bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Associated With Maternal Overall Quality of Life Six Months Postpartum
Authors: Valla Lisbeth , Helseth Sølvi , Småstuen Milada Cvancarova , Misvær Nina , Andenæs Randi
Published: February 2021

Background: Having good Quality of Life (QoL) is essential, particularly for women after childbirth. However, little is known about the factors associated with maternal QoL after giving birth. We aimed to investigate the relationship between characteristics of the mother (socio-demographic variables), selected symptoms (depression and joy/anger), health perception (perception of birth) and possible characteristics of the environment (infant temperament, colic, sleep, parental relationship), with mothers’ overall quality of life when the child is six months of age.Methods: This study is based on the Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study (MoBa), conducted at the Norwegian Institute of Public Health from June 1999 to December 2008, which included a total of 86,724 children. Maternal QoL was assessed by the Satisfaction With Life Scale. Joy and anger were measured using the Differential Emotional Scale, mothers’ mental health was assessed using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and satisfaction with relationship was measured using the Relationship Satisfaction Scale. Child temperament was measured using the Infant Characteristics Questionnaire and colic, sleep duration and feelings related to childbirth were assessed by mothers’ reports. The associations between life satisfaction and selected variables were analysed using stepwise multiple linear regression models.Results: Maternal feelings of joy of having a baby (B=0.35, CI [0.79 to 0.83]), high relationship satisfaction (B= 0.02, CI [0.28 to 0.60]), as well as having a baby with normal sleep (B=0.32, CI [0.21 to 0.22]), are factors associated with higher maternal overall QoL. Postnatal depression was negatively associated with mothers’ QoL, and infant colic or child’s temperament (fussiness) showed no such association with mothers’ QoL.Conclusions: Health professionals and clinicians should focus on these issues when they develop health interventions or provide counselling to new mothers and their families.
Tocilizumab (TCZ) Decreases Angiogenesis in Rheumatoid Arthritis through its Regulatory Effect on miR-146a-5p and EMMPRIN/CD147
Authors: Zisman Devy , Safieh Mirna , Simanovich Elina , Feld Joy , Kinarty Amalia , Zisman Liron , Gazitt Tal , Haddad Amir , Elias Muna , Rosner Itzhak , Kaly Lisa , Rahat Michal A.
Published: February 2021

BackgroundAngiogenesis is an important contributor to the development of Rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Tocilizumab (TCZ), an anti-IL-6 receptor antibody, is used in the treatment of RA patients, and has been shown to exert anti-inflammatory effects. However, its effects on angiogenesis are not fully elucidated, and the molecular mechanisms regulating this effect are unknown. MethodsWe evaluated the concentrations of several pro- and anti-angiogenic factors and the expression levels of several microRNA molecules that are associated with RA and angiogenesis in serum samples obtained from 40 RA patients, before and 4 months after the initiation of TCZ treatment. Additionally, we used an in vitro co-culture system of fibroblasts (the HT1080 cell line) and monocytes (the U937 cell line) to explore the mechanisms of TCZ action. ResultsSerum samples from RA patients treated with TCZ exhibited reduced levels of EMMPRIN/CD147, enhanced expression of miR-146a-5p and miR-150-5p, and reduced angiogenesis as was manifested by the reduced number of tube-like structures formed by EaHy926 endothelial cell line. In vitro, the accumulation of the pro-angiogenic factors EMMRPIN, VEGF and MMP-9 in the supernatants was increased by co-culturing the HT1080 fibroblasts and the U937 monocytes, while the accumulation of the anti-angiogenic factor thrombospondin-1 (Tsp-1) and the expression levels of miR-146a-5p were reduced. Transfection of HT1080 cells with the miR-146a-5p mimic, decreased the accumulation of EMMPRIN, VEGF and MMP-9. When EMMPRIN was neutralized with a blocking antibody, supernatants derived from these co-cultures exhibited reduced migration, proliferation and tube formation in functional assays. ConclusionsOur findings implicate miR-146a-5p in the regulation of EMMPRIN and propose that TCZ affects angiogenesis through its effects on EMMRPIN and miR-146a-5p.
Lipoxin A4 Attenuates the Lung Ischemia Reperfusion Injury in Rats After Lung Transplantation
Authors: Zhang Li-juan , Tai Qi-hang , Xu Guang-xiao , Gao Wei
Published: February 2021

Objective: Lung ischemia reperfusion injury (LIRI) is the major cause of primary lung dysfunction after lung transplantation. Lipoxin A4 inhibits the oxidative stress and inflammation. This study aimed to evaluate the potential protective effect of lipoxin A4 on LIRI in rats.Methods: SD rats were randomized into the sham, LIRI and LA4 groups. Rats in the sham group received anesthesia, thoracotomy and intravenous injection of saline, while those in the LIRI or LA4 group received left lung transplantation and intravenous injection of saline or lipoxin A4, respectively. After 24 hours of reperfusion, the PaO2/FiO2, wet/dry weight ratios and protein levels in lungs were measured to assess the alveolar capillary permeability. The oxidative stress response and inflammation were examined. The histological and apoptosis analyses of lung tissues were performed via HE staining and TUNEL assay, respectively. The effects of lipoxin A4 on the endothelial viability and tube formation of hypoxemia and reoxygenation-challenged rat pulmonary microvascular endothelium cells were determined.Results: Lipoxin A4 significantly ameliorated the alveolar capillary permeability, reduced the oxidative stress and inflammation in transplanted lungs. The histological injury and apoptosis of lung tissues were also alleviated by lipoxin A4. In vitro lipoxin A4 treatment promoted the endothelial tube formation and improved the endothelial viability .Conclusion: Lipoxin A4 protects LIRI after lung transplantation in rats, and its therapeutic effect is associated with the properties of anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, and endothelium protection.
The HMGB1-RAGE Pathway Contributes to Abnormal Migration of Endogenous Subventricular Zone Neural Progenitors in an Experimental Model of Focal Microgyria
Authors: Mei Yi-Wen , Huang Tian-Lan , Chen Xin , Yu Si-Xun , Li Jie , Zhang Zhi , He Yang , Guo Da-qing , Shu Haifeng
Published: February 2021

