bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental Regulation, Enterprises' Bargaining Power, and Enterprises' Total Factor Productivity: Evidence from China
Authors: Yang Shuwang , Wang Chao , Zhang Hao , Lu Tingshuai , Yi Yang
Published: June 2021

The relationship between environmental regulation and enterprises' total factor productivity (TFP) has been a hot topic in the field of environmental economics, but the conclusions are still mixed. Employing a sample of 14,110 firm-year observations in China from 2010 to 2018, our research explores whether and when environmental regulation could trigger firms, to enhance TFP. The available evidence leads us to cautiously conclude that: 1) Environmental regulation notably improves enterprises' TFP, the conclusion still holds after a series of robustness tests. 2) Enterprises' bargaining power significantly weakens the influence of environmental regulation on enterprises' TFP. 3) Compared with non-state-owned enterprises and non-heavy-polluting industries, environmental regulation has a greater impact on state-owned enterprises and heavy-polluting industries; higher executive compensation does not motivate firms to improve TFP; compared with enterprises headquartered in non-provincial capital cities, environmental regulation has a greater impact on enterprises' TFP in provincial capital cities. Overall, the findings of our research are extremely relevant for the government, investor, and enterprise's manager, this paper provides micro-firm-level evidence for the Porter hypothesis in practice in China.
Assessment of Hygiene Practices and Microbial Safety of Milk Supplied by Smallholder Farmers to Processors in Selected Counties in Kenya
Authors: Mogotu Miriam W. , Abong George O. , Mburu John , Ndambi Asaah O.
Published: June 2021

Smallholder farmers dominate the Kenyan dairy sector producing 95% of the total milk. However, several concerns have been raised on the quality and safety of the milk they produce. This study assessed the hygienic practices and microbial safety of milk supplied by smallholder farmers to processors in Bomet, Nyeri, and Nakuru counties in Kenya. Interviews and direct observations were carried out to assess hygiene and handling practices by farmers and a total of 92 milk samples were collected along four collection channels: direct suppliers, traders, cooperatives with coolers and cooperatives without coolers. Microbial analysis was done following standard procedures and data analysed using GenStat and SPSS. This study revealed that farmers did not employ good hygienic practices in their routine dairy management. They used plastic containers for milking and milk storage (34.2%); they did not clean sheds (47.9%) and did not set aside cows that suffered from mastitis factors (83.6%), resulting in poor microbial quality of raw milk along the collection channels. The highest mean total viable counts (8.72 log10 cfu/ml) were recorded in Nakuru while Nyeri had the highest mean E. coli counts (4.97 log10 cfu/ml) and Bomet recorded the highest mean counts of 5.13 and 5.78 log10 cfu/ml for Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes respectively. Based on all above-mentioned parameters, the microbial load in most samples from all three counties exceeded the set Kenyan standards. Farmer training, improving road infrastructure, use of instant coolers at cooperatives, and quality-based payment systems are recommended as measures to curb microbial growth.
The Brassica Napus Fatty Acid Exporter FAX1-1 Contributes to Biological Yield, Seed Oil Production, and Oil Quality
Authors: Xiao Zhongchun , Tang Fang , Zhang Liyuan , Li Shengting , Wang Shufeng , Huo Qiang , Yang Bo , Zhang Chao , Wang Daojie , Li Qing , Wei Lijuan , Guo Tao , Qu Cunmin , Lu Kun , Zhang Yanfeng , Guo Liang , Li Jiana , Li Nannan
Published: June 2021

Background: In the oilseed crop Brassica napus (rapeseed), various metabolic processes influence seed oil production, oil quality, and biological yield. However, the role of plastid membrane proteins in these traits has not been explored. Results: Our genome-wide association study (GWAS) of 520 B. napus accessions identified the chloroplast membrane protein-localized FATTY ACID EXPORTER 1-1 (FAX1-1) as a candidate associated with biological yield. Seed transcript levels of BnaFAX1-1 were higher in a cultivar with high seed oil content relative to a low-oil cultivar. BnaFAX1-1 localized to the plastid envelope. When expressed in Arabidopsis thaliana, BnaFAX1-1 enhanced biological yield (total plant dry matter), seed yield and seed oil content per plant. Likewise, in the ﬁeld, B. napus BnaFAX1-1 overexpression lines (BnaFAX1-1-OE) displayed significantly enhanced biological yield, seed yield, and seed oil content compared with the wild type. BnaFAX1-1 overexpression also up-regulated gibberellic acid 4 (GA4) biosynthesis, which may contribute to biological yield improvement. Furthermore, oleic acid (C18:1) significantly increased in BnaFAX1-1 overexpression seeds. Conclusion: Our results indicated that the putative fatty acid exporter BnaFAX1-1 simultaneously improved seed oil production, oil quality and biological yield in B. napus, providing new approaches for future molecular breeding.
PIMS-TS Innate Cell Signature and Immunophenotype, Description and Comparison with a Cohort of Healthy Children, Kawasaki Disease, Severe Viral and Bacterial Infections.
Authors: García-Salido Alberto , Leoz-Gordillo Inés , González-Brabin Anthony , García-Teresa María Ángeles , de Azagra-Garde Amelia Martínez - , Iglesias-Bouzas María Isabel , Cabrero-Hernández Marta , Patón Gema de - Lama - Caro - , Roch José Luis Unzueta - , Castillo-Robleda Ana , Ramírez-Orellana Manuel , Nieto-Moro Montserrat
Published: June 2021

