeng Rui , Chen Peirong , Wang Xu
Published: July 2021

Aspergillus flavus (A. flavus) is an important fungus that produces aflatoxins, of which aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is the most toxic and prone to contaminating food. This leads to economic losses in agricultural products and human health risks. Sterigmatocystin (STC) is a precursor in the metabolic biosynthesis of AFB1. In this study growth of A. flavus was not affected by the presence of STC, but AFB1 production was inhibited at certain concentrations. To uncover the mechanism, transcriptomic profiles of A. flavus in the presence or absence of STC were evaluated in PDB. A total of 3377 differentially-expressed genes were identified; 1182 were up-regulated and 2195 were down-regulated. GO function and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis indicated that these genes were mainly involved in the organization and biosynthesis of cellular components, organelle part, organelle division, macromolecular compound functions; the main pathway was valine, leucine and isoleucine synthesis and aflatoxin synthesis. The clustered genes responsible for AFB1 biosynthesis were down-regulated to different degrees; norB expression was completely suppressed in the experimental group. This study provides new insights into control of A. flavus and the mechanisms regulating mycotoxin production.
A generalizable framework for spatially explicit exploration of soil carbon sequestration on global marginal land
Authors: Albers Ariane , Avadí Angel , Hamelin Lorie
Published: July 2021

Designing land-based climate stabilisation strategies demands changes in land use management or new areas to grow biomass sustainably, without reducing food supply or damaging natural ecosystems. Here we integrated, into a generalizable framework, the mapping of a set of biophysical (climatic and edaphic) and land conservation constraints to identify the pairing of target areas with suitable plant species, and quantify their contributions to long-term soil carbon sequestration, including losses from rain-driven erosion. The proposed framework represents a refinement to previous global mapping exercises, which seldom consider pedo-climatic constraints, plant species tolerances and world protected areas. We demonstrated the applicability of the framework through a global case study by mapping target areas featuring low soil organic carbon stocks (≤50 t SOC ha-1) and producing quantifiable soil carbon sequestration potentials of best matches. Preliminary target areas were mapped at a 30 arc-sec resolution, and then consolidated per geographical and environmental boundaries (geopolitical world regions x global ecological zones).
Unravelling the Mechanisms of Electromagnetically Induced Absorption and Transparency in Open Degenerate Multilevel System: Effects of Neighboring Transitions
Authors: Jadoon Zeeshan Ali Safdar , Noh Heung-Ryoul , Kim Jin-Tae
Published: July 2021

Optical Bloch equations with and without neighboring hyperfine states near the degenerate two-level system (DTLS) in the challenging case of 85Rb D2 transition that involves the Doppler broadening effect are solved herein. The calculated spectra agree well with the experimental results obtained using the coupling-probe scheme with orthogonal linear polarizations of the coupling and probe fields. The mechanisms of electromagnetically induced absorption (electromagnetically induced transparency) for the open Fg = 3 → Fe = 2 and 3 transitions (open Fg = 2 → Fe = 2 and 3 transitions) are clearly determined to be the effect of the strong closed Fg = 3 → Fe = 4 transition line (strong closed Fg = 2 → Fe = 1 transition line) based on the comparisons of the calculated absorption profiles of a DTLS without neighboring states and those of all levels with neighboring states depending on the coupling and probe power ratios. The crucial factors established based on comparisons of the calculated absorption profiles of DTLS with and without neighboring states, which enhance or reduce coherence effects and result in transformation between electromagnetically induced absorption and electromagnetically induced transparency, are the power ratios between coupling and probe beams, openness of the excited state, and effects of the neighboring states due to the Doppler broadening in a real atomic system.
Relationship Between The Dynamics of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Incident Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Shin Han-Bit , Ahn Young Hwan , Cho Hyo Jung , Cheong Jae Youn , Park Bumhee , Kim Soon Sun , Han Ji Eun
Published: July 2021

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the association between changes in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) over time and risk of incident diabetes mellitus (DM). In total, 3,047 subjects without underlying DM were followed up for 14 years from the Anseong-Ansan cohort. NAFLD status was determined biennially using the hepatic steatosis index (HSI), and subjects were clustered into seven groups according to changes in HSI, body mass index (BMI), and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR): non-, persistent, transient, transient resolved, resolved, incident, and recurrent NAFLD (Groups 1–7, respectively). Predictive abilities were compared between the dynamics of HSI and single time points. Regarding the changes in HSI, the risk of incident DM was highest in Group 2 (hazard ratio [HR], 2.710; P < 0.001), followed by Groups 7 (HR, 2.062; P < 0.001) and 3 (HR, 1.559; P = 0.027). The predictive ability for DM was powerful in order of HOMA-IR, HSI and BMI. The dynamics of NAFLD were less predictive of incident DM than single time-point NAFLD. In conclusion, NAFLD is more useful than BMI in predicting incident DM. However, NAFLD status at single time points can better predict incident DM than dynamic changes in HSI.
Structural and optical properties of Cr doped AlN thin films before and after ions implantation
Authors: Asmat Asmat Ullah , Usman Muhammad , Shar Altaf Hussain
Published: July 2021

