bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zak Gene֝s Expression in Patients With Helicobacter Pylori Infection
Authors: Khani Delniya , Hedayati Manouchehr Ahmadi , Sheikhesmaeili Farshad , Ghadiany Roghaie , Nasseri Sherko
Published: February 2021

Background: ZAK protein is a member of the MLK family proteins defined as mediators in the cell cycle. A survey of zak gene expression in gastric antral epithelial cells (GAECs) of gastritis and gastric adenocarcinoma patients with Helicobacter pylori genotypes infection can elucidate carcinogenesis of H. pylori genotypes.Methods: In a case-control study, zak gene expression was evaluated in GAECs biopsy samples of gastritis patients with (n 23) and without H. pylori infection (n 27) and gastric adenocarcinoma patients with (n 21) and without (n 32) H. pylori infection. The zak gene expression was measured using the relative Real-Time RT PCR.Results: zak gene expression was higher in GAECs of gastritis cancer than in gastric adenocarcinoma, indicating the protective effect of ZAK against gastric cancer (p< 0.005). Conclusion: Reducing zak gene expression has the negative corelations with H. pylori infection and gastric adenocarcinoma.
Association of Urinary Prostaglandin E2 Metabolite and Mortality among Adults
Authors: Wen Wanqing , Yang Gong , Cai Qiuyin , Shu Xiao-ou , Zheng Wei
Published: February 2021

Background

Prostaglandins play a critical role in inflammatory response. It has become widely accepted that chronic inflammation is a driving force behind many chronic diseases, such as cancers and cardiovascular diseases, the major causes of death in the world today. The studies on the association between biomarkers of inflammation and mortality are limited.
Methods

To investigate the association of urinary PGE-M, a stable end-product of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) with overall and cause-specific mortality and examine potential effect modifiers, we obtained urinary PGE-M levels of 2,927 non-cancerous adults from our previous case-control studies nested in the Shanghai Women’s Health Study and Shanghai Men’s Health Study, two cohort studies conducted in Shanghai, China. We collected mortality data and modifiable factors associated with urinary PGE-M were obtained from the parent cohort studies.
Results

Using linear regression models, we found that high urinary PGE-M levels were significantly associated with low education, heaving smoking, old age at urine collection, and abdominal obesity. Using Cox proportional hazards models, we found that increase (per standard deviation) of urinary PGE-M levels were significantly associated with overall mortality (adjusted hazard ratio = 1.19, 95% confidence interval: 1.07, 1.33) and particularly deaths from cardiometabolic diseases (adjusted hazard ratio = 1.27, 95% confidence interval: 1.11, 1.44). The increased death risks persisted across different time intervals during the follow-up and were stronger among participants who were younger than 60 (P = 0.0014 for all- cause mortality and P = 0.007 for deaths from cardiometabolic diseases) at urine collection or perhaps among those who had higher education.
Conclusions

High urinary PGE-M levels were associated with a significantly increased risk of all causes of death and particularly deaths from cardiometabolic diseases. Improving lifestyles, e.g., stopping smoking and controlling body weight, would help decrease mortality through decreasing over-production of PGE2.
Chronic Elevation of Troponin I Predicts the Extent of Coronary Artery Disease in Hemodialysis Patients Presenting with Acute Enzyme Elevation
Authors: Taha Mohamad , Taha Ahmad , Dasa Osama , Alom Modar , Abdelgadir Yasir , Winchester David
Published: February 2021

Background

Chronic elevation of cardiac troponin I (cTn-I) has been associated with severe angiographic coronary artery disease (CAD) in asymptomatic patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) on hemodialysis. However, for patients presenting with an acute rise in serum cTn-I levels, the association is less clear.
Methods

We performed a single-center retrospective analysis of 364 hemodialysis patients. Using coronary angiography, we correlated the asymptomatic baseline elevation of cTn-I with the severity of coronary artery stenosis when hemodialysis patients present with acute symptomatic elevation in serum cTn-I above baseline levels.
Results

In hemodialysis patients presenting with a rise in serum cTn-I above baseline levels, 59% had severe CAD, and 17% had no angiographic evidence of CAD. Hemodialysis patients with severe CAD had significantly higher baseline cTn-I levels compared to patients with non-severe CAD or normal coronaries (p < 0.0001). Baseline elevation of cTn-I in the severe CAD group was correlated with the degree of CAD occlusion (R2 of 0.56, p < 0.0001), fitting a positive linear model. Furthermore, baseline cTn-I differentiates between patients with and without severe CAD with a test accuracy of 0.72 (95% CI, 0.69–0.75, p < 0.001). At a value of ≥ 0.2 ng/mL (cutoff value for myocardial necrosis), the specificity of baseline cTn-I for underlying severe CAD was 0.95.
Conclusions

Elevated baseline cTn-I has good accuracy for anticipating more advanced angiographic CAD when hemodialysis patients present with a symptomatic rise in serum cTn-I above baseline levels. Baseline elevation of cTn-I can be used for cardiac disease risk management in hemodialysis patients presenting with symptoms suggestive of CAD.
Risk Factors for Decrease in The Cross-Sectional Area of the Paraspinal Muscle in 1,849 Individuals: A 10-Year Longitudinal Study
Authors: Murata Yoichi , Nakamura Eiichiro , Tsukamoto Manabu , Nakagawa Toru , Takeda Masaru , Kozuma Mio , Kadomura Takayuki , Narusawa Kenichiro , Shimizu Kenji , Uchida Soshi , Hayashi Takeshi , Sakai Akinori
Published: February 2021