Abnormal migration of subventricular zone (SVZ)-derived neural progenitor cells (SDNPs) is involved in the pathological and epileptic processes of focal cortical dysplasia (FCD), but the underlying mechanisms are still unclear. Recent studies have indicated that high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1)/receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) is widely expressed in epileptic specimens of FCD, suggesting that the HMGB1-RAGE pathway may be involved in the pathological and/or epileptic processes of FCD. In the present study, by using Nestin-GFPtg/+ transgenic mice, we established a model of freezing lesion (FL), as described in our previous report. A “migrating stream”, which was composed of GFP-Nestin+ SDNPs, was derived from the SVZ region and migrated to the cortical FL area. We found that translocated HMGB1 and RAGE were expressed in cortical lesion in a clustered distribution pattern, which was especially obvious in the early stage of FL compared with the sham group. Interestingly, the number of GFP-Nestin+ SDNPs within the migrating stream was significantly decreased when the HMGB1-RAGE pathway was blocked by an antagonist of RAGE or deletion of the RAGE gene. Moreover, the absence of RAGE also decreased the activity of pentylenetetrazol-induced cortical epileptiform discharge. In summary, this study provided experimental evidence that in the early stage of FL, the levels of extranuclear HMGB1 and its receptor RAGE were increased in cortical lesion in the FL model. Activation of the HMGB1-RAGE pathway may contribute to the abnormal migration of SDNPs and the hyperexcitability of cortical lesion in the FL model.
Parents’ awareness and perceptions of the Change4Life 100 calorie snack campaign, and perceived impact on snack consumption by children under 11 years
Authors: Day Rhiannon , Bridge Gemma , Austin Kate , Ensaff Hannah , Christian Meaghan
Published: February 2021

Background: Childhood obesity is a pertinent public health problem in the UK. Consumption of free sugars, has been associated with the development of obesity. In 2018, the Change 4Life (C4L) 100 calorie snack campaign was launched with the slogan ‘100 calorie snacks, two a day max’, aiming to encourage parents to choose lower sugar, fat and calorie snacks for their children. This study aimed to examine how the campaign has been perceived by parents. Methods: An online survey was developed to explore parent awareness, perceptions and understanding of the C4L 100 calorie snack campaign. Respondents were recruited via Leeds City Council, posters displayed at primary schools and children’s centres across Leeds and via social media. Paper surveys were also shared with voluntary led playgroups. Results: 342 respondents completed the survey. Just over half of the respondents had come across the campaign, most seeing the leaflet or a television advert. Over two thirds of respondents ‘agreed’ or ‘strongly agreed’ that the campaign caught their attention. A similar proportion ‘agreed’ or ‘strongly agreed’ that the campaign informed them about 100 calorie snacks and just over a half thought it was memorable. Most respondents used positive language to describe the campaign, but there was no clear consensus of a perceived positive impact on healthier snack purchasing, nor preparing more 100 calorie snacks at home. Respondents provided examples of how the campaign could be improved to positively impact eating behaviours: better publicity and information delivery; healthier snack examples made more visible; improved nutritional labelling and access to healthier products in supermarkets (availability, promotion, display, choice). Conclusions: The C4L 100 calorie snack campaign was perceived positively by parents and carers, with many agreeing that the campaign was informative and memorable. However, there was no agreement in terms of the parents reporting an impact of the campaign on behaviour change and healthier snack habits. Future social marketing campaigns could be improved through more formal pilot testing to assess the understanding and acceptance of the campaign amongst the target audience.
Genome-Wide Characterization of Peptidyl-Prolyl Cis-Trans Isomerases in Penicillium and Their Regulation By Salt Stress in a Halotolerant P. Oxalicum
Authors: Singh Mangaljeet , Kaur Kirandeep , Sharma Avinash , Kaur Rajvir , Joshi Dimple , Chatterji Megha , Dandapath Iman , Kaur Amarjeet , Singh Prabhjeet
Published: February 2021

Peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerases (PPIases) are the only class of enzymes capable of cis-trans isomerization of the prolyl peptide bond. The PPIases, comprising of different families viz., cyclophilins, FK506-binding proteins (FKBPs), parvulins and protein phosphatase 2A phosphatase activators (PTPAs), play essential roles in different cellular processes. Though PPIase gene families have been characterized in different organisms, information regarding these proteins lacks in Penicillium species, which are commercially an important fungi group. In this study, we carried out genome-wide analysis of PPIases in different Penicillium spp. and investigated their regulation by salt stress in a halotolerant strain of Penicillium oxalicum. These analyses revealed that the number of genes encoding cyclophilins, FKBPs, parvulins and PTPAs in Penicillium spp. varies between 7-11, 2-5, 1-2, and 1-2, respectively. The halotolerant P. oxalicum depicted significant enhancement in the mycelial PPIase activity in the presence of 15% NaCl, thus, highlighting the role of these enzymes in salt stress adaptation. The PPIase activity in P. oxalicum was associated with the expression of PoxCYP18, PoxCYP23, PoxCYP41, PoxFKBP12-2, and PoxFKBP52 genes. Characterization of PPIases in Penicillium spp. will provide an important database for understanding their cellular functions and might facilitate their applications in industrial processes through biotechnological interventions.
Optimizing Water and Nitrogen Application System to Improve Nitrogen use Efficiency and Ensure Sustainable Yield of Summer Maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Han Xiangfei , Dong Lina , Liu Peng , Dong Shuting , Zhang Jiwang , Zhao Bin , Ren Baizhao
Published: February 2021

