bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Olfactory Sensory Neuron: Immunohistochemical Markers, Technique of Flat-Mounted Mucosa and Cell Count
Authors: Gavid Marie , Coulomb Louise , Thomas Justin , Rigaill Josselin , Chaux Robin , Mentek Marielle , Prades Jean Michel , Thuret Gilles , Gain Philippe , He Zhiguo
Published: December 2021

A classification of olfactory sensory neuron (OSN) markers, a simple and robust technique of immunostaining on flat-mounted olfactory epithelium (OE) and a reliable quantification of the density of mature and immature OSNs are three crucial tools to study the pathophysiology of olfactory dysfunction. Using the rat model, we first categorized the main OSN markers by immunohistochemistry (IHC) on cross sections of OE. The OSN markers were divided into 3 groups: mature OSNs (OMP), immature OSNs (Tuj-1, DCX, OLIG2) and both (N-cadherin, LHX2, PGP9.5). The subcellular localization of each marker was also described. Tuj-1, OMP, DCX, PGP9.5 and N-cadherin were selected for immunostaining on flat-mounted OE because of their staining of OSN dendrites. We were able to successfully label OE with all the 5 markers using a simple technique for flat-mounted OE. In addition, this technique allowed the first mapping of the OE directly on the ethmoid turbinates. Finally, we quantified the mature (OMP+, Tuj-1-), immature (OMP-, Tuj-1+), transitory (OMP+, Tuj-1+) and total OSN density which were respectively 42080 ± 11820, 49384 ± 7134, 14448 ± 5865 and 105912 ± 13899 per mm2 (mean ± SD). The transitory population was quantified for the first time.
Liquefaction Potential Determination and Hazard Mapping Based on Standard Penetration Tests in Long Beach and Tuzla Regions of Cyprus
Authors: Selcukhan Onur , Ekinci Abdullah
Published: December 2021

This study proposes an improved and precise liquefaction risk index for the evaluation and translation of outcomes into maps to establish susceptible liquefiable areas. Cyprus is the third largest and populated island in the Mediterranean Sea, which is rapidly expanding in every way. Significant infrastructures, such as hotels, educational institutions, and large residential complexes are being built. Historically, two major earthquakes with magnitudes of 6.5 Mw struck the island in 1953 and 1996. Potential liquefaction areas have been detected on the island's east coast as a result of these significant earthquakes. In this case study, the liquefaction potential of Tuzla and Long Beach in the northern part of Cyprus is estimated using the standard penetration test (SPT) data from more than 200 boreholes at different locations at the sites. The overall results are presented in a liquefaction risk index obtained from the factor of safety (FS) coefficient. It is clear that both study areas are susceptible to liquefaction. Thus, risk index maps are prepared to identify susceptible liquefiable areas. In addition, the average factor of the safety line was introduced for both sites to create a correlation between the liquefaction risk area and FS values of every borehole. It is clear that the adopted approach precisely provides the suspected depth of the liquefiable soil layer when compared with the risk index maps. Additionally, the results prove that the liquefaction potential must be considered during the design stage of new infrastructure in these areas.
Extraction of Chitosan From Fish Scale for Food Preservation and Shelf-Life Enhancer
Authors: Ooi Hon Min , Munawer Mohamad Huzair , Kiew Peck Loo
Published: December 2021

With the growing demand for chitosan in a variety of applications and the drawbacks associated with crustacean shell-based chitosan, there is a need to look for alternative sources of chitosan extraction and production. Chitosan was extracted from the scales of red snapper ( Lutjanus johnii ) in this study. It was discovered that the concentration of solvent (HCl and NaOH) and temperature at various stages of the extraction process influenced the yield of extracted fish scale chitosan. The characterization result revealed that the commercial crustacean-based chitosan and the extracted fish scale chitosan had similar Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra, indicating that the two had similar functional groups. The degree of deacetylation (DDA) of the extracted fish scale chitosan was determined to be 76.9%, with the ash value, loss on drying, and solubility being 1.28%, 3.62%, and 88.8%, respectively. The extracted and commercialised chitosan were found to be similar in all characterization results. The potential of fish scale chitosan as a food preservative and shelf-life enhancer was then investigated in this study. Strawberries coated with chitosan were stored at various temperatures, and their physical appearance and moisture loss were recorded. When used in conjunction with traditional preservation techniques such as storage in a cool environment, fish scale chitosan was found to be capable of preventing up to 50% moisture loss in strawberries.
Incidence of Oncogenic HPV and HPV-Related Dysplasia Five Years After a Negative HPV Test by Self-Sampling in Elderly Women
Authors: Hermansson Ruth , Olovsson Matts , Gustavsson Inger , Gyllensten Ulf , Lindkvist Olga , Lindberg Julia Hedlund , Lillsunde-Larsson Gabriella , Lindström Annika K
Published: December 2021

