bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Integral Core Nutrient Matrix Causing Uterine Fibroid and the Associated Biochemical Roots
Authors: Okesola Mary A. , Bello Folasade A. , Ogunlana Olubanke O. , Afolabi Israel S.
Published: June 2022

Uterine fibroid (UF) is a tumour in some parts of the uterus, which introduces health challenges or death due to failed surgery among women globally. This study was designed to ascertain the involvement of micro-nutrients, inflammation, and antioxidant enzymes in the UF development to gain further insights and provide a strategy for managing the disease. One hundred ninety reproductive-aged women were recruited and classified equally into case and control subjects. The supernatant obtained from excised tissues from the fibroid and the normal samples from the adjacent myometrium were assessed for the selected biochemical parameters with standard methods. The levels of vitamin A and sodium between 26-35 years; vitamins D, E, zinc, and selenium between 46-55 years; and vitamin E at 56 years and above significantly decreased (p<0.05). Interleukin-2 (IL-2) level significantly increased (P < 0.05) among the case between 36-45 years. An increase in the activity of glutathione-s-transferase and the reduction in glutathione peroxidase activity and vitamin A level in the uterus between 26-45 years were the most pronounced significant findings (p<0.05) recorded. Prolonged vitamin A deficiency coupled with excess sodium salts facilitating inflammation induced by IL-2 are critical factors for UF development.
Force Estimation during Cell Migration Using Mathematical Modelling
Authors: Yang Feng Wei , Venkataraman Chandrasekar , Gu Sai , Styles Vanessa , Madzvamuse Anotida
Published: June 2022

Cell migration is essential for physiological, pathological and biomedical processes such as, in embryogenesis, wound healing, immune response, cancer metastasis, tumour invasion and inflammation. In light of this, quantifying mechanical properties during the process of cell migration is of great interest in experimental sciences, yet few theoretical approaches in this direction have been studied. In this work, we propose a theoretical and computational approach based on the optimal control of geometric partial differential equations to estimate cell membrane forces associated with cell polarisation during migration. Specifically, cell membrane forces are inferred or estimated by fitting a mathematical model to a sequence of images, allowing us to capture dynamics of the cell migration. Our approach offers a robust and potentially accurate framework to compute geometric mechanical membrane forces associated with cell polarisation during migration and also yields geometric information of independent interest, we illustrate one such example that involves quantifying cell proliferation levels which are associated with cell division, cell fusion or cell death.
Theory and Applications of the (Cardio) Genomic Fabric Approach to Post-Ischemic and Hypoxia-Induced Heart Failure
Authors: Iacobas Dumitru Andrei Andrei , Xi Lei
Published: June 2022

Decades of research identified numerous gene biomarkers of cardiac diseases whose restored sequence or/and expression level was hoped to recover the normal cardiac function. However, each human has unique and dynamic pathophysiological characteristics resulting from the unrepeatable combination of favoring factors such are: race, sex, age, medical history, diet, stress, exposure to toxins, habits etc. As such, no treatment fits everybody and finding personalized solutions is a top priority for medicine of 21st century. The Genomic Fabric Paradigm (GFP) provides the most theoretically possible comprehensive characterization of the transcriptome, its alterations in disease and recovery following a treatment. By attaching to each gene the independent average expression level, expression variation and expression coordination with each other gene, GFP delivers thousands times more information than the traditional analysis. This report presents the theoretical bases of the GFP and some applications to our microarray data from mouse models of post ischemic, and constant and intermittent hypoxia-induced heart failure. The GFP analyses revealed novel transcriptomic aspects of the gene expression control and networking under ischemic conditions. Through all-inclusive characterization of the transcriptome and the unrepeatable gene hierarchy in each condition, GFP is an essential avenue towards development of a truly personalized cardiogenomic therapy.
Kepok Banana Peels as Biosorbent for Mercury Sorption from Artificial Wastewater
Authors: Yulis Putri Ade Rahma , Sari Yelfira
Published: June 2022

The present study used adsorbents from Kepok banana peel to remove Hg (II) from artificial wastewater. Kepok banana peels are the most abundant waste from several products bananas processed. One of the ways to reduce that waste is by using it as an adsorbent. This study utilizes the adsorbent from kepok banana peels to remove Hg (II) from artificial wastewater. This is because Hg(II) is a heavy metal that is harmful A previous study showed a high amount of Hg(II) in Kuantan River, one of the River in Riau Province. The effect of initial metal concentration, adsorbent mass, and contact time was investigated to evaluate the maximum removal percentage and adsorption capacity of Kepok banana peels. The adsorption parameters studied were initial Hg (II) concentration [6.84, 7.02,8.38, and 10.05 mg/L],  adsorbent mass [10,20,30 and 40 g], and contact time variations (3,5,7 and 9 hours) where the operating conditions were 250 ml of Hg metal solution was added to each adsorbent. FTIR spectra of adsorbent showed hydroxyl, carboxylic, and amine groups in Kepok banana peels. The adsorption process found that the metal concentration variation under 6.84 mg/L initial Hg (II) concentration conditions gave the highest removal percentage of 99.7 %  and the highest adsorption capacity of 0,0758 mg/g under the condition of 10.05 mg/L  initial Hg (II) concentration. Then at adsorbent mass variation, the highest removal percentage was 94.8 % with 40 grams adsorbent mass, and the highest adsorption capacity was 0.1587 mg/g when using 10 grams adsorbent. The contact time variations gave the highest removal percentage, 95.2 %, and the highest adsorption capacity, 0.0542 mg/g, during contact for 5 hours. This study showed that Kepok banana peels had good potential for removing Hg (II) ions and could be used as a good adsorbent for removing the Hg (II) from wastewater. .