Exploring the optimal method of water and fertilizer application and N application rate for summer maize is important for achieving the high water and N efficiency in the North China Plain. We tested that the hypothesis that optimizing water and nitrogen application system could improve nitrogen (N) use efficiency and water productivity, and ensure sustainable yield of summer maize. The results showed that: the 216 kg N ha-1 of drip irrigation (DI) and micro-sprinkling irrigation (SI) could obtain the high grain yield compared with 270 kg N ha-1 of flooding irrigation (FI), which was achieved by maintaining a high 1000-grain weight and kernel number. However, the grain yield of 162 kg N ha-1 would be decreased significantly. Irrigation methods and N application rates had significant effects on the ammonia volatilization rate and ammonia volatilization accumulation of soil, N harvest index (NHI), N partial productivity and water productivity. Compared with FI, DI and SI could reduce the ammonia volatilization rate through applying little fertilizer-N by times, and reduce the ammonia volatilization accumulation of 19.5%-54.9%. In addition, under the same irrigation method, the NHI reached the maximum when the N application rate was 216 kg ha−1. Considering comprehensively, under the condition of this experiment, 216 kg N ha−1 is the best N application rate under DI or SI for maize.
Metallic Cavity Quantum Well Infrared Photodetector for Filter-Free SF6 Gas Imaging
Authors: Nie Xiaofei , Yin Yizhe , Zhen Honglou , Zhou Xiaohao , Chen Pingping
Published: February 2021

Generally, for gas imaging, narrowing the response of the camera sensor around the target gas’s absorption band would increase the imaging contrast. In this paper, A filter-free narrowband metallic cavity quantum well infrared photodetector is proposed. The metallic cavity is formed by Ti/Au film coating on the detector’s mesa. The geometry of the cavity is properly designed to sustain cavity mode resonating at 10.6 μm. With strong resonance, the absorption efficiency of the embedded quantum well active layer maintains high level (~74%) even with a fairly low doping concentration (~1×1017cm-3). And the bandwidth is as narrow as 0.22 μm. A waveguide model is presented and used to analyze the metal cavity quantum well infrared photodetector, and it is found that the metal film coating on the side wall played an important role in enhancing the resonance and narrowing the spectral line width.
Systematic Review on the Efficacy of Interventions for Fear of Childbirth, Anxiety and Fear in Pregnant Women
Authors: Birner Carmen , Grosse Gerlind
Published: February 2021

Background: Fears and anxieties during pregnancy and childbirth are a frequent phenomenon and can have negative consequences on wellbeing, psychological health and birth outcomes. Therefore, it is important to focus on the interventions to reduce those fears and anxieties during pregnancy and childbirth. A systematic review was conducted to examine the current literature on psychological interventions to reduce anxieties and fears during pregnancy and childbirth. Scopus and PubMed were searched from 2015 up until December 2020 for relevant studies. Included were pregnant women, with no restriction on age ranges or parity. Entered in the review were quantitative studies, including randomized controlled trials (RCTs), non-randomized controlled trials as well as treatment evaluations. After reviewing titles, abstracts and studies, 72 studies were included in this review as they met the inclusion criteria. Standard methodological procedures for systematic reviews were used. The quality assessment of included articles was done by using the Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies (EPHPP). Results: The main results of this review concern the fear and anxiety reducing effects of psychoeducation, relaxation techniques, guided imagery, supportive care through a midwife, group discussion, “lifestyle based education”, writing therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy groups and stress intervention, individual structured psychotherapy, communication skills training, counseling approaches (except distraction techniques), a motivational interviewing psychotherapy, emotional freedom techniques, breathing awareness and different hypnotherapeutic techniques on different fears and anxieties during pregnancy and childbirth. For mindfulness-based interventions mixed results are found. The effect of an acceptance and commitment therapy, biofeedback interventions, a mind body intervention, mental health training courses, the group intervention Nyytti® as well as cognitive analytic therapy is unclear, due to weak ratings. Antenatal class attendance reduced delivery fear significantly only in first time mothers. An internet-based problem-solving treatment did not reduce anxiety during pregnancy. Conclusion: A broad range of interventions show positive effects on fear of childbirth and fear and anxiety in pregnancy. Further research should address other acknowledged psychotherapeutic practices, like psycho-dynamic as well as systemic interventions, as they are underrepresented within this review. Furthermore , there is a need for manualized therapeutic interventions, with regards to a combination of effective intervention components.
Collagen and Elastic Fibres in Acute and Chronic Liver Injury.
Authors: Hall Andrew , Cotoi Corina , Luong Tu Vinh , Watkins Jennifer , Bhathal Prithi , Quaglia Alberto
Published: February 2021

