bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association Between Physical Activity and Activity Space in Different Farming Seasons Among Rural Lao PDR Residents
Authors: Jiang Hongwei , Lin Lin , Yonto Daniel Anthony , Moji Kazuhiko
Published: July 2020

Background: Southeast Asia is experiencing a health transition where non-communicable diseases (NCD) are exceeding communicable diseases. Despite NCDs accounting for roughly 60-85% of deaths in the region, many developing Southeast Asian countries are beginning to address the impacts of a physically inactive lifestyle for the first time. Our study aims to bridge this gap by objectively measuring physical activity in rural Lao PDR to reveal the association among physical activity, activity space, and seasonal variation. Methods: Multiple waves of survey data were collected in Songkhon District, Lao PDR between March 2010 and March 2011. Adults aged between 18 and 65 were recruited (n=48). A portable GPS recorded participants’ activity and farmland locations and an accelerometer recorded participants’ physical activity level and daily steps for seven consecutive days. Using a directional distribution tool in ArcGIS 10.5, the activity space area of each participant in each wave was calculated. Concurrently, participants recorded time spent on each daytime activity. Linear mixed models with the fixed effects as the observations from different waves and the random effects as individual participants were developed to identify factors associated with areas of activity space and counts of daily steps, respectively.Results: A total of 48 respondents with half being females were recruited. Walking was found to be the most frequent travel mode. Females were physically less active with smaller activity space and more overweight than their male counterparts. Participants were physically less active during the off-farming seasons. Conclusions: Findings contribute to the surveillance of risk factors needed to create healthy living environments. Our research is also one of the first to use empirical evidence demonstrating seasonal variations of rural residents’ activities in mainland Southeast Asia.
Sociodemographic disparity in health-related behaviors and dietary habits among governmental employees in Hunan, China
Authors: Li Ling , He Jun , OuYang Feiyun , Qiu Dan , Li Yilu , Luo Dan , Yu Yu , Xiao Shuiyuan
Published: July 2020

BackgroundHealth-related behaviors and dietary habits have played essential roles in shaping population health and are related to morbidity or mortality. We aimed to estimate the distribution of health-related behaviors and dietary habits by socio-demographics among governmental employees in China.MethodA total of 5029 participants were included in this study. Information on their sociodemographic characteristics, health-related behaviors and dietary habits was collected. Socioeconomic status (SES) scores were calculated by multiplying ordinal numerical values assigned to consecutive categories of education level and annual household income. Adjusted multinomial logistic regression analysis and categorical principal component analysis were used to estimate differences in health-related behaviors and dietary habits by socio-demographics.ResultsThe distribution of health-related behaviors and dietary habits varied by sociodemographic groups. Middle-aged males (41–60 years) were more likely to smoke, use alcohol and have short sleep duration. Young participants (≤ 30 years) were more likely to have multiple unhealthy behaviors and dietary habits. Those in high-SES have a lower level of smoking and leisure-time physical inactivity, but a high level of late sleeping than those in low-SES. Notably, older males (≥ 51 y) with low-SES preferred the ‘smoked and pickled foods, and dessert’ and ‘fish and nut’ pattern. In high-SES groups, 41–50 y people preferred the ‘traditional foods’ and ‘cereals and dairy product’ pattern. No difference in dietary patterns by socio-demographics were found among females.ConclusionsOur findings of the disparity distribution of health-related behaviors and dietary habits by specific-gender, age and SES among Chinses governmental employees have important policy implications for developing targeted health interventions to facilitate health-related behaviors and dietary habits in this population.
Factors Associated with Commercial or Non-Commercial Contact in Non-Marital Heterosexual Transmission from Chinese HIV/AIDS Case Reporting System in 2018: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Dong Zhilong , Ma Liying , Cai Chang , Tanasugan Lokachet , Gao George Fu , Lv Fan
Published: July 2020

Background: In recent years, HIV transmission through heterosexual contact has been on the rise, accounting for more than 69% in 2017{Cui, 2020 #27}. Therefore, an in-depth understanding of the characteristics of heterosexual transmission will greatly improve our effectiveness in preventing AIDS.Methods: All identified People Living With HIV/AIDS (PLWHAs) reported as transmitted through heterosexual transmission in the Chinese HIV/AIDS Case Reporting System (CRS) in 2018 were included in this study. A multivariate logistic regression model was applied to evaluate the relationship between socio-demographic characteristics and the overall risk of being transmitted through commercial heterosexual contact (CHC) or non-marital non-commercial heterosexual contact (NMNCHC).Results: A total of 92026 cases of non-marital heterosexual transmission with no missing data were included in the analysis. There were 40244 (43.73%) cases infected through CHC and 51782 (56.27%) infected through NMNCHC. One year increase in age was associated with 0.98 times the odds of being reported as infected through NMNCHC (aOR = 0.98, 95% CI = 0.9783-0.9806, p < 0.0001), signiﬁcantly higher odds of infection through NMNCHC was observed with females (aOR = 8.39, 95% CI = 8.03-8.77, p < 0.0001), non-farmers (OR =1.22, 95% CI = 1.18-1.26, p < 0.0001), minorities (aOR = 1.94, 95% CI = 1.86-2.02, p < 0.0001), those with education level of college and above (aOR = 1.49, 95% CI = 1.38-1.61, p < 0.0001), and migrants in the different city of the same province (aOR = 1.28, 95% CI = 1.21-1.34, p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Among heterosexual transmission, Younger people, ethnic minorities, migrants within province, as well as those with comparatively higher socioeconomic status were more likely to be transmitted through non-marital non-commercial heterosexual contact (NMNCHC). More interfere measures and targeted strategies should be made for the HIV transmission through this route.
Socioeconomic inequalities in exclusive breastfeeding, early initiation of breastfeeding, and skin-to-skin contact between mother and newborn in Nigeria: evidence from Demographic and Health Survey
Authors: Ekholuenetale Michael , Arora Amit , Barrow Amadou
Published: July 2020

