bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Typha Latifolia L. Grown in Carrying Petroleum Secondary Effluent Supply Nutrients Enhance for Biomass Growth and Phytoremediation of Heavy Metals and TPH
Authors: Ahmad Anwar
Published: April 2021

Phytoremediation is an innovative tool which can be used for the treatment of industrial and agricultural wastewater. Typha latifolia L. (T. latifolia L) is an aquatic plant which grows on petroleum secondary effluent (PSE) containing metals like cadmium (Cd), cobalt (Co), manganese (Mn) and TPH (total petroleum hydrocarbon). The growth performance in biomass, nutrient concentrations and heavy metals in parts of the T. latifolia L. The reason for the accumulation of Cd, Co and Mn in T. latifolia L. can be explained as a tolerance strategy due to its transfer index (TI) which is higher than 2.9. The enrichment coefficients of the metals present in the root compared to stem of T. latifolia L. were higher than 3.31 to 2.56 for Cd, 5.35 to 3.55 Co. But, for Mn were found to be lower 1.98 than 3.51 at 75%. Similarly, the enrichment coefficients of all the metals, except for Co, in roots of T. latifolia L. were higher than 5.36. (TI) for Co (2.95) and Mn (2.55) which is absolutely better as compared to the enrichment coefficients of Cd (2.35) and TPH (3.45) in PSE. Thus, there is a possibility that PSE could be a source of important nutrients.
One-rod core microstructured optical fibers for evanescent sensing applications: an alternative approach
Authors: Sharma Dinesh Kumar , Tripathi Saurabh Mani
Published: April 2021

The advent of polymer (or plastic) optical fibers (POFs) with porous cross-section has contributed significantly to the sensing applications. We intend to explore the sensing attributes of polymer-based one-rod core microstructured optical fibers (P-MOFs) via utilizing an auxiliary approach. The sensitivity coefficient and the overlapping factor of P-MOF’s introduced design in air-filled and water-filled layouts against the structural parameters are exploited. We reported the overlapping factor of ~ 94% and ~ 82% for the said configurations of the fibers, respectively, at the wavelength of 0.633 µm. The confinement loss, mode-index, and effective mode-area are also evaluated for the anticipated structures. For assessing the confinement loss, an alternative approach based on double-clad fiber (DCF) approximation is employed. The validity of the simulated results is scrutinized with those as documented in the literature. Relative errors are also tabulated.
An effect of carboxymethyl starch addition on adhesion to paper of water-soluble pressure-sensitive adhesive
Authors: Wilpiszewska Katarzyna , Czech Zbigniew
Published: April 2021

Introducing biopolymer derivative, i.e. carboxymethyl starch into pressure-sensitive adhesives for paper industry has been proposed. Obtained adhesives were transferred onto water-dispersible paper carrier giving repulpable double-sided splicing tape. The effect of carboxymethyl starch degree of substitution on essential adhesive properties: tack, peel adhesion, as well as shear strength for steel and various papers has been tested. Additionally, the solubility in water and alkaline medium has been evaluated. The highest tack and peel adhesion increase was reported for PSA containing CMS with degree of substitution DS 0.86, to fax paper. Moreover, the dynamic shear strength test imitating the shear conditions in paper processing revealed, that the highest values of this parameters exhibited the system with 15 wt.% CMS DS 0.86. For this system the shortest water-dissolving times as well as at elevated pH were noted: 314 s and 60 s, respectively.
Optimized Degradation of Bisphenol A by UV/H2O2 coupled to Microwaves in a Novel Reactional Setup
Authors: Barrenha Pedro , Azevedo Eduardo Bessa
Published: April 2021

In this paper, the UV/H2O2/MW (microwave) process was compared with the UV/H2O2 one, using bisphenol A (BPA) as a model-pollutant. The proposed experimental setup was operated in batch recycle mode and allows for the direct comparison among different processes: UV only, H2O2 only, MW only, UV/H2O2, UV/MW, H2O2/MW, and UV/H2O2/MW, as well as temperature control to minimize thermal effects. The degradation of BPA at near-environmental concentration (100 µg L−1) was optimized by an experimental design approach (Response Surface Methodology) and its residual concentration was measured by HPLC. Approximately 95% of the initial BPA amount could be removed in 30 min at the optimal conditions (CH2O2 = 20 mg L−1, flow rate = 700 mL min−1, and MW power = 245 W). The experiments designed for comparing the UV/H2O2 and the UV/H2O2/MW processes showed that the use of MW doubled the initial pseudo-first-order degradation rate (from 0.046 to 0.10 min−1) and significantly increased the maximum oxidation capacity of the system (from 86 to 100%). Although the reasons behind those results are still unclear, it seems that the existence of non-thermal effects of the MW irradiation should be considered.
Thoughts on the optimization of care service mode for HIV infected people after induced abortion
Authors: Li Jing , Wang Fuchuan , Yi Wei , Liu Jun , Yi Nuo , Zhang Yanhua , Zhang Haixia , Han Jing
Published: April 2021

