bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Red Clover Root-Associated Microbiota is Shaped by Geographic Location and Choice of Farming System
Authors: Jambagi Shridhar , Hodén Kristian Persson , Öhlund Linda , Dixelius Christina
Published: March 2022

Background
Red clover (Trifolium pratense), a crop constrained by weak persistence, is the number one forage legume in Northern Europe. Whether plant loss is a sign of an increasing number of known or new pathogens, a decreasing occurrence of beneficial soil microorganisms or other factors is unclear. Here, we collected red clover root samples from Swedish conventional and organic farming sites located between latitudes 55°N and 66°N and analyzed their prokaryotic and eukaryotic communities using amplicon sequencing. We compared the organism diversity, differential abundance, hub taxa and impact of Rhizobium on fungal pathogens in relation to geographic location and farming practices.
Results
We found that microbial biodiversity was lowest in samples from southern Sweden and on conventional farms. Rhizobium was the most prevalent bacterial genus, followed by Sphingomonas, Mucilaginibacter, Flavobacterium and the unclassified Chloroflexi group KD4-96. The Leptodontidium, Cladosporium, Clonostachys and Tetracladium fungal genera known for endophytic, ectomycorrhizal, saprotrophic and mycoparasitic lifestyles were also frequently observed in all samples. Sixty-two potential pathogenic fungi were identified with a bias toward grass pathogens and a higher abundance in samples from conventional farms. To gain insights into the cooccurrence patterns of red clover root-associated communities, intrakingdom and interkingdom networks were constructed. Bacterial networks were dominated by known beneficial groups of bacterial species. The interaction between Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. trifolii and Aeromicrobium sp. was strongly positive in the north but negative in the south. Different co-occurrence responses were observed when fungal and bacterial data were combined, as exemplified by the interactions with Clonostachys rosea, a beneficial fungus that fluctuated in our dataset and was positively associated with species in Enterobacterales and Aeromicrobium in the north but negatively with species in the south.
Conclusions
We show that the microbial community is mainly shaped by geographic location and management procedures. R. leguminosarum bv. trifolii is a keystone species in samples from the northern region and Swedish organic farms. This Rhizobium species is negatively associated with all fungal pathogenic species recognized in this study. A number of previously unknown fungal species are identified, particularly those known to produce mycotoxins, which are of major concern for crop productivity and feed safety.
Deconvoluting sex-dependent dendritic cell-monocyte lineages in emphysematous lung tissue with bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing
Authors: Shin Ji , Manichaikul Ani , Huang Yong , Obaida Zaid , Burdick Marie , Song Chunzi , Hannan Riley , Yang Chaojie , Tan Ching , Zhang Zhimin , Sol-Church Katia , Sturek Jeffrey , Noble Schroeder , Paige Mikell , Shim Yun
Published: March 2022

Emphysema is a unique type of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and sex may influence susceptibility. After cigarette smoke exposure, murine males and ovariectomized females developed more severe emphysema. Herein, we present divergent bulk and single-cell transcriptomic profiles between male and female murine lungs. Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis of the bulk lung RNA sequencing identified a Green gene module that correlated with male sex and ovariectomy. The Green gene module was enriched in common monocyte progenitors, classical monocytes, type 1 dendritic cells, and macrophages from 83,698 murine cells exposed to air or cigarette smoke for five months. Sexual dimorphism altered the compositions and transcriptome of the clusters enriched with the Green gene module. This comprehensive transcriptomic analysis advances our understanding of dynamic cellular responses controlled by sexual dimorphism during the development of emphysematous pulmonary tissue remodeling and reveals potential targets for mechanistic studies in the future.
A Comparison of Scapulothoracic Stabilization Exercises in Addition to Complex Decongestive Physiotherapy Versus Complex Decongestive Physiotherapy Only in Women Developing Lymphedema After Mastectomy
Authors: Pirincci Cansu Sahbaz , Dalyan Meltem , Delialioglu Sibel Unsal , Celenay Seyda Toprak
Published: March 2022

Purpose: To compare the effects of scapulothoracic stabilization exercises (SSE) in addition to complex decongestive physiotherapy (CDP) on scapular function, posture, and balance compared to CDP alone in women with lymphedema after mastectomy. Methods: The patients were randomly divided into two groups as CDP (n:12) and CDP+SSE (n:13). While only CDP (3-week treatment phase and 5-week maintenance phase) was applied in the CDP group, CDP (3-week treatment phase and 5-week maintenance phase) and SSE (8 weeks) were applied in the CDP+SSE group. Scapulothoracic muscle strength, scapular endurance, scapular dyskinesia, thoracic kyphosis, general posture, and balance were evaluated before the treatment phase (TP), after the TP, and after the 5th week of the maintenance phase (MP).Results: Improvements in the lower trapezius muscle strength were found in both groups after the TP (p<0.05). In addition, middle trapezius muscle strength and general posture improved more in the CDP+SSE group than in the CDP group after the TP (p<0.05). In the MP, scapulothoracic muscle strength, scapular endurance and general posture improved more in CDP+SSE group compared to the CDP group (p<0.05).Conclusion: In upper extremity lymphedema patients, incorporating additional SSE in CDP may contribute to the improvement of posture and scapular functions.
Antimicrobial Resistance, Virulence genes, and Phylogenetic Characteristics of pathogenic Escherichia coli isolated from Patients and Swine suffering from Diarrhea
Authors: Do Kyung-Hyo , Seo Kwang-Won , Lee Wan-Kyu
Published: March 2022

