bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design Of Turbine L On Basin Cylinder Walls With 5cm And 10cm Turbine Distance Various On The Effect Of Electrical Power In The Gravitation Water Vortex Power Plant (GWVPP)
Authors: Hasan Basri Muhammad , Syaifuddin Zuhri Muhammad , Saraviyan Iskawanto Hilman , Indarto Bachtera
Published: August 2020

The current source of energy tthat is mostly done in research on renewable energy is water flow. In daily life - electrical energy is widely used by everyone, both young and old. But over time this power source will be exhausted due to continuous use.  That is because most of the existing electricity sources come from  non-renewable sources. So it is therefore necessary to feel that renewable sources are being used to generate electricity. So the idea emerged to examine a type of small type power plant that is the Water Vortex Power Plant (GWVPP) Generator. Here a study  was carried out on the effect of the distance of the L model turbine  on the cylindrical basin. For the effective of power in the L model  turbine with a distance of 5 cm to the cylinder basin wall is able to  produce the highest effective power of 2.89 Watt at a height of 10  cm, while the highest effective power of the L model turbine with a  distance of 10 cm towards the cylinder basin wall is 0.14 Watt at 10 cm height from the outlet water output. For the potential power of L model turbines with a distance of 5 cm can produce the highest potential power at an altitude of 28 cm with a potential power of 4.61 watts. While the potential power of the L model turbine with a distance of 10 cm can produce 4.02 watts with a height of 10 cm towards the outlet of the water outlet.
Android-Based Educational Learning Game For Children Based On Android
Authors: Nunuk Wahyuningtyas  , Edo Yonatan Koentjoro
Published: August 2020

The purpose of this study is as a means of learning English with the game method is one of the innovations that are suitable and much favored by children. Because children still have a tendency to play. So using this game media is a solution to make it easier for children to learn to recognize English. This research uses the development method used in this Jhony Adventure educational game which is the ADDIE method (Analysis, Design, Developer, Implementation, and Evaluation). The aspect value obtained from functionality testing reaches 100% very good, reliability testing reaches 100% very good, compability testing reaches 100% very good category, and playability testing reaches 96% with very good category. So that the feasibility of the educational game Jhony Adventure is categorized as very feasible. Based on the results of the questionnaire obtained, the educational game Jhony Adventure became an effective alternative solution in the learning of PAUD and Elementary School students in grades 1-2. By using the concept of education as a medium in learning subjects that seem difficult to learn, namely English lessons. Game development is very suitable and effective to help students learn English.
Theater as a Media to Introduce Papuan Culture to Millennial Generation
Authors: Tanamas Cedric Louise , Santosa Natasia Surya , Cristiani Natasya
Published: August 2020

Papua is often considered and viewed as a primitive tribe and second class people, but on the other hand Papua has a diverse and beautiful culture that can be used as a national cultural heritage. In the era of globalization, many new values ​​enter and create a new world unity value, globalization also causes the flow of information to be very fast and easy to access, this also brings foreign cultures to Indonesia very easily. Millennials are more interested in foreign cultures which can cause local cultures to become extinct over time. In anticipating this,strategiesare needed to continue to maintain and preserve cultures, by introducing local culture, especially Papuan culture to the millennial generation in an educative and entertaining way. Performing arts can be an effective communication medium in delivering messages because they involve the audience and provide real experience. Theater is one of the performing arts that involves audio and visual. Millennial generation's interest in theater performances is high. Thus theater performances can be an effecctive communication medium to introduce Papuan culture to the millennial generation.
Diseño de ecocubiertas en material plástico reciclado reforzado con fibra de fique (Furcraea andina) para mejorar las condiciones de habitabilidad de las viviendas del sector rural colombiano
Authors: Aranzales-Sánchez María Paula
Published: August 2020

El presente trabajo de investigación tiene su origen en dos problemáticas fundamentales en la actualidad: la contaminación y los impactos ambientales generados por la acumulación masiva de residuos plásticos y materiales de construcción; y el déficit de viviendas y los problemas de calidad de materiales y estructuración en estas, principalmente en las poblaciones rurales de Colombia víctimas de desplazamiento, violencia, fenómenos naturales y falta de atención e inversión por parte de los entes gubernamentales. Entonces, ante la necesidad de ahondar en la tecnología de las materias primas para generar nuevos materiales, el objetivo de este texto fue estudiar el uso de termoplásticos posconsumo fabricados en polietileno de alta densidad, cloruro de polivinilo y polietileno tereftalato, reforzados con fibra de fique, en la fabricación de elementos de construcción, con el propósito de mejorar las condiciones estructurales y de habitabilidad en las viviendas rurales. Se implementó una metodología de carácter documental y científico con método experimental y enfoque mixto, en la que luego de un proceso de investigación sobre las propiedades físicas y mecánicas de los materiales se desarrollaron seis prototipos con distintas proporciones, resultantes de la fusión de los plásticos reciclados y la fibra de fique, determinando el comportamiento mecánico de los compuestos a partir de ensayos de resistencia a la tracción, la compresión, la flexión, el calor y la estabilidad. Así, se determinó que la fibra no aumenta la resistencia, pero sí la capacidad de deformarse sin incurrir en la rotura, lo que le brinda amplias propiedades de ductilidad.
Prognostic significance of NDRG2 combined with EGFR-sensitizing mutations in lung adenocarcinoma 
Authors: Yang Bo , Ji Linlin , Feng Yiling , Li Xiao-Ping , Zhou Hong-Gang , Jiang Tao , Xiao Ting , Li Xiao-He , Zhang Liang , Xu Hongliang , Wang Guang-Shun , Zhang Wei-Dong
Published: August 2020