Purpose: To improve the post-abortion care (PAC) service model by retrospectively comparing the characteristics of abortion with 34 HIV-infected patients and 493 non-infectious patients 580.Methods: The investigator and the medical record room staff inquired the hospital's HIS system and paper medical records jointly, and retrospectively analyzed 527 cases of induced abortion in our hospital from May 2014 to December 2018. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, they were divided into two groups, HIV group and normal group. By a retrospective analysis of the social demographic characteristics, past history, and hospitalization of abortion patients with HIV-infected patients and non-infectious patients in a third - Class A infectious disease hospital in beijing, analysis and discuss the basic Features of HIV-infected patients. Results: Most of them were distributed among local young women with no fixed occupation and high education, and the awareness of tool contraception was not enough. Comparing the HIV-infected population with the normal population, the geographical features are statistically significant and may be related to the area of the survey hospital.Conclusion: A professional volunteer service team was established and rely on the communication platform of the Red Ribbon House to improve the PAC service after HIV abortion.
Dielectric Behavior Of Water In [bmim] [Tf2N] Room-Temperature Ionic Liquid, Molecular Dynamic Study.
Authors: Fuentes-Azcatl Raúl , Araujo Gabriel J. C. , Lourenço Tuanan C. , Costa Cauê T. O. G. , Carneiro José Walkimar de M. , Costa Luciano T.
Published: April 2021

In this work we present the dielectric behavior of water with a novel flexible model that improved all three sites water models Different concentrations of the ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium [bmim] bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide [Tf2N] with water was investigated. The study was performed by molecular dynamics simulations using three water models, being two non-polarizable 3-site SPC/E and SPC/e, and a novel flexible 3-site FAB/ model. Systematic thermodynamics, dynamical and dielectric properties were investigated, such as density, diffusion coefficient, heat of vaporization ∆Hvap, and surface tension at 300 K and 1 bar. We extrapolated the experimental molar fraction of the mixtures and a pattern change for all properties was observed, evidencing the phase separation previously reported by experimental data. The results also display the dielectric effect of the system on the calculated properties.
ZEB1 Directly Inhibits GPX4 Transcription Contributing to ROS Accumulation in Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: wang yue , han xiao , duan xianxian , liu zhanzhao , long yaping , liu chang , zhou jing , li ning , qin junfang
Published: April 2021

Prior studies have noted that Zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) is a master transcription regulator, affecting the expression of nearly 2,000 genes in breast cancer cells, especially in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process. In this study, we found that ZEB1 directly regulated Glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) transcriptions, which was closely related to tumor reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism. We selected two human breast cancer cell linesMDA-MB-231 and MCF7 for ROS test, PCR, immunofluorescence, western blot, ChIP, luciferase assay and enzyme assay. The conclusions continue to be supported in mouse models and bioinformatics analysis. We found that ZEB1 directly bound to GPX4 promoter E-box motif (CANNTG) to inhibit GPX4 transcription, which contributing to ROS accumulation and tumorigenesis in breast cancer.
The Framework of Plant Regeneration In Duckweed (Lemna Turonifera) Comprises Genetic Transcript Regulation And Cyclohexane Release
Authors: Yang Lin , Sun Jinge , Yao Jie , Wang Yaya , Yan Congyu , Wu Junyi , Ren Qiuting , Zhao Ling , Sun Jinsheng
Published: April 2021

Regeneration is essential for vegetative propagation of excellent variety, detoxification, and obtaining transgenic plant. However, plant regeneration is time-consuming. We found that duckweed regeneration could be enhanced by regenerating callus. The molecular and VOCs releasing mechanisms underlying that have been studied here. Firstly, Genetic transcript regulation has been applied to study the molecular mechanism controlling regeneration. Auxin-related genes have been significantly down-regulated in regenerating callus. Cytokinin signal pathway genes have been up-regulated in regenerating callus. Secondly, VOCs release has been analyzed by GC/MS during the stage of plant regeneration, and 11 kinds of unique VOCs in the regenerating callus were increased. Among them, cyclohexane treatment enhanced duckweed regeneration by initiating root. Moreover, Auxin signal pathway genes were down-regulated in callus treated by cyclohexane. Altogether, these results provide novel mechanistic insights into how regenerating callus promotes duckweed regeneration.
Psychometric Properties of the Persian Version of COVID Stress Scales (CSS) in the Iranian Population
Authors: Momeni Fereshte , Moqadam Mobina Hoseinpour , Davoudi Mohammadreza , MobarakAbadi Nooshindokht , Hosseinzadeh Samaneh
Published: April 2021

Background: Recently, 36-item COVID Stress Scales (CSS) was designed for assessing anxiety and stress related to COVID-19 outbreak. The present study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Persian version of CSS in the Iranian population.Methods: A total of 393 participants volunteered to cooperate in the present study via an online survey. They completed a collection of scales, including the CSS, COVID-19 Phobia Scale (C19P-S), and Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI). The CSS reliability was determined by calculating Cronbach alpha and test-retest reliability. The validity assessed by Pearson correlation among the CSS and its subscales with C19P-S and BSI. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to evaluate the structure of CSS. All analysis assessed by SPSS-26 software.Results: Results showed that 45.3% of the participant’s age were in 18-25 years. Moreover, 72.8 % of the participants were female. Also, Cronbach’s alpha for all subscale was between0.83 to 0.92. The test-retest reliability coefficient of CSS was 0.87. The correlation between the CSS, BSI and C19P-S showed that CSS has suitable convergent validity. CFA and EFA showed that the 5-factor of CSS is the best model. Conclusion: To conclude, Persian version of CSS has suitable psychometric properties for utilizing in Iranian population.
Identification of Four Mud Crab Species (Genus Scylla) based on High-resolution Melting (HRM) Analysis
Authors: Li Yongliang , Li Ronghua , Chen Xiayue , Wang Chunlin , Mu Changkao , Song Weiwei , Jin Zhongwen
Published: April 2021