The histological distinction between acute and chronic liver injury is a challenging aspect of liver histopathology. It is traditionally based on the interpretation of morphological changes to the extracellular matrix (ECM) at sites of hepatocyte loss using histochemical stains.
Our aim was to investigate whether immunohistochemistry and multiplexing for collagen type (I & III) and elastic fibres and a modified Victoria blue method could be helpful.
We studied 43 livers removed at transplantation for acute liver failure (ALF, 20 cases) or cirrhosis (23) plus 8 normal controls. In ALF the periportal ECM was normal in 2 cases, contained collagen I associated with a ductular reaction in 6 cases, and delicate elastic strands in 11 cases. Periportal deposition of collagen I and mature elastic fibres was observed in cirrhosis. In ALF the perisinusoidal ECM was intact in 4 cases, collapsed or condensed but of normal composition (collagen III) in 2 cases, and collapsed and condensed containing collagen I in 17 cases (7 including delicate immature elastic strands). In contrast, bridging fibrous septa of cirrhosis contained abundant collagen 1 and bundles of mature elastin.
We propose the use of a scale and the use of immunohistochemistry and multiplexing in additional to histochemical stains to characterise the ECM changes in acute and chronic liver injury.
Classification and Review of Health Financing Frameworks: What do they Focus on to Assess and Improve the Situation?
Authors: Sakha Minoo Alipouri , Bazyar. Mohammad , Rashidian Arash
Published: February 2021

Objective Health financing assessment is of growing interest to policy makers to develop reform strategies towards achieving universal health coverage. Different frameworks for assessing of health financing systems have been developed. The purpose of this study is to review the current frameworks for understanding and assessing health financing and draw out the dimensions of conceptual frameworks and how different concepts are used in relation to the concept of health financing assessment. Lessons learned from different frameworks would guide the future use and formulation of such frameworks. Methods We carried out a systematic search strategy, using the PubMed database to find peer reviewed published literature. A search using generic search engines (Google Scholar and the Google) was also performed through a less structured search to find additional documents and reports published. To increase the comprehensiveness of search, Websites of World Health Organization (WHO) and World Bank were also searched. We included any type of report or peer reviewed journal article that reported frameworks to assess, review and map financing functions and sub-functions and highlight different factors that affect it. Results Fifteen frameworks/tools developed during 2001 until 2020 were found. We classified frameworks by grouping them into systems approach- analytical frameworks, indicator-based, and descriptive/ narrative categories. These frameworks vary in the concepts, functions and processes, dimensions, strategies and meet various international or country-specific challenges. Conclusion The process of framework development for health financing review is becoming more comprehensive with pushing universal health coverage to the international agenda. Despite being diverse, various health financing frameworks/ tools offer synergistic views to the health financing system and provide a comprehensive picture of the health financing system. While some frameworks covered the majority of the elements, not any of the frameworks on its own covered all the elements. Health financing review is a laborious endeavor, which usually needs diverse data and an expert team. It is sometimes infeasible to access ready and user-friendly information; therefore, it is important to apply them with some flexibility.
Development and characterization of Novel EST-based single-copy genic microsatellite DNA markers in white spruce and black spruce
Authors: Rajora Om , Mann Ishminder K.
Published: February 2021

Background

Due mainly to large genome size and prevalence of repetitive sequences in the nuclear genome of spruce ( Picea ), it is very difficult to develop single-copy genomic microsatellite markers. We have developed and characterized 25 polymorphic, single-copy genic microsatellites from white spruce ( Picea glauca ) EST sequences and determined their informativeness in white spruce and black spruce ( Picea mariana ) and inheritance in black spruce.

Methods and Results

White spruce EST sequences from NCBI dbEST were searched for the presence of microsatellite repeats. Forty-seven sequences containing dinucleotide, trinucleotide, tetranucleotide and compound repeats were selected to develop primers. Twenty-five of the designed primer pairs yielded scorable amplicons, with single-locus patterns, and were characterized in 20 individuals each of white spruce and black spruce. All 25 microsatellites were polymorphic in white spruce and 24 in black spruce. The number of alleles at a locus ranged from 2 to 18, with a mean of 8.8 in white spruce, and from 1 to 17, with a mean of 7.6 in black spruce. The expected heterozygosity/polymorphic information content ranged from 0.10 to 0.92, with a mean of 0.67 in white spruce, and from 0 to 0.93, with a mean of 0.59 in black spruce.

Conclusions

Microsatellites with dinucleotide and compound repeats were more informative than those with trinucleotide and tetranucleotide repeats. Eighteen microsatellite markers polymorphic between the parents of a black spruce controlled cross inherited in a single-locus Mendelian fashion. The microsatellite markers developed can be applied for various genetics, genomics, breeding, and conservation studies and applications.
Dynamic predictive coding across the left fronto-temporal language hierarchy: Evidence from MEG, EEG and fMRI
Authors: Wang Lin , Schoot Lotte , Brothers Trevor , Alexander Edward , Warnke Lena , Kim Minjae , Khan Sheraz , Hämäläinen Matti , Kuperberg Gina
Published: February 2021

