bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fungal community diversity profiles in pit mud samples from Chinese Strong-flavour liquor pit
Authors: Pu Shunchang , Shi CuiE , Guang JiaQuan , Shoubao Yan
Published: May 2022

Pit mud is a specialized type of fermented soil that is essential for the distillation of Chinese strong-flavour liquor. In this analysis, differences in fungal community structures and physicochemical properties in pit mud samples from different spatial positions within fermentation cellars were analyzed, revealing unique characteristic multidimensional pit mud fungal community profiles. Penicillium fuscoglaucum, Penicillium glandicola, Aotearoamyces nothofagi, Malassezia restricta, Penicillium lanosocoeruleum, Penicillium crustosum, and Aspergillus tonophilus were detected only in pit mud samples from the upper cellar wall, while Alternaria alstroemeriae, Trichosporon insectorum, Fusarium equiseti, Calonectria pseudoreteaudii, Penicillium clavigerum, Penicillium compactum, Ascochyta phacae, Metarhizium frigidum, Alternaria burnsii, Fusarium nurragi, and Didymella keratinophila were present only in the middle cellar wall layer. Additionally, Alternaria zantedeschiae and Ilyonectria cyclaminicola were only present in pit mud samples from the lower cellar wall, while Leptobacillium leptobactrum, Calonectria queenslandica, Aspergillus appendiculatus, and Candida pseudolambica were only detected in samples of pit mud from the cellar bottom. Moisture, pH, PO43-, acetic acid, humus, K+, Mg2+, Ca2+, acetic acid, butyric acid, and caproic acid levels in these different pit mud positions exhibited a rising incremental pattern from the upper wall layer to the bottom layer, whereas lactic acid levels were significantly lower in the bottom pit mud layer relative to these other layers. Moisture, pH, and NH4+-N were identified as the three most significant factors associated with fungal community composition through a redundancy analysis. Overall, these findings may offer a theoretical foundation for future efforts to improve or standardize artificial pit mud.
Transit Dosimetry of Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy Treatments with Electronic Portal Dosimetry Device in Patient with Spinal Implant
Authors: Yedekci Yağız , Elmalı Aysenur , demirkıran Gökhan , Özyigit Gökhan , Yazıcı Gözde
Published: May 2022

Aim
In recent years, the use of the Electronic Portal Imaging Device (EPID) as an in vivo dosimeter has become widespread. However, reports of EPID for stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) applications is scarce. There is no data on this topic especially when there are high-density materials in the radiation field. In this study, we aimed to investigate the dose distributions of SBRT treatment plans in patients with spinal implants by in vivo EPID dosimetry.
Material Methods:
Implants were inserted in phantoms that mimic the vertebrae, and VMAT plans were created on the phantoms to deliver 16 Gy radiation doses to the target in 1 fraction. In vivo EPID measurements were performed for each irradiation. The results were compared with the treatment planning system using the gamma analysis method.
Results
According to the gamma analysis results, while the non-implant model met the acceptance criteria with a rate of 95.4%, the implanted models did not pass the test with results between the rates of 70–73%. In addition, while the dose difference in the isocenter was 1.3% for the non-implanted model, this difference was observed to be between 7% and 8% in the implanted models.
Conclusion
Our study revealed that EPID can be used as in vivo dosimetry for the VMAT-SBRT applications. However, unacceptable dose differences were obtained by in vivo EPID dosimetry in the VMAT-SBRT applications of patients with an implant. In the treatment of such patients, alternative treatment methods should be preferred in which the interaction of the implants with radiation can be prevented.
Effect of anemoside B4 on milk whey in clinical mastitis-affected cows elucidated using tandem mass tag (TMT)-based quantitative proteomics
Authors: Shen Liu-hong , Zhang Yue , Shen Yu , Su Zhe-tong , Yu Shu-min , Cao Sui-zhong , Zong Xiao-lan
Published: May 2022

Objective
Intramuscular injection of anemoside B4 (AB4) has a superior therapeutic effect on clinical mastitis in lactating cows. Here, we explored AB4’s effect on milk whey in clinical mastitis-affected cows using proteomics.
Methods
Among fifty clinical mastitis cows received AB4 administration (0.05ml/kg/day, for seven days), twelve healed cows were selected and marked as group T. Twelve clinically heathy cows received the same dose of saline for seven days, marked as group C. Collected milk whey of group T before and after AB4 administration marked as T1 and T2, respectively. And the milk whey of group C after saline injection marked as C1. Milk whey protein changes were detected with tandem mass tag-based quantitative proteomic.
Results
We identified 872 quantifiable proteins in the samples. Among them, 511 proteins between T1 and C1, and 361 proteins between T2 and T1 were significantly altered. T1 than C1 had significantly more proteins associated with inflammatory damage and trans-endothelial migration of leukocytes, whereas these proteins were reduced in T2 treated with AB4. Compared with C, proteins associated with fibrin clot degradation and complement system activation were downregulated in T1 but upregulated in T2.
Conclusion
In summary, AB4 can exert its therapeutic effect on clinical mastitis in cows mainly by reducing inflammatory damage, activating the complement system, inhibiting trans-endothelial migration of leukocytes, and promoting degradation of milk fibrin clots.
Influence of tinnitus annoyance on hearing-related quality of life in cochlear implant recipients
Authors: Assouly Kelly K.S. , Arts Remo A.G.J. , Graham Petra L. , Dijk Bas , James Chris J.
Published: May 2022

