bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Asynchronous Chaos and Bifurcations in a Model of Two Coupled Identical Hindmarsh – Rose Neurons
Authors:   HSE University, Garashchuk I. R.
Published: October 2021

We study a minimal network of two coupled neurons described by the Hindmarsh – Rose model with a linear coupling. We suppose that individual neurons are identical and study whether the dynamical regimes of a single neuron would be stable synchronous regimes in the model of two coupled neurons. We find that among synchronous regimes only regular periodic spiking and quiescence are stable in a certain range of parameters, while no bursting synchronous regimes are stable. Moreover, we show that there are no stable synchronous chaotic regimes in the parameter range considered. On the other hand, we find a wide range of parameters in which a stable asynchronous chaotic regime exists. Furthermore, we identify narrow regions of bistability, when synchronous and asynchronous regimes coexist. However, the asynchronous attractor is monostable in a wide range of parameters. We demonstrate that the onset of the asynchronous chaotic attractor occurs according to the Afraimovich – Shilnikov scenario. We have observed various asynchronous firing patterns: irregular quasi-periodic and chaotic spiking, both regular and chaotic bursting regimes, in which the number of spikes per burst varied greatly depending on the control parameter.
Cantor Type Basic Sets of Surface $A$-endomorphisms
Authors:   National Research University Higher School of Economics, Grines V. Z. ,   National Research University Higher School of Economics, Zhuzhoma E. V.
Published: October 2021

The paper is devoted to an investigation of the genus of an orientable closed surface $M^{2}$ which admits $A$-endomorphisms whose nonwandering set contains a one-dimensional strictly invariant contracting repeller $\Lambda_{r}$ with a uniquely defined unstable bundle and with an admissible boundary of finite type. First, we prove that, if $M^{2}$ is a torus or a sphere, then $M^{2}$ admits such an endomorphism. We also show that, if $\Omega$ is a basic set with a uniquely defined unstable bundle of the endomorphism $f\colon M^{2}\to M^{2}$ of a closed orientable surface $M^{2}$ and $f$ is not a diffeomorphism, then $\Omega$ cannot be a Cantor type expanding attractor. At last, we prove that, if $f\colon M^{2}\to M^{2}$ is an $A$-endomorphism whose nonwandering set consists of a finite number of isolated periodic sink orbits and a one-dimensional strictly invariant contracting repeller of Cantor type $\Omega_{r}$ with a uniquely defined unstable bundle and such that the lamination consisting of stable manifolds of $\Omega_{r}$ is regular, then $M^{2}$ is a two-dimensional torus $\mathbb{T}^{2}$ or a two-dimensional sphere $\mathbb{S}^{2}$.
Procedure of matter identification of reference material for composition of azithromycin with use of spectral method
Authors: Gegechkori V. I. , Shulga N. A. , Shchepochkina O. Iu. , Gorokhovets N. V. , Levko A. A. , Chadova N. N. , Shestakov V. N.
Published: October 2021

In new medicinal products development, as well as actualisation of assessment approaches of medicinal products in circulation, the development of quality control procedures remains one of the most important issues in standardisation. Besides, such development should include using reliable, accurate and sensitive physicochemical methods which determine the need development and implementation of reference materials. This paper discusses the development of reliable methods for identifying the structure of azithromycin, which will guarantee the purity of the reference material, as well as adequately and unambiguously choose a method of quantitative determination in accordance with the current requirements of regulatory acts, and according to the Pharmacopoeia of the Russian Federation of the XIV Edition.
Bragg Mirrors for Thermal Waves
Authors: Camacho de la Rosa Angela , Becerril David , Gómez-Farfán Guadalupe , Esquivel-Sirvent Raul P
Published: October 2021

We present a numerical calculation of the heat transport in a Bragg mirror configuration made of materials that do not obey Fourier's law of heat conduction. The Bragg mirror is made of materials that are described by the Cattaneo-Vernotte equation. By analyzing the Cattaneo-Vernotte equation's solutions, we define the thermal wave surface impedance to design highly reflective thermal Bragg mirrors. Even for mirrors with a few layers, very high reflectance is achieved ($>90\%$). The Bragg mirror configuration is also a system that makes evident the wave-like nature of the solution of the Cattaneo-Vernotte equation by showing frequency pass-bands that are absent if the materials obey the usual Fourier's law.
Burnout and Coping Strategies among Nurses: A Literature Review
Authors:   Nursing Officer, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342005, India., Khawa Sanju Pukhraj
Published: October 2021

The concept of stress plays an important role in an occupational area, especially health care setting. Health care professionals are repeatedly exposed to this stress, especially nursing personnel. The response to this chronic stress is termed burnout. In other words, burnout means giving more time, energy, and effort to work for a long period of time leading to exhaustion both mentally and physically. In order to reduce these burnout symptoms, an individual tries to adopt certain strategies to minimize his/her negative feelings. This is known as a coping strategy. Due to the increase in workload, advancement in science and technology, quality patient care, these symptoms have escalated which have drawn attention to health care organizations. Many strategies have been developed to reduced these symptoms and develop a positive environment for nurses to work within it. Keywords: Burnout, coping strategies, nurses.
Effects of Slurry Reflux on the Stability and Microbial Community Structure of Corn Stalk Anaerobic Digestion System
Authors: zhao ling , gao yang , zhao jiamin , sun jiaixng , wang zhen , li jinyang , kou wei
Published: October 2021