Predictive coding has been proposed as a unifying theory of brain function. However, few studies have examined this theory during complex cognitive processing across multiple time-scales and levels of abstraction. We used MEG, EEG and fMRI to ask whether dynamic, hierarchical predictive coding can account for the timecourse of evoked activity at multiple cortical levels during language comprehension. Unexpected words produced increased activity in left temporal cortex (lower-level prediction error). Critically, violations of high-precision event predictions produced additional activity within left inferior frontal cortex (higher-level prediction error). Furthermore, the successful resolution of higher-level prediction error led to later feedback to temporal cortex (top-down sharpening), while a failure to resolve these errors led to sustained activity at still lower levels (reanalysis). These findings suggest that fundamental principles of dynamic hierarchical predictive coding –– suppression of prediction error, precision-weighting, delayed top-down sharpening –– can explain the dynamics of neural activity during human language comprehension.
A Characterization of Laser Cleaning Painting Layer From Steel Surface Based on Thermodynamic Model
Authors: lu yao , ding ye , wang maolu , yang lijun , wang yang
Published: February 2021

In this study, the environmentally friendly nanosecond ultraviolet (UV) laser is innovatively employed laser cleaning to remove the painting layer from the AH36 steel substrate. The feasibility of UV laser cleaning the painting layer is innovatively proposed and it has been calculated by the model theoretically, followed by elaborating the prominent interaction mechanism of UV laser exactly. The initial cleaning threshold and completely cleaning threshold are 2 J/cm2 and 5 J/cm2, respectively. Afterwards, the UV laser cleaned surface quality is evaluated by the scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), optical microscopy (OM) and optical profiler (OP), respectively. The mechanical properties have enhanced dramatically after laser cleaning and characterized by the Vickers hardness tester and universal testing machine. By varying laser fluences (2, 5, 7 J/cm2) during laser cleaning, microstructures registering various sizes of corrugated shaped, craters and ring-shaped could be acquired. In addition, the mechanical properties analysis including rapid melting, quenching and dislocation density effects illustrates that laser cleaning could effectively increase surface microhardness, tensile strength and bending strength. Thus, laser cleaning method has emerged as a favourable means to strip painting layer in lieu of traditional methods for marine industry as well as this study could promote the development of laser cleaning in the field of marine engineering.
Differential methylation of G-protein coupled receptor signaling genes in gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumors
Authors: Byun Seyoun , Affolter Kajsa E. , Snow Angela K. , Curtin Karen , Cannon Austin R. , Cannon-Albright Lisa A. , Thota Ramya , Neklason Deborah W.
Published: February 2021

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) of the small intestine undergo large chromosomal and methylation changes. The objective of this study was to identify methylation differences in NETs and consider how the differentially methylated genes may impact patient survival. Whole genome methylation and chromosomal copy number varation (CNV) of NETs from the small intestine and appendix was measured Tumors were divided into three molecular subtypes according to CNV results: chromosome 18 loss (18LOH), MultiCNV, and NoCNV. Comparison of 18LOH tumors with MultiCNV and NoCNV tumors identified 901 differentially methylated genes which are over represented with sevenG-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) pathways and the gene encoding somatostatin (SST), a clinical target for NETs. Patient survival based on low versus high methylation in all samples identified four significant genes (p-<0.05) OR2S2, SMILR, RNU6-653P and AC010543.1. Within the 18LOH molecular subtype tumors, survival differences were identifiedin high versus low methylation of 24 genes. The most significant is TRHR (p < 0.01), a GPCR with multiple FDA-approved drugs. By separating NETs into different molecular subtypes based on chromosomal changes, we find that multiple GPCRs and their ligands appear to be regulated through methylation and correlated with survival. Opportunities for better treatment strategies based on molecular features exist for NETs.
Psychological and Physical Risk Factors for Pressure Pain Hypersensitivity of the Upper Trapezius in Food Service Workers With Nonspecific Neck/shoulder Myofascial Pain
Authors: Hwang Ui-jae , Kwon Oh-yun
Published: February 2021

Objectives: It is unclear which factors increase the risk of developing pressure pain hypersensitivity, a type of neurophysiological hyperexcitability. The present study investigated the relative contributions of physical and psychological factors to pressure pain hypersensitivity of the upper trapezius for each sex.Methods: In total, 154 individuals with neck/shoulder myofascial pain participated, among 372 food service workers. Participants completed a questionnaire (age, sex, Beck Depression Inventory, and Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion scale) and then were photographed to measure posture. Pressure pain sensitivity, two range of motions (cervical lateral-bending and rotation), and four muscle strengths (serratus anterior, lower trapezius, biceps, and glenohumeral external rotator) were measured by a pressure algometer, iPhone application, and handheld dynamometer. For each sex, forward multivariate logistic regression was used to test our a priori hypothesis among selected variables that a combination of psychosocial and physical factors contributed to the risk for pressure pain hypersensitivity.Results: In multivariate analyses, lower trapezius strength (odds ratio = 0.94, 95% confidence interval = 0.91–0.97, p = 0.001) was the only significant risk factor for pressure pain hypersensitivity in men. Dominant painful ipsilateral cervical rotation range of motion (odds ratio = 0.96, 95% confidence interval = 0.92–0.99, p = 0.037) was the only risk factor for pressure pain hypersensitivity in women.Discussion: Lower trapezius strength and dominant painful ipsilateral cervical rotation range of motion could serve as guidelines for preventing and managing pressure pain hypersensitivity of the upper trapezius in food service workers with nonspecific neck/shoulder myofascial pain.Trial registration: Research Information Service (CRIS) under the code KCT0002810 (granted on 20/04/2018) and the registration timing was retrospective.
An adapted neural-fuzzy inference system model using preprocessed balance data to improve the predictive accuracy of warfarin maintenance dosing in patients after heart valve replacement
Authors: Gu Zhi-Chun , Huang Shou-Rui , Li Dong , Zhou Qin , Wang Jing , Fu Bo , Chen Jin
Published: February 2021

