bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of chronic Nanoselenium treatment on sciatic nerve injury: Behavioral and Biochemical Responses
Authors: Saffarpour Sepideh , Rahimi Behnaz , Janzadeh Atousa , Hosseni Elnaz , Tehran Pargol Sadeghi , Nasirinezhad Farinaz
Published: June 2022

BackgroundNanoselenium as a free radical scavenger suggested being a neuroprotective agent in some neuronal diseases. As the neuropathic pain could be a consequence of a defect in antioxidant defenses and changes in oxidative stress parameters, the present study was planned to investigate the effect of nanoselenium particles on pain-related behaviors and spinal antioxidant defense parameters in the sciatic nerve injury model.MethodsAdult male albino Wistar rats (n = 32) were randomly allocated to the four experimental groups: Control group, Neuropathy group with Chronic constriction injury of the sciatic nerve (CCI), CCI +nanoselenium, CCI+ vehicle. CCI model achieved to origin neuropathic pain symptoms. Nanoselenium or vehicle was injected intraperitoneally for 14 days. The behavioral evaluation was carried out to assess the pain threshold by the radiant heat and von Frey tests. Malondialdehyde (MAD), Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) levels, and catalase activity in the spinal cord were evaluated to investigate the possible relation.Results Our data displayed that CCI triggered neuropathic pain-related behaviors in rats. Chronic treatment with nanoselenium meaningfully improved pain threshold (P < 0.001; F=37.86, F = 29. 82), and decreased the level of MDA (P < 0.01; F = 33.16) and increased the SOD level (P < 0.001; F =13.43) and catalase activity (P<0.05;F=10.17) in the spinal cord of CCI rats.ConclusionChronic nanoselenium treatment can improve pain-related behavior and is associated with a reduction in MDA level and increasing in SOD level and catalase activity in the spinal cord of the CCI rats. Nanoselenium provides a therapeutic alternative for the treatment of neuropathic pain by alteration in lipid peroxidation and antioxidant defense system factors.
Effect of lunch with different calorie and nutrient balances on dinner-induced postprandial glucose variability
Authors: Kuwahara Mai , Kim Hyeon-Ki , Furutani Akiko , Mineshita Yui , Nakaoka Takashi , Shibata Shigenobu
Published: June 2022

Aim: This study aimed to examine the effect of lunches with different calorie intakes (Study 1) and nutrient balances (Study 2) on dinner-induced postprandial glucose fluctuation.Methods: Energy trial (Study 1): Thirteen healthy young participants (n = 10 men, n = 3 women) were investigated to determine the effects of different caloric intakes at lunch on glucose level variability. The study comprised four trials (no lunch, low lunch, standard lunch, and high-energy lunch). Energy balance trial (Study 2): Fourteen healthy young adults (n = 8 men, n = 6 women) were investigated to determine the effect of different nutrient balances during lunch on glucose level variability. The study consisted of four trials (standard, protein-rich, fat-rich, and carbohydrate-rich). In Studies 1 and 2, each trial was spaced at least one day apart, and breakfast and dinner were tested as meals. The mealtimes for each trial were then aligned. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) was used to assess the blood glucose fluctuations.Results: Study 1: The no-lunch and low-energy lunch trials had significantly higher values in the incremental area under the curve (iAUC) of postprandial blood glucose at dinner compared to the standard and high-energy lunch trials (P < 0.01, P < 0.05 vs none), (respectively, P < 0.01 vs low-energy trial). Study 2: A significantly higher postprandial blood glucose iAUC for dinner was found in the fat-rich trial than that in the protein-rich and standard trials, respectively (P < 0.05).Conclusions: Our findings indicate that skipping lunch and low-calorie or high-lipid intake increased postprandial blood glucose levels after dinner.
Feasibility of conducting HIV prevention trials among key populations in Nairobi, Kenya
Authors: Mutisya Elizabeth Mueni , Muturi-Kioi Vincent , Abaasa Andrew , Nyasani Delvin , Kabuti Rhoda W. , Lunani Laura , Kotikot Timothy , Mundia Moses , Mutua Gaudensia , Ombati Geoffrey , Nduta Hannah , Price Matt A , Kimani Joshua , Anzala Aggrey Omu
Published: June 2022