Among cochlear implant (CI) recipients, there is no consensus on the impact of tinnitus on hearing-related quality of life (QoL). The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between hearing-related QoL measured by the Speech Spatial and Qualities of Hearing questionnaire (SSQ12) and tinnitus annoyance or perceived change in tinnitus annoyance after cochlear implantation. The study sample consisted of 2322 implanted adults across France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden and the United Kingdom. Information relating to QoL, measured using the SSQ12, tinnitus annoyance and change in tinnitus annoyance, assessed using single-item questions, were collected one or more years post-implantation. The relationship between SSQ12 total score and tinnitus annoyance or change in tinnitus annoyance was analysed using linear models adjusted for age and unilateral versus bilateral implants. Tukey pairwise tests were used to compare tinnitus levels. Tinnitus prevalence was 33.9% post-implantation. This prevalence varied significantly with age. Recipients with tinnitus had a significantly lower SSQ12 score than recipients without tinnitus. The SSQ score varied significantly with tinnitus annoyance, age and unilateral versus bilateral implants. Overall, cochlear implant recipients who experienced less bothersome tinnitus showed better subjective hearing-related QoL. Healthcare professionals should be aware of the need to prioritise tinnitus management for CI recipients to optimize the benefit of CI.
MiRNA-6870-3p regulates LPS-induced epicardial adipose tissue inflammatory genes via targeting Tollip-mediated JNK and NF-κB signaling in coronary artery disease
Authors: Wu JianGuo , Yang Wen-kai , Huang Hao-Zong , Tang Kai , Zheng Guang-Di
Published: May 2022

Objective
MiR-6870-3p acts as a crucial regulator of gene expression at the posttranscriptional level and participates in immune responses. However, the roles of miR-6870-3p and its target genes and their underlying mechanisms in the inflammatory responses of epicardial adipose tissues (EATs) are unknown.
Methods
MiRNA microarray was used to collect miRNA expression profiles in EATs from five patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and four individuals without CAD (n-CAD). Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was applied to check the expression of miR-6870-3p in CAD and n-CAD EATs. The mRNA and protein expression levels of Tollip and the key genes of the TLR4 signaling pathway were examined by qRT-PCR and Western blot. The levels of inflammatory factors in the cell supernatant were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Bioinformatics algorithms were used to predict the target gene of miR-6870-3p, and the result was validated by dual-luciferase reporter assay. The protein expression levels of JNK and NF-κB were measured by Western blot.
Resules:
Our results showed that miR-6870-3p was remarkably higher in CAD EATs than in n-CAD EATs. MiR-6870-3p was positively correlated with TLR4, IL-6, JNK, NF-κB (p65), and TNF-α in CAD EAT samples. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment upregulated miR-6870-3p mRNA expression and downregulated Tollip mRNA and protein expression in macrophages. MiR-6870-3p upregulation also aggravated the production of proinflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α and IL-6, when the macrophages were stimulated with LPS. The result of luciferase reporter assays confirmed that miR-6870-3p directly targets Tollip. Moreover, miR-6870-3p upregulation in macrophages resulted in the activation of the JNK/NF-κB pathway.
Conclusion
Our study concluded that miR-6870-3p regulates human EAT inflammation by targeting Tollip-mediated JNK and NF-κB signaling events.
Cervical capillary intra-extramedullary hemangioblastoma. An unusual tumor in an unusual site
Authors: Colamaria Antonio , Blagia Maria , Carbone Francesco , Fochi Nicola Pio , Leone Augusto
Published: May 2022

Spinal hemangioblastoma is an infrequent, highly vascularized tumor which can cause compression, extensive bleeding or syringomyelia. We present the case of a 32-year-old woman presenting with persisting headaches, whose MRI disclosed an intra-extradural mass extending from the obex to C2. A brief description of the treatment is provided. A surgical fenestration of the associated syrinx should not be taken into account, as it seems to spontaneously regress after the removal of the primary lesion.
Which euploid single embryo transfer strategy is preferable in advanced maternal aged; Fresh versus frozen
Authors: ÖZDEMİR FATMA , Oner Gokalp , Kahraman Semra , Sahin Yucel , Yelke Hakan
Published: May 2022

Purpose: Herein, we aimed to compare two commonly used single embryo transfer (ET) strategies, fresh and frozen-thawed euploid blastocyst transfer protocols via trophectoderm biopsy after preimplantation genetic screening (PGS) in advanced maternal aged (AMA).Study Design: This study was designed as a single-center cohort study.A total of 317 patients aged older than 37 years old who underwent single fresh or frozen-thawed day five or day 6 ET with trophectoderm biopsy examined retrospectively. PGS was performed on the embryos of 138 patients, and fresh transfers were preferred, while embryos of 179 patients were vitrified, and then frozen-thawed euploid single ET was chosen after PGS. Percentage of the euploid embryo, implantation rates, pregnancy rates, pregnancy continuity rates, clinical and biochemical abortion rates were compared.Results: Age, body mass index, infertility duration,previous ART cycles,days of stimulation, andAnti-Mullerian hormone levels did not reveal statistically significant difference between the groups. The retrieved oocyte, MII oocytes, and fertilized ovum (2PN) numbers were higher in the Frozen-thawed group. The percentage of a euploid embryo (32% vs. 34.8%) was similar between the groups. Implantation rates (46% vs. 62%), pregnancy rates (49% vs. 66%), ongoing pregnancy rates (36.7% vs. 52.6%), and live birth percentage (35.4% vs. 51.6%) were significantly higher in the frozen-thawed embryo transfer group, while the clinical and biochemical abortion rates did not reveal significant difference. Conclusion: Frozen-thawed single euploid ET provides sufficient time for comprehensive genetic evaluations and increases the rates of implantation and pregnancy rates compared to the fresh single euploid ET in AMA patients with PGS.
Identification of biomarkers and therapeutic targets in the peripheral immune landscape from coronary artery disease
Authors: Feng Xiaoteng , Zhang Yifan , Du Min , Li Sijin , Ding Jie , Wang Jiarou , Wang Yiru , Liu Ping
Published: May 2022

