bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A parametric study of crack propagation in paintings caused by temperature and relative humidity cycles based on irreversible cohesive zone model
Authors: Jamalabadi Mohammad Yaghoub Abdollahzadeh
Published: June 2020

The current paper aims to use an irreversible cohesive zone model to investigate the effects of temperature and relative humidity cycles on multilayer thin-film paintings crack pattern. The homogenous one-dimensional paint layers composed of alkyd and acrylic gesso over a canvas foundation (support) with known constant thicknesses are considered as the mechanical model of painting. Experimental data used for mathematical modeling of canvas as a linear elastic material and paint as a viscoelastic material with the Prony series. Fatigue damage parameters such as crack initiation time and maximum loads are calculated by an irreversible cohesive zone model used to control the interface separation. With the increase of the painting thickness and/or the initial crack length, the value of the maximum force increases. Moreover, by increasing the relative humidity (RH) and the temperature difference at loading by one cycle per day, the values of initiation time of delamination decrease. It is shown that the thickness of painting layers is the most important parameter in crack initiation times and crack growth rate in historical paintings in museums and conservation settings.
A novel deep learning-based quantification of serial chest computed tomography in Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
Authors: Pan Feng , Li Lin , Liu Bo , Ye Tianhe , Li Lingli , Liu Dehan , Ding Zezhen , Chen Guangfeng , Liang Bo , Yang Lian , Zheng Chuansheng
Published: June 2020

Objectives: This study aims to explore and compare a novel deep learning-based quantification with the conventional semi-quantitative computed tomography (CT) scoring for the serial chest CT scans of COVID-19. Materials and Methods: 95 patients with confirmed COVID-19 and a total of 465 serial chest CT scans were involved, including 61 moderate patients (moderate group, 319 chest CT scans) and 34 severe patients (severe group, 146 chest CT scans). Conventional CT scoring and deep learning-based quantification were performed for all chest CT scans for two study goals: 1. Correlation between these two estimations; 2. Exploring the dynamic patterns using these two estimations between moderate and severe groups.Results: The Spearman’s correlation coefficient between these two estimation methods was 0.920 (p<0.001). predicted pulmonary involvement (CT score and percent of pulmonary lesions calculated using deep learning-based quantification) increased more rapidly and reached a higher peak on 23rd days from symptom onset in severe group, which reached a peak on 18th days in moderate group with faster absorption of the lesions. Conclusions: The deep learning-based quantification for COVID-19 showed a good correlation with the conventional CT scoring and demonstrated a potential benefit in the estimation of disease severities of COVID-19.
Purification and characterization of an endogenous cellulase from the digestive system of grub of banana pseudostem weevil Odoiporus longicollis (Olivier)
Authors: Bhuvaragavan Sreeramulu , Reshma Thenozhiyil , Hilda Karuppiah , Balaji Ravichandran , Meenakumari Mani , Mathivanan Narayanasamy , Janarthanan Sundaram
Published: June 2020

Insects have evolved with effectual strategies to utilise cellulose substrates for the energy source and can be used as an optimal resource in the field of bioenergy sector and insect-pest management by finding the novel cellulolytic enzymes from it. The present study was aimed at evaluating the endogenous cellulolytic system in the larval gut of banana pseudostem weevil Odoiporus longicollis. Initially, the cellulase activity was localized in the gut system in which the midgut showed highest activity of 2858 U min-1mg-1. The optimum temperature and thermal stability were found to be 60°C at the highest activity of 2712 U min-1mg-1. The enzyme was stable at a pH from 5 to 6. The effect of various divalent cations tested on the cellulase activity showed a differential enhancing and inhibitory activity upon varying concentrations. Purification of cellulase was carried out using anion exchange chromatography with the DEAE-Sepharose CL-6B matrix which was chosen according to the results of the batch assay. The total and specific activity of purified cellulase was 1166 U min-1mg-1 and 1190.46 U min-1mg-1, respectively, with 41.66 % recovery of activity. The molecular weight of the purified cellulase was determined as 47 kDa. The optimum temperature for the purified enzyme was 60°C with an activity of 1130 U min-1mg-1. The purified fraction had the highest activity between pH 5 and 6. Kinetic parameters of the purified cellulase enzyme were determined in which Km and Vmax values were 1.03 mg/ml and 343 U min-1mg-1, respectively. Mass spectrometry result identified the homology towards endoglucanase sequence belonging to the GHF5 family. The gut microbial cellulase activity showed no competence comparatively.
Seed Set Patterns in East African Cooking Bananas are Asymmetric in Bunches and Fruits
Authors: Waniale Allan , Mukasa Settumba B. , Tugume Arthur K. , Tumuhimbise Robooni , Kubiriba Jerome , Tushemereirwe Wilberforce K. , Batte Michael , Brown Allan , Swennen Rony
Published: June 2020

