bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vamp3-dependent secretion of endocytic BDNF from astrocytes
Authors: Han Jeongho , Yoon Sungryeong , Park Hyungju
Published: August 2021

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) regulates diverse brain functions via TrkB receptor signaling. Due to the expression of TrkB receptors, astrocytes can internalize extracellular BDNF proteins via receptor-mediated endocytosis. Endocytosed BDNF can be re-secreted upon stimulation, but the molecular mechanism underlying this phenomenon remains unrecognized. Our study reveals that vesicle-associated membrane protein 3 (Vamp3) selectively regulates the endocytic release of BDNF from astrocytes. By using quantum dot (QD)-conjugated mature BDNF (QD-BDNF) as a proxy for the extracellular BDNF protein, we monitored the uptake, transport, and secretion of BDNF from cultured cortical astrocytes. Our data showed that endocytic QD-BDNF particles were enriched in Vamp3-containing vesicles in astrocytes and that ATP treatment sufficiently triggered either the antero- or retrograde transport and exocytosis of QD-BDNF-containing vesicles. Downregulation of Vamp3 expression disrupted endocytic BDNF secretion from astrocytes but did not affect uptake or transport. Collectively, these results provide evidence of the selective ability of astrocytic Vamp3 to control endocytic BDNF secretion during BDNF recycling.
Realizing Enhanced Energy Storage and Hardness Performances in 0.90NaNbO3-0.10Bi(Zn0.5Sn0.5)O3 Lead-Free Ceramics
Authors: Dong Xiaoyan , Li Xu , Chen Hongyun , Dong Qinpeng , Wang Jiaming , Wang Xiang , Pan Yue , Chen Xiuli , Zhou Huanfu
Published: August 2021

Relaxor behavior has been demonstrated responsible for excellent energy storage characteristics in dielectric materials owing to the fast polarization response, and an ultrahigh energy storage density can also be induced in NaNbO3 (NN)-based ceramics via combining antiferroelectric and relaxor features. Most of the existing reports lead-free dielectric ceramics, nevertheless, are still lacking of the relevant research among domain evolution and relaxor behavior. Herein, a novel lead-free solid solution, (1-x)NaNbO3-xBi(Zn0.5Sn0.5)O3 [xBZS, x = 0.05, 0.10, 0.15, and 0.20] ceramics are designed to further illustrate the above issues. Domain evolutions in xBZS ceramics confirm the contribution of relaxor behavior to the excellent energy storage characteristics, owning to fast polarization rotation based on the low energy barrier of polar nanoregions (PNRs). Consequently, a high energy storage density of 3.14 J/cm3 and energy efficiency of 83.30% are simultaneously available at 0.10BZS ceramics, together with the stabilities of energy storage properties in large temperature range (20-100 °C) and wide frequency range (1-200 Hz). Additionally, for practical applications, the 0.10BZS ceramics display a great discharge energy storage density (Wdis ~1.05 J/cm3), fast discharge rate (t0.9 ~60.60 ns), and high hardness (H ~5.49 GPa). These results indicate that this study may provide a considerable new light on the mechanism of high performance lead-free dielectric energy storage materials.
Bone morphogenetic protein 4 as a biomarker for cadmium-associated bone damage
Authors: yu wan , jun Mo Li , Wu Lu , li Li Dong , Jia Song , kun Hu You , bin Huang Hai , zhi Wei Qin , peng Wang Da , ming Qiu Jian , ji Zhang Zi , zhan Liu Qi , fen Yang Xing
Published: August 2021

Background

Cadmium is a well-characterized bone toxic agent and can induce bone damage via inhibiting osteogenic differentiation. However, only a few studies have addressed the mechanism on cadmium-associated bone damage and none of them has used a panel of sensitive and specific biomarkers for the detection of cadmium-associated bone damage. BMP/SAMD signaling pathway can mediate osteogenic differentiation, but the association between cadmium and BMP/SAMD signaling pathway is yet to be illuminated.
Methods

We treated human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) with CdCl2 in vitro to to detect the expression of BMPs and SAMDs. And we also enrolled 67 cases of bone damage and 67 cases without bone damage. Urinary cadmium concentration and the concentrations of BMP-2 and BMP-4 of subjects were detected. Mediation analyses was used to estimate the influence of urinary cadmium and BMP-4 on bone damage, adjusting for a set of confounders.
Results

Cd exposure significantly promoted adipogenic differentiation of hBMSCs, and inhibited its' osteogenic differentiation by inhibiting the expression of BMP-2/4, SAMD4, and p-SAMD1/5/9 complex. BMP-4 mediated 22.92% (95%CI 6.37, 46.00) of the total association between cadmium and the risk of osteoporosis.
Conclusions

We found BMP-4 can be a diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target of cadmium-associated bone damage.
Fuzzy Fault Tree Reliability Analysis Based on Improved T–S Model with Application to NC Turret
Authors: Wu Yue , Yang Zhaojun , Wang Jili , Hu Wei , Balakrishnan N.
Published: August 2021