Background: Although it plays a vital role in the whole process of various cardiovascular diseases, the characteristic immune changes of peripheral blood in patients with CAD have not been well recognized. This study aimed to determine the expression of differentially expressed immune-related genes (DE-IRGs) in CAD by screening three gene chips downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Methods: We downloaded CAD and Healthy groups’ information and IRGs from the GEO database and Immport database (ImmpDb) respectively. By R software, we processed GO and KEGG analysis to find out the function and main enriched pathway between two groups. LASSO method was used to identify genes for diagnostic testing. CIBERSORT analysis revealed the differential immune cell distribution. Finally, we verified the expression of these differential genes through an animal project.Results: 762 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in this process, which mainly enriched in infection, immune response and neural activity and might participate in the CAD process by affecting the extracellular matrix formation and receptor-ligand activity functions. In total, 58 DE-IRGs were subsequently obtained by overlapping the DEGs and immune-related genes downloaded from ImmpDb. Through LASSO regression, CCR9, CER1, CSF2, IL13RA1, INSL5, MBL2, MMP9, MSR1, NTS, TNFRSF19, CXCL2, HTR3C, IL1A, and NR4A2 among the 58 DE-IRGs were distinguished as peripheral biomarkers of CAD, which showed eligible diagnostic capabilities separately. These screened genes were then validated by an animal subject. The real-time PCR test showed that CCR9, CSF2, IL13RA1, and NTS had significant differences between the CAD model and healthy control samples, suggesting that they were promising diagnostic and therapeutic targets. Besides, CIBERSORT algorithm analysis showed that the immune-related cells existed characteristic distribution in CAD, which was discovered to have a close relationship with some specific DE-IRGs. Conclusions: In summary, we confirmed four peripheral immune biomarkers related to CAD and provided new potential targets for regulating the immune relevant mechanism, laying a foundation for further excavation of CAD immune mechanism.
Agricultural practices regulate the seasonality of groundwater-river nitrogen exchanges
Authors: Pinardi Monica , Soana Elisa , Severini Edoardo , Racchetti Erica , Celico Fulvio , Bartoli Marco
Published: May 2022

Soil system budgets are generally performed aggregating annual nutrient inputs and outputs over arable land to infer their use efficiency and water pollution risk in watersheds with intensive agriculture and animal farming. They are seldom partitioned into seasonal budgets and matched with seasonal transport of nutrients in adjacent river reaches. In this work we calculated seasonal soil nitrogen (N) budgets in a Mincio River sub-basin (Northern Italy), and we analyzed the dissolved inorganic N net export in the river reach draining such sub-basin. Our results suggest pronounced seasonal differences of soil system budgets with N excess in winter and even more in spring, equilibrium among sources and sinks during autumn and N deficit during summer. Seasonal inorganic N loads transported by the river were not correlated with soil system budgets as they peaked in late summer and were at their minimum in early spring. Fertilization uncoupled to significant uptake supports N excess in winter and spring, whereas crop uptake uncoupled to N inputs supports summer N deficit. Within the river reach potential nitrification cannot explain nitrate accumulation in the water, suggesting alternative dynamics, related to the seasonality of irrigation practices, driving the local hydrology. Flood irrigation results in large soil nitrate solubilization, horizontal and vertical transport and in upward vertical migration of the groundwater piezometric head during the spring and the summer. River water is likely replaced by nitrate-rich groundwater when the groundwater recharge exceeds a certain threshold coinciding with late summer. Irrigation is then interrupted and the piezometric head, together with nitrate exchange, decreases. This work suggests that a deep understanding of N dynamics in watersheds with intensive agriculture and animal farming and irrigation via flooding on permeable soils needs the implementation of hydrological studies and the reconstruction of the vertical pathways of nitrate and of river-groundwater interactions. Moreover, the partitioning of annual into seasonal N budgets and their combination with irrigation practices allows the identification of hot moments in N cycling. Agricultural practices minimizing nitrate excess, its mobility and the risk of ground and surface water pollution are suggested for this area.
Adherence to antiretroviral therapy among adolescents living with HIV in Jamaica
Authors: Dyer R , Harrison A , Lewis-O’Connor K , Pierre R B
Published: May 2022

