bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression and Gene Regulation Network of NUDT21 in Lung Adenocarcinoma and Prediction of Anticancer Components of Pinellia Ternata Based on Data Mining
Authors: SITU Yongli , LONG Li-na , LI Hai-jian , FANG Zhi-xin , NIE Hong
Published: April 2021

Background

NUDT21 belongs to NUDT families, which is thought to play an essential role in cancer growth and progression in recent years. Abnormal NUDT21 expression is closely related to lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). However, the expression level, gene regulation network, and prognostic value of NUDT21 in LUAD remain unclear. Besides, the active compounds of Pinellia ternata against LUAD are still not clear yet. Therefore, an in-depth study of the expression and gene regulation network of NUDT21 is of great theoretical significance and clinical demand for discovering new targets and strategies for the treatment of LUAD and the further improvement of the therapeutic effect of LUAD. Also, the targeted NUDT21 active ingredients of Pinellia ternata were sought to provide a theoretical basis for its clinical application in the treatment of LUAD.
Methods

A variety of online analysis tools were used in this study, including cBioPortal, ONCOMINE, GeneMANIA, GEPIA, Metascape, UALCAN, LinkedOmics, Metascape, TIMER, TRRUST, The Human Protein Atlas, TCMSP, and AutoDock Vina.
Results

The levels of transcription and expression of NUDT21 were significantly increased in patients with LUAD. Gene altered of NUDT21 was up to 12% in LUAD patients. However, the promoter methylation level of NUDT21 in LUAD was lower compared to normal human. LUAD patients' survival with the low expression level of NUDT21 was better prognostic value than LUAD patients with high expression level. Forty-eight nodes and 572 edges were found in the PPI network constructed with NUDT21 and its neighboring genes. Regulatory region DNA binding, transcription regulatory region DNA binding, and regulatory region nucleic acid binding were the primary function of NUDT21 and its neighboring genes. The KEGG pathway of NUDT21 and its neighboring genes were mainly involved in the apelin signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, and axon guidance. Our results showed that DNMT1, HDAC1, and MYC were the critical transcription factor targets involved in the network of NUDT21 and its neighboring genes. We also found that CDK1, ATM and PLK1 were main kinase targets in the NUDT21 kinase-target network. The NUDT21 miRNA-target network was associated with MIR-302C, MIR-9, and MIR-330. Moreover, the expression of NUDT21 was positively related to the infiltration of CD8 + T cells, macrophages, neutrophils and dendritic cell. 13 active compounds of Pinellia ternata were retrieved from the TCMSP. Among them, baicalein was the best combination with NUDT21.
Conclusions

Our results revealed the expression and potential regulatory network of NUDT21 in LUAD, laying a foundation for further research on the role of NUDT21 in cancer. Furthermore, we offer new therapeutic targets and prognostic biomarkers for the reference. Finally, we provide potential therapeutic drugs from traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of LUAD.
Green Synthesis for MCM-41 and SBA-15 Silica Using the Waste Mother Liquor
Authors: Barbosa Thianne Silva Batista , Barros Thiago Rodrigo Barbosa , Barbosa Tellys Lins Almeida , Rodrigues Meiry Gláucia Freire
Published: April 2021

The synthesis of mesoporous materials such as MCM-41 and SBA-15 requires large amounts of water to neutralize the resulting products. The filtrate (mother liquor) therefore contains unreacted components that can be recycled and reused. The addition of the mother liquor in consecutive syntheses was carried out in order to evaluate the different effects on the physical and chemical properties of the mesoporous materials. For this purpose, the mother liquor from the initial synthesis (1st Generation) was saved and used for the second synthesis (2nd Generation) and successively for the third synthesis (3rd Generation). The three generations of each material were then characterized using different techniques such as X-ray diffraction, X-ray dispersive energy fluorescence, electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, Thermal behavior by thermogravimetric analysis and N2 adsorption. The materials obtained showed similar diffractograms for the three generations and also showed similar percentages of silica through XRF. The SEM and IR results for molecular sieves showed the effectiveness of the processes of MCM-41 and SBA-15 synthesis using mother liquor. The results made it possible to observe that the structures of the materials had no significant differences in their physical and chemical properties, favoring the use of mother liquor for up to three generations.
Lung Cancer That Extended to the Left Atrium Through the Pulmonary Vein: A Case Report
Authors: Xu Xin , Xu Ping , Wu Ting Ting , Shang Guo Dong
Published: April 2021

Background: Metastatic cardiac tumors have been reported in up to 25% of patients with lung cancer, but detection of cardiac involvement via pulmonary veins is neither uncommon nor easy in the routine work. Case presentation: A 68-year-old woman with primary lung cancer was admitted to the hospital with pain in her left leg for 6 months and hemoptysis for one week. TTE detected that a hyperechoic mass in the left atrium which was come from the left inferior pulmonary vein. The result was confirmed by computed tomography.Conclusions: Multimodality imaging should be advocated in the evaluation of cardiac masses especially for patient who has primary tumors.
Varriation In Utilization of Modern Contraceptive Among Married Women In The Seven Woredas of Assosa Zone: A Comparison of Bayesian and Classical Approach. Case Study In Assosa Zone, Benishangul Gumuz , Ethiopia
Authors: Mengesha Eshetu Mebrate , Gonit Mekdes Derbie
Published: April 2021