Anaerobic digestion (AD) of corn stalks with slurry reflux and non-reflux was compared and evaluated，to clarify the effects of slurry reflux on AD. It was found that slurry reflux increased cumulative methane production by 45.80% and improved system stability. With the increase of organic loading rate (OLR), pH value and oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) of reflux group remained 7.16±0.23 and -338.71±9.22. High-throughput sequencing results showed that slurry reflux slowed down the decrease of microbial community diversity, and the richness of bacterial community increased by 9.16%. The dominant microorganisms were Bacteroidetes and Methanothrix in reflux group, the relative abundances were 32.41% and 41.75%, respectively. The increase of organic loading rate (OLR) altered the main methane-producing pathway of the AD system, and slurry reflux can delay this trend.
Dynamics of Genetic Diversity Among Indian Sugarcane Bacilliform Virus Species and Implications of Associated Recombination Events in the Virus
Authors: Janiga PK , Nithya K. , Viswanathan Rasappa
Published: October 2021

Sugarcane bacilliform virus (SCBV), a plant pararetrovirus causing leaf fleck disease in sugarcane across the globe. Since the virus occurs throughout the sugarcane growing areas and germplasm in India, we have assessed the genetic divergences among the virus isolates from 104 isolates infecting germplasm and Saccharum hybrid varieties. With the evidence gathered from phylogenetic analysis and sequence demarcation tool, five novel genotypes are being proposed: SCBV-U, SCBV-V, SCBV-W, SCBV-X and SCBV-Y. SCBV-W: CBJ 46, due to the divergence in the nucleotide and protein sequence with existing isolates, established itself as a novel candidate in SCBV species. In comparison with the existing database of SCBV and conclusion from the present study, SCBV isolates from India exhibited maximum diversity in comparison with other regions. SCBV-U, SCBV-W, SCBV-X which turned out as potent recombinants along with other six recombinants in the study, directs at the plausible heterogeneity and genetic exchange happened within SCBV species over time which lead to the evolution of new variants. Neutrality tests indicate the existence of low-frequency polymorphism and Selection pressure of < 1 pointed out at purifying selection. Codon usage bias acted as an efficient tool for identifying patterns in SCBV, in which non-randomness in mutational events might lead to the over expression of codon AGA. The current study on characterization and evidence of nucleotidal variation within SCBV species will lead to devising robust diagnostics of the virus in quarantine and improving the knowledge on the evolutionary changes in SCBV species.
Dietary Supplementation of Inulin on Glycolipid Metabolism in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus via RENT/AKT/IRS Pathway
Authors: Miao Miao , Dai Yongmei , Rui Can , Fan Yuru , Wang Xinyan , Fan Chong , Mu Juan , Hou Wenwen , Dong Zhiyong , Li Ping , Sun Guiju , Zeng Xin
Published: October 2021

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) has significant short and long-term health consequences for both the mother and child. There is limited but suggestive evidence that inulin could improve glucose tolerance during pregnancy. This study assessed the effect of inulin on glucose homeostasis and elucidated the molecular mechanisms underlying the inulin-induced antidiabetic effects during pregnancy. Method: Female C57BL/6 mice were randomized to receive either no treatment, high-dose inulin and low-dose inulin for 7 weeks with measurement of biochemical profiles. A real-time2 (RT2) profiler polymerase chain reaction (PCR) array involved in glycolipid metabolism was measured. Results: Inulin treatment facilitated glucose homeostasis in a dose-dependent manner by decreasing fasting blood glucose and total cholesterol, and improving glucose tolerance. Suppressing resistin (RETN) expression was observed in the inulin treatment group and the expression was significantly correlated with fasting blood glucose levels. The ratios of p-IRS to IRS and p-Akt to Akt in liver tissue and the ratio of p-Akt to Akt in adipose tissue increased significantly after inulin treatment. Conclusions: Our findings indicated the observed decreased glucose level may be due to insulin signaling pathway repairment due to decreased expression of RETN and enhanced phosphorylation of IRS and Akt in GDM mice.
Optimum cultural conditions to achieve the best biofilm formation and high level icaA transcription by Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Sharifi Aram , Mohammadzadeh Abdolmajid , Mahmoodi Pezhman , Salehi Taghi Zahraei
Published: October 2021

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate the influences of different broth culture media supplemented with glucose, on the biofilm formation and ica expression of Staphylococcus aureus. The phenotypic ability to adhere to a polystyrene surface and to produce slime layer were evaluated using microtiter plate test (MtP) and Congo red tube test, respectively. Using PCR, the presence of ica locus in S. aureus strains was confirmed and subsequently, quantitative real-time RT-PCR was performed to investigate transcription of icaA in various media including Tryptic soy broth (TSB), Brain-heart infusion broth (BHIB), (Nutrient broth) NB and (Muller-Hinton broth) MHB contained 0, 0.25, 0.5, 1 and 2% glucose.
Results

Our results showed that although all of the studied strains adhered to the wells of polystyrene microtiter plates, the optimum rate of biofilm formation was observed for TSB medium contained 1% glucose, but biofilm formation was not significantly different in NB, MHB and BHIB media. Supplementation of all media with 1% glucose led to the highest production of biofilm formation and in all of media transcription of icaA was increased with glucose addition to one present.
Conclusions

The results of the present study indicated that TSB medium supplemented with 1% glucose was the most appropriate medium for evaluation of biofilm formation by S. aureus isolates.
Neutrophil Side Fluorescence: A New Indicator For Predicting The Severity of Patients With Bronchiectasis
Authors: Wang Jinhong , Chen Youming , Li Shiqi , Yu Chunxiao , Jie Hongyu , Han Xinai , Zou Shujing , Tan Quanguang , Luo Shugeng
Published: October 2021

