bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On-demand Ferrofluid Droplet Formation With Non-linear Magnetic Permeability in the Presence of a Non-uniform Magnetic Field
Authors: Bijarchi Mohamad Ali , Yaghoobi Mohammad , Favakeh Amirhossein , Shafii Mohammad Behshad
Published: December 2021

The magnetic actuation of ferrofluid droplets offers an inspiring tool in widespread engineering and biological applications. In this study, the dynamics of ferrofluid droplet generation with a Drop-on-Demand feature under a non-uniform magnetic field is investigated by multiscale numerical modeling. Langevin equation is assumed for ferrofluid magnetic susceptibility due to the strong applied magnetic field. Large and small computational domains are considered. In the larger domain, the magnetic field is obtained by solving Maxwell equations. In the smaller domain, a coupling of continuity, Navier Stokes, two-phase flow, and Maxwell equations are solved by utilizing the magnetic field achieved by the larger domain for the boundary condition. The Finite volume method and coupling of level-set and Volume of Fluid methods are used for solving equations. The droplet formation is simulated in a two-dimensional axisymmetric domain. The method of solving fluid and magnetic equations is validated using a benchmark. Then, ferrofluid droplet formation is investigated experimentally and the numerical results are in good agreement with the experimental data. The effect of 12 dimensionless parameters including the ratio of magnetic, gravitational, and surface tension forces, the ratio of the nozzle and magnetic coil dimensions, and ferrofluid to continuous-phase properties ratios are studied. The results showed that by increasing the magnetic Bond number, gravitational Bond number, Ohnesorge number, dimensionless saturation magnetization, initial magnetic susceptibility of ferrofluid, the generated droplet diameter reduces, whereas the formation frequency increases. The same results were observed when decreasing the ferrite core diameter to outer nozzle diameter, density, and viscosity ratios.
Assessing the Impact of Vegetation in the Visibility Connection and Thermal Comfort in the Urban Outdoors (Case Study: Shafagh Park)
Authors: Karimi Alireza , Gachkar Darya , Gachkar Sadaf , aghlemand soheila
Published: December 2021

Regarding the significant impact of visibility, landscape, and thermal comfort on the presence of users’ attendance in urban parks, there is a severe interest in studies on the amount of visibility and the outdoor thermal comfort especially in a district with hot summers. this research, after investigating the shafagh park based on space laws and the relationship between park spaces with each other in terms of accessibility and visibility to achieve the effect of plants, then, based on the obtained data, the role of plants in evaluating thermal comfort conditions in the park space was investigated and finally, their relationship with each other has been examined. results have revealed that, plants have an undeniable role in improving the conditions of thermal comfort and visual visibility and user movement in spaces, so that, the best points in terms of thermal comfort, had a favorable view and perspective, while, areas of the park that did not have good visibility and landscape did not experience favorable conditions in terms of thermal comfort. Therefore, architects, landscape architects, and urban designers who research the problem of thermal comfort and landscape analysis in urban parks can use the findings of this article for effective outcomes, especially in parks with climatic conditions use similar in Tehran.
Outcome of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation In Frail Patients
Authors: Camilleri Elaine , Camilleri Juliet , Sultana Luke , Sciberras Nicole , Vassallo Mario
Published: December 2021

The concept of frailty is one which is gaining increasing attention due to its multifactorial constituents, and its impact on geriatric patient care. This retrospective analysis of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in Maltese Hospitals aims to determine the significance of frailty in relation to CPR outcome in one calendar year. In this study, we analysed the outcome of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in Maltese Hospitals for the year 2019 in relation to frailty status using the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI). 185 eligible patients were obtained from the CPR register after excluding patients <18years of age, peri-arrest cases, a test case, double-recorded CPR documents and patients with insufficient data recorded. From these 185 patients, the statistics were of 123 males and 62 females, with an age range of 26 years to 99 years. The median age was 78 years whilst mean age was 76.2 years. The majority of patients fell within CCI of 4-8 (143 patients), with the largest cohort obtaining a score of 6 (39 patients). The results highlight a low rate of ROSC (4.32%) irrespective of CCI score. However, when ROSC was achieved, survival to discharge was noted to be greater with lower CCI scores. Only 5 patients survived one year post discharge.This data is in keeping with other studies regarding CPR in frail patients, despite the use of other scores such as the Clinical Frailty Score. Smith et al’s study in Australian tertiary centres between 2008 and 2017 used the CCI, and points out a lower rate of discharge home in frail patients who survive an in-hospital cardiac arrest [1]. Limitations of our study include the small population, although exhaustive of the CPRs performed on the Maltese Islands in 2019.
Quantitative Redox Proteomics Revealed Molecular Mechanisms of Salt Tolerance in the Roots of Sugar Beet Monomeric Addition line M14
Authors: Liu He , Du Xiaoxue , Zhang Jialin , Li Jinna , Chen Sixue , Duanmu Huizi , Li Haiying
Published: December 2021