 
Conciencia turística de la población local del distrito de Huancaraylla, Ayacucho, respecto al recurso turístico aguas turquesas de Millpu, 2021
Authors:   , Desposorio Vidangos Analy Judyth , Huisa Huarca Judith Erika
Published: June 2022

El trabajo de investigación se realizó con el fin de medir el nivel de conciencia turística del distrito Huancaraylla-Ayacucho, respecto al recurso turístico Aguas Turquesas de Millpu. Para ello, se analizaron tres dimensiones: conocimiento respecto al recurso turístico, actitud del poblador con el turista y la participación turística. Se utilizó un enfoque cuantitativo de alcance descriptivo de tipo no experimental. La muestra estudiada, estuvo conformada por 78 personas bajo criterios de tiempo de residencia y límites de edad. Para ello la técnica que se aplicó fue la encuesta. Los resultados fueron analizados y promediados mediante un cuadro valorativo con rangos de puntuación para cada dimensión. Como resultado, se determinó que el distrito Huancaraylla, que está conformado por los centros poblados de Huancaraylla, Circamarca y Llusita, presenta un nivel medio de conciencia turística con relación al recurso turístico Aguas Turquesas de Millpu. En esencia, se estudiaron tres dimensiones importantes que hacen parte de la conciencia turística local, del cual se obtuvo que el distrito Huancaraylla tuvo un nivel medio.
Ansiedad y su relación con la hiperfrecuentación en consulta externa de medicina familiar por adultos durante la pandemia del Covid-19, Centro de Salud Portada de Manchay, junio - julio 2021
Authors:   , Salas Aivar Yanina
Published: June 2022

La pandemia de COVID-19 ha traído cambios dramáticos en la prestación de atención por consulta externa (1). Para disminuir el riesgo de transmitir el nuevo coronavirus a pacientes o trabajadores de la salud inicialmente se difirieron las visitas electivas y se modificaron las prácticas para acomodarlas de manera segura a las visitas en persona y se aumentó el uso de la telemedicina (2). Simétricamente, muchos pacientes también aplazaban sus visitas para evitar la exposición (3). Según una encuesta realizada en la Universidad de Harvard, si bien esta reducción en el volumen de pacientes ambulatorios ha afectado ampliamente a todas las especialidades médicas y quirúrgicas, la caída de las visitas en persona fue en general mayor entre las especialidades quirúrgicas, que en realidad resultó ser la más afectada con una disminución del 79% en el número de pacientes ambulatorios (4). Sin embargo, actualmente las prácticas ambulatorias y los pacientes enfrentan una incidencia cambiante debido a presencia de COVID-19 en su comunidad, recomendaciones cambiantes de salud pública local y los desafíos continuos de la escasez de ingresos y la seguridad de los pacientes y proveedores (4). Antes del brote del virus SARS-CoV-2 se estimaba que aproximadamente el 80% del trabajo clínico de un médico en consulta externa se gastaba en el 20% de sus pacientes, y que entre una de cada seis y una de cada siete consultas se realizan con el 3% de los asistentes (más frecuentes) (5). Se ha estimado incluso que la hiperfrecuentación (uso excesivo de los servicios de salud) en consulta externa representa el 39% de todas las atenciones ambulatorias (5,6).
Residuos de la construcción y demolición en el litoral marino de Lima Metropolitana (Perú): recomendaciones para su adecuada gestión
Authors:   , Herrera Quispe Mercedes Ruth
Published: June 2022

El litoral marino de Lima Metropolitana está limitado por 83 km y comprende un ecosistema marino-costero, a lo largo de 13 distritos de Lima Metropolitana. Esta zona ha sido afectada por la disposición inadecuada de residuos de la construcción y demolición (RCD), los cuales son generados durante el proceso de construcción de edificaciones e infraestructuras. El presente artículo describe factores de la inadecuada disposición de los RCD y las consecuencias que conllevan dichos vertimientos en el ecosistema marino costero. Asimismo, mediante denuncias ambientales obtenidas, se ha identificado que existen municipalidades que infringen la normativa vigente, al incurrir en la inadecuada disposición final de los RCD. Finalmente, se realizan recomendaciones para mejorar la gestión y el manejo de los RCD en Lima Metropolitana.
Índice geriátrico multidimensional como predictor de mortalidad a 5 años en pacientes adultos mayores del Centro Médico Naval
Authors:   , Ibañez Timoteo Sandro Gabriel , Valencia Lara Karlos Alexander
Published: June 2022

