bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methodological Tools for Evaluating Effectiveness of Capital Construction Projects of Oil Producing Enterprises
Authors: Chazov E. L. , Grakhov V. P. , Simchenko O. L.
Published: February 2021

Due to the fact that most of the large oil fields in Russia, characterized by high production costs, are at the final stage of development; the issue of cost optimization has become increasingly important in recent years. The main cost items at oil and gas enterprises are design and construction (reconstruction) of oil field facilities. Analysis of currently used methods for ranking oil and gas projects has shown that all of them are inherently subjective, since they are based on expert opinion. The authors have developed a methodological tools for evaluating the effectiveness of capital construction projects of oil field facilities (for example, construction work on the site for inventory receiving bridges and lifting units), which allows  to eliminate the influence of expert opinion  as much as possible and, consequently,  significantly  improve  the quality and validity of management decisions. The choice of the optimal project is based on a two – level assessment (stage 1– technical assessment, stage 2 – economic assessment). At each stage, an integral indicator is determined by calculation based on the results of objective data analysis  and using the developed algorithms. Thus, it is possible to judge the effectiveness of any project without being based on a subjective approach in the assessment with the help of expert opinion.
Essential Cytoplasmic Role of the Histone Lysine Methyltransferase Setdb1 in Post-Transcriptional Regulation in Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Rapone Roberta , Maestro Laurence Del , Bouyioukos Costas , Albini Sonia , Cruz-Tapias Paola , Joliot Véronique , Cosson Bertrand , Ait-Si-Ali Slimane
Published: February 2021

Embryonic stem cells (ESCs) fate is regulated both at transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. Indeed, several studies showed that, in addition to gene transcription, mRNA stability and protein synthesis are finely tuned and strongly control the ESCs pluripotency and fate changes. An increasing number of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) involved in post-transcriptional and translational regulation of gene expression has been identified as regulators of ESC identity. The major lysine methyltransferase Setdb1 is essential for the self-renewal and viability of ESCs. Setdb1 was primarily known to methylate the lysine 9 of histone 3 (H3K9) in the nucleus, where it regulates chromatin functions. However, Setdb1 is also massively localized in the cytoplasm, including in mouse ESCs, where its role remains unknown. Here we show that the cytoplasmic Setdb1 (cSetdb1) is essential for the survival of mESCs. Functional assays further demonstrate that cSetdb1 regulates gene expression post-transcriptionally, affecting the abundance of mRNAs and the rate of newly synthetized proteins. A yeast-two-hybrid assay shows that cSetdb1 interacts with several regulators of mRNA stability and protein translation machinery, such as the ESCs-specific E3 ubiquitin ligase and mRNA silencer Trim71/Lin41. Finally, proteomic analyses reveal that cSetdb1 is required for the integrity of Trim71 complexes involved in mRNA metabolism and translation. Altogether, our data uncover the essential cytoplasmic function of a firstly supposed nuclear “histone” lysine methyltransferase, Setdb1, and provide new insights into the cytoplasmic/post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression mediated by a key epigenetic regulator.
Quantitative Analysis of Body Posture and Its Correlation With Cervical Posture in Various Malocclusions
Authors: Pradeep Shruthi , Venkatasubramanian Priyanka , Parameswaran Ratna , Vijayalakshmi Devaki
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND: Considering that malocclusions can cause cervico-mandibular and cervico-cranial disorders, the aim of this study is to investigate whether there are significant differences in posture in subjects with skeletal class I, class II and skeletal class III malocclusion METHODS: A clinical study conducted on 90 subjects with Angle`s class I, II, III skeletal malocclusion. Standardized Casts of the subjects were used to analyze the tooth characteristics. Lateral cephalograms were used to assess cervical posture through cervical skull Rocabado analysis. A customized force platform with pressure sensors were used for posture analysis. RESULTS: There is a difference in body posture in subjects with skeletal class I, class II and class III malocclusion and a positive correlation between body posture and cervical posture is found in subjects with these classes of skeletal malocclusion. Subjects with class I malocclusion were found to have a normal cervical and body posture. Strain values from the force platform showed equal distribution of strain on both the feet. Subjects with class II malocclusion were found to have a forward cervical posture with the forward lean of body posture. Subjects with class III skeletal malocclusion were found to have a backward cervical posture with the posterior lean of body posture. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that different classes of malocclusion present with an alteration in cervical and body posture. Correction of the malocclusion or an intervention plan for the prevailing malocclusion should be done as early as possible which can be used to correct the posture thereby restoring the equilibrium of the body.
Chromatin Reprogramming via Contact Guidance-Induced Nuclear Deformation Promotes Stem Cell Differentiation
Authors: Wang Xinlong , Agrawal Vasundhara , Li Yue , Virk Ranya , Patel Priyam , Jain Surbhi , Rivera-Bolanos Nancy , Frederick Jane , Roth Eric , Bleher Reiner , Duan Chongwen , Bin Jiang , Ntziachristos Panagiotis , Backman Vadim , Ameer Guillermo
Published: February 2021