ObjectiveTo assess the feasibility of conducting HIV prevention trials among key populations in Nairobi, Kenya.BackgroundHIV prevention trials require the inclusion of those at high risk of HIV infection and their informed decision to take part and remain in the clinical trial to the end is crucial. In Kenya key populations including men who have sex with men (MSM) and female sex workers (FSW) are, disproportionately, at high risk of HIV infection when compared to the general population. Few trials testing biomedical prevention products against HIV have enrolled Kenyan FSW and MSM. MethodsWe performed simulated vaccine efficacy trial (SiVET) using licensed hepatitis B vaccines as substitutes for a HIV vaccine candidate and included randomization for those immune to hep B. The SiVET was an observational study designed to mimic the rigors of a clinical trial; we assessed HIV risk, provided risk counselling and prevention tools and performed HIV testing at baseline and periodically until the end of the trial. MSM and FSW were enrolled at a ratio of 4:1. Volunteers were assigned to either hepatitis B vaccine or placebo. ResultsRecruitment took approximately 24 months between Sep 2015 and Sep 2017. Of the 368 volunteers screened, 250 (200 MSM and 50 FSW) were enrolled. Reasons for exclusion at screening included: being positive for HIV (n=7), hepatitis (n = 14), other pre-existing medical conditions (n=41), eligible but chose not to enrol (n=47). Most of the volunteers adhered to study procedures and attended their study visits within the study window. These include volunteers who received the second vaccination 244 (98%), the third vaccination 228 (91%) and, the final study visit 217 (87%). The reasons volunteers discontinued from the study early included: relocation and loss to follow up (n=14). A total of 8 cases of HIV infection were observed in 174.5 Person Years at Risk (PYAR), all among MSM, including 5 seroconversions identified at the last study visit, for a HIV incidence of 4.58 cases/ 100 PYAR, among MSM enrolled in the study. ConclusionOur findings suggest that it is possible to conduct HIV prevention trials among key populations in Nairobi with a good adherence to a vaccine efficacy trial schedule. Despite HIV prevention efforts, we also noted a high incidence of HIV infection. This demonstrates the need for effective HIV prevention products in these populations.
Ethnobotanical indices on wound healing medicinal plants in the villages of Gwadabawa/Illela towns of Sokoto State, Northwest Nigeria
Authors: Mathias Sylvester Nefai , Mshelia Halilu Emmanuel , Gaize Tijani Rabiu
Published: June 2022

Background
An ethnomedical survey was undertaken in the Gwadabawa/Illela village communities of Sokoto, Northwestern Nigeria to identify and record information on medicinal plants used for treating wounds and fungal related ailment.
Methods
Traditional Medical Practitioners (TMP’s) and other inhabitants both young and adults were interviewed using semi-structured questionnaires complimented by a voice recording device and an open-ended conversation. Field trips were made to the sites where TMP’s or other informants harvest plants.
Results
The survey identified and recorded 40 plants species from 38 genera and 18 families, used for treating wounds and wound related ailments in Gwadabawa/Illela village communities. Among the 40 species, dicots were represented by 38 species belonging to 38 genera and 16 families, while monocots were two species belonging to two genera and two families. Combretaceae and Fabaceae were the dominant families and contributed to wound healing with 7 species each. Life forms, in term of plants habit/habitat showed a record of trees (20 species), shrubs (12 species) and herb (8 species). Only one climber specie was recorded. Plant part use against their therapeutic indications showed that stembark was the most used plant part in 15 preparations with 37.5% to treat wounds, closely followed by the leaves in 12 preparations with 30.0%, the root and whole plant were reportedly use in five and four preparations with 12.5%, and 10% respectively. Fruit and flower were the least used parts in two and one preparation constituting 5.0% and 2.5% respectively. The informants prepared and prescribed the medicine mainly in the form of powder (70.0%), followed by some form of extraction (12.5%), and sap-juice or latex (10.0%), while the lowest preparation form was recorded for paste and oil (0.5% each). The major method of medicinal administration/ route of application was by spraying topically (65.0%), while other description included the use of oil to apply topically (27.5%) as well as washing and drunk (12.5%). Concoction mixtures recorded some 30–40% mode of preparation as against the use of a single plant, which constitute about 60%. Ethnobotanical indices showed Acacia nilotica as having the highest with a use value of UV: 0.27, (with 8 use reports) and a citation frequency/relative importance index of CF: 11.8, RI: 0.56, while the lowest recoded indices of 0.03 UV and 1.5 CF and 0.07 RI was recorded for some of the other plants in comparison.
Conclusions
There is still a deep reliance on the use of the surveyed plant medicines for wound healing by the people, due to the high level of successes recorded by the informants following traditional practices/applications. Hence, a wholistic or selective scientific study is imminent from the established data base of this research.
Anti-dissipative strategies towards more efficient solar energy conversion
Authors: Cotic Agustina , Cerfontaine Simon , Slep Leonardo , Elias Benjamin , Troian-Gautier Ludovic , Cadranel Alejandro
Published: June 2022

In natural and artificial photosynthesis, light absorption and catalysis are separate processes linked together by exergonic electron transfer. This leads to free energy losses between the initial excited state, formed after light absorption, and the catalytic center formed after the electron transfer cascade. Additional deleterious processes, such as internal conversion and vibrational relaxation, also dissipate as much as 20-30 % of the absorbed photon energy. Minimization of these energy losses, a holy-grail in solar energy conversion and solar fuels production, is a challenging task, because excited states are usually strongly coupled which results in negligible kinetic barriers and very fast dissipation. Here we show that topological control of oligomeric {Ru(bpy)3} chromophores resulted in small excited-state electronic couplings, leading to activation barriers for internal conversion of around 2000 cm–1 and effectively slowing down dissipation. Two types of excited states are populated upon visible light excitation, i.e. a bridging-ligand centered metal-to-ligand charge transfer (MLCTLm), and a 2,2’-bipyridine-centered MLCT (MLCTbpy), which lies 800-1400 cm–1 higher in energy. As a proof-of-concept, bimolecular electron transfer with tri-tolylamine as electron donor was performed, which mimics catalyst activation by sacrificial electron donors in typical photocatalytic schemes. Both excited states were efficiently quenched by tri-tolylamine and produced the corresponding bpy•– and Lm•– centered reduced complexes, as confirmed by transient absorption spectroscopy. This efficiently generated two distinct reduced photosensitizers with different reducing abilities, i.e. –0.93 V and –0.79 V vs NHE for bpy•– and Lm•–, respectively. Hence, this novel strategy not only allows to trap higher energy excited states, before internal conversion and vibrational relaxation set in, saving between 110 and 170 meV and but also leads in fine to 140 meV more potent reductant for energy conversion schemes and solar fuels production. These results lay the first stone for anti-dissipative energy conversion schemes which, in bimolecular electron transfer reactions, harnesses the excess energy saved by controlling dissipative conversion pathways.
D - Spectrum of Hyper-Dumbbell graph
Authors: Kaliyaperumal Sakthidevi , Desikan Kalyani
Published: June 2022

