bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High Molecular Weight Organic Scale Near Wellbore Improved Oil Recovery
Authors: Mohd Hatta Siti Aishah , Masngot Ainul Azuan , Sidek Sulaiman , M Yusuf M Hafizi , Tan Kok Liang , Goh Kellen Hui , Tang Catherine Ye , Bernard Caesarsokate , Mawardi M Hizbullah , Hamzah Haziqah , Mohd Jeffry Suzanna Juyanty , Riyanto Latief , Samaile Eddy , Ahmat Kamis Azman , Ahnap Muhammad Al-Siediq , Ramli Zaizul Kamal , See Chun Hwa
Published: October 2019

Oil production from the field begin with the first oil in January 2003. Unfortunately, the wells produced viscous emulsion which caused the production decline rapidly. Further analysis of the production data showed that the decline in production over a long period of time is very consistent with organic deposition at or near the perforation interval.

Over the years, several analyses and production enhancement efforts including chemical and mechanical treatments have been attempted with minimal success. The damaging mechanism was determined to be caused by rare High Molecular Weight Organic Deposit (HMWOD) that have caused a significant pressure drop in the tubing, which consequently restrict oil production and tested to only disperse at above 90°C. It was suspected that the deposit was a naturally-occurring component of the crude oil itself, separating from the bulk of the crude as a consequence of the fluids movement towards the wellbore and the consequent drop in fluid pressure.

An eco-friendly nano-fluid was developed and pilot treatment conducted in February 2014, which successfully rejuvenated the well back to production. Subsequent treatment was conducted in early 2018 on the same well and later replicated on another well as part of technology maturation process. This paper incorporates laboratory tests conducted to customize the nano-fluid, engineering approach on the treatment volume, simulation analysis on treatment schedules, treatment procedure as guidance for offshore personnel and actual field result of the treatments.

Remedial treatment for near wellbore HMWOD using novel nano-fluid has successfully revived the wells back to production. Further development and replication would open-up bigger opportunities to unlock potential of wells with similar organic deposit issue throughout PETRONAS' operation.
Diazepam and ethanol differently modulate neuronal activity in organotypic cortical cultures
Authors: Kreuzer Matthias , García Paul S , Brucklacher-Waldert Verena , Claasen Rebecca , Schneider Gerhard , Antkowiak Bernd , Drexler Berthold
Published: October 2019

Background: The pharmacodynamic results of diazepam and ethanol administration are similar, in that each can mediate amnestic, sedative-hypnotic effects. Although each of these molecules effectively reduce the activity of central neurons, diazepam does so through modulation of a more specific set of receptor targets (GABAA receptors containing a g-subunit), while alcohol is less selective in its receptor bioactivity. Our investigation focuses on divergent actions of diazepam and ethanol on the firing patterns of cultured cortical neurons.
Method: We used electrophysiological recordings from organotypic slice cultures derived from Sprague-Dawley rat neocortex. We exposed these cultures to either diazepam (15 and 30 µM, n = 7) or ethanol (30 and 60 mM, n = 11) and recorded the electrical activity at baseline and experimental conditions. For analysis, we extracted the episodes of spontaneous activity, i.e., cortical up-states. After separation of action potential and local field potential (LFP) activity, we looked at differences in the number of action potentials, in the spectral power of the LFP, as well as in the coupling between action potential and LFP phase.
Results: While both substances seem to decrease neocortical action potential firing in a not significantly different (p=0.659, Mann-Whitney U) fashion, diazepam increases the spectral power of the up-state without significantly impacting the spectral composition, whereas ethanol does not significantly change the spectral power but the oscillatory architecture of the up-state as revealed by the Friedman test with Bonferroni correction (p<0.05). Further, the action potential to LFP-phase coupling reveals a synchronizing effect of diazepam for a wide frequency range and a narrow-band de-synchronizing effect for ethanol (p<0.05, Kolmogorov-Smirnov test).
Conclusion: Diazepam and ethanol, induce specific patterns of network depressant actions. Diazepam induces cortical network inhibition and increased synchronicity via gamma subunit containing GABAA receptors. Ethanol also induces cortical network inhibition, but without an increase in synchronicity via a wider span of molecular targets.
Lapatinib sensitivity in nasopharyngeal carcinoma is modulated by SIRT2-mediated FOXO3 deacetylation
Authors: Aimjongjun Sathid , Mahmud Zimam , Jiramongkol Yannasittha , Alasiri Glowi , Yao Shang , Yague Ernesto , Janvilisri Tavan , Lam Eric W.-F.
Published: October 2019

Background
Chemoresistance is an obstacle to the successful treatment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Lapatinib is a targeted tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapeutic drug also used to treat NPC, but high doses are often required to achieve a result. To investigate the mechanism for the development of Lapatinib resistance, we characterised a number of NPC cell lines to determine the role of FOXO3 and sirtuins in regulating NPC resistance.