Background

The effects of breastfeeding practices on children’s health are undoubtedly of great interest worldwide. Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF), early initiation of breastfeeding (EIBF) and skin-to-skin contact (SSC) between mother and the newborn have many short-term and long-term benefits. The aim of this study was to explore state-level prevalence and examine the socioeconomic inequalities between EBF, EIBF and SSC in Nigeria.
Methods

Data on 2,936 children aged less than 6 months were extracted from the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) to determine EBF. In addition, data from 21,569 women were used for EIBF and SSC estimations. Lorenz curve and concentration index were used to examine socioeconomic inequalities in EBF, EIBF and SSC.
Results

The prevalence of EBF, EIBF, and SSC were 31.8%, 44.2%, and 12.1% respectively. Furthermore, Ogun State had the highest prevalence of EBF (71.4%); while Bayelsa State had the highest prevalence of SSC (67.8%) and EIBF (96.2%) respectively. Urban dwellers had higher prevalence of EBF, SSC and EIBF across household wealth quintile and levels of mother’s education, in contrast to their rural counterparts. We quantified the degree of wealth-related and mother’s education inequalities in EBF, SSC and EIBF. Overall, EBF, SSC and EIBF had pro-rich coverage; EBF (Conc. Index = 0.118; p < 0.001), SSC (Conc. Index = 0.152; p < 0.001) and EIBF (Conc. Index = 0.103; p = 0.002) respectively. Also, EBF was significantly more concentrated among mothers with higher educational attainment (Conc. Index = 0.157; p < 0.001), SSC (Conc. Index = 0.156; p < 0.001) and EIBF (Conc. Index = 0.091; p < 0.001). The test for differences between urban vs. rural was significant in EBF, SSC and EIBF for mother’s educational attainment. But this was only significant in EIBF for household wealth quintile.
Conclusion

Socioeconomic status determined breastfeeding practices and SSC in Nigeria. Breastfeeding practices interventions should target all mothers, especially low socioeconomic status mothers to ensure improvements in baby friendly initiatives.
Analysis of Clinical Imaging Characteristics of Patients with 2019-nCoV
Authors: Jiang Hao , GUO WEI , Jiang Huijie , Zheng Ruoshui , Wang Ziao , Yi Ru , Su Baomin , Sun Li
Published: July 2020

Background: This article retrospectively analyzed the clinical characteristics and CT characteristics of chest CT of 10 patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) diagnosed in Heilongjiang Province. Methods: A retrospective analysis of 10 COVID-19 patients confirmed by designated hospitals in Heilongjiang Province. Results: The clinical manifestations were mainly fever (80%) and cough (50%). Laboratory tests showed elevated C-reactive protein (70%) and serum amyloid A (80%). CT mainly manifests as ground-glass opacity (100%) in the lung, more than two lung lobes (90%), and the lesions are mostly located in the right upper lobe (80%), and lobular septum thickening (60%) is common.Conclusions: In this group of patients with COVID-19, the typical CT manifestations are double lung sheet ground-glass opacity, which are mainly distributed in the subpleural area, and the range of involvement is more than or equal to two lung lobes, “paving stones” changes; pulmonary lesions were absorbed and fibrous cord foci were formed during the transition period. It is worth noting that hilum, mediastinal lymphadenopathy, and pleural effusion are less common. During the study period, follow-up imaging performed by some patients showed mild / moderate disease progression and gradually dissipating.
Comparative Appraisal of Randomized Response Technique vs. Direct Interview Method in Assessment of Burden of Tobacco and Alcohol Use among Adolescents in India
Authors: Upadhyay Ashish Datt , Dwivedi Sada Nand , Dhawan Anju , Sreeni Vishnubhatla
Published: July 2020

Background: In countries like India, the major source of error in reporting of sensitive events (e.g., tobacco and alcohol use) among adolescents is deliberate misreporting. To estimate its burden, the commonly used direct interview method involves problems in reporting. To cope up, randomized response technique (RRT) is an alternative approach which uses a random device for providing more privacy to respondents. So, it may be worthwhile to compare RRT with direct interview method in assessment of burden of ever tobacco and alcohol use among Indian adolescents.Methods: A cross-sectional survey on ever tobacco and alcohol use among adolescents was conducted on 796 (401: RRT; 395: Direct interview) 9th to 12th class students from purposively selected three schools of Delhi/National Capital Region, during November-2014 to November-2016. As per conventional use of RRT, two types of questions, one related to “sensitive attribute” and other “an unrelated question” was used to estimate ever tobacco and alcohol use. For the first time, a new random device (i.e., randomly arranged questionnaires) was proposed and used under RRT which is user friendly and appropriate for time-bound application. For comparison, the estimates of both, ever tobacco use and ever alcohol use, were obtained which could also facilitate comparative change in effect size with increasing sensitivity. Results: The prevalence of ever tobacco use under RRT approach and Direct Interview method was 18.6% (95% CI: 13.33-24.01) and 10.1% (95% CI:7.15-13.10) respectively, where as that of ever alcohol use was 22.8% (95%CI: 17.08-28.5) and 9.1% (95% CI: 6.27-11.95) respectively. Further, comparative results showed that as contents in used substance become more sensitive, under estimation of burden under direct interview method may become higher [i.e., Ever tobacco use: 8.5% (95% CI: 3.43-13.65); Ever alcohol use: 13.6% (95% CI: 8.34-19.03)]. The proposed new random device under RRT, as a set of randomly arranged questionnaires containing either sensitive or unrelated questions, consists of most of its recommended properties. Conclusions: The findings under the present study suggest that the randomized response technique may serve as a versatile method for gaining access to more accurate information on sensitive topics.
NADPH Oxidase 4 Promotes Hypoxia-induced Epithelial-to-mesenchymal Transition via Histone Modification in Pancreatic cancer
Authors: Li Hongzhen , Peng Chunyan , Zhu Chenhui , Nie Shuang , Qian Xuetian , Shi Zhao , Shi Mengyue , Liang Yan , Ding Xiwei , Zhang Shu , Zhang Bin , Li Xihan , Xu Guifang , Lv Ying , Wang Lei , Friess Helmut , Kong Bo , Zou Xiaoping , Shen Shanshan
Published: July 2020