Introduction: Contraception is a procedure that can be used to avoid pregnancy or childbirth. When women choose to prevent pregnancy or have a longer birth, they frequently use contraceptives. The global prevalence rate of contraceptive use was 64 percent, with Africa responsible for 33 percent. Ethiopia has an estimated rate of 39.2 percent of its population engaging in this activity.Objectives: This study was aimed to identify the predictors of married women’s contraceptive practice using Bayesian and classical approach. In addition, this study has identified the within and between Woredas variation using the hierarchical nature of the data obtained in different woredas. For identifying the better model, researcher has compared the Bayesian and classical multilevel logistic regression models. Methods: This research was conducted in seven Woredas of Assosa zone and was based on a cross-sectional study that primarily focused on married women between the ages of 15 and 49 and the factors that influenced their contraceptive use. Two stage model comparisons were used to approximate the parameters, with the first stage having a null, random intercept, and random slope with a Bayesian approachResult and Conclusion: The overall contraceptive prevalence rate among 6866 married women 3121(45.46%). According to the intra Woreda correlation of the appropriate model, the between Woreda variance in married women's contraceptive practice was 15.71%, with the remaining 84.29 percent variation attributed to differences in contraceptive practice between women. Finally, predictors for married women contraceptive practice such as women's age, place of residence, women's educational level, husband's educational level, women's job, husband's occupation, wealth index, religion, and knowledge of family planning. The Bayesian multilevel model was found to be the most suitable model for fitting the data after a comparison of classical and Bayesian multilevel models.
Missing or Underrated Super-emitters of Nitrogen Oxides in China Exposed from Space
Authors: Li Pengfei , Pan Yuqing , Duan Lei , Li Mingqi , Song Pinqing , Xv Nan , Liu Jing , Li Shaozhuo , Le Yifei , Wang Cui , Ma Jingjun , Zhou Xin , Wang Wei , Shi Yali , Su Wei , Wang Gang , Wang Liqiang , Chen Xue , Xia Yan , Jiang Linhui , Zhang Yibo , Li Mengying , Li Zhen , Liu Weiping , Yu Shaocai , Rosenfeld Daniel , Seinfeld John H.
Published: April 2021

Nitrogen oxides (NOx ≡ NO + NO2) play a central role in air pollution. Super-emitters present unique opportunities for emission mitigation in China and beyond. They comprise intensive industrial facilities (e.g., power or chemical plants), less than 1 × 1 km2 with high NOx plumes, dominating localized concentrations within a limited geographical scope. However, identification of super-emitters typically challenges emission mitigation due to insufficient spatiotemporal resolution. Here we map NOx emissions using an efficient, super-resolution (1 × 1 km2) inverse model based on whole-year TROPOMI satellite observations. Our map offers unique insights on nationwide NOx super-emitters. We resolve 1625 super-emitters in virtually every corner in China, even in remote and mountainous zones, which we trace back to either an industrial hotspot or a cluster (i.e., an industrial park). A state-of-the-art bottom-up emission inventory MEICv1.3 largely (67%) agrees with our results within a factor of two for cities. However, that inventory does not identify these super-emitters, particularly underestimating one-third of the emissions by at least an order of magnitude. Even, nearly up to three-quarter super-emitters are found to be displaced or missing. Moreover, traditional top-down inverse methods do not effectively detect such super-emitters. Here we show it is necessary to address the NOx budget by revisiting super-emitters on a large scale. Integrating the results we obtain here with a multi-tiered observation system can lead to identification and mitigation of anomalous NOx emissions.
MAGT1 gene mutation causes myositis and CD127 expression downregulation
Authors: Chen Sheng , Wang Xuan , Sun Chong , Liu Bing-You , Qiao Kai , Yang Jie , Chen Yan , Xi Jian-Ying , Luo Su-Shan , Zhu Wen-Hua , Zhao Chong-Bo , Lu Jia-Hong , Lin Jie
Published: April 2021

X-linked immunodeficiency with Magnesium defect, Epstein-Barr virus infection, and Neoplasia (XMEN) is a primary immune deficiency caused by mutations in MAGT1 and is characterized by chronic infection with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), CD4 lymphopenia, severe chronic viral infections, and defective T-lymphocyte activation. Herein, we described an XMEN patient carrying a MAGT1 p.Arg331* mutation that presented with prominent muscle involvement. The PET-CT and lower limbs MRI showed diffuse muscle inflammation. Histopathology staining revealed the infiltrated lymphocytes were stained with CD3, CD20, and EBER. We monitored the patient’s in-depth immunophenotype at the first visit and after two months of oral Mg 2+ supplementation. We noticed obviously decreased CD127 expression in CD4 + T cells, which could be reversed by Mg 2+ supplementation. Our findings suggested that the decreased CD127 expression may be an additional biomarker of XMEN.
Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Modulates the Tumor Microenvironment in High-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Zhuo Zhongling , Tang Min , Li Hexin , Zhang Lili , Han Bingqing , Li Ying , Xiao Fei , Zou Lihui , Su Fei , Zhao Xiaotao
Published: April 2021

