bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing Innovative Approaches for Global Health Capacity Building in Fragile Settings in the MENA region: Development of the Evaluation of Capacity Building (eCAP) Program
Authors: Saleh Shadi , Mansour Rania , Daou Tracy , Brome Dayana , Naal Hady
Published: April 2022

Background: Given the magnitude and frequency of conflicts in the MENA region along with their devastating impact on health responses and outcomes, there exists a strong need to invest in contextualized, innovative, and accessible capacity building approaches to enhance leadership and skills in global health. The MENA region suffers from limited (1) continued educational and career progression opportunities, (2) gender balance, and (3) skill-mix among its health workforce, which require significant attention. Main Text: The Global Health Institute at the American University of Beirut incepted the Academy division to develop and implement various Global Health Capacity Building (GHCB) initiatives to address those challenges in fragile settings across low-and middle-income countries in the MENA region. These initiatives play a strategic role in this context, especially given their focus on being accessible through employing innovative learning modalities. However, there exists a dearth of evidence-based knowledge on best practices and recommendations to optimize the design, implementation, and evaluation of GHCB in fragile settings in the MENA region. The present paper describes the development of the Evaluation of Capacity Building program (eCAP), implemented under the Academy division, to assess the effectiveness of its initiatives. eCAP is composed of 3 phases: (1) a situational assessment, followed by (2) production of multiple case studies, and finally (3) a meta-assessment leading to model development. The goal of eCAP is not only to inform the Academy’s operations, but also to synthesize produced knowledge into the formation of an evidence-based, scalable, and replicable model for GHCB in fragile settings. Conclusion: eCAP is an important initiative for researchers, educators, and practitioners interested in GHCB in fragile settings. Several lessons can be learned from the outcomes it has yielded so far in its first two phases of implementation, ranging from the situational assessment to the production of evaluation case studies, which are expanded on in the manuscript along with pertinent challenges.
Neuroprotective Effects of Oxymatrine via Triggering Autophagy and Inhibiting Apoptosis Following Spinal Cord Injury in Rats
Authors: Li Jian , Cao Yang , Li Lin-Na , Chu Xin , Wang Yan-Song , Cai Jia-Jun , Zhao Jin , Ma Song , Li Gang , Fan Zhongkai
Published: April 2022

The identification of drugs that promote autophagy and inhibits apoptosis in neurons is critical for improving patient outcomes following spinal cord injury (SCI). Here, we aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effects of oxymatrine (OMT) and the potential mechanism after SCI in rats. Female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to either a sham group, SCI group, OMT-treated group (40 mg/kg), and a group treated with both OMT and SIRT1 inhibitor EX527 (10 µg/kg). A modified compressive device (weight 35 g, time 5 min) was applied to induce moderate SCI in all groups except the sham group. After treatment with drugs or vehicle (saline), the neurological functions were evaluated using the Basso, Beattie, and Bresnahan (BBB) locomotor rating scale and footprint analysis. Morphological changes in the spinal cord were assessed using hematoxylin-eosin staining and the number of surviving and apoptotic neurons was determined using Nissl and TUNEL staining, respectively. Neuronal ultrastructures were observed using transmission electron microscope (TEM). Moreover, we investigated the gene and protein expression levels of relevant molecules involved in apoptosis and autophagy, such as SIRT1, AMPK, p62, Beclin-1, LC3B, Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, Bax, Bak and C-caspase-3 using qRT-PCR analysis, Western blotting, or immunofluorescence staining. Our results indicated that OMT treatment significantly reduced the lesion size, promoted survival of motor neurons, and subsequently attenuated motor dysfunction following SCI in rats. OMT significantly enhanced autophagy activity, inhibited apoptosis in neurons, and increased SIRT1 and p-AMPK expression levels. These effects of OMT on SCI were partially prevented by co-treatment with SIRT1 inhibitor EX527. Taken together, these data revealed that OMT exerts a neuroprotective role in functional recovery against SCI in rats, and these effects are potentially associated with OMT-induced activation of autophagy via the SIRT1/AMPK signaling pathway.
A suggested Scientific Research Environment Measure SREM in Medical Faculties
Authors: Yousef Mohammad Ali , Dashash Mayssoon
Published: April 2022

Background: Creating a supportive environment for scientific research is vital to improve the quality of research and its impact on development of the society. This study outlines the development of a new scale that can measure the scientific research environment of postgraduate medical students.Methods: Based on literature, an initial list with 58 items was formulated. After discussing with postgraduate students and academic staff members from Damascus University and the Syrian Virtual University, A 38-item scale remained from the initial list of 58 items. To test the scale, postgraduate medical students (n= 30) were asked to fill the scale and answer 38 questions-with a 5-point Likert scale-twice in two separate occasions. The Pearson's correlation coefficient was performed to study the internal correlation. The internal consistency test was performed with Cronbach's Alpha, and the Test-Retest Reliability was conducted to study the reliability of the scale.Results: Thirty postgraduate medical students at Damascus University completed the 38-item scale. Scale scores in the sample displayed good reliability in relation to published results. Findings, showed an internal correlation among its sub-scales. The results showed an acceptable reliability values such as internal consistency (α = 0.863) and test–retest reliability (ICC = 0.093).Conclusions: The Scientific Research Environment Measure (SREM), can be suggested as an effective evaluation instrument which can be applied easily to assess the scientific research environment of postgraduate medical students. This would help the decision makers to support teaching, learning, and research environment through implementing new strategies that inspire postgraduate medical students and increase their engagement.
The Abundance of Bifidobacterium in relation to visceral obesity and Serum uric acid
Authors: Gong Hualan , Ren Qingye , Gao Hainv , He Jia
Published: April 2022

