bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Counseling With Cognitive Behavioral Approach (CBT) on Self-esteem and Body Image of Lactating Mothers: Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Zamiri-Miandoab Nasrin , Mirghafourvand Mojgan , Nemati Fatemeh , Kamalifard Mahin
Published: May 2021

Background: Self-esteem and body image are the factors that change during different periods of a woman’s life. Some of the women experience low self-esteem and negative body image in Pregnancy and postpartum. These two factors along with other factors can reduce the rate of exclusive breastfeeding among women. Cognitive-behavior therapy is one of the psychological approaches that is effective on the betterment of many of the psychological and personality disorders such as body image disorder as well as improvement of self-esteem. The aim of this randomized control trial is to recognize the effects of cognitive-behavior counseling during pregnancy period on self-esteem, body image (primary outcome) and exclusive breastfeeding (secondary outcome).Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, 70 eligible pregnant women referring to health centers of Tabriz-Iran were assigned to two groups of 35 as intervention and control groups using randomized blocking method. For intervention group, 8 sessions of cognitive-behavior therapy based on Cash and Strachan’s therapeutic protocol for body image and Michael Free’s for self-esteem were performed. Rosenberg self-esteem scale and multidimensional body self-relation questionnaire (MBSRQ) were completed before intervention, immediately after intervention, and 4 weeks after delivery. Likewise, exclusive breastfeeding questionnaire was completed 4 weeks after childbirth. Independent t-test, chi square and repeated measures ANOVA tests were used to analyze the data. Results: According to repeated measures ANOVA test and with controlling baseline score, the mean scores on self-esteem (adjusted mean difference (AMD): 7.18; 95%CI: 4.43 to 9.94; p<0.001) and body image (AMD: 49.74; 95%CI: 70.91 to 28.54; p<0.001) in the intervention group were significantly higher than the control group. 63.6% of intervention group mothers and 30.3% of control group mothers had exclusive breastfeeding which for the intervention group was significantly higher than the control group based on chi square test (p=0.007). Conclusions: Cognitive-behavior approach was effective on the improvement of self-esteem and body image and through which might lead to the increase of exclusive breastfeeding among women. Trial register number: Iranian registry clinical trials (IRCT20110524006582N33). Date of registration: 2020-8-19. URL: https://en.irct.ir/trial/43395.
Development and Utilization of Microsatellite Markers to Assess Genetic Variation Coupled with Modelling Range Shifts of Dodonaea Viscosa in Isolated Taita Hills and Mount Kenya Forests
Authors: Saina Josphat K. , Gichira Andrew W. , Ngarega Boniface K. , Li Zhi Zhong , Gituru Robert W. , Hu Guang Wan , Liao Kuo
Published: May 2021

For the protection and maintenance of fragmented and highly disturbed habitats, understanding genetic variation is essential. The Taita Hills of Kenya is the northernmost part of the Eastern Arc Mountains and has been identified as one of the top 10 biodiversity hotspots globally. The current forests in the Taita Hills have been highly fragmented over the past century. In order to appraise the influence of anthropological disturbance and fragmentation on the genetic variation of Dodonaea viscosa (Sapindaceae), we studied its preliminary genetic variability and population structure using newly developed microsatellite (SSR) markers, combined with ecological niche modeling analyses. We utilized the Illumina paired-end technology to sequence the D. viscosa’s genome and developed its microsatellite markers. In total, 646,428 sequences were analyzed and 49,836 SSRs were identified from 42,638 sequences. A total of 18 primer pairs were designed to test polymorphism among 92 individuals across eight populations. The average observed heterozygosity and expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.119 to 0.982 and from 0.227 to 0.691, respectively. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) revealed 78% variance within individuals and only 20% among the eight populations. According to SDM results, D. viscosa’s suitable habitats have been gradually reducing since the last glacial maximum (LGM), and the situation will worsen under the extreme pessimist scenario of RCP 8.5. Moreover, genetic diversity was significantly greater in larger fragments. Therefore, urgent conservation management of smaller fragmented patches is necessary to protect this disturbed region and maintain the genetic resources.
Using A Novel Continuous Bioreactor In Enhancing The Biogas Production
Authors: Khorshidi Mohammad Amui , Beiki Hossein , Kanvisi Mojtaba
Published: May 2021

Background: Since fossil fuels are limited and their burning is considered the main reason for environmental pollution, thinkers in the energy section are looking for a substitute for them. They have considered biogas as a potent replacement. Constant composition and volumetric rate, are ones of the challenges faced in term of using biogas. Therefore, in this study, a novel easily portable continuous bioreactor was designed and constructed to produce biogas at constant composition and volumetric rate, which is suitable for human uses. Sugar beet waste and anaerobic sludge were used as substrate and inoculum with an S/I ratio of 0.5 to 1, to produce biogas. Four parameters, i.e., hydraulic retention time (HRT), pH, biogas volume, and methane composition, were measured and compared.Results: The results of the mentioned reactor were compared with those of batch ones. The measurement revealed that the continuous reactor had a good performance on biogas purity and volumetric rate. The biogas contained about 53% methane. The suitable and preferable HRT and organic loading rate (OLR) were 18 days and 34.86 g VS/day. After the 18th day of operation, the biogas production process inside the continuous reactor was stable reaching about 411.2 ml STD/g VS per day.Conclusions: The reactor designed makes the biogas production process more manageable. Besides the production of the cumulative volume of biogas and constant methane percentage was achieved. As a result, the biogas produced is consumed daily, and a certain amount of gas is available every day. Since the percentage of gas produced is constant, it is possible to adjust the gas appliances with this amount of methane.
A Network Pharmacology-Based Study on Pharmacological Activities and Mechanisms of Essential Oil in Leaves of C. Grandis ‘Tomentosa’
Authors: You Jieshu , He Sheng-cai , Chen Liang , Guo Zhen-hui , Gao Fei , Li Ren-kai , Qu Wei-ling , Chen Wei
Published: May 2021

