bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Renal endometriosis mimicking a malignancy– a rare case of Reno-Mullerian fusion?
Authors: Connor Diarmuid O' , Byrnes Kevin Gerard , Walsh Kilian , O'Sullivan Gerard , McHale Teresa
Published: June 2021

Endometriosis is a common gynaecological condition characterised by ectopic endometrial tissue growth beyond the uterine cavity. Urinary tract endometriosis represents only 1.2% of all cases, with renal endometriosis accounting for less than 1% of urinary tract involvement. An asymptomatic, 49-year-old, perimenopausal Irish female was found to have an incidental mass at the upper pole of the right kidney on imaging studies. Histological analysis was recommended to outrule a renal malignancy and an open radical nephrectomy was performed following multidisciplinary input. Histological analysis surprisingly revealed the presence of endometriosis and endosalpingiosis, accompanied by a significant smooth muscle component, which mimicked a renal neoplasm. The aetiology of renal endometriosis remains unclear. However, given the lack of a history of endometriosis and the absence of other foci of disease in this patient, together with the smooth muscle predominant phenotype, this may represent a case of reno-mullerian fusion or endometrial displacement during gestational development. Keywords Endometriosis, smooth muscle, reno-mullerian fusion, malignancy
Microalgae Cultivation in Wastewater From Agricultural Industries to Benefit Next Generation of Bioremediation: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Melo Jessica Muniz , Ribeiro Marina Ronchesel , Telles Tiago Santos , Amaral Higo Forlan , Andrade Diva Souza
Published: June 2021

The aim of this study is to provide a bibliometric analysis and mapping of existing scientific papers, focusing on microalgae cultivation coupled with biomass production and bioremediation of wastewater from cassava, dairy, and coffee industries. Using the Web of Science (WoS) database for the period 1996–2019, a search was performed using a keyword strategy, aiming at segregating the papers in groups. The keywords used in this search were “wastewater treatment,” “microalgae,” “cassava,” “dairy,” and “coffee” for the first step, resulting in 114 papers; for the second step, we used the keywords “wastewater treatment,” “biomass productivity,” “microalgae,” “economic viability,” and “environmental impacts,” which resulted in 29 scientific papers. In these papers, keywords such as “carbon dioxide biofixation” and “removal of nutrients by the production of biomass by microalgae” followed by “environmental and economic impacts” were highlighted. Some of these papers also presented an analysis of the economic feasibility of the process, including costs of production systems, which reveal the state-of-the-art setup required to make the cultivation of microalgae economically viable. Research in eco-industrial parks is needed to improve the integration of microalgae production systems using wastewater as a source of nutrients, aiming to achieve the global goal of bioremediation and clean alternatives for renewable energy generation.
Novel Type of References for Weight Aligned for Onset of Puberty – Using the Qeps Growth Model
Authors: Albertsson-Wikland Kerstin , Niklasson Aimon , Gelander Lars , Holmgren Anton , Nierop Andreas
Published: June 2021

Background: Growth references are traditionally constructed relative to chronological age, despite inter-individual variations in pubertal timing. A new type of height reference was recently developed allowing growth to be aligned based on onset of pubertal growth. We here aim to develop a corresponding reference for pubertal weight. Methods: To model QEPS-weight, 3595 subjects (1779 girls) from GrowUp1974Gothenburg and GrowUp1990Gothenburg were used. The QEPS-height-model was transformed to a corresponding QEPS-weight-model; thereafter, QEPS-weight was modified by an individual, constitutional weight-height-factor. Longitudinal weight and length/height measurements from 1418 individuals (698 girls) from GrowUp1990Gothenburg were then used to create weight references aligned for height at pubertal onset (the age at 5% of P-function growth, AgeP5). GrowUp1974Gothenburg subgroups based on pubertal timing, stature at pubertal onset, and childhood body composition were assessed using the references. Results: References (median, SDS) for total weight (QEPS-functions), weight specific to puberty (P-function), and weight gain in the absence of specific pubertal growth (basic weight, QES-functions), allowing alignment of individual growth based on age at pubertal onset. For both sexes, basic weight was greater than average for late maturing, tall and high-BMI subgroups. The P-function-related weight was greater than average in short and lower than average in tall children, in those with high BMI, and in girls but not boys with low BMI. Conclusions: New pubertal weight references allow individual variations in pubertal timing to be taken into consideration when evaluating growth. When used together with the comparable pubertal height reference, this will improve growth monitoring in clinical practice for identifying abnormal growth, and serve as a valuable research tool providing insight into human growth.
The Effect of Some Soil Amendments (Manure and Biochar) on the Bioaccumulation Capacity of Hexavalent Chromium by Two Species of (Salicornia Persica) and (Salicornia Perspolitana) From Contaminated Soil
Authors: Ashrafi Fahime , heidari Ava , Farzam Mohammad , Karimi Alireza , Amini Malihe
Published: June 2021

