bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Hydrological Processes on Surface and Subsurface Nitrogen Losses from Purple Soil Slopes
Authors: Xie Meixiang , Zhang Pingcang , Shi Yuanzhi , Hong Dalin
Published: May 2021

Relationships of hydrological processes via surface flow (SF) and subsurface flow (SSF) to nitrogen (N) losses from sloping farmlands have been rarely researched. In this study, laboratory experiments were conducted to investigate ammonia nitrogen (NH4-N), nitrate nitrogen (NO3-N) and total nitrogen (TN) losses from purple sloped soils due to SF, SSF and sediment (S). Effects of rainfalls and slope gradients on N losses were also studied. Three rainfall intensities (0.4 ± 0.02, 1.0 ± 0.04 and 1.8 ± 0.11 mm min-1) and four slope gradients (5°, 10°, 15° and 20°) were designed in experiments. Larger SF discharges occurred with increasing rainfall intensities while SSF was prone to happen under low rainfall intensities. Although r2 of regression results were low, both N loss concentrations and loads coincided positively with discharges except for a negative relation between N concentrations and SF discharges. In comparison, smaller SSF discharges produced substantial N loads with higher N concentrations especially for NO3-N. NH4-N, NO3-N, and TN losses were dominated by S, SSF and SF, respectively. Furthermore, linear increases in loss loads with increasing discharges revealed that distributions of N loss loads were compatible with flow distributions in stormwater. 10° may be a critical slope gradient for SSF discharge and nutrient export.
Linalool Essential Oil/Nanocellulose-Based Pickering Emulsions: An In-Depth Investigation of Processing Parameters
Authors: de Souza Alana Gabrieli , Marciano Jéssica de Souza , Ferreira Rafaela Reis , de Oliveira Eder Ramin , Rosa Derval dos Santos
Published: May 2021

This study aims to prepare nanocellulose-based emulsions using linalool essential oil using different processing parameters and correlating them with emulsions' stability and particle size. The investigated parameters were cellulose morphology (CNC or CNF) and concentration (0.5 or 1 wt%), essential oil concentration (20 or 30% v/v), homogenization speed (10,000 or 12,000 rpm), and time (3 or 7 minutes). The emulsions were tested by droplet size, morphology, and storage stability. The Design of Experiments (DoE) was used to understand each parameter's effects in the emulsions' characteristics and the statistical results. Each nanocellulose morphology presented a type of stabilization in emulsions and different ideal process parameters. CNC-emulsions showed as optimum parameters 30% essential oil and 7 minutes preparation, reflecting the higher necessary energy for the efficient CNCs adsorption in the O/W interface, and the maximum stability was ~ 50% by electrostatic interactions. CNF-emulsions showed optimum parameters 1% CNF and 12,000 rpm homogenization speed, reflecting the necessary parameters to convert the suspensions into gels where the droplets are well-coated by the fibers. This study is a pioneer in an in-depth understanding of the processing parameters' impact on emulsion stability and will be a guideline for future studies with different solid particles and oil phases.
Neuromuscular, acute symptoms and cardiorespiratory responses to progressive elastic resistance training in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: cross- sectional study
Authors: Calatayud Joaquin , Torres-Castro Rodrigo , Vera-Uribe Roberto , Olivares-Valenzuela Álvaro , Guzmán-González Benjamín , Torres Maria E , Sepúlveda-Cáceres Nicolás , Andersen Lars L. , Cruz-Montecinos Carlos
Published: May 2021

Purpose: To evaluate neuromuscular, acute symptoms and cardiorespiratory responses during progressive elastic resistance training in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).Methods: 14 patients diagnosed with moderate-very severe COPD performed knee extensions at different elastic resistance levels. Normalized Root Mean Square (nRMS) was measured for the rectus femoris (RF), vastus lateralis (VL) and vastus medialis (VM), together with rate of perceived exertion (RPE), perceived quadriceps fatigue, dyspnea, oxygen saturation and heart rate. Results: For the VL, a nRMS increase was evident from a two-level increment when using the red color. When using the green and blue colors, four and three level increments were needed to increase nRMS, respectively. For the VM, there were no nRMS progressions. For the RF, a nRMS increase was evident from a two-level increment when using the red color and after one-level when using the green color. Dyspnea, quadriceps fatigue and especially RPE increased in a dose-response fashion and were correlated (p<0.01) with the relative resistance (i.e., % of the maximum resistance), resistance level (i.e., color) and nRMS at the three muscles.Conclusions: Heavy elastic resistance training is feasible in COPD patients, without excessive dyspnea and with stable cardiorespiratory response.
Communication of Design Data in Manufacturing Democratization
Authors: Ghorpade Bhairavsingh , Raman Shivakumar
Published: May 2021

