bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis on risk factors for neck shortening after internal fixation for Pauwels II femoral neck fracture in young patients
Authors: Zhao Fulong , Guo Lijuan , wang xuefei , Zhang Yakui
Published: January 2021

Background: Femoral neck shortening can occur in young patients receiving internal fixation for Pauwels type II femoral neck fracture. The risk factors for neck shortening, which can affect hip function, are not clear. This study aimed to retrospectively identify risk factors for neck shortening after internal fixation with parallel partially threaded cannulated cancellous screws (FPTCS) for Pauwels type II femoral neck fracture in relatively young patients. Methods: Clinical data from 122 cases with Pauwels type II femoral neck fracture from February 2014 to February 2019 were reviewed and analyzed, and causes of neck shortening were statistically analyzed. And the chi-squared test or Fisher’s exact test was used to compare indicators. Multivariate analysis was conducted with non-conditional logistic regression analysis. Results: Statistically significant differences were found in age, sex, BMD, BMI, fracture type, posterior medial cortex comminution, and reduction quality between patients with femoral neck shortening and those without femoral neck shortening. Logistic regression analysis showed that fracture type, posterior medial cortex comminution, and reduction quality were the main risk factors for neck shortening. Conclusion：Fracture type, posterior medial cortex comminution, and reduction quality can be used as important reference indexes to predict the possibility of neck shortening after internal fixation with FPTCS for Pauwels type II femoral neck fracture in young patients.BMD and BMI may be also risk factors.
Myopia-26, the female-limited form of early-onset high myopia, occurring in a European family
Authors: Széll Noémi , Feher Tamas , Maróti Zoltán , Kalmár Tibor , Latinovics Dóra , Nagy István , Orosz Zsuzsanna Z. , Janáky Márta , Facskó Andrea , Sohajda Zoltán
Published: January 2021

Background: Female-limited early-onset high myopia, also called Myopia-26 is a rare monogenic disorder characterized by severe short sightedness starting in early childhood and progressing to blindness potentially by the middle ages. Despite the X-linked locus of the mutated ARR3 gene, the disease paradoxically affects females only, with males being asymptomatic carriers. Previously, this disease has only been observed in Asian families and has not gone through detailed investigation concerning collateral symptoms or pathogenesis Results: We found a large Hungarian family displaying female-limited early-onset high myopia. Whole exome sequencing of two individuals identified a novel nonsense mutation (c.214C>T, p.Arg72*) in the ARR3 gene. We carried out basic ophthalmological testing for 18 family members, as well as detailed ophthalmological examination (intraocular pressure, axial length, fundus appearance, optical coherence tomography, visual field- testing) as well as colour vision- and electrophysiology tests (standard and multifocal electroretinography, pattern electroretinography and visual evoked potentials) for eight individuals. Ophthalmological examinations did not reveal any signs of cone dystrophy as opposed to animal models. Electrophysiology and colour vision tests similarly did not evidence a general cone system alteration, rather a central macular dysfunction affecting both the inner and outer (postreceptoral and receptoral) retinal structures in all patients with ARR3 mutation. Conclusions: This is the first description of a Caucasian family displaying Myopia-26. We present two hypotheses that could potentially explain the pathomechanism of this disease.
Physical mapping of repetitive oligonucleotides facilitates the establishment of a genome map-based karyotype to identify chromosomal variations in peanut
Authors: Fu Liuyang , Wang Qian , Li Lina , Lang Tao , Guo Junjia , Wang Siyu , Sun Ziqi , Han Suoyi , Huang Bingyan , Dong Wenzhao , Zhang Xinyou , Du Pei
Published: January 2021

Background: Chromosomal variants play important roles in crop breeding and genetic research. The development of single-stranded oligonucleotide (oligo) probes simplifies the process of fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and facilitates chromosomal identification in many species. Genome sequencing provides rich resources for the development of oligo probes. However, little progress has been made in peanut due to the lack of efficient chromosomal markers. Until now, the identification of chromosomal variants in peanut has remained a challenge.Results: A total of 114 new oligo probes were developed based on the genome-wide tandem repeats (TRs) identified from the reference sequences of the peanut variety Tifrunner (AABB, 2n = 4x = 40) and the diploid species Arachis ipaensis (BB, 2n = 2x = 20). These oligos were classified into 28 types based on their positions and overlapping signals in chromosomes. For each type, a representative oligo was selected and modified with green fluorescein 6-carboxyfluorescein (FAM) or red fluorescein 6-carboxytetramethylrhodamine (TAMRA). Two cocktails, Multiplex #3 and Multiplex #4, were developed by pooling the fluorophore conjugated probes. Multiplex #3 included FAM-modified oligo TIF-439, oligo TIF-185-1, oligo TIF-134-3, and oligo TIF-165. Multiplex #4 included TAMRA-modified oligo Ipa-1162, oligo Ipa-1137, oligo DP-1, and oligo DP-5. Each cocktail enabled the establishment of a genome map-based karyotype after sequential FISH/genomic in situ hybridization (GISH) and in silico mapping. Furthermore, we identified 14 chromosomal variants of peanut induced by radiation exposure. A total of 28 representative probes were further chromosomally mapped onto the new karyotype. Among the probes, eight were mapped in the secondary constrictions, intercalary, and terminal regions; four were B genome-specific; one was chromosome-specific; and the remaining 15 were extensively mapped in the pericentric regions of chromosomes.Conclusions: The development of new oligo probes provides an effective set of tools which can be used to distinguish the various chromosomes of the peanut. Physical mapping by FISH reveals the genomic organization of repetitive oligos in peanut chromosomes. A genome map-based karyotype was established and used for the identification of chromosome variations in peanut following comparisons with their reference sequence positions.
Association of ApoE Gene Polymorphisms With Cardio-cerebrovascular Complications in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in the Chinese Population
Authors: Kong Lulu , Gao Yinting , Li Wei , Shi Bimin
Published: January 2021

