bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low skeletal muscle mass is associated with arterial stiffness in Chinese community-dwelling adults
Authors: Yang Mingzhe , Zhang Xuguang , Ding Zhenkai , Wang Feijie , Wang Yufang , Jiao Changya , Chen Jie-Hua
Published: September 2019

Aim: To investigate whether skeletal muscle mass is associated with arterial stiffness in Chinese community-dwelling men and women. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 20477 participants (age range: 45-80 years, 68.8% women) were included in the analysis. Brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV), an indicator of arterial stiffness was measured using a waveform device. Total muscle mass and muscle mass of arm, leg and trunk were measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis. Height and weight were measured and appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI) was calculated as appendicular skeletal muscle mass (sum of arm and leg muscle mass) divided by height square. Results: After adjustment for age, body fat percentage, systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure, ASMI was negatively associated with baPWV [β (SE) for men: -0.208 (0.016), p < 0.0001; for women: -0.245 (0.012), p < 0.0001]. High ASMI was a protective factor for the presence of arterial stiffness (defined as baPWV) [OR (95%CI) for men: 0.730 (0.682, 0.782), p < 0.0001; women: 0.634 (0.593, 0.677), p < 0.0001]. Similar associations were found between quantity of muscle mass (total and appendicular muscle mass, muscle mass of arm, leg and trunk) and arterial stiffness in men and women after further adjustment for height (all p < 0.0001). Conclusion: Low skeletal muscle mass is associated with increased risk of arterial stiffness in Chinese community-dwelling adults.
Delivery service satisfaction and associated factors among mothers who gave birth at West Shewa Zone public hospitals, Ethiopia
Authors: Dida Nagasa , Bayissa Getu , Oljira Habtamu , Taye Kefyalew
Published: September 2019

Objective: This study assessed mothers satisfaction towards delivery Services and its associated factors at public Hospitals found in West Shewa Zone, Ethiopia, from March 1 to April 15/2018.
Result : This study finding showed that the overall satisfaction level of mothers towards delivery service was 82.1%. Those Mother’s who planned their pregnancy were 4.93 times more satisfied with delivery service than those who did not planned (AOR: 4.93; 95% CI: 2.172-11.208). The odds of satisfaction for women who had pain management were 1.56 times higher than those who did not. Moreover, Gestational age at birth for pre-term and full term [(AOR: 0.027; 95% CI: 0.003-0.254), (AOR: 0.067; 95 % CI: 0.011-0.401)], means of transportation (use of Ambulance) (AOR: 3.785; 95% CI: 1.24-11.51) and stay in hospital (AOR: 0.10, 95% CI 0.01, 0.93) were the significant predictors of mother’s satisfaction with delivery service at the study area. Therefore notable attention should be given to those factors as they may influence the future utilization of service.
Genome-wide characterization of the rose (Rosa chinensis) WRKY family and role of RcWRKY41 in gray mold resistance
Authors: Liu Xintong , Li Dandan , Zhang Shiya , Xu Yaling , Zhang Zhao
Published: September 2019

Background The WRKYs are a major family of plant transcription factors that play roles in the responses to biotic and abiotic stresses; however, a comprehensive study of the WRKY family in roses (Rosa sp.) has not previously been performed.Results In the present study, we performed a genome-wide analysis of the WRKY genes in the rose (Rosa chinensis), including their phylogenetic relationships, gene structure, chromosomal locations, and collinearity. Using a phylogenetic analysis, we divided the 56 RcWRKY genes into three subgroups. The RcWRKYs were unevenly distributed across all seven rose chromosomes, and a study of their collinearity suggested that genome duplication may have played a major role in RcWRKY gene duplication. A Ka/Ks analysis indicated that they mainly underwent purifying selection. Botrytis cinerea infection induced the expression of 19 RcWRKYs, most of which had undergone gene duplication during evolution. These RcWRKYs may regulate rose resistance against B. cinerea. Based on our phylogenetic and expression analyses, RcWRKY41 was identified as a candidate regulatory gene in the response to B. cinerea infection, which was confirmed using virus-induced gene silencing.Conclusions This study provides useful information to facilitate the further study of the function of the rose WRKY gene family.
Overexpression of GmCAMTA12 enhanced drought tolerance in Arabidopsis and Soybean
Authors: Noman Muhammad , Jameel Aysha , Qiang Weidong , Ahmad Naveed , Weican Liu , Wang Fawei , Li Haiyan
Published: September 2019