Part design is the principal source of communicating design intent to manufacturing and inspection. The design data is often communicated through CAD systems. Modern analytics tools and artificial intelligence integration into manufacturing has significantly advanced machine recognition of design specification and manufacturing constraints. This paper is aimed at the collaboration among multiple vendors across supply chains to enable efficient order procurement. To this end, the paper discusses the development of a simple framework for extracting the dimensional data from part design and storing them for enhancing machine readability of the part design at multiple levels of manufacturing.
Laser Damage Threshold of Hydrophobic Up-Conversion Carboxylated Nanocellulose/SrF2:Hо Composite Films Functionalized With 3-Aminopropyltriethoxysilane
Authors: Luginina Anna A. , Kuznetsov Sergey V. , Ivanov Vladimir K. , Voronov Valery V. , Yapryntsev Alexey D. , Lyapin Andrey A. , Chernova Elena V. , Pynenkov Aleksandr A. , Nishchev Konstantin N. , Gainutdinov Radmir V. , Bogach Alexey V. , Fedorov Pavel P.
Published: May 2021

Luminescent nanocomposite films, containing SrF 2 :Но up-conversion particles, were prepared by two different protocols from aqueous dispersions of TEMPO-oxidized cellulose nanofibrils (TOCNF) functionalized with 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APS) without the use of organic solvents at pH = 4.0-4.5 and 9.0-9.5, respectively. Proposed synthetic protocols included formation of the films by drying the dispersions containing pre-hydrolyzed APS adsorbed onto TOCNF and SrF 2 :Но particles followed by heating at 105 °C. Hydrophobic (water contact angle 101 ± 2°), strong, and translucent TOCNF/SrF 2 :Но-APS films were prepared by casting from a solution at pH = 4.0-4.5. Scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy with element mapping, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction methods confirmed homogeneous distribution of up-conversion particles in TOCNF matrices as well as the grafting of linear polysiloxanes via the condensation of silanol groups and OH-groups on the surface of TOCNF. Differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetry data confirmed an increase in thermal stability of the APS modified nanocomposite films obtained at pH = 4.0-4.5. Hydrophobic TOCNF/SrF 2 :Но-APS nanocomposite films exhibited an intense red luminescence in the visible spectrum range ( 5 I 7 level excitation of Ho 3+ ions with 1912 nm laser irradiation) as well as two-times higher laser damage threshold compared to unmodified TOCNF/SrF 2 :Но films. TOCNF/SrF 2 :Но films can be used for visualization 2 μm laser radiation in medicine and long-distance atmosphere monitoring.
Virtual autopsy and confirmation of normal fetal heart anatomy in the first trimester using three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction of histological sections
Authors: Ruican Dan , Petrescu Ana-Maria , Ungureanu Anda , Pirici Daniel , Marinaș Marius Cristian , Ofiteru Anca Maria , Serbanescu Mircea , Simionescu Cristina , Badiu Anne Marie , Roșu Gabriela-Camelia , Belciug Smaranda , Iliescu Dominic Gabriel
Published: May 2021

Objective: In this pilot study we tested the feasibility of cardiac structures reconstruction from histologic sections in 12-13 weeks normal fetuses. Conventional autopsy is hampered at this gestational age because of the small size of the heart anatomical structures, while alternative non-invasive methods for pathology examination of the fetus are expensive, rarely available and lack accuracy data regarding the confirmation of first trimester heart defects.Method: Normal hearts from fetuses aged 12-13 gestational weeks were removed for histological preparation, virtual reconstruction and cardiac structures analysis. All sections have been scanned and a three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction of the whole organ has been rendered. Results: 5 cases were investigated. Visualization of the normal heart cavities, including atrio-ventricular septum was very good in all fetuses. The entire course of right and left ventricle outflow tracts was confidently confirmed, along the and branching pattern of aorta and pulmonary artery trunk.Conclusion: The use of 3D reconstruction of fetal heart histological sections in first trimester may serve as an important audit to confirm the normalcy of heart structures. The histological and post processed information is retained, and this volume can be stored, reanalyzed or sent online for a second opinion.
Delayed Cutaneous Hypersensitivity Reaction to Vaxzevria (ChAdOx1-S) Vaccine against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Sprute Rosanne , Schumacher Sofie , Pauls Martina , Pauls Wolfgang , Cornely Oliver A.
Published: May 2021

Recently, an increasing number of cases with delayed large cutaneous reaction after immunisation with mRNA-based vaccines have been reported. This adverse reaction – which is considered a delayed-type or T-cell mediated hypersensitivity reaction – has been described primarily for the Moderna (mRNA-1273) vaccine and to a lesser extent for Comirnaty (Pfizer/BioNTech, BNT162b2).We describe a delayed large cutaneous reaction in a patient who received the viral vector vaccine Vaxzevria (ChAdOx1-S). The time course and clinical symptoms of delayed major skin reaction after vaccination with Moderna or Pfizer/BioNTech have a similar pattern that we recognized in our patient after Vaxzevria vaccination. In contrast to the Moderna vaccine trials, this phenomenon has not been described in the Vaxzevria clinical trials and is to the best of our knowledge the first report of this adverse reaction to a vector-based vaccine against SARS-CoV-2.With this, we hope to raise awareness about delayed injection site reactions that also occur after viral vector vaccines and to encourage additional reporting and patient education regarding the cutaneous reactions after COVID-19 vaccination.
Probiotic feeding effect of Bacillus subtilis on broilers chicks’ microflora, TLRs and interleukin gene expression
Authors: Wang Zaigui , Yang Ru , Khan Salman , wei Chunjie , Qian Hu , Khalid Anam
Published: May 2021