Background

While surgical reduction with adjuvant chemotherapy is the traditional treatment for high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC), neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) has increasingly been applied. This work aims to investigate the expression profiles before and after NACT, explore changes in the tumor microenvironment, expand current treatments, and design a combination of treatment options for patients.
Methods

We downloaded 326 pre-NACT RNA sequencing data and 37 matched pre- and post-NACT samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were determined with EdgeR, and Gene Ontology analysis was performed to identify the clusters responsible for the biological processes and pathways of HGSOC. Immune infiltration was analyzed using Single-sample Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (ssGSEA) and CIBERSORT. Kaplan-Meier (KM) survival analysis was performed to assess prognosis, and the potential correlations between modules and phenotypes were explored using weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA).
Results

After NACT, a total of 352 genes showed significant changes in RNA expression, among which 180 genes were up-regulated and 172 down-regulated. The most influential pathway was the positive regulation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade. Correlation analysis and KM survival analysis showed that overexpression of MAPK cascade genes correlated with shorter survival time in HGSOC patients. ssGSEA results showed that the expressions of anti-tumor cells (central memory CD4+ T cell and central memory CD8+ T cell) and pro-tumor cells (neutrophil and dendritic cells) were significantly increased after NACT. CIBERSORT showed that the abundances of memory B cells, NK cells, and monocytes were increased and the abundance of plasma cells was decreased after NACT. WGCNA and KM survival analysis showed that a lower abundance of Regulatory T cells (Tregs) was correlated with a better prognosis.
Conclusions

Gene expression of the MAPK pathway is up-regulated and the abundance of CD4+ T regulation cell decreases after NACT. Thus, the MAPK pathway may promote the differentiation of CD4+ T cells into Th17 cells while inhibiting Tregs development. The inhibited Tregs' development can lead to a better prognosis. Therefore, it is speculated that Tregs inhibitors combined with platinum-based NACT are potential treatment options for HGSOC.
A mobile caesarean birth center as a solution to improve access to surgical birth in rural Ethiopia: a mixed methods research protocol
Authors: Harrison Margo S , Yarinbab Teklemariam , Dorsey-Holliman Brooke , Aarons Gregory , Betran Ana Pilar , Goldenberg Robert , Muldrow Margaret
Published: April 2021

Background

As an evidence-based intervention to prevent maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality, cesarean birth at rates of under 2%, which is the case in rural Southwest Ethiopia, is an unacceptable public health problem and represents an important disparity in use of this life-saving treatment compared to more developed regions. The objective of this study is to explore an innovative clinical solution (a mobile cesarean birth center) to low cesarean birth rates resulting from the Three Delays to emergency obstetric care in isolated and underserved regions of Ethiopia, and the world.
Methods

We will used mixed but primarily qualitative methods to explore and prepare the mobile cesarean birth center for subsequent implementation in communities in Bench Sheko and West Omo Zones. This will involve interviews and focus groups with key stakeholders and retreat settings for user-centered design activities. We will present stakeholders with a prototype surgical truck that will help them conceive of the cesarean birth center concept and discuss implementation issues related to staffing, supplies, referral patterns, pre- and post-operative care, and relationship to locations for vaginal birth.
Discussion

Completion of our study aims will allow us to describe participants’ perceptions about barriers and facilitators to cesarean birth and their attitudes regarding the appropriateness, acceptability, and feasibility of a mobile cesarean birth center as a solution. It will also result in a specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and timely (SMART) implementation blueprint(s), with implementation strategies defined, as well as recruitment plans identified. This will include the development of a logic model and process map, a timeline for implementation with strategies selected that will guide implementation, and additional adaptation/adjustment of the mobile center to ensure fit for the communities of interest.
Blood group and Human Leucocyte Antigen sub-type as determinants to keloid formation and Recurrence in Keloid Patients; A prospective longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Nangole Ferdinand , Ouyang Kelsey , Agak George , Ogeng'o Julius , Omu Anzala
Published: April 2021

The role of genetic factors in keloid is a firmed by the fact that keloids have been shown to occur among members of the same family.. We undertook this study to determine whether there is any association between patients’ bloodgroup and HLA sub-types to keloids and keloid recurrence. This was a prospective longitudinal study of patients with keloids and a control of patients managed for other surgical conditions with no keloids. Blood was taken from each patient and analysed for blood group and HLA sub-types using the sequence specific primer geno-typing. Data captured were summarized and analysed using students T-test to compare means. Probability values significance was at 0.05. A total of 90 patients with keloids and 59 in a control group were followed up in the study. The male to female ratio of the patients was 2:1. The most common blood group for both groups was blood group O at 51.3% and 49.2%, followed by blood group A and B respectively. Patients with keloids had a significantly higher positive alleles with DQA*01, DQB1*05, DQB1*06 and DRB1*15. There was an association between blood group A and DQB1*06 and recurrence. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that there is significant difference in HLA sub-types among patients who form keloids and the non-keloid forming patients among our study cohorts. Salient differences were also noted in patients with keloid recurrence based on their blood group, a pointer to the significance of genetic factors in keloid pathogenesis and severity.
Baseline assessment of Pharmacovigilance activities in four sub-Saharan African countries: a perspective on tuberculosis
Authors: Tiemersma Everdina W. , Ibrahim Ali , Alemu Asnakech , Avong Yohanna Kambai , Duga Alemayehu , Elagbaje Cassandra , Isah Ambrose , Kay Alexander , Mmbaga Blandina Theophil , Mmari Elice , Mwamwitwa Kissa , Nhlabatsi Siphesihle , Sintayehu Kassech , Teferi Mekonnen , Cobelens Frank , Härmark Linda
Published: April 2021

