bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Professional communication competence in English for occupational purposes (EOP) courses: A systematic literature review and proposal of a framework
Authors: Ahmad Kamil Maisarah , Muhammad Ahmad Mazli
Published: September 2021

This paper reports a systematic literature review that was conducted to explore the areas of research pertaining to English language workplace communication needs in order to design courses in English for Occupational Purposes (EOP) that can better meet the demands of the industry. Articles from Scopus, ScienceDirect and Emerald Insight were extracted following the five-step method of conducting a systematic literature review. In total, 133 articles were analysed. From the analysis, it was found that most studies focused on examining the needs of the learners, or the needs of the industry; very few studies triangulated the findings between different stakeholders to obtain a better picture of the needs, wants, and gaps between the target situation and the present situation. Additionally, most studies focused on language tasks required and did not pay due emphasis on the competencies required to perform the tasks well. Thus, the outcome of this review is a proposed theoretical model to develop professional communication competence among new graduates that is intended to be used in a future study to address the gaps found in this review. Practically, the review also sheds light on gaps that exist in current research that can be addressed in future research, especially for higher education institutions (HEIs) that are working to design and develop courses in EOP to improve English language communication skills for employability.
Evaluation of Pelvic Floor Muscle Function(PFMF) In Cervical Cancer Patients With Querleu-Morrow Type C Hysterectomy: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Wang Shiyan , Wen Hongwu , Gao Yunong , Lv Qiubo , Li Hongyu , Wang Sumei , Wang Yanlong , Liu Qing , Han Jinsong , Wang Haibo , Li Yi , Yu Na , Wang Qing , Cao Tingting , Wang Sha , Sun Huaxin , Wang Zhiqi , Sun Xiuli , Wang Jianliu
Published: September 2021

Introduction To evaluate the pelvic floor muscle function (PFMF) of cervical cancer patients after type QM-C hysterectomy and to explore the relationship between decreased PFMF and related factors..Methods This was a multi-centered retrospective cohort study. 181 cervical cancer patients who underwent type QM-C hysterectomy were enrolled from 9 tertiary hospitals. Strength of PFMF were measured by using neuromuscular apparatus (Phenix U8, French). Risk factors contributing to decreased PFMF were analyzed by univariate and multivariate ordinal ploytomous logistic regression. Results Totally 181 patients were investigated in this study. 0-3 level of type I muscle fibre strength(MFSI) was 52.6% (95/181), 0-3 level of type ⅡA muscle fibre strength(MFSⅡA) was 50% (91/181). Subjective stress urinary incontinence was 46%(84/181), urinary retention was 27.3% (50/181), dyschezia was 41.5% (75/181), fecal incontinence was 9%(18/181). ① MFSI：Multivariate ordinal ploytomous logistic regression shows that the follow-up time(p<0.05), chemotherapy and radiotherapy (p=0.038) are independent risk factors of MFSI’s reduction after type QM-C hysterectomy. ② MFSⅡA：Multivariate ordinal ploytomous logistic regression shows that the follow-up time (p<0.05) are independent risk factors of MFSⅡA’s reduction after type QM-C hysterectomy. The pelvic floor muscle strength (PFMS) increased after 9 months than in 9 months after operation, which showed that the PFMS could be recovered after operation. Conclusions We advocate for more attention and emphasis on the PFMF of Chinese female patients with cervical cancer postoperation.Contribution of the Paper PFMF after QM-C hysterectomy has not been analyzed by current study. The contribution is that patients with radical hysterectomy should do pelvic floor rehabilitation exercises in 3 months after operation.
"Qualitative Development And Content Validation of The "SPART" Model; A Focused Ethnography Study of Observable Diagnostic And Therapeutic Activities In The Emergency Medical Services Care Process"
Authors: Dercksen Bert , Struys Michel M.R.F. , Cnossen Fokie , Paans Wolter
Published: September 2021

Background:Clinical reasoning is a crucial task within the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) care process. Both contextual and cognitive factors make the task susceptible to errors. Understanding the EMS care process’ structure could help identify and address issues that interfere with clinical reasoning. The EMS care process is complex and only basically described. In this research, we aimed to define the different phases of the process and develop an overarching model that can help detect and correct potential error sources, improve clinical reasoning and optimize patient care. Methods:We conducted a focused ethnography study utilizing non-participant video observations of real-life EMS deployments combined with thematic analysis of peer interviews.After an initial qualitative analysis of 7 video observations, we formulated a tentative conceptual model of the EMS care process. To test and refine this model, we carried out a qualitative, thematic analysis of 28 video-recorded cases. We validated the resulting model by evaluating its recognizability with a peer content analysis utilizing semi-structured interviews. Results:Based on real-life observations, we were able to define and validate a model covering the distinct phases of an EMS deployment. We have introduced the acronym “SPART” to describe ten different phases: Start, Situation, Prologue, Presentation, Anamnesis, Assessment, Reasoning, Resolution, Treatment, and Transfer. Conclusions: The “SPART” model describes the EMS care process and helps to understand it. We expect it to facilitate identifying and addressing factors that influence both the care process and the clinical reasoning task embedded in this process.
Polyaniline Based Field Effect Transistor For Humidity Sensor
Authors: Biswas Mandira , Dey Anup , Sarkar Subir Kumar
Published: September 2021

