bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Steroid sulfatase deficiency causes cellular senescence and abnormal differentiation by inducing Yippee-like 3 expression in human keratinocytes
Authors: Baek Hyoung-Seok , Kwon Tae-Uk , Shin Sangyun , Kwon Yeo-Jung , Chun Young-Jin
Published: May 2021

Human steroid sulfatase (STS) is an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), estrone sulfate (E1S), and cholesterol sulfate. Abnormal expression of STS causes several diseases including colorectal, breast, and prostate cancer and refractory skin disease. In particular, accumulation of intracellular cholesterol sulfate by STS deficiency leads to a skin disorder with abnormal keratinization called X-linked ichthyosis (XLI). To determine the detailed mechanisms of XLI, we performed RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis using human keratinocyte HaCaT cells treated with cholesterol and cholesterol sulfate. Of the genes with expression changes greater than 1.5-fold, Yippee-like 3 (YPEL3), a factor expected to affect cell differentiation, was found. Induction of YPEL3 causes permanent growth arrest, cellular senescence, and inhibition of metastasis in normal and tumor cells. In this study, we demonstrate that YPEL3 expression was induced by STS deficiency and, using the CRISPR/Cas9 system, a partial knockout (STS +/-) cell line was constructed to establish a disease model for XLI studies. Furthermore, we show that increased expression of YPEL3 in STS-deficient cell lines promoted cellular senescence and expression of keratinization-related proteins such as involucrin and loricrin. Our results suggest that upregulation of YPEL3 expression by STS deficiency may play a crucial role in inducing cellular senescence and abnormal differentiation in human keratinocytes. Keywords: STS XLI CRISPR/Cas9 YPEL3 Keratinocyte
Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on Paediatric Residency Training Programme in Sudan: Challenges and the Way Forward
Authors: Mohamed Inaam N , Nasr Safaa , Omer Ilham M
Published: May 2021

Background: The clinical education and hands-on training are affected by the disruption of formal health care delivery and the emergency need to adapt the new rapidly evolving Covid 19 pandemic .Here we aim to determine the impact of COVID-19 paediatric on residency program training in Sudan.Methods: This study was carried out in the period from December 2020 – January 2021. A designed questionnaire was distributed using Google form, 186 trainees responded. Results: The study included 186 trainees of whom 152 (83.5%) females and 30(16.5%) males. Of whom 15 (8.2%) acquired infection with Covid 19. Comparing the work load and teaching opportunities in the year 2019 to 2020 it was very clear that there is decrease in working load and training opportunities during Covid 19 pandemic. Almost all trainees fully agreed that their training was severely affected during Covid 19 pandemic locked down. Trainees raised the issue of being stressed by transmitting the infection to their families and the working environments.Conclusion: The undue effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on residency paediatric training is well documented. Different innovative alternative teaching methods must be implemented to maintain quality of education, and research.
Fuzzy-based adaptive asymptotic tracking control design for uncertain MIMO nonlinear systems with state constraints
Authors: Liu Yongchao , Zhu Qidan
Published: May 2021

This article concentrates on designing an adaptive fuzzy asymptotic tracking control strategy for uncertain multi-input and multi-output (MIMO) nonlinear systems with state constraints and unknown virtual control coefficients (UVCCs). Such design apply the fuzzy logic systems to approximate unknown dynamics, and an asymptotic controller is recursively constructed by employing a bound estimation method and some smooth functions. The predefined state constrains are guaranteed by virtue of barrier Lyapunov function. Different from the reporting achievements, the restrictive assumption about the prior knowledge of UVCCs is removed in our context. By fusing the lower bounds of UVCCs into iterative Lyapunov functions, the stability of the controlled system is guaranteed. Finally, simulation example is conducted to exhibit the validity of theoretical findings.
Transcriptional alteration of genes linked to gastritis concerning Helicobacter pylori infection status and its virulence factors
Authors: Mirbagheri Seyedeh Zohre , Bakhtiari Ronak , Yaseri Hashem Fakhre , Foroushani Abbas Rahimi , Eshraghi Seyyed Saeed , Alebouyeh Masoud
Published: May 2021

Background Helicobacter pylori infection and heterogeneity in its pathogenesis could describe diversity in the expression of inflammatory genes in the gastric tissue. We aimed to investigate transcriptional alteration of genes linked to gastritis concerning the H. pylori infection status and its virulence factors. Methods and Results Biopsy samples of 12 infected and 12 non-infected patients with H. pylori that showed moderate chronic gastritis were selected for transcriptional analysis. Genotyping of H. pylori strains was done using PCR and relative expression of inflammatory genes was compared between the infected and non-infected patients using relative quantitative real-time PCR. Positive correlations between transcriptional changes of IL8 with TNF-α and Noxo1 in the infected and TNF-α with Noxo1, MMP7, and Atp4A in the non-infected patients were detected. Six distinct genotypes of H. pylori were detected that showed no correlation with gender, ethnicity, age, endoscopic findings, and transcriptional levels of host genes. Irrespective of the characterized genotypes, our results showed overexpression of TNF-α, MMP7, Noxo1, and ATP4A in the infected and IL-8, Noxo1, and ATP4A in the non-infected patients. Conclusions A complexity in transcription of genes respective to the characterized H. pylori genotypes in the infected patients was detected in our study. The observed difference in co-regulation of genes linked to gastritis in the infected and non-infected patients proposed involvement of different regulatory pathways in the inflammation of the gastric tissue in the studied groups.
Study of Relaxation Time Distribution in TiO2-GO Nanocomposite Thin Films by DC Bias Dependent Impedance Spectroscopy
Authors: Chakraborty Mrinmoy , Kadir Eheta Samul
Published: May 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
The Tabriz Older People Survey (TOPS-2019): A community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Araj-Khodaei Mostafa , Sanaie Sarvin , Nejadghaderi Seyed Aria , Sullman Mark J M , Sis Sirous Samei , Yousefi Zahra , Safiri Saeid , Azizi-Zeinalhajlou Akbar
Published: May 2021