In this study, we described the successful identification of four mud crab species (genus Scylla) by high-resolution melting curve analysis (HRM) of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). The complete mitochondrion genome sequences of Scylla serrata, Scylla paramamosain, Scylla olivacea and Scylla tranquebarica were aligned and screened for distinct fragments. A single pair of primers were designed to amplify the 203-bp consensus amplicon. As a result, a total of 96 samples from the four mud crab species were clearly separated. The melting profiles from HRM analysis were found to be distinct across the species tested, and a number of 28 SNP sites were confirmed by sequencing. This new identification method will be a useful tool for discrimination of the four Scylla species and contribute to the effective breeding management of these species.
Is there an optimal place to hold the endotracheal tube during direct laryngoscopy? Protocol for a Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Sahoo Manisha , Tripathy Swagata , Mishra Nitasha
Published: April 2021

Background: Laryngoscopic endotracheal intubation (LEI) is a widely performed lifesaving technique. There are evidence and guidelines to help decide the optimal sized endotracheal tube (ET), laryngoscope, depth of insertion, and patient position for successful endotracheal intubation. We hypothesize that after glottic visualization, the point at which the ET is held will affect the time, ease, and success of the technique due to a difference in visualization and torque. We aim to compare two sites of holding the ET after optimal laryngeal-inlet visualization: time to intubation, rate of success of first pass intubation, intubation difficulty and complications.Methods: Supervised intubations on ASA 1-2 patients (>18 years) posted for surgery under general anesthesia performed by anesthesia trainees (experience <18 months) will be included. Patients with an anticipated difficult airway or unanticipated difficulty - CL grade > three or requiring the use of airway adjuncts will be excluded. A computer-generated numbers list will randomize patients; allocation concealed with opaque sealed envelopes. ET marked at the selected site will be handed to the intubator by the theatre-technician once she/he confirms the optimum laryngoscopic view. The entire procedure will be video recorded. Two blinded assessors will independently review the videos to document the time to intubation (TTI defined as the time from holding the ET to the removal of laryngoscope from the mouth after successful intubation) and intubation difficulty score. Postoperative sore throat and hoarseness will be recorded.Sample size: 54 experienced anesthetists were video-recorded during intubating. The site of holding ET and TTI were analyzed. The mean site was 3 SD 2.5 cm from the tip, yielding two sites for the study- 19 cm (Gr 1) and 24 cm (Gr 2). To detect a 20% difference in intubation time between groups, the confidence of 95%, and power 85%, we will need 298 patients: 180 per group after accounting for data loss.Discussion: This will be the first study to assess whether holding the tube at a particular site has any impact on the ease and time taken for intubation. This study's findings will provide the first scientific evidence for an appropriate place for holding the ET during LEI, which we feel will help trainees improve their LEI technique.Trial registration: CTRI/2019/09/021201, Clinical Trials Registry India. http://ctri.nic.in/Clinicaltrials/advsearch.php. Registered 12th September 2019,
Comparative Transcriptomic Analysis Identifies Key Cellulose Synthase Genes (CESA) and Cellulose Synthase-Like Genes (CSL) in Bast Fiber Development Stage of Flax (Linum Usitatissimum L.)
Authors: Guo Yuan , Wen Lan , Chen Jikang , Pan Gen , Wu Zhimin , Li Zheng , Wang Hui , Xiao Qingmei , Qiu Caisheng , Long Songhua , Zhao Xinlin , Wang Yufu
Published: April 2021

Background: The cellulose synthase gene superfamily, including the cellulose synthase (CESA) and cellulose synthase-like (CSL) gene families, is vital for cell wall construction during plant growth, particularly for fiber development of flax, which is an old and important fiber crop. Results: This study performed a sequencing search of key CESA and CSL genes from several flax stem parts at different fiber development stages by comparing RNA-Seq. Quantitative RT-PCR was used to validate the expression of these genes. This study revealed that CESA4 genes (Lus10008225.g and Lus10008226.g), CESA6 genes (Lus10006161.g and Lus10041063.g), CESA8 genes (Lus10007296.g and Lus10029245.g), CSLD4 gene (Lus10026568.g), CSLE1 (Lus10016625.g) and CSLG genes (Lus10023056.g and Lus10023057.g) were specifically expressed in stem tissue below the snap point where fibers is increased amounts of secondary cell wall deposition. LusCESA4 genes, LusCESA8, genes and LusCSLD4 gene were specifically expressed in fiber development stage during the fast growth period of flax plants. Based on GO and KEGG analyses, it was found that genes involved in pathways of cellulose microfibril organization, galactosyl transferase activity and galactose metabolism were specifically enriched in the stem tissue of the fiber development stage. Other genes involved in cellulose biosynthesis were also analyzed and discussed. Conclusion: The results of this study will provide an important foundation for understanding fiber cell wall biogenesis, particularly the roles of LusCESAs and LusCSLs in the process of fiber development.
Epigenetic DNA changes in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia - the drug treatment effect.
Authors: Rozalski Rafal , Gackowski Daniel , Skalska Aleksandra , Starczak Marta , Siomek-Gorecka Agnieszka Siomek-Gorecka , Zarakowska Ewelina , Modrzejewska Martyna , Dziaman Tomasz , Szpila Anna , Linowiecka Kinga , Guz Jolanta , Szpotan Justyna , Gawronski Maciej , Labejszo Anna , Gackowska Lidia , Foksinski Marek , Olinska Elwira , Wasilow Aleksandra , Koltan Andrzej , Styczynski Jan , Olinski Ryszard
Published: April 2021