In this present research work, we presented a new Bottom Gate P-Type Organic Field Effect Transistor (OFET) humidity sensor and its applicability towards humidity has been experimentally demonstrated. P-type organic semiconductor polyaniline (PANI) has been used in a variety of applications, including logic circuit components, electromagnetic shielding, chemical sensing, and anticorrosion. Humidity sensor can be used to monitor relative humidity (RH) in various environments. We only focus on the fabrication of conducting polymer OFETs with top contact to measure humidity and verify I-V properties. The current saturation (ISat) of p-type OFETs was 0.8 μA, while the threshold voltage VTh was 2.2V. The results of FESEM have been perform to confirm that deposited thin film grown on the substrate is purely uniform. The Proposed sensor shows that organic gate dielectrics are a low-cost alternative to inorganic gate dielectrics with good electrical performance. The proposed OFET-based sensors have a number of benefits, such as high sensitivity, low cost, quick response, and physical flexibility.
Prevalence of Suicidal Ideation and Suicide Attempts Among Refugees: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Haase Elisa , Schönfelder Antje , Nesterko Yuriy , Glaesmer Heide
Published: September 2021

Background: Suicidal ideation and attempts are one of the most serious mental health problems affecting refugees. Risk factors such as mental disorders, low socio-economic status, and stressful life events all contribute to making refugees a high-risk group. For this reason, this meta-analysis aims to investigate the prevalence of suicidal ideation and attempts among refugees in non-clinical populations.Method: All studies published in English up through August 2020 were considered for the analysis. We searched four databases for articles reporting (period) prevalence rates of suicidal ideation and attempts. Results: Of 294 hits, 11 publications met the inclusion criteria. Overall prevalence rates were calculated using Rstudio. The overall period prevalence of suicidal ideation was 20.5% (CI: 0.11-0.32, I²=98%, n=8), 22.3% (CI: 0.10-0.38, I²=97%, n=5) for women, and 23.3% for men (CI: 0.13-0.35, I²=87%, n=3). Suicide attempts had an overall prevalence of 0.57% (CI: 0.00-0.02, I²=81%, n=4). Conclusion: There is a great lack of epidemiological studies on suicidal ideation and attempts among refugees. The high prevalence of suicidal ideation indicates the existence of heavy psychological burden among this population. The prevalence of suicide attempts is similar to that in non-refugee populations. In addition, the results underline the need for systematic and standardized assessment and treatment of suicidal ideation and attempts.
The relationship between psychosocial factors and reported disability: The role of pain self-efficacy
Authors: Varela Antonio
Published: September 2021

Background
Chronic pain in all its forms and the accompanying level of disability is a healthcare crisis that reaches epidemic proportions and is considered a world level crisis. Chronic non-specific low back pain contributes a significant proportion of chronic pain. Specific psychosocial factors and their influence on reported disability in a chronic non-specific low back pain (CNLBP) population was researched.
Methods
Psychosocial factors examined include fear, catastrophizing, depression, and pain self-efficacy. This cross-sectional correlational study examined the mediating role between pain self-efficacy and the specific psychosocial factors with reported disability. The study included 90 participants with CNLBP between 20 and 60 years of age. Participants completed the Fear Avoidance Belief Questionnaire, The Pain Catastrophizing Scale, The Patient Health Questionnaire-9, The Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire, and The Lumbar Oswestry Disability Index to measure fear of physical activity, pain catastrophizing, depression, pain self-efficacy, and reported disability, respectively. The study used multivariate regression and mediation analyses.
Results
The principal finding of the study was a strong inverse relationship between pain self-efficacy and reported disability. Further, pain self-efficacy was considered a statistic mediator for all psychosocial factors investigated within this data set. Pain self-efficacy was strongly considered to have a mediating role between reported fear of physical activity and disability, reported pain catastrophizing and disability, and reported depression and disability. Additionally, adjusting for age and reported pain levels proved to be statistically significant, and it did not alter the role of pain self-efficacy.
Conclusion
The results identified that pain self-efficacy had a mediating role in the relationship between the specific psychosocial factors of fear, catastrophizing, and depression and reported disability. Pain self-efficacy plays a more significant role in the relationships between specific psychosocial factors and reported disability with CNLBP than previously considered.
Two New Records of Upeneus Spottocaudalis and U. Sundaicus (Perciformes: Mullidae) from the Northern South China Sea Based on the Morphology and DNA Barcoding
Authors: Luo Zhisen , Yi Murong , Qiu Kangwen , Liu Sibiao , Gu Sui , Yan Yunrong
Published: September 2021

In this study, two new records of goatfishes Upeneus spottocaudalis and U. sundaicus from the South China Sea, combing evidence from morphology and DNA barcodes for species identification. ML tree and NJ tree result showed that the sequences of U. spottocaudalis and U. sundaicus were clustered with the homologous sequences form GenBank, respectively, and the intraspecific genetic distances of U. spottocaudalis (0.2%) and U. sundaicus (0.3%) were less than 2%. Automatic Barcode Gap Discovery (ABGD) analysis also supported this result of classification.
The prevalence of and risk factors for dysphagia among elderly residents in nursing homes: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Hu Zhao , Zheng Baohua , Kaminga Atipatsa Chiwanda , Xu Huilan
Published: September 2021