BackgroundHypoxia is a characteristic of the tumor microenvironments within Pancreatic cancer (PC) which has been linked to its malignancy. Oxidative stress, characterized by NADPH oxidase (NOX) activation, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) could be induced by hypoxia which involved in tumor progression and metastasis. However, the relationship between hypoxia-induced oxidative stress and EMT has not been clarified, and the regulatory mechanism of NADPH oxidase is still unknown. MethodsA hypoxic-related gene signature and its associated pathways in PC were identified by bioinformatics method. Candidate downstream gene (NOX4), responding to hypoxia was validated by RT-PCR and western blot. In vitro and in vivo assays as well as tumor samples from our centre were preformed to explore the phenotype of NOX4 in PC. Immunofluorescence, western blot and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays were further applied to search for detailed mechanism. ResultsWe established a hypoxia-related gene signature within PC which was prognostic and linked with up-regulated EMT pathway. Then we found that hypoxia could induce stable up-regulation of NOX4, which is essential for EMT activation. Elevated expression of NOX4 was observed in PC samples and positively associated with advanced tumor grade and unfavorable prognosis. In vivo and in vitro experiments demonstrated NOX4 overexpress or inhibition in pancreatic cancer cells caused changes of proliferation and invasion ability. Then we found NOX4 could increase the methylation modification of histone H3 and regulated the transcription of EMT-associated gene_ snail family transcriptional repressor 1 (SNAIL1). ConclusionsThis study highlights the prognostic role of hypoxia-related genes in PC and strong correlation with EMT pathway. Our results also creatively discovered that NOX4 was an essential mediator for hypoxia-induced histone methylation modification and EMT in PC cells.
Quality assessment: Qualitative and quantitative analysis of nine active components in Sargentodoxa cuneata by HPLC/Q Exactive Plus MS and UPLC-ESI-MS/MS
Authors: Zheng Lin , Zhou Zu-Ying , Wang Chang-Quan , Wang Yong-Lin , Gong Zi-Peng , Li Yue-Ting , Wang Ai-Min , Chen Si-Ying , Ma Xue , Li Yong-Jun , Huang Yong
Published: July 2020

Background: Sargentodoxa cuneata is an herb commonly used by the Hmong people, and many preparations containing this herb have been marketed. However, the source of medicinal materials is not standardized during the production process, and the quality of medicinal materials from different sources may be inconsistent. This study was aimed to establish a qualitative and quantitative analysis method for quality assessment of Sargentodoxa cuneata in different regions. Methods: HPLC/Q Exactive Plus MS was performed in positive mode and negative mode used for qualitative analysis, and there were twenty-one ingredients were tested. Nine high-content or characteristic ingredients were screened out and applied to the quantitative analysis of thirty batches of medicinal materials from different origins. Based on the results of the quantitative analysis, further multivariate statistical analyses were carried out for quality assessment of Sargentodoxa cuneata . Results: Results showed that there were significant differences in the contents of the nine ingredients of Sargentodoxa cuneata in the eastern and southwestern regions. The content of hydroxytyrosol, salidroside, chlorogenic acid, desrhamnosyl isoacteoside, and liriodendrin of Sargentodoxa cuneata in eastern region was higher, while the content of protocatechin in southwestern region was higher. The different ingredients included protocatechuic acid, desrhamnosyl isoacteoside, liriodendrin, and hydroxytyrosol. These four ingredients were important factors that caused the difference in the quality of Sargentodoxa cuneata from different origins. Conclusion: Protocatechuic acid, desrhamnosyl isoacteoside, liriodendrin, and hydroxytyrosol may become a new marker for quality assessment of Sargentodoxa cuneata.
Characteristics of Microbiome in Lung Adenocarcinoma Tissue from Patients in Southwestern China
Authors: Zhu Sinuo , Zhao Yunping , Bao Yanan , Cui Yue , Zhu Xingming , He Xuan , Ye Mengxiao , Chen Xiaobo
Published: July 2020