We investigated longitudinal losses of paraspinal muscle area in healthy individuals in a 10-year longitudinal retrospective observational study. Data from 1,849 individuals (1,690 men, 159 women) screened using computed tomography were examined. Logistic regression was performed to determine risk factors associated with paraspinal muscle area decreases; the area was significantly decreased at 10 years compared with the area at baseline regardless of age or sex, starting at 30 years of age. In regression analysis, only aging (≥50s [odds ratio [OR], 1.72; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05–2.84; p=0.03] and ≥60s [OR, 2.67; 95% CI, 1.55–4.60; p<0.001]) was a risk factor for psoas major area decreases. Age ≥60 years (OR, 2.05; 95% CI, 1.24–3.39; p=0.005), body mass index ≥25 kg/m2 (OR, 1.32; 95% CI, 1.01–1.73; p=0.04), and visceral fat ≥100 cm2 (OR, 1.61; 95% CI, 1.20–2.15; p=0.001) were risk factors for erector muscle area decreases; physical activity ≥900 kcal/week (OR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.50–0.94; p=0.02) reduced erector muscle area loss in males. Our study demonstrated that walking >45 minutes daily could reduce paraspinal muscle loss, which in turn can decrease the risk of falls and low-back pain and might eventually help prevent sarcopenia.
Preliminary Analysis of African Swine Fever Virus Carriage and Transmission by Mosquitoes
Authors: Qin Weiyun , Gao Zhongcheng , Wu Shenglong , Bao Wenbin
Published: February 2021

BackgroundMosquitoes are important insect vectors, but whether they can carry and transmit African swine fever virus (ASFV) in large-scale pig farms in China is unknown. ResultsIn this study, probe qPCR analysis was performed on mosquitoes from five pig farms with ASF virus (ASFV). Analysis of ASFV in 463 mosquitoes yielded negative cycle threshold (CT) value), and detection remained negative after mixing samples from all five pig farms. ConclusionsTherefore, mosquitoes appear unlikely to transmit ASFV, and pose little threat to large-scale pig farms. Thus, farms should continue to follow normal mosquito control procedures when formulating strategies for the prevention and control of ASF.
A structural modeling to understand the relationship among food safety knowledge, attitude, and self-reported HACCP practices in restaurant employees in Bangladesh
Authors: Hasan Md. Jahid , Uddin Rayhan , Islam G. M. Rabiul
Published: February 2021

Background: Nowadays most people have their meals outside of their homes and largely depend on the restaurants’ made food. Consequently consumers exposed themselves to risk and become vulnerable to illness caused by food. Unsafe food preparation and handling by restaurants’ workers have made food safety a concern for public health. The study was aimed to examine the relationships among food safety knowledge, attitude, and hazard analysis critical control point (HACCP) practices in restaurant employees in Bangladesh. Methods: A total of 360 employees from 120 restaurants participated in a face-to-face interview through a structured questionnaire comprising four sections: demographic characteristics, food safety knowledge, attitudes and practices. The mean scores for each survey item were calculated and used in structural equation modeling (SEM), designed to assess interrelationships among the three sections related to food safety. Results: Participants obtained a correct average score of 53.32% in food safety knowledge, with the highest and lowest correct scores in good hygiene practices (GHPs) and HACCP practices, respectively. The highest score in the attitude section belonged to “self-improvement”, followed by “food safety concern”. A negative correlation was observed between knowledge with practices, knowledge with attitudes, and a positive correlation was observed between practices with attitudes. A significant positive correlation was observed between HACCP practices with shelf improvement (r = 0.54, p < 0.05) and the knowledge toward food poisoning with GHP practices (r = 0.55, p < 0.05). Self-improvement and food safety concern are negatively correlated with food poisoning, GHP, and HACCP practice. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that the restaurant employees in Bangladesh often have lack of knowledge regarding food safety and HACCP. There is an immediate need for education and training among restaurant employees in order to improve knowledge and attitude on safe HACCP practice.
Associations of Fertility History and Cognitive Decline, Depression, Chronic Disease Comorbidity in West China: Results from WCHAT Study
Authors: Liu Xiaolei , Chen Xiaoyan , Hou Lisha , Hu Fengjuan , Xia Xin , Luo Shuyue , Zhang Gongchang , Peng Xuchao , Yue Jirong , Dong Birong
Published: February 2021

ObjectivesThe purpose of the study was to investigate the association between fertility history and cognition function, depression and chronic comorbidity in west China.MethodsWe included 4,276 women aged 50 or older in our study, and we analyzed associations between parity history and cognitive decline, depression, chronic disease comorbidity in west China using univariate and multivariate models. Multivariate models were adjusted for age, ethnic groups, occupation, marriage status, educational level, life style factors, sleeping time and so on. ResultsOf 4,276 women in west China, 18.4% were either childless or had one child, 33.8% had two children, 23.7% had three children, and 24.1% had four or more children. Compared to low parity (0-1 children), having 4 or more children was significantly associated with depression (OR 1.379, 95%CI 1.046-1.819), chronic disease comorbidity (OR 1.714, 95%CI 1.252-2.346), mild cognitive decline (OR 2.179, 95%CI 1.503-3.159) and moderate/severe cognitive decline (OR 1.806, 95% CI 1.064-3.067). Conclusions This study indicated that high parity was significantly associated with poorer cognitive functioning, depression and chronic disease comorbidity. For a better mid-late life health, reproductive women should plan their number of desired children.
Mifepristone Inhibited the Expression of B7-H2, B7-H3, B7-H4 and PD-L2 in Adenomyosis
Authors: Qin Xiaoyan , Sun Wenjing , Wang Chong , Li Mingjiang , Zhao Xingbo , Li Changzhong , Zhang Hui
Published: February 2021

