bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the association between core muscles degeneration and Lumbar disc herniation
Authors: zhang Chengzhe , zhang Yujie , zhao Ye , liu Kaoqiang , chai Yongli , zhang Min , lv Hua , zhan Hongsheng , shen Zhibi , Yuan Wei’an
Published: May 2022

Fat infiltration and atrophy of lumbar muscles are related to spinal degenerative conditions, which can be seen reliably on MRI scans of lumbar disc herniation (LDH) patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between degeneration of core muscles and LDH. Fifty-five healthy volunteers and fifty-five LDH patients were enrolled. Core muscle percent fat was used as the outcome measure, and logistic regression as the analytical method to compare the relationship of the following five independent variables (erector spinae, rectus abdominis, [transversus abdominal, internal abdominal oblique, and external abdominal oblique muscle], lumbar multifidus, and psoas major muscles) with LDH. The result showed core muscles percent fat was significantly higher in LDH patients than in healthy volunteers (P<0.001). LDH is closely associated with degeneration of erector spinae (B=2.413, OR=11.166) and rectus abdominus muscles (B=2.196, OR=8.991). Relationships were not evident between LDH and degeneration of the lumbar multifidus, psoas major muscle and (transversus abdominal, internal abdominal oblique, and external abdominal oblique muscle).(P＜0.05) The application of Magnetic Resonance Hydrolipid Separation Imaging allowed us to declare the association between degeneration of the core muscles with LDH and provides a new record for future studies in diagnosis of LDH.
Functional stability of vegetation following biocontrol of an invasive riparian shrub
Authors: Henry Annie L. , González-Sargas Eduardo , Shafroth Patrick B , Goetz Alexander R.B. , Sher Anna A.
Published: May 2022

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
LAUNCHER: A single-component, light-assisted uncaging switch for endoproteolytic release
Authors: Cui Mingguang , Lee Seunghwan , Ban Sung Hwan , Kim Jin Young , Choi Seul Ki , Han Jaemin , Kim Yoonhee , Han Kihoon , Lee Donghun , Kwon Hyung-Bae , Lee Dongmin
Published: May 2022

Proteases can serve as molecular switches to initiate a wide spectrum of biological events. High efficiency and specificity enhance the potential of proteases as versatile elements in synthetic biological circuits. To address the unmet need for a novel protease-based toolkit with modular features, we developed a single-component photocleavable switch, termed LAUNCHER (Light-Assisted UNcaging switCH for Endoproteolytic Release), combining a circularly permuted potyviral protease and a blue-light-gated substrate with variable intermodular linkers. LAUNCHER enables user-controllable release of payloads that can serve in various cellular applications, such as transgene expression, multilayer-based G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) activity sensing, and optochemogenetic manipulation. Moreover, LAUNCHER orthologs from the orthogonal potyviral protease family can be utilized in a multiple protease-based circuit without mutual interference. LAUNCHER provides a generalized method to implant optogenetic manipulations into existing synthetic biological circuits in a plug-and-play manner and adds to optogenetic toolboxes for the expansion of biomedical fields.
Detection and occurrence of airborne Xanthomonas hortorum pv. carotae, causal agent of carrot bacterial blight, in carrot seed production systems
Authors: Scott Jeness , Dung Jeremiah
Published: May 2022

Bacterial blight of carrot, caused by the plant pathogenic bacterium Xanthomonas hortorum pv. carotae (Xhc), is an important seedborne disease of carrot. Previous research demonstrated that airborne Xhc could be detected up to 1.6 km downwind of carrot seed fields being harvested, but more information is needed to identify dispersal periods of the pathogen during other stages of carrot seed production. The objectives of this research were to: 1) quantify and characterize temporal dynamics of airborne Xhc during carrot seed production; and 2) identify weather factors that contribute to airborne Xhc levels in carrot seed fields. During the 2018–2019 season, air samples were collected on a total of 273 and 289 days in two fields and Xhc was detected on 223 (81.7%) and 245 (84.8%) of sampling days. On average, 2.6 x 103 and 7.0 x 103 Xhc/day were detected. Principle component analysis identified three components associated with airborne Xhc levels. Temperature variables (daily mean, maximum, and minimum air and soil temperatures) accounted for 53.2% of the total variance. The second component was associated with wind (wind speed, direction, and run) and 19.1% of the total variance. Factors related to moisture (daily precipitation, relative humidity, and dew point) were associated with the third component and accounted for 13.0% of the total variance. Together, these data can be used to build predictive models to inform growers of inoculum risk and improve control through better-timed bactericide applications, modified cultural practices, and increased knowledge of bacterial blight epidemiology in carrot seed crops.
Lenvatinib plus toripalimab with local-regional therapy in patients with advanced biliary tract cancer: a retrospective study
Authors: Wang Yunchao , Yang Xu , Wang Yanyu , Zuo Bangyou , Yang Xiaobo , Long Junyu , Xue Jingnan , Lu Zhenhui , Zhou Jinxue , Xun Ziyu , Zhang Nan , Zhou Kang , Sang Xinting , Zhao Haitao
Published: May 2022