Background: Neutrophilic inflammation in the airway is a hallmark of bronchiectasis. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) have been reported to play an important role in the occurrence and development of bronchiectasis. Neutrophil side fluorescence is one of the characteristics of neutrophils that can reflect the activation of neutrophils and the formation of NETs.Objective: To explore the relationship between the values of neutrophil side fluorescence (NEUT-SFL) in the peripheral blood of bronchiectasis patients, and the severity of the disease.Methods: 82 patients with bronchiectasis from the Department of Respiratory and Critical Medicine, at the Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University and were scored with Bronchiectasis Severity Index (BSI) (2019-2021). The clinical data such as the value of NEUT-SFL, neutrophil count, C-reactive protein, and procalcitonin levels were collected and retrospectively analyzed. NEUT-SFL values neutrophil count from 28 healthy subjects were also used to ascertain cut-off values. A single-sample SW test was used to test the normality for the data. The independent sample T-test was performed on the normal data, and Chi-square test and non-parametric test were used for non-normally distributed data and count data. The Pearson correlation analysis method was used for analyzing the correlation between each group of data.Results: Based on the BSI scores, patients were divided into three categories as mild (32%), moderate (29%), and severe (39%). Our results showed that the values of NEUT-SFL were higher in bronchiectasis patients compared to healthy controls. The levels of NEUT-SFL positively correlated with the high BSI scores in patients (P = 0.037, r = 0.23) and negatively correlated with the lung function in these patients (r = -0.35, P = 0.001). The area under the ROC curve was 0.813, the best cut-off was 42.145, indicating that NEUT-SFL values >42.145 can potentially predict the severity of bronchiectasis. Conclusions: The values of NEUT-SFL in the peripheral blood can be used for predicting the severity of bronchiectasis.
A Novel Integrated Network with LightGBM for Click-Through Rate Prediction
Authors: Xia Zhen , Mao Senlin , Bai Jing , Geng Xinyu , Yi Liu
Published: October 2021

Click-through Rate (CTR) prediction has become one of the core tasks of the recommendation system and its online advertising with the development of e-commerce. In the CTR prediction field, different features extraction schemes are used to mine the user click behavior to achieve the maximum CTR, which helps the advertisers maximize their profits. At present, achievements have been made in CTR prediction based on Deep Neural Network (DNN), but insufficiently, DNN can only learn high-order features combination. In this paper, Product & Cross supported Stacking Network with LightGBM (PCSNL) is proposed for CTR prediction to solve such problems. Firstly, the L 1 and L 2 regularizations are imposed on Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM) to prevent overfitting. Secondly, the method of vector-wise feature interactions is added to product layer in product network to learn second-order feature combinations. Lastly, feature information is fully learned through the cross network, product network and stacking network in PCSNL. The online ads CTR prediction datasets released by Huawei and Avazu on the Kaggle platform are involved for experiments. It is shown that the PCSN model and PCSNL have better performance than the traditional CTR prediction models and deep learning models.
Climate Change Impact Assessment on the Precipitation over the Ghataprabha Sub-Basin, India under Future Climate Change Scenarios
Authors: Reddy Nagendra , Patil Nagraj S , Laddimath Rajashekhar S
Published: October 2021

The present study has been taken up to quantify the possible impacts of the climate change on the climate variables using the outputs of global climate models datasets over the Ghataprabha Sub-basin. The climate variables (precipitation, maximum and minimum temperature) data from the five selected global climate model dataset were downscaled using change factor method under four representative concentration pathway (RCP 2.6, 4.5, 6.0, and 8.5) scenarios for future periods near-century (2010-2039), mid-century (2040-2069), and end-century (2070-2099). The downscaled results of all the five models were ensembled using multi-model ensembling method to reduce the uncertainty in the projected results and the percentage change in the climate variables were shown with respect to the historical/baseline period (1961-1990) using spatial plots and histograms. The future projected results shows that percentage change in the annual mean precipitation with respect to the historical (1961-1990), is decreasing for most of the grids in the study area during the near-century while during mid and end centuries it shows an increasing trend across all the four RCP scenarios. The average daily minimum and maximum temperature with respect to the historical (1961-1990) values were showing an increasing trend in the study area during the near, mid, and end centuries across all the four RCP scenarios. Further, study also analysed the percentage change in 100-year return level over the study area.
Immersive Virtual Reality Improves Labor and Delivery Experience for Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Carus Elif Gizem , Albayrak Nazli , Bildirici Halit Mert , Ozmen Selen Gur
Published: October 2021

