bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in and Prognostic Impact of Chemotherapeutic Strategy in Patients With Advanced Gastric Cancer: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Arigami Takaaki , Matsushita Daisuke , Okubo Keishi , Tanaka Takako , Sasaki Ken , Noda Masahiro , Tsuruda Yusuke , Kita Yoshiaki , Mori Shinichiro , Kurahara Hiroshi , Uenosono Yoshikazu , Ohtsuka Takao
Published: February 2021

Background: The Japanese Gastric Cancer Treatment Guidelines 2018 have recommended first- to third-line treatment regimens after nivolumab approval for unresectable advanced gastric cancer. However, the clinical impact of chemotherapeutic changes, including post-progression chemotherapy (PPC), remains unclear. Therefore, the current study aimed to investigate changes in PPC before and after nivolumab approval and determine their prognostic impact.Methods: A total of 146 patients with unresectable gastric cancer who had at least progressive disease after first- and/or second-line chemotherapy were retrospectively enrolled. All patients were divided into two groups based on the nivolumab approval period.Results: Among the 146 patients, 46 and 23 received ramucirumab and nivolumab, respectively. Moreover, 95 and 62 patients received PPC after first- and second-line chemotherapy, respectively. Group B (i.e., at least chemotherapy after nivolumab approval) had significantly higher proportions of patients receiving ramucirumab therapy, nivolumab therapy, and PPC after first- or second-line chemotherapy compared to group A (i.e., termination of chemotherapy before nivolumab approval) (all p < 0.0001). Group A had significantly poorer prognosis than group B (p = 0.0002). Multivariate analysis showed that age (< 70 vs. ³ 70), number of distant metastatic sites (1 vs. ³ 2), and ramucirumab therapy were independent prognostic factors (p = 0.0252, p = 0.0036, and p = 0.0076, respectively).Conclusion: Our retrospective study demonstrated that changes in chemotherapeutic strategy might contribute to improved prognosis in patients with advanced gastric cancer.
Maternal Separation Impairs Mother’s Cognition One Month Beyond The Separation
Authors: Joushi Sara , Taherizadeh Zahra , Borzadaran Fatemeh Mohtashami , Francis-Oliveira José , Esmaeilpour Khadije , Sheibani Vahid
Published: February 2021

Background: Separation of pups from their dam during the infancy not only has detrimental effects on the pups’ brain but also affects dams’ behavior. Postpartum stress may affect mothers’ cognitive functions. In the present study, by using a 180 min/day maternal separation (MS) paradigm, we assessed anxiety- like behavior (in the elevated plus maze) and locomotor activity (in the open field) of rat dams which experienced separation from postnatal day (PND) 1 until weaning. Since no study has ever investigated MS effects on spatial learning and memory of dams in the Morris water maze, we tried for the first time to clarify whether such separation impairs dam’s performance in the Morris water maze. Methods:We assessed dams’ behavior at three time points; 24 hours, 1 week and 1 month after weaning. Therefore, the six groups consisted of control (CTRL); 24h, 1week and 1month and MS; 24h, 1week and 1month was allocated in this study.Results: Our results revealed that although MS-24h and MS-1week groups had intact locomotor activity, MS-1month group showed less locomotor activity in the open field. Moreover, MS induced anxiety–like behavior was more pronounced in MS-1week and MS-1month dams. Spatial learning and memory was also impaired only in MS-1month dams. Conclusions: We can conclude that MS induces cognitive impairments in dam that may appear not immediately after the separation, but a few weeks after such stressful event.
Enhanced Virulence of Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis ATCC13076 under Acid Stress by Global Transcriptomics
Authors: Bai Hong , Zhou Donggen , Hu Shuangfang , Zhang Xiaowei , Liu Qijun , Xiao Xinglong , Yu Yigang , Li Xiaofeng
Published: February 2021

Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis is a primary pathogen causing foodborne diseases and intestinal inflammatory responses. Acid tolerance response (ATR), as a strategy of adaption and resistance to acid stress, may contribute to enhanced virulence. In this study, there was a moderately acid adaption (pH 5.0) for S. Enteritidis cells prior to treatment with acid stress (pH 3.0). To figure out whether S. Enteritidis up-regulated the virulence or not, a global transcriptomic analysis was carried out by high-throughout RNA-sEq. The results showed 74 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) involved in virulence were identified after acid stress, among which, 62 DEGs were up-regulated and 12 DEGs were down-regulated. Afterwards, those virulence-linked DEGs were discussed and classified into four aspects based on the steps of infection, including flagellar functions, fimbrial adhesins, T3SS-mediated invasion and other virulent determinants. In conclusion, S. Enteritidis seemed to exhibit a trend of virulent genes towards high-expression under acid stress, revealing risks of Salmonella in acid-containing food. To our knowledge, there were few studies on comprehensively analyzing virulent genes expression changes of Salmonella, but it’s novel to put forward pathogenicity as the highest priority under acid environment.
Vulnerability Analysis of Tailings Dam Failure Based on DEMATEL-ISM
Authors: Wang Jiahe Wang , Zheng Binbin , Wang Jiahe
Published: February 2021