In Takagi and Sugeno (T–S) fuzzy fault tree analysis (FFTA), the construction of T-S fuzzy gates relies too much on expert experience, which will result in inevitable subjective errors. In order to overcome this disadvantage, a new method was proposed which combined importance index with T-S fuzzy fault tree model to evaluate reliability of the events. The importance index of components can be solved through Monte Carlo (MC) simulation. The proposed method is suitable for systems where exact information on the fault probabilities of the components and the magnitude of failure and effect on system are not available. The concept and calculation method of T-S probability importance was presented. Finally, the feasibility of the method is verified by analyzing the reliability of the sealing subsystem of the NC turret and the weak links of the system are obtained by the importance analysis, which will provide data for system fault diagnosis and preventive maintenance.
Genome-wide assessment of genetic diversity and population structure in Magnolia odoratissima based on SLAF-Seq
Authors: Zhang Tao , Li Xue , He Shuilian
Published: August 2021

Magnolia odoratissima is a highly threatened species with small populations and scattered distribution due to habitat fragmentation and human activity. The species is recognized as a Plant Species with Extremely Small Populations (PSESP) and is endemic to China. In the current study, the population structure and levels of genetic diversity of M. odoratissima in the five remaining natural populations and three cultivated populations were evaluated using single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) derived from Specific-Locus Amplified Fragment Sequencing (SLAF-seq). A total of 180,650 SNP loci were found in seventy M. odoratissima individuals. The genome-wide Nei’s and Shannon’s nucleotide diversity indexes of the total M. odoratissima population were 0.3035 and 0.4695, respectively. The observed heterozygosity (Ho) and expected heterozygosity (He) were 0.1122 and 0.3011. Our results suggest that M. odoratissima has relatively high genetic diversity at the genomic level. FST and AMOVA indicated that high genetic differentiation existed among populations. A phylogenetic neighbor-joining tree, Bayesian model–based clustering and principal components analysis (PCA) all divided the studied M. odoratissima individuals into three distinct clusters. The Treemix analysis showed that there was low gene flow among the natural populations and a certain gene flow from the wild populations to the cultivated population (LS to KIB, and GN to JD). In addition, a total of 36 unique SNPs were detected as being significantly associated with environmental parameters (altitude, temperature and precipitation). These candidate SNPs were found to be involved in multiple pathways including several molecular functions and biological process, suggesting they may play key roles in environmental adaptation. Our results suggested that three distinct evolutionary significant units (ESUs) should be set up to conserve this critically endangered species.
Evaluation of Antioxidant Prophylactic Effects of Parsley (Petroselinum Crispum) on Sepsis Following Cecal Ligation and Puncture
Authors: Cagin Yasir Furkan , Kulaksiz Ihsan , Vardi Nigar , Parlakpinar Hakan , Ozhan Onural , Yildiz Azibe , Polat Alaadin , Tanbek Kevser , Arslan Ahmet Kadir
Published: August 2021

Background and Aims. Sepsis causes release of free oxygen radicals that destroy membrane integrity.We evaluated the antioxidant effects of parsley, Petroselinum crispum(Pc), which has been used therapeutically for centuries in Anatolia, using a rat model of sepsis caused by cecal ligation and puncture (CLP).Methods.Wistar albino rats were separated into four groups of eight: a sham group with incised and sutured abdomen, a Pc extract(PcE) group was given 2 g/kg parsley extract for 14 days by gastric gavage, a CLP group with sepsis caused by CLP and a PcE + CLP group given parsley extract for 14 days, then made septic by CLP. PcE is given for 14 days and then sepsis is performed by the CLP procedure. Results. The groups were compared in terms of hemogram, biochemical and histological characteristics. It has been proven that the administration of PcE before CLP-induced sepsis increases neutrophil, PLT counts and TAS levels which decrease with sepsis and decreases biochemical changes (BUN, AST, ALT, LDH, TOS, OSI) which increase with sepsis, to have a protective effect on sepsis . In the PcE + CLP group, the severity of intestinal infiltration was decreased significantly compared to the CLP group; epithelial damage was similar to the CLP group. In the PcE + CLP group, the crypt and villus length was greater and the decrease in Paneth cell degranulation intensity was found to be more than for the CLP group ; also, the morphology of the cells was similar to the Sham group. Discussion. PcE exhibit potential for prophylaxis for sepsis.
Evaluation of Growth and Nutritional Status of Preschool Children: a Pilot Study in the Cold Area of China
Authors: Zhao Yan , Wang Nan , Cao Yue , Chen Xin , Sun Mengyun , Ma Lingyu , Dai Xuezheng
Published: August 2021