Background: Salt stress is often associated with excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Oxidative stress caused by the accumulation of ROS is a major factor that negatively affects crop growth and yield. Root is the primary organ that senses and transmits the salt stress signal to the whole plant. How oxidative stress affect redox sensitive proteins in the roots is not known.Results: In this study, the redox proteome of sugar beet M14 roots under salt stress was investigated. Using iTRAQ reporters, we determined that salt stress caused significant changes in the abundance of many proteins (2305 at 20 min salt stress and 2663 at 10 min salt stress). Using iodoTMT reporters, a total of 95 redox proteins were determined to be responsive to salt stress after normalizing again total protein level changes. Notably, most of the differential redox proteins were involved in metabolism, ROS homeostasis, and stress and defense, while a small number play a role in transport, biosynthesis, signal transduction, transcription and photosynthesis. Transcription levels of 14 genes encoding the identified redox proteins were analyzed using qRT-PCR. All the genes were induced by salt stress at the transcriptional level. Conclusions: Based on the redox proteomics results, we construct a map of the regulatory network of M14 root redox proteins in response to salt stress. This study further refines the molecular mechanism of salt resistance at the level of protein redox regulation.
Meat Quality In Broiler Chickens Fed On Cowpea (Vigna Unguiculata [L.] Walp) Seeds
Authors: Ciurescu Georgeta , Idriceanu Lavinia , Gheorghe Anca , Ropotă Mariana , Drăghici Reta
Published: December 2021

The study aimed to evaluate the effects of a diet containing untreated cowpea (CWP; Aura 26 variety) seeds as a protein source on quality parameters (physicochemical properties and fatty acid composition) of chickens’ breast and thigh muscles. A total of 240 Ross 308 broiler chickens were randomly allotted to two groups (1 fed with soybean meal (SBM) and 2 fed with CWP), 6 replicate pens per group (20 chicks/pen). At 6 weeks of age, twelve birds/group were slaughtered. Breast and thigh muscles of birds fed CWP diets had significantly higher (P < 0.05) levels of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA; C:18:3n-3, C:20:5n-3) compared with birds fed SBM diet. The n-6/n-3 PUFA ratio of the muscles decreased significantly (P < 0.05) in the CWP group. The study revealed that the use of CWP as a substitute for SBM had significant effects on physicochemical components of breast and thigh muscles. The lightness (L*) and redness (a*) of breast and thigh muscles were higher in the CWP treatment. The collagen and protein contents were higher, while the fat content was decreased (P < 0.05) in the CWP group. The texture profile analysis in breast and thigh muscles were comparable (P > 0.05) in both groups. These results confirm that CWP can be considered a promising protein source for broiler chicken feed.
Complications Associated With Removal of Airway Devices Under Deep Anesthesia In Children: An Analysis of The Wake Up Safe Database
Authors: Vitale Lisa , Rodriguez Briana , Baetzel Anne , Christensen Robert , Haydar Bishr
Published: December 2021

Background: Previous studies examining removal of endotracheal tubes and supraglottic devices under deep anesthesia were underpowered to identify rare complications. This study sought to report all adverse events associated with this practice found in a large national database of pediatric anesthesia adverse events.Methods: An extract of an adverse events database created by the Wake Up Safe database, a multi-institutional pediatric anesthesia quality improvement initiative, was performed for this study. It was screened to identify anesthetics with variables indicating removal of airway devices under deep anesthesia. Three anesthesiologists screened the data to identify events where this practice possibly contributed to the event. Event data was extracted and collated. Results: 102 events met screening criteria and 66 met inclusion criteria. Two cardiac etiology events were identified, one of which resulted in the patient’s demise. The remaining 97% of events were respiratory in nature (64 events), including airway obstruction, laryngospasm, bronchospasm and aspiration. Some respiratory events consisted of multiple distinct events in series. Nineteen respiratory events resulted in cardiac arrest (29.7%) of which 15 (78.9%) were deemed preventable by local anesthesiologists performing independent review. Respiratory events resulted in intensive care unit admission (37.5%), prolonged intubation and temporary neurologic injury but no permanent harm. Provider and patient factors were root causes in most events. Upon investigation, areas for improvement identified included improving patient selection, ensuring monitoring, availability of intravenous access, and access to emergency drugs and equipment until emergence.Conclusions: Serious adverse events have been associated with this practice, but no respiratory events were associated with long-term harm.
Peri-Urban Growth into Natural Hazard-Prone Areas. Mapping Exposure Transformation of the Built Environment in Nairobi and Nyeri, Kenya from 1948 to Today
Authors: Fekete Alexander
Published: December 2021

Kenya experiences massive urban growth, also into natural hazard-prone areas, exposing settlements and the natural environment to riverine and pluvial floods and other natural hazards. While Nairobi as the capital and principal city has been extensively analysed regarding urban growth and flood hazard in some central parts, awareness of growing peri-urban areas has not been studied as much. The results are of interest to other locations in Kenya and worldwide, too, since the current research and disaster risk practice focus is still too much on megacities and city centres. Therefore, the study compares urban growth into hazard areas in urban rims of Nairobi and Nyeri, Kenya. A change assessment from 1948 to 2020 is conducted by aerial images, declassified satellite images, and recent data. Urban growth rates are 10 to 20-fold, while growth into flood exposed areas ranges from 3 to 100-fold. This study reveals unused opportunities for expanding existing land-use change analysis back to the 1940s in data-scarce environments.
Assessment of Structural Disconnections In Gliomas: Comparison of Indirect And Direct Approaches
Authors: Silvestri Erica , Villani Umberto , Moretto Manuela , Colpo Maria , Salvalaggio Alessandro , Anglani Mariagiulia , Castellaro Marco , Facchini Silvia , Monai Elena , D'Avella Domenico , Puppa Alessandro Della , Cecchin Diego , Corbetta Maurizio , Bertoldo Alessandra
Published: December 2021