Background

Elderly residents in nursing homes are at high risk for dysphagia. However, the prevalence estimates of this condition and its risk factors among this population were inconsistent.
Objective

To estimate the prevalence of dysphagia and examine its risk factors among the elderly in nursing homes.
Methods

Electronic database of PubMed, Web of science, Embase for English language, Wangfang, VIP and CNKI for Chinese language were systematically searched to identify relevant observational studies published not later than July 4, 2021. Studies conducted in nursing homes and reported dysphagia assessment methods were included.
Results

In total, 43 studies involving 56,746 participants were included in this systematic review and meta-Analysis. The overall pooled crude prevalence of dysphagia was 35.9% (95%CI: 29.0%, 43.4%), with high heterogeneity (I2 = 99.5%). There was a statistically significant difference in prevalence estimates with respect to study locations, methods of assessment of dysphagia, dysphagia assessment staff, representativeness of samples, and validity of assessment tools. Pooled estimates indicated that male (OR = 1.13, 95%CI: 1.00, 1.27), cognitive impairment (OR = 2.47, 95%CI: 1.59, 3.84), functional limitation (OR = 2.59, 95% CI: 1.75, 3.84), cerebrovascular disease (OR = 2.90, 95%CI: 1.73,4.87), dementia (OR = 1.50, 95%CI: 1.15, 1.96) and Parkinson’s disease (OR = 1.81, 95%CI: 1.06, 3.08) were significant risk factors for dysphagia.
Conclusions

The prevalence of dysphagia in nursing homes is relatively high, and with high heterogeneity. Also, many factors were associated with the risk of dysphagia. Further research is needed to identify strategies for management and interventions targeted at these disorders in this population.
An in depth look into intracranial Abscesses and Empyemas: a 10-year experience in a single institute.
Authors: Jarrar Sultan , Barbarawi Mohammed M. Al , Daoud Suleiman S. , Ahmed Yaman B. , Al-Kraimeen Leen M , Abushukair Hassan M , Syaj Sebawe , Jbarah Omar F.
Published: September 2021

Background

As the incidence of intracranial infections increase due to diagnostic procedures improvement, more real-life data is needed to reach a more solid informed management approach. This study aims to describe and analyse clinical features of intracranial abscesses patients treated at a tertiary hospital in North Jordan during a 10-year period.
Methods

We retrospectively identified 37 patients treated at King Abdullah University Hospital (KAUH) from 2011 to 2020 in Irbid, North Jordan. Treatment consisted of either aspiration, open craniotomy excision (OCE) or conservative therapy. Extracted variables included demographic data such (age, gender), clinical presentation, lab findings, radiological findings as well as management plan. Retrieved data was compared between the patients who underwent a single operation and those who underwent reoperation after the initial procedure.
Results

Thirty-seven patients with 55 intracerebral abscesses were identified, 29 of whom had intraparenchymal brain abscesses, 4 patients had epidural empyema, and 4 had subdural empyema. The mean age was 28.8 (± 20.7) years, with a male predominance (78.4%). Sixteen patients underwent open craniotomy excision (OCE), 14 patients were treated by aspiration and 7 patients were treated conservatively. When comparing the single operation and the reoperation groups, there was no statistically significant difference across variables.
Conclusion

Our study presents valuable insight from a tertiary hospital in north Jordan on intracranial abscesses and empyemas. Our findings confirm that good recovery can be established after aspiration or OCE in the majority of patients. Similar results were obtained when comparing the SOP and the ROP groups.
Optimization, Validation and Initial Clinical Implications of a Luminex-based Immunoassay for the Quantification of Fragile X Protein from Dried Blood Spots
Authors: Boggs Anna , Schmitt Lauren , McLane Richard , Adayev Tatyana , LaFauci Giuseppe , Dominick Kelli , Gross Christina , Horn Paul , Erickson Craig
Published: September 2021

Background: Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common inherited form of intellectual disability affecting 1 in 4,000 males and 1 in 6-8,000 females. FXS is caused by a trinucleotide expansion in the 5’UTR of the Fragile X Mental Retardation (FMR1) gene which in full mutation carriers (>200 repeats) leads to hypermethylation and transcriptional silencing of the gene and lack of expression of Fragile X Protein (FXP, formerly known as Fragile X Mental Retardation Protein, FMRP). Phenotypic presentation of FXS is highly variable, and molecular markers explaining or predicting this variability are lacking. Recent studies suggest that trace amounts of FXP can be detected even in fully methylated individuals and may have clinical relevance; however, the lack of available reproducible, sensitive assays to detect FXP in peripheral tissue makes evaluation of peripheral FXP as a source of clinical variability challenging. Methods: We optimized a Luminex-based assay to detect FXP in dried blot spots for increased reproducibility and sensitivity by improving reagent concentrations and buffer conditions. The optimized assay was used to quantify FXP in 187 individuals (101 males, 86 females; 0-78.4 years) including 35 typically developing controls (24 males, 11 females), 103 individuals carrying full mutations (70 males, 33 females), and 49 individuals with premutations (7 males, 42 females). A subset of these individuals showed repeat number or methylation mosaicism. We investigated the clinical relevance of peripheral FXP levels by examining its relationship with general intellectual functioning in a subset of individuals with available IQ scores. Results: We show that the optimized assay is highly reproducible and detects a wide range of FXP levels. Mosaic individuals had, on average, higher FXP levels than fully methylated individuals, and trace amounts of FXP were consistently detectable in a subset of individuals with full mutation FXS. IQ scores were positively correlated with peripheral FXP levels in male and female individuals with full mutation FXS. Conclusions: We demonstrate that our optimized Luminex-based assay to detect FXP is reproducible, highly sensitive, and related to the core intellectual disability phenotype. Further, our data suggest that trace amounts of FXP detectable in dried blood spots of individuals with FXS could be clinically relevant and may be used to stratify individuals with FXS for optimized treatment. Future studies are needed with larger sample sizes, evaluating FXP across development and expanded analysis of the relevance of FXP levels for behavioral and electrophysiological phenotypes in FXS.
The Effects of Preparation Conditions And Chemical Composition On CMAS Glass Ceramics With One Step Process
Authors: Guo Yuliang , Jin Huixin , Xiao Yuandan , Song Huahao , Wang Shangjiefu
Published: September 2021