Objective:To characterize adherence patterns to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and identify factors affecting optimal adherence among adolescents living with HIV (ALHIV) in Kingston, Jamaica during the Covid-19 pandemic. Design and Methods:During August-October 2021, we conducted a cross-sectional study on adherence (no missed doses in preceding four days) among adolescents 10-18 years attending three outpatient departments in the Kingston Metropolitan Area. Adherence factors were evaluated using a self-administered, interviewer-assisted structured questionnaire. Biochemical and clinicopathological information were retrieved from patients’ medical records. Multivariate logistic regression was used to determine likelihood of adherence for given adherence factors. Results: Of 65 participating clients, 92.3 % were perinatally infected, mean (SD) age 15.4 (2.0) years and 61.5% were female. Overall self-reported adherence was 66.1% (43/65) and higher among adolescents in residential care versus family care (p=0.002). Median (IQR) viral load 19 copies/ml/103 (IQR 19-51) was lower (p=0.010) and median (IQR) CD4+ count 701 cells per µL (IQR 501-1052) higher (p= 0.016) among adolescents in residential care compared to family care. Adherence was 4 times more likely among adolescents at UHWI (OR=4.53, 95% CI (1.25, 16.43), knowledgeable about ARVs (OR= 4.31, (1.09,17.04), and with reduced appointments due to Covid-19 pandemic (OR= 5.36, (1.09, 26.41) and 4 times less likely if cared for by relatives, experiencing side effects, higher pill burden or hospitalized with complications.Conclusions:Medication, caregiver-related and health system management factors are both enablers and barriers of adherence for ALHIV, and the importance of caregivers’ support, treatment literacy and simplified treatment regimens are highlighted.
Green credits, Green securities, and Environmental Quality: A comparative Analysis of Sustainable development across Chinese Provinces.
Authors: Kassi Diby Francois , Li Yao , Gnahe Franck Edouard , Shaikh Ruqia , Tuo Siele Jean
Published: May 2022

This paper analyzes the effects of green credits and green securities on environmental quality in a multivariate EKC framework across Chinese provinces during the 1992Q1-2020Q4 period. In this comparative analysis, we employ the DOLS and FMOLS estimators along with the method of moments-quantile regression (MM-QR) with the fixed-effects model. First, the FMOLS and DOLS methods show that short-term green credits (STLs) and green securities (CAPs) reduce carbon emissions (CE) in Chinese provinces. Unlike the Western region, long-term green credits (LTLs) improve environmental quality in the Eastern and Central regions. Second, large STLs and CAPs affect CE more than their low levels, unlike large LTLs. Third, STLs and CAPs increase CE only in the most polluting provinces of the central and western regions, but LTLs improve environmental quality only at the 70th, 80th, and 90th quantiles of CE in all provinces. Fourth, although renewable energy consumption inhibits carbon emissions in all provinces, oil prices, urbanization, trade openness, and foreign direct investments have heterogeneous effects on carbon emissions across the quantiles. Finally, our findings validate the EKC hypothesis only in the Eastern and Central regions. Accordingly, we propose policy implications for sustainable development in China.JEL classification: C40; G10; G20; Q20; Q54
Duplex real-time qPCR for Feline Herpesvirus-Ⅰ and Feline Parvovirus
Authors: Liu Lichun , Zhou Yuxia , Ru Yi , Tian Hong , Wang Xuezhi , Zhang Shidong , Cui Dongan , Xu Guowei , Li Jianxi , Sun Yan
Published: May 2022

To establish a rapid detection method for feline herpesvirus-Ⅰ (FHV-Ⅰ) and feline parvovirus (FPV), the specific primers and probes were designed according to the gB gene and VP1 gene of the highly conserved regions in FHV-Ⅰ and FPV strain. We optimized the reaction system and conditions of primers and probes, and a dual real-time fluorescent qPCR method that can simultaneously detect the above two viruses was successfully established. The standard curve of the method has an excellent linear relationship, and the correlation coefficient (R2) is above 0.99; the amplification efficiency is between 90% and 110%; the minimum detection limit is about 20 copies/μL; the coefficient of variation within and between groups is less than 2% And only positive for FHV-Ⅰ and FPV gene amplification, but negative for FCV, SVV, VSV, and other infectious disease-related pathogen amplification.
Fibroblasts And Mouse's Breast Cancer Cells Can Form Cellular Aggregates in Improved Soft Agar Culture Medium
Authors: Zhang Xiangnan , Liang Shuo , Wang Enze , Tao Ning
Published: May 2022

Purpose
Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) promote cancer cell growth, invasion and migration. In this research, we aimed to build cellular aggregates of mouse’s breast cancer cells (TS/A) and normal fibroblasts (LX-2) or CAFs (ME-iLX-2) in soft agar culture medium, verifying this co-culture model’s value in screening of anticancer drugs and preliminarily demonstrating the effect of CD44 in aggregates formation.
Methods
We improved soft agar culture medium to co-culture CAFs (NFs) and TS/A to build the cellular aggregates model, and compared the amount and area of different co-culture groups. To verify its value in screening of anticancer drugs, eugenol which has been demonstrated its anticancer effect was added into this model. The transcription of human CD44 was analyzed through Real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR).
Result
TS/A-fibroblast cellular aggregates were formed in improved soft agar culture medium. What’s more, the amount and area of aggregates in TS/A-ME-iLX-2 co-culture group were significantly higher than in TS/A-LX-2 co-culture group. In co-culture group with eugenol, the amount and area of TS/A-ME-iLX-2 aggregates were lower than control group. The result of RT-qPCR showed that the transcription volume of human CD44 in TS/A-ME-iLX-2 aggregates was higher than in TS/A-LX-2 aggregates.
Conclusion
Co-culturing cellular aggregates of fibroblasts and TS/A was successfully formed in improved soft agar culture medium, and the amount and area of aggregates further confirmed CAFs’ promotion effect to cancer cells. Eugenol test showed its value in screening of anticancer drugs. RT-qPCR result demonstrated the important effect of CD44 in aggregates formation.
Effect of Noise Correlation Coefficient on Joint Recursive Least Squares Parameters and State Estimation of Linear Stochastic State-Space System
Authors: Elamin Khalid Abd El Mageed Hag
Published: May 2022