The broiler chicks provide the major portion of daily food items. The current study aimed to investigate the effects of Bacillus subtilis (BS) on broiler chicken gut microflora diversity, digestive enzyme activity and expression of Toll-like receptors (TLRs). A total of 240 crossbred broiler chickens were randomly allocated into 4 groups with 3 replicates. The groups were named as control group (basal diet, BD), group Ⅰ (BD with 300 g/d BS,1.08×107 CFU/kg), group Ⅱ (BD with 600 g/d BS, 2.16×107 CFU/kg), and group Ⅲ (BD with 900 g/d BS, 3.24×107 CFU/kg). Samples were collected at the 21st day. The difference of α diversity and β diversity between control group and treatment groups were not significant, but the abundance of some microorganisms in the treatment groups were improved, and the core microorganisms were different between groups. In comparison of control group, the protease activity in ileum of experimental groups was significantly increased (p < 0.05). Protease activity in ileum of group Ⅱ and Ⅲ was improved by 22.59% (p < 0.01) and 14.49% (p < 0.05). The amylase activity in ileum of treatment groups were also significantly increased (p < 0.05). Amylase activity of group Ⅱ was increased by 41.85% (p < 0.01) in comparison to control, group Ⅰ and Ⅲ. Expression of TLR1A and TLR7 in the jejunum and caecum of treatment groups were significantly up-regulated while their expression in ileum was decreased. Similarly, the expression of TLR1B gene was significantly improved in the ileum, and down regulated in the cecum. Transcription levels of TLR2A and MyD88 in jejunum, liver, spleen and kidney were significantly increased, but their expression was significantly lower in the ileum and cecum. The TLR2B, TLR3, TLR4, TLR15, TLR21 expression were also significantly modulated in various organ of broiler chicken. The most important inflammatory factor such as IL-1β expressions in spleen and kidney were significantly increased in the current data. Bacillus subtilis could not regulate the caecal microflora diversity, but improved amount of some gut probiotics such as lactobacillus, the digestive enzyme activity, regulate some immunogenic expressions and enhance the immune capacity of animal. We hope that the impact of this data will explore the diseases control and feeding quality of broiler chicks at industrial level.
Factors Associated With Adherence to Lockdown Measures in Uganda
Authors: Muzyamba Choolwe , Makova Ogylive , Mushibi Geofrey
Published: May 2021

Background

While the debate regarding the usefulness of the lockdown goes on in research, it has been highlighted that this debate is pointless unless studies demonstrate to what extent people are actually abiding by the lockdown. Studies on factors associated with adherence of COVID-19-related lockdowns have largely been conducted in western countries. However, similar studies are still lacking in low income countries like Uganda. This study fills this gap by investigating factors associated with adherence to lockdown in Uganda.
Methods

A qualitative cross sectional survey was conducted online via the AfriSight platform with a sample size of 1249. These participants were selected randomly from all across Uganda. The data was analyzed descriptively and for inferential statistics we analyzed the data using probit regression. This allowed us to investigate the various motivations, socioeconomic, and demographic factors that help predict adherence or lack thereof to lockdown measures. Based on this probit analysis, we further generated marginal effects to ascertain the probabilities of adhering to lockdown.
Results

Our study reports the complexity that characterizes adherence to the lockdown in Uganda. Various socioeconomic and demographic factors particularly, age, gender, size of household, religion, income level, and employment status all seem to uniquely interact in shaping adherence behavior.
Conclusion

This study demonstrates that any lockdown-related efforts to minimize the spread of COVID-19 must pay attention to how these factors playout in the context of Uganda. Whereas most of the factors observed can more easily be handled in wealthier countries which provide social benefits during lockdowns, Uganda must rethink the uncritical adoption of such measures without localizing them. There is a need for Uganda to invest in a COVID-19 response that is alive to local context and reality, and one which commands wide support and adherence.
Schistosoma Japonicum Peptide SJMHE1 Inhibits Acute And Chronic Colitis Induced By Dextran Sulphate Sodium In Mice
Authors: Shan Wenqi , Zhang Wenzhe , Xue Fei , Ma Yongbin , Dong Liyang , Wang Ting , Zheng Yu , Feng Dingqi , Chang Ming , Yuan Guoyue , Wang Xuefeng
Published: May 2021

Background: Harnessing helminth-based immunoregulation is a novel therapeutic strategy for many immune dysfunction disorders, including inflammatory bowel diseases. We previously identified a small-molecule peptide from Schistosoma japonicum and named it SJMHE1. SJMHE1 can suppress delayed-type hypersensitivity, collagen-induced arthritis, and asthma in mice. In this study, we assessed the effects of SJMHE1 on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced acute and chronic colitis. Methods: C57BL/6 mice were induced acute and chronic colitis by DSS, and were injected by emulsifier SJMHE1 or PBS. Then the mice were examined body weight loss, disease activity index, colon lengths, histopathology change, cytokine expression and helper T (Th) cell subset distribution.Results: We found that SJMHE1 treatment significantly suppressed DSS-induced acute and chronic colitis, improved disease activity and colon pathological damage. SJMHE1 treatment modulated the expression of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines in splenocytes and the colon. Furthermore, SJMHE1 treatment reduced the percentage of Th1 and Th17 cells and increased the percentage of Th2 and regulatory T (Treg) cells in the splenocytes and mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs) from mice with acute colitis. Similarly, SJMHE1 treatment upregulated the expression of IL-10 mRNA, and downregulated the expression of IL-17 mRNA, and modulated the Th cell balance in mice with chronic colitis. Conclusions: Our data show that SJMHE1 provided protection against acute and chronic colitis by restoring immune balance. As a small molecule, SJMHE1 might be a novel agent for the treatment of IBD without immunogenicity concerns.
Overexpression Of RNPEPL1 Predicts Poor Overall Survival In Ovarian Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Junchen , Peng Yanzhen , Cheng Jiumei
Published: May 2021