Based on the composition of Cr-doped solid waste, other oxides were added to adjust the composition to prepare glass-ceramics with on step composition, and the effect of heat treatment system (including temperature and holding time), chromium content, MnO and Fe2O3 doped on the crystallization and physical properties of glass-ceramics was studied. The samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, differential thermal analysis and scanning electron microscopy. The results show that the best treatment conditions are 1090 ℃ for 4h, and the amount of dissolved chromium reaches 5%. The main crystallization phase is diopside and anorthite. The hardness and chemical stability of the material were measured. The doping of MnO and Fe2O3 increases the crystallization activation energy of glass ceramics, and makes the crystal phase more uniform as the SEM results. This experiment provides a theoretical basis for the preparation of CMAS glass ceramics from chromium containing solid waste.
Predictors of Prognosis of Surgically Resected Brain Metastasis from Lung Cancer with a Focus on Brain Recurrence
Authors: Byun Joonho , Kim Moinay , Lee Seungjoo , Song Sang Woo , Kim Young-Hoon , Hong Chang Ki , Kim Jeong Hoon
Published: September 2021

Purpose: There are many considerations to decide surgical treatment in lung cancer-brain metastasis. Herein, we analyzed survival and predictors of brain recurrence after surgery for lung cancer-brain metastasis. Methods: A total of 224 metastatic brain tumors from patients with lung cancer were analyzed. Results: There were 138 (61.6%) male and 86 (38.4%) female patients; 197 patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and 27 with small cell lung cancer (SCLC). The rate of postoperative complications was 4.9%. The 1-year and 2-year overall survival (OS) was 57% and 43%, respectively. The 6-month and 1-year progression-free survival (PFS) of local recurrence was 42% and 20%, respectively. In NSCLC and SCLC groups, the difference of PFS of local recurrence according to adjuvant irradiation was not significant (1-year: 20% vs. 22%, p=0.8) and (1-year: 14% vs. 25%, p=0.16), respectively. Whole-brain irradiation did not show a significant difference of distant recurrence (6-month: 54% vs. 60%, p=0.13). In predictor analysis, female sex was a favorable prognostic factor for OS, while SCLC histology and postoperative neurological deficits were poor prognostic factors in univariate analysis. Conclusions: SCLC histology and postoperative complications are negative predictors for OS. Adjuvant irradiation did not show effectiveness to reduce local and distant recurrence.
Spotlight on MuSK Positive Myasthenia Gravis: Clinical Characteristics, Treatment and Outcomes
Authors: Huang Qi , Li Feng , Zhao Song
Published: September 2021

Background: To investigate the clinical characteristics, treatment and outcomes of myasthenia gravis with antibodies to the muscle-specific tyrosine kinase (MuSK-MG).Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 21 patients with confirmed MuSK-MG between January 2012 to January 2020 in our center. Detailed clinical data and long-term follow up information were summarized.Results: Females (17/21, 81%) predominated in MuSK-MG and the mean age of onset in this group was 51.86±16.16 years. MuSK-MG patients was divided into three subgroups according to the symptom of muscle weakness at onset: ocular myasthenia gravis (OMG, 47.6%), bulbar myasthenia gravis (BMG, 42.9%), and generalized myasthenia gravis (GMG, 9.5%). The mean progression time from symptoms onset to other muscle groups involvement in OMG patients was 4.38±2.54 months. Pyridostigmine bromide was adopted in 81.0% patients and 90.5% patients received corticosteroids. Compared to the usage in hospital, the median daily dose of corticosteroids decreased significantly at the last follow-up. 85.7% patients received a long-term follow-up with an average time of 1202.17 ± 976.73 days. At the end of the follow-up period: 4.8% patient received complete stable remission, 42.9% patients were in minimal manifestations, 19.0% had improved, 4.8% experienced an unchanged condition and 9.5% patients died.Conclusion: Female patients were more prevalent in this study and MuSK-MG patients had a rapid progress to a generalized state. Although about 50% MuSK-MG patients can achieve a favorable outcome with conventional immunosuppressants, complete stable remission is rare and about 15% respond poorly, more effective medications should be explored in these patients.
Host Plant Limitation of Butterflies in Highly Fragmented Landscapes
Authors: Crone Elizabeth , Schultz Cheryl B.
Published: September 2021