Background and Objective: Citrus grandis ‘Tomentosa’, as the fruit epicarp of C. grandis ‘Tomentosa’ or C. grandis (L.) Osbeck, is widely used in health food and medicine. Actually, based on our survey results, there are also rich essential oils with bioativities in leaves, but the chemical compounds in this part and relevant pharmacological activities have never been studied systematically yet. Therefore, this study was to preliminarily decipher the pharmacological activities and mechanisms of the essential oil in leaves of C. grandis ‘Tomentosa’ by an integrated network pharmacology approach. Methods: Essential oil compositions from leaves of C. grandis ‘Tomentosa’ were identified using GC-MS/MS. And then the targets of these oil compositions were predicted and screened from TCMSP, SwissTargetPrediction, STITCH and SEA databases. STRING database was used to construct the protein-protein interaction networks, and the eligible protein targets were input into WebGestalt 2019 to carry out GO enrichment and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis. Based on the potential targets, disease enrichment information was obtained by TTD databases. Cytoscape software was used to construct the component-target-disease network diagrams. Results: Finally, 61 essential oil chemical components were identified by GC-MS/MS, which correspond to 679 potential targets. Biological function analysis showed that there were 12, 19, and 12 GO entries related to biological processes, cell components and molecular functions, respectively. 43 KEGG pathways were identified, of which the most significant categories were terpenoid backbone biosynthesis, TNF signaling pathway and leishmaniasis. The component-target-disease network diagram revealed that the essential oil compositions in leaves of C. grandis ‘Tomentosa’ could treat tumors, immune diseases, neurodegenerative diseases and respiratory diseases, which were highly related to CHRM1, PTGS2, CASP3, MAP2K1 and CDC25B.Conclusion: This study may provide a new insight into C. grandis ‘Tomentosa’ or C. grandis (L.) Osbeck and may provide useful information for future utilization and development.
Untargeted Metabolomics Analysis Revealed Lipometabolic Disorders in Perirenal Adipose Tissue of Rabbits Subject to a High-fat Diet
Authors: Xia Siqi , Shao Jiahao , Elzo Mauricio A. , Tang Tao , Li Yanhong , Lai Tianfu , Gan Mingchuan , Ma Yuan , Jia Xianbo , Lai Songjia , Wang Jie
Published: May 2021

Backgroud：High-fat diet (HFD) has been widely recognized as a significant modifiable risk for insulin resistance, inflammation, type 2-diabetes (T2D), atherosclerosis and other metabolic diseases. The biological mechanisms responsible for disturbances in perirenal adipose tissue (PAT) and other tissues in rodents fed a HFD are well understood. However, the biological mechanism responsible for key metabolic disorders in PAT of rabbits subject to HFD remains unclear. Methods: Here, untargeted metabolomics (LC-MS/MS) combined with liquid chromatography (LC) and high resolution mass spectrometry (MS) were used to evaluate PAT metabolic changes. Histological observations showed that the adipocytes cells and density of PAT was significantly increased in HFD rabbits. Principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) showed noticeable changes in PAT metabolites between the HFD and standard normal diet (SND) rabbit groups. Results: Our study revealed 206 differential metabolites (21 up-regulated and 185 down-regulated), and then the 47 differential metabolites (13 up-regulated and 34 down-regulated), mainly phospholipids, fatty acids, steroid hormones and amino acids, chosen as potential biomarkers to help explain metabolic disorders caused by HFD. These metabolites were mainly associated with biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids, the arachidonic acid metabolic pathway, the ovarian steroidogenesis pathway, and the platelet activation pathway. Our study revealed that a HFD caused significant metabolic disorders in rabbit PAT. Conclusion: High levels of phospholipids, fatty acids, steroid hormones and l-methionine may inhibit oxygen respiration by increasing the adipocytes cells and density cause mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum dysfunction, produce inflammation, and finally lead to insulin resistance, thus increasing the risk of T2D , atherosclerosis, and other metabolic syndromes.
Radiation Synthesis and Characterization of Polymeric Wet Adhesives for Attracting and Trapping Insects
Authors: Awadallah-F Ahmed , Elhady M. A. , Mousaa I. M.
Published: May 2021

Different blends are fabricated from oleic acid (OA), polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP), and cis-1,4-polyisoprene (PI) are prepared at different ratios as wet adhesives for attracting and trapping insects. Different ratios of blends (PVP-PI)/OA are (1:2, 1:1 and 2:1 g/g), respectively. Ratio between PVP and PI is 9 to 1 (g/g). The OA, PVP and PI are dissolved to form homogenous blends in all in-situ compositions. The blends were exposed to dose of 10 to 50 kGy. Adhesion properties, water sorption, Fourier transform infrared, thermogravimetric analysis and scan electron microscopy were conducted. The results showed that adhesion of all blends were augmented by increasing the irradiation dose up to 20 kGy. The best ratio of blend was 2:1 which contained high concentration of oleic acid. Blends (PVP-PI)/OA were tested to attract and trap flies and mosquitoes. Results confirmed good efficiency of (PVP-PI)/OA as wet adhesives for attracting and trapping flies and mosquitoes.
Volumetric Assessment and Clinical Predictor of Cirrhotic Livers With Normal Liver Function Undergoing Hepatectomy
Authors: Shimizu Takayuki , Aoki Taku , Park Kyung-Hwa , Matsumoto Takatsugu , Shiraki Takayuki , Sakuraoka Yuhki , Mori Shozo , Iso Yukihiro , Ishizuka Mitsuru , Kubota Keiichi
Published: May 2021