Efficient manipulation of cell fate is important for regenerative engineering applications. Lineage-specific differentiation of stem cells is particularly challenging due to their inherent plasticity. Engineered topographies may alter cellular plasticity through contact guidance. However, the ability to rationally design topographies to regulate phenotypic outcomes has been hindered in part by the lack of tools to quantify nanoscale chromatin structure reorganization in live cells. Herein we use micropillars, molecular, and nanostructural quantification tools to investigate how nuclear morphology in human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) affects chromatin conformation and osteogenic differentiation. We show that micropillar-induced contact guidance is transduced via the cytoskeleton and impacts nuclear architecture, lamin A/C multimerization, histone modifications, and the 3-D conformation of chromatin within packing domains, a key regulator of transcriptional responsiveness. Micropillars repressed expression of genes associated with developmental processes and enhanced lineage-specific responsiveness, thereby decreasing cell plasticity and off-target differentiation, and facilitating osteogenic differentiation of hMSCs. Altogether, these findings reveal that chromatin reprogramming through contact guidance-induced nuclear deformation can be an efficient way to manipulate cell fate.
Binding of LncRNA-DACH1 to dystrophin impairs the membrane trafficking of Nav1.5 protein and increases ventricular arrhythmia susceptibility
Authors: Pan Zhenwei , Xue Gen-Long , Zhang Yang , Yang Jiming , Yang Ying , Zhang Ruixin , Li Desheng , Tian Tao , Zhang Xiaofang , Li Changzhu , Li Xingda , Yang Jiqin , Shen Kewei , Guo Yang , Liu Xuening , Yang Guohui , Lu Yanjie , Yang Baofeng
Published: February 2021

Dystrophin is a critical interacting protein of Nav1.5 that determines its membrane anchoring in cardiomyocytes. The study aims to explore whether lncRNA-DACH1(lncDACH1) can regulate the distribution of Nav1.5 by binding to dystrophin and participate in ventricular arrhythmogenesis. LncDACH1 was confirmed to bind to dystrophin. Cardiomyocyte-specific transgenic overexpression of lncDACH1(lncDACH1-TG) reduced the membrane distribution of dystrophin and Nav1.5 in cardiomyocytes. The opposite data were collected from lncDACH1 cardiomyocyte conditional knockout (lncDACH1-CKO) mice. Moreover, increased ventricular arrhythmia susceptibility was observed in lncDACH1-TG mice in vivo and ex vivo. The conservative fragment of lncDACH1 inhibited membrane distribution of dystrophin and Nav1.5 and promoted the inducibility of ventricular arrhythmia. Upregulation of dystrophin in lncDACH1-TG mice rescued the impaired membrane distribution of dystrophin and Nav1.5. The human homologue of lncDACH1 inhibited the membrane distribution of Nav1.5 in human iPS-differentiated cardiomyocytes. Collectively, lncDACH1 regulates Nav1.5 membrane distribution by binding to dystrophin and participates in ventricular arrhythmogenesis.
Significance of nuclear quantum effects in hydrogen bonded molecular chains
Authors: Cahlik Ales , Hellerstedt Jack , Mendieta-Moreno Jesus , Švec Martin , Santhini Vijai , Pascual Simon , Soler-Polo Diego , Erlingsson Sigurdur , Vyborny Karel , Mutombo Pingo , Marsalek Ondrej , Siri Olivier , Jelinek Pavel
Published: February 2021

In hydrogen bonded systems, nuclear quantum effects such as zero-point motion and tunneling can significantly affect their material properties through underlying physical and chemical processes. Presently, direct observation of the influence of nuclear quantum effects on the strength of hydrogen bonds with resulting structural and electronic implications remains elusive, leaving opportunities for deeper understanding to harness their fascinating properties. We studied hydrogen-bonded one-dimensional quinonediimine molecular networks which may adopt two isomeric electronic configurations via proton transfer. Herein, we demonstrate that concerted proton transfer promotes a delocalization of π-electrons along the molecular chain, which enhances the cohesive energy between molecular units, increasing the mechanical stability of the chain and giving rise to new electronic in-gap states localized at the ends. These findings demonstrate the identification of a new class of isomeric hydrogen bonded molecular systems where nuclear quantum effects play a dominant role in establishing their chemical and physical properties. We anticipate that this work will open new research directions towards the control of mechanical and electronic properties of low-dimensional molecular materials via concerted proton tunneling.
Relationship Between Serum Hepatitis B Core-Related Antigen and Hepatitis B Surface Antigen in Hepatitis B Cirrhosis Patients With HBV-DNA Negative Status: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Xu Bai-guo , Liu An-jing , Liu Ying , Han Tao , Guo Hua , Ding Xian , Xiang Hui-ling
Published: February 2021

Background: The relationship between serum hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and HBV core-related antigen (HBcrAg) titers, which is especially clinically important in monitoring virus replication activity and progression of liver disease, is not thoroughly studied in patients with hepatitis B cirrhosis, particularly in HBV-DNA negative patients. This retrospective study explored the relationship between serum HBcrAg and HBsAg titers in hepatitis B cirrhosis patients with HBV-DNA negative status. Methods: We analyzed data and samples from 180 patients diagnosed with HBV liver cirrhosis. Statistical analyses included baseline characteristics, univariate analysis, stratification analysis, three different analytical models, Spearman’s correlation analysis, generalized additive model, and two-piecewise linear regression model. Results: After adjusting for confounders (age, sex, primary hepatic carcinoma, HBeAg, Child–Pugh class, alcoholic liver disease, Diabetes mellitus , and type and duration of use of anti-HBV agents), a non-linear relationship was found between HBsAg and HBcrAg. The inflection point was 0.58. The effect sizes, confidence intervals, and P value on the left and right sides of the inflection point were 0.10, (–0.23–0.42), 0.555 and 0.62, (0.46–0.78), ＜0.0001, respectively. There was statistical significance (all p<0.01) between HBcrAg and HBsAg among all the stratification variables except for the "others" group in type of anti-HBV agents. Spearman’s correlation coefficient between HBsAg and HBcrAg was 0.613 (P<0.0001). Conclusions: There was a clear non-linear relationship between HBcrAg and HBsAg in patients with hepatitis B cirrhosis who were HBV-DNA negative, and the correlation between serum HBcrAg and HBsAg was moderate.
Growth Genes Are Implicated in The Evolutionary Divergence of Sympatric Piscivorous and Insectivorous Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus Mykiss)
Authors: Grummer Jared A. , Whitlock Michael , Schulte Patricia , Taylor Eric
Published: February 2021