﻿A new class of graphs called dumbbell graphs denoted as DB (Wm,n) on 2(m+n) vertices is obtained by connecting m - vertices at the centres of the two generalized wheel graphs Wm,n, m ≥2, n ≥3 through m - edges. In this paper, we have extended this class of graphs to form Hyper-Dumbbell graph and also obtained its the distance spectrum, distance Laplacian spectrum and distance signless Laplacian spectrum.
Axonal degeneration in the anterior insular cortex in Parkinson’s disease and Dementia with Lewy bodies: more than just an α-synuclein story
Authors: Fathy Yasmine Y. , Jonkman Laura E. , Bol John J. , Timmermans Evelien , Jonker Allert J. , Rozemuller Annemieke J.M. , de Berg Wilma DJ van
Published: June 2022

Background
Axons, crucial for impulse transmission and cellular trafficking, are thought to be primary targets of neurodegeneration in Parkinson’s disease (PD) and Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). Axonal degeneration occurs early, preceeding and exceeding neuronal loss, and contributes to the spread of pathology, yet is poorly described outside the nigrostriatal circuitry. The insula, a cortical brain hub, was recently discovered as highly vulnerable to pathology and plays a role in cognitive deficits in PD and DLB. The aim of this study was to evaluate morphological features and burden of proteinopathy and axonal degeneration in the anterior insular sub-regions in PD, PD with dementia (PDD), and DLB.
Methods
α-Synuclein (α-syn), phosphorylated (p-)tau, and amyloid-β pathology load were evaluated in the anterior insula (agranular and dysgranular) subregions of brain donors (n = 27). Axonal loss was evaluated using modified Bielschowsky silver staining and quantified using stereology. Cytoskeletal damage was comprehensively studied using immunofluorescent multi-labelling and 3D confocal laser-scanning microscopy.
Results
Compared to PD(D), DLB showed significantly higher α-syn and p-tau pathology load, argyrophilic grains, and most severe axonal loss, particularly in the anterior agranular insula. Alternatively, the dysgranular insula showed a significant higher load of amyloid-β pathology. Using mixed model analysis, p-tau contributed most to axonal loss in the DLB group, highest in the anterior agranular insula. Neurofilament and myelin showed degenerative changes including swellings, demyelination, and detachment of the axon-myelin unit.
Conclusions
Our results highlight the selective vulnerability of the anterior agranular insular sub-region to various converging pathologies, leading to impaired axonal integrity in PD(D) and DLB, disrupting its functional properties and potentially contributing to cognitive, emotional, and autonomic deficits.
Propagation of Vortex Gaussian Beam in Atmospheric Blustery and Evaluation of the BER for Laser gradient Launching
Authors: Khamees Hussein Thary , Sameen Esraa Zuhair
Published: June 2022

In this paper, its enhancement of the Virtual digital message classifications, appreciation of its informal user interface design language, and outstanding information conception abilities. Unity of the most common reproduction responsibilities in digital communications is to assess the bit error rate (BER) of dial-up connection. The Formulation of the scintillation index obsessed on BER of Vortex Gaussian beam in a blustery atmosphere and originate by exploitation of the Huygens Fresnel Process to usage this structure and assess the normal bit error rate (BER), therefore it applies the ITU-R Method to find the Kolmogorov of structure constant parameter and Random Phase Screen Method. The scintillation index leaders of a multimode of Vortex Gaussian beam smooth, and used topological charge, by used zenith angle is started from zero to nighty degree. Furthermore, the typical signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) which is related to the scintillation index as against the BER is calculated via the log-normal method of the beam order. and it’s circulated in gradient path, which is presented for some parameters like it, source sizes, focal lengths and used unique wavelength, λ = 1.35μm. According to the one desired wavelength distribution is dealt with theoretically, the outcomes of BER Guesstimate were starting to the increased value of source size, the structure is better-quality and scintillation index, BER and the some of the factors are decreased the value of BER and enhanced the optical communication system.
A Novel Ultrasound Image Diagnosis Method for Thyroid Nodules
Authors: Zheng Zhiqiang , Su Tianyi , Wang Yuhe , Weng Zhi , Chai Jun , Bu Wenjin , Xu Jinjin , Chen Jiarui
Published: June 2022