Heavy metals are among the most dangerous contaminants in the environment. Application of organic compounds and plant species with the ability to accumulate and stabilize heavy metal in their organs is the best option for remediation of these elements in the soil. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of manure and biochar on the accumulation of heavy metals by Salicornia species. Two species of Salicornia ,including S. persica and S. perspolitana, were cultivated outdoor in experimental pots. The effects of experimental treatments ,including hexavalent chromium concentrations, manure ,and biochar on the two studied species, were investigated. The results indicated a significant effect (P < 0.05) of biochar on the accumulation of heavy metals by two species ,S. persicaand S. perspolitana, so that chromium concentrations in the roots and shoots were 258 and 5.41 mg/kg, respectively. Also, chromium accumulations under manure treatments in the roots and shoots were 334.34 and 9.79 mg/kg, respectively. Plant dry weight and height for both species in manure treatment were higher than control and biochar treatments. S. persica showed higher growth than S. perspolitana species. The content of photosynthetic pigments in both S.persica and S. perspolitana species under biochar treatment was higher than control and manure treatments. In general, one can conclude that the accumulation of chromium in S. perspolitana was higher than in S. persica ,and the application of biochar and manure amendments could stabilize chromium in soil and reduce chromium accumulation in both S. persica and S. perspolitana species.
Relationship Between Decision Conflict and Decision Regret Among Postoperative Breast Cancer Patients in China: The Regulating Role of Decision-Making Preparation
Authors: Wang Yan , Zhang Qingyue , Pang Jianmei , Shi Liyuan , Wang Xiaoyuan , Yan Di , Yin Jian , Qiang Wanmin
Published: June 2021

Objective: Different surgical methods have different risks and benefits. The Chinese breast cancer(BC) patients’ decision-making of surgical treatment become a critical research question. Patients are often offered several options before surgery, and decision preparation play an important role in decision process. However some patients regret the original decision afterward. To understand the current situation, this study explore mainly explores the status of decision regret among newly diagnosed BC patients,and tests the relationship between decision conflicts, decision-making preparation, and decision regrets. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted. Totally 320 postoperative BC patients were studied using a self-made general data scale, Decision Regret Scale, Decision Conflict Scale, and Preparation for Decision Making Scale. Basic descriptive analyses, Pearson’s correlation analyses and regression analyses were performed. Results: The average score of decision regret among BC patients after surgery was 34.28. Decision regret was positively associated with decision conflict (r=0.853, p<0.01), and negatively associated decision preparation (r=-0.404, p<0.01). Decision-making preparation plays a regulatory role for the emergence of decision conflicts and regrets. The correlation between decision conflicts and decision regrets increases with the increase of decision-making preparation. Conclusion: The adverse effects of decision conflicts on decision regrets gradually increase with the increase of decision-making preparation. Results indicate that reducing decision preparation can be expected to improve the level of decision regret among Chinese BC patients.Thus, Clinical staffs should encourage patients to actively participate in decision-making, provide specialized information support, and improve the level of decision regret among Chinese BCpatients after surgery.
Fungal biotransformation of limonene and pinene as a biotechnological approach for production of aroma compounds
Authors: Sevalho Elison de Souza , Paulino Bruno Nicolau , de Souza Antonia Queiroz Lima , de Souza Afonso Duarte Leão
Published: June 2021

The number of aroma compounds obtained by biotechnological process has increased tremendously in recent years and, as a result, are now being extensively employed in order to make products more attractive for consumers. In the present review, we inten to assess the wide range of reactions are catalyzed by fungal strains in regards to biotransformation of limonene and pinene for the aroma compounds production, their production rates/maximum concentrations and their biological potential. We comprehensively summarized in this review available data (2000–2021) regarding fungal biotransformation of limonene and pinene as biotechnological processes. Over the past years, has been paid to the biotransformation processes due to mild and environmentally friendly conditions applied. This review has shown that reports on the application of the fungi as a promising source of biocatalysts, mainly for stereoselective reactions such as hydroxylation and epoxidation. Studies have demonstrated the existence of promising monoterpenes used as substrates, which could be important from an industrial standpoint since this increases their importance as starting materials for obtaining aromatic molecules new. Moreover, biological (e.g.,antioxidant, anticancer) activities attributed to some monoterpene biotransformation products are increasingly being reported, indicating that their applications may transcend food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industry.
Medical Cannabis Use in Cancer Patients: Understanding Important Patient Reported Outcomes
Authors: Worster Brooke , Schmida Ayako , Garber Gregory , Posner Ilise , Ahmed Christopher , Lee Andrew , Leader Amy
Published: June 2021

The efficacy of cannabis in various symptom management strategies remains mixed. This study assess the impact of medical cannabis on cancer pain, nausea and vomiting, quality of life and cost impact on cancer patients. We enrolled 121 adult patients receiving treatment at an urban NCI-Designated cancer center. Patients completed a one-time telephone survey after certification. Patients with hematologic malignancies used cannabis products longer than solid cancer patients (heme = 10.5 months, solid = 6.2 months, p = 0.016). Positive trends in symptom relief occurred frequently, but did not reach statistical significance while detrimental effects on symptoms or quality of life were rarely noted. Younger patients (< 65) spent more money monthly on cannabis than older patients. The majority of participants reported improvements in cancer-related pain, nausea and quality of life. While much remains unknown about the use of cannabis in cancer patients, this study highlights a successful modality to help patients navigate a complex system to engage in safe, tolerable cannabis use.
Early Stopping Criterion for Recursive Least Squares Training of Behavioural Models
Authors: Loughman Meabh , Barton Sinead , Farrell Ronan , Dooley John
Published: June 2021

