bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate Combined with in Situ Forming Bioresorbable Gel Enhances Intervertebral Disc Regeneration in Rabbits
Authors: Ukeba Daisuke , Yamada Katsuhisa , Tsujimoto Takeru , Ura Katsuro , Nonoyama Takayuki , Iwasaki Norimasa , Sudo Hideki
Published: January 2021

Background:

The current surgical procedure of choice for intervertebral disc (IVD) herniation is discectomy, which induces postoperative IVD degeneration. Thus, cell-based therapies, as a 1-step simple procedure, are desired because of the poor capacity of IVDs for self-repair. The aim of this study was to investigate the repair efficacy of ultra-purified alginate (UPAL) gels containing bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) for the treatment of discectomy-associated IVD degeneration in rabbits.

Methods:

The mechanical properties of 3 types of gels—UPAL, UPAL containing bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), and UPAL containing BMAC—were evaluated. Forty rabbits were assigned to 5 groups: intact control, discectomy (to make the cavity), UPAL (implantation of the UPAL gel after discectomy), BMSCs-UPAL (implantation of a combination of autogenic BMSCs and UPAL gel after discectomy), and BMAC-UPAL (implantation of a combination of BMAC and UPAL gel after discectomy). The gels were implanted at 4 weeks after induction of IVD degeneration. At 4 and 12 weeks, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as well as histological and immunohistochemical analyses were performed to analyze IVD degeneration qualitatively and the viability of the implanted cells.

Results:

There was no significant difference among the 3 types of gels in terms of the results of unconfined compression tests. The implanted cells survived for 12 weeks. The histological grades of the BMSCs-UPAL (mean and standard deviation, 2.50 ± 0.53; p < 0.001) and BMAC-UPAL (2.75 ± 0.64, p = 0.001) showed them to be more effective in preventing degeneration than UPAL gel alone (3.63 ± 0.52). The effectiveness of BMAC-UPAL was not significantly different from that of BMSCs-UPAL, except with respect to type-II collagen synthesis.

Conclusions:

BMAC-UPAL significantly enhanced the repair of IVD defects created by discectomy. This approach could be an effective therapeutic strategy owing to its simplicity and cost-effectiveness compared with cell therapy using culture-expanded BMSCs.

Clinical Relevance:

Local administration of the BMAC combined with UPAL gel could be an effective therapeutic strategy to enhance IVD repair after discectomy.
Internal Senses in Nicholas of Cusa’ Psychology
Authors: Fiamma Andrea
Published: January 2021

The paper considers the Nicholas of Cusa’ interpretation of Aristotle’ De anima with regard to the functioning of the internal senses in the knowing process: sensus communis, vis memorialis, vis aestimativa, phantasia, vis imaginativa. The not numerous references on the Aristotelian doctrine of the internal senses in Nicholas of Cusa' work are organized, for the first time in the recent historiography on medieval theory of knowledge, in a systematic and ordered philosophical reconstruction.
Exploration of IAA and HCN Producing Rhizobacteria from Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) Rhizosphere
Authors: Safriani Suri Raihan , Fitri Lenni , Ismail Yulia Sari
Published: January 2021

Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are a group of beneficial bacteria that live in rhizosphere. These bacteria can promote plant growth through several mechanisms, such as the ones produce indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) hormone and hydrogen cyanide (HCN), and act as biocontrol agents. The use of PGPR to promote plant growth has been known to be an environmentally friendly alternative approach. The aim of this study was to explore IAA and HCN producing rhizobacteria from cassava rhizosphere soil and identify the bacteria based on morphological and biochemical characters, hypersensitive reaction test, and the ability test to produce IAA and HCN. The results showed nine bacterial isolates suspected as Micrococcus sp. (six isolates), Neisseria sp. (two isolates), and Bacillus sp. (one isolate). All isolates were able to produce IAA in the concentration range of 50,63–135,00 µg/ml and 232,3–333,9 µg/ml at incubation time of 2 and 4 days, respectively. All isolates were able to produce HCN. In addition, the isolates did not show hypersensitivity reactions. Further study is needed to assess the isolate application for promoting plant growth as well as a biocontrol agent of plant pathogen.
An improved high-precision Jacob's staff with laser sighting and topographic capabilities for the high-resolution stratigrapher
Authors: Xu Qiang , Yue Yahui
Published: January 2021

Accurate and quick high-resolution measurements of stratigraphic thicknesses and geologic profiles exposed in surface outcrops are critically important for interpreting depositional environments, basin development, and tectonic evolution. Therefore, a high-precision instrument is required for high-resolution stratigraphic measurements. Herein, a new version of the Jacob's staff incorporating an Abney level or a geological compass, a laser pointer, and a handheld GPS is presented. Both the Abney level and the laser pointer are oppositely positioned side by side at the 1.5 m position on the 1.6-m-long fiberglass rod, and they can synchronously slide vertically and rotate horizontally. Because accurate sighting of bedding surfaces is facilitated with both the sighting tube of the Abney level and straight-line beam of the laser pointer, this novel design greatly improves the precision and speed of stratigraphic thickness measurements. More importantly, when the section requires a lateral shift, the straight-line beam can easily and precisely identify the new start point without rotating the rod, which greatly reduces potential changes in the angle of the rod. The GPS unit installed at the top of the rod synchronously records the track of the measured section and coordinates of each measurement, which enables acquisition of a topographic profile along the stratigraphic section. Uncertainties in stratigraphic thickness measurements are minimized when observations are made through the sight tube of the Abney level when the rod is oriented perpendicular to the bedding surface.
Genetic diversity and population structure of Vernonia [Vernonia galamensis (Cass.) Less] populations from Ethiopia revealed by SSR markers
Authors: Egu Alemneh Mideksa , Tesfaye Kassahun , Dagne Kifle , Hu Xuebo
Published: January 2021

