bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potted Poinsettia Production: Irrigation and Water Quality
Authors: Stanley Craig D. , Harbaugh Brent K.
Published: March 2021

There is no more essential component for the poinsettia production system than water, yet it is often less intensively managed than other production inputs. Perhaps the tendency to overlook the importance of water occurs because its use is linked so closely to other components of production which are intensively managed. Water management is a critical consideration for many aspects of production such as fertility control, media selection, and disease and insect control. In addition, because water conservation and protection have become important issues to society as a whole, poinsettia producers must consider management practices which minimize the impact that production has on the environment and water resources. This paper will discuss the uses of water in poinsettia production, the advantages and disadvantages of the use of different irrigationsystems (management, maintenance, water conservation, and economics) available for poinsettia production, irrigation water requirements and scheduling, and plant and environmental water quality concerns. This is document SL-212, a publication of the Soil and Water Science Department, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL. Published January 2004.
Feed Passage in Broilers - A Complex Problem
Authors: Butcher Gary D. , Nilipour Amir H. , Miles Richard D.
Published: March 2021

“Feed passage,” or, more accurately, the passage of undigested feed in the feces of broilers, continues to be reported in broiler integrations on a sporadic basis. The incidence and severity are much lower at present than during 1996 when global reports of feed passage occurred following consecutive years of poor grain harvests. This document is VM123, one of a series of the Veterinary Medicine-Large Animal Clinical Sciences Department, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida. Original publication date May 1, 2002.

VM123/VM090: Feed Passage in Broilers?A Complex Problem (ufl.edu)
Broiler Management - The First 24 Hours
Authors: Butcher Gary D. , Nilipour Amir H.
Published: March 2021

More than 30 billion broiler chicks are produced worldwide on an annual basis. Fifteen billion of these are produced in the Americas. Due to the poultry industry's tendency towards more intensive production practices and increased automation, the tender loving care once afforded to chickens in grow-out has been replaced with a mass production mentality. As a result, newly hatched chicks are often subjected to numerous stressors in the first 24 hours after hatching. These adverse effects during the critical early hours following hatch can result in an increased percentage of early mortality. These early stressors also influence final performance, resultingin declines in final body weights, increases in feed conversions and cost per pound of meat produced. Farm personal must understand that they have become the "adoptive parents" of these chicks. Without attention to details, successful and profitable grow-out is not realized. This document is VM124, one of a series of the Veterinary Medicine-Large Animal Clinical Sciences Department, Florida Cooperative Extension Service,Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida. Original publication date May 1, 2002.

VM124/VM091: Broiler Management?The First 24 Hours (ufl.edu)
Weed Management in Soybeans
Authors: Ferrell Jay A. , McDonald Greg E. , Devkota Pratap
Published: March 2021

Successful weed control is one of the most important practices for economical soybean production in Florida. This 10-page publication discusses weed control methods for soybean growers. Written by J. A. Ferrell, G. E. MacDonald, and P. Devkota, and published by the UF/IFAS Agronomy Department, revised January 2021.
O estado de bem-estar social: Conceito, crise e reconceituação
Authors: Macêdo Karen Vanderlei
Published: March 2021

O regime de Estado de Bem-Estar Social é tema de diversos debates, em particular, quando se trata de analisar o quadro político e econômico dos Estados. Gosta Esping-Andersen (1991) formulou três tipologias do Estado de Bem-Estar Social, Pierre Rosanvallon (1997), vislumbrou a sua crise e novamente Esping-Andersen, agora acompanhado de Bruno Palier (2010), reconceitua o Estado de Bem-Estar Social. O objetivo é resgatar o conceito, vislumbrar os motivos da crise e a reconceituação do Estado de Bem-Estar Social.
ЕКОНОМІЧНА ДОЦІЛЬНІСТЬ РОЗВИТКУ В УКРАЇНІ ПОМІРНО ЛІБЕРАЛІЗОВАНОГО РИНКУ ТЕПЛОВОЇ ЕНЕРГІЇ
Authors: Ющенко Надія
Published: March 2021

Громади, чиєю власністю є комунальні підприємства в Україні, потерпають від неякісних послуг та високих тарифів через її неефективне використання. Дана стаття присвячена аналізу динаміки тарифів підприємств, що виробляють, транспортують і постачають теплову енергію, надаючи послуги з опалення житлових будинків та гарячого водопостачання в Україні, та дослідженню функціонування моделі конкурентного ринку виробників теплової енергії в країнах ЄС і поширенню їх позитивного досвіду в Україні з метою захисту економічних інтересів споживачів, збереження системи теплопостачання, недопущення поділу теплової мережі на групи об’єктів, що опалюються окремими невеликими котельнями, шляхом забезпечення конкурентних тарифів порівняно з індивідуальними та автономними системами опалення. Було отримано, що для умов України може бути прийнятним помірно лібералізований ринок теплової енергії, який передбачає помірний захист основних виробників – комунальних підприємств теплопостачання та створює ринкові умови для незалежних виробників.
Pengaruh Motivasi, Lingkungan Kerja dan Mediasi Semangat Kerja Terhadap Kinerja Karyawan di Swalayan Metro Kampus Yogyakarta
Authors: Patmanegara Aprianto , Subiyanto Didik , Sari Pristin Prima
Published: March 2021