Background:Increasing evidences have unveiled the connection between microbiome and lung cancer. This study aims to identify the characteristics of microbial communities in the lung cancer tissues from patients in southwestern China, and to compare the distinct microbial genes at different clinical stages of lung cancer for uncovering potential immunotherapy targets.Methods:Forty samples of primary lung adenocarcinoma tissue were performed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The subjects were grouped according to TNM stages (T and N group), clinical stage and smoke status. To identify the taxa composition of each sample, Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs) were classified on the Effective Tags with 97% identity. The linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) method was utilized to compare relative abundances of all bacterial taxa between non-metastasis group and metastasis group. The Shannon index of the 97% identity OTUs was calculated to evaluate alpha diversity. Beta diversity measurement was calculated using Principal Co-ordinates Analysis (PCoA).Results:A total of 951 OTUs were identified in the cancer tissues, including 224 overlapping genera. No significant difference has been found in the alpha diversity within all the groups. Beta diversity was significantly different in N group, T group and clinical stage group. By LEfSe analysis, nine differential species were identified in the N group, of which the relative abundance of genus Bifidobacterium was 10.78%±11.59% in the N0 group and 20.15%±13.44% in the N+ group (p<0.05). In the T1 and T2 group, the LEfSe result identified 4 phylum and 10 genera. The differential genera were Moraxella, Dolosigranulum, Corynebacteriaceae and Citrobacter in the T2 group and Bifidobacterium, Alistipes, Akkermansia, Blautia, Lactobacillus as well as Facelibacterium in the T1 group. Differential bacterial composition and abundance were also observed in the clinical stage group.Conclusions:In conclusion, by 16S RNA sequencing, we identified dominant species of lung cancer tissue in different groups of AD patients. Bifidobacterium plays important role both in lymph node metastasis and tumor progression, which could provide specific immunotherapy strategy for lung cancer.
Study of the immunogenicity of recombinant protein consisting of multiple epitopes of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus highly expressed in Sf9 cells
Authors: Liu Yangkun , Hu Xiaomin , Zhang Nannan , Li Na , Guan Zhihan , Burov Andrey , Puzyr Alexey , Bondar Vladimir , Yao Lunguang
Published: July 2020

Background

Current inactivated and attenuated vaccines can not provide complete protection, resulting in the ongoing epidemic of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), which has caused significant economic losses in the swine industry worldwide. To develop an alternative efficient and economical vaccine, a fusion protein named S1CD containing multiple neutralizing epitopes of PEDV was designed and expressed in Sf9 cells. The expression yield was optimized by production of baculoviral constructs harboring multiple S1CD-expressing cassettes, and the immunogenicity of the purified protein was evaluated.
Results

The results showed that high-level expression of the S1CD fusion protein was achieved by multi-copy gene co-expression. The recombinant virus carrying three copies of S1CD gene under the control of p10 promoter showed the highest expression level, with a yield of 462 mg/L, which is about 2.6 or 3.5 fold that of the recombinant viruses carrying only one copy. BALB/c mice were subcutaneously immunized with purified S1CD protein three times at 2 week intervals. After immunization, S1CD protein could induce the mice produce high level of specific IgG antibodies and neutralizing antibodies.
Conclusion

Fusion S1CD protein consisting of multiple epitopes of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus was highly expressed by multi-copy gene co-expression. Moreover, it stimulated mice to produce high level of specific IgG antibodies and neutralizing antibodies. The S1CD protein expressed in this study could be used as a putative economic and efficient subunit vaccine against PEDV infection.
Seasonal Bioavailability of Heavy Metal Contaminants From the University of Lagos Lagoon, Nigeria
Authors: Sowunmi Kehinde , Titilayo Soyebo , Sowunmi Lukman
Published: July 2020

Heavy metals have been implicated as Lagoon pollutants from sources such as agriculture, mining and manufacturing industries and waste water treatment works. A study was carried out in the University of Lagos lagoon to investigate the seasonal bioavailability of the heavy metal contaminants Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb and Zn. The physical parameters pH, redox potential, temperature, TDS and conductivity were measured on site. Dried sediment samples were extracted using the Community Bureau of Reference (BCR) sequential procedure and analysed by ICP-OES. A certified reference material (CRM), BCR 701 (lake sediment) was used for quality assurance with recoveries ranging between 80-120%. Statistical analysis (ANOVA) showed that there was a significant difference between metal distribution in the dry and wet seasons. Cr and Cd were partitioned in the residual fraction (unavailable for uptake). Cu, Pb and Zn were in the available fractions (carbonate, Fe/Mn oxide and organic). Cu was highest in the Fe/Mn oxide and organic fractions. This indicated that an increase in reducing agents and organic matter will avail the Cu. Zn was distributed in all fractions while Pb was found in the Fe/Mn oxide fraction (3.93- 21.3 %). Results showed that the bioavailability of Cu, Pb and Zn was high. Metal bioavailability by BCR indicates a potential risk of pollution in lagoon sediments as the available metals exceeded the permissible Sediment Quality Assessment Guidelines (SQAG’s) from Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Leisure-time, occupational, and commuting physical activity and the risk of chronic kidney disease in a working population: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Yamamoto Shohei , Inoue Yosuke , Kuwahara Keisuke , Miki Takako , Nakagawa Tohru , Honda Toru , Yamamoto Shuichiro , Hayashi Takeshi , Mizoue Tetsuya
Published: July 2020

Background:

Very few attempts have been made to examine the association of leisure-time physical activity with chronic kidney disease (CKD) onset. In addition, there is no prospective information on the relationship between other domains of physical activity and CKD. In this study, we examined the risk of CKD in the context of leisure-time, occupational, and commuting physical activity.
Methods:

This prospective cohort study included 17,331 Japanese workers (aged 20–65 years at baseline) without CKD who were followed from 2006 to 2020. Leisure-time, occupational physical activity, and the duration of walking to and from work were assessed by a questionnaire at baseline. Incident CKD was defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 and/or proteinuria [1+, 2+, or 3+] by dipstick. Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to estimate the hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of CKD.
Results:

During 147,752 person-years of follow-up, 4,013 participants developed CKD. After controlling for a wide range of covariates, leisure-time physical activity and walking for commute were not associated with CKD onset. By contrast, compared to the participants mostly engaging in sedentary work, those with standing/walking and fairly active work had HRs of 0.86 (95% CI: 0.79–0.94) and 0.87 (95%CI: 0.76-1.00) to develop CKD, respectively, after adjusting for all covariates including the other forms of physical activity (p for trend = 0.01).
Conclusions:

Occupational physical activity was associated with the risk of CKD, and leisure-time and commuting physical activity were not.
Da Cheng Qi Decoction Alleviates Cerulein-Stimulated AR42J Pancreatic Acinar Cell Injury via the JAK2/STAT3 Signalling Pathway
Authors: Zhou Zehua , Chen Ying , Dong Wenmin , An Rui , Liang Kun , Wang Xinhong
Published: July 2020

Background: Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a common acute abdomen, characterized by the dysregulation of digestive enzyme production and secretion. Many studies have shown that Da Cheng Qi Decoction (DCQD) is a secure, effective prescription on AP. In this study, cerulein-stimulated AR42J cells damage model was established to further explore the feasibility and underlying mechanism of DCQD as a potential JAK2/STAT3 pathway inhibitor for the treatment of AP. Methods: Cell viability of DCQD was measured using a Cell Counting Kit-8 assay. Pancreatic biochemical markers such as amylase, lipase and C-reactive protein production were measured by assay kits respectively. Cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10 and IL-1β) were assayed by ELISA. Protein location was detected by immunofluorescence staining. Proteins expression was quantified by Western blotting, and gene expression was assessed by real‑time PCR. For mechanistic analysis of the effect of DCQD on JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway, selective JAK2 inhibitor (Fedratinib) and STAT3 inhibitor (Stattic) as well as STAT3 activator (Garcinone D) were used.Results: DCQD protected cells by regulating cerulein-induced inflammation and reducing the secretion of pancreatic biochemical markers. The mechanisms mediating these effects may be related to the suppression of the JAK2/STAT3 pathway. Additionally, DCQD significantly attenuated cell injury and regulated the expression of downstream targets Bax and Bcl-XL. Moreover, treatment with JAK2 inhibitor Fedratinib or STAT3 inhibitor Stattic reversed the activated effect of cerulein on JAK2/STAT3 pathway. And the activation of JAK2/STAT3 pathway, via STAT3 activator Garcinone D, did exert damage on cells, which bore a resemblance to cerulein.Conclusion: The activation of JAK2/STAT3 pathway may play a key role in the pathogenesis of cerulein-stimulated AR42J pancreatic acinar cell injury. DCQD could improve inflammatory cytokines and cell injury, which might be mediated by suppressing the activation of JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.
An unusual collection: Nasal septal abscess secondary to a Furuncle
Authors: Bhaga Heeral , Maharaj Shivesh
Published: July 2020

Nasal septal abscess is an uncommon entity and most likely to occur with nasal septal hematoma associated with trauma. It occurs when pus collects between the mucoperichondrium and the nasal septal cartilage. Complications can be avoided by prompt identification and initiation of appropriate treatment. Thus avoiding systemic and cosmetic sequelae.We present a septal abscess secondary to nasal furuncle in a tertiary institute. This case report also serves to illustrate the investigations, recommended management and possible treatment outcomes.
No Coil® Placement in Patients Undergoing Left Hemicolectomy and Lower Anterior Resection for Colorectal Cancer: Efficacy, Tolerability and Differences.
Authors: Ammendola Michele , Ruggiero Michele , Talarico Carlo , Memeo Riccardo , Ammerata Giorgio , Capomolla Antonella , Filippo Rosalinda , Romano Roberto , Pallio Socrate , Navarra Giuseppe , Montemurro Severino , Currò Giuseppe
Published: July 2020

Background. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most common type of the gastrointestinal tract. Anastomotic leak (AL), is the most important complication of colorectal surgery. In this retrospective study, we evaluated efficacy and tolerability of transanal tube No Coil® in patients with CRC undergoing low anterior resection (LAR) and left hemicolectomy (LC). Methods. Thirty-eight patients operated by the same team for primary colorectal adenocarcinoma were collected, 24 LC and 14 LAR. Neither defuncioning stoma nor neoadjuvant therapy not was administered to anyone patients. No Coil® was placed immediately after the end of surgical treatment.Results. In our experience, LC was performed in 24 individuals (63%), LAR in 14 individuals (37%). AL was evident in 2,63 % of the sample; no statistical difference was found in AL occurrence between LC and LAR with only one patient in LAR group.Conclusion. With our preliminary data, we suggest that No Coil® placement can be considered as a valuable procedure assisting colorectal surgery, but further studies are required to confirm and enlarge actual evidence.
Direct Effects of Nerve Growth Factor-β, Purified From Bull Seminal Plasma,on Steroidogenesis and Angiogenic Markers of Thebovine Pre-ovulatory Follicle
Authors: Stewart Jamie L. , Gao Liying , Flaws Jodi A. , Mercadante Vitor R.G. , Dias Nicholas W. , Canisso Igor F. , Lima Fabio
Published: July 2020

