bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knowledge, attitudes and acceptance of voluntary medical male circumcision among males attending high school in Shiselweni region, Eswatini: a cross sectional study
Authors: Shezi Mirriam Hlelisani , Tlou Boikhutso , Naidoo Saloshni
Published: July 2022

Background In countries such as Eswatini, where there is a high HIV prevalence and low male circumcision the World Health Organization and the Joint United Nations Programme for HIV/AIDS recommend infant and adult circumcision be implemented. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitudes and acceptability of voluntary medical male circumcision amongst males attending high school in Eswatini. MethodsAn observational cross-sectional study was conducted during February and March of 2018 amongst 407 young males (15-21 years) attending Form 4, in nine high schools in the Shiselweni region of Eswatini using a self-administered questionnaire of 42 close ended questions. Sociodemographic details, circumcision status, acceptance of voluntary medical male circumcision, knowledge and attitude scores analysed in Stata® 14 statistical software were described using frequencies, medians and ranges respectively. Bivariate and multivariate linear regression was used to assess the impact of independent variables on circumcision status and acceptance of voluntary medical male circumcision. The level of statistical significance was p<0.05ResultsAmongst the 407 high school-going males, 48.98% (n= 201) reported being circumcised. The majority of the adolescents (75.74%; n= 306) were knowledgeable about voluntary medical male circumcision. However, an even larger majority (84.90% (n= 343) had a negative attitude towards it. In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, having parented their own children (OR: 3.55; 95%CI: 1.2 – 10.48), and having circumcised friends (OR: 3.99; 95%CI: 1.81 -8.84) were significantly associated with being circumcised. Neither knowledge nor attitude were associated with the acceptability of voluntary medical male circumcision.ConclusionIn Eswatini male high school students are knowledgeable about voluntary medical male circumcision, but have a negative attitude towards it. Having parented their own children, and having circumcised friends influenced being circumcised.
Mycorrhiza and Silicon Influence Glycyrrhiza glabra L. under Water-deficit; Antioxidant Activity, Medicinal Metabolites and Mineralogical Analysis
Authors: Haghighi Tahereh Movahhed , Saharkhiz Mohammad Jamal , Zarei Mehdi
Published: July 2022

Background:Exogenous application of silicon (Si) and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) can help plants cope with drought stress. An experiment was designed with two Si solute levels in irrigation water (i.e. 0 (Si0) and 300 mg/L (Si1)), two levels of AMF inoculation (i.e. inoculation with Claroiedoglomus etunicatum (F1) and without inoculation (F0)), and five soil moisture regimes (i.e. 100, 80, 60, 40 and 20% of field capacity (FC). After two months, the licorice roots were harvested and analyzed.ResultsUnder water deficit conditions, there were significant decreases in root length and dry weight (DW) (p < 0.05), compared to the control. Si and AMF could significantly (p < 0.05) enhanced root area (47.75-150.64 cm2) under all irrigation levels. The maximum glycyrrhizic acid (26.62 mg/g DW) was achieved by the interaction between Si and AMF in response to 40% FC. A reduction in total flavonoids and phenolics of licorice was observed under severe drought levels; however, the Si and AMF acted to increase sinapic acid (16.46 mg/g DW), and trans ferulic acid (1.11 mg/g DW) in roots. The results indicated that the interaction between Si and AMF positively affected nitrogen and phosphorous concentrations in roots (53.51 and 74.07%, respectively). Also, there was an increase in potassium concentration in response to 100, 80, and 40% FC among Si-treated plants (38.5–44.7%).ConclusionIn conclusion, the exogenous application of Si and AMF showed a synergistic impact on the ability to mitigate the adverse effects of drought stress by improving plant growth and enhancing metabolite accumulation in licorice.
Circulating metabolites modulated by diet are causally associated with depression
Authors: Amin Najaf , Spek Ashley van der , Stewart Isobel , Kühnel Brigitte , Pietzner Maik , Alshehri Tahani , Gauß Friederike , Hysi Pirro , Dehkordi Siamak Mahmoudian , Heinken Almut , Luik Annemarie , Ladwig Karl-Heinz , Kastenmüller Gabi , Menni Cristina , Hertel Johannes , Ikram M. Arfan , de Mutsert Renée , Suhre Karsten , Gieger Christian , Strauch Konstantin , Völzke Henry , Meitinger Thomas , Mangino Massimo , Flaquer Antonia , Waldenberger Melanie , Peters Annette , Thiele Ines , Kaddurah-Daouk Rima , Dunlop Boadie , Rosendaal Frits , Wareham Nick , Spector T , Kunze Sonja , Grabe Hans , Mook-Kanamori Dennis , Langenberg Claudia , Duijn Cornelia van
Published: July 2022