Objetivos: Determinar la validez del Geriatric Prognostic Index (GPI) para predecir mortalidad a 5 años en adultos mayores del Centro Médico Naval que se atendieron entre los años 2010 – 2015. Metodología: El diseño del estudio es observacional, retrospectivo, analítico de validación de instrumentos. Los datos provienen de una cohorte realizado en el Centro Médico Naval 2010 – 2015, en el cual participaron adultos mayores de 60 años a más, atendidos en el servicio de geriatría, luego de aplicar los criterios de elegibilidad, se contó de una población final de 1614 datos de participantes. Resultados: En la tabla 1 se aprecia que en lo que respecta a valoración funcional un 48.64% (n=785) tenían al menos dos dominios comprometidos en el índice Barthel y un 83.77% (n=1352) en el índice de Lawton y Brody. Además, más del 90% de la población tenían alguna comorbilidad. Con respecto al índice geriátrico multidimensional la sensibilidad para determinar mortalidad fue más alta con un punto de corte de 4.5 y la especificidad con un punto de corte de 5.5 y con este valor se obtuvo un índice de Youden con un valor de 0.668, correlacionándolo con un puntaje de 5.5. Por último, el área bajo la curva obtuvo un valor de 8.3 con un punto de corte de 5. Conclusiones: Concluimos que, mediante el uso del GPI como herramienta para predecir mortalidad, el obtener un puntaje mayor a 5.5 puede detectar aquel adulto mayor con alto riesgo de mortalidad en los próximos 5 años.
Liderazgo transformacional y satisfacción laboral de los colaboradores de las empresas textiles del conglomerado de Gamarra, según rango de personal ocupado, 2020
Authors:   , Salazar Oscco Deisy
Published: June 2022

La investigación tiene como objetivo determinar la relación que existe entre el liderazgo transformacional y la satisfacción laboral de los colaboradores de las empresas del conglomerado de Gamarra según rango de personal ocupado, pertenecientes al sector de confección textil. El estudio tiene un enfoque cuantitativo y se aplicó a una muestra de 339 colaboradores, entre 18 y 65 años de edad, para ello se utilizó el Cuestionario Multifactorial de Liderazgo Transformacional (MLQ) Forma 5X Corta, desarrollada por los autores Bass y Avolio (2004), adaptada y validada por Días y Quiñones (2017); y la Escala de Satisfacción Modificada, traducido de "Overall Job Satisfaction" de Warr, Cook y Wall. Se obtuvo como resultado una correlación positiva y significativa entre el Liderazgo Transformacional y la Satisfacción Laboral. Finalmente, la información que se obtuvo de la investigación, sirve para mejorar la toma de decisiones de los líderes y empresarios del conglomerado de Gamarra frente a sus colaboradores.
Comparación de dos tipos de cementos resinosos duales en la distribución de tensiones compresivas en puente Cantiléver: análisis de elemento finito
Authors:   , Martinez Aparcana Danna Darley
Published: June 2022

La prótesis fija adhesiva es un tratamiento restaurador conservador, utilizado principalmente para reemplazar dientes ausentes en el sector anterior. En este tipo de prótesis es importante la selección del cemento ya que, según la literatura, la causa más frecuente de su fracaso es el desprendimiento (33,7%); sin embargo, son pocos los estudios que consideran dicho factor. Objetivo: Comparar la distribución de tensión compresiva generada en puente cantiléver al utilizar dos tipos de cemento resinoso dual, mediante el análisis de elemento finito. Materiales y Métodos: Se diseñaron 2 modelos virtuales mediante el software SOLIDWORKS® 2017. En ambos modelos se simuló un cantiléver con un póntico (incisivo lateral) y un retenedor palatino (canino superior izquierdo). En el modelo A se utilizó el cemento Relyx ARC y en el modelo B, el cemento Relyx U200. Luego, se simuló una fuerza de 100 Newtons (N) en la cara palatina del póntico a una angulación de 45° y una fuerza horizontal de 100N en la cara palatina del canino. Resultados: Para ambos modelos, la máxima tensión compresiva fue de 660.891 MPa al aplicar fuerzas oblicuas y 16.6 MPa al aplicar fuerzas horizontales. En cuando al desplazamiento, el valor máximo fue de 0.014 mm ante las fuerzas oblicuas y 0.00066 mm ante las fuerzas horizontales. Conclusión: Los resultados fueron iguales para ambos modelos, en donde se observó que los valores de tensión compresiva fueron mayores al aplicar fuerzas oblicuas en comparación con las fuerzas horizontales.
Bioinformatics approach for potential genes associated with osteoarthritis
Authors: Chai Yi , Huang Hong
Published: June 2022

Background
Osteoarthritis is the main cause of disability and pain. Due to limited understanding of the disease mechanism, it is generally difficult to diagnose early and eliminate sequelae. The aim of this study was to identify novel biomarkers for osteoarthritis (OA) using a bioinformatics approach.
Method
The gene expression dataset GSE82107 were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Matrix quality assessment was performed using corrplot packages and principal component analysis. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) picked out using GEO2R tool. Enrichment analyses were performed using The Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). Weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) was used to find gene modules highly associated with OA. Cytoscape with Molecular Complex Detection (MCODE) plug-in was utilized to analyze protein-protein interaction of these DEGs. Receiver operator characteristic curve analysis was used to evaluate the diagnostic effectiveness of genes.
Results
Samples with different conditions (HC and OA) are obviously distinguished, and the distance between biological replicates is relatively close. In total, 1676 DEGs were identified. Enrichment analysis showed that there were some gene sets related to OA pathology, such as chondrocyte development. The results of WGCNA analysis showed that 298 genes were most positive associated with OA. 10 common genes obtained were selected as candidate core genes. ROC results showed that 5 of these genes had the greatest diagnostic value.
Conclusion
This is the study to identify biomarkers related to OA by combining multiple algorithms such as GSEA, WGCNA, MCODE and ROC. We suggest that GLG1, PAPSS2, CTSK, TIMP1 and SDC1 could serve as valuable biomarkers. Further studies are needed to examine the precise role and mechanism of these genes in OA.
Radiofrequency ablation in patients undergoing mitral valve surgery with or without giant left atria: A retrospective, single-center, cohort study
Authors: Ye Qing , Zhao Yichen , Liu Kemin , Zhao Cheng , Liu Yang , Bai Chen , Li Yuqi , Wang Jiangang
Published: June 2022