BackgroundThe growth and development of children is influenced not only by heredity but also by environmental factors, including nutrition and temperature. The aim of this study was to evaluate the growth and nutritional status of preschool children in Daxing’anling, the coldest region of China.MethodsA descriptive, cross-sectional survey was performed among preschool children aged 3 to 6 years by stratified cluster sampling in Daxing’anling. The children’s parents completed the questionnaires. Height, body weight and head circumference were measured, and Z scores for weight for height, weight for age, height for age and head circumference for age were evaluated. Anthropometric data were compared with World Health Organization standards and China’s growth references. The levels of vitamin A, E and 25-(OH)-D3 in serum were detected by high-performance liquid chromatography.ResultsA total of 305 children were recruited. The average height of the preschool children was lower than China’s growth reference but higher than the WHO standard. More than half of the preschool children ranged from -1 SD to +1 SD. Both the values of weight for height and of weight for age were positive and higher than the WHO standards (P<0.01), with a significant difference between boys and girls (P<0.01). The incidence of stunting, wasting, and underweight were 4.59%, 2.95% and 2.30%, respectively, although the prevalence of overweight and obesity was high (18.03% and 6.89%, respectively). The rates of vitamin A and D deficiency were 7.54% and 88.85%, respectively. Vitamin A was also positively associated with 25-(OH)-D3.ConclusionsThe growth and nutritional status of preschool children were generally good, although the double burden of malnutrition was observed. Vitamin D deficiency should be paid much attention to. It is necessary and urgent to carry out nutritional interventions for health.
Development of a Novel Differential Duplex PCR for Pathogenic and Intermediate Leptospires: First Report of Intermediate Leptospira in Animal Sera in Argentina
Authors: Watanabe Olivia , Hasenauer Flavia C. , Brihuega Bibiana F. , Saraullo Vanina R. , Hamer Micaela , Martínez Mara L. , Loffler Sylvia Grune
Published: August 2021

Background: Even though leptospirosis is one of the most important zoonoses in the world, many of its aspects remain unknown, such as the distribution of different species and their pathogenicity for animals and humans. Results: Intermediate leptospiral DNA was detected in bovine sera samples from animals with abortion history from Argentina. We designed a novel duplex PCR, which differentiates pathogenic and intermediate leptospires in one single step. This new diagnostic method allowed the detection of intermediate leptospiral DNA in 4.38 % (n = 5/114) of the total analyzed bovine samples. Conclusions: These results highlight the need of further studies of intermediate species in our country, especially regarding their association to clinical disease in animals. Remarkably, this is the first report of detection of intermediate leptospires circulating in livestock animals in Argentina and the second report in the entire world.
Conducting Qualitative Research Under Pandemic Restrictions – Considerations, Challenges, and Benefits
Authors: Suslow Anastasia , Giehl Chantal , Hergesell Jannis , Vollmar Horst Christian , Otte Ina
Published: August 2021

Background: The Covid-19 pandemic had a significant impact on professionals working in the medical area, resulting in a very high workload and tightened safety restrictions for physicians, nurses, caregivers, and patients. Medical professionals pose one of the main target groups in health services research. Their experiences contribute immensely to any research project aiming to improve delivery and quality of care. Furthermore, their input contributes significantly to gaining greater insight into the current handling of the pandemic and into what future improvements should be considered. In this paper, we discuss the challenges and benefits of conducting a qualitative research project under pandemic conditions by illustrating the progress of our research project ADAPTIVE. Methods: ADAPTIVE started in March 2020 and ended in August 2021. For data collection, we asked 26 participants to take part in an interview about using a web-based program to facilitate the exchange of patient information in multidisciplinary teams. Unfortunately, due to emerging hygiene regulations, corona-related restrictions, and the ongoing workload of medical professionals, the recruiting and interviewing process was challenging. Because of that we had to modify the original study design.Results: We discussed several adjustments for the data collection. However, the privacy policies of different clinics, professionals’ lack of experience with video calls, and participants’ poor internet connectivity eliminated the option of digital video interviewing. Alternatively, we interviewed participants by telephone. Nevertheless, telephone interviews come with limitations. Firstly, it may be difficult for participants to establish a trusting relationship with the interviewer. Secondly, non-verbal communication is lost during a telephone interview. Further, the focus group discussions initially planned had to be dismissed since a simultaneous gathering of the participants was not possible due several reasons. Conclusions: Qualitative research offers greater flexibility when adapting study designs and can, therefore, be successful, even under pandemic conditions. However, recruitment and data collection showed to be more time-consuming than under non-pandemic circumstances, and some methodological instruments such as focus groups were not possible. Trial registration: https://www.drks.de/drks_web/navigate.do?navigationId=trial.HTML&TRIAL_ID=DRKS00021603 (Registration: 02. July 2020)
Cellular property and potential functions of insulin receptor (IR) induced by IGF-1/insulin on lung cancer cells
Authors: Ren Qiu , Tian Miao , Lin Lin , Zhang li juan , Zhang jia wen , Luo Wen , Zhang Wei
Published: August 2021

Background

Under normal physiological conditions, insulin exhibited a series of important biological functions. However, more and more evidence indicate that insulin is closely related to the occurrence and development of tumors. Recent studies have shown that insulin is also closely related to the occurrence and development of lung cancer. However, until now, the cellular properties of insulin/insulin receptors on lung cancer have not been fully revealed.
Methods

Indirect immunofluorescence, western-blot and other techniques have been used to identify the biological activity of insulin on lung cancer cell lines.
Results

The biological activity of insulin is closely related to its cell behavior. therefore we used lung cancer cell lines as a model to explore the cellular behavior and properties of insulin/IR in the current study, and the results showed that the IR can internalize into lung cancer cells, and it can also transport into the nucleus under insulin treatment. further study showed nuclear-localized IR could promote the proliferation of lung cancer cells. Taken together, this study shows that IR’s nuclear localization is closely related to cell proliferation.
Conclusions

This work lays the foundation for further research on relationship between insulin and the occurrence and development of lung cancer.
Gene Expression Meta-Analysis of Major Depressive Disorder and Its Relationship with Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: WANG Ruihan , DUAN Jinghao , ZHENG Quan , CHEN Xueping
Published: August 2021