Many studies have found that people with obesity have significant gut microbiota dysbiosis. Most of these studies on obesity were based on the BMI classification criteria, which doesn't distinguish Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) from subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT). However, research showed that VAT has a higher risk of inducing metabolic diseases than SAT. This study focused on the visceral obesity defined by increased visceral fat area. It assessed the association of visceral obesity with gut predominant microbiota and metabolic status. This study included 388 individuals from medical examination center in our hospital. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (q-PCR) technique was used to detect ten kinds of gut predominant bacteria in fresh feces. visceral fat area (VFA)was measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis. According to the VFA results, the individuals were divided into two groups: Visceral obesity group (VFA ≥ 100cm2) and lean control group (VFA < 100cm2). The results showed that the abundance of Bifidobacterium significantly decreased in the Visceral obesity group and combined with metabolic indicators such as Serum uric acid, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C) and fasting blood sugar (FBS), serum uric acid was an independent influencing factor for bifidobacterial. serum uric acid was negatively correlated with Bifidobacterium. serum uric acid was positively correlated with visceral fat area. The results suggested that serum uric acid was probably a mediator to the link between decreased Bifidobacterium and increased visceral adipose tissue.
Genetic and epigenetic mechanisms regulating catalase expression in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Galasso Marilisa , Pozza Elisa Dalla , Chignola Roberto , Gambino Simona , Cavallini Chiara , Quaglia Francesca Maria , Lovato Ornella , Dando Ilaria , Malpeli Giorgio , Krampera Mauro , Donadelli Massimo , Romanelli Maria Grazia , Scupoli Maria Teresa
Published: April 2022

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is an incurable disease characterized by an extremely variable clinical course. We have recently shown that high catalase (CAT) expression identifies patients with an aggressive clinical course. Elucidating mechanisms regulating CAT expression in CLL is preeminent to understand disease mechanisms and develop strategies for improving its clinical management. In this study, we investigated the role of the CAT promoter rs1001179 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and of the CpG Island II methylation encompassing this SNP in the regulation of CAT expression in CLL. Leukemic cells harboring the rs1001179 SNP T allele exhibited a significantly higher CAT expression compared with cells bearing the CC genotype. CAT promoter harboring the T -but not C- allele was accessible to ETS-1 and GR-β transcription factors. Moreover, CLL cells exhibited lower methylation levels than normal B cells, in line with the higher CAT mRNA and protein expressed by CLL in comparison with normal B cells. Methylation levels at specific CpG sites negatively correlated with CAT levels in CLL cells. Inhibition of methyltransferase activity induced a significant increase of CAT levels, thus functionally validating the role of CpG methylation in regulating CAT expression in CLL. Finally, the CT/TT genotypes were associated with lower methylation and higher CAT levels, suggesting that the rs1001179 T allele and CpG methylation may interact in regulating CAT expression in CLL. This study identifies genetic and epigenetic mechanisms underlying differential expression of CAT, which could be of crucial relevance for the development of therapies targeting redox regulatory pathways in CLL.
Astrocytic lactoferrin deficiency augments MPTP-induced dopaminergic neuron loss by disturbing ER-mitochondria signaling
Authors: Xu Shuang-Feng , Pang Zhong-Qiu , Bai Chen-Yang , Jia Meng-Yu , Cui Jun-He , Wang Zhuo-Jue , Liang Xiu-Ting , Guo Chuang
Published: April 2022

Increased levels of lactoferrin (Lf) are present in the aged brain and in the lesions of various neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s disease (PD), may contribute to the cascade of events involved in neurodevelopment and neuroprotection. However, whether Lf originates from astrocytes and functions within either the normal or pathological brain are unknown. Here, we employed mice with specific knockout of the astrocyte Lf gene (named Lf-cKO) to explore its specific roles in the pathological process of PD. We observed a decrease in tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)-positive cells, mitochondrial dysfunction of residual dopaminergic neurons, and motor deficits in Lf-cKO mice, which were significantly aggravated after 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) treatment. To further explore how astrocytic Lf deficiency exacerbated PD-like manifestation in MPTP-treated mice, the critical molecules involved in endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-mitochondria contacts and signaling pathways were investigated. In in vitro and in vivo models, we found an aberrant level of effects implicated in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, apoptosis, mitochondrial morphology and functions, mitochondrial dynamics, mitochondria-associated ER membranes (MAMs), lipid metabolism, and calcium homeostasis, accompanied by signs of ER stress, which increase the fragility of dopaminergic neurons. These findings confirm the existence of astrocytic Lf and its influence on the fate of dopaminergic neurons by regulating ER-mitochondria signaling. Our findings may be a promising target for the treatment of PD.
Shrinkage estimators of large covariance matrices with Toeplitz structure in array signal processing
Authors: Zhang Bin , Yuan Shoucheng
Published: April 2022

