bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural, magnetic and electrical properties of RFeO3 (R= Dy, Ho, Yb & Lu) compounds
Authors: Nakhaei Mehrnoush , Khoshnoud Davoud Sanavi
Published: February 2021

The nanosized rare earth orthoferrites (RFeO3) with R= Dy, Ho, Yb & Lu were synthesis by sol-gel combustion method. The effects of varying rare earth ion on structural, magnetic and electrical properties of RFeO3 nanoparticles (NPs) have been studied. X-ray diffraction patterns of the prepared samples were in single phase with orthorhombic structure with space group Pbnm. The magnetic hysteresis measurements indicated the decrease in the antiferromagnetic nature of RFeO3 from Dy to Lu that can be ascribed to increasing noncollinear Fe moments because of the structural distortion. The electric hysteresis of these samples exhibited narrow electric field-polarization loops. The frequency response of dielectric constant of RFeO3 explained based on dipole relaxation process and Maxwell-Wagner model. In addition, the temperature dependence of dielectric constant illustrated an anomaly in the vicinity of the Neel temperature of RFeO3 compounds. This occurrence indicate that a coupling exist between magnetic and electric orders.
Repurposing CO2 from Human Respiration Inside Buildings to Enhance Growth in Rooftop Gardens
Authors: Buckley Sarabeth , Sparks Rebecca , Marsching Jane , Phillips Nathan
Published: February 2021

Cities face many environmental challenges while providing opportunities for integrating human infrastructure with the surrounding environment. One effort to improve environmental conditions in cities is to increase the amount of green space in creative ways within city limits. Here we propose a unique system taking carbon dioxide (CO2) from indoor spaces and applying it to rooftop gardens or farms through existing ventilation systems with the elevated CO2 levels leading to a fertilization effect that increases plant growth. CO2 measurements were taken inside multiple classrooms as well as at the exhaust vents on a rooftop and air from exhaust was applied to crops and biomass and leaf number were measured. High concentrations of CO2 ([CO2]) persisted inside university classrooms as well as at rooftop exhaust vents in correlation with expected human occupancy and stayed around 1070 ± 70 and 830 parts per million (ppm) CO2 reaching a max of 4470 and 1300 ppm CO2 respectively. Growth in Spinacia oleraceae L. (spinach) grown next to exhaust air increased 4-fold in comparison to plants grown next to a control fan applying atmospheric air. High wind speed decreased growth by approximately 2-fold. Zea mays (corn), a C4 plant, grown next to exhaust experienced a 2 to 3-fold increase, indicating alternative environmental factors additionally playing a part in growth enhancement. Enhancing growth in rooftop gardens using indoor air, could help rooftop plants grow larger and survive harsh conditions. This would make rooftop gardens more viable and better able to provide environmental services and connect urban areas to the surrounding environment.
Relevant Aspects To Promote Teacher Awareness in the Pedagogical Orchestration of Learning Activities Where Students Move
Authors: de Lima Claudio Cleverson , Morgado Leonel Caseiro , Schlemmer Eliane
Published: February 2021

The pedagogical monitoring of activities involving spatial movement of students represents a teaching challenge due to events taking place outside the visual reach of the teacher. We present a literature review in which observational aspects are relevant to promote teacher awareness in these activities, from a perspective of awareness within the field of CSCW - Computer Supported Cooperative Work. We also identified instruments and situations associated with those aspects of awareness. Results are presented via thematic analysis, clarifying the relevance of aspects related to Motivation/Engagement, Location/Path, Execution of the Activity, Interaction/Cooperation, and Results/Feedback. This clarification may contribute towards the development of learning orchestration protocols and information systems which support teachers in the collection and analysis of awareness-supporting data, contributing to teacher awareness of what occurs in these activities and allowing greater freedom and assertiveness in the pedagogical orchestration.
Risk factors for community transmission of SARS-CoV-2. A cross-sectional study in 116,678 people.
Authors: Kjetland Eyrun F , Kalleberg Karl Trygve , Søraas Camilla Lund , Hammarstrøm Bato , Myklebust Tor Åge , Jenum Synne , Axelsen Eyrun , Lind Andreas , Bævre-Jensen Roar , Jørgensen Silje Bakken , Pettersen Frank Olav , Solberg Lene B , Hadley Cathrine Lund , Istre Mette , Liestøl Knut , Dahl John Arne , Ursin Giske , Søraas Arne
Published: February 2021

Background
The risk factors for SARS-CoV-2 transmission are not well characterised. We sought to identify potential risk factors for transmission and actionable information that can be used to prevent SARS-CoV-2.
Methods
Individuals tested for SARS-CoV-2 at four accredited laboratories were invited. In addition, participants were recruited through a media campaign. Self-reported SARS-CoV-2 test results were compared with laboratory results, demographic data and behavioural facts were collected using a digital platform. In a cross-sectional design positive cases were compared with negative and untested control groups.
Findings
Approximately 14 days after a countrywide lockdown in Norway, 116,678 participants were included. Median age was 46 years, 44% had children in preschool or in school; 18% were practicing health professionals. International flights, contact with infected individuals, and gatherings of more than 50 people, were associated with increased risk of testing positive. Health professionals who treated COVID-19 patients were at higher risk of testing positive than those who did not. Having undergone light infections, the last six months was strongly associated with lower odds ratio of SARS-CoV-2 positivity. Contact with children, use of hand sanitiser and use of protective gloves in private were also associated with lower odds ratio of testing positive for SARS-CoV-2.
Interpretation
Further research is needed to explore if being a parent or looking after children is associated with lower risk of SARS-CoV-2 positivity in the next phases of the pandemic. Immunological research should be done to determine the effects of prior trivial infections on SARS-CoV-2 infection. We confirm that large gatherings during the pandemic should be avoided and those who are infected, or under suspicion thereof, posed very high risks to others in this population.
Registration:
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NTC 04320732, March 25, 2020.
Evaluation of nitrate pollution sources in surface water across the typical rural-urban interface: a case study of Wen-Rui Tang River, China
Authors: Ji Xiaoliang , Shang Xu , Shu Lielin , Mei Kun , Chen Zheng , Yang Yue , Wang Zhenfeng , Dahlgren Randy A. , Zhang Minghua
Published: February 2021