Background: Population aging and its consequences area substantial global concern. The growth in the numbers of older people is one of the most important factors increasing the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) on society. The Tabriz Older People Survey (TOPS) aimed to understand the socio-demographics, health-related behaviors, and health profile of older adults. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on a representative sample of 1362 community dwelling older adults in Tabriz, the most populated city in the northwest of Iran. The sampling method was probability proportionate to size (PPS). Data collection was conducted in the households of the participants from summer 2019 to winter 2020. Trained interviewers administered the questionnaire, which measured socio-demographics, anthropometrics, social support, sleep quality, mental health, past medical history, dietary habits, traditional medicine, physical activity, and other health-related behaviors. Results: The sample of 1362 consisted of 56.4% fameless and 54.4% were young older people (60-69 years old). Almost half of the sample were completely illiterate. There was no daily walking in 13.3% of the sample, with women reporting a more sedentary lifestyle than males. Out of the 1362 participants, 135 (9.9%) were current smokers, which was higher in males (20.9% vs. 1.5%) and more than 88% of people who lived alone were women. In terms of sleep quality, anxiety, depression, cognitive status, daily functioning, and social support, men were significantly better than women. Hypertension and stroke were the most and least common underlying diseases (81.0% vs. 6.2%). Conclusions: The findings suggest that older women are significantly worse than older males in terms of social and disability related measures, as well as having a higher burden from some NCDs. The results of this study might help regional health policymakers to identify targets for improving the quality of life among community-housed geriatrics.
Dual transcriptomics to determine interferon-gamma independent host response to intestinal Cryptosporidium parvum infection
Authors: O’Connor Roberta M. , Perdomo Andrés M. Tibabuzo , Garfoot Andrew L. , Gallego-Lopez Gina M , Cavazos Carolina Mendoza , Knoll Laura
Published: May 2021

Background: Protective immune responses to Cryptosporidium parvum, a zoonotic, gastrointestinal parasite, are primarily dependent on the presence of interferon-gamma (IFNγ). We discovered that treatment with soluble T. gondii antigen (STAg) reduces Cryptosporidium parvum shedding in the absence of IFNγ. To identify the protective IFNγ independent responses elicited by STAg, we conducted a transcriptomic analysis of intestinal sections of IFNγ-deleted, C. parvum infected or uninfected mice treated with STAg or PBS.
Results: STAg treatment reduced oocyst shedding in C. parvum infected IFNγ deleted mice. Gene ontology analysis of the intestinal transcriptomes suggested that both C. parvum infection and STAg treatment changes the transcript abundance of genes involved in the host cell membrane, intracellular and extracellular transport, and immune responses. We found in high abundance 37 genes related to IFN type I response in infected mice treated with STAg. Among these genes, members of the oligoadenylate synthetase and Schlafen family were identified.
Conclusions: STAg treatment of C. parvum infected mice induced both host immune and metabolism changes associated with a reduction in shedding. Several components of the type I interferon immune response were more abundant in the ileum of C. parvum infected in IFNγ-deleted mice. Future studies will explore the role of type I IFN mediated immune responses in controlling C. parvum infections. STAg treatment appears to only affects the host transcriptome while the parasite transcriptome remains unaffected. Several C. parvum genes, including mucin genes, are more abundant during infection of animals, which opens new avenues in C. parvum research.
Contraceptive discontinuation among women of reproductive age in Papua New Guinea
Authors: Dadzie Louis Kobina , Seidu Abdul-Aziz , Ahinkorah Bright Opoku , Tetteh Justice Kanor , Salihu Tarif , Okyere Joshua , Yaya Sanni
Published: May 2021