Background: N-myc downstream-regulated gene 2 (NDRG2) plays a substantial role in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-sensitizing mutation could significantly improve prognosis in patients with LUAD. Here, we aimed to elucidate the prognostic value of NDRG2 combined with EGFR-sensitizing mutations in patients with LUAD. Methods: Lung parenchyma specimens obtained during surgery or CT-guide percutaneous lung puncture biopsy for the NDRG2 protein and EGFR genomic testing were obtained. Associations between NDRG2/EGFR and clinicopathological characteristics of patients with LUAD were extracted from the Tianjin First Central Hospital in China between June 2013 and June 2014. Results: The expression of NDRG2 was significantly decreased in patients with LUAD. Expressions of NDRG2 and EGFR-sensitizing mutations showed positive correlations with survival. ROC curve analyses showed that the diagnostic value of NDRG2 combined with EGFR in LUAD was significantly higher than that of each biomarker alone. Expression of NDRG2 and EGFR-sensitizing mutations were associated with the longer overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Advanced stages were significantly associated with low expression of NDRG2. In multivariate analysis, compared with other patients, NDRG2 (+)/EGFR (+) was independently associated with prolonged OS and PFS. Conclusion: NDRG2 combined with EGFR-sensitizing mutations might be valuable markers to evaluate the prognosis of LUAD patients.
Neuroprotective effects of dexmedetomidine on the ketamine-induced disruption of the proliferation and differentiation of developing neural stem cells in the subventricular zone
Authors: Sha Huanhuan , Peng Peipei , Li Bing , Wei Guohua , Wang Juan , Wu Yuqing , Huang He
Published: August 2020

Background: Recently, the number of neonatal patients receiving surgery under general anesthesia has increased. Ketamine disrupts the proliferation and differentiation of developing neural stem cells (NSCs). Therefore, the safe use of ketamine in pediatric anesthesia has been an issue of increasing concern among anesthesiologists and the children’s parents. Dexmedetomidine (DEX) is widely used in sedation, as an antianxiety agent and for analgesia. DEX has recently been shown to provide neuroprotection against anesthetic-induced neurotoxicity in the developing brain. The aim of this in vivo study was to investigate whether DEX exerted neuroprotective effects on the proliferation and differentiation of NSCs in the subventricular zone (SVZ) following neonatal ketamine exposure.Methods: Postnatal day 7 (PND-7) male Sprague-Dawley rats were equally divided into the following 5 groups: Control group (n=8), Ketamine group (n=8), 1 μg/kg DEX+Ketamine group (n=8), 5 μg/kg DEX+Ketamine group (n=8) and 10 μg/kg DEX+Ketamine group (n=8). The proliferation and differentiation of NSCs in the SVZ were assessed using immunostaining with BrdU incorporation. The levels of Nestin and β-tubulin III in the SVZ were measured using Western blot analyses. Apoptosis was assessed by detecting the levels of the cleaved caspase-3 protein using Western blotting.Results: Neonatal ketamine exposure significantly inhibited NSC proliferation and astrocytic differentiation in the SVZ, and neuronal differentiation was markedly increased. Furthermore, pretreatment with moderate (5 μg/kg) or high doses (10 μg/kg) of DEX reversed the ketamine-induced disturbances in the proliferation and differentiation of NSCs. Meanwhile, neonatal ketamine exposure significantly decreased the expression of Nestin and increased the expression of β-tubulin III in the SVZ compared with the Control group. Treatment with 10 μg/kg DEX notably reversed the ketamine-induced changes in the levels of Nestin and β-tubulin III. In addition, a pretreatment with 10 μg/kg DEX before ketamine anesthesia prevented apoptosis in the SVZ induced by neonatal ketamine exposure.Conclusions: Based on our findings, DEX may exert neuroprotective effects on the proliferation and differentiation of NSCs in the SVZ of neonatal rats in a repeated ketamine anesthesia model.
Metastatic renal cell carcinoma patients of T4 stage who are in status of N1 stage or older than 76 years cannot benefit from Cytoreductive Nephrectomy
Authors: Zhang Zhao , Wu Hongliang , Yang Tong , Wu Yaohai , Yu Nengwang , Xu Zhonghua
Published: August 2020