The purpose of this study was to determine the analysis of the influence of motivation, work environment, and work morale mediation on employee performance at Metro Kampus Yogyakarta. The sample in this study is part of the target population is 100 employees of Metro Yogyakarta Campus, where the sample is determined by the Slovin formula. The data was collected using a questionnaire or questionnaire collection method. The data analysis technique used is the regression technique which is supported by t-test and classical assumptions, the data that has been obtained are processed using SPSS 21. The results of this study indicate that motivation has a positive and significant effect on morale or performance in accordance with the significance test carried out by the test. -t and obtained tcount> ttable (6.089> 1.67722) and (2.987> 1.67722) with a  = 0.05 so that Ho is rejected and Ha is accepted, the work environment has a positive and significant effect on morale or performance according to the significance test which was carried out by t-test and obtained tcount> ttable (4.273> 1.67722) and (2.037> 1.67722) with a  = 0.05 so that Ho was rejected and Ha was accepted, morale had a positive and significant effect on performance in accordance with the test. The significance was carried out by t-test and obtained tcount> ttable (2.560> 1.67722) with a  = 0.05 so that Ho was rejected and Ha was accepted.
Exploring Issues for Black Gay and Bisexual Males in University Settings
Authors: Maiden James L.
Published: March 2021

The campus environment can be challenging for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, or queer (LGBTQ) students still developing their sexual identity. Being a Black gay or bisexual male can add another layer of isolation in their university setting. The campus climate for Black gay and bisexual males lack social support and does address their experience and needs. Additionally, Black gay and bisexual males attending historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) feel unsupported by the lack of LGBTQ resources on campus. The conceptual article aims to explore issues impacting Black gay and bisexual males in university settings. This article provides an overview of student identity development, the impact of the African American community, discrimination and hate crimes, the campus climate, the HBCU setting, mentoring impact, and counselor educators’ support with this student population.
MIGRAÇÕES, MOBILIDADE DA POPULAÇÃO (E DO TRABALHO) E A COVID-19: CONDICIONANTES E IMPLICAÇÕES
Authors: Coelho Neto Agripino Souza
Published: March 2021

Em tempos de pandemia da COVID-19 experimentamos um paradoxo da contemporaneidade, contrapondo duas condições que se antagonizam: (i) a exigência da mobilidade e a (ii) necessidade da imobilidade. A exigência da mobilidade atende aos reclames e interesses da acumulação do capital. A necessidade de imobilidade responde aos imperativos de defesa e reprodução da vida. Na esteira deste debate, o propósito deste texto é refletir sobre as condicionantes e as implicações do COVID-19 na mobilidade espacial da população (e do trabalho), apoiando-se no levantamento de reportagens em sites de notícias para identificar as medidas de enfrentamento da COVID-19 e para examinar os mais variados impactos sociais, econômicos e espaciais que a patologia vem produzindo. Uma repercussão imediata e direta da pandemia têm sido a demissão e a precarização em massa de trabalhadores nos diversos setores da economia, com impacto decisivo na reprodução social das populações mais pobres.
Implementation of Quintuple Helix in the Development and Improvement of SMEs Competitiveness in Banyuwangi Regency
Authors: Susanti Herdiana Dyah , Pradana Dian Arief
Published: March 2021

Innovation is an interactive result that involves various types of actors based on the helix concept where each actor contributes according to its role. University, Industry, Government, Civil Society and media and culture-based society, society and natural environment in the concept of quintuple helix. This study aims to (1) Demonstrate the relationship between quintuple helix in developing SMEs competitiveness, (2) Effectiveness of the application of quintuple helix in developing SMEs competitiveness. This research is almost the same as experimental research with the pre-test - post-test results of the application of quintuple helix at SMEs in Banyuwangi Regency. The results of this study show the role of the University, Industry, Government, Civil Society as well as media and culture-based society, society and the natural environment in the concept of quintuple helix can improve the competitiveness of SMEs, enhance the capabilities of HR, improve the quality, and competitiveness of products produced by SMEs.
Mechanization Means for Tillage in Melon Growing
Authors:   Russian State Agrarian University Moscow Timiryazev Agricultural Academy, Aldoshin N.V. , Mamatov F.M. ,   Karshi Engineering and Economic Institute, Ismailov I.I. ,   Russian State Agrarian University Moscow Timiryazev Agricultural Academy
Published: March 2021

A comparative analysis of existing technologies for the cultivation of melons and gourds, which made it possible to identify their advantages and disadvantages, has been carried out. As a tool for the primary cultivation, a frontal plow is proposed, which is designed for smooth plowing and ensuring the rotation of the soil layer directly in its own furrow.
Results of Industrial Application of a Combine Harvester When Unloading Grain at the Edge of the Field
Authors:   Rosinformagrotekh, Skorlyakov V.I. , Nazarov A.N. ,   Rosinformagrotekh, Petukhov D.А. ,   Rosinformagrotekh
Published: March 2021

The sources of efficiency and the results of a comparative assessment of the performance of a combine harvester and a vehicle when unloading grain at the edge of the field are determined.
Environmental Performance of Diesel Engines Running on Motor Fuel With Microalgae Bio-additives
Authors:   FSBSI ARIMPA, Nagornov S.A. , Zazulya A.N. ,   FSBSI ARIMPA, Meshcheryakov Yu.V. ,   FSBSI ARIMPA, Golubev I.G. ,   Rosinformagrotekh
Published: March 2021