Estimating a covariance matrix plays an essential role in modern statistics and practical applications. One key challenge is seeking an outperformed covariance matrix estimator in large dimension and small sample size scenarios. In this paper, we develop new covariance matrix estimators based on shrinkage regularization acclaimed in high-dimensional statistics. Individually, we consider two kinds of Toeplitz-structured target matrices in the shrinkage estimation. Firstly, we obtain the optimal tuning parameter under the mean squared error criterion in closed form by discovering the mathematical properties of the two target matrices. Secondly, we get some vital moment properties of the complex Wishart distribution, and then we simplify the optimal tuning parameter as the data come from the complex Gaussian distribution. Thirdly, we unbiasedly estimate the unknown scalars involved in the optimal tuning parameter. Then we immediately propose available shrinkage estimators. To verify the performance of the proposed covariance matrix estimators, we provide some numerical simulations and applications to array signal processing compared to some existing estimators.
Water resistant soil stabilization via a mussel mimicry ultra-low swelling hydrogel
Authors: Zhao Zhi , Shan Yupeng , Wang Haibin , Lu Hao , Liu Xuemei , Wang Bowen , Song Xiaoyan
Published: April 2022

Employing hydrogels as a substitute for cement in soil stabilization is believed to have great environmental benefits. However, current hydrogel soils stabilizers cannot function properly in wet conditions due to swelling induced structural deformation and mechanical weakening, which significantly limits their applications. Inspired by the mussel byssal, we developed a water resistant hydrogel soil stabilizer that worked under all environments. The synergic effect of intermolecular hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions led to the formation of heterogeneous mussel mimicry microstructures that possessed superior toughness and ultra-low swelling ratio. Soils strengthened with such hydrogels maintained great strength in water, which had never been achieved before. The intrinsic water affinity of hydrogels also ensured a decent permeability and retention ability of water, which was critical to ecosystems. The present work holds great promise for developing the next generation environment-insensitive and ecofriendly soil stabilizers.
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor PET/CT in patients with and without post gastric bypass hypoglycemia – a prospective, matched case-control study
Authors: Hepprich Matthias , Antwi Kwadwo , Wiesner Patricia , Cavelti-Weder Claudia , Donath Marc Y. , Christ Emanuel R. , Wild Damian
Published: April 2022

Purpose The aim of this pilot study is to prospectively compare in vivo glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor expression in the duodenum and pancreas of patients with and without postprandial hypoglycemia after gastric bypass using GLP-1 receptor imaging with 68Ga-DOTA-exendin-4 PET/CT.MethodsFive patients after Roux-Y-gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery with postprandial hypoglycemia (PGBH) and five patients after RYGB without PGBH matched for sex, age, operative procedure and postoperative interval underwent 68Ga-DOTA-exendin-4 PET/CT. Total 68Ga-DOTA-exendin-4 uptake in the duodenum and pancreas, defined as the sum of the standard uptake value (SUVsum) for each voxel in the volume of interest (VOI) was measured by two independent readers who were blinded for the clinical information. Additionally, three further patients with PGBH who received 68Ga-DOTA-exendin-4 PET/CT at our center were added to the analysis. Clinical follow-up data was collected for all patients with PGBH.Results68Ga-DOTA-exendin-4 PET/CT exhibited a greater range of total duodenal and pancreatic uptake (SUVsum) for matched hypoglycemic patients (2144-7802, median 3022) than for matched normoglycemic patients (5104-7507, median 7072), with no statistical significant difference of total uptake = total in vivo GLP-1 receptor expression (p-value of 0.187). In one patient with PGBH a focal tracer uptake in the pancreatic tail was identified. Four patients with PGBH required ultimately a reversal of their gastric bypass surgery due to insufficient dietary and medical therapy of their hypoglycemic episodes.Conclusion68Ga-DOTA-exendin-4 uptake appears not to be significantly different in patients with PGBH compared to matched normoglycemic patients but may reflect varying stages of the complex pathophysiology of postbariatric hypoglycemia.
Adamts-1 may be a compensatory factor to regulate the brain vascular permeability in hyperemesis gravidarum
Authors: Timur Burcu , Guney Gurhan
Published: April 2022

Background: We aimed to investigate the levels of ADAMTS-1, which is secreted from the extracellular matrix during trophoblastic invasion in hyperemesis gravidarum (HEG).Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we compared 45 HEG patients aged between 21 and 34 in terms of ADAMTS-1 levels with a control group consisting of 44 healthy pregnant women. The demographic characteristics and several laboratory parameters of the patients were recorded. Both groups were also compared in terms of ketonuria. We evaluated the correlation between ADAMTS-1 levels and ketonuria.Results: The 2 groups were matched in terms of age, gestational age, gravidity, parity, and body mass index. Some inflammatory markers, such as neutrophil count, MPV, PDW, and PCT levels, were significantly higher in the HEG groups compared to the control group (all p<0.05). However, mean MCV and serum TSH levels were statistically significantly lower in this group (both p<0.001). ADAMTS-1 levels were 12.6±1.4 ng/ml in the HEG group and 6.2±1.6 ng/ml in the control group (p<0.001). It was significantly and positively correlated with urine ketone, neutrophil count, and PDW, whereas negatively correlated with MCV and TSH value in the HEG group. ROC analysis showed that a threshold value of 11.275 ng/ml for ADAMTS-1 predicted HEG patients with a sensitivity of 60% and specificity of 95.5%.Conclusion: ADAMTS-1 levels are increased in HEG patients, and there is a positive correlation between ADAMTS-1 levels and ketonuria.
Whole-genome and Phylogenetic analysis of Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus Strain CH/JSXZ /2015
Authors: Huan Changchao , Guo Xinyue , Chen Pengxiang , Ni Bo , Zhang Wei , Yao Jingting , Jiang Luyao , Gao Song
Published: April 2022