Background: Identifying ecologically significant phenotypic traits and the genomic mechanisms that underly them are crucial steps in understanding the traits associated with population divergence. We used genome-wide data to identify genomic regions associated with a key trait that distinguishes two ecotypes of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) – insectivores and piscivores – that coexist in Kootenay Lake, southeastern British Columbia, for the non-breeding portion of the year. “Gerrards” are large-bodied (breeding maturity at >60cm) piscivores that spawn ~50km north of Kootenay Lake in the Lardeau River, in contrast to the insectivorous populations that are on average smaller in body size, mainly forage on aquatic insects, and spawn in tributaries immediately surrounding Kootenay Lake. We used pool-seq data covering ~60% of the genome to assess the level of genomic divergence between ecotypes, test for genotype-phenotype associations, and identify loci that may play functional or selective roles in their divergence. Results: Analysis of nearly seven million SNPs provided a genome-wide mean FST estimate of 0.18, indicating a high level of reproductive isolation between populations. The window-based FST analysis did not reveal “islands” of genomic differentiation; however, the window with highest FST estimate did include a gene associated with insulin secretion. Although we explored the use of the “Local score” approach to identify genomic outlier regions, this method was ultimately not used because simulations revealed a high false discovery rate (~20%). Gene Ontology (GO) analysis identified several growth processes as enriched in genes occurring in the ~200 most divergent genomic windows, indicating the importance of genetically-based growth and growth-related metabolic functions in the divergence of these ecotypes. Conclusions: In spite of their sympatric coexistence, a high degree of genomic differentiation separates the populations of piscivores and insectivores, indicating little to no contemporary genetic exchange between ecotypes. Our results further indicate that the large body piscivorous phenotype is likely not due to one or a few loci of large effect, rather it may be controlled by several loci of small effect, thus highlighting the power of whole-genome low-coverage sequencing in phenotypic association studies.
Efficacy of Ultrasonography and Tc-99m MIBI SPECT/CT in Preoperative Localization of Parathyroid Adenomas Causing Primary Hyperthyroidism
Authors: Lu Ruigang , Zhao Wei , Yin Li , Guo Ruijun , Wei Bojun , Jin Mulan , Zhou Xiang , Zhang Chun , Lv Xiuzhang
Published: February 2021

Background: Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) results from an excess of parathyroid hormone (PTH) produced from an overactive parathyroid gland. The study aimed to explore the sonographic features of parathyroid adenomas and assess the diagnostic performance of ultrasonography (US) and Tc-99m MIBI SPECT/CT for preoperative localization of parathyroid adenomas. Methods: A total of 107 patients were enrolled in this retrospective study who had PHPT and underwent parathyroidectomy. Of the 107 patients, 97 performed US and Tc-99m MIBI SPECT/CT examinations for preoperative localization of parathyroid nodules. The sensitivity and accuracy of each modality were calculated. Results: In this study, residual parathyroid sign and polar vascular sign were identified as characteristic US features of parathyroid adenomas and these manifestations are closely related to the size of the abnormal parathyroid lesions. Using 108 parathyroid nodules from 97 patients with PHPT, the sensitivity and accuracy of US in locating parathyroid nodules were significantly higher than those of Tc-99m MIBI SPECT/CT (93.0% vs. 63.0% and 88.0% vs. 63.0%), and the difference was statistically significant (c²=26.224, 18.227, P<0.001). The difference between US combined with Tc-99m MIBI SPECT/CT and Tc-99m MIBI SPECT/CT-alone was statistically significant (c²=33.410, 21.587, P<0.001), yet there was no significant difference compared with US alone (c²=0.866, 0.187, P=0.352 and 0.665). Conclusions: US shows significantly better sensitivity and accuracy for localization of parathyroid adenomas than Tc-99m MIBI SPECT/CT. However, US combined with Tc-99m MIBI SPECT/CT is of great clinical value in the preoperative localization of parathyroid nodules in patients with PHPT.
The Protective Effects of Probiotic Bacteria on Indomethacin-Induced Gastric Ulcer in Rats
Authors: Gelen Volkan , Sengül Emin , Gedikli Semin , Gelen Sevda , Atila Gözde , Makav Mustafa , Uslu Hamit , Aydın Keziban
Published: February 2021