The prospects of using blended motor fuel with bioadditives from microalgae in diesel engines are shown. It has been proven that the composition of microalgae lipids is similar to that of vegetable oils. It was revealed that the density, viscosity and cetane number of the dietary supplements are higher and the sulfur content is lower in comparison with diesel fuel. It has been experimentally established that with an increase in the content of bioadditives in mixed motor fuel the smoke and toxicity of diesel exhaust gases decrease.
ANALISA (MIS) MATCH TENAGA KERJA DI ASIA TENGGARA
Authors: Putri Aning Kesuma , Febriani Ratu Eva
Published: March 2021

The mismatch between jobs and skills indicates the match model in the job market is not going well, which is referred to as (e.g.) labor match, which leads to overeducation and undereducation in the job market. This research was conducted to find the influence of growth, overeducation and undereducation on wages in Southeast Asia. The data used is secondary data sourced from https://ilostat.ilo.org/data/ data in 2010-2019, especially in 8 Southeast Asian countries consisting of Brunai Darusalam, Philippines, Laos, Indonesia, Cambodia, Thailand, Timor Leste and Vietnam. The results found that the workers with the highest undereducated levels were in Timor Laste, then Laos and Cambodia. Worker conditions in developing countries such as Southeast Asia have more undereducation conditions than overeducation. Economic growth, overeducation and undereducatio affect workers' wages. Keywords: overeducation, undereducation, mismatch, labor
Prevalência de casos de doenças autoimunes e imunodeficiências primárias registradas em hospitais no Agreste de Pernambuco
Authors: Barbosa Michael Gabriel Agustinho , Genuíno Patrícia Alves , Silva Emanuela Ingridy , Santos Simone Martis dos , Lins Severina Ridrigues de Oliveira
Published: March 2021

As doenças autoimunes são patológias onde o próprio organismo desenvolve uma resposta imune contra um autoantígeno (autológo). Existem vários fatores que desencadeiam essa perca de tolerância ao próprio organismo, como por exemplo, os genéticos. O risco hereditário para a maioria dessas patológicas é atribuível a múltiplos loci, cuja maior contribuição é feita pelos os genes do MHC. Objetivou-se, com esta pesquisa, fazer levantamento de casos diagnosticados de Doenças Autoimunes (DAIs) e Imunodeficiências Primaria (IP) em cidades localizadas no Agreste e na capital de Pernambuco. No Agreste, foram selecionadas quatro cidades para o desenvolvimento desse trabalho. Após a liberação da carta de anuência, e aprovação do comitê de ética e pesquisa (CEP UNIFAVIP), iniciou a pesquisa. Foram analisados 1 mil prontuários, de pacientes diagnosticados com estas patologias, entre os anos de 2016 a 2018. Desses, apenas 94 prontuários foram utilizados por conterem informações completas para os resultados deste trabalho. Foram identificados 93 registros de DAIs e 1 de IDP. Mesmo não tendo sido um dos objetivos propostos, inicialmente pela pesquisa, foram constatadas inúmeras dificuldades tanto no acesso quanto na interpretação dos prontuários, como por exemplo dados incompletos e SID da doença diagnosticada.  A doença celíaca foi a patologia que apresentou maior prevalência no agreste pernambucano.
IMPLEMENTASI CYBER NOTARY DI INDONESIA DITINJAU DALAM UPAYA REFORMASI BIROKRASI ERA 4.0
Authors: Rizqi Fadhila , Intan Sari D. Siti Nurul
Published: March 2021

Implementasi pelayanan publik berbasis teknologi dalam bidang kenotariatan belum dilaksanakan semaksimal mungkin di Indonesia. Penjelasan Atas Pasal 15 ayat (3) Undang-Undang Nomor 2 Tahun 2014 tentang Perubahan Atas Undang-Undang Nomor 30 Tahun 2004 tentang Jabatan Notaris menegaskan bahwa cyber notary berlaku hanya dalam kewenangan sertifikasi kegiatan transaksi antara Notaris dan Penghadap, namun tidak dalam kewenangan kenotariatan dalam lingkup yang lebih luas. Untuk mendorong pelayanan publik berbasis teknologi di bidang kenotariatan yang efektif dan efisien, maka perlu dikaitkan dengan Reformasi Birokrasi di Indonesia, terlebih melihat perkembangan teknologi yang sangat pesat di era 4.0 saat ini. Rumusan masalah dalam penelitian ini adalah bagaimana keuntungan dan keterkaitan penerapan cyber notary di Indonesia dalam upaya reformasi birokrasi era 4.0 saat ini? dan bagaimana eksistensi dan peraturan perundang-undangan cyber notary di negara civil law, khususnya Negara Belgia dan Perancis?. Penelitian hukum ini ialah penelitian hukum normatif yang menggunakan data sekunder dengan pendekatan undang-undang dan pendekatan komparasi yang selanjutnya dianalisis secara kualitatif. Birokrasi cyber notary perlu diimplementasikan di Indonesia, sebab dapat membantu penyelenggaraan pemerintah yang mencapai good governance. Untuk memperoleh landasan hukum yang kuat terkait cyber notary, maka Indonesia harus mengubah Undang-Undang Jabatan Notaris, Pasal 1868 KUHPerdata, dan Pasal 5 ayat (4) huruf b Undang-Undang Informasi dan Transaksi Elektronik.Kata Kunci: cyber notary, reformasi birokrasi, studi komparasi, civil law
Association Between Circulating Proprotein Convertase Subtilisin/Kexin Type 9 and Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events, Stroke, and All-Cause Mortality: Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhou Yimo , Chen Weiqi , Lu Meng , Wang Yongjun
Published: March 2021

Background: Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), a pivotal protein in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol metabolism, has been validated to be an established target for cardiovascular (CV) risk reduction. Nevertheless, prospective studies concerning the associations between circulating PCSK9 and the risk of CV events and mortality have yielded, so far, inconsistent results. Herein, we conducted a meta-analysis to evaluate the association systemically.