The aim of this article is to investigate how to estimate parameters and states jointly for the linear stochastic system with deterministic control inputs. The cross-correlation between process noise and measurement noise in Kalman filtering re-formation cycles is utilized to derive a Kalman filtering with correlated noises based recursive generalized extended least squares (KF-CN-RGELS) algorithm for jointly estimating parameters and system states. The performance analysis of different correlation coefficients between process and measurement noises shows that the accuracy of the identified parameters and states is proportional to the positive correlation coefficients. Finally, an illustrative example is provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms.
Investigating root architectural differences in lines of Arabidopsis with altered stomatal density using high resolution X-Ray Synchrotron imaging.
Authors: Mawodza Tinashe , Menon Manoj , Muringai Nancy , Magdysyuk Oxana V , Burca Genoveva , Casson Stuart
Published: May 2022

Purpose
Freshwater is an increasingly scarce natural resource, essential for agricultural production. As plants consume 70% of the world’s freshwater, a reduction in their water use would greatly reduce global water scarcity. Plants with improved Water Use Efficiency (WUE) such as those with altered expression of the Epidermal Patterning Factor (EPF) family of genes regulating stomatal density, could help reduce plant water footprint. Little however, is known about how this modification in Arabidopsis thaliana affects root architectural development in soil, thus we aim to improve our understanding of this growth.
Methods
We used X-Ray synchrotron and neutron imaging to measure in three dimensions, the root system architecture (RSA) of Arabidopsis plants of three different genotypes, namely that of the wild type Columbia (Col 0) and two different EPF mutants, EPF2OE and epf2-1 (which show reduced and increased stomatal density respectively). We also used total biomass and carbon isotope discrimination (Δ) method to determine now WUE varies in these genotypes when grown in a sandy loam soil under controlled conditions.
Results
Our results confirm that the EPF2OE line had superior WUE as compared to the wild type using both the Δ and total biomass method. The epf2-1 mutant on the other hand, had significantly reduced WUE using the Δ but not in the biomass method. In terms of root growth, the RSA of the different genotypes had no significant difference between each other. There was also no significant difference in rhizosphere porosity around their roots as compared to bulk soil for all genotypes.
Conclusions
Our results indicate that the EPF mutation altering stomatal density in Arabidopsis plants did not have an adverse effect on root characteristics thus their wide adoption to reduce the global freshwater footprint is unlikely to compromise their soil foraging ability.
Lean NAFLD is histologically less severe and tends to affect older patients
Authors: Wu Xiaojuan , Tang Qiyuan , Zhou Xuan , Li Zhiyu , Lai Changxiang , Chen Ruikun , Xian Wenjie , Zhou Guangde , Wang Fang
Published: May 2022

Objective: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is related to obesity; little is known regarding NAFLD in lean individuals. This study aimed to determine pathological characteristics of lean NAFLD. Methods: The study enrolled biopsy-proven NAFLD patients from the Third People’s Hospital of Shenzhen from September 2017 to October 2021. Eighty-one patients were enrolled and classified into lean or obese groups by body mass index. Histology severity was assessed according to the steatosis-activity-fibrosis (SAF) score and was compared between lean and obese groups.Results: Among 81 patients, 12 (14.81%) were lean and 74 (91.36%) had nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Lean NAFLD patients had less severe degree of activity (P=0.004) and fibrosis (P =0.047) and a lower proportion of NASH (P<0.001). No differences in steatosis (P=0.215) or advanced fibrosis (P=0.217) were observed. Lean NAFLD (43.83±10.28 vs 36.13±9.85 years, P<0.001) and NASH patients (46.29±12.83 vs 36.12±9.89 years, P=0.014) were older than obese NAFLD/NASH patients. The proportion of lean NAFLD/NASH patients in-creased with age. Compared with obese NAFLD patients, lean NAFLD patients had lower pro-portions of NASH (98.18% vs 42.86%, P<0.001) among patients aged <45 years and less severe fibrosis (P=0.046) among patients aged ≥45 years. No difference in steatosis/activity/fibrosis was observed between the two age groups (<45 years and ≥45 years) among lean NAFLD patients. Conclusion: In conclusion, fewer severe pathological changes were found in lean NAFLD patients. Histological progress was not significant between lean NAFLD patients aged <45 years and those aged ≥45 years.
Covering reinforced staples with polyethylene glycolic acid felt-covered fibrin sealant to prevent pancreatic fistula after distal pancreatomy : a retrospective comparative study
Authors: Kawasaki Keishi , Hayashi Tatsuya , Takahashi Makoto , Morita Yasuhiro
Published: May 2022

Background
In accordance with previous reports of the utility of polyethylene glycolic acid (PGA) felt and fibrin glue for postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF), we usually perform distal pancreatectomy (DP) with a PGA felt reinforcement stapler when treating a pancreatic stump with DP, then cover the stump with PGA felt and fibrin glue (the PPF method).
Methods
127 DP performed in our department between January 2008 and June 2021 were retrospectively analyzed to compare the risk factors of POPF and the postoperative course of patients receiving the PPF method of treatment versus those receiving the conventional treatment.
Results
In the PPF method, CR-POPF tended to decrease, and POPF showed a significant decrease. The duration of drainage and the length of postoperative hospitalization were also significantly shorter with the PPF method. The risk of CR-POPF significantly decreased with the PPF method if the pancreas was thick (> 13.5 mm) or the patients were obese.
Conclusions
The PPF method is useful for POPF in DP and is particularly effective when a thick pancreas or an obese patient is involved. Removing the drainage tube early in the PPF method may lead to early discharge.
Deep Learning Based Covid-19 Diagnosis Using Lung Images
Authors: B Vijayakumari , S Ramya , M Karthika Subhashini
Published: May 2022