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of immersive Virtual Reality (VR) in laboring women on patient satisfaction as a distractive tool and pain relief.Methods: Randomized, controlled clinical trial with 42 laboring women allocated to VR intervention and control groups. Among the VR group, patient satisfaction with the use of VR was assessed by a Virtual Reality Satisfaction Survey and questioning whether they would choose VR in future labor. As a primary outcome patient satisfaction scores regarding the overall labor and delivery experience were compared between the two groups. A secondary outcome was pain assessed by a visual pain rating scale in the early and active phases of labor in both groups. Psychometric information was also collected from participants in each group using Beck Anxiety Inventory and Beck Depression Inventory. Results: We observed a high level of patient satisfaction with the use of immersive VR during labor. The survey revealed a mean satisfaction score of 89.6 ± 10.8 out of a maximum of 100. 20 out of 21 (95%) women in the VR group stated that they would like to use VR again in future labor. VR improved pain scores in early labor and contributed positively to overall labor and delivery experience. The mean pain score pre-VR was 2.6±1.2 compared to 2.0±1.3, post-VR, respectively (p<0.01). Anxiety and depression scores were similar in the intervention and control groups (p=0.103, p=0.13, respectively). Conclusion: Immersive VR application during labor was feasible and associated with higher patient satisfaction based on our study. VR also improved pain scores in early labor before epidural placement. Immersive VR may find a place as an adjunct in Labor and Delivery Units to improve the lengthy labor experience for women. Larger studies are needed to confirm these observations. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT05032456 / 02/09/2021https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05032456
The Exotic Materia Medica of Chinese Medicine: A Survey of Its Resources and Medical Information in 1029 BC–1999 AD
Authors: Cai Qingqing , Yan Zhu-yun
Published: October 2021

BackgroundTraditional Chinese medicine (TCM) gives people an image of its medicinal resources all from within China. Nevertheless, the fact is that the Exotic Materia Medica(ECM) has been used in Chinese medicine from Zhou Dynasty (1029 BC-221 AD). However, no extensive studies have focused on it. Now, the high exchange speed of information and material brings TCM opportunities to apply exotic resources in clinics. So, surveying the historical ECM’s resources and medical information is valuable.MethodsWe investigated the origin of 8980 Chinese Materia Medica’s resources included in Chinese Materia Medica and compiled a species list of exotic Chinese medicines (ECM) used in China between 1029 BC–1999 AD and their medical information, introduction time, introduction routes, and place of origin.ResultsConsequently, we found information on 788 ECM and their clinical application. A total of 99% of ECM were found to be botanicals mainly belonging to Solanaceae, Amaranthaceae, Malvaceae, Myrtaceae, and Cruciferae. The exchange speed of these medicines between China and other regions peaked in the Han (206 BC–220 AD), Tang (618–907 AD), and Ming dynasties (1368–1644 AD), and increased sharply from 1912 onwards. The main registered efficacies of the ECM were "clear heat" and diuresis. The most efficient way to convert foreign medicine to TCM is to absorb drugs from foreign regions directly. Last but not least, about One-fifth of commonly used TCM in the clinic is ECM.Conclusion﻿Chinese doctors are more concerned with the efficacy of the drug when using it in clinical settings than whether the drug comes from afar. The record of origin and source was to ensure the supply and quality of the drugs. The use of foreign resources as Chinese medicine is the fact that Chinese medicine objectively exists. The existence of ECM has enriched the resources of TCM. Furthermore, both foreign medicine and local medicine currently protect people's lives and health.
The Use of IndoCyanine Green Fluorescence in the Assessment of Bowel Perfusion in Emergency and Elective Colorectal Surgery
Authors: Picardi Biagio , Rossi Stefano , Monte Simone Rossi Del , Cortese Francesco , Muttillo Edoardo Maria , Mazzarella Gennaro , Puccioni Caterina , Muttillo Irnerio Angelo
Published: October 2021

Background The use of Indocyanine Green (ICG) fluorescence is a well-established technique in colorectal surgery for the evaluation of bowel stump perfusion. However there is still no definitive acceptance, except intraoperative macroscopic evidence, with reference to the incidence of anastomotic leakage (AL). The objective of this study is to confirm the same efficacy and reliability of ICG in elective colorectal surgery, and emergency cases, which would be more exposed to complications related to inadequate vascularization.Methods From January 2019 to June 2020, we used ICG to evaluate the perfusion of colonicstumps before and after packaging the anastomosis in right and left hemicolectomy, rectal resection and Hartmann’s reversals.Results A total of 40 patients underwent surgery, 21 (52.50%) had benign pathology and 19 (47.50%) exhibited malignant neoplasia. 13 (32.50%) were emergency surgeries and 27 (67.50%) were planned elective surgeries. In almost all cases, the postoperative course was regular, in only 1 (2.5%) case of TaTME there was an AL. Other complications were not related to the anastomosis, but some validated the excellent perfusion despite episodes of prolonged acute ischemia due to postoperative hemorrhage. Data were finally compared to a control group of 39 patients where the ICG fluorescence was not used.Conclusions The study confirms the validity of the use of ICG fluorescence as a method for intraoperative assessment of bowel perfusion even in emergency conditions and in acute postoperative hemorrhage, detecting an incidence of 2.5% (1 case out of 40) of AL. It’s evident that to validate our results, further randomized studies on a larger data set are required. It would also be beneficial to evaluate quantitatively the fluorescence between the mucous and serous layer, to confirm the reduction of AL rate, the better evaluation of bowel perfusion and, especially in emergency surgeries, the potential reduction of further operations.
HIF-3α-Induced miR-630 Expression Promotes Cancer Hallmarks in Cervical Cancer Cells by Forming a Positive Feedback Loop
Authors: Gao Qiaohui , Ren Zhenghua , Jiao Shengyuan , Guo Juan , Miao Xia , Wang Jin , Liu Junye
Published: October 2021