Gliomas are amongst the most common primary brain tumours in adults and are often associated with poor prognosis. Understanding the extent of white matter (WM) which is affected outside the tumoral lesion may be of paramount importance to explain cognitive deficits and the clinical progression of the disease. To this end, we explored both direct (i.e., tractography based) and indirect (i.e., atlas based) approaches to quantifying WM structural disconnections in a cohort of 50 high- and low-grade glioma patients. While these methodologies have recently gained popularity in the context of stroke, to our knowledge this is the first time they are applied in patients with brain tumours. More specifically, in this work we present a quantitative comparison of the disconnection maps provided by the two methodologies by applying well known metrics of spatial similarity, extension and correlation. Given the important role the oedematous tissue plays in the physiopathology of tumours, we performed these analyses both by including and excluding it in the definition of the tumoral lesion. This was done to investigate possible differences determined by this choice.We found that direct and indirect approaches offer two distinct pictures of structural disconnections in patients affected by brain gliomas, presenting key differences in several regions of the brain. Following the outcomes of our analysis, we eventually discuss the strengths and pitfalls of these two approaches when applied in this critical field.
Influence of Natural Serpentine on the Tribological Performance of Phosphate Bonded Solid Coatings
Authors: Xi Zhengchao , Sun Jianbo , Chen Lei , Cui Haixia , Ma Yanjun , Zhou Huidi , Chen Jianmin
Published: December 2021

Natural serpentine powders were incorporated into phosphate bonded solid coatings to promote the anti-wear performance of the phosphate coatings. Optimal mass percent of natural serpentine in phosphate coatings was firstly explored. Thereafter, in order to stimulate layer slip of natural serpentine and strengthen interfacial interaction between natural serpentine and counterface during the friction process, tribological performance of the composite coatings under different friction condition was properly investigated. The experimental result indicated that the optimal incorporation of natural serpentine in phosphate coatings was 10 wt.%, through which anti-wear performance of phosphate coatings was significantly elevated. Additionally, accompanied by the increase of applied load and sliding speed, natural serpentine was activated by friction force and local friction heat, and simultaneously interfacial interactions between naturals serpentine and counterface were intensified. As a result, a continuous protective tribo-film was in-situ formed on the counterface, through which anti-wear performance of phosphate coatings were significantly promoted. At the same time, serious furrows generated on the counterface were also effectively self-repaired during the friction process, and further abrasion on the counterface was greatly restrained.
The Effect of Sodium Alginate Supplementation with HIIT or MICT on Glucagon and Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 in Women with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Azizi Rezvan , Azizi Mohammad , Tahmasebi Worya , Abdollhzad Hadi
Published: December 2021

Background: Exercise intervention and dietary supplementation are considered as approaches to manage obesity, as well as, metabolic syndrome (MetS). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of sodium alginate supplementation with high intensity interval training (HIIT) or moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) on serum levels of glucagon and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) in women with MetS.Methods: This randomized controlled clinical trial was performed on 46 women with MetS. Participants were randomly divided to six groups including: 1) HIIT+ sodium alginate (HS, n=8); 2) HIIT+ placebo (HP, n=8); 3) MICT+ sodium alginate (MS, n=8); 4) MICT+ placebo (MP, n=8); 5) sodium alginate (S, n=7); and 6) control group (P, n=7). Sodium alginate were prescribed 1.5 gram alone or along with HIIT or MICT sessions (3 times per week). Anthropometric indices, glycemic profile, serum level of glucagon and GLP-1 were measured before and after 8 weeks intervention. Results: In HS, HP, MS, and MP groups the mean of weight (p=0.000), body mass index (p=0.001), fasting blood sugar (p=0.003), insulin (p=0.000), insulin resistance (p=0.043), and glucagon (p=0.011) decreased significantly, however GLP_1 (p=0/01) level increased significantly after intervention.Conclusion: Since HIIT and MICT with or without sodium alginate supplementation leads to improvement in anthropometric indices, glycemic profile, serum GLP-1 and glucagon levels, it can be stated that the training method of the present study is suitable for improving and reducing complications associated with MetS in women.Trial registration: IRCT20191116045457N1. Registered 27 jan 2020, https://en.irct.ir/trial/43776
Expression of IL-1 Family Cytokines in Patients Before and After Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Cure
Authors: Amorim Ester , Cavalcante Marton Kaique Andrade , Silva Ailton Alvaro , Medeiros Vanessa Lucília Silveira , Brito Maria Edileuza Felinto , Rehn Vitorina Nerivânia Covello , Pereira Valéria Rêgo Alves ,   Maria Carolina Accioly Brelaz-de-Castro1
Published: December 2021

