bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wind energy potential assessment based on wind speed, its direction and power data
Authors: Wang Zhiming , Liu Weimin
Published: July 2021

Based on wind speed, direction and power data, an assessment method of wind energy potential using finite mixture statistical distributions is proposed. Considering the correlation existing and the effect between wind speed and direction, the angular-linear modeling approach is adopted to construct the joint probability density function of wind speed and direction. For modeling the distribution of wind power density and estimating model parameters, based on expectation-maximization algorithm, a two-component three-parameter Weibull mixture distribution is chosen as wind speed model, and a von Mises mixture distribution with nine components and six components are selected as wind direction and relation circular variable models, respectively. A comprehensive technique of model selection, which includes Akaike information criterion, Bayesian information criterion, the coefficient of determination R2 and root mean squared error, is used to select the optimal model in all candidate models. The proposed method is applied to averaged 10-minute field monitoring wind data and compared with the other estimation methods and judged by the values of R2 and root mean squared error, histogram plot and wind rose diagram. The results show that the proposed method is effective and the area under study is not suitable for wide wind turbine applications, and the estimated wind energy potential would be inaccuracy without considering the influence of wind direction.
Does Overnight Duty Affect Vascular Endothelial Function?
Authors: Garu A , Nitta Eri , Yoshida Yuri , Yata Erika , Tsunematsu Akari , Araki Tsuyoshi , Nagai Atsushi , Yano Shozo
Published: July 2021

Background The reactive hyperemia index (RHI), which is obtained from the measurement of peripheral arterial tonometry (PAT), is highly associated with the percentage change in the end-diastolic arterial diameter (%flow-mediated dilatation) at reactive hyperemia. Low RHI is reported to be a mortality risk in patients with a high risk of cardiovascular (CV) disease. CV events are thought to be induced by physical and mental stress, including long-term fatigue and lack of sleep. However, the relationship between fatigue, lack of sleep, and endothelial function has not yet been established. MethodsHealthy hospital workers (n=13, 6 men and 7 women) with an average age of 31.6 years were assigned to this study after they provided written informed consent. During the study period, we conducted 72 measurements of reactive hyperemia-peripheral arterial tonometry (RH-PAT) in the morning before or after their duty. At each measurement of the RH-PAT, we recorded the participants’ hours of sleep and evaluated their degree of fatigue using a visual analog scale (VAS).ResultsAlthough the VAS was significantly less (36±16% and 64±12%, p<0.001) and the hours of sleep were longer (6.0±1.1 h and 2.3±1.0 h, p<0.001) before duty compared to those after duty, the RHI was comparable between them (2.12±0.53 vs. 1.97±0.50, p=0.21). The VAS score was significantly higher in participants with low RHI (<1.67) than in those with normal RHI (≥2.07) (59±13% and 46±21%, respectively, p<0.05). However, binary logistic regression showed no significant association between low RHI and the VAS when adjusted for systemic blood pressure (SBP) and heart rate variability (HRV). In a simple regression analysis, the RHI was significantly correlated with the VAS score (r=-0.287, p<0.05), while no significant correlation was found between the RHI and sleep duration (r=0.045, p=0.71). A multiple linear regression analysis also showed no significant association between the RHI and VAS scores after adjustment for SBP and HRV.ConclusionsVascular endothelial function was not associated with overnight duty, hours of sleep, or degree of fatigue in healthy young adults. Since the RHI may be decreased in severe fatigue conditions through autonomic nerve activity, one should consider the physical and mental conditions of the examinee when evaluating the RH-PAT results.
Health stressors, problems and coping strategies of migrant domestic workers: A scoping review
Authors: HO Ken Hok Man , Wilson Ingrid M , Wong Janet YH , McKenna Lisa , Reisenhofer Sonia , Efendi Ferry , Smith Graeme D
Published: July 2021

Migrant domestic workers have become a major international target population for issues of human rights. However, little is known about the stressors, problems, and coping strategies surrounding their health issues internationally. A scoping review identified 26 sources matching selection criteria through a systematic search on 10 databases with publications from January 1995 to December 2019. Analysis revealed that stressors to health included abuse, poor health services accessibility, ongoing financial hardship despite demanding working conditions and social isolation. Several physical and mental health problems were identified for which migrant domestic workers largely depended on social network and religion to cope with stressors and health problems. Marginalization in health and social care system was evidenced in various countries that formal health and social care for migrant domestic workers was lacking. Survey on health problems of migrant domestic workers and provision of formal support to them present a significant service gap.
Morphological Differences In Tardigrade Spermatozoa Induce Variation In Gamete Motility
Authors: Sugiura Kenta , Shiba Kogiku , Inaba Kazuo , Matsumoto Midori
Published: July 2021