Background: Earlier, fifteen transcription factors in the CAMTA family of soybean were reported to differentially express in multiple stresses however, their functional analyses had not yet been attempted. To characterize their role in drought stress, we comprehensively analyzed GmCAMTA family in silico and determined their expression pattern after which we cloned and overexpressed the 2769 bp CDS of GmCAMTA12 in Arabidopsis and soybean and carried out drought assays.
Results: The bioinformatics analysis revealed multiple stress-related cis motifs including ABRE, SARE, G-box and W-box, 10 unique miRNA targets in GmCAMTA transcripts and 48 proteins in GmCAMTAs’ interaction network. The stably transformed homozygous lines of Arabidopsis overexpressing GmCAMTA12 exhibited enhanced tolerance to drought in soil as well as on MS media containing mannitol. In their drought assay, the average survival rate of transgenic Arabidopsis lines OE5 and OE12 (Overexpression Line 5 and Line 12) was 83.66% and 87.87% respectively, which was ~30% higher than that of wt. In addition, the germination and root length assays as well as physiological indexes such as proline and MDA contents, CAT activity and leakage of electrolytes affirmed the better performance of OE lines. Likewise, GmCAMTA12 overexpression in soybean promoted more developed hairy roots in OE chimeric plants as compare to that of VC (Vector control). In parallel, the improved growth performance of OE in Hoagland-PEG and on MS-mannitol was revealed by their phenotypic, physiological and molecular measures. Furthermore, with the overexpression of GmCAMTA12, the downstream genes including AtAnnexin5, AtCaMHSP, At2G433110 and AtWRKY14 were upregulated in Arabidopsis. Likewise, in soybean hairy roots, GmELO, GmNAB and GmPLA1-IId were significantly upregulated as a result of GmCAMTA12 overexpression and majority of these upregulated genes in both plants possess CAMTA binding CGCG/CGTG motif in their promoters.
Conclusions: Taken together, we report that GmCAMTA12 plays substantial role in tolerance of soybean against drought stress and could prove as a novel candidate for engineering of soybean and other plants against drought stress. Some research gaps were also identified for future studies to extend our comprehension of Ca-CaM-CAMTA-mediated stress regulatory mechanisms.
Childhood Tuberculosis Treatment Outcome and Its Association with HIV-Co infection in Ethiopia, A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Belay Getaneh Mulualem , Wubneh Chalachew Adugna
Published: September 2019

Introduction Globally around one million children are infected with Tuberculosis. Childhood Tuberculosis is underestimated due diagnosis challenge. HIV infection can affect the TB disease progression and treatment outcome.Objectives The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to determine the pooled estimates of childhood tuberculosis treatment outcome and to analyze the impact of HIV-co infection.Methods We searched all available articles using PubMed, Google scholar and a web of science. Additionally, reference lists of included studies and Ethiopian institutional research repositories were used. Searching was limited to studies conducted in Ethiopia and published in English language. Cohort, cross-sectional and case-control studies were included. A weighted inverse variance random effects- model was used. The overall variations between studies were checked by heterogeneity test Higgins’s method (I 2 ). All included studies were assessed with the JBI quality appraisal criteria. Publication bias was checked with the funnel plot and Egger’s regression test.Result A total of 6 studies with 5,389 participants were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. The overall pooled estimate of successful treatment outcome was found to be 79.54% (95% CI: 73.00, 86.07). Of which 72.44% were treatment completed. Moreover, this study revealed that the treatment failure, defaulter and death were 0.15%, 5.36%, and 3.54%, respectively. Poor treatment outcome was higher among children with HIV co infection with an odds ratio of 3.15 (95% CI: 1.67, 5.94) as compared to HIV negative children.Conclusion The rate of successful treatment outcome of childhood tuberculosis in Ethiopia found to be low compared to the threshold suggested by the world health organization. HIV co infection is significantly associated with poor treatment outcome. Therefore, special attention better to be given for children infected with HIV.
Over-expression of poplar NAC15 gene enhances wood formation in transgenic tobacco
Authors: Yao Wenjing , Zhang Dawei , Zhou Boru , Wang Jianping , Li Renhua , Jiang Tingbo
Published: September 2019

BackgroundNAC (NAM/ATAF/CUC) family is one of the largest plant-specific TF families known to play significant roles in wood formation. Acting as master gene regulators, a few NAC genes can activate secondary wall biosynthesis during wood formation in woody plants.ResultsIn the present study, firstly, we screened 110 differentially expressed NAC genes in the leaves, stems, and roots of di-haploid Populus simonii×P. nigra by RNA-Seq. Then we identified a nucleus-targeted gene, NAC15 gene, which was one of the most highly expressed genes in the stem among NAC family members. Thirdly, we conducted expression pattern analysis of NAC15 gene, and proved NAC15 gene was most highly expressed in the xylem. Moreover, we transferred NAC15 gene into tobacco and obtained 12 transgenic tobacco lines overexpressing the gene. And the relative content of hemicellulose, cellulose and lignin was determined to be higher in the transgenic plants than that in the control plants. It also showed darker staining in the culms of the transgenic plants with phloroglucinol staining, compared to the control plants. Furthermore, the relative expression level of a few lignin- and cellulose-related genes was significantly higher in the TLs than that in the CLs.ConclusionsThe overall results indicated that NAC15 gene is highly expressed in the xylem of poplar and plays an important role in wood formation in transgenic tobacco, which provides a foundation for the identification of wood-associated downstream genes and has significant implication in tree biology and biotechnology.
Aim2Be an mHealth intervention for children with overweight and obesity: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Masse Louise C , Vlaar Janae , Macdonald Janice , Bradbury Jennifer , Warshawski Tom , Buckler E Jean , Hamilton Jill , Ho Josephine , Buchholz Annick , Morrison Katherine , Ball Geoff DC
Published: September 2019