Metabolome reflects the interplay of genome and exposome at molecular level and thus can provide deep insights into the pathogenesis of a complex disease like major depression. To identify metabolites associated with depression we performed a metabolome-wide association analysis in 13,596 participants from five European population-based cohorts characterized for depression, and circulating metabolites using ultra high-performance liquid chromatography/tandem accurate mass spectrometry (UHPLC/MS/MS) based Metabolon platform. We tested 806 metabolites covering a wide range of biochemical processes including those involved in lipid, amino-acid, energy, carbohydrate, xenobiotic and vitamin metabolism for their association with depression. In a conservative model adjusting for life style factors and cardiovascular and antidepressant medication use we identified 8 metabolites, including 6 novel, significantly associated with depression. In individuals with depression, increased levels of retinol (vitamin A), 1-palmitoyl-2-palmitoleoyl-GPC (16:0/16:1) (lecithin) and mannitol/sorbitol and lower levels of hippurate, 4-hydroxycoumarin, 2-aminooctanoate (alpha-aminocaprylic acid), 10-undecenoate (11:1n1) (undecylenic acid), 1-linoleoyl-GPA (18:2) (lysophosphatidic acid; LPA 18:2) are observed. These metabolites are either directly food derived or are products of host and gut microbial metabolism of food-derived products. Hippurate and mannitol/sorbitol have previously been consistently associated with depression. Our Mendelian randomization analysis suggests that low hippurate levels are causally related to depression. Further analysis of dietary sources of the metabolites in the UK Biobank reveals that increased vitamin A intake may also have causal implications for major depression. Our findings highlight putative actionable targets for depression prevention that are easily modifiable through diet interventions.
The neighborhood effects on the online financial investment of rural households: Evidence from China
Authors: Han Kefei , zhao Yuan
Published: July 2022

Neighborhood effects are a common strategy for rural households to deal with irrational situations such as deficient information and ability. Based on the 2019 CHFS survey data, our paper explores whether neighborhood effects exist in the online financial investment of rural households. We find that: (1) There exists significant neighborhood effects on online financial investment by rural households. (2) Heterogeneity analysis shows that neighborhood effects are stronger among women, the younger, and low-income rural households. (3) Through the multiple mediation model, we proved that the neighborhood effects on online financial investment of the peasant household work by the financial knowledge spillover and risk-taking enhancement. Our study conduces to a better understanding of the financial decision-making of rural households, which may provide a practical implication for the popularization of new financial products and the optimal design of policy interventions.JEF: D14 G11
What should be considered when studying the influence of gestational diabetes mellitus on neonatal gut microbiota
Authors: Liu Cheng , Zheng Wei , Wang Jia , Wang Aili , Yuan Xianxian , Zhang Yuan , Wang Yuanyuan , Ma Xu , Li Guanghui
Published: July 2022

Background: Increasing evidence has suggested that maternal gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) could influence the neonatal gut microbiota. However, the neonatal initial microbial colonization is still unclear. The discrepancy in results between studies may be due to many other prenatal factors. The aim of this study is to investigate the factors that cannot be ignored when studying the influence of GDM on neonatal gut microbiota.Methods: This nested case-control study was based upon a mother and child cohort (2016YFC1000304). Meconium samples were collected from neonates of mothers with (n=114) and without GDM (n=133) within 24 hours after birth. The meconium was assessed by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. Differences in diversity and composition were compared according to maternal GDM status and other perinatal characteristics. Results: Firmicutes, Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes were the dominant phylum of the neonatal gut microbiota in our cohort. Gut microbiota in neonates born to GDM mothers exhibited a lower alpha diversity. Principal coordinates analysis (PCoA) showed that meconium samples were clustered primarily by the mother GDM status. Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) revealed that 81 taxa were found to be significantly different between the GDM group and the control group. Delivery mode contributes 226 significant representative taxa in the control group, while in the GDM group, there were no significant representative taxa according to delivery mode. In addition, neonatal gender contributes 79 significant representative taxa in the GDM group and 7 in the control group. Other perinatal characteristics, such as maternal pre-pregnancy BMI, age, gestational weight gain and birth weight can also influence the differential taxa of neonatal gut microbiota between the two groups. Conclusion: Newborns from GDM mothers and normoglycemic mothers shared a similar composition but a different abundance of gut microbiota in our cohort. Maternal pre-pregnancy BMI, age, gestational weight gain and neonatal delivery mode, gender, birth weight caused different influences on the diversity and differential taxa of neonatal gut microbiota. The results in this study suggest that when studying the influences of GDM on neonatal gut microbiota, it is necessary to consider the concomitant perinatal characteristics.
A J-shaped Relationship Between Triglyceride to High-Density LipoproteinCholesterol Ratio and Diabetes Risk in Japanese: A Secondary Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Wang Huijuan , Wang Changming , Xuan Xiuping , Xiaoning Zhong , Xie Zhouni , Qiu Yuanyuan , Qin Huiping
Published: July 2022

