bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exosomes-Based Humoral Regulation of Iron Metabolism is Required for Host Antibacterial Response
Authors: Kuang Huijuan , Dou Geng , Cheng Linfeng , Wang Xiangdong , Xu Haokun , Liu Xuemei , Ding Feng , Yang Xiaoshan , Liu Siying , Bao Lili , Liu Huan , Li Bei , Jin Yan , Liu Shiyu
Published: March 2022

Immediate iron restriction by the host is a critical process to protect against bacterial infections. Although the cell-dependent iron sequestration mechanism in liver or spleen has been identified, it is still unclear that whether the host launched humoral regulation mechanism to promptly acquire iron that widely distributes throughout body fluids. Here, we showed that after bacterial invasion, host immediately releases nanosized exosomes to capture circulating iron-containing proteins, which is required for prompt systemic iron sequestration and antibacterial defense. Mechanistically, in a sepsis model, we found that Salmonella Typhimurium induces endoplasmic reticulum stress in macrophages and activates inositol requiring enzyme 1α (IRE1α) signaling, triggering lysosomal dysfunction and promoting exosome release. These exosomes bearing transferrin receptors, CD163 and CD91 bind multiple iron-containing proteins, prevent bacteria from iron acquisition, and recycle them to tissue-resident macrophages, ultimately sequestering iron and protecting against infection. Our findings reveal a previously unknown humoral regulation mechanism of iron metabolism during bacterial infection, and suggest the release and circulation of extracellular vesicles could be an important way to promptly regulate systemic ion metabolism.
Coexistence of Systemic Sclerosis and Microscopic Polyangitis Associated With Pulmonary Renal Syndrome: a Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: jiang Yi , Liao Xia , He Yixi , Lei Tianyi , Wang Shunbing , Qing Yufeng
Published: March 2022

Objective: To investigate the clinical characteristics, diagnosis and treatment of coexistence of systemic sclerosis (SSc) and microscopic polyangitis（MPA）associated with pulmonary renal syndrome (PRS).Methods: The clinical data, diagnosis and treatment process of a patient who has SSC combined with MPA and PRS were summarized and analyzed. And the literature was reviewed to explore the correlation of the pathogenesis and clinical experience of SSC complicated with MPA and PRS. Results: The case is a middle-aged male who was diagnosed as SSc due to the hardening of the skin of both hands, Reynolds phenomenon, the anti-scl-70 antibody are positive. The patient suffered from repeated hemoptysis, progressive dyspnea, severe anemia and renal insufficiency, so he was diagnosed as MPA with PRS. After giving glucocorticoid, immunosuppressant and anti-infection treatment, his condition has improved. A total of 7 case reports were retrieved by reviewing the relevant literature.A total of 9 patients were reported. They were first diagnosed as SSc and then MPA with PRS, of which 4 cases improved after treatment and 5 cases died. Among the dead patients, 3 case was treated with D-penicillamine, and the remaining 2 cases were only treated with steroids or hemodialysis. The three have a certain correlation in pathogenesis. Glucocorticoids, immunosuppressants, biological agents, hemodialysis and plasma exchange are the main treatments.
Maternal plasma proteome profiling of biomarkers and pathogenic mechanisms of early-onset and late-onset preeclampsia
Authors: Chen Hao , Aneman Ingrid , Nikolic Valentina , Orlic Natasa Karadzov , Mikovic Zeljko , Stefanovic Milan , Cakic Zoran , Jovanovic Hristina , Town Stephanie , Padula Matthew , McClements Lana
Published: March 2022

BackgroundPreeclampsia is still the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in pregnancy, however there are no current effective therapeutic strategies. This has been impeded by poorly understood pathogeneses of preeclampsia and its multifactorial and heterogeneous nature. Two phenotypes of preeclampsia have been characterised based on the time of diagnosis, early-onset (EOPE, before 34 weeks’ of gestation) and late-onset (LOPE, from 34 weeks’ of gestation). However, the molecular differences between these two phenotypes are not fully elucidated. ObjectivesThis study aimed to facilitate better understanding of the mechanisms of pathogenesis of EOPE and LOPE, and identify specific biomarkers of preeclampsia.MethodsIn this study, we conducted an untargeted proteomic analyses of plasma samples from pregnant women with EOPE (n=17) and LOPE (n=11), and age, BMI-matched normotensive controls (n=18).ResultsIn total, there were 26 and 20 differentially abundant proteins between EOPE or LOPE, and normotensive controls, respectively. Only inter-alpha-trypsin inhibitor heavy chain 3 (ITIH3) was differentially abundant and 11 proteins were commonly shared between EOPE and LOPE. A series of angiogenic proteins, including insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 4 (IGFBP4; EOPE: FDR =0.30 x 10-3 and LOPE: FDR =3.96 x 10-3) and histidine-rich glycoprotein (HRG), were significantly perturbed in both phenotypes (EOPE: FDR=7.8 x 10-3; LOPE: FDR =4.1 x 10-3). ConclusionsOverall, proteins associated with lipid metabolism were the key proteins perturbed in EOPE, however, ECM proteins had a more pronounced role in LOPE. The homeostasis-related pathway including platelet activation, signalling and aggregation were more perturbed in EOPE than LOPE.
The Role of Loyalty and Satisfaction’s Effect on Word-of-Mouth Influence in Indonesian B2B Environment
Authors: Syahputra Syahputra , Fakhri Mahendra , Putri Clarissa Aulia , PRADANA MAHIR
Published: March 2022