Aim: Indocyanine green retention rate at 15 minutes (ICGR15) is a frequently-used indicator of liver function. However, cirrhotic liver is sometimes observed intraoperatively despite a normal preoperative ICGR15 (<10 %). Herein, we conducted clinical and volumetric assessments of cirrhotic livers with normal ICGR15.Methods: Patients undergoing hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma were divided into 3 groups: non-cirrhotic livers (Group A, n=112): cirrhotic livers with ICGR15 <10% (Group B, n=71): and cirrhotic livers with ICGR15 >10% (Group C, n=296). Background characteristics and surgical outcomes were compared between groups. Functional liver volume (FLV) was computed using total liver volume and signal intensity ratio. Liver parenchymal cell volume ratio was measured in non-cancerous tissue obtained from resected specimens. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to detect clinical characteristics correlating with cirrhotic liver pathology with normal ICGR15.Results: There was no significant difference between groups in TLV. FLV was gradually reduced from Group A toward Group C. Liver parenchymal cell volume ratio was also gradually reduced from Group A toward Group C. Multivariate analysis revealed that platelet count (<12 x104/mm3) (P = 0.001) and prothrombin time (<80 %) (P = 0.025) were significantly associated with cirrhotic liver pathology among patients with normal ICGR15.Conclusion: Our results suggested that cirrhotic liver pathology despite normal liver function was characterized by slightly decreasing liver parenchyma as well as slight degree of fibrosis. Platelet count and PT% are useful for predicting liver cirrhosis with normal ICGR15.
Haploidentical Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation Using Post-transplant Cyclophosphamide for Children With Non-malignant Diseases
Authors: Hashem Hasan , Najjar Rula , Shanap Mayada Abu , Khattab Eman , Rihani Rawad , Tbakhi Abdelghani , Sultan Iyad
Published: May 2021

Haploidentical hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is a valuable curative option for children with non-malignant diseases. Haploidentical HCT using post-transplant cyclophosphamide (PTCy) is a readily available option in the absence of an HLA- matched donor. We conducted a retrospective single-center study on the outcome of haploidentical HCT in children with non-malignant diseases. We gathered data from 44 patients underwent HCT in the period 2015 to 2020. The indications for HCT were bone marrow failure, primary immunodeficiency, metabolic disorders, and hemoglobinopathy. Median age at HCT was 4 years (range 0.7-20).The conditioning regimens were myeloablative (n=16), or reduced intensity (n=26). After a median follow-up of 20 months (range 4-71), 2-year overall survival was 89% and 2 year GvHD-free relapse-free survival (GRFS) was 66%. Incidence of primary graft failure was 13.6%. Cumulative incidence of grade II-IV acute and moderate/severe chronic GvHD were 20% and 6.4%, respectively. Younger age at HCT (<5 years) and primary immunodeficiency were significantly associated with better GRFS (p <0.05). In conclusion, haploidentical HCT using PTCy is feasible and curative in children with non-malignant diseases lacking an HLA-matched donor. Early diagnosis and referral in addition to timely treatment can further improve outcomes.
Multidimensional Geriatric Evaluation in Acromegaly: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Gagliardi Irene , Chiloiro Sabrina , Vallillo Maria , Bondanelli Marta , Volpato Stefano , Giampietro Antonella , Bianchi Antonio , De Marinis Laura , Zatelli Maria Chiara , Ambrosio Maria Rosaria
Published: May 2021

Background: Improvement in acromegaly management increased disease survival and prevalence. Evidence regarding acromegaly in older adults are sparse. We aim to explore acromegaly impact on aging process quality.Methods: Multicenter case-control study conducted on 42 older adults (≥ 65 years) acromegaly patients (ACRO) compared to an age- and gender-matched control group (CTR). Each participant underwent a multidimensional geriatric evaluation.Results: Mean age in both groups was 73 ± 6 years and female gender was most represented (69%). 13 ACRO were in remission and 29 had active disease controlled by medical therapy except for one patient. ACRO showed worse physical performance and mobility skills worsening with age as compared to CTR. ACRO performed poorly in functional status assessment, and age negatively correlated with instrumental and basic daily activities execution. Cognitive evaluation was significantly impaired in ACRO vs. CTR, worsening with age. No difference was found concerning nutritional and psychological status. Musculoskeletal and bone diseases were more frequent in ACRO than in CTR (52% vs. 12%; 64% vs. 10%; P< 0.05) and independently associated with geriatric outcomes in ACRO. ACRO reported a less satisfactory quality of life concerning physical activity and pain, general health, vitality, social activities.Conclusions: Our study demonstrates increased frailty of older acromegaly patients as compared to non-acromegaly patients with a consequent negative impact on their quality of life. Therefore, it seems advisable to include physical, functional, cognitive, nutritional, and psychological status assessments in routine clinical practice. Further studies are needed to identify the most appropriate geriatric tools.
WITHDRAWN: Establishment of a Finite Element Model and Biomechanical Analysis of Different Fixation Methods for Total Talar Prosthesis Replacement
Authors: Yang Qian dong , Chang Le , Bian Xuting , Ma Lin , Xu Tao , Tang Kanglai
Published: May 2021