Background: Abnormal lipid metabolism is known to increases the risk for metabolic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus(T2DM). The relationship between baseline ratio of triglyceride to HDL cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) and T2DM in Japanese adults was investigated in this study.Methods: Our secondary analysis included 8419 male and 7034 female Japanese subjects who were free of diabetes at baseline. The correlation between baseline TG/HDL-C and T2DM was analyzed by a proportional risk regression model, the nonlinear correlation between baseline TG/HDL-C and T2DM was analyzed by a generalized additive model (GAM), and the threshold effect analysis was performed by a segmented regression model. We conducted subgroup analyses in different populationsResults: During the median 5.39 years follow-up, 373 participants, 286 males and 87 females, developed diabetes mellitus. After full adjustment for confounders, the baseline TG/HDL-C ratio positively correlated with the risk of diabetes (hazard ratio 1.19, 95% confidence interval 1.09-1.3), and smoothed curve fitting and two-stage linear regression analysis revealed a J-shaped relationship between baseline TG/HDL-C and T2DM. The inflection point for baseline TG/HDL-C was 0.35. baseline TG/HDL-C>0.35 was positively associated with the development of T2DM (hazard ratio 1.2, 95% confidence interval 1.10-1.31). Subgroup analysis showed no significant differences in the effect between TG/HDL-C and T2DM in different populations.Conclusion：A J-shaped relationship was observed between baseline TG/HDL-C and T2DM risk in the Japanese population. When TG/HDL-C was higher than 0.35, there was a positive relationship between baseline TG/HDL-C and the incidence of diabetes mellitus.
Cellulose nanofibres as surface coating in paper packaging. Influence of metering system and drying technology on paper structural properties
Authors: Fillat Úrsula , Vergara Priscilla , Villar Juan Carlos , Gómez Nuria
Published: July 2022

Cellulose nanofibres (CNF) can improve the quality of cardboard packaging, a widely used renewable and recyclable material. This work evaluates the ability of CNF to impart barrier properties to commercial paper used in packaging. Three CNF were tested: mechanical (CM), by TEMPO mediated oxidation (CT) and carboxymethylated (CC). Two metering systems (wound rod and blade micrometer) were used to apply one, five and 10 layers of CNF suspensions, and two drying methods (hot air jet and contact with a hot polished surface in a speed dryer) were evaluated. The quality of the CNF coated papers was measured by barrier, structural and optical properties, and visual appearance. CC coatings obtained the lowest air permeance values, even at low coat weights, below those of commercial starch. CT also reduced air permeance at low weights, but a larger amount of CM was needed for good results. When one coating layer was applied, hot air jet drying typically showed lower air permeance than the polished surface method in CT and starch samples. SEM images showed good coverage at low coat weight in CC and CT, whereas CM was unable to cover the base paper. With increased layers of CM, an adequate film was formed. CT yielded the highest gloss values, CC exhibited a good visual appearance, and CM showed an uneven white hue. For runnability, CC outperformed the other CNF. CC had the highest fibrillation degree and acid group content, and was the CNF coating with most potential as a coating for paper.
Fluorine-free, Nanoparticle Coatings on Cotton Fabric: Comparing the UV-protective, Hydrophobic Capabilities of Silica Nanoparticles vs. Silica-ZnO Nanostructures
Authors: Liu Chao Yun , Xin Hu , Lee Cheng Hao , Fan Suju , Xin John H. , Noor Nuruzzaman
Published: July 2022

Robust, hydrophobic woven cotton fabrics was obtained through the sol-gel dip coating of different nanoparticle architectures; silica and silica-ZnO. For water repellency, average values as high as ~148° and relatively low tilt angles for fibrous fabrics (~12°) were observed. In all cases, this enhanced functionality was achieved with the simultaneous retention of excellent water vapour permeability characteristics (i.e.; less than 10% decrease). By scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analyses, the physico-chemical effects of coatings on cotton fibres were observed. In cases where the photoactive ZnO-containing additives were used, several order of magnitude increases in UV-protective capability were also achieved, that were absent in non-ZnO containing samples. Such water repellency and UPF capabilities were also found to be stable to UV-exposure; resisting the otherwise commonly encountered UV-induced wettability transitions for photoactive ZnO. These results suggest that ZnO-containing silica nanoparticle coatings confer excellent and persistent surface hydrophobicity, as well as UV-protective capability, with realistic potential uses in wearables and broader functional textiles applications.
The Prevalence of Thyroid Dysfunction in Jordan: A National Population-Based Survey
Authors: Ajlouni Kamel , Khawaja Nahla , Khateeb Mohammed EL , Batieha Anwar , Frahid Oraib
Published: July 2022

Background: The objectives of this study are to assess the prevalence of clinical and subclinical hypo- and hyperthyroidism and their associated factors among Jordanian adultsMethods: In a cross-sectional population-based survey, a representative sample that included 3753 Jordanian adults was selected from the 12 governorates that represent the three regions of the country, in the year 2017. Sociodemographic and clinical data were obtained and blood samples were collected from all participants. Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free tri-iodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4), thyroglobulin antibody (TgAb) and thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) were measured to evaluate the thyroid function.Results: The overall prevalence of thyroid dysfunction was 11.9%. Around 76% of patients with thyroid dysfunction were previously undiagnosed. The prevalence of hypothyroidism and subclinical hypothyroidism was 3.1% and 5.3 %, respectively. The prevalence of hyperthyroidism and subclinical hyperthyroidism was 1.0 % and 2.5%, respectively. Female preponderance which was mainly related to hypothyroid disorders was evident. The prevalence of positive TPOAb and TgAb in the study population was 14.9% and 15.3%, respectively. The prevalence of detectable TPOAb and TgAb in the euthyroid participants was10.3% and 11.9%, respectively. Logistic regression analysis revealed that female gender, age ≥ 50 years and the presence of TgAb and TPOAb were strongly associated with hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism was significantly associated with the presence of TPOAb and age ≥ 50 years.Conclusion: The prevalence of unrecognized thyroid dysfunction is high among Jordanians. A public health policy of screening high risk groups particularly those ≥ 50 years of age is recommended.
Prioritization of Public Health Financing, Organization, and Workforce Transformation: A Delphi Study in Canada
Authors: Dedewanou F. Antoine , Allin Sara , Guyon Ak’ingabe , Pawa Jasmine , Ammi Mehdi
Published: July 2022