Customers are active in the service process, therefore the quality of the services they consume is determined by them. These findings suggest that product expectations and values are used to gauge customer satisfaction. The growth of a diverse range of distinctive apparel, as well as clothing trends as people's lifestyles, demonstrates that this industry is rapidly expanding. The research methods employed in this study were quantitative research methodologies. Partial Least Square TStructural Equation Modeling was used to examine this investigation (PLS-SEM). Convergent validity, discriminant validity, and composite reliability are all tested during the measurement model testing phase. The outcomes of the PLS analysis can be utilized to evaluate the study hypothesis if all indicators in the PLS model meet the standards of convergent validity, discriminant value dirt, and reliability testing. The relationship between variables in research is a means of testing specific theories. The importance of selling the company through word of mouth cannot be overstated. By word of mouth, customer satisfaction with the selling company has a favorable and considerable impact on company sales. A reliability test was performed in this study to determine the measurement instrument's internal consistency. The relationship between variables in research is a means of testing specific theories. The importance of selling the company through word of mouth cannot be overstated. Consumers who are happy with the services they receive are more likely to make repeat purchases, to be loyal to the firm, and, most importantly, to spread the word about the company to their friends and family.
Importance of responsible interpretation of observational studies with an impact on public health policy
Authors: Kanankege Kaushi ST , Traynor Isaac , Perez Andres M
Published: March 2022

Observational studies are often referenced when informing policy decisions in public health. However, there limitations associated with the nature of observational studies may lead to erroneous interpretations and recommendations. A peer-reviewed publication published in 2018 reported that communities living near hog Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFO) have increased negative health outcomes and mortalities, in the U.S. state of North Carolina (NC). While authors stated that associations does not imply causation, speculative interpretation of their results by media caused detrimental effects on the swine industry. The objective here was to repeat their study using updated data and to evaluate the strength of conclusions and appropriateness of methods used with the ultimate goal of alerting on the impact that study limitations may have when used as evidence for decision-making. The referenced manuscript reported results from an ecological study design that used available data from 2007–2013. They analyzed exposure to CAFOs using a logistic regression model conducted at the individual-level, while presumably correcting for six confounding factors. We used same data sources and analytical methods, with additional years of data (2007–2018). Mortality, hospital admissions, and emergency department visits related eight diseases were analyzed (anemia, kidney disease, infectious diseases, tuberculosis, low birth weight, HIV, and diabetes). The study population and their exposure was defined by categorizing NC zip codes into three by pig density; where, > 1 hogs/km2 (G1), > 232hogs/km2 (G2), and no hogs (Control). Our repeated analysis recognized that the early study approach was inadequate to assess the intended hypothesis and had shortcomings including presence of ecological fallacy, residual confounding, inconsistency of associations, and over estimation of exposure. Diseases that are not causally relatable to hog CAFOs, such as HIV and diabetes, were also prominent in the communities neighboring CAFOs (G1 and G2). These associations, in part, reflects an alternative explanation of systemic health disparities of the communities near hog CAFOs. An ecological study would not confirm or deny exposure over time nor indicate causation. Hence, we emphasize the importance of responsible interpretation of ecological studies that concerns public health, agriculture, and economy, for science to provide appropriate and accurate support to the ultimate objective of targeting policy to enhance the quality of life and health of the communities.
Green synthesis, characterization and bioactivity evaluation of Caesium carbonate nanoparticle using Coleus amboinicus
Authors: Ramya K. , Ramalingam R. Jothi , Nethra V. , Zuha S. Shamsiz , Yuvaraj Dinakarkumar , Al-Lohedan Hamad , Arokiyaraj Selvaraj , Alqahtani H. M.
Published: March 2022

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Investigation on Microstructural and Mechanical Behaviour of Atmospheric Plasma Sprayed Stellite 6 Alloy Coatings on AISI 304 Stainless Steel
Authors: Sarangi Sangita , Mishra Ajit Kumar , Sahoo Seshadev , Bajpai Subhra
Published: March 2022

Stellite 6 alloy has been extensively used in industrial applications to prevent wear and corrosion because of its high strength, high hardness, and corrosion resistance. The wear and frictional properties of a material depend largely on the normal load and hardness of the mating surfaces. Wear resistance characteristics of the material can be improved substantially by reorienting the microstructure of the grain size of the metal along with imparting a higher hardness on the mating surfaces. In the present study, an effort is made to deposit Stellite 6 powder having a regular spherical shape with diameters ranging between 15 µm to 45 µm on an AISI 304 stainless steel substrate without any intermittent layer using an atmospheric plasma spray deposition process. The effect of coating thickness (74 µm, 128 µm, and 215 µm) on metallurgical, morphological, and mechanical characteristics was investigated. Optical microscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and EDS were employed to study the Stellite 6 coating morphology, and the structural analysis was used to identify the phase formation by using XRD. From the experimental analysis it is observed that, the Stellite 6 coating is uniform and homogenous in nature. Sample coated with Stellite 6 powder having 128 µm coating thickness is exhibiting the best microstructure and mechanical properties as compared to the other two coated samples.
Transcriptome Profiling of Two Hybrid Rice Provides Insights Into the Genetic Basis of Heterosis.
Authors: Fu Jun , Zhang Yilin , Yan Tianze , Li Yanfeng , Jiang Nan , Zhou Yanbiao , Zhou Qunfeng , Qin Peng , Fu Chenjian , Lin Haiyan , Zhong Jing , Han Xue , Lin Zechuan , Wang Fei , He Hang , Wang Kai , Yang Yuanzhu
Published: March 2022

