bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of the EOQ (Economic Order Quantity) Method in Determining Chemical Supplies in PT. Semen Indonesia
Authors: Hidayat Hidayat
Published: February 2021

The competition among products has become commonplace in the industrial world in Indonesia. PT. Semen Indonesia is a company with extraordinary development prospects. Quality control is needed in order to control the product so that when it arrives at the consumer the product is in its best condition, or when the product is still in process, production can be maximized. The method used in this research is Economic Order quantity (EOQ). Based on the resercah, the number of orders for each ingredient is for ammonium nitrate 1, barium chloride 1, ethanol 3, glycerol 1, hydrocloric acid 2, sodium hydroxide 3, strontium nitrate 2. Then, the ROP point or time to reorder each ingredient is for ammonium nitrate 2, barium chloride 4, ethanol 33, glycerol 16, hydrocloric acid 21, sodium hydroxide 4, strontium nitrate 13.Keywords: EOQ (Economic Order Quantity), Chemical Supplies, PT.Semen Indonesia
Synthesis of Biomaterial Hydroxyapatite from Limestone by Using Two-Step Conversion
Authors: Arif Saiful
Published: February 2021

Hydroxyapatite [Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2] is natural ceramic material which is often used for artificial bone reconstruction. In this research, hydroxyapatite was synthesized from mineral of Calcite (CaCO3) which obtained from the Campurdarat, Tulungagung. The hydroxyapatite synthesis steps are encompassed by the preparation of precursors and the synthesis process by using wet chemical manipulation or routes. The XRF characterization shows that the percentage of calcium from the raw material is around 99%. This study succesfully obtains the compound of Ca(OH)2as a source of hydroxyapatite. The concentration of H3PO4 in hydroxyapatite synthesis process influences the synthesis results. For the concentration of H3PO4 0.6 M is still found the compound of Ca(OH)2. The difference result is shown H3PO4 with concentration 0.8 M which the total synthesis product is hydroxyapatite.
Estimation Model of Mangrove Carbon Stock Using LDCM Imagery
Authors: Muhsoni Firman Farid
Published: February 2021

Mangroves are one of the forest ecosystems with the capacity to reduce greenhouse effect. However, there is limited data on thecarbon absorbent properties, and, a fast as well as accurate method of estimating the stock in mangrove is needed. The objective of this research, therefore, was to obtain an estimation model of mangrove carbon stocks, using LDCM satellite imagery. Thisdevelopment involved a hybrid method,where information obtainedfrom LDCM satellite imagery were combined with the field data. The result of this studyidentified the best model to estimate carbon stock. This involvedthe combination of total vegetation stock, using the VARI vegetation index (power regression/ geometry) and soil composition, basedon six variables multiple regression.The%RMSE test result was determined to be 9.58%. In addition, field data was not required in modelsinvolving two variables (MSAVI vegetation index and average sediment depth 100.6 cm), and the % RMSE determined was 34.18%.
Natural killer cells inhibit sepsis caused by feces-induced acute peritonitis via regulation of angiogenesis
Authors: Lan Jing , Zhang Hong , Zhao Hui , Liu Linghong , Shi Qing , Li Dong , Ju Xiuli
Published: February 2021

Sepsis is associated with acute peritonitis, which can be induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) exposure and feces. Generally, LPS induces mono-microbial peritonitis, whereas feces cause poly-microbial peritonitis; the latter is a more complicated and closer to the clinical diseases. However, the immune responses to sepsis caused by feces-induced acute peritonitis have not been reported. In particular, the roles of natural killer (NK) cells, which generally have pro-angiogenic effects, on feces-induced sepsis are still unclear. Accordingly, in this study, we assessed the roles of NK cells in an acute sepsis model in mice. NK cells (108/kg) were injected via the tail vein into mice with acute sepsis, and nitric oxide (NO), inflammatory factors, and angiogenic factors were tested to explore the effects of NK cells on sepsis. In mice with sepsis, we observed a significant increase in survival in mice after the transfusion of NK cells. Interestingly, the levels of NO, interleukin-10, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) decreased. Consistent with our hypothesis, the transfusion of NK cells into mice with sepsis blocked inflammation and promoted angiogenesis. Overall, these findings suggest that NK cells may block sepsis by modulating the VEGF pathway.
Catheter-related Complications with Totally Implantable Venous Access Devices in Patients with Gynecologic Malignancies
Authors: Ernst Kristina , Bärtels Carolin , Gregorio Nikolaus de , Ebner Florian , Schochter Fabienne , Dayan Davut , Janni Wolfgang , Friedl Thomas , Gregorio Amelie de
Published: February 2021