Methods
Sulforhodamine B (SRB) assays, Clonogenic assays, Protein extraction, quantification and western blotting, RT qPCR, Co-immunoprecipitation assay

Results
To explore novel treatment strategies, we first characterized the Lapatinib-sensitivity of a panel of NPC cell lines by SRB and clonogenic cytotoxic assays and found that the metastatic NPC (C666-1 and 5-8F) cells are highly resistant whereas the poorly metastatic lines (6-10B, TW01 and HK-1)are sensitive to Lapatinib. Western blot analysis of the Lapatinib-sensitive 6-10Band resistant 5-8FNPC cells showed that the expression of phosphorylated/inactive FOXO3 (P-FOXO3;T32), its target FOXM1 and its regulator SIRT2 correlate negatively with Lapatinib response and sensitivity, suggesting that SIRT2 mediates FOXO3 deacetylation to promote Lapatinib resistance. In agreement, clonogenic cytotoxic assays using wild-type and foxo1/3/4 −/− mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) showed that FOXO1/3/4-deletion significantly attenuates Lapatinib-induced cytotoxicity, confirming that FOXO proteins are essential for mediating Lapatinib response. SRB cell viability assays using chemical SIRT inhibitors (i.e. sirtinol, Ex527, AGK2 and AK1) revealed that all SIRT inhibitors can reduce NPC cell viability, but only the SIRT2-specific inhibitors AK1 and AGK2 further enhance the Lapatinib cytotoxicity. Consistently, clonogenic assays demonstrated that the SIRT2 inhibitors AK1 and AGK2 as well as SIRT2-knockdown increase Lapatinib cytotoxicity further in both the sensitive and resistant NPC cells. Co-immunoprecipitation studies showed that besides Lapatinib treatment, SIRT2-pharmaceutical inhibition and silencing also led to an increase in FOXO3 acetylation. Importantly, SIRT2 inhibition and depletion further enhanced Lapatinib-mediated FOXO3-acetylation in NPC cells.

Conclusion
Collectively, our results suggest the involvement of SIRT2-mediated FOXO3 deacetylation in Lapatinib response and sensitivity, and that SIRT2 can specifically antagonise the cytotoxicity of Lapatinib through mediating FOXO3 deacetylation in both sensitive and resistant NPC cells.
Pregnancy outcomes of Q fever : Prospective follow-up study on Reunion Island
Authors: Mboussou Yoan , Jaubert Julien , Larrieu Sophie , Atiana Laura , Naze Florence , Folio Christine , Randrianaivo Hanitra , Bertolotti Antoine , Picot Sandrine , Robillard Pierre-Yves , Boukerrou Malik , Gérardin Patrick
Published: October 2019

Background Q fever has been associated with perinatal complications. We conducted a prospective follow-up study to assess both the incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs) associated with Coxiella burnetii infection and the contribution of Q fever to APOs.
Methods Between May 1 and October 31, 2013, within the regional perinatal health care centre of Saint Pierre, Reunion island, we investigated unexplained miscarriages, stillbirths, preterm births or small-for-gestational age children. Seropositivity for C. burnetii antibodies was defined using indirect immunofluorescence for a phase 2 IgG titre ≥1:64. Acute Q fever was defined for a high phase 2 IgG titre ≥1:256 (compatible with recent or active infection) or the detection of C. burnetii genome in miscarriage products and placentas. Incidence rate ratios (IRR) for Q fever related APOs (taken as a composite outcome or individually) were assessed using Poisson regression models for dichotomous outcomes controlling major confounders.
Results Over a 6-month period, 179 pregnant women suspected or diagnosed with an APO were investigated for Q fever, of whom 118 met the definition for an APO. Of these, 19 were seropositive and 10 presented a profile indicative of an acute infection. For three women with an acute Q fever, the chronology between the onset of infection, the APO (2 miscarriages, 1 preterm birth) and the seroconversion suggested causality in the pathogenesis. The cumulative incidence of Q fever related APOs was estimated between 2.2‰ and 5.2‰, whether causality was required or not. Both C. burnetii exposure and acute Q fever were independently associated with APOs (IRR 1.55, 95% CI 1.31-1.84; IRR 1.47, 95% CI 1.15-1.89, respectively).
Conclusions In the endemic context of Reunion island, acute Q fever may lead to APOs. To limit the burden of Q fever on reproduction, pregnant women should be kept away from farms and avoid direct contact with ruminants.
Susceptibility of BAFF-var allele carriers to severe SLE with occurrence of lupus nephritis
Authors: Friebus-Kardash Justa , Trendelenburg Marten , Eisenberger Ute , Ribi Camillo , Chizzolini Carlo , Huynh-Do Uyen , Lang Karl Sebastian , Wilde Benjamin , Kribben Andreas , Witzke Oliver , Dolff Sebastian , Hardt Cornelia
Published: October 2019