Background: New medicines have become available for the treatment of drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) and are introduced in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) by the national TB programs (NTPs) through special access schemes. Pharmacovigilance is typically the task of national medicines regulatory agencies (NMRAs), but the active drug safety monitoring and management (aDSM) recommended for the new TB medicines and regimens was introduced through the NTPs.We assessed the strengths and challenges of pharmacovigilance systems in Eswatini, Ethiopia, Nigeria and Tanzania, focusing on their capacity to monitor safety of medicines registered and not registered by the NMRAs for the treatment of DR-TB. Methods: Assessment visits were conducted to all four countries by a multidisciplinary team. We used a pharmacovigilance indicator tool derived from existing tools, interviewed key stakeholders, and visited health facilities where DR-TB patients were treated with new medicines. Assessment results were verified with the local NMRAs and NTPs.Results: Most countries have enabling laws, regulations and guidelines for the conduct of pharmacovigilance by the NMRAs. The relative success of NTP-NMRA collaboration iss much influenced by interpersonal relationships between staff. Division of roles and responsibilities is not always clear and leads to duplication and unfulfilled tasks (e.g. causality assessment). The introduction of aDSM has increased awareness and adverse drug reaction (ADR) reporting to the NMRAs among DR-TB healthcare providers.Conclusion: aDSM has created awareness about the importance of pharmacovigilance among NTPs and has increased ADR reporting rates from the NTPs and/or TB healthcare providers to the NMRAs. In the future, a push for conducting pharmacovigilance through public health programs seems useful, but this needs to coincide with increased collaboration with between public health programs and NMRAs with clear formulation of roles and responsibilities.
Joint Modeling of Time to Diabetic Retinopathy and Change in Fasting Blood Sugar Among Type 2 Diabetic Patients in University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Kebede Sewnet Adem , Tessema Zemenu Tadesse , Balcha Shitaye Alemu , Ayele Tadesse Awoke
Published: April 2021

Background: Early identification of prognostic factors and close monitoring of the biomarkers is used to monitor the occurrence or progression of diabetic retinopathy. Therefore, this study aimed to assess change in fasting blood sugar level, time to diabetic retinopathy and its predictors among type 2 diabetes patients in Ethiopia.Methods: Institution based retrospective follow-up study was conducted at University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. Linear mixed effect model and cox proportional hazard models were fitted separately and later the two models were fitted jointly using R software. Variables with p-value <0.05 were considered as significant predictors in the adjusted analysis.Result: The incidence rate of diabetic retinopathy was 2 per 100-person year of observation with median follow up time of 90.8 months (IQR: 63.4). The current value and rate of change in fasting blood sugar level were significant predictors of time to diabetic retinopathy (AHR=1.35;95% CI: 1.12-1.63) and (AHR=1.70; 95%CI:1.21-2.39) respectively. Hypertension (AHR=2.49; 95%CI: 1.32-4.66), taking >1 antidiabetic oral agent (AHR=4.90; 95%CI: 1.07-20.0) and more than 10 years duration (AHR=0.17, 95% CI: 0.06-0.46) were predictors of time to diabetic retinopathy.Conclusion: This study revealed that medication, duration, weight, current age, and time have significant association with the progression change of fasting blood sugar. On the other hand, hypertension, medication and duration were significant predictors of time to diabetic retinopathy. The current value of fasting blood sugar and rate of fasting blood sugar change were significantly associated with time to diabetic retinopathy.
The Value of Chest CT in Staging of Gastric Cancer
Authors: Li Yaoqing , Shen Liyijing , Xu Guangen , Lu Zengxin
Published: April 2021

Aims: Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in the world. However, the significance of chest computed tomography (CT) in staging of GC is uncertain and the relevant study is few. So this study aims to evaluate the value of chest CT in gastric cancer staging.Methods: This study included 1158 cases of GC patients admitted to Shaoxing People's Hospital from 2015 to 2018. Chest, abdominal and pelvic CT scans were used to systematically evaluate the site of metastasis. All images were reviewed twice by two radiologists. Clinical data was Statistically analyzed.Results: The study finally included 846 patients, 672 cases (79.4%) received surgical treatment. Only 55 cases (6.5%) had lung metastases before or after surgery, and 20 cases (2.4%) had thoracic or supraclavicular lymph nodes (LN) metastases, of which 8 cases had double lung and thoracic LN metastases. The most common site of metastases is the peritoneum (265/390, 67.9%). Almost all lung or thoracic LN metastases accompanied with metastases to other sites, only one patient had a single thoracic LN metastases (1/846, 0.12%), while no single lung metastases was found. When tumor involved gastric fundus/cardia, compared to distal GC, there was a higher probability of lung metastases, and the difference was statistically significant (P=0.028).Conclusions: This study shows that chest CT has a low application value in the routine staging of gastric cancer, but when the tumor is located in the fundus/cardia, due to the high proportion of lung metastases, chest CT has a certain existence value.
Focusing properties and focal shift of vortex Hermite-cosh- Gaussian beams
Authors: Hricha Zoubir , Halba El Mostapha El , Belafhal Abdelmajid
Published: April 2021