PURPOSE: Cervical cancer prevention for older women can be challenging since there are no specific guidelines for this group. This study aimed to determine the incidence of oncogenic HPV and HPV-related dysplasia in elderly women 5 years after being HPV negative. METHODS: Invited women participated five years earlier in a study where self-sampling for HPV testing was applied, at this time, they were all HPV negative. The women were now invited to perform self-sampling for HPV testing. Women with a positive result performed a repeat HPV test. Those with a positive repeat HPV test were examined by colposcopy, biopsy and cytology. RESULTS: Of the 804 invited women, 634 (76.9%) agreed to participate in the study and a self-sampling kit was sent to them. Of these, 99.6% (632/634) sent a sample to the HPV laboratory. The participation rate in each age group was 93.3% at age 65, 74.0% at age 70, 80.7% at age 75 and 64.6 % at age 80. Overall 18 women (2.8%, 95% CI 3.2 to 6.0) were HPV positive in the first test and 8 (1.3%, 95% CI 0.6 to 2.6) in the second test. Sampling for the second test was done on average 5.4 months after the first test. Fifty per cent (4/8) of the women with a positive repeat test had dysplasia in histology. CONCLUSION: The incidence of HPV in previously HPV-negative elderly women was low. Among women who were HPV positive in a repeat test, there was a high prevalence of low grade dysplasia.
Applying Spectral Fractal Dimension to Predict the SPAD Value of Rice Leaves Under Disease Stress
Authors: Cao YiFei , Xu Huanliang , Song Jin , Yang Yao , Hu Xiaohui , Wiyao Korohou Tchalla , Zhai Zhaoyu
Published: December 2021

BackgroundThe chlorophyll content is a vital indicator for reflecting the photosynthesis ability of plants and it plays a significant role in monitoring the general health of plants. Since the chlorophyll content and the soil-plant analysis development (SPAD) value are positively correlated, it is feasible to estimate the SPAD value by calculating the vegetation indices (VIs) through hyperspectral images, thereby estimating the chlorophyll content. However, current indices simply adopted few wavelengths of the hyperspectral information, which may decrease the estimation accuracy. Besides, few researches explored the applicability of VIs over plant leaves under disease stress.MethodsIn this study, the SPAD value was estimated by calculating the fractal dimension of hyperspectral curves, ranging from 420 to 950 nm. The correlation between the SPAD value and wavelengths under disease stress was analyzed. In addition, a SPAD prediction model was built upon the combination of selected indices and 4 machine learning methods, including decision tree (DT), partial least square regression (PLSR), support vector regression (SVR), and back propagation neural network (BPNN). The performance of these models was compared through the correlation of determination, root mean square error, and relative error.ResultsThe results suggested that the SPAD value of rice leaves under different disease levels were sensitive to different wavelengths, meaning that the fixed wavelength selection in current indices may achieve poor estimation results. Compared with current VIs, a stronger positive correlation was detected between the SPAD value and our proposal, reaching an average correlation coefficient of 0.8263. For the prediction model, the one built with our proposal and SVR achieved the best performance, reaching R2, RMSE, and RE at 0.8752, 3.7715, and 7.8614%, respectively.ConclusionsThis work provides an in-depth insight for accurately and robustly estimating the SPAD value of rice leaves under disease stress, and our proposal is of great significance for monitoring the chlorophyll content in large-scale fields non-destructively.
Development and Feasibility of a Group, Household Level Intervention To Improve Preconception Nutrition in Nepal
Authors: Diamond-Smith Nadia , Mitchell Ashley , Cornell Alia , Gopalakrishnan Lakshmi , Johnson Mallory , Weiser Sheri , Puri Mahesh , Dahal Minakshi
Published: December 2021

Background: In a setting such as Nepal with malnutrition and persistent poor maternal and infant health outcomes, developing interventions to improve the nutrition of preconception and pregnant women is essential. Aside from factors related to access and knowledge about diverse and adequate diets, inequitable gender norms and women’s low status and autonomy also feed into a lack of emphasis on women’s nutrition.Methods: In this paper we describe the three phases of the design of an intervention for newly married women, their husbands, and mothers-in-law in rural Nepal. We first discuss findings from a mixed methods formative phase, and how that fed into the design of the intervention itself, in close partnership with community members. We the describe the intervention, and findings from a mixed methods feasibility and acceptability pilot among 90 participants.Results: Our formative work highlighted not just lack of awareness about nutrition, but also how factors such as women eating last, and limited mobility, played into poor diets. Low lack of communication and household and community inequitable gender norms were also important factors. Thus we designed Sumadhur, an intervention that brought groups of households (newly married wife, husband, and mother-in-law) together weekly for 4 months to strengthen relationships and gain knowledge through interactive content. We found Sumadhur to be highly feasible and acceptable by all respondents, with most (83%) attending 80% of sessions or more, the majority (73%) of participants reported “no difficulties” in attending sessions, and 99% reporting that they would like it to continue. Pre/post surveys showed a decrease in the proportion of women of women eating last and increase in knowledge about nutrition in preconception and pregnant. Qualitative interviews suggested that respondents felt it made large impacts on their lives, in terms of strengthening relationships and trust, understanding each other, and changing behaviors.Conclusions: We show how a designing an intervention in close partnership with the target recipients and local stakeholders can lead to an intervention that is able to target complicated and culturally held practices and beliefs, positively benefit health and wellbeing, and that is very well received.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04383847, registered 12/05/2020https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/results/NCT04383847?view=results
Observational Study of Re-Biopsy in EGFR-TKI-Resistant Patients with EGFR Mutation-Positive Advanced NSCLC
Authors: Koyama Kenichi , Miura Satoru , Watanabe Satoshi , Shoji Satoshi , Koshio Jun , Hayashi Yoshiki , Ishikawa Daisuke , Sato Ko , Miyabayashi Takao , Okajima Masaaki , Ota Takeshi , Tanaka Tomohiro , Matsumoto Naoya , Kuriyama Hideyuki , Abe Tetsuya , Nozaki Koichiro , Ichikawa Kosuke , Kondo Rie , Tanaka Hiroshi , Kikuchi Toshiaki
Published: December 2021