A new clinical syndrome named as Pediatric Inflammatory Multisystem Syndrome Temporally Associated with SARS-CoV-2 (PIMS-TS) has been described. This new disease is a main cause of hospital and pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). We made a prospective-retrospective observational study to describe the innate cell signature and immunophenotype of children admitted to PICU because of PIMS-TS (from March 2020 to September 2020). They were compared with previous cohorts of healthy controls and children admitted to PICU because bacterial infection, viral infection and Kawasaki disease (KD). Two hundred and forty seven children were studied: 183 healthy controls, 25 viral infections, 20 bacterial infections, 6 KD and 13 PIMS-TS. PIMT-TS showed the lowest percentage of lymphocytes and monocytes with higher relative numbers of CD4+ (p =0,000). Monocytes and neutrophils in PIMS-TS showed higher levels of CD64 expression (p = 0,000). Also, CD11a and CD11b were highly expressed compare to other severe viral or bacterial infections (p = 0,000). In conclusion, we describe and compare for the first time the innate cellular response of children with PIMS-TS with other severe forms of viral or bacterial infection and KD. These data should be further studied and may facilitate the diagnosis and management of these patients.
Impact of COVID-19 and Mitigation Plans on Essential Health Services: Institutional Experience of St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College
Authors: Dandena Firaol , Teklewold Berhanetsehay , Anteneh Dagmawi
Published: June 2021

BackgroundHealth systems around the world are being challenged by on-going COVID-19 pandemic .The COVID-19 pandemic and associated response can have a significant downstream effect on access to routine health care services, and indirectly cause morbidity and mortality from causes other than the disease itself ,especially in resource-poor countries such Ethiopia. This study aimed to explore the impact of the pandemic on these service and measures taken to combat the effect.MethodsThe study was conducted at St. Paul’s hospital millennium medical college (SPHMMC). The study was conducted from December 15, 2020 to January 15, 2021 using comparative cross- sectional study design. We collected data on the number of clients getting different essential healthcare services from May to October 2019 (Pre COVID) and same period in 2020 (during COVID-19 pandemic) from patient registry book. The analysis was done with SPSS version 24 software.ResultOverall, the essential services of SPHMMC were affected by COVID-19 pandemic. The most affected service is inpatient admission that showed 73 % (2044 to 682) reduction from pre- COVID period and the least affected is maternal service, which only decrease by 13% (3671 to 3177). During the 6 months after COVID-19 pandemic, there is a progressive increment in number of clients getting essential health services.ConclusionThe establishment of a triple setup for fighting against COVID-19, which encompass; non COVID service, isolation centre and COVID-19 treatment centre played a vital role in preserving essential health services.
Screening of Plant Species for Phytoremediation of Synthetic Textile Dye Wastewater
Authors: Kaur Navjeet , Kaushal Jyotsna , Mahajan Pooja , Srivas Arun Lal
Published: June 2021

Most of the dyes are carcinogenic and mutagenic in nature. Plants are potential candidates to remediate textile dye wastewater from contaminated sites. The present study aimed to design an efficient hydroponic system to screen potential ornamental plant species for removal of synthetic dye solution of triarylmethane dye Methylene Blue (MB) and diazo dye Congo Red (CR). The six plants selected for screening are Trachyspermum ammi, Tagetes erecta, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, Chrysanthemum indicum, Bryophyllum fedtschenkoi, and Catharanthus roseus. The phytotreatment of dyes was done up to 40 h for two different concentrations of dyes, i.e., 10 and 20 mg L− 1. Among screened plant species, the maximum decolorization was obtained from T. ammi followed by B. fedtschenkoi. Both plant species showed active growth in indigenous designed hydroponic system even after the phytoremediation process. T. ammi decolorized the MB dye 99% (10 mg L− 1) and 86% (20 mg L− 1) while the decolorization of the CR dye solution was up to 95% (10 mg L− 1) and 84% (20 mg L− 1). T. ammi was found to have maximum potential among screened plants for the removal of MB and CR dye from synthetic dye solution when kept in designed hydroponic system and can be used for phytoremediation of wastewater contaminated with synthetic dyes.
The Economic Value of Sustainability of the Integrated Crop-Livestock System in Tropical Regions
Authors: Similli Flávia Fernanda , Mendonça Gabriela Geraldi , Gameiro Augusto Hauber , Augusto Jeferson Garcia , de Oliveira Joyce Graziella , Menegatto Leonardo Sartori , Santos David Ferreira Lopes
Published: June 2021

The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential of improve economic value of integrated crop-livestock systems in comparison to conventional systems specialized in monoculture. Empirical studies have demonstrated the environmental benefits of integrated crop-livestock systems, however the potential for creating economic value these systems are controversial, especially in emerging countries, where the necessity to expand the food supply needs be associated with better land use. This research evaluated six models of integrated systems and two conventional systems (corn grain production and pasture beef cattle production) in the south-eastern region of Brazil for two years. The models were conducted in an experiment to replicate the main management possibilities in the integrated systems. We show for the first time the economic impact analysis combined the risk optimization and discounted cash flow techniques based on Monte Carlo simulation, considering the price and productivity uncertainties of each system. Results indicated that, for the indicators of added value and return on investment, integrated crop-livestock systems had an economic advantage when compared to conventional systems. It was also found that integrated crop-livestock systems needed a smaller operational area for the economic break-even point to be reached.
A Systemic Approach to Trainee Physician Wellness: Using the Theory of Change to Restructure a Pediatric Residency Program
Authors: Raza Mahanoor , Rahman Arshalooz Jamila , Humayun Khadija , Gulamani Shafeen , Rasheed Muneera , Saeed Sana
Published: June 2021