Background: Low female fertility in bananas is the biggest hurdle for banana breeding. The aim of this study was to determine seed set patterns in East African cooking bananas EACBs to inform future decisions on a more targeted approach of increasing seed set and subsequently banana breeding efficiency. Matooke (AAA) and Mchare (AA) bananas are genetically distinct but belong to the same genetic complex, they referred to as EACBs. Seed set patterns in ‘Enzirabahima’ (AAA), ‘Mshale’ (AA) and ‘Nshonowa’ (AA) all with residual fertility were examined after hand pollination with a highly male fertile wild banana ‘Calcutta 4’ (AA). Results: Seed set in ‘Enzirabahima’ is predominant in distal hands. Mchare cultivars have a slightly more even distribution of seeds in their hands compared to ‘Enzirabahima.’ There is a gradual increase in seed set from proximal to distal hands with a slight drop in the last hand. This pattern is more definite in ‘Enzirabahima’ and ‘Mshale’ while ‘Nshonowa’ has a somewhat inconsistent pattern. There is also a drop in seed set per 100 fruits per hand from small to larger bunches. However, larger bunches have a higher pollination success compared to smaller bunches. They therefor set more seed on 100 fruits per hand and per bunch basis if bunches without seed are accounted for. Pollination success rate increases from smaller to larger bunches of EACBs. Seed set is biased toward the distal third part of fruits of examined EACBs as well tetraploid Matooke hybrid ‘401K-1’ (AAAA) and improved diploid ‘Zebrina’ GF (AA) that were used for comparison. In comparison, in the highly female fertile ‘Calcutta 4,’ seed set is along the entire length of the fruit.Conclusion: Seed set bias in the distal hands and distal end of fruits suggests a systematic mechanism rather than a random occurrence. It is expected that this information will provide a foundation for increased crossbreeding efficiency in bananas.
Integrating Depression Care Within NCD Provision in Bangladesh and Pakistan: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Wright Jerome , Mazumdar Papiya , Barua Deepa , Lina Silwa , Bibi Humaira , Kanwal Ateeqa , Mujeeb Faiza , Naz Qirat , Safi Rahim , Haq Baha Ul , Rana Rusham Zahra , Nahar Papreen , Jennings Hannah , Sikander Siham , Huque Rumana , Nizami Asad , Jackson Cath
Published: June 2020

Background: Co-morbidity of depression with other non-communicable diseases (NCDs) worsens clinical outcomes for both conditions. Low- and middle-income countries need to strengthen mechanisms for detection and management of co-morbid depression within NCDs. The BEACON study explored the acceptability and feasibility of integrating a brief depression intervention (behavioural activation, BA) into NCD services in healthcare facilities in Bangladesh and Pakistan.Methods: Face-to-face qualitative interviews were conducted with 43 patients and 18 health workers attending or working in NCD centres in four healthcare facilities in Bangladesh and Pakistan, and with three policy makers in each country. The interviews addressed four research questions (1) how NCD care is delivered, (2) how NCD patients experience distress, (3) how depression care is integrated within NCD provision, and (4) the challenges and opportunities for integrating a brief depression intervention into usual NCD care. The data were analysed using framework analysis, organised by capability, opportunity and motivation factors, cross-synthesised across countries and participant groups.Results: Patients and health workers described NCD centres as crowded and time pressured, with waiting times as long as five hours, and consultation times as short as five minutes; resulting in some patient frustration. They did not perceive direct links between their distress and their NCD conditions, instead describing worries about family and finance including affordability of NCD services. Health worker and policy maker accounts suggested these NCD centres lacked preparedness for treating depression in the absence of specific guidelines, standard screening tools, recording systems or training. Barriers and drivers to integrating a brief depression intervention reflected capability, opportunity and motivation factors for all participant groups. While generally valuing the purpose, significant challenges included the busy hospital environment, skill deficits and different conceptions of depression.Conclusions: Given current resource constraints and priorities, integrating a brief psychological intervention at these NCD centres appears premature. An opportune first step calls for responding to patients’ expressed concerns on service gaps in provisioning steady and affordable NCD care. Acknowledging differences of conceptions of depression and strengthening psychologically informed NCD care will in turn be required before the introduction of a specific psychological intervention such as BA.
A Comparative Study of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Program and None-ERAS Traditional Care in Elderly Patients Undergoing Lumbar Arthrodesis
Authors: Li Zhong-En , Lu Shi-Bao , Kong Chao , Sun Wen-Zhi , Wang Peng , Zhang Si-Tao
Published: June 2020

Background: The aim of the present study was to analyze the safety, feasibility, and efficacy of an ERAS program in patients over 70 years undergoing lumbar arthrodesis by comparison with none-ERAS traditional care.Methods: During January 2018 to December 2018, patients enrolled received none-ERAS traditional care, while the ERAS program was implemented from January to December 2019. Demographic characteristics, comorbidities, surgical data and postoperative recovery parameters were collected from all patients. Postoperative pain scores were evaluated by visual analog scales (VAS). The clinical outcomes were LOS, postoperative complications and postoperative pain scores. Compliance results were also collected.Result: A total of 127 patients were enrolled, including 67 patients in the none-ERAS traditional care group and 60 patients in the ERAS group. The demographic characteristics and comorbidities of the two groups showed no significant differences. The LOS of patients treated with ERAS program (13.6±4.0 days) was significantly less than that of patients treated with none-ERAS traditional care (15.6±3.9 days). Complication rate was 8.3% in the ERAS group versus 20.9% in the none-ERAS traditional care group (p = 0.048). VAS (back) in the ERAS group was significantly lower on postoperative day (POD) 1 and POD2. Postoperative recovery parameters were improved in the ERAS group. The overall compliance with the ERAS program was 94%.Conclusions: Based on our results, ERAS program is safer and more effective for elderly patients over 70 undergoing lumbar arthrodesis than none-ERAS traditional care.Trial registration: ChiCTR, ChiCTR1800020513. Registered 2 January 2018, http:// www.chictr.org.cn/ChiCTR1800020513
Ultrasonographic Features of Arthritis in Patients With Primary Sjögren's Syndrome and Its Clinical Significance
Authors: Wang Shasha , Wu Bin , Shao Qin
Published: June 2020