Insect herbivores can be limited by host plants in two ways: density‐dependent competition for food resources, or density‐independent search time limitation. Our understanding of density‐dependent host plant limitation is relatively well developed and well integrated into conservation plans for at‐risk insects. Search time limitation is much less well developed. Here, we explore both mechanisms using empirically‐based models of monarch butterfly population dynamics. These mechanisms differ fundamentally in their predictions: Resource competition leads to matching of herbivore densities to host plant densities, and visible competition via consumption of host plants. Search time limitation leads to changes in population growth rate that can cause herbivore numbers to decline when host plant densities are constant. Search time limitation also implies that host plants can limit herbivores, even when many individual plants are uneaten. For monarch butterflies, our calculations suggest that many parts of North America have host plant densities below the threshold for search time limitation, which contrasts with the typical assumption of resource competition. More generally, incorporating search time limitation into conservation plans is important for reframing our understanding of how host plants limit insect herbivores in highly fragmented landscapes.
Atomistic Mechanisms of The Tautomerization of The G·C Base Pairs Through The Proton Transfer: Quantum-Chemical Survey
Authors: Brovarets' Ol'ha , Muradova Alona , Hovorun Dmytro
Published: September 2021

This study is devoted to the investigation of the G·C*tO2(WC)↔G*NH3·C*t(WC), G·C*O2(WC)↔G*NH3·C*(WC) and G*·C*O2(WC)↔G*NH3·C(wWC)↓ tautomerization reactions occurring through the proton transfer, obtained at the MP2/6-311++G(2df,pd)//B3LYP/6-311++G(d,p) level of theory in gas phase under normal conditions (T=298.15 K). These reactions lead to the formation of the G*NH3·C*t(WC), G*NH3·C*(WC) and G*NH3·C(wWC)↓ base pairs by the participation of the G*NH3 base with NH3 group. Gibbs free energies of activation for these reactions are 6.43, 11.00 and 1.63 kcal·mol-1, respectively. All of these tautomerization reactions are dipole active. Finally, we believe that these non-dissociative processes, which are tightly connected with the tautomeric transformations of the G·C base pairs, play outstanding role in the supporting of the spatial structure of the DNA and RNA molecules with various functional purposes.
Enhanced Efficiency of Graphene-silicon Schottky Junction Solar Cell through Pyramid Arrays Texturation
Authors: Li Cheng , Ma Yichen , Zhang Xiyao , Chen Xiuhua , Xi Fengshuo , Li Shaoyuan , Wenhui Ma , Chang Yuanchih
Published: September 2021

Graphene/silicon (Gr/Si) Schottky junction solar cells have attracted extensive research interest due to their simple structure and potential low-cost. Surface texturing is an important part of high-efficiency solar cells. In this paper, the effects of TMAH concentration, IPA concentration and etching time on the structure and anti-reflection ability of silicon pyramid array (SiPa) were systematically studied to obtain uniform and reliable pyramid array. Under the optimized conditions, a large scale SiPa with uniform size distribution was obtained and applied to Gr/Si solar cells. The results show that the TMAH etched SiPa has a better Schottky junction contact between graphene and the SiPa surface, and the SiPa can further improves the ability of collecting photogenerated carriers. Compared with Gr/Si solar cells, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of Gr/SiPa device is 1.66 times higher than that of Gr/Si solar cells. Finally, Gr/SiPa devices with PCE of 5.67% is successfully obtained by HNO3 doping. This work proposes a new strategy for TMAH etching SiPa to improve the performance of Gr/Si solar cells.
Fused Filament Fabrication, a New Fabrication Paradigm for 3D Printing Capacitive Sensors: Design, Fabrication, and Characterization for Liquid Level Measurements.
Authors: Stano Gianni , Nisio Attilio Di , Lanzolla Anna Maria , Ragolia Mattia , Percoco Gianluca
Published: September 2021