Background
For patients with giant left atria, outcomes of surgical ablation remain controversial. We aimed to compare the efficacy of radiofrequency ablation between patients undergoing mitral valve surgery with and without giant left atria.
Methods
This retrospective, single-center, cohort study investigated patients who underwent mitral valve surgery and concomitant radiofrequency ablation from 2009 to 2019. Patients were divided into non-giant left atria (diameter ≤65 mm, n=1,543) and giant left atria (diameter >65 mm, n=241) groups. Five-year freedom from atrial tachyarrhythmia recurrence and thromboembolic event rates were assessed with death as the competing risk factor with and without propensity-score matching.
Results
Patients with giant left atria had higher mortality (10.8% versus 6.2%, P=0.008) and readmission rates for heart failure than those without (12.0% versus 6.8%, P=0.004). Atrial tachyarrhythmia recurrence rates were higher in patients with giant left atria than those without (49% versus 24% at 5 years, P<0.001), but the cumulative incidence of thromboembolic events before (P=0.944) and after (P=0.695) propensity-score matching were comparable.
Conclusions
Radiofrequency ablation effectively prevented thromboembolic events in patients with giant left atria, despite significant atrial tachyarrhythmia recurrence. Atrial tachyarrhythmia recurrence did not increase the risk of thromboembolic events. A lower success rate should be considered when deciding whether to perform surgical ablation in patients with giant left atria.
Dung Beetle Abundance, and Species Diversity, Are Maintained by Primates in Tropical Forest Fragments
Authors: Mbora David Nyaga Mugo
Published: June 2022

By processing quantities of dung to eat, dung beetles provide important services in forest ecosystems. But, forest destruction and associated loss of mammals put these beetles at risk. Accordingly, we evaluated the combined effects of forest area, edge effects and the abundance of mammals, on the abundance and diversity of dung beetles in forest fragments using Structural Equation Modelling. We aimed to contribute to the understanding of how changes in forest habitats influence these insects and to the bigger concern about insects declines worldwide. Our study was located in forest fragments in Tana River Kenya, where two endemic monkeys were the main source of dung. Our optimal model explained a statistically significant 26% of the variance in the abundance of the beetles, and 89% of the variance in their diversity. Forest area and abundance of mammals influenced beetle abundance positively, but edge effects had a negative influence on the abundance. In turn, beetle abundance influenced diversity directly and positively. Further, forest area and abundance of mammals influenced beetle diversity positively, but these effects were indirect. Similarly, edge effects influenced the diversity indirectly, but the effects were negative. These findings imply that primates are crucial to maintaining the dung beetles in forest fragments and the forests themselves because of the essential services beetles provide there. We recommend that future studies investigate the factors, other than forest area, edge effects and the abundance of mammals, which drive the abundance of the beetles.
An online Parenting Intervention to Prevent affective disorders in high-risk Adolescents: The PIPA Trial Protocol
Authors: Connor Charlotte , Yap Marie , Warwick Jane , Birchwood Maximillian , De Valliere Keshiaa , Madan Jason , Melvin Glenn A , Padfield Emma , Patterson Paul , Petrou Stavros , Raynes Kerry , Stewart-Brown Sarah , Thompson Andrew
Published: June 2022