In 2019, a new virus named corona virus had changed the life of every individual in the world. As the number of covid positive cases had been increased, it causes a very big pressure in the medical field. To overcome this situation, we are in need of some algorithm which predicts whether the person is affected by COVID-19 or not. The most known deep learning method is used to detect whether the person’s lung is affected by covid or not. In this project, lung CT images are segmented and then it is given into the simple convolutional neural network. The image segmentation techniques followed are canny edge detection, thresholding technique and U-Net algorithm. From these techniques the better one is chosen and its result is pushed into the convolutional neural network. By segmenting the image and then predicting whether the lung is affected by covid or not increases the accuracy rate and the accuracy value is 95%.
Towards FAIRification of Sensitive and Fragmented Rare Disease Patient Data: Challenges and Solutions in European Reference Network Registries
Authors: Vieira Bruna dos Santos , Bernabé César H. , Zhang Shuxin , Abaza Haitham , Benis Nirupama , Cámara Alberto , Cornet Ronald , Cornec Clémence M. A. Le , Hoen Peter A.C. ’t , Schaefer Franz , Velde K. Joeri van der , Swertz Morris A. , Wilkinson Mark D. , Jacobsen Annika , Roos Marco
Published: May 2022

Introduction Rare disease patient data are typically sensitive, present in multiple registries controlled by different custodians, and non-interoperable. Making these data Findable, Accessible, Interoperable, and Reusable (FAIR) for humans and machines at source enables federated discovery and analysis across data custodians. This facilitates accurate diagnosis, optimal clinical management, and personalised treatments. In Europe, twenty-four European Reference Networks (ERNs) work on rare disease registries in different clinical domains. The process and the implementation choices for making data FAIR (‘FAIRification’) differ among ERN registries. For example, registries use different software systems and are subject to different legal regulations. To support the ERNs in making informed decisions and to harmonise FAIRification, the FAIRification steward team was established to work as liaisons between ERNs and researchers from the European Joint Programme on Rare Diseases. Results The FAIRification steward team inventoried the FAIRification challenges of the ERN registries and proposed solutions collectively with involved stakeholders to address them. Ninety-eight FAIRification challenges from 24 ERNs’ registries were collected and categorised into “training” (31), “community” (9), “modelling” (12), “implementation” (26), and “legal” (20). After curating and aggregating highly similar challenges, 41 unique FAIRification challenges remained. The two categories with the most challenges were ”training” (15) and ”implementation” (9), followed by “community” (7), and then “modelling” (5) and “legal” (5). To address all challenges, eleven types of solutions were proposed. Among them, the provision of guidelines and the organisation of training activities resolved the ”training” challenges, which ranged from less-technical ”coffee-rounds” to technical workshops, from informal FAIR Games to formal hackathons. Obtaining implementation support from technical experts was the solution type for tackling the ”implementation” challenges. Conclusion This work shows that a dedicated team of FAIR data stewards is an asset for harmonising the various processes of making data FAIR in a large organisation with multiple stakeholders. Additionally, multi-levelled training activities are required to accommodate the diverse needs of the ERNs. Finally, the lessons learned from the experience of the FAIRification steward team described in this paper may help to increase FAIR awareness and provide insights into FAIRification challenges and solutions of rare disease registries.
Cardiovascular disease outcomes among established cigar users 40 years and older: Findings from the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study, Waves 1- 5 (2013-2019)
Authors: Sharma Eva , Tang Zhiqun , Lauten Kristin , Silveira Marushka L. , Delnevo Cristine , Edwards Kathryn C. , Marshall Daniela , Gaalema Diann E. , Zandberg Izabella , Graham-Glover Bria , Rivers Derick L. , Imoisili Omoye , Neal Kirstie , Niaura Raymond , Bansal-Travers Maansi , Hyland Andrew , Cummings K. Michael
Published: May 2022