Background: Resident well-being leads to better patient care practices, but a systematic approach is needed to achieve the wellness agenda. The Theory of Change was used for developing an interventional model for wellness in our study, after identifying the causes of burnout and attrition in a pediatric residency program. Methods: This was a quality improvement project where residents were asked about their main stressors in an anonymous open-ended feedback form. Workload (n=63, 37.5%) was identified as the main source of dissatisfaction. A database of 43 residents who quit in the past ten years was examined to find 40.0% of residents left after the first year of training and the main cause was marriage and/or family concerns (28.9%). Then literature was reviewed to build a wellness intervention's framework. Finally, the Theory of Change was applied focusing on restructuring the residency core, accountability and communication, and stress management. The final theory of the change model included the assumptions that the program needed restructuring because of high attrition, low first pass exam rate, and decreased patient satisfaction. The goal was to increase resident wellness and performance, while keeping patient care at the core. Results: The short-term outcomes were drop in attrition rate from an average of 8.67% to 1.75%, decrease in FCPS exam attempt from 3.3 to almost 1, and an increase in patient satisfaction. Conclusion: Using the Theory of Change, it was possible to address residents’ concerns, increase their retention and improve patient satisfaction by reconstructing the wellness program.
Study the Effects of Micro-Textured Cutting Tool on Surface Quality and Tool Wear when Machining Aluminium Alloy 7075-T6
Authors: Musavi Seyed Hasan , Sepehrikia Majid , Niknam Seyed Ali , Davoodi Behnam
Published: June 2021

Due to the wide applications of aluminum alloy in numerous industrial sectors and products, significant attention has been paid by many researchers to improve the production and manufacturing aspects of aluminium alloys and related products. One of the main concerns in this regard is the cutting tool life when machining aluminium alloys. This work aims to present the capability and performance of a new strategy of life improvement in the tungsten carbide inserts by creating micro-textured grooves on their surface. For this purpose, the laser was used to create the different morphologies of textures on the insert surfaces. The grooves were created with different distances in parallel to the cutting edge on the tool rake face. The effects of fabricated grooves on the tool wear attributes were discussed in three directions, including the main edge (x-direction), side edge (y-direction), and radial (in the direction of 45 degrees) and the effect of these grooves/textures on the surface roughness attributes were also studied. To that end, experimental works were performed under dry and minimum quantity lubrication (MQL), as well as three levels of cutting speed, feed rate, and grooves distance. The experimental results were compared with those measured under non-textured inserts. Finally, the obtained results were statistically analyzed, and the empirical models were formulated. Experimental results indicated that micro-textured inserts in both MQL and dry conditions led to surface quality and tool wear as compared to readings made under non-textured inserts.
The Effect of Caffeine on the Heart Rate Variability in Newborns
Authors: Fister Petja , Lenasi Helena , Rihar Eva , Filipič Jerneja , Klemenc Matjaž
Published: June 2021

Background: Neonatal apnoea has been treated with caffeine, which affects the central nervous and the cardiovascular system. Heart rate variability (HRV) reflects the activity of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), and might be used as a measure of ANS maturation in newborns. We aimed to establish the effect of caffeine on HRV in newborns, and saught for a potential correlation between HRV and the postmenstrual age.Methods: In 25 newborns, hospitalized due to apnoea and treated with caffeine (2.5 mg/kg), we assessed breathing frequency, arterial oxygen saturation, body temperature, and the heart rate while they were sleeping in two bed positions (0° tilt and 30° head-up tilt). We assessed HRV by spectral analysis using fast Fourier transformation. The same protocol was reapplied 100 hours after caffeine withdrawal to assess control parameters.Results: Caffeine increased breathing frequency (p=0.023), but did not affect any other parameter assessed including HRV. We established a positive correlation between postmenstrual age and HRV during treatment with caffeine in a 30° head-up tilt position (total power: p=0.044; low-frequency band: p=0.039).Conclusions: Apparently, the maintenance dose of caffeine is too low to affect heart rate and HRV. A positive correlation between postmenstrual age and HRV might reflect maturation of ANS.Trial registration: NCT04869176, retrospectively registered on April 27th 2021.
Large Scale Toxicoepigenetics on Histones: A Mass Spectrometry-based Screening Assay Applied to Developmental Toxicity
Authors: Verhelst Sigrid , Puyvelde Bart Van , Willems Sander , Daled Simon , Cornelis Senne , Corveleyn Laura , Willems Ewoud , Deforce Dieter , De Clerck Laura , Dhaenens Maarten
Published: June 2021