In recent years, the exploitation of Additive Manufacturing technologies for the fabrication of different kinds of sensors has abruptly increased: in particular, a growing interest for extrusion-based techniques has emerged. This research proposes the exploitation of Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) process and two commercial materials (one flexible and one conductive) for the monolithic fabrication of a bendable, coplanar capacitive sensor. The whole sensor, consisting of a flexible substrate and two electrodes, has been fabricated in a single-step printing cycle: Design for Additive Manufacturing approach was used, setting out a methodology to direct 3D print thin and close tracks with conductive materials, in order to obtain high capacitance values measurable by common measurement instrumentations. Despite a huge exploitation of FFF technology for piezoresistive-based sensors, this manufacturing process has never been used for the fabrication of coplanar capacitive sensors since the manufacture of thin and close conductive tracks (key requirement in coplanar capacitive sensors) is a challenging task, mainly due to low manufacturability of extruded conductive beads with a high level of detail. Two versions of the sensor were developed: the first one with an embedded 3D printed coverage (ready to use) and the second one which requires a further manual post-processing to seal the electrodes. The main benefits related to the exploitation of FFF technology for these sensors are: i) the reduction of the number of different manufacturing processes employed, from at least two in traditional manufacturing approach up to one, ii) the exploitation of a cost-effective technology compared to traditional high-cost technologies employed (i.e. lithography, inkjet etc.) iii) the reduction of manual and assembly tasks (one of the proposed versions does not require any further task) , and iv) the cost-effectiveness of the sensors (in a range between 0.27 € and 0.38 €). The two developed prototypes have been tested demonstrating all their potentialities in the field of liquid level sensing, showing results consistent with the ones found in scientific literature: good sensitivity and high linearity and repeatability were proved when different liquids were employed. These 3D printed liquid level sensors have these features: i) flexible sensor, ii) the length is limited only by the machine workspace, iii) they can be either applied outside of the traditional reservoirs or embedded into the reservoirs (by 3D printing both the reservoir and sensor in the same manufacturing cycle), and iv) simple calibration.Finally, the bendability of these sensors paves the way toward their application for liquid level sensing into tanks with non-conventional shapes and for other application fields (i.e. soft robotics, non-invasive monitoring for biomedical applications).
Exosomes from Adipose-Derived Stem Cells Regulate M1/M2 Macrophage Phenotypic Polarization to Promote Bone Healing via miR-451a/MIF
Authors: Li Rui , Li Dize , Wang Huanan , Chen Kaiwen , Wang Si , Xu Jie , Ji Ping
Published: September 2021

Objectives: Bone defects caused by diseases and trauma are usually accompanied by inflammation, and the implantation of biomaterials as a common repair method has also been found to cause inflammatory reactions, which affect bone metabolism and new bone formation. This study investigated whether exosomes from adipose-derived stem cells (ADSC-Exos) plays an immunomodulatory role in traumatic bone defects and elucidated the underlying mechanisms.Methods:ADSC-Exos were loaded by a biomaterial named gelatine nanoparticles (GNPs), physical and chemical properties were analyzed by zeta potential, surface topography and rheology. A rat model of skull defect was used for our in vivo studies, micro-CT and histological staining were used to analyse histological changes in the bone defect area. RT-qPCR and western blotting were performed to verify that ADSC-Exos could regulate M1/M2 macrophage polarization. MicroRNA (miRNA) array analysis was conducted to determine the miRNA expression profiles of ADSC-Exos. After macrophages were treated with a miR-451a mimic, miR-451a inhibitor and ISO-1, the relative expression of genes and proteins was measured by RT-qPCR and western blotting.Results: In vivo, micro-CT and histological staining showed that exosome-loaded GNPs(GNP-Exos) hydrogel, with good biocompatibility and strong mechanical adaptability,exhibited immunomodulatory effect mainly by regulating macrophage immunity and promoting bone tissue healing. Immunofluorescence further indicated that ADSC-Exos reduced M1 marker (iNOS) expression and increased M2 marker (CD206) expression. Moreover, in vitro studies, western blotting and RT-qPCR showed that ADSC-Exos inhibited M1 macrophage marker expression and upregulated M2 macrophage marker expression. MiR-451a was enriched in ADSC-Exos and targeted macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF). Macrophages treated with the miR-451a mimic showed lower expression of M1 markers. In contrast, miR-451a inhibitor treatment upregulated the expression of M1 markers and downregulated the expression of M2 markers, while ISO-1 (a MIF inhibitor) treatment upregulated miR-451a expression and downregulated M1 macrophage marker expression.Conclusion: GNP-Exos can effectively regulate bone immune metabolism and futher promote bone healing partly through immune regulation of miR-451a,which may provide a therapeutic direction for bone repair.
A Novel Prognostic Model Based On Cytosolic DNA Sensing-Related Gene Signature for Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Xu Chuan-Qi , Yang Kui-Sheng , Zhao Shu-Xian , Lv Jian
Published: September 2021

Objective: Pancreatic cancer (PC) is one of the most malignant tumors. Cytosolic DNA sensing have been found to play an essential role in tumor. In this study, a cytosolic DNA sensing-related genes (CDSRGs) signature was constructed and the potential mechanisms also been discussed.Methods: The RNA expression and clinical data of PC were obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). Subsequently, univariate (UCR) and multivariate Cox regression (MCR) analyses were conducted to establish a prognostic model in the TCGA patients, which was verified by GEO patients. Cancer immune infiltrates were investigated via single sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) and Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER). Finally, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was used to investigate the related signaling pathways.Results: A prognostic model comprising four genes (POLR2E,IL18, MAVS, and FADD) was established. The survival rate of patients in the low-risk group was significantly higher than that of patients in the high-risk group. In addition, CDSRGs-risk score was proved as an independent prognostic factor in PC. Immune infiltrates and drug sensitivity are associated with POLR2E,IL18, MAVS, and FADD expression.Conclusions: In summary, we present and validated a CDSRGs risk model that is an independent prognostic factor and indicates the immune characteristics of PC. This prognostic model may facilitate the personalized treatment and monitoring.
Curcumin prevents sickness behavior and fever by the modulation of Nrf2 activity in a model of endotoxemia
Authors: Reis Letícia , Oliveira Merelym K , Rojas Viviana Carolina T , Batista Tatiane H , Estevam Elisa S , Vitor-Vieira Fernando , Vilela Fabiana Cardoso , Giusti-Paiva Alexandre
Published: September 2021