Background The prevalence of overweight and obesity remains high in Canada, and the current standard for the treatment of childhood obesity is in-person family-based multidisciplinary interventions that target lifestyle behaviours (e.g. diet, physical activity, and sedentary behaviours). These programs are costly to operate, have limited success, and report recruitment and retention challenges. With recent advances in technology, mobile health or mHealth has presented as a viable alternative to in-person interventions for behavior change, especially with teens.Purpose The primary aim of this study is to test the efficacy of Aim2Be, a gamified app based on behavior change theory with health coaching at improving weight outcomes (i.e., decrease in zBMI) and lifestyle behaviours (i.e. improve dietary quality, increase fruit and vegetable intake, reduce sugar-sweetened beverage intake, increase physical activity, and reduce screen time) among 10-17 year old children with overweight or obesity versus their peers randomized into a waitlist control condition. The secondary aims of this study are to: 1) test whether supplementing the Aim2Be program with health coaching increases adherence; and 2) examine the mediators and moderators of adherence to the Aim2Be intervention.Methods We will employ a randomized controlled trial design and recruit 200 child and parent dyads to participate in the study (2019-2020). Participants will be recruited from Canadian pediatric weight management clinics, and through online advertisements. Child participants must be between the ages of 10-17 years, have overweight or obesity, be able to read English at a grade 5 level, and have a mobile phone or home computer with internet access. Following baseline data collection, participants will be randomized into intervention and waitlist control groups. Intervention participants will receive access to Aim2Be, with access to health coaching. Following 3-month data collection, the control group will gain access to Aim2Be; with no access to health coaching. Participants will control their frequency and duration of app usage to promote autonomy.Discussion Findings from this study will determine the efficacy of using Aim2Be in improving child weight outcomes and lifestyle behaviours and guide future mHealth interventions for pediatric weight management.
Serum miR-375 levels are closely related to disease progression from HBV infection to HBV-related hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Weilu , Fu Ting , Guo Zhenjun , Zhang Ye , Zhang Lei , Su Haixia , Long Yong , Ji Zhaohua , Yan Yongping , Shao Zhongjun
Published: September 2019

Background: There is an urgent need to identify ideal serological biomarkers that not only are closely related to disease progression from hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection to Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) but also have high specificity and sensitivity. We conducted this study to determine whether miR-375 has a potential value in the early prediction of the progression of HBV-related HCC (HBV-HCC).
Methods: A total of 177 participants were enrolled. Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was used to evaluate the predictive capability of selected miR-375 for HBV-HCC. We upregulated miR-375 expression in HepG2, HepG2.2.15 and HepAD38 cells to determine its effect on cellular proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro using CCK-8 and transwell assays.
Results: Serum miR-375 levels decreased in order from healthy controls to CHB without cirrhosis, followed by cirrhosis, and finally, HBV-HCC patients. MiR-375 levels were significantly lower in HBeAg- and HBV DNA-positive patients than negative (P<0.05), and significantly lower in patients with elevated alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and carcino-embryonic antigen (CEA) than normal levels (P<0.05). MiR-375 might be a biomarker for HBV-HCC, with a high area under the curve (AUC) of 0.838 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.780~0.897; sensitivity: 73.9%; specificity: 93.0%). The AUC (0.768 vs 0.584) and sensitivity (93.8% vs 75.0%) for miR-375 were higher than those for AFP. The overexpression of miR-375 noticeably inhibited proliferation, migration and invasion in HepG2, HepG2.2.15 and HepAD38, especially in HepG2.2.15 and HepAD38, which are stably infected with HBV.
Conclusions: Serum miR-375 levels are closely related to disease progression from HBV infection to HBV-HCC.
Keywords: Hepatitis B virus, hepatocellular carcinoma, microRNA-375, clinical significance, disease progression
Distribution of cervical lesions in high-risk HPV (hr-HPV) positive women with ASC-US: A retrospective single-center study in China
Authors: Wang Zhiling , Gu Ying , Wang Hui , Chen Junyu , Zheng Yawen , Jia Lin , Cui Baoxia , Yang Xingsheng
Published: September 2019

Objective To investigate distributions of cervical lesions and factors associated with the severity of the cervical lesions in high-risk HPV (hr-HPV) positive women with ASC-US cytology.Methods Clinical information of 250,000 women who underwent HPV and cytological test was collected from January 2012 to January 2019. The association between the severity of the cervical lesions and hr-HPV genotypes, hr-HPV viral load, and ages, were analyzed in hr-HPV-positive/ASC-US women.Results 3459 hr-HPV-positive/ASC-US women were enrolled in this study. Overall, 43.51% of women with ASC-US had normal histological results, 34.35% had high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL), and 1.30% had cervical cancer. The rate of HSIL or worse (HSIL+) in women with single HPV16 infection (63.09%) was the highest, followed by HPV33 (57.50%), HPV51 (36.11%), HPV58 (36.11%), HPV52 (28.28%), HPV18(26.37%), HPV66 (19.35%), HPV39 (18.92%), HPV53 (15.00%), and HPV56 (8.51%). Detection rate of HSIL+ in low, intermediate and high viral-load groups were 15.87% (n=30), 34.91% (n=74) and 40.68% (n=214) (Cochran-Armitage Trend test χ2=35.03, P<0.0001). Compared with the 51-60-year-old group (21.65%), the women in ≤30 (40.52%), 31-40 (39.67%), and 41-50 (34.22%) year-old groups had significantly higher risk of HSIL+. The women in ≤51-60 (2.68%) and >60 (3.41%) year-old groups were at increased risk for cervical cancer, compared with the ≤30-year-old group (0.61%).Conclusion ASC-US women with HPV 16/18/33/51/52/58 single infection and multiple infections, as well as high HPV viral loads, have high risk of HSIL+. Young women and older women have higher HSIL+ detection rates, while the latter has a higher cervical cancer detection rate.
Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites and Associated Factors among HIV Patients who had Follow up at Debre Markos Referral Hospital,Northwest Ethiopia,from 2015-2019.
Authors: Gietaneh Wodaje , Agegne Ayalnesh , Gedif Getnet
Published: September 2019