BackgroundFertilization is an event at the beginning of ontogeny. Successful fertilization depends on strategies for uniting female and male gametes that developed throughout evolutionary history. In tardigrades, investigations of reproduction have revealed that released spermatozoa swim in the water to reach a female, after which the gametes are stored in her body. The morphology of the spermatozoa includes a coiled nucleus and a species-specific-length acrosome. Although the mating behaviour and morphology of tardigrades have been reported, the motility of male gametes remains unknown. Here, using a high-speed camera, we recorded the spermatozoon motilities of two tardigrades, Paramacrobiotus sp. and Macrobiotus shonaicus, which have longer and shorter spermatozoa, respectively.ResultsThe movement of spermatozoa was faster in Paramacrobiotus sp. than in M. shonaicus, but the beat frequencies of the tails were equal, suggesting that the long tail improved acceleration. In both species, the head part consisting of a coiled nucleus and an acrosome did not swing, in contrast to the tail. The head part of Paramacrobiotus sp. spermatozoa swung harder during turning; in contrast, the tail of M. shonaicus moved more widely than the head. Finally, after mating, the spermatozoa that reached the female aggregated around the cloaca while waiting to enter her body in both tested species.ConclusionsThis study provides results for the first observations and analyses of individual spermatozoon motility in tardigrades. A comparison of the spermatozoon movements of the two tardigrades suggested that the motilities of the male gametes were affected by morphological differences, where the longer spermatozoa swam faster and the shorter ones showed more stable swimming. Swimming was mainly induced by tail movement, but the long head of Paramacrobiotus sp. spermatozoa might be especially important for turning. In addition, observations of mated female cloacae suggested that the head parts of the spermatozoa were required for aggregation around the cloaca of a mated female.
m6A Methylation Mediates LHPP Acetylation as a Tumour Aerobic Glycolysis Suppressor to Improve the Prognosis of Gastric Cancer
Authors: Lin Jian-Xian , Lian Ning-Zi , Gao You-Xin , Qiu Qing-Zhu , Wang Hua-Gen , Zheng Qiao-Ling , Yang Ying-Hong , Ma Yu-Bin , Zheng Chao-Hui , Li Ping , Xie Jian-Wei , Lu Jun , Chen Qi-Yue , Cao Long-Long , Lin Mi , Wang Jia-Bin , Huang Chang-Ming
Published: July 2021

BackgroundLHPP, a histidine phosphatase, has been implicated in tumor progression. However, its role, underlying mechanisms, and prognostic significance in human gastric cancer (GC) are elusive. MethodsWe obtained GC tissues and corresponding normal tissues from 8 patients and identified LHPP as a downregulated gene via RNA-seq. qRT-PCR and western blotting were applied to examine LHPP levels in normal and GC tissues. The prognostic value of LHPP was elucidated using tissue microarray and IHC analyses in two independent GC cohorts. The functional roles and mechanistic insights of LHPP in GC growth and metastasis were evaluated in vitro and in vivo. ResultsThe results showed that LHPP expression was significantly decreased in GC tissues at both the mRNA and protein level. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that LHPP was an independent prognostic factor and effective predictor in patients with GC. The low expression of LHPP was significantly related to the poor prognosis and chemotherapy sensitivity of gastric cancer patients. Moreover, elevated LHPP expression effectively suppressed GC growth and metastasis in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, the m6A modification of LHPP mRNA by METTL14 represses its expression; LHPP inhibits the phosphorylation of GSK3b through acetylation, and mediates HIF1A to inhibit glycolysis, proliferation, invasion and metastasis of gastric cancer cells. ConclusionLHPP is regulated by m6A methylation and regulates the metabolism of GC by changing the acetylation level. Thus, LHPP is a potential predictive biomarker and therapeutic target for GC.
Association Between Health-Related Physical Fitness and Self-Reported Health Status in Older Taiwanese Adults
Authors: Su Yan-Jhu , Hsu Chen-Te , Liang Chyi , Lee Po-Fu , Lin Chi-Fang , Chen Hung-Ting , Ho Chien-Chang
Published: July 2021

Background

This study aims to determine if an association exists between health-related physical fitness measurements and self-reported health status in older Taiwanese adults.
Methods

A total of 22,389 Taiwanese adults aged 65 years or older were recruited as study participants. Demographic characteristics, life habits, anthropometric assessments, health-related physical fitness measurements, and self-reported health status from this dataset were analyzed using the chi-square test, one-way analysis of variance, and logistic regression analysis.
Results

The results showed that there was significant association between back scratch and self-perceived health status (excellent/good) (odds ratio [OR], 1.003; 95 % CI 1.000-1.006) after adjusting potential confounders. However, adjusted potential confounders OR for self-perceived health status (poor/very poor) decreased and significant for chair sit-and-reach test (OR 0.994, 95% CI 0.988–0.999).
Conclusions

The results of this study indicate that there are associations between health-related physical fitness measurements and self-reported health status in Taiwanese older adults. Future research may investigate the causality between health status and physical fitness.
Construction of the Small Intestine Epithelial Cell Model Based on Molecular Dynamics Simulation and Preliminary Exploration of Drug Intestinal Absorption Prediction
Authors: Shi Yanshuang , Sheng Menke , Qu Qingsong , Liao Yuyao , Lv Lijng , Yang Jiaqi , Li Zhixun , Zhou Qing , Dai XingXing , Shi Xinyuan
Published: July 2021