Nerve growth factor-β (NGF) is critical for ovulation in the mammalian ovary and is luteotrophic when administered systemically to camelids and cattle. This study aimed to assess the direct effects of purified bovine NGF on steroidogenesis and angiogenic markers in the bovine pre-ovulatory follicle. A chort of Holstein heifers were synchronized with a standard protocol and heifers with the preovulatory follicle (≥ 12 mm) had an the ovary containing the dominant follicle removed via colpotomy. Pre-ovulatory follicles were dissected in 24 pieces containing theca and granulosa cells that were randomly allocated to receive either cultured in media supplemented with purified bovine NGF (100 ng/mL) or untreated (control) for 72 h. The supernatant media was harvested for determination of progesterone, testosterone, and estradiol, whereas explants were used for mRNA analyses for steroidogenesis and angiogenic markers. Treatment of follicle tissue with NGF upregulated gene expression of steroidogenic enzyme HDS17B ( P = 0.04) and increased testosterone production ( P < 0.01). However, NGF treatment did not alter production of progesterone ( P = 0.81) or estradiol ( P = 0.14). Consistently, gene expression of steroidogenic enzymes responsible for producing these hormones ( STAR , CYP11A1 , HSD3B , CYP17A1 , CYP19A1 ) were unaffected by NGF treatment ( P ≥ 0.31). Treatment with NGF downregulated gene expression of the angiogenic enzyme FGF2 ( P = 0.02) but did not alter PGES ( P = 0.63), VEGFA ( P = 0.44), and ESR1 ( P = 0.77). Collectively, these results demonstrate that NGF from seminal plasma may interact directly with the bovine pre-ovulatory follicle to alter downstream steroidogenesis and luteal development.
Gender Differences in Decision-making and Leadership: Evidence from Armenia
Authors: Minasyan Diana , Tovmasyan Gayane
Published: July 2020

This paper summarizes the arguments and counterarguments within the scientific discussion on the issue of gender differences in decision-making and leadership positions. The main purpose of the research is to find out if there are gender differences in decision-making styles, career development, and leadership and reveal the main causes. A systematization of literary sources on the issue of gender differences in the decision-making process indicates that there are real differences: women are more sensitive, men are overconfident, men tend to be leaders more than women. Investigation of the topic proves that in leadership positions men are promoted more than women are, also there is a pay gap between genders. Analysis in the paper is carried out in the following logical sequence: the statistical data available has been analyzed, and then a survey is done, which reveals some issues of gender differences in leadership and decision-making in workplaces in Armenia. Based on the generalization of the results, the differences in decision-making are determined and the corresponding conclusions are drawn. Methodological tools of the research methods were analysis and synthesis of the available data, survey, and statistical methods: cross-tabulation with Pearson Chi-square testing, which proves that there are significant relationships between some factors. The paper presents the results of an empirical analysis, which shows that in Armenia women and men make decisions differently, women have fewer opportunities for career promotion. The survey reveals that women make decisions in groups, men – alone. The main characteristics of women during the decision-making process are: analytical thinking, consulting, honesty, and intuitive thinking. Also, the workers, lower and middle-level managers make decisions mainly in groups, high-level managers – alone. The survey also reveals the main reasons why men are appointed to leadership positions and the main stereotypes that hinder women’s career advancement. The results of the research can be useful for state bodies, labor markets, organizations, educational institutions, researchers, etc.

Keywords: gender, inequality, decision-making, leadership, Chi-square testing, survey, gender differences.
The Importance of Business Partnership on the World Wide Web
Authors: Kiss Lívia Benita
Published: July 2020

An integral component of successful entrepreneurial activity is the establishment of strong relations with partners, the form and type of which varies depending on the sphere of activity and its scope. Considering that a prerequisite for a business partnership is constant communication, the style, and quality of which mainly determines the success of doing business, the development of business communication skills becomes an object of continuous research by both scientists and enterprise managers. The main goal of this study was to examine the role and the importance of business partnerships in Google Trends. Another goal of the study was to look at how often the term business partnership appears in Google books, with the help of Google Books Ngram Viewer, as well as in a database of Science Direct, with the help of Science Direct’s search function. The top year of the interest frequency of business partnership was 2004 in the Google Trends worldwide in business and industry categories. The bottom year of interest frequency was 2006. The geographic analysis revealed that most people searched in Botswana, in Jamaica, in Zimbabwe, in Ghana, and Uganda for the term business partnership. Interestingly, these countries are all located on the African continent, except Jamaica. Most people searched in Accra, in Nairobi, in Manila, in Quezon City, and Cebu for the term business partnership. The results of the bibliometric analysis of the relationship of business partnerships with other categories made it possible to conclude that people (mostly from the Philippines, Ethiopia, the USA, Canada, and Kenya) inquired about the joint venture and limited partnership. The conducted study revealed that from 1950 to 1970, the frequency of appearance of business partnership in the Google Books` database has been decreasing continuously. From 1972 the frequency has been growing gradually, then from 2006, the frequency has been decreasing gradually. The use of the term “business partnership” shows in the Science Direct a second-degree polynomial growing trend. Summarizing all these results, we can conclude that while people in developing countries in Africa and Jamaica were most sought for expressing business partnerships, people in developed countries were more interested in types of business partnerships.