Background: We aimed to identify which part of the patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) is not suitable for cytoreductive nephrectomy (CN).Methods: The data of mRCC patients was acquired from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Multivariate cox regression analysis and nomogram were performed for selecting factors independently associated with survival. Propensity score matching (PSM) was applied to reduce potential bias when comparing survival of mRCC patients treated by CN or non-surgery (NS). The survival analysis of subgroups was estimated by the Kaplan–Meier method and compared by log-rank testing. The summary of subgroup analysis was showed by forest plots.Results: The records of 21411 patients with mRCC were obtained from the SEER database. After screening, a total of 6532 patients were included for further analysis, of which 6043 underwent CN and 489 underwent NS. Age, T stage, N stage and tumor size were involved in subgroup analysis by PSM according to the result of multivariate cox regression analysis and clinical experience. Survival benefit was not found in T4 stage patients. Further analysis showed that T4&N1 and T4&age≥76yr subgroups could not obtain survival benefit from CN.Conclusion: CN should not be performed in T4 stage mRCC patients who were in status of N1 stage or older than 76 years, because surgery cannot take significant survival benefit for them.
Mild Chronic Hypoxia-Induced HIF-2α Interacts with c-MYC Through Competition with HIF-1α in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Proliferation
Authors: Mu Han , Yu Ge , Li Huikai , Wang Mengmeng , Cui Yunlong , Zhang Ti , Song Tianqiang , Liu Changfu
Published: August 2020

The authors have withdrawn this preprint due to author disagreement.
Perception of Faculty and Students About E Learning About Feasibility, Acceptance and Implementation in Covid Crisis  
Authors: Menon Pramila , Pande Vineeta , Jadhav Sudhir , Agarkhedkar Sharad
Published: August 2020

The study aimed to understand the perception, acceptance and feasibility of E learning for undergraduate medical students and faculty during the Carona pandemic and get suggestions to improve the teaching learning process. Methods: Total 447 (436+11) were approached for the response through google form. Out of 447 participants of 321 responses ( 71%; 95 CI 67.5-75.8 ) recorded and 302 (96%; 95 CI 90.9-96.4) gave consent which included (students 211 and 11 faculty) who experienced E learning as teaching learning method and their feedback collected using an semi structured questionnaire as google form in google classroom. Results: A majority 81%( 95 CI 67.5-75.8) had positive responses towards various aspects of the online classes. Google classroom and video based platforms like zoom,cisco webex, google meet were the most preferred and convenient platforms. Conclusion: Online classes were accepted by the most of the students and faculty. The positive feedback and suggestions helped in the planning of E learning classes in the existing curriculum for future.
Refractive Stability and Ocular Biometric Changes After Customized LASEK for Correction of Myopia; 8 Years Follow up
Authors: Hashemian Seyed Javad , Es'haghi Acieh , Aghaei Hossein , Ghiasian Leila , Jafari Mohammad Ebrahim , Hashemian Mahsa Sadat , Hashemian Seyed Mahyar , Janani Leila
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND: To assess long-term Visual and refractive stability and ocular biometric changes in low to moderate myopic subjects treated by customized LASEK. METHODS: Seventy eyes of 35 patients were treated by customized LASEK for correction of less than 6 diopter myopia in this cohort study. Uncorrected visual acuities (UCVA) and distance corrected visual acuities (DCVA), keratometry values and ocular biometric data by Lenstar LS900 including anterior chamber depth (ACD), aqueous depth, central corneal thickness(CCT),lens thickness(LT) and axial length(AL) were evaluated pre and 8 years postoperatively. RESULTS: Mean pre-operative spherical equivalent was -3.99 ±1.38 diopter (D) that improved to 0.01 ±0.27 D and -0.10 ±0.31 D, 6 months and 8 years postoperative respectively. Mean pachymetry, flat, steep and mean keratometry values increased significantly from 6 months to 8 years postoperative. Although, these changes had no significant effect on visual outcomes and subjective refraction. ACD decreased and LT increased significantly over 8 years follow-up in comparison with preoperative values. The change in AL was not significant at 8 years follow up.CONCLUSIONS: The long-term visual and refractive outcomes of customized LASEK in correction of low to moderate myopia were stable and predictable, although changes in ocular biometric parameters have occurred.
Income Inequality in Obesity among US Adults 1999-2016: Does Sex Matter?
Authors: Hossein Zare , Gaskin Danielle D. , Thorpe Roland J.
Published: August 2020

The authors have withdrawn this preprint due to author disagreement.
Application of Ginkgo Biloba L. Extract at Early Stage of Tumor Development Helps Cyclophosphamide Inhibit the Growth of Tumor Cells
Authors: Chen Dawei , Yang Jinghui , Meng Fanzhu , Beseler Cheryl L. , Li Hao , Liu Xiaomei , Guo Yinpei , Qin Lili , Zuo Ruyue , Ren Shuping
Published: August 2020

Background There is inconsistency in the application of antioxidants in tumor treament, the study is to explore whether the application of an antioxidant at the early stage of tumor transplantation enhances efficacy of a chemotherapeutic agent in inhibiting tumor cell growth.Methods EMT-6 cells were injected into the 48 ICR mice. 24h later, cyclophosphamide (CTX) and Ginkgo biloba L. extract (GBE) were administered to mice separately and in combination. Apoptotic markers and related signaling pathways were measured. Tumor weights were compared and survival analysis was used to investigate latency periods in the three treatment groups compared to a PBS control group. Results The mice administered GBE and CTX had significantly lower tumor weights compared with those administered PBS (p=0.01), however, the mice administered CTX did not have significantly lower tumor weight compared with those administered PBS (p=0.19). The expression of NF-κB, IκB-ɑ, and the phosphorylation of NF-κB and IκB-ɑ were all significantly decreased in the tumor from GBE+CTX (p<0.05). Moreover, the ratio of Bax/Bcl-2 was significantly higher for the tumor of mice administered GBE+CTX than that of mice administered GBE, CTX, or PBS (p<0.05), the expression of FADD, Caspase-8, and Cyto-C was significantly increased in the tumors of mice administered GBE+CTX than those administered PBS or GBE (p<0.05). Conclusions Application of an antioxidant at an early stage of tumor transplantation could help chemotherapeutic agent inhibit the growth of tumor cells. GBE+CTX treated mice showed a longer latency period to tumor development and markers that consistently indicated greater apoptotic activity and reduced tumor promotion.
Application of Remote Online Learning in Oral Histopathology Teaching: An Acute Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic  
Authors: zhong yi , Sun Wen , Zhang Wei , Liu Laikui , Xu Yan , Jiang Yue
Published: August 2020

