bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Indonesian Version of Evidence-Based Practice Questionnaire (EBPQ): An Evaluation of Reliability
Authors: Fajarini Melati , Rahayu Sri , Setiawan Agus
Published: March 2021

Introduction: The use of evidence-based practice (EBP) has been demonstrated to increase the quality of patient care. However, the extent to which it is practiced in Indonesia is yet to be determined. It was necessary to develop a means of measuring EBP in order to acquire a profile of the use of EBP in Indonesia. The EBP questionnaire (EBPQ) developed by Upton and Upton was selected in the current study to evaluate the perceptions of healthcare workers regarding their knowledge of, attitudes toward, and practice of EBP. This questionnaire is widely recognized; however, an Indonesian version has not yet been developed. This study aimed to translate the EBPQ developed by Upton and Upton into Indonesian and to evaluate its reliability. Method: WHO framework on how to translate and adapt an instrument was applied. On completion of the forward translation and discussion process, backward translation of the EBPQ was performed, after which it was pretested and finalized. Reliability was tested by testing the questionnaire on 42 nurses at five hospitals in Depok and Jakarta. Result: Four words were changed. All items are valid. The reliability analysis resulted Cronbach’s a of 0.96 (a = 0.92, 0.80, and 0.96 for practice, attitude, and knowledge, respectively. Thus, 24 translated statements determined to be valid and reliable, were included in the final version. Conclusion: The Indonesian translated version of the EBPQ proposed by Upton and Upton was demonstrated to be valid and reliable. Further studies on the perceptions of healthcare workers  are warranted.
RISIKO BANJIR PADA DRAINASE PADA MASA PANDEMI COVID-19
Authors: Harahap Rumilla , Jeumpa Kemala , Rahmadani Sarra
Published: March 2021

Besarnya dampak kerugian yang dihasilkan baik materi maupun non materi serta kondisi drainase yang tidak berfungsi lagi baik disebabkan oleh daya tampung yang lebih kecil dari debit yang ada, kurangnya perawatan maupun sistem pengaliran dan pembuangan yang tidak sesuai lagi dengan lingkungan dan juga tahun 2020 terjadi saat pandemi Covid-19. Beberapa daerah diantaranya Kecamatan Medan Polonia, Medan Sunggal, Medan Petisah, Medan Tembung, Medan Barat, Medan Timur  selalu  terjadi  banjir  karena  drainase  tidak  mampu  menampung  lagi.  Mengingat  begitu banyaknya kerugian yang ditimbulkan oleh banjir atau genangan luas dan tinggi, maka penelitian berjudul “Risiko banjir pada drainase pada masa pandemic covid-19” dengan tujuan untuk mengetahui debit banjir dari besaran hujan dimasa pandemic Covid-19. Data yang digunakan data curah hujan dari BMKG selama 10 tahun, untuk menganalisa hidrologi menggunakan Metode Log Pearson III dan Analisa hidrolika menggunakan debit banjir. Mencari hujan rencana dengan kala ulang 2 tahun, 5 tahun, 10 tahun. Kemudian  hasilnya dibuat dalam bentuk kurva. Selanjutnya perhitungan debit banjir periodik menggunakan Metode Rasional untuk research . Hasil yang ditargetkan dengan adanya karya ilmiah ini dapat digunakan oleh instansi yang bersangkutan.   metode log pearson type  III Intensitas curah hujan untuk periode ulang  ulang 10 tahun adalah 122,85 mm/jam dan debit banjir rancangan untuk Q 10 Tahun adalah 4,228 m3/det hasil penelitian ini diharapkan dapat mengurang risiko banjir dan Menumbuhkan kesadaran masyarakat agar menjaga kesehatan, memelihara drainase, tidak membuang sampah disembarangan dan semoga bermanfaat untu pemerintah daerah.
Некоторые клинические и эпидемиологические аспекты течения COVID-19 у лиц, живущих с ВИЧ на юге России
Authors: Долгова Нина , Рындич Антонина , Суладзе Александр , Твердохлебова Татьяна , Болатчиев Керим
Published: March 2021

Целью исследования было изучение эпидемиологического процесса в категории ЛЖВС, поскольку ВИЧ-инфекция предполагает развитие иммуносупрессивного состояния, которое может усугублять течение COVID-19. Проведен ретроспективный и текущий эпидемиологический анализ заболеваемости ВИЧ-инфекцией и COVID-19 в 2020 г. на территории юга России. Анализ разработанных анкет, отражающих эпидемиологические, клинические, лабораторно-диагностические аспекты течения COVID-19 у ЛЖВС.
Neonatal Forearm Compartment Syndrome Secondary to Intrauterine Brachiocephalic Arterial Thrombosis
Authors: Apel Peter J. , Schulkers Keriann M. , Bravo Cesar J. , Thompson Orfield Noah J.
Published: March 2021

Case:

A newborn presented with necrotic skin lesions and contractures of the right upper extremity. Ultrasonography indicated the presence of a brachiocephalic artery thrombosis, and clinical examination demonstrated a neonatal forearm compartment syndrome. Surgical treatment included decompressive fasciotomy of the right forearm. The right-sided brachiocephalic thrombosis resulted in left hemiplegic cerebral palsy. At the 3-year follow-up, the patient had near-normal function of the right upper extremity. This case has detailed preoperative video and follow-up to illustrate this rare but modifiable condition.