BackgroundThe immune mechanism was shown to be involved in the development of adenomyosis. The current study aims to evaluate the expression of immune checkpoint B7-H2, B7-H3, B7-H4 and PD-L2 in adenomyosis and to explore the effect of mifepristone on the expression of these immune checkpoints. MethodsThe expression of B7-H2, B7-H3, B7-H4 and PD-L2 in normal endometria and adenomyosis treated with or without mifepristone was determined by immunohistochemistry analysis.ResultsIn adenomyosis, the expression of B7-H2, B7-H3 and B7-H4 was increased in the eutopic and ectopic endometria compared with normal endometria, both in the proliferative and secretory phase. Moreover, the expression of B7-H2 and B7-H3 was higher in adenomyotic lesions than in the corresponding eutopic endometria, both in the proliferative and secretory phase. The expression of PD-L2 was higher in adenomyotic lesions than in normal endometria, both in the proliferative and secretory phase. In secretory phase but not the proliferative phase, the expression of B7-H4 and PD-L2 in adenomyotic lesion showed a significantly higher level than that in the corresponding eutopic endometria. In normal endometria and eutopic endometria, the expression of B7-H4 showed elevated expression in proliferative phase compared with that in the secretory phase, while this change altered in ectopic endometria with decreased B7-H4 expression in proliferative phase than the secretory phase. In addition, the expression of B7-H2, B7-H3, B7-H4 and PD-L2 was significantly decreased in adenomyosis after treated with mifepristone.ConclusionsExpression of immune checkpoint proteins B7-H2, B7-H3, B7-H4 and PD-L2 is up-regulated in adenomyosis and down-regulated with mifepristone treatment. The data suggests that the B7 immunomodulatory molecules are involved in the pathophysiology of adenomyosis.
EOG Elicited by Rhythmic Auditory Predicts the Depth of Sedation During Sevoflurane Anesthesia
Authors: Liu Jun , Wang Guozheng , Hang Fan , Dong Kangli , Zhang Delin
Published: February 2021

Background: Several electroencephalographic (EEG) variables have been used to estimate changes in human brain electrical activity during changing states of consciousness as a clinical monitoring tool to anesthesia and sedation. However, the EEG signal is weak and extremely susceptible to suppression interference. The use of EEG variables as anesthesia monitors is still controversial. Recent studies have shown a new language paradigm that elicited rhythmic brain responses and ocular muscle activity tracking sentence rhythms in speech. Electrooculogram (EOG) driven by rhythmic auditory stimulation has a larger amplitude than EEG variables and a higher temporal resolution than event-related brain potentials, which may be a potential monitor of anesthetic depth.Methods: Twenty-five patients inhaled sevoflurane via laryngeal mask for induction of anesthesia. The initial concentration of sevoflurane was set to 0.4% and increased by 0.1% every 1 min until loss of consciousness. During the entire operation, rhythmic auditory stimulation was presented binaurally to elicit ocular muscle activity.Results: When the end-tidal sevoflurane concentration (Etsevo) was low, the EOG had a significant spectral peak at 0.5 Hz, which is the same frequency as the rhythmic auditory stimulation, and then the peak value of EOG decreased with the increase of Etsevo. Peak value of EOG spectrum under the rhythmic auditory stimulation (PERA) showed significant differences in different depth of sedation (wakefulness: 84.0 ± 22.8, light sedation: 47.0 ± 27.7, deep sedation: 10.9 ± 16.5, P<0.01). PERA is correlated well with Etsevo (-0.75, P<0.01) and was able to predict the sedation depth during the induction period of anesthesia well (PK = 0.92 ± 0.08).Conclusion: We found that the ocular muscle activity synchronizes to the rhythmic auditory stimulation structures during induction with sevoflurane. With the increase of Etsevo, the synchronizing ability of the ocular electricity to rhythmic auditory stimulation gradually weakens and eventually disappears. Based on this evidence, the EOG driven by a rhythmic auditory stimulation may be a new and reliable approach to characterize and predict anesthetic depth objectively. Trial registration: The research project was registered at chictr.org.cn (ChiCTR1900026590, 2019/10/15).
Environmental Performance of Soapberry (Sapindus Mukorossi Gaertn.) Cultivation in Southeast China based on a Life Cycle Assessment: A Potential Feedstock for Forest-based Biodiesel
Authors: Liu Shiqi , Liu Jiming , Gao Yuan , Xi Benye , Chen Zhong , Chang Shiyan , Gao Shilun , Zhao Guochun , Weng Xuehuang , Jia Liming
Published: February 2021