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the experience of the combination of remote learning and virtual microscopy in oral histopathology teaching, a unique experience in China in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.Methods: 192 third-year dental students were recruited to participate in the course independently on the E-learning platform and Virtual Simulation Experiment Teaching Center of Stomatology of Nanjing Medical University. A questionnaire survey explored students' satisfaction with the education. Differences of assessment results among different groups were compared using Mann-Whitney U and independent-sample T tests.Results:The mean Theory test scores of the Online group (80.93±12.15) were significantly higher than those of the Traditional group (73.65±8.46) (P < 0.01). The mean total scores of the Online group (82.94±10.76) were significantly higher than those of the Traditional group (77.25±7.55) (P < 0.01). The percentage of high total test score (test score > 85) of the Online group (54%) was also significantly higher than that of the Traditional group (15%) (P< 0.01). Furthermore, both remote learning and virtual microscopy courses were well accepted by students according to the questionnaire. Conclusions: The application of remote learning and virtual microscopy have enhanced oral histopathology teaching in China in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Gut microbiota in homologous Chinese soft-shell turtle (Pelodiscus sinensis) under different habitats
Authors: Wu Benli , Huang Long , Chen Jing , Zhang Ye , Wang Jun , He Jixiang
Published: August 2020

Background

Chinese soft-shell turtle (Pelodiscus sinensis) is an important commercial species for its high nutritive and medicinal value, but it has been a vulnerable species due to habitat loss. In this study, homologous juvenile turtles were allocated to lake, pond and paddy field to investigate the habitat effects on turtles.
Results

The growth, morphology and gut microbial communities were monitored during the 4 months cultural period. It showed higher growth rate of turtles in paddy field and pond. The appearance, visceral coefficients, gut morphology and microbial communities in turtles were distinct among different habitats, which was mainly attributed to food abundance and living space. The diversity of gut microbial community was obviously higher in turtles from paddy field than pond and lake. Significant differences on dominant phyla, genera and species were found among initial samples and subsequent samples from different habitats. Firmicutes was the most abundant phylum in turtle gut sampled from greenhouse at initial and Proteobacteria was the most abundant phylum after cultivated in different habitats. The functional predictions indicated that both habitat type and sampling time had significant effects on metabolic pathways, especially amino acid and carbohydrate metabolism.
Conclusion

The microbial abundance was different among the habitats and varied within cultural periods. Gut microbes in turtles from paddy field presented high diversity and richness. Rice-turtle coculture was a potential ecological and economic farming mode for its high production and quality of both turtles and rice, which would play important roles in wild turtle protection, food security and paddy field environment improvement.
Periodic satellite orbits of the Broucke-Hadjidemetriou-Hénon family of three-body system with unequal masses
Authors: Li Xiaoming , Liao Shijun
Published: August 2020

Triple systems are common and key objects in astronomy. The three-body problem has received much more attention in recent years [1–3]. All observed periodic triple stars systems [4–6] belong to the Broucke-Hadjidemetriou-Hénon’s (BHH) family [7–9]. The BHH orbits are a family of periodic orbits of the three-body system with the simplest topological free group word [10] a, while Jankovíc and Dmitrasinovíc [1] gained 58 equal-mass BHH satellite orbits which have free group words ak (k > 1), where k is the topological exponent. However, the BHH satellite orbits with equal mass is lack of realistic meaning because they do not exist in practice. Here we present 419743 new BHH orbits and 179253 new BHH satellites (k > 1) for three-body system with unequal mass. Especially, 48761 among the 179253 new BHH satellites are stable and have unequal masses. It suggests that these 48761 stable BHH satellites could be found by the observation. Besides, for the three-body system with equal mass at a fixed energy, it was demonstrated that the relationship between the angular momentum (L) and topological scaled period (T/k) of the BHH satellites is the same as that of the BHH orbits [1]. However, we found that this does not hold for the three-body system with unequal mass. Our findings have broad impact for the astrophysical scenario: they could inspire the theoretical and observational study of the triple system, the formation of triple stars [11], the gravitational waves pattern [12] and the gravitational waves observation [13] of the triple system.
Sericin Preparation from Cocoons of Oak Tasar Silkworm Antheraea proylei J. Induces Apoptosis in a Caspase-dependent Manner in A549 and HeLa Cells and Caspase-independent Manner in PC3 Cells
Authors: Devi Potsangbam Jolly , Singh Asem Robinson , Singh Lisam Shanjukumar , Singh Laishram Rupachandra , Devi Sanjenbam Kunjeshwori
Published: August 2020