Background: Dysregulation of the B-cell activating factor (BAFF) system is involved in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Increased serum concentrations of BAFF are related to lupus nephritis and disease activity among SLE patients. Recently, a variant of the BAFF-encoding gene, BAFF-var, was identified to be associated with autoimmune diseases, in particular SLE, and to promote the production of soluble BAFF. The present study aimed to assess the prevalence of BAFF-var in a cohort of 195 SLE patients and to analyze the association of the BAFF-var genotype (TNSF13B) with various manifestations of SLE.
Methods: A cohort of 195 SLE patients from Central Europe, including 153 patients from the Swiss SLE Cohort Study and 42 patients from the University Hospital Essen, Germany, underwent genotyping for detection of BAFF-var allele.
Results: Of the 195 patients, 18 (9.2%) tested positive for BAFF-var variant according to the minor allele frequency of 4.6%. The presence of BAFF-var was associated with the occurrence of lupus nephritis (p=0.038) (p=0.03 and p=0.003). Among various organ manifestations of SLE, the presence of BAFF-var was associated with the occurrence of lupus nephritis (p=0.038; odds ratio [OR], 2.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.89-6.34) and renal activity markers such as proteinuria and hematuria (p=0.03; OR, 2.4; 95% CI, 0.9-6.4 for proteinuria; p=0.003; OR, 3.9; 95% CI, 1.43-10.76 for hematuria). SLE patients carrying the BAFF-var allele exhibited increased disease activity at study entry, as determined by the physician's global assessment (PGA: p=0.002; OR, 4.8; 95% CI, 1.54-14.93) and the SLE Disease Activity Index (p=0.012; OR, 3.5; 95% CI, 1.12-11.18). Consistent with that, the percentage of patients treated with immunosuppressive agents at study entry was higher among those carrying the BAFF-var allele than among those tested negative for BAFF-var (p=0.006; OR, 3.7; 95% CI, 1.27-10.84).
Conclusions: Our results indicate an association between the BAFF-var genotype and increased severity of SLE. Determining the BAFF-var status of SLE patients may improve the risk stratification of patients for whom the development of lupus nephritis is more likely and thus may be helpful in the follow-up care and treatment of SLE patients.
Validation and evaluation of a common biomarker in human cancers sera protein detected by a monoclonal antibody UNIVMab
Authors: Dandi Manjunath , Kumaraswamy Sunil B , V Shashidhara A , Appaiah Hitesh N , Thomas Anil , BANERJEE SHIBDAS
Published: October 2019

Abstract
Objective:
Management and diagnosis of multiple human cancers remain a challenge and search for a common biomarker are still debatable. We described a method and evaluated the use of monoclonal antibody UNIVMab, to detect the protein (H11) as a common biomarker for all cancer irrespective of grade and origin . H11 protein identified as a unique Hyaluronan binding protein not detected earlier. We applied this test both with ELISA, Western blot, fractionated in anion exchange, cibacron gel exclusion, b-Hyaluronan interaction and HA-Oligo competition from various grades of Human cancers sera and processed for the detection of hyaluronan binding protein H11, reacted with Monoclonal antibody UNIVMab and with b-HA.
Results:
Studies from ELISA, Western blot and b-Hyaluronan interactions showed a definitive positive over-expression of UNIVMab reacted H11 antigen in all fortyfive cancer sera compared to normal sera and can be used as a common biomarker. We believe, UNIVMab detected H11 antigen, a unique hyaluronan binding protein, is a common biomarker for all cancer sera.
Keywords:
ELISA, Western blot, Hyaluronic acid binding protein, H11 (sera antigen), UNIVMab. Common Biomarker, Cancers Sera
Associations between maternal BMI, breastfeeding practices and infant anthropometric status in Colombia; secondary analysis of ENSIN 2010.
Authors: Aldana-Parra Fanny , Olaya Gilma , Fewtrell Mary
Published: October 2019

Background:Maternal malnutrition and infant feeding mode impact short and long term infant and child morbidity and mortality. The period of lactation may provide an opportunity to modulate the risk of disease later in life. Our aim was to estimate the effect of maternal body mass index (BMI) and infant feeding mode, particularly breastfeeding practices, on the anthropometric status of children under two years in Colombia.
Methods:A secondary analysis was performed using the data from ENSIN 2010. Term infants under 2y, singleton, with a mother older than 18y were included in the analysis. Outcomes were wasting (WLZ<-2SD), overweight (WLZ>+2SD) and stunting (LAZ<-2SD). Predictors were infant feeding (exclusive and predominant BF constructed from 24 hour recall, age at introduction of liquids, semisolids and solids) and maternal BMI. Socioeconomic variables, maternal education and age, conditions during pregnancy and birth weight were analyzed as covariates.
Results:Mothers of overweight infants had higher BMI (Mean dif=-1.47 kg/m2; 95% CI=-2.1, -0.8) than those with normal weight infants. Stunting and wasting were not predicted by maternal anthropometry or infant feeding mode. Maternal education was associated with wasting (OR=0.90; 95% CI=0.86, 0.97; p=0.003) overweight (OR=1.06; 95% CI=1.02, 1.01; p=0.001) and stunting (OR=0.92; 95% CI=0.89, 0.94; p<0.0001); birth weight was associated with overweight (OR=1.001; 95% CI=1.00, 1.001; p<0.0001) and stunting (OR=0.99; 95% CI=0.89; p<0.0001) in the final regression model. ​
Conclusions:Maternal BMI is a modifiable target for public health policy to promote healthy infant growth. Infant nutritional status is affected by direct and indirect factors that need to be addressed in further studies.
Modeling Human Health Behavior with a New Index That Measures Connectivity
Authors: Bernstein Steven L. , Li Fangyong , Abujarad Fuad , Grant David , D’Onofrio Gail , Dziura James
Published: October 2019

Objective: Health behavior is the greatest determinant of health. Adherence to medication and abstinence from harmful substances are two critical health behaviors. Although conceptually related, both are assessed using disparate measures. The goal of this study was to develop and test a new index, gamma, that models health behavior by quantifying the connectedness of discrete incidents of health behavior. Study design and setting: We derive gamma, and use it to reanalyze data from a published trial of treatment for alcohol use disorders. We model a primary endpoint, changes in binge drinking, using gamma and a traditional measure: change in number of monthly binges. The original trial was conducted in an urban hospital emergency department in the U.S. Results : Incorporating gamma into the model provided additional insights into the relationship between the intervention and long-term changes in drinking. Conclusion: Gamma provides an additional tool to model the effects of interventions on outcomes in trials of substance use interventions or medication adherence. Gamma measures the pattern of behavior, and may increase the explanatory power of models assessing differences between various treatments. The gamma index offers the possibility of novel real-time interventions to promote healthy behaviors.
Caries experience and oral health related quality of life in a cohort of Ugandan HIV-1 exposed uninfected children compared with a matched cohort of HIV unexposed uninfected children
Authors: BIRUNGI NANCY , Fadnes Lars Thore , Engebretsen Ingunn Marie Stadskleiv , Lie Stein Atle , Tumwine James Kashugyera , Åstrøm Anne Nordrehaug
Published: October 2019