Objective To assess prevalence of intestinal parasite and associated factors among patients with human immune deficiency virus (HIV)/ acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) in Debre markos referral hospital, Amhara region, Ethiopia from 2015-2019RESULTS This study revealed that, out of 380 patients, the prevalence of intestinal parasites was found to be 24.2% with95%CI (18.9, 28.4). The most predominant parasite was both forms of Entamoeba histolytica 11.3% followed by G.lambilia 8.9%, Strongyloides sterocoralis 2.4%, but A.lumbricoid 0.8% and H.worm 0.8% were the least detected. ART status had significant association with prevalence of intestinal parasites (AOR =3.566, CI: 1.882, 6.758).
Socioeconomic status trajectories and health in China
Authors: Wei Ning , Zhou Lülin , Huang Wenhao
Published: September 2019

Background: After 40 years of reform and opening-up, China's social and economic conditions have undergone tremendous changes. For individuals who have experienced this historical period, the socioeconomic transition has brought different effects on their health status. This research examines the issue and provides evidence that government policies need to be improved. Methods: This study adopted data from the 2015 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). We set the education level, occupation, and family income during old age as the socioeconomic status for the early, middle, and late stages of life. Based on specific criteria, we classified the population as disadvantaged and advantaged, considering eight changing trajectories of socioeconomic status. We used multiple regression analysis to examine how the eight trajectories affect individuals' physical and mental health. Results: After controlling for social demography and health behavior variables, we found that compared with those in the advantaged group long term, people who were in the disadvantaged group suffered from a significantly negative impact of their socioeconomic status on physical and mental health. The health status of those who moved upward in socioeconomic status was substantially better than those who remained in the same status. Conclusion: This study confirms that early disadvantaged socioeconomic status has a long-term adverse effect on health. However, the negative impact can be mitigated by improving one’s occupation during middle age or family income during old age throughout China's socioeconomic transitions. Therefore, increasing upward social mobility at any stage helps eliminate health inequalities.
Ecological Assessment Of Performance Of Tree Species Used In Rehabilitating Degraded Areas Of Turkana County, Kenya
Authors: Owino Jesse O. , Kemboi Jackline J. , Mwanje Patrick M. , Ibuya Kennedy C. , Enyang’ Grace A. , Emanikor Francis E. , Wachira Julius M. , Kibor Faith J. , Looyan Bosco E. , Eremon Mark E. , Lomor Redhia L. , Long’or Milcah E. , Ejore Everlyne I. , Ateyo Sharline N. , Ekiru Wilson E. , Ekal Franco , Long’ura Michael E. , Lokato Festus E. , Lodung’ Christopher E. , Ngare Martino I. , Lomulen Zephaniah E. , Muturi Gabriel M
Published: September 2019

Background Dry regions are facing environmental challenges which have resulted in biodiversity and soil fertility loss. It is highly recognized that trees contribute a range of ecosystem services in urban environments. Rehabilitation using indigenous tree species in Kenya faces challenges as the country lacks guidelines on species site matching. The main objective of this study was to assess the ecological performance of rehabilitation efforts in two arid and semi-arid (ASAL) sites with varying number of tree species but not abundance in each of the sites. The study further determines the efficacy of rehabilitation by varying the number of species in degraded ASAL areas. This study employed ecological study technique using height, diameter at breast height (DBH), Soil pH and compared the performance of the tree species in the field against performance of similar species at their early growth stages in the nursery. Results The study results showed significantly higher soil pH in the nursery (p<0.05) than in both the degraded ASAL field sites. Similarly, the mean tree heights were significantly higher (p<0.05) in site with higher species diversity than site with lower species diversity. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) in the species DBH in the two sites. Conclusions Other than soil amendments for fertility improvement to increase rtrees perfomance, there is need to rehabilitate degraded areas with higher tree species diversity to achieve a resilient heterogeneous ecosystem. This study has shown how adding economic valuation of tree species would lead to awarenenss and importance on key native species.
GENERALIZED PARETO DISTRIBUTION BASED ON GENERALIZED ORDER STATISTICS AND ASSOCIATED INFERENCE
Authors: Malik Mansoor Rashid , Kumar Devendra
Published: September 2019