Background: Lenvatinib plus anti-PD-1 antibodies with local-regional therapy which was called stereotactic therapy have demonstrated potent antitumor activity in solid tumors. However, the efficacy and safety of stereotactic therapy in patients with advanced biliary tract cancer (BTC) remains unclear.Methods: This was a retrospective study including patients with advanced BTC who received a combination of Lenvatinib plus toripalimab or Lenvatinib plus toripalimab with local-regional therapy (stereotactic therapy). This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of Lenvatinib plus toripalimab and stereotactic therapy in advanced BTC patients. Tumor tissues were collected to retrospectively evaluate the expression status of PDL1.Results: This study included 55 patients: 24 in Lenvatinib plus toripalimab therapy; 31 in stereotactic therapy. All patients had undergone at least 1 line of antitumor treatment. The stereotactic therapy group showed longer median progression-free survival (mPFS) (9.6 versus 4.6 months, p=0.035), longer overall survival (mOS) (13.7 versus 9.2 months, p=0.023) than the Lenvatinib plus toripalimab group. The ORR was 35.5% [95% confidence interval (CI): 17.6-53.3] with stereotactic therapy versus 25% (95% CI: 6.3-43.7) with toripalimab plus Lenvatinib. Four patients received surgery after the Lenvatinib plus toripalimab therapy or after stereotactic therapy. All patients experienced any-grade adverse events (AEs) without grade 5 AEs. PDL1 expression was associated with improved clinical benefits.Conclusions: Stereotactic therapy had acceptable toxic effects and might improve survival compared with Lenvatinib plus toripalimab for advanced BTC.
Persisting cognitive impairment predicts functional dependence at 1 year after stroke and transient ischemic attack: a longitudinal, cohort study
Authors: Liao Xiaoling , Zuo Lijun , Pan Yuesong , Xiang Xianglong , Meng Xia , Li Hao , Zhao Xingquan , Wang Yilong , Shi Jiong , Wang Yongjun
Published: May 2022

Objective: Minor stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) usually have mild and nondisabling symptoms, and these physical deficits may recover to some extent, however, part of they still suffer from cognitive impairment and poor outcomes. We conducted a study to determine the relationship between cognition and poor outcomes. Methods: The data of this study come from the impairment of cognition and Sleep after acute ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack in Chinese patients study (ICONS). A total of 1675 minor stroke patients and TIA patients were recruited. Patients were followed for Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) scale at 2-week (2w), 3 months (3m) and 1 year(1y). Cognitive impairment(CI) was defined as MoCA score≦22. According to MoCA score, patients were divided into 4 groups : no PSCI group: with MoCA-2w＞22 and MoCA-3m＞22; improved PSCI group: with MoCA-2w≦22 and MoCA-3m＞22;delayed PSCI group: MoCA-2w＞22 and MoCA-3m≦22; persisting PSCI group: with MoCA-2w≦22 and MoCA-3m≦22. Results: There were 818 patients (48.84%) have PSCI at baseline. And there were 123 patients (15%) have stroke disability defined by mRS ≥2 at 3 months in CI group. The persisting PSCI group was a significant predictor of functional dependence at 3 months and 1 year after stroke and when adjusted for covariates such as gender, age, history of stroke, depression and intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis, stroke subtype and acute infarction type. Conclusion: Persisting PSCI increased risks of poor functional outcome after 3 months and 1 year follow-up. These high-risk individuals should be identified for targeted rehabilitation and counseling to improve longer-term post-stroke outcome.
Thermal decomposition mechanisms of energetic CL-20-based co-crystals: quantum molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Tang Li , Zhu Weihua
Published: May 2022

The decomposition mechanisms of energetic CL-20 : 2,4-dinitro-2,4-diazapentane (DNP) and CL-20 : 2,4-dinitro-2,4-diazaheptane (DNG) co-crystals at high temperatures (1000, 2000 and 3000 K) were studied by density functional tight-binding molecular dynamics (DFTB-MD) simulation. At different temperatures, their decomposition mechanisms are very different. At 1000 K, CL-20:DNG co-crystal undergoes a conformational change from β-CL-20 to γ-CL-20, but CL-20:DNP co-crystal does not occur. When the temperature is increased to 2000 K, CL-20, DNP, and DNG begin to decompose, and there are five paths for the main initial mechanisms. At 3000 K, the increasing temperature will promote decomposition and the decomposition will be more completely. The initial reaction of CL-20 in two co-crystals has two channels. There are two initial decomposition channels in DNP molecule and only one channel in DNG molecule. With the temperature increases, the decomposition products of two co-crystals are different. Our work contribute to the in-depth understanding of the decomposition mechanisms of high-energy CL-20-based co-crystals at high temperatures.
Physiological responses and antioxidant properties of coriander plants (Coriandrum sativum L.) under different light intensities of red and blue lights
Authors: Lin Hsin-Hung , Lin Kuan-Hung , Yang Meei-Ju , Nguyen Hoang Chinh , Wang Huei-Ju , Huang Han-Xuang , Huang Meng-Yuan
Published: May 2022

