bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Downregulation of NRARP exerts anti-tumor activities in the breast tumor cells depending on Wnt/ꞵ-catenin mediated signals; the role of miR-130a-3p
Authors: Rajabibazl Masoumeh , Poodineh Jafar , Sirati-Sabet Majid , Mohammadi-Yeganeh Samira
Published: March 2022

Objectives: The Notch-regulated ankyrin repeat protein (NRARP) functions as a molecular link between Notch and Wnt signaling pathways. Although it has recently been identified to be overexpressed in breast cancer (BC), the molecular mechanisms regulating NRARP remain unknown. Since microRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression post-transcriptionally, miRNA dysregulation could explain the abnormal gene expression. Here, we identified miR-130a-3p as an NRARP regulator and evaluated its effects on the behavior of BC cells. Methods: Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was performed to assess the transcriptional levels of miR-130a-3p and NRARP in BC cells. Next, miR-130a-3p was transiently transfected into BC cells to assess its influence on NRARP expression. Owing to the positive regulatory effects of NRARP on the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, we also analyzed the expression levels of five Wnt/β-catenin pathway genes in BC cells. We then assessed anti-tumor activities of miR-130a-3p in BC cells using the MTT proliferation assay, the soft agar colony formation assay for anchorage-independent growth (AIG), as well as scratch and transwell assays for cell migration.Results: MiR-130a-3p was found to be downregulated in BC cells, whereas NRARP was upregulated. Overexpression of miR-130a-3p inhibited the expression of NRARP and some Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway genes, as well as exerted anti-tumor effects as evidenced by decreased cell proliferation, AIG, and migration of BC cells.Conclusion: In conclusion, the tumor‑suppressive function of miR‑130a-3p in BC may be mediated by inhibiting NRARP and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. As a result, miR-130a-3p could be introduced as a therapeutic target for miRNA therapy in BC.
Wastewater effluents affect ecosystem metabolism: an evaluation of activation energy case study from the River Wandle, UK
Authors: Zhang Meng , Chadwick Michael A.
Published: March 2022

River ecosystem metabolism (REM) is a measure of ecological function which integrates gross primary production (GPP) and ecosystem respiration (ER). Urban rivers often receive effluents from wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) which frequently alter nutrient concentrations and modify temperature regimes of receiving water bodies. In this study, we applied the nighttime slope method (NSM) to estimate diurnal REM at sites above and below a wastewater outfall on the River Wandle, a tributary to the River Thames, and structural equation modelling (SEM) revealed that nutrient supply, water temperature and light availability were the main factors driving REM. Overall estimated GPP and ER from our study sites were like those of urban impacted rivers in other countries. Upstream to downstream, GPP values (0 ~ 21.2 mgO2·L− 1·d− 1) were similar, but ER values (5.5 ~ 10.1 mgO2·L− 1·d− 1) were significantly higher at the downstream site receiving WWTP effluents. GPP/ER ratios were > 1 indicating heterotrophic conditions during the study. We found that sites had similar activation energy associated with ER suggesting our work provides a useful reference for estimating temperature corrected metabolic processes for other urban rivers in the region. Structural equation modelling (SEM) revealed that nutrient supply, water temperature and light availability were the main factors driving REM. This research highlights the major environmental factors affecting REM providing needed evidence to inform river restoration and future in-stream management.
Use of an Alfa-lipoic, Methylsulfonylmethane, Boswellia Serrata and Bromelain Dietary Supplement (OPERA®) for Aromatase Inhibitors-related Arthralgia Management (AIA): a prospective phase II trial (NCT04161833)
Authors: Desideri Isacco , Lucidi Sara , Francolini Giulio , Meattini Icro , Ciccone Lucia Pia , Salvestrini Viola , Valzano Marianna , Morelli Ilaria , Angelini Lucia , Scotti Vieri , Bonomo Pierluigi , Greto Daniela , Terziani Francesca , Becherini Carlotta , Visani Luca , Livi Lorenzo
Published: March 2022