Nitrate (NO 3 − ) pollution is of considerable concern because its threat to human health and ecosystems. Herein, we chose the Wen-Rui Tang River watershed, one of typical rural-urban watersheds in Southeast China, as a case study. According to the analyses based on hydro-chemical ions, land-use classification, dual nitrate isotopes ( δ 15 N-NO 3 − and δ 18 O-NO 3 − ), and a Markov Chain Monte Carlo mixing model, the knowledge of contributions of potential NO 3 − pollution sources was obtained. Results showed that the study river was highly polluted by nitrogen, especially the increased riverine NO 3 − . Variations in δ 15 N-NO 3 − and δ 18 O-NO 3 − revealed that microbial nitrification was the main transformation process of nitrogen in surface water of the watershed, while bacterial denitrification was unlikely to be an important process at the specific sampling period. The δ 15 N-NO 3 − vs. δ 18 O-NO 3 − diagram incorporating chloride content qualitatively identified the main contribution of riverine NO 3 − was from municipal sewage discharges. On the basis of land-use characteristics, we applied hierarchical cluster method for subgrouping 44 sampling sites into four classes, namely, classes I (ecological), II (industrial), III (agricultural), and IV (urban). The Markov Chain Monte Carlo mixing model was employed to calculate proportional contributions of NO 3 − sources and articulated predominantly municipal sewage (23.5 – 42.2%) sourced nitrate in all classes. In addition, river sediments (13.8 – 20.8%) and atmospheric deposition (12.7 – 19.6%) were identified as important pollution sources. This study demonstrated that the comprehensive isotope tracing approach can effectively quantify the nitrate pollution source contributions for surface waters across the rural-urban interface.
Epidemiologic Modeling of COVID-19 in Amhara Region, Ethiopia: Using The Best and Worst Scenarios Experienced in The World
Authors: Hailu Getachew , Tilahun Tizta , Tadesse Gizachew , Bitew Denekew , Angaw Kassawmar , Mengistie Cherenet , Asrat Anemaw , Ambaw Fentie , Gelaw Yeshigeta , Degu Getu , Kebede Essey
Published: February 2021

Background: The ongoing pandemic of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is currently the first public health agenda. Citizens of resource-poor countries like Ethiopia could be most affected by the pandemic unless aggressive plans are implemented. Despite the prevention and control efforts being made at the national and regional levels, there is no evidence about the worst and best scenarios in the number of COVID-19 cases expected in the Amhara Regional. Besides, there were no efforts to develop predicting models of future values in COVID-19 anticipated cases expected based on the current global trend.Objective: Forecast the latest epidemic situations by estimating and predicting cases and deaths of COVID-19 in the Amhara region.Methods: This study employed models by using the expected number of COVID-19 cases and deaths in Amhara National Regional State using the worst scenarios faced in the world. Data were extracted using a checklist. Existing data on morbidity and mortality by age and sex were collected through a literature search strategy including PubMed/Medline and the Google scholar database. Besides, the Worldometer of the novel COVID-19 was used as a source of data. This study used MS-Excel spreadsheet program for data extraction. COVID-19modeling was made using Susceptible- Infected-Recovered (SIR), Susceptible-Exposed Infected-Recovered (SEIR), and WHO DisMod II software. Result: Without any pharmacological intervention, based on the SEIR model, the expected number of peak COVID-19 cases could reach about 3 million cases occurring on July 29th, 2020.However, with an intervention that could reduce the transmission by 30%, would push the peak period to 22 days (20thAugust). Using the Susceptible–Infected—Recovered model without non-pharmacologic interventions, the expected number of peak COVID-19 cases is 5,947,685, occurring on July 2, 2020.The peak number of Hospitalization is 820, 781, in need of ICU 279,541and deaths 53,529. With the DisModII modeling, outputs showed that males are more affected than females. Accordingly, the total incident cases in the region were estimated to be 837,348 (474, 809 male and 362,540 female). The expected number of total deaths was also estimated at 44,247 (30, 176 male and 14, 071 female). Also, the middle age group is more infected but less at risk of death. The recovery rate decreases drastically as age increase.Conclusion: The discrepancies in findings from the three models used in this study could be driven mainly by data limitation in the Ethiopia context. However, our results from the different models highlight the need for more intervention on non-pharmacological interventions. Besides, highly influential parameters urge further study for better effective evidence-based decision making.
CDC20 as a new therapeutic target for treating ovarian cancer: an integrated bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Zhang Xiaocui , Bi Fangfang , Yang Qing
Published: February 2021