Background: Vernonia (Vernonia galamensis) is a potential novel industrial crop due to high demand for its natural epoxidized oil, which can be used for the manufacturing of oleochemicals such as paints, plastic formulations (polyvinyl chloride), and pharmaceutical products. Assessment of the extent of genetic diversity in V. galamensis was the first and the most step in cultivation, breeding and genetic resource conservation. Hence, this study was aimed to assess the genetic diversity and population structure of this plant from different agro-ecologies in Ethiopia using SSR markers. Results: Twenty SSR markers were used for genetic diversity analyses of 150 individual V. galamensis accessions representing 10 populations, from which a total of 79 bands were identified for the 20 loci. All the loci used showed high polymorphism that ranged from 0.50 to 0.96, while the mean observed heterozygosity (Ho) was 0.15 across all the 20 markers evaluated. The molecular variance analysis (AMOVA) showed significant variations among populations which accounted for 11% of the variations. Populations clustering showed that the dendrogram and principal coordinate’s analysis roughly classified the accessions into four groups. However, the Bayesian model-based clustering (STRUCTURE) grouped into 6 (K = 6) major gene pools. Since, the cluster and the STRUCTURE analyses did not group the populations into sharply distinct clusters, due to presence of gene flow and mode of reproduction of the plant. Conclusions: The SSR molecular markers used in this study are highly polymorphic. Among the ten populations, East Showa and East Hararghe revealed higher genetic diversity, signaled that these areas are the hotspots for in-situ conservation of V. galamensis. In addition, the values of SSR markers such as heterozygosity, Shannon‘s index, polymorphic information content, and population clusters are important baseline information for future V. galamensis cultivation, breeding and genetic resource conservation endeavors in Ethiopia.
In silico comparative study of SARS-CoV-2 proteins and antigenic proteins in BCG, OPV, MMR and other vaccines: evidence of a possible putative protective effect
Authors: Haddad-Boubaker Sondes , Othman Houcemeddine , Touati Rabeb , Ayouni Kaouther , Lakhal Marwa , Mustapha Imen Ben , Ghedira Kais , Kharrat Maher , Triki Henda
Published: January 2021

Background: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a viral pandemic disease that may induce severe pneumonia in humans. In this paper, we investigated the putative implication of 12 vaccines, including BCG, OPV and MMR in the protection against COVID-19. Sequences of the main antigenic proteins in the investigated vaccines and SARS-CoV-2 proteins were compared to identify similar patterns. The immunogenic effect of identified segments was, then, assessed using a combination of structural and antigenicity prediction tools.Results: A total of 14 highly similar segments were identified in the investigated vaccines. Structural and antigenicity prediction analysis showed that, among the identified patterns, three segments in Hepatitis B, Tetanus, and Measles proteins presented antigenic properties that can induce putative protective effect against COVID-19. Conclusions: Our results suggest a possible protective effect of HBV, Tetanus and Measles vaccines against COVID-19, which may explain the variation of the disease severity among regions.
Coping Response to Workplace Violence Among Healthcare Workers in the Emergency Department: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Salim Noor Hafizah Abdul , Isa Mohd Hisham , Chew Keng Sheng , Noor Mohd Zairul Mohd , Samat Azlan Helmy Abd
Published: January 2021

Background Workplace violence faced in the Emergency Department is well documented. However, there is minimal local data found in the literature. An exploration regarding workplace violence in a local setting is undertaken. This study examined the coping response to the occurrence of workplace violence encountered by an Emergency and Trauma Department healthcare workers. Method The study was done in one of the Emergency and Trauma Department of a tertiary government hospital in Malaysia. A period of a month was taken for data collection. Inclusion criteria includes healthcare workers who had exposure to work- place violence and agreeable to participate in the study. Incident reports were examined and semi-structured in-depth interview of various level of healthcare staff were conducted. Results Three final themes were identified in the way healthcare workers response to workplace violence; First, coping in pre-crisis phase to prevent a violent incident from occurring -mental and behavioural preparedness; Two, coping during crisis to prevent escalation of violence- self-restraint, constructive confrontation, seeking instrumental support; Three, coping after crisis to adapt emotionally and improve knowledge in managing workplace violence-seeking emotional support, disengagement, adaptation. Conclusions The method of coping response employed by participants corresponded to the level of violence exhibited by perpetrator. Multicentre study will help to broaden the understanding of WPV in Malaysia
Establishment and Validation of The Axillary Lymph Node Burden Using Cone-Beam Computerized Tomography and Ultrasound-Based Prediction Models in T1-2 Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Chen Shen , Li Jiao , Cai Peiqiang , Meng Tiebao , Ma Weimei , Chen Jieting , Xie Chuanmiao , Pei Shengting , Zhou Chunyan , Liu Lizhi , He Ni , Wu Yaopan , Liang Jianye
Published: January 2021