BackgroundAdolescent depression can place a young person at high risk of recurrence and a range of psychosocial and vocational impairments in adult life, highlighting the importance of early recognition and prevention. Parents/carers are well placed to notice changes in their child’s emotional wellbeing which may indicate risk, and there is increasing evidence that modifiable factors exist within the family system that may help reduce the risk of depression and anxiety in an adolescent. A randomised controlled trial (RCT) of the online personalised ‘Partners in Parenting’ programme developed in Australia, focused on improving parenting skills, knowledge and awareness, showed that it helped reduce depressive symptoms in adolescents who had elevated symptom levels at baseline. We have adapted this programme and will conduct an RCT in a UK setting.Methods433 family dyads (parents/carers and children aged 11-15) will be recruited through schools, social media and parenting/family groups in the UK. Following completion of screening measures of their adolescent’s depressive symptoms, parents/carers of those with elevated scores will be randomised to either receive the online personalised parenting programme or a series of online factsheets about adolescent development and wellbeing. The primary objective will be to test whether the personalised parenting intervention reduces depressive symptoms in adolescents deemed at high risk, using the parent-reported Short Mood & Feelings Questionnaire. Follow-up assessments will be undertaken at six and 15-months and a process evaluation will examine context, implementation and impact of the intervention. An economic evaluation will also be incorporated with cost-effectiveness of the parenting intervention expressed in terms of incremental cost per quality-adjusted life year gained.DiscussionHalf of mental health problems emerge before mid-adolescence and approximately three-quarters by mid 20s, highlighting the need for effective preventative strategies. However, few early interventions are family focused and delivered online. We aim to conduct a National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) funded RCT of the online personalised ‘Partners in Parenting’ programme, proven effective in Australia, targeting adolescents at risk of depression to evaluate its effectiveness, cost-effectiveness and usability in a UK setting.Trial registration {2a} ISRCTN63358736 Registered 18 September 2019https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN63358736
Long-term exercise training down-regulates m6A RNA demethylase FTO expression in the hippocampus and hypothalamus: An effective intervention for epigenetic modification
Authors: Liu Shu-Jing , Cai Tong-Hui , Fang Chun-Lu , Lin Shao-Zhang , Yang Wen-Qi , Wei Yuan , Zhou Fu , Liu Ling , Luo Yuan , Guo Zhi-Yi , Zhao Ge , Li Ya-Ping , Li Liang-Ming
Published: June 2022

Background
Exercise boosts the health of some brain parts, such as the hippocampus and hypothalamus. Several studies show that long-term exercise improves spatial learning and memory, enhances hypothalamic leptin sensitivity, and regulates energy balance. However, the effect of exercise on the hippocampus and hypothalamus is not fully understood. The study aimed to find epigenetic modifications or changes in gene expression of the hippocampus and hypothalamus due to exercise.
Methods
Male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into sedentary and exercise groups. All mice in the exercise group were subjected to treadmill exercise 5 days per week for 1 h each day. After the 12-week exercise intervention, the hippocampus and hypothalamus tissue were used for RNA-sequencing or molecular biology experiments.
Results
In both groups, numerous differentially expressed genes of the hippocampus (up-regulated: 53, down-regulated:49) and hypothalamus (up-regulated:24, down-regulated:40) were observed. In the exercise group, increased level of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) was observed in the hippocampus and hypothalamus (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the fat mass and obesity-associated gene (FTO) of the hippocampus and hypothalamus were down-regulated in the exercise group (p < 0.001). In addition, the Fto co-expression genes of the mouse brain were studied and analyzed using database to detemine the potential roles of exercise-downregulated FTO in the brain.
Conclusion
The findings demonstrate that long-term exercise might elevates the levels of m6A-tagged transcripts in the hippocampus and hypothalamus via down-regulation of FTO. Hence, exercise might be an effective intervention for epigenetic modification.
Quantitative characterization of orogens through isotopic mapping
Authors: Wang Tao , Xiao Wenjiao , Collins William , Tong Ying , Hou Zeng-Qian , Huang He , Wang Xiaoxia , Lin Shoufa , Seltmann Reimar , Wang Chaoyang , Han Baofu , Li Shan , Guo Lei
Published: June 2022

Orogens are major sites for crustal growth on Earth. However, characterizing orogens with stages is challenging. Here we present Nd isotope mapping results of felsic and intermediate igneous rocks from eight well-studied, typical Phanerozoic orogens. The data illustrate the distribution and areas of isotopic domains ranging from highly primitive to highly evolved, which reflects their final preservation from long-term crustal growth. From the data, we calculated the areal proportion of juvenile crust and divided the orogens into (i) highly primitive (with >70% juvenile crust); (ii) primitive (70-50%; e.g., Altaids with ~58%); (iii) slightly primitive (50–30%; e.g., North American Cordillera (~48%), Newfoundland Northern Appalachian Orogen (~40%), Lachlan Orogen (~31%)); (iv) evolved (30–10%); (v) highly evolved (10–0%; e.g., Tethyan Tibet (~4%), Caledonides (~2%), Variscides (~1%), and Qinling-Dabie (<1%)). Those from (i) to (iii) quantitatively characterize and/or correspond to simple and complex accretionary orogens, and from (iv) to (v) to complex and simple collisional orogens, respectively. Our study presents a new approach for quantitatively characterizing orogens based on compositional architecture through isotope mapping, and for investigating the relationships between orogenesis and continental growth.
Mycolicibacterium smegmatis MSMEG_6580 is a novel redox-sensitive MarR-family regulator involved in the resistance to oxidative stress
Authors: Li Yuzhu , Yan Shuangquan , Huang Yu , Yu Xi , Li Tongxin , Zhen Junfeng , Lv Xi , Chen Yu , Xie Jianping
Published: June 2022