To effectively reduce the risk of tailings dam failure accident, the vulnerability risk of tailings dam failure was systematically analyzed by using the analysis method of Decision-making Trial and Laboratory (DEMATEL) combined with the Interpretative Structural Modeling Method (ISM). A dam failure impact factor evaluation index system was constructed, and the DEMATEL method was used to study the mutual influence relationship between risk factors and determine the key risk factors and outcome factors; the ISM method was used to divide the hierarchy of each influence factor and determine the comprehensive influence relationship of risk factors, and then the tailings dam failure risk evolution model was established. The results show that: whether the dam construction material meets the specification (X6), insufficient safety superelevation (X11), the reservoir water level (X16), and the flood discharge capacity of the flood discharge facility (X17) are direct factors, which directly lead to the occurrence of dam failure; the professional quality of safety personnel (X3), the depth of the infiltration line (X13) and a series of other factors are intermediate factors, which conduct and accumulate the risk; slope instability (X25) and the seismic intensity (X34) are essential causal factors. The key control and prevention of the essential factors can help to reduce the risk of dam failure from the root. The results of the study can provide a better perspective and direction for reducing the occurrence of dam failure accidents.
The Expression and Roles of the Super Elongation Complex in Mouse Cochlear Lgr5+ Progenitor Cells
Authors: Chen Yin , Qiang Ruiying , Zhang Yuan , Cao Wei , Wu Leilei , Jiang Pei , Ai Jingru , Ma Xiangyu , Dong Ying , Gao Xia , Li He , Lu Ling , Zhang Shasha , Chai Renjie
Published: February 2021

Background: The super elongation complex (SEC) has been reported to play a key role in the proliferation and differentiation of mouse embryonic stem cells. However, the expression pattern and function of the SEC in the inner ear has not been investigated.Methods: Here, we measured the expression of the three key SEC subunits AFF1, AFF4, and ELL3. We also used Lgr5-EGFP-Ires-CreERT2 mice to isolate the Lgr5+ progenitors via flow cytometry to evaluate the effect of the SEC on the proliferation and differentiation ability of Lgr5+ progenitors.Results: We studied the inner ear expression pattern of three key SEC components, AFF1, AFF4 and ELL3, and found that these three proteins are all expressed in both cochlear hair cells and supporting cells. We also cultured Lgr5+ inner ear progenitors in vitro for sphere-forming assays and differentiation assays in the presence of the SEC inhibitor flavopiridol. We found that flavopiridol treatment decreased the proliferation ability of Lgr5+ progenitors, while the differentiation ability of Lgr5+ progenitors was not affected.Conclusions: Our results suggest that the SEC might play important roles in regulating inner ear progenitors and thus regulating hair cell regeneration. Therefore, it will be very meaningful to further investigate the detailed roles of the SEC signaling pathway in the inner ear in vivo in order to develop effective treatments for sensorineural hearing loss.
FNC Inhibits Proliferation and Metastasis of Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer in Vivo and In Vitro
Authors: Jing Xiang , Niu Shuai , Liang Yi , Chen Huiping , Wang Ning , Peng Youmei , Ma Fang , Yue Wanying , Wang Qingduan , Chang Junbiao , Zhang Yi , Zhang Yan
Published: February 2021

Background: Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is associated with the highest morbidity and mortality rate, and chemotherapy is the primary therapy for NSCLC. However, the clinical outcome is still far from satisfactory. This study aimed to determine the effects and mechanisms of FNC on NSCLC. Results: FNC, 2'-deoxy-2'-β-fluoro-4'-azidocytidine, is a novel cytidine analogue, inhibits the proliferation and metastasis of H460 cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner in vitro. Mechanistically, treatment of H460 cells with FNC inhibits Bcl-2 expression and potentiates Cytochrome C (Cyt-C) release, Bax and caspase-3 expression. In parallel, FNC inhibits tumor migration, invasion and metastasis in H460 cells by increasing E-cadherin protein levels and reducing the expression of VEGF, MMP-2, MMP-9 proteins. And murine models and mouse xenograft models also proved that FNC could significantly inhibit NSCLC tumor growth and metastasis with low toxicity. Finally, we also discovered that inhibition of DNMT3B expression is one of the important mechanisms of FNC inhibiting proliferation and metastasis of NSCLC cells. Conclusions: FNC induces apoptosis through the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway and represses tumor progression by targeting multiple proteins related to cell adhesion and invasion in vitro and in vivo. Meanwhile, FNC was involved in regulating DNA methylation. In summary, our results support the further development of FNC as potential therapeutics for clinical non-small cell lung cancer.
Support Mechanisms for Research Generation and Application for Post–Graduate Students in Four Universities in Uganda
Authors: OBUKU Ekwaro A. , APUNYO Robert , MBABAZI Gladys , MAFIGIRI David K , KARAMAGI Charles , SENGOOBA Freddie , LAVIS John N , SEWANKAMBO Nelson K
Published: February 2021