Background: The increased scrutiny on public health brought upon by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic provides a strong impetus for a renewal of public health systems. This paper seeks to understand priorities of public health decision-makers for reforms to public health financing, organization, interventions, and workforce. Methods: We used an online 3-Round Delphi method of reaching consensus on priorities for public health systems reform. Participants were recruited among individuals holding senior roles in Canadian public health institutions, ministries of health and regional health authorities. In Round 1, participants were asked to rate 9 propositions related to public health financing, organization, workforce, and interventions. Participants were also asked to contribute up to three further ideas in relation to these topics in open-ended format. In Rounds 2 and 3, participants re-appraised their ratings in the view of the group’s ratings in the previous round. Results: Eighty-six public health senior decision-makers from various public health organizations across Canada were invited to participate. Of these, 25/86 completed Round 1 (29% response rate), 19/25 completed Round 2 (76% retention rate) and 18/19 completed Round 3 (95% retention rate). Consensus (defined as more than 70% of importance rating) was achieved for 6 out of 9 propositions at the end of the third round. In only one case, the consensus was that the proposition was not important. Proposition rated consensually important relate to targeted public health budget, time frame for spending this budget, and the specialization of public health structures. Both interventions related and not related to the COVID-19 pandemic were judged important. Open-ended comments further highlighted priorities for renewal in public health governance and public health information management systems. Conclusion: Consensus emerged rapidly among Canadian public health decision-makers on prioritizing public health budget and time frame for spending. Ensuring that public health services beyond COVID-19 and communicable disease are maintained and enhanced is also of central importance. Future research shall explore potential trade-offs between these priorities.
Influences on intentions for obstetric practice among family physicians and residents in Canada: an explorative qualitative inquiry
Authors: Marshall Emily Gard , Horrey Kathleen , Moritz Lauren R , Buote Richard , Grudniewicz Agnes , Goldsmith Laurie J , Randall Ellen , Jones Lori , Lavergne M. Ruth
Published: July 2022

Background
Many family medicine residency graduates indicate a desire to provide obstetric care, but a low proportion of family physicians provide obstetric care within their practice. This suggests personal preference alone may not account for the low proportion of FPs who ultimately provide full obstetric care. If decisionmakers plan to augment number of family physicians providing obstetric care, barriers to the provision of such care must first be identified. Within this paper, we explore the perspectives of both family practice residents and early-career family physicians on the factors that shaped their decision to provide obstetric care.
Methods
In this qualitative study, we analyzed a subset of interview data from British Columbia, Ontario, and Nova Scotia (n = 18 family practice residents; n = 39 early-career family physicians). We used thematic analysis to analyze data relevant to obstetric care practice, applying the socio-ecological model and comparing themes across participant types, gender, and province.
Results
Participants described influences affecting their decision about providing obstetric care. Key influencing factors aligned with the levels of the socio-ecological model of public policy (e.g., liability), community (e.g., community needs), organizational (e.g., obstetric care trade-offs, working in teams, sufficient exposure in training), interpersonal practice preferences (e.g., impact on family life, negative interactions with other healthcare professionals), and individual factors (e.g., defining comprehensive care as “everything but obstetrics”). Many participants were interested in providing obstetric care within their practice but did not provide such care. Participants’ decision-making around providing or not providing obstetric care included considerations of personal preferences and outside influences.
Conclusions
Individual-level factors alone do not account for the decrease in the type and amount of obstetric care offered by family physicians. Instead, family physicians’ choice to provide or not provide obstetric care is influenced by factors at higher levels of the socio-ecological model. Policymakers who want to encourage obstetrics practice by family physicians should implement interventions at the public policy, community, organizational, interpersonal, and individual levels.
Characterization of miniature inverted repeat transposable elements inserted in the CitRWP gene controlling nucellar embryony and development of molecular markers for reliable genotyping of CitRWP in Citrus species
Authors: Jeong Hyeonju , Yun Young Bok , Jeong Seung Yong , Cho Younsup , Kim Sunggil
Published: July 2022