The active DNA demethylation process may be linked with aberrant methylation and may be involved in leukemogenesis. We investigated the role of epigenetic DNA modifications in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) development. We analyzed the levels of 5-methyl-2′-deoxycytidine (5-mdC) oxidation products in the cellular DNA and urine of children with ALL (at diagnosis and after completion of chemotherapy, n=55) using two-dimensional ultra-performance liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (2D UPLC–MS/MS). Moreover, the expression of Ten Eleven Translocation enzymes (TETs) at the mRNA and protein levels was determined. Additionally, the ascorbate level in blood plasma was analyzed. Before treatment, the ALL patients had profoundly higher levels of the analyzed modified DNA in their urine than the controls. After chemotherapy, we observed a statistically significant decrease in active demethylation products in urine, with the final level similar to the level characteristic of healthy children. The level of 5-hmdC on the DNA of the blood leukocytes in the patient group was significantly lower than it was in the control group. Our data suggest that urinary excretion of epigenetic DNA modification may be a marker of pediatric ALL pathogenesis and a reliable marker of chemotherapy response.
Breast Cancer Patients’ Experience and Wishes Regarding Communication on Sexual Health - The BEROSE Study
Authors: Aupomerol Marion , Chaltiel Dan , Pautier Patricia , Wehrer Delphine , Veron Lucie , Degousée Léna , Fasse Leonor , Guéroult-Accolas Laure , Meglio Antonio Di , Scotté Florian , De-Jesus Anne , Vaz-Luis Inès , Delaloge Suzette , Pistilli Barbara
Published: April 2021

Purpose: Although sexual health (SH) is a major concern for many patients with breast cancer (BC), only few of them receive adequate information on this topic throughout their care. BEROSE is a single-center pilot cross-sectional observational study, which aimed at evaluating communication on SH between women with BC and their health-care providers.Methods: From June 12th to July 31th, 2020, a survey was distributed to patients consulting at Breast Cancer Unit of Gustave Roussy Cancer Center. The primary endpoint was the rate of women reporting to have received information on SH from health professionals throughout active treatment administration or BC follow-up.Results: Of 348 surveys collected, 318 were completely filled and included in the analysis. Sixty-one percent of women were older than 50 years and 65% had a localized BC. The majority (63%) was receiving hormone-therapy (37%) or chemotherapy (26%). Overall, 65% reported that they had not received any information about SH throughout their care, while 69% felt it would have been important to discuss sexual issues. Most of women expected professionals to bring up the topic, preferably oncologists or gynecologists, during face-to-face consultations. Concerning satisfaction on SH, 83% reported of being satisfied or very satisfied before BC diagnosis, and only 30% at the time of our survey. Conclusion: Most of women treated or followed-up for BC feel that they lack of information regarding SH-related issues. The impact of BC diagnosis and treatment on SH should be discussed with all women from the first visit and then regularly readdressed.
Synthesis and Characterization of Biodegradable Polyester/Polyether WPU As The Environmental Protection Coating
Authors: Wu Guangfeng , Song Xin , Yang ZhiHui , Li Ying Chun , Zhang HuiXuan
Published: April 2021

Polyester diol PCL and PBA, polyether diol PTMG and polycarbonate diol PCDL were used as components of WPU soft segment, respectively. Polyether PTMG-WPU has the worst hydrolytic property and the highest thermal stability. The maximum degradation rate temperature Tmax is 407.8°C, the water contact angle reaches 89.5°. Traditional polyester PCL-WPU shows the strongest hydrolysis performance, the smallest water contact angle, only 71.7°, the water absorption rate of 72 hours at room temperature is as high as 26.7%. However, the thermal stability of PCL-WPU is lower, the soft segment Tg is -52.3°C, and Tmax is only 333.7°C, but the mechanical propertie of which is the best, the tensile strength is 58.3 MPa, and the elongation at break reaches 857.9%. The most important thing is that the structure of polyester PCL-WPU is more easily destroyed by lipase and water molecules. The acidic products produced after hydrolysis will further promote the degradation of polyester. Therefore, compared with other WPUs, PCL -WPU has the best biodegradability and the most obvious degradation effect under the same conditions. The degradation rate of PTMG-WPU after 30 days of degradation in 0.6% lipase PBS buffer solution and soil was only 4.2% and 2.3%, while the highest degradation rate of traditional polyester PCL-WPU reached 41.7% and 32.0%, respectively. In addition, polycarbonate PCDL-WPU has the highest hardness, reaching 95.5 HD. But its other performances are lower than PCl-WPU.
RGD-Functionalized Melanin Nanoparticles for Intraoperative Photoacoustic Imaging-Guided Breast Cancer Surgery
Authors: Liu Jing-Jing , Wang Zun , Nie Li-Ming , Zhu Yuan-Yuan , Li Ge , Lin Lin-Ling , Chen Min , Zhang Guo-Jun
Published: April 2021