In this paper, we have considered the generalized Pareto distribution. Various structural properties of the distribution are derived including (quantile function, explicit expressions for moments, mean deviation, Bonferroni and Lorenz curves and Renyi entropy). We have provided simple explicit expressions and recurrence relations for single and product moments of generalized order statistics from the generalized Pareto distribution. The method of maximum likelihood is adopted for estimating the model parameters. For different parameter settings and sample sizes, the simulation studies are performed and compared to the performance of the generalized Pareto distribution.
Survey on Security for WSN based VANET using ECC
Authors: Kalkundri Ravi U , Khanai Rajashri , Praveen Kalkundri
Published: September 2019

With the increase in population, there is an increase in the number of car users drastically. Around the world, either millions of people die due to car accidents or they are severely injured by the accident. Most of the accidents occur due to lack of common information the drivers, as the lane change, applying sudden break, traffic congestion, etc, are the causes of accidents. Safety information such as speed limits, road conditions, traffic status, accidents, etc..., are used in some countries, but still more work is to be achieved. Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks (VANET) should be implemented and they should collect and distribute necessary safety information to other vehicles. VANET is a combination of Road Side Units (RSU’s) and On-Board Units (OBU’s). These RSU’s and OBU’s consist of various sensors, which are used to collect various data. The data collected by the sensors on the OBU’s on the vehicles can either be sent to another vehicle or can be displayed to the driver. Similarly, the sensor collects data at the RSU and sends the data to other RSU or depending on its nature and importance, the RSU may even be broadcasted to other vehicles. The main objective is to provide safety to the drivers, the passengers and to the information that is being transmitted between the nodes. However, in some scenarios, VANET’s may not guarantee timely detection of issues or any type of dangerous. We propose a solution by the integration of VANET and WSN to create a hybrid infrastructure with the in inexpensive wireless sensor nodes integrated on RSU’s along the roadside and on the OBU’s in the vehicle. As the new hybrid structure is proposed, there may be challenges that may occur. This article discussed these challenges and solutions to create an efficient and well-organized VANET-WSN Hybrid network.
Performance of the AquaCrop model in the climate risk analysis and yield prediction of cowpea (Vigna Unguiculatta L. Walp)
Authors: Nunes Hildo Giuseppe Garcia Caldas , Sousa Denis de Pinho , Moura Vandeilson Belfort , Ferreira Denilson Pontes , Pinto João Vitor de Nóvoa , Vieira Igor Cristian de Oliveira , Farias Vivian Dielly da Silva , Oliveira Evandro Chaves de , Souza Paulo Jorge de Oliveira Ponte de
Published: September 2019

The present work evaluated the Aquacrop model as a tool for climate risk analysis and yield prediction of cowpea, cultivated in a dystrophic yellow oxisol. The model was previously calibrated and validated for two harvests, in order to simulate the biomass and yield of cowpea, considering four applied water blades over its reproductive period. The good achieved results prove the model’s efficiency for this kind of simulation. After validation, the yield simulation of cowpea based on the meteorological data (2003 to 2014), soil and crop management of 12 harvests was performed. Two scenarios were given: the potential yield without water restrictions; and the actual yield, considering to pluvial availability conditions of the inserted series. The results suggested that the optimum sowing dates are between April 1st and 20th, in which there was a low yield loss (< 10 %) considering the potential yield, high probability (> 90 %) of achieving high yields (above 1300 kg ha-1) and a low risk of getting crop harvesting in the rainy period. After all, the model proved to be a feasible tool for predicting cowpea yield in the region and also over regions with similar characteristics.
Characterization of nitrate reductase activity (NR) in foliar and radicular tissues of Physalis angulata L.: diurnal variations and protocol optimization
Authors: Tanan Tamara Torres , Nascimento Marilza Neves do , Silva Alismário Leite da , Guimarães David Santana , Leite Romeu da Silva , Pereira Larissa de Souza , Neto Francisco dos Santos
Published: September 2019

Nitrate reductase (NR) is the first enzyme in the nitrogen assimilation pathway. The determination of its activity requires modifications for each plant species. The goal of this work was to evaluate the variation of NR activity throughout the day and the optimization of assay conditions in foliar and radicular tissues of Physalis angulata. The analysis was done in plants cultivated in a hydroponic system at two months of age. The NR activity was based on the in vivo assay method. Enzyme activity was observed on leaf and root, indicating two sites of nitrate assimilation with a higher activity in the daylight in leaf. The NR activity in leaf was increased after 4h of luminosity. In the root, we observed a high activity during most of the day, especially in periods of higher solar radiation and temperature. To obtain the highest activity of NR in both tissues we suggest 1% n-propanol, 50mM of KNO3- in pH=7 phosphate buffer for 75 min incubation in water bath.
In vitro organogenesis and growth of Ocimum basilicum ‘Genovese’ (basil) cultivated with growth regulators
Authors: Trettel Jéssica Rezende , Nascimento Andressa Bezerra , Barbosa Letícia Neris , Magalhães Hélida Mara
Published: September 2019