In this work, we investigate the focusing properties of a vortex Hermite-cosh-Gaussian beam (vHChGB) passing through a converging lens system. The analytical propagation equation as well as the beam width expression of a focused vHChGB is derived based on the Huygens-Fresnel diffraction principle. From the obtained formulae, the effects of the Gaussian Fresnel number NF and the beam parameters on the structure of the light intensity distribution and the beam spot size in the focal region are analyzed numerically. It is shown that the focal shift, which is determined from the minimum beam spot width criterion, is affected strongly by the change of the Fresnel number, the parameter b, and it is slightly altered by the vortex charge M and nearly insensitive to the beam order n. For a fixed value of NF, the focal shift is smaller when the parameter b or the vortex charge M is larger. The focal shift decreases monotonously with the increase of Fresnel number until it vanishes asymptotically for large NF. The obtained results may be useful for the applications of the vHChGBs in beam shaping and beam focusing.
Primary Gastric Melanoma – Is an Aggressive Strategy Worthwhile?
Authors: Factor Rivi Haiat , Hazan Danny , Frand Jacob , Brenner Ronen , Vaknine Hananya , Shimonov Mordechai
Published: April 2021

Background: Primary gastric melanoma (PGM) is a rare malignancy. Unlike skin melanoma which carries a definitive correlation to sun exposure, the pathogenesis of gastric melanoma is not well defined. It appears in the older age with median of 70 years and has no known risk factors. The diagnosis may be challenging due to non-specific symptoms, and endoscopy with tissue biopsy along with detailed physical examination ruling out skin and ocular lesions, and PET-CT, are the tools for establishing diagnosis. The prognosis for PGM is poor mainly due to late diagnosis. No detailed staging algorithm nor treatment protocols for PGM exists. Methods: A case series of all patients with PGM that were evaluated and managed by our surgical oncology service between 2011 and 2016. Data regarding diagnosis, imaging, pathologic evaluation and treatment protocols were collected and analyzed. Results: During study acquisition period, 3 cases with the diagnoses of PGM were identified. One patient was treated with aggressive surgery upfront, one patient was treated with more conservative surgical approach with delay from diagnosis to surgery, and one patient was not eligible for surgery due to age, medical and general condition. In 5 years of follow-up only the patient that had aggressive surgery survived. Conclusion: PGM carry very bad prognosis. We believe that aggressive surgery should be considered as the main component of the therapy plan without delay, for better clinical outcome and survival.
Comparative Analysis of L-Carnitine Production by Y. Lipolytica in Different Conditions in Biofuel Waste and Fat-Acid Free Medium for Commercial Purposes
Authors: Jach Monika , Kubiński Konrad , Sajnaga Ewa , Juda Marek , Malm Anna
Published: April 2021

Background

Yarrowia lipolytica is an oleaginous yeast with the ability to grow in a variety of hydrophilic and hydrophobic substrates, including industrial wastes, in which it produces and accumulates various nutrients.
Methods

The aim of the present study was to examine the presence of free L-carnitine in the biomasses of two Yarrowia lipolytica strains (ATCC 9793 and A-101) growing in YPD medium and biofuel waste. The cultivations of Y. lipolytica were performed in aerobic conditions at different temperatures (20–30°C) and pH values (4.0–7.0) of the media with and without the addition of precursors for L-carnitine production, such us iron, trimethyllysine, and L-ascorbic acid in a laboratory scale or chromium chloride (III) in a pilot plant scale.
Results

Both tested Y. lipolytica strains grown in fatty acid-poor YPD medium at 20°C and pH 6.0 contained endogenous free L-carnitine in their biomass with a maximum of 22.85 mg/100 g of wet biomass. The addition of L-carnitine precursors to the YPD medium exerted a significant effect on L-carnitine concentration in the yeast biomass, increasing it up to 250%. In turn, the biomass of both tested Y. lipolytica strains cultivated in the biofuel waste, irrespective of the culture conditions, contained below 1 mg of L-carnitine/100 g of wet biomass. However, the supplementation of the culture media with the L-carnitine precursors significantly increased the yield of the yeast biomass by 20–30% in the biofuel waste cultures. Moreover, the addition of chromium(III) chloride into the biofuel waste caused an increase in the free L-carnitine concentration in the yeast biomass up to 2.24 mg/100 g of dry weight.
Conclusion

Biomass of Y. lipolytica grown in the free fat medium contained free L-carnitine, in contrast to the biomass grown in the fat-rich biofuel waste. The very low amounts of L-carnitine in the biomass of Y. lipolytica grown in the crude biofuel waste suggest that the yeast is able to utilize almost the entire pool of free L-carnitine for growth and nutritional biomass production. However, the addition of chromium to the biofuel waste contributed to an increase in L-carnitine concentration in Y. lipolytica biomass.
Complement 3 and Prognostic Nutritional Index Distinguish Kawasaki Disease from Fever Illness with Nomogram
Authors: Huang Yi-Shuang , Liu Xiao-Ping , Xia Han-Bing , Cui Li-Na , Lang Xin-Ling , Liu Chun-Yi , Huang Wei-Dong , Zhang Jia-Yu , Kuo Ho-Chang , Liu Xi , Zhou Tao
Published: April 2021