Identification of acquired resistant mutation has been essential in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) active mutations. Re-biopsy plays a pivotal role to select the optimal treatment for patients who develop resistance to initial EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs). This multicenter, observational study was conducted to investigate the details of re-biopsy in Japanese clinical practice.The primary endpoints were the implementation rate of re-biopsy and the concordance rate for the T790M mutation detection between histology and cytology specimens using the Cobas ® EGFR mutation test v2. 194 patients with EGFR-mutant NSCLC were enrolled and 120 patients developed acquired resistance to EGFR-TKIs. The median age was 68 years (range 20-87), and 52.5% of the patients were women. Re-biopsy was performed on 109 patients with the implementation rate of re-biopsy was 90.8%. The success rate of re-biopsy in total/histology/cytology/liquid biopsy population was 78.0%, 94.9%, 83.3% and 43.8%, respectively. The positive percent agreement and the negative percent agreement in the detection of T790M mutations between the histology and cytology specimens was both of 90.9%. Aggressive obtaining histological or cytological tissue samples at re-biopsy may contribute to improvement of the detection rate of T790M mutation. (trial registration number: UMIN000026019)
Synthesis, Characterization and Photophysicochemical Properties of Zinc(Ii) Phthalocyanine With New Benzenesulfonamide Derivative Substituents
Authors: Öncül Gülen Atiye , Öztürk Ömer Faruk , Pişkin Mehmet
Published: December 2021

Novel (E)-4-((5-bromo-2-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzylidene)amino)-N-(pyridin-2-yl)benzenesulfonamide 1, (E)-4-((5-bromo-2-(3,4-dicyanophenoxy)-3-methoxybenzylidene)amino)-N-(pyridin-2-yl)benzene sulfonamide 2 and 2(3),9(10),16(17),23(24)-tetra-[(E)-4-((5-bromo-3-methoxy-2-(λ1-oxidanyl)benzyl idene)amino)-N-(pyridine-2-yl)benzenesulfonamide]phthalocyaninato zinc(II) phthalocyanine 3 were synthesized. Their (1-3) structures were illuminated with spectroscopic methods such as FT-IR, 1H NMR,13C NMR, UV–vis, MALDI-TOF mass spectra and also elemental analysis. The spectroscopic, photophysical and photochemical properties of the zinc(II) phthalocyanine 3 were investigated in dimethyl sulfoxide and its effects on the above mentioned properties were reported as a result of containing new type benzenesulfonamide derivatives as substituents. In addition, its above-mentioned properties were reported by comparing different species with those of their substituted and/or unsubstituted counterparts. The zinc(II) phthalocyanine 3 has photosensitizing abilities suitable and sufficient especially for photocatalytic applications.
The Fetal Airway Parameters: Potential Diagnostic and Prognostic Markers of Intrathoracic Lesions
Authors: Song Shijing , Wang Jingjing , Wang Li , Wu Qingqing
Published: December 2021

Objective: Aim to study the fetal airway parameters in normal fetuses and fetuses with intrathoracic lesions. Methods: This was an observational case–control study. In the control group, 77 women were screened at 20-24 weeks gestational age, 12 were screened at 24-28 weeks gestational age, and 23 were screened at 28-34 weeks gestational age. In the case group, 41 cases were enrolled (6 cases of intrathoracic bronchopulmonary sequestration, 22 cases of congenital pulmonary airway malformations, and 13 cases of congenital diaphragmatic hernia). Fetal airway parameters (tracheal width, the narrowest lumen width, width of subglottic cavity and laryngeal vestibule) were measured. The correlations between fetal airway parameters and gestational age were analyzed. The fetal airway parameter differences between the control group and the case group were analyzed. Results: Fetal airway parameters of both groups were increased and had association with gestational age. Fetal airway parameters of the case group were smaller than the control group. The tracheal width in fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia was the smallest in the cases studied. Conclusion: Fetal airway parameters are expected to provide a novel diagnostic and prognostic method for intrathoracic lesions.
Reasons for Metformin Non-Use in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in a Hospital: A Retrospective Observational Study
Authors: Sun Yexin , Zhou Jian-Bo , Wan Yingxin , Zhang Xueying , Li Huixia , Liu Ying , Liu Xiaoqing , Wang Nan , Ye Qing , Huo Guishen
Published: December 2021

Objective: To investigate and analyze the reasons for metformin non-use in a hospital. Methods: Research-related non-probability physicians and patients filled questionnaire. Results: Physicians’ main influencing factors were severe liver and kidney dysfunction; gastrointestinal adverse reactions and 11 other causes. Secondary factors.included the appearance of hypoglycemia and other adverse reactions (e.g., skin rash) . Patients’ main reasons included: worry about drug’s influence on liver and kidney function, gastrointestinal adverse reactions, hypoglycemia, and further weight loss, etc. Statistical analysis showed metformin has certain effects on the mean blood glucose and the mean glycated hemoglobin levels.Conclusion: Based on the research results, we can design more targeted medication education programs.
Analysis of Microbial Community Structure and Volatile Compounds in the Pit Mud Used for Manufacturing Taorong-type Baijiu Based on High-Throughput Sequencing
Authors: Liu Yanbo , Sun Mengxiao , Hou Pei , Wang Wenya , Shen Xiangkun , Zhang Lixin , Han Suna , Pan Chunmei
Published: December 2021