Background
Escherichia (E.) coli causes colibacillosis in swine and humans, and is frequently associated with antimicrobial resistance. In this study we aimed to compare antimicrobial resistance, O-serogroups, virulence genes, and multi-locus sequence type of E. coli between isolates from pigs and patients suffering from diarrhea, and the most prevalent pathogenic E. coli strain from swine isolates in Korea.
Methods
We tested 64 and 50 E. coli strains from pigs and patients suffering from diarrhea for antimicrobial susceptibility test, virulence genes, O-serogroups, and multi-locus sequence typing.
Results
We confirmed that isolates from swine showed significantly higher resistance than from those from patients, especially to fluoroquinolone (ciprofloxacin: 37.5% and 10.0%; norfloxacin: 29.7% and 8.0%, respectively). Stx1 (23 isolates, 46.0%) was most frequently detected in patients followed by stx2 (19 isolates, 38.0%). There was no significant difference in stx2 (swine: 23.4%, patients: 38.0%). In isolates from patients, O157 (12.0%) was the most prevalent O-serogroup, and two isolates (3.1%) from pigs were confirmed to have O157. Additionally, sequence type (ST) 10 (swine: 6 isolates, patients: 2 isolates) and ST 88 (swine: 2 isolates, patients: 1 isolate) were simultaneously detected.
Conclusions
We confirmed that isolates from both pigs and patients had similar virulence traits and they were phylogenetically similar. Moreover, antimicrobial resistance was significantly higher in pigs than in patients. These results suggest that there are risks for cross-infection and transfer of antimicrobial resistance between pigs and human.
Construction and Validation of CAPSES Scale as a Composite Indicator of SES for Health Researches: An Application to Modeling Social Determinants of Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Asadi-Lari Mohsen , Majdzadeh Reza , Mansournia Mohammad Ali , Nedjat Saharnaz , Mohammad Kazem , Cheraghian Bahman
Published: March 2022

Background
The main objective of this study was to construct and validate a composite socio-economic status indicator, containing material capital, human capital, and social capital (CAPSES scale) and also appropriate it for CVDs in a large population-based study.
Methods
This cross-sectional study, the Urban HEART-2 project, was conducted in Tehran, Iran in 2011. A total of 34116 households covering 118542 individuals were assessed in this study. A 14-parts questionnaire was completed for all selected households. All the gathered data were based on the participants’ self-reports. Literacy, wealth index, expenditure, skill level, and Townsend index were used as SES indexes. CVDs including Hypertension, Myocardial infarction, and Stroke were considered as the main outcomes. A structural equation model (SEM) was used to construct CAPSES scale a composition index of SES. Criterion validity and Construct validity were used to assess this scale.
Results
A total of 91830 subjects consisting of 33884 (49%) men were included in this analysis. The mean age of the participants was 41.5 ± 11.37 years. Among the assessed participants, 5904(6.4%) reported Hypertension, 1507(1.6%) myocardial infarction, and 407(0.4%) strokes. The overall weighted prevalence of self-reported cardiovascular events (hypertension, stroke, and MI) was 8.03% (95%CI: 7.8–8.2). Inverse associations were seen between the CAPSES scale and its domains with CVDs, adjusted for sex, age, BMI, smoking, and diabetes by multiple logistic regression model.
Conclusion
The CAPSES scale was significantly associated with stroke and hypertension. Our findings showed that the CAPSES index can be useful for public health research.
Analysis of Variance of Diabetic Neuropathic Pain Interference, Intensity and Hypertension Types in Ghana
Authors: Adzika Vincent , Appiah-Poku John , Mensah David , Pedro Athena , Ahorlu Collins , Kantanka Safo , Quasie Olga
Published: March 2022

Diabetic Neuropathic Pain (PDN) is the most prevalent chronic complication of diabetes and affects 30–90% of patients with adjuvant complications. Hypertension has been found to increase the risk of long-term vascular complications of Type 2 diabetes mellitus which includes peripheral sensory diabetic neuropathic pain. However, the relationship between Diabetic Neuropathic Pain Interference, Intensity and Hypertension types among Type 2 Diabetes has not been extensively investigated. This study investigates the relationship between hypertension PDN intensity interference and pain intensity. The research design was a cross-sectional descriptive design. A sample of 125 participants was systematically selected for the study A demographic questionnaire and the Brief Pain Inventory for Painful Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy was used to collect the data. ANOVA was used to determine whether there is an association, between the hypertension types and PDN pain intensity and interference. The study concluded that there was no relationship between Hypertension types and PDN intensity and interference. The study further discovered that whether a patient had normal hypertension, pre-hypertension, stage 1 hypertension, or Stage 2 hypertension, they felt equal pain.
Characteristics, Incidence, and Outcomes of Gastrointestinal Complications Post-Cardiac Surgery in A Quaternary Referral Centre: A Retrospective Study.
Authors: Yadav Naveen , Chapple Lee-anne , O'Connor Stephanie , Worthington Michael , Reddi Benjamin , Sundararajan Krishnaswamy
Published: March 2022