Background: Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) contains abundant of antioxidants and essential oils that can provide antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-oxidative activities in the pharmaceutical and health food production industry for providing health benefits. To improve the economic values of coriander, the relationships between optimal light treatments for maximizing both plant growth and the antioxidant and essential oil content of coriander leaves need to be determined.Results: Plants were exposed to five light-emitting diodes spectral color mixtures, high blue light intensity induced the levels of reducing power and chelating effect responses. The light treatments were then adjusted for the analysis of secondary metabolite compounds of coriander leaves. Among 30 identified compounds, the amounts of decamethyl-cyclopentasiloxane and dodecane were significantly reduced in the R80+G50+B50 condition, whereas dodecamethyl-cyclohexasiloxane level was significantly reduced in R50+G50+B80 condition. Conclusion: Our results provide a strategy to increase the economic efficiency of the coriander metabolites production that can be maximized by precise management of light treatment in controlled environments.
Learning to Focus on Boundary Information forMedical Image Segmentation
Authors: Khaled Afifa , Han Jian-Jun
Published: May 2022

Boundary detection is a challenging problem in medical image segmentation. Clear boundaries yield a good segmentation result. In this paper, firstly, we design a boundary segmentation network for the detection and segmentation of brain tissues. Secondly, to help distinguishing between the boundaries for the three different brain tissues, we design the boundary information module (BIM ). Then, we added a boundary attention gate (BAG) to each end layer of the encoder to capture more local details. Extensive experiments verified the high performance of our proposed model for the detection and segmentation of brain tissues.
Measures to Address the Stalled Development of Health Law Education in Chinese Universities
Authors: Xu Jingyi , Wang Yue
Published: May 2022

BackgroundHealth law education, an important part of global health education, is beneficial for both medical schools and law schools. This field can help lawyers and policy makers to develop their careers and equip traditional health professionals, such as doctors and nurses, with a basic knowledge of health law. However, unlike in American and European universities, health law education in China is still at its infant stage and, as such, lacks a systematic pedagogical approach among institutions of higher education in China. Main BodyConsidering the advancements in the field of health law education, this study systematically reviews the status of health law education in institutions of higher learning in China and suggests ways to make the pedagogical approach more consistent. This systematic review revealed that, between 2012 and 2021, major law schools and medical schools that have developed the subject of health law education in China lack consensus on the aim, scope, mode, and methods of health law education. The first problem is that Chinese universities are unable to agree on how to classify the subject of health law. Another set of problems relate to institutions themselves. Not only do universities not have enough qualified health faculty, but they also rely on outdated curricula and uninspiring teaching materials. This leads to ineffective, generic pedagogical approaches in medical schools and law schools. These problems leave future lawyers, future doctors and nurses unclear about their choices for health law study at the graduate level and their ultimate career development. Short ConclusionWe therefore propose four preliminary solutions to continue to develop this new interdisciplinary subject—health law education—in Chinese universities: clearly classify the subject of health law, equip the health law field with more professional textbooks, enact joint degree programs between medical schools and law schools; and establish a health law research center in either law schools or medical schools.
Clinical characteristics and follow-up of cases of Streptococcus suis Meningitis in patients of Liuzhou, China
Authors: Qin Lu , Deng Shan , Weng Baohui , Yang Hong , Zhou Kejian , Pan Liyan
Published: May 2022

To describe the detailed clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients with Streptococcus suis (S. suis) meningitis in Liuzhou, China.We described the chief clinical manifestations, auxiliary examination results, treatment strategies,treatment efficacy, and follow-up results of 17 consecutive patients with S. suis meningitis, to improve the diagnosis and reduce the misdiagnosis of S. suis meningitis. The study included 17 patients of S. suis meningitis. The most common clinical presentations were fever (88.2%), sensorineural hearing loss (76.47%), headache (64.70%) , and altered mental status (47.06%). 64.71% had residual symptoms of sensorineural hearing loss at discharge, and moderate disabilities occurred in 68.75% of patients in the form of sensorineural deafness (11 patients) and hemiparesis (1 patients). Metagenomic analysis using next generation sequencing of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were S.suis in 9 patients. After 6-month follow-up, the average modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and Activities of Daily Living (ADL) score at follow-up was significantly better than that at admission (P < 0.05). The clinical characteristics of S. suis meningitis were fever, headache, altered mental status and sensorineural hearing loss. Early antibiotic drugs are crucial for the treatment of sensorineural hearing loss. Clinicians should improve the diagnosis and treatment of S. suis meningitis and prevent misdiagnosis or non-diagnosis. Early CSF culture or metagenomic analysis is effective, and most of the patients in our study had favorable outcomes.
Applying the Deltoid Tuberosity Index (DTI) to assess the risk of screw cut-out. A retrospective analysis of 306 proximal humerus fractures treated with PHILOS Plate.
Authors: Silva Tomas Da , Ehrhard David-Benjamin , Chuchuy Theo Manuel , Knop Christian , Merkle Tobias
Published: May 2022