Background Hypoxia has crucial functions in cervical cancer development and metastasis by inducing the level of numerous genes, including microRNA genes. But we know little about how the hypoxia factors and microRNAs orchestrate to regulate hallmarks of cervical cancer cells. Methods We used RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) and chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing experiments (ChIP-seq) to investigate the targets of HIF-3α or miR-630. ChIP-qPCR and RT-qPCR were used to validate the sequencing results of ChIP-seq and RNA-seq. Cellular, molecular and radiation experiments were used to explore the functions of miR-630.Results Here, we show that hypoxia-induced overexpression HIF-3α increased the expression of dozens of miRNAs, including miR-630. Further experiment showed the activation of miR-630 was induced by hypoxia treatment. We showed that hypoxia induces expression of HIF-3α to activate miR-630 expression by directly binding to its promoter. Meanwhile, miR-630 positively regulates HIF-1α expression, but represses HIF-1α. Stable overexpression of miR-630 in HeLa cells promotes cancer hallmarks, including radioresistance, inhibition of apoptosis, increased migration and invasion, and EMT-mediated metastasis. Stable inhibition of miR-630 showed opposite features. Conclusion Taken together, our findings implicate a novel hypoxia-induced HIF3a-miR-630 regulatory feedback loop contributing to metastasis and progression of cervical cancer cells, and suggest HIF3a and miR630 might be applied as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for cervical cancer.
A Clinical Analysis of 640 Inpatients With Pathologic Nipple Discharge
Authors: Wei Gang , Li Rui , Wu Gaosong
Published: October 2021

Objective To discuss the value of early confirmation of breast cancer in patients with pathologic nipple discharge based on double surgical indications under fiberoptic ductoscopy (FDS) followed by staining with methylene blue. Methods From October 2012 to October 2019, a total of 640 inpatients with pathologic nipple discharge from Wuhan University Zhongnan Hospital underwent fiberoptic ductoscopy, followed by injection of methylene blue into the lesional duct through the discharged hole that would be resected as a segment according to the range of the staining duct on the next day. Based on double surgical indications, different findings by fiberoptic ductoscopy were defined as surgical indications, both with space-occupying intraductal lesions scanned by FDS and without space-occupying intraductal lesions but with dark red bloody fluid or yellow serous fluid spillage at the opening of the terminal mammary duct or extensive erosive duct lesions. We retrospectively analyzed the relations between results from fiberoptic ductoscopy and pathologic diagnosis. Results Inpatients with pathological neoplasm accounted for 87.3%(452/518) of the 518 inpatients with space-occupying intraductal lesions scanned by FDS, but the 122 inpatients without space-occupying intraductal lesions only accounted for 28.7%(35/122) of the patients (P=0.00). However, patients pathologically diagnosed with breast cancer accounted for 11.8% (61/518) of the 518 inpatients with space-occupying lesions and 10.7%(13/122) of the 122 inpatients without space-occupying lesions (P=0.728). Conclusions According to the double standards of surgical indication with or without space-occupying intraductal lesions scanned by fiberoptic ductoscopy, the method of fiberoptic ductoscopy followed by staining of the mammary duct by methylene blue could not only avoid missed diagnosis of breast cancer caused by ductoscopy itself, but also reduce the rate of missed diagnosis on account of inoperative inaccurate resection range, which greatly improved the early diagnosis rate of breast cancer with nipple discharge as the only initial clinical manifestation.
Comprehensive Analysis of the Long Noncoding RNA‑associated Competitive Endogenous RNA Network in the Osteogenic Differentiation of Periodontal Ligament Stem Cells
Authors: Lai Lingzhi , Wang Zhaodan , Ge Yihong , Qiu Wei , Wu Buling , Fang Fuchun , Xu Huiyong , Chen Zhao
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUDThe mechanism implicated in the osteoblast differentiation of human periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) has been investigated for years. Previous genomics data analyses showed that long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), microRNA (miRNA) and messenger RNA (mRNA) have significant expression differences between induced and control human PDLSCs. Competing for endogenous RNAs (ceRNA), as a widely studied mechanism in regenerative medicine, while rarely reported in periodontal regeneration. The key lncRNAs and their ceRNA network might provide new insights into molecular therapies of periodontal regeneration based on PDLSCs.RESULTSTwo networks reflecting the relationships among differentially expressed RNAs were constructed. One ceRNA network was composed of 6 upregulated lncRNAs, 280 upregulated mRNAs, and 18 downregulated miRNAs. The other network contained 33 downregulated lncRNAs, 73 downregulated mRNAs, and 5 upregulated miRNAs. Functional analysis revealed that 38 GO terms and 8 pathways related with osteogenesis were enriched. Twenty-four osteogenesis-related gene-centred lncRNA-associated ceRNA networks were successfully constructed. Among these pathways, we highlighted MAPK and TGF-beta pathways that are closely related to osteogenesis. Subsequently, subnetworks potentially linking the GO:0001649 (osteoblast differentiation), MAPK and TGF-beta pathways were constructed. The qRT-PCR validation results were consistent with the microarray analysis.CONCLUSIONWe construct a comprehensively identified lncRNA-associated ceRNA network might be involved in the osteogenesis differentiation of PDLSCs, which could provide insights into the regulatory mechanisms and treatment targets of periodontal regeneration.
Speech Air Flow With and Without Face Masks
Authors: Derrick Donald , Kabaliuk Natalia , Longworth Luke , Pishyar-Dekhordi Peiman , Jermy Mark
Published: October 2021