Back ground：A three-dimensional finite element model of the whole foot with high geometric similarity was established and used to simulate the conditions after whole talar prosthesis implantation with several fixation methods, including Screw fixation of subtalar+talus-navicular joint, fixation with screws at only the subtalar joint, and fixation without screws. The biomechanical characteristics of the talus prosthesis were assessed in different gait phases to guide the selection of surgical methods in clinical practice.Methods：With the three-dimensional CT data of a volunteer's foot, Mimics13.0 and Geomagic10.0 software were used to carry out geometric reconstruction of the ankle-related tissues, and Hypermesh10.0 software was used for grid division and material attribute selection. Finally, the data were imported into Abaqus 6.9, and the simulated screw data were applied to different models. Finite element models with different fixation methods were simulated, and the stresses exerted by the human body in three gait phases (heel-strike, midstance and push-off) were simulated. The pressure changes in the articular surface around the talus or the prosthesis, the micromotion of the talus and the prosthesis and ankle motion were measured. Results：Finite element analysis on the biomechanical mechanism showed that screw fixation of the prosthesis in different gait phases mainly increases the pressure on the tibialis articular surface as well as decreases the pressure on the fused articular surface and joint micromotion, which hinders ankle motion. The indicator values were nearly the same in the models of fixation without screws and the normal state.Conclusion：The 3D finite element model created in this study has been verified to be an accurate and reliable model. The biomechanical mechanism varies by fixation method according to finite element analysis. Fixation of the prosthesis without screws yields values most similar to normal values.
The Oncogenic Role of HIF-1α/miR-182-5p/ZFP36L1 Signaling Pathway in Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Gang , Zhou Fangzheng , Ou Tong , Sun Haiyan , Shan Zhirui , Lu Yingshen , Chen Gui , Yuan Simin , Zhang Xiaowen , Wu Song
Published: May 2021

Background: Accumulating evidence indicates that dysregulation of human microRNAs could serve as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), whereas miR-182-5p has not been explored in NPC. Our study aims to elucidate the biological function of miR-182-5p in NPC in vitro and in vivo and the potential molecular mechanism involved. Methods: Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was performed to determine miR-182-5p expression in NPC primary tissues and cell lines. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) for ZFP36L1 was conducted in NPC samples. Western blot was used to evaluate protein expression in cell lines. A series of functional assays were carried out to evaluate the roles of miR-182-5p and ZFP36L1 in tumor development and progression of NPC. Bioinformatics tools and luciferase reporter assays were utilized to identify the potential mechanisms of action. Moreover, rescue experiments were applied to explore whether ZFP36L1 mediated the effects of miR-182-5p in NPC. Results: Up-regulation of miR-182-5p was significantly associated with tumor development and poor prognosis in patients with NPC. Functional study demonstrated that miR-182-5p overexpression enhanced, whereas suppression of miR-182-5p impeded NPC cell proliferation, migration, tumorigenesis and metastasis. Mechanistically, miR-182-5p interacted with ZFP36L1 at two sites in its 3’ un-translated region (UTR) and repressed ZFP36L1 expression in NPC. Consistently, an inverse correlation was observed between the expression levels of miR-182-5p and ZFP36L1 using clinical NPC tissues, and down-regulation of ZFP36L1 in NPC predicts poor survival. Furthermore, overexpression of miR-182-5p in NPC was attributable to the transcriptional activation effect induced by hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α). Conclusion: Our data suggest that miR-182-5p facilitates cell proliferation and migration in NPC through its ability to down-regulate ZFP36L1 expression, and that the HIF-1α/miR-182-5p/ZFP36L1 axis may serve as a novel therapeutic target in the management of NPC.
Multiple categories of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in atmospheric PM2.5 associated with changes in lipid profiles: a longitudinal study in Beijing
Authors: Wang Xue , Li Ang , Zhao Meiduo , Xu Jing , Mei Yayuan , Xu Qun
Published: May 2021

Background
Lipid disorder has been demonstrated as important biomarkers for many chronic diseases, while PM2.5 is becoming an emerging risk factor to altered lipid profiles. However, few studies have paid attention to the changes of comprehensive lipid indices caused by PM2.5-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) exposure, especially among older adults population. We aimed to investigate whether PM2.5-bound PAHs were associated with the changes of lipid profiles, and whether this association could differ among multiple categories of PAHs.
Methods
A longitudinal study including 98 adults was conducted in Beijing, China, from November 2016 to January 2018. Multiple categories of PAHs were classified into low-molecular-weight PAHs (LMW-PAHs), high-molecular-weight PAHs (HMW-PAHs), carcinogenic PAHs (c-PAHs) and non-carcinogenic PAHs (nc-PAHs) based on their molecular weight and carcinogenicity potential. Linear mixed-effects models were used to explore the association between multiple categories of PAHs and lipid profiles, including single-pollutant model, two-pollutant model, and constituent-residual model.
Results
We found that high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels were significantly decreased by 1.00% (95%CI, -1.98 to -0.30%) to 9.52% (95%CI, -13.93 to -4.88%) in association with a 10 ng/m3 increase in moving averages of the multiple categories of PAHs. We also found significant increases in total cholesterol (TG), castelli risk indexes I and II (CRI-I and II), and atherogenic coefficient (AC) by 4.08% (95% CI, 0.10 to 7.25%) to 40.49% (95% CI, 13.88 to 73.33%) were associated with a 10 ng/m3 increase of multiple categories of PAHs.
Conclusion
Multiple categories of PAHs were significantly associated with altered lipid profiles. Although some PAHs are not carcinogenic, they may cause dyslipidemia, which in turn affects chronic diseases.
Real-world data analysis of patients with cancer of unknown primary
Authors: Kang Sora , Jeong Jae Ho , Yoon Shinkyo , Yoo Changhoon , Kim Kyu-Pyo , Cho Hyungwoo , Jung Jinhong , Ryoo Baek-Yeol , Kim Jeong Eun
Published: May 2021