BackgroundDespite much progress in understanding the biology of cancer disease, advancement in technology for early diagnosis, the expanding array of anticancer drugs, and treatment modalities, the global cancer burden is still significant and increasing. It is estimated that the new cases of cancer in the year 2040 will be 29.4 million per year globally. Sericin, an adhesive protein of silk cocoon, is a potential protein in various biomedical applications including cancer therapeutics. The present study evaluates the anticancer property of sericin prepared from cocoons of Antheraea proylei J. (A. proylei ) against human lung cancer (A549), cervical cancer (HeLa), and prostate cancer (PC3) cell lines. This is the first report of the anti-cancer activity of the non-mulberry silkworm A. proylei. MethodsSericin preparation (SP) was prepared from cocoons of A. proylei J. by the process of the degumming method. The amino acid composition of the SP was determined by HPLC. Cytotoxicity activity was assessed by MTT assay and genotoxicity activity was assessed by comet assay. Cleavage of caspase and PARP proteins and phosphorylation of MAPK pathway members were analyzed by Western blotting. Cell cycle analysis was done by FACS flow cytometry.Results SP causes cytotoxicity to A549, HeLa, and PC3 cell lines with the IC50 values ranging from 3.4-3.9 µg/µl. SP induces apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner through caspase-3 and p38/SAPK/ERK pathways in A549 and HeLa cells whereas in PC3 cells SP induces apoptosis independent of caspase but through p38 pathway. Moreover, in the case of A549 and HeLa cells, SP induces cell cycle arrest at the S phase whereas at the G0 phase in the case of PC3 cells in a dose-dependent manner.ConclusionThe difference in the molecular mechanisms of apoptosis induced by SP in A549 and HeLa cell lines, and in PC3 cell lines may be due to the difference in the genotypes of the cancer cell lines where A549 and HeLa cells are being non-malignant and p53 positive whereas PC3 cell is being malignant and p53 negative. The overall results of the present study envisage the possibility of using SP as an anti-tumorogenic agent.
Clinical Correlates of Early IgG Response in Patients with Mild COVID-19
Authors: Kessler Asa , Kenig Ariel , Azmanov Henny , Gelman Ram , Hurvitz Noa , Perets Itay , Oiknine-Djian Esther , Bdolah-Abram Tali , Zelig Orly , Rotstein Zeev , Ilan Yaron , Wolf Dana G.
Published: August 2020

Background: We determined the temporal pattern of early SARS-CoV-2 IgG response in patients with mild COVID-19, and sought to identify predictive clinical and laboratory features. Methods: Serum samples were prospectively obtained from 111 convalescent COVID-19 patients, staying in dedicated Isolation–hotels, and tested for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 IgG by anti-S1 protein ELISA.Results: SARS-CoV-2 IgG was detected in 78 (70.3%) patients tested within the first month from diagnosis. While highly variable between patients, the rate of antibody detection generally increased with time, from 47.1% to 93.8% at the first and fourth weeks from diagnosis, respectively, with the largest shift observed between the second and third week. Notably, the presence of more profound symptoms at presentation, namely, fever and chills, positively and independently correlated with early antibody response. IgG-positive patients had higher ferritin levels (p=0.039). Older age (p<0.001) and increased CRP levels (p=0.001) were associated with higher SARS-CoV-2 IgG levels. Conclusions: The identified temporal pattern along with the correlation between inflammation-related clinical and laboratory parameters and early IgG response in patients with mild COVID-19, could provide a basis for better prediction and understating of the immune response to SARS-CoV-2, and inform therapeutic donor-plasma selection.
Human Epididymis Protein 4 Expression in the Renal Cortex Tissue is an Independent Prognostic Factor in Patients with Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Noguchi Go , Jikuya Ryosuke , Miyagi Yohei , Nakamura Yoshiyasu , Ohtake Shinji , Shibata Yosuke , Suzuki Takahisa , Osaka Kimito , Umemoto Susumu , Nagashima Yoji , Yokose Tomoyuki , Kishida Takeshi , Yao Masahiro , Nakaigawa Noboru
Published: August 2020

Background: Human epididymis protein 4 (HE4) has been indicated as a novel tumor marker for ovarian cancer diagnosis/monitoring and as a mediator of renal fibrosis. In this study, we investigated the potential role of HE4 in the pathogenesis of patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC).Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 249 patients with RCC who underwent nephrectomies at a single center between 1997 and 2010. HE4 expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry and RNA in situ hybridization staining in both tumor and renal cortex tissue microarrays. The expression of HE4 was evaluated in line with the clinicopathologic features of each patient.Results: HE4-positive staining was confirmed in 37 (15.0%) tumor tissue microarrays and in 88 (38.3%) cortex tissue microarrays. High expression of HE4 in the tumor was not associated with overall survival (OS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), or recurrence free survival (RFS). However, high expression of HE4 in the renal cortex was strongly associated with an increased risk of OS, CSS, and RFS (HR 3.608 (95% confidence interval (CI) 2.127-6.118); p<0.001, HR 5.759 (95% CI 2.801-11.841); p<0.001 and HR 3.309 (95% CI 1.751-6.252); p<0.001, respectively). Multivariate analysis revealed that the Eastern Cooperative Oncology Scale of Performance Status (ECOG-PS), stage, pathological subtype, and high expression of HE4 in the renal cortex were independent risk factors for poor OS and that ECOG-PS, tumor size, stage, and high expression of HE4 in the renal cortex were independent risk factors for poor CSS.Conclusions: High expression of HE4 in the renal cortex is an independent risk factor of OS and CSS in RCC. Further investigations are needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of HE4 in the renal cortex in the progression of renal cell carcinoma.
Expression and Prognosis Analyses of Insulin-Like Growth Factor 2 mRNA Binding Protein Family in Human Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Cui Xiao-Han , Hu Shu-Yi , Zhu Chun-Fu , Qin Xihu
Published: August 2020