BackgroundHeterosis is a phenomenon that hybrids show superior performance over their parents. The successful utilization of heterosis has greatly improved rice productivity, but the molecular basis of heterosis remains largely unclear. ResultsHere, the transcriptomes of young panicles and leaves of the two widely grown two-line super hybrid rice varieties (Jing-Liang-You-Hua-Zhan (JLYHZ) and Long-Liang-You-Hua-Zhan (LLYHZ)) and their parents were analyzed by RNA-seq. Transcriptome profiling of hybrid revealed 1,778 ~ 9,404 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in two tissues, which were identified compared with their parents. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis showed that the pathways significantly enriched in both tissues of two hybrids were related to yield and resistance, like circadian rhythm (GO:0007623), response to water deprivation (GO:0009414), photosynthetic genes (osa00196). Allele-specific expression genes (ASEGs) were also identified in hybrids. These ASEGs were most significantly enriched in ionotropic glutamate receptor signaling pathway, which was hypothesized to be potential amino acid sensors in plants. Moreover, the ASEGs were also differentially expressed between parents. The number of variations in ASEGs is higher than expected, especially for large effect variations. These DEGs and ASEGs are the potential reasons for the formation of heterosis in the two combinations. ConclusionsOur results provide a comprehensive understanding of the heterosis of two-line super hybrid rice and facilitate the exploitation of heterosis in hybrid rice breeding with high yield heterosis.
Effect of Hunteria umbellata methanolic seed extracts on streptozotocin-induced diabetic albino rats
Authors: caleb Nwaogwugwu joel , I Nosiri C. , Aguwamba Chinedu
Published: March 2022

This study investigated the inhibitory effect of alpha-amylase, LD50 and antidiabetic properties of the methanolic seed extract of Hunteria umbellata and its effect on biochemical parameters in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Twelve albino rats were used for the acute toxicity test, while thirty-five were divided randomly into seven groups of five in each group. Group 1served as the normal control, Group 2 served as the diabetic control, Group 3 was treated with glycinorm at 50 mg/kg body weight, Group 4 was treated with extract at 200 mg/kg body weight, Group 5 was treated with 400 mg/kg body weight, Group 6was treated with 600 mg/kg body weight and Group 7 was treated with 800 mg/kg body weight by oral administration. Diabetes was induced in albino rats by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin at a single dose of 120 mg/kg body weight into groups 3 to 7 and was fed with methanolic seed extract of Hunteria umbellata for a period of 28 days.. The oral acute (LD50) toxicity study showed that extract did not cause mortality in any experimental animals even at the highest dose of 5000 mg/kg. Body weight and glucose levels were measured on days 0, 7, 14,21 and 28. The animal was sacrificed on day 28. Serum biochemical parameters were analysed. Additionally, renal function tests, including potassium, sodium, and chloride levels and protein and albumin levels, were performed. The study also evaluated hematological parameters in the animals that were fed the methanolic seed extract of Hunteria umbellata. The animals that received different methanolic seed extracts of Hunteria umbellata showed significant (P < 0.05) reductions in blood glucose, serum liver enzymes, renal function biomarkers, packed cell volume and platelet counts and improved body weight. Conclusively,from this study, it has been demonstrated that the methanolic seed extract of Hunteria umbellata may possess weight enhancing, antihyperglycemic, hepatoprotective, improved hematological values, and cell and organ protective activities.
Color Stability of Hybrid Ceramics Exposed to Beverages in Different Combinations
Authors: YERLİYURT Kaan , SARIKAYA Işıl
Published: March 2022

Background: The aim of this study is to evaluate the color stability of hybrid ceramics stored in different combinations of different beverages that would be consumed in a daily routine. Methods: The specimens were prepared with resin nano-ceramic (Lava Ultimate, 3M Espe, USA) and hybrid ceramic (Vita Enamic, Vita Zahnfabrik, Germany). The specimens were aged in a thermocycler machine for 10,000 cycles. They were stored in different combinations of beverages (water, tea, coke, coffee, red wine, pomegranate juice, turnip juice) for 12+12 hours-time. The surface roughness measurements were made with a profilometer. The color measurements of the specimens were measured with the spectrophotometer. The color values (L-a-b) of the specimens, and mean surface roughness values (Ra) were recorded at the end of the 1st (D1), 7th (D7), 14th (D14) and 28th (D28) days.Results: When the solution groups are examined; significantly more color changes were observed in the LG4, EG4, LG6 and EG6 groups than in the other groups (p<0.01). Except for the samples in the LG6 (D28) and EG6 groups (D28); more color changes were observed in the Lava samples than the Enamic samples in all groups and periods. Conclusion: More color changes (except for the samples stored in coffee-wine) were observed in the Lava samples than in the Enamic samples in all groups and periods. The combination of coffee-tea and coffee-wine beverages may have accepted most coloring beverages for hybrid ceramics within the limitation of this study.
The Highly Selective Detection of Multiple Mutations of Exon 19 from Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Gene in Single Tube Using the Colorimetric Assay
Authors: Wang Jianping , Pan Tengfei , Zhang Song
Published: March 2022