Objective: This study aimed to establish a model to distinguish Kawasaki diseases(KD) from other fever illness using the prognostic nutritional index (PNI) and immunological factors. Method: We enrolled a total of 692 patients (including 198 KD and 494 children with febrile diseases). Of those, 415 patients were selected to be the training group and 277 patients to be the validation group. Laboratory data, including neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), prognostic nutritional index (PNI), and immunological factors, were retrospectively collected for analysis after admission. We used univariate and multivariate logistic regression and nomogram for analysis. Result: Patients with KD showed significantly higher C3 and lower PNI. After multivariate logistic regression, total leukocyte count, PNI, C3, and NLR showed significance (p<0.05) and then performed well with the nomogram model. The areas under the ROC in the training group and the validation group were 0.858 and 0.825, respectively. The calibration curves of the two groups for the probability of KD showed near agreement to the actual probability. Conclusion: Compared to children with febrile diseases, patients with KD showed increased C3 and decreased nutritional index of PNI. The nomogram established with these factors can effectively identify KD from febrile illness in children.
Image quality assessment of pediatric chest and abdomen CT by deep learning reconstruction
Authors: Yoon Haesung , Kim Jisoo , Lim Hyun Ji , Lee Mi-Jung
Published: April 2021

Background Efforts to reduce the radiation dose have continued steadily, with new reconstruction techniques. Recently, image denoising algorithms using artificial neural networks, termed deep learning reconstruction (DLR), have been applied to CT image reconstruction to overcome the drawbacks of iterative reconstruction (IR). The purpose of our study was to compare objective and subjective image quality of DLR and IR on pediatric abdomen and chest CT images.Methods This retrospective study included pediatric body CT images from February 2020 to October 2020, performed on 51 patients (34 boys and 17 girls; age 1–18 years). Non-contrast chest CT (n = 16), contrast-enhanced chest CT (n = 12), and contrast-enhanced abdomen CT (n = 23) images were included. Standard 50% adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction V (ASIR-V) images were compared to images with 100% ASIR-V and DLR at medium and high strengths. Attenuation, noise, contrast to noise ratio (CNR), and signal to noise (SNR) measurements were performed. Overall image quality, artifacts, and noise were subjectively assessed by two radiologists using a four-point scale (superior, average, suboptimal, and unacceptable). Quantitative and qualitative parameters were compared using repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Bonferroni correction and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests.Results DLR had better CNR and SNR than 50% ASIR-V in both pediatric chest and abdomen CT images. When compared with 50% ASIR-V, high strength DLR was associated with noise reduction in non-contrast chest CT (33.0%), contrast-enhanced chest CT (39.6%), and contrast-enhanced abdomen CT (38.7%) with increases in CNR at 149.1%, 105.8% and 53.1% respectively. The subjective assessment of overall image quality and noise was also better on DLR images (p < 0.001). However, there was no significant difference in artifacts between reconstruction methods.Conclusion Compared with 50% ASIR-V, DLR improved pediatric body CT images with significant noise reduction. However, artifacts were not improved by DLR, regardless of strength.
Bioinformatics Analysis of Pivotal Module and Biomarkers Related to the Prognosis of Breast Cancer Based on Single-cell Transcriptome Data
Authors: Liu Rui , Yang Xin , Quan Yuhang , Tang Yiyin , Lai Yafang , Li Chunxiang , Yang Dechun , Wang Maohua , Wu Anhao
Published: April 2021

Background: The effect of breast cancer heterogeneity on prognosis of patients is still unclear, especially the role of immune cells in prognosis of breast cancer. Therefore, the discovery of new markers to assess the effect of breast cancer heterogeneity on patient prognosis is crucial to improve prognosis and survival of patients.Methods: Single cell transcriptome sequencing data of breast cancer were downloaded from GEO database. PCA and UMAP were used for dimensionality reduction analysis and cell clustering. Find All Markers function was used to calculate differential genes in each cluster, and Do Heatmap function was used to plot the distribution of differential genes in each clusters. CellPhoneDB was used to analyze ligand-receptor interactions. TRRUST database combined with Cytoscape were used to construct a receptor-ligand-transcription factor interaction network. WGCNA is used to analyze pivotal modules associated with breast cancer prognosis. Univariate regression analysis and KM survival analysis were used to identify prognostic genes in prognostic modules. Multivariate regression analysis combined with risk scoring were used to construct a breast prognosis model, which was verified by TCGA and ICGC sample data.Result: In this study, 14 cell clusters were identified in two single-cell datasets (GSE75688 and G118389). The results of ligand receptor interaction network revealed that macrophages and DC cells were the most frequently interacting cells with other cells in breast cancer. The results of WGCNA analysis suggested that the MEblue module is most relevant to the overall survival time of triple-negative breast cancer. Twenty-four prognostic genes in the blue module were identified by univariate Cox regression analysis and KM survival analysis. Multivariate regression analysis combined with risk analysis was used to analyze 24 prognostic genes to construct a prognostic model. The verification result of our prognostic model showed that there were significant differences in the expression of PCDH12, SLIT3, ACVRL1, and DLL4 genes between the high-risk group and the low-risk group.Conclusion: PCDH12, SLIT3, ACVRL1 and DLL4 are prognostic biomarkers and relate to the type and proportion of immune cells in breast cancer.
The Dependence of Photocatalytic Activity on Tio2 to MWCNT Ratio in the Composite
Authors: Abbasi Sedigheh
Published: April 2021