Methods: Pertinent studies were identified from PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library database through July 2020. Longitudinal studies investigating the value of circulating PCSK9 for predicting major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) or stroke or all-cause mortally with risk estimates and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were included in the analyses. Dose-response meta-analysis was also applied to evaluate circulating PCSK9 and risk of MACEs in this study.

Results: A total of 22 eligible cohorts comprising 28,319 participants from 20 eligible articles were finally included in the study. The pooled relative risk (RR) of MACEs for one standard deviation increase in baseline PCSK9 was 1.120 (95% CI, 1.056–1.189). When categorizing subjects into tertiles, the pooled RR for the highest tertile of baseline PCSK9 was 1.252 (95% CI, 1.104–1.420) compared with the lowest category. This positive association between PCSK9 level and risk of MACEs persisted in sensitivity and most of the subgroup analyses. Twelve studies were included in dose-response meta-analysis, and a linear association between PCSK9 concentration and risk of MACEs was observed (x2 test for non-linearity = 0.31, P non-linearity = 0.575). No significant correlation was found either on stroke or all-cause mortality.

Conclusion: This meta-analysis added further evidence that high circulating PCSK9 concentration significantly associated with increased risk of MACEs, and a linear dose-response association was observed. However, available data did not suggest significant association either on stroke or all-cause mortality. Additional well-designed studies are warranted to further investigate the correlations between PCSK9 concentration and stroke and mortality.
Assessment of the Effects of Double-Stranded RNAs Corresponding to Multiple Vitellogenesis-Inhibiting Hormone Subtype I Peptides in Subadult Female Whiteleg Shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei
Authors: Kang Bong Jung , Sultana Zakea , Wilder Marcy N.
Published: March 2021

Vitellogenesis-inhibiting hormone (VIH) negatively regulates reproduction in shrimp and other decapod crustaceans. In order to assess the effects of transcriptional silencing by multiple VIH subtype I sinus gland peptides (SGPs) on ovarian maturation in female whiteleg shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei, we synthesized five dsRNAs targeting Liv-SGP-A, −B, −C, −F, and −G and injected them into subadults. The following treatments were employed: sgpG-dsRNA (targeting Liv-SGP-G), sgpC-dsRNA (targeting Liv-SGP-C), and mixed-dsRNA (targeting Liv-SGP-A, −B, and −F). The expression of Liv-SGP-G in eyestalks was significantly decreased at 10, 20, and 30 days after the injection of sgpG-dsRNA In addition, it was significantly decreased at 10 and 30 days after the injection of mixed-dsRNA. The expression of vitellogenin (Vg) gene expression in the ovaries, and concentrations of Vg protein in the hemolymph, were not changed by the administration of any dsRNA treatment (the ovaries remained immature in all treated individuals and contained mostly oogonia and previtellogenic oocytes). Although the administration of dsRNAs corresponding to multiple VIHs did not promote ovarian maturation, this is the first report of the co-transcriptional repression of Liv-SGP-G by the injection of dsRNA for homologous genes (Liv-SGP-A, −B, and −F). These results indicate that subadults can respond to the techniques of transcriptional silencing.
Repurposing of the Antiepileptic Drug Levetiracetam to Restrain Neuroendocrine Prostate Cancer and Inhibit Mast Cell Support to Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Sulsenti Roberta , Frossi Barbara , Bongiovanni Lucia , Cancila Valeria , Ostano Paola , Fischetti Irene , Enriquez Claudia , Guana Francesca , Chiorino Giovanna , Tripodo Claudio , Pucillo Carlo E. , Colombo Mario P. , Jachetti Elena
Published: March 2021