In this study, the pit mud used in manufacturing Taorong-type Baijiu was collected from the upper, middle, lower and bottom layers of pits in Henan Yangshao Liquor Co., LTD. Besides, high-throughput sequencing (HTS) technology was adopted to analyze the microbial community structure of the pit mud. In addition, the volatile compounds in the pit mud were subjected to preliminarily qualitative analysis through headspace-solid phase microextraction (HS-SPME) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The results of HTS demonstrated that there were 5, 3, 5 and 5 dominant bacterial phyla (including 11, 11, 9 and 8 dominant bacterial genera) and 3, 3, 3 and 3 dominant fungal phyla (including 4, 7, 7 and 5 dominant fungal genera) in the pit mud from F-S (upper), G-Z (middle), H-X (lower) and I-D (bottom), respectively. The qualitative analysis results of volatile compounds demonstrated that a total of 78 kinds of volatile compounds were detected in the pit mud, including 46, 45, 39 and 49 kinds in the pit mud from F-S, G-Z, H-X and I-D, respectively. Ester and acid were the two main components in the pit mud. Meanwhile, the correlation between microorganisms and main volatile compounds in the pit mud was analyzed. Moreover, Lentimicrobium, Syner-01 and Blvii28_wastewater-sludge group were found for the first time in the pit mud used for manufacturing Taorong-type Baijiu. The findings of this study could provide a theoretical foundation for improving the quality of pit mud and the flavor of Taorong-type Baijiu.
Characterization of Patients With Type 2 Diabetes and Chronic Kidney Disease in a Large Integrated Health System
Authors: Pantalone Kevin , Ji Xinge , Kong Sheldon , Elliott Jay , Milinovich Alex , Misra-Hebert Anita , Farej Ryan , Singh Rakesh , Bauman Janine , Zimmerman Robert , Vachharajani Tushar , Partridge Jamie , Cameron Jennifer , Williamson Todd , Sugano David , Kattan Michael
Published: December 2021

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) poses substantial clinical, economic, and humanistic burden in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Understanding of how to optimize patient care and slow disease progression is warranted.Objective: To compare the prevalence, clinical characteristics, treatment patterns, and healthcare utilization among patients with CKD, T2D, or CKD associated with T2D.Design: Retrospective cross-sectional analysis. Patients: Adult patients with CKD, T2D, or CKD+T2D in the Cleveland Clinic Health System.Main Measures: Clinical characteristics, laboratory measures, medication utilization, cardiometabolic management and healthcare resource utilization.Key Results: In 2019, 122,276 patients were identified as CKD, 63,643 were identified as T2D, and 35,255 were identified as having CKD associated with T2D. Patients with CKD and CKD+T2D were observed to be older than those with T2D alone, 72.6, 72.2, and 63.0 years, respectively. T2D and T2D+CKD cohorts contained a higher percentage of males vs. those with CKD alone, 49.3%, 50.8%, 43.6%, respectively. ACEi/ARB therapy was observed in 27.7%, 42.4%, and 31.5% patients with CKD, T2D+CKD, and T2D, respectively. SGLT-2i therapy was only prescribed to a minority of patients with T2D (5.8%) and T2D+CKD (4.7%). Emergency department visits and hospital admissions were more prevalent in the group with CKD (26.5%, 52.9%) or CKD+T2D (28.8%, 54.9%) vs. T2D alone (18.6%, 41.8%), respectively. The majority of patients with CKD (90.4%), CKD+T2D (60.0%) or T2D (69.1%) did not have an assessment of urine protein.Conclusions: Patients with CKD+T2D or CKD have higher healthcare resource utilization than those with T2D alone. The majority of patients with CKD, CKD+T2D or T2D do not undergo assessment of urine protein and are under prescribed ACEi/ARB therapy. SGLT-2i therapy was prescribed to only a small minority of patients with T2D or CKD+T2D. An opportunity exists to improve the care of patients with CKD, both with and without T2D.
Towards Reliable Probabilistic Time-Series Projections of Global Mean Surface Temperature
Authors: Sansom Philip G. , Cummins Donald , Siegert Stefan , Stephenson David B
Published: December 2021

Quantifying the risk of global warming exceeding critical targets such as 2.0 ◦ C requires reliable projections of uncertainty as well as best estimates of Global Mean Surface Temperature (GMST). However, uncertainty bands on GMST projections are often calculated heuristically and have several potential shortcomings. In particular, the uncertainty bands shown in IPCC plume projections of GMST are based on the distribution of GMST anomalies from climate model runs and so are strongly determined by model characteristics with little influence from observations of the real-world. Physically motivated time-series approaches are proposed based on fitting energy balance models (EBMs) to climate model outputs and observations in order to constrain future projections. It is shown that EBMs fitted to one forcing scenario will not produce reliable projections when different forcing scenarios are applied. The errors in the EBM projections can be interpreted as arising due to a discrepancy in the effective forcing felt by the model. A simple time-series approach to correcting the projections is proposed based on learning the evolution of the forcing discrepancy so that it can be projected into the future. This approach gives reliable projections of GMST when tested in a perfect model setting. When applied to observations this leads to projected warming of 2.2 ◦ C (1.7 ◦ C to 2.9 ◦ C) in 2100 compared to pre-industrial conditions, 0.4 ◦ C lower than a comparable IPCC anomaly estimate. The probability of staying below the critical 2.0 ◦ C warming target in 2100 more than doubles to 0.28 compared to only 0.11 from a comparably IPCC estimate.
Projection Micro Stereolithography (PµSL) to 3D Print a Micro-Optofluidic Device for Two-Phase Slug Flow Detection: a Comparison with a PDMS-Based Device Manufactured by Resin Casting
Authors: Saitta Lorena , Celano Giovanni , Cicala Gianluca , Fragalà Maria Elena , Stella Giovanna , Barcellona Matteo , Tosto Claudio , Bucolo Maide
Published: December 2021