Background: Very few studies consider the oral health status and quality of life in HIV-1 exposed uninfected (HEU) children. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of caries in primary teeth and its oral health related quality of life impacts in HEU children compared to HIV-unexposed-uninfected (HUU) children, whilst adjusting for confounding covariates.
Methods: This study uses data from the Ugandan site of the ANRS 121741 PROMISE- PEP trial (ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT00640263) conducted in 2009-2013 that recruited mothers with HIV-1and their uninfected children. Of 244 HEU-children-caretaker pairs available at the end of the one-year trial, 166 were re-enrolled in the ANRS 12341 PROMISE-PEP M&S study at 5-7 years and 164 were included in this study. These were age and sex-matched with 181 HUU children-caretaker comparators. Caries experience was recorded using World Health Organization’s Decayed, Missed and Filled teeth (dmft/DMFT) indices. The Early Childhood Oral health Impact Scale (ECOHIS) was used for assessment of oral health related quality of life. Mixed effects logistic regression was conducted with dmft and ECOHIS scores as outcomes and HIV-1exposure status as the main exposure.
Results: Forty-eight percent of HEU children and 60% of HUU had dmft>0. Corresponding figures for ECOHIS>0 were 12% of HEU and 22% of HUU. The crude analysis showed differences related to HIV-1 exposure in caries experience and oral health related quality of life. Mixed effect logistic regression analyses were not significant when adjusted for use of dental care and toothache. If caregivers’ DMFT>0, the adjusted odds ratio for caries experience (dmft>0) was 1.6 (95% CI: 1.0-2.8) while if dmft>0 the adjusted odds ratio for quality of life impacts (ECOHIS>0) was 4.6 (95% CI: 2.0-10.6).
Conclusion: The prevalence of untreated caries in primary teeth and quality of life impacts was high in this study population. HIV-1exposed uninfected children were not more likely than HUU children to experience dental caries or have impaired oral health related quality of life. Given the global expansion of the HEU child population, the present findings indicating no adverse effect of pre- and post-natal HIV-1 exposure on caries in deciduous teeth are reassuring.
Heat-Not-Burn Tobacco, Electronic Cigarettes, and Combustible Cigarette Use Among Japanese Adolescents: A Nationwide Population Survey 2017
Authors: Kuwabara Yuki , Kinjo Aya , Fujii Maya , Imamoto Aya , Osaki Yoneatsu , Jike Maki , Otsuka Yuichiro , Itani Osamu , Kaneita Yoshitaka , Minobe Ruriko , Maezato Hitoshi , Higuchi Susumu , Yoshimoto Hisashi , Kanda Hideyuki
Published: October 2019

Background Globally, among a wide range of public health concerns, smoking remains one of the most crucial challenges. Especially for adolescents, the increase in the use of electronic cigarettes is controversial, as its use may lead to established smoking. In Japan, where a unique tobacco regulation system exists, the heat-not-burn tobacco market has been growing. However, the prevalence and association of combustible cigarettes and new tobacco-related products have not yet been closely investigated among Japanese adolescents. This study aimed to clarify the prevalence of smoking among adolescents including new types of tobacco-related products and to compare the characteristics of their users.Methods In 2017, a cross-sectional survey was conducted with randomly sampled junior high school and high school students from 47 prefectures nationwide. Overall, 98 junior high schools in 44 prefectures and 86 high schools in 42 prefectures were included in the survey. In total, 22,275 students from 48 junior high schools and 42,142 students from 55 high schools completed an anonymous questionnaire while at school.Results The age-adjusted rate of ever (current) use of electronic cigarettes was 2.1% (0.7%) in junior high school and 3.5% (1.0%) in high school; that of combustible cigarettes was 2.6% (0.6%) in junior high school and 5.1% (1.5%) in high school; the rate of heat-not-burn tobacco use was lower relative to the other products: 1.1% (0.5%) in junior high school and 2.2% (0.9%) in high school. Examination of the combined use of the three types of products identified a high number of dual users. Comparison between different types of users indicated different backgrounds of combustible cigarette users and new products users.Conclusions The prevalence of new tobacco-alternative products is growing in popularity among Japanese adolescents. Dual use is common, and many adolescents use new products only. Moreover, e-cigarettes might lure a broader range of groups to smoking. Continuous monitoring and further research should investigate the health impact of new products to promote public health action regarding smoking epidemics.
Increasing pelvic incidence is associated with more global sagittal imbalance in ankylosing spondylitis with thoracolumbar kyphosis
Authors: Song Diyu , Zheng Guoquan , Wang Tianhao , Qi Dengbin , Wang Yan
Published: October 2019