Background. RNPEPL1 (arginyl aminopeptidase-like 1) belongs to the M1 family of zinc metallopeptidases. We aimed to explore the role of RNPEPL1 in the occurrence and progression of ovarian carcinoma (OV).Methods: We analyzed the expression level and prognostic value of RNPEPL1 in OV across Oncomine, GEO, TCGA and Human Protein Atlas (HPA) database and identified its prognostic value by the Cox regression analysis and Kaplan–Meier method. We utilized GESA software to perform GO and KEGG analyses. We also utilized TIMER to evaluate the relevance between RNPEPL1 and tumor-infiltrating immune cells. Finally, relevance between RNPEPL1 and immune-related genes was examined by Pearson correlation analysis.Results: RNPEPL1 was overexpressed in OV tissues compared with normal ovary tissue. Moreover, high RNPEPL1 expression was related with poor OV survival in TCGA. Cox analyses suggested that overexpression of RNPEPL1 was an independent risk factor for overall survival(OS) of OV. Results of KEGG analysis suggested that genes were mainly enriched in T cell receptor signaling pathway, B cell receptor signaling pathway and natural killer cell mediated cytotoxicity when the expression level of RNPEPL1 is low. Besides, RNPEPL1 expression is associated with infiltrating levels of CD4+ T cells, B cells, macrophage, neutrophils and dendritic cells. And, the level of dendritic cells is correlated with OS of OV. RNPEPL1 expression was significantly correlated with the immune signaling pathway of antigen processing and presentation.Conclusions: RNPEPL1 is a novel independently prognostic biomarker of OV and was related to immune infiltration. Especially, the tight correlation between RNPEPL1 and antigen processing and presentation may be the potential hub of anti-tumor immunity and one of the essential factors influencing survival.
Diazinon Reduction In Apple Juice Using Probiotic Bacteria During Fermentation And Refrigerated Storage
Authors: Rezaei Farahnaz , Nejati Roghayeh , Sayadi Mehran , Nematillahi Amene
Published: May 2021

The main objective of this work was to study the effects of probiotic strains, probiotic primary inoculated population, concentrations of spiked diazinon, physiology of probiotic bacteria, fermentation times and cold storage period in six consecutive stages on diazinon reduction in apple juice. Chemical properties (pH, total acidity, and sugar content), probiotic viability and diazinon reduction percent were monitored during fermentation and cold storage. Dispersive Solid Phase Extraction (dSPE) followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to extract and measure diazinon concentration. Results showed that Lactobacillus acidophilus revealed the highest ability to reduce diazinon in apple juice after fermentation. Inoculation of L. acidophilus at 9 log CFU/mL, showed significantly higher diazinon reducing ability than 7 log CFU/mL. Ability of L. acidophilus to reduce the concentration of 1000 µg/L of spiked diazinon was significantly greater than 5000 µg/L. Heat-killed (dead) L. acidophilus bacteria reduced less diazinon content at the end of fermentation than viable bacteria. Furthermore, 72 h of fermentation was more effective in diazinon reduction. Level of diazinon in treatments containing L. acidophilus decreased significantly during cold storage period, so that it is completely disappeared at the end of storage (28 days) along with maintaining health-promoting properties of probiotic apple juice.
Polyphenol-rich extract of Ocimum gratissimum leaves Prevented Toxic Effects of Cyclophosphamide on the kidney Function of Wistar rats
Authors: Alabi Quadri K. , Akomolafe Rufus O. , Akomolafe Joseph G. , Aturamu Ayodeji , Ige Mokolade S. , Kayode Oyindasola O. , Kajewole Deborah I.
Published: May 2021

Background Cyclophosphamide (CP) is one of the potent and low cost chemotherapy used in clinical setting against a variety of tumors. However, its association with nephrotoxicity limits its therapeutic use. Ocimum gratissimum leaf is a natural plant with numerous pharmacological and therapeutic efficacies, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammation, and anti-apoptotic properties.Methods The present study was designed to evaluate the protective effect of Ocimum gratissimum (OG) against CP-induced kidney dysfunction in rats. Rats were pre-treated with 400 mg/kg b.w. of polyphenol-rich Ocimum gratissimum leaves (PREOG) for 4 days and then 50 mg/kg b.w. of CP was co-administered from day 5 to day 7 along with PREOG. Markers of renal function and oxidative stress, food and water intake, electrolytes, aldosterone, leukocytes infiltration, inflammation and histopathological alteration were evaluated.Results Obvious renal inflammation and kidney injuries were observed in CP treated groups. PREOG administration prevented oxidative stress, kidney injuries, attenuated inflammation, increased aldosterone production and reduced sodium and water loss in rats. PREOG also decreased the plasma concentrations of Interleukin-(IL)-6, C-reactive protein and activity of myeloperoxidase and malondialdehyde in CP treated rats.Conclusion OG prevented kidney injury and enhanced renal function via inhibiting inflammation and oxidant-induced CP toxicity. The efficacy of OG is related to the presence of various phytochemicals in the plant.
Development of a Method to Evaluate Influenza Virus RNA-dependent RNA Polymerase Activity Through Real-time Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction
Authors: Horio Yuka , Shichiri Mototada , Isegawa Yuji
Published: May 2021

