bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hypoxia Facilitates the Proliferation of Colorectal Cancer Cells by Inducing Cancer-associated Fibroblast-derived IL6.
Authors: Xu Ying , Kuai Rong , Chu Yimin , Zhou Lu , Zhang Hai-qin , Li Ji
Published: March 2021

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is most common malignancy worldwide, and its underlying molecular mechanisms remain largely unexplored. Accumulating evidences indicate Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts (CAFs), abundant stromal cell population in the tumor microenvironment, play a key role in tumor development. Methods: We have successfully isolated CAFs and paired normal fibroblasts (NFs) from colorectal cancer tissues (n=10). By using multiplex cytokine profiling assay, we have identified IL-6 as a major cytokine released by CAFs. Coculturing of CAFs with CRC cell lines HCT116 or SW480 increase IL-6 release, and the secretion by CAFs can be further enhanced under hypoxia. By using CCK-8 assay, we have found HCT116 or SW480 cells treated with culture medium from CAFs, IL-6 or hypoxia showed a significant cell growth compared to control cells (P<0.01). Results: Mechanistically, we have found hypoxia can enhanced effect of IL-6/STAT3 signaling on CRC cells, in part, throughHIF-1a targets PKM2. Conclusions: In conclusion, our data clearly proposes the interconnected mechanisms for a constitutive activation of STAT3 signalby CAFs-derived IL-6 under hypoxia in colorectal cancer. The pharmacological inhibition of STAT3, PKM2 or HIF-1α can significantly reduce oncogenic effect of IL-6, providing a potential therapeutic target for CRC patients.Trail registration: Not applicable
Spatially Restricted Occurrence and Low Population Abundance Estimates as Key Tools for the Conservation of the Critically Endangered Large Social Antelope in West African Savannah
Authors: Gueye Mallé , Brandlová Karolína , Rabeil Thomas , Diop Maniang Mamadou , Diop Babacar , Hejcmanová Pavla
Published: March 2021

Background: The effective conservation of mammals on the brink of extinction requires an integrated socio-ecological approach, yet the knowledge of updated species distribution, population size, and life-history remain fundamental steppingstones in designing successful conservation plans. This study presents the first clarification on the population status of the critically endangered Western Derby eland (WDE) within its last stronghold, based on the first camera trap monitoring in the Niokolo Koba National Park (NKNP, Senegal). The spatiotemporal pattern of WDE behaviour, their population structure (based on individual recognition), age-specific survival rates, and population size estimate were investigated.Results: WDE were recorded during 49 events using dry season deployments (2017, 2018), during which they showed substantially lower occupancy (< 5% of protected area) in comparison to other ungulates in the park. WDE distribution, as of that of many other large mammal species, was strongly localised in the core area of NKNP. Based on the records, WDE were the most active during the hottest periods of the day. Group size ranged from 1 to 32 individuals (mean 7.6 ± SE 8.9), with mixed herds being larger and most frequent compared to others. The adult sex ratio was female-biased, and showed low annual adult male survival rates. The population consisted of a relatively high proportion of juveniles, whilst the proportion of adults did not exceed 40%. The estimated population density is 0.138 WDE/km2 (± 0.0102), with an estimated 195 WDE in NKNP.Conclusions: Findings highlighted that the WDE population has potential to expand in the NKNP, due to an underutilized capacity, and considering the population density. The age-specific vital rates indicate that adult males are the most vulnerable; which suggests either an increase in the large predators’ population, livestock encroachment pressure, and/or poaching. The occurrence of WDE indicated the key conservation area within the park, and together with their active behaviour during daylight periods, this enables the setting up of effective species protection. The findings imply that targeted monitoring with science-based interpretation may bring forward strong conservation solutions to the protected area management decision-makers.
Evaluation of hTERT, KRT7, and Survivin in Urine for Noninvasive Detection of Bladder Cancer using Real-Time PCR. 
Authors: Yahyazadeh Seyed Reza , Bashash Davood , Ghaffari Parisa , Safargholi-Azar Ava , Kord Saeid , Ghaffari Seyed H.
Published: March 2021

Objectives: Transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the bladder is the second most common genitourinary malignancy. Because of the low sensitivity of urinary cytology and the invasiveness and expense of frequent cystoscopies for the detection of low-grade superficial lesions, we aimed to establish a sensitive molecular approach to detect bladder cancer noninvasively.Methods: Voided urine samples were collected from 80 patients with bladder cancer at the time of diagnosis, 30 patients with non-bladder cancer urological diseases, and 20 healthy volunteers. The level of hTERT, KRT7, and survivin (SVV) mRNAs were analyzed using a qRT-PCR assay. Results: The optimal threshold values for hTERT, KRT7, and SVV in urine were calculated by ROC curves analysis. The overall sensitivity was 81.3%, 91.3%, and 68.8% for hTERT, KRT7, and SVV, respectively, which were significantly higher than urine cytology (22.2%, p<0.001). A higher positive ratio was obtained using multi-marker detection in comparison to single marker detection. The combined use of markers increased the sensitivity of cytology from 22.2% to 100%. In contrast with the urine cytology method, the sensitivity of these biomarkers was not correlated with the grades and stages of the bladder tumors.Conclusions: Our data indicate that urinary hTERT, KRT7, and SVV had superior sensitivities over cytology. The combined use of these markers may offer a powerful assay and a promising tool for a sensitive, noninvasive, and highly specific method of diagnosis and follows up of low-grade TCC of the bladder.
Weight Changes According to Treatment in a Diverse Cohort of Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Fukui Jami , White Kami , Frankland Timothy , Oshiro Caryn , Wilkens Lynne
Published: March 2021