Background: Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients with kyphosis have an abnormal spinopelvic alignment and pelvic morphology. Most of them focus on the relationship of pelvic tilt (PT) or sacral slope (SS) and deformity, and relatively few studies have addressed the relationship between pelvic incidence (PI) and kyphosis in AS patients. The purpose of this study is to analyze the correlation between pelvic incidence (PI) and the spinopelvic parameters describing local deformity or global sagittal balance in AS patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis. Methods: A total of 94 patients with AS (91 males and 3 females) and 30 controls were reviewed. Sagittal spinopelvic parameters, including PI, PT, SS, thoracic kyphosis (TK), thoracolumbar kyphosis (TLK), lumbar lordosis(LL), sagittal vertical axis(SVA), T1 pelvic angle(TPA), spinosacral angle(SSA) and spinopelvic angle(SPA) were measured. Statistical analysis was performed to identify the correlation of PI with other parameters. Results: Compared with the control group, the AS patients had significantly higher PI(47.4˚ vs. 43.2˚, P<0.001). PI in AS patients was found to be significantly positively correlated with TPA(r=0.533, R 2 =0.284, P<0.001), and negatively correlated with SPA(r=-0.504, R 2 =0.254, P<0.001). However, no correlations were found between PI and SVA, SSA, TK, TLK or LL in AS patients. Conclusion: The value of PI in AS patients with kyphosis was significantly higher than that of controls. Correlation analysis revealed that increasing PI was significantly correlated with more global sagittal imbalance, not with the local deformity in AS patients with thoracolumbar kyphosis.
The study on photosynthesis, biomass and fine root growth dynamics of soybean in walnut-soybean agroforestry system
Authors: Liu Bin , Gao Pengxiang , Zhang Shuoxin
Published: October 2019

Soybean in the walnut-soybean agroforestry system in the Loess Plateau of China was focused in this research. The effects of walnut soybean intercropping on soybean growth in the Loess Plateau were determined by measuring the biomass, photosynthetic rate and root growth dynamics of soybean, so as to provide a basis for rational agroforestry models in the Loess Plateau. The results show that soybean reached the highest net photosynthetic rate during flowering period, with the net photosynthetic rate of intercropped soybean, which was 20.4000µmol·m-2·s-1, significantly higher than that of its monocropped counterpart. Soybean biomass reached the maximum during the pod-bearing period, with intercropped soybean biomass being 25.4879g, significantly higher than that of its monocropped counterpart. The mean diameter and increased density of soybean fine roots reduced along with increased soil depth. In particular, both the diameter (0.43mm) and increased density (930cm/dm3) of intercropped soybean fine roots were evidently higher than those of monocropped soybean(0.35mm, 780cm/dm3) , but the result was opposite in 40-60cm soil depth; with increasing cropping years, fine roots of intercropped soybean tended to be mainly distributed in soil at a depth between 0 and 20cm from the fifth year. Compared with soybean monoculture, walnut soybean agroforestry system is more conducive to soybean growth in the Loess Plateau.
Salicylic acid primed defence response in octoploid strawberry (Benihoppe) leaves induces resistance against Podosphaera aphanis through enhanced accumulation of proanthocyanidins and up-regulation of pathogensis-related genes
Authors: Feng Jun , Zhang Min , Yang Kangning , You Wenting , Zheng Caixia
Published: October 2019

Background Podosphaera aphanis , a predominately biotrophic fungal pathogen, causes significant yield losses of strawberry. China is the largest strawberry producer in the world, and selecting for powdery mildew-resistant cultivars is desirable. However, the resistance mechanism against P. aphanis in the octoploid strawberry remains unclear. Results To understand the molecular resistance mechanisms, we inoculated strawberry with P. aphanis , and examined the expression profiles of candidate genes and the biochemical phenotypes in strawberry leaves of two groups. The unigenes obtained from salicylic acid (SA)-untreated (SA–) and treated (SA+) leaves resulted in a total of 48,020 and 45,896 genes, respectively. KEGG enrichment showed that phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, plant–pathogen interaction, and plant hormone signal transduction pathways were enriched to a noticeable extent. Comparative analysis demonstrated that genes associated with the SA signalling pathway were significantly upregulated in the strawberry– P. aphanis interaction. In particular, the genes FaTGA , FaDELLA , and FaJAZ negatively regulating salicylic acid SA-responsive genes, whereas FaNPR1 , FaWRKY33 , FaWRKY70 , and FaMYC2 positively regulated SA-responsive genes, leading to increased expression of SA-responsive genes compared to a significant decline in expression of jasmonic acid-responsive genes. Conclusions This study describes the role of total flavonoid content, proanthocyanidins (PAs), pathogenesis-related (PR) proteins, SA, and transcription factors in regulatory model against P. aphanis , which coincided with an early activation of defence, leading to the accumulation of PAs and the production of PR proteins.
Knowledge of preeclampsia and its associated factors: a possible link to reduce related adverse outcomes among pregnant women.
Authors: Fondjo Linda Ahenkorah , Boamah Vivian E. , Fierti Adelaide , Gyesi Dorcas , Owiredu Eddie-Williams
Published: October 2019