Sapindus mukorossi G. has been considered as a potential feedstock for forest-based biodiesel in China. To optimize the cultivation of soapberry and ensure its sustainable supply, an environmental life cycle assessment (LCA) was conducted using a chronological approach combined with extrapolation. Soapberry plantations with two degrees of cultivation intensities were comparatively analyzed. For the studied environmental categories, nitrogen fertilization accounted for half or more of the global warming potential, primary energy demand, acidification and eutrophication potential. The main contributors to ozone depletion were pesticides and potassium fertilizer. The plantations with a relatively low cultivation intensity presented better environmental performance, mainly due to the lower input of fertilizers, but they are not a priority choice for soapberry cultivation because of low yield. Stakeholders should focus on how to reduce the environmental impacts of the plantations with a relatively high cultivation intensity in this area. Overall, classified management, increasing the yield, reducing the inputs of chemicals and decreasing the unproductive years are the key ways to improve the environmental performance of soapberry cultivation in Southeast China. Woody biomass carbon should be included in LCAs, and 3.71-5.11 t CO2 can be fixed by soapberry plantations per ha year, indicating that soapberry cultivation provides a net carbon sink.
Effects of Intentional Large Mistuning to the Performance of B–B Friction Dampers in the Mistuned Bladed Disk Assembly Subjected to Narrow band Random Excitation
Authors: Cha Douksoon
Published: February 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Sequential Finger-tapping Learning Mediated by the Primary Motor Cortex and Fronto-parietal Network: A Combined MRI-MRS Study
Authors: Maruyama Shuki , Fukunaga Masaki , Sugawara Sho K. , Hamano Yuki H. , Yamamoto Tetsuya , Sadato Norihiro
Published: February 2021

The primary motor cortex (M1) is crucial for motor learning. However, the interaction of the M1 with other brain areas during motor learning remains unclear. We hypothesized that the fronto-parietal execution network (FPN) provides the learning-related information that is crucial for flexible cognitive control required for practice. We assessed the network-level changes during sequential finger-tapping learning “as fast and as accurately as possible”, by combining magnetic resonance spectroscopy, task functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and resting-state fMRI methods using a 7T MR machine. An increase in the glutamate/GABA ratio in the right M1 was positively correlated with task performance improvement. There was a motor learning-related increase in preparatory activity in the fronto-parietal region, with an overlap between the FPN and sensorimotor network (SMN). The learning-related increments in M1-seeded functional connectivity with the FPN, but not the SMN, were positively correlated with changes in the glutamate/GABA ratio in M1. These connectivity changes were more prominent in the parietal region than in the frontal region. Our findings indicate that motor learning driven by cognitive control is associated with local variation in the excitatory-inhibitory balance in the M1 that reflects remote connectivity with the FPN, thereby representing the formation of declarative procedural skills.
Quality by design (QbD) based fabrication of atazanavir loaded nanostructured lipid carriers for lymph targeting: Bioavailability enhancement using chylomicron flow block model and toxicity study
Authors: Gurumukhi Vishal , Bari Sanjaykumar
Published: February 2021

Atazanavir (ATV) is widely used as anti-HIV agent with poor aqueous solubility which requires fabrication of novel drug delivery system to enhance therapeutic activity and safety. For this purpose, the quality by design (QbD) based ATV loaded nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) to address the challenges of bioavailability and its safety on oral administration. Herein, the main objective was to identify the influencing variables for the production of quality product. Considering this objective, quality target product profile (QTPP) was assigned and a systematic risk assessment study was performed to identify the critical material attributes (CMAs) and critical process parameter (CPP) having an influence on critical quality attributes (CQAs). Lipid concentrations, surfactant concentrations, and pressure of high-pressure homogenizer were identified as CMAs and CPP. ATV-NLCs were prepared by emulsification-high pressure homogenization method and further lyophilized to obtain solid-state NLCs. The effect of formulation variables (CMAs and CPP) on responses like particle size (Y1), polydispersity index (Y2), and zeta potential (Y3) was observed by central composite rotatable design (CCRD). The data were statistically evaluated by ANOVA for confirmation of a significant level (P<0.05). The optimal conditions of NLCs were obtained by generating design space and desirability value. The lyophilized ATV-NLCs were characterized by DSC, PXRD, and FT-IR analysis. The morphology of NLCs was revealed by TEM and FESEM. In vitro study suggested a sustained release pattern of drug (92.37±1.03 %) with a mechanism of Korsmeyer-Peppas model (r2 =0.925, and n=0.63). In vivo evaluation in Wistar rats showed significantly higher (p<0.001) plasma drug concentration of ATV-NLCs as compared to ATV-suspension using chylomicron flow block model. The relative bioavailability of ATV-NLCs was obtained to be 2.54 folds. Thus, a safe and promising drug targeting system was successfully developed to improve bioavailability and avoiding first-pass effect ensures to circumvent the acute-toxicity of liver.
Production of Some Higher Alcohols and Acetate Esters from Rice Bran by Yeasts Metabolisms of Kluyveromyces Marxianus and Debaryomyces Hansenii
Authors: Güneşer Onur , Yuceer Y. Karagul , Hoşoğlu Müge İşleten , Toğay Sine Özmen , Elibol Murat
Published: February 2021