Purpose: Many closed-tube methods were designed for detecting DNA biomarkers related to personalized medicine, but DNA biomarkers is difficultly detected because it need be operated by well-trained experimenters with expensive experiment facilities in a laboratory. Methods: To overcome this issue, a colorimetric assay based on the aggreggation of gold nanoparticle-modified probes with hairpin probe have been designed to develop a simple and low-cost method capable of detecting different mutation sites. This method was composed of three steps: target amplification, sequence identification and gold nanoparticle-modified probes aggreggation, and the steps were controlled by the temperature to proceed sequentially in one tube without any manual operation. Results: No equipment required, about 10 copies of target DNA, containing seven hot mutations at the exon 19 of EGFR gene, could be sensitively discriminated by using this assay, and 0.1% mutants of EGFR gene in artificial samples could be selectively distinguished from wild-type genomic DNA. Application on detecting 104 clinical samples, including twenty-nine 19del positive, show consistent results with ARMS-PCR, excluding a weakly positive sample.Conclusions: The colorimetric assay was verified to have a higher specificity than ARMS-PCR, and provides an available tool to discriminate different mutations at the exon 19 of EGFR gene in clinical samples.
Short-hairpin RNA-mediated suppression of cortactin may inhibit the migration and invasion abilities of endometrial cancer cells by reducing lamellipodia
Authors: Lin Huisi , Fan Yujuan , Zhi Zhifu , Pang Lihong , Sun Dan
Published: March 2022

Background
Endometrial cancer (EC) is one of the most common gynecological tumors. The prognosis of EC is seriously affected by the degree of tissue infiltration and distant metastasis by tumor cells. Approximately 15–20% of patients are at high risk of distant metastasis, which carries a poor prognosis. Lamellipodia are related to the invasion and migration of tumor cells, and cortactin (CTTN) can regulate the formation of lamellipodia.
Methods
Quantitative PCR (qPCR) and immunohistochemical staining (IHC) were used to detect the mRNA and protein of Ras-associated C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (Rac1) and CTTN in type I endometrial cancer tissues and normal endometrial tissues. The relationship between the expression of the two genes and the prognostic factors was analyzed. The expression of CTTN in four endometrial cancer cell lines (Ishikawa, AN3CA, HEC-1-A, and HEC-1-B) was detected by quantitative PCR, and the two cell lines with the highest expression levels (HEC-1-A and HEC-1-B) were selected for follow-up study. A CTTN-RNA interference lentiviral system was constructed and transfected into HEC-1-A and HEC-1-B cells. The migration and invasion abilities of the cells in each group were evaluated by scratch assay and transwell migration and invasion assays. Pseudopodia formation was observed using immunofluorescence staining. Western blot was used to detect Rac1 protein expression.
Results
The mRNA and protein expression of Rac1 and CTTN in EC group were significantly higher than those in normal endometrial group (P < 0.05). In EC group, there was correlation between the mRNA and protein expression of Rac1 and CTTN. The protein expression of Rac1 was related to lymph-vascular space invasion (LVSI), myometrial invasion and FIGO stage (P < 0.05), but was not related to pelvic lymph node invasion or histologic grade (P > 0.05). The protein expression of CTTN was related to myometrial invasion and FIGO stage (P < 0.05), but was not related to pelvic lymph node invasion, LVSI or histologic grade (P > 0.05). After CTTN knockdown, the migration rate, invasion ability, and migration ability of HEC-1-A and HEC-1-B cells decreased significantly. A decrease in the number of lamellipodia, accompanied by a compensatory increase in the number of blebs, was also observed. Rac1 protein expression also decreased after CTTN knockdown.
Conclusion
CTTN may promote the invasion and migration abilities of EC by increasing the number of lamellipodia. This effect may be related to the regulation of Rac1 by CTTN.
CircASPH promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression through methylation and expression of HAO2
Authors: Zhuo Han , Xia Jinguo , Tang Junwei , Han Sheng , Zheng Qitong , Zhu Deming , Zhang Feihong , Xu Zhenggang , Sun Dongwei , Tan Zhongming , Wu Chen
Published: March 2022

Background
CircRNAs have been reported to be related to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. Limited studies have revealed the expression profile of circRNAs in tumor and paratumour normal samples in HCC patients.
Methods
The expression of circRNAs, mRNA and miRNA was detected by Real-time PCR. An immunofluorescence assay was performed to detect the level of 5mC and 5hmC. Dual luciferase assay was used to confirm the interaction between miRNA and circRNA. CCK8, wound healing and transwell assays were used to check the viability, migration and invasion of HCC cells. Migration and invasion assays was used to confirm the metastasis in vivo.
Results
We found that circASPH was significantly increased in HCC tumor samples and that the level of circASPH was closely related to the overall survival (OS) of HCC patients. Mechanistically, circASPH could regulate the methylation of promoter and gene expression of Hydrocyanic Oxidase 2 (HAO2) to promote HCC progression by acting as a sponge for miR-370, which targeted the DNMT3b and increased the 5mC level.
Conclusions
Our study determined that circASPH could promote the methylation and expression of HAO2 and could be considered an important epigenetic regulator in HCC progression.
Forests and Peace in alternative pathways: scenarios of land use and land cover change for the Colombian Amazon
Authors: Agudelo-Hz William J. , Castillo-Barrera Natalia , Murcia-García Uriel
Published: March 2022