Conclusion:

This case demonstrates a unique cause of neonatal forearm compartment syndrome (brachiocephalic arterial thrombosis) and the results of prompt surgical treatment.
Developing Writing Module for the Fourth-Semester Learners of English Department at State Islamic Institute of Palopo
Authors: Syam Andi Tenrisanna
Published: March 2021

This research aimed to develop an appropriate module based on the writing needs of the learners. The author took the fourth-semester learners of the English Department at the State Islamic Institute of Palopo in the academic year 2018/2019. The author involved 40 learners as her participants. The method of the research was Research and Development. The author used the ADDIE model. The ADDIE model consisted of five stages, namely analysis, design, develop, implementation and evaluation. The instruments of the research were questionnaires and documents. The data were analyzed quantitatively qualitatively. The results of the content, the design, and the media experts validation showed that the module got good and very good category. The writing I module quality based on the learners’ response in the field try-out showed that 75% of learners very agree and 25% of learners agree with the materials presented in the module. The result of this research hopefully gives a contribution to some parties, especially to the writing I lecturers and to the other researchers.
The Interferences of Indonesian Grammatical Aspects into English: An Evaluation on Preservice English Teachers’ EFL Learning
Authors: Linarsih Andini , Irwan Dedi , Putra Muhammad Iqbal Ripo
Published: March 2021

Decades-long researches in a language in contact field have proved that when a learner learns a new language, his/her knowledge regarding their first language might interfere with their learning. If it occurs, the learning process will be more challenging. The data in this research was collected by using document study technique on twenty-five research outlines written by preservice English teachers in order to investigate the potential of interferences of Indonesian subject – verb agreement pattern into English. To do so, a descriptive study was adopted. The data was analysed by incorporating error and contrastive analyses. The finding of this research confirmed that four types of subject – verb agreements pattern of English had been interfered by that of Indonesian. The grammatically incorrect sentences, which were caused by such interferences, occurred very individually. It means that the interference varies from one preservice English teacher to another.
Facies architecture and time stratigraphic relationships of a confined trunk-tributary valley fill and unconfined fluvial system in the backwater of the Turonian Ferron-Notom Delta, Utah, U.S.A.
Authors: Kynaston David , Bhattacharya Janok P. , Singer Brad S. , Jicha Brian R.
Published: March 2021

This paper documents a tidally incised, mudstone-prone tributary valley fill linked to a trunk valley in the backwater limit of the Turonian Notom Delta of the Ferron Sandstone Member, Utah. High-resolution 3D photogrammetry models were used to correlate a 20-m-deep valley between 32 measured sections over a 1 km2 area. A GPS survey and GIS geostatistical tools were used to restore the morphology of the tributary valley. The restored valley floor is interpreted as a surface of tidal erosion, based on the overlying facies and surface morphology. Morphological similarities exist between this tributary valley and modern analogs observed in northern Australia, the Memramcook tributary in the Bay of Fundy, and Pleistocene sediments in the Gulf of Thailand.

40Ar/39Ar dating of sanidine crystals using multi-collector mass spectrometry allow for a re-evaluation of depositional rates and timing of 32 fluvial aggradation cycles (FACs) and 9 fluvial-aggradation cycle sets (FAC sets) in this sequence. The new dates show that the entire sequence was deposited in 15 ± 5 kyr, and show that Milankovitch cycles cannot account for the internal complexity of this fluvial stratigraphy, indicating likely autogenic control of the FAC sets. The lateral extent of FACs in floodplain deposits mapped in outcrop are correlated over tens to hundreds of meters, and scale to estimated channel widths reflecting the autogenic control. FAC sets can be correlated for up to 10 km along depositional strike, which suggest controls unrelated to the dynamics of individual channels and may show some elements of allogenic climate-driven processes.
Paynita PermotauricaN. Gen., N. SP., and the Other Dagmaritin Foraminifera from the Changhsingian (Permian) of Southern Turkey: Review of Dagmaritin Phylogeny
Authors: Altıner Demır , Özkan-Altıner Sevınç , Atasoy Serdar Görkem , Şahın Nazıf
Published: March 2021

The name Paynita is proposed for a new dagmaritin genus from the upper Changhsingian (Permian) carbonates of the Southern Biofacies Belt in Turkey. Paynita permotaurica differs from its ancestor Paradagmarita monodi by a hook-shaped fold in the apertural flap terminating systematically against the inner surface of the septal wall to protect the opening from one chamber to the other. It is associated with several species of dagmaritins, belonging to Paradagmarita, Paradagmacrusta, Louisettita, Dagmarita, Danielita, and Bidagmarita. The overall analysis of dagmaritins reveals that the stratigraphic range of the group is from Wordian to Changhsingian. The revised chronostratigraphy in the type area of the genus Sengoerina indicates that this oldest dagmaritin was derived from Globivalvulina cyprica in the Wordian. The first occurrences of genera Dagmarita and Danielita postdate the first occurrence of Sengoerina in the Wordian. Paynita is the last evolutionary step of the Sengoerina-Dagmarita-Crescentia-Paradagmarita lineage characterized by a planar apertural flap whose structure practically remained unchanged during the process of evolution. Paynita is the first genus in this lineage displaying fold in the apertural flap similar to the evolution of Louisettita from Dagmarita.
AUTOESTIMA, AUTOEFICACIA Y CONSUMO DE ALCOHOL EN ADOLESCENTES DE PREPARATORIA
Authors: NOH-MOO PEDRO MOISES , AHUMADA-CORTEZ JESICA GUADALUPE , GÁMEZ-MEDINA MARIO ENRIQUE , LÓPEZ-CISNEROS MANUEL ANTONIO , CASTILLO-ARCOS LUBIA DEL CARMEN
Published: March 2021