Cancer of unknown primary (CUP) is a heterogeneous malignancy in which the primary site of the tumor cannot be identified through standard work-up. The survival outcome of CUP is generally poor, and there is no consensus for treatment. Here, we comprehensively analyzed the real-world data of 218 patients with CUP (median age, 62 years [range, 19–91]; male, 62.3%). Next-generation sequencing was conducted in 22 (10%) patients, one of whom showed level 1 genetic alteration. Most (60.3%) patients were treated with empirical cytotoxic chemotherapy, and two patients received targeted therapy based on the NGS results. The median OS was 8.3 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 6.2–11.4), and the median progression-free survival of patients treated with chemotherapy was 4.4 months (95% CI, 3.4–5.3). In multivariate Cox regression analysis, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS) of 0 or 1 and localized disease were significantly associated with favorable survival outcomes. Collectively, we found that CUP patients had a poor prognosis after standard treatment, and those with localized disease who received local treatment and those with better PS treated with multiple lines of chemotherapy had better survival outcomes. Targeted therapies based on NGS results are expected to improve survival outcomes.
Thermal Field Analysis of Two Kinds of Suspended Moxibustion
Authors: Zhang Bo , Huang Shan , Zhang Hanrui , Tu Haiyan
Published: May 2021

Background: Moxibustion has been widely used in Chinese medicine treatment and health care, it is necessary to study the mechanism and characteristics of moxibustion treatment. The warm effect of moxibustion is closely related to the therapeutic effect. Studying the distribution and change of thermal field is an effective way to understand the mechanism of moxibustion. Methods: The finite element analysis software COMSOL was used to establish the heat transfer model to simulate the whole moxibustion process. Two kinds of suspended moxibustion methods, including mild moxibustion and sparrow-pecking moxibustion, were used to perform moxibustion trial at Zusanli acupoint (ST36) of volunteers, with Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval, and the thermal field on the skin surface was detected with an infrared thermometer. Results: Moxibustion method and moxibustion distance are the factors that affect the temperature change. The temperature rising speed of mild moxibustion was slower than that of sparrow-pecking moxibustion. When the moxibustion distance changes, the temperature changes obviously. If the moxibustion distance does not change, the body temperature will continue to rise slowly. If the distance increases, the body temperature will show a downward trend. On the contrary, it goes up. The thermal fields of mild moxibustion and sparrow-pecking moxibustion were distributed in concentric circles around Zusanli. After natural cooling, the temperature of subcutaneous tissue was higher than that of epidermis.Conclusion: The speed of skin temperature change is affected by the method of moxibustion. The temperature field characteristics formed on the skin surface and acupoint are affected by the moxibustion distance and the moxibustion duration. Moxibustion will produce warm heat stimulation to the subcutaneous tissue.
Nano-Materials Enhanced Protectants for Natural Stone Surfaces
Authors: Xie Zaixin , Duan Zhuoqi , Zhao Zhanqiang , Li Ruheng , Zhou Bao , Yang Dequan , Hu Yongmao
Published: May 2021

Natural stones undergo wet weathering, bowing and dissolution and suffer irrevocable degradation. Self-cleaning is an effective approach to stone protecting. Herein, nanomaterial enhanced protectants for Marble, Qingshi and Hedishi was developed. Inherent microscale cracks and holes exist on the polished natural stone surfaces. When modified by commercial protectant, 101S, the surfaces showed hydrophobic but not superhydrophobic. Superhydrophobicity was achieved through modification by 101S emulsions containing Al 2 O 3 and SiO 2 nano-powder. Meanwhile, the cracks and holes were reserved. The principle of the protectants prepared in this work is permeation and consolidation on the stone surfaces as well as the inner surfaces of the cracks and holes. The reservation of the micro cracks and holes on the stone surfaces is important since the breathability of the stones is remained. The superhydrophobic surfaces showed good thermal stability below 250 ºC.
Activation of EGFR Signaling by Tc-Vein and Tc-Spitz Regulates the Metamorphic Transition in the Red Flour Beetle Tribolium Castaneum
Authors: Chafino Sílvia , Martín David , Franch-Marro Xavier
Published: May 2021