Background: The implantation of a subcutaneous implantable venous access device in patients with a gynecological cancer disease could be necessary because of different causes, e.g. application of chemotherapy or parenteral nutrition in case of advanced cancer. 4 years after implementation of the Seldinger-technique in the subclavian vein as standard way of port-catheter-implantation at department of gynecology at the University-Hospital in Ulm a retrospective analysis of complication-rates was performed to define internal standards for this procedure. Methods: Between 01/2014 and 07/2018 we reviewed all patients who received a port implantation at the gynecological department. The standard way of port-implantation used in this cohort was Seldinger-technique. All Data assessed were used anonymously. Patients-characteristics, tumor-entity, surgical and anesthesiological management, morbidity and port catheter associated complications (thrombosis, infections etc.) were analyzed. Results: A total of 638 were included. The implantation was performed in Seldinger-technique. Port catheter implantation was successfully performed in 96.6%. The implantation on the left subclavian vein significantly showed a higher rate of success than in the right subclavian vein (98.2% vs. 95.3%, p=0,036). Significant higher rates of associated thromboses was found in patients with a port implantation on the left side (5.9% vs. 2.0%; p=0.036). Obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/ m2) leads to a significant higher rate of venous misplacements (p=0.027). Compared to local anesthesia and analgosedation, general anesthesia leads to a significant lower rate of perioperative complications (20.3% vs. 22.4% vs. 13.1%; p=0.014). Perioperative application of antibiotics seems to reduce postoperative infection rates, even if the results are not significant. Conclusion: Seldinger-Technique is an efficient way for port-implantation. Especially patients with a high potential of complications, like obesity with BMI >30kg/m², or other risk factors, the left subclavian vein should be preferred, as well as general anesthesia. Perioperative application of antibiotics (e.g. single-shot antibiotics) should be considered. Trial registration: retrospectively registered
Implementation and Effectiveness of an Intensive Education Program on Phosphate Control Among Hemodialysis Patients: A Non-Randomized, Single-Arm, Single-Center Trial
Authors: Yin Jinmei , Yin Jun , Lian Rongli , Li Peiqiu , Zheng Jing
Published: February 2021

Background: Hyperphosphatemia is a common complication in patients on maintenance hemodialysis. Patients’ adherence to phosphorus control can be improved by consistent education. However, few studies have focused on the model construction and effects of health education on phosphate control for hemodialysis patients.Objective: To develop an intensive education program focusing on phosphate control among hemodialysis patients and to analyze the effectiveness of this program.Design: A non-randomized, single-arm, single-center trial lasting for 6 months.Setting: This program was conducted in a hemodialysis center in a teaching hospital in Zhuhai, China.Participants: Patients on maintenance hemodialysis with hyperphosphatemia.Methods: A intensive hyperphosphatemia control education program lasting for 6 months was conducted among 366 hemodialysis patients applying the First Principles of Instruction model, which focused on mastering four stages: (a) activation of prior experience, (b) demonstration of skills, (c) application of skills and (d) integration of these skills into real-world activities. The controlled rate of serum phosphorus, knowledge of hyperphosphatemia, and adherence to phosphate binders before and after the education program were assessed. Results: The controlled rate of serum phosphorus was significantly increased from 43.5% to 54.9% (P＜0.001). The scores of the patients’ knowledge of phosphate control were improved significantly from 59.10±12.90 to 80.98±14.82 (P<0.001). The percentage of high adherence to phosphate binders was increased dramatically from 21.9% to 44.5% (P<0.001). Conclusion: The intensive education program can effectively improve the controlled rate of serum phosphorus, knowledge of hyperphosphatemia, and adherence to phosphate binders among hemodialysis patients.Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2100042017. Registered 12 January 2021 - Retrospectively registered, http://www.chictr.org.cn/login.aspx
Can Psychobiotics Administration Influence Behavioral Responses and Physiological Stress in Healthy Rats?
Authors: Morsheedi Mohamad , Valenlia Khadijeh Bavafa , Saghafi-Asl Maryam , Hadi Saeid , Hadi Vahid , Askari Gholamreza
Published: February 2021

Background: Bidirectional communication between gut and brain function is well demonstrated. Evidence is accumulating to suggest that psychobiotics [prebiotics, probiotics or synbiotics)] have beneficial effects of on psychological distress in disease states. However, their role in healthy status remains relatively unclear.Aims: Therefore, we aimed to clarify if psychobiotics (L.plantarum, inulin or their combination) can influence behavioral responses and physiological stress in healthy rats.Methods: Twenty-eight male Wistar rats were divided into four groups. Then, psychobiotics were administered to intervention groups for 8 weeks. Behavioral tests were performed at the end of the intervention.Results: Our finding indicated that unlike inulin, the administration of L.plantarum and synbiotic could ameliorate depression and anxiety-like behavior and cognitive performance. Serum and brain oxidative stress markers were significantly improved by synbiotic consumption. Also, intake of L.plantarum resulted in the decreased oxidative stress in the hippocampus and amygdala. In addition, a significant increase in hippocampal serotonin and BDNF concentration was observed after symbiotic and L.plantarum intake. Furthermore, there is a strong correlation between serum and brain markers with behavioral performances. Conclusion: Our study suggests that administration of psychobiotics therapy may be associated with prevent or ameliorate psychological disorders.
RNA-Binding Protein Hfq: A Role in Cellulose Decomposition
Authors: Yang Xingtao , Dong Mengyao , Zhou Ziyao , Deng Lei , Deng Cao , Liu Haifeng , Zhong Zhijun , Fu Hualin , Ren Zhihua , Hu Yanchun , Shen Liuhong , Geng Yi , Peng Guangneng
Published: February 2021