Indomethacin is an anti-inflammatory drug that causes ulcers on the gastric mucosa as a result of its use. For this reason, many experimental studies have been performed to search for new agents in order to treat or prevent gastric ulcers. Probiotic bacteria are live microorganisms, and it has been stated by various studies that these bacteria have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, we investigated the possible protective effect of various types of probiotic bacteria against acute gastric mucosal damage caused by indomethacin. Our research used 40 female Wistar albino rats that were divided into four groups, with 10 in each group: Control group - Physiological saline was administered daily for 10 days. Indo group - Physiological saline was administered daily for 10 days. On day 11, a single 100mg/kg dose of indomethacin was given. Ranitidine + Indo group - A ranitidine dose of 5mg/kg was administered daily for 5 days. On day 11, a single dose of 100mg/kg of indomethacin was given to the same group. Probiotic + Indo group - A dose of 1 ml/kg of oral probiotic bacteria was administered daily for 10 days. On day 11, a single 100mg/kg dose of indomethacin was given to the same group. After application, rats were killed in appropriate conditions, and stomach tissues were obtained. The obtained gastric tissues were used in the biochemical and histopathological analyzes discussed below. As a result, the administration of indomethacin caused gastric damage, stimulating oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. However, we found that the use of probiotic bacteria reduces oxidative stress (TOC), increases the activity of antioxidant enzymes (TAC), suppresses inflammation (IL-6, IL-1β, Tnf-α, and COX-2) and inhibits apoptosis (Bax and Bcl-2). This suggests that probiotic bacteria inhibit indomethacin-induced apoptosis. Probiotic treatment can mitigate gastric damage and apoptosis caused by indomethacin-induced gastric damage in rats. Probiotic also enhances the restoration of biochemical oxidative enzymes as it has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiapaptotic properties.
Untargeted Metabolomic Characteristics of Skeletal Muscle Dysfunction in Rabbits Induced by a High Fat Diet
Authors: Fan Huimei , Li YanHong , Wang Jie , Shao Jiahao , Tang Tao , Lai Tianfu , Gan Mingchuan , Ma Yuan , Jia Xianbo , Lai Songjia
Published: February 2021

Background: Type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome caused by a high fat diet (HFD) have become public health problems around the world. These diseases are characterized by disrupted mitochondrial oxidation and insulin resistance in skeletal muscle, but the mechanism is not clear. Therefore, this study aims to reveal how a high-fat diet induces skeletal muscle metabolism disorder.Methods：Sixteen weaned rabbits were randomly divided into two groups, one fed with a standard normal diet (SND) and another one fed a HFD for five weeks. Skeletal muscle tissue samples were extracted from each rabbit at the end of the 5-week trial. An untargeted metabolomics profiling was performed using ultraperformance liquid chromatography combined with mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS).Results: The HFD significantly altered the expression levels of phospholipids, LCACs, histidine, carnosine and tetrahydrocorticosterone in skeletal muscle. Principal component analysis (PCA) and least square discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) indicated that rabbit skeletal muscle metabolism in the HFD group was significantly up-regulated compared with that of the SND group. Among the 43 skeletal muscle metabolites in the HFD group, phospholipids, LCACs, histidine, carnosine and tetrahydrocorticosterone were identified as biomarkers for skeletal muscle metabolic diseases, and may also serve as potential physiological targets for related diseases in the future.Conclusion: The untargeted metabolomics analysis revealed that a HFD altered the rabbit skeletal muscle metabolism of phospholipids, carnitine, amino acids, and steroids. Notably, phospholipids, LCACs, histidine, carnosine and tetrahydrocorticosterone blocked the oxidative ability of mitochondria, and disturbed the oxidative ability of glucose and the fatty acid-glucose cycle in rabbit skeletal muscle.
Staphylococci and Fecal Bacteria as Bioaerosol Components in Animal Housing Facilities in the Zoological Garden in Chorzów
Authors: Grzyb Jacek , Pawlak Krzysztof
Published: February 2021

Zoos are places open for a large number of visitors, adults and children, who can admire exotic as well as indigenous animal species. The premises for animals may contains pathogenic microbes, including those exhibiting antibiotic resistance. It poses a serious threat to people remaining within the zoo premises, both for animal keepers who meet animals on a daily basis and visitors who infrequently have contact with animals. Unfortunately, there are almost no studies concerning on the presense, on the concentration of airborne bacteria, especially staphylococci and faecal bacteria in animal shelters in the zoo. No data about antibiotic resistance of staphylococci in these places. The results will enable to determine the scale of the threat that indicator bacteria from the bioaerosol pose to human health within zoo premises. This study conducted in rooms for 5 animals group (giraffes, camels, elephants, kangaroos and colobinae) in the Silesian Zoological Garden in Chorzów (Poland). The bioaerosol samples were collected using a six-stage Andersen cascade impactor to assess the concentrations and size distribution of airborne bacteria. Staphylococci were isolated from bioaerosol and tested for antibiotic resistance. In our study the highest concentration of staphylococci and fecal bacteria was recorded in rooms for camels and elephants, the lowest in rooms for colobinae. At least 2/3 of bacteria in bioaerosol constituted respirable fraction, that migrates into the lower respiratory tract of the animals and the people. In investigated animal rooms the greatest bacteria contribution was recorded for bioaerosol fraction sized 1.1–3.3µm. Bacterial intoxication was particularly strong in spring and autumn, what is related to shedding fur by animals. Among the isolated staphylococci most often occurred Staphylococcus succinus, S. sciuri and S. vitulinus. The highest antibiotic resistance was noted in the case of Staphylococcus epidermidis, while the lowest for S. xylosus. As the animals constitute a significant source of staphylococci and fecal bacteria, attention should be paid to thorough cleaning of their shelters.
Point-of-Care 3D Printing: a Low-Cost Approach to Teaching Carotid Artery Stenting
Authors: De Backer Pieter , Allaeys Charlotte , Debbaut Charlotte , Beelen Roel
Published: February 2021