Face masks slow exhaled air flow and sequester exhaled particles. There are many types of face masks on the market today, each having widely varying fits, filtering, and air redirection characteristics. While particle filtration and flow resistance from masks has been well studied, their effects on speech air flow has not. We built a schlieren system and recorded speech air flow with 14 different face masks, comparing it to mask-less speech. All of the face masks reduced air flow from speech, but some allowed air flow features to reach further than 40 cm from a speaker’s lips and nose within a few seconds, and all the face masks allowed some air to escape above the nose. Evidence from available literature shows that distancing and ventilation in higher-risk indoor environment provide more benefit than wearing a face mask. Our own research shows all the masks we tested provide some additional benefit of restricting air flow from a speaker. However, well-fitted mask specifically designed for the purpose of preventing the spread of disease reduce air flow the most. Future research will study the effects of face masks on speech communication in order to facilitate cost/benefit analysis of mask usage in various environments.
Deciphering resistance to Zymoseptoria tritici in the Tunisian durum wheat landrace accession ‘Agili39’
Authors: Ferjaoui Sahbi , Aouini Lamia , Slimane Rim Ben , Ammar Karim , Dreisigacker Suzanne , Schouten Henk J. , Sapkota Suraj , Bahri Bochra A. , M’Barek Sarrah Ben , Visser Richard G . F. , Kema Gert H . J. , Hamza Sonia
Published: October 2021

Background

Septoria tritici blotch (STB), caused by Zymoseptoria tritici (Z. tritici), is an important biotic threat to durum wheat in the entire Mediterranean Basin. Although most durum wheat cultivars are susceptible to Z. tritici, research in STB resistance in durum wheat has been limited.
Results

In our study, we have identified resistance to a wide array of Z. tritici isolates in the Tunisian durum wheat landrace accession ‘Agili39’. Subsequently, a recombinant inbred population was developed and tested under greenhouse conditions at the seedling stage with eight Z. tritici isolates and for five years under field conditions with three Z. tritici isolates. Mapping of quantitative trait loci (QTL) resulted in the identification of two major QTL on chromosome 2B designated as Qstb2B_1 and Qstb2B_2. The Qstb2B_1 QTL was mapped at the seedling and the adult plant stage (highest LOD 33.9, explained variance 61.6 %), conferring an effective resistance against five Z. tritici isolates. The Qstb2B_2 conferred adult plant resistance (highest LOD 32.9, explained variance 42 %) and has been effective at the field trials against two Z. tritici isolates. The Qstb2B_1 QTL was mapped at the seedling and the adult plant stage (highest LOD 33.9, explained variance 61.6 %), conferring an effective resistance against five Z. tritici isolates. The Qstb2B_2 conferred adult plant resistance (highest LOD 32.9, explained variance 42 %) and has been effective at the field trials against two Z. tritici. The physical positions of the flanking markers linked to Qstb2B_1 and Qstb2B_2 indicate that these two QTL are 5Mb apart. In addition, we identified two minor QTL on chromosomes 1A (Qstb1A) and chromosome 7A (Qstb7A) (highest LODs 4.6 and 4.0, and explained variances of 16 % and 9%, respectively) that were specific to three and one Z. tritici isolates, respectively. All identified QTL were derived from the landrace accession Agili39 that represents a valuable source for STB resistance in durum wheat.
Conclusion

This study demonstrates that Z. tritici resistance in the ‘Agili39’ landrace accession is controlled by two minor and two major QTL acting in an additive mode.
Molecular Detection and Characterization of Pasteurella multocida Infecting Camels in Marsabit and Turkana Counties, Kenya
Authors: Kasivalu Justus Kyalo , Omwenga George Isanda , Aboge Gabriel Oluga
Published: October 2021

BackgroundInfection with Pasteurella multocida is abundant in Kenya yet there is scarce information on their genetic diversity. Pasteurella multocida is considered to be one of the normal flora in the respiratory tract of camels and other animals but it becomes pathogenic and causes pasteurellosis when the resistance of the camel body is diminished by harmful environmental influences. Close herding, overwork, limited food supply, and wet climatic conditions are stresses that seem to speed the spread of the infection. Conventional PCR, Multiplex PCR and sequencing were applied to enhance identification of Pasteurella multocida at any level of specificity viz; strain, species, and genus. These molecular tools were applied to confirm the presence and genetic diversity of Pasteurella multocida in 102 blood and 30 nasal swab samples collected from Marsabit and Turkana counties in Kenya. Kmt1 gene was used as the marker gene for Pasteurella multocida and hyaD-hyaC, bcbD, dcbF, ecbJ, and fcbD as marker genes for capsular groups. A study done in northern Kenya noted that in Africa pasteurellosis infections causing death in camels (Camelus dromedarius) have been existing since 1890 though the real cause of this disease remains elusive and needs further study. The study was done to detect Pasteurella multocida and characterize its capsular types by application of molecular biology toolsResultsTwenty one Kenyan isolates were confirmed to be Pasteurella multocida and only capsular group E was detected in both counties. Pasteurella multocida sequences were found to be highly conserved, however isolates detected in Kenya were found to be genetically related to other isolates from African and other parts of the world. ConclusionsThe study confirm that the camels were infected by Pasteurella multocida of capsular type E in Marsabit and Turkana Counties of Kenya. DNA sequences were found to be homologous to Pasteurella multocida thereby confirming that the camels were infected by Pasteurella multocida.
Targeting NOX4 Disrupts the Resistance of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma to Chemotherapeutic Drugs and Lenvatinib
Authors: Tang Ping , Sheng Jianfeng , Peng Xiujuan , Zhang Renfei , Xu Tao , Hu Jun , Dang Hao
Published: October 2021