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a potent inducer of inflammation, triggering behavioral changes and fever. The present study aimed to evaluate whether pretreatment with curcumin prevents the behavioral changes and fever induced by LPS through the modulation of nuclear factor-erythroid 2 related factor 2 (Nrf2). Male Wistar rats were pretreated for 2 consecutive days with vehicle or curcumin at doses of 25, 50, or 100 mg/kg by oral gavage. The animals intraperitoneally received either vehicle or LPS at a dose of 500 µg/kg. After 2 h, the behavioral responses were assessed through open field test (OFT), social interaction test, forced swim test (FST), and food intake assessment. The febrile response was assessed by telemetry after vehicle or LPS injection to evaluate the effect of curcumin on the thermoregulatory response during the immunological challenge. The pretreatment with curcumin at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg prevented the reduction of distance traveled on OFT, increased the immobility time of FST, impaired social withdrawal, decreased food intake, and induced fever. In addition, at these doses, it was possible to observe a significant decrease in the plasma levels of TNF-α and IL1-β and an increase in Nrf2 translocation to the cell nucleus during the immunological challenge. Our data provide further evidence of curcumin's ability to prevent LPS-induced sickness behavior and fever possibly by a mechanism related to the modulation of Nrf2 translocation.
Theoretical and Experimental Study on Normal Contact Stiffness of Plane Joint Surfaces with Surface Texturing
Authors: Yin Chaochao , Huang Haihong , Zhou Dan , Liu Zhifeng
Published: September 2021

Effects of surface texturing on the normal contact stiffness of joint surfaces had been investigated by experiments in many previous researches; however, there are relatively few theoretical models in this regard. The rough surface with surface texturing can be divided into two parts: the textured zone and the remaining zone, and their theoretical models are established respectively in this research considering surface morphology and material properties. For the textured zone, micro textures are modeled theoretically based on the three-dimensional topographic data obtained via a VK-X250 type laser profilometer from KEYENCE. For the remaining zone, the model of normal contact stiffness is established based on the fractal theory for the surface topography description and elastoplastic deformation of surface asperities, and the structure function method is used to calculate the fractal dimension of rough surface profiles. In the experiment, the normal contact stiffness of specimens is obtained under different normal loads, and the test results are compared with the theoretical predictions. The result shows that the predictions of proposed theoretical model are in good agreement with the experimental data. For the joint surfaces with Sa > 2.69 μm, the normal contact stiffness can be effectively increased through proper surface texturing.
Identification of seven circRNAs that are repeatedly down-regulated in gastric cancer as a biomarker and their potential miRNA targets
Authors: Guo Qijing , Luo Yushaung , Zhao Linglin , Li Yan , Guo Cuiping , Yang Jie , Zhou Xiaofeng , Ren Dengfeng , Zhao Fuxing , Chen Xiaoqian , Zhang Xin , Dang Shengyan , Shen Xianliang , Chen Siai
Published: September 2021

Objective: This study aimed to screen and identify the differentially-expressed circRNAs (DE-circRNAs) in multiple microarray data sets of gastric cancer (GC), predict their corresponding miRNAs, and explore their regulatory relationship, thereby identifying potential molecular markers for early diagnosis of GC. Results : Seven DE-circRNAs were screened and identified: hsa_circ_0007991, hsa_circ_0013048, hsa_circ_0048607, hsa_circ_0050745, hsa_circ_0054971, hsa_circ_0059802 and hsa_circ_0067934. The host genes of these DE-circRNAs are enriched in cancer-related signaling pathways, including ERb signaling, mTOR signaling, chemokine signaling, and B cell receptor signaling. Moreover, these seven DE-circRNAs were all down-regulated in GC tissues. The 7 miRNAs predicted by DE-circRNAs were expressed in GC tissues, namely hsa-miR-1182, hsa-miR-1225-3p, hsa-miR-1275, hsa-miR-193a-5p, hsa-miR-543, hsa-miR-622 and hsa-miR-630. Among them, miR-193a targets were abundant and highly enriched in cancer-related pathways (ERb signaling and mTOR signaling), which was highly consistent with the enrichment of the host gene where the DEcircRNA was located. These results suggested that circRNA may regulate the occurrence and development of GC through the regulation of the expression of the host genes and miRNA. In clinical samples, DE-circRNAs were less expressed in GC tissues when compared to normal tissues. Conclusion : Seven down-regulated DE-circRNAs and 7 targeted miRNAs were identified in GC, which contributed to the understand of the underlying molecular mechanism of GC and provided a basis for the early diagnosis of GC and the development of targeted drugs. Methods: Four sets of circRNA microarray data and one set of miRNA microarray data in GC and adjacent tissues were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and analyzed using GEO2R tool to identify DE-circRNAs and differentially-expressed miRNAs (DE-miRNAs). Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were used to analyze the enrichment pathway of host mRNAs of DE-circRNAs. Miranda and TargetScan were used to predict miRNA-binding DE-circRNAs. The predicted DE-circRNA interacting miRNAs were intersected with DE-miRNAs, and KEGG and Reactome analyzed the targeted mRNAs corresponding to the obtained miRNAs. DE-circRNAs in GC tissues and adjacent tissues was verified in clinical samples.
Molecular characterization of the missing electron pathways for butanol synthesis in Clostridium acetobutylicum
Authors: Foulquier Celine , Rivière Anntoine , Heulot Mathieu , Reis Suzana Dos , Perdu Caroline , Girbal Laurence , Pinault Mailys , Dusséaux Simon , Soucaille Philippe , Meynial-Salles Isabelle
Published: September 2021