Background

Weight changes are common among breast cancer patients. The majority of studies to date have focused on weight gain after a breast cancer diagnosis and its implications on health in survivors. Fewer studies have examined weight loss and its related characteristics. Weight changes have been reported to be influenced by several factors such as age, treatment, stage and pre-diagnostic weight. We evaluated weight changes during key treatment time points in early stage breast cancer patients.
Methods

We characterized 389 female patients diagnosed in Hawaii with early stage breast cancer from 2003–2017 in the Multiethnic Cohort (MEC) linked with Kaiser Permanente Hawaii electronic medical record data. We evaluated weight changes from surgery to 4 years post-diagnosis with six time points along a patient’s treatment trajectory (chemotherapy, radiation, endocrine, or surgery alone) and annually thereafter, adjusting for age, race/ethnicity and initial body mass index (BMI).
Results

We found key time points of significant weight change for breast cancer patients according to their adjuvant treatment. In patients who had surgery alone (S), surgery-radiation (SR), or surgery-endocrine therapy (SE), the majority of patients had stable weight, although this consistently decreased over time. However, the percentages of patients with weight loss and weight gain during this time steadily increased up to 4 years after initial surgery. Weight loss was more common than weight gain by about 2 fold in these treatment groups. For patients with surgery-chemotherapy (SC), there was significant weight loss seen within the first 3 months after surgery, during the time when patients receive chemotherapy. And this weight loss persisted until year 4. Weight gain was less commonly seen in this treatment group.
Conclusions

We identified key time points during breast cancer treatment that may provide a therapeutic window to positively influence outcomes. Tailored weight management interventions should be utilized to promote overall health and long term survivorship.
Preparation and Investigation of structure, optical , nonlinear optical and thermoelectric properties of Bi2Se3 thin film
Authors: Moez Ahmed Abdel , Elmelgeei H A , Ali A I
Published: March 2021

Bi2Se3 thin film were prepared using vacuum thermal evaporation technique. the structure and surface topography for this sample were investigated using both of Diffraction Electron Microscope photos (DEM) and Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM). Bi2Se3 thin film had a direct energy gap which was determined by using measured optical parameters such as optical transmittance (T) and optical reflectance (R). The values for both of the oscillating energy ( Eo) ,dispersion energy (Ed) and ratio of the free carrier concentration on the effective mass (N/m*) were determined optically using the calculated values of refractive index (n). The dielectrical parameters such as dielectric loss (ε\) and dielectric tangent loss dielectric loss (ε\\) were calculated. The density of states (DOS) for both of valence band (Nv) and conduction band (Nc) and also position of Fermi level were determined. The nonlinear optical results such as third-order nonlinear optical susceptibility (χ(3)), nonlinear refractive index (n2) and nonlinear absorption coefficient (βc) were determined. The influence of temperature on IV results were studied, finally the dependence of all of Dispersion factor (D), parallel inductance (Lp) and Seebeck coefficient (S) values on temperature for this film were studied.
Grinding of Fir Tree Slots of Powder Metallurgy Superalloy FGH96 using Profiled Electroplated CBN Wheel
Authors: Li Xun , Qin Bin , WANG Ziming , ZHNAG Yu , YU Jianhua
Published: March 2021

Broaching is commonly used for machining fir tree slots on turbine disk, which has outstandingadvantages and disadvantages, such as high quality machined surface, high manufacturing accuracy and highproductivity as well as fa st tool wear, extremely high processing costs and long preparation time, poor processflexibility. Utilizing the electroplated cubic boron nitride (CBN) profiled grinding wheels and single sided localprofiled grinding process, the experiments of FGH96 tur bine disk slots are carried out. The results show that thehigh precision of slot profile can be achieved by the developed process. Using the given experimental parametersn =48000 rpm, a p =0.002 mm, v f =100 mm/min and 600# electroplated CBN profiled wheel, the profile error ofFGH96 slots is within ±0.012 mm, and the grinding surface roughness is less than Ra0.8 μm. After four whole slotsare machined completely, the grinding wheel still has grinding capability, which proves that 600 # electroplatedCBN prof iled wheel can meet the grinding needs of FGH96 turbine disk slots.
Turbulent Flow Simulation of a Single-Blade Magnus Rotor
Authors: Bai Xin , Ji Chunning , Grant Paul , Phillips Nathan , Oza Utsav , Avital Eldad , Wil John J.R.
Published: March 2021