In this study, we constructed a set of scenarios for land use and land cover (LULC) change in the Colombian Amazon by 2040 using coherent narratives within the framework of the current, post-conflict stage. Three scenarios were designed: trend, extractivist, and sustainable development. The transitions between land covers in the years 2002 and 2016 and their relationship with 29 driving factors were analyzed using Artificial Neural Networks. The Markov model was calculated for the transitions, and the change allocation model was parameterized to spatially simulate the scenarios. The results showed that the LULC model calibration and validation were satisfactory (0.91). The sustainable development scenario considered strong policies for the conservation of forests and implementation of sustainable production projects to encourage the conversion of agricultural landscapes to multifunctional landscapes in recovery. As a result, areas with conserved forests and secondary vegetation in recovery could add ~ 42 million hectares by 2040. The other scenarios show that the Colombian Amazon will lose ~ 2 million hectares of forests in the trend scenario and ~ 4.3 million hectares in the extractivist scenario with respect to the reference year (2016). In the trend scenario, pastures and crops could increase by 48%, and, in the extractivist scenario, they would increase by 117%, going from ~ 3.9 to ~ 8.6 million hectares. We hope that the scientific contribution of this study will be relevant for informed discussion in decision-making and provide a framework for building a peaceful territory.
Hazard perception in driving style based on virtual reality technology
Authors: He Wu , Wang Xuan , Xu Cailian , Zheng Zijing , Mao Yan
Published: March 2022

The aim of this paper is to directly investigate the influence of driving style on hazards and to test the hazard perception of drivers with driving style variability in different scenarios. To achieve these goals, we use a VR system for simulation. In the experiment, we compare the hazard perception abilities of drivers with four driving styles (dangerous, angry, anxious, and cautious) in three different hazard conditions (lane change, pedestrian presence phenomenon, and U-turn). Participants ’ driving decisions and hazard perception behaviors were recorded simultaneously. The results show that (1) the VR technology provides a realistic representation of the hazard situation, and the participants were able to react more realistically. (2) Dangerous drivers had the weakest hazard perception, cautious drivers had the strongest hazard perception, and there was little difference in hazard perception of anxious and angry drivers. (3) Lane changing was the most hazard-prone scenario, and drivers ’ hazard perception was the weakest in this scenario, leading to an increased rate of traffic accidents. (4) Male drivers had stronger hazard perceptions than female drivers. The results of this study have important implications for road safety as targeted training can improve hazard perception based on driving style, and the study provides a new paradigm for detecting hazard perception ability.
An open label, randomized phase 2 trial assessing the impact of food on the tolerability of abemaciclib in patients with Advanced Breast Cancer
Authors: Lim Elgene , Boyle Francis , Okera Meena , Loi Sherene , Goksu Sema Sezgin , Hal Gertjan van , Chapman Sonya C , Gable Jonathan , Chen Yanyun , Price Gregory , Hossein Anwar , Gainford Corona , Ezquerra Meritxell Bellet
Published: March 2022

Purpose: Abemaciclib, a CDK4 & 6 inhibitor, is indicated for advanced breast cancer treatment. Diarrhea is a frequently associated adverse event of abemaciclib. The study objective was to investigate if food intake impacts local gastrointestinal toxicity.Methods: This Phase 2 study (I3Y-MC-JPCP, NCT03703466) randomized 72 patients 1:1:1 to receive abemaciclib 200mg monotherapy twice daily (1) with a meal, (2) in a modified fasting state or (3) without regard to food. Primary endpoints included: incidence of investigator assessed severe (≥Grade 3), prolonged (>7-days) Grade 2 diarrhea, treatment discontinuation, dose modifications, and loperamide utilization during the first 3 cycles of treatment. Patient outcomes were captured via a daily electronic diary. Pharmacokinetics (PK) are reported.Results: Median duration of Grade 3 diarrhea was 1 day by both investigator assessment (1 patient in Arm 1) and patient-reported assessment (1 patient each in Arms 1 and 3). Median duration of investigator-assessed Grade 2 diarrhea was 2 days overall. Ninety-four percent of patients used loperamide at least once. Abemaciclib PK was comparable across the 3 arms. Conclusion: Diarrhea incidence associated with abemaciclib was unrelated to timing of food intake, was predominantly low grade, of short duration and well managed with loperamide and dose modifications.
Engineering macrophage targeted punicalagin nanoparticles by computational modeling to alleviate methotrexate induced neutropenia
Authors: Karwasra Ritu , Ahmad Shaban , Raza Khalid , Khanna Kushagra , Singh Surender , Sharma Nitin , Sharma Shivkant , Hasan Nazeer , Kaushik Dhirender , Varma Saurabh
Published: March 2022