Objective To analyze and study the relationship between ApoE gene polymorphism and cardio-cerebrovascular complications in type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM) in the Chinese Population.Methods From January 2018 to January 2019, 1140 patients with type 2 diabetes admitted to the Department of Endocrinology, the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University were selected as the case group, including 590 patients with coronary heart disease(CHD) and 550 patients with cerebral infarction(CI), and 1198 patients with type 2 diabetes without complications during the same period were selected as the control group. General baseline data of the two groups were collected, such as gender, age, course of disease, lipid profile, HbA1C, BMI, blood pressure, carotid plaque and complications. ApoE genotypes were identified in all participants who participated in the study.Results This study showed that the ApoE genotypes in both the case group and the control group had the highest frequency of E3/E3. The E3/E4 genotype frequency and ε4 allele frequency in the case group were higher than those in the control group (P<0.05). In the case group, the frequency of E2/E3 and E3/E4 genotypes of CI group was lower than that of CHD group, while the frequency of E3/E3 genotype was higher than that of CHD group. TC and LDL-c levels were significantly increased in patients with ApoE E3/E4 genotype(P<0.05). ApoE genotype E3/E4 was more associated with carotid plaque than E2/E3. ApoE genotype and ApoE allele were positively correlated with TC and LDL-c levels (P<0.05).Logistic regression results show that carotid plaque, diabetes duration and ApoE E3/E4 genotype are independent risk factors of cardio-cerebrovascular complications of T2DM(P< 0.05). ApoE E3/E4 genotype and allele ε4 may be risk factors for T2DM patients with cardio-cerebrovascular complications.Conclusion ApoE E3/E4 genotypes and T2DM patients carrying ε4 allele have a higher risk of cardio-cerebrovascular complications than other genotypes. ApoE ε2 allele has a certain protective effect , however ε4 allele may be a risk factor for cardio-cerebrovascular complications in T2DM patients, and its mechanism may be related to the effect of ApoE gene on lipid metabolism.
Efficacy of definite concurrent chemoradiotherapy for patients with limited-disease small-cell lung cancer: a retrospective, nationwide, population-based cohort study
Authors: Kim Seoree , Hong Ji Hyung , Sung Soo-Yoon , Kim Yeo Hyung , Chun Sang Hoon , Lee Hyun Woo , Lee Jung Soo , Ko Yoon Ho
Published: January 2021

Background: Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) is a highly proliferative, rapidly growing tumor with a poor prognosis, even in cases of limited disease (LD). Timely and accurate high-intensity therapy is necessary. For concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT), etoposide/platinum (EP)-based regimens are recommended, although irinotecan/platinum (IP)-based regimens are also effective with radiotherapy. This large-scale, retrospective, nationwide cohort study aimed to analyze the efficacy of CCRT in patients with LD-SCLC.Methods: Population data registered between January 2008 and December 2018 was extracted from the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service of Korea database. Survival outcomes of 4,446 LD-SCLC patients who received CCRT were analyzed.Results: Patients who received EP-CCRT (n = 4,187) showed better time to subsequent therapy (TFST : 11.2 months) and overall survival (OS: 22.2 months) than those who received IP-CCRT (n = 259; TFST: 9.6 months, P = 0.0477; OS: 16.4 months, P <0.0001). When CCRT failed, dual-agent chemotherapy (n = 925; OS: 9.1 months) provided a better survival benefit than single-agent chemotherapy (n = 815; OS: 7.5 months). IP-based chemotherapy resulted in better OS (9.6 months) than EP-based chemotherapy (7.1 months, P = 0.017) in platinum-resistant relapsed patients; the opposite was observed for platinum-sensitive relapsed patients (OS: EP, 17.2 months; IP, 6.6 months; P <0.0001). Poisson regression analysis demonstrated that age, EP-CCRT, and hypercholesterolemia retained significant associations with OS after adjustment for all variables.Conclusion: In the Korean population, the effects of EP-CCRT on OS and TFST are significantly more favorable than those of IP-CCRT.
Gene co-expression analysis of tomato seed maturation reveals tissue-specific regulatory networks and hubs associated with the acquisition of desiccation tolerance and seed vigour
Authors: Bizouerne Elise , Buitink Julia , Ly-Vu Benoît , Ly-Vu Joseph , Esteban Eddi , Pasha Asher , Provart Nicholas , Verdier Jérôme , Leprince Olivier
Published: January 2021