As the physical makeup of cellular base-stations evolve into systems with multiple parallel transmission paths the effort involved in modelling these complex systems increases considerably. One task in particular which contributes to signal distortion on each signal path, is the power amplifier. In power amplifier modelling, Recursive Least Squares has been used in the past to train Volterra models with memory terms, however instability can occur when training the model weights. This manuscript provides a computationally efficient technique to detect the onset of instability and subsequently to inform the decision when to stop adaptive training of dynamic nonlinear behavioural models and avoid the onset of instability. This technique is experimentally validated using four different signal modulation schemes.
Monitored Exercise and Supplemental Oxygen Improve Exercise Tolerance, Heart Rate Response and Symptoms in Three Females with Post-COVID Syndrome: A Case Series
Authors: Greenspan Noah , Mackles Marion , Hullstrung Greg , Chin Wai , Kaner Robert , DePalo Louis , Walsh-Messinger Julie
Published: June 2021

Background: It is now recognized that a significant proportion of previously healthy young and middle-aged adults who contract COVID-19 will develop protracted post-viral symptoms including fatigue, dyspnea, cough, post-exertional malaise and autonomic dysfunction. Effective treatment approaches for this post-COVID syndrome (PCS) are crucially needed.Methods: Three previously healthy females (ages 34, 39, and 38) who contracted COVID-19 in Spring 2020 and subsequently developed PCS received monitored aerobic exercise combined with supplemental oxygen beginning seven or eight months following acute-illness. Pre- and post-treatment exercise tolerance was tested using the Bensen treadmill protocol. Treatment consisted of 22 sessions of graduated treadmill exercise during which 6 liters of continuous oxygen was delivered via nasal canula. Findings: All patients demonstrated ~54% improvement in exercise tolerance, improvement in heart rate and systolic blood pressure response during exercise, and remission or improvement of symptoms, including cough, dyspnea on exertion, laryngeal inflammation, chest discomfort, fatigue, and/or post-exertional malaise. Interpretation: We show that measured, monitored exercise combined with supplemental oxygen improved lingering symptoms in three female PCS patients. Supplemental oxygen may reduce post-exercise inflammation, therefore providing the benefits of exercise while reducing the likelihood of PCS symptom exacerbation. Due to the variable nature of PCS, it is crucial to individualize treatment protocols and to continually evaluate and modify each protocol based upon individual patient response. Funding: This work was funded by the Pulmonary Wellness Foundation.
Phytoplankton characterization in a tropical tidal river impacted by a megacity: the case of the Saigon River (Southern Vietnam)
Authors: Nguyen Truong An , Dao Thanh-Son , Strady Emilie , Nguyen Tuyet T.N. , Aimé Joanne , Gratiot Nicolas , Némery Julien
Published: June 2021

The spatiotemporal variation of phytoplankton and their relationship with environmental variables were analysed in the Saigon River – a tropical river in Southern Vietnam. Two longitudinal profiles were conducted during dry and rainy season at 18 sampling sites covering more than 60 km long in the river. Besides, a bi-weekly monitoring conducted upstream, urban area (Ho Chi Minh City - HCMC) and downstream of Saigon River was organized from December 2016 to November 2017. The major phytoplankton were diatoms (e.g. Cyclotella cf. meneghiniana, Leptocylindrus danicus, Aulacoseira granulata), cyanobacteria (Microcystis spp., Raphidiopsis raciborskii, Pseudanabaena sp) and euglenoids (Trachelomonas volvocina). Commonly freshwater phytoplankton species and sometimes brackish water species were dominant during the monitoring. Phytoplankton abundances in dry season were much higher than in rainy season (> 100 times) which was explained by a shorter riverine water residence time and higher flushing capacity during the dry season. There was a clear separation of phytoplankton abundance between the urban area and the remaining area of Saigon River because of polluted urban emissions of HCMC. Redundancy analysis shows that the environmental variables (TOC, Nitrogen, pH, salinity, Mo, Mn) were the driving factors related to the dominance of L. danicus and Cyclotella cf. meneghiniana in the upstream river and urban section of Saigon River. The dominance of cyanobacterium Microcystis spp in the downstream of Saigon River was related to higher salinity, Mg, Cu concentrations and lower concentrations of nutrients, Mn, Co, Mo. The dominance of potentially toxic cyanobacteria in Saigon River possess health risk to local residents especially upon the increasing temperature context and nutrient loading into the river in the next decades.
Alterations in Plasma miR-21, miR-590, miR-192 and miR-215 in Patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis and Their Clinical Importance
Authors: Dirol Hulya , Toylu Aslı , Ogus Aliye Candan , Cilli Aykut , Ozbudak Omer , Clark Ozden Altıok , Ozdemir Tulay
Published: June 2021