Background: The development of an influenza RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) inhibitor is required; therefore, a method for evaluating the activity of influenza RdRp needs to be developed. The current method uses an ultracentrifuge to separate viral particles and quantifies RdRp activity with radioisotope-labeled nucleosides, such as 32P-GTP. This method requires special equipment and radioisotope management, so it cannot be implemented in all institutions. We have developed a method to evaluate the activity of RdRp without using ultracentrifugation and radioisotopes. Results: RdRp was extracted from viral particles that were purified from the culture supernatant using magnetic beads. A strand-specific real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) method was developed based on the reverse transcription, using tagged primers. Real-time PCR using the tag sequence as the forward primer and a segment-specific reverse primer ensured the specificity for quantifying the mRNA of segments 1, 4, and 5. The temperature, reaction time, and Mg2+ concentration were determined to select the optimum conditions for in vitro RNA synthesis by RdRp, and the amount of synthesized mRNAs of segments 1, 4, and 5 was determined with a detection sensitivity of 10 copies/reaction. In addition, mRNA synthesis was inhibited by ribavirin triphosphate, an RdRp inhibitor, thus indicating the usefulness of this evaluation method for screening RdRp inhibitors.Conclusion: This method makes it possible to analyze the RdRp activity even in a laboratory where ultracentrifugation and radioisotopes cannot be used. This novel method for measuring influenza virus polymerase activity will further promote research to identify compounds that inhibit viral RNA synthesis.
Subjective Well-Being in Non-Obese Individuals in View of Abdominal Fat Distribution and Muscle Mass Index: A General Population Study.
Authors: Chlabicz Małgorzata , Paniczko Marlena , Jamiołkowski Jacek , Sowa Paweł , Szpakowicz Małgorzata , Łapińska Magda , Raczkowski Andrzej , Łaguna Wojciech , Moniuszko-Malinowska Anna M. , Waszkiewicz Napoleon , Kowalska Irina , Kamiński Karol A
Published: May 2021

Background

While obesity has been correlated with welfare in the general population, there is not much data on the influence of body composition on welfare among the non-obese adult individuals.
Methods

A longitudinal, population-based study was conducted in 2017–2020. Body composition was assessed using Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry. Welfare was rated with Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), Euro Quality of Life Visual Analogue Scale (EQ-VAS) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI).
Results

A total of 726 non-obese individuals from general population were analyzed. The mean age was 46.8 ± 15.4 years and 42.1% of participants were male. The mean value for SWLS was 23.09 ± 5.43, for EQ-VAS was 78.0 ± 14.5, and for BDI was 6.7 ± 6.6. On SWLS the waist-hip ratio had a negative impact even after adjustment for age, gender and concomitant diseases. EQ-VAS was inversely associated with android fat distribution and directly associated with muscle mass. BDI value was inversely associated with lower muscle mass, especially of the lower limbs. The well-being of women was mainly associated with the distribution of adipose tissue and less with the distribution of muscle tissue - abdominal fat distribution has a particularly negative impact on well-being among women. In contrast, men's well-being depends more on muscle mass and to a lesser extent on the distribution of fat tissue - a positive significant effect has lean mass and a circumference of thigh below gluteal fold.
Conclusions

Body composition is significantly associated with welfare in non-obese population. Android type fat distribution may have a negative impact while muscle mass positive.
Long Noncoding RNA LINC00460 Facilitates the Proliferation and Metastasis of Renal Cell Carcinoma via PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway
Authors: Zhou Feng-Juan , Meng Sen , Yong Hongmei , Hou Ping-Fu , Li Min-Le , Chu Su-Fang , Bai Jin , Zheng Jun-Nian
Published: May 2021

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is one of the most prevalent cancers. Long noncoding RNAs (LncRNAs) have been indicated as a mediator acted in tumorigenesis of RCC. However, the mechanism of LINC00460 on RCC is yet to be investigated. This study aimed to investigate the potential function of LINC00460 and underlying mechanism of RCC. We detected LINC00460 expression in RCC tissues and the prognosis in RCC patients using Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) website and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. LINC00460 level in normal renal cell line and RCC cell lines were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). We study the effects of LINC00460 on proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis in RCC cells lines using a series of in vivo and in vitro experiments. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis for the whole transcriptome was applied to searching potential LINC00460 related signal pathway in RCC. We identified the significant up-regulated expression level of LINC00460 in RCC tissues and cell lines. Elevated LINC00460 was correlated with shorter survival of RCC patients. Overexpression of LINC00460 promoted cell viability, proliferation, invasion and migration, while down-regulation of LINC00460 exerted inhibitory effect on these activities. We crucially identified that LNC00460 promotes development of RCC by influencing the PI3K/AKT pathway. Knockdown of LNC00460 decreased the phosphorylation of AKT and mTOR. The key finding of our study provided a new evidence suggesting that LINC00460 functions as an oncogene in RCC pathogenesis by mediating the PI3K/AKT pathway, which may provide a new target for the treatment of RCC.
Health Inequalities of Intra-Family Expertise Accessibility: Evidence From China
Authors: Wang Jiwen , Xie Donghong
Published: May 2021