Background : Pre-eclampsia (PE) is one of the leading causes of maternal mortality and morbidity globally. Adequate knowledge about a disorder contributes greatly to its prevention, control and management. This study assessed the level of knowledge of PE and evaluated the factors associated with knowledge adequacy among pregnant women attending antenatal care at a University Hospital in Kumasi-Ghana. Methods : This cross-sectional study was conducted at the at a University Hospital in Kumasi, Ghana. A closed-ended validated well-structured questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic information and history of PE. Knowledge of PE was assessed based on a series of questions regarding the awareness, signs/symptoms, risk factors and complications of PE. Responses were scored percentage-wise and grouped into low (<60%), moderate (60-80%) and high (80-100%). Knowledge score was then re-stratified into adequate (% score of ≥ 60%) and inadequate knowledge of PE (% score of < 60%). Results : The prevalence of inadequate and adequate knowledge of PE was 88.6% (mean score = 55.5 ± 4.3%) and 11.4% (mean score = 76.3 ± 5.9%), respectively. For participants with adequate knowledge of PE, 9.1% (mean score = 67.4 ± 6.9%) and 2.3% (mean score = 85.2 ± 5.1%) had moderate and high knowledge, respectively. Using univariate logistic regression models, being older (>35 years old) [cOR=3.09, 95%CI (0.88-10.88), p=0.049] and having a higher level of education (> SHS education) [cOR=4.45, 95%CI (2.18-9.10), p<0.0001] were significantly associated with greater odds of having adequate knowledge of PE. After controlling for potential confounders in multivariate logistic regression analysis, we found higher level of education to be independently associated with adequate knowledge of PE [aOR=2.87, 95%CI (1.31-6.30), p=0.008]. Conclusion : The knowledge of PE among pregnant women in Ghana is low. The prominent factor that facilitates adequacy of knowledge of PE is higher level of education.
Effects of sample age on data quality from targeted sequencing of museum specimens: what are we capturing in time?
Authors: McGaughran Angela
Published: October 2019

Background Next generation sequencing (NGS) can recover DNA data from valuable extant and extinct museum specimens. However, archived or preserved DNA is difficult to sequence because of its fragmented, damaged nature, such that the most successful NGS methods for preserved specimens remain sub-optimal. Improving wet-lab protocols and determining the effects of sample age on NGS library quality are therefore of vital importance. Here, I examine the relationship between sample age and various indicators of library quality following targeted NGS sequencing of ~1,300 loci using 271 samples of pinned moth specimens ( Helicoverpa armigera ) ranging in age from 4 to 116 years . Results I find that older samples have lower DNA concentrations following extraction and thus require a higher number of indexing PCR cycles during library preparation. When sequenced reads are aligned to a reference genome or to only the targeted region, older samples have a lower number of sequenced and mapped reads, lower mean coverage, and lower estimated library sizes, while the percentage of adapters in sequenced reads increases significantly as samples become older. Older samples also show the poorest capture success, with lower enrichment and a higher improved coverage anticipated from further sequencing. Conclusions Sample age has significant, measurable impacts on the quality of NGS data following targeted enrichment. However, incorporating a uracil-removing enzyme into the blunt end-repair step during library preparation could help to remove and repair DNA damage, and using a method that prevents adapter-dimer formation may result in improved data yields.
Control of mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis Lamarck fouling in water-cooling systems using plasma discharge
Authors: Ge Hui , Wang Hongcheng , Gao Zhiying
Published: October 2019

To prevent marine macrofouling, the anti-fouling effect of liquid discharge on mussels Mytilus galloprovincialis Lamarck was investigated in a simulated water-cooling system. The effects of input energy, mussel distance from discharge center, continuous discharge time, and discharge energy distribution mode on mussel response (death or detachment) were systematically studied. The results showed that excellent anti-fouling effects could be achieved by increasing input energy, but the detachment rate and mortality of mussels decreased sharply when the mussels were farther away from the discharge center. Low frequency discharge for a long, continuous time and multiple stimuli at long intervals improved the anti-fouling effect. Shock waves are the most likely cause of mussel eradication, and the threshold values of peak pressure to prevent mussel settlement and to cause death were 0.02 MPa and 0.05 MPa, respectively.
Hacia una metodología de evaluación de los sitios web de las dependencias ambientales de gobiernos de la frontera norte
Authors: Castro Salazar Jesús Ignacio , Toudert Djamel
Published: October 2019

Actualmente, diversas dependencias gubernamentales en la frontera norte mexicana hacen uso de los sitios web para proporcionar información y servicios a la sociedad con el propósito de lograr una mejor interacción en torno al quehacer ambiental. Pese a eso, y a que diversos planes y programas de gobierno establecen objetivos que debe cumplir esta oferta en línea, aún se sabe poco en qué medida estos objetivos se están alcanzando. Por ello, este estudio intenta averiguar en qué medida dichos sitios cumplen los objetivos que motivaron su creación y puesta en línea. A partir de esta valoración inicial se corrobora que los sitios web estatales y municipales son proclives a un menor cumplimiento de objetivos. Se observó que el objetivoque cumplió en mayor medida en los tres niveles de gobierno fue ofertar servicios visibles y estructurados, y en menor medida instrumentar la participación ciudadana.
Nuevos agentes en la gestión ambiental: El caso de las organizaciones de la sociedad civil en Ensenada
Authors: Martínez Nain , Chávez  Ramírez Refugio
Published: October 2019