We report here the complete genome sequence of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) strain CH/JSXZ/2015, from natural onset piglets in Xuzhou, Jiangsu Province, China. The gene sequence of isolate CH/JSXZ/2015 (JSXZ) consists of 42% G + C and 58% A + T. The total length excluding the poly(A) tail is 28,044 nucleotides (nt). At the whole-genome level, CH/JSXZ/2015 showed the highest nucleotide identity (99.5%) with CH/GDZHDM/1401 strain (KR153326.1 and KR153326.1), and the lowest similarity (93.5%) to 85 − 7-mutant1 strain. CH/JSXZ/2015 S amino acid identity was 90.8%‐99.8% compared with other strains. CH/JSXZ/2015 ORF3 amino acid identity was 91.2%‐100.0% compared with other PEDV strains. Phylogenetic analysis based on the whole genome, S and ORF3 revealed that CH/JSXZ /2015 is most genetically close to CH/GDZHDM/1401 strain (KR153326.1 and KR153326.1) isolated in China in 2014. It will assist to understand the trend of popularity and evolution of PEDV in China.
Synergistic effects of Nrf2 inhibitor, brusatol treatment in combination with lapatinib, a selective HER2 tyrosine kinase inhibitor in HER2-positive cancers
Authors: Tian Ziyin , Yang Yan , Wu He , Chen Yongye , Jia Hao , Zhu Lei , He Runjia , Jin Yibo , Zhou Bei , Ge Chunpo , Sun Yanxia , Yang Yun
Published: April 2022

Overexpression of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), a member of the HER family of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), is found in many solid tumors. The dual tyrosine kinase (EGFR/HER2) inhibitor lapatinib is currently used to clinically treat HER2-positive breast cancer. However, a majority of patients do not respond to lapatinib therapy within 6 months when using lapatinib alone. Therefore, potentiating the anti-tumor effect of lapatinib by combination treatment has a great potential to overcome the obstacle. Our findings revealed that brusatol potently enhanced the anti-tumor effect of lapatinib against SK-BR-3, SK-OV-3 and AU565 cancer cells in a synergistic manner. Furthermore, we found that lapatinib plus brusatol more effectively decreased Nrf2 level and induced ROS generation in both SK-BR-3 and SK-OV-3 cells. Moreover, we also observed a significant reduction on the phosphorylation of HER2, EGFR, AKT and ERK1/2 in SK-BR-3 and SK-OV-3 cells when treated with lapatinib plus brusatol compared to either agent alone. More importantly, brusatol significantly augmented the anti-tumor effects of lapatinib in the SK-OV-3 xenograft model. In summary, these data provide a potential rationale for the combination of brusatol and lapatinib on the treatment of HER2-positive cancers.
Effect of Behavioral Therapy Counseling on Infantile Colic in Infants of Anxious Mothers: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Montazeri Reihaneh , Hasanpour Shirin , Mirghafourvand Mojgan , Gharehbaghi Manizheh Mostafa , Tehrani Mohammad Mehdi Ghods , Rezaei Shiva Mohajjel
Published: April 2022

Background: Given the possible effect of maternal anxiety on the severity of colic pain in infants, this study aimed to investigate the effects of behavioral therapy counseling on infantile colic (primary outcome), maternal anxiety, and mother-infant attachment (secondary outcomes) in anxious mothers with colicky infants.Method: In this randomized controlled clinical trial, the researcher enrolled 46 anxious mothers of 2­­­­­–6-weeks-old exclusively breastfed colicky infants with Postpartum Specific Anxiety Scale (PSAS) scores ≥ 112 admitted to the pediatric clinics of Al-Zahra, Taleghani and Children Hospitals of Tabriz, Iran. The participants were randomly assigned to the intervention (n = 23) and control (n = 23) groups using randomized block design. Mothers in the intervention group attended 8 systematic desensitization counseling sessions (2-3 sessions per week). Those in the control group received routine care. The researcher completed the Postpartum Specific Anxiety Scale (PSAS), Mother-Infant Attachment Questionnaire (MIAQ), and Infant Colic Scale (ICS) by interviewing the participants before and two weeks after the intervention.Results: There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of socio-demographic characteristics (P < 0.05). After the intervention, the mean postpartum anxiety score of women in the intervention group was significantly lower than that of those in the control group (MD = 22.5, 95% CI = 2.3 to 42.7; p = 0.029). The mean infant colic score of the infants of mothers in the intervention group was insignificantly lower than that of those in the control group (MD = -2.9, 95% CI = -8.3 to 2.4; p = 0.271). In addition, no significant difference was observed between the two groups in terms of their mean mother-infant attachment scores (MD = -0.04, 95% CI = -3.1 to 0.3; p = 0.976).Conclusion: Behavioral therapy counseling effectively reduced postpartum anxiety in women with colicky infants; however, this reduction did not lead to a significant decrease in the infants’ colic pain. Therefore, health care providers are recommended to use this counseling method in combination with other effective counseling approaches to promote mental health of these mothers.Trial Registration: IRCT Registration Number: IRCT20111219008459N14, registered on October 08, 2020. https://irct.ir/user/trial/45949/view
Abnormal patellar pressure may lead to femoral trochlear dysplasia: an experimental study of patellar hypermobility and patellar dislocation in growing rats
Authors: Tang Shiyu , Li Weifeng , Wang Shengjie , Xu Chenyue , Zhao Chao , Wang Fei
Published: April 2022