In this study, molecular dynamics simulation was applied to the construction of small intestinal epithelial cell membrane and prediction of drug absorption. First, we constructed a system of a small intestinal epithelial cell membrane that was close to the real proportion and investigated the effects of temperature, water layer thickness, and ionic strength on membrane properties to optimize environmental parameters. Next, three drugs with different absorptivity, including Ephedrine (EPH), Quercetin (QUE), and Baicalin (BAI), were selected as model drugs to study the ability of drugs through the membrane by the free diffusion and umbrella sampling simulation, and the drug permeation ability was characterized by the free diffusion coefficient D and free energy barrier (△G) in the processes. The results showed that the free diffusion coefficient D’ and △G’ orders of the three drugs were consistent with the classical experimental absorption order, indicating that these two parameters could be used to jointly characterize the membrane permeability of the drugs.
Triptonide Effectively Inhibits Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Metastasis Through Concurrent Degradation Of Twist1 And Notch1 Oncoproteins
Authors: Zhang Mengli , Meng Mei , Liu Yuxi , Qi Jindan , Zhao Zhe , Qiao Yingnan , Hu Yanxing , Lu Wei , Zhou Zhou , Xu Peng , Zhou Quansheng
Published: July 2021

Background: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is highly metastatic and lethal. Due to a lack of druggable targets for this disease, there are no effective therapies in the clinic.Methods: We explored the ability of active compounds derived from natural herbs to inhibit TNBC metastasis using the methods of molecular biology, cell biology, protein chemistry, pharmacology, and xenografted mice.Results: Here, we showed that triptonide, a small molecule from the traditional Chinese medicinal herb Tripterygium wilfordii Hook F, potently inhibited TNBC cell migration, invasion, and vasculogenic mimicry, and effectively suppressed TNBC tumor growth and lung metastasis in xenografted mice with no observable toxicity. Molecular mechanistic studies revealed that triptonide strongly triggered the degradation of master epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-inducing protein Twist1 through the lysosomal system and reduced Notch1 expression and NF-κB phosphorylation, which consequently diminished the expression of pro-metastatic and angiogenic genes N-cadherin, VE-cadherin, and vascular endothelial cell growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2).Conclusions: Triptonide effectively suppressed TNBC cell tumorigenesis, vasculogenic mimicry, and strongly inhibited the metastasis of TNBC via degradation of Twist1 and Notch1 oncoproteins, downregulation of metastatic and angiogenic gene expression, and reduction of NF-κB signaling pathway. Our findings provide a new strategy for treating highly lethal TNBC and offer a potential new drug candidate for combatting this aggressive disease.
Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index Predicts the Outcome After Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Luo Fushu , Li Yuanyou , Zhao Yutong , Sun Mingjiang , He Qiuguang , Wen Rong , Xie Zongyi
Published: July 2021

Objectives: Systemic inflammatory response is closely related to the pathogenesis and prognosis in critical patients. Recently, systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), an indicator of systemic inflammatory response, was proved to predict the outcome in cancerous and non-cancerous diseases. The aim of this study is to evaluate the relationship between SII on admission and 6-month outcome in patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH).Methods: The clinical data and prognosis of 76 patients with aSAH was analyzed. Patients were divided into high SII group and low SII group. The 6-month outcome was assessed by the modified Rankin scale (mRS).The unfavorable outcome was defined as mRS score ≥3. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC), area under the curve (AUC) and logistic regression were used to examine the relations between SII levels and 6-month clinical outcomes.Results: Thirty-six patients (47.4%) in our study had a unfavorable outcome (mRS ≥3) at 6 months, and twenty-four (66.7%) of them had high SII. Spearman correlation analysis showed that the SII was correlated with mRS (r=0.418, P＜0.05). Binary logistic regression showed that there was an independent association between SII on admission and 6-month clinical outcome (OR=4.271, 95%CI: 1.047-17.422, P＜0.05). The AUC of the SII for predicting unfavorable outcome was 0.692(95% CI:0.571–0.814, P＜0.05).Conclusion: Systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) could be a novel independent prognostic factor for aSAH patients at the early stage of the disease.
Hydrogen Production from the Air
Authors: Li Gang Kevin , Guo Jining , Zhang Yuecheng , Zavabeti Ali , Chen Kaifei , Guo Yalou , Hu Guoping , Fan Xiaolei
Published: July 2021

Hydrogen gas (H2) produced by water splitting using renewable energy, namely green hydrogen, is the most promising energy carrier of the low-carbon economy1–6. However, the geographic mismatch between renewables distribution and freshwater availability poses a significant challenge to green hydrogen production7–9. Here, we demonstrate a method of directly producing H2 from the air, namely, capturing freshwater from the atmosphere using hygroscopic electrolyte and converting it to H2 by electrolysis powered by solar energy. A prototype H2 generator has been successfully established and operated for 12 consecutive days with a stable performance at an average Faradaic efficiency around 95%. This so-called direct air electrolysis (DAE) module can work under low relative humidity (20%) environment, overcoming water supply issues and producing green hydrogen sustainably with minimal impact to the environment. The DAE modules can be easily scaled to provide H2 to remote, arid/semi-arid, and scattered areas.
Oral Health Status of Patients Infected with Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Related Factors, Iran: A Cross- Sectional Study
Authors: Shaghaghian Soheila , Homayooni Mojtaba , Amin Maryam , Rezazadeh Fahimeh
Published: July 2021