Background
Tailoring warfarin use poses a challenge for physicians and pharmacists due to its narrow therapeutic window and huge inter-individual variability. This study aimed to create an adapted neural-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) model using preprocessed balance data to improve the predictive accuracy of warfarin maintenance dosing in Chinese patients undergoing heart valve replacement (HVR).
Methods
This retrospective study enrolled patients who underwent HVR between June 1, 2012 and June 1, 2016 from 35 centers in China. The primary outcomes were the mean difference between predicted warfarin dose by ANFIS models and actual dose, and the models’ predictive accuracy, including the ideal predicted percentage, the mean absolute error (MAE), and the mean squared error (MSE). The eligible cases were divided into training, internal validation, and external validation groups. We explored input variables by univariate analysis of a general liner model and created two ANFIS models using imbalanced and balanced training sets. We finally compared the primary outcomes between the imbalanced and balanced ANFIS models in both internal and external validation sets. Stratified analyses were conducted across warfarin doses (low, medium, and high doses).
Results
A total of 15,108 patients were included and grouped as follows: 12,086 in the imbalanced training set; 2,820 in the balanced training set; 1,511 in the internal validation set; and 1,511 in the external validation set. Eight variables were explored as predictors related to warfarin maintenance doses, and imbalanced and balanced ANFIS models with multi-fuzzy rules were developed. The results showed a low mean difference between predicted and actual doses (< 0.3 mg/d for each model) and an accurate prediction property in both the imbalanced model (ideal prediction percentage: 74.39–78.16%, MAE: 0.37 mg/daily, MSE: 0.39 mg/daily) and the balanced model (ideal prediction percentage: 73.46–75.31%, MAE: 0.42 mg/daily; MSE, 0.43 mg/daily). Compared to the imbalanced model, the balanced model had a significantly higher prediction accuracy in the low-dose (14.46% vs. 3.01%; P < 0.001) and the high-dose warfarin groups (34.71% vs. 23.14%; P = 0.047). The results from the external validation cohort confirmed this finding.
Conclusions
The ANFIS model can accurately predict the warfarin maintenance dose in patients after HVR. Through data preprocessing, the balanced model contributed to improved prediction ability in the low- and high-dose warfarin groups.
Cross Tolerance to Drought and low Phosphorus Stress in Mungbean is Regulated by Improved Antioxidant Capacity, Biological N2-Fixation, and Differential Transcript Accumulation
Authors: Meena Surendra Kumar , Pandey Renu , Sharma Sandeep , Gayacharan  , Vengavasi Krishnapriya , Dikshit Harsh Kumar , Siddique Kadambot H.M. , Singh Madan Pal
Published: February 2021

Aims The mobility of phosphorus (P) depends on availability of water in soil; both are limited resources for crop production. We studied the mechanisms governing cross tolerance in the contrasting mungbean accessions for drought and low P stress. Methods Tolerant (IC333090 and IC507340) and sensitive (IC488526 and EC397142) mungbean accessions were grown in soil with treatments: control (sufficient P, irrigated), low P (no P, irrigated), drought (sufficient P, irrigation withheld), and combined stress (no P, irrigation withheld) as well as recovery. Results Drought reduced the relative water content and membrane stability index, affecting overall plant growth. Combined stress (low P and drought) significantly increased root growth, leaf area, and biomass in tolerant accessions, which was attributed to enhanced nutrient uptake and symbiotic N2-fixation. Combined stress also increased osmolyte concentration, antioxidative compounds, and scavenging activity of antioxidant enzymes in tolerant accessions while recovery from drought significantly reduced osmolyte concentration. Transcript abundance of candidate genes related to drought and low P was significantly higher in leaves of IC333090 than IC488526. Conversely, low-P-induced genes (VrSPX1, VrPHO1, VrSQD1, VrPEPCase, and VrMDH) in IC488526 were either downregulated or did not significantly change under combined stress. The drought recovery was better in IC333090 due to enhanced expression of stress-responsive genes. Conclusions Tolerant mungbean accession could be used as potential donor parents in breeding programs. Traits imparting cross tolerance to drought and low P stress may facilitate better varietal selection for increased crop productivity under low P, drought, and the combined stress.
Increased STIP1 and Hsp90 Correlate with Progression and Prognosis of Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Rong Biaoxue , Zhang Youwen , Wang Junye , Ye Shucheng , Guo Maoqing , Jiang Shenghua
Published: February 2021

Background: Stress-inducible phosphoprotein 1 (STIP1) and heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) have been found to be correlated with malignant tumors. The aim of this investigation was to study the relationship between their expressions and lung adenocarcinoma (LAC). Methods: The expressions of STIP1and Hsp90 in LAC cells and tissues were tested by immunohistochemistry and western blot; the correlation between their expressions and clinicopathological parameters of LAC was analyzed by survival analysisand multiple regression analysis. Results: Expressions of STIP1 and Hsp90 were higher in A549 cells and LAC tissues than that in 16 human bronchial epithelial cells (16HBE cells) (P<0.05) and adjacent normal lung tissues (P < 0.05). The expression of STIP1 and Hsp90 in LAC showed a strong positive correlation (P < 0.05) and significantly correlated with lymph node metastasis (P < 0.05), advanced clinical stage (P < 0.05) and shorter survival (P < 0.05) of LAC. Conclusions: Increased expressions of STIP1 and Hsp90 were closely related to malignant biological behavior of LAC, suggesting that they could be used as potential biomarkers and prognostic indicators for LAC.
Au-Ag Binary Alloys on n-GaAs Substrates and Effect of Work Functions on Schottky Barrier Height
Authors: AKKAYA Abdullah
Published: February 2021