Background: This animal study aimed to explore the effects of patellar hypermobility and patellar dislocation on the developing femoral trochlea.Methods: Seventy-two 3-week-old Wistar rats were randomly divided into three groups. The sham group (SG) underwent simple incision and suture of the skin and subcutaneous tissue; the patellar hypermobility group (PHG) underwent medial and lateral retinacular release; the patellar dislocation group (PDG) underwent plication of the medial patellofemoral retinaculum. Twelve rats in each group were euthanized at 3 and 6 weeks postoperatively, respectively, and specimens were collected. The bony sulcus angle (BSA), cartilaginous sulcus angle (CSA), trochlear sulcus depth (TSD), and thickness of the cartilage on the lateral facet (CTL), medial facet (CTM), and center (CTC) of the trochlea were measured on hematoxylin and eosin-stained sections.Results: In the PHG and PDG, the femoral condyles became blunt, the trochlear groove became shallower, and cartilage became thicker compared with the SG. Compared with the SG, the PHG and PDG had significantly larger BSA and CSA values at 3 (p < 0.05) and 6 weeks (p < 0.005), and a significantly shallower TSD (p < 0.05). At 3 weeks, all cartilage thicknesses in the PHG and the CTC and CTM in the PDG were significantly thinner than in the SG (PHG vs SG: p = 0.009 for CTL, p < 0.001 for CTM, p = 0.003 for CTC; PDG vs SG: p = 0.028 for CTC, p = 0.048 for CTM). At 6 weeks, the CTC was thicker in the PHG and PDG than the SG (PHG vs SG: p = 0.044; PDG vs SG: p = 0.027), and the CTL was thinner in the PDG than the SG (p = 0.044).Conclusion: Patellar hypermobility and patellar dislocation may result in trochlear dysplasia that worsens with age. Excessive or insufficient stress leads to trochlear dysplasia.
A novel synthesis method of cyclopentadecanone and cyclopentadecanolide from vegetable oil
Authors: Liu Pin , Li Weiguang , Liu Xiongmin
Published: April 2022

Malania oleifera Chum is a unique renewable plant resource in China, its fruit oil has a high content of 15-tetracosenic acid, and it is a good raw material for the synthesis of cyclopentadecanone and cyclopentadecanolide. A Novel synthesis method of cyclopentadecanone and cyclopentadecanolide from vegetable oil was designed, and the synthesis yields of c cyclopentadecanone and cyclopentadecanolide were 38.5% and 63.0%, respectively. The effect of different ester groups on cyclization of α, ω-difatty acid alkyl ester in cyclopentadecanone synthesis, and effect of catalysts on cyclization of ω-hydroxycarboxylic acid triglyceride in cyclopentadecanolide synthesis were investigated. The designed synthesis strategy has the characteristics of less synthesis steps and high utilization efficiency of 15-tetracosenic acid, which has simple and economic.
Social Capital and Community Resilience in Tōhoku-Oki: Lessons from the 2011 Great East Earthquake and Tsunami Disaster in Japan
Authors: Siawsh Nidam Marcus , Peszynski Konrad , Vo-tran Huan , Young Leslie
Published: April 2022

In crisis and disaster management research, social capital is often examined to understand the impacts of disasters and crises on society. This paper investigates experiences of how local cultural norms and social capital influenced the disaster relief process following the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami (GEJET) disaster. To underline social capital’s multiple‐influence aspects, this paper draws from field research that focuses on collective and individual social capital in disaster relief to systematise the findings according to the social capital framework. The paper analyses the 2011 GEJET to uncover new effects of individual social capital and collective capital in a mega-disaster context, thus contributing to pushing the research agenda toward a more critical appraisal of individual social capital and collective capital. This research contributes to the nascent but growing literature that clarifies the relationship between social capital and disaster resilience. A qualitative study using in-depth interviews with eight humanitarian professionals was conducted to capture the essence of their shared experiences. Using a thematic analysis, findings from the study revealed three main themes capturing the essence of the research participants’ disaster experiences. First, disaster response relied mostly on locally driven relief due to a clear understanding of the local culture. Second, there was an urgency to establish a sense of normalcy by providing quality supplies that would help survivors. Third, Japanese gender roles and expectations were reflected in the disaster relief process. The three themes establish a wide array of lived experiences that are important to reflect on the role social capital plays in the policy-making and needs assessment processes in post-disaster relief and response efforts. The findings provide insights for integrating social dimensions into a humanitarian aid culture as citizens work towards a sense of normalcy. The findings present new knowledge on humanitarian workers’ experiences concerning social capital influence and disaster relief. Comparing the emerging themes of the research to the framework of social capital, the study provides a broader and deeper understanding of the application of culture and social capital to disaster relief in the aftermath of a major disaster
Forest fire influence on Tomicus piniperda-associated fungal communities and phloem nutrient availability of colonized Pinus sylvestris
Authors: Kluting Kerri , Strid Ylva , Six Diana , Rosling Anna
Published: April 2022