Background: Advanced differentiated thyroid cancer cells are subjected to extreme nutritional starvation which contributes to develop resistance to treatments; however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear.Methods: We used 0.5% serum to mimic starvation during cell culture. A CCK8 assay, cell death Detection ELISAPLUS kit, PI staining were measured to determine cell viability, cell apoptosis and cell cycle respectively in BCPAP cells and TPC-1 cells expressing shRNA against NOX4. The cells were then treated with etoposide and doxorubicin, two chemotherapeutic drugs, as well as lenvatinib to determine the role of NOX4 in resistance. Lenvatinib-resistant BCPAP cells (LRBCs) were also established to confirm the role. Finally, GLX351322, a chemical inhibitor targeting NOX4, was used to inhibit NOX4-derived ROS and detect the the contribution of NOX4 to resistance in vitro and in vivo. Results: NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) is highly expressed under serum starvation in BCPAP or TPC-1 cells. NOX4 knockdown impairs cell viability, increases cell apoptosis, extends G1 phase in cell cycle and modulates the level of energy-associated metabolites in starved cells. When these starved cells or Lenvatinib-resistant BCPAP cells (LRBCs) are treated with chemotherapeutic drugs or Lenvatinib, NOX4 knockdown inhibits cell viability and aggravates cell apoptosis depending on NOX4-derived ROS production. GLX351322, a NOX4-derived ROS inhibitor, has a significantly inhibitory effect on cell growth in vitro and the growth of BPCPA-derived even LRBCs-derived xenografts in vivo.Conclusions: These findings highlight NOX4 and NOX4-derived ROS as a potential therapeutic target in resistance of PTC patients.
Morphine Versus Methadone for Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study
Authors: Sutter Mary Beth , Watson Hannah , Yonke Nicole , Weitzen Sherry , Leeman Lawrence
Published: October 2021

Background

Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome (NOWS) is a significant public health issue and while millions of neonates are affected each year, an optimal pharmacologic weaning protocol has yet to be demonstrated. In this study, we compare hospital length of stay (LOS) and length of treatment (LOT) for treatment of neonatal opioid withdrawal (NOWS) with morphine versus methadone.
Methods

This was a single-site, open-label, randomized controlled pilot study conducted from October 2016-June 2018. Infants were eligible if their primary in-utero drug exposure was heroin, oral opioids, or methadone and they were born at greater than or equal to 34 weeks gestation. Infants were excluded for serious medical comorbidities and primary in-utero exposure to buprenorphine.
Results

61 infants were enrolled; 30 were randomized to methadone treatment, and 31 to morphine treatment. Overall 46% of infants required treatment for NOWS. LOS and LOT for infants treated with morphine was 17.9 days and 14.7 days respectively, compared to 16.1 days and 12.8 days for babies treated with methadone (p=0.5, p=0.54). Infants treated with morphine received lower total morphine equivalents than those treated with methadone (9.7 vs. 33, p<0.01). Three treated infants in the methadone group required transfer to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, versus no infants in the morphine group.
Conclusions

Infants treated with morphine versus methadone had no significant differences in LOS or LOT in this pilot study. Infants treated with methadone received up to 3 times the opioid based on morphine equivalents as infants treated with morphine and had more transfers to the NICU for over sedation.
Clinical Trial Registration:

Morphine Versus Methadone for Opiate Exposed Infants With Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome NCT02851303, initated 01/08/2016 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02851303.
Risk of COVID-19 Transmission Aboard Aircraft: An Epidemiological Analysis Based on the National Health Information Platform
Authors: Guo Qiangqiang , Wang Jianjian , Estill Janne , Lan Hui , Zhang Juanjuan , Wu Shouyuan , Yao Jingwen , Yan Xuanchen , Chen Yaolong
Published: October 2021

Background: Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the type of coronavirus that causes the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), is mainly spread by respiratory droplets and aerosols. This study aims to investigate the risk of COVID-19 transmission on aircraft. This in turn provides the scientific basis for the return of air travel from pandemic to normal conditions.Methods: We obtained data on all international flights to Lanzhou, China, from June 1 to August 1, 2020, through the Gansu Province National Health Information Platform and the official website of the Gansu Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention. We calculated the period prevalence rate of COVID-19 among the passengers of all flights during the 14-day period following the flight, and stratified the prevalence by the seat positions (aisle, middle, window), and the relationship to other confirmed cases (1-2 rows ahead, same row, 1-2 rows behind). Results: Three international flights arrived in Lanzhou, China, during the study period, from Riyadh (MU7792), Jeddah (MU7790), and Moscow (CA608) each. The flights had a total of 700 passengers, of whom 405 (57.9%) were male and 80 (11.4%) were children below age fourteen. Twenty-seven (3.9%) passengers were confirmed to have COVID-19. There were no fatalities and all patients were cured. We identified three family clusters of cases. Confirmed patients were primarily male (n=17, 65.4%) with a median age of 27.0 years. The majority of confirmed cases were seated in the middle rows of the economy class, or near public facility areas such as restrooms and galleys. The prevalence of COVID-19 did not differ between passengers sitting on window, aisle or middle seats. Compared with passengers sitting on the same row up to two rows behind a confirmed case, passengers seated in the two rows ahead a confirmed case were at a slightly higher risk of being infected. Conclusions: COVID-19 may possibly be transmitted during a passenger flight, although there is still no direct evidence.
A universal TLR7-nanoparticle adjuvant promotes broad immune responses against heterologous strains of Influenza and SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Yin Qian , Luo Wei , Mallajosyula Venkata Vamsee Aditya , Bo Yang , Guo Jing , Xie Jinghang , Sun Meng , Verma Rohit , Constantz Christian , Wagar Lisa , Li Jing , Sola Elsa , Gupta Neha , Kask Oliver , Rao Jianghong , Chien Yueh-hsiu , Cheng Jianjun , Pulendran Bali , Davis Mark
Published: October 2021