Cutaneous leishmaniasis is an infectious disease that presents an immune response marked by the activation of lymphocytes and production of cytokines, including those of the IL-1 family, which act as an important trigger for the activation of an effector immune response. Despite this, inflammation exacerbation is sometimes also attributed to IL-1 cytokines, although some others down-regulate inflammation or produce Th2 responses, which need to be further clarified in the CL. Assessing the gene and protein expression of IL-1 cytokines associated with different immune response profiles in PBMCs from patients with active and healed lesions, this study demonstrated that stimulation by L. braziliensis positively regulates inflammatory and anti-inflammatory IL-1 cytokines, as IL-1α/β and IL-37, while there was a marked inhibition of IL-1Ra and IL-18 genes in patients treated with antimony, which perhaps contributes to the mechanisms of resistance that control Leishmania infection.
Factors Influencing Health Workers’ Compliance with the WHO Intermittent Preventive Treatment for Malaria in Pregnancy Recommendations in the Northern Region, Ghana
Authors: Mohammed Abdul Gafaru , Duah Dwomoh , Kenu Ernest , Nonvignon Justice , Manu Alex , Bonful Harriet Affran
Published: December 2021

Background

Although IPTp-SP is a lifesaving WHO recommended preventive intervention for pregnant women in malaria-endemic regions, IPTp-SP uptake in the Northern region of Ghana is much lower than the sub-optimal national coverage level. Assessing the extent of health workers’ compliance and its associated factors will generate valuable pointers to be targeted at the program level. The study examined the factors influencing health workers’ compliance with the WHO recommended guidelines for IPTp-SP in the Northern Region.
Methods

A cross-sectional study among 315 health workers in the Northern region was conducted. Semi-structured questionnaires were used to collect data on health workers’ sociodemographic characteristics, facility-based factors and knowledge level. Data were collected on health workers’ compliance with the recommended practices through covert observations using a checklist. Facility observations were carried out using a checklist. Crude and adjusted logistic regression were used to determine predictors of health workers’ compliance, at 5% significance level adjusting for clustering.
Results

Of the 315 health workers studied, the median age was 29 years (26 – 34 years). Females constituted 252 (80.5%) of the 313 workers. The majority 148 (47.44%) of the 312 health workers were midwives. Overall, 56.2% (CI 51.0 – 62.0) were adequately complying with the recommended guidelines. Lower levels of compliance were recorded in health centers 15.6% (5.0 - 33.0) and CHPS compounds 21.2% (11.0 - 35.0). The factors associated with compliance included health workers’ knowledge (aOR = 7.64, 95% CI 4.21 - 13.87, p<0.001), job satisfaction (aOR 10.87, 95%CI 7.04 - 16.79, p<0.001), in-service training (aOR 10.11, 95%CI 4.53 - 22.56, p<0.001), supervision (aOR 4.01, 95%CI 2.09 - 7.68, p<0.001), availability of job aids (aOR 3.61, 95%CI 2.44 - 5.35, p<0.001), health workers experience (aOR = 10.64, 95% CI 5.99 - 18.91, p<0.001) and facility type (aOR 0.03, 95%CI 0.01 - 0.07, p<0.001).
Conclusion

Compliance with the recommended IPTp-SP guidelines is suboptimal in the region, with lower-level health facilities recording the least compliance levels. Health centers and CHPS facilities should be prioritized in distributing limited resources to improve health worker quality of care for antenatal care clients.
Endophytic Bacterial and Fungal Community Compositions in Different Organs of Ginseng (Panax Ginseng)
Authors: Fan Zhenjie , Xiao Shuiming , Hu Haoyu , Zhang Pengfei , Chao Jing , Guo Shuai , Hou Dianyun , Xu Jiang
Published: December 2021

Panax ginseng (Panax ginseng C. A. Mey.) is a perennial herb of the genus ginseng, which is used as medicine with dried roots and rhizomes. With the deepening of research on ginseng, the chemical components and pharmacological effects of ginseng have gradually been discovered. Endophytes are beneficial to host plants. However, the composition of endophytes in different organs from ginseng is poorly elucidated. The report of ginsenoside production by endophytic microbes isolated from Panax sp., motivated us to explore the endophytic microbial diversity related to the roots, stems, and leaves. In this study, the V5-V7 variable region of endophytic bacteria 16S rRNA gene and V1 variable region of endophytic fungi ITS gene in different organs were analyzed by high-throughput sequencing. The diversity and abundance of endophytic microbes in the three organs are different and are affected by the organs. For example, the most abundant endophytic bacterial genera in roots was Mycobacterium; while, the stems and leaves were Ochrobactrum. Similarly, the fungal endophytes, Coniothyrium and Cladosporium, were also found in high abundance in stems, in comparison to roots and leaves. The Shannon index shows that the diversity of endophytic bacteria in roots is the highest (p<0.05), and the richness of endophytic bacterial was root>stem (p<0.05). Principal coordinate analysis showed that there were obvious microbial differences among the three groups, and the endophytic bacterial composition of the leaves was closer to that of the roots. This study provides an important reference for the study of endophytic microorganisms in ginseng.
Learning Processes in Hierarchical Pairs Regulate Entire Gene Expression in Cells
Authors: Yamaguchi Tomoyuki
Published: December 2021