ObjectiveTo study the function of the RNA-binding protein Hfq in Bacillus subtilis cellulose decomposition.ResultsIn the medium with sodium carboxymethylcellulose (Na-CMC) as the sole carbon source, the knockout of Hfq resulted in a 38.0% ± 2.1% and 76.6% ± 7.1% decrease in cellulose hydrolysis ability and cellulase activity, respectively. The results of real-time quantitative PCR revealed that several cellulase genes (eglS, bglA, and bglC) were significantly downregulated in the Hfq knockout strain. The isogenic ΔHfq complemented strain recovered the cellulose hydrolysis ability, cellulase activity, and expression level of cellulase genes. In addition, the survival of Hfq mutant in stationary phase was significantly affected. ConclusionRNA-binding protein Hfq is involved in the regulation of cellulose hydrolysis ability, cellulase activity, cellulase gene expression, and stationary phase survival.
Air Quality Into Cabin Environment of Different Passenger Cars: Effect of Car Usage, Fuel Type and Ventilation/Infiltration Conditions
Authors: Tolis Evangelos I , Karanotas Tilemachos , Svolakis Grigoris , Panaras George , Bartzis John G.
Published: February 2021

Despite that commuters spend only 5.5% of their time in cabin vehicles, their exposure to harmful air pollutants, originated from the vehicle itself, and traffic emission is considered significant. In this study, two passenger cars with different type of fuels, were investigated in terms of air quality and thermal comfort of their cabin. Investigation was performed in the city of Kozani, Northern Greece. Moreover, air samples near the exhausts were taken, in order to compare concentration of compounds found indoors. 12 VOCs, and CO2 were measured inside the cabin when the cars were stopped, when idle, and when they were cruising in medium and heavy traffic roads, under various ventilated conditions. Thermal comfort was investigated while driving the cars through the city traffic. Results showed that the air around the diesel exhaust is less affected by emissions from the engine compared to LPG fuel. This is reflected to the TVOC measured into the cabin. Results also revealed that the air quality of a diesel fuel moving car with open windows is only affected by the traffic emissions from neighboring vehicles, while for the car with LPG fuel, the self-pollution from its own exhaust might contribute together with the outdoor air.
Quarantine in a House of Cards. The Impact of The COVID-19 Pandemic on The Quality of Life of Relatives of People With Major Care Needs.
Authors: Brug Annet ten , Luijkx Jorien , Brander Arjen
Published: February 2021

Purpose COVID-19 (or the fear thereof) has an impact on people’s quality of life (QoL). It is likely to impose an additional burden on the relatives of people with major care needs (MCN). The aim of this study is to provide insight into the QoL of the relatives of people with MCN, in order to assist policymakers and care professionals in restoring and/or retaining an acceptable level of QoL. Method The QoL of 2,845 persons (including 697 relatives of people with MCN) was measured using the WHO-QoL BREF before and during the COVID-19 outbreak. The investigation focused specifically on the extent to which living circumstances and burden of care were related to changes in QoL.Results The COVID-19 outbreak has affected the overall QoL of people both with and without relatives with MCN, and these effects are unrelated to the burden of care for informal caregivers. The QoL of the environment has declined less for people who are living with relatives who have MCN. Conclusion One remarkable finding is a relative increase in sleep and social support for people who have relatives with MCN, although they did report a more pronounced decline in the extent to which they perceived their lives as meaningful. Specific attention should be paid to people in uncommon and vulnerable situations, who are less likely ask for support (e.g. marginally literate people and people coping with profound care needs), despite their low prevalence in the general population.
Techno-Economic and Life Cycle Analysis of Mixalco® Processes For Mixed Alcohol Production From Brown Algae
Authors: Athaley Abhay , Zhang Yue , Papoutsakis Eleftherios T. , Ierapetritou Marianthi
Published: February 2021

The need for producing renewable fuels from biomass has increased due to depleting fossil resources and environmental concerns. However, the low fraction of biomass carbon converted to product is an undeniable drawback for most current biofuel productions from fermentation due to undecomposed lignin in biomass composition and carbon loss as CO2. In this work, two main production routes of the MixAlco® process, the Ketonization route (KR) and Esterification route (ER) are evaluated for the mixed alcohol production by brown algae, third-generation biomass without lignin. A Novel Fermentation process using syntrophic bacteria consortia (SBC) is developed to produce acetic acid from waste gas produced by KR and ER process. The paper investigates the integrated flowsheet for these alternative routes, using techno-economic and life cycle analysis to compare the minimum selling price and environmental impacts. The ER's capital and operating cost combined with the SBC is the highest compared with other routes. The cost of raw materials and utilities are the two major cost factors for all the processing routes examined. ER process performs the best in terms of environmental impacts except in water depletion compared with other processes, while the KR process performs the worst regarding the environmental metrics.
Hair Trace Elements in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders: Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Mikulewicz Marcin , Chojnacka Katarzyna
Published: February 2021