Objectives

To investigate whether unequal exposure to health-related expertise of intra-family is the root of health inequality in China, and to explore the underlying mechanisms through which health-related expertise shapes health outcome.
Methods

In a representative sample of Chinese adults ages over 18 from the 2017 Chinese General Social Survey (CGSS) (n = 3,047 respondents), we use multiple linear regression model and the two-stage least-squares model to analyze the correlation between health-related expertise of intra-family and self-rated health.
Results

The presence of a health professional (HP) in the family is associated with better self-rated health (SRH), and the effect is more important in rural areas than urban areas. An increased chance of exercising appears to explain a part of the association between HP and SRH.
Discussions

Health professionals doing for their family members would have the potential to make a substantial dent in population health and reduce health inequality. Future work will need to understand the patterns of intra-family expertise in health (and other) domains, and the potential replicability of this transmission by public policies.
The Research on Temporal–Spatial Distribution and Morphological Characteristics of Ancient Ruins in Shaanxi Province
Authors: Li Zhengwei
Published: May 2021

This paper uses the spatial analysis method of GIS to study the temporal–spatial distribution characteristics of ancient sites from the Han to the Tang periods in Shaanxi Province. (1) Analysis of topographic features reveals that ancient sites in Shaanxi Province are concentrated in plain areas with slopes due south, east, and southeast, elevations of about 866m, and slopes of 0 to 3°. (2) From the point line analysis, founding the sites are concentrated in the range of 10km, the farther away from the river, the fewer tombs distributed, it shows that the distribution of ancient tombs is linear. (3) The final kernel density analysis found that the site sites from the Han to the Northern and Southern Dynasties were concentrated in the Guanzhong Plain, while the distribution in other areas was more scattered; In the Sui and the Tang Dynasties, the sites were mainly distributed in Guanzhong Plain with Xi'an as the center. Studying the temporal–spatial distribution characteristics of ancient sites can not only explore the relationship between the development of ancient human society and the evolution of the natural environment but also provide a reference for the further study of sites in the future.
Fe@B6H6 Aggregates: From Simple Building Blocks to Graphene Analogue
Authors: Wang Chao , Hou Jianhua , Duan Qian
Published: May 2021

We suggest the possibility to build graphene analogue with the planar hexacoordinate wheel-type Fe@B6H6 cluster as the building block through studying theoretically the geometry, stability and electron structure of its dimer and trimer as well as the dimerization of the two trimers. Employing the dehydrogenation route to polymerization, we can obtain the hexagonal boron sheet that are partly and uniformly filled by Fe atoms in the center of the holes, achieving uniform chemical doping and a very large hexagonal-hole-density. Thus, we may offer a novel cluster-assembled material for experimental chemists to construct graphene analogue.
Mutant MEG3 Enhances the Activity of Telomerase by Increasing DNA Damage Repair in Human Liver Cancer Stem Cells
Authors: Song Shuting , Xie Sijie , Qin Rushi , Lu Yanan , Wang Liyan , Chen Yingjie , Jiang Xiaoxue , Lu Dongdong
Published: May 2021

Background: Long noncoding RNAs have recently considered as central regulators in diverse biological processes and emerged as vital players controlling tumorigenesis. Although wild MEG3 acts as a suppressor in several cancers, the function of mutant MEG3 is also unclear during tumorigenesis.Methods: Lentivalus infection,RT-PCR,Western blotting and tumorigenesis test in vitro and in vivo were performed.Results: our results suggest that mutant MEG3 promotes the growth of human liver cancer stem cells in vivo and in vitro.Mechanistically, our results show that mutant MEG3 enhances acetylation modification of HistoneH4 on K16.Then, mutant MEG3 enhances the expression of SETD2 dependent on H4K16Ac.Moreover, mutant MEG3 increases the DNA damage repair through SETD2.Ultimately, mutant MEG3 increases the telomeras activity dependent on DNA damage repair.Strikingly,TERT determines the cancerous function of mutant MEG3 in liver cancer stem cells. Therefore, we shed light on the fact that targeting mutant MEG3 could be a viable approach for cancer treatment.Conclusions: these observations will play an important role in finding effective tumor treatment targets.
Pregnancy with Atypical Pulmonary Tuberculosis During the COVID-19 Outbreak: A Case Report
Authors: ZHANG Ai-Ping , Liang Manman , Wang Zijian , Hou Weishun , Yang Jianghua
Published: May 2021