Animal development relies on a sequence of specific stages that allow the formation of adult structures with a determined size. In general, juvenile stages are dedicated mainly to growth, whereas last stages are devoted predominantly to the maturation of adult structures. In holometabolous insects, metamorphosis marks the end of the growth period as the animals stops feeding and initiate the final differentiation of the tissues. This transition is controlled by the steroid hormone ecdysone produced in the prothoracic gland. In Drosophila different signals have been shown to regulate the production of ecdysone, such as PTTH/Torso, TGFß and Egfr signaling. However, to which extent the role of these signals is conserved remains unknown. Here, we study the role of Egfr signaling in post-embryonic development of the basal holometabolous beetle Tribolium castaneum. We show that Tc-Egfr and Tc-pointed are required to induced a proper larval-pupal transition through the control of the expression of ecdysone biosynthetic genes. Furthermore, we identified an additional Tc-Egfr ligand in the Tribolium genome, the neuregulin-like protein Tc-Vein (Tc-Vn), which contributes to induce larval-pupal transition together with Tc-Spitz (Tc-Spi). Interestingly, we found that in addition to the redundant role in the control of pupa formation, each ligand possesses different functions in organ morphogenesis. Whereas Tc-Spi acts as the main ligand in urogomphi and gin traps, Tc-Vn is required in wings and elytra. Altogether, our findings show that in Tribolium, post-embryonic Tc-Egfr signaling activation depends on the presence of two ligands and that its role in metamorphic transition is conserved in holometabolous insects.
Synthesis of Ti(C, N, O) from TiO2 by CH4-H2-N2 Gas Mixture at Low Temperature
Authors: Fan Gangqiang , Hou Youling , Huang Dejun , Dang Jie , Zhang Run , Xiang Junyi , Lv Xuewei , Ding Xiaoming
Published: May 2021

Titanium carbides, oxides, nitrides and carbonitrides possess many special and excellent properties. But the high production cost caused by the traditional carbothermic reduction process severely limits the wide applications. In this study, a novel synthesis process has been proposed by reducing and carbonitriding TiO2 with CH4-H2-N2 gas mixture at low temperatures. The synthesis of Ti(C, N, O), reaction mechanism and the products composition have been investigated. Thermodynamic analysis indicated that TiO2 could be ultimately reduced and carbonitrided to Ti(C, N, O) by CH4-H2-N2 gas mixture. Based on the predictions of thermodynamics, the effects of reduction time, temperature, and gas composition have been studied experimentally. The obtained results indicated that increasing reduction temperature and introduction of N2 are beneficial to the synthesis of Ti(C, N, O). Finally, the optimum reaction conditions have been obtained. The density functional theory (DFT) results further demonstrated the reaction mechanism. This work provides a new approach to prepare metallic carbonitrides from their oxides.
Identification of ferroptosis-related genes for overall survival prediction in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Luo Lianxiang , Yao Xinyue , Huang Fangfang , Luo Hui
Published: May 2021

Ferroptosis is a novel type of cell death depending on iron, which has been confirmed strongly related with the development of tumor. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a malignancy with high incidence. Despite some reports demonstrated the relation between ferroptosis-related genes and HCC, more details have not been excavated. In present study, we analyzed ferroptosis-related genes with their clinical information from TCGA-LIHC project to find out prognostic genes in HCC. And four genes (GPX2, MT3, PRDX1 and SRXN1) were established as a prognostic model after differentially expressed analysis, Cox regression analyses and LASSO approach. High-risk group separating by cutoff value with poor prognosis was proved, and risk score regarded as an independent prognostic factor. Subsequently, enrichment analyses were processed to the differentially expressed genes, we found that genes generally enriched in ferroptosis-related functions and pathways, also in some immune cells and functions with different immune status. Eventually, we constructed ferroptosis potential index (FPI) to reveal the functional roles of ferroptosis in tumor tissues. The immunohistochemistry performed prognostic genes expression in normal and tumor tissues. In conclusion, these results demonstrated the four-gene signature can be a biomarker for predicting HCC prognosis and its members can be drug target genes for HCC treatment.
A Simple Predictive Index of the Abdominal Shape for Postoperative Complications After Laparoscopy-Assisted Distal Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer
Authors: Tao Wei , Cheng Yuxi , Liu Xiao-Yu , Zhang Bin , Yuan Chao , Peng Dong , Zhang Wei
Published: May 2021

Purpose The purpose of this study was to explore the effect of abdominal shape on the short-term surgical outcomes of laparoscopic distal gastrectomy + D2 lymph node dissection (LADG). Methods This was a retrospective study that included 425 patients undergoing LADG from January 2013 to January 2021 at a single clinical center. The abdominal parameters, including the shortest distance of the pancreas from the anterior abdominal skin (PAAD), the lower sternum angle (LSA), the thickness of the subcutaneous fat at the navel level (SFT), the anteroposterior diameters (APD) and the left-right diameters (LRD) at the navel level, the distance from the xiphoid process to the navel (XND) and the distance from the xiphoid process to the pubis (XBD), were calculated by preoperative abdominal computed tomography (CT) imaging. The abdominal parameters and short-term surgical outcomes were analyzed. Results In males, the number of retrieved lymph nodes was significantly higher in patients with a lower APD group (p=0.031). The operation time was significantly shorter in the lower body mass index (BMI) (p=0.007), lower LSA (p=0.035), lower PAAD (p=0.000), lower SFT (p=0.004), lower APD (p=0.000) and lower LRD (p=0.014) groups. The estimated blood loss was significantly less in the lower BMI (p=0.035), lower LSA (p=0.001), lower PAAD (p=0.012), lower SFT (p=0.003), lower APD (p=0.000) and lower LRD (p=0.005) groups. The complications were fewer in the lower LSA (p=0.012), lower APD (p=0.043) and lower LRD (p=0.023) groups. In females, the postoperative hospital stay was shorter in the lower PAAD (p=0.027) and lower SFT (p=0.004) groups, and the lower SFT group had fewer complications (p=0.020). Furthermore, in multivariate analysis, higher PAAD (p=0.029, odds ratio=1.030, 95% CI=1.003-1.058) was an independent factor for predicting postoperative complications in males. Conclusion Various abdominal shapes can affect the difficulty of LADG. Higher PAAD is a simple independent index for predicting postoperative complications in males.
The Different Outcomes Between Breast-Conserving Surgery Plus Radiotherapy and Mastectomy in Breast Ductal Carcinoma In Situ with Microinvasion
Authors: Xia Lin-Yu , Xu Wei-Yun , Hu Qing-Lin
Published: May 2021