Background: It is well-established that microRNAs (miRNAs) have regulatory roles in the fibrotic processes of various tissues. Studies revealed that some miRNAs play a pivotal role in the development of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Methods: In this single-center, cross-sectional study, the plasma levels of miR-21, miR-590, miR-192, and miR-215 in IPF (n=88) and the control (n=20) group were investigated using real-time PCR. The pulmonary function tests and the plasma sampling of participants were carried out simultaneously. Patients were grouped according to age, forced vital capacity, diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO), and the Gender-Age-pulmonary Physiology (GAP) score. The expression levels of the target miRNAs between these clinical subgroups were compared.Results: The IPF and control groups were similar in terms of gender and age. The mean plasma miR-21 and miR-590 levels in IPF were significantly higher than in the control (p<0.0001, p<0.0001, respectively). There was no significant difference in miR-192 and miR-215 levels between the groups. While miR-21 and miR-590 correlated positively with age (p=0.041, p=0.007, respectively), miR-192 and miR-215 displayed a negative correlation with age (p=0.0002, p<0.0001, respectively). MiR-192 and miR-215 increased as the GAP score decreased and miR-192 level in patients with honeycombing was significantly lower than in those without honeycombing (p=0.003).Conclusions: Our results suggest that higher plasma levels of miR-21 and miR-590 were related to the presence of IPF. While all target miRNAs correlated with age, the miR-21 and miR-590 were associated with DLCO, and miR-192 and miR-215 were associated with GAP score and honeycombing.
Temperature field around underground power cable for dry and saturated conditions under static and cyclic thermal loads
Authors: Ahmad Shahbaz , Rizvi Zarghaam Haider , Loose Joscha , Wuttke Frank , Tirth Vineet , Islam Saiful
Published: June 2021

The safe operation of underground power cables is limited by the temperature of insulation around the conductor which heats up due to joule heating. The insulation temperature depends on the seasonal and diurnal power demand and variations in the surrounding soil’s moisture content. The previous scientific investigations are limited to theoretical and numerical analyses for cyclic loads and experimental studies for only dry conditions with static thermal loads. In this study, a series of large-scale laboratory tests are performed for static and cyclic thermal loads with dry and saturated sand. The cyclic thermal loads with symmetrical and unsymmetrical heating-cooling times are done with dry sand, which is the worst-case scenario for heat dissipation. The cyclic thermal loading on dry sand shows strong thermal charging and is higher with a shorter relaxation time. The static thermal loading results show a significant improvement in the heat dissipation ability with saturated sand due to higher thermal conductivity. However, the heat transfer with saturated sand suggests a strong convection cell formation after three days of heating above the heater. The channelisation of heat with convection cell sand facilitates cooling but is not desirable for power cables below crop fields.
Sequential Evaluation of DNA Damage in Patients with Head and Neck Carcinoma Receiving Radiotherapy
Authors: M Sivakumar , K Ariyanachi
Published: June 2021

Background:Head and neck cancers account for about 30% of all cancers in India. The incidence rates of HNSCC in India are30/1, 00,000 for males and 10/1, 00,000 for females. The commonly used treatment modalities include surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Studies conducted in different types of cancers showed that there is anincreased primary DNA damage even before the commencement of treatment in cancer patients.The treatment modality will further induce DNA damage in addition to the already existing DNA damage.In normal healthy people, DNA damage is effectively repaired. However, in patients with carcinoma, chemo-radiation induced DNA damage is not repaired so effectively. Consequently, there is a high risk of secondary carcinoma by unrepaired damaged DNA.Methodology:In this study, the degree of DNA damage is assessed by comet assay technique in patients with head and neck carcinoma receiving radiotherapy and had complete regression of tumor following radiotherapy. The degree of DNA damage is compared according to the age, gender and associated risk factors of the patients.Results:The comet length parameter of post-RT sample is increased when compared to baseline sample. The head diameter parameter of post-RT sample is increased when compared to baseline sample. The percentage of DNA in head parameter of post-RT sample is decreased when compared to baseline sample. The tail length parameter of post-RT sample is increased when compared to baseline sample. All these findings are indicative of DNA damage following radiotherapy. Consequently, there is a high risk of secondary carcinoma by unrepaired damaged DNA.Conclusion:Patients with locally advanced head and neck carcinoma with complete tumor response following radiotherapy showed a sequential increase in the DNA damage. The co-existing risk factors and old age may increase the baseline DNA damage in the patients with head and neck cancers.
Enhanced Cd Phytoextraction by Solanum Nigrum L From Contaminated Soils Combined With the Application of N Fertilizers and Double Harvests
Authors: Yang Wei , Dai Huiping , Skuza Lidia , Wei Shuhe
Published: June 2021