Purpose: Obtaining tumour-free margins is critical for avoiding re-excision and 35 reducing local recurrence following breast-conserving surgery (BCS); however, it 36 remains challenging. Imaging-guided surgery provides precise detection of residual 37 lesions and assists surgical resection. Herein, we describe water-soluble melanin 38 nanoparticles (MNPs) conjugated with cyclic Arg-Gly-Asp (cRGD) peptides for breast 39 cancer photoacoustic imaging (PAI) and surgery navigation. 40Methods: cRGD-MNPs was synthesized and characterized for morphology, 41 photoacoustic characteristics and stability. Tumour targeting and toxicity were 42 determined by cells and tumour-bearing mice. PAI was used to locate the tumour and 43 guide surgical resection in MDA-MB-231 tumour-bearing mice. 44Results: The cRGD-MNPs exhibited excellent tumour-targeting in vitro and in vivo, 45 with low toxicity. Intravenous administration of cRGD-MNPs to MDA-MB-231 46 tumour-bearing mice showed an approximately 2.1-fold enhancement in photoacoustic 47 (PA) intensity at 2 h, and the ratio of the PA intensity at the tumour site compared to 48 that in the surrounding normal tissue was 3.2 ± 0.1, which was much higher than that 49 using MNPs alone (1.7 ± 0.3). Similarly, the PA signal in the mammary glands 50 containing spontaneous breast cancer was enhanced (2.5 ± 0.3-fold) in MMTV-PyVT 51 transgenic murine model. Preoperative screening by PAI could assess tumour volume 52 and offer a three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction image for accurate surgical planning. 53 Surgical resection following real-time PAI on the tumour bed showed high consistency 54 with histopathological analysis. 55Conclusion: These results highlight that cRGD-MNPs combined with PAI provide 56 a powerful tool for breast cancer imaging and precise tumour resection. cRGD-MNPs 57 with good PA properties have great potential for clinical translation.
Synthetic Sphingolipid Analogs and Anti-cancer Drugs Synergistically Induced Human Colon and Pancreatic Cancer Cell Death Through Inhibiting Ceramide Metabolism
Authors: Song Jing , Dagan Arie
Published: April 2021

Ceramide metabolism is a potential target for anti-cancer therapy. Studies show that chemotherapeutic agents can induce apoptosis and it is mediated by ceramide. Synthesized sphingolipid analogs can induce cell death in human lymphocytes and leukemia cells. By screening a group of synthetic sphingolipid analogs, we found that low concentrations of AD2750 and AD2646 induced cell death in human cancer cells by preventing ceramide from converting to sphingomyelin, individually or in combination with commercial cancer drugs. The combination of low concentrations of Taxol and AD2750 or AD2646 significantly increased cell death on human colon cancer cells (HT29). Co-administering low concentrations of Doxorubicin with AD2750 or AD2646 elevated cellular toxicity on human pancreatic cancer cells (CRL1687). This synergistic effect is related to the elevated cellular ceramide. Combining AD2750 or AD2646 with chemotherapy drugs can be used to manipulate ceramide and sphingomyelin metabolism, potentially to affect the growth of human cancer cells and increase the effectiveness of anti-cancer drugs on killing cancer cells.
Early initiation of breastfeeding is protective against child stunting in South Sulawesi: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: SIRAJUDDIN SIRAJUDDIN , Sirajuddin Saifuddin , Thaha A Razak , Razak Amran , Thaha Ridwan M , Ansariadi Ansariadi
Published: April 2021

BackgroundSouth Sulawesi in 2018 was declared as the region with the fifth-highest position of stunting children. increasing the risk of excess nutrition and non-communicable diseases.ObjectivesTo investigate The early breastfeeding initiation practices dan stunting children in South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia.MethodsThe surveys were designed by a cross-sectional study. The sample size proportional to children 0–50 months. The household was eligible for inclusion in the survey if they contained a child aged 0–23 month and if the primary caregiver was present for interviews. Sampling technique determined by cluster sampling for each district.ResultsThe distribution of EBI practices in all districts/cities in South Sulawesi is between 14.93% to 90.97 %. EBI status is the majority of EBI 55.2%, duration with the highest percentage of ½ to 1 hour 48.2%. The Suckling process is good at 18.2% while others don't know. Timing is generally < 15 minutes 36.9%. Nutritional status data were known to severely stunting 6.1% and moderately stunting 15.6%.ConclusionEBI practices are more in urban than rural. Early initiation of breastfeeding is protective against child stunting in South Sulawesi
Reconstruction Method of Landscape Planning Mode based on VR Technology and Wireless Communication Technology
Authors: Yao Hang , Jiang Yan , Yang Rongqing
Published: April 2021

With the increasing complexity of human settlements and the deterioration of the ecological environment, landscape design shoulders the arduous responsibility. However, due to various reasons, the digital process of landscape planning and design has lagged behind the times. This paper discusses the difficulties of artificial intelligence reconstruction design in current landscape design, and points out the necessity of promoting artificial intelligence reconstruction design in landscape design. This paper defines the definition, characteristics and concept pedigree of landscape architecture artificial intelligence reconstruction design, analyzes the main digital design methods and application software platform in the concept pedigree, and summarizes the flow chart of landscape architecture artificial intelligence reconstruction design based on VR technology and wireless communication technology. Finally, the limitations and misunderstandings of current AI reconfiguration design are analyzed.
Prognostic value of preoperative inflammatory markers in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma underwent curative resection
Authors: Wu Wenlong , Wang Quancheng , Han Dandan , Li Jianhui , Nie Ye , Guo Dongnan , Yang Long , Tao Kaishan , Zhang Xuan , Dou Kefeng
Published: April 2021

Background: The prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is not optimistic. Our study focused on present inflammatory markers, including neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase-to-platelet ratio (GPR), aspartate aminotransferase-to-lymphocyte ratio (ALR) and fibrinogen-to-albumin ratio (FAR), and aimed to explore their optimal combination for the prognosis of HCC after resection.Methods: 347 HCC patients with curative resection were enrolled. The optimal cutoff values of the inflammatory markers were calculated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, and used to divide patients into two groups whose differences were compared by Kaplan-Meier analysis. Cox univariate and multivariate analysis were used to analyze the independent prognostic inflammatory markers. c2 test was chosen to determine the relationship between independent prognostic inflammatory markers and clinicopathological features. We created the combined scoring models and evaluated them by Cox univariate and multivariate methods. The concordance index (C-index), Akaike information criterion (AIC) and likelihood ratio were calculated to compare the models. The selected optimal inflammatory markers and their combinations were tested in different stages of HCC by Kaplan-Meier analysis.Results: ALR and GPR were independent prognostic factors for DFS; ALR, PLR, and GPR were independent prognostic factors for OS. The proposed GPR and ALR-GPR-PLR score models were independent predictors for DFS and OS, respectively.Conclusion: The preoperative GPR and ALR-GPR-PLR score models were independent predictors for DFS and OS, respectively, and performed well in stratifying patients with HCC. The higher score in the model, the worse the prognosis was.
MiR-200c Sensitizes Breast Cancer Cells to Carboplatin Treatment by Decreasing MDR1 Expression
Authors: Najjary Shiva , Safaee Sahar , Mokhtarzadeh Ahad , Amini Mohammad , Bolandi Nadia , Alizadeh Nazila , Hajiasgharzadeh Khalil , Baradaran Behzad
Published: April 2021