Background

There were 313959 cases of newly diagnosed ovarian cancer (OC) and 207252 new deaths for OC in 2020 and OC lacks effective treatment options. Therefore, identifying novel therapeutic targets is imminent. Here, we use an integrated bioinformatics analysis to key genes involved in ovarian cancer and reveal potential therapeutic targets.
Methods

GSE105437, GSE14407 and GSE18520 downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) were used to screen differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Gene ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were performed to predict the potential functions of the DEGs. Protein-protein interaction network (PPI) was drawn through STRING database and select CDC20 having the highest degrees of connectivity as the potential therapeutic target. Oncomine database and quantitative Real-time RT-PCR (RT-qPCR) of the ovarian tissues were used to validate the mRNA expression of CDC20. We use Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) software to explore the potential biological function of CDC20 in OC.
Results

A total of 821 DEGs were obtained, including 497 upregulated genes and 324 downregulated genes. Functional and pathway enrichment analyses indicated the DEGs were mainly involved in DNA-binding transcription activator activity, tubulin binding, microtubule binding, cell cycle, Wnt signaling pathway, p53 signaling pathway, and metabolism changes. Oncomine database analysis and RT-qPCR showed that CDC20 is significantly upregulated in OC tissues. GSEA analysis showed that CDC20 may regulate OC via cell cycle, citrate and TCA cycle, Oxidative phosphorylation and ubiquitin mediated proteolysis pathways.
Conclusion

The results of the present study deduced that CDC20 is overexpressed in OC and may be a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of OC.
Transmission frequency of covid-19 through pre-symptomatic and asymptomatic patients in AJK: A report of 201 cases
Authors: Mahmood Majid , Ilyas Noor-ul-ain , Khan Muhammad Faraz , Hasrat Muhammad Naseem
Published: February 2021

Background: Corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, declared as “once-in-a-century” pandemic, has affected about entire human population. Till now, the most promising control strategy is to block the transmission which will never be effective without completely knowing the transmission patterns.Methods: This was a retrospective case to case study aiming to estimate and calculate the transmission rate of COVID-19 through pre-symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. Contact history of included positive cases during the period of 24 hours before appearance of symptoms and infection confirmation for symptomatic and asymptomatic cases respectively was traced for disease transmission. Results: Overall, a total of 201 cases had contacted with 7168 people in last 24 hours with an average of 35.66 contacts per patient ranging from a minimum of 4 to maximum of 87 contacts (Meetings). Out of 7168 meeting persons, the infection was traced in 64 (0.89%) persons. For 155 symptomatic patients, a total of 5611 contacting persons were traced before appearance of symptoms (pre-symptomatic) in last 24 hours with an average of 36.20 meetings per patient. The infection was transmitted in 63 (1.12%) people and remaining 5548 (98.88%) were remained uninfected. Out of the 63 transmissions, 62 (98.4%) were traced within last 6 hours before the onset of symptoms while only 1 was traced from 6-12 hours before symptoms. A total of 1557 persons were traced having meeting/contacts with asymptomatic cases in last 24 hours before their infection confirmation. Out of these 1557 persons, only 1 was found to be infected and the infection rate was calculated to be 0.06%. Conclusion: The study concludes that the risk of pre-symptomatic transmission of infection is low (1.12%) and it becomes very rare in contacts made longer than 6 hours before onset of symptoms. The infection transmission is traced as long as about 9 hours before the appearance of clear symptoms in the patients but the incidence was as low as about 0.02% of the total contacts in that period. Transmission frequency by asymptomatic patients is also rare (0.06%) in the studied population.
Effects of Dietary Intake and Supplementation of Indigenous Probiotic Lactobacillus Plantarum Dad-13 on Body Mass Index, Faecal Short-Chain Fatty Acid, and Gut Microbiota of Undernourished Children in East Lombok, Indonesia
Authors: Rahayu Endang , Mustangin Ahmad , Suharman Suharman , Elvira Ilian , Mariyatun Mariyatun , Pamungkaningtyas Fathyah Hanum , Hasan Pratama Nur , Utami Tyas , Cahyanto Muhammad Nur , Juffrie Mohammad
Published: February 2021