Background:Gastrointestinal (GI) complications after cardiac surgery are associated with high morbidity and mortality. Early identification and treatment of GI complications could improve patient outcomes. The objectives of this study were to ascertain the incidence and outcomes of GI complications following cardiac surgery and to identify clinical characteristics associated with the development of GI complications in this population.Methods:A retrospective single-centre cohort study of adult patients undergoing cardiac surgery in an Australian quaternary cardiothoracic surgical referral centre from November 2012 to March 2020 was conducted. Pre-operative characteristics, and intra-operative and post-operative management were compared between patients who did or did not develop GI complications. Data are presented as n (%).Results:A total of 4417 patients underwent cardiac surgery of whom 95 (2%) developed GI complications in the post-operative period. The most common GI complication was paralytic ileus (n=22, 22%), while mesenteric ischemia (n=16, 16%) was associated with the highest all-cause mortality (n=7, 44%). Pre-operative factors associated with GI complications included age >70 years, creatinine >200 microgram/ml, pre-operative arrhythmia, and illness severity (Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II and III score). The intra-operative factor associated with GI complications was a cardiopulmonary bypass time >120 mins. Post-operative factors associated with GI complications included red blood cell transfusion, stroke, new-onset renal failure, cardiogenic shock, ventilation >24 hours, re-intubation, septic shock, and multiorgan failure. Conclusions:Multiple risk factors associated with GI complications in patients undergoing cardiac surgery were identified. These provide potential targets to support early detection and management of GI complications in order to reduce morbidity and mortality in these patients.
Trochanteric claw plate fixation for greater trochanteric fracture or osteotomy in total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Oe Kenichi , Iida Hirokazu , Sogawa Shohei , Kobayashi Fumito , Nakamura Tomohisa , Saito Takanori
Published: March 2022

Background: Fixation of greater trochanteric fractures or osteotomy in total hip arthroplasty pose technical challenges. This study aimed to evaluate the results of trochanteric claw plate fixation.Methods: This study retrospectively evaluated 41 consecutive open reductions and internal fixations following primary or revised total hip arthroplasty, which required trochanteric claw plate fixation for greater trochanteric fracture or osteotomy between January 2008 and December 2020. The mean duration of clinical follow-up was 4.2 years (range, 1–13 years). The patients included 13 men and 28 women, with a mean age of 68 years (range, 32–87 years). The indications for intervention included trochanteric osteotomy, intraoperative fracture, and non-union including postoperative fracture in 6, 9, and 26 cases, respectively.Results: The mean Merle d'Aubigné clinical score improved from 9.4 points (range, 5−15 points) pre-operatively, to 14.3 points (range, 9−18 points) at the last follow-up. Bone union occurred in 35 cases (85%), while implant breakage occurred in 4 cases. At the last follow-up, the mean Merle d’Aubigné Clinical Score of bone union and non-union were 15.3 and 14.1 points, respectively (p = 0.48). The Kaplan-Meier survival rate, with the endpoint being revision surgery for pain, non-union, dislocation, or implant breakage, at 10 years was 80.0% (95% confidence interval: 62.6−97.4%).Conclusions: Greater trochanteric fixation using a trochanteric claw plate yielded successful results.
Mowing inhibits the invasion of the alien species Solidago altissima and is an effective management strategy
Authors: Rim Hojun , Lee Minhyun , Kim Minji , Song Uhram
Published: March 2022

Biological invasions of exotic plant species affect nutrient cycling, soil characteristics, ecosystem stability, and Biodiversity. Therefore, management measures to protect the ecosystem and native species against invasive species are becoming more important. The tall goldenrod, Solidago altissima L., is an invasive alien plant with currently limited distribution on the Jeju island, while successfully invaded areas with similar climates in China and Japan. Therefore, it has a high possibility of invasion and may have an adverse effect on the ecosystem of Jeju Island. The aim of this study was to develop an environmentally friendly management strategy to control S. altissima with understanding of the major factor that makes difference of invasion success between Japan and Jeju island. Plant communities are monitored and allelopathic effects of S. altissima are tested.. Furthermore, the effectiveness of mowing at varying frequencies and timing for the control of S. altissima were applied. S. altissima already dominates several plant communities on Jeju Island, harms the plant community via allelopathy, and reduces biodiversity. However, our study shows that mowing is an effective method to control S. altissima populations. Mowing inhibits early invasion of S. altissima and also reduces dominance and reproductive features of S. altissima where invasion has already processed. Therefore, mowing should be adopted for the management of S. altissima invasion. Mowing is an environmentally friendly management method for the control of S. altissima and could be applied to other invasive species.
Effect of dexmedetomidine up-regulating HIF-1ɑ on intestinal mucosal barrier injury related to sepsis in rats
Authors: Lei Xiuzhen , Zhao Bihan , Li Jun , Huang Suqin , Li Yuhong , Zhu Shengmei
Published: March 2022