Background Carotid Artery Stenting (CAS) is increasingly being used in selected patients as a minimal invasive approach to carotid endarterectomy. Despite the abundance of performed endovascular treatments, the concept of stent-placement is still unclear to many patients. Furthermore, visual feedback on stent-deployment is difficult to obtain as it is always performed under radiographic feedback. Three-Dimensional (3D) printing might tackle both challenges. A particular use case of Point-of-Care 3D Printing is the pretreatment printing of vascular anatomy in support of endovascular procedures. Purpose This study reports the first use of a low-cost patient-specific 3D printed model for CAS education to both experienced surgeons and patients. Methodology An angio computed tomography (CT) scan was segmented and converted to STL format using Mimics inPrint™ software. The carotid arteries were bilaterally truncated to fit the whole model on a Formlabs 2 printer without omitting the internal vessel diameter. Next, this model was offset using a 1 mm margin. A ridge was modelled on the original vessel anatomy which was subsequently subtracted from the offset model in order to obtain a deroofed 3D model. All vessels were truncated as to facilitate flow on the inside. Results Date-expired carotid artery stents were successfully deployed inside the vessel. The deroofing allows for clear visualization of the bottlenecks and characteristics of CAS deployment and positioning, including foreshortening and tapering of the stent. This low-cost 3D model provides insights in stent deployment and positioning, and allows for patient-specific procedure planning. Conclusion Printing patient-specific 3D models preoperatively could assist in accurate patient selection, a better preoperative planning and case-specific training. Furthermore, this 3D model also allows for better patient education and informed consent. However, more research is warranted to evaluate the added value of these models.
Evaluation of the Feasibility and Sustainability of the Joint Human and Animal Vaccination and Its Integration to the Public Health System in the Danamadji Health District, Chad
Authors: Abakar Mahamat Fayiz , Seli Djimet , Lechthaler Filippo , Crump Lisa , Mancus Arielle , Tran Nhan , Zinsstag Jakob , Muñoz Daniel Cobos
Published: February 2021

BackgroundOne Health approaches such as the Joint human and animal vaccination programmes (JHAVP) are shown to be feasible and to increase health care access to hard-to-reach communities such as mobile pastoralists. However, the financial sustainability and the integration into the public health systems at the district level of such programmes are still challenging. The main objective of the present study was to give insight to the feasibility and financial sustainability of JHAVP integrated as part of the public health system in Chad.MethodsWe conducted a mixed methods study using semi-structured key informant interviews, focus group discussions and budget impact analysis. Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats were analysed regarding the feasibility and sustainability of the implementation of JHAVP in Danamadji health district in Chad. Feasibility was further analysed using three dimensions: acceptability, implementation, and adaptation. Financial sustainability of JHAVP was analysed through budget impact analysis of implementation of the programme at district level.ResultsThe acceptability of this approach was regularly assessed by immunization campaign teams through evaluation meetings which included pastoralists. The presence of authorities in the meetings and workshops of the programme had an incentive effect since they represent a mark of consideration these populations generally declared to be lacking. The coordination between the public health and veterinary services at central and decentralized level seemed to be a key element in the success of the implementation of the programme. Regarding financial sustainability, the total incremental budget impact was 27% slightly decreasing to 26% after five years, which accounts for up to one third of the total budget of the district health office. Also, given that most of the costs for each round are recurrent costs, efficiency gains from scale effects over time are limited.Conclusion﻿Based on these findings, we conclude that for JHAVP to be routinely delivered at the district health level, a considerable increase in financial resources would be required. The district could benefit from joint immunization to maintain contact with mobile pastoralists to promote the use of available immunization services at district level.
Impact of Helicobacter Pylori Infection on Duodenal Microbial Community Structure and Microbial Metabolic Pathways
Authors: Maeda Tadashi , Zai Hiroaki , Fukui Yuto , Kato Yoshifumi , Kumade Eri , Watanabe Toshiyasu , Furusyo Norihiro , Nakajima Hitoshi , Arai Kazuho , Ishii Yoshikazu , tateda kazuhiro , Urita Yoshihisa
Published: February 2021

BackgroundRecent reports suggest that Helicobacter pylori infection may be related to the onset of certain diseases. However, the H. pylori-related factors that play a role in the etiology of these diseases have not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to elucidate the impact of H. pylori infection on the structure of commensal duodenal microbiota and their biofunctions.MethodsForty-seven (20 male, 27 female) subjects who underwent gastric cancer screening were enrolled. Duodenal fluid samples were aspirated from the descending duodenum and analyzed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing.ResultsThirteen subjects were positive for H. pylori, while thirty-four were negative. We observed 1404 bacterial operational taxonomic units from 23 phyla and 253 genera. In the H. pylori-positive group, we observed higher abundances of Proteobacteria and lower abundances of Actinobacteria and TM7 than that in the H. pylori-negative group. The abundances of 10 genera differed significantly between the H. pylori-positive and -negative groups. Microbiota features in the H. pylori-positive group was significantly influenced by 12 taxa primarily belonging to Gammaproteobacteria. Microbial functional annotation collated using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes Orthology database showed that 12 microbial metabolic pathways (Synthesis and degradation of ketone bodies, Tryptophan metabolism, N-glycan biosynthesis, Ether lipid metabolism, Lipoarabinomannan (LAM) biosynthesis, Linoleic acid metabolism, alpha-Linolenic acid metabolism, Biotin metabolism, Carotenoid biosynthesis, Phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, Biosynthesis of siderophore group nonribosomal peptides, Biosynthesis of terpenoids and steroids) were significantly affected by H. pylori infection.ConclusionsH. pylori infection disrupted the normal bacterial communities in the duodenum and changed the biofunctions of the commensal microbiota, primarily by upregulating specific metabolic pathways. This alteration may be related to the onset mechanisms of the diseases suspected of being related to H. pylori infection.
Sexual Fantasies Across Gender and Sexual Orientation in a Large Sample of Italian Young Adults: A Multiple Correspondence Analysis
Authors: NESE MATTIA , Riboli Greta , Brighetti Gianni , Visciano Raffaele , Giunti Daniel , Borlimi Rosita
Published: February 2021