Background: This study aimed to develop and validate models to preoperatively predict the risk of the lymph node (LN) burden based on the Z0011 clinical trial to assist breast cancer surgical decision-making.Methods: Data on 1394 consecutive patients who presented at Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center for Cone-beam breast computerized tomography (CBBCT) examinations between April 3, 2019, and July 17, 2020, were retrospectively collected. 387 patients who met the inclusion criteria were included and randomly divided into training and validation cohorts. Clinical-pathological information of all patients was recorded, and images were reinterpreted in this study. A bidirectional stepwise method followed by multi-variable analysis was used to incorporate preoperative features and build optimal model sets with the training cohort for prediction of N0 versus N+ and N＜3 versus N≥3.Results: The ROC curves of two models were generated with the training cohort, and their calibration abilities were estimated using 1000 bootstrap resamples. The bias-corrected C-index of the models were 0.779 (95% CI, 0.752–0.793) in model one and 0.809 (95% CI, 0.794–0.833) in model two for the training cohort. Decision curves and clinical impact curves were plotted to evaluate prediction performance for further clinical application. Delong’s test showed comparable performance of both cohorts.Conclusions: Our models were developed as reliable and noninvasive tools for the preoperative prediction of nodal status, and we hope that they can serve as useful tools for the early planning of treatment strategies for breast cancer patients.
The polyphenol/saponin-rich Rhus tripartita extract has an apoptotic effect on THP-1 cells through the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Tlili Hajer , Macovei Anca , Buonocore Daniela , Lanzafame Manuela , Najjaa Hanen , Lombardi Anita , Pagano Andrea , Dossena Maurizia , Verri Manuela , Arfa Abdelkarim Ben , Neffati Mohamed , Doria Enrico
Published: January 2021

Background

Hyperactivation of mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway is involved in the regulation of cellular growth, proliferation, and more in general, is a common phenomenon in most types of cancers. Thus, natural substances targeting this pathway can be of great therapeutic potential in supporting the treatment of tumor patients. Rhus tripartita (Ucria) Grande is a plant growing in desertic areas which is traditionally used for the treatment of several diseases in Tunisia. In the present work, the biochemical profile of the main compounds present in the plant leaf extract was determined and the anti-leukemic potential of the plant extracts against acute monocytic leukaemia (AML) THP-1 cells was investigated.
Methods

After HPLC identification of some phenolic compounds present in the plant extract and the quantification of saponin content, the cytotoxic effect of Rhus tripartita extracts on THP-1 cell culture was evaluated using the colorimetric MTT assay for cell viability. THP-1 cells were incubated with medium containing the relative IC50 concentrations of total plant extract, saponin extract and some standard compounds (rutin (R); kaempferol (K); mixture of catechin, epicatechin, and epicatechin-gallate (CEEG); ellagic acid (EA). Finally, qRT-PCR and western blotting analysis were used to evaluate the effect of some flavonoids present in a crude extract of polyphenols and the total extract of saponins on cell survival and apoptosis.
Results

Analysis of expression level of some gene (PIK3CA, PTEN, AKT1, mTOR, EIF4E, RPS6KB1, and TSC1) involved in the mTOR pathway and the phosphorylation of S6 and AKT proteins allowed to observe that a total Rhus tripartita extract and some of the compounds found in the extract controls THP-1 cell proliferation and apoptosis via regulation of the PI3K-Akt-mTOR signaling pathway.
Conclusion

Rhus tripartita-induced inhibition of cell cycle and induction of apoptosis may involve the mTOR pathway. Therefore, Rhus tripartita extract may be a useful candidate as a natural anti‑cancer drug to support the treatment of AML.
A printed millimeter-wave modulator and antenna array for low-complexity Gigabit-datarate backscatter communications
Authors: Daskalakis Spyridon , Georgiadis Apostolos , Kimionis John , Tentzeris Manos
Published: January 2021

In this article, a low cost ink-jet printed millimeter-wave RF front-end for low-complexity Gigabit-datarate backscatter communications was designed, fabricated and measured. The RF front-end consists of a microstrip 5×1 series-fed patch antenna
array and a single E-pHEMT transistor, supporting a plethora of modulation formats, including binary phase shift keying
(BPSK), quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK), and quadrature amplitude modulation (16-QAM). The circuit was additively
manufactured using inkjet printing with silver nanoparticle (SNP) inks on a flexible liquid crystal polymer (LCP) substrate. A
mmWave transceiver was also designed in order to capture and downconvert the backscattered signals and route them for
digital signal processing. A bit rate of 2 Gbps of backscatter transmission is demonstrated at millimeter-wave frequencies 24-28
GHz, expanding the potential of backscatter radio as an ambitious low-energy, low-complexity communication system for future
IoT devices. By pushing the circuit complexity to a central station/access point, the radio’s footprint is minimized, which allows
additive manufacturing, resulting in significant implementation savings and compatibility with flexible platforms. The wideband
operation of these systems will enable broadband wireless transmission with less than 0.17 pJ/bit front-end consumption
at 2 Gbps and combined with sensing with low-power sensors and can be integrated with wearables for challenging mobile
applications in 5G and the Internet of Things (IoT).
Prevalence and Associated Factors of Hypertension Among Adults living in the City of Bandundu, Republic Democratic Republic of the Congo. A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study.
Authors: Mukoso Ferdinand , Nkodila Aliocha , Lepira François , Bayauli Pascal , Lubenga Yves , Kingama Benjamin , Shambo Joseph , Ndongala Tresor , Kamuanga Zéphirin , Nsu'kier Oscar , Lukanu Philippe , M'buyamba Jean René , Longo Benjamin
Published: January 2021