This paper presents the numerical studies of the Magnus effect for a kinetic turbine of a horizontal axis. To focus on the Magnus blade, a single self-spinning cylindrical blade is assumed. An iterative direct- forcing immersed boundary method is employed within the Eulerian-Lagrangian framework due to its capability to treat complex and moving geometries. The Eulerian fluid domain is discretized using the finite volume method while the Magnus rotor is represented by a set of discrete points/markers. The aim of the numerical studies is to provide insights for the design process and predict aerodynamic performances under various operating conditions. Results for the self-spinning cylinder at laminar and turbulent flows are found to be in good agreement with published data. By decreasing the aspect ratio of the cylinder (simulated segment length over its diameter), an increase in lift coefficient and a decrease in drag coefficient was observed, which is believed to be attributed to a reduction in the three- dimensionality of the near-wake. For the Magnus rotor, key parameters, such as dynamic forcing and frequency, distribution of pressure coefficient and torque have been produced for two cases with different structural designs and working conditions. With increase of the aspect ratio, stable forces are observed from the root side of the blade and the torque coefficient is relatively larger, which indicates a superior performance in terms of power extraction.
Measurement Invariance of the Seattle Angina Questionnaire in Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Lawal Oluwaseyi Adetutu , Awosoga Oluwagbohunmi , Santana Maria , James Matthew T. , Wilton Stephen B , Norris Colleen M , Lix Lisa M. , Sajobi Tolulope T.
Published: March 2021

PurposeThe Seattle Angina Questionnaire (SAQ) is a widely used patient-reported measure of health status in patients with coronary artery disease. Comparisons of SAQ scores amongst population groups and over time rely on the assumption that its factorial structure is invariant (i.e., equivalent). This study evaluates the measurement invariance of the SAQ across different demographic and clinical groups as well as over time.MethodsData were obtained from the Alberta Provincial Project on Outcome Assessment in Coronary Heart Disease registry, a population-based registry of patients who received coronary angiogram in Alberta, Canada. Health-related quality of life was measured using the 16-item Canadian version of the SAQ (SAQ-CAN). Multi-group confirmatory factor analysis was used to assess configural, weak, strong, and strict measurement invariance (MI) across age groups, sex, disease type, treatment, and over time. Model fit was assessed using the comparative fit index (CFI), and root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA).ResultsOf the 8101 patients who completed the measure at baseline, 1300 (16.1%) were at least 75 years old, while 1755 (21.7%) were female, 5154 (63.6%) were diagnosed with acute coronary syndrome, while 1177(14.5%) received coronary artery bypass graft treatment. There was evidence of strict invariance across age, sex, and disease groups, but partial strict invariance was established across treatment sub-groups and over time.ConclusionSAQ-CAN is a valid measure for comparing health-related quality of life of coronary artery disease patients across population groups and over time.
Genetic Ancestry Inferred From Autosomal and Y Chromosome Markers and HLA Genotypes in Type 1 Diabetes From an Admixed Brazilian Population.
Authors: Azulay Rossana Santiago de Sousa , Porto Luís Cristóvão , Silva Dayse Aparecida , Tavares Maria da Gloria , Dualibe Roberta , Nascimento Gilvan Cortês , Damianse Sabrina da Silva Pereira , Rocha Viviane Chaves de Carvalho , Magalhães Marcelo , Rodrigues Vandilson , Carvalho Paulo Ricardo Vilas Boas , Faria Manuel dos Santos , Gomes Marília Brito
Published: March 2021

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between genetic ancestry inferred from autosomal and Y chromosome markers and HLA genotypes in patients with Type 1 Diabetes from an admixed Brazilian population. Inference of autosomal ancestry; HLA-DRB1, -DQA1 and -DQB1 typifications; and Y chromosome analysis were performed. European autosomal ancestry was about 50%, followed by approximately 25% of African and Native American. The European Y chromosome was predominant. The HLA-DRB1* 03 and DRB1* 04 alleles presented risk association with T1D. When the Y chromosome was European, DRB1*03 and DRB1*04 homozygote and DRB1*03/DRB1*04 heterozygote genotypes were the most frequent. The results suggest that individuals from Maranhão have a European origin as their major component; and are patrilineal with greater frequency from the R1b haplogroup. The predominance of the HLA-DRB1* 03 and DRB1* 04 alleles conferring greater risk in our population and being more frequently related to the ancestry of the European Y chromosome suggests that in our population, the risk of T1D can be transmitted by European ancestors of our process miscegenation. However, the Y sample sizes of Africans and Native Americans were small, and further research should be conducted with large mixed sample sizes to clarify this possible association.
Fragility Functions for Local Failure Mechanisms in Unreinforced Masonry Buildings
Authors: Nale Marco , Minghini Fabio , Chiozzi Andrea , Tralli Antonio
Published: March 2021

The unreinforced masonry buildings can be present frequent local failure mechanisms and represent a serious life-safety hazard as recent strong earthquakes have shown. Compared to new building, existing unreinforced masonry buildings prone to be more vulnerable, not only because they have been designed without seismic or limited loading requirements, but also because horizontal structures and connections amid the walls are not always suitable. Out-of-plane collapse can be caused by important slenderness of walls also when connections are effective. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate fragility functions for unreinforced masonry walls in the presence of local failure mechanisms considering the out-of-plane response. The wall response, very often, can be idealized as rigid bodies undergoing rocking motion. Depending on its configuration, a wall is assumed either as a rigid body undergoing simple one-sided rocking or an assembly of two coupled rigid bodies rocking along their common edge. A set of 44 ground motions from earthquake events occurred from 1972 to 2017 in Italy is used in this study. The likelihood of collapse is calculated via Multiple Stripe Analysis (MSA) from a given wall undergoing a specific ground motion. Later, the single fragility functions are suitably combined to define a typological fragility function for a class of buildings. The procedure is applied to a historical aggregate in the city center of Ferrara (Italy) as a case study. The fragility functions developed in this research can be a very helpful tool for estimating damage and economic loss for unreinforced masonry buildings and for a seismic assessment on a regional scale.
A Novel 23-Gene Expression Signature is Predictor of Inferior Prognosis in Melanoma
Authors: Du Min , Ma Ling , Zhang Fan , Li Dong
Published: March 2021