A relevant fraction of castration-resistant prostate cancers (CRPC) evolve into fatal neuroendocrine (NEPC) tumors in resistance to androgen deprivation and/or inhibitors of androgen receptor pathway. Therefore, effective drugs against both CRPC and NEPC are needed. We have previously described a dual role of mast cells (MCs) in prostate cancer, being capable to promote adenocarcinoma but also to restrain NEPC. This finding suggests that a molecule targeting both MCs and NEPC cells could be effective against prostate cancer. Using an in silico drug repurposing approach, here we identify the antiepileptic drug levetiracetam as a potential candidate for this purpose. We found that the protein target of levetiracetam, SV2A, is highly expressed by both NEPC cells and MCs infiltrating prostate adenocarcinoma, while it is low or negligible in adenocarcinoma cells. In vitro, levetiracetam inhibited the proliferation of NEPC cells and the degranulation of MCs. In mice bearing subcutaneous tumors levetiracetam was partially active on both NEPC and adenocarcinoma, the latter effect due to the inhibition of MMP9 release by MCs. Notably, in TRansgenic Adenocarcinoma of the Mouse Prostate (TRAMP) mice subjected to surgical castration to mimic androgen deprivation therapy, levetiracetam reduced onset and frequency of both high grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia, adenocarcinoma and NEPC, thus increasing the number of cured mice showing only signs of tumor regression. Our results demonstrate that levetiracetam can directly restrain NEPC development after androgen deprivation, and that it can also block adenocarcinoma progression through the inhibition of some MCs functions. These findings open the possibility of further testing levetiracetam for the therapy of prostate cancer or of MC-mediated diseases.
Identification of Reduced Host Transcriptomic Signatures for Tuberculosis Disease and Digital PCR-Based Validation and Quantification
Authors: Gliddon Harriet D. , Kaforou Myrsini , Alikian Mary , Habgood-Coote Dominic , Zhou Chenxi , Oni Tolu , Anderson Suzanne T. , Brent Andrew J. , Crampin Amelia C. , Eley Brian , Heyderman Robert , Kern Florian , Langford Paul R. , Ottenhoff Tom H. M. , Hibberd Martin L. , French Neil , Wright Victoria J. , Dockrell Hazel M. , Coin Lachlan J. , Wilkinson Robert J. , Levin Michael
Published: March 2021

Recently, host whole blood gene expression signatures have been identified for diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB). Absolute quantification of the concentrations of signature transcripts in blood have not been reported, but would facilitate diagnostic test development. To identify minimal transcript signatures, we applied a transcript selection procedure to microarray data from African adults comprising 536 patients with TB, other diseases (OD) and latent TB (LTBI), divided into training and test sets. Signatures were further investigated using reverse transcriptase (RT)—digital PCR (dPCR). A four-transcript signature (GBP6, TMCC1, PRDM1, and ARG1) measured using RT-dPCR distinguished TB patients from those with OD (area under the curve (AUC) 93.8% (CI95% 82.2–100%). A three-transcript signature (FCGR1A, ZNF296, and C1QB) differentiated TB from LTBI (AUC 97.3%, CI95%: 93.3–100%), regardless of HIV. These signatures have been validated across platforms and across samples offering strong, quantitative support for their use as diagnostic biomarkers for TB.
Effects of Hypoxia in Intestinal Tumors on Immune Cell Behavior in the Tumor Microenvironment
Authors: Zhang Luping , Wang Shaokun , Wang Yachen , Zhao Weidan , Zhang Yingli , Zhang Nan , Xu Hong
Published: March 2021

Background

Imbalanced nutritional supply and demand in the tumor microenvironment often leads to hypoxia. The subtle interaction between hypoxia and immune cell behavior plays an important role in tumor occurrence and development. However, the functional relationship between hypoxia and the tumor microenvironment remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the effect of hypoxia on the intestinal tumor microenvironment.

Method

We extracted the names of hypoxia-related genes from the Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) database and screened them for those associated with colorectal cancer prognosis, with the final list including ALDOB, GPC1, ALDOC, and SLC2A3. Using the sum of the expression levels of these four genes, provided by The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases, and the expression coefficients, we developed a hypoxia risk score model. Using the median risk score value, we divided the patients in the two databases into high- and low-risk groups. GSEA was used to compare the enrichment differences between the two groups. We used the CIBERSORT computational method to analyze immune cell infiltration. Finally, the correlation between these five genes and hypoxia was analyzed.

Result

The prognosis of the two groups differed significantly, with a higher survival rate in the low-risk group than in the high-risk group. We found that the different risk groups were enriched by immune-related and inflammatory pathways. We identified activated M0 macrophages in TCGA and GEO databases and found that CCL2/4/5, and CSF1 contributed toward the increased infiltration rate of this immune cell type. Finally, we observed a positive correlation between the five candidate genes’ expression and the risk of hypoxia, with significant differences in the level of expression of each of these genes between patient risk groups.

Conclusion

Overall, our data suggest that hypoxia is associated with the prognosis and rate of immune cell infiltration in patients with colorectal cancer. This finding may improve immunotherapy for colorectal cancer.
Exploring the Relationship Between Sleep Quality, Sleep-Related Biomarkers, and Motor Skill Acquisition Using Virtual Reality in People With Parkinson's Disease: A Pilot Study
Authors: Al-Sharman Alham , Ismaiel Ismail Alhaj , Khalil Hanan , El-Salem Khalid
Published: March 2021

Background and Objectives: Despite the fact that sleep disturbances are among the most common and disabling manifestations of Parkinson's disease (PD), no study has investigated the effect of sleep quality and sleep-related biomarkers on motor skill acquisition in people with Parkinson's disease (PwPD).

Objective: To examine the relationship between skill acquisition, sleep quality, and sleep-related biomarkers in PwPD using virtual reality (VR) system.

Methods: This is a cross sectional study conducted on 31 PwPD and 31 healthy controls. To assess skill acquisition, each participant practiced a VR game 6 times (blocks). The main outcomes from the VR game were the required time to complete the VR game and the recorded errors. Motor skill acquisition was calculated as the difference of scores between block 6 and block 2 for both outcomes. Sleep was assessed subjectively using Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and objectively using the Actisleep. To assess sleep related biomarker, plasma serotonin level was examined.