Toxicoepigenetics is an emerging field that studies the toxicological impact of compounds on protein expression through heritable, non-genetic mechanisms, such as histone post-translational modifications (hPTMs). Due to substantial progress in the large-scale study of hPTMs, integration into the field of toxicology is promising and offers the opportunity to gain novel insights into toxicological phenomena. Moreover, there is a growing demand for high-throughput human-based in vitro assays for toxicity testing, especially for developmental toxicity. Consequently, we developed a mass spectrometry-based proof-of-concept to assess a histone code screening assay capable of simultaneously detecting multiple hPTM-changes in human embryonic stem cells. To prove the applicability and performance, we first validated the untargeted workflow with valproic acid (VPA), a histone deacetylase inhibitor. These results demonstrate that our workflow is capable of mapping the hPTM-dynamics, with a general increase in acetylations as an internal control. To illustrate the scalability, a dose-response study was performed on a proof-of-concept library of ten compounds i) with a known effect on the hPTMs (BIX-01294, 3-Deazaneplanocin A, Trichostatin A, and VPA), ii) classified as highly embryotoxic by the European Centre for the Validation of Alternative Methods (ECVAM) (Methotrexate, and All-trans retinoic acid), iii) classified as non-embryotoxic by ECVAM (Penicillin G), and iv) compounds of abuse with a presumed developmental toxicity (ethanol, caffeine, and nicotine). In conclusion, we show that toxicoepigenetic screening on histones is feasible and yields very rich data that holds potential, not only for applications in the pharmaceutical industry, but also for environmental toxicity and food safety.
Multifunctional Irrigation-Assisted Vacuum Drainage versus Traditional Drainage in the Treatment of Odontogenic Deep Fascial Infection: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: He Di , Qian Yuanyi , Zhou LiMei , Qi HaoZhao , Yu Menghua , Zhang Tian , Yan Qin , Sheng Xiahan , Liu Yanming
Published: June 2021

Background: Odontogenic deep fascial space infection in the head and neck is a common clinical problem which requires emergency surgery. Traditional drainage method is considered laborious and gravity-dependent. We aimed in this study to promote a modified multifunctional irrigation-assisted vacuum drainage (MIVD) and evaluate the clinical effect of it in the treatment of odontogenic deep fascial infection.Methods: Patients diagnosed with odontogenic deep fascial space infection in the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, China between March 2018 and March 2021 were studied. We divided the patients into two groups based on the drainage method they received: patients with the MIVD device were included in the MIVD group, patients with traditional drainage were included in the traditional group. Data was collected retrospectively including baseline characteristics and treatment outcome variables. Pearson Chi-square test and the Student t-test were used in statistical analyses. Statistical difference was considered significant when p<0.05.Results: A total of 65 patients were included. All the patients were eventually cured. There were no significant differences in age, gender, systemic diseases, history of diabetes, tobacco use, number of the infected spaces, preoperative white blood cell count and C-reactive protein between the two groups (p>0.05). The number and frequency of manual irrigation by clinicians (MIC), time required for white blood cell count to return to normal levels (TWBC), time required for C-reactive protein to return to normal levels (TCRP), the length of hospitalization and the length and total cost of antibiotics use were significantly less in the MIVD group than those in the traditional group (p<0.05). There was no significant difference in the cost of hospitalization between the 2 groups (p>0.05).Conclusions: The MIVD device significantly reduced the number and frequency of MIC, TWBC, TCRP, the length of hospitalization and the length and total cost of antibiotics use in comparison with the traditional drainage method. It provided a favorable treatment method for patients with odontogenic deep fascial space infection in the head and neck.
Body image concerns screening tools: creation and validation of Polish language versions of Body Shape Questionnaire-34 (BSQ-34) and Functionality Appreciation Scale (FAS)
Authors: Yurtsever Ida , Matusiak Łukasz , Szepietowska Marta , Evans Chris , Szepietowski Jacek
Published: June 2021

Background: Body image can be defined as individual perception of own body and related behaviors. Body dissatisfaction may lead to low self-esteem, depression and anxiety. Body image can be evaluated and quantified. Among various number of instruments assessing body image, there are: Body Shape Questionnaire-34 (BSQ-34) and Functionality Appreciation Scale (FAS). The aim of this study was to translate and validate the Polish version of both: BSQ-34 and FAS. Methods: Both, forward and backward translations of the original English versions of BSQ-34 and FAS questionnaires was performed in accordance with international standards. The validation of BSQ-34 was conducted on 89 and FAS on 103 individuals. They completed the questionnaires twice with 3-6 days interval. The subjects also filled the Polish versions of BIQLI (Body Image Quality of Life Inventory) and BAS-2 (Body Appreciation Scale-2) for convergent validity procedure. Results: The Polish version of both BSQ-34 and FAS demonstrated very good and good internal consistency and reproducibility. Convergent validity indicated a moderate relationship between BSQ-34 and BIQLI, and strong correlation between FAS and BAS-2. Conclusions: To conclude the Polish version of both BSQ-34 and FAS questionnaire showed sufficient internal consistency and reliability. They can be used in clinical practice in subjects speaking Polish language. Trial registration: Wroclaw Medical University EC approval no: 2/06/20
Age-Related Differences in the Survival Benefit of Anticoagulant Therapy in Sepsis in Accordance with the Japanese Association for Acute Medicine Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation Diagnostic Criteria: A Retrospective Sub-analysis of a Prospective Multicenter Study
Authors: Wada Takeshi , Yamakawa Kazuma , Kabata Daijiro , Abe Toshikazu , Ogura Hiroshi , Shiraishi Atsushi , Saitoh Daizoh , Kushimoto Shigeki , Fujishima Seitaro , Mayumi Toshihiko , Hifumi Toru , Shiino Yasukazu , Nakada Taka-aki , Tarui Takehiko , Otomo Yasuhiro , Okamoto Kohji , Umemura Yutaka , Kotani Joji , Sakamoto Yuichiro , Sasaki Junichi , Shiraishi Shin-ichiro , Takuma Kiyotsugu , Tsuruta Ryosuke , Hagiwara Akiyoshi , Masuno Tomohiko , Takeyama Naoshi , Yamashita Norio , Ikeda Hiroto , Ueyama Masashi , Fujimi Satoshi , Gando Satoshi
Published: June 2021