BackgroundPost–graduate students world over complete a research thesis in partial fulfillment of their degree requirements. This study identified and evaluated support mechanisms for research generation and utilization for masters’ students in health institutions of higher learning in Uganda. MethodsA self administered cross–sectional survey using a modified Self Assessment Tool for Research Institutions (SATORI). Post–graduate students were requested to encircle the most appropriate response in a Likert scale from 1 where the ‘situation was unfavorable and/or there was a need for an intervention’; to 5 where the ‘situation was good or needed no intervention’. These questions were asked under four domains: the ‘research question’; ‘knowledge production’; ‘knowledge transfer’ and ‘promoting use of evidence’. Mean scores of individual questions and aggregate means under the four domains were computed; and then compared to identify areas of strengths and gaps that required action.ResultsMost of the respondents returned their questionnaires, 185 of 258 (71.7%) and only 79 (42.7%) had their theses submitted for examination. Three of the four domains scored below the mid–level domain score of 3, that is “the situation is neither favorable nor unfavorable”, table 2. Specifically, the domain of “Proposal development for post-graduate research project” had the highest mean score of 3.53 out of the maximum 5. Areas requiring substantial improvements were, priority setting during “Research question identification”, which had the least mean score of 2.12. This was followed by “promoting use of post–graduate research products”, tying at 2.28 mean scores each. The domain, “Knowledge transfer of post-graduate research products”, had an above average mean score that is 2.75.Conclusions﻿This study reports that existing research support mechanisms for post–graduate students in Uganda encourage access to supervisors and mentors. Secondly, post–graduate students engagement with research users was limited, as was awareness of intellectual property rights. Views of supervisors and mentors were not captured, a subject for future research.
Candidate gene analysis of watermelon stripe pattern locus ClSP ongoing recombination suppression
Authors: Yue Zhen , Ma Rongxue , Cheng Denghu , Yan Xing , He Yaping , Wang Chunxia , Pan Xiaona , Yin Lijuan , Zhang Xian , Wei Chunhua
Published: February 2021

Stripe pattern is an important commodity trait in watermelon, displaying diverse types. In this study, two segregating populations were generated for genetic mapping the single dominant locus ClSP, which was finally delimited to a 611.78 Kb interval with suppression of recombination. According to polymorphism sites detected among genotypes, four discrete haploblocks were characterized in this target region. Based on reference genomes, 81 predicted genes were annotated in the ClSP interval, including seven transcription factors namely as candidate No1-No7. Meanwhile, the ortholog gene of cucumber ist responsible for the irregular stripes was considered as candidate No8. Strikingly, gene structures of No1-No5 completely varied from their reference descriptions and subsequently re-annotated. Notably, the adjacent distribution candidates No2 and No3, as well as No4 and No5, were confirmed to derive from longer transcripts designated as No2_3 and No4_5, respectively. Sequence analysis demonstrated the third polymorphism in CDS of re-annotated No4_5 resulting in truncated proteins in non-stripe plants. Furthermore, only No4_5 was down-regulated in non-stripes relative to stripes contrast to other candidates. Transcriptome analysis identified 356 DEGs between striped and non-striped peels, with genes involved in photosynthesis and chloroplast development down-regulated in non-stripes but calcium ion binding related genes up-regulated. Additionally, 38 DEGs were annotated as transcription factors, with the majority up-regulated in non-stripes, such as ERFs and WRKYs. This study not only contributes to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying watermelon stripe development, but also provides new insight into the genomic structure of ClSP locus and valuable candidates.
Experimental Investigations to Analyze Surface Contact Fatigue Wear by Using a Dynamic Response of the Roller Bearing System
Authors: Pandey Shashikant , Muniyappa Amarnath
Published: February 2021

Bearings are used to reduce friction between two rolling /sliding members of the machines. Under normal operating conditions, an increase in the fatigue load cycles on the bearing contact surfaces results in surface defects viz. micro pitting, macro pitting, spalling and scuffing, thereby causing lubricant degradation. Hence, to maintain a better operating performance of rotating machines, it is essential to keep track of operating parameters. This paper describes the results of experimental investigations carried out to assess wear propagation on bearing contact surfaces using tribological and vibration parameters. Results obtained from experimental investigations provide a good correlation between the increase in surface fatigue wear and corresponding effects on transition in lubrication regimes, increased vibration levels, variations in rheological properties of lubricant and wear mechanisms developed on the contact surfaces of the roller bearing. The proposed approach can be used as a promising tool to assess incipient faults developed in roller bearing.
The Effectiveness of Salavadora Persica (Siwak) Petroleum Ether Extract As An Intracanal Medicament Used in Endodontic Therapy: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Ayoub Nahla , Badr Nadia , Alghamdi Saeed , Alzahrani Arwa , Alsulimani Rahaf , Nassar Afnan , Qadi Rawabi , Swilam Noha , Afifi Ibtesam
Published: February 2021

Background: Salvadora persica L. (Siwak) of the family Salvadoraceae has been used for many centuries as oral hygiene tools, particularly in Saudi Arabia. The current study aimed at developing a new root canal medicament based on the extract of Salvadora persica (SP). The antibacterial activity against Enterococcus faecalis was determined compared with the gold standard intracanal medicament, Ca (OH)2. Materials and Methods: Freeze-dried Siwak sticks were extracted with Petroleum ether to yield an oily extract (SPE). GC-MS analysis was carried out to identify SPE components, whereas 32 compounds were identified (89.09%), with main components of benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC) (33.32%) and steroids (34%). Firstly, the consistency of the experimental medicament was accomplished according to ANSI/ADA Specification no 57. SPE assessment as intracanal medicament was conducted through an in vitro assay on 45 single-rooted mandibular premolars inoculated of 5 μL of E. faecalis. Colony-forming units (CFU) were counted before the application of experimental intracanal medicament (CFU-1) and then after seven days of its application (CFU-2). Group I: Siwak extract-based intracanal medicament, Group II positive control group received Ca(OH)2 paste, and Group III: negative control group received no medication. Results: CFU before and after using Siwak based medicament recorded statistically significant reduction (P=0.006) as well as those of Group II when Ca(OH)2 was applied (P=0.01). On comparing both medicaments with Group III, there were significant differences; (P=0.00) and (P=0.007), respectively. Siwak oil extract-based medication proved complete eradication of E. faecalis.Conclusion: SPE has a good potential as an intracanal medicament, besides the cleaning and shaping during endodontic therapy. This finding could be referred to as the high content of BITC bactericidal against pulpal and periodontal pathogens, in synergism with other antimicrobial components, representing 70.71% of SP oil extract.
Leveraging GWAS Data Derived From a Large Cooperative Group Trial to Identify a SNP Cluster Associated With the Risk of Taxane-induced Peripheral Neuropathy
Authors: Lustberg Maryam , Wu Xuan , Fernández-Martínez Juan Luis , de Andrés-Galiana Enrique J. , Philips Santosh , Leibowitz Jeffrey , Schneider Bryan , Sonis Stephen
Published: February 2021

BackgroundChemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a common toxicity of taxanes for which there is no effective intervention. Genomic CIPN risk determination has yielded promising, but inconsistent results. The present study assessed the utility of a collective SNP cluster identified using novel analytic to describe taxane-associated CIPN risk.MethodsWe analyzed GWAS data derived from ECOG-5103, first identifying SNPs that were most strongly associated with CIPN using Fisher’s ratio. We then ranked ordered those SNPs which discriminated CIPN-positive from CIPN-negative phenotypes based on their discriminatory power and developed the cluster of SNPs which provided the highest predictive accuracy using leave-one-out cross validation (LOOCV).ResultsUsing GWAS aggregate data, we identified a 267 SNP cluster which was associated with a CIPN+ phenotype with an accuracy of 96.1%. ConclusionsIdentification of a 267 SNP cluster could accurately predict CIPN risk. Validation using an independent patient cohort should be performed.
Innate and early immune responses to Yersinia ruckeri in the spleen of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Wang Di , Sun Simeng , Li Shaowu , Lu Tongyan , Shi Dongfang
Published: February 2021

Background: Yersinia ruckeri is a pathogen that can cause enteric redmouth disease in salmonid species, damaging global production of economically important fish including rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). Herein, we conducted the transcriptomic profiling of spleen samples from rainbow trout at 24 h post-Y. ruckeri infection via RNA-seq in an effort to more fully understand their immunological responses. Results: We identified 2498 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), of which 2083 and 415 were up- and down-regulated, respectively. We then conducted a more in-depth assessment of 78 DEGs associated with the immune system including CCR9, CXCL11, IL-1β, CARD9, IFN, CASP8, NF-κB, NOD1, TLR8α2, HSP90, and MAPK11, revealing these genes to be associated with 20 different immunological KEGG pathways including the Cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, Toll-like receptor signaling, RIG-I-like receptor signaling, NOD-like receptor signaling, and MAPK signaling pathways. Additionally, the differential expression of 8 of these DEGs was validated by a qPCR approach and their immunological importance was then discussed. Conclusions: Our findings provide preliminary insight regarding the innate and early immune responses of rainbow trout following Y. ruckeri infection and the base for future studies of host-pathogen interactions in rainbow trout.
Genome Instability-related Long Non-coding RNA in Clear Renal Cell Carcinoma Determined using Computational Biology
Authors: Wang Yutao , Yan Kexin , Bi Jianbin
Published: February 2021

There is evidence that long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) is related to genetic stability. However, the complex biological functions of these lncRNAs are unclear. In the present study, we applied computational biology to identify genome-related long noncoding RNA and identified 26 novel genomic instability-associated lncRNAs in clear cell renal cell carcinoma. We identified a genome instability-derived six lncRNA-based gene signature that significantly divided clear renal cell samples into high-and low-risk groups. We validated it in test cohorts. Based on the above analysis, we identified six lncRNAs related to clear cell carcinoma outcomes and genome stability based on computational biology. To further elucidate the role of the six lncRNAs in the model's genome stability, we performed a gene set variation analysis (GSVA) on the matrix. We performed Pearson correlation analysis between the GSVA scores of genomic stability-related pathways and lncRNA. It was determined that LINC00460 and LINC01234 could be used as critical factors in this study. They may influence the genome stability of clear cell carcinoma by participating in mediating critical targets in the base excision repair pathway, the DNA replication pathway, homologous recombination, mismatch repair pathway, and the P53 signaling pathway. These data suggest that LINC00460 and LINC01234 are crucial for the stability of the clear cell renal cell carcinoma genome.
The Role of Weed Seed Contamination in Grain Commodities as Propagule Pressure
Authors: Ikeda Mafumi , Nishi Takeshi , Asai Motoaki , Muranaka Takashi , Konuma Akihiro , Tominaga Tohru , Shimono Yoshiko
Published: February 2021