Background Papua New Guinea has one of the lowest contraceptive prevalence rates among women of reproductive age in the Western Pacific Region and this makes contraceptive discontinuation in this country a critical public health issue worth studying. This study sought to assess factors associated with contraceptive discontinuation among women of reproductive age in Papua New Guinea. MethodsThe data used for the analysis were obtained from Papua New Guinea Demographic and Health Survey which was conducted in 2016–2018. The outcome variable for this study was contraceptive discontinuation among women of reproductive age. Crude odds ratios and adjusted odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals were estimated using binary logistic regression.ResultsAbout 33.26% of the women discontinued injectables, 19.15% discontinued pills and 3.77% discontinued other contraception methods. Women aged 20-24 [aOR=2.12, CI= [=[1.04,4.31] through to those aged 30-34 [aOR=1.98, CI=1.03,3.79] had higher odds to discontinue contraceptive usage compared to those aged 45-49. Women with no information on choice of contraception [aOR=2.85, CI=2.31,3.51], those with two or more births in the last five years [aOR=2.35, CI=1.65,3.35] and those living in the Highland region [aOR=1.71, CI=1.28,2.29] were more likely to discontinue contraceptive usage compared with those with information on contraceptive choices, those with no births and those living in the Island region respectively. However, women in the rural areas [aOR=0.78, CI=0.61,0.99], those who are undecided in their desire for more children [aOR=0.61, CI=0.37,1.00], women using LARC [aOR=0.10, CI=0.06,0.15], injectables [aOR=0.43, CI=0.30,0.63] and other modern methods including condom [aOR=0.22, CI=0.15,0.34] were less likely to discontinue contraceptive usage. ConclusionA nationwide mass education on the benefits of contraception is recommended for the Papua New Guinea National Department Of Health to tackle the key findings of this study which were high contraceptive discontinuation prevalence with lack of information on choice, disproportionately high contraceptive discontinuation rate in the Highland Region and the desire to give birth to more than two children as some factors associated with contraceptive discontinuation in Papua New Guinea.
Identification of Splice Regulators of Fibronectin-EIIIA and EIIIB by Direct Measurement of Exon Usage in a Flow-Cytometry Based CRISPR Screen
Authors: Hensel Jessica A. , Heineman Brent D. , Kimble Amy L. , Jellison Evan R. , Reese Bo , Murphy Patrick A.
Published: May 2021

The extracellular matrix protein fibronectin (FN) is alternatively spliced in a variety of inflammatory conditions, resulting in increased inclusion of alternative exons EIIIA and EIIIB. Inclusion of these exons affects fibril formation, fibrosis, and inflammation. To define upstream regulators of alternative splicing in FN, we have developed an in vitro flow-cytometry based assay, using RNA-binding probes to determine alternative exon inclusion level in aortic endothelial cells. This approach allows us to detect exon inclusion in the primary transcripts themselves, rather than in surrogate splicing reporters. We validated this assay in cells with and without FN-EIIIA and –EIIIB expression. In a small-scale CRISPR KO screen of candidate regulatory splice factors, we successfully detected known regulators of EIIIA and EIIIB splicing, and detected several novel regulators. Finally, we show the potential in this approach to broadly interrogate upstream signaling pathways in aortic endothelial cells with a genome-wide CRISPR-KO screen, implicating the TNFalpha and RIG-I-like signaling pathways and genes involved in the regulation of fibrotic responses. Thus, we provide a novel means to screen the regulation of splicing of endogenous transcripts, and predict novel pathways in the regulation of FN-EIIIA inclusion.
Influences of Different Implant Material Combinations on the Stress Distribution of the Foot Following Total Ankle Replacement: a Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Yu Jian , Zhao Dahang , Chen Wen-Ming , Chu Pengfei , Wang Shuo , Zhang Chao , Huang Jiazhang , Wang Xu , Ma Xin
Published: May 2021

Background

A proper combination of implant materials for Total Ankle Replacement (TAR) may reduce stress at the implant and the foot. This study aimed to investigate the biomechanical influences for different implant material combinations using the finite element (FE) method.
Methods

A validated foot model was modified to simulate TAR with the INBONE II ankle system at the second peak ground reaction force. Six types of materials were used (Ceramic, cobalt–chromium–molybdenum alloy (CoCrMo), Titanium alloy (Ti6Al4V), carbon-fiber-reinforced Polyether-ether-ketone (CFR-PEEK), Polyether-ether-ketone (PEEK), and used ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE)).
Results

The von Mises stress at the bearing articular surface decreased with implant stiffness. The combination of CFR-PEEK on UHMWPE presented the lowest stress of 14.82 MPa. A low implant stiffness of the talar component, rather than the bearing, relieved the stress at the resected surface of the talus.
Conclusions

Soft implant material provided a stress reduction at the bearing and adjacent bones. CFR-PEEK seemed to be a good alternative to implant metal components.
Evaluation of the Effect of Myopic Femtosecond Laser Assisted-LASIK on Anterior Chamber Flare Values and Corneal Endothelial Cells: A Prospective Before-and-After Study
Authors: Özbilen Kemal Turgay , Altınkurt Emre , Ceylan Nihan Aksu , Bilgin Gizem Sayar , Gözüm Nilüfer
Published: May 2021

Purpose This study aimed to investigate whether femtosecond laser-assisted LASIK (FS-LASIK) surgery causes inflammation in the anterior chamber and to analyze its effect on endothelial cells.Methods This prospective, longitudinal study included 60 eyes of 30 patients (19 females) who had undergone FS-LASIK surgery due to myopia and myopic astigmatism. Endothelial cell density (ECD) and morphological measurements were performed using a specular microscopy, and laser flare photometry was used to measure the anterior chamber flare values on the day of surgery. iFS™ Advanced FS and VISX STAR S4-IR Wavescan Excimer Laser platforms were used. Flare measurements were repeated on the postoperative 1st day and 7th day and the 1st and 3rd months. The endothelial measurements were repeated in the 3rd month.Results Preoperatively, the mean flare was 5.34 ± 1.13 photons/ms; it was 6.02 ± 2.0 on the postoperative 1st day, 5.78 ± 1.98 on the 7th day, 5.77 ± 3.16 in the 1st month, and 5.45 ± 1.13 in the 3rd month. A significant difference was observed between the preoperative values and the postoperative 1st day values (p = 0.010). The decrease in the ECD was statistically significant, with an average of 120.3 ± 260 cell-count/mm2 (p = 0.001) and a minimal change in the coefficient of variation (p = 0.043). A significant correlation was found between the increase in the flare value on the postoperative 1st day and the preoperative flare value (r = -0.281, p = 0.015). A significant correlation was found between the decrease in ECD and the preoperative ECD (r = 0.434, p < 0.001)Conclusion FS-LASIK only causes minimal inflammation in the anterior chamber on the 1st preoperative day; additionally, a statistically significant decrease of 4.2% and minimal morphological changes were noted in the endothelial cells.
Degeneration of lumbar paravertebral muscles in lumbar degenerative kyphosis with dynamic sagittal imbalance
Authors: Ru Nan , Wang Guodong , Li Yang , Cui Xingang , Sun Jianmin
Published: May 2021