El medio ambiente es un espacio complejo en el que convergen múltiples intereses, por lo que el gobierno tradicional es insuficiente para responder a las nuevas demandas en la gestión ambiental. En este sentido, la teoría de la gobernanza propone un papel más importante para los actores sociales en la toma de decisiones, para una resolución más efectiva de los problemas ambientales. Este artículo se centra en las organizaciones de la sociedad civil (osc) de Ensenada, debido a su relevancia en el ámbito público y el valor ecológico de la zona. A través de una encuesta se caracterizaron 22 osc, sus participantes y su red de actores. Se encontró que existen tres grupos de osc centrados en la agenda de conservación y en la sustentabilidad urbanas.
Los factores que explican la mayor aglomeración de la industria de alta tecnología en la frontera norte de México: el caso de Matamoros y Reynosa
Authors: Pérez Cruz Jorge Alberto , Ceballos Álvarez Guadalupe Isabel , Cogco Calderón Adolfo Rogelio
Published: October 2019

En las últimas tres décadas, la distribución geográfica de la manufactura provocó nuevas concentraciones en la industria de alta tecnología. Este estudio analiza desde las externalidades pecuniarias y tecnológicas hasta los factores del cambio en la aglomeración de dicha industria. Se aplicó un cuestionario a 55 establecimientos en Matamoros y Reynosa, en Tamaulipas. Los resultados denotan que la mayor concentración de la industria fue motivada por la ubicación geográfica de los municipios, el acceso a mano de obra no calificada y barata, y la disponibilidad de infraestructura urbana, entre otros. No hay, pues, evidencia a favor de que las externalidades pecuniarias y tecnológicas determinasen la aglomeración de la industria de alta tecnología en estas ciudades.
Vivencias de migrantes mexicanos sobre estados emocionales experimentados durante su proceso migratorio y el consumo de alcohol y drogas
Authors: Torres López Teresa Margarita , López López, José Luis , Mercado Ramírez Miguel Alfonso , Tapia Curiel Amparo
Published: October 2019

El objetivo es analizar las vivencias de migrantes mexicanos en México y en Estados Unidos en torno a diversos estados emocionales que experimentan durante la migración, acompañada del consumo de alcohol y drogas. Se realiza a partir de un estudio etnográfico, con entrevistas a profundidad en 19 individuos en México y 19 en Estados Unidos. El análisis fue fenomenológico. Los participantes señalaron diferentes estados emocionales negativos ligados a diversos patrones relacionados con el consumo de alcohol y drogas, en las diferentes fases de la migración
Conflictos socioambientales ocasionados por el cultivo de palma aceitera: el caso de María La Baja en Montes De María
Authors: Castaño Alen
Published: October 2019

El presente texto analiza cómo la implementación del proyecto agroindustrial de la palma aceitera en el municipio de María La Baja, ha generado conflictos territoriales en la región de Montes de María durante los últimos años. Del mismo modo, se identifican dinámicas de poder y marginalización social desarrolladas por los procesos de configuración territorial que trae consigo este proyecto neoliberal, frente a las lógicas de resistencia social por parte de los habitantes de María La Baja.
Üst Düzey Yöneticiler, Okul Yöneticileri ve Öğretmenlerin Erasmus+ Projelerine İlişkin Oluşturdukları Görsel Metaforlar
Authors: Demirer Mustafa , Dak Gizem
Published: October 2019

Bu araştırmanın genel amacı, Milli Eğitim Bakanlığına
bağlı ilkokul, ortaokul ve ortaöğretim kurumlarında üst düzey yönetici (ilçe
milli eğitim müdürü, şube müdürü), okul yöneticisi (okul müdürü ve müdür
yardımcısı) ve öğretmen olarak çalışanların Türkiye Ulusal Ajansının
koordinasyonu ile yürütelen Erasmus+ (Erasmus Plus) projelerine ilişkin
oluşturdukları görüşlerinin, görsel metaforlar yardımıyla belirlenmesini
amaçlamaktadır. Araştırmanın verileri, İstanbul ili Esenler ilçesinde görev
yapmakta olan üst düzey yönetici, okul yöneticisi ve öğretmenlerden elde
edilmiştir. Bu veriler 2018-2019 yaz döneminde toplanmıştır. Araştırmanın
çalışma grubunu daha önce Erasmus+ projesiyle yurt dışında bulunmuş üst düzey
yönetici, okul yöneticisi ve öğretmenler olmak üzere 47 kişiden oluşmaktadır.
Veri toplanan katılımcıların 32’si erkek, 15’i kadın olup daha evvel bir
Erasmus+ projesi ile yurt dışında bulunmuşlardır. Bu araştırma, katılımcıların
görüşleri doğrultusunda projeye dahil olma süreçlerini, Erasmus+ projesi
hazırlama ve motivasyon faktörlerini, projelerle ilgili geleceğe dönük
beklentilerini ve Erasmus projelerinin eğitim öğretim süreçlerini nasıl etkilediği
üzerine bir çalışmadır. Araştırmada, proje hazırlayan kurumlardan kurumsal
kapasitesi yeterli olmayanların çeşitli danışmanlık ve eğitim firmalarına proje
hazırlattığı ve bu durumun kuruma sağladığı faydaların neler olabileceği
üzerinde durulmuştur.
Calcium Channel Blockers in Restoration of Endothelial Function: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Radenković Miroslav , Stojanović Marko , Prostran Milica
Published: October 2019

Background:

Clinical evaluation of the Endothelial Function (EF) is becoming an
essential step in the quality assessment of cardiovascular risk prevention and rational pharmacotherapy
of cardiovascular disorders. The existing pieces of evidence suggested that Calcium
Channel Blockers (CCB) can induce positive effects on impaired EF.

Objective:

To evaluate the effects of CCB on EF, we performed a meta-analysis of available
data from randomized and placebo-controlled or other treatment-controlled clinical studies
encompassing effects of CCB on EF, as measured by Flow-Mediated Dilation (FMD) of the
brachial artery.