Background: Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is one of the major organ dysfunctions associated with sepsis. This study aimed to investigate the age-related differences in the survival benefit of anticoagulant therapy in sepsis in accordance with the DIC diagnostic criteria.Methods: We conducted a retrospective sub-analysis of a prospective multicenter study. Fifty-nine intensive care units in Japan, from January 2016 to March 2017 were included. Adult patients with severe sepsis based on the Sepsis-2 criteria were enrolled and divided into two groups as follows: anticoagulant group; patients who received anticoagulant therapy, and non-anticoagulant group; patients who did not receive anticoagulant therapy. Patients in anticoagulant therapy group were administered antithrombin, recombinant human thrombomodulin and their combination.Results: The multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression model including a three-way interaction term among anticoagulant therapy, DIC score and age showed that the increases in the risk were suppressed in patients receiving anticoagulant therapy in patients aged 60 to 70 years with high DIC scores. For patients aged 50 years, the risk in the non-anticoagulant group tended to increase concomitantly with increases in the DIC score in the low score range, while there was no increase in the risk in the high score range and favorable association of anti-coagulant therapy on hospital mortality was not found. In patients aged 80 years, the non-anticoagulant group indicated a certain risk regardless of the DIC score and the anti-coagulant therapy showed no beneficial effect on the decrease in risk of hospital mortality. Furthermore, anticoagulant therapy in the lower DIC score range increased the risk in patients aged 50 to 60 years.Conclusions: Anticoagulant therapy, the administration of antithrombin, recombinant human thrombomodulin, and their combination, were associated with decreased hospital mortality according to a higher DIC score in septic patients aged 60 to 70 years. Anticoagulant therapy, however, was not associated with a better outcome in relatively younger and older septic patients.Trial registration: UMIN-CTR, UMIN000019588. Registered on 16 November 2015.
TPX2 Induces Mitotic Survival via BCL2L1 Induction Through YAP1 Protein Stabilization in Human Embryonic Stem Cells
Authors: Kim Yun-Jeong , Go Young-Hyun , Jeong Ho-Chang , Kim Seong-Min , Cheong Hyun Sub , Shin Hyoung Doo , Lee Haeseung , Cha Hyuk-Jin
Published: June 2021

Genetic alterations have been reported in most human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) for decades. ‘Survival advantage,’ a typical trait acquired during long-term in vitro culture, results from induction of BCL2L1 upon frequent copy number variation (CNV) at locus 20q11.21 and is one of the strongest candidates associated with genetic alteration via escape from mitotic stress. However, the underlying mechanisms for BCL2L1 induction remain undefined. Furthermore, abnormal mitosis and ‘survival advantage’ frequently occurring in the late passage are respectively associated with the expression of TPX2 and BCL2L1, which are located in locus 20q11.21. In this study, we observed that 20q11.21 CNV was not sufficient for BCL2L1 induction and consequent survival traits in pairs of hESCs and human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) with normal and 20q11.21 CNVs. Inducible expression of TPX2 and basal TPX2 expression due to leakage of the inducible system in hESCs with normal copy number was sufficient to promote BCL2L1 expression and promoted high tolerance to mitotic stress. High Aurora A kinase activity by TPX2 stabilized YAP1 protein to promote YAP1 dependent BCL2L1 expression. Thus, a chemical inhibitor of Aurora A kinase and knockdown of YAP/TAZ significantly abrogated the aforementioned high tolerance to mitotic stress through BCL2L1 suppression. These results suggest that the collective expression of TPX2 and BCL2L1 from CNV at loci 20q11.21 and a consequent increase in YAP1 signaling would promote genome instability during long-term in vitro hESC culture.
A New Technique for Identification and Evaluation of Wear in Cupper Electrodes in Electrical Discharge Machining Using Acoustic Emission Signals
Authors: Ferreira Samuel Soares , Amorim Fred Lacerda , Júnior Jánes Landre , Maia Luís Henrique Andrade , Machado Álisson Rocha , Sales Wisley Falco
Published: June 2021

Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) is an unconventional machining process based on removing material by successive electrical discharges. The tool electrode wear must be kept as minimal as possible to produce high precision components. This scope proposes the development of a new technique for identifying wear on electrodes and its evolution using acoustic emission (AE) signals. Therefore, EDM tests were performed on H13 steel parts with electrolytic copper tool electrodes under two different conditions with concomitant AE signals measurements. The following parameters were used in the first EDM test: voltage pulse duration time (𝑡𝑒) of 150 𝜇s; the time interval between two successive voltage pulses (𝑡𝑜) of 14.84 𝜇s; electrical current of 33 A; and positive polarity electrode. For the second test: duration of the voltage pulse (𝑡𝑒) of 2 𝜇s; the time interval between two successive voltage pulses (𝑡𝑜) of 4.90 𝜇s; electrical current of 18 A; and negative polarity electrode. In this way, a wear rate 28.3 times higher was obtained in the electrolytic copper electrode in the first test, more aggressive due to its parameters, for the same machining time compared to the second test. Finally, the wear of the tool electrodes was related to the AE signals from machining, initially in this study, the workpiece's mass loss was not verified. These signals were analyzed using the Short-Time Fourier Transform techniques and Spectral Entropy. The results showed that the signals using the new technique of relation respond to wear and are sensitive to the electrode's wear rate.
The Effect of Exercise Training and Portulaca Oleracea on Neurobehavioral Dysfunction in Type 2 Diabetic Rats
Authors: Parsa Hesam , Shiravand Tayebeh , Ranjbar Kamal , Komaki Alireza
Published: June 2021

Background: Diabetes mellitus is one of the most important causes of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Portulaca oleracea (P.oleracea) is a rich source of antioxidants, which reduces inflammation and oxidative stress in diabetic rats. Exercise training has also been shown to improve mental function and enhance learning and memory efficacy. Therefore, this study was designed to explore the potential combined effect of P. oleracea and exercise training on neurobehavioral dysfunction in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic male rats. Methods: For this purpose, 50 male Wistar rats were divided into five groups: 1) healthy control group (Con), 2) sedentary diabetic group (D), 3) diabetic rats treated with P. oleracea(D+Po), 4) diabetic rats treated with exercise training (D+Ex), and 5) diabetic rats treated with P.oleracea and exercise training (D+Po+Ex) simultaneously. Animals in the exercise groups were subjected to progressive swimming training for 12weeks. P.oleracea was mixed with standard pellet food for 12weeks. Neurobehavioral dysfunction was investigated by elevated plus-maze, shuttle box, open field, and novel object recognition tests.Results: Compared with the normal control group, rats in the sedentary diabetic group showed a more passive avoidance memory deficit and more anxiety, and less exploration. Due to exercise training and treatment with P. oleracea, the neurobehavioral deficit in the trained diabetic rats receiving P. oleracea reached the normal levels of those in the healthy group.Conclusion: These data demonstrated that diabetes causes significant neurobehavioral deficit. Nevertheless, swimming training and P. oleracea synergistically ameliorate and reverse the neurobehavioral deficit in STZ-induced diabetic male rats.
What Impact has lockdown on SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 incidence, prevalence and mortality during second wave of pandemic in 2021: - observational analysis of Bihar
Authors: Kumar Piyush
Published: June 2021

Background: My research aimed to assess the impact of lockdown on SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19 pandemic 13 days before lockdown, first and second 13 days during lockdown, and 13 days after the lockdown on the trends in the incidence, prevalence and mortality in the state of Bihar, India, during COVID-19 pandemic.Methods: The information on the number of cases and deaths due to COVID-19 pandemic in Bihar was obtained from Health Department Bihar, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, and lockdown data were obtained from online websites as well. The impact of lockdown for 13 days before lockdown, first and second 13 days during lockdown, and 13 days after the lockdown on the incidence, prevalence and mortality due to the COVID-19 pandemic in Bihar was analyzed with Microsoft office and stata 15.1 for windows (64bit). The same will be used with Microsoft office in next version-3 of article with addition of two more period of observation i.e. one more 13 day period before lockdown and one more period after the lock down in order to observe 2 period of same duration before lockdown and 2 periods of same duration after lockdown. This period is under observation right now by the author. The version-3 will also discuss lockdown model of Bihar with criteria of inclusion and exclusion of lockdown detailed in the article as well as analysis summary for understanding in short.Results: The findings showed that except for Incidence /100000/ new death there was a trend toward a decline, and except for Prevalence/100000/confirmed cases from beginning of pandemic all other prevalence have increased. The total and observation period mortality rate due to the COVID-19 pandemic also increased.Conclusions: The findings indicate that 13 days after the lockdown, incidence, daily cases of COVID-19 and the growth of the disease showed a declined trend, but there was no significant decline in the prevalence and mortality. The study found that daily cases of SARS-COV-2 patients, and the growth factor results declined and the growth rate per day both declined to an impressive negative level in the case of the growth rate. The Bihar model of lockdown is of significance in reducing the daily new cases as well as it was found that, 13 days after the lockdown, the growth factor of the number of new daily cases decreased and the growth factor of new daily deaths was increased after the lockdown period.
The Influence of SSO on the Optimization Result of Nasopharynx Carcinoma Plan
Authors: HUA Xiaolong , YU Jianhe , WANG Lu , DAI Jiaqi , REN Qun , CHEN Li , SONG Chuanjun , MOU Yanshu , XU Wenjing , XU Hongxia
Published: June 2021