Background: The aim of this study was to probe the degeneration of lumbar paravertebral muscles in lumbar degenerative kyphosis (LDK) with dynamic sagittal imbalance (DSI).Method: A total of 132 patients with LDK were enrolled in the study. According to the ΔSVA of the full-spine lateral radiographs before and after walking, enrolled patients were divided into two groups: DSI group (31 cases) and control group (42 case). Lumbar magnetic resonance imaging examination was taken for each subject. Fat infiltration area (FIA)and muscle muscularity of multifidus (MF) and erector spinae (ES) were quantitatively measured though Image J software. Independent-sample t test were performed for comparison of quantitative variables between two groups. P value<0.05 was considered statistically significant.Result: DSI group had lower muscle muscularity both in ES and MF than control group. ES muscularity at L2 level was 0.42±0.08 in DSI group and 0.82±0.17 in control group. (p=0.016). ES muscularity at L4 level was 0.36±0.11in DSI group and 0.76± 0.22 in control group. (p＜0.001).MF muscularity at L2 level was 0.17±0.08 in DSI group and 0.36±0.07in control group. (p＜0.001). MF muscularity at L4 level was 0.34±0.18 in DSI group and 0.48±0.14 in control group. (p＜0.001).DSI group had higher FIA both in ES and MF than control group.ES FIA at L2 level was 0.50±0.17 in DSI group and 0.31±0.10 in control group. (p=0.023). ES FIA at L4 level was 0.55±0.27 in DSI group and 0.34±0.07 in control group. (p＜0.001).MF FIA at L2 level was 0.63±0.22 in DSI group and 0.36±0.12 in control group. (p＜0.001). MF FIA at L4 level was 0.76±0.31 in DSI group and 0.40±0.19 in control group. (p＜0.001). Conclusions: LDK patients with DSI suffered lower muscle muscularity and higher FIA both in ES and MF compared to control group. Our study revealed that the weakness of the paravertebral muscles plays an important role in DSI process, targeted paravertebral muscle strengthening training may be a potentially effective treatment for this disease.
Deposition of potentially toxic metals in the soil from surrounding cement plants in a karst area of Southeastern Brazil
Authors: Silva Thiago Augusto da Costa e , de Paula Marcos , Silva Washington Santos , Lacorte Gustavo Augusto
Published: May 2021

Cement factories are the main sources of environmental pollutants among the different industrial activities, including soil contamination by potentially toxic metals and the Karst region of Southeastern Brazil is known for the implementation of large cement producing facilities. This study aims to evaluate whether there is an increase in the concentration of PTM in the soil surrounding the cement plants and to estimate their harmfulness to both local human population and environment. In total, 18 soil samples were collected from the surroundings of three cement plants as well as four soil samples from areas outside the influence of cement plants and concentration of the following potentially toxic metals (PTM) were estimated: Cd, Pb, Co, Cu, Cr, Mn, Ni, and Zn. The results revealed that all PTM concentrations from cement plant surroundings were significantly higher than PTM concentrations from control areas and no PTM concentrations from CPS or CA soil samples exceeded national and global contamination thresholds. However, Igeo Index indicated low level soil contamination by Pb, Cu and Cr and high levels for Co. We could not verify significant Non-carcinogenic risk to health for any soil sample, but carcinogenic risk analysis revealed different levels of carcinogenic risk among the sampled locations, for both adults and children. Our results indicate that exclusively evaluating the concentration of potentially toxic metals is not enough to verify the potential harmful effects of cement production for the surrounding population. Here we evidence that additional indices, based on both contamination indices and health risk assessments, should be considered for better evaluation of the impacts of cement production activity.
Estimation of the incidence of invasive meningococcal disease using a capture-recapture model based on two independent surveillance systems
Authors: Ciruela Pilar , Vilaró Marta , Carmona Gloria , Jané Mireia , Soldevila Núria , Garcia Tomás , Hernández Sergi , Ruiz Laura , Domínguez Angela
Published: May 2021