Here, we prepared two kinds of nanocomposites (MCT#1 and MCT#2) involving MWCNTs and TiO2 nanopaerticles. The characterization of the samples is carried out based on FTIR spectroscopy and TEM. The Ti-O groups that is attibuted to the TiO2 nanopaerticles can be confirmed according to the FTIR analysis. TEM images show that the average particle size of TiO2 nanopaerticles in prepare MCT#1 and MCT#2 is equal to 13 nm and 15 nm, respectively. The influence of nanocomposites weight fraction and illumination time are investigated on the decomposition rate of methyl orange (MO) as pollutant. The photocatalytic results exhibit that the decomposition rate of MO is increased with respect to the weight fraction and illumination time. Meanwhile, higher decomposition rate can be observed using MCT#2 compared to MCT#1. Statistical analysis of the results based on Duncan’s multiple range test at α = 0.05 reveals that all of the applied levels of the factors have a significant effect on the decomposition rate. The response surface results confirm that the effect of illumination time is high that that of weight fraction of MCT#1 and MCT#2.
An Analysis of the Clinical and Radiological Prognostic Factors Affecting the Outcomes of Lumbar Intradiscal Biacuplasty
Authors: Chiu Po-Fan , Chiu You-Pen , Ji Hui-Ru , Chiu Cheng-Di
Published: April 2021

Purpose:Intradiscal biacuplasty (IDB) has been proven to be effective for treating lumbar degenerative disc disease (DDD). However, there hasn’t been a reported prognostic factor for IDB. The present study meticulously evaluate the general and radiographic features which may serve as markers for predicting the therapeutic outcome of IDB.Methods:Forty-two patients suffering from chronic discogenic low back pain for more than 6 months and subsequently received lumbar cool radiofrequency IDB were enrolled. Twenty-three patients completed follow-up questionnaires at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. The surgical outcomes were reported using visual analogue scale (VAS), Oswestry disability index (ODI), and the consumption of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID). Furthermore, a univariate analysis was performed to identify prognostic factors associated with pain relief from age, gender, body mass index (BMI), and pre-operative lumbar magnetic resonance imaging reading. Results:Significant reductions were found in estimated VAS and ODI at the post-operative period at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months (P < 0.001). The NSAID dosage was significantly decreased at 3- and 6-month follow-up (P < 0.05). No procedure-related complications were detected. The prognosis of IDB was not related to disc height, Pfirrmann grading or Modic endplate change. However, disc extrusions were associated with promising outcomes (VAS improvement ≥ 50%) on pain relief (P < 0.05).Conclusion:IDB is a good choice for treating lumbar DDD. Patients with a disc extrusion may have a higher success rate of IDB, which can be used as an indicator in the physician’s decision-making process.
Effect of Playing Venue on Hormonal Responses, Psychological State, and Perception of Effort in Inter-University Basketball Players
Authors: Tabassum Yasmeen , Butt Muhammad Zafar Iqbal , Roohi Nabila , Adnan Muhammad Abdul Jabar , Khadka Sitaram , Iqbal Muhammad Amir , Gupta Ravi Prasad , Aryal Pallav
Published: April 2021

Background: Playing venue conditions is a prominent contributor to the performance of players in a competition. Hence, the present study was designed to evaluate the effect of playing venue on the hormonal responses, psychological state, and perception of effort in inter-university basketball players. Methods: A total of 96 male basketball players from eight different public and private sector universities were monitored during eight competitive matches played against each other on a home and away ground. Testosterone and cortisol levels were measured before and after each match. The psychological state test was conducted before each match and the perception of effort score was taken after the match. Results: Elevated testosterone levels, before playing a match, as evidenced at home ground, however, a 4% decline was recorded in testosterone level at away venue, even before playing the match. Both testosterone and cortisol levels depicted the same trend on home as well as away ground. Pre-match testosterone concentration and the percent changes in these hormones were related to self-confidence, especially when playing at home, and cortisol pre and post concentration related to cognitive anxiety, somatic anxiety, and perception of effort.Conclusions: The playing influenced hormonal responses before the commencement of basketball matches at away ground. These hormonal responses were related to players' psychological state, which might contribute to players’ behavior and outcomes of matches.
Photo-excitation band-structure engineering of 2H-NbSe2 probed by time- and angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy
Authors: Watanabe Mari , Suzuki Takeshi , Someya Takashi , Ogawa Yu , Michimae Shoya , Fujisawa Masami , Kanai Teruto , Itatani Jiro , Saitoh Tomohiko , Shin Shik , Okazaki Kozo
Published: April 2021