Background: Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that begins in melanocytes. Metastasis, somatic mutations and gene expression profiles are important prognostic factors for melanoma patients. However, accurate prediction of patient prognosis remains an unsolved problem for the disease. This study was to develop a novel gene profile to accurately classify melanoma patients into subgroups with different survival probabilities. Methods: Survival-related genes were determined by Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and multivariate analysis using the expression and clinical data of 467 melanoma patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and validated in an independent Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset. Feature selection was performed by the Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) method. A prognostic 23-gene score was established and compared with two known gene-expression risk scores. The stratification of melanoma patients was performed by unsupervised hierarchical clustering of 23 gene expression levels to identify clusters of melanoma patients with different survival probabilities. Results: The LASSO model comprising 23 genes was considered as the optimal model. The 23-gene score was associated with increased mortality in melanoma patients regardless of clinicopathological characteristics. Hierarchical clustering analysis of the 23 genes revealed three subgroups of melanoma patients. The cluster3 melanoma tumours were associated with higher 23-gene score and poorer overall survival than cluster1 and cluster2 tumours. The 23-gene score had higher area under curve (0.76) than the 8-gene risk score and IRGs score (0.58 and 0.59) in the prediction of overall survival of melanoma patients. Conclusions: The 23-gene score is superior to the two established prognostic gene signatures in the prediction of prognosis of melanoma patients.
The Health and Economic Benefits Possible with Novel Tuberculosis Vaccines – A Modeling Study in India and Indonesia
Authors: Silva Sachin , Awad Susanne , Abu-Raddad Laith , Atun Rifat , Goosby Eric , Reid Michael
Published: March 2021

Health and economic benefits possible with emerging tuberculosis vaccines are not fully known. We estimated gains possible with novel post-exposure vaccines, in India and Indonesia. We modeled vaccine impact on TB incidence, TB mortality, and on national income growth and the intrinsic value of living longer, known as Full-income. We considered several vaccine efficacies, initiation and scale-up scenarios. We found that if all age groups are vaccinated in 2025, then 2.3 million TB deaths in India and 695,000 TB deaths in Indonesia can be prevented, adding 0.09 years and 0.17 years to individual life expectancy at birth, on average annually. Full-income savings is US$2 trillion in India and US$680 billion in Indonesia. Even if delayed until 2030, 1.6 million deaths in India and 489,000 deaths in Indonesia can be prevented, with full-income savings of US$1.5 trillion and US$490 billion. These benefits suggest that further investment in the vaccines is prudent.Significance Statement There are no prior economic evaluations of candidate tuberculosis vaccines. Our study addresses this gap to answer two questions: (1) is there value in making the vaccine available given the efficacies demonstrated to date; and (2) is there an optimal time window for making the vaccine available. The conclusions in relation to these two questions are important because: (1) they are based on findings from two countries, which jointly account for 35% of global TB incidence and 38.8% of global TB mortality in 2019; (2) they provide guidance for future investment in the vaccine and roll-out in those countries.
Postpartum Green Star Family Planning Decision Aid for Pregnant Adolescents in Tanzania: a Qualitative Feasibility Study
Authors: Mushy Stella Emmanuel , Shishido Eri , Leshabari Sebalda , Horiuchi Shigeko
Published: March 2021

Background: The use of a decision aid (DA) in clinical settings has been useful as they inform and educate clients about the available options that help them to reduce decision-making conflict related to feeling uninformed and unclear about personal values compared with usual care. There is a dearth of published data about the use of decision aid during family planning (FP) counseling with postpartum women focusing on long-acting reversible family planning methods. Therefore, the researchers developed a decision aid named “Green Star” and assessed its feasibility. The study outcomes were practicality, usefulness, and acceptability as perceived by the pregnant adolescents and the nurse/midwives.Methods: An exploratory in-depth qualitative interview involving six nurse/midwives with three or more years of experience in FP services, and 12 pregnant adolescents aged 15-19 years. Purposive sampling was used to select the participants, and sampling relied on the saturation principle of data collection. Researchers used a semi-structured interview guide translated into Kiswahili language. Data were transcribed and analyzed following inductive-deductive content analysis. Results: The length of the presentation was found to be just right, with time ranging from twenty minutes to one hour. The flow of the information was stated to be good with small significant changes suggested. Kiswahili language used was reported to be appropriate and well elaborated, however, a few words were suggested to be rephrased to reduce ambiguity. The nurse/midwives reported that the DA included most of the important information clients wanted to know during FP counseling. The adolescents stated that the DA improved their knowledge and provided new information about the existence of FP immediately after childbirth. The participants said the DA clearly addressed the benefits and side effects as well as dispelled some myths and misconceptions. The DA was accepted to be useful in complementing the daily family planning counseling offered as well as in improving adolescents’ knowledge. Conclusion: The postpartum Green Star family planning decision aid was perceived to be practical, useful, and acceptable. Further research is needed to assess the effect of the DA in the choice for postpartum long acting reversible FP among the pregnant adolescents in Tanzania.
Effect of Wing Length on the Prevalence of Trypanosomes in Glossina Morsitans Morsitans in Eastern Zambia
Authors: Mweempwa Cornelius , Chilongo Kalinga , Hayashida Kyoko , Namangala Boniface
Published: March 2021