In this study, I investigated the effect of work function (ϕm) of AuxAg1−x (x = 0, 0.22, 0.37, 0.71 and 1) on the Au-Ag/n-GaAs Schottky diode (SD) parameters. Ag, Au and three alloys with different compositions deposited on n-GaAs substrates by thermal evaporation method. Surface morphologies of the samples were investigated by atomic force microscope (AFM). Elementel compositions of Schottky metals were conducted by the energy dispersive X-ray spectroscop (EDX). Current-voltage (I-V) and capacitance-voltage (C-V) measurements performed at room temperature. SD parameters such as barrier height (Φb0), ideality factor (n), series resistance (Rs), and interface state density (Dit) of the SD’s were calculated from the obtained I-V and C-V data. Experimental results showed that all calculated SD parameters depends on alloy composition. Lowest mean barrier height value was found as 0.789 ± 0.022 eV for Au/n-GaAs SDs and the highest value was determined 0.847 ± 0.008 eV for Au0.71Ag0.29/n-GaAs SDs from I-V measurements. Weak dependencies of barrier height to ϕm was exist and gap state parameter (S) determined as 0.0526. S value was close to the Bardeen limit (S = 0), and indicates that Fermi level was strongly pinned in Au-Ag/n-GaAs SDs. Also, main SD parameters like series resistance (Rs), ideality factor (n), reverse bias barrier height (ΦbRB), doping density (Nd) and density of interface states (Dit) were calculated via using different methods from I-V and C-V measurement results. In addition, to determine the leakage current mechanism Poole-Frenkel emission (PFE) and Schottky emission (SE) models applied on reverse bias I-V data.
The Impact of Rarity in NICE's Health Technology Appraisals
Authors: Clarke Sophie , Ellis Michelle , Brownrigg Jack
Published: February 2021

In the absence of a framework designed to evaluate medicines for rare diseases in the UK, most orphan medicines are appraised by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) through the Single Technology Appraisal (STA) process. An analysis of STA appraisals of orphan and non-orphan medicines revealed that orphan medicines were subject to a significantly longer mean time in the NICE process than non-orphan medicines (370 days (n=44) vs 277 days (n=118), p=<0.0001). A higher proportion of orphan STAs required more than one Appraisal Committee Meeting (ACM) vs. non-orphan STAs, and orphan STAs were disadvantaged by worse outcomes with respect to positive recommendations than those orphan medicines assessed by Highly Specialised Technology evaluation (HST). The uncertainties inherent to developing orphan medicines may contribute to these disadvantages. Improved understanding of the challenges in drug development for orphan medicines and clearer guidance for decision makers on navigating uncertainty in the HTA process may promote greater equity in access to medicines across rare and common conditions.
Z-score is a possible predictor of the risk of coronary artery lesion development in patients with Kawasaki disease in Japan
Authors: Suzuki Takayuki , Kakimoto Nobuyuki , Tsuchihashi Tomoya , Suenaga Tomohiro , Takeuchi Takashi , Shibuta Shoichi , Kitano Naomi , Suzuki Hiroyuki
Published: February 2021

ABSTRACT
Risk factors for coronary artery lesion (CAL) development in patients with Kawasaki disease (KD) include male sex, age <12 months, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) resistance, and delayed diagnosis. We aimed to explore the relationship between CAL development and Z-score. We enrolled 281 patients with KD who were treated with our protocol. Echocardiography was performed in three phases: pre-treatment (P1), post-treatment (P2), and 4 weeks after onset (P3). The highest Z-score of the right, left main, left anterior descending, and left circumflex coronary arteries was expressed as Zmax at each phase. P3-Zmax ≥2.5 represented CAL development. Clinical parameters, such as laboratory data and Z-scores, were retrospectively compared between patients with and without CAL development. Sixty-seven patients (23.8%) showed a P1-Zmax ≥2.0, and CAL development occurred in 21 patients (7.5%). Independent risk factors associated with CAL development were P1-Zmax, a ΔZmax (P2-Zmax − P1-Zmax) ≥1, male sex, <12 months of age, and resistant to the first IVIG administration (adjusted odds ratio [95% confidence interval]: 1.98 [1.01–3.92], 4.04 [1.11-14.7], 6.62 [1.33–33.04], 4.71 [1.51–14.68], 5.26 [1.62–17.13], respectively). Using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, a P1-Zmax ≥1.43 detected CAL development with an area under the curve of 0.64 (sensitivity = 81.0%; specificity = 48.1%).
Conclusions : Our results suggest that P1-Zmax and a ΔZmax (P2-Zmax − P1-Zmax) ≥1 may predict CAL development.
Manufacture Porous Materials by Dabco-Based Lonic Liquid
Authors: Sanaeishoar Haleh , Sabbaghan Maryam , Peimanfar Sahar
Published: February 2021