Background. Reconstruction of the proximal humerus with a locking plate is often the first approach for proximal humerus fractures. Screw cut-out is the most common complication and is especially relevant in osteoporotic bone of the elderly population. The Deltoid Tuberosity Index (DTI) has recently been proposed as an indirect measure to assess osteopenia and failure rate before surgery, which may provide important information for surgical planning. Though simple and assessable, the DTI lacks scientific evidence to back its broad clinical usage. This study gives the first independent, large-sample retrospective analysis of the correlation between the local bone density, indirectly measured through the DTI, and screw cut-out.Methods. 306 cases of proximal humerus fractures treated with PHILOS plate were retrospectively analyzed. The DTI was measured in AP x-rays. The primary endpoint was screw cut-out defined as the intra-articular position of at least one screw associated to a reduction loss after surgery.Results. The mean clinical follow up was 467 days. The DTI varied from 1.10 to 2.28 (average: 1.42). Screw cut-out occurred on average in 8% of the cases and did correlate positively with a DTI ≤ 1.44 (p = 0.003). However, the rate of cut-out and correlation to DTI varied widely according to age group: within the age of 65-80 years a DTI ≤ 1.44 increased the cut-out rate from 0% to 17% (p = 0.02); on the other hand, in younger ages (< 65 years) the DTI did not correlate to cut-out and in the oldest group (> 80 years) cut-out rates were high (17-20%) independently of the DTI. Age and medial hinge displacement also correlated to cut-out. This was not the case for gender, fracture pattern and quality of surgical reduction.Conclusions. We confirm the correlation between a DTI ≤ 1.44 and screw cut-out. This correlation alone however may be too simplistic and not relevant in all age spectrum. High risk groups for screw cut-out are patients older than 65 years with a DTI ≤ 1.44 or any patient older than 80 years. Applying the DTI in the age group of 65 to 80 years offers relevant information for surgical planning in the trauma setting through a tool that is fast, cheap, and easy to perform. Level of Evidence: Level 3, Retrospective Cohort Study.
Developing Guiding Principles for technology-based rehabilitation program by engaging people with tetraplegia
Authors: Bell Alison , Grampurohit Namrata , Kains Gabrielle , Marino Ralph J.
Published: May 2022

Background: Technology-aided rehabilitation is well established in the field of neurologic rehabilitation. Despite the widespread availability, the development of technology-based interventions that incorporate perspectives of the people who will use them is lacking. Objectives: The purpose of the qualitative study is to understand how people with spinal cord injury view rehabilitation technology to inform future intervention development. Methods: Seven participants with chronic upper extremity impairment due to spinal cord injury/dysfunction trialed five rehabilitation technology devices. After 30-45 minutes of equipment use participants engaged in a semi-structured interview. Interviews were analyzed using a qualitative approach to explore the experience using rehabilitation technology and understand features that support future use. Results: Qualitative analysis revealed three major themes: 1) Devices must be flexible to meet diverse needs; 2) Intervention protocols must be individualized to address unique needs and contexts of users; 3) Intervention protocols should be developed and updated by a skilled clinician. These themes and subthemes were used to describe guiding principles to inform future intervention designConclusion: The experiences of people with spinal cord injury can be elicited throughout the intervention design process and guiding principles for protocol design can be developed systematically. The findings can inform future development of technology-aided rehabilitation in people with tetraplegia. Clinical trials registration number: NCT04000256
Correlation of elemental hyperaccumulation among the succulent and non- succulent halophytes of Gujarat, India
Authors: Vyas Suhas , Agoramoorthy Govindasamy , Gadhvi Kamlesh , Gamit Sandip , Dangar Kiran
Published: May 2022

This paper presents new data on the salt tolerance and avoidance mechanisms among various groups of halophytes in India. The halophytic flora in general has positive effect of high saline environments on growth and physiology. The coastal area of the Kachchh district in Gujarat include about 350 km along the Gulf of Kachchh. This study presents data on the element accumulation mechanisms in soil and halophytic flora (succulent and non-succulent). The halophytes were divided into two groups namely succulent with thick and fleshy leaves and stems and non-succulent with thin leaves and stem. The succulent halophytes included species such as Salicornia brachiata, Suaeda fruticosa and Suaeda nudiflora. The non-succulent halophytes include Aeluropus lagopoides and Urochondra setulosa. Plant parts namely leaves or (Phylloclade), stems and roots were analyzed monsoon season. The results of soil and plants mineral ion content differed widely across the intertidal zones in the same habitat. Likewise, the intra species have varied in all nutrient levels and salt concentration. The accumulation of element concentration was high during the monsoon season in the succulent Salicornia brachiata, especially in leaves that showed Na+ reaching high up to 7.6 meq.g− 1, whereas Cl− was noted to be 4.34 meq.g− 1. In the non-succulent halophytes, the accumulation of mineral ion concentration was lower when compared to succulent plants.
A Fast Image Encryption based on Linear Feedback Shift Register and Deoxyribonucleic acid
Authors: Ghanbari Hasan , Enayatifar Rasul , Motameni Homayun
Published: May 2022

Recently with the proliferating rates of digital data and the need of sending data through the internet, protection of the contents is crucial. This article proposes a quick method based on a combination of Linear Feedback Shift Register (LFSR) and Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and Tinkerbell chaotic function. This method not only has high protection but also provides high encryption speed. First, a bit shift method is implemented in permutation phase. Shift numbers are determined by LSFR in each step. Then in each step of the permutation phase, specific numbers of pixels are delivered for final encryption in diffusion phase. In this phase, DNA as well as Tinkerbell index converts gray level of image pixels. The results show high security, incredible speed and good resistance against prevailing attacks.
Multi-agent evolutionary game in the recycling utilization of sulfate-rich wastewater
Authors: Ding Meng , Zeng Hui
Published: May 2022