Malnutrition has been a global public health problem, jeopardizing children growth and constituting a major cause of death in children in developing countries, including Indonesia. Malnourished person tends to have abnormal gut microbiota. Probiotics supplementation can be considered as one of preventative measures against imbalanced gut microbiota and pathogenic bacteria to enable optimum nutrition absorption. This study aimed to investigate the effects of dietary intake and supplementation of powder of indigenous probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum Dad-13 to undernourished children in East Lombok, Indonesia on their body mass index (BMI), faecal short-chain fatty acids and gut microbiota. This study was performed in a Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled design, involving 40 children aged 10-12 years old, with BMI/age ratio ≤ -2 standard deviation (SD). Subjects were randomly divided into two groups namely placebo and probiotic group. The placebo group consumed 1 gram of skimmed milk daily while the probiotic group consumed 1 gram of skimmed milk containing 1x109 CFU/gram of L. plantarum Dad-13 daily, with consumption period of 60 days for both groups. The result showed that dietary intakes of both groups were below recommended value (<70%). Lactobacillus plantarum and Bifidobacterium significantly increased after probiotic consumption while Enterobacteriaceae and Klebsiella pneumonia significantly reduced. Short-chain fatty acid (acetate, propionate, butyrate) significantly increased in probiotic group, which consequently lowered pH level. Subsequently, a significant increase was observed in body weight and height in both groups at the end of the study. Only BMI of probiotic group increased after consumption of probiotics.
Effect of Dipeptidyl Peptidase- 4 (DPP-4) Inhibitor on Biomarkers of Kidney Injury and Vascular Calcification in Diabetic Nephropathy: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Trakarnvanich Thananda , Satirapoj Bancha , Suraamornkul Sawangjit , Chiranantawat Thanit , Sanpatchayapong Anoma , Chaimon Torpong
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors improve glycemic control and have pleiotropic effects on kidney injury, albuminuria and vascular inflammation, especially in animal models. We plan to evaluate the effects of a potent DPP4 inhibitor (gemigliptin) on these processes in diabetic nephropathy patients.Methods: This was a multicenter, prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. A total of 201 participants were enrolled and randomly assigned to a group treated with 50 mg gemigliptin daily with standard care of diabetes mellitus for 6 months. The changes in coronary calcium score (CAC score), cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI), estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR), vascular calcification and tubular renal injury markers were evaluated at baseline and 6 months.Results: In total, 182 patients completed the study. Significant reductions in hemoglobin A1C levels were observed in both groups. The changes in CAC score, CAVI, estimated GFR and proteinuria over the 6 months of the study did not significantly differ between the groups. However, biomarkers of vascular calcification, including serum bone alkaline phosphatase, and kidney injury, including urine neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL)/Cr and urine liver fatty acid-binding protein (L-FABP)/Cr, were improved significantly in the gemigliptin treatment group compared to the control group. No serious adverse event was observed during the study.Conclusion: Our study shows that gemigliptin significantly improves renal tubular injury biomarkers and vascular calcification in patients with diabetic nephropathy; however, gemigliptin does not affect renal function or coronary calcification compared with the control. A larger and longer follow-up will be essential to determine these beneficial effects.Clinical trialsClinicalTrials.Gov Identifier: NCT04705506
Endosomal acidification inhibitors broadly inhibit influenza virus and coronavirus in vivo
Authors: Zhao Hanjun , Lam Hoiyan , Zhou Xinxin , Peng Zheng , Chan Jasper , Sit Ko-Yung , Au Wing-Kuk , Kao Richard , To Kelvin , Yuen Kwok-Yung
Published: February 2021

Influenza virus, coronavirus, and drug-resistant viruses are long-term threats to public health because of lacking effective antivirals. Thus, chemicals with broad-spectrum antiviral activities and low possibility to induce drug resistance are urgently needed. Here, we identify a peptidic inhibitor P16 significantly inhibiting influenza A/B virus by binding to HA to block viral fusion. Moreover, P16 antagonizes endosomal acidification to suppress influenza virus and SARS-CoV-2 entry through the endocytic pathway. Importantly, endosomal acidification inhibitor P16 or chloroquine can broadly inhibit A(H1N1) virus, SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 replication in mice and hamsters when administrated through intranasal inoculation or atomization inhalation, contrary to reported treatment failure by systemic route. Chloroquine can significantly inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication in ex vivo human lung tissues. In conclusion, endosomal acidification inhibitors (P16 and chloroquine) can broadly inhibit influenza virus and coronavirus replication in vivo, which supports atomization inhalation of chloroquine for treating coronavirus and influenza patients in clinical trials.
Optimization of 3D Inlay Mode of “Z-Pins Like” V0.9-Si0.1 Rods and Their Improvement Effect on the Anti-Ablative Performance of C/C-ZrC-SiC
Authors: Tian Tian , Sun Wei , Qing Xin , Chu Yuhao , Chen Haikun , Liu Yufeng , Xiong Xiang , Zhang Hongbo
Published: February 2021

Neoteric “Z-pins like” vanadium0.9-silicon0.1 rods (V0.9-Si0.1 rods) as polybasic multiphase oxide compensators were prepared to improve the anti-ablation of C/C-ZrC-SiC over 2500 °C. The microstructure and improvement effect on the anti-ablation of different C/C-ZrC-SiC surface were investigated. Results show that the density of “Z-pins like” V0.9-Si0.1 rod was effectively improved after adding Si. When ablation time was less than 180 s, “Z-pins like” V0.9-Si0.1 rods perpendicular to non-woven cloth layer presented the best improvement of the anti-ablation performance by liquid/gaseous multicomponent oxide compensation. However, when ablation time was greater than 180 s, “Z-pins like” V0.9-Si0.1 rods perpendicular to non-woven cloth layer increased another harm that weaken the anti-ablative performance of C/C-ZrC-SiC, namely, the corrosion damage of oxide layer on the matrix surface caused by excessive oxide melt. Therefore, there is a best improvement of the anti-ablation performance of “Z-pins like” V0.9-Si0.1 rods parallel to non-woven cloth layer.
Association Between Time to Stent Dysfunction and the Anti-Tumour Effect of Systemic Chemotherapy Following Stent Placement in Patients With Pancreaticobiliary Cancers and Malignant Gastric Outlet Obstruction: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Kobayashi Satoshi , Ueno Makoto , Nagashima Shuhei , Sano Yusuke , Kawano Kuniyuki , Fukushima Taito , Asama Hiroyuki , Tezuka Shun , Morimoto Manabu
Published: February 2021