Background: Invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) is an urgent notifiable disease and its early notification is essential to prevent cases. The objective of the study was to assess the sensitivity of two independent surveillance systems, the statutory disease reporting system (SDR) and the microbiological reporting system (MRS), and to estimate the incidence of IMD.Methods: The study was performed in Catalonia, Spain, between 2011 and 2015. The variables collected were age, sex, year of report, size of municipality (< 10,000 and ≥ 10,000), clinical form, death, serogroup, country of birth and type of reporting centre (private and public). The capture-recapture analysis and 95% confidence intervals were calculated using the Chapman formula. Multinomial logistic regression was performed for adjusted estimation.Results: The sensitivity of the two combined surveillance systems was 88.5% (85.0-92.0). SDR had greater sensitivity than the MRS (67.9%; 62.7-73.1 vs. 64.7%; 59.4-70.0). In 2014-2015, the sensitivity of both systems was higher (80.6%; 73.2–87.9 vs. 73.4%; 65.2–81.6) than in 2011-2013 (59.3%; 52.6–66.0 vs. 58.3%; 51.6–65.1). In private centres, the sensitivity was higher for SDR than for MRS (100%; 100–100 vs. 4.8%; -4.4–13.9). The adjusted estimate of cases was lower than that obtained using the Chapman formula (279; 266–296 vs. 313; 295–330). The estimated adjusted incidence of IMD was 0.7/100,000 persons-year.Conclusions: The sensitivity of enhanced surveillance through the combination of two complementary sources was higher than for the sources individually. Factors associated with under-reporting in different systems should be analysed to improve IMD surveillance.
Analysis of Microbial Community Structure Around Roots of Stipa Grandis
Authors: Zhu Ai-Min , Han Guo-Dong , Liu Hai-Li , Wang Yue-Hua
Published: May 2021

The root zone microbial structure is particularly complex for plants with rhizosheaths, which may play an important role in the future agricultural sustainable development. However, one of the important reasons for restricting our study of rhizosheath microbial structure is that there is no definite method for rhizosheath separation. The aim of this study was to explore the isolation methods of rhizosheath and the diversity and functional characteristics of microorganisms around the rhizosphere. In this study, we isolated the rhizosheath of Stipa grandis, a dominant species in desert steppe, and the microorganisms in the roots, root epidermis, rhizosheath, rhizosphere soil were extracted and sequenced by 16s RNA and ITS. The bacterial alpha diversity index was in the order rhizosphere soil > rhizosheath > root epidermis > endophytic, and the fungal alpha diversity index was rhizosphere soil and rhizosheath > root epidermis and endophytic. There were significant differences in bacterial community structure between the root epidermis and endophytic, rhizosheath, rhizosphere soil, and the sum of relative abundance of the dominant bacterial populations Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria was 73.9% in the root epidermis. Different from bacterial community structure, the community structure of root epidermis fungi was similar to endophytic, but significantly different from rhizosheath and rhizosphere soil. We suggest that the root epidermis can act as the interface between the host plant root and the external soil environment. This study will provide theoretical and technical guidance for the isolation of plant rhizosheath and the study of microorganisms in it.
Geometric morphometric analysis of body shape and size variations in hatchery-reared larvae of a tropical damsel fish, Dascyllus carneus Fischer, 1885
Authors: Anzeer F. Muhammed , Santhosh B. , Anand P. P. , Vardhanan Y. Shibu , Gopalakrishnan A. , Krishnan P.
Published: May 2021

The growth trajectories of the fishes during their early developmental phase are not adequately understood due to the continuous changes in their morphology, behaviour, and feeding habits. Understanding these interactions in relation to the habits, habitat, rate of growth, rate of development, and duration of different stages of growth are useful in predicting the direction of ecological and evolutionary changes in the life history of fishes. Using, geometric morphometric methods, we investigated the stage-specific phenotypic plasticity of Dascyllus carneus (cloudy damsel) in captivity during the entire larval development and metamorphosis. Each developmental stage has its unique shape and size, showing significant phenotypic plasticity (p < 0.001). The allometric analysis showed that D. carneus did not change its linear pattern of allometric growth trajectory till the stage of postflexion. In contrast, non-allometric growth analysis indicated a sudden shift from negative to positive allometric growth after the postflexion stage. Based on the results, it can be concluded that both in allometric and non-allometric analyses, except the yolk sac stage, all the other post-embryonic stages followed allometric growth patterns. Apart from the stage- specific phenotypic plasticity, the similarity and dissimilarity of each developmental stage were validated using statistical methods, such as discriminant function analysis (DFA), two-block partial least square (2B-PLS), and canonical variate analysis (CVA). All stages were seen distributed into a unique trait-based morphospace as each stage contained unique shape and size features. In our study, 2B-PLS was used to unveil the head and trunk integration at each stage. We establish that, the development of head and trunk are in separate morphological modules after the yolk sac and preflexion stages. From the overall analyses, all stages, except the juvenile stage, were observed to show high level of heterogeneity and at the transition stage, well-adapted individuals were observed. Stage-specific analysis and understanding of stage-specific requirements of developing larvae will help to surpass some challenges in larval rearing practices, which are discussed in this paper.
Synthesis and Antimicrobial, Antiproliferative Evaluation of Novel Quinolone and Conazole Analogues via Conventional and Microwave Techniques
Authors: Ceylan Şule , Cebeci Yıldız Uygun , Demirbaş Neslihan , Karaoğlu Şengül Alpay , Altun Muhammed
Published: May 2021