Background: This study aim to observe the feature of joint involvement in the patients with primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) by musculoskeletal ultrasound (US) and analyze its relationship with clinical manifestations and disease activity.Methods: US examinations were performed in a total of 1200 joints of 40 patients with pSS. A semi-quantitative grading method (0 to 3) for scoring synovial hyperplasia, PD synovitis, bone erosion, tenosynovitis was used. The clinical and laboratory data were collected, disease activity was assessed. The correlation between US lesions and disease activity assessment and clinical manifestations were analyzed.Results: The musculoskeletal ultrasound lesions in patients with pSS mainly involved the small joints of the hands and wrists, and the lesions were mild. The semi-quantitative score of musculoskeletal US was positively correlated with ESSPRI. The occurrence of musculoskeletal US lesions was associated with immunological abnormalities and inflammatory markers, and patients with high IgG, RF, and inflammatory markers were prone to abnormal US findings.Conclusion: The incidence of arthritis in patients with pSS is high, and the musculoskeletal US has its characteristics. The musculoskeletal ultrasound semi-quantitative method can effectively evaluate arthritis in patients with pSS, and the US score of arthritis has a certain correlation with the overall disease activity. US can provide reference for the diagnosis of arthritis and disease activity assessment in patients with pSS.
Modeling the Impact of School Reopening on SARS-CoV-2 Transmission
Authors: Lee Benjamin , Hanley John P , Nowak Sarah , Bates Jason HT , Hébert-Dufresne Laurent
Published: June 2020

Background
Mathematical modeling studies have suggested that pre-emptive school closures alone have little overall impact on SARS-CoV-2 transmission, but reopening schools in the background of community contact reduction presents a unique scenario that has not been fully assessed.
Methods
Therefore, we adapted a previously published SIR (susceptible-infectious-recovered) model using contact information from Shanghai to model school reopening under various conditions.
Results
We find that reopening schools for all children would maintain effective R0 < 1 up to a baseline R0 of 3.3 provided that daily contacts among children 10–19 years are reduced to 33% of baseline. This finding was robust to various estimates of susceptibility to infection in children relative to adults (up to 50%) and to estimates of various levels of concomitant reopening in the rest of the community, with minimal change in transmission when contact frequency in the rest of the community was returned up to 40% of baseline.
Conclusions
These results suggest that schools can reopen safely with proper precautions during conditions of extreme contact reduction and during conditions of reasonable levels of reopening in the rest of the community.
Identification of a cytosine methyltransferase that improves transformation efficiency in Methylomonas sp. DH-1
Authors: Ren Jun , Lee Hyang-Mi , Thi Thai Duc , Na Dokyun
Published: June 2020

Background: Industrial biofuels and other value-added products can be produced from metabolically engineered microorganisms. Methylomonas sp. DH-1 is a candidate platform for bioconversion that uses methane as a carbon source. Although several genetic engineering techniques have been developed to work with Methylomonas sp. DH-1, the genetic manipulation of plasmids remains difficult because of the restriction-modification (RM) system present in the bacteria. Therefore, the RM system in Methylomonas sp. DH-1 must be identified to improve the genetic engineering prospects of this microorganism.Results: We identified a DNA methylation site, TGGCCA, and its corresponding cytosine methyltransferase for the first time in Methylomonas sp. DH-1 through whole-genome bisulfite sequencing. The methyltransferase was confirmed to methylate the fourth nucleotide of TGGC*CA. In general, methylated plasmids exhibited better transformation efficiency under the protection of the RM system than non-methylated plasmids did. As expected, when we transformed Methylomonas sp. DH-1 with plasmid DNA harboring the psy gene, the metabolic flux towards carotenoid increased. The methyltransferase-treated plasmid exhibited an increase in transformation efficiency of 3.9 × 103 CFU/μg (110 %). The introduced gene increased the production of carotenoid by 7.2 %.Conclusions: Plasmid DNA methylated by the discovered cytosine methyltransferase from Methylomonas sp. DH-1 had a higher transformation efficiency than non-treated plasmid DNA. The RM system identified in this study may facilitate the plasmid-based genetic manipulation of methanotrophs.
Association between circulating microRNAs 486, 146b and 15b and serum betatrophin levels in obese; type 2 diabetic and non-diabetic children
Authors: Mohany Khalid Mohammad , Alrugaie Osamah , Alwutayd Osama , Al-Nafeesah Abdullah , Saleem Tahia H.
Published: June 2020

Background: This study tested the association between serum levels of microRNA-486, -146b and -15b and betatrophin in normal and obese children with/without type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods: the study included 120 children; divided into three groups: G1 (50 healthy), G2 (35 obese) and G3 (35 obese with T2DM). The levels of microRNA-486, 146b and 15b and serum betatrophin were measured by their corresponding methods. Results: serum microRNA-486, -146b, -15b and betatrophin levels were significantly high in G3 followed by G2 then G1 (p=0.002, >0.001, >0.001, and >0.001, respectively). Especially in G3, these levels correlated positively with the BMI percentile (r=0.44, 0.58, 0.38, and 0.46, p=0.007, >0.001, 0.021, and 0.005, respectively), serum glucose (r=0.56, 0.49, 0.82, 0.60, and 0.42, p>0.001, 0.003, >0.001, and >0.001, respectively) and HbA1c% (r=0.56, 0.39, 0.66, and 0.42, p>0.001, 0.019, >0.001, and 0.032, respectively) while, showed negative correlations with correlated with serum insulin levels (r=-0.37, -0.42, -0.58, and -0.41, p=0.021, 0.012, >0.001 and 0.013, respectively) and with serum C-peptide levels (r=-0.76, -0.50, -0.35 and -0.42, p>0.001, 0.002, 0.036 and 0.011, respectively). Serum betatrophin levels correlated positively with microRNA-486, -146b and -15b levels in G2 (r=0.35, 0.80, and 0.67, p= 0.036, >0.001, and,>0.001, respectively), and in G3 (r=0.57, 0.36, and 0.38, p >0.001, 0.029 and, 0.023, respectively). Conclusions: Circulating microRNA-486, 146b and 15b increase significantly in obese children with T2DM and these levels correlate positively with serum betatrophin levels. Targeting these microRNAs or betatrophin may help the timely management of obesity and/or T2DM in children.
Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis-derived Phase Angle as a Determinant of Protein-energy Wasting, Frailty, and Worse Outcome in Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients: retrospective cohort study
Authors: Saitoh Masakazu , Ogawa Masumi , Kondo Hisae , Suga Kiichi , Takahashi Tetsuya , Itoh Haruki , Tabata Yoichiro
Published: June 2020