Fully effective vaccines for viruses such as Influenza and SARS-CoV-2 must elicit a diverse repertoire of antibodies against multiple drifted virus strains. However, how to achieve a diverse response has no general solution except to combine multiple strains, which risks diluting the response for all strains included. Here, we describe the synthesis of a universal, toll-like receptor 7 agonist (TLR7)-nanoparticle adjuvant, TLR7-NP, constructed from TLR7 agonist-initiated ring-opening polymerization of lactide and self-assembly with poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid). When mixed with Alum-adsorbed antigens, this TLR7-NP adjuvant elicited cross-reactive antibodies for both dominant and subdominant epitopes, as well as antigen-specific CD8+ T cell responses. TLR7-NPs adjuvanted influenza subunit vaccine successfully protected mice from heterologous viral challenge. TLR7-NPs also enhanced the antibody response to a SARS-CoV-2 subunit vaccine against multiple variants and revealed the mobilization of a virus-like response. We further demonstrate enhanced antigen-specific responses in human tonsil organoids with this novel adjuvant.
Bioinformatics Analysis of a Regulatory lncRNA–miRNA–mRNA Network and Signaling Pathways in Patients With Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Chen Tao , Liu Yu-Yao , Li Shu-Jun , Che Hong , Ge Sheng-Lin
Published: October 2021

Background:Cardiomyopathy is a disease with a very low cure rate and a very complex pathogenesis.Although genes are known to play an important role in various types of cardiomyopathy, the specific mechanism has not been well studied.Methods:We screened the GSE29819 dataset from the Gene Expression Omnibus database (GEO) for long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and messenger RNAs (mRNAs) with significant differences using R software. microRNAs (miRNAs) regulated by the lncRNAs were retrieved from the miRcode database. The downstream target genes of the miRNAs were predicted by miRDB, miRTarBase, and TargetScan, and genes consistent with the original dataset were selected to construct a lncRNA–miRNA–mRNA network. Finally, the biological effects of these genes were studied by Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis.Results: 223 differentially expressed genes and 13 differentially expressed lncRNAs has been screened in the cardiomyopathy tissues.After database screening and matching, the final lncRNA–miRNA–mRNA network included three lncRNAs, eight miRNAs, and nine mRNAs. These nine genes are mainly involved in the prolactin signaling pathway, EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance, toxoplasmosis, the chemokine signaling pathway, and the PI3K–Akt signaling pathway. In the PI3K–Akt signaling pathway, the expression levels of these genes are significantly upregulated compared with the control group, and the main genes involved in regulation are JAK2/DDIT4/FOXO3. JAK2 and FOXO3 play an important regulatory role in the PI3K–Akt signaling pathway.Conclusion:The AC017002–miRNA-590-5p–FOXO3 network may be involved in the pathogenesis of cardiomyopathy, which will enable the determination of new markers to predict cardiomyopathy, and thus reduce the risk of developing the disease.
Effect of Serum Bisphenol A and Low T3 on Short-Term Prognosis of Young Patients with Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: wang guoping , Chen Jinhua , Qiao Zhongdong , Zhao Lili , Guo Dongxing , Guo Ping , Wang Aiven , Sun Wanli , Zhang Lifang , Feng Cueiping , Lyu Jiyuan
Published: October 2021

BackgroundBisphenol A (BPA) is an environmental chemical substance, and the widespread use of plastic products, its hazards can be said to be ubiquitous. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between serum bisphenol A (BPA), biomarkers and recent mortality in pats with young interacerebral hemorrhage (YICH) and different thyroid functions,and the cumulative consumption of plastic products.MethodsUsing a multi-center longitudinal prospective study, the research team recruited 600 YICH patients and divided them into two subgroups according to their thyroid function, of which 320 (53.3%) were in the low T3.Sub-clinical hypothyroidism(SCH) was 280 (46.6%) and control group (n = 600).All patients received serum BPA, and biomarker blood draws.ResultsEach log unit of BPA increased by 0.204 standard deviation unit (P<0.003).BPA(0.91±0.14)vs(0.765±0.13)vs(0.535±0.11)pg/ml,thrombin(1.35±0.18) vs (0.66±0.15) vs (0.66 ±0.15) ng/ml, MMP-9 (104±10 vs (53±8.1)vs(53±8.1) pg/ml,both P＜0.01. Serum BPA is positively correlated with biomarker, 24hDBPCV, and was negatively correlated LT3 and niR-451. Multiple linear regression showed that BPA was an independent risk factor affecting the percentage increase of nDBP (β = 0.286), P <0.01.Mortality rate showed 2 ,15 and 30 days of patients in the LT3 and the SCH of 4.7%vs 2.5%,6.25% vs 3.75%,4.68%vs 2.5%,P<0.01.ConclusionThus, Long-term exposure to BPA levels may be related to the occurrence of YICH, High BPA exposure strongly predicts the risk of ICH in young patients. Activation of NF-κB signaling pathway, secondary thyroid function and ABP changes, together to construct an inflammatory response program, is related to the risk of short-term death. There is a significant difference in recent mortality compared to LT3 vs SCH. Trial registrationThe trial is registered at clinical .gov (www.medresman.Chi CTR1900023626)