Keywords: Business partnership, Google Trends, Google Books Ngram Viewer, Science Direct, Time Series Analysis.
In Vitro Safening of Bentazon by Melatonin in Sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas)
Authors: Caputo Giovanni A. , Wadl Phillip A. , McCarty Lambert , Adelberg Jeff , Jennings Katherine M. , Cutulle Matthew
Published: July 2020

Weed competition is a main factor limiting sweetpotato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam] production. Yellow nutsedge (Cyperus esculentus L.) is a problematic weed to control due to its ability to quickly infest a field and generate high numbers of tubes and shoots. Compounding this is the lack of a registered herbicide for selective postemergence control of yellow nutsedge. Research was conducted to evaluate the bentazon dose response of two sweetpotato cultivars and one advanced clone and to evaluate the plant hormone melatonin to determine its ability to safen bentazon post emergence. Bioassays using Murashige and Skoog (MS) media supplemented with melatonin (0.232 g a.i./L and 0.023 g a.i./L) and bentazon (0.24 g a.i./L) were conducted to evaluate the effect of bentazon on sweetpotato and to determine the interactive response of the Beauregard cultivar to bentazon and exogenous applications of melatonin. Beauregard swas the most tolerant cultivar and required dosages of bentazon that were two-times higher to cause the same injury compared with other cultivars. MS media containing melatonin and bentazon showed fewer injuries and higher plant mass than plants treated with bentazon alone. These results indicate that sweetpotato injury caused by bentazon may be reduced by melatonin.
Critical properties of a comb lattice
Authors: Chepiga Natalia , White Steven
Published: July 2020

In this paper we study the critical properties of the Heisenberg spin-1/2
model on a comb lattice --- a 1D backbone decorated with finite 1D chains --
the teeth. We address the problem numerically by a comb tensor network that
duplicates the geometry of a lattice. We observe a fundamental difference between
the states on a comb with even and odd number of sites per tooth, which
resembles an even-odd effect in spin-1/2 ladders. The comb with odd teeth is
always critical, not only along the teeth, but also along the backbone, which
leads to a competition between two critical regimes in orthogonal directions.
In addition, we show that in a weak-backbone limit the excitation energy scales as
1/(NL), and not as 1/N or 1/L typical for 1D systems. For even teeth in the
weak backbone limit the system corresponds to a collection of decoupled
critical chains of length L, while in the strong backbone limit, one spin from each
tooth forms the backbone, so the effective length of a critical tooth
is one site shorter, L-1. Surprisingly, these two regimes are connected via a
state where a critical chain spans over two nearest neighbor teeth, with an effective
length 2L.
Playing the SOS Game Using Feasible Greedy Strategy
Authors: Setiawan Abas
Published: July 2020

The research aims to make an intelligent agent that can compete against the human player. In this research, the feasible greedy strategy is proposed to make an intelligent agent by checking all possible solutions in the limited tree levels to find effective movement. Several matches are conducted to evaluate the performance of the feasible greedy agent. The board size for the evaluation consists of 33, 44, 55, 66, 77, and 88 squares. From the result, the feasible greedy agent never loses against the random agent and the pure greedy agent. In 3 3 squares match, the agent can compensate against the human player, so the game always ends with a draw. In 44, 55, 66, 77, and 88 squares matches, the feasible greedy agent slightly outplays the human player.
A COMPARISON OF INJURY RISK SCREENING TOOLS IN TURKISH YOUNG ELITE MALE HANDBALL PLAYERS BASED ON FIELD POSITIONS
Authors: KOÇAK Umut Ziya , ÜNVER Bayram , ÖZER KAYA Derya
Published: July 2020

Purpose: Handball is one of the team sports that common injuries reported. Movement analyses and detecting functionally limited areas have been of utmost importance for eliminating injury risks. This study aimed to determine the injury risks and compare them according to field positions in young Turkish elite male handball players. Methods: Fifty-four players (age=15.69±0.47 years, height=182.80±6.53 cm, weight=82.09±14.28 kg, body mass index=24.52±3.77 kg/m2) who were invited to the U17 National Handball Team participated in the study. Descriptive data with physical characteristics were obtained. Injury risk was assessed using the Functional Movement Screen (FMS) test, Y-Balance Test (YBT)-Upper Extremity, and YBT-Lower Extremity tests. The overall scores for FMS, YBT-Upper Extremity, and YBT-Lower Extremity were calculated for all subjects. Results: The field positions were distributed as goalkeepers (n=7), back players (n=24), wing players (n=13), and pivots (n=10). Based on the field positions, pivots and goalkeepers were determined as having the lowest scores regarding FMS and YBT-Upper Extremity (p<0.05). Conclusion: Players who compete in the positions of goalkeeper and pivot might have higher injury risk due to lower FMS and YBT-Upper Extremity scores. These results would allow the trainers and players to observe the current status and to implement the injury prevention programs.
Antibiotic-resistant staphylococci from the wastewater treatment plant and grey-water samples in Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
Authors: Adesoji Tomiwa Olumide , Egyir Beverly , Shittu Adebayo Osagie
Published: July 2020