BackgroundTsetse flies (Diptera: Glossinidae) transmit trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness in humans and nagana in livestock). Several studies have indicated that the age, sex, site of capture, starvation and microbiome symbionts, among others, are important factors influencing trypanosome infection in tsetse flies. However, reasons for a higher infection rate in females than in males still largely remain unknown. As species and sexes of tsetse flies of larger body size are the most mobile and the most available to stationary baits, it was hypothesized in this study that, the higher trypanosome prevalence in female than in male tsetse flies was because females were larger than males.Materials and methodsBlack screen fly rounds and epsilon traps were used to collect tsetse flies in eastern Zambia. Wing vein length was measured and the presence of trypanosomes was examined by microscopy. Principal component method was carried out to determine which variables had potential to be used as predictor variables. The multilevel binary logistic regression method was applied on whole data, one-method data and one-sex data sets to evaluate the hypothesis. ResultsA total of 2,195 Glossina m. morsitans data were evaluated (1,491 and 704 males and females, respectively). The wing length variable contributed the highest variance percentage (39.15%) to the first principal component. The wing length variable showed significant influence on prevalence of trypanosomes when the whole data set was analyzed. The log odds for the prevalence of trypanosomes significantly increased by 0.123 (p = 0.032), per unit increase in wing length. Moreover, moving from females to males, wing length significantly reduced by 0.150 (p < 0.0001) and females had higher trypanosome prevalence rates than males, though not always significant. ConclusionWing length is an important determinant factor for trypanosome prevalence in G. m. morsitans and could partially explain the higher prevalence of trypanosomes in females than in males. To verify this status, however, it’s clear that, reasonably representative population data is required for analysis – a serious challenge with the current tsetse sampling methods. Nonetheless, analysis of combined data from mobile and stationary methods that includes both sexes data, could verify the status.
Medium Plant Cover has the Highest Heterogeneity of Fine-Scale Spatial Vegetation Patterns in Humid grasslands
Authors: Yang Qin , Cheng Hua , Pu Hongmei , Zhao Xuechun , Dong Rui , Chen Yulian , Yang Shenghui , Wu X. Ben , Chen Chao , Jin Baocheng
Published: March 2021

Context Fine-scale spatial vegetation patterns are ubiquitous and can have profound impacts on large scale ecological processes including surface runoff, soil erosion, and livestock forage efficiency. However, we have limited knowledge of the fine-scale spatial vegetation patterns in humid grasslands.Objectives The objectives were to characterize the spatial vegetation patterns at centimeter scale in humid grasslands, quantify the vegetation patterns variation under different image pixel sizes and plant covers, and explore the potential ecological implications of the spatial vegetation patterns.Methods Seventy plots with plant covers ranging from 30.8–99.3% were selected from seven humid grasslands in southwest China and their spatial vegetation patterns quantified at image pixel sizes of 0.04, 0.25, 1, and 4 cm.Results With increasing pixel size, plant patch density and total edge density decreased, plant patch size increased, and the plant patch shape became more regular. At a plant cover level below 50%, increasing plant cover will result in increasing patch density and patch size, leading to greater spatial heterogeneity. At plant cover levels above 50%, increasing plant cover will cause the rapid expansion of patch size, along with a lower patch density, forming a more homogeneous landscape dominated by plant patches. The small stems, branches, and leaves of grasses fragmented non-plant patches into smaller patches with increasing plant cover; this fragmentation resembles road-induced landscape fragmentation processes.Conclusions Medium plant cover has the highest heterogeneity of spatial vegetation pattern at the fine scale, which may have significant implications on ecological processes and related management practices.
Incidence and risk factors of surgical site infection following colorectal surgery in Iran: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Rajaei Siamak , Mohammadi Masoud , Balajelini Mohammad Hosein Taziki , Afghani Reza , Zare Mehrshad , Rajabi Abdolhalim
Published: March 2021

Background

Surgical site infection (SSI) after colorectal surgery remains a significant problem for its negative clinical outcomes. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of SSI after colorectal surgery in 5-Azar hospital of Gorgan, Golestan province, Iran and to further evaluate the related risk factors.
Methods

A prospective design was applied. Patients in the 5-Azar hospital of Gorgan, Golestan province, Iran was prospectively monitored for SSI after colorectal surgery. The demographic and perioperative characteristics were collected, and the main outcome were SSI within postoperative 30 days. Univariate analyses were used to identify risk factors.
Results