Punicalagin is the most bioactive polyphenols of pomegranate with high antioxidant, FRS activity. It has the potential to cure different ailments related to the CVS system. The current research work was envisioned to predict the targeting efficiency of punicalagin (PG) nanoparticles to the macrophages, more specifically to bone marrow macrophages. For this, we selected mannose decorated PLGA-punicalagin nanoparticles (Mn-PLGA-PG) and before formulating this nanocarrier in laboratory settings, we predict the targeting efficiency of this nanocarrier by in-silico analysis. Authors initiated in-silico analysis on macrophage mannose receptor to be acquainted with the binding affinity, the interaction of PG based nanocarrier (MnPLGA-PG) to this receptor. In-silico docking studies of macrophage mannose receptor and PG showed binding interaction on its surface with a docking score of -4.00. PG interacts with hydrogen bonds to the charged residue ASP668 and GLY666 and polar residue GLN760 residue of Mn receptor. Mannose with a docking score of -5.811 and interacting with four hydrogen bonds to the mannose receptor of macrophage with two negatively charged residues GLU706, GLU719 also with two hydrophobic residues VAL716, PHE708. And in PLGA, it showed a - 4.334 docking score and interacts with three hydrogen bonds, LYS739 (positively charged), HIS692 (polar), and LEU694 (hydrophobic)..In trajectory analysis, while stabilizing the structure till 100ns the complex RMSD of macrophage, Mn receptor-PG found within the range of 4.6 Å. Initial fluctuations in RMSD noticed to 4.95 Å at 20ns which started stabilizing after words with timescale. In the total of 100ns, initially up to 40ns the PG (ligand) deviated to 1.2Å. After 40ns, it was noted that the ligand RMSD was almost constant and started stabilizing with 1.03Å at 100ns. Findings depict that this nanocarrier could be a promising lead molecule to regulate the incidence of drug induced neutropenia.
A aplicação da Lei Maria da Penha e a violência institucional: experiências e reflexões
Authors: FONSECA Joyce Grasielle Chaves , ÁLVARES Maria Luzia Miranda
Published: March 2022

Levando em consideração os casos de violência doméstica no Estado do Pará, este relato de experiência traz ao debate a questão da aplicação da Lei Maria da Penha e a violência institucional junto ao atendimento dos órgãos de segurança pública do Estado do Pará. Dentro das vivências e observações realizadas na Defensoria Pública do Estado do Pará e na Delegacia Especializada no Atendimento à Mulher de Belém (DEAM), busca-se a reflexão sobre o tema e o apontamento desta problemática para o início de um debate amplo visando a melhoria do acolhimento, sua humanização e a aplicação da Lei 11.340/06.
Stress and stress-induced disorders
Authors: Ebzeeva E. Yu. , Polyakova O. A.
Published: March 2022

Stress is one of the most significant and widespread medical and social problems in the world and it is the etiological factor in 80% of diseases. In the modern world any person is subject to the influence of stress, regardless of the age and gender differences, culture and social status. Stress is a non-specific reaction of the body to the extreme impact of various factors - stressors. As stressors can be: emotional, social, physical, informational and other factors. In functional and morphological terms, stress is manifests itself as a general adaptation syndrome which mobilizes the body’s resources in order to maintain homeostasis. Stress is characterized by staging. The early period of stress is manifested by transient anxiety, with a decrease in body resistance – it is the first stage of the adaptation syndrome. The second stage of stress is characterized by the functional tension of the body’s systems and adaptation to new conditions. In the case of prolonged stress, the body’s reaction becomes pathological, with the depletion of adaptive reserves and the failure of protective mechanisms. At this stage is increase a vulnerability to any stressors. There is a further violation of the consistency of vital functions, and persistent anxiety is formed. In overwhelming majority of cases, stress-induced anxiety is develop of psychovegetative syndrome. In the case when combined the strategies of coping (it is the second stage of the reaction to stress - the stage of resistance) with stress and if it is interrupted at an early stage, in such a way the somatic symptoms are also interrupted at the stage of autonomic dystonia syndrome. When the persistent stress is, we have a development of the third stage – exhaustion. And against the background of limited adaptive reactions, there is a psychosomatic pathology. The above determines the need for early detection of psychovegetative syndrome and its timely treatment. The optimal choice is the appointment of combined drugs for stress, which have anti-anxiety, sedative and hypnotic effects. The combination of phenobarbital and ethylbromisovalerinate is one of the highly effective and widely used for the relief of stressinduced anxiety and manifestations of autonomic dysfunction, reducing the risk of developing psychosomatic pathology.
Radiculopathy in diabetic polyneuropathy patients: difficulties in the diagnosis and therapy
Authors: Devlikamova F. I. , Maksimov Yu. N. , Khaibullina D. Kh.
Published: March 2022

Neuropathic pain (NP) is not uncommon in clinical practice. NP can occur when various neural structures are damaged, such as peripheral nerves, spinal roots, spinal cord, and brain structures. Depending on the level of damage, NP is divided into central and peripheral. At the same time, peripheral NP is more common. When diagnosing NP, the results of a physical examination of the patient are the most valuable. In order to study the state of the peripheral neuromotor apparatus, patients undergo stimulation electromyography with an analysis of the conduction along motor fibers and sensory fibers caused by the skin sympathetic potential, and EMG using needle electrodes is often used to verify the level and stage of the pathological process. Difficulties in making a diagnosis arise when a patient has a combination of several types of neuropathic pain and comorbid pathology. For the treatment of NP, antidepressants, anticonvulsants, opioid analgesics, drugs for local anesthesia, botulinum toxin type A are used. Alpha-lipoic (thioctic) acid preparations are used in the treatment of diabetic polyneuropathy. The presence of several nosologies in a patient, each of which has individual manifestations of NP, determines the tactics of treating a particular patient, which is considered on the example of two clinical cases.
Development of Bismuth Oxyhalides for Organic Pollutant Photodegradation and Water Oxidation: Effect of Synthesis Parameter and Halide Species
Authors: Macedo Gabriel , Dias Eduardo Henrique , Ribeiro Caue , Lopes Osmando
Published: March 2022