This study examined the occurrence and molecular basis for antibiotic-resistant staphylococci from the wastewater treatment plant and grey-water samples in Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria. Standard microbiological techniques and molecular methods were utilized. The species identified (MALDI score >1.7) comprised S. saprophyticus (19), S. cohnii (8), S. sciuri (7), S. aureus (4), S. epidermidis (3), S. warneri (2), S. equorum (1), S. haemolyticus (1), S. nepalensis (1), S. condimenti (1), and S. pasteuri (1). Resistance to trimethoprim, tetracycline and cefoxitin were observed in 78.3% (47/60), 36.7% (22/60) and 25% (15/60) of the isolates, respectively. The rate of multidrug resistance was 53.3% (32/60) and observed in eight species from different sampling sites. Seven (S. sciuri; n = 5; S. aureus; n = 1; S. warneri; n = 1) of the 20 selected (representing the various staphylococcal species and antibiotypes) isolates were mecA-positive. Furthermore, the tetK gene was detected in nine isolates, six with dfrA, and four were positive for the dfrG gene. One S. aureus was mecA, tetK and dfrG gene positive. The study provides insights on antibiotic-resistant staphylococci from a non-clinical setting and highlights the need for active surveillance to understand the burden of antimicrobial resistance in Nigeria. This is key to improve synergy across the human, animal and environmental health sectors in Nigeria.

This article has been made Open Access thanks to the generous support of a global network of libraries as part of the Knowledge Unlatched Select initiative.
Application of solid phase extraction (SPE) coupled to dispersive liquid–liquid micro-extraction (DLLME) and sensory evaluation technique for the study of taste and odor active compounds in water
Authors: Zou Jian , Shi Chenyi , Xu Jingyi , Green Shayne , Zhou Yang , Yang XiuHan , Fry Tanya , Winniford Bill
Published: July 2020

Short-chain carbonyls could cause taste and odor issues in drinking water due to their very low odour threshold concentrations (OTCs). Several techniques such as 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine (DNPH) derivatization-HPLC and solid-phase micro-extraction (SPME) have been applied for trace short-chain aldehydes analysis in water. However, to study the taste and odor contributors in drinking water, it would be helpful to obtain an extract with representative odor from water samples for further studies, such as GC-olfactometry analysis or sensory test. Therefore, the above techniques still have some constraints due to the derivatization process or complex operating procedures. In this work, we developed a solid-phase extraction (SPE) coupled to dispersive liquid–liquid micro-extraction (DLLME) method to study short-chain aldehydes in ozonated water samples (LOQ = 1 ppb, RSD% = 12–45%). This method enables us to obtain an extract with representative odor from water for further volatile components analysis and sensory evaluation. Pair-wise nose clip sensory evaluation on the taste and odor of ozonated water indicated a high correlation between odor and taste of ozonated water. The SPE-DLLME method enabled a reliable study, for the first time, on correlations of volatile carbonyls and taste & odor performance for ozonated water by applying a series of statistical models.
Removal of the antimicrobial activity from fortified effluents with fluoroquinolones by photocatalytic processes: a comparative study of differently synthesized TiO2-N
Authors: Venancio Wilson Augusto Lima , Rodrigues-Silva Caio , Spina Mylena , Guimarães José Roberto
Published: July 2020

This study presents a comparison of three methods for TiO2-N synthesis that were applied in the photocatalytic oxidation of the fluoroquinolones (FQs) ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, and lomefloxacin in aqueous solution. The TiO2-N bandgap is small enough to allow the use of solar energy in the photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) reactions. The TiO2 doped by a sol-gel method with titanium butoxide (TiO2–N–BUT) and titanium isopropoxide (TiO2–N–PROP) as the precursor were effective as the TiO2 (P25) impregnation with urea (TiO2-N-P25) to degrade the FQs. The FQ degradation was higher by 74, 65, and 91%, respectively for TiO2–N–BUT, TiO2–N–PROP, and TiO2-N (load 50 mg L−1, 20 min of reaction under 28 W UV-ASolar). The TiO2-P25 with urea showed the best performance in FQ degradation. The reaction intermediates might present modifications in their acceptor groups by PCO and, because of that the antimicrobial activity dropped as the reaction time increased. Reactions with TiO2-N-P25 (100 mg L−1) and TiO2-N-BUT (100 mg L−1) achieved ≥ 80% of antimicrobial activity removal from the mixed FQ solution (Cciprofloxacin = 100 μg L−1; Cofloxacin = 100 μg L−1; Clomefloxacin = 100 μg L−1) after 40 min of reaction, for both for Escherichia coli and Bacillus subtilis.
Bioproducts characterization of residual periphytic biomass produced in an algal turf scrubber (ATS) bioremediation system
Authors: de Souza Maiara P. , Rizzetti Tiele M. , Hoeltz Michele , Dahmer Mainara , Júnior João A. , Alves Gisele , Benitez Lisianne B. , Schneider Rosana C. S.
Published: July 2020

The transformation of residual biomass from bioremediation processes into new products is a worldwide trend driven by economic, environmental and social gain. The present study aimed to evaluate the potential for obtaining bioproducts of technological interest from the remaining periphytic biomass formed during a bioremediation process with an algal turf scrubber (ATS) system installed in a lake catchment. Different methodologies were used according to the target bioproduct. Analyses were performed by high performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector (HPLC/DAD), gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS), ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS) and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The results demonstrated that the periphytic biomass presented potential since protein (17.7%), carbohydrates (22.4%), total lipids (3.3%) with 3.6 mg mL−1 of fatty acids, antioxidants (144.5 μmol Trolox eq. g−1) and chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and carotenoids (1,719.7 μg mL−1, 541.2 μg mL−1 and 317.7 μg mL−1, respectively) were obtained. Inorganic analysis presented a value of 42.3 ± 2.58% of total ash and metal presence was detected, indicating bioaccumulation. The properties found in periphyton strengthen the possibility of its application in different areas, ensuring bioremediation efficiency.