The aim of this study was to evaluate the biosynthesis of flavor compounds from rice bran by yeast metabolisms. The microbial growth and flavor biosynthesis of Kluyveromyces marxianus and Debaryomyces hansenii in rice bran by microbial fermentation were investigated. Growth of both yeasts was assessed by the calculation of specific growth rates and doubling time. Their aroma biosynthesis was evaluated by gas chromatography-olfactometry (GC-O), gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and Spectrum™ sensory analysis. The specific growth rate (µmax) and doubling time (td) of K. marxianus were calculated as 0.16/h and 4.21 h respectively, D. hansenii had 0.13/h of µmax and 5.33h of td. K. marxianus and D. hansenii significantly produced higher alcohols and acetate esters from rice bran at high levels. Results showed that K. marxianus can produce 827.27 µg/kg of isoamy alcohol, 169.77 µg/kg of phenyl ethyl alcohol and 216.08 µg/kg phenyl ethyl acetate during 24 h batch fermentation. Isovaleric acid was also synthesed by K. marxianus at high level (4013 µg/kg) in the batch fermentation of 96 hours. The highest concentration of of isoamyl alcohol and phenyl ethyl acetate was determined as 415.64 µg/kg and 135.77 µg/kg, respectively at 24 h fermentation of D.hansenii. Fermented cereals and rose were defined as characteristic flavor descriptors for the fermented rice bran samples. Rose flavor term in fermented rice bran samples were found to associate with phenyl ethyl alcohol, phenyl ethyl acetate, isoamyl acetate and guaiacol. The valorization of rice bran can be achieved with the production of natural flavor compounds by yeast metabolisms.
Determination of Infiltration Model Parameters Using Basic Soil Physical Properties
Authors: Rasool Tabasum , Dar Abdul Qayoom , Wani Mushtaq Ahmad
Published: February 2021

Quantification of infiltration rate is a time-consuming process because of its variability and challenges in the accurate estimation of infiltration model parameters. In this study predictive equations for parameters of Horton, Kostiakov, Modified Kostiakov and Philip infiltration models were developed using basic soil-properties. The model-parameters were initially determined applying non-linear Levenberg Marquardt algorithm (LMA) on field-observed infiltration data and were subsequently determined by predictive equations developed after applying regression analysis to investigated soil-properties. Regression analysis was carried-out using stepwise-regression (SR) where all the measured soil-properties were used, and by applying principal component analysis (PCA) prior to multiple linear-regression for reducing number of predictors. The results revealed that developed equations using stepwise regression and the ones developed after applying PCA were able to explain 40- 78% and 10- 50% of variation respectively. The performance evaluation of developed regression equations at two information levels along with LMA for prediction of infiltration model-parameters was carried out by computing an overall performance index (OPI), which combines relative weight of different statistical indicators, namely, Coefficient of Determination (R2), Nash–Sutcliffe Efficiency (ENS), Willmott’s Index of Agreement (W), Mean Absolute Error (MAE) and Root Mean Square Error (RMSE). Performance evaluation revealed, LMA with highest OPI-value is most suitable to ascertain parameters of studied infiltration models. However, for selected models using parameters determined at two information levels, it was observed that there exists no significant difference in OPI-value of computed infiltration rates suggesting that equations developed after PCA can be used successfully for determination of infiltration model-parameters.
Elevated Temperature Effects on the Properties of Self Compacting Mortar Containing Nano Materials and Zircon Sand
Authors: Ruben Sahaya , MA Raja , M SOPHIA
Published: February 2021

The present research work tries to assess the performance of self compacting mortar containing zircon sand as substitute for river aggregate in combination with nano alumina and nano silica as additive for cement. The fresh state results as observed through slump cone and mini V funnel showed positive effects of zircon sand balancing the negative effect of nano particles addition on workability. The mechanical properties, durability and microstructure of the mortar were assessed by conducting experiments at normal temperature and after subjecting to temperatures of 2000C, 4000C, 6000C and 8000C. The results indicate that addition of nano alumina and nano silica contributed towards the mechanical strength enhancement at elevated temperatures in combination with zircon sand which is a very good refractory material. The durability of the self compacting mortar at elevated temperatures enhanced due to the combined action of nano materials and zircon sand which is evident through microstructure analysis.
Benefits and Barriers: A Qualitative Study of Online Social Participation Among Widowed Older Adults in Southwest China
Authors: Hong Yan , Fu Jingjing , Kong Dehui , Liu Siqi , Zhong Zhu , Tan Jing , Luo Yu
Published: February 2021

Background: With the development of information and communication technology, online activities are increasingly becoming part of the daily life of the older adults. As the elderly would face changes in social interactions and activities due to widowhood, the importance of online participation may be more prominent in this group. However, in-depth evidence on the experiences of online social participation among widowed older adults is relatively sparse. This study aimed to explore widowed older adults' perceptions regarding online social participation in southwestern China.Methods: A qualitative design of exploratory research was adopted. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 19 widowed older adults between September-December 2020. The Colaizzi’s method was performed for data analysis. Results: Two major themes “benefits” and “barriers” were identified from the original data analysis. Subcategories concerning the category of “benefits” were “benefit perception (convenience, flexible time, supplementation)”, “health promotion”, “emotional comfort”, “social connection”. Subcategories of “barriers” included “worries: personal economic loss”, “concerns: security of digital device”, “troublesome: the diversity of online social participation”, “difficulties: using digital media”.Conclusions: Online social participation of the elderly is a topic worth exploring. The widowed older adults can truly feel the benefits of online social participation, which can be as an important measure to facilitate successful aging, but there are also barriers for social participation. The level of participation is relatively low. It is recommended to increase the access to use digital media of the elderly, and improve their ability to use it through the support of relatives and friends, as well as targeted education. Meanwhile, companies need to consider the age-friendly design of digital media systems, and the government should further improve the network management system to create a safer network environment.
Measurement of the nociceptive flexion reflex threshold in critically ill patients - a monocentric prospective observational study
Authors: Zujalovic Benedikt , Mayer Benjamin , Walter Steffen , Gruss Sascha , Stitz Ronald , Stitz Pauline , Barth Eberhard
Published: February 2021