Background: Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide and is associated with a high rate of cancer mortality in women. Resistance to chemotherapy is considered a significant problem and a major challenge for the treatment of patients with BC. miR-200c belongs to a family of miRNAs that act as tumor inhibitors. The expression level of miR-200c has been reported to be decreased in cancers, especially in BC. The increased miR-200c expression can be considered as a potent inhibitor of drug resistance and tumor progression. Methods and Results: The current study examined the effect of miR-200c on enhancing the BC cells' sensitivity to Carboplatin through targeting MDR1 expression. To perform functional analyses, mimic miR-200c transfected to MCF7 cells. Then, the viability of the cells was investigated via MTT assay. Finally, the expression of associated genes assessed using qRT-PCR. The results indicated that downregulation of miR-200c was occurred in MCF7 cells in comparison to control. Besides, restoring miR-200c expression by regulating the expression level of the apoptotic gene reduces the viability of cancer cells. Moreover, miR-200c increased the sensitivity of MCF7 cells to Carboplatin via reducing the MDR1 gene expression. Conclusions: This study provided valuable data showing that miR-200c enhances the effect of carboplatin as a clinically approved chemotherapeutic agent, and restoring its expression could be considered as a promising targeted adjuvant therapy for BC management.
Complete Genome sequence of a new variant of jujube mosaic-associated virus isolated from jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) grown at Aksu in Xinjiang of China
Authors: Bai Jianyu , Liu Baojun , Zhang Guoxin , Gu Aixing , Song Danbo , Wang Quan , Li Hong
Published: April 2021

This work reports the discovery and the complete genome sequence of a novel member of the genus Badnavirus in the family Caulimoviridae from a Chinese jujube tree of known variety which grown in Aksu, Xinjiang, China. The symptoms of jujube leaves infected by the virus showed mosaic and malformation, and round chlorotic spots on infected fruits. The genome of this virus is a circular double-stranded DNA, which has the length of 7086 nt and has a genome structure similar to the one reported for jujube mosaic-associated virus (JuMaV), with five open reading frames (ORFs). High nucleotide and amino acid sequence similarity were seen between JuMaV and the new virus, and the nucleotide (NT) difference of the genome was greater than 20% in the RT/ Rnase H coding region of ORF3. Consequently, the virus was identified a new variant of JuMaV, and propose the name as jujube mosaic-associated virus A (JuMaVA).
SARS-COV-2 Colonizes Coronary Thrombus and Impairs Heart Microcirculation Bed in Asymptomatic Positive Subjects with Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: marfella raffaele , Paolisso Pasquale , Sardu Celestino , Palomba Luciana , D'Onofrio Nunzia , Cesaro Arturo , Barbieri Michelangela , Rizzo Maria Rosaria , Sasso Ferdinando Carlo , Scisciola Lucia , Turriziani Fabrizio , Galdiero Massimiliano , Pignataro Danilo , Minicucci Fabio , Trotta Maria Consiglia , D'Amico Michele , Mauro Ciro , Calabrò Paolo , Balestrieri Maria Luisa , Barbato Emanuele , Galdiero Marilena , Paolisso Giuseppe
Published: April 2021

Background. The viral load of asymptomatic SAR-COV-2 positive (ASAP) persons have been equal to that of symptomatic patients, suggesting a similar risk for endothelial dysfunction and increased coagulation in asymptomatic and symptomatic patients. To date, there are no reports of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) outcomes in ASAP patients. We evaluated thrombus burden and thrombus viral load and their impact on microvascular bed perfusion in the infarct area (myocardial lush grade, MBG) in ASAP compared to SARS-COV-2 negative (SANE) STEMI patients. Methods. This was an observational study of 46 ASAP, and 130 SANE patients admitted with confirmed STEMI treated with primary percutaneous coronary intervention and thrombus aspiration. The primary endpoints were thrombus dimension + thrombus viral load effects on MBG after PPCI. The secondary endpoints during hospitalization were major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs). MACEs are defined as a composite of cardiovascular death, nonfatal acute AMI, and heart failure during hospitalization.Results. Thrombus dimensions were significantly higher in ASAP patients as compared to SANE patients. Interestingly, 39 (84.9%) of ASAP patients also had thrombus specimens positive for SARS-COV-2. In ASAP STEMI patients (n=46), thrombus viral load was a significant determinant of thrombus dimension independently of risk factors (p<0.005). MBG and left ventricular function were significantly lower in ASAP STEMI patients (p<0.001). Multiple logistic regression analyses evidenced that thrombus SARS-CoV-2 infection and dimension were significant predictors of poorer MBG in STEMI patients. Conclusions. In ASAP patients presenting with STEMI, there is strong evidence towards higher thrombus viral load, dimension, and poorer MBG. These data support the need to reconsider ASAP status as a risk factor that may worsen STEMI outcomes.
Weekly Bayesian Modelling Strategy to Predict Deaths by COVID-19: a Model and Case Study for the State of Santa Catarina, Brazil
Authors: Avelar Pedro Henrique , Lamb Luis , Tsoka Sophia , Cardoso-Silva Jonathan
Published: April 2021