Background
To evaluate the relationship between phase angle (PA) measured by bioimpedance electrical analysis and protein-energy wasting (PEW) or frailty, and its impact on 2-year mortality in patients with hemodialysis (HD).
Methods
This retrospective observational study included 116 adult HD patients (35% female, 64 ± 12 years of age) in a single dialysis center. Patients were classified according to the PA quartiles into four groups (quartile 1, lowest; quartile 4, highest). International Society of Renal Nutrition and Metabolism (ISRNM) criteria and Japanese version of Cardiovascular Health Study (J-CHS) criteria were used to identify PEW and frailty.
Results
The lower PA group was associated with a greater risk of PEW (35% vs. 24% vs. 21% vs. 3%; p = 0.032), frailty (59% vs. 40% vs. 21% vs. 3%; p < 0.001). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, the first quartile group (PA < 3.7°) was at a significantly greater risk of both PEW and frailty compared with the fourth quartile group (PA ≥ 5.0°) after adjusting for other confounding factors. In addition, Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed a worse survival rate in the first quartile group than in the third quartile group (PA4.2-5.0°) and fourth quartile group (Log-rank test p = 0.05, respectively). The Cox regression analysis found that the first quartile group had a significantly greater risk of all-cause mortality than the patients in the fourth quartile group (HR 5.461 95%CI 1.180–25.280).
Conclusions
Lower PA was associated with a greater risk of PEW and frailty and found to have prognostic significance for 2-year all-cause mortality in HD patients.
Forest land use discontinuity and northern red oak Quercus rubra introduction change biomass allocation and life strategy of lingonberry Vaccinium vitis-idaea
Authors: Woziwoda Beata , Dyderski Marcin K. , Jagodziński Andrzej M.
Published: June 2020

Background: Multi-purpose use of forests in a sustainable way forces a recognition of how alien woody species introduction in forests with different land use history affect native plants other than trees. Lingonberry Vaccinium vitis-idaea is an important understory component of temperate and boreal forests and provider of valuable non-wood forest products. Here we studied effects of land use changes and introduction of Northern red oak Quercus rubra on lingonberry in a mesic Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) forests (in central Poland). We measured lingonberry cover, height of shoots, biomass of stems and leaves, and fruit productivity. Shoots were collected within 200 research plots located in recent and ancient Scots pine forests, with and without Q. rubra.Results: We found that V. vitis-idaea reached lower cover, aboveground biomass and fruit production in recent than ancient forests and in forests with than without Q. rubra. The fruit production in recent pine forest was only 2% of that reported in ancient pine forest, and V. vitis-idaea did not reproduce generatively in forests with Q. rubra. Biomass and carbon sequestration of V. vitis-idaea in forests with alien (invasive) tree decreased by 75% compared to ancient pine forest. Effects were also clear at the individual shoot level – in less suitable conditions we found taller heights and higher biomass allocation into stems than foliage. Biomass allocation in fruiting and non-fruiting shoots in pine forests was also different – less of the dry biomass of fruiting shoots was allocated to leaves than to stems.Conclusions: In the age of high interest in ecosystem services and discussions about usage of alien tree species as alternatives in forest management, our results clearly indicate disruption of ecosystem services provided by V. vitis-idaea in the presence of Q. rubra. Lingonberry benefited from the continuity of forest land use, however, regardless of land-use legacy, alien tree introduction, led to decline in abundance of species crucial for ecosystem functioning. Therefore, to maintain valuable native species and for conservation of ecosystem services delivery, we suggest limiting the introducing Q. rubra in areas with abundant V. vitis-idaea, especially in forests with continuous forest land-use history.
BuyangHuanwu Decoction (BYHWD) inhibits LPS-induced inflammation in BV2 microglial cells by NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway
Authors: Peng Zhuang , Peng Sha , Shi Zhe , Luo Lin
Published: June 2020

Background: Neuroinflammation has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various neurological and cerebrovascular diseases. Recently, microglia has became a promising target to treat neuroinflammation-related diseases. BuyangHuanwu Decoction (BYHWD), a traditional Chinese medicine recipe, is a representative prescription for the treatment of neuroinflammation, showed great therapeutic potential in neuroinflammation-related cerebrovascular disorders including cerebral ischemia. However, it’s possible mechanism of action remains unclear.Methods: In the present research, we studied the therapeutic effects of BYHWD on LPS-induced inflammatory response in BV2 microglia cells. The inflammatory cytokines include interleukin (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) and nitric oxide (NO) were detected by commercial kit. The inflammatory-related protein was measured by western blot and immunofluorescence.Results: Our findings showed that BYHWD could significantly reverse LPS-induced morphological changes in BV2 microglial and inhibit the local synthesis of proinflammatory cytokines and free radical via directly regulating NF-κB activity and inflammasome assembly. Our data showed that BYHWT inhibit LPS-induced TNF-α, IL-6, and NO production, Also can inhibit iNOS protein expression and the activation of NF-κB taccording to inhibit NLRP3 activation.Conclusions: In conclusion, our results demonstrated that BYHWD is a potential candidate for treating neuroinflammation-related diseases. Certainly, more comprehensive researches on the precise mechanism of action of BYHWD in cerebrovascular disease is required in future vivo studies.
Solid-state NMR spectroscopic studies of 13C,15N,29Si-enriched biosilica from the marine diatom Cyclotella cryptica
Authors: Kolbe Felicitas , Ehren Helena Leona , Kohrs Simon , Butscher Daniel , Reiß Lukas , Baldus Marc , Brunner Eike
Published: June 2020