We investigated the nonequilibrium electronic structure of 2H-NbSe2 by time- and angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy. We find that the band structure is distinctively modulated by strong photo-excitation, as indicated by the unusual increase in the photoelectron intensities around EF. In order to gain insight into the observed photo-induced electronic state, we performed DFT calculations with modulated lattice structures, and found that the variation of the Se height from the Nb layer results in a significant change in the effective mass and band gap energy. We further study the momentum-dependent carrier dynamics. The results suggest that the relaxation is faster at the K-centered Fermi surface than at the G-centered Fermi surface, which can be attributed to the stronger electron-lattice coupling at the K-centered Fermi surface. Our demonstration of band structure engineering suggests a new role for light as a tool for controlling the functionalities of solid-state materials.
Leveraging Open Data to Reconstruct the Singapore Housing Index and Other Building-level Markers of Socioeconomic Status for Health Services Research.
Authors: Lim Daniel Yan Zheng , Wong Ting Hway , Feng Mengling , Ong Marcus Eng Hock , Ho Andrew Fu Wah
Published: April 2021

BackgroundSocioeconomic status (SES) is an important determinant of health, and SES data is an important confounder to control for in epidemiology and health services research. Individual level SES measures are cumbersome to collect and susceptible to biases, while area level SES measures may have insufficient granularity. The ‘Singapore Housing Index’ (SHI) is a validated, building level SES measure that bridges individual and area level measures. However, determination of the SHI has previously required periodic data purchase and manual parsing. In this study, we describe a means of SHI determination for public housing buildings with open government data, and validate this against the previous SHI determination method.MethodsGovernment open data sources (e.g. data.gov.sg, Singapore Land Authority OneMAP API, Urban Redevelopment Authority API) were queried using custom Python scripts. Data on residential public housing block address and composition from the HDB Property Information dataset (data.gov.sg) was matched to postal code and geographical coordinates via OneMAP API calls. The SHI was calculated from open data, and compared to the original SHI dataset that was curated from non-open data sources in 2018. Results10077 unique residential buildings were identified from open data. OneMAP API calls generated valid geographical coordinates for all (100%) buildings, and valid postal code for 10012 (99.36%) buildings. There was an overlap of 10011 buildings between the open dataset and the original SHI dataset. Intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.999 for the two sources of SHI, indicating almost perfect agreement. A Bland-Altman plot analysis identified a small number of outliers, and this revealed 5 properties that had an incorrect SHI assigned by the original dataset. Information on recently transacted property prices was also obtained for 8599 (85.3%) of buildings.ConclusionSHI, a useful tool for health services research, can be accurately reconstructed using open datasets. This method provides more updated data at lower cost. This application highlights the potential for leveraging open data to enable healthcare research
Dead level contour technical design parameters required for sustainable crop production in semi-arid areas of Zimbabwe
Authors: Gumbo Douglas , Wuta Menas , Nyagumbo Isaiah
Published: April 2021

Smallholder farmers in sub-Saharan Africa are increasingly exposed to risks such as erratic rainfall, prolonged dry spells, and frequent droughts that threaten sustainable crop production. This study assessed the effectiveness of dead level contours with innovations (DLC INN), dead level contours with infiltration pits (DLC INFIL), dead level contours with open channels (DLC OPEN) and standard graded contours (SGCs) in harvesting and storing water in the channel, improving crop conditions during the critical stages of maize growth on different soil textural groups in the Zvishavane District of Zimbabwe. The DLC INFIL, DLC OPEN and DLC INN outperformed the SGC under medium- and heavy-textured soils, with yields ranging between 1.7 and 2.36 t/ha compared to 0.9 t/ha for the SGC. For light textured soils, the DLC INN had the highest maize yield, averaging 0.8 t/ha. On heavy textured soils using DLC INN, DLC INFIL and DLC OPEN, smallholder farmers may use a spacing interval of 24–27 m. On medium textured soils, DLC INN and DLC INFIL can be used at a spacing interval of 18–21 m and 12 to 15 m with DLC OPEN. On light textured soils, farmers are advised to invest in DLC INN only, using a spacing interval of 12–15 m.
Climate change in MATOPIBA region of Brazil using Thornthwaite (1948) classification
Authors: OLIVEIRA-APARECIDO LUCAS Eduardo , Dutra Alexson Filgueiras , Lorençone Pedro Antonio , Neto Francisco de Alcântara , Lorençon João Antonio , Leite Marcos Renan Lima
Published: April 2021

Identify the climatic characterization of a region and its spatial and temporal variation, as well as its changes in the face of climate change events, is essential for agrometeorological studies because they can assist in the planning of strategies that reduce the negative impacts generated in the cultures exposed to critical climatic conditions. Thus, this study aimed to characterize the climatic conditions of the MATOPIBA region and its changes in scenarios of climate change using the classification index of Thornthwaite (1948). Daily time series of rainfall and temperature data in the 1950–1990 period were used, arranged in a 0.25º × 0.25º grid, covering 467 points over the studied region. The data set was used to estimate climatological water balance and climate index Thornthwaite (1948), and obtain the trends climatological according to IPCC (2014) climate change projections, with changes in the average air temperature (+ 1.5°C and − 1.5°C) and precipitation (+ 30% and − 30%). The MATOPIBA region is characterized by its humid, dry subhumid, and Moist subhumid climate, with the rainy seasons, between October and April, and drought, from May to September, well defined. In MATOPIBA climate change scenarios, climatic extreme indices tend to alter the pattern, frequency, and distribution of climate class, which can increase climate risk and impact crop production. Therefore, the results obtained can be used to develop strategies to mitigate the vulnerability of crops to climate change conditions.