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the causative agent of tuberculosis disease (TB), is a typical intracellular pathogen. Mtb has evolved sophisticated strategies to adapt to a variety of stresses. MarR-family transcription factors are involved in resistance towards external survival stresses and can regulate the transcription of multidrug efflux pumps and antioxidant enzymes in other organisms. However, whether and how Mtb MarR-family transcription factors are involved in stress responses remains elusive. In this study, we have characterized the role and mechanism of action of the MarR-type transcriptional factor Rv3095 in the response to oxidative stress by using hxlR deletion mutant and MSMEG_6581 deletion strain. The qRT-PCR results showed that HxlR repressed transcription of MSMEG_6581, and the transcription levels of hxlR and MSMEG_6581 were increased with increased concentration of H2O2. The EMSA results showed that HxlR could bind to the promoters of target genes. HxlR dimers could further form tetramer via the disulfide bonds under oxidative stress, resulting in derepression of target genes transcription. The point-mutation results identified that HxlRC11A mutant protein was impaired in oligomerization, and ultimately impacted the DNA-binding activity, which indicating a specific role of Cys11 in redox sensing. Phenotype results indicated that hxlR or MSMEG_6581 could alter the sensitivity of bacteria towards H2O2 disinfectants. In conclusion, HxlR was identified as a novel redox-sensitive transcription factor involved in mycobacteria resistance to H2O2 via unique mode.
Currency Appreciation and Productivity: Evidence from the Exchange Rate Regime Reform
Authors: Gao Yameng , Li Jie
Published: June 2022

We investigate the causal effect of domestic currency appreciation on exporters’ total factor productivity. By exploiting the 2005 China’s exchange rate regime reform as a quasi-natural experiment, we find that domestic currency appreciation caused by the reform increases exporters’ total factor productivity. Specifically, given a fiercer competition induced by currency appreciation, exporters strategically reallocate resources towards better-performing products, which leads to higher total factor productivity.JEL Codes: F14, F31
The significance of recycled oceanic mantle lithosphere beneath the Arctic Gakkel ridge
Authors: Yang Alexandra Yang , Langmuir Charles , Michael Peter
Published: June 2022

Subduction of oceanic crust has long been considered a major cause of mantle heterogeneity. By far the largest volume of recycled plates, however, is the lithospheric mantle, which is often inferred but rarely observed. Here we report evidence that the Gakkel ridge sampled a section of recycled refractory ocean lithosphere: (1) a unique group of high-Ti basalts occurs adjacent to a long sparsely magmatic zone (SMZ) that is consistent with melting of oxide gabbro hosted in ancient ocean lithosphere; (2) the SMZ itself which is 300km of ancient mantle emplaced at the surface; (3) sparse enriched basalts from the SMZ with no residual garnet signature suggesting shallow melting of ancient refractory but metasomatized lithosphere with low mantle potential temperature; (4) a gradient in composition approaching the SMZ suggesting lower extents of melting of more depleted sources. The rarity of these occurrences elsewhere shows that ordinarily recycled ocean crust and refractory lithosphere mantle are well-mixed rather than separated during mantle convection. Large volumes of recycled ocean crust as a separate reservoir would require ten times more separated, depleted mantle, which then should be common rather than rare. The enclosed basin and ultra-slow spreading rate of the Gakkel Ridge may have provided conditions where recycled oceanic mantle lithosphere was able to be preserved.
m6A RNA Methylation Regulators de fine tumor microenvironment and predict prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Gu Xiangqian , Yuan Yin , Gu Chengyu , Wu Mingyu , Cai Bin
Published: June 2022

Background: N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification is considered to be the most significant and abundant mRNA modification and constitutes a critical mechanism of epigenetic regulation in various tumors. However, the potential influences of these m6A regulators on the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) and immunotherapy in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain unknown.Methods: We systematically analyzed the expressions and genetic alterations of 38 m6A regulators in HCC from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) database. We used unsupervised clustering algorithm to divide the samples into three patterns based on the expression profiles of mRNA modifications. Next, we constructed the m6A score model to performed association analysis for m6Ascore and clinical characteristics, total mutation burden (TMB), and the efficacy of immunotherapy.Results: We demonstrated that the expression of m6A regulators were associated with patient survival and the infiltration of immune cells. We identified two RNA modification patterns and assigned m6Ascore to each individual. Patients with a low m6Ascore had a better survival rate than those with a high m6Ascore, and patients with a high TMB and high m6Ascore had a worse survival rate. In addition, patients in the high m6Ascore group had higher PD-L1 expression than the low m6Ascore group. The low m6Ascore group showed higher immune checkpoint inhibitor responses, including anti-CTLA-4 therapy, anti-PD-1, or a combination of both, than the high m6Ascore group.Conclusions: Our results revealed the potential function of these mRNA modifcations in TIME, and identified their therapeutic value in immunotherapy.
Fever of unknown origin caused by an intracranial mesenchymal tumor with a EWSR1-CREM fusion presenting associated with IL-6/STAT3 signaling
Authors: hojo keishiro , Furuta Takuya , Komaki Satoru , Yoshikane Yukako , Kikuchi Jin , Nakamura Hideo , Ide Mizuki , Shima Saho , Hiyoshi Yusuke , Araki Junichiro , Tanaka Seiji , Ozono Shuichi , Yoshida Akihiko , Nobusawa Sumihito , Morioka Motohiro , Nishikomori Ryuta
Published: June 2022