Background During maturation seeds acquire several physiological traits to enable them to survive drying and disseminate the species. Few studies have addressed the regulatory networks controlling acquisition of these traits at the tissue level particularly in endospermic seeds such as tomato, which matures in a fully hydrated environment and does not undergo maturation drying. Using temporal RNA-seq analyses of the different seed tissues during maturation, gene network and trait-based correlations were used to explore the transcriptome signatures associated with desiccation tolerance, longevity, germination under water stress and dormancy.Results During maturation, 15,173 differentially expressed genes were detected, forming a gene network representing 21 expression modules, with 3 being specific to seed coat and embryo and 5 to the endosperm. A gene-trait significance measure identified a common gene module between endosperm and embryo associated with desiccation tolerance and conserved with non-endospermic seeds. In addition to genes involved in protection such LEA and HSP and ABA response, the module included antioxidant and repair genes. Dormancy was released concomitantly with the increase in longevity throughout fruit ripening until 14 days after the red fruit stage. This was paralleled by an increase in SlDOG1-2 and PROCERA transcripts. The progressive increase in seed vigour was captured by three gene modules, one in common between embryo and endosperm and two tissue-specific. The common module was enriched with genes associated with mRNA processing in chloroplast and mitochondria (including penta- and tetratricopeptide repeat-containing proteins) and post-transcriptional regulation, as well several flowering genes. The embryo-specific module contained homologues of ABI4 and CHOTTO1 as hub genes associated with seed vigour, whereas the endosperm-specific module revealed a diverse set of processes that were related to genome stability, defence against pathogens and ABA/GA response genes. Conclusion The spatio-temporal co-expression atlas of tomato seed maturation will serve as a valuable resource for the in-depth understanding of the dynamics of gene expression associated with the acquisition of seed vigour at the tissue level.
Longitudinal analysis of cell-free mutated KRAS and CA 19-9 predicts survival following curative resection of pancreatic cancer
Authors: Hussung Saskia , Akhoundova Dilara , Hipp Julian , Follo Marie , Klar Rhena , Philipp Ulrike , Scherer Florian , von Bubnoff Nikolas , Duyster Justus , Börries Melanie , Wittel Uwe , Fritsch Ralph
Published: January 2021

Background: Novel biomarkers and molecular monitoring tools hold potential to improve outcome for patients following resection of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). We hypothesized that the combined longitudinal analysis of mutated cell-free plasma KRAS (cfKRASmut) and CA 19-9 during adjuvant treatment and follow-up might more accurately predict disease course than hitherto available parameters. Methods: Between 07/2015 and 10/2018, we collected 134 plasma samples from 25 patients after R0/R1-resection of PDAC during adjuvant chemotherapy and post-treatment surveillance at our institution. Highly sensitive discriminatory multi-target ddPCR assays were employed to screen plasma samples for cfKRASmut. cfKRASmut and CA 19-9 dynamics were correlated with recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS). Patients were followed-up until 01/2020.Results: Out of 25 enrolled patients, 76% had undergone R0 resection and 48% of resected PDACs were pN0. 17/25 (68%) of patients underwent adjuvant chemotherapy. Median follow-up was 22.0 months, with 19 out of 25 (76%) patients relapsing during study period. Median RFS was 10.0 months, median OS was 22.0 months. Out of clinicopathologic variables, only postoperative CA 19-9 levels and administration of adjuvant chemotherapy correlated with survival endpoints. cfKRASmut. was detected in 12/25 (48%) of patients, and detection of high levels inversely correlated with survival endpoint. Integration of cfKRASmut and CA 19-9 levels outperformed either individual marker. cfKRASmut outperformed CA 19-9 as dynamic marker since increase during adjuvant chemotherapy and follow-up was highly predictive of early relapse and poor OS. Conclusions: Integrated analysis of cfKRASmut and CA 19-9 levels is a promising approach for molecular monitoring of patients following resection of PDAC. Larger prospective studies are needed to further develop this approach and dissect each marker`s specific potential.
Excretable, ultrasmall hexagonal NaGdF4:Yb50% Nanoparticles for bimodal imaging and radiosensitization
Authors: Damasco Jossana Abcede , Ohulchanskyy Tymish Y , Mahajan Supriya D , Chen Guanying , Singh Ajay , Kutscher Hilliard , Huang Haoyuan , Turowski Steven , Spernyak Joseph A , Singh Anurag , Lovell Jonathan F , Seshadri Mukund , Prasad Paras
Published: January 2021

Background: In this study, we report on the synthesis, imaging and radiosensitizing properties of ultrasmall β-NaGdF4:Yb50% nanoparticles as a multifunctional theranostic platform. The synthesized nanoparticles act as potent bimodal contrast agents with superior imaging properties compared to existing agents used for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT). Clonogenic assays demonstrated that these nanoparticles can act as effective radiosensitizers, provided the nanoparticles are taken up intracellularly.Results: Our ultrasmall β-NaGdF4:Yb50% nanoparticles demonstrate improvement in T1-weighted contrast over the standard clinical MR imaging agent Gd-DTPA and similar CT signal enhancement capabilities as commercial agent iohexol. A 2 Gy dose of X-ray induced ~20% decrease in colony survival when C6 rat glial cells were incubated with non-targeted nanoparticles (NaGdF4:Yb50%), whereas the same X-ray dose resulted in a ~60% decrease in colony survival with targeted nanoparticles conjugated to folic acid (NaGdF4:Yb50%-FA). Intravenous administration of nanoparticles resulted in clearance through urine and feces within a short duration, based on the ex vivo analysis of Gd3+ ions via ICP-MS.Conclusion: These biocompatible and in vivo clearable ultra-small NaGdF4:Yb50% are promising candidates for further evaluation in image-guided radiotherapy applications.
Determinants of low breastfeeding self-efficacy amongst mothers of children aged less than six months old: Results from the BADUTA Study in East Java, Indonesia 
Authors: Titaley Christiana R , Dibley Michael , Ariawan Iwan , Mu'asyaroh Anifatun , Alam Ashraful , Damayanti Rita , Tran Do Thanh , Ferguson Elaine , Htet Min Kyaw , Li Mu , Sutrisna Aang , Fahmida Umi
Published: January 2021