Background and aim: In limited resource settings, reliable epidemiological data generated from hypertension high risk geographical areas or people is a prerequisite for the planning of proven and effective interventions. The aim of the present survey was to assess the prevalence, awareness, control and factors associated with hypertension in adults living in the port City of Bandundu, located in the southwestern part of DRC.Methods: a cross-sectional survey using a modified WHO STEPwise questionnaire for data collection during face-to face interviews was conducted from 1st May to 30th October 2018. A multistage cluster sampling method was used and inclusion criteria were age ≥18 years and informed consent. Information on demographic parameters, behavioral lifestyles, anthropometric and blood pressure (BP) measurements was obtained. Hypertension was defined as an average of two BP ≥ 140/90 mmHg or self-reported history of antihypertensive medication use. Independent factors associated with hypertension were identified using logistic regression analysis. P<0.05 defined the level of statistical significance. Results: The prevalence of hypertension was 34,5% (Women 36,6 %). Older age (p<0.001), subclinical atherosclerosis (p= 0.021), sleep duration <8 hours (p<0.002), diabetes mellitus (p<0.001), and obesity (p= 0.009) emerged as main cardiovascular risk factors associated with hypertension.Conclusion: Hypertension was characterized by a high prevalence, low rate of awareness and suboptimal BP control, high cardiovascular risk and associated sleep duration and obesity as modifiable risk factors.
Pre-operation on 3D-print Model Can Improve Curative Effect of Percutaneous Kyphoplasty (PKP)
Authors: shen yuxin , xing Shitong
Published: January 2021

Background: The 3D-print technology has been widely used in the medical field. The purpose of this study is to investigate the advantages of 3D-print model pre-operation for percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP).Methods: Before the operations of 25 Osteoporotic vertebral body compression fractures (OVCF) cases as the experimental group, and 35 cases of the same disease in the same period were retrospectively selected as the control group without pre-operation. The 3D-print model was made by CT imagine. The puncture point and insertion angle were determined by the pre-operation on that model. The data recorded included data about operation time/fluoroscopy times/Changing channel times and preoperative and postoperative VAS(Visual Analogue Score), JOA(Japanese Orthopedic Association) score, Cobb’s angles.Results: There are significant advantages in the 3D printing group compared with the control group in the time of operation, the number of tunnel changes and the number of perspectives (p<0.05). The postoperative Cobbs angle is significantly improved (p<0.05) in both the short and long term compared with the control group. The recent postoperative VAS score is significantly lower than that in the control group (p<0.05), and there is no significant difference in the long-term postoperative VAS score. There is no significant difference between the two groups of JOA functional score and improvement index.Conclusions: preoperation with 3D-print model can significantly improve the accuracy, reduce the change times of tunnels, shorten the operation time and reduce the number of fluoroscopy. Postoperative pain can be better relieved.
Distribution of Fluoroquinolone Resistance Determinants in Carbapenem-Resistant Klebsiella Pneumoniae Clinical Isolates Associated with Bloodstream Infections in China
Authors: Zhan Qing , Xu Yanlei , Wang Bingjie , Yu Jingyi , Shen Xiaofei , Liu Li , Cao Xingwei , Guo Yinjuan , Yu Fangyou
Published: January 2021

Background The rate of fluoroquinolone (FQ) resistance among the carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) is considerably high. The present study aimed to investigate the distribution of fluoroquinolone resistance determinants in CRKP clinical isolates associated with bloodstream infections (BSIs).Result A total of 149 carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae clinical isolates causing bloodstream infections (BSIs) collected from 11 Chinese teaching hospitals from 2015 to 2018 were investigated for the prevalence of fluoroquinolone resistance determinants including plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance (PMQR) genes and spontaneous mutations in the quinolone resistance-determining regions (QRDRs) of the gyrA and parC genes. Among 149 CRKP clinical isolates, 117 (78.5%) exhibited resistance to ciprofloxacin. The substitutions (Ser83→IIe/phe) and (Asp87→Gly/Ala) of GyrA were found among 112 (75.2%) of 149 isolates. And the substitution (Ser80→IIe) of ParC was found in 111 (74.5%) of 149 isolates. Seventy point five percent (105/149) CRKP isolates had at least two mutations within gyrA as well as a third mutation in parC. No mutation of QRDRs was found in 31 sensitive CRKP isolates. Eighty-nine (56.9%) of 149 were found to carry PMQR genes including qnrS1 (43.0%), aac(6')-Ib-cr (16.1%), qnrB4 (6.0%), qnrB2 (2.7%) and qnrB1 (1.3%). Nine isolates contained two or more PMQR genes, with one carrying four PMQR genes including aac(6')-Ib-cr, qnr-S1, qnrB2 and qnrB4). The co-existence rate of PMQR determinants and mutations of QRDRs in gyrA and parC reached 68.5% (61/89). Seventy-four (83.1%, 74/89) PMQR-positive isolates harbored ESBL genes. Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) analysis found that the ST types of PMQR-negative isolates were more concentrated relative to PMQR-positive isolates.Conclusion Mutations in QRDRs of gyrA and parC were the key factor leading to the high prevalence of fluoroquinolones resistance among CRKP causing BSIs. PMQR genes can promote QRDRs and increase the resistance level of CRKP to fluoroquinolones in clinical settings. ST11 CRKP isolates with the same substitution patterns in QRDRs spread throughout hospitals in China.
Search Strategy for Rare Microstructure to Optimize Material Properties of Filled Rubber
Authors: Kojima Takashi , Washio Takashi , Hara Satoshi , Koishi Masakata
Published: January 2021