Nucellar embryony, a form of apomixis, is one of the most important traits in citrus breeding. Transposition of a miniature inverted repeat transposable element (MITE) in the promoter of CitRWP gene has been previously reported as the causal mutation. However, features of the MITE such as sequences of terminal inverted repeats (TIRs) and target site duplications (TSDs) remain unclear. An MITE family, DTM10, showing the highest homology was identified from 110 citrus MITE families. At least 80 DTM10 elements were identified from each of 10 genome sequences of Citrinae species. Analysis of 114 sweet orange elements showed that DTM10 contained 56-bp TIRs and mostly 9-bp TSDs. Phylogenetic analyses of DTM10 elements identified from five Citrinae species showed that MITEs in CitRWP might have transposed in a common ancestor of Citrus species. Two inverted MITEs were identified from three mutant alleles analyzed. In addition, three tandem MITEs were identified in the mutant allele of Fortunella CitRWP. A strong DNA secondary structure formed between MITEs was predicted. Due to a strong stem-loop structure, a phenomenon of polymerase jumping was observed during PCR amplification. To develop reliable molecular markers, sequences of mutant and wild-type CitRWP alleles were obtained from diverse citrus accessions. Phylogenetic analysis of CitRWP alleles showed that mutant alleles might have originated from a common ancestor of Citrus species. Based on MITE insertion and a single nucleotide polymorphism in the genic region, three complementary molecular markers were developed. Genotyping results of 241 citrus accessions were found to be identical among three molecular markers.
Low expression of MATR3 is associated with poor survival in clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Durślewicz Justyna , Klimaszewska-Wiśniewska Anna , Antosik Paulina , Grzanka Dariusz
Published: July 2022

Matrin 3 (MATR3) is one of the most abundant inner nuclear matrix proteins involved in multiple nuclear processes. To date the biological role and prognostic relevance of MATR3 in human cancers remain largely underexplored. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to examine the expression levels and prognostic significance of MATR3 in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) patients. We assessed MATR3 immunohistochemical staining and RNA-seq data from publicly available data sets, and the results were analyzed with reference to clinicopathological characteristics and overall survival of patients. Furthermore, protein-protein interaction (PPI) network for MATR3 and its neighbors was constructed, functionally annotated, and screened for survival-related genes. We observed that MATR3 protein and mRNA levels were lower in tumor tissues compared to control tissues. Lower MATR3 protein and mRNA expression levels were found to be a significant independent adverse prognostic factor for patient overall survival (OS). Moreover, out of the candidate genes, MRPL23 gene was identified as being the most predictive of OS and combined MRPL23/MATR3 expression status predicted patient survival better than looking at each marker individually. In conclusion, the present investigation warrants further research into the biological and prognostic value of MATR3 and MRPL23 in ccRCC patients.
Room-temperature martensitic actuation profited from one-dimensional hybrid perovskite structure
Authors: Liang Bei-Dou , Fan Chang-Chun , Liu Cheng-Dong , Chai Chao-Yang , Han Xiang-Bin , Zhang Wen
Published: July 2022

Ferroelastic and thermoelastic behaviors are interesting mechanical-related properties usually accompanied by martensitic transformations which can act as mechanical actuation when a stimulus is applied. However, reversible stimuli-response behavior in a crystalline state is rare for molecular crystals because many crystals cannot bear the stress release when the transformation occurs. Here, a new 1D perovskite semiconductor (NMEA)PbI3 (NMEA = N-methylethylamine) was successfully prepared and the crystal undergoes ferroelastic and thermoelastic martensitic transformations showing reversible responsive phenomena. The thermosalient behavior that occurs at the phase transition is very close to room temperature and may have promising applications in mechanical actuators for intelligence devices. This work provides a new approach to designing actuators utilizing weak interactions among chains in 1D perovskites that easily trigger interchain shearing movement.
The randomized circumcentered-reflection iteration method for solving consistent linear equations
Authors: Li Nan , Yin Jun-Feng
Published: July 2022

After randomly reflecting on two hyperplanes, a new iteration method is established by making use of the circumceter of the reflective points from the viewpoint of geometry. The linear combination could be non-convex when the angle between the hyperplances is small. Theoretical analysis show that the proposed method converges and the convergence rate in expectation is also addressed in detail. The relation between our method and block Kaczmarz method is well discussed. Numerical experiments further verify that the new algorithms is efficient, and outperform the existing randomized Kaczmarz methods and randomized reflection methods in terms of the number of iterations and CPU time, especially when the coefficient matrix has highly coherent rows.
TLR3 stimulation improves the migratory potency of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells through the stress response pathway in the melanoma mouse model
Authors: Eskandari Fatemeh , Zolfaghari Samira , Yazdanpanah Ayna , Shabestari Rima Manafi , Fomeshi Motahareh Rajabi , Milan Peiman B. , Kiani Jafar , Zomorrod Mina Soufi , Safa Majid
Published: July 2022

Background
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are utilized as a carrier of anti-tumor agents in targeted anti-cancer therapy. Despite the improvements in this area, there are still some unsolved issues in determining the appropriate dose, method of administration, biodistribution, and long-term survival. The current study aimed to determine the influence of toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) stimulation on the potential of MSCs migration to the neoplasm environment in the mouse melanoma model.
Methods and Results
Adipose-derived MSCs (ADMSCs) were isolated from the GFP+ transgenic C57BL/6 mouse and treated with different doses (1µg/ml and 10 µg/ml) of polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid [poly(I:C)], the related TLR3 agonist, at various time points (1 and 4 hours). Following the treatment, the expression pattern of targeted genes such as α4, α5, and β1 integrins and TGF-β and IL-10 anti-inflammatory cytokines was determined using real-time PCR. In vivo live imaging evaluated the migration index of the intraperitoneally (IP) injected treated ADMSCs in a lung tumor-bearing mouse (C57BL/6) melanoma model (n = 5). The presented findings demonstrated that TLR3 stimulation led to enhanced migration of ADMSCs to the tumor area compared with control group (n = 5) and enhanced expression of α4, α5, and β1 integrins. It was also detected that the engagement of TLR3 resulted in the anti-inflammatory behavior of the cells, which might influence the directed movement of ADMSCs.
Conclusions
This research identified that TLR3 activation might improve the migration via the stimulation of stress response in the cells and depending on the agonist concentration and time exposure, these activated pathway drive the migratory behavior of MSCs.
Instability of molecular subtype markers between first and second primary breast cancers
Authors: Huang Yubei , Li Chenyang , Lyu Zhangyan , Wang Zhipeng , Hao Chunfang , Song Fengju
Published: July 2022