Introduction: Major depressive disorder (MDD) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are often co-existing in the elderly and have been suggested to share common pathological and physiological links. Understanding the connections between these two diseases could benefit for revealing new possible strategies of early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention. Methods: we conducted a meta-analysis to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in MDD microarray datasets including 180 MDD and 281 control prefrontal cortex of brain samples. Using identified DEGs, we performed gene ontology (GO), pathway and protein-protein interaction (PPI) analysis. Results: We identified 1400 DEGs, of which 846 were upregulated and 554 was downregulated in MDD. 198 DEGs were found over-lapping between AD and MDD compared with the previous study on AD. The over-lapping DEGs were particularly enriched in the protein binding of gene ontology and Signal Transduction, Immune System, Metabolism of proteins as for pathways. CDC42 was the most important gene in PPI network which had the most connections with other genes.Conclusion: Our study shows that MDD and AD share significant common DEGs and pathways and add some new potential perspectives to the comprehensive neurobiologic model between MDD and the development of AD.
RETRACTED: Monitoring of Agricultural Conditions in Greenhouse Crops Using Edge Computing and IoT.
Authors: Ruiz Jesús Gil , Montenegro Franklin Guillermo , Roldan Daissi Bibiana Gonzalez , Monroy Gabriel Vargas , Montenegro-Marin Carlos Enrique , Fuente Javier Parra
Published: August 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Left Atrial Appendage Morphology With the Progression of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Takaya Yoichi , Nakayama Rie , Yokohama Fumi , Toh Norihisa , Nakagawa Koji , Miyamoto Masakazu , Ito Hiroshi
Published: August 2021

Left atrial appendage (LAA) size is crucial for determining the indication of transcatheter LAA closure. The aim of this study was to evaluate the differences in LAA morphology according to the types of atrial fibrillation (AF). A total of 340 patients (mean age: 65 ± 15 years) who underwent transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) were included. Patients were classified into non-AF (n = 105), paroxysmal AF (n = 86), persistent AF (n = 87), or long-standing persistent AF (n = 62). LAA morphology, including LAA ostial diameter and depth, was assessed using TEE. Patients with long-standing persistent AF had larger LAA ostial diameter and depth, greater LAA lobes, and lower LAA flow velocity. The maximum LAA ostial diameter was 19 ± 4 mm in patients with non-AF, 21 ± 4 mm in patients with paroxysmal AF, 23 ± 5 mm in patients with persistent AF, and 26 ± 5 mm in patients with long-standing persistent AF. LAA ostial diameter was increased by 2 or 3 mm with the progression of AF. LAA ostial diameter was correlated with LA volume index (R = 0.37, P < 0.01) and the duration of continuous AF (R = 0.30, P < 0.01), but not with age or the period from the onset of AF. LAA size, which is the determinant for selecting device size of transcatheter LAA closure, was increased with the progression of AF. Our findings have potential implications for therapeutic strategy of transcatheter LAA closure.
Severe Maternal Morbidity: Admission Shift From Intensive Care Unit to Obstetric High-dependency Unit
Authors: Gu Ning , Zheng Yaning , Dai Yimin
Published: August 2021

Background: To study temporal trends of intensive care unit (ICU) admission in obstetric population after the introduction of obstetric high-dependency unit (HDU).Methods: This is a retrospective study of consecutive obstetric patients admitted to the ICU/HDU in a provincial referral center in China from January 2014 to December 2019. The collected information included maternal demographic characteristics, indications for ICU and HDU admission, the length of ICU stay, the total length of in-hospital stay and APACHE II score. Chi-square and ANOVA tests were used to determine statistical significance. The temporal changes were assessed with chi-square test for linear trend.Results: A total of 40 412 women delivered and 447 (11.1‰) women were admitted to ICU in this 6-year period. The rate of ICU admission peaked at 15.9‰ in 2016 and then dropped to 6.7‰ in 2019 with the introduction of obstetric HDU. The average APACHE II score increased significantly from 6.8 to 12.3 (P<0.001) and the average length of ICU stay increased from 1.7 to 7.1 days (P<0.001). The main indications for maternal ICU admissions were hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (39.8%), cardiac disease (24.8%), and other medical disorders (21.5%); while the most common reasons for referring to HDU were hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (46.5%) and obstetric hemorrhage (43.0%). After adjusting for the proportion of high-risk pregnancies, the establishment of HDU reduced 20% of ICU admission (aOR = 0.804, 95% CI =0.666-0.972).Conclusions: The introduction of HDU helps to reduce ICU utilization in obstetric population.
Exogenous and endogenous triggers differentially stimulate Pigr expression and antibacterial secretory immunity in the murine respiratory tract
Authors: Pausder Alexander , Fricke Jennifer , Schughart Klaus , Schreiber Jens , Strowig Till , Bruder Dunja , Boehme Julia Désirée
Published: August 2021