The incidence of thyroid nodules is increasing year by year. Accurate determination of benign and malignant nodules is an important basis for formulating treatment plans. Ultrasonography is the most widely used in the diagnosis of benign and malignant nodules, but manual diagnosis is highly subjective, and the rate of missed diagnosis and misdiagnosis is high. To improve the accuracy of clinical diagnosis, this paper proposes a new diagnostic model based on deep learning. The diagnostic model adopts the diagnosis strategy of Localization-Classification. First, the distribution law of nodule size and nodule aspect ratio is obtained through data statistics, the multi-scale localization network structure is a priori designed, and the nodule aspect ratio is obtained from the positioning results. Then, the uncropped ultrasound image and the nodule area image are correspondingly input into the two-way classification network, and the improved attention mechanism is used to enhance the feature extraction, and finally, the deep features, the shallow features, and the nodule aspect ratio are fused, input the fully connected layer to complete the classification of benign and malignant nodules. The experimental data set is 4021 ultrasound images, each image is marked under the guidance of doctors, and the ratio of the training set, validation set, and test set is close to 3:1:1. The experimental results show that the accuracy of the multi-scale localization network reaches 93.74%, and the accuracy, specificity, and sensitivity of the classification network reach 86.34%, 81.29%, and 90.48%, respectively. Compared with the champion model of the TNSCUI 2020 classification competition, the accuracy rate is 1.52 points higher. Therefore, the network model proposed in this paper can effectively diagnose benign and malignant thyroid nodules.
Implication of glomerular endothelial expression of interferon-stimulated gene 20, an antiviral effector protein, in human kidney inflammation
Authors: Karasawa Takao , Sato Riko , Imaizumi Tadaatsu , Fujita Masashi , Aizawa Tomomi , Tsugawa Koji , Kawaguchi Shogo , Seya Kazuhiko , Terui Kiminori , Tanaka Hiroshi
Published: June 2022

Background: Besides regulating antiviral response, increased expression of Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) in resident renal cells plays a role in the development of some forms of glomerulonephritis. TLR3 activation leads to the production of type I interferon (IFN), which subsequently induces the expression of IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs). We previously reported that in glomerular resident cells, ISG20 expression is regulated via the TLR3/ IFN-β signaling, however, its detailed implications remain undetermined. Methods: Cultured normal human glomerular endothelial cells (GECs) were treated with polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly IC), Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS), R848, and CpG (TLR3, TLR4, TLR7, and TLR9 agonists). ISG20, CX3CL1/fractalkine and CXCL10/IP-10 mRNA levels were analyzed using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). ISG20 protein expression was evaluated by western blotting. RNA interference (siRNA) was used to knockdown IFN-β and ISG20. CX3CL1 protein levels were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).Results: In GECs, the expression of ISG20 mRNA and protein was increased by poly IC but not by LPS, R848, or CpG treatment. siRNA-mediated knockdown of IFN-β inhibited the poly IC-induced ISG20 expression. Moreover, ISG20 knockdown prevented the poly IC-induced expression of CX3CL1, a representative chemokine that acts as a strong macrophage chemoattractant, whereas it had no effect on CXCL10 expression. Conclusion: In GECs, ISG20 is regulated via TLR3 but not via TLR4, TLR7, or TLR9 signaling, and ISG20 is involved in regulating CX3CL1 production. Besides regulating the antiviral innate immunity, ISG20 may act as a mediator of CX3CL1 production, thereby inducing glomerular inflammation. Thus, modulating ISG20 expression might be a possible therapeutic strategy for glomerulonephritis.
Relationship between left ventricular mechanical synchrony and left ventricular systolic function: A CZT-SPECT analysis
Authors: Sun Qi ting , Huang Rui liang , Fu Song hai , Wu Chen , Guo Xu liang , Li Tian liang , Hou Yue hong , Wang Fei , Xi Rui , Li Sijin
Published: June 2022

Background: CZT-SPECT has good agreement in the evaluation of mechanical synchronization compared with conventional SPECT.Theaim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between left ventricular mechanical contraction synchrony and left ventricular systolic function by gated myocardial perfusion imaging (GMPI) using Cadmium-Zine-Telluride(CZT)single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT).Methods: This retrospective study involved 371 patients （239 malesand 132 females, mean age 61.06 ± 11.78 years old）who underwent GMPI at the Nuclear Medicine Department of Shanxi Cardiovascular Hospital from January 2020 to August 2020. Systolic synchrony parameters and left ventricular systolic function parameters were calculated via Emory Cardiac Toolbox，includingPP, PSD, PHB, HS, HK, EDV, ESV, and LVEF. Based on LVEF value, patients were divided into the severe reduction group (group 1,127cases, EF<35%), moderate reduction group (group 2, 47 cases, 35% ≤ EF < 45%), mild reduction group (group 3,50 cases, 45%≤EF < 50%) and normal group (group 4 ,147 cases, EF≥50%).Differencesin PP, PSD, PHB, HS and HK between the four groups were compared using one-way ANOVA. Differences between two groups were compared usingLSD-ttest. The correlation among functional and mechanical contraction synchronism factors were analyzed using Pearson test.Results: PP, PSD, PHB, HS and HK were significantly different betweenthe four groups (F=5.20, 188.72, 202.88, 171.05, 101.36, P<0.001). Pairwise comparison tests showed significant differences in PSD and PHB in each two groups, and HS and HK in each two groups except for group 2 and 3 (t=0.28 and 0.39, both P> 0.001). PP was significantly higher in group 1, relative to group 3 (t=2.43, P<0.001) and group 4 (t=3.67, P<0.001). Pearson correlation analysis revealed that LVEF negatively correlats with PP, PSD, PHB (r = 0.194, -0.790, -0.799, all P<0.001). HS and HK showed positive correlation for LVEF (r=0.778 and 0.795, P<0.001), PSD, PHB and ESV were had good positive correlation (r=0.778, 0.795, P<0.001), PSD, PHB and EDV had good positivecorrelation (r=0.722, 0.732, P<0.001). However, PP had poor correlation with EDV (r=0.095, P>0.001). HS and HK were negatively correlated with EDV and ESV (r=-0.700～ -0.594,P<0.001).Conclusion: CZT SPECT GMPI provided left ventricular mechanical contraction synchrony parameters that correlated well with left ventricular systolic function. Worse left ventricular mechanical contraction synchrony lead to decreased LVEF , making the systolic synchrony parameters valuable in the prediction of left ventricular systolic function．
Evaluation of Tuberculosis in Children Using Biological Agent Therapy
Authors: Kara Yalçın , Kızıl Mahmut Can , Nepesov Merve İşeri , Tufan Aslı Kavaz , Çetin Nuran , Aydemir Yusuf , Barış Zeren , Doğan Hilal Kaya , Kılıç Ömer , Dinleyici Ener Çağrı
Published: June 2022