Forest fire is known to positively affect bark beetle populations by providing fire-damaged trees with impaired defenses for infestation. Tomicus piniperda, the common pine shoot beetle, breeds and lays eggs under the bark of stressed pine trees and is considered a serious forest pest within its native range. Wood-colonizing fungi have been hypothesized to improve substrate quality and detoxify tree defensive chemistry to indirectly facilitate tree colonization by beetles. While some bark beetle species form symbiotic associations with fungi and actively vector their partners when colonizing new trees, T. piniperda does not have mycangia or body hairs for specific vectoring of fungi. To explore the T. piniperda-associated fungal community for signs of specific association, we used ITS metabarcoding to separately characterize fungal communities associated with surface and gut of male and female beetles. We also characterized the temporal changes in fungal community and nutrient status of pine phloem with and without beetle galleries. Sampling was performed two years after a natural forest fire and included both burnt and unburnt sites. In our study system, we find that forest fire significantly impacts the fungal community composition associated with T. piniperda and that fire may also indirectly change nutrient availability in phloem to beetle galleries. We conclude that T. piniperda can vector fungi to newly colonized trees but the absence of positive effects on substrate quality and minimal effects of sex indicate that vectoring of associated fungal communities is not a strategy associated with the T. piniperda life cycle.
B7-H3 targeted CAR-T cells show highly efficient anti-tumor function against osteosarcoma both in vitro and in vitro
Authors: Zhang Qian , Zhang Zhiqiang , Liu Guodi , Li Dehua , Gu Zhangjie , Zhang Linsong , Pan Yingjiao , Cui Xingbing , Wang Lu , Liu Guoping , Tian Xiaoli , Zhang Ziming
Published: April 2022

Background
Osteosarcoma(OS)is one of the foremost common dangerous bone tumors, which mainly happens in children and youths. The combination of surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy are the common therapies for osteosarcoma treatment. Unfortunately, many patients still experience recurrence or lung metastasis after the current treatments against osteosarcoma. Thus, developing new therapies is urgently needed for improving the current osteosarcoma treatment effect. CAR-T, a cellular immunotherapy with genetically engineered T cells bearing chimeric antigen receptor targeting specific tumor-associated antigen, has been proved to be an effective therapy against acute lymphoblastic leukemia Thus, CAR-T is a potentially effective therapy for osteosarcoma treatment.
Methods
A CAR gene targeting B7-H3 antigen was constructed into lentiviral vector through molecular biology techniques. Then, the CAR gene is transferred to T cells through lentiviral delivery system and the CAR-T cells were largely expanded using in vitro culture technology. The in vitro anti-tumor effect of CAR-T cells was evaluated through Real Time Cell Analysis system (RTCA) and ELISA assay. The in vivo anti-tumor capabilities of CAR-T cells were evaluated using the patient-derived xenografts (PDX) model of osteosarcoma.
Results
The third-generation CAR-T cells we constructed could target the B7-H3 antigen, and the T cell phenotype was also consistent with normal T cells; In vitro levels had a clear antitumor effect; The in vivo level embodied the superior antitumor effect in the osteosarcoma PDX model.
Conclusion
Our study showed that B7-H3 targeted CAR-T cells had high anti-tumor efficacy against osteosarcoma both in vitro and in vivo, which proved that B7-H3 targeted CAR-T is an potentially effective treatment for osteosarcoma.
Efficient integrated photo-charging storage device operating at 3 V
Authors: Han Juyeon , Lee Junyeong , Kim Myeongjin , Cha Hyojung , Jo Sungjin , Yoo Jeeyoung
Published: April 2022

We propose a high-voltage driven photo-charging storage device by integrating series-connected perovskite solar cell and an supercapacitor. The photo-charging storage device exhibits superior overall efficiency of 13.17% at 1 mA cm− 2 and 9.87% at 20 mA cm− 2, attributed to high storage efficiency over ~ 70% at all discharge current densities. This high discharge current density is the record value in all the integrated solar cell and electric double layer capacitor system. Moreover, the photo-charging storage device is maintained at 78.6% of its overall efficiency after 100 cycles under AM 1.5 G illumination and exhibits remarkable cycle performance under indoor light illumination. By impedance analysis, interfacial behavior of photo-charging storage device is demonstrated at the first time. In addition, to avoid the decomposition of perovskite solar cell active layer with moisture, the encapsulation process is conducted. These results underline the high potential of this photo-charging storage device as a distributed power source.
Pulsed Electric Field Effect Pretreatment on the Behavior of Microwave-assisted Pomegranate Arils (Punica granatum L.) Hot air Drying
Authors: Amiali Malek , BRIKI Samia , BECHAA Besma , Zitouni Bariza , Raghavan G.S. Vijaya
Published: April 2022