(1) Background: The aim of this work was to systematically review the literature on the relation between the levels of elements in hair (toxic elements and trace elements) on the occurrence of autism spectrum disorder. (2) Methods: Search strategy and study selection: Original articles were included if they met the including criteria that report the trace element levels in hair. The following databases were screened: Medline (via PubMed), Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar (from 2000.01.01 to 2020.11.11). The main search terms used were “hair element analysis and trace elements and autism”. (3) Results: The papers available describe results of studies undertaken with the use of different methodology: diversified size of experimental groups, different sampling and analytical techniques. Therefore direct comparison of the results is not informative. (4) Conclusions: It was found that pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorder was associated with the exposure to toxic elements (e.g. Hg and Pb) which act as neurotoxicants. Also, the relation between some microelements seem to be significant, in particular the ratio Zn/Cu. Higher level of zinc and level levels of copper play the protectory role.
Electro-Optical Measurement of Intense Electric Field on a High Energy Pulsed Power Accelerator
Authors: Owens Israel , Grabowski Chris , Biller Andrew , Ulmen Ben , Joseph Nathan , Hughes Ben , Coffey Sean , Kirschner Debra , Struve Ken
Published: February 2021

We describe a direct electro-optical approach to measuring a strong 118 MV/m narrow pulse width (~33 ns) electric field in the magnetically insulated transmission line (MITL) of a pulsed power accelerator. To date, this is the highest direct external electric field measured electro-optically in a pulsed power accelerator, and it is between two to three orders of magnitude higher than values reported in comparable high energy scientific experiments. The MITL electric field is one of the most important operating parameters in an accelerator and is critical to understanding the properties of the radiation output. However, accurately measuring these high fields using conventional pulsed power diagnostics is difficult due to the strength of interfering particles and fields. Our approach uses a free-space laser beam with a dielectric crystal sensor that is highly immune to electromagnetic interference and does not require an external calibration. Here we focus on device theory, operating parameters, laboratory and pulsed power accelerator experiments as well as challenges that were overcome in the measurement environment.
Benzene Sulfonate Modified ZnCr-LDH and Its Enhanced Adsorption Properties for Anionic Dyes
Authors: Lin Jia , Zhang Yude , Zhang Qian , Shang Jinli , Deng Fuyao
Published: February 2021

A benzene sulfonate modified hydrotalcite (SO3-LDH) was synthesized by a facile one-pot hydrothermal technique, which can efficiently remove methyl orange (MO), Congo red (CR) and orange II (OII) from aqueous solution. After modified by benzene sulfonate, the microstructure of hydrotalcite changes obviously, from the cellular structure to the stacking structure formed by the face-face contact of hydrotalcite nanosheets, which resulted in much more exchangeable nitrate ions to remain in the interlayer space. The pre-insertion of benzene sulfonate as a pillar expanded the interlayer gallery, which facilitated the pollutant anions (MO, CR and OII) into the interlayer of LDH in the subsequent adsorption process. The maximum adsorption capacity of SO3-LDH for MO, CR and OII was 4200.8 mg/g, 1252.0 mg/g and 1670.6 mg/g respectively, which is approximately 1.86 times, 1.8 times and 2.32 times that of the pristine NO3-LDH, respectively. The removal mechanism of anionic dyes was determined as anion exchange between NO3− ions and dye molecules. The adsorption behavior for MO and OII is multilayer adsorption, while the adsorption behavior for CR is monolayer adsorption. The adsorption process mainly was controlled by the chemical bonding between the dye molecules and adsorbent active sites. The benzene sulfonate modified LDH has a great potential to be used as a high-efficient adsorbent to remove anionic dyes from aqueous solution.
Cost-effectiveness Analysis of the Integrated Control Strategy for Schistosomiasis Japonica in Lake Region of China: a Jiangling Case Study
Authors: Wu Ling-Ling , Hu He-Hua , Zhang Xia , Zhou Xiao-Nong , Jia Tie-Wu , Wang Can , Hong Zhong , Xu Jing
Published: February 2021

Background: Under the condition of low epidemic level and limited funding, it is urgent to carry out health economic evaluation on the integrated schistosomiasis control strategy currently implemented in lake region in order to rationally allocate and utilize health resources and maximize benefits. The objective of this study is to provide reference for understanding the effectiveness of the integrated control strategy and adjusting prevention and control strategies or measures. Methods: The investment in schistosomiasis control and disability adjusted life years （DALYs）caused by schistosomiasis were calculated. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER) was conducted through calculating the incremental cost of every additional case averted, the incremental cost of every additional DALY averted through implementation of the integrated schistosomiasis control at different control stages in Jiangling County. Results: The total expenditure for schistosomiasis control in Jiangling County from 2009 to 2019 was 607 million Chinese yuan (CNY). The average annual costs for schistosomiasis prevention and control in stages of morbidity control (2009-2012), transmission control (2013-2016), and transmission interruption (2017-2019) were 41.98 million CNY，90.19 million CNY and 26.06 million CNY respectively. The overall disease burden caused by schistosomiasis presented a downward trend. Meanwhile, the disease burden of advanced cases showed an upward trend with the DALY increased from 943.72 to1031.59 person-years. Most disease burden occurred in the age group over 45 years old (especially the elderly over 60 years old). Taking the morbidity control stage as an analysis control, incremental cost-effectiveness analysis (ICEA) showed that the cost increased by 8505.5 CNY and decreased by 2217.6 CNY respectively to avert one additional case in transmission control stage and transmission interruption stage respectively in Jiangling County. Correspondingly, to avert one additional DALY, the cost increased by 73937.6 CNY and decreased by 21508.6 CNY respectively. Conclusions: As the epidemic declines, the integrated prevention and control strategy is more cost-effective. Surveillance and management on elder population should be strengthened to avert higher diseases burden.
Clinical Characteristics of Children With Airway Malacia Complicated by Pneumonia
Authors: Wang Ting , Xu Qiuyan , Dai Ge , Hong Yu , Chen Zhengrong , Lu Min , Yan Yongdong , Jiang Wujun
Published: February 2021