Background: Despite advances in early diagnosis and treatment, cancer remains the leading cause of mortality worldwide. Insulin-like Growth Factor 2 mRNA Binding Protein (IGF2BP) family had been reported to be involved in a variety of human malignant tumors. However, little was known about their expression and prognostic value in human pancreatic cancer. So, we performed a detailed cancer versus normal differential analysis. Methods: The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Profiles Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) databases were performed to analyze the mRNA expression levels of the IGF2BP family in various cancers, including pancreatic cancer. Then, the LinkedOmics and GEPIA databases were used to assess the relation between the expression levels of IGF2BPs and overall survival (OS). Then, univariate and multivariate COX regression analysis were established and subgroup of Grade&Stage were analyzed. The signaling pathway associated with IGF2BP2 and IGF2BP3 were then investigated via gene set enrichment analysis. Results: IGF2BP2 and IGF2BP3 were found to be associated with each subset of OS and Grade&Stage. Further clinical correlation analysis of IGF2BP2 and IGF2BP3 confirmed that IGF2BP2 and IGF2BP3 were fundamental factors in promoting pancreatic cancer progression.Conclusion: IGF2BP2 and IGF2BP3 were key factors in promoting the progression of pancreatic cancer and was closely related to overall survival.
Robot-assisted treatment of epigastric hernias with a suprapubic approach
Authors: Pini Ramon , Giuseppe Matteo Di , Toti Johannes Maria Alberto , Mongelli Francesco , Marcantonio Maria , Spampatti Sebastiano , Regina Davide La
Published: August 2020

BackgroundRobotic ventral hernia repair has shown itself to be feasible and safe in abdominal wall surgery. Presently, the ports are commonly placed laterally to meet the distance from the fascial defect. The aim of our study is to reort our experience of epigastric hernias treatment with the trocars’ insertion in the suprapubic region.MethodsA retrospective search on a prospectively collected dataset was performed to identify patients treated for primary or incisional hernias of the epigastric region with a robotic-assisted approach. In all cases, three 8-mm trocars were inserted in the suprapubic area and the preperitoneal or the posterior rectus sheath spaces dissected to ensure a proper mesh overlap. After hernia reduction, the fascia was closed with a running suture, the mesh placed and the peritoneum sutured.ResultsTwelve patients were selected. Median age was 58.5 years (interquartile range (IQR) 47.8–67.3) and four patients were male (33.3%). All patients were referred to surgery because of pain. The median measure of the hernia defect was 30 mm (IQR 13.75-31), median larger mesh diameter was 13.5 cm (IQR 9.5–15.0) and median operative time was 136.5 minutes (IQR 120-186.5). No intraoperative complication or conversion to open surgery occurred. Postoperatively, two patients presented a seroma and the median length of hospital stay was 2.0 days (IQR 1.75-3).ConclusionsIn the robot-assisted treatment of hernias of the epigastric region, a suprapubic port placement can be considered instead of a lateral one. Further studies are needed to assess the benefits and limitations of such technique.Trial registrationRetrospectively registered (Comitato Etico Cantonale Ticino n. 2019-01132 CE3495)
Gene Expression and Regulatory Webwork of POLR2K in Bladder Carcinogenesis by Integrated Bioinformatics Approaches
Authors: Yang Liliang , Wang Kaizhen , Guo Wenjing , Chen Xian , Guo Qinglong , Wei Libin , Zhou Yuxin
Published: August 2020

Background：RNA polymerase II subunit K (POLR2K) belongs to one of the multiple subunits of RNA polymerase II (Pol II), whose biological function is to synthesize mRNA. Aberrant POLR2K expression is related to carcinogenesis. However, POLR2K’s underlying role in bladder cancer has not been explored. In the current study, we intend to analyze the function of POLR2K and its regulatory network within bladder cancer.Methods: Public sequencing data was obtained from GEO and TCGA to investigate POLR2K expression and regulatory network within bladder cancer (BLCA) by using GEPIA and Oncomine as well as cBioPortal online tool. LinkedOmics was employed to identify genes displaying significantly differential expression patterns and to perform GO and KEGG analyses. After differential genes was assigned and ranked, GSEA analyses was performed to obtain target networks for transcription factors, miRNAs, and kinases that could regulate POLR2K–associated gene network. Subsequent functional webwork analyses were used to identify cancer-relevant pathways Moreover, POLR2K gene is verified, by ChIP-seq in MCF-7 cell line , with transcription factor binding evidence in the ENCODE Transcription Factor Binding Site Profiles dataset.Conclusions: The current study implies that POLR2K gene is overexpressed and often amplified in BLCA, providing the first evidence that POLR2K deregulation, in particular increased transcription, may promote BLCA. These findings uncover a unique expression patterns of POLR2K and its potential regulatory networks in BLCA, contributing greatly to study of the role of POLR2K in cancer development.
Aspergillus flavus induced oxidative stress and immunosuppressive activity in Spodoptera litura as well as safety for mammals
Authors: Kaur Mandeep , Chadha Pooja , Kaur Sanehdeep , Kaur Amarjeet
Published: August 2020