Background: During pregnancy, due to reduced immunological resistance, the probability of tuberculosis infection is increased, easily leading to the occurrence of tuberculosis; thus, pregnancy with tuberculosis is a risk to the health of pregnant women with infectious diseases. However, the clinical symptoms of pregnancy with pulmonary tuberculosis are atypical, often confused with the physiological reactions of pregnancy, and there is a lack of clinical awareness, especially in the context of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Specifically, atypical lung lesions are prone to misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis.Case presentation: A 21-year-old woman was infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis during the third trimester of pregnancy. The diagnosis and treatment of the patient are reported.Conclusion: The interaction between tuberculosis and pregnancy is a double-edged sword. Increasing awareness of tuberculosis among doctors is essential, and early diagnosis and standardized treatment are key to improving the outcome of pregnancy.
Cranial Venous Outflow Obstruction Promotes Neuroinflammation And Edema Via ADAM17/solTNF-α/NF-κB Pathway In A Rat Subdural Hematoma Model
Authors: Wang Cheng , Xian Liang , Zheng Shaorui , Fang Yi , Lin Kunzhe , Zeng Zihuan , Li Jun , Wang Shousen , Chen Xiangrong
Published: May 2021

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is recognized as a common cause of death and disability worldwide. Cerebrovascular reaction, as an important cause of secondary injury, can cause secondary bleeding, venous sinus thrombosis, and malignant brain swelling. Intracranial venous return disorder is closely related to patient prognosis. Treatment strategies after craniocerebral injury have primarily focused on the recanalization of cerebral arteries and capillaries and the protection of insulted neurons. In this study, we used an acute subdural hematoma (ASDH) model with cranial venous outflow obstruction (CVO) to explore the mechanism by which CVO aggravates the pathological process after TBI, especially for inflammation and tissue damage.Methods: Based on a rat ASDH model using the modified Miller method, an intracranial venous circulation obstruction intervention was given to form a compound model. A sham operation group (sham), a CVO group, an ASDH group and an ASDH+CVO group were constructed. A neurobehavioural assessment and the determination of brain water content were performed. The content was determined by Evans blue staining. Expression levels of inflammatory factors and metalloproteinases ADAM17 and MMP9 were detected by immunofluorescence assay, ELISA and Western blot. The rats in the ASDH+CVO group were treated with XPro1595 to compare the changes in the NF-κB/MMP9 pathway before and after the inhibition of solTNF.Results: CVO aggravated neurological function defects and damage to the blood-brain barrier in ASDH rats. CVO significantly increased the expression level of ADAM17, and localization of ADAM17 in intracranial cells occurred mainly in microglia or macrophages (positive for IBA-1), accompanied by increased secretion of solTNF. Activation of the ADAM17/solTNF/NF-κB pathway increased the subsequent inflammatory response and tissue damage.Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that intracranial venous return disorder after TBI significantly promotes the expression of ADAM17, which is mainly located in microglia or macrophages, and that the secretion of solTNF-α is increased. The ADAM17/solTNF-α/NF-κB pathway plays an important role in the subsequent inflammatory response and tissue injury. Our study reveals a molecular basis for the finding that CVO aggravates inflammation and tissue damage.
Exploration, Collection and Characterization of Kala zeera (Bunium persicum Boiss. Fedtsch.) Germplasm from North-Western Himalayas
Authors: Khan Mohd Anwar , Altaf Suhail , Shafi Safoora , Bhat Bilal Ahmad , Dar Waseem Ali , Parry Feroz Ahmad , Mir Reyazul rouf
Published: May 2021

Kala zeera (Bunium persicum Boiss. Fedtsch.) is one of the most important spice crop in the world. A set of two hundred fifty two (252) diverse kala zeera germplasm accessions were collected during an exploration mission from hot-spot regions /hills dividing two neighboring countries (India-Pakistan) on line of control (LOC) and hills near line of actual control (LAC) with China. The crop grows wild in its natural habitat mainly in Gurez valley, Tulail, Kashtiwar, Keran, Machil Tangdhar, Machil, Drass, Paddar, Khrew, Char-e-Sharief, Pang, Lahaul spiti, Shaung, Bharmour and Almora hills of Indian Western Himalayas. The germplasm collected has been characterized for morpho-agronomic traits and the analysis of trait data revealed significant variability in number of branches plant-1, number of umbelets umbel-1, number of seeds plant-1, seed yield per plant and 1000 seed weight. The collection and characterization of 252 Kala zeera germplasm accessions can prove useful in future Kala zeera improvement programs in the world as this is first such comprehensive report of the crop from Western Himalayan region of India.
Comparison of Emergency Resection, Self-Expanding Metallic Stents and Decompressing Stoma for Left-Sided Obstructive Colon Cancer: A Protocol for Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Hu Qiancheng , Wang Qingfeng , Tan Sirui , Huang Qiyue , Wang Xin , Gou Hongfeng
Published: May 2021