Objective: To summarize the pathogens and clinical presentation of children with airway malacia complicated by pneumonia. Methods: Children hospitalized with airway malacia complicated by pneumonia were eligible for enrollment from January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2019. Medical records of patients were reviewed for etiology, clinical characteristics, and laboratory examination results.Results: A total of 164 pneumonia patients with airway malacia were admitted. The male-to-female ratio was 3:1. The age of patients ranged from 1 month to 4 years old. The median age was 6 (3–10) months. The most commonly detected pathogen were Mycoplasma pneumoniae (25/164, 15.24%), Streptococcus pneumoniae (18/164, 10.98%), and respiratory syncytial virus (16/164, 9.76%). Common signs among the 164 patients with confirmed airway malacia included cough (98.78%), wheezing (67.07%), fever (35.37%), intercostal retractions (23.17%), dyspnea (10.98%), cyanosis (11.11%), and crackles (50%). Compared with those without airway malacia, the incidence of premature delivery and mechanical ventilation was higher, and the duration of symptoms before admission (median, 13.5 d) and hospital stay (median 10.0 d) were longer. Of the children with pneumonia, 11.59% of those with airway malacia required supplemental oxygen compared with 4.88% of those without airway malacia (p<0.05).Conclusion: The median age of children with airway malacia was 6 months. The most common pathogen in patients with airway malacia complicated by pneumonia was Mycoplasma pneumoniae. Patients with airway malacia complicated by pneumonia often presented with a longer disease course, more severe symptoms, and had delayed recovery.
Comparison of Endocrine Outcomes Following Proton and Photon Radiotherapy in Children With Medulloblastoma 
Authors: Aldrich Kathleen Danielle , Horne Vincent E. , Bielamowicz Kevin , Sonabend Rona Y. , Scheurer Michael E. , Paulino Arnold C. , Mahajan Anita , Chintagumpala Murali , Okcu Mehmet Fatih , Brown Austin L.
Published: February 2021

Background: Endocrine deficiencies are common following craniospinal irradiation (CSI) in children with brain tumors, but empirical data comparing outcomes following proton (PRT) and photon radiation therapy (XRT) are limited. Methods: This retrospective chart review compared the incidence of hypothyroidism, growth hormone deficiency (GHD), and adrenal insufficiency (AI) in patients with medulloblastoma treated with XRT and PRT between 1997 and 2016. All patients received CSI and had routine endocrine screening labs to evaluate for thyroid dysfunction, GHD, and AI. We used proportional hazards regression to calculate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) comparing the development of hypothyroidism, AI, and GHD between radiation modalities, adjusting for age at diagnosis, sex, race/ethnicity, and CSI dose.Results: We identified 118 patients with medulloblastoma who were followed for a median of 5.6 years from the end of radiotherapy. Thirty-five (31%) patients developed hypothyroidism, 71 (66%) GHD, and 20 (18%) AI. Compared to PRT, XRT was associated with a higher incidence of primary (28% vs. 6%; HR=4.61, 95% CI 1.2-17.7, p=0.03) and central hypothyroidism (33% vs. 9%; HR 2.35 (0.8-6.8, p=0.12). GHD and AI incidence rates were similar between the groups. Conclusions: Primary and central hypothyroidism occur less often after PRT CSI, compared to XRT CSI. This suggests that the thyroid and pituitary glands receive less radiation after spine and posterior fossa boost RT, respectively, using PRT.
Identification of Genetic Variants Regulating the Abundance of Clinically Relevant Plasma Proteins using the Diversity Outbred Mouse Model
Authors: Philtjens Stéphanie , Acri Dominic J. , Kim Byungwook , Kim Hyewon , Kim Jungsu
Published: February 2021

Background: Levels of plasma proteins are under control of environmental and genetic factors. To use plasma proteins in biomarker studies, we need to understand how genetic modifiers influence their abundance. Although there has been expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) studies on a few limited numbers of proteins, the effect of genetic variants on the levels of multiple plasma proteins still warrants more systematic investigation.Results: To identify genetic modifiers that influence the levels of clinically relevant plasma proteins, we performed protein quantitative trait locus (pQTL) mapping on the 92 proteins present in the Olink Mouse Exploratory Panel using the Diversity Outbred (DO) mouse population. We identified 12 significant pQTL that were located in cis and 6 that were in trans. Among them, we discovered that the presence of coding variants in the gene encoding for the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (Ahr) had a significant effect on its abundance in plasma. Most interestingly, we identified variants in the Regulatory Factor X1 (Rfx1) gene that influence the abundance of the IL-17A protein in plasma.Conclusion: Our study reports an innovative pipeline for the identification of genetic modifiers that may be targeted for drug development.
Plasma Cell-free circRNAs Panel Act as Fingerprint Predicts the Occurrence of Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Han Jiahui , Lin Qiuhong , Dong Chunguang
Published: February 2021