Dexmedetomidine (DEX), a highly selective α2 receptor agonist. DEX can inhibit the release of inflammatory factors in septic rats. It can also protect against H2O2 injury by up-regulating HIF-1α expression. The aim of this study was to explore whether DEX can up regulate HIF-1ɑ protein level and plays a role in reducing septic intestinal mucosal injury. Twenty-four Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into four groups of 6 rats each: the sham group, sepsis group (subjected to cecal ligation and perforation, CLP), sepsis + dexmedetomidine group (DEX group, 30 µg/kg of DEX by intraperitoneal injection 30 minutes before and 2 hours after CLP), and sepsis + DEX + HIF-1ɑ inhibitor Bay87-2243 (Bay87-2243 group, 30 µg/kg of DEX by intraperitoneal injection 30 minutes before and 2 hours after CLP and 9mg/kg of bay87-2243 by oral administration for 3 days before CLP. The HIF-1ɑ and the tight junction protein (TJs) was detected by Western blot; the plasma concentrations of diamine oxidase (DAO), intestinal fatty acid binding protein (FABP2) and D-lactic acid (D-LAC) were detected by ELISA; the morphological changes of intestinal mucosa were detected by HE staining. DEX significantly increased the expression level of HIF-1ɑ on intestinal mucosa in rats with sepsis injury, thus ameliorated intestinal mucosal pathological injury, reduced Chiu’s score, decreased intestinal mucosal permeability, and up-regulated TJs protein expression. Moreover, effect on sepsis induced intestinal mucosal injury of DEX was reversed by HIF-1ɑ inhibitor Bay87-2243. DEX could protect against sepsis-induced intestinal mucosal injury by up-regulating HIF-1ɑ expression in rats.
Scientific evidence for the cancer treatment of human-natured infrared radiation and stimulated electron radiation
Authors: Erdene-Ochir Enkhmaa , Jamiyan Batsuuri , Chinbat Munkhbaatar
Published: March 2022

The principles of surgery in the early stages of cancer, physical radiation in severe cases, and chemotherapy are now commonplace around the world. When the cancer has spread (metastasis) within the organ of its first formation and to other parts of the body, these methods can increase life expectancy by a maximum of five years. At the current level of scientific progress, no perfect cure for cancer has yet been found. Here, we demonstrate the result of our study of how Purevsuren Begzjav, a Mongolian citizen and healer, uses her natural bioenergy to completely cure late-stage cancer. It was found that B.Purevsuren’s palms (body) emit hot photons of stimulated electrons saturated with infrared light at 40°C to 45°C, which regenerate the patient’s bioplasma (energy) body and restrain the cancer foci and eradicate it. B.Purevsuren’s innate infrared energy reaches the organs and organ systems of the human body in appropriate doses, is harmless, and the level of her bioenergy parameters is quite stable. For example, the mean pre-treatment bioenergy area of the healer (X̅ ± S = 11549.3 ± 672.3) is maintained at 98.4 percent compared to the post-treatment average (X̅ ± S = 11368.0 ± 650.2). However, the mean pre-treatment bioenergy intensity of the healer (X̅ ± S = 75.42 ± 1.48) is maintained at 99.6 percent compared to the post-treatment average (X̅ ± S = 75.14 ± 1.53). The result of B. Purevsuren’s treatment is providing evidence that there is a scientific approach to cure cancer with photons of human-natured, high-temperature infrared energy-stimulated electrons completely. Trial registration (NIRT20121127), November 27, 2012
Influence of Prebiotics and Bacteriocin on Yogurt Quality
Authors: Hussien Heba , Abd-Rabou Hagar Saeed , Saad Marwa A.
Published: March 2022

This study determined the quality of yogurt fortified with 2% inulin, 2% Fructo-oligo-saccharides (FOS), and Lactobacillus acidophilus with their bacteriocins. The results indicated that coagulation time increased by 3.29–22.75% in yogurts prepared with Lactobacillus acidophilus and their bacteriocins compared to the control also titratable acidity increased gradually in all groups during storage. The sensorial properties showed the superiority of inulin, FOS, and Lactobacillus acidophilus bacteriocin groups. Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Streptococcus thermophiles, and Lactobacillus acidophilus count increased in the treatments compared to the control group incorporated with an extended shelf life to 39 days of storage in the treatments containing lactobacillus acidophilus bacteriocin. Coliforms, Moulds, and yeasts did not detect in the group containing 2% inulin, 2% FOS, and lactobacillus acidophilus bacteriocin for 21 days of refrigerated storage. This study proved that 2% inulin, 2% FOS, and Lactobacillus acidophilus bacteriocin fortification extended the shelf life for 6 weeks.
A Wearable Fiber-free Optical Sensor for Continuous Monitoring of Cerebral Blood Flow in Freely Behaving Mice
Authors: Liu Xuhui , Irwin Daniel , Huang Chong , Gu Yutong , Chen Li , Donohue Kevin , Chen Lei , Yu Guoqiang
Published: March 2022

Wearable technologies for functional brain monitoring in freely behaving subjects would advance our understanding of cognitive processing and adaptive behavior. Existing technologies are lacking in this capability or need procedures which are invasive and/or otherwise impede brain assessments during social behavioral conditions, exercise, and sleep. In response we developed a complete system combining cerebral blood flow (CBF) measurement, O2 and CO2 supplies, and behavior recording for use on conscious, freely behaving mice. An innovative diffuse speckle contrast flowmetry (DSCF) device and associated hardware were miniaturized and optimized for small subject applications. The installation and use of this wearable, fiber-free, near-infrared DSCF head-stage/probe required no craniotomy, invasive probe implantation, or restraints of awake animals. Significant correlations were found between measurements with the new DSCF design and an optical standard. The system successfully and repeatedly detected CBF responses to CO2-induced hypercapnia in both anesthetized and moving mice. Collecting CBF and activity information together during natural behaviors provides realistic physiological results and opens the path to exploring their correlations with pathophysiological conditions.
A new treatment option for stage IIIB lung squamous cell carcinoma-Hypofractionated brachytherapy combined with ICIs: A Case Report
Authors: Wei Chun , Cui Ran , Li Xian Yi , Jiang Ou
Published: March 2022