Pulsed electric field treatment is a new, non-thermal pretreatment method that preserves foods forexcellent sensory, nutritional and long-life quality. In this study, the impact of pulsed electric field pretreatment on drying kinetics and the quality of dried pomegranate arils was evaluated. The pomegranate arils samples were subjected to pulsed electric field treatment at different intensities of the electric field of 0.5, 1 and 1.5 kV/cm with application of exponentialpulses of 700 µsduration followed by Microwave-assisted Hot air drying. the samplesweredried at 50, 60 and 70°C with a drying times varying from 65 to 190 minutes, while, for untreated arils, the drying time was varying from 90 to 250 minutes. The highest water diffusion coefficient of 8.25 × 10− 8 m2/s was calculated for samples subjected to electric field intensity of 1.5 kV/cm and 70°C treatment temperature. The greatest Hardness was 39.35 ± 4.81 N. The pulsed electric field arils treatments resulted in better electroporation ofthe tissues. The Pulsed electric field -treated dried arils had higher red (a*) and yellow (b*) and (L*) values compare to untreated dried arils.These dried arils are characterized by a high content of total polyphenols 3350.28 mg GAE/kg DM and high antioxidant capacity (0.6 mg eqTrolox g− 1).The drying kinetics were modeled by different models. The models that best fit the drying data was Midilli et al., followed by Logarithmic and modified logistic model.
Molecular biogeochemistry of a poor fen. I. Seasonal effects of plant functional groups on dissolved organic matter composition in porewater
Authors: Song Zhimin , Khaksari Maryam , Lilleskov Erik A. , Kane Evan S. , Doskey Paul V.
Published: April 2022

Climate change may transform peatlands from net carbon (C) sinks to C sources, which could result in a positive feedback to global warming. Warmer temperatures might lower water tables, increase the abundance of shrubs, slow Sphagnum and sedge growth and further accelerate the decomposition of dissolved organic matter (DOM) with a concomitant release of C from the surface. Studies in which vascular plant functional groups (PFGs) in peatlands have been manipulated to mimic the potential effects of a warming climate on DOM are scarce. In the subject study, seasonal effects of PFGs on the molecular composition of DOM of peat porewater were investigated in manipulated plots of a poor fen in Nestoria, Michigan, USA (46.34˚N 88.16˚W). The organic molecular composition of the peat porewater exhibited strong interactions with PFG and season. Monomeric species (e.g., monosaccharides and amino acids), which are found in root exudates and are also the products of decomposition of polymeric species, were least abundant early in the growing season and increased in abundance late in the season. High levels of DOC and proteinaceous species and an unlikely abundance of total phenolic species in sedge-only plots were attributed to rapid decomposition of labile compounds in the oxygen-rich microenvironment surrounding sedge roots and preservation of more recalcitrant species. Tannin- and lignin-like compounds in the Ericaceae-only plots were attributed to inputs of the woody biomass. The refractory organic species apparently persisted due to a combination of rhizosphere anoxia and suppression of free-living saprotroph activity by the Ericoid mycorrhizal fungi. Through an intercomparison of DOM analysis by spectraphotometric and ultra-high resolution mass spectrometric techniques, we gained insights into the complexation of proteinaceous substances by tannin-like species in the formation of unique DOM. A synergistic effect between sedge and Ericaceae was likely responsible for rapid decomposition of DOM in plots in which PFGs were unmanipulated. Observing the effects of PFGs on seasonal variations of the molecular composition of DOM will improve predictions of the short- and long-term storage of C in peatlands in a changing climate.
Patchouli alcohol inhibits the NLRP3 inflammasome in microglia to enhance neurogenesis in male mice exposed to chronic mild stress
Authors: You Zili , He Hui , Xie Xiaofang , Zhang Jinqiang , Mo Li , Kang Xixi , Xie Lei , Zhang Yue , Hu Nan , Wang Lu , Peng Cheng
Published: April 2022

Background: Microglia-mediated neuroinflammation contributes to major depressive disorder (MDD). Targeting microglia is a promising strategy for treating MDD. Patchouli alcohol (PA), an active component of Pogostemon cablin, has anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. Here, we investigate the microglia-mediated neurogenesis pathway in which PA ameliorates depressive-like behaviors in stress-induced animal model of depression. Methods: C57BL/6 male mice were exposed to chronic mild stress (CMS) for 4 weeks, then administered PA intraperitoneally at 10, 20 or 40 mg/kg once per day for 3 weeks. The antidepressant effects of PA were evaluated in the sucrose preference test, forced swimming test, and tail suspension test. Microglial phenotypes and activation of the NLRP3 inflammation were analyzed using RT-PCR, western blotting and immunofluorescence staining. Effects of PA on neurogenesis were analyzed in vitro and in vivo using immunofluorescence staining. Results: Behavioral assessments showed that PA alleviated depressive-like behaviors in CMS-exposed mice. CMS induced microglial activation and pro-inflammatory profiles, which were blocked by PA treatment. PA attenuated the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome, leading to decreases in the levels of caspase-1, ASC, IL-1β, and IL-18 in the hippocampus of CMS-exposed mice. In primary microglia cultures, PA inhibited LPS-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation. PA rescued inflammation-inhibited neurogenesis in vivo and in vitro. Conclusions: Our results suggest that PA inhibits the NLRP3 inflammasome and ameliorates microglia-mediated neurogenesis impairment, contributing to antidepressant effects. Thus, PA may be a novel treatment for inflammation-driven mental disorders.
pathologic examination of the placenta and its benefits in treatment plan or follow up of patients: a cross-sectional study.
Authors: akhavan setareh , Borna Sedigheh , Abdollahi Alireza Abdollahi , Shariat Mamak , Zamani Narges
Published: April 2022