Background: The novel coronavirus pandemic has affected Brazil's Santa Catarina State (SC) severely. At the time of writing (24 March 2021), over 764,000 cases and over 9,800 deaths by COVID-19 have been confirmed, hospitals were fully occupied with local news reporting at least 397 people in the waiting list for an ICU bed. Despite initial state-wide measures at the outbreak of the pandemic, the state government passed most responsibilities down to cities local government, leaving them to plan whether and when to apply Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions (NPIs). In an attempt to better inform local policy making, we applied an existing Bayesian algorithm to model the spread of the pandemic in the seven geographic macro-regions of the state. However, as we found that the model was too reactive to change in data trends, here we propose changes to extend the model and improve its forecasting capabilities. Methods: Our four proposed variations of the original method allow accessing data of daily reported infections and take into account under-reporting of cases more explicitly. Two of the proposed versions also attempt to model the delay in test reporting. We simulated weekly forecasting of deaths from the period from 31/05/2020 until 31/01/2021.First week data were used as a cold-start to the algorithm, after which weekly calibrations of the model were able to converge in fewer iterations. Google Mobility data were used as covariates to the model, as well as to estimate of the susceptible population at each simulated run. Findings: The changes made the model significantly less reactive and more rapid in adapting to scenarios after a peak in deaths is observed. Assuming that the cases are under-reported greatly benefited the model in its stability, and modelling retroactively-added data (due to the “hot” nature of the data used) had a negligible impact in performance. Interpretation: Although not as reliable as death statistics, case statistics, when modelled in conjunction with an overestimate parameter, provide a good alternative for improving the forecasting of models, especially in long-range predictions and after the peak of an infection wave.
Atrophic Gastritis Predicts Development of Esophageal Candidiasis Among Patients in Community Hospital
Authors: Ogiso Hideyuki , Adachi Seiji , Mabuchi Masatoshi , Horibe Yohei , Ohno Tomohiko , Suzuki Yusuke , Yamauchi Osamu , Kojima Takao , Takada Eri , Iwama Midori , Saito Koshiro , Iwashita Takuji , Ibuka Takashi , Yasuda Ichiro , Shimizu Masahito
Published: April 2021

Purpose: The aim of this study was to clarify risk factors for esophageal candidiasis (EC) in immunocompetent patients in a community hospital.Methods: 7736 patients who underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy at our hospital from April 2012 to July 2018 were enrolled. The relationships between EC and the following factors: age, gender, body mass index, lifestyle, lifestyle-related diseases, medication, and endoscopic findings were analyzed.Results: EC was observed in 184 of 7736 cases (2.4% morbidity rate). Multivariate analysis revealed that significant risk factors for the development of EC were: diabetes mellitus {odds ratio (OR): 1.52}, proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use (OR: 1.69), atrophic gastritis (AG) (OR: 1.60), advanced gastric cancer (OR: 4.66), and gastrectomy (OR: 2.32). When severe EC (Kodsi grade ≥ II) was compared to mild EC (grade I), the most significant risk factors were advanced gastric cancer (OR: 17.6) and gastrectomy (OR: 23.4). When considering the risk of AG and PPI use with EC development, the risk increased as follows: AG (OR: 1.59), PPI use (OR: 2.25), and both (OR: 3.13).Conclusions: PPI use and AG are critical risk factors for the development of EC. We suggest close monitoring for EC development when PPIs are administered to patients with AG.
Relationship between clinical outcomes and nerve conduction studies before and after surgery in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome
Authors: Ise Masato , Saito Taichi , Katayama Yoshimi , Nakahara Ryuichi , Shimamura Yasunori , Hamada Masanori , Senda Masuo , Ozaki Toshifumi
Published: April 2021

Background:Nerve conduction study (NCS) is the only useful test for objective assessment of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). However, the relationship between pre- and postoperative NCS and clinical outcomes was unclear. This study aimed to determine whether pre- and postoperative (6 months) NCS could predict patient-oriented and motor outcomes (6 and 12 months postoperatively) in patients with CTS.Methods:Of the 85 patients with CTS, 107 hands were analyzed from March 2011 to March 2020. All patients underwent open carpal tunnel release and were examined using the disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) questionnaire and grip strength (GS) preoperatively and 6 and 12 months. Moreover, NCS was examined preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively. Distal motor latency (DML) and sensory conduction velocity (SCV) were the parameters used for NCS. The correlation coefficient between NCS and DASH or GS was calculated. A receiver operating characteristic curve was utilized to determine the NCS threshold value to predict DASH and GS improvement.Results:The average scores of GS preoperatively and 6 and 12 months postoperatively were 21.3, 22.3, and 22.8, respectively. On the other hand, the average scores of DASH preoperatively and 6 and 12 months postoperatively were 28.8, 18.3, and 12.2, respectively. The average NCS scores (DML and SCV) preoperatively/6 months postoperatively were 7.3/5.4 and 27.8/36.7, respectively. Preoperative NCS did not correlate with DASH and GS. Postoperative SCV correlated with the change in grip strength (6–12 months, r = 0.67; 0–12 months, r = 0.60) and DASH (0–12 months, r = 0.77). Moreover, postoperative DML correlated with the change in DASH (6–12 months, r = -0.33; 0–12 months, r = -0.59). The prediction for the improvement of GS/DASH achieved a sensitivity of 50.0%/66.7% and a specificity of 100%/100%, at an SCV cutoff score of 38.5/45.0 or above. The prediction for improvement of GS/DASH achieved a sensitivity of 83.3%/66.7% and a specificity of 100%/66.7% at a DML cutoff score of 4.4/4.4 or below.Conclusions:NCS at 6 months postoperatively can be used to predict the improvement of clinical outcome after 6 months postoperatively in patients with CTS.
Validation and Optimal Cut-Off Score of the WHO-5 as a Screening Tool for Depression among Young Adults in Malaysia
Authors: Low Kah-Yue , Pheh Kai-Shuen , Tan Chee-Seng
Published: April 2021