Background: Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have recently emerged as a new class of RNAs, highly enriched in the human tissues and very stable within cells, exosomes and body fluids. In this study, we aimed to screen the plasma cell-free derived circRNAs in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) and investigate whether these circRNAs could predicted LSCC as potential biomarkers. Methods: The circRNA microarray was employed with three samples in each group to screen the dysregulated circRNAs isolated from plasma samples. The top 20 circRNAs were first selected as candidates with the upregulated level in the plasma of LSCC. Results: Further validation found that only circ_0019201, circ_0011773 and circ_0122790 was consistent with training set. The ROC curve also revealed a high diagnostic ability an area under ROC curve value (AUC) for single circRNA and combined. The AUC for circ_0019201, circ_0011773 and circ_0122790 and the combined was 0.933, 0.908, 0.965 and 0.990 in training set. For the validation set, the AUC was 0.766, 0.864, 0.908 and 0.951. The three circRNAs were further investigated with stable expression in human plasma samples. Conclusions: The plasma derived circ_0019201, circ_0011773 and circ_0122790 might be the potential biomarker for predicting the LSCC.
The Role of Third Trimester Oxytocin Level in Predicting Postpartum Depression Symptoms among Jordanian Mothers.
Authors: RAWASHDEH Hasan , ALALWANI Zahra , SINDIANI Amer , ALODETALAH Rana , ALQUDAH Mohammad
Published: February 2021

Background: About one in five women suffer from postpartum depression, placing it the leading complication during childbirth. Oxytocin has been suggested to play a key role in modulating maternal behaviour and stress-related disorders. However, there is little evidence to support its role in predicting postpartum depression. Our aim is to investigate the relationship between serum oxytocin level in the third trimester and early-onset postpartum depression symptoms and whether oxytocin is capable of predicting postpartum depression symptoms.Methods: A total of 172 healthy pregnant women participated in this cross-sectional descriptive study. The serum oxytocin level was measured between 34 and 37 weeks. A validated Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was used to assess symptoms of depression four to six weeks postpartum. Participants with EPDS scores of 13 or more were considered having depressive symptoms. SPSS version 23 was used for data analysis. Descriptive statistics were provided. Independent sample t-test and Pearson r were used to examine differences in depression scores between selected demographic, psychosocial, and clinical variables. The level of significance for all analyses was set at α=0.05.Results: 8% of participants have scored 13 or above at the EPDS. Pearson r indicated that there was no correlation between EPDS scores and oxytocin level r(170)=0.10, p=0.23. Furthermore, there was no correlation between EPDS scores and oxytocin level among women with a lifetime history of depression, r(43)= - 0.13, p=0.37. Independent t-test has shown that participants with low education, low income, previous history of depression, positive family history of depression, positive family issues and absent emotional family support have scored significantly higher on EPDS scores than their counterparts. The association with a previous lifetime history of depression was noticeable t(170)= - 4.40, p<0.001.Conclusions: There was no relation between late antenatal third trimester serum oxytocin level and early onset postpartum depression symptoms. Third trimester serum oxytocin level alone was not capable of predicting early onset postpartum depression.
Exploring the role of eudemonic wellbeing in motivating health behavior: A brief experimental study
Authors: Marrero Abrania , Wyland Carrie L. , Wilson Mark J.
Published: February 2021

Promoting eudemonic psychological wellbeing, including purpose in life and environmental mastery, may motivate positive health behaviors. However, experimental studies exploring cognitive aspects of wellbeing and health behavior are lacking. This study employed a 2x2 between-subjects factorial design to assess the effects of eliciting a brief saliency in purpose and mastery on anticipated health behavior. A total of 102 participants were randomly assigned to guided visualization tasks on purpose, mastery, both, or a control condition. Dependent measures included a health motivations questionnaire and a food preference task. A principal component factor analysis identified three factors on the questionnaire, and a significant main effect of purpose on the factor ‘socially-derived health values’ was found. No effects of mastery, nor any effects on the preference task, were detected. While longer-term intervention research is needed, this study provides limited evidence that eliciting a sense of purpose, even briefly, can motivate an increase in the perceived value of health behaviors.
High-Performance Tunable Multichannel Absorbers Couple with Graphene-Based Grating and Dual-Tamm Plasmonic Multilayer Structures
Authors: Hu Jinlei , Hu Zheng-Da , Wang Jicheng , Balmakou Aliaksei , Khakhomov Sergei , Semchenko Igor
Published: February 2021

We present a tunable multichannel absorbers in a hybird optical Tamm system at near-infrared frequencies. The simulation results reveal the structure capable of exciting four perfect absorption peaks, which are generated by two types of resonance, namely a guide-mode resonance (GMR) in a graphene-based grating and optical resonance induced by Tamm states in metal-photonic crystal heterostructure-metal (M-PCH-M) composites based on transfer matrix theory (TMT). The numerical and theoretical studies show that the strong coupling between the two modes gives rise to mode hybridization by adjusting the grating period. Coupled mode theory (CMT) has been employed to explain the strong coupling phenomenon. Furthermore, the active modulation of the GMR-based peak can be manipulated discretely by tuning the polarization angle or continuously by changing the chemical potential of graphene. The presented optical absorption filter is going to satisfy high level of effectiveness when developing perspective high-performance optoelectronic devices including modulators, switches, solar cells, thermal radiation and wave filters.
Evaluation of Sirt1 And Foxo’s In Primary Tumor And Distant Organ Metastasis Invaded By Benign And Highly Metastatic Breast Carcinoma Cells Under In Vitro And In Vivo Conditions.
Authors: Dilmac Sayra , Kuscu Nilay , Caner Ayse , Yildirim Sendegul , Yoldas Burcak , Tanriover Gamze
Published: February 2021