Background: The optimal management strategy for patients with left-sided obstructive colon cancer remains unclear. The aim of this study is to compare the efficacy and safety of emergency resection (ER), self-expanding metallic stents (SEMS) and decompressing stoma (DS) for left-sided obstructive colon cancer.Methods: Electronic searches by titles/abstracts of ER, SEMS and DS for left-sided obstructive colon cancer will be performed using the following electronic bibliographic databases: PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase and clinical trials. The protocol of this network meta-analysis has been registered on PROSPERO (CRD42021243097). The primary outcomes are the oncological outcomes such as local recurrence rate and overall and disease-free survival. Secondary outcomes of this study include peri- and postoperative outcomes, successful primary anastomosis, temporal and permanent stoma. Included randomized controlled trials will be evaluated on their risk of bias with the Cochrane Collaboration’s risk of bias tool. The quality of observation studies will be assessed using Risk Of Bias In Non-Randomized Studies of Interventions (ROBINS-I) tool. The overall quality of the evidence will be judged based on Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria in the network meta-analysis. Heterogeneity, publication bias, subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis will be explored.Discussion: Considering the importance of acute intestinal obstruction in left-sided colon cancer, we hope that this network meta-analysis can aid and accelerate the consolidation of evidence, such that health-care professionals and patients are provided with high-quality evidence to facilitate decisions on how to manage patients with left-sided obstructive colon cancer. We will conduct subgroup and sensitive analysis to determine the potentially appropriate population for either ER or a bridge to surgery (SEMS or DS) and provide a foundation for future studies from our network meta-analysis.
Efficacy Comparison and Safety Analysis of Radical Resection of Sigmoid Colon Cancer Based on Different Cancer Locations
Authors: Chen Li , Chen Engeng , Jin Dongai , Chen Min , Zhou Wei , Song Zhangfa
Published: May 2021

Background: Sigmoid colon cancer is a common type of colon cancer; it refers to tumor lesions occurring in the segment approximately 16 cm to 50 cm from the anal margin. Currently, surgical resection is the most effective treatment for non-metastatic sigmoid colon cancer. Therefore, to more accurately standardize colon cancer surgery, we classified the sigmoid colon into distal and proximal segments. This study compares and analyzes the intraoperative situation, postoperative pathology and safety of radical resection of sigmoid cancer in different locations from different aspects. Result: The patients with sigmoid colon tumor can be divided into distal group (16-30cm from the anus) and proximal group (31-50cm from the anus) according to the distance between the tumor and the anal margin. Conclusion: The patients in the distal group using stapler for intestinal anastomosis and anal decompression tube were significantly more than those in the proximal group. For the ligation of the inferior mesenteric artery, high ligation was usually used or the left colic artery was usually preserved in the distal group, and the superior rectal artery was usually retained in the proximal group. The incidence of postoperative complications in the distal group was higher than that in the proximal group, but there was no significant difference between the two groups.
Meta-analysis on the Impact of Positive Psychological Resources on Quality of Life in Cancer Patients
Authors: Zhao Xinxin , Tong Siqi , Yang Ye
Published: May 2021

Purpose: The main purpose of this study was to assess the evidence of the association between positive psychological resources and quality of life among cancer patients. Methods: Electronic search was performed to retrieve articles from PubMed, Web of Science, CNKI and CBM (from inception to November 10, 2020). Summary correlation coefficient (r) values were extracted from each study, and 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs) were calculated by random-effect model. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were performed to investigate potential heterogeneity.Results: Forty-three articles were included in the present study. The pooled r for resilience was 0.52 (95%CI: 0.43, 0.62), hope 0.50 (95%CI: 0.44, 0.56), self-efficacy 0.54 (95%CI: 0.41, 0.63), self-esteem 0.45 (95%CI: 0.26, 0.64) and optimism 0.32 (95%CI: 0.17, 0.46). For subgroup analysis, the effects of hope and resilience varied with patients’ age.Conclusion: Our study indicated that cancer patients with high level of positive psychological resources tend to live a better quality of life. Therefore, interventions programs based on difference in age for cancer patients could be developed by increasing positive psychological resources in the future research.
Implementation Research for the Evaluation of the Child Health Education and Surveillance Tool Application
Authors: Westgard Christopher M
Published: May 2021

Community health agent programs and modern information and communication technology can greatly improve knowledge of healthy childrearing practices by caregivers in low resource settings, if implemented effectively. Improved knowledge by caregivers can lead to better sanitation, diet, and child development practices. A digital health tool (CHEST App) was developed and deployed in a community health agent program in the Amazon of Peru to improve community health agent performance and ultimately improve early childhood development in the communities. This study presents the results of and evaluation of the implementation and clinical outcomes of the program. METHODS The CHEST App intervention was evaluated using a Hybrid Type II evaluation study design. The effectiveness of the intervention was determined by conducted a paired t-test analysis to compare the mean differences in knowledge scores, hemoglobin levels, early childhood development (ECD) scores, and incidence of diarrhea. The evaluation of the implementation outcomes was conducted with a mixed method approach to identify the extent to which the intervention was successfully installed into the local CHA program. The results of the study are presented within the framework of the Implementation Research Logic Model. RESULTS The CHEST App intervention is associated with improvements in knowledge scores, hemoglobin levels, ECD scores, and decreased diarrhea. However, the evaluation could not isolate the effect of the intervention due to reduction in sample size from COVID-19 closures. The implementation of the CHEST App intervention was effective with high degrees of acceptability, adoption, and fidelity. Adoption and fidelity of the surveillance function of the CHEST App by program coordinators was not achieved. CONCLUSION The CHEST App intervention is a promising tool to improve the performance of CHAs during their home visits, to accomplish their objective of teaching caregivers healthy childrearing practices and improving child health and development in their communities. Trial Registration Trial registered on 11/29/2018 at ISRCTN43591826.