Results: PwPD and healthy controls demonstrated a practice-related improvement in performance as shown by the main effect of block for each of the VR outcome measures (p < 0.000, time required to complete VR game; p < 0.000, recorded errors). There was no interaction effect between Block X Group for both outcome measures. There were significant correlations in both groups (p < 0.05) between motor skill acquisition (as indicated by the difference of time required to complete the VR game between block 6 and block 2) and PSQI total score, wake after sleep onset, and sleep efficiency. Additionally, a significant correlation was observed in both groups between motor skill acquisition (as indicated by the difference of time required to complete the VR game between block 6 and block 2) and the plasma serotonin level (p < 0.05). These correlations in PwPD remained significant, even after adjusting for disease motor severity, cognitive status, depression, and daily dose of L-dopa.

Discussion and Conclusions: Sleep quality may influence motor skill acquisition in PwPD. Healthcare professionals are encouraged to be aware about sleep quality and sleep assessment tools. Therapies may target improving sleep quality which could result in improving motor skill acquisition.
Adaptive Rewiring in Weighted Networks Shows Specificity, Robustness, and Flexibility
Authors: Rentzeperis Ilias , van Leeuwen Cees
Published: March 2021

Brain network connections rewire adaptively in response to neural activity. Adaptive rewiring may be understood as a process which, at its every step, is aimed at optimizing the efficiency of signal diffusion. In evolving model networks, this amounts to creating shortcut connections in regions with high diffusion and pruning where diffusion is low. Adaptive rewiring leads over time to topologies akin to brain anatomy: small worlds with rich club and modular or centralized structures. We continue our investigation of adaptive rewiring by focusing on three desiderata: specificity of evolving model network architectures, robustness of dynamically maintained architectures, and flexibility of network evolution to stochastically deviate from specificity and robustness. Our adaptive rewiring model simulations show that specificity and robustness characterize alternative modes of network operation, controlled by a single parameter, the rewiring interval. Small control parameter shifts across a critical transition zone allow switching between the two modes. Adaptive rewiring exhibits greater flexibility for skewed, lognormal connection weight distributions than for normally distributed ones. The results qualify adaptive rewiring as a key principle of self-organized complexity in network architectures, in particular of those that characterize the variety of functional architectures in the brain.
Protective Effect of Blood Cora Polysaccharides on H9c2 Rat Heart Cells Injury Induced by Oxidative Stress by Activating Nrf2/HO-1 Signal Pathway
Authors: Jiang Yong , Zhou Wei , Zhang Xin , Wang Ying , Yang Dingyi , Li Shujie
Published: March 2021

The protective effect of blood cora polysaccharides (BCP) on H9c2 rat heart cells under oxidative stress was explored with the use of a H9c2 cell oxidative stress model. The ability of BCP to scavenge 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and hydroxyl radicals and its reducing power were measured in vitro, indicating a more powerful antioxidant effect of BCP compared to a similar concentration of vitamin C. The cellular metabolic activity was tested through the MTT [3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2-H-tetrazolium bromide] assay. Additionally, the relevant oxidation indicator level within the cell supernatant and cells was tested with reagent kits, and mRNA and protein expression levels in the cells were tested through quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and western blot. The chemical composition of BCP was determined through high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The results show that compared with the normal group, the model group's cell survival rate (28.75 ± 2.56%) decreased, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage and the malondialdehyde (MDA) content increased, and superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH) levels decreased. The results of qPCR and western blot show that compared with the normal group, the model group's Bcl-2 associated X protein (Bax), caspase-3, nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression, NAD(P)H:quinoneoxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), and cytochrome c (Cyt C) decreased, and B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) expression was increased, with significant statistical differences. Compared with the model group, the cell survival rate for each BCP-treated group increased, the LDH leakage decreased, the SOD, CAT, and GSH levels in the cells increased, the MDA content decreased, the Bax, caspase-3, Nrf2, HO-1, NQO1, and Cyt C expression was weakened, and the Bcl-2 expression was strengthened. BCP inhibited the reduction of mitochondrial membrane potential caused by H2O2 treatment. According to the component analysis, BCP mainly consist of mannitol, ribose, glucosum anhydricum, galactose, and xylose. It was observed that the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway can be activated, regulated, and controlled by functional BCP to protect H9c2 cells injured by oxidative stress.
Effect of Carbon Ion Radiation Induces Bystander Effect on Metastasis of A549 Cells and Metabonomic Correlation Analysis
Authors: Yang Zhen , Zhang Qiuning , Luo Hongtao , Shao Lihua , Liu Ruifeng , Kong Yarong , Zhao Xueshan , Geng Yichao , Li Chengcheng , Wang Xiaohu
Published: March 2021

Objective

To analyze the effect of carbon ion (12C6+) radiation may induce bystander effect on A549 cell metastasis and metabonomics.

Methods

A549 cell was irradiated with carbon ion to establish the clone survival model and the transwell matrix assay was applied to measure the effect of carbon ion on cell viability, migration, and invasion, respectively. Normal human embryonic lung fibroblasts (WI-38) were irradiated with carbon ions of 0 and 2 Gy and then transferred to A549 cell co-culture medium for 24 h. The migration and invasion of A549 cells were detected by the Transwell chamber. The analysis of metabonomic information in transfer medium by liquid phase mass spectrometry (LC-MS), The differential molecules were obtained by principal pomponent analysis (PCA) and the target proteins of significant differences (p = 1.7 × 10−3) obtained by combining with the STICH database. KEGG pathway was used to analyze the enrichment of the target protein pathway.