Thin films of Chromium (Cr) doped Aluminum Nitride (AlN) have been prepared by radio frequency magnetron sputtering technique at room temperature and pressure conditions in a Nitrogen (N) atmosphere. One of the samples was left as-deposited and the other was irradiated with proton at a fluence of 1x1014 ions/cm2 at a dose of 335 keV. The impact of ions doping on the structural and optical characteristics were investigated systematically. RBS and XRD were utilized to study the stoichiometry, thickness and structural information of the thin films respectively. FTIR was utilized to understand the bonding chemistry of the specimens. We concluded that the optical properties of the thin films have been changed selectively with irradiation leaving by structural unaltered.
Formation Mechanism of Al2O3-YAG Amorphous Ceramic Coating Deposited via Atmospheric Plasma Spraying
Authors: Zhang Zheyi , Ai Yizhaotong , Zhong Xinghua , Zhuang Yin , Sheng Jing , Ni Jinxing , Tao Shunyan , Yang Kai
Published: July 2021

This study mainly investigated the formation mechanism of Al2O3-YAG(Al5Y3O12) amorphous coating prepared by atmospheric plasma spraying. Nano and micro-sized powders with low eutectic point ratio were selected as raw materials for comparison. XRD, SEM and EBSD were used to analyze the phase composition, morphologies, phase distribution and structure of the coating. The crystal structures of the possible existed phases were studied to analyze the crystallization chemistry of powder droplets. It is concluded that the composition ratio of powders and particle size should be also considered as the key factors for the preparation of amorphous coatings besides the high enthalpy and ultra-fast cooling rate of thermal spray technology. The as-sprayable powder chose multiple components with low eutectic point ratio distributed uniformly at nano-scale or sub-micro scale, and can reacted to form the new phase crystal with high coordination numbers of cations.
Realizing the Air Joining of ZrO2 Ceramics Through Al Metal
Authors: Yan Yaotian , Xu Tianxiong , Liu Baishen , Qiao Liang , Qin Shaohua , Cao Jian , Qi Junlei
Published: July 2021

The interfacial behaviors of the filler metal and base material have always been the key issues for ceramics joining. Herein, we reveal that the Al metal prefers to spread on the ZrO2 based ceramic under the air heating condition, due to the geometric limit effects by in-situ formed dense Al2O3 surface. Inspired by this, the joining of ZrO2 based ceramics was realized in air with Al metal as filler, due to the diffusion of Al towards ceramic side. The Al element can induce obvious interfacial bonding effect towards Al2O3 layer and ZrO2 ceramic, where the hybridization among the Al-p, Zr-d and O-p orbitals plays a key role. The in-situ formed Al2O3 layer on Al filler surface is vital for forming the fine interface (shear strength of ~36 MPa), which results in the relief of lattice mismatch and peak stress at ceramic-filler metal transition interface.
Sequential Treatment of Severe Airway Stenosis Caused by Esophageal Cancer by Using Airway Stent Implantation and Arterial Infusion Chemotherapy
Authors: Xie Pengfei , Wang Shuai , He Wei , Yin Meipan , Li Chunxia , Li Zhen , Li Xiaobing , Ma Yaozhen , Yang Guang , Wu Gang
Published: July 2021

Purpose: This study was aimed at investigating the safety and efficacy of airway stent implantation and transarterial infusion chemotherapy for the treatment of severe airway stenosis caused by esophageal cancer. Methods: Data of patients with advanced esophageal cancer complicated by severe airway stenosis treated with airway stent implantation and transarterial infusion chemotherapy were retrospectively analyzed. Furthermore, dyspnea, clinical efficacy, adverse reactions, and survival were evaluated. Results: Of the 71 patients included, 28, 43, 34, 35, and 2 patients had grade III dyspnea, grade IV dyspnea before airway stenting, grade I dyspnea, grade III dyspnea, and grade III dyspnea after airway stenting, respectively. After airway stent implantation and 1–3 courses of transarterial infusion chemotherapy, complete response, partial response, and stable disease were noted in 11, 41, and 19 patients, respectively. Total objective response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR) were 73.2% and 100.0%, respectively. During follow-up, 32, 24, and 10 patients died of organ failure, tumor-related respiratory failure, and gastrointestinal bleeding, respectively. The median survival time was 8 months, and the 1-year survival rate was 40.8%.Conclusions: Airway stent implantation combined with arterial infusion chemotherapy is safe and effective in the sequential treatment of esophageal cancer with severe airway stenosis.