A shortcut to understand the microstructure-property relationship is sampling and analysis of microstructures that induce the desired material property. In the case of filled rubber, the simulation of complex filler morphology involves hundreds of filler particles. This requires a large amount of iterative sampling, because the number of parameters is when using coordinates of the n particles as the search objective. Furthermore, the morphology that induces the desired property, e.g. extremely high modulus, only occurs rarely. In this paper, we propose an effective three-step search method for the filler morphology. In the first step, the replica exchange Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) was employed to discretely search among a wide range of morphologies. In this step, we reduced the filler morphology space in sampling by introducing distributed filler candidate points and spin function. In the second step, the gradient descent method was applied to search for the desired morphology locally in the high-dimensional space , starting from the morphologies obtained by the replica exchange MCMC. Lastly, the coarse-grained molecular dynamics (CGMD) simulations were performed to validate the morphologies actually show the desired properties, because the surrogate model of CGMD was employed in the first 2 steps for the efficient search. Using the proposed method, we demonstrate the search for morphologies that induce high elastic modulus.
Continuous Blood Purification on Influenza-associated Neurological Disease in Children: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Ni Jingwen , Fang Kenan , Zhao Zhe , Wang Zhiyuan , Huang Qian , Li Lele , Yang Guiying , Guo Huizi , Hong Xiaoyang , Li Shujun
Published: January 2021

Background: Due to lack of proven therapies，we evaluated the effect of CBP on Influenza-Associated Neurological Disease in children.Methods: A single-center, retrospective, cohort study was conducted in Luoyang, Henan province China from January 2018 to January 2020. The children with Influenza-associated neurological disease (<18 years old) were enrolled into this study. The children with CBP indications and the parents’ consent received CBP, and the others were treated with maximal intensive care due to failure of parents consent. The outcomes were compared between CBP group and non-CBP group.Categorical variables were presented as percentage and compared by Chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test. Continuous variables were expressed as median (interquartile ranges) and compared with non-parametric independent sample test. Statistical analyses were finished by SPSS (version 26.0) and p < 0.05 (2 tailed) was considered statistically significant.Results: 30 influenza children with Influenza-associated neurological disease were enrolled in this study. 18 received CBP and other 12 were treated with maximal intensive care. There were no differences between CBP and non-CBP children in age, sex, body weight, type of influenza virus, neurological complications, Glasgow score, PIM-2 score and PCIS at admission (p > 0.05). The inflammatory factors (CRP, PCT and IL-6) of 30 cases were tested at admission and after 3 days of admission. In CBP group, the level of IL-6 decreased significantly at 3-day of admission (p = 0.003), the level of CRP and PCT also decreased, but there was no significant difference (p > 0.05). In the non-CBP group, there were no significant difference on level of CRP, PCT and IL-6 between at admission and 3-day of admission (p > 0.05). The 28-day mortality in the CBP group was significantly lower compared to non-CBP group (11.11% vs 50%, p = 0.034).Conclusions: CBP could Reduce inflammatory factors and may reduce 28-day mortality and improve neurologic function of influenza children.Trial registration: http://www.chictr.org.cn/index.aspx (ChiCTR2000031754).
Identification Novel Biomarker for Acute Aortic Dissection Using 4D-Label-Free Proteomics
Authors: wang mengmeng , wang baozhu , Maitusun Maitudi , chen bangdang , Adi Dilare , shao meihua , lu chenfei , zhong jing , ma yitong , ma xiang
Published: January 2021

Purpose: we aimed to identify potential candidate biomarkers in aorta tissue from AAD patients. Methods: We used 4D label-free quantification (4D-LFQ) mass spectrometry to screen differentially expressed proteins in aorta tissues of AAD patients. Then we performed protein annotation, unsupervised hierarchical clustering, functional classification, functional enrichment and cluster, and protein-protein interaction analyses. Parallel Reaction Monitoring (PRM) technology was used to accurately and quantitatively confirm the selected target proteins. Results: A total of 3350 proteins were identified. Taking 1.5 times as the differential expression threshold, 139 were upregulated and 108 were downregulated as compared to the control groups. Bioinformatics analysis showed that the differential proteins were mainly distributed in extracellular matrix and cytoplasm. And their functions mainly involve cell migration and proliferation, inflammatory cell activation, cell contraction, muscle organ development and other processes. PRM technology accurately quantified the selected 20 target proteins, and found SAA1, LBP, MPO, and ENG were confirmed to be enriched in the aorta tissue of AAD patients. Conclusions: This is the first application of a 4D-LFQ-PRM workflow to identify and validate biomarkers in AAD patients. SAA1, LBP, MPO, and ENG represent novel biomarkers for the pathogenesis of AAD and might be a therapeutic target in the future.
Modelling of Potential Tsunami in Makassar Strait, Indonesia: Submarine Landslide-Induced Tsunami Simulations
Authors: Gumbira Gugum , Wibowo Mardi , Khoirunnisa Hanah , Karima Shofia , Kongko Widjo
Published: January 2021