Results

Compared with 0 Gy, the colony formation, migration, and invasion of A549 cells were significantly inhibited by carbon ion 2 and 4 Gy irradiation, while the inhibitory effect was not significant after 1 Gy irradiation. Compared with 0 Gy, the culture medium 24 h after carbon ion 2 Gy irradiation significantly inhibited the metastasis of tumor cells (p = 0.03). LC-MS analysis showed that 23 differential metabolites were obtained in the cell culture medium 24 h after carbon ion 0 and 2 Gy irradiation (9 up-regulated and 14 down-regulated). Among them, two were up-regulated and two down-regulated (p = 2.9 × 10−3). 41 target proteins were corresponding to these four differential molecules. Through the analysis of the KEGG signal pathway, it was found that these target molecules were mainly enriched in purine metabolism, tyrosine metabolism, cysteine and methionine metabolism, peroxisome, and carbon metabolism. Neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, calcium signaling pathway, arachidonic acid metabolism, and Fc epsilon RI signaling pathway.

Conclusion

The bystander effect induced by 2 Gy carbon ion radiation inhibits the metastasis of tumor cells, which indicates that carbon ions may change the metabolites of irradiated cells, so that it may indirectly affect the metabolism of tumor cell growth microenvironment, thus inhibiting the metastasis of malignant tumor cells.
Predictive Value of Combined Preoperative Carcinoembryonic Antigen Level and Ki-67 Index in Patients With Gastric Neuroendocrine Carcinoma After Radical Surgery
Authors: Xie Jianwei , Zhao YaJun , Zhou Yanbing , He Qingliang , Hao Hankun , Qiu Xiantu , Zhao Gang , Xu Yanchang , Xue Fangqin , Chen Jinping , Su Guoqiang , Li Ping , Zheng Chao-Hui , Huang Chang-Ming
Published: March 2021

Précis

We present a valid and reproducible nomogram that combined the TNM stage as well as the Ki-67 index and carcinoembryonic antigen levels; the nomogram may be an indispensable tool to help predict individualized risks of death and help clinicians manage patients with gastric neuroendocrine carcinoma.

Background

To analyze the long-term outcomes of patients with grade 3 GNEC who underwent curative surgery and investigated whether the combination of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels and Ki-67 index can predict the prognosis of patients with gastric neuroendocrine carcinoma (GNEC) and constructed a nomogram to predict patient survival.

Methods

In the training cohort, data were collected from 405 patients with GNEC after radical surgery at seven Chinese centers. A nomogram was constructed to predict long-term prognosis. Data for the validation cohort were collected from 305 patients.

Results

The 5-year overall survival (OS) was worse in the high CEA group than in the normal CEA group (40.5% vs. 55.2%, p = 0.013). The 5-year OS was significantly worse in the high Ki-67 index group than in the low Ki-67 index group (47.9% vs. 57.2%, p = 0.012). Accordingly, we divided the whole cohort into a KC(-) group (low Ki-67 index and normal CEA) and KC(+) group (high Ki-67 index and/or high CEA). The KC(+) group had a worse prognosis than the KC(-) group (64.6% vs. 46.8%, p < 0.001). KC(+) and the AJCC 8th stage were independent factors for OS. Then, we combined KC status and the AJCC 8th stage to establish a nomogram; the C-index and area under the curve (AUC) were higher for the nomogram than for the AJCC 8th stage (C-index: 0.660 vs. 0.635, p = 0.005; AUC: 0.700 vs. 0.675, p = 0.020). The calibration curve verified that the nomogram had a good predictive value, with similar findings in the validation groups.

Conclusions

The nomogram based on KC status and the AJCC 8th stage predicted the prognosis of patients with GNEC well.
Three-Dimensional Pseudo-Continuous Arterial Spin Labeling Parameters Distinguish Pediatric Medulloblastoma and Pilocytic Astrocytoma
Authors: Duc Nguyen Minh
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Arterial Spin Labeling (ASL), a perfusion assessment without using gadolinium-based contrast agents, is outstandingly advantageous for pediatric patients. The differentiation of medulloblastomas from pilocytic astrocytomas in children plays a significant role in determining treatment strategies and prognosis. This study aimed to assess the use of ASL parameters during the differentiation between pediatric medulloblastoma and pilocytic astrocytoma.

Methods: The institutional review board of Children's Hospital 2 approved this prospective study. The brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) protocol, including axial three-dimensional (3D) pseudo-continuous ASL, was evaluated in 33 patients, who were divided into a medulloblastoma group (n = 25) and a pilocytic astrocytoma group (n = 8). The quantified region of interest (ROI) values for the tumors and the tumor to parenchyma ratios were collected and compared between the two groups. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and the Youden index were utilized to identify the best cut-off, sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC) values for significant ASL parameters.

Results: The cerebral blood flow (CBF) and the ratio between the CBF of the tumor relative to that of the parenchyma (rCBF) values for medulloblastomas were significantly higher than those for pilocytic astrocytomas (p < 0.05). A cut-off value of 0.51 for rCBF was able to discriminate between medulloblastoma and pilocytic astrocytoma, generating a sensitivity of 88%, a specificity of 75%, and an AUC of 83.5%.