In this work, the use of Projection Micro Stereolithography (PmSL) to 3D print a micro-optofluidic device for two-phase slug flow detection is presented. For comparison purposes a PDMS based device obtained by casting was also manufactured. The micro-optofluidic device has a microfluidic T-junction with a micro-optical section that consists of two optical fiber insertions used for two-phase slug flow detection. The working principle in the detection is based on a different light transmission correlated to the fluid interfering with the laser beam in a micro-channel section. The 3D printed material is fully characterized in terms of its surface properties and compared to PDMS used for standard construction using a master-slave casting procedure. The two devices were tested after the setup parameters for the detection were optimized using ANOVA for the 3D printed device. The comparisons of the two devices revealed that 3D printed device can be used for two-phase slug flow detection but future research is still need to obtain a 3D printed resin allowing to outperform PDMS.
Increased Transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2 Alpha Variant (B.1.1.7) in Children: Three Large Primary School Outbreaks Revealed by Whole Genome Sequencing in the Netherlands
Authors: Gorgels Koen M.F. , Alphen Lieke B. , Veer Brian M.J.W. van der , Hackert Volker H. , Hensels Audrey Y.J. , Heijer Casper D.J. , Dingemans Jozef , Savelkoul Paul H.M. , Hoebe Christian J.P.A.
Published: December 2021

BackgroundVariant of concern (VOC) SARS-CoV-2 alpha variant (B.1.1.7) was the dominant strain in the Netherlands between March 2021 – June 2021. We describe three primary school outbreaks due to the alpha variant using whole genome sequencing with evidence of large-scale transmission among children, teachers and their household contacts. MethodAll outbreaks described were investigated by the South Limburg Public Health Service, the Netherlands. A case was defined as an individual with a real-time polymerase chain reaction test or antigen test positive for SARS-CoV-2. Whole genome sequencing was performed on random samples from at least one child and one teacher of each affected class.ResultsPeak attack rates in classes were 53%, 33% and 39%, respectively. Specific genotypes were identified for each school across a majority of affected classes. Attack rates were high among staff members, likely to promote staff-to-children transmission. Cases in some classes were limited to children, indicating child-to-child transmission. At 39%, the secondary attack rate (SAR) in household contacts of infected children was remarkably high, similar to SAR in household contacts of staff members (42%). SAR of household contacts of asymptomatic children was only 9%. Conclusion Our findings suggest increased transmissibility of the alpha variant in children compared to preceding non-VOC variants, consistent with a substantial rise in the incidence of cases observed in primary schools and children aged 5-12 since the alpha variant became dominant in March 2021. Lack of mandatory masking, insufficient ventilation and lack of physical distancing also probably contributed to the school outbreaks. The rise of the delta variant (B.1.617.2) since July 2021 which is estimated to be 55% more transmissible than the alpha variant, provides additional urgency to adequate infection prevention in school settings.
The Influence of Moss Colonization and Biochar Application on Evaporation Losses and Surface Crack in Shallow Carbonate–Derived Laterite During Dry–Wet Cycles
Authors: Che Lulu , Liu Dongdong , She Dongli
Published: December 2021

AimsSoil water deficit in karst mountain lands is becoming an issue of concern owing to porous, fissured, and soluble nature of underlying karst bedrock. It is important to identify feasible methods to facilitate soil water preservation in karst mountainous lands. This study aims to seek the possibility of combined utilization of moss colonization and biochar application to reduce evaporation losses in carbonate-derived laterite.MethodsThe treatments of the experiments at micro-lysimeter included four moss spore amounts (0, 30, 60, and 90 g·m−2) and four biochar application levels (0, 100, 400, and 700 g·m−3). The dynamics of moss coverage, characteristics of soil surface cracks and surface temperature field were identified. An empirical evaporation model considering the interactive effects of moss colonization and biochar application was proposed and assessed.ResultsMoss colonization reduced significantly the ratio of soil desiccation cracks. Relative cumulative evaporation decreased linearly with increasing moss coverage under four biochar application levels. Biochar application reduced critical moss coverage associated with inhibition of evaporation by 33.26%-44.34%. The empirical evaporation model enabled the calculation of soil evaporation losses under moss colonization and biochar application, with the R2 values ranging from 0.94 to 0.99.Conclusions Our result showed that the artificially cultivated moss, which was induced by moss spores and biochar, decreased soil evaporation by reducing soil surface cracks, increasing soil moisture and soil surface temperature.Moss colonization and biochar application has the potential to facilitate soil moisture conservation in karst mountain lands.
Long Non-Coding RNA MIR4435-2HG Promotes Glycolysis and Tumor Immunity in Pancreatic Cancer Through Absorption of microRNA-582-5p to Target GPX8
Authors: Lu Huimin , Li Mao , Yang Dujiang , Li Zhenlu , Yue Chao , Song Jiafan , Wang Xing , Hu Weiming
Published: December 2021

Objective

Long non-coding RNA MIR4435-2HG (MIR4435-2HG) has been clarified as a promoter in cancers, but its involvement in pancreatic cancer (PC) was not thoroughly probed.
Methods

MIR4435-2HG levels in PC clinical tissue and cell lines were analyzed. The relation between MIR4435-2HG levels with clinicopathological characteristics and survival of PC patients was evaluated. After transfection with plasmids altering MIR4435-2HG, microRNA (miR)-582-5p or glutathione peroxidase-8 (GPX8), the biological functions, glycolysis and tumor immunity of PANC-1 cells were observed. In vivo tumor growth was observed in nude mice.
Results