Diatoms are algae producing micro- and nano-structured cell walls mainly containing amorphous silica. The shape and patterning of these cell walls is species-specific. Herein, the biosilica of Cyclotella cryptica, a centric marine diatom with a massive organic matrix, is studied. Solid-state NMR spectroscopy is applied to gain deeper insight into the interactions at the organic-inorganic interface of the cell walls. The various organic compounds like polysaccharides as well as proteins and long-chain polyamines (LCPAs) are detected by observation of heteronuclei like 13C and 15N whereas the silica phase is studied using 29Si NMR spectroscopy. The sensitivity of the NMR experiments is strongly enhanced by isotope-labeling of the diatoms during cultivation with 13C, 15N and 29Si. The presence of two different chitin species in the biosilica is demonstrated. This observation is supported by a monosaccharide analysis of the silica-associated organic matrix where a high amount of glucosamine is found. Moreover, the Rotational Echo Double Resonance (REDOR) experiment provides distance information for heteronuclear spins. 13C{29Si} REDOR experiments reveal proximities between different organic compounds and the silica phase. The closest contacts between silica and organic compounds appear for different signals in the 13C-chemical shift range of 40–60 ppm, the typical range for LCPAs.
MiR-146a-5p Targeting SMAD4 and TRAF6 Inhibits Adipogenensis Through TGF-β and NF-κB Signal Pathways in Porcine Intramuscular Preadipocytes
Authors: Zhang Que , Cai Rui , Tang Guorong , Zhang Wanrong , Pang Weijun
Published: June 2020

Background: Intramuscular fat (IMF) content is a vital parameter to assess pork quality. Increasing evidences have shown that microRNAs (miRNAs) play an important role in regulating porcine IMF deposition. Here, a novel miRNA implicated in porcine IMF adipogenesis was found, and its effect and regulatory mechanism was further explored on the proliferation and differentiation of intramuscular preadipocytes.Results: By miRNAs sequencing analysis in porcine adipose tissues, we found that miR-146a-5p was a potential regulator of porcine IMF adipogenesis. Further study showed that miR-146a-5p mimics inhibited the proliferation of porcine intramuscular preadipocytes, but its inhibitor promoted cell proliferation. Interestingly, miR-146a-5p mimics also repressed preadipocyte differentiation, whereas its inhibitor promoted adipogenic differentiation. Mechanistically, miR-146a-5p suppressed cell proliferation by directly targeting SMAD family member 4 (SMAD4) to attenuate the TGF-β signal. Moreover, miR-146a-5p inhibited the differentiation of intramuscular preadipocytes by targeting TNF receptor associated factor 6 (TRAF6) to weaken the NF-κB signaling of the TRAF6 downstream pathway.Conclusions: MiR-146a-5p targeting SMAD4 and TRAF6 inhibited porcine intramuscular adipogenesis through attenuating TGF-β and NF-κB signals, respectively. These findings provided a novel miRNA biomarker for regulating intramuscular adipogenesis to promote pork quality.
A Post-GWAS Confirming the Genetic Effects and Functional Polymorphisms of AGPAT3 Gene on Milk Fatty Acids in Dairy Cattle
Authors: Shi Lijun , Ma Zhu , Lv Xiaoqing , Liu Lin , Li Yanhua , Zhao Feng , Han Bo , Sun Dongxiao
Published: June 2020

Background: In our previous genome-wide association study (GWAS) on milk fatty acids (FAs) in dairy cattle, 83 genome-wide significant single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were detected. Among them, two SNPs, ARS-BFGL-NGS-109493 and BTA-56389-no-rs associated with C18index (P = 0.0459), were located in the upstream of 1-acylglycerol-3-phosphate O-acyltransferase 3 (AGPAT3) gene. AGPAT3 is involved in glycerol-lipid, glycerol-phospholipid metabolism and phospholipase D signaling pathways. Hence, it was inferred as a candidate gene for milk FAs. The aim of this study was to further confirm the genetic effects of the AGPAT3 gene on milk FA traits in dairy cattle.Results: Through re-sequencing the complete coding region, and 3,000bp of 5' and 3' regulatory regions of the AGPAT3 gene, a total of 17 SNPs were identified, including four in 5' regulatory region, one in 5' untranslated region (UTR), three in introns, one in 3' UTR, and eight in 3' regulatory region. By the linkage disequilibrium (LD) analysis with Haploview4.1 software, two haplotype blocks were observed that were formed by four and 12 identified SNPs, respectively. Using SAS9.2, we performed single locus-based and haplotype-based association analysis on 24 milk FAs in 1,065 Chinese Holstein cows, and discovered that all the SNPs and the haplotype blocks were significantly associated with medium-chain saturated fatty acids (C6:0, C8:0 and C10:0; P < 0.0001~ 0.0384). Further, with Genomatix, we predicted that four SNPs in 5' regulatory region (g.146702957G>A, g.146704373A>G g.146704618A>G and g.146704699G>A) changed the transcription factor binding sites (TFBSs) for transcription factors SMARCA3, REX1, VMYB, BRACH, NKX26, ZBED4, SP1, USF1, ARNT and FOXA1. Out of them, two SNPs were validated to impact transcriptional activity by performing luciferase assay that the alleles A of both SNPs, g.146704373A>G and g.146704618A>G, increased the transcriptional activities of AGPAT3 promoter compared with alleles G (P = 0.0004).Conclusions: In conclusion, our findings first demonstrated the significant genetic associations of the AGPAT3 gene with milk medium-chain saturated FAs in dairy cattle, and two potential causal mutations were detected.
Cyclotron-Based Production of 68Ga, [68Ga]GaCl3, and [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 from a Liquid Target
Authors: Rodnick Melissa E , Sollert Carina , Stark Daniela , Clark Mara , Katsifis Andrew , Hockley Brian G , Parr D. Christian , Frigell Jens , Henderson Bradford D , Abghari-Gerst Monica , Piert Morand R , Fulham Michael J , Eberl Stefan , Gagnon Katherine , Scott Peter J. H.
Published: June 2020