The international grain trade is a major pathway for the introduction of alien plants because grain commodities can be contaminated with various weed seeds. To evaluate how alien weed seeds derived from imported grain commodities affect local vegetation in international trading ports, we conducted a vegetation survey on a set of grain landing ports and non-grain landing ports in nine regions throughout Japan to compare the vegetation between these two types of ports. We also surveyed weed seed contamination of wheat imported into Japan, and the contamination rate was calculated for each species based on our survey and previous studies on weed seed contamination. The vegetation clearly differed between the grain landing ports and the non-grain ports. In the grain landing ports, alien species were more abundant than in non-grain landing ports. All indicator species of the grain landing ports were reported to be contaminants in grain commodities. Furthermore, there was a tendency for the more abundant species at the grain landing ports to show higher contamination rates in grain commodities. These results indicate that contaminant seeds spill from imported grain in grain landing ports, and highly contaminated species are likely to become established. We clearly show that weed seed contamination in grain commodities plays an important role in propagule pressure. Gathering information about the prevalence of weeds in grain-exporting countries and monitoring the weed species composition in imported grain commodities is becoming increasingly important for predicting the unintentional introduction of troublesome weeds and identifying effective weed management options.
Computational Study on the Adsorption of H2SiCl2 by Pristine, Al-, and Ga-Doped Boron Nitride Nanosheets: A DFT Study
Authors: Mohammadi Mohsen Doust , abdullah hewa y
Published: February 2021

The density functional techniques (DFT) were put into practice to study the nature of the intermolecular interactions between Dichlorosilane (H2SiCl2) gas molecule with single-walled pristine, Al and Ga-doped boron nitride nanosheets (BNNS, BNAlNS, and BNGaNS, respectively). For performing optimization process, various functionals including PBE0, M06-2X, ωB97XD, and B3LYP-D3 were applied on both of the isolated and complex structures. All of the functionals were used together with split-valence triple-zeta basis sets with d-type Cartesian-Gaussian polarization functions (6-311G(d)). To consider the electronic structure, total density of state (DOS) analysis were employed. Natural bond orbital (NBO), quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM), and non-covalent interaction (NCI) analyses were also taken on board to discover the nature of intermolecular interactions between gas and nanosheets. The results of electronic structure calculations as well as population analyses has been carefully tabulated and partially depicted. The HOMO-LUMO energy gaps (HLG) were dramatically changed when the dopant atom added to the BNNS. It means the impurity can improve the sensivity and reactivity of the pristine nanosheet; therefore, by absorbing the H2SiCl2 onto the surface of the titled nanosheets, a salient signal can produce in a typical electronic circuit. Among all of the absorbents, BNGaNT shows the most favorable material to design a nanosensor for the studied gas molecule.
Evaluating the Presence of Paresthesia in Patients with Juxta-apical Radiolucency after Third Molar Surgery: A Case-control Study
Authors: Hasani Mahvash , Razavi Nasim , Haghnegahdar Abdolaziz , Zarifi Motahhareh
Published: February 2021

Background: Juxta-apical radiolucency (JAR) has been presented as a radiographic sign, suggestive of the IAN injury through third molar surgery. This study aimed to evaluate the relation of JAR with paresthesia in cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images and to determine whether the presence of JAR is related to tooth angulation, proximity to the mandibular canal, position to the IAN and thinning of the cortical plates.Methods: Of an initial sample of 545 mandibular third molars, a total of 75 JAR and 75 control teeth were evaluated by CBCT. The association of JAR with the IAN, position to IAN, lingual cortical plate thinning, and tooth angulation was investigated in this study. Temporary and permanent paresthesia were also examined in the subjects. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, and Fisher’s exact test were performed for statistical analysis.Results: A significant relationship was found between JAR and temporary paresthesia (P=0.034). However, there was no case of permanent paresthesia. JAR showed no significant relationship with the tooth angulation, cortical plate thinning, position to IAN and proximity to the mandibular canal. The lingual position of JAR relative to the mandibular canal was related to the presence of paresthesia in the JAR group. Also, most cases of paresthesia showed some degree of lingual cortical plate thinning (P=0.012). Conclusion: JAR is generally in contact with the mandibular canal, and some degree of cortical thinning can be found in most cases. In this study, JAR was significantly related to temporary paresthesia. The present findings may indicate the increased risk of nerve injury during the surgical removal of third molars.
Impact of Gestational Weight Gain on Maternal and Neonatal Clinical Outcomes: A Retrospective Cohort Study.
Authors: Hassan Mahmoud F. , Rund Nancy Mohammed Ali , Yehia Amr Helmy , Alghanimi Salha A. , Abdallah Enas A.A.
Published: February 2021

We aim to explore the association between gestational weight gain and adverse events during pregnancy. A retrospective study was conducted to evaluate the perinatal outcomes in singleton women whose weight gain during pregnancy was below, within, or above the 2009 Institute of Medicine's (IOM) guidelines, and delivered between 24 and 42 weeks’ gestation. GWG was derived using weight at delivery minus the pre-pregnancy or first trimester weight. Our results indicated that mothers with low GWG had increased odds of having small-for-gestational-age neonates (adjusted OR 1.202; 95% CI 1.031-1.403), and preterm birth (adjusted OR 2.03; 95% CI 1.769-2.439), but decreased odds of having macrosomia (adjusted OR 0.523; 95% CI 0.24-0.991). Meanwhile, mothers with GWG above the IOM recommendations had higher odds of having hypertensive disease of pregnancy (adjusted OR 2.07; 95% CI 1.314-3.535), gestational diabetes (adjusted OR 1.227; 95% CI 1.038-1.448), cesarean section (adjusted OR 1.34; 95% CI 1.279-1.512), induced labor (adjusted OR 1. 219; 95% CI 1.051-1.409), failure of induced labor (adjusted OR 1.432; 95% CI 1.03-1.992), macrosomia (adjusted OR 1.987; 95% CI 1.384-2.725), and shoulder dystocia (adjusted OR 1.715; 95% CI 1.292-2.18. In conclusion, GWG is an important predictor of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes during pregnancy.
Contraceptive situation and Influencing Factors in Guangdong Province: A comparative questionnaire study
Authors: JIANG FAN , Qu Yanxia , Lin Peixuan , Li Li , Xuan Qingshan , He Yaojuan , Zhang Aihua , Li Qingfeng
Published: February 2021