Here, we present a case of a patient with stage IIIB squamous lung cancer with mediastinal and cervical lymph node metastases in the left lung with peripheral squamous lung cancer, who was selected for simultaneous immunotherapy with insertional radiotherapy at the primary site in the left lung, followed by intensity-modulated radiotherapy for mediastinal and cervical lymph node metastases and maintenance immunotherapy every 3 weeks. There was no treatment-related toxicity above grade 2 during the treatment. The response was PR, and PFS was more than 12 months. That provides a new therapeutic idea for treating advanced squamous lung cancer. Here, we present a case of a patient with stage IIIB squamous lung cancer with mediastinal and cervical lymph node metastases in the left lung with peripheral squamous lung cancer, who was selected for simultaneous immunotherapy with insertional radiotherapy at the primary site in the left lung, followed by intensity-modulated radiotherapy for mediastinal and cervical lymph node metastases and maintenance immunotherapy every 3 weeks. There was no treatment-related toxicity above grade 2 during the treatment. The response was PR, and PFS was more than 12 months. That provides a new therapeutic idea for treating advanced squamous lung cancer.
Predicting Clinical Outcomes of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency-Associated Liver Disease Using a Stacking Ensemble Machine Learning Model Based on UK Biobank Data
Authors: Meng Linxi , Treem Will , Heap Graham , Chen Jingjing
Published: March 2022

With many unknowns in alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency-associated liver disease (AATD-LD), we aimed to develop a tailored stacking ensemble supervised machine learning (ML) model to predict the disease progression and clinical outcomes of AATD-LD to enable the data-driven decision-making for the clinical outcome endpoints selection as well as clinical development strategy. This analysis was carried out through a stacking ensemble learning model via meta-learning by combining five different supervised ML algorithms with 58 potential predictor variables using a nested 5-fold cross-validation with repetitions based on the UK Biobank data. Performance of the model was assessed through prediction accuracy, area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC), and area under the precision-recall curve (AUPRC). The importance of predictor contributions was evaluated through a feature importance permutation method. For example, the AUROC of the prediction model in patients with AATD-LD was 68.1%, 75.9%, 91.2%, and 67.7% for all-cause mortality, liver-related death, liver transplant, and all-cause mortality or liver transplant, respectively. The generalizable predictive patterns support the use of ML to address the unanswered clinical questions with clinically meaningful accuracy using real-world data. This method can be easily applied to other clinical outcomes and/or diseases.
Utilization of Long –Acting Contraceptive Methods and Associated Factor Among Female Health Care Providers in South Wollo Zone Hospitals, North East, Ethiopia.
Authors: seid Mehdi , Yimer Aragaw , seid Ahmed , Fantaye Fasil , Damtie Yitayshi
Published: March 2022

Back ground: - Long-acting contraception method utilization was found low (22.7%) among female health care providers. However, as far as my literature search no study was done on long-acting contraception methods utilization among female health providers in the study area. These studies failed to include important variable like socio demography and individual factor which might affect the use of long-acting contraceptive methods female health providers and limited studies in Ethiopia. Objective: - To assessing utilization of long -acting contraceptive methods and associated factors among health care providers in south wollo zone public hospitals, Amhara region, Ethiopia 2021.Methods: -An Institutional-based cross- sectional was conducted among 354 female health care workers in south wollo zone hospitals, from March to April 22, 2021. The participants were selected using Systematic random sampling technique. Data were collected by using self-administered questionnaire. The data were entered Epi-data version 4.1 and export to SPSS versions 25 for analysis. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis were performed. The Adjusted odds Ratio (AOR) along with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was estimated to measure the association and level of significance was declared at a P- value of less than 0.05.Result: -The current utilization of long-acting contraceptive methods among female health care providers was found to be 33.6% [95%, CI 29-39)], discuss with partner [AOR= 2.277,95% CI, (1.026-5.055)], method shift/switched [AOR=4.302,95% CI, (2.285-8.102)], knowledge of respondent [AOR= 1.887,95% CI, (1.020-3.491)], ever birth [AOR=15.670,95% CI, (5.065-48.49)] were significant factors towards the utilization of long-acting contraceptive methods.Conclusion :The current utilization of long-acting contraceptive methods was found low. Discus with partner, methods shift/switching, ever birth and knowledge of respondents were identified as significant factor. Therefore, encouraging partner discussion targeted Information Education Communication Intervention should be intensified to improve long-acting contraceptive methods utilization.
Post-recurrence survival analysis in patients with oligo-recurrence after curative esophagectomy
Authors: Hsu Po-Kuei , Tsai Ping-Chung , Chien Hung-Che , Hung Jung-Jyh , Huang Chien-Sheng , Hsu Wen-Hu , Hsu Han-Shui
Published: March 2022