1,2,4-Triazole-3-one (3), acquired from cinnemaldehyde was converted to the corresponding carbox(thio)amides via several steps (6a-c). Their reaction with sodium hydroxide gave the 1,2,4-triazole derivatives (7a-c). Compound 3 treatment with 2-bromo-1-(4-chlorophenyl) ethanone or 2-chloro-1-(2,4-dichlorophenyl)ethanone afforded the compounds 8a,b and by reducing these compounds reduction products were obtained (9a,b). The synthesis of (10a-e) was carried out by the reaction compounds 9a,b with different benzyl chlorides. Then oxadiazol derivative (12) was obtained by ring closure from hydrazide compound 5. Subsequently compounds 3, 7a-c and 12 were treated with various amines in the presence of formaldehyde to yield Mannich bases (11a-e, 14a-e, 13a,b). Microwave-assisted and conventional techniques were utilized for the syntheses. The structures of newly synthesized compounds were illuminated by spectroscopic methods. Their antimicrobial (MIC method), and anticancer activities (Abay’s method) were examined. Results showed that most of the compounds exhibited good antimicrobial activities. Especially compounds 14a-e which is a mannich base showed very good antitubercular activity against Mycobacterium smegmatis compared with Streptomycin standard drug. Also compounds 8a and 9b have been found to have strong antiproliferative effects on the HeLa cervical cancer cells and also these compounds did not have cytotoxic effect on normal cell.
Dynamics of Laser Produced Plasma From Foam Targets for Future Nanolithography Devices and X-Ray Sources
Authors: Wu Yaoxing , Jain Girik , Sizyuk Tatyana , Wang Xinbing , Hassanein Ahmed
Published: May 2021

Foam targets are expected to be more efficient candidates than solid targets for laser produced plasma (LPP) for extreme ultraviolet (EUV) and x-ray radiation sources due to the expected plasma conditions that can be optimized regarding plasma opacities, volumetrics heating effects, and the produced ions debris characteristics. In this paper, a comparison of ion dynamics between low-density foam and solid Ni plasma was systematically investigated at CMUXE. The foam Ni target (density 0.6 g/cm3) and solid Ni target (density 8.9 g/cm3) were irradiated with 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser in vacuum. A Faraday cup (FC) was used to record the ion flux and time-of-flight (TOF) signals. A lower and wider TOF signal was observed for foam Ni plasma on the time scale. The average ion energy and peak of the TOF signal of solid Ni plasma were much higher than that of the foam Ni plasma. However, the total charge values between foam and solid Ni plasma were comparable indicating a more volumetric absorption of laser energy for foam Ni. The average ion energy and peak of the TOF signal of solid Ni showed a stronger angular and laser energy dependence than that of foam Ni. The plume shape of the solid Ni plasma appeared as an oblong ellipse at each time, while that of foam Ni plasma tended to be more circular, especially at early times. The results of mass ablation rate were consistent with the FC signals and showed a more intense plasma shielding for solid Ni.
Study on the Kinematic characteristics of different level jumpers squatting and jumping under different ground
Authors: Hua Hewen
Published: May 2021

Objective: The purpose of this study is to compare the kinematic differences of different level jumping athletes in the process of squatting on different ground, and to reveal the biomechanical mechanism of the effect of squatting on different ground on training effect. Methods: The subjects were 11 first-class and above jumping athletes (excellent group) and 11 second-class athletes (ordinary group). The kinematic data were photographed by SONYDCRHC52E high-speed camera with a sampling frequency of 50 frames per second, and the data were analyzed by SIMI-Motion three-dimensional motion analysis system. The subjects squatted and jumped on four kinds of ground (force platform, balance pad, gymnastics pad and sand) with their hands on their hips. Results: In the intra-group analysis, it was found that the athletes of different levels squatted and jumped on four different kinds of ground, but there was no significant difference only on the balance pad and gymnastics mat (excellent group p=0.344, ordinary group p=1). In the inter-group analysis, it was found that there were significant differences between different levels of athletes in balance pad (p=0.043) and sand (p=0.02). In the buffering stage of squatting jump, there was no significant difference in the buffering angle displacement of lower limb joints of different athletes on different ground. In the stage of pedal and extension, the angular displacement of ankle on the middle platform of the excellent group was significantly different from that of the balance pad (p=0.014), gymnastics pad (p=0.017) and sand (p=0.013), but in the ordinary group, the ankle angular displacement of the middle platform was only significantly different from that of the gymnastics pad (p= 0.048) and sand (p=0.017), but not significantly different from that of the balance pad (p=0.166). The maximum angular velocity of hip joint of athletes of different levels was significantly different among different ground groups. The maximum angular velocity of ankle joint of common group was significantly different in force platform and sand (p=0.032), gymnastics mat and sand (p=0.008), but there was no significant difference in balance pad. Conclusion: Different places have great influence on the ordinary group, and on the ground with lower elastic coefficient, the maximum angular velocity of the ankle joint in the ordinary group is much smaller than that in the excellent group, which indicates that the rapid contractile ability of ankle muscles in the ordinary group is poor on the ground with low elastic coefficient. When squatting and jumping on the ground with lower elastic coefficient, the excellent group has better body control and coordination and lower joint energy loss, which makes the jumping effect better,
Solitary Liver Metastasis of Renal Cell Carcinoma 8 Years After Nephrectomy
Authors: Lu Haoran , Zhao Shouye , Ma Guodong , Zhao Rou , Zhang Bin
Published: May 2021