Tsunami modelling of potential landslide-induced tsunami in Makassar Strait is carried out to quantify possible damage to the nearby cities. Two numerical models are used to represent the wave generation and propagation by using NHWAVE and FUNWAVE models, respectively. The simulations consist of a series of scenarios based on distinct size of the landslide volume. Four landslides with volume 5, 8, 70, and 200 km 3 are used as tsunami sources in the initiation stage. The sources are evenly distributed in the Strait addressing different landslide location. Maximum wave heights of 1.5 m are found in the area between Palu and Bangkir from case 1 and around Talok from case 2 simulations. The empirical run-up calculation of 7.5 m is estimated at the land for the presented wave height. The value significantly elevates the case 3 and 4 proportional to the volume values. The waves impact more than half of coastline with maximum value found in the Sulawesi side. Interestingly, wide and narrow shelf next to Kalimantan Island plays an important role in reducing the tsunami hazard level.
From Infancy to Middle-Adolescence Nonlinear Physical Growth in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Wake Senahara Korsa , Zewotir Temesgen , Muluneh Essey Kebede
Published: January 2021

Background: Modeling the growth curve of height has a significant role in understanding the growth trajectories over time and generated mathematical functions that depict the expected height of children at a particular age. However, modeling the mathematical growth functions for physical height is not well studied in low- and middle-income countries. Modeling and identifying nonlinear growth curves that adequately describe the growth trajectories in low- and middle-income countries were the aims of this study. Methods: The data were obtained from the Young Lives study. Longitudinal measures of height from infancy to middle-adolescence were collected from low- and middle-income countries. A number of nonlinear growth trajectories were studied through the family of three-parameter nonlinear mixed-effects models. Results: This study examined the performances of different growth curves for the height growth trajectories. The Logistic curve was chosen among the three-parameter nonlinear growth curves for modeling the growth trajectories from infancy to middle-adolescence. Gender and country have significant effects on the three parameters of growth curves. Males had higher asymptotic height and a lower rate of growth than females. Females reached asymptotic height earlier and shorter at asymptotic height than males. Children with low asymptotic height grow faster than those with higher asymptotic height. Compared to Ethiopian children, Indian and Peruvian children had lower asymptotic height, but Vietnamese children had higher asymptotic height. Ethiopian children approached adult height earlier than Indian children, but later than Peruvian children. However, there was no significant difference in the rate of growth between Ethiopian and Vietnamese children. Conclusions: This study concludes that the Logistic growth curve was found to be the best growth curve to describe the height growth trajectories. Children in Ethiopia, India, Peru and Vietnam showed different growth parameters. Further enhancements may be attained with the incorporation of other plausible covariates.
Performance and Preference of Problem Based Learning (Pbl) and Lecture Based Learning Among Selected Medical Students of Nepal
Authors: Yadav Saroj Adhikari , Poudel Sangeeta , Gautam Swotantra , Pandey Oshna , Jaiswal Dhiraj , Malla Bhupendra , Thakur Brajesh
Published: January 2021

Background: This study aims to compare student’s understanding and knowledge retention when taught through PBL (Problem Based Learning) and Lecture, and compare student’s perception about PBL and Lecture in medical education. Method: This is cross-sectional study done among medical students of PBL based medical school. Ethical approval was taken from IRC-PAHS. To assess understanding and knowledge retention, 50 vignettes based Multiple Choice Questions were administered, half of which were taught through PBL sessions and remaining half were taught in didactic Lectures during basic science years of medical school. To assess student's preference on PBL and Lecture, separate pre-validate perception questionnaire was used.Result: Out of 107 students, 99 participated in understanding and knowledge retention questionnaire and 107 filled perception questionnaires. Understanding and knowledge retention of students was found to be same for topics taught by PBL and Lecture with median score of 17 and 16 respectively. PBL was preferred more for physiology(59.81%), pathology(51.40%) and pharmacology(53.27 %) concepts, and Lecture was more preferred for anatomy(78.50%), biochemistry(45.79%), and microbiology(42.99%) topics. Many students wanted same concepts to be taught through both PBL and Lecture, especially for anatomy. Combined Lecture by group of faculties and community-based programs were preferred for Community Health Science (CHS) contents and hospital ward-based teaching was preferred for Introduction to Clinical Medicine (ICM) rather than PBL or Lectures.Conclusion: Understanding and knowledge retention is same for topics taught by either PBL or Lecture during basic science years of undergraduate medical education. Students prefer PBL for physiology, pathology and pharmacology related concepts, conventional didactic Lecture for physiology and microbiology, and combination of Lecture and PBL sessions for Anatomy.
Comorbidities of COVID-19 Patients With Low Cycle Threshold (Ct) Value of Nucleocapsid (N) Gene: An Application to Cluster-Based Logistic Model.
Authors: RUDRA SUJAN , DAS SHUVA , HOQUE MD. EHSANUL , KALAM ABUL , RAHMAN MOHAMMAD ARIFUR , SHIZUKA SWAGATA NANDY , RAHMAN TAZRINA
Published: January 2021