The development of visible-light active photocatalysts is vital to harvest the solar irradiation and build efficient photoelectrochemical devices. Bismuth oxyhalide (BiOCl, BiOBr and BiOI) materials stand out due to their remarkable properties, e.g., the band gap energy can be tuned from 1.9 to 3.4 eV depends on the halide employed. However, the hydrothermal synthesis of this material class was not properly investigated and compared. Then, we evaluated the effect of the hydrothermal treatment in the BiOX’s structural, electronic, morphological and textural properties and the relationship with their photocatalytic performance. Methylene blue (MB) dye was used as probe for photocatalytic performance evaluation under ultraviolet (UV) and visible (Vis) radiation. BiOCl and BiOBr samples showed a good photoactivity under both UV and visible radiation, on other hand the BiOI samples was not active, likely due to the fast charge recombination. BiOCl and BiOBr samples exhibit a favorably interaction with MB dye, because their surfaces are negatively charged. BiOCl samples were able to promote around 40 and 80% of the MB dye degradation under visible and UV radiation, respectively. The samples were also employed as photoanode for O2 evolution, BiOI sample exhibited the best performance, due to the synergistic effect of photocatalysis and electrocatalysis.
Barriers for Large Integration of PV and Onshore Wind Energy in the Distribution Network on the Selected European Union Electricity Markets
Authors: Bartoszewicz-Burczy Hanna
Published: March 2022

The European Union (EU) has adopted ambitious and wide-ranging binding targets for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, energy systems’ transformation, and becoming climate neutral. The transformation of the energy sector towards more sustainable electricity production increases the importance of distributed generation from renewable sources, such as solar photovoltaics (PV) and wind energy. Large integration of PV and onshore wind energy in the EU distribution network is key to success in the energy transition. Despite significant progress in the field of renewable energies’ regulations, in particular, due to the implementation of the RES Directive, several barriers remain, and still, the development of photovoltaics and wind energy are being slowed by various types of market, regulatory barriers, as well as technological and social obstacles. The aim of this article is to investigate the main barriers to the development of distributed generation from renewable sources, such as solar photovoltaics and wind energy, in order to increase their share in the EU electricity market. This paper is focused on the most common regulatory, technological, administrative, financial, social, and environmental barriers, which slow down the large-scale deployment of PV and wind energy into the distribution networks in 5 EU countries: Austria, Greece, France, Poland and Spain and also in Norway.
Nutritional Yield and Composition of Spiny and Spineless Varieties of Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) Forage Harvested at Four Phenological Stages
Authors: Ochoa-Espinoza Xochilt Militza , Reta-Sánchez David Guadalupe , Cano-Ríos Pedro , Sánchez-Duarte Juan Isidro , Ochoa-Martínez Esmeralda , García-Martínez José Eduardo , Reyes-González Arturo
Published: March 2022

Background:

Delaying harvesting in spineless safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) can increase dry matter (DM) yield, maintaining an acceptable nutritional composition.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to compare the forage potential of spineless safflower cultivars with that of spiny cultivars harvested in four phenological stages.

Methods:

The research was carried out during the 2017-2018 and 2018-2019 cycles in Matamoros, Coahuila, Mexico. Two spineless (CD868 and Selkino) and two spiny (Gila and Guayalejo) cultivars were evaluated. The phenological stages were: beginning of capitulum formation (E50), capitulum clearly separated from the younger leaves (E55), distinguishable medium and intermediate external bracts (E59), and beginning of flowering (E61). A randomized complete blocks design was used with four replications in a 4 × 4 factorial arrangement of treatments.

Results:

No interactions were found between phenological stages and cultivars. The spineless cultivars showed better or equal nutritional composition when compared to spiny cultivars but with better forage in E50. Yields of DM and nutrients increased when harvesting was delayed from E50 to E61, maintaining an acceptable nutritional composition. The highest yields of DM (10816 kg ha-1), crude protein (CP) (2071 kg ha-1), net energy for lactation (NEL) (52978 MJ ha-1 DM), and digestible DM (6350 kg ha-1) occurred in E61.

Conclusion:

Spineless cultivars harvested at stage E61 increased the forage potential with regards to the spiny cultivars harvested in E55, which did not have fully developed spines, due to their higher yields of DM (58%), CP (29%), NEL (39%), and digestible DM (41%).
Design of Steel Exoskeleton Equipped with BRBs for Seismic Upgrading of RC Frames
Authors: Barbagallo Francesca , Bosco Melina , Licciardello Erika , Marino Edoardo M. , Rossi Pier Paolo
Published: March 2022

Background:

The main part of the Italian building stock was mainly erected between ‘70s and ‘80s of the previous century. Hence, existing RC buildings present structural deficiencies because were designed according to old standards and often only considering gravity loads.