Background Pain detection and treatment is a major challenge in the care of critically ill patients. However, in addition to the risk of analgesic undersupply, there is also the risk of overanalgesia. In the perioperative context, the measurement of the nociceptive flexion reflex threshold has become established for measuring the level of analgesia. To date, however, it is unclear whether measurement of NFRT can be usefully applied to noncommunicating, ventilated, and analgosedated ICU patients. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate whether NFRT measurement correlates with the Behavioral Pain Scale (BPS) in critically ill, analgosedated, and mechanically ventilated patients and whether it can also detect possible overanalgesia.Methods In this prospective, observational, single-center study, 114 patients were included. All patients were admitted to the surgical Intensive Care Unit of the University hospital Ulm, Germany. First measurements of the NFRT and the Behavioral Pain Scale (BPS) were conducted within 12 hours after admission. In the further observation period, a structured pain assessment was performed at least twice daily until extubation (Group A: BPS + NFRT, Group B: BPS). Univariate analysis was performed to evaluate possible associations between NFRT measurement and baseline characteristics. Furthermore, mixed linear regression modeling was used to evaluate possible effects of administered analgesics or sedatives on NFRT. Results NFRT correlates negatively with the Behavioral Pain Scale. NFRT was almost twice as high in patients with a RASS of -5 compared with patients with a RASS ≥ -4 (RASS -5 - NFRT: 59.40 vs. RASS -4 - NFRT: 29.00, p < 0.001). By means of NFRT measurement, potential overanalgesia could not be detected.Conclusion The NFRT measurement reliably correlates negatively with the Behavioral Pain Scale in critically ill patients. In patients with RASS scores ≤ -4, in whom analgesia level is often difficult to assess, NFRT measurement provides guidance in the assessment of nociceptive processes. However, in order to detect possible overanalgesia and to derive therapeutic consequences, a defined stimulus threshold must be determined for the critically ill patient, above which the absence of pain can be safely assumed.Trial Registration Retrospectively registered at German Clinical Trials Register, registration number DRKS00021149, date of registration: March 26, 2020. https://www.drks.de/drks_web/navigate.do?navigationId=trial.HTML&TRIAL_ID=DRKS00021149
Nematicidal Streptomyces against Meloidogyne incognita by hydrosoluble macromolecules
Authors: Hu Qianru , Yang Minmin , Bo Tingting , Li Yuxin , Wu Caimi , Mo Minghe , Liu Yajun
Published: February 2021

Background: Although actinomycetes, which produce antibiotics, have been reported to produce nematicidal metabolites, macromolecules with nematicidal activities have rarely been described. Results: The culture filtrates of Streptomyces albogriseolus strain DN41 and S. fimicarius strain D153 presented 82.13 % and 86.96 % nematicidal activity against Meloidogyne incognita, respectively, after 12 h. A pot experiment highlighted that these culture filtrates were characterised by significant efficacy. The biocontrol efficiency of strain DN41 reached 61.68 % and that of strain D153 68.33 % after 30 days at a dose of 100 mL pot-1. The active metabolites produced by the two strains were hydrosoluble and sensitive to heat, with molecular weights above 8000 Da for DN41 and of 1000–8000 Da for D153. However, these metabolites were negative to protein reaction. A chemical characteristic test indicated that these active metabolites were polar polymers that contained a large amount of sugar and phenolic hydroxyl compounds. Conclusions: These results revealed S. albogriseolus strain DN41 and S. fimicarius strain D153 as potential agents for the control of root-knot nematodes, as hydrosoluble macromolecules have good compatibility and are convenient for practical application.
Pan-cancer DNA methylation signature quantification of lifestyle exposures and cancer prognosis
Authors: Tao Kangpei , Sutton Jaim , Flanagan James M.
Published: February 2021

Background: Alcohol consumption, body mass index (BMI) and cigarette smoking are among the most well-studied lifestyle cancer risk exposures which can also change the host’s epigenetic methylation patterns. Some of the changes associated with lifestyle exposure are specific and stable over time, thus, can be used to predict and quantify the exposure. Although the link between these lifestyle exposures and increased odds ratio (OR) of different cancer types is well known, their role in predicting cancer survival remains less clear. We hypothesized that by using predicted lifestyle exposures based on the methylation profiles in tumour DNA we could predict the overall survival probability in cancer patients associated with these exposures. Results: The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) Pan-Cancer dataset was used to test the prognostic value of the predicted DNAmethylation (DNAm) alcohol, BMI and smoking exposures in 24 cancer types (n= 8,238 subjects). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models with adjustment for age, cancer stage and other exposures were used to calculate the hazards ratio (HR) for overall survival associated with these predicted DNAm exposures. We observed specific cancer types with strong associations between poorer survival and higher alcohol consumption (bladder, brain, esophageal, and head and neck cancers), higher BMI (bladder, pancreatic and post-menopausal breast cancers), and smoking (B-cell lymphoma, stomach, bladder and lung cancers). Interestingly, we also observed associations between better survival from kidney cancer with higher alcohol consumption and smoking exposures. For alcohol consumption we found a positive association between HR and OR across all cancers, indicating that for cancers where alcohol is a significant risk factor, it is also associated with poorer survival (p = 0.022). This was not the case for the BMI (p = 0.548) or smoking exposures (p = 0.193). Conclusions: In conclusion, these DNAm exposure signatures may provide novel information on the relationship between these lifestyle factors and cancer outcomes.
Role of IL-1β Mutation in Peri-implantitis: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Mendoza Irene Lafuente-Ibáñez de , Setien-Olarra Amaia , Fuente Ana María García-de la , Aguirre-Urizar José Manuel , Marichalar-Mendia Xabier
Published: February 2021