BackgroundPediatric neoplastic diseases account for about 10% in fever of unknown origin (FUO), and most neoplastic diseases cases are leukemia, lymphoma, and neuroblastoma. Brain tumors are rarely reported as the cause of FUO, although craniopharyngioma, metastatic brain tumor, and Castleman's disease have been reported. We report a case of intracranial mesenchymal tumor (IMTs) with FET-CREB fusion gene, whose had inflammatory phenotype without neurological signs.Case presentationA 10-year-old girl was admitted with 2 months history of intermittent fever and headache, whereas her past history as well as her family history lacked special events. Sepsis work-up showed no pathological organism and empirical antibiotics therapy was not effective. Bone marrow examination showed a negative result. CSF examination showed elevated protein as well as cell counts and head MRI showed a hyper vascular mass lesion with contrast enhancement in the left cerebellar hemisphere. The patient underwent tumor excision, which made the intermittent fever disappear. Pathological examinations resemble those of classic angiomatoid fibrous histiocytoma (AFH) but the morphologic features are distinct from the AFH myxoid variant, then we performed break-apart fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and confirmed the tumor harbored rare EWSR1-CREM fusion gene (the Ewing sarcoma breakpoint region 1 gene (EWSR1), cAMP response element binding (CREB) family gene). Consequently, we diagnose as IMT with EWSR1-CREM fusion. Elevated serum concentration of IL-6 was normalized after tumor resection, which suggested the fever could be caused by tumor-derived IL-6.ConclusionsThis is the first case of IMT with EWSR1-CREM fusion that showed paraneoplastic symptoms associated with the IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway. Although brain tumors are rarely diagnosed as a responsible disease for FUO, they should be considered as a cause of unknown fever even in the absence of abnormal neurological findings. (285 words)
Air concern and air pollution concentration under COVID-19 both increase people’s gym sports behavior in Beijing, China
Authors: Dong Xin , Zhang Chunxiao , Yin Anqi
Published: June 2022

Air pollution may change people’s gym sports behavior. To test this claim, firstly we designed a questionnaire of Beijing, China and used regression models to evaluate the association between air risk perceptions and sports mode choice, results showed that people had a high possibility of switching from outdoor sports to gym sports when air concern rose. Second, using big data crawler technology and negative binomial regression model, we provided consistent evidence that a one standard deviation increased in PM2.5 concentration (fine particulate matter with diameters equal or smaller than 2.5 μm) derived from land use regression model (LUR) was positively associated with a 0.0305 and a 0.0622 standard deviation increased in gym visits without or with consideration of the COVID-19 epidemic in 2019-2020. Finally, subgroups analysis showed that urban people and males had a higher tendency to travelling to gyms under COVID-19, which needed extra additional precautions on polluted days. All in all, subjective air concern and the actual PM2.5 concentrations under COVID-19 both increased sport people’s gym sports behavior.
Development and validation of a nomogram to predict the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in patients with non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Aihemaiti Gulandanmu , Zhang Xuehe , Zhang Tong , Hu Kaixuan , Xu Jinghong , Zhang Zhiyang , Zhao Qian , Song Ning , Liu Fen , Yang Yining , Li Xiaomei
Published: June 2022

ObjectivesTo analyze the factors affecting outcome in non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) and construct a predictive model of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in patients with NSTEMI in Xinjiang using a nomogram.MethodsA total of 745 NSTEMI patients diagnosed at the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University from November 2013 to April 2020 were included. After applying inclusion criteria, 733 patients were randomly divided into the modeling group (75%) and the validation group (25%). Univariate and multivariate logistic stepwise regression analyses were used to identify independent factors influencing the occurrence of MACE in NSTEMI patients, a nomogram was generated to predict MACE in NSTEMI patients, and receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC) were used to evaluate the model.ResultsUnivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age (odds ratio [OR]: 1.04, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01–1.07), white blood cell count (OR: 2.85, 95% CI: 1.24–6.56), lymphocyte count (OR: 0.22, 95% CI: 0.08–0.62), EF values (OR: 0.91, 95% CI: 0.88–0.94), and arrhythmia history (OR: 1.87, 95% CI: 1.06–3.65) were independent factors. A nomogram was then established. The area under the ROC curve of the modeling group was 0.849, and that of the validation group was 0.808. There was no difference between the groups (P = 0.162), suggesting that the model had a good predictive value.ConclusionAge, white blood cell count, lymphocyte count, EF values, arrhythmia history, are independent factors influencing MACE in NSETMI patients. Our nomogram predicts the occurrence of MACE in NSTEMI.
Evaluation of Circuit Breaker capability for re-ignition free operation of 400kV Shunt Reactor and 765kV Shunt Reactor with NGR using Controlled Switching Device
Authors: Kumar Ajay , Parikh Urmil , Perveen Rehana
Published: June 2022

Shunt reactor is one of the key elements exists in Extra High Voltage (EHV) power system used for voltage regulation. The current drawn by reactor is of highly inductive in nature and due to this feature, it presents constraints in current interruption by circuit breakers. The current can resume after interruption if the rate of rise of dielectric strength (RRDS) of dielectric medium is lower than rise time derivative of the recovery voltage and can results in un-successful current interruption. Based on this consideration, minimum arcing time is prescribed by Circuit Breaker (CB) manufacturer. Evaluation of re-ignition free window for EHV 420kV 80Mvar shunt reactor has been carried out in this paper as per the procedure laid out in IEC-62271-100 and IEEE-035-017 with the help of PSCAD-EMTDC software package. The results are well supported by field implemented disturbance records of controlled switching opening operation. Effect of presence of surge arrester on Transient Recovery Voltage (TRV) has been considered and elaborated. The effect of presence of neutral grounding reactor (NGR) with 765kV Shunt reactor is also discussed in this paper. The presence of NGR tends to increase the peak of TRV peak and the same has been calculated through simulations, the field results are then discussed based on the re-ignition free window calculated as per IEC 62271-100. Optimum controlled switching helps in reduction of mechanical and electromagnetic stresses generated during random switching operations of reactor. The simulation results and field reports are in good agreement and controlled switching helps in meeting the opening targets within re-ignition free window with fair accuracy.
Human Face Aging Based on Active Appearance Model Using Proper Feature Set
Authors: Khajavi Mahboubeh , ahmadyfard Alireza
Published: June 2022