Objective:

The goal is to evaluate the seismic performance of these structures and compare it to the minimum standards required by current legislation.

Methods:

To achieve this goal, first, a building with RC framed structure has been designed according to the codes and the practice in force at the time of construction. From this building two case study frames have been derived considering different mechanical properties of the concrete. Then, the addition to the existing RC building of a steel exoskeleton equipped with BRBs is proposed for seismic upgrading of these structures and the effects of this intervention on the seismic performance of the frames are investigated. A design method of seismic upgrading interventions by exoskeleton and BRBs is developed and applied to the two case study frames. The design method is calibrated determining the seismic response of the upgraded frames by means of non-linear dynamic analyses.

Results:

The parametric analysis allowed the identification of the combinations of the parameters that lead to the achievement of the performance objectives at Near Collapse and Significative Damage limit states. Both the frames designed according to this combination of design parameters show suitable seismic performance for both considered limit states.

Conclusion:

Finally, the combination of the parameters ruling the design method is determined as the most economical among those that allow the fulfilment of the requirements at NC and SD limit state.
How are Pharmacists using Telegram for Professional Purposes in the Arab World?
Authors: Abdullah Angham , Alanzi Turki , AL-Salman Deema , Al-Rayes Saja , Al-Fayez Asma , Alrawiai Sumaiah , Althumairi Arwa , Hariri Beyan , Alameri Rana , Alhodaib Hala
Published: March 2022

Purpose:

The objective of this research was to explore how pharmacists in the Arab world are using Telegram for their professional purposes.

Participants and Methods:

A cross-sectional survey was conducted to investigate how pharmacists used Telegram for professional purposes in the Arab world. The survey questionnaire was distributed electronically to 391 participants and the response rate was 64%.

Results:

The majority of the participants (65%) were females, and 69% of them were less than 40 years old. Also, more than half of the respondents (63%) had a bachelor's degree, and 76% of them were working in clinical and operational jobs. 86% of the respondents had less than 20 years of experience, and 56% of the participants employed the Telegram platform for more than 1 hour weekly. Related to the use of Telegram, more than half of the participants (65%) used this social media for personal and professional purposes, and utilized this platform for several reasons: knowledge exchange (16%), education and new updates (14%), professional development (10%), networking (12%), health promotion (8%), and self-promotion (6%). Likewise, almost half of the respondents (49%) attended online courses and events announced on Telegram. According to the respondents, Telegram is a very and extremely important tool to improve knowledge about the profession (64%), reasoning (60%) and thinking skills (57%), problem-solving abilities (59%), creativity (62%), clinical and professional decision making (59%), patient outcomes (54%), and clinical expertise (56%).

Conclusion:

Telegram application has a potential and usefulness for the professional development and practical training of pharmacists.
Increase of the efficiency in hot gas welding by optimization of the gas flow
Authors: Schmid Johannes , Weißer Dennis F. , Mayer Dennis , Kroll Lothar , Deckert Matthias H.
Published: March 2022

The standard hot gas welding process uses a nozzle system consisting of multiple round tubes. With the top nozzle system, the weld seam is encapsulated to minimize heat loss and allow better control of the hot gas flow. This significantly reduces the required heating time of the polymer. Temperature measurements and welding tests with plates of various thicknesses and burst pressure specimens are performed to verify the improvements of the top nozzle. For polyamides with different base polymers and different glass fiber contents, an average reduction in heating time of up to 50 % is possible on average. The achieved weld strengths or burst pressures for the tested materials are comparable or higher with the top nozzle system. The top nozzle makes the process more economical due to a short cycle time and lower gas consumption. It can be added to existing hot gas tools. In addition, a larger process window, shorter heating time and higher achievable temperatures with the top nozzle lead to a higher acceptance of hot gas welding in industries. New weld able materials in turn open up new application areas and markets.
Exploring Social Support in an Online Support Community for Tourette Syndrome and Tic Disorders: Analysis of Postings
Authors: Soós Mercédesz Judit , Coulson Neil S , Davies E Bethan
Published: March 2022

Background

Online support communities have become an accessible way of gaining social, emotional, and informational support from peers and may be particularly useful for individuals with chronic conditions. To date, there have been few studies exploring the online support available for tic disorders, such as Tourette syndrome. An exploratory study looking at users’ experiences with using online support communities for tic disorders suggested that members used such communities to share experiences, information, and strategies for tic management.

Objective

To build on these preliminary findings, this study examined the provision of social support in an online community for Tourette syndrome.

Methods

Data were collected from one publicly available online support community for Tourette syndrome and tics, from its inception to December 2019, by randomly selecting 10% of posts and their corresponding comments from each year for analysis. This resulted in 510 unique posts and 3802 comments posted from 1270 unique usernames. The data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results

The findings of this study suggest that users utilized the online community as a multifaceted virtual place where they could share and ask for information about tics, unload and share their feelings arising from living with Tourette syndrome, find people facing similar situations and experiences, and freely share the realities of living with Tourette syndrome.

Conclusions

The results complement the findings from a preliminary study and suggest that online support communities have a potentially valuable role as a mechanism for sharing and gaining information on illness experiences from similar peers experiencing tics and can promote self-management of tics. Limitations and recommendations for future research are discussed.