Introduction: Treatment with biological agents, which are classified as monoclonal antibodies, cytokines and fusion proteins, increases patient risk for developing tuberculosis (TB) and non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections. In this study, we aimed to investigate the risk of tuberculosis development in pediatric patients using anti-TNF drugs.Method: One hundred and fifteen pediatric cases who were followed up in Eskişehir Osmangazi University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics between January 2011 and December 2021 and received anti-TNF and biological agent treatment were included in the study. The clinical and epidemiological characteristics of the cases were analyzed retrospectively.Results: One hundred and fifteen cases using anti-TNF drugs were included in the study. The mean age of the cases was 13 (2-18) years. Of the cases, 66 (57%) were female and 49 (43%) were male. Of the cases, 76 (66%) had Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, 11 (9.6%) Ulcerative Colitis, 7 (6%) Crohn's, 6 (5.2%) Ankylosing Spondylitis, 5 (%4,3) FMF and 4 of them were followed up due to Psoriasis (3.5%). Etanercept in 74 (64.3%) cases, infliximab in 17 (14.8%) cases, adalimumab in 17 (14.8%) cases, anakinra in 5 (4.3%) cases, and canakinumab was using in 2 (%1.7) cases. PPD was performed in all of the cases and PPD response was measured as <5mm in 89 (77.4%), 5-9 mm in 11 (8.7%), 10-14 mm in 8 (7.4%), >15 mm in 7 (5.6%) cases. Isoniazid (INH) prophylaxis was started for 9 months in 17 cases with the diagnosis of latent tuberculosis. Active tuberculosis was not detected in any of the cases.Conclusion: All patients who are planned to receive anti-TNF therapy should be definitely screened for tüberculosis. Although it is not detected at the beginning of the treatment, regular tuberculosis screening should be continued during the treatment with contact history, symptoms, physical examination, chest X-ray and TST/IGRA in the light of current guidelines
A method for automated drip irrigation and fertigation of crops
Authors: Muthusamy Suresh , Pandiyan Santhiya , Paramasivam Muneeshwari
Published: June 2022

In the agricultural field, continuously monitoring and protecting is an important task for the farmers because it enhances the crop growth. Continuous crop growth and output monitoring is an important feature of agricultural management during the developmental stage. This automated irrigation technique increases the agricultural productivity. In traditional farming method fertilizer for the crops is manually supplied. But, in the modern agriculture technique automating the irrigation system has become essential. There are various irrigation techniques available for the agricultural field. Among these irrigation techniques the most commonly used type of irrigation is the Drip irrigation Method. Nowadays, most of the farmers prefer to use drip irrigation because the quantity of water consumed through drip irrigation is quite low compared with the other irrigation techniques. To move ahead with the drip irrigation technique the process involved in drip irrigation is to be automated fully which does not involves any human intervention. The essential fertilizer to the crops will be supplied with the help of venturi pipes which is known as dripper lines. This method will decrease the man power for supplying fertilizers. Compared to the traditional irrigation system drip irrigation will consume less water. Drip irrigation can also provide water to the plant's roots. Using drip irrigation method the crop will be able to absorb more nutrients compared with the traditional irrigation methods. By automating the drip irrigation system the water consumption for the agricultural field can be further reduced. Various sensors, such as temperature sensors, rain sensors, pH sensors, and humidity sensors, can be used to accomplish this.
Responsiveness of Electromyographically Assessed Skeletal Muscle Inactivity – methodological exploration and implications for health benefits
Authors: Pesola Arto J , Gao Ying , Finni Taija
Published: June 2022