Background: Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) continues to be a major global issue. HIV-infected patients commonly experience oral health problems. This study aimed to assess oral health status of the patients and its related factors in Shiraz, Iran.Methods: In this cross-sectional study, by using simple random sampling, 250 HIV-infected patients were selected from Shiraz Voluntary Counseling and Testing Center in 2019. Patients' decayed, missing, and filled tooth (DMFT) index, plaque index (PI), and community periodontal index (CPI) were determined. Associations between patients' characteristics and the above-mentioned indices were examined by using Pearson correlation, one way ANOVA, chi-square, and independent sample T test. Results: Of the 222 participants, 111 (50%) had 15 or more missed teeth and 79 (35.6%) were edentulous. Their mean (SD) DMFT and PI were 20.71 (10.74) and 1.11 (0.79), respectively. About 40% of them had healthy gingiva. DMFT (p<0.001), PI (p<0.001), and CPI (p=0.002) were significantly worse in men than women. The patients' DMFT and edentulous status were significantly associated with their age (both p<0.001) and duration of disease (p=0.001 and p=0.008, respectively). Unemployed patients had the worst DMFT, PI, and CPI (all p<0.001) and the highest percentage of edentulous individuals (p=0.003). All examined indices were significantly worse in cigarette smokers, alcoholics, addicts, and patients with a previous history of imprisonment (all p<0.001).Conclusions: Overall, oral health status of the HIV-infected patients was unsatisfactory, which might indicate their inadequate access to dental services. Therefore, effective interventional programs are needed for prevention and early treatment of dental problems among this population, especially for more vulnerable groups such as older men with low socioeconomic status, and those with high-risk behaviors.
Chasing Hippos: Implications of YAP1 and TAZ Expression in Pregnancy-Associated Breast Cancer Tumorigenesis
Authors: Kyriazoglou Anastasios , Korakiti Anna-Maria , Papatheodoridi Alkistis-Maria , Apostolidou Kleoniki , Nonni Afroditi , Bletsa Garyfalia , Tsakogiannis Dimitris , Dimopoulos Meletios-Athanasios , Zagouri Flora
Published: July 2021

Background: Hippo signaling pathway de-regulation has been strongly associated with tumorigenesis, metastasis, and drug resistance. Pregnancy-associated breast cancer, the most frequently diagnosed malignancy during gestation, demonstrates an intricate molecular nature. The aim of the present study is to evaluate Hippo pathway transducers TAZ and YAP1 expression in pregnancy-associated breast cancer in relation to the clinicopathological characteristics of the disease.Methods: Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues from 21 PABC patients treated at Alexandra Hospital in Athens, Greece were immunohistochemically analyzed. Statistical analysis was performed to investigate a possible correlation among the Hippo pathway signaling and the clinical features of the disease.Results: In 48% of patients included in the study strong nuclear TAZ/YAP1 staining in tumor cells was identified. Additionally, the hormone receptor negative status was statistically correlated with strong positivity of the TAZ/YAP1 co-transcriptional factors. No association was observed with the overall-survival and the disease-free survival rate. Conclusions: Hippo pathway is proven to be de-regulated in a subset of pregnancy-associated breast cancer patients highlighting the complex molecular background of the disease which certainly requires further investigation.
Factor Analysis of Machining Parameters On Surface Integrity of CFRP Composites Based On A Microscopic Finite Element Cutting Model
Authors: Xiao Jianzhang , Wang Guifeng , Su Hang , Huang Pengcheng , Chen Zhongzhe
Published: July 2021

In the paper, a three-dimensional (3D) micromechanical finite element (FE) cutting model with three phases was developed to study the surface integrity of CFRP composites. The surface roughness and the depth of subsurface damage were predicted by using the FE cutting model, which were used to characterize the surface integrity. The machined surface observations and surface roughness measurements of CFRP composites at different fiber orientations were also performed for model validation. It is indicated that the 3D micromechanical model is capable of precisely predicting the surface integrity of CFRP composites. To investigate the complex coupling influences of multiple machining parameters on the surface integrity, the factor analysis of multiple machining parameters was performed, and then the effects of these machining parameters on the surface roughness and subsurface damage depth were obtained quantitatively. It was found that the fiber orientation angle and cutting speed are the most significant factors affecting the surface roughness, and the fiber orientation and edge radius are the main factors affecting the subsurface damage depth. The results also reveal that coupling effects of depth of cut and edge radius should be considered for improving the surface integrity of CFRP composites.
Synthesis of Bis (Benzoyl Acetone Ethylene Diimine) Schiff Base Complex of Nickel (II) Supported on Magnetite Silica Nano-Particles (Fe3O4@Sio2/Schiff-Base Of Ni (II)) and Using it as an Efficient Catalyst for Green Synthesis of 1-Amidoalkyl-2-Naphthol.
Authors: Setoodehkhah Moslem , Mazraati Amin , Moradian Mohsen
Published: July 2021