Background: Ductal carcinoma in situ with microinvasion (DCIS-MI) is a subtype of breast cancer with good prognosis, for which both breast conserving surgery plus radiotherapy (BCS+RT) and mastectomy are feasible surgical methods, but their effects on the prognosis of patients are still unclear. Methods: We used the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database to extracted DCIS-MI patients who underwent BCS+RT or mastectomy between 2000 and 2014. Participants were divided into BCS+RT group and mastectomy group. We compared the breast cancer-specific survival (BCSS) and overall survival (OS) of the two groups using Kaplan -Meier method and Cox proportional hazard regressions before and after propensity score matching (PSM) with the landmark. Results: We selected 5432 patients, among which 2834 patients (52.17%) were in the BCS+RT group and 2598 patients (47.83%) were in the mastectomy group. With a 101 months median follow-up time in the overall cohort, both univariate and multivariate analysis showed that BCS + RT group showed significantly higher OS and BCSS compared with patients in the mastectomy group (P<0.001). After PSM, the BCS+RT and mastectomy groups consisted of 1902 patients, respectively. multivariate analysis also showed that compared with mastectomy, the BCS+RT showed significantly higher OS and BCSS (HR = 0.676, 95% CI = 0.540-0.847, P<0.001; HR = 0.565,95% CI = 0.354-0.903, P= 0.017). In addition, the subgroup analysis showed that BCS + RT is at least equivalent to mastectomy with respect to OS and BCSS in any subgroup. Conclusion: For patients with DCIS-MI, the prognosis of BCS+RT was superior to mastectomy.
Clinical characteristics, imaging phenotypes and events free survival in hypertensive Takayasu arteritis population
Authors: Sun Ying , Wu Sifan , Wang Yujiao , Chen Rongyi , Huang Qingrong , Ma Lili , Chen Huiyong , Jiang Lindi
Published: May 2021

Background
Hypertension occurred in 30–80% of Takayasu arteritis (TAK) patients around the world and the occurrence of hypertension might worsen the disease prognosis. This study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics and imaging phenotypes, as well as their associations with events free survival (EFS) in hypertensive TAK population.
Methods
This current research was based on a prospectively on-going observational cohort-the East China Takayasu Arteritis (ECTA) cohort, centered in Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University. Totally, 204 hypertensive TAK patients were enrolled between January 2013 and December 2019. Clinical characteristics and imaging phenotypes of each case were evaluated and their associations with the EFS by the end of August 30, 2020 were analyzed.
Results
Severe hypertension accounted for 46.1% of the entire population. Three specific imaging phenotypes were identified: Cluster 1: involvement of the abdominal aorta and/or renal artery (27.5%); Cluster 2: involvement of the ascending aorta, thoracic aorta, and the aortic arch and/or its branches (18.6%); and Cluster 3: combined involvement of Cluster 1 and 2 (53.9%). Clinical characteristics, especially hypertensive severity, differed greatly among three imaging clusters. In all, 187 patients were followed-up for a median of 46 (9-102) months; 127 (67.9%) cases did not experience any events, while 72 events were observed in 60 patients. The overall blood pressure control rate was 50.8%, and the EFS was 67.9% by the end of the follow-up. Multivariate Cox regression indicated that controlled blood pressure (HR = 2.13, 95% CI 1.32–3.74), Cluster 1 (HR = 0.69, 95% CI 0.48–0.92) and Cluster 3 (HR = 0.72, 95% CI 0.43–0.94) imaging phenotype was associated with the EFS. Kaplan–Meier curves showed that patients with controlled blood pressure showed better EFS (p = 0.043). Furthermore, patients had controlled blood pressure and Cluster 1 phenotype was set as reference, better EFS was observed in patients with controlled blood pressure and Cluster 2 phenotype (HR = 2.21, 95%CI 1.47–4.32), while those had uncontrolled blood pressure and Cluster 1 phenotype (HR = 0.64, 95%CI: 0.52–0.89) and those had uncontrolled blood pressure and Cluster 3 phenotype (HR = 0.83, 95%CI: 0.76–0.92) suffered worse EFS.
Conclusion
Blood pressure control status and imaging phenotypes showed significant effects on the EFS for hypertensive TAK.
Identification of three novel homozygous variants in COL9A3 causing autosomal-recessive Stickler Syndrome
Authors: Rad Aboulfazl , Najafi Maryam , Suri Fatemeh , Abedini Soheila , Loum Stephen , Karimiani Ehsan Ghayoor , Daftarian Narsis , Murphy David , Doosti Mohammad , Moghaddasi Afrooz , Ahmadieh Hamid , Sabbaghi Hamideh , Rajati Mohsen , Hashemi Narges , Vona Barbara , Schmidts Miriam
Published: May 2021