PurposeTo study the influence of Monaco 5.4 treatment planning system (TPS) on the dosimetry of radiotherapy for nasopharynx carcinoma (NPC) under the condition of different segment shape optimization (SSO) times.MethodsFifteen patients with T3-4N0-2M0 stage nasopharyngeal carcinoma were enrolled, and each case was designed with SSO of 3, 5, 7 and 10 times respectively. The dose results of the target area and the major organs at risk (OAR) were statistically analyzed by DVH statistics; moreover, the isodose lines of 70Gy, 60Gy and 54Gy were intercepted at the same plane in the transverse, coronal and sagittal views and the segment shapes were compared at the angle of 30°, 120°, 240° and 330° in beam eye view (BEV); In addition, optimization time (OT), delivery time (DT), segments# and MU# were obtained and analyzed by optimization console; the plans were verified and analyzed by using ArcCheck phantom.ResultsFor target area D2, the results of the SSO7 group and the SSO10 group were similar and both better than those of SSO3 and SSO5 groups, and the D2 results of the SSO3 group were notable higher than those of the other three groups; for the major OARs, the results of the maximum dose of spinal cord, brain stem, and lens and the mean dose and V30 of parotid glands showed the same trend. It showed that SSO7 and SSO10 share similar dose results, too which are notable better than the similar dose results shared by SSO3 and SSO5; in the dose deprogram distribution of 70Gy, 60Gy and 54Gy, partial 70Gy dose spillover occurred in both groups SSO3 and SSO5 and it was more obvious in group SSO3. While there was a no significant dose spillover in group SSO7 and group SSO10; in the sub-field alignment comparison under the same angle, the alignment became more complicated and the sub-fields were smaller as the number of SSO increased; the results of segment#, MU# and plan delivery time between different SSO groups were slightly different, while the plan optimization time changed significantly. The difference between group SSO3 and group SSO10 was more than 500s; the results were compared in ArcCheck, there was no significant difference between the groups.ConclusionsThe user-defined SSO function of Monaco 5.4 TPS effectively balances the relationship between plan design efficiency and plan quality. When SSO is 7, it is better value for efficiency and quality in clinical radiotherapy for nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
Impact of climate and governments measures on COVID-19 spread : Evidence from data
Authors: Maoude Kassimou Abdoul Haki , Chaffa Chaffa Odjouwoni Lucien , Adom Idossou Marius
Published: June 2021

This paper investigates the effects of climate and governments responses on the spread of the COVID-19. Our strategy is empirical. Our model is based on an accounting equation derived from the SIR model, and estimates the relationship between the growth of the daily COVID-19 confirmed cases on the one hand, and climatic variables (such as the daily average temperature and the wind speed) and governments responses to COVID-19 on the other hand. We also develop a theoretical approach to test the presence of a threshold in the effect of the temperature on the COVID-19 spread. Using a panel data on a sample of 294 territories overs 106 days (from 22 January, 2020 to 06 May, 2020), we find significant negative effect of temperature and temperature variability and significant positive effect of wind speed and precipitation on the growth of the COVID-19 confirmed cases. We also find that governments responses are associated to a lower growth of confirmed cases. But we do not find any universally applicable threshold effect in the relationship between the average temperature and the confirmed cases growth.JEL Classification: C12, C15, C23, C60
Structural, Thermal, Optical Characterizations of PANI/PMMA Composite Doped by TiO2 as an Application in Optoelectronic Devices
Authors: Alsulami Q. A. , Rajeh A. A.
Published: June 2021

The casting method was employed for the preparation of polymer blend films doped with TiO2 (0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2.3 wt.%). The XRD outcomes show that TiO2 phase formation is anatase, with an average crystal size of 20.25 nm. PANI/PMMA-TiO2 nanocomposites samples have an amorphous nature. In addition, the degree of amorphousity is increased with the increase of the content of the TiO2 NPs. The FTIR method was employed for presenting the vibrational bands of the nanocomposites and the intermolecular bonding of the blend with the TiO2 NPs. The applied investigation involved the optical constant like absorption as well as t90-etransmission spectra, refractive index, reflectance, coefficient extinction, dielectric constant’ imaginary and real parts, the susceptibility (χ3) of third order and the optical band gaps. The optical band gap (Eg) values of the films of fabricated nanocomposites was lower upon doping (≤ 1.5 wt.%). The reduction of the value happened due to the introduction of the preselected TiO2 NPs into thin films. Such values significantly match the values which were revealed by the Tauc technique. It was proved through DSC and TGA techniques that TiO2 NPs can lead to the enhancement of the polymer blend in terms of thermal stability. As displayed by the DSC analysis, there is a single Tg of the polymer blend (PANI/PMMA), which prove their miscibility. The optical constants displayed by the experimental results show noticeable changes upon raising the doping concentrations. The resultant doped thin films indicate that the fabricating high-efficient optoelectronic machines are greatly promising.
Bacillus Coagulans SKB LAB-19: A Potential Probiotic in Humans and Animal Healthcare
Authors: Chaudhari Khushal , Mohan Mahalaxmi , Saudagar Parag S , Sable Chetna , Bedade Dattatray K
Published: June 2021