BackgroundRecurrent esophageal cancer is associated with dismal prognosis. There is no consensus about the role of surgical treatments in patients with limited recurrences. This study aimed to evaluate the role of surgical resection in patients with resectable recurrences after curative esophagectomy and to identify their prognostic factors. MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed patients with recurrent esophageal cancer after curative esophagectomy between 2004 and 2017 and included those with oligo-recurrence that was amenable for surgical intent. The prognostic factors of overall survival (OS) and post-recurrence survival (PRS), as well as the survival impact of surgical resection, were analyzed. ResultsAmong 654 patients after curative esophagectomies reviewed, 316 (48.2%) had disease recurrences. The recurrences were found resectable in 63 (9.6%) patients, and 30 (4.6%) patients received surgery. The significant prognostic factors of PRS with poor outcome included mediastinum LN recurrence and pathologic T3 stage. In patients with and without surgical resection for recurrence cancer, the 3-year OS rates were 65.6% and 47.6% (p = 0.108), while the 3-year PRS rates were 42.9% and 23.5% (p = 0.100). In the subgroup analysis, surgery for resectable recurrence, compared with non-surgery, could achieve better PRS for patients without any comorbidities (hazard ratio 0.36, 95% CI: 0.14 to 0.94, p = 0.038).ConclusionsMediastinum LN recurrence or pathologic T3 was associated with worse OS and PRS in patients with oligo-recurrences after curative esophagectomies. No definite survival benefit was noted in patients undergoing surgery for resectable recurrence, except in those without comorbidities.
Controlling the optical properties and analyzing mechanical, dielectric characteristics of MgO doped (PVA–PVP) blend by altering the doping content for multifunctional microelectronic devices
Authors: Mohammed M.I.
Published: March 2022

The solution-cast method was used to synthesize magnesia (MgO) nanoparticles filled poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP) blend matrix (80/20 wt %) based polymeric nanocomposite (PNC) films (i.e., [PVA–PVP]–x wt % MgO; x = 0, 0.06, 0.3, 0.6, 3.1, and 6.25). Most of these PNC materials structures are amorphous, according to an X-ray diffraction investigation. The blend surface was smooth and homogeneous under SEM, confirming PVA and PVP compatibility. MgO loading, on the other hand, enhanced the surface roughness. According to optical investigations, the films transmittance, Urbach's energy, and energy bandgap decreased as the Mg+ 2 -ions increased. Tensile strength has also improved from 5.92 MPa to 10.65 MPa, while Young's modulus has enhanced from 51.16 to 166.4 MPa. From 100 Hz to 1 MHz, the dielectric and electrical spectra of these films were measured. Due to the nanoconfinement effect, it has been determined that the dispersion of MgO nanoparticles in the PVA–PVP blend matrix dramatically increases the dielectric permittivity. With increasing frequency, the dielectric permittivity of these PNC films decreases while the ac electrical conductivity increases. When the temperature of a PNC film is raised, a nonlinear rise in dielectric permittivity is seen, and the dc electrical conductivity of the film follows the Arrhenius law. The nonlinear I-V curves improve with increased Mg+ 2 ion concentration. The developed and engineered unique high-performance flexible nanocomposites in the field of advanced functional materials for usage in next-generation optoelectronic, gas sensors, and microelectronic devices were ascribed to the studied properties of the PNC films.
Causal inference of genetic variants and genes in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Pan Siyu , Liu Xinxuan , Liu Tianzi , Zhao Zhongming , Dai Yulin , Wang Yin-Ying , Jia Peilin , Liu Fan
Published: March 2022

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal progressive multisystem disorder with limited therapeutic options. Although genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have revealed multiple ALS susceptibility loci, unraveling causal relationships between genetic variants, genes, cell types, tissues, and risk of ALS remains challenging. Here, we reported a comprehensive post-GWAS analysis of the recent large ALS GWAS (n = 80610), including functional mapping and annotation (FUMA), transcriptome-wide association study (TWAS), colocalization (COLOC) and summary da-ta-based Mendelian Randomization analyses (SMR) in extensive multi-omics datasets. Gene property analysis highlighted inhibitory neuron 6, oligodendrocytes and GABAergic neurons (Gad1/Gad2) as functional cell types of ALS and confirmed cerebellum and cerebellar hemisphere as functional tissues of ALS. Functional annotation detected the presence of multiple deleterious variants at 3 loci (9p21.2, 12q13.3, 12q14.2) and highlighted a list of SNPs that are potentially functional. TWAS, COLOC, and SMR identified 43 genes at 24 loci, including 23 novel genes and 10 novel loci, showing significant evidence of causality. Integrating multiple lines of evidence, we further propose that rs2453555 at 9p21.2 and rs229243 at 14q12 functionally contribute to the development of ALS by regulating the expression of C9orf72 in pituitary and SCFD1 in skeletal muscle, respectively. Overall, our study represents the most comprehensive post GWAS study of ALS to date and provides important new insights into the etiology of ALS.
Effects of Glutamate and γ-aminobutyric Acid of Cerebral Ischemia on Rhesus Monkey
Authors: ZHANG Xiao-ran , Jun PU , LIU Bo-hu , LI ze-qi
Published: March 2022

Objective To explore the effect of cerebral ischemia in rhesus monkeys on the metabolism of glutamate and γ-aminobutyric acid. Method Bilateral common carotid artery was blocked in 9 rhesus monkeys. The extracellular fluid was collected by microdialysis. Perform liquid chromatography analysis . Result After cerebral ischemia, the content of glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid was significantly increased compared with that of ischemia. P <0.05, the difference was statistically significant. Conclusions Cerebral ischemia hypoxia leads to the large release of glutamate, which leads to increased synthesis of GABA and antagonism to it’s excitatory toxicity.
Mutations in α-synuclein, TDP-43 and tau prolong protein half-life through diminished degradation by lysosomal proteases
Authors: Kao Aimee , Sampognaro Paul , Arya Shruti , Knudsen Giselle , Gunderson Emma , Sandoval-Perez Angelica , Craik Charles , Jacobson Matthew
Published: March 2022