Background: Malignant gastric outlet obstruction (mGOO) occasionally occurs due to pancreaticobiliary cancer. Endoscopic duodenal stenting (DS) is a common treatment for MGOO. However, it has been reported that DS does not have a sufficient time to stent dysfunction for it to be used in patients who have a greater potential lifespan. Nowadays, systemic chemotherapy for pancreaticobiliary cancer has developed, and its anti-tumour effect would make time to stent dysfunction longer. We therefore retrospectively evaluated the association between objective response to systemic chemotherapy followed by DS and time to stent dysfunction in patients with advanced pancreaticobiliary cancer. Methods: This retrospective study included 109 patients with advanced pancreaticobiliary cancer who received systemic chemotherapy after DS. Patients who showed complete or partial response were defined as responders. The rest were defined as non-responders. Time to stent dysfunction was compared between responders and non-responders using the landmark analysis, at 2 months after DS. Death without recurrence of MGOO was considered as a censored case for time to stent dysfunction. Results: The combination and monotherapy regimens were adopted for 41 and 68 patients, respectively. Median progression-free survival and overall survival were 3.2 4 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.4-4.0) and 6.0 months (95% CI, 4.6-7.3). Objective response was observed in 21 patients (19.3%). Patients who received combination regimens had longer progression-free survival and higher response rate than those with monotherapy regimens; progression-free survival was 5.1 months (95% CI, 3.1-7.0) and 2.6 months (95% CI, 1.6-3.5) with a p-value of <0.001, and response rate was 39.0% and 7.4% with a p-value <0.001, respectively. Median time to stent dysfunction was 12.5 months (95% CI, 8.4-16.5) in the entire cohort. In 89 patients, responders had longer time to stent dysfunction than non-responders: 17.4 months (95% CI, 17.3-17.5) and 7.1 months (95% CI, 1.6-12.5) with a p-value of 0.031. Conclusion: Longer time to stent dysfunction is expected when systemic chemotherapy following DS suppresses tumour progression. DS is slated to be a standard treatment for MGOO, even in patients with pancreaticobiliary cancer and a long lifespan.
Betaine Induced Autophagy to Protect Neurons Against Amyloid Beta in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Meng Qingmian , Chen Yan , Chen Ying , Wang Lijun , Zhao Lan
Published: February 2021

Background: Alzheimer disease is a neurodegenerative disease, which is accompanied by the accumulation of amyloid beta and tau hyper phosphorylation. The objective of this study is to investigate amyloid-beta clearance through autophagy in HMC3 cells by betaine.Methods: In this study HMC3 cells were used. LC3, P62, p-AKT, p-MTOR, Beclin1, ATG 5, ATG 7, ATG 12 and beta-actin were studied by western blot. LC3 was studied by confocal microscopy. Neuroprotection and cell viability were assessed by MTT assay. Confocal microscopy and ELISA studied amyloid-beta clearance. Student's T-test was used to compare the treated vs untreated groups.Results: We have identified betaine an autophagy inducer in microglia HMC3 cells. We have further tried to establish the mechanism of betaine for autophagy induction. Betaine was able to induce autophagy through the PI3K/AKT pathway. Further, we investigated the clearance of amyloid-beta by betaine through autophagy induction. Betaine was also able to reduce the toxicity of amyloid-beta in human SHSY-5Y cells. A known down of LC3 reverses the protective effect of betaine against amyloid-beta in differentiated SHSY5Y cells.Conclusion: Betaine induced autophagy, clears amyloid-beta and protects SHSY-5Y cells against amyloid-beta. Based on these data, betaine can be further studied for anti-Alzheimer therapy.
Poor Nutritional Status Among Human Filarial Lymphedema Patients in Ghana: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Tenkorang Gloria Ofosu , Amewu Emmanuel Kobla Atsu , Asiedu Samuel Opoku , Kini Priscilla , Aglomasa Bill Clinton , Koranteng Kelvin , Larbi Amma , Tandoh Marina , Kwarteng Alexander
Published: February 2021

Background

Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a neglected tropical disease with several infection phenotypes. In addition to mass drug administration, host immune response contributes to microfilariae clearance. An important influence of immunity, nutritional status, remains to be evaluated among filarial lymphedema patients. This study sought to assess the nutritional status of LF patients and its association with the pathology.
Methods

As cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the nutrition status of lymphedema patients in Ahanta West, Ghana. To obtain sociodemographic and nutrition data, a structured questionnaire was administered to the study participants. Anthropometry and 24-hour food recall were used to assess the nutritional status of participants.
Results

While all and 71 (82.6%) had adequate carbohydrate and protein intakes respectively, 83 (96.5%) had inadequate intake of fat. There were widespread inadequate nutrients intakes that were associated with stage of lymphedema: fat, r = -0.267, p = .024; carbohydrate, r = 0.305, p = .010; sodium, r = -0.259, p = .029; copper, r = -0.249, p = .036; selenium, r = -0.265, p = .025; pantothenic acid, r = -0.265, p = .025; vitamin B6, r = -0.270, p = .023; vitamin B12, r = -0.288, p = .015; and vitamin A, r = -0.276, p = .020.
Conclusion