Probiotics are live microorganism which when administered in adequate amounts confer health benefits to the host. Different probiotic strains are being used in animal feeds. The main goal of current study was to screen the isolate for potential probiotic characteristics viz. different enzyme production, antimicrobial properties, pH/bile salt tolerance, temperature stability, antidiarrheal activity against E. coli and castor oil induced diarrhoea in non-ruminant’s Swiss albino mice and Wistar rats; and acute oral toxicity in mice using OECD guidelines. The results showed that the isolate SKB LAB-19 produces 8 potential enzymes, effective against E. coli and C. perfringensis, tolerant to bile salt and gastric pH, stable at 40-90oC and shows no cytotoxicity. In in vivo studies, SKB LAB19 was found to be safe and displayed promising results to reverse E. coli and castor oil induced diarrhoea in Albino mice and Wistar rats, respectively. An attempt was made to explain mechanism of action and immunomodulatory effects of Bacillus coagulans SKB LAB-19 on reversal of diarrhoeal symptoms, haematological parameters, concentration of immunoglobulins in blood and increases the weight of spleen and thymus. Histopathological pictures showed repair to damaged mucosal epithelium cells and also improves integrity of the goblet cells of colon. Thus, Bacillus coagulans SKB LAB-19 could be an effective probiotic alternative to standard anti-diarrhoeal drugs in humans and animals.
Efficacy of Acupuncture and Its Influence on the Emotional Network in Insomnia Disorder: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Jiang Tongfei , Guo Jing , Zhang Qi , Zhang Fan , Yuan Fang
Published: June 2021

IntroductionInsomnia disorder (ID) is characterized by dissatisfaction with the quantity or quality of sleep and is often accompanied by negative emotions such as anxiety and depression. Patients with insomnia become trapped in a vicious circle of bad moods and poor sleep. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (r-fMRI) studies have shown abnormalities in emotion-related brain networks in patients with ID. And it has been proven that reducing negative emotions improves sleep quality. As a traditional alternative therapy, acupuncture has been demonstrated to be effective not only in improving sleep quality but also in stabilizing emotions; however, the mode of action needs to be further explored. Therefore, a clinical trial was designed to explore the effect of acupuncture in improving sleep and mood, and to intuitively investigate the regulation of the emotional network using fMRI. Methods and AnalysisA total of 60 participants with ID will be randomly allocated to a spirit-regulating group or a control group using non-effective acupoints acupuncture at a ratio of 1:1. All participants will receive 3 acupuncture treatment sessions per week for 4 weeks. In addition, 30 healthy individuals will be included in the healthy group. The primary outcome is the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Secondary outcomes are the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA), the Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD), the Hyperarousal Scale (HAS), and the Fatigue Scale-14 (FS-14), r-fMRI data, sleep diary, and actigraphy. The data will be collected prior to treatment, following treatment, and during the 12 weeks follow-up period; a sleep diary will be kept during the entire process. Ethics and Dissemination This protocol has been approved by the Research Ethical Committee of Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Bejing TCM Hospital). The results will be published in peer-reviewed journals or presented at academic conferences. Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trials Register, ChiCTR1800015282.
Lipid-In, Sugar-Out: Early Results of Treatment with additional Ketogenic Parenteral Nutrition in Left Ventricle Assist Device Patients.
Authors: Bejko Jonida , Bottio Tomaso , Caraffa Raphael , Carrozzini Massimiliano , Bifulco Olimpia , Tarzia Vincenzo , Gregori Dario , Pittarello Demetrio Giorgio , Pesenti Francesco Francini , Gerosa Gino , Tona Francesco
Published: June 2021

Background and Aims: Right ventricle failure (RVF) can be a fatal complication following left ventricle assist device (LVAD) implant. Careful intra and postoperative management is becoming increasingly important. Unfortunately, the attempts are limited to the prediction and not to the treatment. There are no data on Ketogenic parenteral nutrition (KPN) for the targeted treatment of RVF. The aim of our retrospective observational case-control study is to determine whether KPN may play a role as additional treatment to conventional therapy after LVAD implantation.Material and Methods: This is a retrospective single center analysis of a case series on prospectively collected data. From February 2012 to April 2021, 192 patients have been implanted with an LVAD. All the patients were managed with optimal medical and surgical therapy. One-hundred-seven patients were treated with additional KPN as adjuvant therapy against and in prevention of acute RVF (KPN-Group), defined according to International Society Heart and Lung Transplantation (ISHLT) guidelines. The remaining 85 patients, managed without KPN, constituted our control group (No-KPN-Group).Results: In KPN-Group acute-RVF occurred in 31 patients (29%), while causing death in 14 patients (13%). In the No-KPN-Group acute-RVF was observed in 32 patients (37.6%), while causing death in 20 patients (23.5%). According to echocardiographic and hemodynamic results, the majority of KPN-Group patients responded with RV function improvement (range 4–60% of TAPSE increase, p < 0.05) with recovery of RV function in 85% of the patients (91/107). In No-KPN-Group RV functional recovery was observed in 65 patients (76.4%). Overall intra-hospital mortality was 23.4% (25) and 27.1% (23) in KPN-Group and No-KPN-Group, respectively (p = 0.337). While Intensive Care Unit (ICU) stay was comparable (p = 0.078), ward-stay was significantly shorter in KPN-Group (p = 0.03).Conclusion: KPN was well tolerated. A complete recovery of the RV function was achieved in the majority of the patients and results lasted beyond the duration of KPN. Future research to understand the underlying mechanism, and identification of suitable patients and treatment duration is necessary.