Background Despite the increasing rate of exclusive breastfeeding in Indonesia, there is still a need for supportive interventions. The breastfeeding self-efficacy of mothers is a key factor positively associated with optimum breastfeeding practices. Our analysis aims to assess the determinants of low breastfeeding self-efficacy amongst a sample of women with children aged under six months in Malang and Sidoarjo Districts, East Java, Indonesia. Methods We used information from 1210 mothers of children aged <6 months recruited in the BADUTA study conducted in 2015-2016 in Malang and Sidoarjo Districts. The outcome variable in this analysis was mothers’ self-efficacy for breastfeeding using the 14 statements in the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy-Short Form. We evaluated 17 potential predictors of breastfeeding self-efficacy, organized into six sub-groups of variables: (1) context/demographic; (2) household factors; (3) maternal characteristics; (4) child characteristics; (5) breastfeeding practices; and (6) antenatal and delivery care. Logistic regression analyses were employed to examine factors associated with mothers’ self-efficacy with breastfeeding. Results More than half of the women in this study had a low level of self-efficacy. One of the factors associated with low breastfeeding self-efficacy found in this study was mothers' problems related to breastfeeding. Mothers who had problems with breastfeeding not related to illness (aOR=3.27, 95%CI: 2.45, 4.36) or problems related to both illness and non-illness conditions (aOR=3.57, 95%CI: 1.37, 9.33) had higher odds of low breastfeeding self-efficacy than those who did not have any problems. Compared to mothers who completed university education, there was a significantly higher odds of low breastfeeding self-efficacy in mothers who completed primary school or lower (aOR=1.88, 95%CI: 1.16, 3.05); completed junior high school (aOR=2.27; 95%CI: 1.42, 3.63); and completed senior high school (aOR=1.94, 95%CI: 1.29, 2.91). Other significant predictors of low breastfeeding self-efficacy were mothers not exposed to any breastfeeding interventions (aOR=1.87, 95%CI: 1.09, 3.22); working outside the house (aOR=1.69, 95%CI: 1.23, 2.32); not obtaining any advice on breastfeeding (aOR=1.40, 95%CI: 1.08, 1.82); with low knowledge of breastfeeding (aOR=1.38, 95%CI: 1.03, 1.84); and delivered by Caesarean section (aOR=1.34, 95%CI: 1.05, 1.70). Conclusions Multipronged breastfeeding education programs and support are required to improve women’s self-efficacy with breastfeeding. Improved access to breastfeeding counselors, active support for mothers following cesarean delivery, and increased supporting facilities at workplaces are essential to improve self-efficacy with breastfeeding.
Dynamic history of the inner core constrained by seismic anisotropy
Authors: Frost Daniel , Lasbleis Marine , Chandler Brian , Romanowicz Barbara
Published: January 2021

Progressive crystallisation of Earth's inner core over geological times drives convection in the outer core and the generation of the Earth’s magnetic field. Resolving the rate and pattern of inner core growth is thus crucial to understanding the evolution of the geodynamo. The growth history of Earth’s inner core is likely recorded in the distribution and strength of seismic anisotropy arising from deformation texturing constrained by boundary conditions at the inner-core solid-fluid boundary. Travel times of seismic body waves indicate that seismic anisotropy increases with depth. Here we find that the strongest anisotropy is offset from Earth's rotation axis. Using geodynamic growth models and mineral physics calculations, we simulate the development of inner core anisotropy in a self-consistent manner. We show for the first time that an inner core model composed of hexagonally close-packed iron-nickel alloy, deformed by a combination of preferential equatorial growth and slow translation can match the seismic observations without requiring the introduction of hemispheres with sharp boundaries. We find a model of the inner core growth history compatible with external constraints from outer core dynamics, supporting arguments for a relatively young inner core (~0.5-1.5 Ga) and a viscosity >1018 Pa-s.
The Effects of One-to-One Laptop Program on Help-Seeking and Homework Completion
Authors: Bisaillon Jérémie , Villeneuve Stéphane , Stockless Alain
Published: January 2021

Many students prefer to abandon rather than seek help during their homework. However, seeking support is recognized as an effective learning strategy to complete assignments. Technology-supported classroom could have a beneficial impact on this strategy and, therefore, on homework completion. This article aims to compare students from a one-to-one laptop program to others studying in a traditional classroom environment on their 1) help-seeking strategies and 2) homework completion frequency. Quantitative analyses tend to confirm the initial hypothesis. However, they reveal the necessity to sensitize students regarding the appropriate use of technological tools to ensure their beneficial impact on learning.
Book Review of Assessment Strategies for Online Learning: Engagement and Authenticity, 2018
Authors: Dabrowski Michael
Published: January 2021

Book Review by Michael Dabrowski
Assessment strategies for online learning: Engagement and Authenticity, 2018. By Dianne Conrad and Jason Openo, Athabasca University Press 220 pages. doi:10.15215/aupress/9781771992329.01
AVALIAÇÃO FINANCEIRA DE EFICIÊNCIA RELATIVA: UMA ANÁLISE SOB A PERSPECTIVA DA TEORIA DO FEDERALISMO FISCAL DE HOSPITAIS UNIVERSITÁRIOS FEDERAIS DO BRASIL
Authors: Martini Bruno Peserico , Gomes de Gomes Débora , Rauter Menezes Gabrielito
Published: January 2021