PurposeTransport of secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) through the airway epithelial cell barrier into the mucosal lumen by the polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR) is an important mechanism of respiratory mucosal host defense. Identification of immunomodulating substances that regulate secretory immunity might have therapeutic implications with regard to an improved immune exclusion. Thus, we sought to analyze secretory immunity under homeostatic and immunomodulating conditions in different compartments of the murine upper and lower respiratory tract (URT&LRT). MethodsPigr gene expression in lung, trachea and nasal-associated lymphoid tissue (NALT) of germ-free mice, specific-pathogen-free mice, mice with an undefined microbiome as well as LPS- and IFN-γ-treated mice was determined by quantitative real-time RT-PCR. IgA levels in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), nasal lavage (NAL) and serum were determined by ELISA. LPS- and IFN-γ-treated mice were colonized with Streptococcus pneumoniae and bacterial CFUs were determined in URT and LRT. ResultsRespiratory Pigr expression and IgA levels were dependent on the degree of exposure to environmental microbial stimuli. While immunostimulation with LPS and IFN-γ differentially impact respiratory Pigr expression and sIgA in URT vs . LRT, only prophylactic IFN-γ treatment reduces nasal colonization with S. pneumoniae . ConclusionAirway-associated secretory immunity can be partly modulated by exposure to microbial ligands and proinflammatory stimuli. Prophylactic IFN-γ-treatment significantly improves antibacterial immunity in the URT.
Rescuing Epileptic and Behavioral Alterations in a Dravet Syndrome Mouse Model by Inhibiting Eukaryotic Elongation Factor 2 Kinase (eEF2K)
Authors: Beratta Stefania , Ponzoni Luisa , Gritti Laura , Scalmani Paolo , Mantegazza Massimo , Sala Mariaelvina , Verpelli Chiara , Sala Carlo
Published: August 2021

Background: Dravet Syndrome is a severe childhood pharmaco-resistant epileptic disorder mainly caused by mutations in the SCN1A gene, which encodes for the α1 subunit of the type I voltage-gated sodium channel (NaV1.1), that cause imbalance between excitation and inhibition in the brain. We recently found that eEF2K knock out mice displayed enhanced GABAergic transmission and tonic inhibition and were less susceptible to epileptic seizures. Thus, we investigated the effect of inhibition of eEF2K on the epileptic and behavioral phenotype of Scn1a+/- mice, a murine model of Dravet Syndrome.Methods: To elucidate the role of eEF2K pathway in the etiopathology of Dravet syndrome we generated a new mouse model deleting the eEF2K gene in Scn1a+/- mice. By crossing Scn1a+/- mice with eEF2K-/- mice we obtained the three main genotypes needed for our studies, Scn1a+/+eEF2K+/+ (WT mice), Scn1a+/-eEF2K+/+ mice (Scn1a+/- mice) and Scn1a+/-eEF2K-/- mice, that were fully characterized for EEG and behavioral phenotype. Furthermore, we tested the ability of a pharmacological inhibitor of eEF2K in rescuing EEG alterations of the Scn1a+/- mice.Results: We showed that the activity of eEF2K/eEF2 pathway was enhanced in Scn1a+/- mice. Then, we demonstrated that both genetic deletion and pharmacological inhibition of eEF2K were sufficient to ameliorate the epileptic phenotype of Scn1a+/- mice. Interestingly we also found that motor coordination defect, memory impairments, and stereotyped behavior of the Scn1a+/- mice were reverted by eEF2K deletion. The analysis of spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents (sIPSCs) suggested that the rescue of the pathological phenotype was driven by the potentiation of GABAergic synapses. Limitations: Even if we found that eEF2K deletion was able to increase inhibitory synapses function, the molecular mechanism underlining the inhibition of eEF2K/eEF2 pathway in rescuing epileptic and behavioral alterations in the Scn1a+/- needs further investigations.Conclusions: Our data indicate that pharmacological inhibition of eEF2K could represent a novel therapeutic intervention for treating epilepsy and related comorbidities in the Dravet syndrome.
Bio-Tolerance Potential and Environmental Risks Assessment of Oreochromis Niloticus and Lpomoea Aquatica in Agodi Reservoir, Nigeria
Authors: Ogungbile Peter , O Ajibare A. , Ayeku Patrick , Akinola Joshua
Published: August 2021

The concentration of nine heavy metals in Oreochromis niloticus and Ipomoea aquatica inhabiting Agodi reservoir, Oyo State, Nigeria were investigated for twelve months. The concentrations of the metals were carried out using PG990 Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. The Ecological Risk Quotient (ERQ) was calculated using standard methods while the tolerability was determined with Box Plot analysis. The metal bioaccumulation in O. niloticus and I. aquatica followed the order Mn>Fe>Zn>Cu>Co>Pb>Cd>Cr>Ni and Fe>Zn>Mn>Cu>Pb>Cd>Co>Cr>Ni respectively. The results revealed O. niloticus to bioaccumulate the metals more than I. aquatica. Most of the examined metals were higher than the safety limit for the metals concentration in O. niloticus and I. aquatica. Also, I. aquatica had higher tolerability for heavy metals than O. niloticus. In O. niloticus, metal concentration, as well as ERQ, was higher in the wet season while no particular order was observed for I. aquatica. The ERQ result revealed that Cd, Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu and Pb exhibited a high level of ecological risk to both the aquatic flora and fauna as the ERQ values were above the risk limit of one (1). Thus, there is a significant environmental risk associated with heavy metals in the water body.
Formation Mechanism of "Encapsulated" Carbide Slag Composite Alkalinity Sustained-release Particles for the Source Control of Acid Mine Drainage
Authors: Bai Jichi , Zhang Haiqin , Xiao Liping
Published: August 2021