It is very important to increase phytoremediation efficiency in practice in suitable climatic conditions for plant growth by multiple harvests. Solanum nigrum L. is a Cd hyperaccumulator. In present experiment, after applying different types of N fertilizers (NH4HCO3, NH4Cl, (NH4)2SO4, CH4N2O), root and shoot biomasses and Cd phytoextraction efficiency of S. nigrum effectively improved (P < 0.05), whereas shoot biomasses of S. nigrum harvested at the first florescence stage plus the amounts at the second florescence stage were higher than those at the maturation stage, which indicated that S. nigrum Cd phyto-accumulation efficiency was higher in double harvests at florescence stages compared to a single harvest due to the lack of a clear change in Cd concentration (P < 0.05). The pH value and extractable Cd contents showed no changes, regardless whether N fertilizer was added or not at different growth stages. In addition, after N fertilizer supply, H2O2 and MDA contents in S. nigrum in vivo were lower compared to CK; Similarly, the concentration of proline was decreased as well (P < 0.05). As one of the antioxidant enzymes, CAT activity in S. nigrum shoots, harvested at different growth periods after 4 types of N fertilizer application, obviously decreased, while POD and SOD activities increased (P < 0.05). Our study demonstrated that (NH4)2SO4 treatment exerted the most positive effect and the CH4N2O the second-most positive effect effect on S. nigrum Cd phytoremediation efficiency in double harvests at florescence stages and the growth conditions were better than others.
Cancer Care in a Time of COVID: Lung Cancer Patient’s Experience of Telehealth and Connectedness
Authors: Fraser Anne , Neill Rob Mc , Robinson Jackie
Published: June 2021

Objective: To explore lung cancer patient’s experiences of telehealth during COVID-19 restrictions.Methods: 30 patients with lung cancer were recruited. Data was collected using a qualitative exploratory design with semi-structured interviews. Transcripts were thematically coded using NVivo software.Results: Five key themes were identified. Maintaining resilience: participants acknowledged they were self-reliant prior to their diagnosis, and that the sense of their own internal capabilities was a source of comfort for them; Importance of pre-established relationships with healthcare professionals: the sense of connection established prior to the telehealth consultation supported participants to engage with healthcare professionals. The need for connectedness was amplified by a sense of isolation. Seeking help: participants sought help from services that they perceived as being “expert”; Convenience: factors such as costs and saving time were highlighted; Preferences for consultation type: majority of participants identified physical and emotional comfort being in their own space. For a small number of patients, continuing a face to face assessment was important due to expectation based on previous experience. Conclusion: The use of telehealth was supported during the management of COIVD-19. Connectedness and convenience were key to the level of comfort and confidence for patients with lung cancer using telehealth during ‘lockdown’.
Artificial gauge induced dispersionless coupling for broadband photonic waveguide integration
Authors: Song Wange , Li Ting , Gao Shenglun , Wang Zhizhang , Wu Shengjie , Chen Chen , Zhu Shining , Zou Yi , Li Tao
Published: June 2021

Coupling among waveguides plays an important role in photonic integration, while it usually suffers from large wavelength dispersion and structural sensitivity that brings difficulties in broadband and robust photonic chip devices. Here, we report a new strategy of dispersion engineering of coupled waveguides by artificial gauge field (AGF) with curved trajectories, which gives rise to a dispersionless broadband coupler function in high-density silicon waveguides (waveguide pitch <λ/2). It is found that the artificial gauge field can generate an inverse dispersion to compensate for the dispersion of conventional waveguide coupling. As such, the coupling between the waveguides can be stable in a broad bandwidth. Based on this design, we demonstrate compact directional and 3dB couplers that show broadband dispersionless coupling of light with wavelength from 1400 to 1650 nm, which also exhibit robustness to considerably large structural variations ~150 nm (75% structural deviation). Furthermore, using the AGF coupler as the building block, we significantly demonstrate a three-level-cascaded waveguide network to route the broadband light to the desired ports, showing a tremendous advantage over the conventional counterparts. Our work exploits the artificial gauge field to integrated photonics and demonstrates the possibility of massive, broadband, robust and dense photonic integrations.
Validating Reliability and Security Requirements in Public Sector Infrastructure built by Small Companies
Authors: Georgsen Roar Elias , Køien Geir Myrdahl
Published: June 2021

Municipal infrastructure in Norway is built primarily by small specialist companies acting as subcontractors, mostly with minimal experience working with Information and Communication Technology (ICT). This combination of inexperience and lack of resources presents a unique challenge. This paper applies Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) using the Systems Modelling Language (SysML) to combine validation of reliability and security requirements within a mission-aware interdisciplinary context. The use case is a 6LoWPAN/CoAP-based system for urban spill water management.
Bacillus Subtilis Expressing Epidermal Growth Factors Induces Intestinal Repair and Growth-Promoting in Mice
Authors: Wu Xiaoying , Li Yue , Jin Xiue , Shi Deshi , Wang xiliang
Published: June 2021