Current industrial development has led to an increase in sulfate-rich industrial sewage, threatening industrial ecology and the environment. Incorrectly treating high-concentration sulfate wastewater can cause serious environmental problems and even harm human health. Water with high sulfate levels can be treated as a resource and treated harmlessly to meet the needs of the circular economy. Today, governments worldwide are working hard to encourage the safe disposal and reuse of industrial salt-rich wastewater by recycling sulfate-rich wastewater (SRW) resources. However, the conflict of interests between the SRW production department, the SRW recycling department, and the government often make it challenging to effectively manage sulfate-rich wastewater resources. This study aims to use the mechanism of evolutionary game theory (EGT) to conduct theoretical modelling and simulation analysis on the interaction of the behaviour of the above three participants. The results suggest that the government should play a leading role in developing the SRW resource recovery industry. SRW producers protect the environment in the mature stage, and recyclers actively collect and recover compliant sulfate wastewater resources. Governments should gradually deregulate and eventually withdraw from the market.
Reduced sensitivity of commercial Spike-specific antibody assays after primary infection with the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant
Authors: Springer David Niklas , Perkmann Thomas , Jani Claudia , Mucher Patrick , Prüger Katja , Marculescu Rodrig , Reuberger Elisabeth , Camp Jeremy Vann , Graninger Marianne , Borsodi Christian , Deutsch Josef , Lammel Oliver , Aberle Stephan Walter , Puchhammer-Stöckl Elisabeth , Haslacher Helmuth , Höltl Eva , Aberle Judith Helene , Stiasny Karin , Weseslindtner Lukas
Published: May 2022

The SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant is characterized by substantial changes in the antigenic structure of the Spike (S) protein. Therefore, we analyzed whether these changes impact the sensitivity of commercial anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody assays. Sera from 37 convalescent individuals after primary Omicron infection were tested with 20 commercial anti-SARS-CoV-2 immunoassays. As controls, we used samples from 43 individuals after primary infection with an ancestral wildtype strain. Notably, in Omicron convalescents, there was a statistically significant reduction in the sensitivity of all antibody assays containing S or its receptor-binding-domain (RBD) as antigens. Furthermore, antibody levels quantified by these assays displayed a weaker correlation with Omicron-specific neutralizing antibody titers than with those against the wildtype. In contrast, the sensitivity of nucleocapsid-protein-specific immunoassays was similar in wildtype and Omicron-infected subjects. In summary, the antigenic changes in the Omicron S lead to reduced detection rates in commercial S- and RBD-specific antibody assays, impairing their diagnostic performance.
WITHDRAWN: Heat and mass transport characteristics of microchannel steam reforming reactor systems for hydrogen production
Authors: Chen Junjie , Meng Lingyu
Published: May 2022

Chemical reactions that produce heat and those that take up heat form two very important classes of reactions. Although exothermic and endothermic reactions are easy to implement, a compact and simple reactor design is challenging due to the limitations of heat and mass transport. The present study relates to a catalytic process of methanol steam reforming for the production of hydrogen in a microchannel steam reforming reactor system. Processes of conducting endothermic steam reforming reactions in integrated combustion reactors were described. The effect of washcoat thickness on reaction and transport processes were investigated in terms of efficiency and performance. The importance of effectiveness factor was highlighted. Engineering maps that delineated temperature, species mole fractions, sensible enthalpy, and total enthalpy were constructed. Design recommendations were made to improve the overall heat and mass transport characteristics. The results indicated that the reactor system is capable of high heat and mass transfer coefficients between a bulk reaction fluid and the catalytic heat exchange surface. The thickness of catalyst washcoats are fundamentally important for improving the overall transport characteristics. A desired level of reactor performance can be maintained through the use of optimum key parameters pertaining to the chemically reacting flow system. However, to ensure the effectiveness of the endothermic steam reformation process, the catalyst washcoats must be sufficiently thick. The thickness of catalyst washcoats can be tailored to avoid the limitations imposed by heat transfer and chemical kinetics.
Glia maturation factor-γ (GMFG) promotes ovarian tumorigenesis and chemoresistance via activation of the FAK signaling-associated focal adhesion dynamics
Authors: Lan Aihua , Lv Cuiting , Wang Jingshu , Yang Lina , Du Ran , Li Hui , Yu Yinjue , Ren Chunxia , Yang Gong
Published: May 2022

Glia maturation factor-γ (GMFG) is reported to regulate actin cytoskeleton remodeling through the facilitation of actin debranching and nucleation suppression, which may be associated with cellular malignancy, but the role of GMFG in tumorigenesis remains largely unknown. By overexpressing or silencing of GMFG in ovarian cancer cell lines, we show that GMFG enhances in vitro ovarian cancer cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and paclitaxel resistance and accelerates in vivo tumor growth and intraperitoneal metastasis in xenograft animal models. The mechanistic study demonstrates that GMFG activates the FAK/Talin/Paxillin/Src signaling molecules via binding to p-FAK (Tyr397) and p-Talin (Ser425), whereas cell proliferation, migration and paclitaxel resistance induced by GMFG can be inversely suppressed by the chemical inhibition of p-FAK (Tyr397). Additionally, patients with high expression of GMFG exhibited a poor progression-free survival (PFS) (HR = 1.42, 95%CI: 1.1 − 1.82, P = 0.0065). To conclude, our study suggests that GMFG may activate FAK signaling via binding to p-FAK (tyr397) and p-Talin (ser425) to promote ovarian tumorigenesis and chemoresistance. These findings indicate a functional interaction between GMFG and FAK pathway in ovarian tumorigenesis and chemoresistance. Thus, targeting the oncogenic GMFG-FAK axis may be a promising therapeutic strategy for ovarian cancer.
Emergence of B.1.617 Strain of Covid-19 in India and attitude, awareness, perception of dental professionals and its effect on dentistry: A Survey Report
Authors: Sharma Amil
Published: May 2022