MIR4435-2HG was highly expressed in PC tissues and cell lines which was negatively correlated with clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of PC patients. MIR4435-2HG or GPX8 inhibition or miR-582-5p elevation restrained the growth, glycolysis and immunity of PANC-1 cells. miR-582-5p down-regulation or GPX8 up-regulation reversed the effect of silenced MIR4435-2HG on PANC-1 cells. In vivo experiments further confirmed the in vitro results.
Conclusion

Our study highlights that MIR4435-2HG promotes glycolysis and tumor immunity in PC through absorption of micR-582-5p to target GPX8.
Long-Term Survival of PD-1 Inhibitor Combined with Antiangiogenic Agents in a Patient with Pulmonary Sarcomatoid Carcinoma Complicated with Esophageal Cancer: A Case Resport and Literature Review
Authors: Jiao Shuyue , Zhang Xiao , Wang Ruilin , Zhu Hui , Li Shaomei , Tang Hong
Published: December 2021

Pulmonary sarcomatoid carcinoma (PSC) is a highly aggressive rare subtype of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). PSC is known for its poor prognosis and low sensitivity to conventional treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, and adjuvant therapies. In recent years, the application of targeted therapy and immunotherapy in this field has made progress. Although programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) inhibitors have been reported to show favorable antitumor effects in PSC patients with high programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression, the efficacy of PD-1 inhibitors in combination with antiangiogenic drugs has not been investigated. Here, we report for the first time a case of dual-source cancer with low expression of PD-L1 and microsatellite stability (MSS) which showed continuous response to sintilimab combined with anlotinib as first-line treatment and achieved a long progression free survival (PFS) of 24 months with no serious adverse reactions. This case presents a new therapeutic prospect for PSC and a potential to enhance its prognosis and treatment strategies.
Rational Design of a Novel Highly Folding-tolerable Edgewo-rthia Chrysantha Lindi-derived Substrate for Versatile Flexible Pressure Sensors
Authors: Fu Danning , Wang Ruibin , Yang Rendang
Published: December 2021

Cellulose-based composites with superior mechanical and electrical properties are highly desirable for a sustainable and multifunctional substrate of flexible electronics. However, their practical application is hindered by the lack of superflexible cellulose-based composites to fabricate ingenious flexible electronics with considerable robustness. Here, cellulose derived from underutilized biomass (Edgewo-rthia chrysantha Lindi, ERCL) was composited with highly-conductive silver nanowires (AgNWs) through a general papermaking process. Benefiting from the interactions between cellulose and AgNWs including hydrogen bonding and van der Waals force, the composite presented superb electrical conductivity (> 27000 S/m) and flexibility (folding times ≥1110). By employing it as the substrate of flexible pressure sensors (FPSs) through layer-by-layer assembly, improved sensitivity (Gauge Factor=846.4), rapid response (0.44 s), and excellent stability (≥2000 folding cycles) were demonstrated. Impressively, the novel FPS could monitor human motions, including finger bending, elbow flexion, speaking, and pulse, suggesting its great potentials in emerging flexible electronics.
Effect of Process Parameters on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Bars from Al-Cu-Mg Alloy Processed by Multipass Radial-Shear Rolling
Authors: Akopyan Torgom , Gamin Yury , Galkin Sergey , Koshmin Alexander , Kin Tatiana , Cheverikin Vladimir , Aleshchenko Alexander
Published: December 2021

The study of microstructure and mechanical properties formation of A2024 alloy obtained by the multipass radial-shear rolling (RSR) method is discussed in this article. FEM simulation was carried out that made it possible to evaluate the influence degree of rolling temperature-velocity parameters on the strain state of material. It has been found the increase in rotary velocity of rolls significantly influences on the deformation heating of bar after RSR (predominantly in its surface layer). The combination of rolling temperature-velocity conditions at selection of deformation regime has complex effect on structure and properties formation. The analysis of sizes and distribution of phase particles has shown that the rolling at lower temperatures allowed to increase the mechanical strength due to the more intensive refinement of undissolved Fe-containing phase. The gradual decrease in the rolling temperature in each pass makes possible to achieve the high strength (UTS~430 MPa and YS~255 MPa) while maintaining the ductility level ~15%, that are comparable to ones obtained at some severe plastic deformation (SPD) methods.
Comparison of an Inside Stent and a Fully Covered Self-Expandable Metallic Stent as Preoperative Biliary Drainage for Patients with Resectable Perihilar Cholangiocarcinoma Retrospectively.
Authors: Mori Hiroshi , Kawashima Hiroki , Ohno Eizaburo , Ishikawa Takuya , Mizutani Yasuyuki , Iida Tadashi , Nakamura Masanao , Ishigami Masatoshi , Onoe Shunsuke , Mizuno Takashi , Ebata Tomoki , Fujishiro Mitsuhiro
Published: December 2021