Background: The purpose of this study was to examine the association between established cigar use and prevalence and incidence of cardiovascular diseases (CVD; congestive heart failure, stroke, or heart attack/needed bypass surgery) among U.S. adults, 40 years or older. The study also explored if years of use, is associated with CVD prevalence. Methods: Using Waves 1-5 (2013-2019) of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) Study, a nationally representative, longitudinal cohort study of U.S. adults and youth, pooled prevalence, restricted to adults 40 and older who provided data at every wave (N=10,128 unique respondents and Nobs=46,294;), was estimated to understand the association between established cigar use and self-reported CVD outcomes. Weighted generalized estimating equations were used to examine CVD outcomes among exclusive current/former established cigar smokers (ever cigar smokers who have smoked fairly regularly), exclusive current/former established cigarette smokers (lifetime smokers of 100 or more cigarettes), dual current/former established cigarette and cigar smokers compared to never smokers of cigars or cigarettes, adjusting for covariates. Results: The incidence of CVD among exclusive current/former established cigar smokers over a six-year period was low (overall average rate of 3.0%). The pooled-prevalence of CVD outcome was very similar among exclusive current/former established cigar smokers (10.7%; 95% CI: 7.0-16.1) and exclusive current/former established cigarette smokers (10.7%; 95% CI: 9.4-12.2) and slightly higher among dual users of cigars and cigarettes (14.3%; 95% CI: 11.8-17.1). Compared to never users, exclusive current/former established cigar smokers (OR = 1.67, 95% CI: 1.11-2.51) and exclusive current/former established cigarette smokers (OR = 2.12, 95% CI: 1.45-3.09) were more likely to have any CVD outcome in unadjusted analyses. When adjusted for covariates, only exclusive current/former established cigarette use was associated with CVD outcomes (AOR = 1.63, CI: 1.05-2.53). We did not find a consistent dose response relationship between duration of exclusive current/former established cigar use and CVD prevalence. Conclusions: Understanding how cigar use impacts CVD is important in reducing tobacco-related mortality and morbidity. In this study, exclusive established use of cigars or duration of exclusive cigar use was not associated with CVD prevalence compared to never cigar or cigarette smokers.
Synthesis,characterization and biological activities of nitrogen-containing Combretastatin A-4 derivatives
Authors: Tang Hui , Liu Yunli , Nie Hui , Xue Kangyan , Huang Jinwen , Wu Fanhong
Published: May 2022

The new compounds 6a-6d and 9a-12c were synthesized from starting material. The intermediate (E)-3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-2-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl) acrylic acid was used to synthesis a series of combretastatin A-4(CA-4) analogues containing nitrogen atoms and nitrogen heterocycles were synthesized by condensation reaction, reduction reaction, hydrolysis reaction and Crutius rearrangement. All new compounds were characterized by nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry. The antitumor cytotoxicity of a series of newly synthesized compounds were evaluated in vitro toward the cell line of hepatoma cell with erianin as positive control. Amoung all the compound, 6b demonstrated the most antitumor activity with the inhibition rate 93.85%.
Soil improvement and tomato production affected by tillage and drip irrigation with saline water in heavy coastal saline soil
Authors: Feng Di , Sun Chitao , Li Xiaobin , Wan Shuqin , Li Caixia , Ning Songrui
Published: May 2022

Establishing rational method for irrigation with saline water is the key to improve the agroecological environment in heavy coastal saline soil. A two-year field experiment was conducted in Bohai Rim region, China. Three tillage modes [undisturbed soil without planting (UP), ridge tillage without irrigation (TW) and with drip irrigation (T)] were designed to investigate the effect of tillage on salt leaching. Five treatments of irrigation water salinity [ECw of 0.7 (T1), 3.2 (T2), 4.7 (T3), 6.2 (T4) and 7.8 (T5) dS/m] were designed under T mode to investigate the effects of ECw on salinity (ECe) and alkalinity (SAR and pHe) of soil and tomato production and irrigation water use efficiency (IWUE). Results showed the soil desalination rate (SDR) of T mode was the highest than the TW and UP modes. The linear relationships between ECw and SDR, irrigation amount and SDR were observed. The final mean ECe and SAR for T1 to T5 dropped by 58.5–65.3% and 33.7–42.3%, respectively. The final mean soil pHe for T1-T5 treatments from 7.82 dropped to 7.75, 7.38, 7.44, 7.36 and 7.16, respectively. The survival rate decreased with the increment of ECw, and exceeded 90% when ECw below 7.8 dS/m. As ECw below 4.7 dS/m, growth and yield of tomato and IWUE were not inhibited. The relationships between ECw and survival rate, relative yield, relative IWUE and qualities were quantified, respectively. Using ECw below 3.9 dS/m under T mode was the recommended to successful cultivating and high-quality production of tomato in heavy coastal saline soil.
Quality of multiple-choice questions used in medical internship qualification examination at Debre Tabor University, Ethiopia
Authors: Belay Lalem Menber , Sendekie Tegbar Yigzaw , Eyowas Fantu Abebe
Published: May 2022

Background: Assessment of cognitive competence is a major element of the internship qualification exam in undergraduate medical education in Ethiopia. Assessing the quality of exam items can help to improve the validity of assessments and assure stakeholders about the accuracy of the go/no decision to the internship. However, we know little about the quality of exam items utilized to ascertain fitness to join the medical internship. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the quality of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) of the qualification exam administered to final-year medical students at DTU, Ethiopia. Methods: A mixed-method cross-sectional study design was employed to assess the psychometric qualities of 120 randomly selected MCQs and 407 distractors. Item characteristics were estimated using the item response theory (IRT) model. T-test, one-way ANOVA, and chi-square tests were run to analyze the univariate association between factors. Spearman correlation test was done to determine the predictive validity of the qualification examination. Result: Overall, 16%, 51%, and 33% of the items had high, moderate, and low distractor efficiency, respectively. About two-thirds (65.8%) of the items had two or more functioning distractors and 42.5% exhibited a desirable difficulty index. However, 77.8% of items administered in the qualification examination had a negative or poor discrimination index. Four and five option items didn’t show significant differences in psychometric qualities. The qualification exam showed a positive predictive value of success in the national licensing examination (Pearson’s correlation coefficient = 0.5).Conclusions: The difficulty index, functionality of distractors, and item reliability were acceptable, while the discrimination index was poor. Five option items didn’t have better psychometric qualities than the four options. Student performance in the qualification examination had a positive predictive validity. Items used for high-stake examinations need to be designed carefully and reviewed before administration.
Using a multiplex serological assay to estimate time since SARS-CoV-2 infection and past clinical presentation in Malagasy patients
Authors: NDIAYE Mame Diarra Bousso , RASOLOHARIMANANA Lova Tsikiniaina , RAZAFIMAHATRATRA Solohery Lalaina , RATOVOSON Rila , RASOLOFO Voahangy , RANAIVOMANANA Paulo , RASKINE Laurent , HOFFMANN Jonathan , RANDREMANANA Rindra Vatosoa , RAKOTOSAMIMANANA Niaina , SCHOENHALS Matthieu
Published: May 2022