Expression of numerous genes is precisely controlled in a cell in various contexts. While genetic and epigenetic mechanisms contribute to this regulation, how each mechanism cooperates to ensure the proper expression patterns of whole gene remains unclear. Here, I theoretically show that the repetition of simple biological processes makes appropriate whole-gene expression only if the appropriateness of current pattern is roughly detectable. A learning pair model is developed, in which two factors autonomously approach the target ratio by repeating two stochastic processes; competitive amplification with a small addition term and decay depending on the difference between the current and target ratios. Furthermore, thousands of factors are self-regulated in a hierarchical-pair architecture, in which the activation degrees competitively amplify, while transducing the activation signal, and decay at four different probabilities. Changes in whole-gene expression during human early embryogenesis and hematopoiesis are reproduced in simulation using this epigenetic learning process in a single genetically-determined hierarchical-pair architecture of gene regulatory cascades. On the background of this learning process, I propose the law of biological inertia which means that a living cell basically maintains the expression pattern while renewing the contents.
Likely Uptake of a Future a Lung Cancer Screening Programme in Hodgkin Lymphoma Survivors: a Questionnaire Study
Authors: Broadbent Rachel , Armitage Christopher J. , Crosbie Philip , Radford John , Linton Kim
Published: December 2021

Background

Many Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) survivors are at increased risk of subsequent malignant neoplasms (SMN), including lung cancer, due to previous treatment for HL. Lung cancer screening (LCS) detects early-stage lung cancers in ever smokers but HL survivors without a heavy smoking history are ineligible for screening. There is a rationale to develop a targeted LCS. The aim of this study was to investigate levels of willingness to undergo LCS in HL survivors, and to identify the psycho-social factors associated with screening hesitancy.
Methods

A postal questionnaire was sent to 281 HL survivors registered in a long-term follow-up database and at increased risk of SMNs. Demographic, lung cancer risk factors, psycho-social and LCS belief variables were measured. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the factors associated with lung cancer screening hesitancy, defined as those who would ‘probably’ or ‘probably not’ participate.
Results

The response rate to the questionnaire was 58% (n=165). Participants were more likely to be female, older and living in a less deprived area than non-participants. Uptake (at any time) of breast and bowel cancer screening among those previously invited was 99% and 77% respectively. 159 participants were at excess risk of lung cancer. The following results refer to these 159. Around half perceived themselves to be at greater risk of lung cancer than their peers. Only 6% were eligible for lung cancer screening pilots aimed at ever smokers in the UK. 98% indicated they would probably or definitely participate in LCS were it available. Psycho-social variables associated with LCS hesitancy on multivariable analysis were male gender (OR 5.94 CI 1.64-21.44, p<0.01), living in an area with a high index of multiple deprivation (IMD) decile (deciles 6-10) (OR 8.22 CI 1.59-42.58, p<0.05) and lower levels of self-efficacy (OR 1.64 CI 1.30-2.08 p<0.01).
Conclusion

HL survivors responding to this survey were willing to participate in a future LCS programme but there was some hesitancy. A future LCS trial for HL survivors should consider the factors associated with screening hesitancy in in order to minimise barriers to participation.
Assessment of the Toxicity and Carcinogenicity of Double-Walled Carbon Nanotubes in the Rat Lung After Intratracheal Instillation: A Two-Year Study
Authors: Saleh Dina Mourad , Luo Shengyong , Ahmed Omnia Hosny Mohamed , Alexander David Bedell , Alexander William T. , Gunasekaran Sivagami , El-Gazzar Ahmed M. , Abdelgied Mohamed , Numano Takamasa , Takase Hiroshi , Ohnishi Makoto , Tomono Susumu , Hadi Randa Hussein Abd el , Fukamachi Katsumi , Kanno Jun , Hirose Akihiko , Xu Jiegou , Suzuki Shugo , Naiki Aya , Takahashi Satoru , Tsuda Hiroyuki
Published: December 2021

Background

Considering the expanding industrial applications of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), safety assessment of these materials is far less than needed. Very few long-term in vivo studies have been carried out. This is the first 2-year in vivo study to assess the effects of double walled carbon nanotubes (DWCNTs) in the lung and pleura of rats after pulmonary exposure.
Methods

Rats were divided into six groups: Untreated, Vehicle, 3 DWCNT groups (0.12mg/rat, 0.25mg/rat and 0.5mg/rat), and MWCNT-7 (0.5mg/rat). The test materials were administrated by intratracheal - intrapulmonary spraying (TIPS) every other day for 15 days. Rats were observed without further treatment until sacrifice at weeks 52 and 104.
Results