Prolonged sedentary behaviour is detrimental to health due to low contractile activity in large lower extremity muscle groups. This muscle inactivity can be measured with electromyography (EMG), but it is unknown how methodological factors affect responsiveness longitudinally. This study aimed to rank 16 different EMG inactivity thresholds based on their responsiveness (absolute and standardized effect size, responsiveness) using data from a randomized controlled trial targeted at reducing and breaking up sedentary time (InPact, ISRCTN28668090). EMG inactivity duration and usual EMG inactivity bout duration (weighted median of bout lengths) were measured from large lower extremity muscle groups (quadriceps, hamstring) with EMG-sensing shorts. The results showed that the EMG inactivity threshold above signal baseline (3 µV) provided overall the best responsiveness indices. At baseline, EMG inactivity duration of 66.8 ± 9.6% was accumulated through 73.9 ± 36.0s usual EMG inactivity bout duration, both of which were reduced following the intervention (-4.8 percentage points, -34.3 seconds). The proposed methodology can reduce variability in longitudinal designs and the detailed results can be used for sample size calculations. EMG inactivity duration and pattern of accumulation can be measured with appropriate responsiveness, and intervening these outcomes has a potential influence on muscle physiology and health.
Critical role for platelet Ral GTPases in regulating neutrophil extracellular traps and venous thrombosis in mice
Authors: Li Yong , Williams Christopher , Walsh Tony , Brill Alexander , Amulic Borko , Poole Alastair
Published: June 2022

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a multifactorial disease whose incidence is a major global burden on morbidity and mortality rates. While the pathophysiology of the disease is still being uncovered, increasing evidence suggests a more prominent role for platelets than previously suspected. Genetic deletion of both Ral GTPases, RalA and RalB, conditionally in mouse platelets (RalAB-/-), results in a near complete defect in P-selectin externalisation upon activation, while other platelet activation responses and arterial thrombosis were preserved. Using a flow restriction model of DVT, we report that platelet-specific RalAB-/- mice have a near complete ablation of venous thrombosis. Immunohistochemistry analysis revealed that cross sections of thrombi from wildtype (WT) mice consist of an organised scaffolded structure of platelets (CD41 staining) surrounding leukocytes (CD45 staining)/neutrophils (Ly6G staining) producing neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs – CitH3 staining) to stabilize and propagate the thrombus. This organised structure was absent in conditional RalAB-/- thrombi. In vitro analysis of platelet-mediated NET formation was also significantly reduced when platelets lacked RalAB or when platelets were treated with the Ral inhibitor RBC8. In conclusion, we identify platelet Rals as novel critical regulators of venous thrombosis , through their ability to regulate NET formation.
A bloody interaction: Plasma proteomics reveals gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata) impairment caused by Sparicotyle chrysophrii
Authors: Riera-Ferrer Enrique , Piazzon M. Carla , Pozo Raquel Del , Palenzuela Oswaldo , Estensoro Itziar , Sitjà-Bobadilla Ariadna
Published: June 2022

Background:Sparicotylosis is an endemic parasitic disease across the Mediterranean Sea caused by the polyopisthocotylean monogenean Sparicotyle chrysophrii, which affects the gills of gilthead sea bream (GSB; Sparus aurata). Current disease-management, mitigation and treatment strategies are scarce against sparicotylosis. In order to successfully develop more efficient therapeutic strategies against this disease, understanding which molecular mechanisms and metabolic pathways are altered in the host is critical. This study aims to elucidate how S. chrysophrii infection modulates GSB physiological status and to identify the main altered biological processes through plasma proteomics.Methods:Experimental infections were conducted in a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS), exposing naïve recipient GSB (R; 70 g; N= 50) to effluent water from S. chrysophrii-infected GSB. An additional tank with unexposed naïve fish (C; 70 g; N=50) was maintained in parallel, with open water flow disconnected from the RAS. Haematological and infection parameters from sampled C and R fish were registered for 10 weeks. Plasma samples from R fish were categorised into 3 different groups according to their infection intensity in the right-sided gill arches: low, medium and high (L: 1-25; M: 26-50; H: >50 worms, respectively). Five plasma samples of each category were selected, in addition to five C samples and underwent a SWATH-MS proteome analysis. Additional assays on haemoglobin, cholesterol and the lytic activity of the alternative complement pathway were performed to validate the proteome analysis findings.Results:The discriminant analysis of the plasma protein abundance revealed a clear separation into 3 groups (H, M/L and C). A pathway analysis was performed with the differentially quantified proteins, indicating that the parasitic infection mainly affected pathways related to haemostasis, the immune system and lipid metabolism and transport.Twenty-two proteins significantly correlated with the infection intensity, highlighting apolipoproteins, globins and complement c3. Validation assays in blood and plasma (haemoglobin, cholesterol and lytic activity of alternative complement pathway) confirmed these correlations.Conclusions:Sparicotylosis profoundly alters the haemostasis, the innate immune system and the lipid metabolism and transport in GSB. This study gives a crucial global overview of the pathogenesis of sparicotylosis and highlights new targets for further research.
Introduction of laparoscopic nephrectomy for autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease as the standard procedure
Authors: Thomas Michael N. , Datta Rabi R. , Wahba Roger , Buchner Denise , Chiapponi Costanza , Kurschat Christine , Grundmann Franziska , Müller Roman , Henze Jörn , Meyer Franziska , Bruns Christiane J. , Stippel Dirk L.
Published: June 2022