BackgroundThe aim of our study is to describe the status of induced abortion and contraceptive use in reproductive women and make clear the correlated factors in Guangdong province.MethodA self-administered questionnaire survey was conducted separately in 1839 individuals aged 18–49 and 900 health care providers from Guangdong province. The content of questionnaire was based on status of induced abortion and contraceptive use for the former and problems concerning contraceptive services for the latter. Systematic random sampling was used and data were analyzed using SPSS 19.0. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression were used in this study.Results30.61% of participants experienced the induced abortion. The rate of repeated abortion was 19.96% and it was 20.45% in persons under 20 years old. 18.23% of 1839 individuals chose LARC as the main contraceptive method. The females with college degree(Odds ratio, OR = 1.867; 95% confidence intervals 95%CI: 1.175–2.969), technologists(OR = 2.291; 95%CI: 1.063–4.936) and the persons whose monthly income were of between 3000–5000¥(OR = 1.920; 95%CI: 1.204–3.065) were more likely to use LARC. The younger females less than 30 years old and never using PAC services had lower odds of using LARC. The rate of post abortion care performance was merely 12.23%. Age, monthly income, occupation, living conditions and obtaining free contraceptives in time were all strongerly influence factors for the use of post-abortion care(P < 0.01). The satisfaction rate of free contraceptive services was about 57.44%. Variety uniformity, obtaining inconveniently and worrying about the quality were the main reasons. 66.22% of hospitals set up the department of family planning in our study. Highly work intensity(54.67%) and less leadership (40.22%) influenced health care providers to provide family planning services.ConclusionThe abortion rate was high especially in young women. There were many problems affecting contraceptive services which damaged women’reproductive health. Increasing government investment for family planning services, strengthening the construction of the family planning department and performing post abortion care and long-acting reversible contraception by taking relevant steps would be useful measures for improving current contraceptive status.
Oral Administration of Lactobacillus Rhamnosus Ameliorates the Progression of Osteoarthritis by Inhibiting Joint Pain and Inflammation
Authors: Jhun JooYeon , Cho Keun-Hyung , Lee Dong hwan , Kwon Ji Ye , Woo Jin Seok , Kim Jiyoung , Na Hyun Sik , Park Sung-Hwan , Kim Seok Jung , Cho Mi-La
Published: February 2021

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and age-related degenerative joint disorder, which adversely affects quality of life and causes disability. However, the pathogenesis of OA remains unclear. This study was performed to examine the effects of Lactobacillus rhamnosus in OA progression. OA was induced in 6-week-old male Wistar rats by monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) injection, and the effects of oral administration of L. rhamnosus were examined in this OA rat model. Pain severity, cartilage destruction, and inflammation were measured in MIA-induced OA rats. The intestines were isolated from OA rats, and the intestinal structure and inflammation were measured. Protein expression in the dorsal root ganglion was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. The effects of L. rhamnosus on mRNA and protein expression in chondrocytes stimulated with interleukin (IL)-1β and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Pain severity was decreased in L. rhamnosus-treated MIA-induced OA rats. The levels of expression of MCP-1, a potential inflammatory cytokine, and its receptor, CCR2, were decreased, and GABA and PPAR-γ expression were increased in L. rhamnosus-treated OA rats. The inflammation, as determined by IL-1β, and cartilage destruction, as determined by MMP3, were also significantly decreased by L. rhamnosus in OA rats. Intestinal damage and inflammation were also improved by L. rhamnosus. In human OA chondrocytes, TIMP1, TIMP3, SOX9 and COL2A1 which are tissue inhibitors of MMP, and IL-10, an anti-inflammatory cytokine, were increased by L. rhamnosus.L. rhamnosus treatment led to decreased pain severity and cartilage destruction in a rat model of OA. Intestinal destruction and inflammation were also decreased by L. rhamnosus treatment. Our findings suggested the therapeutic potential of L. rhamnosus in OA.
Serum Exosomal miRNAs as Biomarkers of Early Diagnosis and Progression in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Yang Qian , He Shulei , Huang Lu , Shao Ci , Nie Tiejian , Xia Li , Cui Bozhou , Lu Fangfang , Zhu Lin , Chen Bolin
Published: February 2021