Considerando o complexo ambiente dos Hospitais Universitários Federais (HUFs) e a descentralização dos serviços públicos, delimitou-se o objetivo deste estudo em analisar os HUFs brasileiros quanto à eficiência financeira relativa, por porte, região geográfica, especialidade, contrato com a Ebserh e tipo de gestão (ambulatorial e hospitalar), tendo por pressuposto de base a perspectiva do Federalismo Fiscal. A amostra do estudo foi censitária, abrangendo 50 HUFs durante o quinquênio de 2013 a 2017. O estudo possui abordagem quantitativa, utilizando-se o Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) e análise de variâncias (ANOVA) para a análise dos dados. Os resultados evidenciaram que as quatro hipóteses relacionadas a eficiência (variável dependente) foram aceitas, o que permitiu corroborar algumas assertivas do arcabouço teórico. Especificamente, aceita-se que: HUFs de menor porte são tão eficientes quanto de maior porte; HUFs de especialidade são tão eficientes quanto os gerais; HUFs com contrato de gestão com a Ebserh são tão eficientes quanto os que não possuem e; HUFs que possuem gestão plena municipal com o SUS são tão eficientes quanto os HUFs que possuem gestão estadual ou dupla.
CRIMINALIDADE NO BRASIL: UM PROBLEMA DE SAÚDE PÚBLICA
Authors: Goncalves Filho Cid , Araújo Pena Stanley , Quiroga Souki Gustavo , Ricardo Cezar A. Mello José
Published: January 2021

A decisão de aderir a um comportamento criminoso é pessoal. Entretanto, para cada criminoso que é preso podem surgir outros aderindo ao mesmo comportamento desviante caso os padrões de raciocínio cognitivo se repitam. Em outras palavras, para entendermos o crime precisamos entender as pessoas, seus padrões cognitivos (raciocínios), personalidade e motivos de adesão ao crime. Neste sentido, foi realizado um questionário com 413 respondentes através de um levantamento descritivo. Os dados foram tratados usando métodos que visaram primeiramente alinhar os pressupostos estatísticos, para em sequência explorar as dimensões das causas, cognições e consequências do crime. Os resultados explicam 59% das causas de desvios e crimes leves e 46% de crimes mais graves, com análise através de equações estruturais. Os resultados demonstram padrões de psicopatia (orientação ao poder, irresponsabilidade e impulsividade), padrões cognitivos (justificação direitos, justificação sociedade, socialização e civilidade), atitudes e percepções (normas subjetivas, benefícios do crime, custos do crime, banalização do crime e perspectivas de vida), elementos comportamentais (ociosidade) e sociopatia, como causas do comportamento criminoso. O trabalho se encerra questionando se podemos tratar estes transtornos de forma preventiva, reduzindo os custos do crime (mortes e internações entre outros), através de intervenções contributivas do sistema de saúde.  Neste sentido se por um lado o crime ajuda a saturar o sistema de saúde, este poderia atuar para sua mitigação do crime de forma antecipatória, tratando padrões patológicos identificados.
Fauna and Flora of Forests Over Limestone in Calicoan Island, Guiuan Marine Reserve Protected Landscape and Seascape (GMRPLS), Eastern Samar, Philippines
Authors: Fernandez Desamarie Antonette P. , delos Angeles Marjorie D. , Obeña Ren Divien R. , Tolentino Paul John S. , Villanueva Elaine Loreen C. , Buot Jr. Inocencio E.
Published: January 2021

This study presents the first checklist of the lesser known terrestrial biodiversity in forests over limestone karst of Calicoan Island in Guiuan Marine Reserve Protected Landscape and Seascape, Guiuan, Eastern Samar, Philippines. Plants and terrestrial vertebrate species in nine 20x20 m plots and 18 line transects were recorded and identified. A total of 60 bird, eight reptile, one amphibian, and six mammal species were recorded. Moreover, a total of 41 floral species were documented belonging to 17 plant families and 24 genera. Of the plant species recorded, 5 were shrubs and 35 were trees. This study reported a new locality record of the Philippine endemic tree species Hancea wenzeliana, and new island records for fauna such as Varanus samarensis and Cyrtodactylus sumuroi, among many others. To date, the present study is the only assessment of herpetofauna and mammals in Guiuan and represent new island records for most of these taxa in Calicoan Island. Among plants, Shorea negrosensis, Aquilaria cuminigiana and Wallaceodendron celebicum were identified to have a vulnerable conservation status based on their IUCN Red List and DENR-DAO 2017-11. These native and endemic plants can be used for reforestation programs in the area, and conserving biodiversity in general will be crucial to potential ecotourism programs.
An adaptive multi band-pass filter algorithm and its application in fault diagnosis of rolling bearing
Authors: Wang Hongchao , Li Hongwei , Du Wenliao
Published: January 2021

Construction of an optimal band-pass filter for effective envelope demodulation spectral (EDS) analysis of rolling element bearing has been studied widely and amount of methods have been arising. However, most of these methods only get the envelope demodulation analysis result of a specific frequency band. In fact, multiple resonance bands might be caused when rolling bearing fails, especially when compound fault arises, and some key components buried in the original signal are often neglected by the above methods such as fast Kurtogram and Autogram algorithms. Therefore, it is particularly necessary to establish a multi-band pass filter algorithm for EDS. In the paper, an adaptive multi-band pass filter method based on signal energy is proposed, and then the square wave envelope analysis method is used for multi-band pass filtered signal to extract the fault characteristic frequency of rolling bearing. In addition, since the phase of the signal retains a lot of useful information of the original signal, the phase information of the multi-band filtered signal is retained and used for signal reconstruction. Not only the early weak fault feature could be extracted, but also the compound fault feature of rolling bearing could also be extracted by the proposed method, which is verified thorough simulation and experiments.
Ułożenie, funkcja i zmienność powrózka naczyniowo-nerwowego klatki piersiowej: praca przeglądowa
Authors: Janowska Dominika
Published: January 2021