Background: Probiotics are widely acknowledged for their pro-health attributes, but the efficacy of traditional probiotics is quite limited. This limitation can be overcome using a gene engineered to enhance the efficacy of existing probiotics. In this study, a strain of Bacillus subtilis (WB800) expressing the eukaryotic protein porcine epidermal growth factor (pEGF) was generated via genetic modification, and mice with intestinal injury were used as a model to evaluate the potential of this bioengineered probiotic in preventing or treating intestinal damage. Integration of the pEGF gene into the B. subtilis WB800 genome using an integrated expression vector pDG1730 resulted in stable expression of pEGF in B. subtilis (dubbed WB-EGF). Results: Female the Institute for Cancer Research (ICR) mice with intestinal damage received recombinant WB-EGF (1×108 –8×108 CFU/mL) for 10 d before collection of blood and intestinal tissues. Mice receiving WB-EGF had significantly higher body weight and longer intestinal villi than those of mice treated with Luria-Bertani (LB) broth or B. subtilis transformed with an empty vector. Cell proliferation assays confirmed enhanced intestinal cell proliferation in mice receiving WB-EGF. Conclusions: This study provides evidence that WB-EGF may have use as a novel therapy for early prevention or treatment of intestinal damage and for promoting intestinal development. The recombinant B. subtilis strain developed here can expected to provide protection when used as a feed additive in animals with gastrointestinal infections.
Different Sources of Irrigation Water Affect Heavy Metals Accumulation in Soils and Subsequently on Physiological Determinants and Physico-Chemical Properties of Guava Fruits
Authors: Hussain Sajjad , Hassan Ahmad , Arshad Pakiza , Anjum Muhammad Akbar
Published: June 2021

Guava is a highly nutritious fruit and widely grown in tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world. Guava orchards are frequently irrigated with contaminated water in different regions of the world. In the present study, fruits of two guava cultivars, i.e., Gola and Surahi were collected from orchards grown in peri-urban areas of Multan, Pakistan, which were irrigated with different sources of irrigation i.e., canal water, tubewell water and sewage water. The soil (at four different layers), water, and fruit (at harvesting) samples were collected from the orchards for their physical, chemical, and heavy metals analysis. The results revealed that sewage water contained more amount of copper, zinc and nickel as compared to tubewell and canal water. The soil irrigated with sewage water also contained the highest copper, nickel and zinc contents, while tubewell water irrigated soils contained the lowest copper, nickel and zinc contents. As regards different soil layers, the top soil layer (0–15 cm) contained the maximum copper, nickel and zinc contents. In contrast, the minimum copper, nickel and zinc contents were estimated in the lower most soil layer (46–60 cm). The different physiological parameters of guava leaves i.e., photosynthesis (Anet), stomatal conductance (gs), transpiration (E), leaf chlorophyll fluorescence in light (Fv'/Fm') and in dark-acclimated (Fv/Fm) and non-photochemical quenching in dark-acclimated (NPQ) were decreased with sewage water irrigation. Further, the sources of irrigation water significantly altered the different physical and chemical properties of the fruits. It is concluded that sewage water improved the physico-chemical properties of fruits but these also had high amounts of different heavy metals. Further, the soil irrigated with sewage water also had high contents of different heavy metals.
Deterministic Seismic Microzonation of the NCT-Delhi (India) and Earthquake Engineering Implications
Authors: Kumar Luxman , Narayan J. P.
Published: June 2021

A deterministic seismic microzonation of the NCT Delhi (The capital of INDIA) and its earthquake engineering implications is presented in this paper. The NCT Delhi with population density around 21,000/sq. Km has experienced several severe earthquake shakings in the past due to earthquake occurrences in its vicinity and in the Great Himalaya. The exposed central quartzite ridge, Badarpur-Okhala hillocks and River-Yamuna are responsible for the very large spatial variation of sediment thickness (10 m to more than 300 m) in the NCT Delhi. The dynamic properties of sediment layers over the quartzite basement at 158 sites, well distributed in the NCT Delhi, are considered for seismic microzonation. First, we have finalised the maximum credible earthquake (MCE) for each considered site based on the deterministic seismic hazard analysis. Thereafter, acceleration time history at basement level is computed at each site using stochastic finite-fault method with dynamic corner frequency and the geometry as well as rupture-dimension of the respective MCE. The basement ground motion is numerically transferred to the free surface using the rheological parameters and thickness of sediment layers overlying the quartzite basement. Different maps of earthquake engineering interest like peak ground acceleration (PGA), peak ground velocity (PGV) and peak ground displacement (PGV) at basement level and the free surface level are developed and analysed for earthquake implications. The obtained range of PGA (0.08-0.30g), PGV (3.34-26.58cm/s) and PGD (0.55-7.2cm) at the free surface and fundamental frequency of the sediment deposit (0.4-7.0Hz) reveals that the NCT Delhi needs special attention by the planners, engineers and decision makers for earthquake disaster preparedness.
The Incidence and Mortality of Yellow Fever in Africa – A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Nwaiwu Akuoma U , Musekiwa Alfred , Tamuzi Jacques L. , Sambala Evanson Z , Nyasulu Peter S
Published: June 2021

BackgroundUnderstanding the occurrence of yellow fever epidemics is critical for targeted interventions and control efforts to reduce the burden of disease. We assessed data on the yellow fever incidence and mortality rates in Africa.MethodsWe searched the Cochrane Library, SCOPUS, MEDLINE, CINAHL, PubMed, Embase, Africa-wide and Web of science databases from 1 January 1975 to 30th October 2020. Two authors extracted data from included studies independently and conducted a meta-analysis.ResultsOf 840 studies identified, 12 studies were deemed eligible for inclusion. The incidence of yellow fever per 100,000 population ranged from <1 case in Nigeria, < 3 cases in Uganda, 13 cases in DRC, 27 cases in Kenya, 40 cases in Ethiopia, 46 cases in Gambia, 1,267 cases in Senegal, and 10,350 cases in Ghana. Case fatality rate associated with yellow fever outbreaks ranged from 10% in Ghana to 86% in Nigeria. The mortality rate ranged from 0.1/100,000 in Nigeria to 2,200/100,000 in Ghana. ConclusionThe yellow fever incidence rate is quite constant; in contrast, the fatality rates vary widely across African countries over the study period. Standardized demographic health surveys and surveillance as well as accurate diagnostic measures are essential for early recognition, treatment and control.
Characteristics and Distribution of Microplastics in Shoreline Sediments of the Yangtze River, Main Tributaries and Lakes in China—From Upper Reaches to the Estuary
Authors: Li Wenfeng , Duo Jia , Wufuer Rehemanjiang , Wang Shuzhi , Pan Xiangliang
Published: June 2021