Methods:

The relevant clinical studies were searched by systematic exploration of the appropriate
databases until November 30, 2017. A random-effect model was conducted. The primary
outcome was the percentage change in FMD between the baseline and the final levels in
response to investigated drugs.

Results:

Fifteen randomized clinical studies with 33 arms were identified. CCB improved
FMD more pronounced than thiazide diuretics - TD (3 studies, 157 participants,
WMD=2.08%, 95% CI=0.35-3.80%; P=0.02). Oppositely, ACE Inhibitors (ACEI) and Angiotensin
Receptor Blockers (ARB) notably improved FMD if compared to CCB (CCB vs.
ACEI: 5 studies, 533 participants, WMD = ‐1.62%, 95% CI = ‐2.74% to ‐0.50%; P=0.005;
and CCB vs. ARB: 9 studies, 669 participants, WMD = ‐1.52%, 95% CI = ‐2.22% to
‐0.81%; P=0.0001). CCB effects on EF were similar to those evoked by beta blockers or placebo.

Conclusion:

CCB improved EF to a more prominent extent only if paralleled to TD, while
inversely; ACEI and ARB were more effective in augmenting FMD.
Gut Microbiome: Lactation, Childbirth, Lung Dysbiosis, Animal Modeling, Stem Cell Treatment, and CNS Disorders
Authors: Corey Sydney , Kvederis Lauren , Kingsbury Chase , Bonsack Brooke , Sanberg Paul R. , Castelli Vanessa , Lee Jea-Young , Borlongan Cesar V.
Published: October 2019

:

Here, we summarized recent advances in laboratory and clinical research on gut microbiome.
The goal is to highlight recent discoveries on the biology and behavioral manifestations of gut
microbiomes under normal and pathologic conditions. With this new scientific knowledge, we wish to
cultivate cross-fertilization of science across multi-disciplines in the hopes of exploiting the gut microbiome
as a key component of human development and its dysbiosis may signal pathological alterations
that can be therapeutically targeted for regenerative medicine. In the end, we identify innovative
research avenues that will merit from collaborations across biomedical disciplines that may facilitate
the development of gut microbiome-based biomarkers and therapeutics. Gut microbiome stands as a
core research area that transcends pediatric and nursing care, cancer biology, neurodegenerative disorders,
cardiac function and diseases, among many other basic science and clinical arenas.
Recent Progress on Heteropolyacids for Green Fuels Synthesis
Authors: Zhang Qiuyun , Liu Xiaofang , Deng Taoli , Zhang Yutao , Ma Peihua
Published: October 2019

Decreasing fossil fuel reserves and growing concerns are driving the utilization of renewable
feedstocks as green fuel sources. Heteropolyacids (HPAs) are one of the most promising catalytic
materials in green biodiesel production. Their unique chemical and physical properties are outstanding
and could allow the preparation of composite materials. In this review, esterification
/transesterification for biodiesel synthesis using various types of HPAs base catalysts including pristine
HPAs, substituted HPAs, supported HPAs and encapsulated HPAs has been described. In addition,
esterification/transesterification reaction conditions such as reaction time and temperature, alcohol
content and catalyst dosage affect the catalytic activity of the HPAs base catalysts, which are also
discussed in detail. Finally, the present drawbacks and future challenges on HPAs based catalytic systems
for the production of biodiesel are also addressed in the concluding remarks.
Efficacy of an Electronic Health Management Program for Patients With Cardiovascular Risk: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Yun Young Ho , Kang EunKyo , Cho Young Min , Park Sang Min , Kim Yong-Jin , Lee Hae-Young , Kim Kyae Hyung , Lee Kiheon , Koo Hye Yeon , Kim Soojeong , Rhee YeEun , Lee Jihye , Min Jeong Hee , Sim Jin-Ah
Published: October 2019

Background

In addition to medication, health behavior management is crucial in patients with multiple risks of cardiovascular mortality.

Objective

This study aimed to examine the efficacy of a 3-month Smart Management Strategy for Health–based electronic program (Smart Healthing).

Methods

A 2-arm randomized controlled trial was conducted to assess the efficacy of Smart Healthing in 106 patients with at least one indicator of poor disease control and who had hypertension, diabetes, or hypercholesterolemia. The intervention group (n=53) took part in the electronic program, which was available in the form of a mobile app and a Web-based PC application. The program covered 4 areas: self-assessment, self-planning, self-learning, and self-monitoring by automatic feedback. The control group (n=53) received basic educational material concerning disease control. The primary outcome was the percentage of participants who achieved their clinical indicator goal after 12 weeks into the program: glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) <7.0%, systolic blood pressure (SBP) <140 mmHg, or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol <130 mg/dL.

Results

The intervention group showed a significantly higher success rate (in comparison with the control group) for achieving each of 3 clinical indicators at the targeted goal levels (P<.05). Only the patients with hypertension showed a significant improvement in SBP from the baseline as compared with the control group (72.7% vs 35.7%; P<.05). There was a significant reduction in HbA1c in the intervention group compared with the control group (difference=0.54%; P≤.05). In the intervention group, 20% of patients with diabetes exhibited a ≥1% decrease in HbA1c (vs 0% among controls; P≤.05).

Conclusions

A short-term self-management strategy-based electronic program intervention may improve clinical outcomes among patients with cardiovascular risks.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03294044; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03294044