El consumo de alcohol en la adolescencia representa un problema de salud pública dado a su origen multifactorial. Asimismo, la autoestima y autoeficacia tienen una gran importancia para el desarrollo adolescente. Objetivo. Conocer la influencia de la autoestima y autoeficacia sobre el consumo de alcohol, además de comparar la autoestima y autoeficacia por consumidores y no consumidores. Método. Estudio descriptivo correlacional con 426 adolescentes de preparatoria pertenecientes a Ciudad del Carmen, Campeche, México. Los datos se recolectaron a través de tres cuestionarios autoaplicables, la Prueba de Identificación de Trastornos debidos al Consumo de Alcohol, la Escala de Autoestima y la Escala de Autoeficacia. Resultados. El 23.7% de los adolescentes se encuentran dentro del consumo sensato, 12.2% en consumo dependiente y el 10.8% tiene un consumo dañino. El Modelo de Regresión Lineal Múltiple para la autoestima y autoeficacia sobre el consumo de alcohol en último año se mostró significativo. La autoestima y autoeficacia predicen el consumo de alcohol en el último año. Conclusión. Este estudio puede proporcionar información útil para el diseño e implementación de estrategias para la prevención del consumo de alcohol en adolescentes de preparatoria.
Educación en odontología en esta “nueva normalidad”
Authors: Peña Soto Claudio
Published: March 2021

La crisis mundial originada por la pandemia de la COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2)ha desencadenado un replanteamiento de la prestación de servicios educativos atodos los niveles. Casi de la noche a la mañana, las escuelas y universidades detodo el mundo cerraron sus puertas, lo que afectó a 1570 millones de estudiantesen 191 países.
Tratamiento multidisciplinario mínimamente invasivo de la sonrisa gingival
Authors: Domínguez Díaz Deysi Desirée , López Flores Ana Isabel
Published: March 2021

El aumento en la demanda de tratamientos de odontología estética ha conducido al desarrollo de una comunicación multidisciplinaria entre las diferentes especialidades para lograr el éxito. La sonrisa gingival es un problema estético frecuente que consiste en una exposición excesiva de la encía durante la sonrisa y cuyas modalidades de tratamiento van desde una gingivectomía hasta el levantamiento de un colgajo para la remoción de hueso excedente. Las restauraciones con carillas directas de resinas compuestas son adecuadas para la conservación y la mejora estética del sector anterior, con óptima estética y durabilidad, además de ser consideradas un tratamiento mínimamente invasivo debido a sus conceptos conservadores de preservar la estructura dentaria. El presente caso clínico describe el tratamiento de un paciente joven con sonrisa gingival y alteración en forma y color de los dientes anteriores, mediante procedimientos mínimamente invasivos tales como la gingivectomía y la rehabilitación con carillas directas de resinas compuestas, con el objetivo máximo de preservar la estructura dentaria y una mayor predictibilidad estético-funcional.
Assessment of closely related Mycobacterium tuberculosis variants with different transmission success and in vitro infection dynamics
Authors: Abascal Estefania , Genestet Charlotte , valera Ana , Lirola Miguel Martinez , Muñoz Patricia , Dumitrescu Oana , Viedma Darío García de , Herranz Marta
Published: March 2021

Whole genome sequencing (WGS) is able to differentiate closely related Mycobacterium tuberculosis variants within the same transmission cluster. Our aim was to evaluate if this higher discriminatory power may help identify and characterize more actively transmitted variants and understand the factors behind their success. We selected a robust MIRU-VNTR-defined cluster from Almería, Spain (22 cases throughout 2003–2019). WGS allowed discriminating, within the same epidemiological setting, between a successfully transmitted variant and seven closely related variants that did not lead to secondary cases, or were involved in self-limiting transmission (one single secondary case). Intramacrophagic growth of representative variants was evaluated in an in vitro infection model using U937 cells. Growth rates were higher for the actively transmitted variant (range: 5.3–10.7) than for the unsuccessfully transmitted closely related variants (1.5–3.95). Two SNPs, mapping at the DNA binding domain of DnaA and at kdpD ,were found to be specific of the successful variant.
Adaptive Super Twisting Sliding Mode Control With Fractional Order Sliding Surface for Trajectory Tracking of a Mobile Robot
Authors: Ren Huanhuan , Zhang Lizhong , Su Chengzhi
Published: March 2021

This paper presents the position tracking performance of the robot system with uncertainties and external disturbances by using super twisting sliding mode control (STSMC) with fractional order (FO) sliding surface. In this scheme, fractional calculus theory is applied to the design of the sliding surface of STSMC, which can reduce the chattering caused by the switch control action and ensure that the control system has strong robust characteristics and fast convergence. Based on Lyapunov stability theory, the controller ensures the existence of sliding mode of sliding surface in finite time. Moreover, an adaptive STSMC reaching law is adopted. By using the fractional order nonlinear switching manifold and adaptive reaching law, the control performance can be obtained more effectively in sliding mode phase and the reaching phase, respectively. Finally, in order to validate the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed control strategy, the linear PID control strategy and the classical STSMC strategy are designed for comparative analysis, and the numerical calculation is carried out according to the dynamic model to study the position tracking accuracy of the robot under uncertainty and external interference.
Fast Inverse Design of Nanophotonics using Di fferential Evolutionn and Back-Propagation
Authors: Qiu Cankun , Wu Xia , Luo Zhi , Yang Huidong , Huang Bo
Published: March 2021