A total of 240 patients were enrolled in the study and the overall SSI rate was 23.3% (56 patients). Univariate analyses indicated that corticosteroids use (Risk Ratio (RR) = 3, 95% CI: 1.62–5.54), segmental resection with anastomosis (RR = 2.28, 95% CI: 1.12–4.63), anemia (RR = 4.52, 95% CI: 3.11–6.59), diabetics (RR = 2.68, 95% CI: 1.73–4.14), and opium use (RR = 1.87, 95% CI: 1.17–2.99) are risk factors for SSI.
Conclusions

SSI still seems to be a problem in colon surgery despite the observance of scientific principles. There are some risk factors for SSI that can be prevented.
Discover of No-Side Effect Phenytoin Drug from Catharanthus Roseus Plant
Authors: Govindan Nagaraj
Published: March 2021

Phenytoin drug is commonly used for seizures and breast cancer, but chemically prepared phenytoin drug has more side effect. Herein, we have discovered phenytoin drug (100%) without side effect from Catharanthus Roseus (CR) plant using a photon-induced method (PIM). The pure plant (absence of metal nanoparticles) synthesized by green chemistry offers a novel and potential alternative to non-chemically synthesized Catharanthus Roseus nano-sized particles (CR-NPs,) studied for the first time. The GC-MS analysis of CR-NPs provides all peaks determining the presence of phenytoin compound and 1H NMR analysis of chemical shift conformed phenytoin structure. The XRD analysis results in highly crystalline material and crystallite size is 25 nm. The CR NPs highly killed breast cancer cells (MCF-7 cell-lines), while without killed the normal cells (VERO cell-lines). Our findings brought new insights into the development of nano-sized plant exerting strong next generation of no-side effect nature drug.
Free flap transfer, a safe and efficient method for reconstruction of composite skull base defects after salvage resection of advanced intra- and extracranial communicating tumors
Authors: Liu Hou jie , Li Xue-Ji , Qian Hai-Peng , An Chang-Ming , Li De-Zhi , Wan JingHai
Published: March 2021

Propose: Surgical treatment of advanced intra- and extracranial communicating skull base tumors is challenging, especially for the reconstruction of the large composite defect left by tumor resection. The aim of the study is to evaluate the utility of the free flap reconstruction of the defects resulting from radical resection of these tumors. Methods: The clinical data of 17 consecutive patients who underwent free flap reconstruction for defect left by salvage resection of advanced intra- and extracranial communicating tumors from 2013 to 2019 were retrospectively collected and analyzed. Results: There were 5 squamous cell carcinomas, 4 adenoid cystic carcinomas, 2 basal cell carcinomas, 2 meningiomas, 1 anaplastic hemangiopericytoma, 1 pleomorphic adenoma, 1 osteosarcoma and 1 chondrosarcoma. All patients had recurrent neoplasms, 2 of which had pulmonary metastasis. A modified radical cervical dissection was performed in 6 patients. The anterolateral thigh flap myocutaneous (ALT) flap and rectus abdominis myocutaneous (RAM) flap were used in 15 patients (88.2%) and 2 patients (11.8%), respectively. Complications were seen in 3 of 17 patients (17.6%) with 1 total flap loss. The median PFS duration was 31 months. The 3- and 5-year PFS rate was 0.47 and 0.24, respectively. The mean OS duration was 66 months. The 3- and 5-year OS rate was 0.85 and 0.68, respectively. Conclusion: Free flap transfer is a safe and effective method with acceptable complications, useful for reconstruction of large composite skull base defects after salvage resection of advanced intra- and extracranial communicating tumors. The functional and cosmetic results are satisfying.
The trajectory of putative astroglial dysfunction in first episode schizophrenia: A longitudinal 7-Tesla MRS study
Authors: Jeon Peter , MacKinley Michael , Theberge Jean , Palaniyappan Lena
Published: March 2021

Astroglial pathology has been long suspected in schizophrenia. Myo-inositol, a metabolic marker particularly abundant in astroglia, is reduced in the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) of patients with schizophrenia. We investigate the status of astroglial integrity indexed by ACC myo-inositol at the onset and over the first 6 months of treatment of first episode schizophrenia. We employed 7T magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) and quantified myo-inositol spectra at the dorsal ACC in 31 participants; 21 patients with schizophrenia with median lifetime antipsychotic exposure of less than 3 days, followed up after 6 months of treatment, and 10 healthy subjects scanned twice over the same time period. We studied the time by group interaction for myo-inositol after adjusting for gender and age. We report significant reduction in myo-inositol concentration in the ACC in schizophrenia at an early, untreated state of acute illness that improves over time. This trajectory indicates that dynamic astroglial changes are likely to operate in the early stages of schizophrenia. MRS myo-inositol may be a critical marker of amelioration of active psychosis in early stages of schizophrenia.
Multilevel characteristics of TiOx transparent non-volatile resistive switching device by embedding SiO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Kwon Sera , Kim Min-Jung , Chung Kwun-Bum
Published: March 2021