Background: Stickler syndrome (STL) is a rare, clinically and molecularly heterogeneous connective tissue disorder. Pathogenic variants occurring in a variety of genes cause STL, mainly inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion. Autosomal recessive STL is ultra-rare with only four families with biallelic COL9A3 variants reported to date. Results: Here, we report three unrelated families clinically diagnosed with STL carrying different novel biallelic loss of function variants in COL9A3. Further, we have collected COL9A3 genotype-phenotype associations from the literature. Conclusion: Our report substantially expands the molecular genetics and clinical basis of autosomal recessive STL and provides an overview about allelic COL9A3 disorders.
Antimicrobial Activities of Coriander Seed Essential Oil and Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: saygi Kadriye Ozlem , Kacmaz Birgul , Gul Serdar
Published: May 2021

Bacterial infections are one of the most serious health problems all over the world, which cause need for the discovery of new drug. Since antibiotic resistance is a major threat to both humans and the environment, there is a need for studies on the antimicrobial properties of different forms of traditionally used plants. Herein, the seeds of coriander were used to isolate essential oil (EO) and to synthesise silver nanoparticles (C-AgNPs). The major oil constituents were characterized by GC-MS as Linalool (79.12%), Camphor (6.16%), γ-Terpinene (2.82%) and α-Pinene (2.67%). The synthesized AgNPs were characterized by UV-Visible spectrophotometry, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX), X-ray difraction (XRD) and Fourier Tranmission Infrared (FTIR). The surface plasmon resonance (SPR) of C-AgNPs at 437 nm was recorded on the UV-Vis spectrometer. The spherical and homogenous of AgNPs was presented in SEM images. EDX showed elemental distribution and confirmed AgNPs. A characteristic intense peak was at 3.0 keV. The antibacterial activities of the essential oil and AgNPs form of coriander seed against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213 and Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 bacteria were investigated by broth microdilution test. AgNPs and essential oil of coriander can be expected to provide future opportunities in nanomedicine and materials science. AgNPs can be displayed synergistic antimicrobial effect when used in combination with essential oil.
The Retrocalcarine Sulcus Is Functionally Distinct Between Macaques and Humans
Authors: Arcaro Michael , Livingstone Margaret S. , Kay Kendrick N. , Weiner Kevin S.
Published: May 2021

Primate cerebral cortex is highly convoluted with much of the cortical surface buried in sulcal folds. The origins of cortical folding and its functional relevance has been a major focus of systems and cognitive neuroscience. Stereotyped patterns of cortical folding across individuals and multiple primate species indicate common evolutionary pressures in their development. However, foundational questions regarding organizing principles shared across species remain unanswered. Taking a cross-species comparative approach with a careful consideration of historical observations, we investigate cortical folding within the calcarine sulcus, a primary fold in primates. We identify two macroanatomical structures – the retrocalcarine and external calcarine sulci – in 24 humans and 6 macaque monkeys. We show that within species, these sulci are identifiable in all individuals, fall on a similar part of the V1 retinotopic map, and thus, serve as anatomical landmarks predictive of functional organization. Yet, across species, the actual underlying visual field representations differ strikingly across humans and macaques. Thus, the structure-function correspondence for an evolutionarily old structure like V1 is species-specific and suggests intriguing differences in developmental constraints across primates.
Routine Preoperative Screening Computed Tomography of the Thorax for Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Sule Jai , Chan Xue Wei , Sampath Hari Kumar , Luo Hai Dong , Ahmed Mofassel Uddin , Kang Giap Swee
Published: May 2021

Purpose: This study aims to evaluate the role of screening computed tomography (CT) thorax in cardiac surgery by analysing presence of CT aortic calcifications in association with change of operative strategy and postoperative stroke, as well as CT features of emphysema with development of pneumonia.Methods: All patients who underwent cardiac surgery from January 2013 to October 2017 by a single surgeon were retrospectively studied. Patients who underwent screening CT thorax prior to cardiac surgery (CT group) were compared with those who did not (no CT group). Multivariate subgroup analyses were performed to determine significant association with postoperative outcomes.Results: 392 patients were included, of which 156 patients underwent preoperative screening CT thorax. Patients in the CT group were older (63.9 vs 59.0 years, p=0.001), had fewer recent myocardial infarction preoperatively (41 vs 56.4%, p=0.003) and better ejection fraction >30% (p=0.02). Operative strategy was changed in 4.3% of patients, and 4.9% suffered stroke postoperatively. Presence of CT aortic calcifications was significantly associated with change in operative strategy (OR 1.54, p=0.016) but not associated with postoperative stroke (OR 0.53, p=0.33). Age was an independent risk factor for change in operative strategy among patients with CT thorax (p=0.02). Multivariate age-adjusted analysis showed only palpable plaque to be significantly associated with change in operative strategy (p<0.001). None of the patients with CT emphysema features developed pneumonia.Conclusion: The results do not support routine use of preoperative screening CT thorax. It should only be recommended in older patients.
Beta-convergence of crop yield across countries: A Modern Panel Data Analysis
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Debabrata
Published: May 2021

This study examines the state of beta-convergence in three major crop yields l in the world namely rice, wheat and maize in terms of output production and cereal grain consumption during the period 1961 to 2016 using modern panel data approach concerning beta convergence. This has been done by applying the advanced panel data methodology, namely, panel unit root tests on demeaned series and panel regression apart from conventional indicators such as standard deviation and coefficient of variation. The conventional sigma convergence indicators namely, standard deviation and coefficient of variation show convergence for wheat for the period of 1986 to 2016 showing a downward trend and thus indicating sigma-convergence, But the results of panel unit root and panel regression establish beta convergence for all the crop yield. This result also shows that economies converge to different steady states.JEL classification: Q1, Q18, C23, O47