Deep learning technology have been used as a new approach for forward simulation and inverse design of nanophotonic structures. Deep learning technology greatly reduces the time of optical simulation and enables us to use back-propagation (BP) algorithm to optimize design parameters. But BP is very sensitive to the initial values and hard to converge to the optimal value for some initial values. In this research, we propose a hybrid optimization strategy that combined differential evolution (DE) with BP algorithm for the inverse design of multilayer nanofilms structures. The proposed method effectively utilizes the global parallel exploration capability of DE and the local exploitation capability of gradient descent based on BP. It can alleviate the sensitivity of the initial values for the BP algorithm and effectively compensates for the slower convergence properties of the DE. The results suggest that the hybrid DE-BP algorithm can greatly speeds up the inverse design process of multilayer nanofilms and can search in a larger parameter space that even exceeds the parameter range of the training dataset that are used to train the forward prediction neural networks.
Outbreak of Oral Ulcers (Glossitis) Among the Students of three Central Schools under Tsirang District Bhutan, 2018
Authors: Gyeltshen TSHEWANG , Dorji Lham , Dorj Leki , Choden Kuenga
Published: March 2021

Background In the early weeks of September 2018, clusters of oral sores mostly affecting the tongue were reported in three central schools under Tsirang district, Bhutan. A total of 243 students were affected in total as aggregated by the schools in all three central schools. Almost all the affected students’ complaint of burning sensation of the mouth followed by redness depapillation of the tongue. All the affected students have been assessed on the outbreak and nutritional survey was conducted in the schools. Results: Almost all the affected students in all the three schools had complaints of Burning Sensation (n=158) followed by Pain (n=153), Impaired Taste Sensation (n=100) and Intolerance to Spicy Food (n=95). Other complaints such as Fissured Tongue and Depapillation of the dorsum of the tongue accounted to about 16.6% of the total affected students. Nutritional Survey on school diet revealed the school diet not meeting the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for Vitamin B1 (Thiamin), B2 (Riboflavin), B3 (Niacin), B5 (Pantothenic Acid), B6 (Pyridoxine), B9 (Folic Acid), B12 (Cyanocobalamin) and Iron. Conclusions: While some recommendations are provided, the strongest and most effective measures to prevent the outbreak is to improve the school diet with extended green fruits and vegetables in the school’s dietary menu. Laboratory investigation on the content of currently supplied fortified rice in the schools and the Hazard Analysis of the manufacturers of the fortified rice supplied to Bhutan is also suggested with importance.
Relationship Between Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 1562C/T Polymorphism and Liver Diseases: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yang Tianling , Cheng Shitong , Li Shumeng , Ji Yangtao
Published: March 2021

Background

Liver diseases have an adverse impact on human’s body and life, and many factors, such as viruses, genes, etc., are closely related to the occurrence and development of liver diseases. This study tries to explore the relationship between liver diseases and one of the genetic polymorphisms (MMP-9-1562 C/T polymorphism) by meta-analysis, to provide basis for the prevention and treatment of liver diseases and to promote the study of the mechanism of liver diseases by the exploration of etiology.
Methods

Relevant literatures from PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, CNKI, Chinese biomedical literature database and other databases were searched from building the database to Dec. 2020. Meta-analysis method was adopted and Review Manager 5.3 software was used for analysis.
Results

A total of 7 studies with 1415 cases and 1592 controls were included in this meta-analysis. A significant association between MMP-9-1562 C/T polymorphism and liver diseases in the homozygous and recessive models (TT vs CC: OR = 1.82,95%CI = 1.28–2.59, P = 0.0009; TT vs CT + CC: OR = 1.73,95%CI = 1.24–2.41, P = 0.001). However, no association in heterozygote and dominant models (CT vs CC: OR = 1.05, 95%CI = 0.76–1.45, P = 0.78; TT + CT vs CC: OR = 1.17, 95%CI = 0.82–1.67, P = 0.38).
Conclusions

Our meta-analysis suggested that the TT genotype of MMP-9-1562 C/T polymorphism might be associated with the risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, hepatocellular carcinoma, and primary liver cancer. If these diseases are present, screening genotype of MMP-9 and aggressive treatment of the primary disease is necessary.
Heparanase Modulation by Wingless/INT (Wnt)
Authors: Melo Carina Mucciolo , Nader Helena Bonciani , Justo Giselle Zenker , Pinhal Maria Aparecida Silva
Published: March 2021

Heparanase is an endo-beta-glucuronidase, the only enzyme in mammals capable of cleaving heparan sulfate/heparin chains from proteoglycans. The oligosaccharides generated by heparanase present extensive biological functions since such oligosaccharides interact with adhesion molecules, growth factors, angiogenic factors and cytokines, modulating cell proliferation, migration, inflammation, and carcinogenesis. However, the regulation of heparanase activity is not fully understood. It is known that heparanase is synthesized as an inactive 65 kDa isoform and that post-translation processing forms an active 50 kDa enzyme. In the present study, we are interested in investigating whether heparinase is regulated by its own substrate as observed with many other enzymes. Wild-type Chinese hamster (Cricetulus griséus) ovary cells (CHO-K1) were treated with different doses of heparin. Heparanase expression was analyzed by Real-time PCR and flow cytometry. Also, heparanase activity was measured. The heparanase activity assay was performed using a coated plate with biotinylated heparan sulfate. In the present assay, a competitive heparin inhibition scenario was set aside. Exogenous heparin trigged a cell signaling pathway that increased heparanase mRNA and protein levels. The Wnt/beta-catenin pathway, judged by TCF-driven luciferase activity, seems to be involved to enhance heparanase profile during treatment with exogenous heparin. Lithium chloride treatment, an activator of the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway, confirmed such mechanism of transduction in vivo using zebrafish embryos and in vitro using CHO-K1 cells. Taken together the results suggest that heparin modulates heparanase expression by Wnt/beta-catenin.
Determinants of Uptake of Intermittent Preventive Treatment for Malaria With Sulfadoxine Pyrimethamine in Pregnancy: A Cross-Sectional Study in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis of Ghana
Authors: Anto Francis , Ayepah Christabel , Awini Elizabeth , Bimi Langbong
Published: March 2021