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women. In malignant breast cancers, tumor cells have the potential to metastasize to distant organs through the lymphatic system and blood circulation. The aim of this study is to evaluate the expression of SIRT1 and FoxO proteins in metastatic and nonmetastatic breast cancer cells and distant organs metastasis. In our study, SIRT1, p53, p21, and FoxO proteins have been evaluated in metastatic 4TLM and non-metastatic 67NR cell lines by immunocytochemistry in vitro and also in mice breast cancer model in vivo. Cells were orthotopically injected to mammary fat pads of 8-10 weeks old Balb/c female mice. Primary tumor, lung and liver tissues were removed and expressions of these proteins were evaluated by immunohistochemistry, western blot and RT-PCR. In addition, signal pathways that are related to SIRT and FoxO proteins were examined by using IPA core analysis. TCGA database was browsed for investigation of different genes.In primary tumors, SIRT1, p21, p53, E2F1 and FoxO expressions were higher in 67NR compared to 4TLM. In metastatic lung and liver tissues, the expression levels of SIRT1, FoxO1, FoxO3a and FoxO4 proteins were increased in 4TLM compared to 67NR. IPA and TCGA analysis have also revealed that SIRT1 and FoxO proteins are lower in primary tumors, but increased in metastatic stages. In conclusion, in primary tumors SIRT1 and FoxO expressions were decreased in 4TLM compared to 67NR. Moreover, SIRT1 and FoxO, especially expressed in metastatic cells. High level of FoxO expressions in metastatic stages in TNBC patients also supports its association with metastasis. Our findings suggest that SIRT1 and FoxO’s have crucial role in tumor progression metastatic process in breast cancer.
Medication Overuse Headache in Chronic Migraine Patients Using Cannabis: A Case-Referent Study
Authors: Zhang Niushen , Woldeamanuel Yohannes W
Published: February 2021

Objective: To examine whether cannabis use predicts medication overuse headache (MOH) in chronic migraine (CM) patients. Methods: Electronic chart review was conducted by combining the terms “chronic migraine”, “medication overuse”, “cannabis”, “CBD”, “THC” for patients seen at our headache clinics from 2015 to 2019. Of 729 charts identified, 368 (150 using cannabis; 218 not using cannabis) met our inclusion criteria, i.e., adult CM patients with ≥ 1-year CM duration. The following variables were extracted from each patient’s chart: MOH diagnosis as dependent variable, and predictor variables as age, sex, migraine frequency, current CM duration, current cannabis use duration, overused acute migraine medications, current MOH duration, and types of cannabis products used. Logistic regression was employed to identify variables predicting MOH while controlling for remaining predictors. Agglomerative hierarchical clustering (AHC) was conducted to explore natural clusters using all predictor variables. Results: There were 212 CM patients with MOH ( cases ) and 156 CM patients without MOH ( referents ). Current cannabis use statistically significantly predicted cases with MOH – odds ratio 6.0 (3.45, 10.43), p < 0.0001. Current cannabis use, opioid use, and MOH were significantly associated. AHC revealed two major natural clusters. Cluster I patients were younger with less migraine frequency, higher MOH burden, more current cannabis and opioid users than cluster II. Conclusion: Cannabis use significantly contributes to the prevalence of MOH in CM. Bidirectional cannabis-opioid association was observed – use of one increased use of the other. Advising CM patients with MOH to reduce cannabis use may help treat MOH effectively.
Landslide susceptibility mapping based on convolutional neural network and conventional machine learning methods
Authors: Liu Rui , Yang Xin , Xu Chong , Li Luyao , Zeng Xiangqiang
Published: February 2021

Landslide susceptibility mapping (LSM) is a useful tool to estimate the probability of landslide occurrence, providing a scientific basis for natural hazards prevention, land use planning, and economic development in landslide-prone areas. To date, a large number of machine learning methods have been applied to LSM, and recently the advanced Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) has been gradually adopted to enhance the prediction accuracy of LSM. The objective of this study is to introduce a CNN based model in LSM and systematically compare its overall performance with the conventional machine learning models of random forest, logistic regression, and support vector machine. Herein, we selected the Jiuzhaigou region in Sichuan Province, China as the study area. A total number of 710 landslides and 12 predisposing factors were stacked to form spatial datasets for LSM. The ROC analysis and several statistical metrics, such as accuracy, root mean square error (RMSE), Kappa coefficient, sensitivity, and specificity were used to evaluate the performance of the models in the training and validation datasets. Finally, the trained models were calculated and the landslide susceptibility zones were mapped. Results suggest that both CNN and conventional machine-learning based models have a satisfactory performance (AUC: 85.72% − 90.17%). The CNN based model exhibits excellent good-of-fit and prediction capability, and achieves the highest performance (AUC: 90.17%) but also significantly reduces the salt-of-pepper effect, which indicates its great potential of application to LSM.
Investigation of the origin and genetic diversity of wild boars in Northeast Asia via mitochondrial D-loop markers
Authors: Jianing Li , Daxin Pang , Hao Yu , Lin Zhou , Wentao Wang , Boyan Zhang , Hongsheng Ouyang , Yaping Tian
Published: February 2021