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a health crisis throughout the world. The widely used Real-time Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (rRT-PCR) method is most capable of describing the patient’s condition. Comorbidities can make patients more critical.Methods: In this study, we shed light on the low cycle threshold (Ct) value of the N gene in the rRT-PCR test of the COVID-19 patients who had comorbidities, cure rate, and the needfulness of ICU (Intensive Care Unit) management. We had conducted the research in the Molecular Biology Laboratory of Chittagong Medical College between May and August 2020, then took the telephone interview with 300 positive patients who fulfilled the study criteria. We applied cluster-based logistic regression to analyze the data.Results: Low Ct value of the N gene found 1.324 times more in Type 2 DM patients and 1.871 times higher in hypertensive patients, and hospitalized patients are 2.480 times more vulnerable to shift in ICU.Conclusions: While infection with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) frequently causes severe diseases, suspected cases with comorbid conditions should go through the rRT-PCR as early as possible.
Carbenoxolone does not Improve Sevoflurane-induced Neurotoxicity in the Developing Rat Hippocampus
Authors: Bi Congjie , Xie Dan , Yu Donghai , Wang Yang
Published: January 2021

Background: Connexin 43 is the most abundant connexin protein expressed in astrocytes. Our previous research found that sevoflurane-induced neurotoxicity was related to Cx43 via JNK/MAPK/Ap-1 signaling pathway. Cx43 functions through hemichannels (HCs) and gap junctions (GJs) and both of them could affect the homeostasis of central nervous system. Carbenoxolone (Cbx) is generally considered as a Cx43 hemichannel and gap junction inhibitor in traditional applications. Therefore, we hypothesized that preadministration of Cbx may attenuate sevoflurane-induced cognitive dysfunction.Methods: Seven-day-old SD rats (P7) were exposed to 3% sevoflurane for 4 hours with or without Cbx pretreatment at a dose of 50 mg/kg. Levels of Bcl-2, Bax, Cx43 and caspase-3 positive cells in P8 rat’s hippocampus were examined using Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Morris water maze was performed from P28 to P33 to test the cognitive function.Results: Cx43 levels and caspase-3 positive cells in P7 rat hippocampus were increased 1 day after exposure to 3% sevoflurane for 4 h compared with control rats. Sevoflurane anesthesia decreased the expression of Bcl-2 and increased the expression of Bax in P8 rat’s hippocampus (P<0.05, n=5). Exposure to sevoflurane led to significant cognitive impairment from P28 to P33.All these defects could not be alleviated by pretreatment with Cbx.Conclusions: These data suggested that Cbx could not improve sevoflurane-induced neurotoxicity by inhibiting Cx43 HCs in the developing brain.
Resveratrol Alleviates the KCl Salinity Stress of Malus hupenensis Rhed. Seedlings by Regulating K+/Na+ Homeostasis, Osmotic Adjustment, and Reactive Oxygen Species Scavenging
Authors: Li Tingting , Li Yuqi , Sun Zhijuan , Xi Xiangli , Sha Guangli , Ma Changqing , Tian Yike , Wang Caihong , Zheng Xiaodong
Published: January 2021

Background: Applying large amounts of potash fertilizer in apple orchards for high apple quality and yield aggravates KCl stress. As a phytoalexin, resveratrol (Res) participates in plant resistance to biotic stress. However, its role in relation to KCl stress have never been reported. Results: Malus hupenensis is a widely used apple rootstock in China and is sensitive to KCl stress. In this study, 100 µmol Res was exogenously applied to alleviate KCl stress in M. hupenensis seedlings. The seedlings treated with Res had higher chlorophyll content and photosynthetic index than those without Res treatment. Moreover, the molecular and physiological mechanisms of Res in ion toxicity, osmotic stress, and oxidative damage induced by KCl stress were also investigated. First, exogenous Res affects K+/Na+ homeostasis in cytoplasm by enhancing K+ efflux outside the cells, inhibiting Na+ efflux and K+ absorption, and compartmentalizing K+ into vacuoles. Second, this compound could respond to osmotic stress by regulating the accumulation of proline. Lastly, this polyphenol functions as an antioxidant that strengthens the activities of POD and CAT thus eliminates the reactive oxygen species production induced by KCl stress.Conclusions: Taken together, these results reveal that resveratrol alleviates the KCl salinity stress of M. hupenensis seedlings by regulating K+/Na+ homeostasis, osmotic adjustment, and reactive oxygen species scavenging.
Analysis of field-grown Panax ginseng rhizosphere microbiome provides clues for preventing red skin root syndrome
Authors: Bian Xingbo , Dong Ling , Zhao Yan , Yang He , Xu Yonghua , Han Yongzhong , Zhang Lianxue
Published: January 2021

Background

Ginseng red skin root syndrome (GRS) is one of the most common ginseng diseases. It leads to a severe decline in ginseng quality and seriously affects the ginseng industry in China. However, as a root disease, the characteristics of GRS rhizosphere microbiome are still unclear.
Methods

The amplicon sequencing technology, combined with bioinformatics analysis, was used to explore the relationship between soil ecological environment and GRS.
Results

There were significant differences in the diversity and richness of soil microorganisms between the rhizosphere with different degrees of disease, especially between healthy ginseng (HG) and heavily diseased groups. We also found that bacterial communities underwent multiple changes between complex stability and simple instability in different ginseng rhizospheres through the established interaction networks. The GRS group also had more competition with each other and ecological niche separation than the HG group. The fungal community's stability decreased significantly in the early stages of the disease, followed by the formation of a stable and complex fungal community. The GRS groups significantly increased interspecies cooperation and ecological niche overlap in the fungal network than the HG group. Microbes closely related to potential pathogenic fungi were also identified according to the interaction network, which provided clues for looking for biological control agents. Finally, the Distance-based redundancy analysis (dbRDA) results indicated that total P (TP), available K (AK), available P (AP), catalase (CAT), invertase (INV) are the key factors that influence the microbial communities.
Conclusions