In this research, magnetite nano-particles as the core are fabricated by co-precipitation method from Fe(II) and Fe(III) chloride salts and then the surfaces of the nano-particles are modified to improve their performance. These modifications include the coating of silica and then the second layer by 3-amino propyl triethoxy silane (APTES) which causes the functionalization of magnetite nanoparticles with –NH2 groups. In the next step, an aliphatic tetra-dentate N2O2 Schiff base was synthesized by condensation reaction between benzoyl acetone and ethylenediamine. Then this Schiff base is immobilized on the magnetite silica surfaces. This immobilized Schiff base was converted to the Ni (II) Schiff base complex by the reaction with Ni(II) acetate tetrahydrate. This Ni (II) Schiff base complex is immobilized on magnetite silica and shown as Fe3O4@SiO2/Schiff base of Ni (II). This cor-shell nano-structure is fully characterized by techniques such as FT-IR, VSM, XRD, FE-SEM, EDX, TGA-DTA, AAS, BET, and BJH. In the last step, this nano-catalyst is used as an efficient catalyst for the solvent-free synthesis of amido alkyl naphthols by the condensation reaction between an aldehyde, 2-naphthol, and an amide. The reaction was monitored by TLC. At the end of the reaction, the nano-catalyst was removed easily from the reaction mixture by an external magnet. The products of amido alkyl naphthols were identified by FT-IR and 1HNMR techniques. Finally, the percentage yield of the reaction is calculated by measuring the mass of 1-amidoalkyl-2-naphthol synthesized in the presence of the catalyst.
Bifunctional Europium Doped SrTiO3 Ceramics with Energy Storage and Photoluminescence
Authors: Zhong Bingjie , Zuo Chengyang , Yang Chao , Yang Shilin , Li Yun , Yu Hongtao , Wei Xianhua
Published: July 2021

Rare-earth ion Eu 3+ was doped into SrTiO 3 ceramic to improve its dielectric energy storage properties and act as luminescence centres. Typically, SrTiO 3 ceramics doped with 0.2% Eu 3+ exhibit high breakdown strength up to 354 kV/cm and a relatively high recoverable energy density of 2.13 J/cm 3 . Compared to those of the undoped sample, the doped ceramic breakdown strength and recoverable energy density are enhanced by about 22% and 58%, respectively. The doping effect can be explained by the inhibition of the long-range movement of carriers. Moreover, the europium doped SrTiO 3 ceramic capacitor exhibits an excellent power density of 37 MW/cm 3 in an ultrafast discharge time of 25 nanoseconds at 200 kV/cm. Meanwhile, the Eu 3+ doped sample exhibits obvious red photoluminescence. The bifunctional ceramics offer an excellent prospect for energy storage and optical applications.
CircRNA-DOPEY2 Enhances The Chemosensitivity of Esophageal Cancer Cells By Inhibiting CPEB4-Mediated Mcl-1 Translation
Authors: Liu Zhenchuan , Gu Shaorui , Wu Kaiqin , Li Lei , Dong Chenglai , Wang Wenli , zhou yongxin
Published: July 2021

Background: Cisplatin-based chemotherapy is a mainstay systematic therapy for advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), and cisplatin resistance is not uncommon and the major barrier to patient outcome improvements. circRNAs are novel noncoding RNAs that are implicated in cancer progression, but their involvement in modulating cisplatin responsiveness in ESCC remains unknown. Methods: Bioinformatics analysis was used to profile and identify the circRNAs involved in cisplatin responsiveness in ESCC. The chemo-sensitive role of cDOPEY2was confirmed both in vitro and in vivo. The molecular mechanism of cDOPEY2 was investigated by mass spectrum, immunoprecipitation and ubiquitination analyses.Results: We report that a novel circRNA (cDOPYE2, hsa_circ_0008078) was markedly downregulated in cisplatin-resistant ESCC cells (ESCC-CR) compared with parental chemosensitive cells. Re-expression of cDOPEY2 substantially enhanced the cell-killing ability of cisplatin by augmenting the apoptotic process in ESCC-GR cells, which was achieved by decreasing the abundance of the antiapoptotic protein Mcl-1. Mechanistically, we showed that cDOPEY2 acted as a protein scaffold to enhance the interaction between the cytoplasmic polyadenylation element binding protein (CPEB4) and the E3 ligase TRIM25, which in turn facilitated the ubiquitination and degradation of CPEB4. The increased Mcl-1 expression in ESCC-GR cells was dependent on the binding of CPEB4 to its untranslated mRNA, and depletion of CPEB4 mediated by cDOPEY2 reversed this effect. Rescue experiments confirmed that the critical role of cDOPEY2 in maintaining cisplatin sensitivity was dependent on the depletion of CEPB4 and its downstream target Mcl-1. Clinical and in vivo data further corroborated the significant relevance of cDOPEY2 to cisplatin responsiveness in ESCC. Conclusions: We provide evidence that cDOPEY2 inhibits CPEB4-mediated Mcl-1 translation by promoting the ubiquitination and degradation of CPEB4 to alleviate cisplatin resistance, indicating that cDOPEY2 may serve as a valuable biomarker and potential therapeutic target in ESCC.
An Integrated Approach to Produce a Recombinant Yeast Pichia Pastoris For GLA Production
Authors: Firoozabad Maryam Sadat Mirbagheri , Akhbariyoon Hamidreza
Published: July 2021

γ-Linolenic acid (GLA) is an important n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) used in many nutritional and medicinal applications such as the treatment of cancer, inflammatory disorders, and diabetes. However, GLA level of the total fatty acids in plant seeds and nuts as prominent sources of GLA is not enough to utilize on an industrial scale. The study aimed to improve the expression of delta-6 desaturase, which is one of the important enzymes in GLA production pathway. The expression vector pPICZC was selected for clone M.rouxii delta-6 desaturase. The engineered vector was first cloned into E. coli DH5α and after plasmid extraction and confirmation of sequencing was transformed by electroporation into Pichia pastoris GS115. The results indicated that the recombinant yeast strain expressed the gene in the presence of methanol 0.5%. The lipids and essential fatty acids especially GLA were extracted to confirm the expression. The results of studies of lipid and fatty acid production by Sudan black and Nile red staining, GC, and flow cytometry revealed that recombinant strain can produce GLA levels up to 19.2% of total fatty acids. The present study may provide an opportunity for the development of an alternative host for manufacturing GLA on an industrial scale.
Microinjection of Antisense Oligonucleotides into Living Mouse Testis Enables LncRNA Function Study
Authors: Chen Zhaohui , Ling Li , Shi Xiaolian , Li Wu , Zhai Huicong , Kang Zhenlong , Zheng Bangjin , Zhu Jiaqi , Ye Suni , Wang Hao , Tong Lingxiu , Huang Chaoyang , Li Yang , Zheng Ke
Published: July 2021