BackgroundBlood-based test for disease progression and early diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a long awaited but unsolved key problem in the clinic. The profiles of microRNAs (miRNAs) are regarded as potential diagnostic biomarkers in human diseases whereas the miRNAs in the periphery are susceptible to the influence of various components. MiRNAs enriched in serum exosomes have revealed disease-specific advantages for the diagnosis due to their high abundance, stability and resistant to degradation. This study aimed to screen differentially expressed exosomal miRNAs between healthy controls and PD patients to aid in diagnosis. MethodsA total of 103 healthy controls and diagnosed PD patients at different Hoehn and Yahr (H&Y) stages in Tangdu Hospital were included. In total, 185 differentially expressed miRNAs were obtained through miRNA sequencing of serum exosomes as well as edgeR and t-test analyses. Subsequently, the weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was utilized to identify the commonly expressed miRNAs in all stages of PD by constructing connections between modules and specifically expressed miRNAs in each stage of PD by functional enrichment analysis. The obtained miRNAs were further validated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) with peripheral blood exosomes from 30 more participants. ResultsUsing WGCNA, it was found that 4 miRNAs were commonly associated with all the stages of PD and 13 miRNAs were specifically associated with different stages of PD. Among the 17 miRNAs, 2 were commonly expressed in all the stages of PD and 5 were specifically expressed in different stages of PD via qRT-PCR; 5 were also specifically expressed in different stages of PD by WGCNA, but validation by qRT-PCR showed inconsistent results; the remaining 5 miRNAs did not exhibit significant differences by qRT-PCR. ConclusionsThis study revealed that the 7 serum exosomal miRNAs (hsa-miR-374a-5p, hsa-miR-374b-5p, hsa-miR-199a-3p, hsa-miR-195-5p, hsa-miR-28-5p, hsa-miR-22-5p and hsa-miR-151a-5p) we screened out may potentially be used as biomarkers for progression and early grading diagnosis of PD in the population.
The Influence of NacLee Biological Fertilizer, Fitop 8.67 Preparation, and Mineral Fertilizer to the Crop Yield of Rice in Kazakhstan Aral Sea Region
Authors: Rakhimova Ainura , Ybraikozha Nurzhan , Toktamysov Asset , Yelenova ELMIRA
Published: February 2021

Bio-fertilizers are becoming more and more popular in many countries and for many cultures, but there are too few researches of their influence to crop yield concerning rice. Therefore we have assessed 2 different bio-preparations at the Aral Sea region during four agricultural seasons between 2016 and 2019. The experiments were held in fully irrigated conditions in the typical lowland rice environment. The article contains the results of the research in the use of complex liquid fertilizers and biological preparations. The purpose of the researches is the use of complex liquid fertilizers and biological preparations and the analysis of agro-ecological effect on rice growth in the conditions of the Aral Sea region. We have conducted field experimental studies to determine the agro-ecological efficiency of the use of complex liquid fertilizers and biological preparations and their influence on increasing the rice crop yield.
Low-temperature Conversion of Fe-rich Sludge to KFeS2 Whisker: a New Flocculant Synthesis From Laboratory Scale to Pilot Scale
Authors: Liang Dongxu , Chen Yu , Zhu Suiyi , Gao Yidi , Sun Tong , Ri Kyonghun , Xie Xinfeng
Published: February 2021

KFeS2 is a one-dimensional material and commonly used raw material for synthesising AgFeS2 and CuFeS2. With the solvothermal method, KFeS2 cluster could be synthesised at 190 °C with chemically pure grade Fe salt as Fe source. Herein, a KFeS2 whisker was formed in mass production at a low temperature, with waste cold-rolling sludge as Fe source, and exhibited good performance in the removal of Zn/Ni from real electroplating effluent. At laboratory scale, results showed that KFeS2 was not generated after heating at 50 °C for 24 h; however, after heating at 80 °C for 10 h, KFeS2 whisker (diameter and length of 0.2 and 0.5–1 mm, respectively) was produced, which grew radially to 1–4 mm after 24 h. This method was applied at pilot scale, where a similar KFeS2 whisker was also produced with waste cold-rolling sludge as Fe source. At pilot scale, a residual brownish supernatant was observed after the reaction and then completely recycled in the next round for KFeS2 synthesis. After recycling five times, the produced KFeS2 whisker did not change. For KFeS2 drying, freeze-drying and vacuum-drying were applicable, whilst air-drying was not profitable. The prepared KFeS2 was spontaneously hydrolysed in electroplating wastewater to generate Fe/S-bearing oxyhydroxide colloid for Zn/Ni removal. By adding 1 g of KFeS2, the residual levels of Zn/Ni were 0.22 and 0.02 mg/L, met the discharge standard of electroplating wastewater. Undried KFeS2 showed similar efficiencies of Zn/Ni removal to dried KFeS2, whose efficiencies were apparently higher than those with Na2S·9H2O, polymeric ferric sulfuric, sodium diethyldithiocarbamatre and lime. With the method, KFeS2 whisker was produced at pilot scale without generating any secondary waste and exhibited good performance in the treatment of electroplating wastewater.
Inference of molecular orientation/ordering change nearby topological defects by the neural network function from the microscopic color information
Authors: Sakanoue Haruka , Hayashi Yuki , Katayama Kenji
Published: February 2021

Topological defects in liquid crystals (LCs) dominate molecular alignment/motion in many cases. Here, the neural network (NN) function has been introduced to predict the LC orientation condition (orientation angle and order parameter) at local positions around topological defects from the phase/polarization microscopic color images. The NN function was trained in advance by using the color information of an LC in a planar alignment cell for different orientation angles and temperatures. The photo-induced changes of LC molecules around topological defects observed by the time-resolved measurement was converted into the image sequences of the orientation angle and the order parameter change. We found that each pair of brushes with different colors around topological defects showed different orientation angle and ordering changes. The photo-induced change was triggered by the photoisomerization reaction of molecules, and one pair of brushes increased in its order parameter just after light irradiation, causing gradual rotation in the brush. The molecules in the other pair of brushes were disordered and rotated by the effect of the initially affected region. This combination approach of the time-resolved phase/polarization microscopy and the NN function can provide detailed information on the molecular alignment dynamics around the topological defects.
A Novel Mutation in the PRPH2 Gene in a Chinese Pedigree with Retinitis Pigmentosa and Angle-closure Glaucoma
Authors: Li Wei-ning , Du Xiu-juan , Zhang Yu-ting , Wang Le-yi , Zhu Jing
Published: February 2021