This study collectively analyzed the changing characteristics in ginseng rhizosphere and provided the basis for soil improvement and biological control of field-grown ginseng.
Depth-dependent Influence of Biochar Application on the Abundance and Community Structure of Diazotrophic Under Sugarcane Growth
Authors: Fallah Nyumah , Tayyab Muhammad , Yang Ziqi , Zhang Caifang , Abubakar Ahmad , Lin Zhaoli , Pang Ziqin , Allison Americ , Zhang Hua
Published: January 2021

Despite progress in understanding diazotrophic distribution in surface soils, few studies have investigated the distribution of diazotrophic in dipper soil layers. Here, we leveraged high-throughput sequencing (HTS) of nifH genes obtained to assess the influence of biochar amended soil (BC) and control (CK), and soil depths (0-20, 20-40 and 40-60 cm) on diazotrophic abundance and community structures, and soil biochemical properties. Although soil physio-chemical properties, enzymes activities, diazotrophic genera and enriched OTUs were significantly influenced across the entire soil profiles, our results also revealed that BC amended soil significantly increased cane stalk height and weight, soil NO3-, NH4+, OM, TC and AK, and enhanced diazotrophic genera in soil depth 0-20 cm compared to CK treatment. Soil TC, TN, OM and NH4+ were the major impact factors shifting diazotrophic community structures in soil depth 0-20 cm. Moreover, multivariate ANOVA analysis revealed that changes in majority of the soil parameters measured were associated with soil depth rather than fertilization. More diazotrophic genera were to a greater extent significantly and positively associated with many soil environmental variables especially in the surface soil 0-20 cm than diazotrophic phyla. Overall, these results were more pronounced in 0-20 cm soil depth in BC than CK treatment.
Histopathological Assessment of the Effect of Pregabalin Toxicity on Cerebrum and Cerebellum of Adult Albino Rats
Authors: Hassan Wael Abdou , Shehata Shaimaa , ElBana Ahmad
Published: January 2021

Background: Pregabalin (PGB) used as analgesic in treatment of neurogenic pains of chronic diseases, is considered as one of the most abused anti-epileptic drugs worldwide and it has been proved that it induces addictive behaviors. The present histopathological study aimed to identify the effect of PGB administration on cerebral cortex and cerebellar cortex, in both acute and chronic toxicity. Seventy-two male and non-pregnant female adult albino rats’ 6- to 8-week-old divided into 3 main groups of 24 rats each were studied. Group 1 represented the control group and group 2 represented the acute toxicity group, in which rats were given a single dose of PGB (5000 mg/kg) orally by gavage and after 24 hours, rats were sacrificed and examined. Group 3 represented the chronic toxicity group; were given PGB 500 mg/kg orally by gavage for 12 weeks, after which rats were sacrificed and examined. Result: Cerebral cortex tissue of acute toxicity group displayed astrocytosis and dystrophic changes, while in chronic group showed degeneration, necrosis and cellular infiltrates. The cerebellum of chronic groups showed degeneration and shrunken of Purkinje cells. Conclusion: Acute and chronic intoxication with pregabalin adversely altered the structure of cerebral cortex and cerebellum.
Use-wear Traces and Plant Micro-remain Analysis Reveal the Function of Perforated Shells From the Xianrendong and Diaotonghuan Sites in the Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River, China
Authors: Ma Zhikun , Zhang Chi , Liu Shu , Linda Perry , Huan Xiujia , Ma Yongchao , Wan Zhiwei , Zhou Guangming , Yang Xiaoyan
Published: January 2021

Shell remains are common cultural relics recovered from the late Paleolithic to the historical-age sites in China. Archaeological evidence shows that the number of perforated shells gradually increased at the transition from the Paleolithic to Neolithic age, a time period that coincides with the beginning of farming activities. Usage traces and plant residues from prehistoric perforated shells are often used to interpret tool function. In this study, we analyzed use-wear traces and recovered ancient starches and phytoliths from both the used edges and unused backs of twelve perforated shells from the Xianrendong and Diaotonghuan sites (30,000–12,000 cal. Y BP). These sites are well-known for the earliest pottery and the earliest cultivated rice micro-remains in the world. We found that: (1) all the twelve shells had scars and use wear, and the use traces occurred on the used edges; (2) an assemblage of 83 identifiable starch grains were recovered from the twelve perforated shells, including remains of acorns, Panicoideae and the tribe Triticeae, tubers and roots; (3) only six phytoliths from the stems and leaves of grass taxa including Panicoideae and Bambusoideae were recovered from four shells. The meta-analysis of the use-wear and plant micro-remain analysis indicate that the functions of perforated shells were nearly identical from the late Paleolithic to early Neolithic periods. These functions include processing, harvesting or cutting grasses from the Panicoideae, Bambusoideae, and the tribe Triticeae, processing acorns or/and their starchy products, and digging and scraping tubers and roots. The digging and scraping of tubers and roots increased in intensity with the increase in rice cultivation during the period between 20,000 and 12,000 cal. Y BP.