Conclusion: The rCBF measurement, obtained during MRI with 3D pseudo-continuous ASL, plays a supplemental role in the differentiation of medulloblastoma from pilocytic astrocytoma.
Can Macroinvertebrate Traits Be Explored and Applied in Biomonitoring Riverine Systems Draining Forested Catchments?
Authors: Edegbene Augustine O. , Arimoro Francis O. , Odume Oghenekaro N. , Ogidiaka Efe , Keke Unique N.
Published: March 2021

Trait-based approach (TBA) in recent time has received tremendous attention as complementary tool over taxonomic-based approach in assessing ecological health of riverine systems in developed countries, but in the Afrotropical region the trait-based approach is still in its infancy. No trait-based approach has been developed for riverine systems draining forested catchment in the Afrotropical region. Hence, this study was conducted to explore and apply macroinvertebrates traits as potential biomonitoring tools in assessing ecological health of riverine systems draining forested catchments in the Niger Delta area of Nigeria. Selected physico-chemical variables were sampled together with macroinvertebrates in 18 stations of 10 riverine systems from 2008 to 2012. The 18 stations were classified into three ecological classes namely near natural stations (NNS), slightly disturbed stations (SDS), and moderately disturbed stations (MDS) using physico-chemical-based classification with the aid of principal component analysis (PCA). The results revealed traits such as possessions of hardshell body armouring, preferences for clear and transparent water and opaque water, climbing and crawling mobility mechanisms, large (>20–40 mm) body size, preferences for scrapping, shredding, and grazing feeding habits to be associated with NNS and SDS based on RLQ (R, physico-chemical variables; L, taxa; Q, traits) analysis performed. Thus, these traits were deemed to be sensitive to human impact in forested systems. Also, traits such as tegument/cutaneous respiration, soft and exposed body armouring, burrowing mobility mechanism, spherical body shape, preference for detritus [fine particulate organic materials (FPOM)] food materials, small (>5–10 mm) body size and preference for filter feeding mechanism were associated with MDS. Hence, they were deemed tolerant of human impact in forested systems. A fourth-corner test performed revealed tegumental/cutaneous respiration preference, soft and exposed body armouring and burrowing mobility mode, which were associated with the MDS on the RLQ ordination were also positively correlated to 5 day biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5); while preference for clear and transparent water, which were positively associated with MDS, were also positively correlated with pH and negatively correlated to dissolved oxygen (DO). Overall, this study affirmed that the TBA can be explored in biomonitoring riverine systems draining forested catchments. Nevertheless, we suggest the trait-based approach to be further explored, with a view to developing trait-informed indices for biomonitoring Afrotropical riverine systems.
Brevetoxin and Conotoxin Interactions with Single-Domain Voltage-Gated Sodium Channels from a Diatom and Coccolithophore
Authors: Yates Ping , Koester Julie A. , Taylor Alison R.
Published: March 2021

The recently characterized single-domain voltage-gated ion channels from eukaryotic protists (EukCats) provide an array of novel channel proteins upon which to test the pharmacology of both clinically and environmentally relevant marine toxins. Here, we examined the effects of the hydrophilic µ-CTx PIIIA and the lipophilic brevetoxins PbTx-2 and PbTx-3 on heterologously expressed EukCat ion channels from a marine diatom and coccolithophore. Surprisingly, none of the toxins inhibited the peak currents evoked by the two EukCats tested. The lack of homology in the outer pore elements of the channel may disrupt the binding of µ-CTx PIIIA, while major structural differences between mammalian sodium channels and the C-terminal domains of the EukCats may diminish interactions with the brevetoxins. However, all three toxins produced significant negative shifts in the voltage dependence of activation and steady state inactivation, suggesting alternative and state-dependent binding conformations that potentially lead to changes in the excitability of the phytoplankton themselves.
The Life of a Surface Bubble
Authors: Miguet Jonas , Rouyer Florence , Rio Emmanuelle
Published: March 2021

Surface bubbles are present in many industrial processes and in nature, as well as in carbonated beverages. They have motivated many theoretical, numerical and experimental works. This paper presents the current knowledge on the physics of surface bubbles lifetime and shows the diversity of mechanisms at play that depend on the properties of the bath, the interfaces and the ambient air. In particular, we explore the role of drainage and evaporation on film thinning. We highlight the existence of two different scenarios depending on whether the cap film ruptures at large or small thickness compared to the thickness at which van der Waals interaction come in to play.
Mechanochemical Aza-Vinylogous Povarov Reactions for the Synthesis of Highly Functionalized 1,2,3,4-Tetrahydroquinolines and 1,2,3,4-Tetrahydro-1,5-Naphthyridines
Authors: Clerigué José , Ramos M. Teresa , Menéndez J. Carlos
Published: March 2021

The aza-vinylogous Povarov reaction between aromatic amines, α-ketoaldehydes or α-formylesters and α,β-unsaturated dimethylhydrazones was carried out in a sequential three-component fashion under mechanochemical conditions. Following extensive optimization work, the reaction was performed on a vibratory ball mill operating at 20 Hz and using zirconium oxide balls and milling jar, and afforded 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinolines and 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro- 1,5-naphthyridines functionalized at C-2, C-4 and also at C-6, in the latter case. This protocol generally afforded the target compounds in good to excellent yields and diastereoselectivities. A comparison of representative examples with the results obtained under conventional conditions revealed that the mechanochemical protocol affords faster Povarov reactions in comparable yields using a solvent-less environment.