Differences in the content of sexual fantasies across gender have been widely documented, while less attention was given to the role of sexual orientation. Furthermore, previous studies focused on statistical differences in the prevalence of broad themes, neglecting the role of single fantasies. The current study aimed to increase the knowledge about sexual fantasies in heterosexual, homosexual, and bisexual men and women. A descriptive approach that allows representing the patterns of fantasies reported by different groups using Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) is presented. A sample of 3,136 of young adults, 1,754 women (Mage = 22.50, SD = 1.72, range 18-25) and 1,382 men (Mage = 22.50, SD = 1.70, range 18-25), completed an online questionnaire assessing the presence of 29 different sexual fantasies. The prevalence of each fantasy among each group is shown. Also, relationships between fantasies and the distribution of groups along the two principal dimensions highlighted by MCA are represented. Heterosexuals women reported fewer fantasies and showed opposite patterns of response compared to heterosexual men. There was a substantial overlapping in the fantasies reported by gay and bisexual men, while responses of lesbian and bisexual women were relatively more differentiated. These results indicate that sexual orientation has a different impact on the sexual fantasies of men and women.
CT-guided Interstitial Brachytherapy Followed by External Bean Radiotherapy for a Patient With Relapsed Extremity Soft Tissue Sarcoma
Authors: Liu Zhongshan , Zhao Yangzhi , Li Yunfeng , Lin Xia , Wang Dongzhou , Tian Tian , Wang Tiejun
Published: February 2021

Purpose: Locally recurrent extremity soft tissue sarcoma remains a therapeutic challenge; conservative surgery alone results in an inferior local control rate. This study demonstrates a new interstitial (IS) brachytherapy (BT) technique in a patient with recurrent extremity soft tissue sarcoma. Patients and methods: A 53-year-old man with recurrent left thigh malignant fibrous histiocytoma underwent conservative surgery and adjuvant intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) after two surgical excisions. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the lower extremity after the conservative surgery and IMRT revealed a left thigh mass measuring 12 cm × 8 cm × 7 cm. An IS BT with 3 fractions of 8 Gy each and guided with three-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) was administered. For this procedure, IS metal needles were inserted at a depth of 1 cm into the tumor as a preliminary implantation, and their direction and depth were adjusted repeatedly until a satisfactory distribution was achieved through multiple CT scans. Results: The course of the IS BT procedure was uneventful. No severe bleeding, infection, or other complications were observed. At 3, 12, and 24 months after the IS BT, lower extremity MRI scans showed a left thigh mass measuring 10 cm × 5 cm × 4, 8 cm × 3 cm × 2 cm, and 6 cm × 2 cm × 2 cm, respectively. Minimal fibrosis, local numbness, and edema in the treatment area were noted. The patient had an excellent quality of life. Conclusion: Favorable oncologic outcomes for locally recurrent extremity soft tissue sarcoma were achieved using 3D CT-guided IS BT. This BT technique may contribute to an excellent local control rate and offer an effective and safe therapeutic option in selected cases.
Investigation of Three Drugs With Neuroregenerative Effects on Inferior Alveolar Nerve Injury in Rats
Authors: Günay Ayşem Yurtseven , Ünverengil Gökçen , Ak Gülsüm
Published: February 2021

PurposeNerve injuries formed during oral and maxillofacial surgical operations occur usually by crush or tension-type damages rather than incisions or ruptures. Such nerve injuries can be treated by providing regeneration with pharmacological agents without surgical intervention. The aim of this study was to determine and compare the effects of dexamethasone, B vitamin complex, and nerve growth factor on peripheral nerve regeneration with a local application on the inferior alveolar nerve. Methods Twenty-four Wistar Albino rats weighing 220-250 grams were used in the study. Experimental animals were divided into 4 groups. According to the groups, animals were treated with saline, dexamethasone, vitamin B complex and nerve growth factor. All animals were sacrificed on the 21st day and inferior alveolar nerves were resected for microscopic examination. Results The integrity and irregularities of myelin sheaths and vacuole formation were evaluated under a light microscope. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS version 17.0. When histopathological findings were evaluated, it was observed that dexamethasone and vitamin B application triggered regeneration. However, regeneration in the group treated with nerve growth factor was much more obvious. Conclusions Local drug applications are beneficial for regeneration in inferior alveolar nerve injury. Considering their success, studies are needed to place growth factors in clinical practice.
Expression of CDCA7 Is a Prognostic Biomarker and Potential Therapeutic Target in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer 
Authors: yuan wen , Zeng Wenhui , Tan Haiyan , Jamal Muhammad , Xie Tian , Li Jingyuan , Song Henya , Jang Wanli , Huang Jie , Zhang Qiuping , Xie Songping
Published: February 2021