Background: The world is facing a 2019 coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). In this context, efficient serological assays are needed to accurately describe the humoral responses against the virus. These tools could potentially provide temporal and clinical characteristics and are thus paramount in developing-countries lacking sufficient ongoing COVID-19 epidemic descriptions.Methods: We developed and validated a Luminex xMAP® multiplex serological assay targeting specific IgM and IgG antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 Spike subunit 1 (S1), Spike subunit 2 (S2), Spike Receptor Binding Domain (RBD) and the Nucleocapsid Protein (NP). Blood samples collected periodically for 12 months from 43 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 in Madagascar were tested for these antibodies. A random forest algorithm was used to build a predictive model of time since infection and symptom presentation.Findings: The performance of the multiplex serological assay was evaluated for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 anti-IgG and anti-IgM antibodies. Both sensitivity and specificity were equal to 100% (89.85-100) for S1, RBD and NP (S2 had a lower specificity = 95%) for IgG at day 14 after enrolment. This multiplex assay compared with two commercialized ELISA kits, showed a higher sensitivity. Principal Component Analysis was performed on serologic data to group patients according to time of sample collection and clinical presentations. The random forest algorithm built by this approach predicted symptom presentation and time since infection with an accuracy of 87.1% (95% CI = 70.17-96.37, p-value = 0.0016), and 80% (95% CI = 61.43-92.29, p-value = 0.0001) respectively. Interpretation: This study demonstrates that the statistical model predicts time since infection and previous symptom presentation using IgM and IgG response to SARS-CoV2. This tool may be useful for global surveillance, discriminating recent- and past- SARS-CoV-2 infection, and assessing disease severity.
Spherical Aberration and Scattering Compensation in Digital Imaging by a New Blind Deconvolution Method
Authors: Avila Francisco
Published: May 2022

The optical quality of an image depends on both the optical properties of the imaging system and the physical properties of the medium the light travels from the object to the final imaging plane. Computation of the Point Spread Function (PSF) of an optical system is the most extended assessment method. This PSF can be affected by the diffraction and aberrations that degrade the image. Moreover, if a turbid medium is present, the scattering effects spread the light over a wide angular distribution. If the mathematical operator that degrades the final image is known, then the image can be restored using deconvolution methods. In extreme cases in which the PSF is unknown, blind deconvolution procedures are the only way to perform restoration. In this study, a new approach based on blind deconvolution theory is proposed to restore images from spherical aberration and light scattering contributions. The algorithm was tested using both theoretical and experimental imaging techni ques. The results showed the capability of the method to generate theoretical quasi-optimal SA and scattering PSFs, and then restoe both pathological and astronomical imaging without prior information on the real PSF.
Magnon mode transition in real space
Authors: Iida Kazuki , Kodama Katsuaki , Inamura Yasuhiro , Nakamura Mitsutaka , Chang Lieh-Jeng , Shamoto Shin-ichi
Published: May 2022

Spin excitation of an ilmenite FeTiO 3 powder sample is measured by time-of-flight inelastic neutron scattering. The dynamic magnetic pair-density function DM(r, E) is obtained from the dynamic magnetic structure factor SM(Q, E) by the Fourier transformation. The real space spin dynamics exhibit magnon mode transitions in the spin-spin correlation with increasing energy from no-phase-shift to p-phase-shift. The mode transition is a unique feature in this real space image, which does not correspond directly to the reciprocal space magnon dispersions. This analysis provides a novel opportunity to study the local spin dynamics of various magnetic systems.
Reverse-gavage feeding as a novel administration to investigate the immunomodulatory effects of plant-based medicines on the immunity of giant freshwater prawn, Macrobrachium rosenbergii: A case study of Scutellaria radix water extract
Authors: Andriawan Soni , Bao Hung Tran , Yuniarti Ating , Chaung Hso Chi , Yen Tsair-Bor , Cheng Ta-Chih
Published: May 2022

The application of herbal medicine is one of the ancientest worldwide approaches to treating diseases. This study aimed to examine the effect of Scutellaria radix on the immune responses of Macrobrachium rosenbergii by reverse-gavage feeding and their resistance against Lactococcus garvieae. In brief, M. rosenbergii was administered with S. radix water extract at 1, 5, and 10 µg/µl using reverse-gavage feeding (RGF). Total hemocyte count (THC), phenoloxidase (PO) activity, respiratory bursts (RBs) activity, transglutaminase (TG) activity, and lysozyme activity of hemocytes were evaluated to discover the immunological responses of prawn post-RGF. The results showed that the concentration of S. radix extract at 5 µg µl–1 increased the immune responses of M. rosenbergii compared with the control group. In the case of the gene, expressions were observed from the hepatopancreas and midgut, in which proxinectin showed no significant difference, LGBP and proPO were expressed by all concentrations in a time-dependent manner. The present findings suggest that S. radix water extract at 5 µg µl–1 may enhance the immune responses and gene expressions in M. rosenbergii using RGF.