Purpose: Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is a common hereditary disorder and accounts for 5-10% of all cases of kidney failure. 50% of ADPKD patients reach kidney failure by the age of 58 years requiring dialysis or transplantation. Nephrectomy is performed in up to 20% of patients due to compressive symptoms, renal-related complications or in preparation for kidney transplantation. However, due to the large kidney size in ADPKD nephrectomy can come with a considerable burden. Here we evaluate our institution’s experience of laparoscopic nephrectomy (LN) as an alternative to standard-procedure nephrectomy for ADPKD patients.Materials and Methods: We report the results of the first 12 consecutive laparoscopic cystnephrectomies from 08/2020 to 08/2021 in our institution. Intra- and postoperative parameters were collected and analyzed. Health related quality of life (HRQoL) was assessed using the SF36 questionnaire.Results: Median age of patients was 60 years (±8,1a). Mean preoperative kidney volume measured by volumetric analyzes in abdominal CT scan was 3795ml (range 1255-8253ml). Mean operative time was 158min (range 85-227min). Mean postoperative stay was 11 days (range 6-35 days). Only one postoperative complication Clavien-Dindo ³3 occurred (8,3%). SF36 HRQol questionnaire revealed excellent postoperative quality of life after LN.Conclusion: Laparoscopic nephrectomy in ADPKD patients is a safe and effective operative procedure independent of kidney size with excellent postoperative outcomes and benefits of minimally invasive surgery.
New Findings Regarding the Influence of Assistants on Intraoperative Inflatable Penile Prosthesis Complications
Authors: Gross Martin , Wu Shuo-Chieh , Swanton Amanda , Jones James
Published: June 2022

Inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) implantation is the definitive treatment for refractory erectile dysfunction, yet exposure to this procedure during training of urology residents is often limited. To assess the effects of resident participation in IPP surgery, we compared surgical outcomes in a retrospective case series of 253 IPP surgeries by a single surgeon at the same institution between 2017 and 2020 with the assistance of either a registered nurse first assistant (RNFA) or a resident. Pertinent patient characteristics and surgical complications including device complications, surgical site infection, post-operative bleeding, iatrogenic injury, cardiovascular events, pulmonary events, and urinary retention were documented. Measured outcomes included operative time, Emergency Room (ER) visits, unplanned post-operative visits, pain medication refills, and IPP surgery-associated Clavien-Dindo complications. Compared to RFNAs, resident-assisted IPP surgery was associated with significant increase in mean operative time (71.4 min vs 87.9 min, p<0.01) and post-operative ER visits (3.0% vs 10.6%, p=0.03) but not IPP surgery-associated complications (19.7% vs 20.8%, OR 1.03, 95%CI [0.46 -2.30], multivariate regression) or other measured outcomes. Resident participation did not increase IPP-related complications compared to a dedicated RFNA, supporting the notion that resident assistance in these procedures is appropriate and an important part of training.
Differentiating Callosobruchus of South India with Special Reference to Callosobruchus maculatus - A Useful Guide for Entomologists and Non-Entomologists
Authors: Seram Devina , Natesan Senthil , Muthaiyan Pandiyan , Karthikeyan Adhimoolam , Samuel Kennedy John
Published: June 2022

Losses of seed produce in pulses due to seed beetles is a very serious problem faced by farmers and traders during storage. Resistance (or susceptibility) and the degree of damage in legume seeds differ with respect to different bruchid species. The seed beetles, Callosobruchus chinensis and C. maculatus, are the two most widespread bruchid species in Southern India, which is being potentially misidentified. With this perspective, fundamental studies on their morphology are of great importance for correct identification, species specific resistant variety improvement and management. For a reliable and effective resistance evaluation in breeding program, a known, identified species or biotype must be employed. In this study, dissection of striking external morphological characters of both the species was done for comparisons. Type of antennae and hind femur are two common characters used for distinguishing these allied species. However, the most reliable genus and species indicators are variation in the spines on the underside of hind femur. The possible distinguishing characters of these two widespread species are illustrated in light of previously published literatures including other rare Callosobruchus species found in India viz. C. nigritus and C. orientalis, reported from Manipur, India. Furthermore, Scanning Electron Microscope study of South Indian C. maculatus strain revealed the presence of different types of sensilla on mouthparts and antennal regions, which had different functions. It is expected that this paper will provide practical information to both entomologists and non-entomologists working on bruchids especially plant breeders involved in resistant varietal development in the tropics and sub-tropical countries.
Sound absorption structure and chambers in otoliths of Chinese Bahaba (Bahaba taipingensis): A “Giant Panda” fish species
Authors: Gu Yang-Guang , Huang Hong-Hui , Liang Yan , Fang Yan , Dai Ming , Ou You-Jun , Wang Liang-Gen , Wang Xu-Nuo
Published: June 2022

As a critically endangered (CR) fish species, Chinese Bahaba is a unique “Giant Panda” fish species in China and has been listed among the national first-class wildlife protection animals and China's top 10 genetic resources of aquatic products since 2021. This fish species is of high commercial value because of its swim bladder that is commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine. Its otoliths are the sensory organs immersed in the endolymph for maintaining its balance and hearing. However, rare information has been reported on the sound absorption structure and chambers of otoliths of such “Giant Panda” fish. The big “C” groove was found in the fish’s front sagittal otolith with the crystal cluster in the back sagittal otolith, the former of which is a 3D layered structure, that is constructed by elongated prismatic crystals. Besides, there are numerous small holes and adhesion material in this 3D layered structure, where many chambers were also found, indicating that some specific sounds may be captured by this structure and these chambers may then amplify such sounds at a certain wavelength. This finding could be of great importance for protecting and conserving this critically endangered species.
Gastrointestinal infections are underestimated but fatal in chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy: a real-world study leveraging FDA adverse event reporting system from 2017 to 2021
Authors: Song Zhiqiang , Liu Yue , Xu Lili , Liu Na , Yang Jianmin , Wang Yang
Published: June 2022