BackgroundLong non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) has been the focus of ongoing research in a diversity of cellular processes. LncRNAs are abundant in mammalian testis, but their biological functions remain poorly known.ResultsHere, we established an antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs)-based targeting approach that can efficiently knock down lncRNA in living mouse testis. We cloned the full-length transcript of lncRNA Tsx (testis-specific X-linked) and defined its testicular localization pattern. Microinjection of ASOs through seminiferous tubules in vivo significantly lowered the Tsx levels in both nucleus and cytoplasm. This effect lasted no less than 10 days, conducive to the generation and maintenance of phenotype. Importantly, ASOs performed better in depleting the nuclear Tsx and sustained longer effect than small interfering RNAs (siRNAs). In addition to the observation of an elevated number of apoptotic germ cells upon ASOs injection, which recapitulates the documented description of Tsx knockout, we also found a specific loss of meiotic spermatocytes despite overall normal process of meiosis.ConclusionsOur study detailed the characterization of Tsx and illustrates ASOs as an advantageous tool to functionally interrogate lncRNAs in spermatogenesis.
Study on a Horizontal Axial Flow Pump during Runaway Process with Bidirectional Operating Conditions
Authors: Kan Kan , Zhang Qingying , Xu Zhe , Chen Huixiang , Zheng Yuan , Zhou Daqing , Binama Maxima
Published: July 2021

The ultra-low head pump stations often have bidirectional demand of water delivery, so there is a risk of runaway accident occurring in both conditions. To analyze the difference of the runaway process under forward runaway condition (FRC) and backward runaway condition (BRC), the whole flow system of a horizontal axial flow pump is considered. The Shear-Stress Transport (SST) k-ω model is adopted and the volume of fluid (VOF) model is applied to simulate the water surface in the reservoirs. Meanwhile, the torque balance equation is introduced to obtain the real time rotational speed, then the bidirectional runaway process of the pump with the same head is simulated. Additionally, the vortex transport equation is proposed to compare the contribution of vortex stretching and vortex dilatation terms. According to the changing law of the impeller torque, the torque curve can be divided into five stages: the drop, braking, rising, convergence and runaway stages. By comparison, the rising peak value of torque under FRC is significantly higher than that under BRC in the rising stage. Simultaneously, through the short time Fourier transform (STFT) method, the amplitude of torque pulsation is obviously different between FRC and BRC. The analysis reveals that the flow impact on blade surface increases the pressure difference between the two sides of the blade in braking condition, which leads to the torque increase in the rising stage. Moreover, the pulsation amplitude of torque is mainly affected by the integrity of the vortex rope.
Significantly Enhanced Coupling Effect and Gap Plasmon Resonance in a MIM-cavity based Sensing Structure
Authors: Chau Yuan-Fong Chou , Ming Tan Yu , Chao Chung-Ting Chou , Thotagamuge Roshan , Kooh Muhammad Raziq Rahimi , Huang Hung Ji , Lim Chee Ming , Chiang Hai-Pang
Published: July 2021

Herein, we design a high sensitivity with a multi-mode plasmonic sensor based on the square ring-shaped resonators containing silver nanorods together with a metal-insulator-metal bus waveguide. The finite element method is used to analyze the transmittance properties and electromagnetic field distributions of the structure in detail. Results show that the coupling effect between the bus waveguide and the side-coupled resonator can enhance by generating gap plasmon resonance among the silver nanorods, increasing the cavity plasmon mode in the resonator. The suggested structure obtained relatively high sensitivity and acceptable figure of merit and quality factor of about 2473 nm/RIU (refractive index unit), 34.18 1/RIU and 56.35, respectively. The achieved plasmonic sensor is ideal for lab-on-chip in gas and biochemical analysis and can significantly enhance the sensitivity by 177% compared to the regular one. The designed structure can apply in nanophotonic devices, and the range of the detected refractive index is suitable for gases and fluids (e.g., gas, isopropanol, optical oil and glucose solution).
Effects of Viscous Dissipation and Joule Heating on Micropolar Hybrid Nanofluid in a Stretching/Shrinking Channel including Thermal/Solar Radiation
Authors: El-dawy H.A , El-Amin Mohamed
Published: July 2021

This study aims to investigate the behavior of the micropolar hybrid nanofluid (Cu-TiO2) in a stretching and shrinking channel while maintaining a continuous laminar flow. External effects from magnetic field, thermal and solar radiation are also considered in the model. The governing differential (momentum, micro-rotation, and energy) equations are transformed into dimensionless forms via similarity transformations based on the boundary layer theory. The resulting ordinary differential equations are solved numerically using the fourth-order Runge-Kutta-Gill technique with the shooting method. The effects of nanoparticles transport on fluid flow and heat transfer are discussed and compared to the pure water case. The results are presented in tables or graphs such as velocity, temperature, angular-velocity profiles, and concentration.
The impact of RMD on urban runoff cannot be ignored in urban hydrologic management
Authors: Liu Yesen , huang yaohuan , liu yuanyuan
Published: July 2021