Microplastics (MPs) pervade the environment and increasingly threaten both natural ecosystems and human health. In this study, we investigated MP particle concentrations in sediment samples collected from 54 sites along the banks of the Yangtze River and its major tributaries and on lakeshores. The main polymer types found in the samples were polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), and polyethylene (PE). MP particle abundance in the various types of locations was 35–51968 particles/kg dry weight (d.w.) on the banks of the main river, 52–1463 particles/kg (d.w.) on the banks of tributaries and 2574–23685 particles/kg (d.w.) on lakeshores. Correlation between MP abundance and mean annual runoff of each upstream tributary was significant, which suggests that increased runoff brings more microplastic waste to streambank sediments. The most common shape of MP particles in all upstream samples was flake and in downstream samples it was foam. Small microplastic particles (< 0.050 mm) were predominant at all sites in this study and the minimum particle size in samples from the Yangtze river banks was 0.065 mm. Average abundance of MP particles on the shores of the source lake was 9069 particles/kg around the inlet but only 866 particles/kg around the outlet; the difference was due to interception associated with sedimentation and precipitation in the lake. This study provides data and presents a theoretical basis for the analysis of the accumulation and distribution of MPs in sediment in the Yangtze River basin.
Low Carbohydrate Diet Score and the Risk of Metabolic Syndrome in Chinese Adults
Authors: Guo Baofu , Li Xiaocheng , Jin Di , Zuo Hui , Zhu Fangyan , Wang Yanli , Jiang Yun , Zhu Baichun , Ma Liankai , Xie Guoxiang , Zhou Nan
Published: June 2021

Previous studies on estimated associations between low carbohydrate diet (LCD) score and metabolic syndrome (MetS) are inconsistent. We aim to assess the association between LCD score and MetS in a Chinese population. A multi-stage random sampling method was applied and a total of 1993 participants aged more than 18 years from a cross-sectional study in Nanjing, Jiangsu Province were accessed. Dietary intake was evaluated using a consecutive 3-d, 24-h dietary recall combined with the condiments weighing method.LCD scores, including usual, animal-based, and plant-based LCD scores, were calculated based on energy, carbohydrate, fat, and protein intake by sex. In multivariate regression analyses adjusted for age, total energy intake and other potential confounders, the usual LCD score significantly increased risk of MetS in men [the highest quartile vs. lowest quartile: odds ratio (OR): 1.75; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.07–2.87, Pfor trend < 0.05]. Furthermore, a significant trend was found between plant-based LCD score and the MetS in men (Pfor trend < 0.05). Among the components of the MetS, higher usual LCD score increased the risk of central obesity, hyperglycemia and hypertriglyceridemia in men, meanwhile animal-based LCD score was positively associated with the risk of central obesity, and plant-based LCD score was positively associated with the risk of hyperglycemia in men. Our results reveal that low carbohydrate and excessive fat diet (even monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids), may increase the risk of MetS and Chinese male is more sensitive to the transition of dietary composition from high carbohydrate to high fat than Chinese female. Further studies are warranted.
Visualization of bat “echo space” using acoustic simulation
Authors: Teshima Yu , Yamada Yasufumi , Tsuchiya Takao , Heim Olga , Hiryu Shizuko
Published: June 2021

Behavioral experiments with acoustic measurements have revealed the intriguing strategies of flight navigation and the use of ultrasound by echolocating bats in various environments. However, the echolocation behavior of bats has not been thoroughly investigated in regard to the environment they perceive via echolocation because it is technically difficult to measure all the echoes that reach the bats during flight, even with the conventional telemetry microphones currently in use. Therefore, we attempted to reproduce the echoes of bats during flight by combining acoustic simulation and behavioral experiments with acoustic measurements. As a result, we visualized the spatiotemporal changes in the echo incidence points detected by bats during flight, which enabled us to investigate the “echo space” revealed through echolocation. In addition, we could observe how the distribution of visualized echoes concentrated at the obstacle edges after the bats became more familiar with their environment. Furthermore, our results indicate that the direction of preceding echoes affects the turn rates of the bat's flight path, revealing their original echolocation behavior.
Baitouweng Decoction Alleviates Dextran Sulfate Sodium–Induced Ulcerative Colitis Through Nrf2/HO-1 Pathway Activation and HMGB1 Downregulation
Authors: Zhu Weina , Ma Chunhua , Zhou Fuqiong , Ruan Jie , Zhang Yajie , Long Hongyan
Published: June 2021