Za unerwienie i zaopatrywanie w składniki odżywcze ścian klatki piersiowej odpowiada powrózek naczyniowo-nerwowy. W swoim przebiegu charakteryzuje się on układem, w którym to żyła międzyżebrowa jest strukturą najbardziej chronioną. Poniżej żyły znajduje się znacznie bardziej narażona na uszkodzenia tętnica międzyżebrowa, natomiast nerw międzyżebrowy jest strukturą, która jako pierwsza ulega uszkodzeniom w przypadku ran kłutych klatki piersiowej. Pomimo tak nietypowego układu struktur w pęczku, możliwe jest wykorzystanie tej wiedzy w  praktyce klinicznej do przeprowadzenia zabiegów takich jak torakocenteza, torakotomia, czy też blokada nerwu międzyżebrowego.
Working out a procedure for determining potentially hazardous volatile organic compounds (trichloroethylene and tetrachloroethylene) in ambient air
Authors:   Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies, 82 Monastyrskaya Str., Perm, 614045, Russian Federation, Ulanovа T.S. , Nurislamova T.V. ,   Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies, 82 Monastyrskaya Str., Perm, 614045, Russian Federation, Popova N.A. ,   Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies, 82 Monastyrskaya Str., Perm, 614045, Russian Federation, Mal'tseva O.A. ,   Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies, 82 Monastyrskaya Str., Perm, 614045, Russian Federation
Published: January 2021

The article dwells on results obtained via experimental research on working out a gas chromatography procedure for determining trichloroethylene and tetrachloroethylene in ambient air. Experiments were performed on substances which had low limits of detection with gas-liquid chromatography with electron capture detection (GLC/ECD) when examined substances were absorbed from ambient air on Tenax TA sorbent. Optimal gas chromatography parameters were established with a hardware-software complex based on «Crystal-5000» gas chromatographer and use of a column from IDBPX-VOL series, 60m⋅0.32mm⋅1.8µm, under the following temperatures: column, 50–230о С; evaporator, 250о С; detector, 250о С. The developed capillary gas chromatography procedure allows determining trichloroethylene in concentrations ranging from 0.000146 to 0.00146 mg/m3, and tetrachloroethylene, from 0.000081 to 0.00081 mg/m3 with inaccuracy not exceeding 25.0%. We performed metrological assessment of the procedure and it allowed determining quality of analysis results for trichloroethylene and tetrachloroethylene; they were as follows: precision, 21.97% and 14.3%: repeatability, 4.22% and 3.38%; reproducibility, 5.66% and 4.9%. Limit of detection (LOD) for trichloroethylene and tetrachloroethylene was =0.0000038 mg/dm3 and =0.00000083 mg/dm3 accordingly. Limit of quantitative determination (LOQ) was =0.000013 mg/m3 for trichloroethylene, and = 0.0000028 mg/m3 for tetrachloroethylene. The developed procedure allowed detecting contents of the examined substances in ambient air near a construction site and a dry-cleaner’s, trichloroethylene in a range from 0.00001 mg/m3 to 0.0009 mg/m3, tetrachloroethylene, from 0.000011 mg/m3 to 0.00039 mg/m3. This unified high-sensitive and selective procedure is recommended for systemic control over potentially hazardous volatile organic compounds in ambient air as it allows providing objective and reliable hygienic assessment of chemical safety and quality of the environment and health risk assessment.
Stress before exams as a risk factor causing functional disorders in the cardiovascular system in students with different metabolic status
Authors:   Institute of Biomedical Investigations of Vladikavkaz Scientific Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 22 Markusa Str., Vladikavkaz, 362027, Russian Federation, Belyaeva V.A.
Published: January 2021

Students who attend a medical HEE often face strain in their adaptation mechanisms when preparing for exams; it can create substantial preconditions for functional deregulation in body systems. The articles outlines some results obtained via examining heart rate variability (HRV) in students of the 2nd and the 3rd year attending the North Ossetia State Medical Academy who had different metabolic status in a period prior to exams. Our research goal was to assess the state of the vegetative nervous system and regulatory systems in students with different metabolic status (BMI< 25; BMI=25–29.99; BMI=30–34.99.) who had to face excess stress during preparation to exams. Heart rate intervals were registered during five minutes in an examined person being at rest. HRV parameters were analyzed in time and frequency domains. We revealed that medical students had elevated activity of the sympathetic section in their vegetative nervous system (VNS) during a period prior to exams; in particular, it was apparent for the regulation system of the vasomotor center (PLF = 48.4%). Students’ bodies had apparent strain in their regulatory systems (SI=177.5 a.u.). Total activity of the regulatory system was significantly elevated (TP=2,293 msec2) due to central regulation levels. As students’ BMI grew, there was a decrease in activity of the parasympathetic component in vegetative regulation and heart rate management became more centralized (IC=3.2–4.5 a.u.). Students with Class 3 obesity had the maximum spectrum power of the superlow component in heart rate variability (PVLF=29.3%). HRV parameters analysis allows estimating whether adaptation processes in students’ bodies are adequate during preparation to exams; it can be done in screening mode and provides an opportunity to perform timely prevention activities.
Contemporary risk factors that cause disseminated lung diseases
Authors:   Samara State Medical University, 89 Chapaevskaya Str., Samara, 443099, Russian Federation, Borodulina E.A. , Yakovleva E.V. ,   Samara State Medical University, 89 Chapaevskaya Str., Samara, 443099, Russian Federation
Published: January 2021