Genovese basil is a medicinal plant broadly used in medicine, perfumery, and cooking. In this study, the in vitro organogenesis and growth of Genovese basil seedlings are evaluated through the effect of growth regulators applied in different doses. Eight treatments were performed combining different concentrations of auxins and cytokinins, plus one control. At the end of the trial, growth characteristics of the seedlings were measured, and anatomical sections of the leaves and stems of the basil were prepared. The results demonstrated the need for cytokinins to increase the number and length of shoots and the length of roots. The treatment with 0.2 mgL-1 benzyl aminopurine (BAP) mgL-1 demonstrated the best result. The combined action of auxins and cytokinins increased fresh and dry masses of roots (0.3 mgL-1 BAP + 0.6 mgL-1naphthaleneacetic acid [NAA]). Partial changes in the leaf architecture as well as a reduction in the thickness of the palisade and lacunar parenchyma were observed, especially in treatment T8 (0.4 mgL-1 BAP+ 0.2 mgL-1NAA). In addition, all treatments with regulators presented adventitious roots in the stem, originating from inner-stem cells or vascular tissues. The formation of callus at the base of the plants and the occurrence of abnormal seedlings indicate that Genovese basil was responsive to the action of the growth regulators, although other factors regarding the medium could influence such responses. The growth regulators also function in the expression of genes linked to the stretching process (auxins) and cell proliferation (cytokinin).
Complete results for free and forced vibrations of inerter-added one-degree-of-freedom systems
Authors: Morales César A.
Published: September 2019

A comprehensive study on the influence of an inerter on the response of single-degree-of-freedom systems is presented; therefore, complete and thorough results for free and forced vibrations of linear SDOF systems with inerter are obtained. The free response results are for damped and undamped systems; moreover, the forced response solutions are for harmonic and arbitrary excitations. The classical problems of rotating unbalanced mass and support vibration isolation are solved.
Performance of constructed wetlands with different substrates for the treated effluent from municipal sewage plants
Authors: Shiwei Cao , Zhaoqian Jing , Peng Yuan , Yue Wang , Yin Wang
Published: September 2019

Constructed wetlands (CWs) are effective as an advanced treatment process for the treated effluent of municipal wastewater plants. An appropriate substrate, suitable macrophytes, and proper operation are crucial for pollutant abatement. In this research, three subsurface flow CWs with various substrates were investigated. Pollutants abatement efficiency under various operational schemes were analyzed. The results showed that the satisfactory hydraulic loading rate was 0.25 m3/(m2·d). When the C/N ratio of influent was adjusted to 5.87 by adding a carbon source, the denitrification and dephosphorization efficiency would be improved, with 7–8 mg/L for total nitrogen (TN) and 0.4 mg/L for total phosphorus (TP) in the effluent, which can achieve the Class 1A Discharge Standard for discharge to natural waterways in China. A greater depth of submersion for the substrate layer resulted in a more conducive environment for the abatement of nitrogen substances. However, a 40-cm depth of submersion in CWs results in better removal efficiency of TN and TP. A plastic ring substrate (PRS) contains biological enzyme promoter formula, which was conducive to nitrifying and denitrifying bacteria. The biofilm affinity and coordination with plants made the PRS more effective than the other two substrates, especially for NO3–-N and TN abatement efficiency.
Agroindustria y algodón en el valle de Mexicali. La Compañía Industrial Jabonera del Pacífico
Authors: Grijalva Aidé
Published: September 2019

El valle de Mexicali surgió a principios del siglo XX como parte de la expansión de la frontera agrícola del suroeste de Estados Unidos. No se puede explicar esto sin la participación de capitalistas estadunidenses que se adueñaron de la tierra y del agua del valle de Mexicali, estableciendo las bases de un desarrollo agroindustrial que giró alrededor del cultivo del algodón. Una empresa, subsidiaria de la Anderson, Clayton & Company, tuvo un papel relevante en ese proceso, logrando convertir al valle de Mexicali en uno de los principales productores de algodón de México.
Arreglos conyugales en Baja California y sus jóvenes adultos
Authors: Ojeda Norma
Published: September 2019

La formación de uniones libres o consensuales ha ido en aumento en México y su región norte no es una excepción. Información del Censo Mexicano de Población y Vivienda de 2010 y de la Encuesta Sobre la Salud Reproductiva de los Adolescentes en Baja California, 2006, indica que la elección de la unión libre como arreglo conyugal se refleja de manera clara entre los y las jóvenes bajacalifornianas adultas en general, pero particularmente entre aquellos y aquellas que residen en Tijuana y Rosarito. Asimismo, la formación de uniones libres entre los y las jóvenes del estado parece estar asociada al papel que tradicionalmente ha tenido la unión libre en el proceso de formación familiar, mediante el nacimiento de hijos. Esto parece indicar una continuidad en la importancia que han tenido las uniones libres o consensuales en el proceso de formación familiar en México, pero ahora en proporciones mayores entre las y los jóvenes de las nuevas generaciones.
Deep Learning in the Study of Protein-Related Interactions
Authors: Shi Cheng , Chen Jiaxing , Kang Xinyue , Zhao Guiling , Lao Xingzhen , Zheng Heng
Published: September 2019

:

Protein-related interaction prediction is critical to understanding life processes, biological
functions, and mechanisms of drug action. Experimental methods used to determine proteinrelated
interactions have always been costly and inefficient. In recent years, advances in biological
and medical technology have provided us with explosive biological and physiological data, and
deep learning-based algorithms have shown great promise in extracting features and learning patterns
from complex data. At present, deep learning in protein research has emerged. In this review,
we provide an introductory overview of the deep neural network theory and its unique properties.
Mainly focused on the application of this technology in protein-related interactions prediction over
the past five years, including protein-protein interactions prediction, protein-RNA\DNA, Protein–
drug interactions prediction, and others. Finally, we discuss some of the challenges that deep learning
currently faces.
The Disposal of Reactive Carbonyl Species through Carnosine Conjugation: What We Know Now
Authors: Gilardoni Ettore , Baron Giovanna , Altomare Alessandra , Carini Marina , Aldini Giancarlo , Regazzoni Luca
Published: September 2019

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Reactive Carbonyl Species are electrophiles generated by the oxidative cleavage of lipids and sugars. Such compounds have been described as important molecules for cellular signaling, whilst their accumulation has been found to be cytotoxic as they may trigger aberrant modifications of proteins (a process often referred to as carbonylation).

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A correlation between carbonylation of proteins and human disease progression has been shown in ageing, diabetes, obesity, chronic renal failure, neurodegeneration and cardiovascular disease. However, the fate of reactive carbonyl species is still far from being understood, especially concerning the mechanisms responsible for their disposal as well as the importance of this in disease progression.

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In this context, some data have been published on phase I and phase II deactivation of reactive carbonyl species. In the case of phase II mechanisms, the route involving glutathione conjugation and subsequent disposal of the adducts has been extensively studied both in vitro and in vivo for some of the more representative compounds, e.g. 4-hydroxynonenal.

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There is also emerging evidence of an involvement of carnosine as an endogenous alternative to glutathione for phase II conjugation. However, the fate of carnosine conjugates is still poorly investigated and, unlike glutathione, there is little evidence of the formation of carnosine adducts in vivo. The acquisition of such data could be of importance for the development of new drugs, since carnosine and its derivatives have been proposed as potential therapeutic agents for the mitigation of carbonylation associated with disease progression.

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Herein, we wish to review our current knowledge of the binding of reactive carbonyl species with carnosine together with the disposal of carnosine conjugates, emphasizing those aspects still requiring investigation such as conjugation reversibility and enzyme assisted catalysis of the reactions.
Tear Film Osmolarity, Ocular Surface Disease and Glaucoma: A Review
Authors: Fogagnolo Paolo , Torregrossa Giulia , Tranchina Laura , Ferreras Antonio , De Cillá Stefano , Labbé Antoine , Figus Michele , Ottobelli Laura , Rossetti Luca
Published: September 2019

Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness in the world, affecting more
than 60 million people globally. In order to reduce the progression of the disease, both
medical and surgical treatments are used. Frequent side effects of both treatments include a
range of modifications of the ocular surface grouped as the Ocular Surface Disease (OSD),
which include Dry Eye Disease (DED). DED and other OSD negatively impact on the success
of anti-glaucoma treatments and reduce the adherence to medical therapies. Tear film
osmolarity (TFO) is a relatively novel test which has become a hallmark of DED. The aim
of this paper was to review the association between OSD, DED and glaucoma in view of
published TFO data, and to discuss future fields of research and treatments on the topic of
glaucoma iatrogenic damage.
Virulence Factors in Candida species
Authors: Staniszewska Monika
Published: September 2019

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Fungal diseases are severe and have very high morbidity as well as up to 60% mortality for patients diagnosed with invasive fungal infection. In this review, in vitro and in vivo studies provided us with the insight into the role of Candida virulence factors that mediate their success as pathogens, such as: membrane and cell wall (CW) barriers, dimorphism, biofilm formation, signal transduction pathway, proteins related to stress tolerance, hydrolytic enzymes (e.g. proteases, lipases, haemolysins), and toxin production. The review characterized the virulence of clinically important C. albicans, C. parapsilosis, C. tropicalis, C. glabrata and C. krusei. Due to the white-opaque transition in the mating-type locus MTL-homozygous cells, C. albicans demonstrates an advantage over other less related species of Candida as a human commensal and pathogen. It was reviewed that Candida ergosterol biosynthesis genes play a role in cellular stress and are essential for Candida pathogenesis both in invasive and superficial infections. Hydrolases associated with CW are involved in the host-pathogen interactions. Adhesins are crucial in colonization and biofilm formation, an important virulence factor for candidiasis. Calcineurin is involved in membrane and CW stress as well as virulence. The hyphae-specific toxin, named candidalysin, invades mucosal cells facilitating fungal invasion into deeper tissues. Expression of this protein promotes resistance to neutrophil killing in candidiasis. The virulence factors provide immunostimulatory factors, activating dendric cells and promoting T cell infiltration and activation. Targeting virulence factors, can reduce the risk of resistance development in Candida infections.
Advances in Dopamine D1 Receptor Ligands for Neurotherapeutics
Authors: Felsing Daniel E. , Jain Manish K. , Allen John A.
Published: September 2019