Urban floods have been exacerbated globally, associated with increasing spatial-temporal variations of rainfall. However, compared with rainfall variabilities of intensity and duration, the effect of RMD is always ignored. Based on 1313 rainfall scenarios with different combinations of rainfall intensity(RI) and RMD in a typical rainy city of Shenzhen in China, we investigate the urban runoff response in relation to RMD and the spatial feature of rivers. Our results show that the effect of RMD on the peak runoff may reach up to 20%, which will decrease to less than 5% under heavy RI conditions. In addition, we find that the impact of RMD is almost symmetrical and is associated with the direction of the river. The closer RMD is to the Linear Directional Mean of upstream, the larger peak runoff of section is. Our results reveal that RMD is significant to urban peak runoff in the downstream reaches, which should be considered in urban hydrologic model.
Stratified Assessment and Warning Regimen for Comprehensive Risk Management and Improved Iodinated Contrast Media Safety
Authors: Li Xue , Liu Heng , Qiu Haiyan , Wang Lingru , Liu Junling , Zhao Li , Wang Yaling , Zhang Weiguo
Published: July 2021

Objectives: To determine the relationship between stratified assessment and warning (SAW) regimen for risk factors to iodinated contrast media (ICM) and adverse drug reactions (ADR) occurrence.Methods: This retrospective study included patients who underwent enhanced CT examinations in our hospital between January 2014 and March 2016 (conventional assessment group) and between April 2017 and December 2019 (SAW group). Initial risk assessment was performed by clinicians when ordering examinations in both periods. The risk re-assessment was performed by simple question-and-answer onsite just before examination in the conventional assessment period, according to the risk factors that deserve special attention in ICM guidelines. In the SAW period, the re-assessment process prior to examination was moved forward as early as possible post-appointment, and a whole-process comprehensive management integrating risk identification, stratification, early warning and prevention was performed according different risk levels. Chi-square test was performed for comparisons of rates.Results: A total of 120822 cases in the conventional assessment group and 150343 cases in the SAW group were enrolled. The total ADR incidence in the SAW period (414/150343, 0.275%) was lower than that in the conventional assessment period (506/120822, 0.419%, P<0.001), in which the proportion of patients who developed ADR decreased by about 34%. It mainly presented as decrease in mild/moderate reactions (P<0.001) and increase in the proportion of mild ADR patients (P=0.001) in the SAW period. Subgroup analysis showed lower mild/moderate ADR incidence in patients with different risk levels and with different ICM injection parameters (P<0.05) following SAW regimen.Conclusions: SAW regimen was associated with lower mild/moderate ADR incidence and alleviated ADR severity in at-risk patients, which held potential for improved risk management and ICM safety.
Reusing System of the ballast water
Authors: Mounir Kirollos
Published: July 2021

Increasing water consumption is a problem faced by the world; one of its solutions is reusing water. Reuse is about changing processes that result in polluted water byproducts so that the resulting water is usable again. Our major problem is to reuse unusable or polluted water. We are not treating the water, but we are changing processes to make water byproducts usable again in the same process or even a different process. Our solution is to reuse ballast water in transporting oil. Oil ships are heading from one country to another, and they are loaded with oil. These ships return to be loaded with ballast water instead of oil to prevent the risk of overturning this ship. In other words, the ballast water is used to make the ship stable which is the purpose of the ballast water to return to their original countries in peace. Our goal is to purify this ballast water mixed with oil residues by relying on the density difference. The first step is to place a source of solid air in the tanks to provide some bubbles inside the tank. Secondly, put some of the iron peels inside the tanks to stick these peels with the bubbles, then by a magnetic field attracts the pollutant bubbles attached to the iron scales, and the ballast water remains in the tank to be used again. Before writing a test plan, we demonstrated two design requirements. The first one is ballast water quality which has two parts the turbidity and oil, grease, and all extractable matter by chloroform in the water, while the second design requirement is the environmental impact. By making a test, the results were astounding because it achieved the design requirements that we put into making this project applicable for reusing this polluted water after purifying it.
Effect of Yogurt as a Deglutition Aid on the Disintegration and Dissolution of Oral Tablets
Authors: Matsuo Taisuke , Tabata Yoshiyuki , Sasaki Hina , Yoshida Yuki , Gotoh Yayoi , Suzuki Toshio , Obara Michiko , Sadzuka Yasuyuki , Tomita Takashi
Published: July 2021