As per data provided by Rosstat, in 2018 primary morbidity with respiratory diseases amounted to 35,982 per 100 thousand people; respiratory diseases account for more than 25% in the structure of overall population morbidity and they to a great extent depend on risk factors occurrence. Disseminated lung diseases are combined into one specific group among respiratory diseases as per x-ray evidence. Our research goal was to review contemporary risk factors that cause disseminated lung diseases in order to apply them in diagnostics. We searched for scientific works that were relevant for our research in such databases as RSCI, CyberLeninka, Scopus, Web of Science, MedLine, and PubMed. There are a lot of classifications for disseminated lung diseases based on morphologic substrate peculiarities, etiology and other signs; it proves the issue is truly complicated. Patients with disseminated damage to lungs have similar x-ray picture of the disease and results obtained via general clinical tests also have no pathognomonic peculiarities. Clinical experts usually divide disseminations into those with infectious genesis (tuberculosis, HIV-associated disseminations, and fungus diseases) and those with non-infectious genesis (tumor disseminations, interstitial lung diseases, lysosomal storage disorders, etc.). The review outlines factors that influence both occurrence and development of lung diseases accompanied with dissemination syndrome. The greatest attention is paid to socially significant diseases as risk factors that cause them can be detected by a doctor in a patient’s case history and applied for differential diagnostics. It is necessary to develop relevant prevention activities aimed at reducing risks of disseminated lung diseases as they will allow preventing morbidity and mortality among patients suffering from lung disseminations caused by correctable risk factors.
LncRNA SNHG7 Serves as a Potential Biomarker on the Prognosis of Human Solid Tumors: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yi Ping , Zhang Wenchao , Yang Ming , Lu Qianjin , Wu Haijing
Published: January 2021

Background and Objective:

Emerging studies on the predictive value of Small Nucleolar
RNA Host Gene 7 (SNHG7) in human neoplasms give evidence of the association of SNHG7 with
the human tumor. However, whether SNHG7 can be utilized as a biomarker for carcinoma is still
unknown. Therefore, this meta-analysis is aimed to assess the possibility of SNHG7 serving as a
tumor biomarker.

Material and Methods:

11 studies involving 814 cancer patients were retrieved from several databases,
including PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science from 1950 to Dec 27,
2019. Data on patient survival and several clinicopathological features were extracted and analyzed.

Results:

Evident association between SNHG7 expression and poor Overall Survival (OS) was
demonstrated (HR=1.84, 95% CI: 1.42-2.37) and high SNHG7 level was markedly correlated with
tumor size (OR=2.01, 95% CI: 1.27-3.19), advanced clinical grade (III/IV) (OR=3.90, 95% CI:
2.63-5.80), Lymphatic Metastasis (LM) (OR=4.53, 95% CI: 2.71-7.55), and Distant Metastasis
(DM) (OR=3.52, 95% CI: 2.58-4.80), except age and gender. Subgroup analysis showed that the
predictive value of SNHG7 was consistent regardless of follow-up months, tumor location and sample
size. Additionally, data from the R2 database also confirmed this association (p < 0.05). Publication
bias was evaluated using Begg’s and Egger’s test.

Conclusion:

SNHG7 could serve for a promising biomarker to predict prognosis, progression and metastasis of human solid
cancer.
Melatonin Against Environmental Plant Stressors: A Review
Authors: Arnao Marino B. , Hernández-Ruiz Josefa
Published: January 2021

Harsh or extreme environmental conditions largely determine the vegetative and reproductive
development of plants. In the case of cultivated plants, their growth and yield are clearly diminished
if they are exposed to severe conditions such as drought, waterlogging, extreme heat or
cold, UV radiation, or toxic substances in the soil such as salts, heavy metals and pesticides. Melatonin
has been studied for decades as a molecule capable of reducing the negative effects of abiotic
stressors by increasing tolerance to these adverse growth conditions. This work presents a review
of the most outstanding studies with various plant species in each of the above-mentioned stress situations,
including proteomic and post-translational studies. Melatonin mediates plant responses to
abiotic stress, generally inducing an antioxidative response, and also regulating a complex gene response
adapted to individual stressors. Plants are able to increase their endogenous melatonin levels
through the application of exogenous melatonin or through the inductive mechanism of endogenous
melatonin biosynthesis. In such ways, plants are able to cope with the stressful situation at
hand, accommodating their metabolism, morphology and physiology in order to increase overall
survival and induce greater tolerance to stress. The agronomic implications of the use of melatonin
are discussed.
An Extremely Rare Epithelioid Sarcoma Arising from the Infratemporal Fossa: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Ran Weiming , Tang Wei , Duan Junyan , Qing Jiao , Zhai Zhaohua
Published: January 2021

Introduction:

Epithelioid sarcoma (ES) is a rare histopathological type of soft tissue sarcoma.
They are subcutaneous soft tissue masses that tend to arise in extremity sites (the classic
type, formerly referred to as distal type) or proximal midline region of the body (the proximal
type), such as the perineum, genital tract, and pelvis. The head and neck regions are rarely affected
by ES, but the infratemporal fossa (ITF) is extremely rare. ES involving the ITF has not been reported
before in literature. In this paper, the imaging features of ES were reviewed in detail, and
the anatomical structure and epidemiology of ITF were briefly introduced.