Background: To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis on the presence of IL-1β polymorphisms in patients with peri-implantitis (PI). PI is the main complication associated to dental implant therapy. Although its main risk factors are history of periodontitis, poor plaque control and lack of regular maintenance, genetic susceptibility could also be a determinant factor for its appearance. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) are small mutations of the DNA, that alter the osseointegration of implants. Interleukin 1β (IL-1β) is an inflammatory protein that participates in both destruction of the extracellular matrix and reabsorption of the alveolar bone.Methods: A bibliographical research was made in PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science (keywords: "single nucleotide polymorphism", “polymorphism”, "periimplantitis", "SNP" and "implant failure"). Results: There is no significant relation between of IL-1β (+3953) SNP and PI, but there is a statistically significant association of peri-implant bone loss with the homozygotic model of IL-1β (-511) (I2=0%, p=0.555; OR: 2.255; IC: 1.040-4.889)Conclusions: Absence of a strong link between of IL-1β polymorphisms and PI must be taken with caution due to the heterogeneous methodological design, sample size and diagnostic criteria of the studies. Thus, more well-designed studies are needed, that analyse the relationship between IL-1β polymorphism and PI.
Characteristics and prognosis of colorectal signet ring cell carcinoma in patients aged ≥ 65 years
Authors: Zhou Di , Yang Yong-jing , Niu Chun-cao , Yu Yong-jiang , Diao Jian-dong
Published: February 2021

Objective: To evaluate the prognostic value of age on colorectal signet ring cell carcinoma (SRCC) and identify the prognosis factors of patients aged ≥ 65 years.Methods: Patients were recruited from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. We ensured that all characteristics were well balanced through adopting the propensity score matching (PSM) method. In addition, the prognostic factors were evaluated by the Cox proportional hazardous model.Results: Altogether 3305 cases were enrolled, including 1564 in elderly group (aged ³65 years). As a result, more patients were female, unmarried, white, earlier AJCC stage, tumor size ≤5cm, grade III/IV and located in cecum–transverse colon in the elderly group; whereas significant fewer patients received chemotherapy and radiotherapy. After 1:1 PSM analysis, each group contained 1032 cases. As discovered by Kaplan-Meier analysis, the elderly group was associated with remarkably dismal survival compared with the younger group after PSM analysis (P=0.0091).Moreover, grade, primary site, AJCC stage, tumor size, surgery and chemotherapy were identified as the independent prognostic factors for the elderly patients.Conclusion: The prognosis of colorectal SRCC aged ≥ 65 years was worse than the younger patients. We may need strengthen the chemotherapy of the eldly colorectal SRCC.
Random World and Quantum Mechanics
Authors: Król Jerzy , Bielas Krzysztof , Asselmeyer-Maluga Torsten
Published: February 2021

Quantum mechanics (QM) predicts probabilities on the fundamental level which are, via Born probability law, connected to the formal randomness of infinite sequences of QM outcomes. Recently it has been shown that QM is algorithmic 1-random in the sense of Martin-Löf. We extend this result and demonstrate that QM is algorithmic ω-random and generic precisely as described by the ’miniaturisation’ of the Solovay forcing to arithmetic. This is extended further to the result that QM becomes Zermelo-Fraenkel Solovay random on infinite dimensional Hilbert spaces. Moreover it is more likely that there exists a standard transitive model of ZFC M where QM is expressed in reality than in the universe V of sets. Then every generic quantum measurement adds the infinite sequence, i.e. random real r ∈ 2ω, to M and the model undergoes random forcing extensions, M[r]. The entire process of forcing becomes the structural ingredient of QM and parallels similar constructions applied to spacetime in the quantum limit. This shows the structural resemblance of both in the limit. We discuss several questions regarding measurability and eventual practical applications of the extended Solovay randomness of QM. The method applied is the formalization based on models of ZFC, however, this is particularly well-suited technique to recognising randomness questions of QM. When one works in a constant model of ZFC or in axiomatic ZFC itself the issues considered here become mostly hidden.
Identification of Stable QTL for Time to Maturation in Virginia-Type Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.)
Authors: Kunta Srinivas , Agmon Sara , Hedvat Ilan , Levy Yael , Chu Ye , Ozias-Akins Peggy , Hovav Ran
Published: February 2021