Background: Previous studies investigated the instability of molecular subtype markers [estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)] in several clinical settings, but not for second primary breast cancer (SPBC) after first primary breast cancer (FPBC). Methods: A total of 15,390 patients with SPBC were preliminarily selected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program, and 3,777 patients with complete information on three molecular subtype markers in both FPBC and SPBC were included in the final analyses. The instability of molecular subtype markers and their prognostic implications and potential influential factors were well investigated.Results: The overall instability rates of ER, PR, and HER2 between FPBC and SPBC were 23.0%, 35.0%, and 18.3%, respectively. Gains of ER, PR, and HER2 after negative index markers were 48.7%, 37.9% and 11.5%, while losses of markers after positive index markers were 16.6%, 33.8% and 56.7%. Loss of ER was significantly associated with increased mortality (18.1% vs. 7.9%, P<0.001), while gain of ER was significantly associated with decreased mortality (11.5% vs. 23.2%, P<0.001). Similar results were observed for instability of PR status. However, loss of HER2 was significantly associated with decreased mortality (8.7% vs. 16.3%, P=0.014), and no significant association was observed between the gain of HER2 and the prognosis of SPBC. Multivariate competing risk analyses showed similar results. HER2 status in FPBC, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy was significantly associated with instability of ER/PR (all P<0.05), and no available therapies associated with HER2 instability.Conclusion: Instability of molecular subtype markers is observed in a considerable proportion of patients and has statistically significant prognostic implications. Biopsies should be taken as a routine procedure for better therapy management.
Can small-field-of-view reconstruction CT better evaluate lung nodule than conventional CT analyzed by multi-instance learning lung nodule system ?
Authors: Ma Yanqing , Cao Hanbo , Li Jie , Lin Mu , Gong Xiangyang , Lin Yi
Published: July 2022

Background
To subjectively and objectively assess the performance of conventional CT (c-CT) and small-field-of-view reconstruction CT (sFOV-CT) by radiologists and a multi-instance learning (MIL) based lung nodule system.
Methods
A cohort of 112 patients were enrolled between July 2021 to March 2022 in this prospective study. After taking c-CT examinations, the sFOV-CT images with small-field-of-view were reconstructed. All the c-CT and sFOV-CT images were subjectively analyzed by two radiologists, including features of location, nodule type, size, CT values, and shape sign. Then a lung nodule system based on MIL objectively analyzed the c-CT (c-MIL) and sFOV-CT (sFOV-MIL) to explore their difference. Additionally, the signal-to-noise ratio of lung (SNR-lung) and contrast-to-noise ratio of nodule(CNR-nodule) were calculated to evaluate the quality of CT images.
Results
The subjective evaluation by two radiologists showed that only the features of minimal CT value (p = 0.019) had statistical significance between c-CT and sFOV-CT. While, to the objective analysis by MIL system, the most features (all the p < 0.05) except for nodule type, location, volume, mean CT value, and vacuole sign (p = 0.056-1.000) had statistical difference between c-MIL and sFOV-MIL. The SNR-lung between c-CT and sFOV-CT had no statistical significance, while the CNR-nodule showed statistical difference (p = 0.007) and the CNR of sFOV-CT was higher than that of c-CT (median, inter-quartile: 2.203, 1.620–2.793 vs. 1.850, 1.027–2.558).
Conclusions
The MIL system were more sensitive than radiologists’ subjective evaluation in detecting the difference between c-CT and sFOV-CT. The image quality of those two CT images were different, and the CNR-nodule of sFOV-CT was higher than that of c-CT.
Bacterial plasmid-associated and chromosomal proteins have fundamentally different properties in protein interaction networks
Authors: Downing Tim , Rahm Alexander
Published: July 2022