Sources:

We performed a systematic search from 3 databases, CNKI(China National Knowledge
Internet), FMRS(Foreign Medical Literature Retrieval Service, Shenzhen METSTR Technology
CO., Led. China), and PubMed, to obtain literature from January 1970 to July 2020. Epithelioid sarcoma,
head and neck regions, infratemporal fossa, diagnostic imaging, anatomy, MRI, and CT
were used as keywords for advanced retrieval. A study had to be found eligible for inclusion to be
closely related to ES and/or ITF. A total of 129 related pieces of literature were retrieved successfully,
of which 37 were closely related to this study. The case report in this article is from the Affiliated
Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College. The present study was approved by the institutional
review board of the Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College and a written informed
consent for the publication of the case was obtained from the patient.

Case Presentation:

A 33-year-old man accidentally found a slowly growing, painless mass in the
left cheek more than a month ago. On plain computed tomography (CT) scan of the outpatient department,
an oval slightly low-density mass with well-defined and uniform boundary in the infratemporal
fossa was revealed, and on the contrast-enhanced scan, it was homogeneous and moderately
enhanced. Initially, the CT appearance favored benign lesions. However, the possibility of a
malignant tumor can not be excluded completely. Finally, the patient was referred to the inpatient
department a tumor arose from IF and underwent a selective operation. The tumor was completely
removed. Histologic findings were compatible with epithelioid sarcoma. Post-operatively, the patient
received 2 cycles of radiotherapy, and there was no evidence of recurrence after 6 months follow-
up.

Conclusion:

The imaging manifestations of ES are various. The anatomic structure of ITF is complex
and the pathological types are various. It should be very careful in the qualitative diagnosis of
tumors from the ITF, and advanced imaging techniques will be useful in imaging diagnosis.
Anti-MDR Effects of Quercetin and its Nanoemulsion in Multidrug-Resistant Human Leukemia Cells
Authors: Marques Maiara B. , Machado Ayane P. , Santos Priscila A. , Carrett-Dias Michele , Araújo Gabriela S. , da Silva Alves Barbara , de Oliveira Bárbara Santos , da Silva Júnior Flavio M.R. , Dora Cristiana L. , Cañedo Andrés D. , Filgueira Daza M.V.B. , Fernandes e Silva Estela , de Souza Votto Ana Paula
Published: January 2021

Background::

Quercetin has potential against the Multidrug Resistance (MDR) phenotype, but with
low bioavailability. The increase in the bioavailability can be obtained with nanostructures.

Objective::

To analyze the effects of quercetin and its nanoemulsion on MDR and non-MDR cells.

Methods:

We used high-pressure homogenization for nanoemulsion production; Trypan Blue for
cytostatic/cytotoxicity assays; Epifluorescence microscope (with specific probes) for apoptosis and DNA
damage; Real-Time PCR for gene expression; AutoDock Vina for docking and Flow Cytometry for efflux
analysis. Quercetin exerted antiproliferative impact, induced apoptosis, necrosis and DNA damage on cells.

Results::

Quercetin combined with vincristine showed an effect similar to verapamil (an ABCB1 inhibitor), and
docking showed that it binds to ABCB1 in a similar region. Quercetin was also capable of altering ABCB1 gene
expression. Quercetin in nanoemulsion maintained the cytotoxic and cytostatic effects of quercetin, which may
increase bioavailability. Besides, the unloaded nanoemulsion was able to inhibit per se the efflux activity of
ABCB1, demonstrating pharmacological action of this structure.

Conclusion::

Quercetin may be considered as a prospective drug to overcome resistance in cancer cells and its
nanoemulsion can be an alternative for in vivo application.
Lumiflavin Enhances the Effects of Ionising Radiation on Ovarian Cancer Stem-Like Cells by Inhibiting Autophagy
Authors: Wu Meiyuan , Huang Yangsheng , Song Zhaoxia , Yang Ruhui
Published: January 2021

Background:

The development of Cancer Stem-like Cells (CSCs) is one of the main causes of ovarian
cancer tolerance to radiotherapy. Autophagy is an adaptive process by which cells damage due to radiation. As a
metabolite of riboflavin, lumiflavin can enhance the chemotherapeutic effects of cisplatin on ovarian cancer
CSCs.

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate the synergistic effects of lumiflavin and ionising radiation on ovarian cancer CSCs and explore the association of this metabolite with autophagy.

Methods::

CSCs of human ovarian cancer cell lines HO8910 were treated with lumiflavin and rapamycin and
then subjected to irradiation at a cumulative dose of 8 Gy. Cell proliferation ability, clonal formation ability,
apoptosis rate, autophagy changes and autophagy-related protein changes were detected.

Results:

Lumiflavin and ionising radiation synergistically reduced cell vitality and clone formation and increased
the apoptosis of CSCs compared with irradiation alone. In addition, ionising radiation increased autophagy and
the expression of associated proteins, whereas lumiflavin reduced those changes in autophagy progression.
Moreover, rapamycin, an autophagy inhibitor, was observed to block the synergistic effects of lumiflavin and
ionising radiation on CSC apoptosis.

Conclusion:

Lumiflavin can enhance the effects of ionising radiation on ovarian cancer CSCs. The mechanism by which these effects are exerted is related to blocking the autophagy pathway.