Background

Northeast Asia is one of the most important wild boar resources habitats in China. The origin and genetic diversity of wild boars in this region are not currently clear.
Results

In this study, we determined the mtDNA D-loop sequences of 23 wild boars from Northeast Asia and analysed the sequences of 480 Eurasian wild boars available from NCBI. The Eurasian wild boar sequence pool included a total of 21 D-loop haplotypes, among which 27 SNPs were distributed. The phylogenetic tree showed that Eurasian wild boars could be divided into two major groups: Northeast Asian wild boars were mainly concentrated in group A, dominated by East Asian wild boars, while group B consisted of West Asian and European wild boars. Haplotypes 2, 11, 13, and 14 of group A in Southeast China shared position 120C with the outgroup, indicating that they might represent the ancestral group of wild boars. The observed geographical distribution and haplotype heat maps further showed that all the Eurasian wild boars were separately distributed and differentiated from native-born boars in Southeast China. Similarly, Northeast Asian wild boars belonged to one of the branches.
Conclusions

Taken together, the results show that Heilongjiang Province exhibits higher wild boar diversity than Jilin, Liaoning, Inner Mongolia and South Korea and is likely to be the distribution centre in Northeast Asia.
Phytoregulators and stem subdivision in the production of young forage palms (Opuntia ficus-indica and Nopalea cochellinifera)
Authors: Gomes Wellington Silva , Pimenta Samy , Mascarenhas Poliana Soares da Cruz , Londe Luciana Cardoso Nogueira , Vale Arles Matheus Pickler de Barros do , Souza Suzane Ariadna de , Monteiro Hélida Chisthine de Freitas , Rodrigues Bruno Rafael Alves , Vespoli Luciano de Souza , Balam Osmer
Published: February 2021

The propagation of plants through stem subdivision and the incorporation of phytoregulators can be a viable and efficient technique in the large-scale production of young forage palm at a lower cost. This study was conducted in order to evaluate the influence of stem subdivision and phytoregulators on the production of young forage palms under greenhouse conditions. Three experiments (I, II and III) were performed. Experiments I and II consisted of young palm of the Miúda genotype, formed from fragmented stems submitted to solutions containing gradually increasing concentrations of benzylaminopurine (0,0; 0,5; 1,0 e 1,5 mg. L-1) and kinetin (0,0; 0,25; 0,5 e 0,75 mg. L-1) combined with naphthaleneacetic acid (1,5 mg. L-1). An additional control without the use of phytoregulators was also included. These treatments were distributed in a randomized block design (RBD), in a factorial scheme with the additional plot: 4 x 4 + 1. In experiment III, different sized fractions of four forage palm genotypes were tested: Gigante, Orelha de elefante, IPA Sertânia, and Miúda. For this test, the experimental design was RBD, with twelve treatments, distributed in five blocks with five plants per plot. There was no influence of phytoregulators on the characteristics evaluated in experiments I and II. Significant differences were found. However, for the variables length, width, and thickness of sprouts among treatments in experiment III. Therefore, the application of phytoregulators in young forage palms at the dosages used is not recommended. For the Gigante, Orelha de Elefante and Miúda genotypes, the fractional stem size recommended is 5x3 cm whereas for IPA Sertânia, the size recommended is 4x2 cm.
Financial inclusion and banks' performance: Evidence from Palestine
Authors: Shihadeh Fadi
Published: February 2021

This study aims to examine the relationship between financial inclusion indicators and bank performance in Palestine. The study population and its sample include all 15 banks operating in Palestine and cover the period 2006 to 2016 with panel data from 162 observations. To interpreter the variables, the study uses the volume of loans to SMEs (usage), banking penetration, number of ATMs and branches (access), and online banking, the latter if it is a dummy variable. Further, the study uses operational profits, total revenues and ROE as bank performance indicators and dependent variables. Using empirical analysis, the results indicated that banking penetration tools, branching and ATMs, could enhance bank performance. Despite the decline in lending to SMEs, this factor could positively improve the performance of banks in Palestine. In general, financial inclusion helps banks improve their performance and increase their revenues. This study recommends that government organizations can use the obtained results to formulate their strategies and agendas for improving financial inclusion in Palestine and other developing countries. Acknowledgment The author is thankful to Bo Liu and Azzam Hanoon for their comments and suggestions to improve this paper. The author discloses that funding for the writing of this paper comes from the TAAWON research fund.
STUDY ON THE OPTIMIZATION FOR THE SIZE OF FUEL CELL FLOW FIELD UNDER INADEQUATE AIR SUPPLY CONDITION
Authors: Lei Shi , Minggang Zheng
Published: February 2021

In this paper, the influence of the optimization for flow field size on the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) performance under the inadequate air supply of cathode was studied based on the three-dimensional, steady-state, and constant temperature PEMFC monomer model. Additionally, the effect of the optimization for hybrid factors, including length, width, depth and width-depth, on the PEMFC performance was also investigated. The results showed that the optimization of the flow field size can improve the performance of the PEMFC and ensure that it is close to the level under the normal gas supply.