BackgroundGhana malaria control programme recommends the uptake of five doses of SP during pregnancy following the review of the WHO recommendations in 2012. The uptake of higher doses of SP since the implementation of the new policy in 2016, has been low across the country. The current study determined factors that can be improved to increase uptake of IPTp-SP in malaria endemic regions. MethodsA descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among women who had just delivered in selected health facilities in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis of Ghana. Participants were enrolled from the lying-in wards of the study facilities after delivery. Data including time of initiating ANC, number of visits, time of first dose of SP and number of doses were collected. ANC books were also reviewed. Logistic and multinomial logistic regression analyses were done to determine respondent factors associated with uptake of IPTp-SP using Stata 15. ResultsOut of the 496 mothers who participated in the study, 370 (74.60%) initiated ANC during the first trimester, 123 (24.80%) during the second, with only three (0.60%) starting during the third trimester. Majority (463/496, 93.35%) made > 4 visits. Uptake of at least one dose of SP was 98.79% (490/496), ≥ 2 doses was 92.75 (460/496), ≥ 3 doses was 80.65% (400/496) and ≥ 4 doses was 40.32% (200/496). Uptake of IPTp 5 was very low (6.65%, 33/490). A unit increase of one ANC visit was associated with 20% higher odds of receiving 3-4 doses of SP with respect to receiving 1-2 doses (p<0.001). The probability of receiving 5 or more doses of SP with respect to 1-2 doses was 26% higher with a unit increase of one ANC visit. Conclusion Uptake of 3-4 doses and ≥ 5 doses of SP were associated with making more ANC visits. Encouraging and motivating expectant mothers to make more ANC visits can improve uptake of ≥ 5 doses of SP.
A new benzothiazin-functionalized calix[4]arene-based fluorescent chemosensor for the selective and sensitive detection of Co2+ ion
Authors: Fateh Fatimah , Yildirim Ayşe , Bhatti Asif Ali , YILMAZ Mustafa
Published: March 2021

Calixarenes, which have a great place in supramolecular chemistry, has become the most prominent macrocyclic compounds in synthetic organic chemistry due to their easy synthesis and functionalization. In this study, p-tert-butyl calix[4]arene dihydrazide derivative was synthesized and then reacted with 3-oxo-3,4-dihydro-2H-benzo[b][1, 4] thiazin-2-ylideneacetyl chloride to prepare new calixarene based chromophore compound 4. The structure of the synthesized compound was elucidated by spectroscopic methods such as 1H-NMR 13C-NMR and FT-IR spectroscopy. Chromogenic and fluorescence properties of compound 4 were evaluated. It was observed from both studies that compound 4 was Co2+ selective and shows fluorescence Switched-off behavior. Stoichiometry, binding constant and the detection limit was calculated. The stoichiometry between compound 4 and Co2+ was found to be 1:1. The binding constant value (K) was calculated as 666.67 M− 1 using Benesi–Hildebrand equation, while the detection limit for Co2+ ion was calculated as 0.0465 µM.
Effect of Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (MTHFR) gene mutations and oxidative stress in silent brain infarction
Authors: Koşar Pınar Aslan , Tepebaşı Muhammet Yusuf , Şengeze Nihat , İlhan İlter , Büyükbayram Halil İbrahim , Kutluhan Süleyman
Published: March 2021

Ischemic infarctions occur under the influence of genetic and environmental factors. In our study, the role of ischemia-modified albumin and thiol balance, which are new markers in determining oxidative damage together with MTHFR gene mutations and homocysteine levels, in the development of SBI was investigated. White matter lesions in the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) results of the patients were evaluated according to the Fazekas scale and divided into groups (Grade 0, 1, 2, and 3). Homocysteine, folate, B12, IMA, total thiol, and native thiol were measured by biochemical methods. The mutations in MTHFR genes were investigated by the RT-PCR method. According to our results, a significant difference was found between the groups in age, homocysteine, folate, IMA, total thiol, and native thiol parameters (p<0.05). When we compared the groups in terms of genotypes of the C677T gene, we found a significant difference in TT genotype between grades 0/3 and 1/3 (p<0.05). We determined that homocysteine and IMA levels increased and folate levels decreased in CC/TT and CT/TT genotypes in the C677T gene (p<0.05). Considering our results, the observation of homocysteine and IMA changes at the genotype level of the MTHFR C677T gene and between the groups, and the deterioration of thiol balance between the groups suggested that these markers can be used in the diagnosis of silent brain infarction.
Seed Biostimulant MGW9 (SB-MGW9) Biopriming Improves Salt Tolerance during Maize Seed Germination
Authors: Li Heqin , Yue Haiwang , Li Li , Liu Yu , Zhang Haiyan , Wang Jianhua , Jiang Xuwen
Published: March 2021