BackgroundThere is a need for a more tolerable preoperative biliary drainage (PBD) method for perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (PHCC). In recent years, inside stents (ISs) have attracted attention as a less suffering PBD method. Few studies have compared IS with a fully covered self-expandable metallic stent (FCSEMS) as PBD for resectable PHCC. The aim of this study is to compare them.MethodsThis study involved 87 consecutive patients (IS: 51, FCSEMS: 36). The recurrent biliary obstruction (RBO) rate until undergoing surgery or being diagnosed as unresectable, time to RBO, factors related to RBO, incidence of adverse events related to endoscopic retrograde cholangiography and postoperative complications associated with each stent were evaluated retrospectively.ResultsThere was no significant difference between the two groups in the incidence of adverse events after stent insertion. The mean (s.d.) time to RBO was 40.0 (28.1) days in the IS group and 52.0 (45.5) days in the FCSEMS group, with no significant difference (P=0.384). A total of 7/51 patients in the IS group and 3/36 patients in the FCSEMS group developed RBO. The only risk factor for RBO was bile duct obstruction of the future excisional liver lobe(s) due to stenting (HR 0.033, P=0.006) in the FCSEMS group, but risk factors could not be indicated in the IS group. Regarding postoperative complications, there was no significant difference in the incidence of bile leakage or liver failure. In contrast, pancreatic fistula was significantly more common in the FCSEMS group (13/24 patients) than in the IS group (3/28 patients) (P=0.001), especially in patients who did not undergo pancreatectomy (P=0.001).ConclusionsAs PBD for PHCC, both IS and FCSEMS achieved low RBO rates. In contrast, the incidence of postoperative pancreatic fistula was higher with FCSEMS. Thus, IS, which can be inserted easily, is considered an optimal approach as PBD for resectable PHCC.clinical trial registration number: UMIN000025631
Predicting Medical Fees for Hospitalized Inpatients and the Determination of Inflection Point
Authors: Shao Yang , WEI CHIEN , Lin Ju-Kuo , Chou Willy , Su Shih-Bin
Published: December 2021

Background: Taiwan’s Bureau of National Health Insurance (BNHI) implemented an inpatient DRG payment system scheduled for January 2008. Many hospital managers urgently invent initiatives to decrease the impacts of DRGs. Predicting medical fees for hospitalized inpatients every day and the corresponding inflection points (IPs) are required for investigations. The aims of this study include (1) verifying the efficacy of the exponential growth model on accumulative publications of mobile health research between 1997 and 2016 in the literature; (2) building the model of predicting medical fees for hospitalized inpatients and determining the inflection points; and (3) demonstrating visualizations of the prediction model online in use for hospital physicians.Methods: An exponential growth model was applied to determine the IP and predict the medical fees to help physicians contain the medical fees of a specific patient during hospitalization. The IP is equal to the item difficulty proven using the differential equation in calculus. An online visual display of the medically contained and predicted inpatient hospitalization was demonstrated in this study.Results: We observed (1) a model accuracy (R2 = 0.99) higher than that (R2 = 0.98) in the literature based on identical data; (2) 231 samples of medical fees for inpatients in the study module with a length of days between 6 and 20 and an IPS falling in the range between 1 and 10 (Q1=0.98, Q3=1.00); and (3) online visualization demonstration of medical fees predicted for hospital inpatients and IP determination on ogive curves.Conclusion: The exponential growth model can be applied to a clinical setting to help physicians consecutively predict medical fees for hospitalized inpatients and upgrade the level of hospital management in the future.
Genomic Landscape and Immunological Profile of Glioblastoma in East Asian Patients
Authors: Zhao Jean , Zhong Sheng , Wu Bo , Dubois Frank , Jiang Shanshan , Deng Davy , Li Hui , Peng Yida , Ge Junliang , Liu Luwei , Liu Jingyi , Yao Maojin , Lawler Sean , Chen Zhongping , Jiang Tao , Beroukhim Rameen , Mou Yonggao
Published: December 2021

While it is well known that Glioblastoma (GBM) shows profound inter- and intra-tumoral heterogeneity, disparities in molecular features across ancestry groups have been largely overlooked. We collected a large cohort of GBM samples from East Asian patients (EAS-GBM) and performed genomic and transcriptomic analyses of these samples (EAS-GBM, n=443). Further characterization and comparative analysis of the EAS-GBM with the predominantly European-ancestry TCGA GBM dataset (EUR-GBM, n=383) revealed differential genomic and genetic landscape and immunological profile of EAS-GBM from EUR-GBM. EAS-GBM showed an enrichment for NF1, H3F3A, TP53 and ATRX mutations compared to EUR-GBM. Transcriptomic clustering revealed distinct EAS-GBM specific subtypes, namely Proliferative (PL), Neuron-Synaptic (NS), Metabolic (MB) and Immunomodulatory (IM). Notably, the classic subtype of EUR-GBMs with EGFR as its main marker gene was absent in EAS-GBMs, Moreover, the IM subgroup in EAS-GBM with an expression profile that has been previously associated with response to immunotherapy in cancers. Together, our comprehensive characterization revealed the unique genomic and genetic features of EAS-GBMs, providing mechanistic rationale in patient stratification for molecular targeted therapy and drug development in the era of personalized medicine.
Optimization of Enzymatic Hydrolysis by Alcalase and Flavourzyme To Enhance the Antioxidant Properties of Jasmine Rice Bran Protein Hydrolysate
Authors: Hunsakul Kanrawee , Laokuldilok Thunnop , Sakdatorn Vinyoo , Klangpetch Wannaporn , Utama-ang Niramon
Published: December 2021

This study aimed to optimize the hydrolysis conditions for producing jasmine rice bran protein hydrolysate (JBH) using response surface methodology (RSM). The independent variables were the ratio of flavourzyme to alcalase (Fl: Al; 0: 100 to 15: 85; 2.84% enzyme concentration) and hydrolysis time (60–540 min). The optimum hydrolysate was obtained at an Fl: Al ratio of 9.81: 90.19 for 60 min, since it enabled high amounts of protein, high antioxidant activity and more low molecular weight proteins. The experimental values obtained were a degree of hydrolysis (DH) of 7.18%, a protein content of 41.73%, an IC50 for DPPH of 6.59 mg/mL, an IC50 for ABTS of 0.99 mg/mL, FRAP of 724.81 mmol FeSO4/100 g, and 322.35 and 479.05 mAU*s for peptides with a molecular weight of <3 and 3–5 kDa, respectively. Using a mixture of enzymes revealed the potential of mixed enzymes to produce JBH containing more small peptides and high antioxidant activity.
Phenotypic Differentiation between Weedy Rice Populations Associated with their Local Adaptation in Early-and Late-Season Rice Fields
Authors: Wang Zhi , Jiang Xiao-Qi , Cai Xing-xing , Xia Qi-Yu , Lu Bao-Rong
Published: December 2021