Background: Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a rare, progressive, and hereditary disorder that leads to the progressive loss of vision and visual field, and in some cases blindness. The specific relationship between RP and glaucoma has been debated for decades.Methods: In this study, we examined a Han RP family with concomitant angle-closure glaucoma (ACG), performed an inductive analysis of their clinical features and assistant results, and applied whole-exome sequencing (WES) technology for a molecular diagnosis. Results: A novel transversion mutation (c.626T>A) was identified in the peripherin-2 (PRPH2) gene in the proband, resulting in the substitution of tyrosine to aspartic acid in codon 209. A full ophthalmic examination showed that the proband with the c.626T>A mutation had a typical RP manifestation, with close angles; however, the proband’s elder brother, who lacked the novel mutation, had a normal fundus and open angles. Conclusion: Our results extend the genetic mutation spectrum of PRPH2 in RP, and provide evidence to support a genetic correlation between RP and ACG.
Risk Factors for Esophageal Cancer in a High-incidence Area of Malawi
Authors: Geßner Anja L. , Borkowetz Angelika , Wilhelm Torsten J. , Ludzu Enock , Baier Michael , Mothes Henning
Published: February 2021

Purpose To explore associations of nutritional, infectious, and lifestyle factors with esophageal cancer (EC) occurrence in a high-risk area of Malawi.Methods This case–control study was performed with 227 patients. Data on clinicopathological characteristics and risk factors were collected using a questionnaire developed for this study specifically. Ninety-eight blood samples were collected and the prevalence of antibodies against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), herpes simplex virus (HSV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), varicella-zoster virus (VZV), and Helicobacter pylori were determined serologically. Fisher’s exact test was used for nominal variables and the Mann–Whitney U test was used for continuous variables. Binary linear regression was performed with variables that were significant in the Fisher and Mann–Whitney tests.Results The tumor and control groups comprised 157 and 70 patients, respectively. Patients with tumors were significantly older than controls (P < 0.001). EC was associated with smoking (P < 0.001) and alcohol consumption (P = 0.020), but 43% of patients with tumors did not smoke or drink. EC was associated with the consumption of hot food and tea (P = 0.003) and smoked fish (P = 0.011). EC was not associated with any serologically investigated infectious agent. In logistic regression analysis, age [odds ratio (OR), 1.042; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.019–1.066; P < 0.001] and hot food and tea consumption (OR, 2.331; 95% CI, 1.167–4.656; P = 0.016) were significant.Conclusions Apart from alcohol consumption and smoking, the consumption of hot food or tea and smoked fish are associated with EC in Malawi.
Relation between Traditional Semen Parameters, Sperm DNA Fragmentation, and Unexplained Recurrent Miscarriage: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Dai Yanpeng , Liu Junjie , Yuan Enwu , Shi Ying , Zhang Linlin
Published: February 2021

Background: Several studies have explored the relation between traditional semen parameters, sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF), and unexplained recurrent miscarriage (RM), but these findings remain controversial. Hence, we conducted this meta-analysis to explore the relation between traditional semen parameters, SDF, and unexplained RM. Methods: Multiple databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science databases, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) were searched to identify relevant publications. From the eligible publications, data were extracted independently by two researchers. The heterogeneity between publications was calculated using the I2 statistics and Cochran’s Q test. Statistical analyses were conducted using Stata/SE 12.0 (StataCorp, College Station, Texas, USA). Based on heterogeneity assessment, random- or fixed-effects models were selected to calculate the weighted mean differences (WMDs) and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). To estimate the stability of the pooled results, a sensitivity analysis was conducted by excluding each study. To estimate the possible publication bias, Egger’s regression test and Begg’s funnel plot were used. Results: A total of 280 publications were produced using the search strategy. According to the inclusion/exclusion criteria, 19 publications were eligible. A total of 1182 couples with unexplained RM and 1231 couples without RM were included in this meta-analysis to assess the relation between traditional semen parameters, SDF, and unexplained RM. Our results showed that couples with unexplained RM had significantly increased levels of SDF (WMD=8.77, 95% CI=4.03 to 13.51, P<0.001) and significantly decreased levels of progressive motility (WMD=-4.75, 95% CI=-8.35 to -1.15, P<0.05) and total motility (WMD=-10.30, 95% CI=-15.03 to -5.57, P<0.05) than those of couples without RM, but not significantly different in volume (WMD=-0.12, 95% CI=-0.32 to 0.08, P>0.05), sperm concentration (WMD=-2.28, 95% CI=-4.58 to 0.02, P>0.05) and total sperm count (WMD=-10.73, 95% CI=-22.11 to 0.66, P>0.05) between couples with and without RM.Conclusion: Couples with unexplained RM had significantly increased levels of SDF and significantly decreased levels of progressive motility and total motility than those of couples without RM. SDF assay may be considered as part of the evaluation of couples with unexplained RM.