With an aging society, the number of people with dysphagia has increased. Patients with dysphagia not only find it difficult to eat and drink, but also to take oral medications. Swallowing aid foods, such as deglutition aid jellies and food thickeners are often used to help patients take oral medications. However, the inappropriate use of swallowing aids can decrease the pharmacological activity of the medications. Yogurt is nutritious and easy for patients with dysphagia to eat. Although yogurt is sometimes used to help take medications, its influence on them is poorly understood. In this study, we compared the physical properties and the effects of yogurt on disintegration and dissolution profiles of various oral tablets with those of deglutition aid jelly and xanthan gum-based food thickener. Yogurt and food thickener were found to extend the disintegration time of several tablets, but it remained within a few minutes. Although dissolution of magnesium oxide tablets decreased by 6%, 14%, and 25% after immersion in deglutition aid jelly, food thickener, and yogurt, respectively at 15 min, this decrease reduced with time. Rheological measurements showed that yogurt and food thickeners exhibited a weak gel structure and therefore had better fluidity than deglutition aid jelly. The viscosity and adhesiveness of yogurt were higher than those of food thickener, which delayed tablet disintegration and reduced the dissolution rate. However, these effects were not large. Yogurt may be a useful swallowing aid for patients with dysphagia taking oral medications.
Sydenham’s chorea in Sudan
Authors: Ibrahim Etedal Ahmed A. , Mohamed Rogia Hussein , Ahmed Khabab Abbasher Hussien Mohamed , Omer Mohammed Eltahier Abdalla
Published: July 2021

Background: Sydenham’s chorea (SC), is the most common form of acquired chorea in childhood, it is considered as neurological complication of streptococcal pharyngitis. Our aim was to determine the clinical pattern, association of Sydenham’s chorea with other manifestation of ARF and the laboratory findings of Sydenham’s chorea among Sudanese patients.Methods: This study is descriptive , retrospective cross- sectional study. Fifty patients with different age groups, were diagnosed as having Sydenham’s chorea & followed up at The National center for Neurological sciences, in the period (Jan2017 to Nov2019). Data were obtained after patients consent of by personal interview or personal review of patients records through a designed questionnaire including demographic data, symptoms, co morbid illness, risk factors, physical examination and related investigations.Results: The patients’ median age was 13.7 years: 88% of the cases occurred between 7-17 years with female predominance(35) . Generalized chorea was seen in 33 (66%) and hemichorea 17 (34%) patients. weakness and hypotonia were common, behavior change (44%), dysarthria (71%), gait change(17.20%)and deterioration of handwriting (13%) Arthritis occurred in (36%), carditis 30 (60%), arthritis and carditis in 18(36%), and pure chorea 14 (28%). Erythema marginatum and subcutaneous nodules were not observed in our patients. Only13 patients (26%) gave a history of pharyngitis.Conclusion : There were clear evidence of familial predisposition. Sydenham’ chorea commonly presents acutely in majority of patients. Chorea firstly appeared with oro-fascial movement followed by limb involvement. Minority of patients gave a history of pharyngitis. Brain imaging was normal.
Trapezoidal Fully Fuzzy Sylvester Matrix Equation with Arbitrary Coefficients
Authors: Elsayed Ahmed , Ahmad Nazihah , Malkawi Ghassan
Published: July 2021

Almost every existing method for solving trapezoidal fully fuzzy Sylvester matrix equation
restricts the coefficient matrix and the solution to be positive fuzzy numbers only. In this paper,
we develop new analytical methods to solve a trapezoidal fully fuzzy Sylvester matrix equation
with restricted and unrestricted coefficients. The trapezoidal fully fuzzy Sylvester matrix
equation is transferred to a system of crisp equations based on the sign of the coefficients by
using Ahmd arithmetic multiplication operations between trapezoidal fuzzy numbers. The
constructed method not only obtain a simple crisp system of linear equation that can be solved
by any classical methods but also provide a widen the scope of the trapezoidal fully fuzzy
Sylvester matrix equation in scientific applications. Furthermore, these methods have less steps
and conceptually easy to understand when compared with existing methods. To illustrate the
proposed methods numerical examples are solved.
Effectiveness of digital health interventions for diabetes: systematic review of systematic reviews
Authors: Maiga Bonkana , Bagayoko Cheick O , Ahmed Mohamed Ali Ag , Anne Abdrahamane , Gagnon Marie-Pierre , Traoré Sidibe Assa , Landrier Jean François , Geissbuhler Antoine
Published: July 2021

Background
The use of digital health technologies to tackle diabetes has been particularly flourishing in recent years. Previous studies have shown to varying degrees that these technologies can have an impact on diabetes prevention and management.
Objective
The aim of this review is to summarize the best evidence regarding the effectiveness of digital health interventions to improve one or more diabetes indicators.
Methods
We included all types of interventions aimed at evaluating the effect of digital health on diabetes. We considered at all types of digital interventions (mobile health, teleconsultations, tele-expertise, electronic health records, decision support systems, e-learning, etc.). We included systematic reviews published in English or French over the last 29 years, from January 1991 to December 2019, that met the inclusion criteria. Two reviewers independently reviewed the titles and abstracts of the studies to assess their eligibility, and extracted relevant information according to a predetermined grid. Any disagreement was resolved by discussion and consensus between the two reviewers, or involved a third author as referee.
Results
In total in our review of journals, we included 10 reviews. The outcomes of interest were clinical indicators of diabetes that could be influenced by digital interventions. These outcomes had to be objectively measurable indicators related to diabetes surveillance and management that are generally accepted by diabetes experts. Six of the ten reviews showed moderate to large significant reductions in glycated hemoglobin (HBA1c) levels compared to controls. Most reviews reported overall positive results and found that digital health interventions improved health care utilization, behaviours, attitudes, knowledge and skills.
Conclusion
Based on a large corpus of scientific evidence on digital health interventions, this overview could help identify the most effective interventions to improve diabetes indicators.