Crop performance is seriously affected by high salt concentrations in soils. To develop more new seed pre-sowing treatment technologies it is crucial to improve the salt tolerance of seed germination. Here we isolated and identified the strain Bacillus sp. MGW9 and developed the seed biostimulant MGW9 (SB-MGW9) by the strain. Effect of seed biopriming with SB-MGW9 in maize (Zea mays L.) under saline condition were studied. The results showed that the Bacillus sp. MGW9 has the characteristics of salt tolerance, nitrogen fixation, phosphorus dissolution, indole-3-acetic acid production and the like. Seed biopriming with SB-MGW9 enhanced the performance of maize during seed germination under salinity stress to improve the germination energy, germination percentage, shoot/seedling length, primary root length, shoot/seedling fresh weight, shoot/seedling dry weight, root fresh weight and root dry weight. SB-MGW9 biopriming also alleviates the salinity damage to maize by improving relative water content, chlorophyll content, proline content, soluble sugar content, root activity, activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase and ascorbate peroxidase, decreasing the malondialdehyde content. Especially, the field seedling emergence of maize seeds in saline-alkali soil can be improved by SB-MGW9 biopriming. Therefore, maize seed biopriming with SB-MGW9 can be an effective approach to resist the inhibitory effects of salinity stress and promote seed germination and seedling growth.
Phosphorus Removal in Denitrifying Woodchip Bioreactors Varies by Wood Type and Water Chemistry
Authors: Bailon Ana Paula Sanchez Bustamante , Margenot Andrew , Cooke Richard A. C. , Christianson Laura
Published: March 2021

Denitrifying woodchip bioreactors are a practical nitrogen (N) mitigation technology but evaluating the potential for bioreactor phosphorus (P) removal is highly relevant given that: (1) agricultural runoff often contains N and P, (2) very low P concentrations cause eutrophication, and (3) there are few options for removing dissolved P once it is in runoff. A series of batch tests evaluated P removal by woodchips containing a range of metals known to sorb P and then four design and environmental factors (autoclaved woodchips, water matrix, particle size, initial DRP concentration). Woodchips with the highest aluminum and iron content provided the most dissolved P removal (13±2.5 mg DRP removed/kg woodchip). However, poplar woodchips, which had low metals content, provided the second highest removal (12±0.4 mg/kg) when they were tested with P-dosed river water which had a relatively complex water matrix. Chemical P sorption due to woodchip elements may be possible, but it is likely one of a variety of P removal mechanisms in real-world bioreactor settings. Scaling the results indicated bioreactors could remove 0.40 to 13 g DRP/ha. Woodchip bioreactor dissolved P removal will likely be small in magnitude, but any such contribution is an added-value benefit of this denitrifying technology.
Determination and dietary risk assessment of 284 pesticide residues in local fruit cultivars in Shanghai, China
Authors: Zhang Yaodan , Si Wenshuai , Chen Lei , Shen Guoqing , Bai Bing , Zhou Changyan
Published: March 2021

The presence of pesticide residues has become one of the main risk factors affecting the safety and quality of agro-food. In this study, a multi-residue method for the analysis of 284 pesticides in five local fruit cultivars in Shanghai was developed based on ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-fight mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF/MS). The limits of determination and the limits of quantitation of pesticides were 0.6–10 and 2–30 µg/kg, respectively. A total of 44, 10, 10, 18, and 7 pesticides were detected in strawberries, watermelons, melons, peaches, and grapes, respectively. The pesticide levels in 95.0% of the samples were below the maximum residual limits (MRLs) prescribed by China, and in 66.2% of the samples below the EU MRLs. The dietary risk assessment study showed big differences in the chronic and acute exposure risk values among different Chinese consumer groups. Through fruit consumption, children/females showed higher exposure risks than adults/males. But both the risk values were less than 100%, indicating that potential dietary risk induced by the pesticides was not significant for Chinese consumers. Nevertheless, certain measures are needed for both growers and government in order to decrease the MRL-exceeding rate of pesticide residues and ensure the quality and safety of fruits for consumers.
Effects of Mesenchymal Stem Cell-derived Exosomes on Oxidative Stress Responses in Skin Cells
Authors: Matsuoka Takaaki , Takanashi Keita , Dan Katsuaki , Yamamoto Kenichi , Tomobe Koji , Shinozuka Tatsuo
Published: March 2021

Background: The mechanism by which reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced by oxidative stress promote cellular senescence has been studied in detail. This study aimed to verify the preventive or therapeutic effects of mesenchymal stem cell-derived exosomes (MSC-Ex) on the production of ROS induced by oxidative stress in human skin fibroblasts and clarify the mechanisms that promote cellular senescence.Methods: In a system where H2O2 was applied to skin fibroblasts, we assessed the effects of the application of MSC-Ex before and after oxidative stress and measured the fluctuations in several signaling molecules involved in subsequent intracellular stress responses. Exosomes were isolated from MSCs (MSC-Ex) and normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs, NHDF-Ex) before and after exposure to H2O2. NHDFs were treated with exosomes before and after exposure to H2O2.Results: mRNA expression (aquaporin-1 and aquaporin-3) and hyaluronan secretion associated with skin moisturization were reduced by H2O2 treatment, whereas MSC-Ex reversed these effects. The cellular senescence induced by H2O2 was also reproduced in fibroblasts. Specifically, the downregulation of SIRT1 led to increased acetylated p53 expression over time, which induced the expression of p21, a downstream molecule of p53, and arrested the cell cycle, leading to cell senescence. MSC-Ex enhanced these signal transduction systems. MSC-Ex was also effective at blocking the increase of β-galactosidase activity and accumulation of ROS in cells. This effect was stronger than that of NHDF-Ex.Conclusion: MSC-Ex were found to act defensively against epidermal and cellular senescence induced by oxidative stress.
Antifouling Paints Biocides (Irgarol 1051 and Diuron) in the Selected Ports of Peninsular Malaysia: Occurrence, Seasonal Variation and Ecological Risk Assessment.
Authors: Ali Hassan Rashid , Ariffin Marinah Mohd , Omar Tuan Fauzan Tuan , Ghazali Adiana , Sheikh Mohammed Ali , Shazili Noor Azhar Mohamed , Bachok Zainudin
Published: March 2021