BackgroundCell Division Cycle Associated 7 (CDCA7) was first identified as a direct target gene of c-Myc and dysregulated in various types of human cancer. However, it has limited implication in non-small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC). We aimed to explore the critical role of CDCA7 in NSCLC.Methods In this study, we identified CDCA7 upregulation and association with the prognosis of NSCLC by integrating analysis of 3 Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. Real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry (IHC) were used to determine collected clinical NSCLC samples. Chi-square test was used to examine possible correlations between CDCA7 expression and clinicopathological factors. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis were performed to determine whether CDCA7 is an independent risk factor for overall survival (OS). The effect of CDCA7 expression on proliferation, cell cycle and apoptosis ability of NSCLC cells was detected by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) and flow cytometry. CDCA7 stably knocking down cell line was established and Western blotting assay was applied to measure relevant protein expression. Xenograft models were used to examine the role of CDCA7 on tumorigenicity of NSCLC cells.Results Analysis of clinical samples confirmed the CDCA7 high expression in tumor tissues compared with adjacent non-tumor tissues and predicted shorter OS time. COX proportional risk model analysis showed that the expression levels of CDCA7 was independent prognostic factors. We observed that CDCA7 silencing efficiently affect the proliferation, apoptosis and cycle distribution of NSCLC cells in vitro. Further results demonstrated that the expression of CDCA7 in A549/DDP cells was significantly higher than that in A549 cells, CDCA7 silencing efficiently down regulation cisplatin sensitivity in A549/DDP cells. Importantly, the depletion of CDCA7 strongly reduced the tumorigenicity of NSCLC cells in vivo. Furthermore, depletion of CDCA7 expression markedly affected the expression of cell division protein kinase 6 (CDK6) and caspase7 both in vitro and in vivo. In vitro study, we showed that CDCA7 silencing promotes A549 apoptosis via extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK) pathway.ConclusionHighly expressed CDCA7 plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of NSCLC and might be a potential prognostic factor and therapeutic target in NSCLC.
Surgery of pancreas tumors in pediatric and adolescent patients: a single institution experience in South America
Authors: TORRES OSCAR RICARDO PAREDES , Kawaguchi Yoshikuni , Figueroa Eloy Ruiz , Meza Eduardo Payet , Espinoza Francisco Berrospi
Published: February 2021

Purpose
Pancreas tumors are extremely rare in pediatric and adolescent patients. Surgical resection is the mainstay of treatment; however, the data is limited with respect to morbidity and mortality. We aimed to evaluate short- and long-term outcomes of pediatric and adolescent patients who underwent surgical resection of pancreatic tumors.
Methods
Patients \(\le\) 18 years old who underwent resection of pancreas tumor at the National Institute of Neoplastic Diseases INEN during 2000–2020 were included.
Results
Thirty-four patients were diagnosed; 28 patients were female and 6 were male. The median age was 13.4 years old. Histological diagnosis was solid pseudopapillary neoplasm (SPN) (n = 29,85.3%), pancreatoblastoma (n = 3), neuroendocrine carcinoma (n = 1), and insulinoma (n = 1). No patient experienced postoperative mortality and 15 (44.1%) patients developed postoperative complications including pancreatic fistula as the most frequent. Under a median follow-up period of 33.8 (0.5–138) months, 4 (11.8%) patients died. Of the 29 patients with SPN, the 3-and-5-year OS was 100% and 83.1%, respectively.
Conclusions
SPN was the most frequent cause of surgical treatment for pediatric and adolescent patients in the high-volume cancer center in Peru and was associated with favorable survival. Pancreaticoduodenectomy was safely performed in this patient group with acceptable morbidity and zero mortality.
Feasibility of Accelerated 3D T1-Weighted MRI using Compressed-SENSE: Application to Quantitative Volume Measurement of Human Brain Structures
Authors: Yarach Uten , Saekho Suwit , Setsompop Kawin , Suwannasak Atita , Boonsuth Ratthaporn , Wantanajittikul Kittichai , Angkurawaranon Salita , Angkurawaranon Chaisiri , Sangpin Prapatsorn
Published: February 2021

Objective

Scan time reduction is crucial for volumetric acquisitions to improve workflow productivity and to reduce motion artifact during MRI procedure. We find out whether Compressed SENSE-4 (CS-4) can be pushed with 3D-turbo-field-echo T1-weighted (3D-TFE-T1W) sequence without compromising subcortical measurements on clinical 1.5T MRI.
Materials and methods

Thirty-three healthy volunteers (24 females, 9 males) underwent 1.5T MRI equipped with 12-channel coil. 3D-TFE-T1W for whole brain coverage was performed with different acceleration factors including SENSE-2, SENSE-4, CS-4. Freesurfer, FSL’s FIRST, and volBrain packages were implemented for subcortical segmentations. All processed data were assessed using Wilcoxon signed-rank test. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results

In comparison with reference, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) obtained by CS-4 slightly dropped, in which the maximum SNR drop was detected at Amygdala with value of 10.55%. However, such disadvantage did not affect volume measurements - there were no statically significant differences for all subcortical structures (p < 0.05). They were in strong correlation, in which Pearson’s correlation coefficients were larger than 0.90. Moreover, the effect size scores are mostly in trivial to small ranges with values of 0.07–0.23.
Conclusion