As depression has become a major disease burden in Malaysia, an easy-to-use tool with good psychometric is urgently needed to facilitate the screening process. The current study investigated the psychometric qualities of the 5-item World Health Organization Well-being Index (WHO-5) and the optimal cut-off point for depression screening in the Malaysian context. A total of 610 undergraduate students answered an online survey consisting of the English version of the WHO-5 and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Confirmatory factor analysis supported the single-factor model. The WHO-5 also demonstrated good reliability and concurrent validity. Moreover, receiver operating characteristic analysis indicated that ≤ 13 was the optimal threshold with acceptable sensitivity and specificity. The results support the usability of the WHO-5 to screen for depression among young adults in Malaysia. Moreover, the findings are also consistent with the literature highlighting the potential of the WHO-5 as a cross-cultural tool for depression screening.
New Enzyme-Targeting Radiosensitizer (KORTUC II) Treatment for Locally Advanced or Recurrent Breast Cancer
Authors: Shimbo Taiju , Nakata Mio , Yoshioka Hiroto , Sato Chikara , Hori Akihiro , Kimura Kosei , Iwamoto Mitsuhiko , Yoshida Ken , Nihei Keiji
Published: April 2021

PurposeKochi Oxydol-Radiation Therapy for Unresectable Carcinomas II (KORTUC II) is currently the most widely used radiosensitizer in clinical use in Japan. Its use sensitizes tumors to radiation by injecting hydrogen peroxide into the tumors to neutralize antioxidant enzymes and, simultaneously, increase intratumor oxygen tension. KORTUC II has achieved significant local effects with no notable adverse events. We report on the cases where KORTUC II was used to treat patients with locally advanced breast cancer (LABC) or recurrent breast cancer (LRBC).Methods and MaterialsThirty patients treated with KORTUC II for LABC (n = 9) or LRBC (n = 21), who were followed up for at least 3 months after treatment, were included in the study. This sensitizer is a solution consisting of 0.83% sodium hyaluronate and 0.5% hydrogen peroxide by volume. The mixture was injected intratumorally several times during the treatment period under ultrasound guidance, just before RT doses. RT was administered for local control. The irradiation dose and extent fields were determined by the attending physicians considering patient factors. Maximum tumor shrinkage (MTS) was measured by Computed Tomography. The duration of loco-regional control (LC) and progression free survival (PFS) after the completion of RT were determined using the Kaplan–Meier method.ResultsThe median irradiation dose was 60.4 Gy3.5 (43.6–76.1 Gy3.5) based on the calculation of EQD2, and median total number of sensitizer treatments was 5 (2–7). The median MTS was 97.0%. Fifteen patients (50%) were assessed to have achieved a clinical complete response. The proportion of patients with LC at 1, 2, and 3 years was 100%, 94.7%, and 75.4%. The proportion with PFS after RT at 1 and 2 years was 59.0%, and 24.1%, respectively.ConclusionsKORTUC II treatment demonstrated high rates of local tumor control for LABC and LRBC. KORTUC II is expected to be an inexpensive and extremely promising RT with an excellent radio-sensitizing effect.Trial registrationOsaka Medical College Clinical Trials Registry, trial no. 1973, date. May 10, 2010UMIN Clinical Trials Registry, trial no. UMIN000003734, date. June 10, 2010
Tumor Vascular Micro-environment of Colorectal Hepatic Metastasis and Chemotherapy Response
Authors: Okamoto Hirotaka , Shiba Shugo , Iino Hiroshi , Wakana Hiroyuki , Ichikawa Daisuke
Published: April 2021

Background: Tumor vascular micro-environment has an important role in tumor progression and metastasis. The objective of this study was to assess the signiﬁcance of metastatic hepatic tumor vascular micro-environment in relation to the response to the systemic 5-FU-based chemotherapy (FOLFOX or FOLFIRI).Methods: A total of 48 consecutive colorectal cancer (CRC) patients with hepatic metastasis were retrospectively reviewed, and factors, such as metastatic tumor vascular micro-environment, chemotherapy response, and hepatic resection, were analyzed. Tumor angiogenesis was microscopically evaluated by microvessel density (MVD) in sections stained immunochemically with CD34 in patients with hepatic resection. The angiogenesis in tumor micro-environment in association with ring enhancement (RE) on computed tomography (CT) was also examined.Results: Microscopic examination revealed that peripheral RE on CT of the metastatic tumor is associated with tumor angiogenesis by MVD. The overall response rate after 6 courses of first-line chemotherapy for the liver metastasis with RE on CT was 64% (23/36), whereas the response rate without RE was 25% (3/12), which was significantly different, although the survival rate of patients with RE-positive or without RE-negative tumors was not different.Conclusion: The peripheral RE on CT of the metastatic hepatic tumor was associated with the angiogenesis in tumor micro-environment and higher chemotherapy response.