Irgarol and Diuron are photosystem II inhibitor in agricultural activities and antifouling paint in shipping sector. A study took place at three major ports surround the Peninsular Malaysia was carried out to construct the distribution of both biocides based on the seasonal and geographical changes. Surface seawater samples were collected during November 2011 to April 2012; pretreated using solid phase extraction technique followed by quantification with GC-MS and LC-MS-MS for Irgarol and Diuron, respectively. Generally, the distribution of Irgarol was lowest during November 2011 and highest during April 2012, which is similar pattern was observed at all ports, whereas the distribution of Diuron was rather vague. The increasing pattern of Irgarol from time to time is probably related to its accumulation in the seawater due to the half-life and consistent utilization. Based on the discriminant analysis, the temporal distribution of Irgarol varied at Klang North Port, Klang South Port and Pasir Gudang Port, whereas Diuron was temporally varied only at Kemaman Port. Furthermore, Irgarol was spatially varied during November 2011, whereas Diuron did not show any significant changes throughout all sampling periods. Ecological risk assessment exhibited high risk for Diuron and Irgarol, but however Irgarol should be of concern due to it relatively higher risk as compared to Diuron. Thus, it is recommended that the current Malaysian guideline and regulation of biocides application should be reevaluated and improve to protect the ecosystem, as well as preventing ecological risk to the aquatic environment.
Association of Lipid Profile Biomarkers with Breast Cancer by Molecular Subtype: analysis of the Mechanisms for Established and Novel Risk Factors for Breast Cancer in Women of African Descent (MEND) study
Authors: Akinyemiju Tomi , Gupta Anjali , Saraiya Veeral , Deveaux April , Oyekunle Taofik , Salako Omolola , Daramola Adetola , Hall Allison , Alatise Olusegun , Ogun Gabriel , Adeniyi Adewale , Ojo Akinlolu , Ayandipo Omobolaji , Olajide Thomas , Olasehinde Olalekan , Arowolo Olukayode , Adisa Adewale , Afuwape Oludolapo , Olusanya Aralola , Adegoke Aderemi , Tollefsbol Trygve O , Arnett Donna , Muehlbauer Michael J , Newgard Christopher B
Published: March 2021

Purpose: There is conflicting evidence on the role of lipid biomarkers in breast cancer (BC), and no study to our knowledge has examined this association among African women. Methods: We estimated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for the association of lipid biomarkers – total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides – with odds of BC overall and by subtype (Luminal A, Luminal B, HER2-enriched and triple-negative or TNBC) for 296 newly diagnosed BC cases and 116 healthy controls in Nigeria. Results: Cases were slightly older than controls (48.5 vs. 46.0) and had a lower BMI (25.4 vs. 26.5). Each unit SD increase in triglycerides was associated with 39% increased odds of BC in fully adjusted models (aOR: 1.39; 95% CI: 1.03, 1.86). However, there were no significant associations of total cholesterol, LDL and HDL with odds of breast cancer in fully adjusted models. In analysis of molecular subtypes, each unit SD increase in LDL was associated with 64% increased odds of Luminal B BC (aOR 1.64; 95% CI: 1.06, 2.55). Each unit SD decrease in HDL was associated with 49% increased odds of TNBC (aOR: 1.49, 95% CI: 0.94, 2.34), and clinically low HDL was associated with 2.7 times increased odds of TNBC (aOR 2.67; 95% CI: 1.10, 6.49). Conclusions: Low HDL and high LDL appear to significantly increase the odds of TN and Luminal B BC, among African women. Future prospective studies can characterize this association and inform clinical approaches targeting HDL as a BC prevention strategy.
Co-amplification of Genes in Chromosome 8q24: a Robust Prognostic Marker in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Cheng Yuan , Zheng Yongjian , Zhang Cheng , Fu Shunjun , He Guolin , Cai Lei , Qiu Ling , Huang Huakun , Chen Qunhui , Xie Wenzhuan , Chen Tingting , Huang Mengli , Bai Yuezong , Pan Mingxin
Published: March 2021

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the majorcause of cancer related deaths worldwide, due tohigh 5 yearpostoperativerecurrence rate and individualheterogeneity.Thus, prognostic modelhas dramaticallyurgently neededon HCCin recent years.Serval research have reported that copy number amplificationof the 8q24 chromosomalregion is associated with lowsurvival in many cancers. The objectiveof this study was to construct a multi-gene modelto predict the prognosis of HCC. Methods: RNAseq and copy number variant (CNV)data of tumor tissue samples of HCC from TCGA(N = 328)wasused to identify differentially expressed mRNAs of genes located on chromosomal 8q24 regionsby Wilcoxtest.Univariate Cox and Lasso Cox regressionwereperformed to screenand constructprognostic multi-gene signature in TCGA cohort (N = 119). The multi-gene signature was validated in ICGCcohort(N = 240).A nomogram for prognosis prediction was built and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was usedto further studythe underlying molecular mechanisms.Results:A 7-gene prognosis signaturemodelwas established for predicting HCC prognosis. Using the model, we divided individualsinto high-risk and low-risk setswith significantly different overall survival in training dataset(HR = 0.17, 95% CI 0.1–0.28; P ＜0.001) and in testing dataset (HR = 0.42, 95% CI 0.23–0.74; P =0.002). Multivariate Cox regression analysis indicatedthat thissignature was an independentprognostic factor ofHCC survival. Nomogram including the prognostic signature was constructed and showed better predictive performance in short year (1and 3year) than long year (5 year) survival. Furthermore, GSEA revealed several significantly pathways, which may help explain the underlying molecular mechanism.Conclusions:The 7-gene signature was areliableprognosticmarkerinHCC, which may provide meaningful informationto therapeutic customization and treatment decision making.
Plan Quality Comparisons Between Three-dimensional Conformal Radiotherapy, Intensity-modulated Radiotherapy, and Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy Based on Four-dimensional Computed Tomography for Gastric Mucosa-associated Lymphoid Tissue Lymphoma: a Planning Study
Authors: Matsumoto Tadashi , Toya Ryo , Shimohigashi Yoshinobu , Watakabe Takahiro , Matsuyama Tomohiko , Saito Tetsuo , Fukugawa Yoshiyuki , Kai Yudai , Oya Natsuo
Published: March 2021