DWCNT were biopersistent in the rat lung and induced marked pulmonary inflammation with a significant increase in macrophage count and levels of the chemotactic cytokines CCL2 and CCL3. In addition, the 0.5 mg DWCNT treated rats had significantly higher pulmonary collagen deposition compared to the vehicle controls. The development of carcinomas in the lungs of rats treated with 0.5 mg DWCNT (4/24) was not quite statistically higher (p = 0.0502) than the vehicle control group (0/25), however, the overall incidence of lung tumor development, bronchiolo-alveolar adenoma and bronchiolo-alveolar carcinoma combined, in the lungs of rats treated with 0.5 mg DWCNT (7/24) was statistically higher (p < 0.05) than the vehicle control group (1/25). Notably, two of the rats treated with DWCNT, one in the 0.25 mg group and one in the 0.5mg group, developed pleural mesotheliomas. However, both of these lesions developed in the visceral pleura, and unlike the rats administered MWCNT-7, rats administered DWCNT did not have elevated levels of HMGB1 in their pleural lavage fluids.
Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that DWCNTs are biopersistent in the rat lung and induce chronic inflammation. Moreover, rats treated with 0.5 mg DWCNT developed pleural fibrosis. While our results do not show that DWCNT is carcinogenic in the rat lung, total tumor incidence was significantly increased in the 0.5 mg DWCNT group. Taken together, these findings demonstrate that the possibility that at least some types of DWCNTs are fibrogenic and carcinogenic cannot be ignored.
The Role of Helicobacter Pylori Infection on Atherosclerosis in Diabetic Patients
Authors: Boyuk Banu , Avci Rukiye Nurdan , Akin Seydahmet , Erman Hande , Koroglu Emine , Keskin Ozcan
Published: December 2021

Background: In this study, the aim was to investigate the effect of Helicobacter pylori (Hp) presence on intima-media thickness, which is an early sign of atherosclerosis in type 2 diabetic patients.Methods: This study is a retrospective study conducted with type 2 diabetic patients who were followed up in the gastroenterology and diabetes outpatient clinic. The relationship between the presence of Hp and laboratory findings, demographic and clinical characteristics, intima-media thickness and pathology findings were analyzed in patients who underwent endoscopy for dyspepsia.Results: A total of 73 cases meeting the exclusion criteria, 32 males (43.8%) and 41 females (56.2%), between 42 and 83 years with an average age of 59 ± 10 years were included in the study. Of the cases, 31 (42.4%) were found to be Hp positive. The presence of Hp and accompanying diseases, drug treatments used, demographic characteristics, biochemical parameters, endoscopy and pathology results, and intima-media thicknesses were compared. ALT value was found to be higher in Hp negative cases (p<0.005). The presence of Hp was found to increase the carotid intima-media thickness by 0.092 units (p: 0.018) at 95% significance level on the left and 0.060 units at 90% significance level on the right (p: 0.063). There was no significant difference for other variables.Conclusion: It was shown that the presence of Hp increases the carotid intima-media thickness in patients with type 2 diabetes. Similarly, LDL and age were shown to have an increasing effect on intima-media thickness.
The Effect of Childhood Starvation on Mental Health of Older Adults: Evidence From China
Authors: Zhang Shuo , Zhang Si-qing , Cheng Si-meng , Wang Jia-hao , Tao Yi-wen , Tang Xiao-qing , Xiao Wen-jing , Yao Yi-dan , Yang Li-xingzi , Xie Lin , Tang Li-li , Li Zhi-yun , Wu Yuan-yang , Yang Hua-lei
Published: December 2021

Purpose: Poverty and hunger are still severe problems faced by the world today, especially in developing countries. Starvation in childhood usually damaged mental health in later years. But, does this proposition apply China? The answer could not only verify the validity of the current research findings, but also provide certain significance for the intervention and formulation of global public health policy.Method: This research was based on the data of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey data in 2018, and 1820 elderly people were investigated. The impact of childhood starvation on mental health in later years was investigated by the Ordinary Least Squares method. Moreover, the robustness tests conducted by replacing independent variable to severity of childhood starvation and dividing the samples to different age ranges. Furthermore, heterogeneity was also analyzed based on different gender, different domicile where they born, and different level of education.Results: The childhood starvation was associated with less mental health scores in later life. The older who suffered from childhood starvation showed worsen mental health in later years, especially in the illiterate samples and the rural samples. However, there was no significant difference when considering different gender.Conclusions: Childhood starvation worsened the mental health in later life, and the level of education and being born in urban had a mediating effect to the relationship. In order to reduce the negative impact of childhood starvation on mental health, anti-poverty strategies, such as providing assistance to children who are hungry, and developing early intervention programs for children's development, should be promoted around the world. Meanwhile, the local development, industrialization and modernization, as well as children's educational attainment should also be promoted while preventing child hunger.
Evaluating The Quality, Utility And Reliability of Information In Uveitis Videos Shared On YouTube
Authors: Tanyıldız Burak , Oklar Murat
Published: December 2021

Background: The aim of this study was to analyze the quality of videos on YouTube as educational resources about uveitis.Methods: An online YouTube search was performed using the keyword ‘‘uveitis’’. Total view counts, duration of videos, publishing dates, likes and dislikes, numbers of comments, and source of videos were recorded. Educational quality and accuracy of the video content were evaluated using the DISCERN score, Global Quality Score (GQS), Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) score. Video popularity was also evaluated using the video power index (VPI) score. All videos were classified according to publishers and types of categories.Results: From among the 200 videos analyzed, 94 were included. The mean DISCERN score was 38.5 ± 13.2 (poor), the mean JAMA score was 1.8 ± 0.6 (fair), and the GQS was 2.5 ± 0.9 (fair). There were positive correlations between the three checklist (p < .001). VPI was not correlated with each score (p >.05). The most common upload sources were ophthalmologist (24.4%) and YouTube channel (20.2%). Regarding content, 47 videos (50%) medical education, 26 videos (27.6%) patient education, 16 videos (17%) patient experience, 5 videos (5.3%) surgical procedures in patient with uveitis. While the most popular videos were uploaded by doctors other than ophthalmologists, the videos uploaded by academic institutions and associations were found to be higher educational quality and reliability scores. Conclusions: Uveitis videos on YouTube are poor quality and reliability and are not adequately educational for patients. Therefore, the physicians must be aware of the limitations of YouTube and ensure the flow of correct medical information to patients.
Does the Atmospheric Global Model MRI-AGCM3.2 Perform Better than CMIP6 Atmospheric Models in Simulating Precipitation?
Authors: Kusunoki Shoji , Nakaegawa Tosiyuki , Mizuta Ryo
Published: December 2021