Background: Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is the most common renal malignancy in adults. RCC can metastasize to various organs of the human body, including lung, bone, brain, liver, and adrenal gland. However, solitary metastases are relatively rare in clinical practice, and surgical treatment is still the preferred treatment.Case report: We present a 68-year-old male patient who was performed laparoscopic radical left nephrectomy for RCC 8 years ago. Postoperative routine examination revealed an occupying lesion in the liver. Further PET-CT suggested hepatic metastasis of RCC thus undergoing laparoscopic left hepatectomy. Pathology confirmed metastatic RCC in the liver. The patient recovered well after the operation, and there was no sign of recurrence during the follow-up for six months after the operation.Conclusion: Patients with renal carcinoma can still have recurrence and metastasis after radical nephrectomy for many years. Therefore, long-term close follow-up is beneficial to patients with radical nephrectomy.
Ovarian Mucinous Tumor with Mural Nodules of Anaplastic Carcinoma: A Clinicopathological Analysis of Three Cases Report and Review of Related Literature
Authors: Wang Xiaojuan , Wang Pei , Xi Yanfeng , Bu Peng , Wang Chunyan
Published: May 2021

Background:Anaplastic carcinoma mural nodules presenting in ovarian mucinous cystic tumors are very rare. Here, we reported clinicopathological, immunohistochemical and molecular features of 3 such cases, and reviewed the related literature.Case presentation:The expression of pan-cytokeratin (CK) in the mural nodules of all three patients supported the diagnosis of mural nodules of anaplastic carcinoma. Immunohistochemical staining showed wild-type expression of p53 in the mural nodules and mucinous epithelium of Cases 2 and 3, while Case 1 was negative for the p53 mutation. The synchronous expression of p53 in epithelia and mural nodules suggested that mural nodules might be homologous with mucinous adenocarcinoma and might be the result of dedifferentiation of mucinous adenocarcinoma. In the sarcomatoid region of Case 1, p53 was wild-type in spindle cells and multinucleated giant cells in the background. In Case 3, a broad-based serrated adenoma of the appendix was also found. Therefore, exons of tumor-related genes were detected by high-throughput next-generation sequencing (NGS). Missense mutations of PIK3CA and PTEN were found, but no germline mutations were detected.Conclusions:In young patients with sarcomalike mural nodule (SLMNs) morphology, pathological analysis is recommended to avoid overlooking the existence of malignant mural nodules. Serrated lesions occurred in the appendix and ovarian mucinous tumor simultaneously, but no germline mutations were detected by NGS, indicating this was a sporadic case.
Improving the Conductivity and its Flexibility of Fabricated Chips from A copolymer PDMS-PEI and Nano Graphene Metals composite
Authors: Abdelrahman Ameen , Erchiqui Fouad , Nedil Mourad
Published: May 2021

Our work aims to make a unique polymer to be used as a conductive and flexible chip antenna. Its properties are robustness, rigidity, stretchability, and good conduction. The fabricated composite is composed of two copolymers, Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and Polyethylenimine (PEI), assembled with nano metals (Copper, Silver ), and graphene nanoparticles as a matrix. Nano metals fill out the inter-layer space, and polymer voids reinforce the cross linker. Graphene/metal nanoparticles help make chelating complexes using metallic bonds, enhancing the polymer’s conductivity from 1.87 × 10− 4 to 5.64 ×10− 6 σ Scm− 1. We analyze the conductivity, self-healing, and surface morphology of fabricated composite using different spectroscopic techniques, such as electrochemical impedance (EIS), Scanning Electronic Microscopy ( SEM), Transition Electronic Microscopy (TEM), Infrared spectroscopy ( IR), UV-Visible spectroscopy (UV), and a particle size analyzer.
Complex Probiotics Supplementation Improves Overtraining-Induced Muscle Inflammatory Response and Antioxidant Status Via LPS-TLR4/NF-κb Signalling Pathway in Rats
Authors: Xia Yali , Shao Jing , Wang Hui , Tan Qiushi , Han Qi , YI Muqing
Published: May 2021

Background: Prolonged endurance and intensive exercise has shown detrimental effects on muscle health as well as causes intestinal dysbiosis. Probiotics are known as live microorganisms effective in improving gut microbiota and immunity to warrant health and well-being, which exert global and local biological functions on gut and muscle comprising of anti-oxidative stress, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptosis, etc,. This research was conducted to investigate whether complex probiotics supplementation could alleviate excessive exercise-induced muscle damage and underlying signaling mechanism in rats.Methods: Thirty-two male SD rats were randomly allocated to four groups: control (SC), exercise (EC), probiotics (SP) and exercise with probiotics (EP) (n = 8 each). In the overtraining model, rats were arranged to an incremental load training on the treadmill 6 days/week for 8 weeks and gavaged with complex-probiotic-preparation (4 × 109 CFU/g) containing maltodextrin or maltodextrin only once a day. Serum and soleus were collected at the end of experiment. Serum creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities, the levels of lipopolysaccharide (LPS), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), malondialdehyde (MDA), and muscle total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT) in soleus were measured. Furthermore, soleus protein expression of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), p-p65/p65, Bax, Bcl-2, caspase-9 and caspase-3 were determined by western blotting assay. Results: The findings indicated that excessive exercise induced a significant increased CK and LDH activities, LPS levels, relative protein expression of TLR4, MyD88, p-p65/p65, inflammatory cytokines and lipid peroxidation (p < 0.05). Simultaneously, the antioxidant elements including T-AOC, GPx, CAT were markedly decreased in the muscle of EC group (p < 0.05). In addition, up-regulated the protein expression of Bax/Bcl-2, cleaved caspase-9/procaspase-9 and cleaved caspase-3/procaspase-3 in muscle (p < 0.05). Administration of complex probiotics attenuated overtraining-induced inflammatory response, oxidative injury and TLR4/nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB) signaling factors expression as a result of reversing the most of above altered biochemical parameters (p < 0.05), and there was only tendency downregulation in the expression of apoptosis-regulated proteins (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Administration of complex probiotics could improve capability of the anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory status induced by excessive exercise in rat skeletal muscle possibly via protecting the gut mucosal barrier, inhibiting the outflow of endotoxin, attenuating the action of TLR4-mediated NF-kB pathway.
Deep Breathing Couples CSF and Venous Fluid Dynamics
Authors: Kollmeier Jost M , Gürbüz-Reiss Lukas , Badura Simon , Ellebracht Ben , Gärtner Jutta , Ludwig Hans-Christoph , Frahm Jens , Dreha-Kulaczewski Steffi
Published: May 2021