The study shows widespread malnutrition among the participants. A nutritional intervention is recommended to complement current management strategies of filarial lymphedema.
Experimental Design Methodology for Global Active Noise Control in Enclosed Space
Authors: Jeong Ikchae , Park Youngjin
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this paper is to propose an experimental design methodology for global active noise control in an enclosed space. We aim to control the noise caused by an internal noise source. Since each enclosed space has different acoustic characteristics, it is difficult to design different controllers suitable for each enclosed space. So, we decided to design a controller that could be used universally. The basic concept is the collocation of noise source and control speakers to generate a sound field opposite in phase to the noise source in a free field. For implementation of the proposed method, we propose a configuration method of control speakers and error microphones, and an active noise control algorithm. Also, to confirm the applicability of the proposed method, we design a controller in an anechoic chamber, which represents a free field condition, and perform active noise control in other enclosed spaces with the controller designed for the anechoic chamber. The experimental results show that the solution calculated in the free field condition can be used in other enclosed spaces without any modifications.
Association Between Obesity and Incident Colorectal Cancer: An Analysis Based on Colorectal Cancer Database in the Cancer Genome Atlas
Authors: Yongxian Su , Tonghua Chen
Published: February 2021

Background

To investigate gene factors of colorectal cancer (CRC) in obesity and potential molecular markers.
Methods

Clinical data and mRNA expression data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) was collected and divided into obese group and non-obese group according to BMI. The differential expressed genes (DEGs) were screened out by “Limma” package of R software based on (|log2(fold change)|>2 and p < 0.05). The functions of DEGs were revealed with Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analysis using the DAVID database. Then STRING database and Cytoscape were used to construct a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and identify hub genes. Kaplan-Meier analysis was used to assess the potential prognostic genes for CRC patients.
Results

It has revealed 2055 DEGs in obese group with CRC, 7615 DEGs in non-obese group and 9046 DEGs in total group. MS4A12, TMIGD1, CA2, GBA3 and SLC51B were the top five downregulated genes in obese group. A PPI network consisted of 1042 nodes and 4073 edges, and top ten hub genes SST, PYY, GNG12, CCL13, MCHR2, CCL28, ADCY9, SSTR1, CXCL12 and ADRA2A were identified in obese group. PDCD11 may well predict overall survivals of CRC patients in non-obese group. The survival time of obese group was shorter than that of non-obese group, but there was no significant difference.
Conclusions

PDCD11 may be a potential molecular marker for non-obese patients with CRC.
Simulation-based training following a theoretical lecture enhances the performance of medical students in the interpretation and short-term retention of 20 cross-sectional Transesophageal Echocardiographic views: A prospective, randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Zhao Yang , Yuan Zong-yi , Zhang Han-ying , Yang Xue , Qian Duo , Lin Jing-yan , Song Hai-bo , Zhu Tao
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUNDBoth simulation-based training and video-based training are known to serve as educational adjuncts for learning TEE among medical students. In the present study, we hypothesized that simulation-based training would better enhance the performance of medical students in the interpretation of 20 cross-sectional views compared to video-based training.METHODSA total of 120 4th -year undergraduate medical students were enrolled in the present study. The study began with a pre-test of all the participants, followed by a 90-min theoretical lecture, after which the participants were required to undertake a post-test. Subsequently, the participants were randomly divided into the video-based group (Group V) and simulation-based group (Group S). Next, Group V received 60 min of TEE video learning, while Group S received 60 min of TEE simulator training. After the respective training, both the groups undertook the retention-test 1 and retention-test 2, one week and one month later, respectively. The overall accuracy demonstrated in each test was used to assess the performance of the participants in the interpretation of 5 views selected randomly from a set of 20 cross-sectional views.RESULTSNo statistically significant differences were observed in the overall accuracy in the pre-test and the post-test between the two groups. However, better overall accuracy was observed in Group S in both retention-test 1 and retention-test 2 compared to Group V.CONCLUSIONSFollowing a 90-min theoretical lecture, simulation-based training better enhanced the performance of medical students in the interpretation and short-term retention of 20 cross-sectional views compared to video-based training.
Two-photon Excitation Fluorescent Spectral and Decay Properties of Retrograde Neuronal Tracer Fluoro-Gold
Authors: Miller Matthew Q. , Hernández Iván Coto , Chacko Jenu V. , Minderler Steven , Jowett Nate
Published: February 2021

Fluoro-Gold is a fluorescent neuronal tracer suitable for targeted deep imaging of the nervous system. Widefield fluorescence microscopy enables visualization of fluoro-gold, but lacks depth discrimination. Though scanning laser confocal microscopy yields volumetric data, imaging depth is limited, and optimal single-photon excitation of fluoro-gold requires an unconventional ultraviolet excitation line. Two-photon excitation microscopy employs ultrafast pulsed infrared lasers to image fluorophores at high-resolution at unparalleled depths in opaque tissue. Deep imaging of fluoro-gold-labeled neurons carries potential to advance understanding of the central and peripheral nervous systems, yet its two-photon spectral and temporal properties remain uncharacterized. Herein, we report the relative two-photon excitation spectrum of fluoro-gold between 720 nm and 1100 nm, and its fluorescence decay rate in aqueous solution and murine brainstem tissue. We demonstrate unprecedented imaging depth of whole-mounted murine brainstem via two-photon excitation microscopy of fluoro-gold-labeled facial motor nuclei. Optimal two-photon excitation of fluoro-gold occurred at 730 nm, while maximum lifetime contrast was observed at 760 nm with mean fluorescence lifetime of 1.4 ns. Whole-mount brainstem explants were readily imaged to depths in excess of 450 µm via immersion in refractive-index matching solution.
Effect of Heat Treatment on Mechanical and Thermal Properties of SiC/SiC Composites With Three-Dimensional Carbon Network
Authors: Chen Jie , Liu Yongsheng , Zhang Yunhai , Wang Jing , Cao Liyang , Pan Yu
Published: February 2021