Objective- To know the attitude, awareness and perception of dental practitioners about double mutant virus in India and how it is affecting their practice. Material & Method- The cross sectional study was done by doing a survey using google form and a questionnaire was prepared and was sent through social media to dental practitioners all over India. The survey was done for two months from 20th march 2021 to 20th may 2021 before coming for statically analysis for final result. Result- There were significant difference in between the perception of gender (p<0.00), education (p<0.01) and experience (p<0.04). There were no significant difference in between the perception of different age and job setting about getting infected while doing practice during covid-19. There were significant difference in between the thinking of male and female (p<0.03) and government and private job (p<0.00) about the fact that double mutant strain has increased potential risk for dentists. Generally all the dentists provide PPE kits to dental clinic staff. There were significant differences between age (p<0.00), gender (p<0.00) and experience (p<0.00). Conclusion- The results of this study conclude that there was significant difference between the attitude, awareness & perception of dental practitioners towards double mutant strain while practicing. The difference may be due to difference in level of education or as there were both BDS and MDS involved in the survey. The other possible reason may be because of experience of practicing years. However most of the dental practitioners agreed at some points.
A study on regional distribution of Interglobular dentin in crown and root portion of the teeth.
Authors: HIMANSHU SINGH  , VEDANT PATEL  , RAHUL A RAZDAN  , PRACHI NAYAK  , NAYAK SUSHRUTH , KUNDENDU ARYA BISHEN
Published: May 2022

Introduction :Interglobular dentin is the area of hypomineralized or unmineralized  denitn. Interglobular dentin is located at various region in teeth.

Aim : To identify the most common location of interglobular dentin in ground section of teeth.

Settings and Design : the study comprised of  69 extracted tooth.

Materials and Method: The study comprised of 69 extracted teeth. Ground sections of all 69 extracted teeth were prepared with the help of Arkansas stone, mounted on glass slide with the help of DPX and then observed under routine microscope by 2 observers.

Results: The most common location of interglobular dentin is cervical third

Conclusion: The interglobular dentin is more commonly seen in cervical third portion of crown as well as root in males and females.
Salivary Interleukin - 6: Assessment In Chronic Generalized Periodontitis Patient With And Without Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Modi Shreya , Srivastava Sumedha , Kalburgi Veena , Nimmala Sai Sri Harsha , Gupta Anushri , Malik Nida
Published: May 2022

Background: Periodontitis is affected by various systemic diseases, among them Diabetes Mellitus is a major systemic factor to influence the severity of chronic periodontitis. Various inflammatory markers are produced in the course of disease that can be reflected in saliva. This study evaluates the salivary concentration of interleukin-6 (IL - 6) in periodontitis patients with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and Methods: Whole saliva samples were collected from sixty four patients who were further divided into four groups; Healthy group (control group; n = 16), Chronic Generalized Periodontitis (PD; n = 16), Diabetes Mellitus (DM; n = 16), and Chronic Generalized Periodontitis along with Diabetes Mellitus (PD + DM; n = 16 patients). Salivary IL-6 concentrations were determined by standard enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and Clinical parameters were recorded like Gingival Index (GI), Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S), Probing Pocket Depth (PPD), Gingival Recession (GR), Clinical Attachment Level (CAL) with the help of mouth mirror and UNC -15 graduated periodontal probe.

Results: Result showed that the Chronic Generalized Periodontitis patients with and without Diabetes Mellitus exhibited higher concentrations of salivary IL-6 than the control group and diabetes groups. Further, the salivary IL-6 was correlated with glycosylated hemoglobin A levels in patient with diabetes. This is due to the fact that both Diabetes & Periodontitis are chronic inflammatory disease that significantly increase the expression of IL-6 which  cause insulin resistance in adipocyte and thereby affecting HbA1c levels. Therefore, both can affect severity of each other. Salivary concentration of IL‐6 was determined using an Human IL-6 (Interleukin- 6) ELISA Kit. Kruskal Wallis test was applied to compare any statistical difference between groups for clinical parameters, HbA1c and IL-6. Spearman correlation test was used to find any relation between HbA1c and IL -6 among all the groups. A significance level of 5% was set (P<0.05).

 

Conclusion: The salivary concentration of IL-6 was elevated in patients with periodontitis with and without diabetes. Therefore, levels of salivary IL-6 can be considered as an important biomarker in the diagnosis of periodontitis and diabetes.
Role of Complementary Medicine in Periodontics
Authors: Kapoor Anjali , Ali A. Rizwan , Saini Neha , Gautam Kompal
Published: May 2022

Health care practices that are not a part of a country’s tradition and are not integrated into the dominant health care system are called Complementary and Alternative Medicine. The most common Complementary and Alternative Medicine therapies include Acupuncture, Ayurveda medicine, Homeopathy, Naturopathy, chiropractic therapy, Herbal medicines, massage therapy, biofeedback, Hypnosis, Meditation, Deep breathing exercises, Yoga and Tai Chi. The term ‘‘periodontal disease,’’ refers to both gingivitis and periodontitis. Periodontitis follows gingivitis and is influenced by the individual’s immune inflammatory response which involves the destruction of the supporting structures of the teeth, including periodontal ligaments, bones, and soft tissues. Periodontitis demands serious concern because it is a direct cause of tooth mortality. Alternative medications, which are having many beneficial properties, are a good choice for the prevention or treatment of oral diseases without any side effects. In a developing country such as India, several people cannot even afford their daily basic expenses, and for them, these alternative medicines will be a boon.
“Is a transdermal diclofenac patch better than oral diclofenac tablets”: A Randomized controlled, Trial clinical.
Authors: Kumar Sourav
Published: May 2022

Aim: This study aimed to compare the analgesic effect of transdermal Diclofenac with oral Diclofenac tablets.