Autosomal dominant mutations in α-synuclein, TDP-43 and tau promote protein aggregation and neurodegeneration. Rates of aggregation are highly dependent on protein concentration, which can be regulated via lysosomal proteolysis. Lysosomal cathepsins recognize specific linear amino acid sequences; thus, mutations in α-synuclein, TDP-43 and tau have the potential to impact protein half-life by impairing lysosomal degradation. To test this, we first generated comprehensive proteolysis maps containing cathepsin cleavage sites for each of these disease-associated proteins. In silico analysis of these maps suggested that certain mutations would diminish cathepsin cleavage, a prediction we validated utilizing in vitro protease assays. We further demonstrated that lysosomes degrade inducibly-expressed mutant forms of α-synuclein, TDP-43 and tau less efficiently than wild-type protein. Together, this study provides evidence that pathogenic mutations in α-synuclein, TDP-43 and tau directly impair their own lysosomal degradation, altering protein homeostasis by increasing the half-life of these proteins.
Absolute quantification of gene copy number variation in Plasmodium falciparum novel putative genes associated to drug resistance (the actin-binding coronin protein, cysteine desulfurase and plasmepsin 2), using Eva green-based quantitative PCR
Authors: Diarra Houdou , Mobegi Victor A. , Makhulu Edward E. , Kinyua Johnson , Herren Jeremy K
Published: March 2022

Background: Exposure of Plasmodium falciparum to host immune system and antimalarials pressure leads the parasite to exploit genetic factors such as genome sequence variation (structural variation and single nucleotide polymorphism) to withstand environmental conditions. Gene copy number variation (CNVs) is a type of genome sequence polymorphism and it has been shown that CNVs contribute to parasite adaptation to environmental pressure, acquisition of drug resistance and enable the parasite to escape from host immune system. In this study, we explored CNVs in P.falciparum three putative genes related to drug pressure.Method: Blood samples were obtained from asymptomatic school children collected from December 2016 to October 2018 in Mbita sub-county, western Kenya. Genomic DNA was extracted using ISOLATE II Genomic DNA kit (Bioline, UK) following the manufacturer’s instructions. Real-time quantitative PCR was performed and the target genes copy numbers were determined by absolute quantification method.Results: The findings revealed differential level of copy number variation in target genes investigated. One isolate (KE024/18) was found to contain 5.29 copies of Pfcoronin gene, t(2) = 27.91, P = 0.0013, 95% CI [3.62 - 4.95]. In the Pfcysteine desulfurase gene, similar level of copy amplification was observed in the OS0149/18, (5.09 copies) t(2) = 7.85, P = 0.0148, 95% CI [1.85 – 6.33]. These two isolates were found to harbour the highest level of CNVs of the corresponding genes. Pfplasmepsin 2 gene was found to be less polymorphic, however, three isolates showed high copy amplification, OS062/17 (9.63 copies), t(2) = 80.50, P = 0.0002, 95% CI [8.01 – 9.09]; AL106/16 (9.18 copies), t(2) = 28.61, P = 0.0012, 95% CI [6.95 – 9.41], and KM019/18 (9.41 copies), t(2) = 90.51, P = 0.0001, 95% CI [8.01 – 8.81].Conclusion: The results show gene copy number variation in the clinical samples we explored. The findings suggest that P.falciparum may be under drug pressure in the study area, therefore, this calls for close surveillance of drug resistance.
Paralytic Ileus as First Symptom of Miller Fisher Syndrome: a Case Report
Authors: Liu Xiubin , Chen Xiqi , Zhang Xiaoxia , Zhou Yongkun
Published: March 2022

Introduction Miller Fisher syndrome (MFS) is a nervous disease, immune correlation of Guillain Barre syndrome (GBS).The typical clinical manifestations of MFS are extraocular muscle paralysis, ataxia, tendon reflex loss or disappearance. This report describes a case of MFS with paralytic ileus as the first symptom. Case presentation A 48-year-old woman presenting with abdominal pain and distention was diagnosed with paralytic ileus. There was no significant improvement in symptoms after symptomatic treatment. After that, the patient developed visual rotation, with limited binocular abduction and adduction, and ataxia. Anti-ganglioside testing revealed positive anti-GQ1b antibodies. The patient was diagnosed as Miller Fisher syndrome. And recovered after symptomatic treatment. Conclusion In case of inconsistency between imaging examination and clinical symptoms, neuroelectrophysiology and cerebrospinal fluid puncture should be performed in time, and strive for timely detection and treatment.
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Decreases P3 Amplitude and Inherent Delta Activity During a Waiting Impulsivity Paradigm
Authors: Mendes Augusto J. , Galdo-Álvarez Santiago , Lema Alberto , Carvalho Sandra , Leite Jorge
Published: March 2022