Clinical trials are underpowered to detect infrequent toxicities following chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapy such as gastrointestinal adverse events (GIAEs). Here, we extensively revealed the GIAEs following four U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved CD19-targeted CAR-T products using FDA adverse event reporting system, tisagenlecleucel, axicabtagene-ciloleucel, lisocabtagene maraleucel, and brexucabtagene autoleucel. The disproportionality analyses were performed using reporting odds ratios (ROR) and information component (IC) and the lower bounds of the ROR and IC 95% confidence interval (CI) (ROR025 and IC025) exceeding one and zero were deemed significant, respectively. Among 105,087,611 reports in FAERS between January 2017 and December 2021, 1518 CAR-T-associated GIAEs reports were identified. 23 GIAEs (n = 281, 18.51%) were significantly overreported following CAR-T therapy compared with the full database, of which 11 GIAEs (n = 156, 10.28%) were associated with gastrointestinal infection such as clostridium difficile colitis (n = 44 [2.90%], ROR = 5.55 [95% CI: 4.12-7.46]), enterovirus infection (n = 23 [1.52%], ROR = 20.02 [13.15-30.48]), and mucormycosis (n = 15 [0.99%], ROR = 5.13 [3.09-8.54], all IC025 > 0). Overall, the fatality rate of 11 overreported infection-related GIAEs was 29.49%, which was higher following tisagenlecleucel compared with axicabtagene-ciloleucel (31.45% vs. 24.14%). In this largest post-marketing study to date, we firstly analyzed the CAR-T-associated GIAEs comprehensively and found that gastrointestinal infections were underestimated but led to substantial mortality in CAR-T recipients, which provided a deeper understanding of CAR-T therapy and early alert of those rare but life-threatening GIAEs for the clinician.
The Synergistic Electroantennogram Responses of Spodoptera litura to Plant Volatiles and Sex Pheromones
Authors: Yao Mengshuabg , Zhang Zhilin , Meng Jianyu , Chen Wenlong , Zhang Changyu
Published: June 2022

The common cutworm Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), an important pest of tobacco, has substantial detrimental effects on many crops production. Sex pheromone has been widely used in pest forecasting and controlling. Plant volatiles as a kind of synergists may provide more efficient services to avoid the limitation of sex attractant in comprehensive trapping pests. To improve the effectiveness of its female-produced sex pheromone were evaluated using electroantennography. The 21 volatile compounds were tested in S.litura, several compounds with strong responses were selected and compared the responses of different concentrations, different proportions and mixed preparation. The both females and males had strong responses by Benzaldehyde, Heptaldehyde, cis-3-Hexen-1-ol, Ethyl benzoate, Myrcene, Benzyl alcohol, with the increase of concentrations, the EAG response values also increased gradually. Cis-3-Hexen-1-ol was mixed with Heptaldehyde, the strongest responses of females and males were elicited when the ratio was 9:1 and 8:2, respectively. And cis-3-Hexen-1-ol mixed with Myrcene, the strongest responses were elicited when the ratio was 1:1 and 3:7. Heptadehyde mixed with Benzyl alcohol, the strongest responses were elicited when the ratio was 1:9 and 6:4. Also, three formulations including single Heptaldehyde, the mixture of cis-3-Hexen-1-ol and Heptaldehyde, the mixture of cis-3-Hexen-1-ol and Myrcene were strongly significantly enhanced the EAG responses of the moths to sex pheromone. This study demonstrates the capability of S. litura females and males to detect and discriminate among different volatiles,and provides a theoretical basis for further olfactometer and field trapping works.
Survival benefits and disparities in radiation therapy for elderly patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Cao Biyang , Wu chenchen , Zhang Letian , Jing Wang
Published: June 2022

Purpose: The effects of radiation therapy (RT) on outcomes for elderly patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) are not well defined in the literature. We extracted data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Result (SEER) database to explore the impact of RT on survival in elderly PDAC patients. Methods: Elderly patients (age≥ 65years) with PDAC were collected from the SEER database between 2004 and 2018. Logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with RT administration. Overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) of patients receiving RT or non-RT were evaluated by Kaplan–Meier curves with log-rank test. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to estimate the effects of prognostic factors on survival. Propensity score matching (PSM) was applied to balance the baseline characteristics of the two groups. Subgroup analyses were carried out based on clinical characteristics.Results: A total of 12245 patients met our inclusion criteria with 2551 (20.8%) patients treated with RT while 9694 (79.2%) patients did not. In the matched population, RT was associated with significantly improved survival (median OS, 14.0 vs. 11.0 months; HR for OS, 0.818, 95% CI, 0.768 - 0.872, p<0.001; and HR for CSS, 0.816, 95% CI, 0.765-0.871, p<0.001). Subgroup analysis revealed that RT improved OS and CSS compared with non-RT in those patients aged 65 to 80 years, in regional and distant stages, without surgery, or received chemotherapy. Younger age, diagnosis in an earlier period, primary site in the head, localized disease, greater tumor size, and the presence of chemotherapy were associated with receipt of RT (all p< 0.05).Conclusions: RT is associated with significantly improved survival for elderly PDAC patients, especially for these inoperable patients. There are significant differences in the elderly populations who receive RT.