Background:
The placental examination provides important information about the effect of maternal abnormalities on the placenta or the cause of preterm delivery, fetal growth restriction, or fetal neurodevelopmental damage. In this study, the frequency of placental pathologies of patients in a tertiary hospital was investigated.
Methods:
In this longitudinal and cross-sectional study, all removed placentas after any type of pregnancy termination referred to a pathological examination, within one year (2019–2020). All placentas were examined macroscopically and microscopically by two pathologists.
Results:
Unfortunately, because of the covid-19 pandemic, the number of pregnant women in our hospital declined. A total of 258 placentas were examined. The type of delivery in 193 cases (79.4%) was cesarean section and 50 cases (20.6%) had a vaginal delivery. In the pathological assessment of placentas, 238 (92.2%) cases were normal and 20 cases (7.8%) were abnormal. Infarct and chorioamnionitis were the pathologies with higher frequencies (4.3% and 2.7%, respectively). Intra-uterine fetal death (p = 0.701), preeclampsia (p = 0.51) had no significant difference was seen in normal and abnormal placentas. Maternal age (p = 0.83), gestational age based on the last menstrual period (p = 0.38), and gestational age based on the first ultrasound (p = 0.78) did not show a significant relationship with any of the pathological complications categories.
Conclusions:
Pathological examination of the placenta from all live-birth deliveries is not worthwhile, and it’s recommended to modify the guidelines as to when the placenta is submitted for pathological evaluation.
Point of care ultrasound (POCUS) protocol for systematic assessment of the crashing infant - Expert consensus statement of the international crashing infant working group
Authors: Elsayed Yasser , Wahab Muzafar Gani Abdul , Mohamed Adel , Fadel Nadya Ben , Bhombal Shazia , Yousef Nadya , Fraga María V , Afifi Jehier , Suryawanshi Pradeep , Hyderi Abbas , Katheria Anup , Kluckow Martin , De Luca Daniele , Singh Yogen
Published: April 2022

Purpose
Sudden expected deterioration is common in neonates. The established resuscitation guidelines provide excellent framework to stabilize these infants. However, physical examination in sick neonates is limited in identifying underlying pathology. The purpose of crashing infant protocol (CIP) is specifically to design an ultrasound guided adjunct approach for use in neonatal emergencies, and it can be applied in both term and pre-term neonates in any emergency clinical setting such as neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), post-natal ward, delivery room, emergency room or during transport.
Methods
An expert consensus was reached using a modified anonymous electronic Delphi strategy for the voting process. The statement guidelines have been prepared according to the international Appraisal of Guidelines, Research and Evaluation (AGREE).
Results
A total of 20 recommendations on the use of POCUS in the crashing infant were assessed. There was strong agreement from all panelists on 16 recommendations and agreement on 4 recommendations.
Conclusions
The newly proposed CIP and recommendations can be used as an adjunct to the current neonatal resuscitation guidelines. The CIP protocol is proposed based upon preidentified steps focused on gaining information regarding pathophysiology in infants with unexplained clinical deterioration or those not responding to the standard resuscitation.
Paclitaxel and cisplatin combined with concurrent involved-field irradiation in definitive chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: a phase II clinical trial
Authors: Li Hui , Fang Ying , Gu Dayong , DU Mingyu , Zhang Zhi , Sun Lei , Zhou Guoren , Ye Jinjun
Published: April 2022

Purpose: This trial aims to explore the efficacy and safety of involved-field irradiation (IFI) combined with paclitaxel plus cisplatin as concurrent chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), under the premise of intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT).Methods: Enrolled patients with locally advanced ESCC were treated with definitive concurrent chemoradiotherapy (dCRT). IFI was administered adopting IMRT and the total dose was 61.2 Gy delivered in 34 fractions. On the first day of radiotherapy, the patients were treated with paclitaxel and cisplatin one cycle per month for 2 cycles followed by the same regimen in consolidation chemotherapy for two cycles. The primary endpoint of the study was 2-year locoregional recurrence-free survival (LRFS) rate, and secondary endpoints included overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS) and safety.Results: Between January 2018 and September 2020, 108 patients participated in the trial. 78.7% (85/108) of patients completed all 4 cycles of chemotherapy. The median follow-up of the surviving patients was 33.9 months (interquartile range, 29.2-41.1). The 2-year LRFS rate, as the primary endpoint, was 64.2%. In addition, the median PFS was 39.2 months, and 1-year and 3-year OS rates of 88.0% and 63.3%, respectively. Among the patients, out-of-field regional failure were seen in only 7 (6.5%) patients. Neutropenia grade 3 and 4 occurred in 21.3% and 37.0% of the patients, respectively.Conclusions: IFI using IMRT combined with paclitaxel and cisplatin concurrent chemotherapy for locally advanced ESCC has a high rate of local control and encouraging overall survival, but high hematologic toxicity.TRIAL REGISTRATION Clinical Trials: ChiCTR1800017039.