Background
One of the main features of addictive behaviors is the inability to wait for an action, that is, the waiting impulsivity. It has been suggested that potential therapeutic tools for addiction, such as transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS), might focus on this inability. Nonetheless, whereas there is consensus about the role of prefrontal cortex on impulsivity behavior, the effects of tDCS in waiting impulsivity and underlying electrophysiological (EEG) markers are still not clear.
Objective
The study aimed the neuromodulation of right inferior frontal gyrus during a task designed to elicit premature responses, while EEG markers important in reward anticipation (i.e., cue and target-P3 and underlying delta/theta activity) were studied.
Methods
Forty healthy subjects participated in two experimental sessions, where they received active and sham tDCS while performing a premature responding task and the EEG was recorded. At next, participants performed two control tasks to evaluate transfer effects for delay discounting and motor inhibition abilities.
Results
Active tDCS decreased amplitude in cue-P3, target-P3, and delta activity during target-P3. On the other hand, active tDCS increased the discounting of future rewards in small values in comparison with sham, while no tDCS effects were found in motor inhibition.
Conclusion
These findings suggest tDCS-induced modulation of the P3 component and underlying oscillatory activity during waiting impulsivity. Moreover, these changes were associated with differences in the discounting of future rewards. Thus, the current study suggests the usefulness of tDCS in modulating impulsive processes and the relationship between P3, the inherent delta activity, and reward processing.
Availability of Healthy Food, Alcohol, and Tobacco in a Rural Oklahoma Tribal Community
Authors: Jervis Lori , Bray Laura , Cox Derrell , TallBull Gloria , Lowery Bryce , Spicer Paul
Published: March 2022

Background: American Indians experience disproportionally high rates of diet-related metabolic disorders. Suboptimal retail food environments make obtaining healthy food difficult, particularly for rural American Indians, and contribute to ill health. Objective: This project examined food availability in food stores within a tribal community. Design: Audits were conducted of all retail stores that sell food within nine communities within the Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribal Jurisdictional Area.Main Measures: Freedman Grocery Store Survey and the Healthy Food Assessment Survey.Key Results: Local populations were often reliant on convenience and dollar stores that prominently featured alcohol, tobacco, and ultra-processed food—and offered very little fresh produce. Convenience stores comprised more than half of all area food stores and were the only source of food in one-third of the communities. Only larger communities had supermarkets that sold fresh produce as well as ultraprocessed food. Dollar stores stocked primarily alcohol, tobacco, and ultraprocessed foods, and were rapidly displacing local markets that sold fresh produce. In general, alcohol and tobacco were far more available than vegetables and fruits in food stores. Conclusions: The limited availability of healthy food helps to explain our previous findings on dysbiotic microbiomes in Cheyenne & Arapaho individuals. The predominance of convenience stores and the growth of dollar stores in the tribal jurisdictional area contributed to a suboptimal food environment.
In Silico Study of Physicochemical Characteristics and Anticancer Potential of Peptides Derived from Salvia Hispanica
Authors: Mendoza Luis Fernando Morales , Figueroa Sergio Hidalgo , Álvarez Alan Javier Hernández , Campos Maira Rubi Segura , Bojórquez Nidia del Carmen Quintal
Published: March 2022

Peptides derived from Salvia hispanica´s protein fraction < 1 kDa, were identified and analyzed for the prediction of their physicochemical properties. The characterized peptide sequences were then submitted to a multi-criteria decision analysis to identify the peptides that possess the characteristics to potentially exert anticancer activity. Through molecular docking analysis, the potential anticancer activity of the Potentially Anticancer Peptide (PAP)-1, PAP-2, PAP-3, PAP-4 and PAP-5, was estimated by their binding interactions with cancer and apoptosis related molecules. All five evaluated PAPs exhibited strong binding interactions (<-100 kcal/mol); however, PAP-3 showed the lowest binding free energies with several of the targets. Thus, PAP-3 shows potential to be used as a nutraceutical or ingredient for functional foods that adjuvates in cancer treatment. Further in vitro and in vivo studies are required to validate the predictions obtained by the in silico analysis, and to establish the mechanism of action and the clinical potential of the peptide.
Succinate Dehydrogenase Subunit B Regulates Cisplatin Resistance via DNA Damage in Human Ovarian Cancer Cells
Authors: Chen Lilan , Di Wen
Published: March 2022

BackgroundSuccinate dehydrogenase subunit B (SDHB) is one of succinate dehydrogenase subunits which is an important enzyme in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. SDHB has been found expressed low in human ovarian carcinoma compared to human ovarian normal epithelium tissues. Previous studies have confirmed that the high expression of SDHB significantly inhibits the proliferation, invasion and migration of ovarian cancer cells, indicating that SDHB plays a role of tumor suppressor gene in ovarian cancer. But the role of SDHB in ovarian cancer chemotherapy is unknown.Methods Using the SDHB specific siRNA and overexpression plasmid, the expression of SDHB was silenced and conversely overexpressed in ovarian cancer cell lines SKOV3 and A2780, respectively. The role of SDHB in ovarian cancer chemotherapy was investigated in vitro, using CCK8 and Colony formation assays. Immunohistochemistry was used to exam the expression of SDHB in human ovarian cancer cisplatin-resistant tissues and corresponding cisplatin-sensitive tissues. To explore the mechanism, DNA damage repair related proteins such as γ-H2AX and ERCC1were examined by western blot in SKOV3 and A2780 cells.ResultsSDHB expressed lower in human ovarian cancer cisplatin-resistant tissues than the corresponding cisplatin-sensitive tissues. SDHB silencing increased drug resistance and SDHB overexpression showed the opposite results in SKOV3 and A2780 cells. In SDHB-silenced cancer cells, the level of ERCC1, which contributes to platinum drug resistance by promoting DNA repair, was increased, andγ-H2AX, which is related to cell apoptosis and drug resistance was decreased. Conclusions In this research, we demonstrated SDHB silencing reduced chemosensitivity in SKOV3 and A2780 by improving the repair of DNA damage. These results suggested that SDHB might represent a potential therapeutic target to overcome chemosensitivity in human ovarian carcinoma.