Plasmids facilitate horizontal gene transfer, which enables the diversification of pathogens into new anatomical and environmental niches, implying that plasmid-encoded genes can cooperate well with chromosomal genes. We hypothesise that such mobile genes are functionally different to chromosomal ones due to this ability to encode non-essential functions like antimicrobial resistance and traverse distinct host cells. The effect of plasmid-driven gene gain on protein-protein interaction network topology is an important question in this area. Moreover, the extent to which these chromosomally- and plasmid-encoded proteins interact with proteins from their own groups compared to the levels with the other group remains unclear. Here, we examined the incidence and protein-protein interactions of all known plasmid-encoded genes across representative specimens from most bacteria using all available plasmids. We found that such plasmid-encoded genes constitute ~0.65% of the total number of genes per bacterial sample, and that plasmid genes are preferentially associated with different species but had limited taxonomical power beyond this. Surprisingly, plasmid-encoded proteins had both more protein-protein interactions compared to chromosomal proteins, countering the hypothesis that genes with higher mobility rates should have fewer protein-level interactions. Nonetheless, topological analysis and investigation of the protein-protein interaction networks' connectivity and change in the number of independent components demonstrated that the plasmid-encoded proteins had limited overall impact in >96% of samples. This paper assembled extensive data on plasmid-encoded proteins, their interactions and associations with diverse bacterial specimens that is available for the community to investigate in more detail.
Seasonality and intra-thallus variation of the antioxidant capacity in beach cast holopelagic Sargassum from the Mexican Caribbean
Authors: Mollineda Adrián Fagundo , Robledo Daniel , Vásquez-Elizondo Román Manuel , Freile-Pelegrín Yolanda
Published: July 2022

In the last decade, massive events of Sargassum influx have been reported causing ecological and economic damages. In this study, we evaluated the antioxidant potential of the holopelagic species S. fluitans, S. natans I, and S. natans VIII that arrived during 2018–2019 on the Mexican Caribbean coast. The seasonality and intra-thallus variation (axes, leaves, and vesicles) of the total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity were determined in algal crude extracts. The antioxidant potential was assessed using a 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging assay, a 2,2′-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) free radical scavenging assay and a ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. All Sargassum species showed radical scavenging and reducing power due to their polyphenol content, but also due to the presence of other antioxidant metabolites such as mannitol, alginate, and fucoidan as observed in the 13C-NMR spectra. In the summer months, coinciding with elevated seawater temperatures and the highest solar irradiances, the antioxidant capacity and the TPC in all Sargassum species were enhanced. For all the holopelagic species of Sargassum studied, the highest TPC was obtained in the axes rather than in the vesicles or leaves. The results suggest that invasive Sargassum biomass in the Mexican Caribbean contains different compounds with antioxidant properties and could be considered, especially in the summer months, as a natural alternative to synthetic antioxidants.
Protective Effect of SIRT1-mediated NF-κB Signal Pathway against Necrotizing Enterocolitis in Neonatal Mice
Authors: Zhang Rui-Bo , Ren Lan , Ding De-Ping , Wang Heng-Dong , Peng Juan , Zheng Kun
Published: July 2022

Objective
To discover the mechanism of Sirtuin1 (SIRT1)-mediated NF-κB pathway in the protection of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in neonatal mice.
Methods
Neonatal mice were treated with EX527 (an inhibitor of SIRT1) and/or pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (PDTC, an inhibitor of NF-κB). The survival rate of mice was recorded. Hematoxylin & eosin (HE) staining was performed to observe the pathological changes of intestines. Furthermore, western blotting, Enzyme-linked immuno sorbent assay (ELISA), and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were conducted to measure the protein and gene expression, while corresponding kits to detect the levels of oxidative stress indicators.
Results
PDTC increased the survival rate of NEC mice. When compared with the NEC + EX527 + PDTC group, the histological score of NEC was higher in the NEC + EX527 group but was lower in the NEC + PDTC group. SIRT1 expression in the intestines of NEC mice was down-regulated, with an increase in p65 nuclear translocation. Also, MDA increased and GPx decreased in the intestines of NEC mice, with the up-regulations of IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α, as well as the down-regulations of ZO-1, occludin and claudin-4 in the intestines. However, changes above could be improved by PDTC, which would be further reversed by EX527.
Conclusion
SIRT1 could mitigate inflammation and oxidative stress response and improve the intestinal permeability by mediating NF-κB pathway, playing an important role in the alleviation of NEC.
Validity of the evaluation using the frame subtraction method in dynamic postural stability
Authors: Ota Megumi , Tateuchi Hiroshige , Hashiguchi Takaya , Fujiwara Karen , Sasaki Ayano , Okumura Kiseki , Ichihashi Noriaki
Published: July 2022

BackgroundMovement of target subjects can be calculated using the frame subtraction method. However, the validity of this evaluation method of dynamic postural stability has not been clarified yet. This study aimed to verify the validity of the evaluation method for jump landing using the frame subtraction score based on the ground reaction force (GRF). MethodsTwenty subjects performed single leg jump landing, and their dynamic postural stability index (DPSI), medial-lateral stability index (MLSI), anterior-posterior stability index (APSI), and vertical stability index (VSI) were calculated from the GRF. Simultaneously, motion images were taken using digital video cameras in the sagittal and frontal planes. After the motion images were analyzed using the frame subtraction method, the frame subtraction scores on the frontal, sagittal, and combined planes were calculated. To confirm its validity, the relationship between the frame subtraction scores with GRF parameters was investigated using Pearson's correlation analysis. ResultsThe frame subtraction scores on the frontal and combined planes were significantly correlated with DPSI, MLSI and VSI (r = 0.46–0.75, P < 0.05). ConclusionsTherefore, the frame subtraction method could be applied to the evaluation of dynamic postural stability. Markerless or sensorless systems are deemed to be useful in clinical practice.
Application and practice of bilingual English-Chinese in undergraduate medical student education of endocrine system integration course
Authors: Zheng Xiaoya , Long Jian , Cheng Qingfeng
Published: July 2022