CS-4 provided sufficient quality of 3D-TFE-T1W images for 1.5T MRI equipped with 12-channel receive coil. Subcortical volumes obtained from CS-4 images were consistent across different post-processing packages.
The efficacy and mechanism of platelet-rich plasma on the myogenic differentiation process of adipose-derived stem cell: A bioinformatics and experimental study
Authors: Wang Xiaochen , Fei Wenyong , Liu Mingsheng , Shen Fanglin , Liu Yu , Gu sanjun , Wei Changbao , Yin Qin
Published: February 2021

Background: The adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) have been proved to be effective in the myogenic differentiation with the 5-Aza induction. However, the induction procedure definitly decreased the proliferation ability of ADSCs. The platelet-rich plasma (PRP), famous of its proliferating abilities, is widely used in the field of tissue regeneration. The purpose of this study is to determine the efficacy and mechanism of PRP on the myogenic differentiation process.Method: The published gene expression profile, GSE 70918, which compared the efficacy of PRP and platelet-rich plasma (PPP) on the tendon fibroblast was obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database.The further protein‑protein interaction (PPI) network Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis was performed based on differentially epressed genes(DEGs). Furethermore, the micro-RNA-mRNA interaction network was analyzed and visualized by cytoscape. Finally, the in vitro experimental cell research was performed to certify the efficay of PRP on myogenic differentiation.Results: From our analysis, 148 DEGs, 87 up-regulated and 61 down-regulated, were obtained from the gene profile. The PPI network showed that the inflammatory factors as IL-1A, CXCL, CXCR etc. were significantly down-regulated and the muscle functional related genes as MYLC and MYO7A were significantly up-regulated. The GO and KEGG analysis demonstrated that up-regulated DEGs were enriched in focal adhesion, dilated cardiomyopathy, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and calcium signaling pathway which were correlated to muscle function. Meanwhile, the microRNA-mRNA interaction network were estabilished based on DEGs. The in vitro experimental showed that PRP can significantly increase the proliferation ability of ADSCs during myogenic introduction and increase the expression of troponin and myosin which were correlate to the function of mature muscle.Conclusions:The research showed that PRP is an effective way to enhance the proliferation ability during the myogenic differentiation and increase the expression of muscle functional related protein.
Robust topological edge states and superconductivity in few-layer stanene
Authors: Zhao Chenxiao , Li Leiqiang , Zhang Liying , Qin Jin , Ma Haiyang , Xia Bing , Yang Bo , Zheng Hao , Wang Shiyong , Liu Canhua , Li Yaoyi , Guan Dandan , Cui Ping , Zhang Zhenyu , Jia Jinfeng
Published: February 2021

Stanene was proposed to be a large-gap quantum spin Hall insulator, yet to date, convincing evidence of topological edge states in stanene remains to be seen, partly due to the fact that the topological property depends on the interplay between substrate, chemical functionalization, and layer thickness. Here we fabricate 1-5 layer high-quality stanene films on the Bi(111) substrate by using hydrogen atoms as surfactants, and demonstrate their strikingly robust nontrivial topology using scanning tunneling microscopy/spectroscopy and first-principles calculations. The observed topological edge states possess a bilateral-penetration depth shorter than 4 nm, allowing the formation of dense and parallel multi-edge-channels. Our
calculations further show that surface hydrogenation helps to improve the quality of stanene films, while the Bi substrate endows the films with robust nontrivial topology. These stanene films also exhibit superconductivity, and the coexistence of
nontrivial topology and superconductivity renders them distinct potential to become the simplest one-dimensional topological superconductors.
Petasin and Isopetasin Reduce CGRP Release from Trigeminal Afferents Indicating an Inhibitory Effect on TRPA1 and TRPV1 Receptor Channels
Authors: Kleeberg-Hartmann Johanna , Vogler Birgit , Messlinger Karl
Published: February 2021

Background: Butterbur root extract with its active ingredients petasin and isopetasin has been used in the prophylactic treatment of migraine for years, while its sites of action are not completely clear. Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) is known as a biomarker and promoting factor of migraine. We set out to investigate the impact of petasins on the CGRP release from trigeminal afferents induced by activation of the calcium conducting transient receptor potential channels (TRPs) of the subtypes TRPA1 and TRPV1.Methods: We used well-established in vitro preparations, the hemisected rodent skull and dissected trigeminal ganglia, to examine the CGRP release from rat and mouse cranial dura mater and trigeminal ganglion neurons, respectively, after pre-incubation with petasin and isopetasin. Mustard oil and capsaicin were used to stimulate TRPA1 and TRPV1 receptor channels. CGRP concentrations were measured with a CGRP enzyme immunoassay. Results: Pre-incubation with either petasin or isopetasin reduced mustard oil- and capsaicin-evoked CGRP release compared to vehicle in an approximately dose-dependent manner. These results were validated by additional experiments with mice expressing functionally deleted TRPA1 or TRPV1 receptor channels.Conclusions: Earlier findings of TRPA1 receptor channels being involved in the site of action of petasin and isopetasin are confirmed. Furthermore, we suggest an important inhibitory effect on TRPV1 receptor channels and assume a cooperative action between the two TRP receptors. These mechanisms may contribute to the migraine prophylactic effect of petasins.