The dopamine D1 receptor (D1R) is essential for neurotransmission in various brain pathways where it modulates key functions including voluntary movement, memory, attention and reward. Not surprisingly, the D1R has been validated as a promising drug target for over 40 years and selective activation of this receptor may provide novel neurotherapeutics for neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders. Several pharmacokinetic challenges with previously identified small molecule D1R agonists have been recently overcome with the discovery and advancement of new ligands, including drug-like non-catechol D1R agonists and positive allosteric modulators. From this, several novel molecules and mechanisms have recently entered clinical studies. Here we review the major classes of D1R selective ligands including antagonists, orthosteric agonists, non-catechol biased agonists and positive allosteric modulators, highlighting their structure-activity relationships and medicinal chemistry. Recent chemistry breakthroughs and innovative approaches to selectively target and activate the D1R also hold promise for creating pharmacotherapy for several neurological diseases.
Synthesis of Novel Macromolecular Coupling Agent and its Application in Nano-Copper Lubricating Oil
Authors: Luo Juhua , Yu Ning , Cheng Mingliang , Yao Wei , Xu Jianguang
Published: September 2019

Background:

Due to temperature-insensitive and limited tribochemical reaction,
nanolubricants have received tremendous focus over the past few years. The addition of nanoparticles
in lubricant has been demonstrated to reduce the coefficient of friction and increase the loadcarrying
capability of lubricant in coupled surfaces. Much attention has been paid to copper nanoparticles
for their perfect friction reduction and wear resistance performances. However, it is difficult to
maintain stable dispersion in lubricant oil for the aggregation of copper nanoparticles.

Methods:

A novel macromolecular coupling agent copolymer, styrene-butyl methacrylate-3-
methoxyacryloyl-propyltrimethoxyl silicon was successfully prepared by free radical polymerization.
The structure and composition of the copolymer were characterized through X-ray diffractometer,
Fourier-transform infrared spectrometer, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometer. The loadcarrying
capacities and anti-wear properties of the base oil were evaluated on four-ball tester.

Results:

The average size of the nano-Cu particle was around 40 nm. The modifier, St-MMA-(KH-
570) macromolecular copolymer could improve the dispersibility of nano-Cu particles. The introduction
of the nano-Cu particles helped to improve the tribological properties of base oil.

Conclusion:

The macromolecular coupling agent was synthesized by free radical solution polymerization
method. The modifier was able to bond to the nano-Cu via chemical interaction. The modified
Cu nanoparticles as the additive were able to greatly improve the anti-wear and extreme pressure
properties of base oil. The optimum concentration of modified Cu nanoparticles in base oil was 0.25
wt.%.
Development and Characterization of Solid Dispersion System for Enhancing the Solubility and Dissolution Rate of Dietary Capsaicin
Authors: Bera Sumit , Maity Subhasis , Ghosh Balaram , Ghosh Animesh , Giri Tapan K.
Published: September 2019

Background:

Capsaicin is a pungent component of chili peppers that suppresses the growth of various cancer cell lines including breast cancer. However, it shows extremely low oral bioavailability due to its poor water solubility.

Objective:

The objective of the present work was to improve the solubility and dissolution rate of capsaicin.

Methods:

Solid dispersions were prepared by the solvent evaporation method using different molar ratios of capsaicin and urea (1:1, 1:2, and 1:3). Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) study were used to characterize the solid dispersion. Solid dispersions were evaluated for solubility, dissolution rate and in vitro cytotoxicity in breast cancer cell lines.

Results:

XRD and DSC studies exhibited the reduced crystallinity of a drug in solid dispersion. Phase solubility study shows that the drug solubility increased by increasing carrier concentration. In vitro release study of the solid dispersion showed the faster dissolution of a drug with increasing carrier concentration. Solid dispersion formulation effectively inhibited the growth of MCF-7 human breast cancer and MDA-MB-231 triple negative human breast cancer cells in an MTT assay that measures metabolic activity, but only slightly decreased cell viability when compared to capsaicin alone.

Conclusion:

The present study demonstrated that solid dispersion of capsaicin in PEG 6000 overcomes the problems related to the poor aqueous solubility of this drug and improving its dissolution rate.
Prolonged Adrenal Insufficiency After the Discontinuation of Mitotane Therapy
Authors: Muratori Leonardo , Pia Anna , Reimondo Giuseppe , Pisano Chiara , La Salvia Anna , Puglisi Soraya , Scagliotti Giorgio Vittorio , Sperone Paola
Published: September 2019

Introduction::

Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) is a rare neoplasm characterized by a high
risk of recurrence after radical resection. The role of adjuvant systemic therapy in radically resected
patients is unclear. Mitotane, a steroidogenesis inhibitor, is the only drug approved for the systemic
treatment of advanced ACC. In 2007, a retrospective case-control study provided the evidence that
mitotane, administered for two years after successful surgery, could prolong recurrence-free survival.
Adrenal insufficiency (AI), which occurs in almost all patients during the first 12 months of treatment,
is an expected side effect of mitotane and requires steroid replacement therapy. Due to its long halflife,
mitotane-induced AI persists several months after treatment discontinuation and is managed by
cautious tapering of glucocorticoid replacement therapy.

Results::

We report a case of symptomatic AI diagnosed after a severe allergic reaction occurring three
years after the discontinuation of adjuvant mitotane therapy.

Conclusions::

The case suggests that mitotane-induced AI should be monitored for a long time to asses
full recovery of adrenal function, in order to prevent adrenal crises.