Aims
To evaluate the application of bilingual English-Chinese in undergraduate medical student education of endocrine system integration course.
Methods
The study was conducted at Chongqing Medical University from September 2020 to January 2022. Participated students were divided into two groups (A and B). Group A (n = 574) underwent teaching with the traditional Chinese education method, while Group B (n = 581) underwent teaching with the reformed bilingual English-Chinese education method. The effects of bilingual English-Chinese education method for endocrine system integration course teaching were evaluated by theoretical test and questionnaires.
Results
After the bilingual teaching reform, the proportion of bilingual teaching hour accounts for 51.6% of the total theoretical teaching hours. In terms of the basic condition of bilingual teaching, more than 80% of students have passed the National College English Test. Most of students thought it was necessory to applicate bilingual teaching and the purpose of the teaching reform was clear. Improtant factors affecting the effect of bilingual teaching include the student and teacher’s English level and students’ preview and review of the class. In bilingual teaching, 20–30% usage of English is an acceptable ratio for most of the students. Lecture and practice combination is a good model of bilingual teaching. The best method of teaching effectiveness assessment is that the key knowledge points English proposition and Chinese answer. On the premise that there was no significant difference in the quality of the theoretical test papers between the two groups, the theoretical scores of group B were significantly higher than those of group A (p < 0.05).
Conclusions
The bilingual English-Chinese education method may help to improve students’ ability in endocrine system integration course and appears suitable for endocrine system integration course teaching.
Ultra-long air-stability of n-type carbon nanotube films with low thermal conductivity and all-carbon thermoelectric generators
Authors: Amma Yuki , Miura Katsuma , Nagata Sho , Nishi Tsuyoshi , Miyake Shugo , Miyazaki Koji , Takashiri Masayuki
Published: July 2022

This report presents n-type Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) films with ultra-long air stability using a cationic surfactant and demonstrates that the n-type Seebeck coefficient can be maintained for more than two years, which is the highest stability reported thus far to the best of our knowledge. Furthermore, the SWCNT films exhibit an extremely low thermal conductivity of 0.62 ± 0.08 W/(m·K) in the in-plane direction, which is very useful for thin-film TEGs. We fabricated all-carbon-nanotube TEGs, which use p-type SWCNT films and the n-type SWCNT films developed, and their air-stability was investigated. The TEGs did not degrade for 160 days and exhibited an output voltage of 24 mV, with a maximum power of 0.4 uW at a temperature difference of 60 K. These results open a pathway to enable the widespread use of carbon nanotube TEGs as power sources in IoT sensors.
Femtosecond tunable solitons up to 4.8 µm using soliton self-frequency shift in an InF3 fiber.
Authors: Gauthier Jean-Christophe , Olivier Michel , Paradis Pascal , Dumas Marie-Frédérique , Bernier Martin , Vallée Réal
Published: July 2022

A tunable ultrashort soliton pulse source reaching up to 4.8 µm is demonstrated based on a 2.8 µm femtosecond fiber lasercoupled to a zirconium fluoride fiber amplifier followed by a small core indium fluoride fiber.This demonstration is extendingby 500 nm the long wavelength limit previously reported with soliton self-frequency shift (SSFS) sources based on fluoridefibers. Our experimental and numerical investigation highlighted the spectral dynamics associated with the generation of highlyredshifted pulses in the MIR using SSFS enhanced by soliton fission. This study is intended at providing a better understandingof the potential and limitations of SSFS based tunable femtosecond fiber sources in the 3-5 µm spectral range.
Self-Supervised Overlapped Multiple Weed and Crop Species Leaf Segmentation under Complex Light Condition
Authors: Mishra Anand Muni , Kaur Prabhjot , Singh Mukund Pratap , Singh Santar Pal
Published: July 2022

Weeds are unwanted plants that compete with target crops and absorbed the required nutrients from the soil, sunlight, air, etc. The farmers are suffering from weed identification detection due to the homogeneous morphological feature of weed and crop leaves. Computer vision is a sophisticated technique which widely used for weed and crop leaves identification and detection in the agricultural field. This work has used the three different datasets such as “Deep weed”, “Crop Weed Filed Image Dataset” (CWFID), and “Leaf Segmentation Challenge” (LSC), and collected 5090 images for training the model. In this work we have used three grass species as Setariaverticillata, Digitariasanguinalis, Echinochloa crus-Galli, and three broad leaf species as Cerastiumvulgatum L.,Chenopodiumalbums, Amaranthusretroflexus in Vignamungo crops. The first dataset includes 2000, the second 1720 images, and 1370 images from the third dataset. We have proposed a deep learning segmentation model as PSPNet-U-SegNet for data classification and compared the data accuracy from existing segmentation models such as U-SegNet, and U-SegNet.Theresult has been shown the deep weed dataset has achieved98.97% data accuracy and 8.9m IoU. Our findings demonstrate that adding more datasets to the actual field picture collection improves network performance while requiring less manual annotation work.