TiOx-bsed resistive switching devices have recently attracted attention as a promising candidate for next-generation non-volatile memory devices. A number of studies have attempted to increase the structural density of resistive switching devices. The fabrication of a multi-level switching device is a feasible method for increasing the density of the memory cell. Herein, we attempt to obtain a non-volatile multi-level switching memory device that is highly transparent by embedding SiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) into the TiOx matrix (TiOx@SiO2 NPs). The fully transparent resistive switching device is fabricated with an ITO/TiOx@SiO2 NPs/ITO structure on glass substrate, and it shows transmittance over 95 % in the visible range. The TiOx@SiO2 NPs device shows outstanding switching characteristics, such as a high on/off ratio, long retention time, good endurance, and distinguishable multi-level switching. To understand multi-level switching characteristics by adjusting the set voltages, we analyze the switching mechanism in each resistive state. This method represents a promising approach for high-performance non-volatile multi-level memory applications.
Efficient Data-Mining Classification Approach For Ecg Data In Health Care Application
Authors: J Shana , T Venkatachalam
Published: March 2021

Data mining enables classification of Electrocardiographic (ECG) signals of the heart for diagnosing many cardiac diseases. ECG signals often consist of unwanted noises, speckles and redundant features. An unwanted noise and redundant features always degrade the quality of ECG signal and may lead to loss of accuracy in classification technique. To overcome these challenges, we introduced Optimize Discrete Kernel Vector (ODKV) classifier with an impressive pre-processing in this paper. In order to remove the noises, image processing filter namely the Adaptive Notch Filters (ANF) are initially used to remove Power Line Interference from ECG Signals. Moreover, reducing the redundant features from the ECG signal plays a vital role in diagnosing the cardiac disease. So, Optimize Discrete Kernel Vector (ODKV) classifier is used to reduce the redundant features and also to enhance the classification accuracy of the input ECG signal. Thus, Optimize Discrete Kernel Vector (ODKV) classifier identifies the Q wave, R wave and S wave in the input ECG signal. Finally, performance metrics Sensitivity, Specificity, Accuracy and Mean Square Error (MSE) are calculated and compared with the existing method such as SVM-kNN, ANN-kNN, GB-SVNN, and CNN to prove the enhancement of the classification technique.
Methane Emission and Carbon Sequestration Potential from Municipal Solid Waste Landfill, India
Authors: BP NAVEEN
Published: March 2021

The quantities of waste generation are drastically increased every day, and most of the waste is disposed off through open dump and landfilling. Methane, carbon dioxide, and nitrous oxide are major greenhouse gases (GHG’s) produced from landfill sites. However, the global warming potential of methane is 21 times higher than that of carbon dioxide. Hence, there is immense concern for utilization from landfill sites. In developing countries, the composition of municipal solid waste (MSW) has higher biodegradable waste (50–60%). This leads to emit higher GHG’s from a per ton of MSW compared to the developed world. In this study, the attempt will be made to estimate the amount of carbon stored in MSW burial in landfills. Tests were conducted in two different locations at the Mavallipura landfill. MSW samples were collected for every meter interval (1-2m, 2-3m & so on) up to 6m. The result shows that carbon stored in organic matter increases with depth from approximately 2.2% at 1.0 m depth to 4.8% at 6m depth. Based on MSW's carbon storage factor and data on MSW generation, global carbon sequestration from MSW burial in the Mavallipura landfill is estimated to be at least 10 million metric tons per year. Also, the study aims to quantify methane gas production from the ward levels and the Mavallipura landfill site in India.
Satellite communication anti-jamming based on ABC blind source separation
Authors: Li Jiong
Published: March 2021

The existing satellite communication anti-jamming technology mostly realizes anti-jamming communication from the perspective of interference suppression, and has defects such as low spectrum efficiency and limited anti-jamming capability. This paper proposes to use the independence of communication signal and interference signal to separate communication signal and interference signal in the waveform domain, and then realize communication anti-interference. This method can realize anti-jamming communication under strong jamming without reducing the spectrum efficiency. The blind source separation problem is essentially a multi-parameter joint optimization problem, and there is no analytical solution. This paper uses an artificial bee colony optimization algorithm to solve the blind separation problem and obtains a sub-optimal solution.
Reduced neutralization of B.1.351 variant SARS-CoV-2 by convalescent sera of COVID-19 patients
Authors: Virtanen Jenni , Uusitalo Ruut , Korhonen Essi , Aaltonen Kirsi , Smura Teemu , Kuivanen Suvi , Pakkanen Sari , Mero Sointu , Patjas Anu , Riekkinen Marianna , Kantele Anu , Nurmi Visa , Hedman Klaus , Hepojoki Jussi , Sironen Tarja , Huhtamo Eili , Vapalahti Olli
Published: March 2021

SARS-CoV-2 infection raises neutralizing antibodies (NAbs). While studies have shown differing NAb kinetics, they generally point to the antibody arm of immunity providing most recoverees protection against contemporary strains. However, the effect against newly emerged variants of concern (VoCs) has remained uncertain. Here, applying neutralization tests to paired recoveree sera (N=38) of spring 2020 COVID-19 patients with clinical isolates of wildtype D614G and VoC1 and -2 strains (B.1.1.7 and B 1.351) from Finland, we show that NAbs of these patients are equally effective in inhibiting both contemporary and VoC1 strains whereas inhibition of VoC2 is reduced 8-fold (p<0.001) with 50% of sera failing to show NAbs. Our results align with an increased ability of VoC2 to reinfect previously SARS-CoV-infected populations.
A Uracil Auxotroph Toxoplasma gondii Exerting Immunomodulation to Inhibit Breast Cancer Growth and Metastasis
Authors: Xu Li-Qing , Yao Li-Jie , Jiang Dan , Chen Min , Liao Wen-Zhong , Zou Wei-Hao , Zhou Li-Juan , Peng Hong-Juan
Published: March 2021