Purpose: To optimize the direct production of 68Ga on a cyclotron, via the 68Zn(p,n)68Ga reaction using a liquid cyclotron target. We Investigated the yield of cyclotron-produced 68Ga, extraction of [68Ga]GaCl3 and subsequent [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 labeling using an automated synthesis module.Methods: Irradiations of a 1.0 M solution of [68Zn]Zn(NO3)2 in dilute (0.2-0.3 M) HNO3 were conducted using GE PETtrace cyclotrons and GE 68Ga liquid targets. The proton beam energy was degraded to a nominal 14.3 MeV to minimize the co-production of 67Ga through the 68Zn(p,2n)67Ga reaction without unduly compromising 68Ga yields. We also evaluated the effects of varying beam times (50-75 min) and beam currents (27-40 μA). Crude 68Ga production was measured. The extraction of [68Ga]GaCl3 was performed using a 2 column solid phase method on the GE FASTlab Developer platform. Extracted [68Ga]GaCl3 was used to label [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 that was intended for clinical use.Results: The decay corrected yield of 68Ga at EOB was typically >3.7 GBq (100 mCi) for a 60 min beam, with irradiations of [68Zn]Zn(NO3)2 at 0.3 M HNO3. Target/chemistry performance was more consistent when compared with 0.2 M HNO3. Radionuclidic purity of 68Ga was typically >99.8% at EOB and met the requirements specified in the European Pharmacopoeia (<2% combined 66/67Ga) for a practical clinical product shelf-life. The activity yield of [68Ga]GaCl3 was typically >50% (~1.85 GBq, 50 mCi); yields improved as processes were optimized. Labeling yields for [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 were near quantitative (~1.67GBq, 45mCi) at EOS. Cyclotron produced [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 underwent full quality control, stability and sterility testing , and was implemented for human use at the University of Michigan as an Investigational New Drug through the US FDA and also at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (RPA). Conclusion: Direct cyclotron irradiation of a liquid target provides clinically relevant quantities of [68Ga]Ga-PSMA-11 and is a viable alternative to traditional 68Ge/68Ga generators.
Cell differentiation and aging is accompanied by depletion of the ACE2 protein
Authors: Bartova Eva , Legartova Sona , Krejci Jana , Arcidiacono Orazio A.
Published: June 2020

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) is a zinc metalloproteinase involved in the renin-angiotensin system (RAS). It is well known that ACE and ACE2 are central regulators of blood pressure. Moreover, recently, it was observed that the ACE2 protein is the main target of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, so we have tried to reveal if there is a distinction in the levels of the ACE2 protein in distinct cell types (sensitive to virus infection), during cell differentiation and aging. We observed that depletion of the ACE2 protein appears in aorta-associated parts during the aging of adult mice, and the level of ACE2 was lowest in kidneys of old female animals in comparison to male mice. Differentiation into enterocytes and more pronouncedly into cardiomyocytes was accompanied by depletion of the ACE2 protein. The deficiency of histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) also caused a decrease in the level of both ACE2 and its interacting partner renin. However, experimental cardiomyogenesis was associated with renin up-regulation. In human lung adenocarcinoma cells, vitamin D2, but not chloroquine, slightly increased the level of ACE2. Together, the higher level of the ACE2 protein appears in non-differentiated cells and tissue of young mice, in comparisons to terminally differentiated cells and old animals; thus, a higher level of the ACE2 protein, also seen after vitamin D2 treatment, seems to be a barrier against SARS-CoV-2, because it is known that tissues of young individuals are less sensitive to viral infection.
Anthraquinone derivatives as an immune booster and their therapeutic option against COVID-19
Authors: Khanal Pukar , Patil BM , chand Jagdish , Naaz Yasmin
Published: June 2020

Multiple Anthraquinolines derivatives are reported for their immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory and anti-viral efficacy. Hence, the present study dealt to investigate the reported anthraquinone derivatives as an immune booster molecule in COVID-19 infection and evaluate their binding affinity with three reported targets of novel coronavirus i.e. 3CLpro, PLpro and spike proteins. The reported anthraquinone derivatives were retrieved from an open-source database and filtered based on a positive druglikeness score. Further, the probably modulated gene by compounds with positive druglikeness score was evaluated for the modulation of proteins using DIGEP-Pred and the interaction of proteins was evaluated using STRING; associated pathways were recorded concerning the KEGG pathway database. Finally, docking was carried using autodock4; pose scoring minimum binding energy was chosen to visualize the ligand-protein interaction. Among 101 compounds, 36 scored positive druglikeness scores; modulating multiple pathways for immune-boosting as well as pathways involved in infectious and non-infectious diseases. Similarly, docking study revealed torososide B to have the highest binding affinity with PLpro and 3clpro and 1,3,6-trihydroxy-2-methyl-9,10-anthraquinone-3-O-(6'-O-acetyl)-β-D-xylopyranosyl-(1->2)-β-D-glucopyranoside with spike protein
Exploring the impact of cultural variability on COVID-19-related mortality: A meta-analytic approach
Authors: Erman Aysegul , Medeiros Mike
Published: June 2020