Background: Temperatures and photoperiods can profoundly affect plant growth and development and play vital roles in the local adaptation of plant species. Weedy rice (Oryza sativa f. spontanea) is a conspecific weed of cultivated rice, and it was found in the same rice fields (sympatry) of early and late rice-cultivation seasons in Leizhou, Guangdong Province of China. Generally, the phenological conditions, such as temperature and photoperiod, are different in the two seasons. Therefore, the early- and late-season weedy rice populations in the same rice fields provide a perfect system for estimating sympatric divergence in plant species. The previous study had demonstrated considerable genetic divergence between the early- and late-season weedy rice populations. Here, we designed in situ common garden experiments to estimate the phenotypical differences between the two-season weedy rice populations and disclose the local adaptation in weedy rice populations associated with their ambient temperature and photoperiod.Results: Distinct air temperature and day length variation patterns were recognized between the early and late rice-cultivation seasons, based on the 10-year historical climate data. More stressful conditions, indicated by low air temperature and long day length, were found for weedy rice growth in the early seasons. Noticeably, significant differences in plant heights, the number of tillers, flowering time, and reproductive traits were detected between the two-season weedy rice populations according to the early-season common garden experiment. The early-season populations showed evident higher plant heights, more tillers, and earlier flowering time than the late-season populations. However, such differences were not detected in the late-season common garden experiment. In addition, evident local adaptation represented by the traits such as plant heights, flowering time, and reproductive traits was only detected in the early-season weedy rice populations. The principal component analysis also showed clear population clusters between the two-season populations using the phenotypical data.Conclusions: This study provided clear evidence of phenotypic differentiation between the sympatric early- and late-season weedy rice populations, probably associated with the local adaptation to their ambient temperature and photoperiod. Our findings also have potential roles in facilitating the design of strategies for effective weedy rice control practices.
The Association of Gut Microbiota with Resting Metabolic Rate in Overweight/Obese Women: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Mehranfar Sanaz , Siadat Seyed Davar , Badi Sara Ahmadi , Hajishizari Sara , Yekaninejad Mir Saeed , Clark Cain C. T. , Motahhary Atiyyeh , Mirzaei Khadijeh
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Low Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR), as a risk factor for obesity, can be affected by many factors. Indeed, genetic and environmental factors are variables taken into account when predicting RMR, and may contribute to a high inter-individual variance. Besides the well-known causes of obesity, researchers have demonstrated the contribution of gut microflora in obesity and energy expenditure. Therefore, the goal of the current study was to compare the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio and the relative abundance of, Prevotellaceae, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, bifidobactrium spp, lactobacillus spp, Akkermansia muciniphila, Bacteroides fragilis, and Escherichia coli in two groups of people with normal and low RMR in overweigh/obese women in Iran.
Results

The abundance of F. prausnitzii (p>0.001), B. fragilis (P= 0.02), and Firmicutes phylum (P= 0.02) were significantly higher in the controls compared to the cases, and showed significant positive association with RMR, (β = 1.29 ×10−5, P=0.01), (β = 4.13 ×10−6, p= 0.04), and (β = 7.76 ×10−1, p= 0.01), respectively. Regarding Lactobacilus, the results showed a significant positive association with RMR (β = 1.73 ×10−4, p= 0.01).
Conclusion

Intestinal microbiota may be associated with host metabolism. Therefore, future work should investigate, using clinical trials, the impact of manipulating gut microflora to positively influence energy expenditure.
Romidepsin and Tamoxifen Cooperatively Induce Senescence of Pancreatic Cancer Cells Through Downregulation of FOXM1 Expression and Induction of ROS/Lipid Peroxidation
Authors: Okuma Noriko , Honma Yoshio , Urano Takeshi , Tamura Kenji
Published: December 2021

Although progress has been made in chemotherapeutic strategies against pancreatic cancer, overall survival has not significantly improved over the past decade. Thus, the development of better therapeutic regimens remains a high priority. Pancreatic cancer cell lines were treated with romidepsin, an inhibitor of histone deacetylase, and tamoxifen, and their effects on cell growth, signaling and gene expression were determined. Xenografts of human pancreatic cancer CFPAC1 cells were treated with romidepsin and tamoxifen to determine their effects on tumor growth. The inhibition of the growth of pancreatic cancer cells induced by romidepsin and tamoxifen was effectively reduced by N-acetyl cysteine and α-tocopherol, respectively. The combined treatment greatly induced reactive oxygen species production and mitochondrial lipid peroxidation, and these effects were prevented by N-acetyl cysteine and α-tocopherol. Tamoxifen enhanced romidepsin-induced cell senescence. FOXM1 expression was markedly downregulated in pancreatic cancer cells treated with romidepsin, and tamoxifen further reduced FOXM1 expression in cells treated with romidepsin. Siomycin A, an inhibitor of FOXM1, induced senescence in pancreatic cancer cells. Similar results were obtained in knockdown of FOXM1 expression by siRNA. Since FOXM1 is used as a prognostic marker and therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer, a combination of the clinically available drugs romidepsin and tamoxifen might be considered for the treatment of patients with pancreatic cancer.