The performance of the Meteorological Research Institute-Atmospheric General Circulation model version 3.2 (MRI-AGCM3.2) in simulating precipitation is compared with that of global atmospheric models registerred to the sixth phase of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6). The MRI-AGCM3.2 with the grid size of 20-km and 60-km and 36 CMIP6 models are forced with observed sea surface temperature for 20-year period from 1995 to 2014. The horizontal resolution of the MRI-AGCM3.2 is relatively finer than CMIP6 models. As for global domain, the reproducibility of MRI-AGCM3.2 models are better than or equal to CMIP6 models in simulating geographical distribution of annual precipitation and intense precipitation events. Models with higher horizontal resolution tend to be better than those with lower resolution in simulating global precipitation. As for East Asia, the performance of MRI-AGCM3.2 models are better than or equal to CMIP6 models in simulating summertime monthly precipitation and the seasonal march in the Japanese rainy season, and extreme precipitation events. Higher horizontal resolution models also tend to perform better than lower resolution models in simulating precipitation over East Asia. The advantage of models with higher horizontal resolution over those with lower resolution in reproducing precipitation is more evident over East Asia than over the globe.
m6A function and tumor microenvironment infiltration characteristics in glioma
Authors: Yang Aoran , Wang Xinhuan , Shang Chao , Hu Yaofeng , Pan Chen , Hong Yang
Published: December 2021

Background

Most studies related to N6-methyladenosine (m6A) in glioma have been conducted only at the single-gene level, while the m6A modification patterns and correlation between m6A and immune cells’ tumor microenvironment infiltration have not been comprehensively reported.
Methods

Eighty-five clinical samples were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus; another 599 clinical samples and 174 transcriptome data were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas. Based on data analysis using the R program and principal component analysis, we established an m6Ascore quantitative scoring system and analyzed the modification of 22 m6A-related genes with TME infiltration characteristics.
Results

Three m6A modification patterns and the characteristics of immune cell infiltration were identified. Cluster A corresponded to the immune-desert phenotype, cluster B corresponded to the immune-excluded phenotype, and cluster C corresponded to the immune-inflamed phenotype. Cluster B showed the worst long-term prognosis, whereas cluster A had the best long-term prognosis. Anti-CD52/HE5 shows potential as an immune therapy for glioma.
Conclusions

This research provides a foundation for understanding m6A modification patterns in glioma and a potential prognostic biomarker and immune therapy target for treat glioma.
A Novel Hypoxic lnc-RNA, HRL-SC, Promotes Proliferation and Migration of Human Dental Pulp Stem Cells Through PI3K/AKT Signalling Pathway
Authors: Zeng Junkai , Chen Ming , Yang Yeqing , Wu Buling
Published: December 2021

Background: Human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) are critical for pulp generation. hDPSCs proliferate faster under hypoxia, but the regulatory mechanism of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in this process is not fully understood.Methods: Novel lncRNAs were obtained by reanalysis of transcriptome datasets coming from RNA-Seq under hypoxia compared with normoxia, and differential expression analysis of target genes were performed. Bioinformatics analyses including Gene Ontology (GO) analysis, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) analysis were used to understand the function of key novel lncRNA. hDPSCs were isolated from dental pulp tissue. EdU test and scratch healing test were used to detect the proliferation and migration of hDPSCs. qRT-PCR was used to detect the RNA level expression changes of selected genes. RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), small interfering RNA (siRNA), qRT-PCR and western blot analysis were used to explore the function of key novel lncRNA. Results: We identified 496 novel lncRNAs in hDPSCs under hypoxia, including 45 expressed differentially novel lncRNAs. Of them, we focused on a key novel lncRNA, which we named HRL-SC (hypoxia related lncRNA in stem cells). Functional annotation revealed that HRL-SC was associated with hypoxic conditions and PI3K/AKT signalling pathway. HRL-SC was mainly located in the cytoplasm of hDPSCs and had stably high expression under hypoxia. Knockdown of HRL-SC inhibited proliferation and migration of hDPSCs and expression levels of PI3K/AKT related marker proteins. Furthermore, AKT activator SC79 partially offset the inhibitory effect caused by the knockdown, indicating that HRL-SC promoted hDPSCs through PI3K/AKT signalling pathway.Conclusion: Hypoxia related lncRNA HRL-SC promotes proliferation and migration of hDPSCs through PI3K/AKT signalling pathway and it may provide a better understanding for regenerative application of hDPSCs.
CircRNA_0263 and circRNA_1507 are Dysregulated in Atrial Fibrosis Rat Induced by Chronic Intermittent Hypoxia
Authors: Liang Xue , Liu Yanhong , Liu Yu , Wang Weiding , Shangguan Wenfeng , Wang Manman , Zhang Xiaowei , Miao Shuai , Liu Enzhao , Li Guangping
Published: December 2021