In this paper, a simulation of the human face evolution from youth to old age is presented. The appearance of facial changes due to aging depends on various factors such as genetics, ethnicity, and lifestyle. However, the human faces in an age group have similar characteristics. These characteristics can be used to estimate the image of a person's face in the coming years. In this work, the goal is to maintain a person's appearance and accurately estimate the face at the target age; in such a way that the simulated face should be realistic and have the appearance of the texture characteristics of the target age. To achieve this goal, the number of feature points and their arrangement on the face is very important. First, we suggest proper feature points. Then, using the Active Appearance Model (AAM) method and the presented model, templates are obtained as representative of different age groups. To maintain the unique geometric characteristics of the input face and apply these characteristics to the target age template, the proposed feature point pattern and the MLS method have been used. Then, using the active appearance model method and having the target age template containing the geometric characteristics of the input face, the steps of changing the input face age to reach the target age are presented. Finally, the results of the survey, using two methods of age recognition and real image recognition (separately for man/woman images), show an average of 80.77% (male images) and 81.36% (female images) correct answers of the participants in this Polls.
Implementing a school-based HIV intervention program during public health emergencies: Lessons learned in The Bahamas
Authors: Deveaux Lynette , Schieber Elizabeth , Cottrell Lesley , Firpo-Triplett Regina , Adderley Richard , MacDonell Karen , Forbes Nikkiah , Wang Bo
Published: June 2022

Background
Natural disasters and public health crises can disrupt communities’ capacities to implement important public health programs. A nationwide implementation of an evidence-based HIV prevention program, Focus on Youth in The Caribbean (FOYC) and Caribbean Informed Parents and Children Together (CImPACT), in The Bahamas suffered severe disruption from Hurricane Dorian and the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in its more remote islands. We explored the teacher- and school-level factors that affected implementation of the program in these islands during those disruptions.
Methods
Data were collected from 47 Grade 6 teachers and 984 students in 34 government elementary schools during the 2020–2021 school year. Teachers completed a pre-implementation questionnaire to record their characteristics and perceptions that might affect their implementation fidelity and an annual program training workshop. School coordinators and high-performing teachers acting as mentors received additional training to provide teachers with monitoring, feedback, and additional support. Teachers submitted data on their completion of the 9 sessions and 35 core activities of FOYC + CImPACT. The fidelity outcomes were the number of sessions and core activities taught by teachers each year.
Results
On average, teachers taught 60% of sessions and 53% of core activities. Teachers with “very good” school coordinators (34% of teachers) taught more activities than those with “satisfactory” (43%) or no (34%) school coordinator (27.5 vs. 16.8 vs. 14.8, F = 12.86, P < 0.001). Teachers who had attended online training or both online and in-person training taught more sessions (6.1 vs. 6.2 vs. 3.6, F = 4.76, P < 0.01) and more core activities (21.1 vs. 20.8 vs. 12.6, F = 3.35, P < 0.05) than those who received no training. Teachers’ implementation was associated with improved student outcomes (preventive reproductive health skills, self-efficacy, and intention).
Conclusions
Implementation fidelity in the Family Islands suffered from Hurricane Dorian and the COVID-19 pandemic that disrupted education in The Bahamas. However, we identified several strategies that supported teachers’ implementation in response to these events. Teacher training and implementation monitoring increased implementation fidelity despite external challenges, and students achieved the desired learning outcomes. These strategies can better support teachers’ implementation of school-based interventions during future crises.
The Peruvian COVID-19 Immunization Program: lessons learned from a policy evaluation
Authors: Quispe Antonio , Jimenez Gabriela , Vargas Lucía , Castro Julio , Cevallos Hernando
Published: June 2022

Peru started its COVID-19 Immunization Program after recording the highest mortality worldwide during the first wave of the pandemic and halfway through its second wave. However, it became one of the fastest developing countries to cover 80% of its adult population with two COVID-19 vaccine doses. Overall, from the beginning of the Program in February 2021 up to March 2022, Peru delivered 66.2 million vaccine doses in a country with 32.8 million inhabitants. To do so, Peru successfully implemented a COVID-19 Immunization Program using an intersectoral and multidisciplinary approach. In addition, and more importantly, the Program included the participation of traditional and nontraditional health leaders. Peru's experience from previous immunization campaigns played a crucial role in its success. This experience allowed Peru to tackle challenges such as having over 80 original languages, a segmented and fragmented health system, and a vast territory with remote communities across coastal, highland, and jungle regions. This manuscript reports the findings of the policy evaluation of the Peru COVID-19 Immunization Program and collects the critical lessons learned during the Program’s first year of implementation.