SiC/SiC composites with high thermal conductivity shows promising application in field of fusion reactors. In this work, CNTs papers were fabricated by a vacuum filtration strategy while using pitch-based carbon fibers to build a network structure into SiC/SiC composite (SiC-CNTs-C/SiC, SCCS). The thermal conductivity and related mechanical properties before and after heat treatment at different temperature were investigated. The bonding between CNTs paper layers and SiC matrix were mainly mechanical. Compared to the composite without transfer channels, the bending strength of SCCS (434.54MPa) increased by 19% due to the reinforcement of transfer channels from the network structure. However, the damage to SiC fibers resulting from high temperature treatment adversely affected the mechanical properties. The disorder degree of SiC matrix and SiC fibers decreased after heat treatment while mean free path of phonons increased, which are conducive to heat transfer. Contracted to room temperature, the measured thermal conductivity at 1600℃ was 53.83 W/(m·K) in vertical direction and 29.85 W/(m·K) in plane. In summary, heat treatment apparently enhanced thermal conductivity of SCCS composites while partly sacrificed the mechanical properties.
Upper Limb Sensory Evaluations in Women With Breast Cancer Related Lymphedema Receiving Complex Decongestive Physiotherapy: An Ultrasonographic Study
Authors: Baran Emine , Özçakar Levent , Özgül Serap , Aksoy Sercan , Akbayrak Türkan
Published: February 2021

Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate if/how the presence of lymphedema affected the sensation of the upper limb, and to assess whether complex decongestive physiotherapy (CDP) had a favorable impact on the sensory testings.Methods: A total of 27 patients with unilateral stage 2 breast cancer related lymphedema (BCRL) were included in the study. Bilateral ultrasonographic (epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous fat thicknesses) and circumferential measurements were peformed at 10 cm distal to the elbow crease. Semmes-Weinstein monofilament (SWM), static and moving two-point discrimination, pressure pain threshold (PPT) and tactile localization tests were also applied at the same site. After their initial evaluation, all patients underwent CDP phase 1 program (five times a week, for three weeks). All the evaluations were repeated at the end of their treatment as well.Results: Before CDP, affected sides had significantly higher values than the unaffected sides in terms of SWM (p<0.001), static (p=0.002) and moving two-point discrimination (p=0.011), PPT (p=0.001), and tactile localization (p<0.001) values. After CDP, SWM (p=0.002), static (p=0.009) and moving two-point discrimination (p=0.024), PPT (p=0.014) and tactile localization (p<0.001) values decreased significantly on the affected sides.Conclusion: BCRL seem to reduce light touch, static and moving two-point discrimination, PPT and tactile localization sensations whereas CDP seems to improve these sensory perceptions in women with BCRL. Of note, ultrasonographic measurements also appear to be promising for prompt and convenient follow up in the management of these patients. Clinical Trial Registration Number: NCT04296929Date of registration: March 5, 2020
CRISPR-Based Diagnostic Method For Chlamydia Trachomatis in Patients With Non-Gonococcal Urethritis
Authors: Huang kaichen , Yu Hailing , Lin Guanfeng , Wu Yingsong , Zhang Zhigao , Zhang Xiaoyan , Chen Hong , Zhang Zhen , Liu Tian-Cai
Published: February 2021

Non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU) is a type of urethritis that is transmitted by sexual contact. About 20%–50% of NGU cases are caused by Chlamydia trachomatis. Most NGU cases are asymptomatic, but failure to intervene promptly can lead to severe sequelae of the reproductive system and other complications. Here, we aimed to develop a technique to routinely screen for C. trachomatis infections to prevent such adverse consequences. The proposed approach involves the use of clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) RNA (crRNA) that is complementary to the cryptic plasmid fragments of C. trachomatis (i.e., the target sequence). In the presence of the target sequence, the RNase activity of the Cas13a protein is activated, and it cleaves a quenched RNA fluorescent probe such that fluorescence will be emitted. The proposed molecular diagnostic method based on the CRISPR-Cas13a technology leverages the high DNA-amplification efficiency of recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) and the high specificity of crRNA. The sensitivity of the C. trachomatis-dsDNA detection based on CRISPR-Cas13a was 10 fM. A one-pot method based on CRISPR-Cas13a detection and qPCR was also developed. The results obtained by the two methods were closely correlated: χ2 = 81.798 based on a Chi-squared test (P < 0.001), κ = 0.975 based on a Cohen’s kappa test (P < 0.001), and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve area was 0.991 (95% confidence interval: 0.970–1.000 P < 0.001) with a sensitivity of 0.982 (95% confidence interval: 0.890–0.999) and specificity of 1.000 (95% confidence interval: 0.863–1.000). Further, the method can be carried out at room temperature and yields results within 1 hour. The developed technique does not require expensive instruments and, thus, can meet the needs of community hospitals and other institutions for screening. Future research to develop lyophilized reagents could enable the application of this technique to point-of-care testing.
The 6th Amino Acid Mutation of Rep Protein Had No Effect on PCV2b but Enhanced PCV2d Virus Replication in Vitro
Authors: Wu Xiaoyan , Wang Shuo , Xin Changxun , Li Chen , Shi Jianli , Peng Zhe , Liu Chang , Han Hong , Yang Ying , tian yao , Li Jiaxin , Xu Shaojian , Li Jun , Zhang Fan
Published: February 2021

Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) is the etiological agent that primary cause of post-weaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS). The major genotypes, PCV2a, PCV2b and PCV2d, are highly prevalent, but now replaced with 2b and 2d in swine population in worldwide. Rep protein is the key protein for viral replication. Compared a large number of Rep protein amino acid (aa) sequences, we found that there were three sites with regular changes between 2b and 2d. In order to analyze the effect of key sites on viral replication, we used site-directed mutagenesis to mutate the 6th aa of Rep (alternations with asparagine and serine) between PCV2b and PCV2d, Two wild-type and two mutant viruses infectious clones were rescued by non-contaminated porcine kidney-15 (PK-15) cells. Real-time quantitative PCR and a one-step growth curve were used to determine viral load to assess the replication of rescued viruses. The results showed that there was no significant difference between the PCV2b mutation and the wild-type PCV2b virus in vitro, while the mutation ofPCV2d enhanced viral replication.
Old Drug, New Target: inhaled Lithium attenuates changes in Lung Mechanics in Bleomycin induced animal model of Lung Fibrosis
Authors: Idelevich Pavel , Reed Kenneth M
Published: February 2021

Background: Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis remains an incurable disease with poor prognosis. Recently the focus in research on the possible pathogenesis of this debilitating illness has shifted, at least in part, to premature accelerated aging of lung tissue as a driving force leading to fibrosis. Telomere shortening as a marker of premature aging, may play an important role in an approach to understand idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis pathophysiology. The goal of this study was to test the effect of inhaled lithium on pulmonary fibrosis, as a potential new treatment modality. The reason for such an approach was based upon observational results published in several articles demonstrating the ability of lithium to elongate telomeres of patients on long-term lithium treatment for bipolar disorder. Results: We conducted an animal study in a Bleomycin induced model of pulmonary fibrosis to investigate this hypothesis. Results of this study have shown a beneficial effect of inhaled lithium. Mice were protected from changes in gas exchange (hypoxia) as well as from changes in lung mechanics, experiencing reversion of these changes that are characteristic of pulmonary fibrosis in the Bleomycin induced model of pulmonary fibrosis. Conclusion: Taking in account the multiple cellular and physiological effects of lithium we do not want to be bound by one theory of the beneficial action of inhaled lithium to Bleomycin induced lung fibrosis. Given these positive preliminary results we suggest that further studies are indicated to expound upon the therapeutic implications of this approach to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.
Preparation of CuCrO2 anisotropic delafossite-type thin film by electrospinning on glass substrates
Authors: Weng Chia-Hsuan , Huang Rong-JUN , Sakthinathan Subramanian , Chiu Te-Wei , Dong Chaofang
Published: February 2021

Anisotropic CuCrO2 thin films were successfully prepared on glass substrate by the electrospinning method followed by annealing at 600°C. The directionality of the nanowires increased with increases in rotation speed. In addition, the structural formation and optoelectronic behavior of the CuCrO2 thin films have been studied by X-ray powder diffraction studies, transmission electron microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, Hall effect measurement and UV-vis spectroscopy. The X-ray diffraction studies revealed a delafossite properties of the CuCrO2. The electrical conductivity in the parallel and vertical directions of the films produced at 2000–3000 rpm differed by two to three orders of magnitude. The optical transmittance properties of the CuCrO2 thin films was improved by increasing the rotation speed.
Nonylphenol Promotes the Differentiation of 3T3-L1 Preadipocytes
Authors: Tang lan , Xu Jie , Yu Jie , Li Mei Wen
Published: February 2021

BackgroundNonylphenol (NP) induces obesity, we elucidated the influence of NP on the differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes and characterize the key stages in the underlying mechanism.Methods3T3-L1 preadipocytes were cultured until contact inhibition occurred and subsequently induced to differentiate using the MDI (methylisobutylxanthine, dexamethasone, and insulin) induction protocol. The cells were exposed to NP during the middle and late stages of the MDI-induced differentiation. After 24 h of exposure to NP, cell growth and differentiation were evaluated under an inverted phase-contrast microscope, lipid deposition was assessed by Oil Red O (ORO) staining, and the levels of the lipid-metabolism–related proteins CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein α (C/EBPα), fatty acid synthesis (FAS), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), and sterol regulatory element binding protein 1 (SREBP1) were determined by western blotting.Results1) Compared with the control group, the lipid droplets in the NP-treated cells were significantly more abundant and bigger,and the levels of C/EBPα, FAS, PPARγ and SREBP1 were significantly higher (P < .001). 2) The intensity of ORO staining was stronger and there were more intensely stained lipid droplets in the NP-treated cells during the middle stages than the late stage，the levels of the C/EBPα, FAS, PPARγ and SREBP1 during the middle stages were approximately higher than those during the late stage (P < .001). Conclusion﻿NP promotes proliferation, differentiation, and lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes, and increases the expression of the C/EBPα, FAS, PPARγ and SREBP1，and NP mainly promotes the proliferation and differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes during the middle stages of the MDI-induced differentiation.