Background: Deep inspiration acts as a driving force for eliciting an upward flow of CSF into the brain simultaneous to an increase of venous outflow to the heart. These findings suggest two interconnected fluid systems which together play a pivotal role in maintaining constant intracranial pressure. Moreover, venous system pathologies are increasingly connected with various disorders of CSF circulation, although exact coupling mechanisms remain unknown. The purpose of the present study was to explore the role of respiratory forces in linking both fluid systems in the upper and lower body.Methods: Twelve healthy subjects (2 females, age 23-38 years) were studied using real-time phase-contrast flow MRI at 3T. Subjects followed a breathing protocol with 40 s of normal and forced respiration. CSF flow was quantified at the aqueduct and spinal levels C3 and L3. Venous flow was studied in the internal jugular veins and cervical epidural veins and in the inferior vena cava and lumbar epidural veins. Flow values (ml s-1), ROI sizes (mm2) and flow frequency components (Hz) were determined and Wilcoxon signed-rank and paired t-tests employed to calculate p values.Results: Cardiac-related flow components prevailed during normal breathing. Forced respiration shifted the main frequency component for CSF and venous dynamics to 0.2 in line with the breathing protocol. Amplification of fluid flow during forced breathing reached significance at all positions except for lumbar and cervical epidural veins and the internal jugular vein which showed decreased flow rates. Veins of the superior and inferior parts of the body followed an opposite flow behavior.Conclusion: Our results support the notion that deep respiration acts as a coupling mechanism of the interdependent venous and CSF flow. Surpassing a certain threshold of intrathoracic and abdominal volume and pressure, deep breathing may perturb their cardiac-dominated fluid dynamics and prompt a synchronous increase of movements. Insights into the driving forces of CSF and venous circulation extend our understanding how the cerebral venous system may be conjunct to intracranial pressure regulations. It will further facilitate our understanding of the pathophysiology of related forms of hydrocephalus.
Solid-State Growth of Cspbi3 Perovskites: Phases Formation and Stability
Authors: Satta Jessica , Casu Alberto , Chiriu Daniele , Carbonaro Carlo , Stagi Luigi , Ricci Pier Carlo
Published: May 2021

Totally inorganic perovskites are playing an increasingly important role for their potential applications in optoelectronics devices. However, a big problem to be solved is the role of the different phases, the presence of which is closely linked to the growth method and to the role of impurities. In this article, we propose a solvent-free, solid-state growth method, which allows to obtain samples free of any organic residues. The analysis of structural (XRD and Raman measurements), optical (absorption, steady-time and time-resolved luminescence) and morphological (HRTEM imaging), permitted to understand the phase evolution during the synthesis as a function of the temporal duration. The dynamic equilibrium process at high temperature between the CsPbI3 and the starting precursors, CsI and PbI2, plays a fundamental role in the final phase. If, from one side, the α and δ phases are related to the exact stoichiometry, on the other hand an excess of CsI permits the formation of room temperature stable perovskite γ-phase and, with a further excess, the secondary Cs4PbI6 phase is obtained.
Socializing The Evidence For Diabetes Control To Develop “Mindlines”: A Qualitative Pilot Study
Authors: Epling John W , Rockwell Michelle S. , Miller Allison D. , Carver M. Colette
Published: May 2021

Background:Evidence on specific interventions to improve diabetes control in primary care is available, but this evidence is not always well-implemented. The concept of “mindlines” has been proposed to explain how clinicians integrate evidence using specifics of their practices and patients to produce knowledge-in-practice-in-context. We designed a pilot study to operationalize this concept by creating a venue for clinician-staff interaction concerning evidence. We attempted to hold “mindlines”-producing conversations in primary care practices about evidence to improve diabetes control.Methods:In each of four primary care practices in a single health system, we held a practice-wide conversation about a simple diabetes intervention model over a provided lunch. We attempted to keep the conversation relatively informal and encouraged participation from all. We recorded the conversations and took field notes. We analyzed the data using a framework adapted from the “mindlines” research and noted additional emerging themes.Results:While most of the conversation concerned barriers to implementation of the simple diabetes intervention model, we noted examples of practices adopting and adapting the evidence to suit their own needs and context. Performance metrics regarding diabetes control for the four practices improved after the intervention. Conclusion:It appears that the type of conversations that “mindlines” research describes can be generated with facilitation around evidence, but further research is required to better understand the limitations and impact of this intervention.