Deaths associated with COVID-19 shows a high degree of heterogeneity across different populations. An assessment of the global variability in COVID-19-attributable deaths is essential for predicting the health and economic impact of future outbreaks in different settings. Moreover, a comprehensive understanding of population-level predictors is also crucial for devising better-targeted and more appropriate emergency preparedness measures. While, demographic, economic and health-system capacity have featured prominently in recent work, cultural and behavioural characteristics have largely been overlooked. However, cultural differences likely shape both the public policy response and individuals’ behavioural responses to the crisis in ways that can impact infection dynamics and key health outcomes. To address this gap, we used meta-analytic methods to explore the global variability of COVID-19-attributed deaths during the first-wave of the pandemic and identified cultural/behavioural attributes (e.g., individualism, uncertainty avoidance) as independent predictors of COVID-19 fatalities after adjusting for important demographic, political, economic and health-system-related predictors.
COMPREENDER AS REPRESENTAÇÕES SOCIAIS NA DEPRESSÃO PÓS-PARTO NAS REDES SOCIAIS
Authors: Do Nascimento Idalino Simone , Castro Amanda
Published: June 2020

Este referido trabalho tem por objetivo principal compreender as representações sociais na depressão pós-parto nas redes sociais. Esta pesquisa é de caráter qualitativo, do tipo exploratória, e documental, pesquisada através de postagens do facebook e comentários, dentro de grupos sobre depressão pós-parto. A partir dos relatos de mães online, foi formado um corpus de análise com auxílio com software IrAmUteQ 0.7. A partir desse corpus foi realizada uma classificação hierárquica descendente. Os resultados obtidos denotam que as representações sociais da depressão pós-parto nas redes sociais trazem a ideia de que a ausência de apoio entre familiares, conflitos familiares, a presença de sofrimento psíquico ou dependência química na família e a falta de vínculo são variáveis que influenciariam na ocorrência da depressão pós-parto, o que remete à relevância da família e do apoio social enquanto estratégia de promoção de saúde. Nesse sentido, programas sociais e de saúde devem levar em consideração a presença da família no processo de promoção e prevenção em saúde da mulher.
INTERAÇÃO ENTRE DOMÍNIO MOTOR AMPLO E DE LINGUAGEM NO PROCESSO DE DESENVOLVIMENTO TÍPICO: UMA REVISÃO INTEGRATIVA
Authors: Hermes Letícia , Simoni Simone Nicolini de , Weinmann Angela Regina Maciel , Keske-Soares Marcia
Published: June 2020

O desenvolvimento infantil se constrói sobre pilares fundamentais, também denominados domínios, entre eles o motor e a linguagem, que emergem gradualmente de complexas cascatas de interações biológicas e físicas. O objetivo dessa revisão integrativa de literatura foi sintetizar estudos que avaliaram algum processo de interação entre componentes do desenvolvimento motor amplo e da linguagem oral, especialmente a aquisição das primeiras produções de fala, em um processo de desenvolvimento típico em crianças de zero a 36 meses de idade. Através de uma busca sistematizada da literatura, seis estudos publicados entre 2001 e 2015 foram integrados sinteticamente em uma análise crítica por pares. Os estudos selecionados não oferecem um consenso que, provavelmente pode ser explicado pela heterogeneidade metodológica, especialmente marcada pelo restrito número amostral, diversidade de objetivos, instrumentos e métodos de análise, notadamente marcada pela variável de desfecho ser centrada em escores gerais do domínio, ou marcos pontuais. Estes últimos parecem ser mais específicos em sinalizar o componente de interação que se reflete no domínio como um todo. Nesse complexo processo interacional, o desenvolvimento motor parece preparar terreno para o desenvolvimento da linguagem oral, especialmente nas primeiras produções de fala, favorecendo uma maior exploração do ambiente e gerando maior resposta comunicativa, especialmente de pais e cuidadores. Sugerem-se novos estudos que comparem marcos de desenvolvimento num paralelo entre os domínios, com delineamento longitudinal e análise multivariada, a fim de aproximar-se da relação antecedente-consequente que melhor explicaria esse processo de interação, o qual ainda não está completamente elucidado.
INCIDENCE AND ROOT CAUSE OF UPCODING IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF SOCIAL HEALTH INSURANCE IN RURAL PROVINCE HOSPITAL IN INDONESIA
Authors: Syafrawati Syafrawati , Machmud Rizanda , Aljunid Prof. Syed Mohammed , Semiarty Rima
Published: June 2020