Background: Breast cancer is the most common cause of cancer-related death among women, and patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) have poor prognosis, so it is necessary to develop new effective therapies urgently. Recent studies have demonstrated that uracil auxotroph Toxoplasma gondii vaccine displays antitumor effects. Here, we examined the immunotherapy effects of an attenuated uracil auxotroph strain of T. gondii against 4T1 murine breast cancer.Methods: We constructed a uracil auxotroph strain, the orotidine 5′-monophosphate decarboxylase gene deleted strain of T. gondii (RH-Δompdc) with the CRISPR/Cas9 technology. Its virulence in vitro and in vivo was determined by parasite replication assay, plaque assay, the parasite burden detection in mice peritoneal fluids and the survival analysis of T. gondii infection mice. Its immune modulation ability was evaluated by cytokines detection. Its antitumor effect was evaluated after its in situ inoculation to 4T1 tumors in mouse model, the tumor volume was measured, the 4T1 lung metastasis was detected by H&E and Ki67 antibody staining, and the cytokines levels were measured by ELISA.Results: RH-Δompdc strain could proliferate normally with uracil supplement, however, it was unable to propagate without uracil and in vivo, which implicated that it is avirulent to the hosts. This mutant showed vaccine characteristics that it could induce intense immune responses both in vitro and in vivo by boosting the expression of inflammatory cytokines significantly. RH-Δompdc in situ inoculation to the 4T1 tumors in mice could inhibit the tumor growth, reduce the lung metastasis, promote the survival of the tumor-bearing mice, and also increase the secretion of Th1 cytokines IL-12 and IFN-γ both in serum and in the tumor microenvironment (TME). Conclusion: The uracil auxotroph RH-Δompdc inoculation to the 4T1 tumors stimulated the anti-infection and antitumor immunity in mice, resulted in the inhibition of tumor growth and metastasis, the promotion in survival of the tumor-bearing mice, and the increasing secretion of IL-12 and IFN-γ both in serum and in the TME. Our findings implied that the immunomodulation resulted by RH-Δompdc could be a potential antitumor strategy.
Direct Ink Writing of Cellulose - plasticized Aqueous Ceramic Slurry for YAG Transparent Ceramics
Authors: Ji Haohao , Zhao Jin , Chen Jie , Shimai Shunzo , Chen Hetuo , Liu Yu , Zhang Jian , Wang Shiwei
Published: March 2021

Additive manufacturing based on direct ink writing (DIW) opens a novel means to prepare transparent ceramics, which can comprise of both complex structures and multiple functional phases. However, there still remains a vital challenge to obtain a stable and printable aqueous ceramic slurry with high solids loading, which is important for forming high quality transparent ceramics. Therefore, we report a fabrication method by using celluloses for enhancing the plasticity of the aqueous YAG ceramic slurry with high solids loading up to 52 vol. %, by which both of the printability of ceramic slurries and the optical quality of transparent ceramics have been considerably improved. In the example, the in-line transmittance at 1064 nm for a 1.2 mm thick YAG ceramic can approach about 81.5%. This research provides a facile DIW method for preparing transparent ceramic from water - based slurry.
Psychological Distress Among Lebanese Women During the COVID-19 Confinement: Any Mediating Effect of Violence?
Authors: Haddad Chadia , Malaeb Diana , Sacre Hala , Malhab Sandrella Bou , Khachman Dalia , Lahoud Nathalie , Azzi Joelle , Salameh Pascale
Published: March 2021

Background: Violence among women is associated with poor psychological health and increased internalizing symptoms, such as depression, stress, and anxiety. The primary objective was to evaluate the association of marital conflict, pregnancy status, socioeconomic status, and stressful life events with violence, depression, anxiety, and stress. The secondary objective was to evaluate the mediating effect of violence on psychological distress.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 369 women between June 8 and August 1, 2020. The questionnaire was developed on Google Forms and distributed online, using the snowball technique. Results: Higher marital conflict (Beta=0.159), financial difficulties (Beta=2.572), a history of child abuse (Beta=2.546), and higher violence scores (Beta=0.121) were significantly associated with higher depression scores. Higher marital conflict (Beta=0.358) and having financial difficulties (Beta=3.859) were significantly associated with higher anxiety scores. Higher marital conflict (Beta=0.070) and financial difficulties (Beta=1.483) were significantly associated with higher perceived stress scores. Composite abuse scale partially mediated the association between pregnancy status (25.28%), financial difficulties (7.71%), history of child abuse (21.92%), abuse by a family member (50.50%), and anxiety scale. Also, the composite abuse scale partially mediated the association between marital conflict (21.42%), financial difficulties (14.17%), history of child abuse (20.05%), abuse by a family member (33.57%), and depression scale. Conclusion: Our main findings suggest that violence mediated the association between pregnancy status, marital conflicts, financial difficulties, and depression and anxiety but did not mediate between these factors and stress. Further studies are needed to understand better the factors that mediate the relations between domestic violence and mental well-being among Lebanese women.