Acid mine drainage (AMD) has caused serious and long-lasting damage to the environment in many countries. The source control of AMD is considered to be the most direct and effective method of remediation. Carbide slag is an industrial waste which is considered as a potential treatment material for AMD treatment due to the strong alkalinity. However, the application of carbide slag in the source control of AMD encounters difficulties due to its fast alkalinity release rate. This is a first attempt to mix carbide slag with bentonite to prepare alkalinity sustained-release particles for the source control of AMD. Results showed that the gel phase(C-S-H) formed between the interface of carbide slag and bentonite encapsulated the surface of the Ca(OH)2 which grain decreases from 267nm to 211nm. The optimum preparation conditions are suggested as follows: a mass ratio of bentonite to carbide slag of 3:7, a Na2CO3 dose of 10 wt%, and a calcination temperature of 500°C for 1 h. The particles can remove 105 mg/g Cu2 + within 12 h, and the loss rate is only 7.8%. Compared with carbide slag, the alkalinity release time of the particles is prolonged by 4 times.
Circ_0018534 Promotes Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Progression by Upregulating BTBD7 via Sponging miR-153-3p
Authors: Bai Haoran , Zhu Lihua , Li Hegen , Zhou Lei
Published: August 2021

Background: Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common malignant tumor in lung. In this study, we aimed to explore the role and underlying mechanism of circular RNA 0018534 (circ_0018534) in NSCLC progression.Methods: Real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was used to detect the expression of circ_0018534, microRNA-153-3p (miR-153-3p) and BTB/POZ domain-containing protein 7 (BTBD7) in NSCLC tissues and cells. Protein expression was measured by western blot analysis. The morphological features of obtained NSCLC patient tissues were observed by haematoxylin and eosin staining assay. 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT), 5-Ethynyl-29-deoxyuridine, flow cytometry analysis, and transwell migration and invasion assays were used to examine cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion, respectively. Bioinformatics analysis and dual-luciferase reporter assay were carried out to determine the interaction among circ_0018534, miR-153-3p and BTBD7. Furthermore, lentivector for short hairpin RNA against circ_0018534 (sh-circ_0018534) was used to decrease circ_0018534 expression in an animal tumor model.Results: Circ_0018534 and BTBD7 expression were significantly increased, whereas miR-153-3p expression was decreased in NSCLC tissues and cells. Circ_0018534 downregulation markedly alleviated cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and elevated cell apoptosis in NSCLC cells in vitro. MiR-153-3p inhibitors partially reversed the effects of circ_0018534 knockdown on cell proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis in NSCLC. Moreover, miR-153-3p could directly target BTBD7, and circ_0018534 promoted BTBD7 expression by targeting miR-153-3p. Besides, BTBD7 overexpression attenuated miR-153-3p mimics-mediated effects on NSCLC cell progression. Furthermore, circ_0018534 deletion suppressed NSCLC tumor growth in vivo.Conclusion: Our results demonstrated that circ_0018534 might contribute to the progression of NSCLC by miR-153-3p/BTBD7 axis, providing a potential target for the treatment of NSCLC.
Efficacy Analysis of One-stage Posterior-only Surgical Treatment for Thoracic Spinal Tuberculosis in the T4-6 Segments with Minimum 5-year Follow-up
Authors: Zhan Yi , Kang Xin , Gao Wenjie , Zhang Xinliang , Kong Lingbo , Hao Dingjun , Wang Biao
Published: August 2021

In recent years, with the in-depth research on spinal tuberculosis, posterior surgery alone has been praised highly by more and more surgeons due to the better correction of kyphosis, better maintenance of spinal physiological curvature, smaller surgical trauma and fewer surgical complications. However, there is currently lack of relevant reports about the efficacy of posterior surgery alone in the treatment of tuberculosis in the T4-6 segments. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical study efficacy and feasibility of one-stage posterior-only surgical treatment for thoracic spinal tuberculosis in the T4-6 segments. 67 patients with tuberculosis in T4-6 segments who underwent one-stage posterior-only surgery were included in this study. The clinical efficacy was evaluated using statistical analysis based on the data about erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), Oswestry Dability Index (ODI) score, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score and Cobb angle before surgery, after surgery and at the last follow-up. All patients completed fusion during the follow-up period of 6–9 months. ESR and CRP were returned to normal for all patients at 6 months follow-up. In the meanwhile, among the 27 patients combined with neurological impairment, neurological functions of 22 cases (81.48%) recovered completely at the last follow-up (P < 0.05). Cobb angle of the kyphosis was improved from preoperative 34.8 ± 10.9° to postoperative 9.6 ± 2.8°, maintaining at 11.3 ± 3.2° at the last follow-up, The ODI and VAS scores were improved by 77.10% and 81.70%, respectively. This 5-year follow-up study shows that better clinical efficacy can be achieved for tuberculosis in T4-6 segments using one-stage posterior-only approach by costotransverse debridement in combination with bone graft and internal fixation. The posterior surgical method cannot only effectively accomplish debridement, obtain satisfactory clinical results, but also well correct kyphotic deformity and maintain it.
Inhibition of Proliferation in Ovarian Cancer Cell Line (PA-1) By The Action of Green Compound ‘Betanin’
Authors: R Rakshanaa , Shafreen Mohiraa , KUMAR NITIN
Published: August 2021