Aims: This study aimed to characterize circular RNA (circRNA) profiles associated with atrial fibrosis and identify critical circRNAs in a rat model of atrial fibrosis.Methods: Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into control and atrial fibrosis groups (n=15 in each group). For rats in the atrial fibrosis group, atrial fibrosis was induced by chronic intermittent hypoxia. Atrial tissues were isolated for circRNA sequencing. The dysregulated circRNAs in atrial fibrosis were identified by DESeq. Subsequently, the potential functions of circRNAs in atrial fibrosis were investigated by Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis of the host genes. The interactions among circRNAs, microRNAs (miRNAs), and mRNAs were analyzed by constructing a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network. Finally, the crucial circRNAs were validated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR).Results: Five upregulated and 11 downregulated circRNAs were identified in the atrial fibrosis group. These dysregulated circRNAs were primarily associated with “carbohydrate metabolism” and “cardiovascular diseases.” Two circRNAs (circRNA_0263 and circRNA_1507) were able to regulate target gene expression by interacting with corresponding miRNAs, including rno-miR-29b-5p, rno-miR-29b-3p, rno-miR-496-5p, rno-miR-136-5p, and novel123-mature. qRT-PCR successfully validated the differential expression of circRNA_0263 and circRNA_1507.Conclusion: A series of circRNAs were identified as dysregulated in an atrial fibrosis rat model. The dysregulation of two circRNAs (circRNA_0263 and circRNA_1507) might be crucial for atrial fibrosis development by competing with several miRNAs.
Cistrome And Transcriptome Analysis Identifies Unique Androgen Receptor (AR) And AR- V7 Splice Variant Chromatin Binding And Transcriptional Activities
Authors: Basil Paul , Robertson Matthew J. , Bingman William E. , Dash Amit K. , Krause William C. , Shafi Ayesha A. , Piyarathna Badrajee , Coarfa Cristian , Weigel Nancy L.
Published: December 2021

The constitutively active androgen receptor (AR) splice variant, AR-V7, plays an important role in resistance to androgen deprivation therapy in castration resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Studies seeking to determine whether AR-V7 is a partial mimic of the AR, or also has unique activities, and whether the AR-V7 cistrome contains unique binding sites have yielded conflicting results. One limitation in many studies has been the low level of AR variant compared to AR. Here, LNCaP and VCaP cell lines in which AR-V7 expression can be induced to match the level of AR, were used to compare the activities of AR and AR-V7. The two AR isoforms shared many targets, but overall had distinct transcriptomes. Optimal induction of novel targets sometimes required more receptor isoform than classical targets such as PSA. The isoforms displayed remarkably different cistromes with numerous differential binding sites. Some of the unique AR-V7 sites were located proximal to the transcription start sites (TSS). A de novo binding motif similar to a half ARE was identified in many AR-V7 preferential sites and, in contrast to conventional half ARE sites that bind AR-V7, FOXA1 was not enriched at these sites. This supports the concept that the AR isoforms have unique actions with the potential to serve as biomarkers or novel therapeutic targets.
OPEN High Gain Low-Cost Antenna Based on the Utilization of Diffracted Fields from Semi-Ring Shape Dielectric Edges
Authors: Al-Alem Yazan , Sifat Syed M. , Antar Yahia M.M. , Kishk Ahmed A.
Published: December 2021

A simple antenna with a 20-dBi gain is proposed. A thorough analysis of the propagation mechanism accompanied by a unique physical insight is provided. The realized structure has a low profile, low-cost, and compact features, a detailed link to the Fresnel-Huygens principle is provided.
Time-Series prediction for the epidemic trends of COVID-19 using Conditional Generative adversarial Networks Regression on country-wise case studies
Authors: Bej Arnabi , Maulik Ujjwal , Sarkar Anasua
Published: December 2021

Probabilistic Regression is a statistical technique and a crucial problem in the machine learning domain which employs a set of machine learning methods to forecast a continuous target variable based on the value of one or multiple predictor variables. COVID-19 is a virulent virus that has brought the whole world to a standstill. The potential of the virus to cause inter human transmission makes the world a dangerous place. This thesis predicts the upcoming circumstances of the Corona virus to subside its action. We have performed Conditional GAN regression to anticipate the subsequent Covid-19 cases of 5 countries. The GAN variant CGAN is used to design the model and predict the Covid-19 cases for three months ahead with least error for the dataset provided. Each country is examined individually, due to their variation in population size, tradition, medical manage- ment, preventive measures. The analysis is based on confirmed data, as provided by the World Health Organization. This paper investigates how conditional Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) can be used to accurately exhibit intricate conditional distributions. GANs have got spectacular achievement in producing convoluted highdimensional data, but work done on their use for regression prob- lems is minimal. This paper exhibits how conditional GANs can be employed in probabilistic regression. It is shown that conditional GANs can be used to evaluate a wide range of various distributions and be competitive with existing probabilistic regression models.