Upcoding is one of important indicators of moral hazard and fraud in Social Health Insurance scheme. However, there seems to be little evidence about incidence of upcoding and how upcoding occurs in hospital, especially in rural province hospital. The objective of this study is to determine incidence and root cause of upcoding in the implementation of Social Health Insurance in Rural Province Hospital in Indonesia. The data used in this study were both qualitative and quantitative data (mixed method). Three hundred and sixty (360) inpatient medical records from six rural province hospitals were examined in this study. Diagnosis and procedure codes recorded in these medical records were re-coded by an independent senior coder (ISC). Codes from hospitals’ coders and codes from ISC were then re-grouped using INA-CBG casemix grouper to determine the casemix groups and the hospital tariffs. If the hospital tariff obtained by hospital coder is higher than that obtained by ISC, it is considered as upcoding. This qualitative study was conducted using Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and in-depth interviews in hospitals located in a rural province of Indonesia. In depth interview was held for two hospital directors and two officers from the Social Security Administrator (Indonesia: BadanPenyelenggaraJaminanSosial/BPJS), an agent that manages the Statutory Health Insurance (SHI). Six clinicians and six coders attended the FGD. We asked open-ended questions about their perceptions on upcoding in hospitals. The interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. The transcripts were then thematically analyzed. Upcoding cases were found in 11.9% (43/360) medical records. Upcoding cases were dominated by Deliveries Group 2.8% (10/360) and Female reproductive system Groups 1.7% (6/360). The potential loss of income due to upcoding was IDR 154.626.000 or 9% of hospital revenue. Appointment of non-medical doctors as internal verifiers, lack of clear coding guidelines, lack of training for doctors and coders, and poor coordination between hospital and BPJS to resolve coding disagreement were root causes of upcoding in hospital. Policies to prevent and manage upcoding should be urgently developed and implemented in the Statutory Health Insurance (SHI) program in Indonesia especially to prepare upcoding guidelines, enhance medical coding trainingregularly, increase number of coders and verification staff from medical background, and strengthen coordination for coding problem solving in hospital.
FRAUD RISK MANAGEMENT: AN ANTI-FRAUD MODEL FOR TOURIST ACCOMMODATION IN BALI
Authors: Sunarti Nyoman , Kurniawan Putu Sukma , Sujana Edy , Yasa I Nyoman Putra
Published: June 2020

This study aims to examine fraud in hotels by developing a Fraud Risk Management (FRM) design. FRM is developed through several stages, including preliminary analysis, preparing the initial design of the FRM, testing the implementation, making correction, and preparing the final design of the FRM. The research method used in this study is a qualitative method by combining Research and Development (R&D) methods. Data collection is done through interview, observation, and documentation techniques. Data analysis method is carired out through data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The data sources used in this study are primary data and secondary data. The results of this study show that basically both types of hotels have the same potential for fraud but with different business processes. The FRM design implemented can be divided into 2: general design and specific design. There are some corrections which can finally result in FRM design in accordance with the conditions of each hotel.
Keterampilan Proses Sains Peserta Didik Kelas X Unggulan Bilingual Class System (BCS) pada Praktikum Larutan Elektrolit dan Nonelektrolit
Authors: Nuzul Ilyana Rohmatin , Nirwana Ratih Rizqi , Kholiq Abdul
Published: June 2020

Perkembangan ilmu di bidang sains tidak luput dari kegiatan observasi (pengamatan), penelitian, dan uji coba. Kegiatan ini disebut juga sebagai keterampilan proses sains dalam dunia pendidikan. Tujuan penelitian ini yaitu untuk mengetahui deskripsi keterampilan proses sains peserta didik kelas X unggulan Bilingual Class System (BCS) MAN 2 Kudus pada praktikum larutan elektrolit dan nonelektrolit. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian deskriptif kuantitatif. Data penelitian diperoleh melalui teknik observasi, wawancara, dan dokumentasi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa peserta didik kelas X unggulan Bilingual Class System (BCS) mempunyai keterampilan proses sains dasar pada aspek mengamati sebesar 77% (Baik), keterampilan mengukur sebesar 82% (Baik), keterampilan mengklasifikasi sebesar 92% (Sangat Baik), keterampilan mengkomunikasi sebesar 87% (Sangat Baik), dan keterampilan menyimpulkan sebesar 69% (Cukup). Sedangkan keterampilan proses sains terpadu pada aspek merencanakan percobaan sebesar 88% (Sangat Baik), keterampilan menganalisis data sebesar 70% (Cukup), dan keterampilan memperoleh dan menyajikan data sebesar 72% (Cukup). Berdasarkan hasil penelitian yang telah dilakukan, dapat disimpulkan bahwa Persentase tertinggi keterampilan proses sains dasar adalah keterampilan mengklasifikasi, sedangkan persentase terendah adalah keterampilan menyimpulkan. Persentase tertinggi keterampilan proses sains terpadu adalah keterampilan merencanakan percobaan, sedangkan persentase terendah adalah keterampilan menganalisis data.
Penerapan Model Blended Learning untuk meningkatkan Pemahaman Konsep Termokimia Siswa
Authors: Subagiyo Sidiq
Published: June 2020

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui efektivitas penerapan model blended learning untuk meningkatkan pemahaman konsep termokimia pada siswa. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah metode quasi experimental dengan Randomized Posttest Only Control Design. Subyek penelitian ini adalah siswa kelas XI MIPA SMA Negeri 1 Lasem. Data penelitian yang diambil berupa pemahaman konsep siswa melalui hasil belajar kognitif. Pengumpulan data dilakukan melalui tes, wawancara dan observasi. Pengambilan sampel menggunakan teknik random sampling. Teknik analisis data menggunakan analisis uji t-test related (Independent-Sample T-Test) dari hasil posttest kelas eksperimen dan kelas kontrol. Dari hasil dan analisis yang telah dilakukan menunjukkan bahwa penerapan model blended learning efektif untuk meningkatkan pemahaman konsep termokimia siswa. Hal ini ditunjukkan dengan rata-rata nilai evaluasi pemahaman konsep termokimia kelas eksperimen sebesar 77,3 dan kelas kontrol sebesar 69,7 dan pada pengujian juga didapatkan hasil yaitu thitung = -4,672 dan ttabel = -2,037 (α = 5%) sehingga thitung < ttabel.