Ovarian carcinoma has a cure rate of 30% which makes it deadlier than any other disease. There are a number of genetic and epigenetic changes that lead to ovarian carcinoma cell transformation. Chemoprevention of cancer through application of natural compounds is the need of present generation as other methods are rigorous and have many side effects. Betanin, a compound from Beta vulgaris extract is used in present study to check its potential for inhibition of (PA-1) cancer cell proliferation. Determination of IC50 values through MTT assay was carried out, in addition measurement of Mitochondrial Membrane Potential (MMP), effect of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) generation and induction of Apoptosis in ovarian cancer cells through betanin was also observed. Results have shown betanin as a potential candidate for inhibition of ovarian cancer cell proliferation and it can be taken up as a serious compound for further studies for its application in cancer cure.
Intermolecular Interactions Between Serine and C60, C59Si, and C59Ge: A DFT Study
Authors: Mohammadi Mohsen Doust , Abdullah Hewa Y.
Published: August 2021

The study of intermolecular interactions is of great importance. This study attempted to quantitatively examine the interactions between Serine (C3H7NO3) and fullerene nanocages, C60, in vacuum. As the frequent introduction of elements as impurities into the structure of nanomaterials can increase the intensity of intermolecular interactions, nanocages doped with silicon and germanium have also been studied as adsorbents, C59Si and C59Ge. Quantum mechanical studies of such systems are possible in the density functional theory (DFT) framework. For this purpose, various functionals, such as B3LYP-D3, ωB97XD, and M062X, have been used. One of the most suitable basis functionals for the systems studied in this research is 6-311G (d), which has been used in both optimization calculations and calculations related to wave function analyses. The main part of this work is the study of various analyses that reveal the nature of the intermolecular interactions between the two components introduced above. The results of conceptual DFT, natural bond orbital, non-covalent interactions, and quantum theory of atoms in molecules were consistent and in favor of physical adsorption in all systems. Germanium had more adsorption energy than other dopants. The HOMO–LUMO energy gaps were as follows: C60: 5.996, C59Si: 5.309, and C59Ge: 5.188 eV at B3LYP-D3/6-311G (d) model chemistry. The sensitivity of the adsorption increased when an amino acid molecule interacted with doped C60, and this capability could be used to design nanocarrier to detect Serine amino acid.
Design and Analysis of Posterior Semicircular Canal BPPV Diagnostic Test Based on Physical Simulation
Authors: Yang Xiaokai , Yang Qiancheng , Liu Zhaobang
Published: August 2021

To discusses and analyzes how to realize the design of posterior semicircular canal BPPV diagnostic maneuver. First, measure the spatial attitude of the human semicircular canal, establish a BPPV virtual simulation platform, then analyze the key positions of the maneuver, and finally design a new diagnostic maneuver according to the demand, and perform physical simulation verification. The average value of the unit normal vector of the right posterior semicircular plane is [ 0.660, 0.702, 0.266], after rotate -46.8 ° around Z axis and 15.4 ° around Y axis, it parallel to the X axis. After that, when the tilt back angle reaches 70 °, the free otoconia in the left utricle will fall into the common crus; when bend forward 53.3°, the unit normal vector of the crista ampullaris plane of the posterior semicircular canal to the XY plane; when bend forward angle reaches 30°, the otoconia slides to the opening of the ampulla; when bend forward angle reaches 70°, the otoconia slides to the bottom of the crista ampullaris. The shallow pitching Yang maneuver is designed as turn head 45° to the one side, bend forward 45°, tilt back 90°, and bend forward 90°. The deep pitching Yang maneuver is designed as bend forward 90°, turn head 45° to one side, tilt back 135°, and bend forward 90°. A new posterior semicircular BPPV diagnostic test is designed to make the induced nystagmus have the characteristics of long latency, reversal, and repeatability, will not cause the inhibitory stimulation of the contralateral superior semicircular canal, and has good operation fault tolerance, which is of great value for clinical and scientific research.
Cell Viability And Electrical Response of Breast Cancer Cell Treated In Aquoes Graphene Oxide Solution Deposition On Interdigitated Electrode
Authors: Ramli Muhammad M. , Rosman Anis , Mazlan Nur , Ahmad Mohd , Halin Dewi Che , Mohamed Rafeezul , Osman Nurul , Reshak Ali
Published: August 2021