Background

In the last few decades, considerable attention has been paid to entomopathogenic fungi as biocontrol agents, however little is known about their mode of action and safety. This study aimed to investigate the toxicity of Aspergillus flavus in insect Spodoptera litura by analyzing the effect of fungal extract on antioxidant and cellular immune defense. In antioxidant defense, the lipid peroxidation (Malondialdehyde content) and antioxidant enzymes activities (Catalase, Ascorbate peroxidase, Superoxide dismutase) were examined. In cellular immune defense, effect of A. flavus extract was analyzed on haemocytes using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Furthermore, mammalian toxicity was analyzed with respect to DNA damage induced in treated rat relative to control by comet assay using different tissues of rat (blood, liver, and kidney).
Results

Ethyl acetate extract of A. flavus was administrated to the larvae of S.litura using artificial diet method having concentration 1340.84 µg/ml (LC50 of fungus). The effect was observed using haemolymph of insect larvae for different time intervals (24, 48, 72 and 96). In particular, Malondialdehyde content and antioxidant enzymes activities were found to be significantly (p ≤ 0.05) increased in treated larvae as compared to control. A. flavus ethyl acetate extract also exhibit negative impact on haemocytes having major role in cellular immune defense. Various deformities were observed in different haemocytes like cytoplasmic leakage and surface abnormalities etc. Genotoxicity on rat was assessed using different tissues of rat (blood, liver, and kidney) by comet assay. Non-significant effect of A. flavus extract was found in all the tissues (blood, liver, and kidney).
Conclusions

Overall the study provides important information regarding the oxidative stress causing potential and immunosuppressant nature of A. flavus against S. litura and its non toxicity to mammals (rat).
Prostate Cancer Care and Survivorship (CaPCaS) Model for Black Men: An Ethnographical Study of Prostate Cancer Survivors
Authors: ODEDINA FOLAKEMI T , Young Mary Ellen , Pereira Deidra , Getachew Dagne , Williams Christopher , Stokes Kenneth , Fathi Parisa , Askins Nissa , Nguyen Jennifer , Kaninjing Ernest
Published: August 2020

Background: In 2020, 191,930 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. The lives of these men will change dramatically as they go through the prostate cancer care and survivorship process. Black men are especially affected, as they are more likely to get and die from prostate cancer. The primary objective of this study was to explain the experiences of Black men across by developing a prostate cancer care and survivorship (CaPCaS) model. Methods: Based on the principles of community engagement research and employing qualitative methodology, we interviewed Black prostate cancer survivors to document their CaPCaS experiences relative to prostate cancer prevention, detection, diagnosis, treatment, survivorship and advocacy using audio and video recordings. Our data analysis plan included preparing and verifying the narrative data, coding data, and developing an interpretive framework for Black men’s experiences across the prostate cancer care continuum. Results: Thirty-two prostate cancer survivors participated in the study. A CaPCaS model was created with themes specific to the trajectory of prostate cancer prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment, survivorship, and advocacy. Contextual themes identified were African Diaspora, Masculinity and Socio-demographic factors. Additionally, we identified cross-cutting factors across the CaPCaS process that included Acculturation, Self-efficacy, Health literacy, Patient-provider racial concordance, Stigma and Spirituality. Conclusion: The CaPCaS model is an explanatory model of prostate cancer care and survivorship factors for Black men and will foster better understanding of behaviors associated with improved prostate cancer outcomes in Black men.
Which Role for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in the treatment of Fournier’s gangrene? A Retrospective Study.
Authors: Tutino Roberta , Colli Francesco , Rizzo Giovanna , Licari Leo , Gallo Gaetano , Falco Nicolò , salamone giuseppe , Cocorullo Gianfranco , gulotta gaspare
Published: August 2020

Background: In Fournier’s gangrene the surgical debridement plus broad-spectrum antimicrobial therapy is the mainstay treatment but can cause a great loss of tissue. Moreover, the local poor blood supply, the infection and the damage to the vessels can delay the healing. Consequently, the disease needs long hospital stays and, despite all, has high mortality rate. The aim of our study is to investigate the improvement offered by hyperbaric therapy in Fournier’s gangrene.Methods: We retrospectively evaluated data on 23 consecutive patients admitted for Fournier’s gangrene at the University hospital “P.Giaccone” of Palermo from 2011 to 2018. The relation between hyperbaric therapy, hospital stay and mortality was evaluated. Factors related to mortality were also examined.Results: The use of hyperbaric therapy was offered to 13(56.5%) patients. Hospital stay was longer in patients treated with HBOT[mean11(C.I.0.50-21,89)vs25(C.I.18.02-31.97);p=0.02]. Mortality occurred in three patients(13.1%), two of whom treated with HBOT. Mortality was not statistically related to sex(p=0.20), BMI(p=0.53), renal failure (p=1.00), diabetes(p=0.49), age>65 years old(p=0.55), simplified FGSI>2(p=0.05), higher ASA scores(>=4)(p=0.47), symptoms at admission lasting since more than 72 hours (p=0.28), HBOT(p=1.00), need of colostomy(p=0.06), several operations(p=1.00), several operations plus HBOT(P=1.00). Conversely, the delay between admission and surgical operation was statistically related to mortality, 1.7 days(C.I.0.9-3.5) in survivals vs 6.8 days(C.I.3.5-13.4) in death patients(p=0.001).Conclusions: Our study proves that a delay in the treatment of patients with Fournier’s gangrene has a correlation with the mortality rate, while the use of HBOT seems to not improve the survival rate, increasing the hospital stay instead.
Factors Affecting Hip Rotation Angles in Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Tateiwa Toshiyuki , Masaoka Toshinori , Ishida Tsunehito , Shishido Takaaki , Sano Keiji , Yamamoto Kengo
Published: August 2020