Clostridium acetobutylicum is a promising biocatalyst for the production of n-butanol at high yield from renewable resources. Several metabolic strategies have already been developed to increase butanol yields, most often based on carbon pathway redirection. However, it was previously demonstrated that the activities of both ferredoxin-NADP+ reductase and ferredoxin-NAD+ reductase, whose encoding genes remained unknown until this study, were necessary to produce the NADPH and the extra NADH needed for butanol synthesis under solventogenic conditions. Here, we purified, identified and characterized the proteins responsible for both ferredoxin-NADP+ reductase and ferredoxin-NAD+ reductase activities and demonstrated the involvement of the identified enzymes in butanol synthesis through a reverse genetic approach. We further demonstrated the yield of butanol formation was limited by the level of expression of CAC_0764, the ferredoxin-NADP+ reductase encoding gene. The integration of these enzymes into metabolic engineering strategies introduces new opportunities for developing a homobutanologenic C. acetobutylicum strain.
Dysregulation of Grainyhead-like 3 expression causes widespread developmental defects
Authors: Deng Zihao , Butt Tariq , Arhatari Benedicta D. , Darido Charbel , Auden Alana , Swaroop Dijina , Partridge Darren D. , Haigh Katharina , Nguyen Thao , Haigh Jody J. , Carpinelli Marina R. , Jane Stephen
Published: September 2021

The gene encoding the transcription factor, Grainyhead-like 3 (Grhl3), plays critical roles in mammalian development and homeostasis, and these have been uncovered through analysis of loss-of-function models. Grhl3-null embryos exhibit a range of gross phenotypes including a shortened longitudinal axis, thoraco-lumbo-sacral spina bifida and soft-tissue syndactyly. Additional studies reveal that these embryos also exhibit a proliferation/differentiation imbalance in the epidermis. This manifests as a failure in skin barrier formation resulting in peri-natal lethality, and defective wound repair. Conditional inactivation of Grhl3 in the squamous epithelium of adult skin, head and neck tissues, and oesophagus reproduces this proliferation/differentiation imbalance and leads to squamous cell carcinomas. These observations establish GRHL3 as a critical tumour suppressor. Despite these extensive analyses of Grhl3 loss-of-function models, the consequences of gain-of-function of this gene have been difficult to achieve. We have redressed this issue through the generation of a novel mouse model that expresses Grhl3 from a transgene integrated in the Rosa26 locus on an endogenous Grhl3-null background. Expression of the transgene rescues both the neurulation and skin barrier defects of the knockout mice, allowing survival into adulthood. Despite this, the mice are not normal, exhibiting a range of phenotypes attributable to dysregulated Grhl3 expression. In mice homozygous for the transgene, we observe a severe Shaker-Waltzer phenotype associated with hearing impairment. Micro-CT scanning of the cochleae and the vestibular apparatus revealed profound structural alterations underlying these phenotypes. In addition, these mice exhibit other developmental anomalies including hair loss, digit defects and epidermal dysmorphogenesis. These findings indicate that diverse developmental processes display low tolerance to dysregulation of Grhl3.
Major Dietary Patterns in Relation to Chronic Low Back Pain; a Cross- sectional Study from RaNCD Cohort
Authors: Pasdar Yahya , Hamzeh Behrooz , Karimi Sheno , Moradi Shima , Cheshmeh Sahar , Shamsi Mohammad Bagher , Najafi Farid
Published: September 2021

Background

Chronic low back pain (LBP) is the most common musculoskeletal pain that affects a person's daily activities. This present study aimed at evaluating the relationship between major dietary pattern and Chronic LBP.
Methods

This cross- sectional study was applied using data from Ravansar non- communicable diseases (RaNCD) cohort study. Chronic LBP was diagnosed by the RaNCD cohort study physician. Dietary patterns were evaluated by principal component analysis. The three identified dietary patterns included: 1) vegetarian dietary pattern which included vegetables, whole grain, legumes, nuts, olive, vegetable oil, fruits, and fruit juice; 2) high protein diet related to higher adherence to red and white meat, legumes, nuts, and egg; and 3) unhealthy dietary pattern characterized with higher intake of salt, sweet, dessert, hydrogenated fat, soft drink, refined grain, tea, and coffee.
Results

22.5% of participants had chronic LBP Higher following high protein dietary pattern was associated with lower risk of chronic LBP in crude (OR: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.69–0.9) and adjusted model (for age, sex, smoking, drinking, diabetes, physical activity, and body mass index) (OR: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.72–0.97). In addition, after controlling for the mentioned potential confounders, participants in the highest category of unhealthy dietary pattern were higher at risk of chronic LBP compared with those in the lowest category (OR: 1.13, 95% CI: 1.01–1.32).
Conclusions

Higher adherence to high protein diet significantly the decreased risk of chronic LBP prevalence. In addition, we found that following unhealthy dietary pattern was associated with higher risk of chronic LBP.