Method: In this randomised controlled clinical trial a total of 80 patients were divided randomly in two groups with one group of patients (N1)were given Transdermal diclofenac patch(200 mg) and other group of patients(N2) were given  diclofenac tablets after extraction Patients were assessed for pain at various intervals and the assessment of side effects.

Results:  Significant results were seen at 6 hours with higher number of subjects reporting VAS score 0 and 1-3 in group NI, while subjects reported higher VAS score 4-6 and 7-10 in group N2. Also 20 % of the patients in group N2 (Diclofenac tablet group) complains of gastric irritation after 24 hrs.  Statistically no significant difference exists in uniformity of pain control and interference in routine activities during past 24 hours among both the groups.

Conclusion:  We can conclude that diclofenac patch is more effective in pain control in the early stage after extraction of the tooth and have lesser side effects as compared to diclofeanc tablets.

Keywords:  Gastric irritation; Transdermal patch; VAS score.
Metal Endocrown – Novel Restorative option for Mutilated teeth; A Case Report
Authors: Mittal Neha , Mital Prachi , Prasad Ashwini B , Poonia Lalita
Published: May 2022

Extensively damaged endodontically treated molars pose a constant challenge for the practitioner. Although the classical post and core restoration is widely used in dentistry, its invasiveness has been criticized worldwide. Minimally invasive crown preparation preserving the maximum amount of tooth structure is considered to be the main objective for restoring teeth. Bindl and Mormann described the concept of endocrown in 1999 to limit the use of root anchorages. This case report illustrates this restorative option for functional rehabilitation of a devitalized mandibular molar, presenting with a small amount of remaining coronal tooth structure.
Apexification with apical growth and closure using Metapex in a Necrotic Immature Permanent Tooth with Periapical abscess: A Case Report with 16 months follow-up.
Authors: Ahuja Vipin , Ahuja Annapurna , Verma Jaya , Arunima
Published: May 2022

The purpose of this report is to present the case of a patient wherein apexification of an immature permanent maxillary left central incisor tooth was induced by the Metapex paste (Calcium hydroxide and Iodoform). It has been reported in the literature of dentistry that apexification treatment in teeth with open apex is more than 40 years old. Apexification procedures had been carried out in different ways using various techniques and materials. Regardless of the type of materials used for apexification method by different authors, apexification procedures appear to be the most subtle and accepted clinical practice in non-vital young permanent teeth. In our case, radiographic examination showed the start of apical closure 6 months after the completion of the treatment protocol. The growth of root end and complete apical closure was confirmed 16 months after the treatment, indicating the implausible potential of Metapex to induce apical growth and closure in young permanent tooth with periapical lesion.
The Use of Organic Sun-Dried Fruits for Delivery of Phenolic Compounds
Authors: DERVİŞOĞLU Gökhan , YEMENİCİOĞLU Ahmet
Published: May 2022

The aim of this study is to characterize and increase the total soluble (water soluble + alcohol soluble) phenolic (SPCT) and flavonoid content (SFCT) and total soluble free radical scavenging based antioxidant capacity (SACT) of major sun-dried fruits such as raisins, figs, prunes and apricots. Due to their high insoluble dietary fiber content, the bound antioxidant capacity formed 61 to 67% of the overall antioxidant capacity (water soluble + alcohol soluble + bound) of sun-dried fruits. The SPCT, SFCT and SACT of sun-dried fruits changed between 1675 and 3860 µg catechin/g (d.w.), 161 and 495 µg catechin/g (d.w.) and 13 and 28.5 µmol Trolox/kg (d.w.), respectively. The incorporation of green tea polyphenols into sun-dried raisins, figs and apricots by controlled rehydration conducted in green tea extracts increased their SPCT, SFCT and SACT 1.5 to 1.8 fold, 1.3 to 1.6 fold, and 1.5 to 2.6 fold, respectively. The method applied caused limited increases in SPCT (1.1 fold) and SFCT (1.2 fold) of prunes, but it increased SACT of these fruits 1.6 fold. This study showed the possibility of using sun-dried fruits not only as source of dietary fiber, but also for delivery of phenolic compounds. The methods used in this study for delivery of green tea phenolic compounds to selected organic sun-dried fruits could be an alternative method to increase intake of these invaluable antioxidant compounds and increase functionality of sun-dried fruits which are already accepted as good source of dietary fiber.
Actualizing the Complex Anti-Value Concept of Insincerity in Comic Discourse of English Linguistic Culture
Authors: Bochkarev A. I.
Published: May 2022