Breast cancer is one of the most reported cancers that can lead to death. Despite the advances in diagnosis and treatment procedures, the possibility of cancer recurrences is still high in many cases. With that in consideration, researchers from all over the world are showing interest in the unique features of Graphene oxide (GO), such as its excellent and versatile physicochemical properties, to explore further its potential and benefits towards breast cancer cell treatment. In this study, the cell viability and electrical response of GO, in terms of resistivity and impedance towards the breast cancer cells (MCF7) and normal breast cells (MCF10a), were investigated by varying the pH and concentration of GO. Firstly, the numbers of MCF7 and MCF10a were measured after being treated with GO for 24 and 48 hours. Next, the electrical responses of these cells were evaluated by using interdigitated electrodes (IDEs) gold electrodes that are connected to an E4980 20 Hz – 2 MHz Precision LCR meter. Based on the results obtained, as the pH of GO increased from pH 5 to pH 7, the number of viable MCF7 cells decreased while the number of viable MCF10a slightly increased after the incubation period of 48 hours. Similarly, the MCF7 also experienced higher cytotoxicity effects when treated with a GO concentration of more than 25 μg/mL. The findings from the electrical characterization of the cells observed that the number of viable cells has corresponded to the impedance of the cells. The electrical impedance of MCF7 decreased as the number of highly insulating viable cells membrane decreased, but in contrast, the electrical impedance of MCF10a increased as the number of highly insulating viable cells membrane increased. Hence, it can be deduced that the GO with higher pH and concentration impacts the MCF7 cancer cell line and MCF10a normal breast cell.
Questioning Abenomics and a Keynesian Approach to Japan’s Deflation Problem via Input-Output Analysis
Authors: BIYIK ONUR
Published: August 2021

Japan’s economy has had chronic deflation and high public debt problems so that it has been trying to handle its problems based on either the demand-side or the supply-side for more than two decades. This paper suggests that a perspective of Keynesian-inspired Japanese economic policy may positively impact a specific part of the economy such as demand-side solutions, as mentioned in Keynes’ theory. The Japanese economy is examined by applying the Input-Output (I/O) method in which the aggregated eleven-sector is arranged by using statistical data from the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI). Firstly, our analysis focuses mainly on the updated 2012 domestic I/O table in order to understand the Japanese economic structure by examining final demand elements and eleven sectors, associated with the Leontief method. Secondly, this paper then investigated comparing with Abenomics representing by a mix of the new Keynesian and neoliberal policies in order to comparatively analyzed between the current economic structure and the economic policy and lastly provided some discussions to figure out in perspective of how to solve some economic issues. Therefore, not only did this paper delineate three scenarios/keys through dominant final demand which account for the public consumption expenditures (PUCE) and the public gross fixed capital formation (PUGFC); the target of the growth rate -the automobile sector through PUGFC-, the employment rate -the commerce sector through PUCE-, and the import rate -the commerce sector through PUCE- based on the results of the data analyzed, but also comparatively examined Abenomics in order to provide some possible policy paths which highlight the demand-side remedies for the economic issues; structural reform in the fiscal sustainability, mainly wage increase (especially low and middle incomes), working practice (bringing back the mutual work environment), and fair tax system.
Winner and Loser in Terms of the FTAs and the Trade War: Case Study of the Japanese Market
Authors: BIYIK ONUR
Published: August 2021

The US raised trade war issues under protecting national security against China in July 2018. Likewise, the trade war has spread out across other regions such as India, the EU, Canada, Mexico, Russia, and Turkey through an additional tariff on products such as steel and aluminum. Clearly, the uncertainty has shown an increase since this friction created a pessimistic environment for the future world economy and did hurt economic development. Therefore, it has had negative effects for welfare -especially those (low-income consumers) who prefer to buy cheap imported goods. Contrary to protectionism, Japan has signed new FTAs with the EU and the US. In that context, this paper quantitatively examines the Japanese new FTAs under the trade war. It employs the general equilibrium approaches to not only investigate the economic structure of each country trade flow but also address the FTAs and the impacts of the welfare and sectoral value chains of the trade war. Essentially, the paper scenarios depend on the official list of the FTAs and the trade war-related goods. As a result of the FTAs under the trade war, the new Japanese trade agreements have provided some opportunities for its market as well as targeted countries. For instance, the Japanese benefit from the EU-Japan FTA would be $4.11 billion U.S.D. and the EU would gain $768 million U.S.D. within the 15-year. Moreover, the US not only would get a huge advance but also could get back its export market share from Pacific island nations in Japan when Japan would eliminate the tariff on concerned sectors for the US goods. For example, the US and Japan would improve their welfare by $4.09 billion U.S.D. and $398 million U.S.D., respectively through the limited USA-Japan FTA. That is, the US market would comparatively earn much more than Japan. Lastly, those who participate in the FTAs would boost their GDP, welfare, and value-added (productivity). For example, not only would Japan provide some opportunities for its market and then enhance its welfare and GDP, but also the EU and the US would boost their macro variables. However, from the perspective of the other regions/countries, those regions/countries which are not in the trade deal could lose their export market share in Japan, the US, and the UE and would, therefore, have a negative impact on their GDP and welfare.
Feature Selection and Scaling for Random Forest Powered Malware Detection System
Authors: Tripathi Ashutosh , Bhoj Naman , Khari Mayank , Pandey Bishwajeet
Published: August 2021

With the rise of internet usage malwares pose a great threat to user security and privacy. Therefore, to mitigate the problem it is essential to develop an efficient malware detection framework. In our research we experimented with various machine learning and feature scaling algorithms. Chi-Square was used as the feature selection technique which selected a set of 48 features from a feature space of 128 features. The empirical results provide us with conclusive evidence that Random Forest is the best algorithm for detection of malware achieving an accuracy of 91.300% on our dataset followed by Gradient Boosting and Support Vector Machines.