Background: Previous planning studies in radiotherapy (RT) for gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma have been based on three-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT) images, which do not contain information on the respiratory motion of the stomach. Therefore, we compared the plan quality between 3D conformal radiotherapy (3D-CRT), intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), and volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) for gastric MALT lymphoma using four-dimensional computed tomography (4D-CT).Methods: Three different treatment plans of four-ﬁeld 3D-CRT, seven-ﬁeld IMRT, and double arc VMAT were created based on 4D-CT images of seven patients with gastric MALT lymphoma. An RT dose of 30 Gy was prescribed to the planning target volume (PTV) in 20 fractions. We calculated the minimum dose coverage for 95% of the PTV (D95), homogeneity index (HI), and conformity index (CI) of the PTV, and organs at risk (OARs) doses for the liver, kidneys, spinal cord, and small bowel. Plan quality metric (PQM) scores were also calculated for a comprehensive and objective assessment.Results: There was no significant difference among the three plans in D95 of PTV. HI of PTV for the IMRT plan was significantly better than that of the VMAT (p = 0.047) and 3D-CRT (p = 0.047) plans. HI of PTV for the VMAT plan was significantly better than that of the 3D-CRT plan (p = 0.047). CIs of PTV for the IMRT and VMAT plans were significantly better than that of the 3D-CRT plan (p = 0.047 and p = 0.047, respectively). Dmean of the liver for 3D-CRT was significantly higher than that for the IMRT (p = 0.047) and VMAT (p = 0.047) plans. The PQM scores of the VMAT and IMRT plans were significantly higher than that of the 3D-CRT plan (p = 0.047 and p = 0.047, respectively). The PQM score of the IMRT plan was significantly higher than that of the VMAT plan (p = 0.047).Conclusions: The IMRT plan yields the best plan quality for gastric MALT lymphoma. In terms of plan quality, as opposed to the 3D-CRT plan, we recommend the IMRT and VMAT plans.
Anti-KIAA0513 Antibody as a Broad-spectrum Biomarker of Mortal Atherosclerotic and Cancerous Diseases
Authors: Hiwasa Takaki , Li Shu-Yang , Kubota Masaaki , Zhang Bo-Shi , Yoshida Yoichi , Kobayashi Eiichi , Matsutani Tomoo , Mine Seiichiro , Machida Toshio , Ito Masaaki , Yajima Satoshi , Sumazaki Makoto , Shiratori Fumiaki , Shirouzu Mikako , Yokoyama Shigeyuki , Sata Mizuki , Yamagishi Kazumasa , Iso Hiroyasu , Sawada Norie , Tsugane Shoichiro , Takemoto Minoru , Yokote Koutaro , Kobayashi Yoshio , Matsushita Kazuyuki , Kobayashi Sohei , Terada Jiro , Tatsumi Koichiro , Takizawa Hirotaka , Shinmen Natsuko , Nakamura Rika , Kuroda Hideyuki , Shimada Hideaki , Iwadate Yasuo
Published: March 2021

Background: Numerous antibody biomarkers have been reported for cancer and atherosclerosis-related diseases. The major complications of atherosclerosis and diabetes mellitus (DM) are acute ischemic stroke (AIS), cardiovascular disease (CVD), and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Cancer development is accompanied by arterial disorders such as angiogenesis and atherosclerosis, and DM is a risk factor for certain cancers. Atherosclerosis-related diseases and cancers are therefore interrelated and could be detected by a common biomarker.Methods: We employed the protein array method for the initial screening of antigens and employed the amplified luminescent proximity homogeneous assay-linked immunosorbent assay (AlphaLISA) to evaluate antibody levels in serum samples.Results: The protein array identified KIAA0513 as an antigen recognized by serum IgG antibodies in the sera of patients with atherosclerosis. We then prepared recombinant glutathione S-transferase-fused KIAA0513 protein. AlphaLISA showed significantly higher serum antibody levels against KIAA0513 protein in patients with AIS, transient ischemic attack, DM, CVD, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), CKD, and solid cancers, such as esophageal, gastric, colon, lung, and breast cancer, than in healthy donors. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis revealed that the highest areas under the ROC curves of anti-KIAA0513 antibodies were for esophageal cancer, nephrosclerosis-type CKD, and DM. Spearman’s correlation analysis revealed that serum anti-KIAA0513 antibody levels were associated with maximum intima-media thickness and plaque score, which are indices of atherosclerosis and stenosis.Conclusion: Serum anti-KIAA0513 antibody markers appear to be useful for diagnosing AIS, TIA, DM, CVD, OSAS, CKD, and solid cancers and might reflect common arterial alterations leading to atherosclerotic and cancerous diseases.