The article introduces the primary and secondary functions of the anti-value concept of insincerity in the comic discourse of English culture. The anti-value concept of insincerity is considered as a complex concept. The author performed a cognitive and axiological analyses of the primary and secondary functions of this concept within comic discourse. The analysis featured 50 episodes of stand-up comedy, 40 episodes of various sketchcoms, and 500 episodes of various sitcoms. Insincerity proved to be a complex humorous concept actualized through primary and secondary functions. The primary function of the concept is realized through obvious lies or hypocrisy. In its secondary function, the concept of insincerity is actualized in making fun of various anti-values, e.g., greed, cowardice, cruelty, lust, etc. In modern English culture, insincerity is a positive means of ridiculing other anti-values. In such cases, stupidity of the deceived one is usually ridiculed, and insincerity becomes a sign of smartness or cunning.
Impacts of hydro-climatic trends and upstream water management on hydropower generation at the Bagré dam
Authors: Yangouliba Gnibga Issoufou , Koch Hagen , Liersch Stefan , Sintondji Luc Ollivier , Sidibé Moussa , Larbi Isaac , Limantol Andrew Manoba , Yira Yacouba , Dipama Jean-Marie , Kwawuvi Daniel
Published: May 2022

Global hydro-climatic trends are ambiguous, challenging the management of water resources. This challenge is addressed in the current study by investigating the impacts of hydro-climatic trends and upstream water management on hydropower generation at the Bagré dam. Modified Mann–Kendall trend test, Standard Normal Homogeneity Test and Pettit test were applied to some selected hydro-climatic variables for the trend and the change year detection, whereas the relationship between upstream dam management, hydro-climatic variables and hydropower were assessed through the Spearman correlation. The results revealed an annual positive trend for all hydro-climatic variables except for water level, lake evaporation and outflow. The break years observed in hydropower generation (2002) and inflow (2006) were mainly due to the construction of the Ziga dam in 2000 and its management change in 2005, respectively. The study also showed that hydropower generation declines each May (−30.36 MWh) and June (−16.82 MWh) due to the significant increase in irrigation withdrawals (1.94 hm3 in May and 0.67 hm3 in June). The results of this study highlighted the non-linearity in the relationship between hydropower generation and hydro-climatic variables as none of the correlation coefficients (apart from turbine) are very strong (>0.8). As many human activities occurred in the basin, further research should be focused on the use of semi-distributed models to assess the impacts of water-use and land-use change on hydropower generation.
Start-up and performance of a downflow fluidised bed reactor for biological treatment of yellow wastewater and nutrient recovery
Authors: Espinosa-Chávez Belem , Ramírez-Vives Florina , Zeeman Grietje , Monroy-Hermosillo Oscar
Published: May 2022

The treatment of yellow water (human urine) in a downflow fluidised bed reactor (DFFBR) was investigated to evaluate biological ureolysis and nutrient recovery. The reactor was operated at 30±4 °C in batch mode, and reaction time = 1 d. The average immobilised biomass (as volatile solids, IVS) in the reactor was 2.5±0.9 g L−1support, and specific ureolytic activity was 121 g Urea-N g−1 IVS d−1. The kinetic parameters were 0.152 mol L−1 (Km) and 8 mol g−1 IVS d−1 (Vmax). The ureolysis efficiency was 93.4% and chemical oxygen demand removal efficiency was 31.2%, while total ammonium nitrogen (NH4+-N) production rate was 7 g L−1 d−1 and phosphate removal reached 26%. Precipitates recovery during biological treatment was 1.72±0.8 g. These results suggest that the treatment of yellow water in a DFFBR is a viable option for partial recovery of N and P.
Formação e produção científica docente: uma análise dos Programas de Pós-Graduação Stricto Sensu da Escola de Ciência da Informação da UFMG
Authors: Silva Edcleyton Bruno Fernandes da , Oliveira Marlene
Published: May 2022

Este artigo tem por objetivo analisar a formação dos docentes dos Programas de Pós-Graduação stricto sensu da Escola de Ciência da Informação (ECI) da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG). A Escola abriga dois Programas de Pós-Graduação stricto sensu em atividade, a saber: o Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência da Informação (PPGCI) e o Programa de Pós-Graduação em Gestão e Organização do Conhecimento (PPGGOC), ambos integrantes da área de Comunicação e Informação com nota cinco na avaliação da Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal do Nível Superior (CAPES). Os procedimentos de coleta de dados foram feitos na plataforma de currículos lattes do Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq), que reúne dados e informações acadêmicas de pesquisadores brasileiros. Os nomes dos docentes credenciados nos Programas de Pós-Graduação foram identificados nos sites destes. Quanto aos procedimentos de análise dos dados, utilizaram-se as seguintes categorias: Graduação, Mestrado, Doutorado, Mestrado e Doutorado, sem formação em Ciência da Informação. Os resultados apontaram um total de 44 professores/pesquisadores: 22 do PPGCI, 10 dos quais não possuem formação em Ciência da Informação, e 22 do PPGGOC, cinco dos quais sem formação em Ciência da Informação. Os professores/pesquisadores são oriundos de 13 áreas científicas em nível de graduação. A maioria deles (14) tem graduação em Biblioteconomia. Nota-se um percentual significativo de professores /pesquisadores sem formação em Ciência da informação. Excluídas a Biblioteconomia e Ciência da Informação, convém ressaltar que outras 11 áreas do conhecimento também estão presentes nas atividades de docência e pesquisa nos Programas de Pós-Graduação analisados.