BackgroundThe phrase “baitouweng (BTW) decoction” was first recorded in the ancient Chinese medical text Shang Han Za Bing Lun. BTW decoction has been widely used by practitioners of (traditional) Chinese medicine.[VN1] It has been used to treat ulcerative colitis (UC) for hundreds of years. In this study, we investigated the antioxidative properties of BTW and the intestinal immunity of mice with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)–induced UC and further investigated the mechanism by which BTW alleviates UC.MethodsUC was induced in mice by using DSS. The mice were randomly divided into the following five groups: control, DSS, BTW (5, 10, and 20 g/kg[VN2] ), berberine (BBR), and 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA). Except for the control group, 3% DSS was administered in drinking water to all groups for 7 days, and and the other groups were intragastrically administered with BTW（5, 10, and 20 g/kg）、BBR and 5-ASA independently.[VN3] After gavaging for 12 days, the mice were killed. Subsequently, body weight loss, colon length, colon histopathology, inflammatory cytokine expression, and intestinal protein expression were measured.ResultsBTW effectively reduced the symptoms and histopathological scores of UC mice. Additionally, it downregulated the inflammatory factors interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-1β, the immunoglobulins vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 and intercellular adhesion molecule 1, and metalloprotease matrix metallopeptidase 9. Moreover, it downregulated high mobility group box 1 protein. Furthermore, it inhibited the nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) pathway.ConclusionBTW considerably alleviated the inflammatory symptoms of mice with acute colitis, and the latent mechanism of BTW may be related to various signaling pathways, including the modulation of antioxidant signaling pathways such as the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.
Role of Human Glutathione Transferases in Biotransformation of the Nitric Oxide Prodrug JS-K
Authors: Sjödin Birgitta , Mannervik Bengt
Published: June 2021

Nitric oxide (NO) plays a prominent physiological role as a low-molecular-mass signal molecule involved in diverse biological functions. Great attention has been directed to pharmacologically modulating the release of NO for various therapeutic applications. We have focused on O2-(2,4-dinitrophenyl) 1-[(4-ethoxycarbonyl)piperazin-1-yl]diazen-1-ium-1,2-diolate (JS-K) as an example of diazeniumdiolate prodrugs with potential for cancer chemotherapy. JS-K is reportedly activated by glutathione conjugation by glutathione transferase (GST), but the scope of activities among the numerous members of the GSTome is unknown. We demonstrate that all human GSTs tested except GST T1-1 are active with JS-K as a substrate, but their specific activities are notably spanning a 100-fold range. The most effective enzyme was the mu class member GST M2-2 with a specific activity of 273 ± 5 µmol min-1 mg-1 and the kinetic parameters Km 48 ± 4 µM, kcat 501 ± 29 s-1, kcat/Km 10 x106 M-1 s-1. The abundance of the GSTs as an ensemble and their high catalytic efficiency indicate that release of NO occurs rapidly in normal tissues such that other mechanisms play a major role in the tumor-killing effect of JS-K.
PEX-168 Improves Insulin Resistance, Inflammatory Response and Adipokines in Simple Obese Mice and Explore the Mechanism
Authors: Zeyuan Guo , Yuting Wu , Xiaofang Sun
Published: June 2021

Background: Polyethylene glycxol losenatide（PEX-168）is a new anti-diabetic drug and there are no reports on its weight loss effects，so we designed this trial to investigate the effect of PEX-168 on simple obese mice. Methods: Thirty healthy C57BL/6 male mice were randomly selected and divided into a blank control group (NC, n=6) and an obesity model group (n=24), the high-fat diet-induced simple obesity mice were divided into a model control group (HF) and three different doses of PEX-168 intervention groups of low (LD), medium (MD) and high (HD) (the doses of PEX-168 were 0.03 mg/kg, 0.1 mg/kg, 0.3 mg/kg), 6 animals in each group. The intervention groups were injected with different doses of PEX-168 intraperitoneally once a week for 12 weeks, and fasting blood glucose (FBG), body weight and food intake were measured from 1 to 12 weeks after the injection, and the activity of mice was observed, and serum insulin (INS), CRP, chemerin and omentin levels were measured after 12 weeks. Results: Compared with the HF group, the low dose of PEX-168 could reduce the body weight of mice in a short period of time (8 weeks), and the mice in the LD and HD groups had a significant decrease in body weight (P < 0.05)；the low dose of PEX-168 could effectively improve the blood glucose and Homa-IR of mice (FBG P < 0.05 INS, IR P < 0.001), but there was no statistical difference between different doses (P > 0.05)；CRP levels in HD and LD groups were significantly improved(P < 0.05)，the levels of serum chemerin and omentin in intervention groups were significantly improved (P < 0.01), but there was no statistical difference between the different doses (P > 0.05). Conclusion: Continuous 12W administration of PEX-168 significantly reduced body weight in simple obese mice, thereby improving inflammatory status, improving insulin resistance, reducing serum chemerin level and increasing serum omentin level, inhibiting the development of diabetes. PEX-168 may regulate the expression of chemerin and omentin mainly through its hypoglycemic effect.