The long-chain ionic liquid (IL) hexadecyl-4-aza-1-azoniabicyclo[2.2.2]octane bromide was used as a template to prepare the hexagonally ordered siliceous mesoporous molecular sieve MCM-41 as well as the disordered mesoporous molecular sieve designated as KIT-1. The synthesized products were studied via X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and N2 adsorption-desorption analysis. The surface area (BET), pore volume, and pore diameter (BJH) are determined. These kind of ILs that have DABCO (1,4-diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane) in their structures, were prepared with an easy method. When the two templates, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and IL, have the similar structures, MCM-41 mesoporous molecular sieve produced with more ordered, uniform mesoporous channel and high surface area in comparison to without IL. When just IL used instead of CTAB, the KIT-1 with non-uniform mesoporous was obtained. Here we prepared the KIT-1 mesoporous molecular sieve with IL without CTAB but it seems, using dual template with changing IL structures in fabricated of molecular sieve provide new opportunity to design targeted adsorbents and catalysis.
Development and validation of an immune-related prognostic signature in cervical cancer
Authors: Su Rongjia , Jin Chengwen , Bu Hualei , Wang Xiaoyun , Kuang Menghua , Xiang Jiangdong , Jin Chengjuan
Published: February 2021

Background

Cervical cancer is the fourth most frequently gynecological malignancy across the world. Immunotherapies have proved to improve prognosis of cervical cancer. However, few studies on immune-related prognostic signature had been reported in cervical cancer.
Methods

Raw data and clinical information of cervical cancer samples were download from TCGA and UCSC Xena website. Immunophenoscore of immune infiltration cells in cervical cancer samples was calculated through ssGSEA method using GSVA package. WGCNA, Cox regression analysis, LASSO analysis and GSEA analysis were performed to classify cervical cancer prognosis and explore the biological signaling pathway.
Results

There were 8 immune infiltration cells associated with prognosis of cervical cancer. Through WGCNA, 153 genes from 402 immune-related genes were significantly correlated with prognosis of cervical cancer. A 15-gene signature demonstrated powerful predictive ability in prognosis of cervical cancer. GSEA analysis showed multiple signaling pathways containing PD-L1 expression and PD-1 checkpoint pathway differences between high risk and low risk groups. Furthermore, the 15-gene signature was associated with multiple immune cells and immune infiltration in tumor microenvironment.
Conclusion

The 15-gene signature is an effective potential prognostic classifier in the immunotherapies and surveillance of cervical cancer.
A Potent Peroxidase from Solid Cell Culture of Ocimum Basilicum with High Sensitivity for Blood Glucose Determination
Authors: Mohammadnejad Parvin , Asl Saeed Soleimani , Rasoulian Zahra , Aminzadeh Saeed , Ghashghaie Jaleh , Haghbeen Kamahldin
Published: February 2021

Extensive applications of peroxidase (POX) have raised the global market demand at a considerable rate during the forecast period of 2020 - 2025. Nonetheless, the large-scale POX preparation still relies on the extraction from agricultural products, while there is an accumulative driving force toward employing biotechnological processes with agricultural hassle free identity. In pursuit of this trend, a novel heme peroxidase was purified to homogeneity (MW of 40 kD) from the callus culture of Ocimum basilicum L. in darkness on Murashige-Skoog medium supplemented by 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (10-6 M) and kinetin (10-5 M). The highest activity of the purified peroxidase (ObPOX) was observed in Tris-base buffer at pH 7.5 and 80 °C. ObPOX showed high stability over pH(s) 5 to 7.5 and temperatures of 15 to 60 °C. ObPOX specific activity was 1245.142 AU mg-1 in the presence of phenol, 4 times higher than that of HRP. ObPOX showed moderate affinity for guaiacol (Km = 21.5 mM), but obtained an exceptionally high specificity constant (kcat/Km = 66743.7 s-1M-1) for GASA (4-[(4-Hydroxy-3-methoxyphenyl) azo]-benzenesulfonic acid), the introduced substrate for determination of blood sugar. Applying ObPOX instead of HRP in glucose measurements of the real samples improved the regression constant of the correlation diagram between the tests and the lab results from 0.958 to 0.981. Physicochemical properties of ObPOX as well as the growth rate of basil callus (5.04 g L-1 per day) and the yield of ObPOX production (35 mg per 100 g dry biomass per subculture) designates O. basilicum cell culture for large-scale production of a robust peroxidase.
Predicting suicidal thoughts and behaviors among college students: a machine learning approach
Authors: Macalli Melissa , Navarro Marie , Orri Massimiliano , Tournier Marie , Thiébaut Rodolphe , Côté Sylvana M. , Tzourio Christophe
Published: February 2021

Suicidal thoughts and behaviors are prevalent among college students. Yet little is known about screening tools to identify students at higher risk. We aimed to develop a risk algorithm to identify the main predictors of suicidal thoughts and behaviors among college students within one-year of baseline assessment. We used data collected in 2013–2019 from the French i-Share cohort, a longitudinal population-based study including 5066 volunteer students. To predict suicidal thoughts and behaviours at follow-up, we used random forests models with 70 potential predictors measured at baseline, including sociodemographic and familial characteristics, mental health and substance use. Model performance was measured using the area under the receiver operating curve (AUC), sensitivity, and positive predictive value. At follow-up, 17.4% of girls and 16.8% of boys reported suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The models achieved good predictive performance: AUC, 0.8; sensitivity, 79% for girls, 81% for boys; and positive predictive value, 40% for girls and 36% for boys. Among the 70 potential predictors, four showed the highest predictive power: 12-month suicidal thoughts, trait anxiety, depression symptoms, and self-esteem. We identified a parsimonious set of mental health indicators that accurately predicted one-year suicidal thoughts and behaviors in a community sample of college students.