BackgroundSome patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) show postoperative changes in hip rotation. We investigated changes in the hip rotation angles of patients in the standing position before and after THA and the factors associated with such changes.MethodsParticipants included 77 patients (82 joints) who underwent primary THA for hip osteoarthritis. There were 17 joints in men and 65 joints in women, and the mean age at the time of surgery was 65.7 years. Standing hip rotation angles and hip internal/external rotation ranges of motion (ROM) were measured before and 2 weeks after THA to compare preoperative and postoperative measurements. For radiographic measurements, acetabular and cup anteversion, neck and stem anteversion, combined anteversion (CA), and leg length discrepancy were measured before and after THA to investigate the factors associated with changes in standing hip rotation angles.ResultsRegarding standing hip rotation angles, external rotation was 6.9° ± 4.1° before THA and 2.0° ± 2.4° after THA, showing a shift in the internal rotation direction (P = < .0001). The degree of change in standing hip rotation angles before and after THA was found to be negatively correlated with the degree of change in cup anteversion (- 0.429, P = < .0001) and CA (- 0.3012, P = .0063).ConclusionPostoperative changes in standing hip rotation following THA were considered associated with extra-articular position sense, rather than intra-articular position sense, to maintain the balance between the pelvis and proximal femur affected by the angles of the placed implant components.
In Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Surgery, is there a Difference in the Results of Repair made with Single or Double Rows according to the Shape and Size of the Tear?
Authors: Karakus Ozgun , Karaman Ozgur , Sari Ahmet Sinan , Saygi Baransel
Published: August 2020

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect on the results of patients applied with arthroscopic full layer total layer rotator cuff repair made according to the shape and size of the tear.Methods: The study included a total of 120 patients applied with arthroscopic full layer rotator cuff repair as single or double row repair, comprising 69 (57.5%) females and 51 (42.5%) males. The patients were separated into 3 groups of 40 according to the shape of the tear, as Group A (crescent type), Group B (U type), and Group C (L type). Within each group, classification was made according to the size of the tear. The long-term postoperative functional results were compared between the groups. Results: The mean age of the whole sample was 66.68±6.86 years (range, 50-81 years). A statistically significant difference was determined between the groups in respect of Constant Murley (CM), ASES, and UCLA scores (p<0.05). The scores of Group A of all the scales were found to be higher than those of Group C (p<0.05). In single row and double row repair of small and medium-sized tears of all shapes, no significant difference was determined in respect of the CM and UCLA scores (p>0.05). In the large tears, no significant difference was determined between crescent and U-shaped tears in respect of the CM and UCLA scores (p>0.05). Conclusions: No significant difference was determined between single and double row repair of crescent type tears of all sizes. In the repair of small and medium-sized U type tears, no significant difference was determined between single and double row repair in respect of the CM and UCLA scores. In large U-shaped tears, the CM, ASES, and UCLA scores were determined to be high in double row repair. No significant difference was determined between single and double row repair of L type small and medium-sized tears. In the large L -shaped tears, the results of the single row repair were found to be higher than those of the cases with double row repair.
The role of social ties in functional and emotional health of older adults for healthy ageing: a cross-sectional WHO Study on global AGEing and adult health (SAGE)
Authors: Li Haitao , Wang Xiaohui , Lin Hualiang , Xia Hui , Guo Yanfei , Liang Di , Wu Fan
Published: August 2020

Objective This study aimed to examine the impact of social capital on the functional and emotional health of elders and to determine whether social capital mediate the associations of socioeconomic inequalities of functional and emotional health. Methods A Study on global AGEing and adult health (SAGE) wave 1 was conducted in eight provinces in China. A total of 7403 people of 60 years and above were included in the study sample. The primary predictor was structural social capital, measured by social ties. The outcomes included functional health and emotional health. Findings Multivariate analyses showed that social ties were positively associated with both functional (β=-0.227; 95% CI: -0.259, -0.194, P<0.001) and emotional health (β=-0.131; 95% CI: -0.163, -0.098, P<0.001). In stratified analysis, these associations were significant across women and men, and across rural and urban respondents. SES had a direct association with both functional and emotional health, whilst an indirect association with social ties. Interpretation We found that a higher level of social capital was associated with better functional and emotional health. Functional and emotional health status was directly corelated with socioeconomic status, mediated by social capital. To promote healthy aging, future interventions could be developed to strengthen elders’ social capital.