Background Time-to-maturation (TTM) is an important trait contributing to adaptability, yield and quality in peanut (Arachis hypogaea L). Virginia market-type peanut belongs to the late-maturing A. hypogaea subspecies with considerable variation in TTM within this market type. Consequently, planting and harvesting schedule of peanut cultivars including Virginia market-type need to be optimized to maximize yield and grade. Little is known regarding the genetic control of TTM in peanut due to the challenge of phenotyping and limited DNA polymorphism. Here, we investigated the genetic control of TTM within the Virginia market-type peanut using a SNP-based high-density genetic map. Methods A recombinant inbred line (RIL) population of 260 lines, derived from a cross between two Virginia-type cultivars with contrasting TTM, was phenotyped in the field for two years following a randomized complete block design. TTM was determined by maturity index (MI) using a hull-scrape method. Other agronomic traits potentially related to TTM such as pod yield (PY), harvest index (HI), branching habit (BH), 50 pod weight (50PW), 50 seed weight (50SW) and shelling percentage (SP) were recorded as well. Genotyping was performed with the Affymetrix Axiom_Arachis2 SNP array. Genetic map construction and QTL mapping were performed by the Joinmap and MapQTL software, respectively.Results A genetic map was constructed with 1833 SNP markers covering a total map distance of 1773.5 cM. Thirty QTL were identified for all measured traits. Among the four QTL regions for MI, two stable QTL regions were identified on chromosomes A04 and B03, which explained phenotypic variation of 9.3% and 11.9%, respectively. QTL for HI were found to share the same loci as MI on chromosomes B03, B05, and B06, demonstrating the possible pleiotropic effect of HI on TTM. Significant but smaller effects on MI were detected for branching habit, pod yield and shelling percentage.Conclusions This study identified consistent QTL regions conditioning TTM for Virginia market-type peanut. The information and materials generated here can be used to further develop molecular markers to select peanut idiotypes suitable for diverse growth environments.
Insights into the secondary structural ensembles of the full SARS-CoV-2 RNA genome in infected cells
Authors: Rouskin Silvi , Lan Tammy , Allan Matthew , Malsick Lauren , Khandwala Stuti , Nyeo Sherry , Sun Yu , Guo Junjie , Bathe Mark , Griffiths Anthony
Published: February 2021

SARS-CoV-2 is a betacoronavirus with a single-stranded, positive-sense, 30-kilobase RNA genome responsible for the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Currently, there are no antiviral drugs with proven efficacy, and development of these treatments are hampered by our limited understanding of the molecular and structural biology of the virus. Like many other RNA viruses, RNA structures in coronaviruses regulate gene expression and are crucial for viral replication. Although genome and transcriptome data were recently reported, there is to date little experimental data on native RNA structures in SARS-CoV-2 and most putative regulatory sequences are functionally uncharacterized. Here we report secondary structure ensembles of the entire SARS-CoV-2 genome in infected cells at single nucleotide resolution using dimethyl sulfate mutational profiling with sequencing (DMS-MaPseq) and the algorithm ‘detection of RNA folding ensembles using expectation–maximization’ clustering (DREEM). Our results reveal previously undescribed alternative RNA conformations across the genome, including structures of the frameshift stimulating element (FSE), a major drug target, that are drastically different from prevailing in vitro population average models. Importantly, we find that this structural ensemble promotes frameshifting rates (~40%) similar to in vivo ribosome profiling studies and much higher than the canonical minimal FSE (~20%). Overall, our result highlight the value of studying RNA folding in its native, dynamic and cellular context. The genomic structures detailed here lays the groundwork for coronavirus RNA biology and will guide the design of SARS-CoV-2 RNA-based therapeutics.
A High-Fat Diet Increases Activation of The Glucagon-Like Peptide-1-Producing Neurons in The Nucleus Tractus Solitarii; An Effect That is Partially Reversed By Drugs Normalizing Glycaemia
Authors: Lietzau Grazyna , Ntika Stelia , Pintana Hiranya , Tracy Linda , Klein Thomas , Nyström Thomas , Darsalia Vladimer , Patrone Cesare , Krizhanovskii camilla
Published: February 2021

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a peripheral incretin and centrally active peptide produced in the intestine and nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS), respectively. GLP-1 not only regulates metabolism but also improves cognition and is neuroprotective. While intestinal GLP-1-producing cells have been well characterized, less is known about GLP-1-producing neurons in NTS. We hypothesized that obesity-induced type 2 diabetes (T2D) impairs the function of NTS GLP-1-producing neurons and glycaemia normalization counteracts this effect. We used immunohistochemistry/quantitative microscopy to investigate the number, potential atrophy, and activation (c-Fos-expression based) of NTS GLP-1-producing neurons, in non-diabetic versus obese/T2D mice (after 12 months of high-fat diet). NTS neuroinflammation was also assessed. The same parameters were quantified in obese/T2D mice treated from month 9 to 12 with two unrelated anti-hyperglycemic drugs: the dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor linagliptin and the sulfonylurea glimepiride. We show no effect of T2D on the number and volume but increased activation of NTS GLP-1-producing neurons. This effect was partially normalized by both anti-diabetic treatments, concurrent with decreased neuroinflammation. Increased activation of NTS GLP-1-producing neurons could represent an aberrant metabolic demand in T2D/obesity, attenuated by glycaemia normalization. Whether this effect represents a pathophysiological process preceding GLP-1 signaling impairment in the CNS, remains to be investigated.
Rat Bone Marrow Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells (rBMMSCs) Encapsulated in Collagen Type I Containing Platelet-Rich Plasma for Osteoarthritis Treatment in Rat model
Authors: Islam Md Shahidul , Ebrahimi-Barough Somayeh , Mahtab Mamun Al , Shirian Sadegh , Aghayan Hamid Reza , Arjmand Babak , Allahverdi Amir , Esmaeili Faezeh , Taghdiri Vajiheh , Sadegh Amin Bigham , Ai Jafar
Published: February 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.