Context Aromatase Inhibitors (AIs) are recommended for the adjuvant treatment of hormone receptor positive breast cancer in both high-risk pre-menopausal and post-menopausal population; arthralgia is the main cause of discontinuation of therapy and affects up to 25% of population on AI treatment. Objectives The objective of the study was to prospectively evaluate OPERA® (GAMFARMA srl, Milan, Italy), a new dietary supplement where α-Lipoic acid, Boswellia serrata, Methylsulfonylmethane and Bromelain are combined in a single hard-gelatin capsule to be taken once a day. MethodsFifty-three patients with arthralgia (NCI-CTCAE v4.0 grade >=1) occurring during AI therapy were enrolled. All patients received OPERA® from enrollment (T0) up to sixth months (T3). Patients' AI-related arthralgia was evaluated every two months with VAS Scale, PRAI questionnaire and CTCAE scale. Primary endpoint was the number of patients with symptom resolution (G0) at T3 if compared to T0, according to CTCAE and VAS scale. Secondary endpoints were decrease in arthralgia intensity measured with PRAI score at T3 compared to baseline, safety of OPERA® and rate of AI interruption.ResultsTreatment with OPERA® supplement was overall well tolerated; no relevant toxicities related to OPERA® intake were reported. Seven subjects (13.2%) were not included in the final analysis because of consent withdrawal. 46 participants were eligible for final analysis. According to CTCAE scale, 10 out of 46 patients reported symptoms resolution at 6-month follow-up from the time of enrollment T0 (p = 0.0009). According to VAS score, 5 patients reported complete resolution of symptoms at T3 if compared to baseline starting situation T0 (p = 0.0222). Analysis of PRAI score showed a significant reduction in arthralgia-related pain perceived (p = 0.0001). ConclusionOPERA® was able to reduce the intensity of arthralgia related to AI therapy. Randomized, double-blind studies are warranted to confirm the effectiveness of this dietary supplement.
An Experimental analysis of morphing geometry inspired from butterfly wing
Authors: Kumar Kishore , Kumar Kishore , Pendyala Srinivas
Published: March 2022

This paper presents a numerical analysis aerodynamic performance of a morphed geometry and observations with regard to MAV development and flight behavior of butterfly wings. The performance of the morphed wing structure is analyzed using numerical simulations. At different angles of attack, we measured the L/D ratios of the morphed wings at 2, 4 and 6 ms−1. In order to get a better grasp of the flow patterns over these wings using (CFD), we have performed wind tunnel simulations, with a focus on geometry of the biggest wing chords and maximum spans, to determine the flow parameters. In relation to their gliding performance, we compare the shapes of the wing of four butterfly species. In this study, experiments are conducted to understand how different wing shapes affect aerodynamics. The in-flight measurements reported in the biology literature are correlated with wing orientation and flight speed. A MAV design benchmark can also be used to assess the performance of these shapes in terms of gliding performance.
One-dimensional acoustic potential landscapes guide the neurite outgrowth and affect the viability of B35 neuroblastoma cells
Authors: Baumgartner Kathrin , Mauritz Sophie , Angermann Sebastian , Brugger Manuel , Westerhausen Christoph
Published: March 2022

On the way towards neuronal stimulation and signalling, standing surface acoustic waves (SSAW) have become a widely used technique to create well-defined networks of living cells in vitro during the past years. An overall challenge in this research area is to maintain cell viability in long-term treatments long enough to observe changes in cellular functions. To close this gap, we here investigate SSAW-directed neurite outgrowth of B35 (neuroblastoma) cells in microchannels on LiNbO3 chips, employing one-dimensional pulsed and continuous MHz-order SSAW signals at different intensities for up to 40 hours. To increase the efficiency of future investigations, we explore the limits of applicable SSAW parameters by quantifying their viability and proliferation behaviour in this long-term setup. While cell viability is impaired for power levels above 15 dBm, our investigations on SSAW-directed neurite outgrowth reveal a significant increase of neurites growing in preferential directions by up to 31.3 % after 30 hours of SSAW treatment.
ENSO Atmospheric Feedbacks under Global Warming and their Relation to Mean-state Changes
Authors: Bayr Tobias , Latif Mojib
Published: March 2022

Two atmospheric feedbacks play an important role in the dynamics of the El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO), namely the amplifying zonal wind feedback and the damping heat flux feedback. Here we investigate how and why both feedbacks change under global warming in climate models participating in the 5th and 6th phase of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP5 and CMIP6) under the business-as-usual scenario (RCP8.5 and SSP5-8.5, respectively). The amplifying zonal wind feedback over the western equatorial Pacific (WEP) becomes stronger in most models, on average by 8±8 %. The heat flux damping feedback over the eastern and central equatorial Pacific (EEP and CEP, respectively) increases as well, on average by 18±11 %. The simultaneous strengthening of the two feedbacks can be explained by the stronger warming in the EEP relative to the WEP and the off-equatorial regions, which shifts the rising branch of the Pacific Walker Circulation to the east and increases the mean convection over the CEP. This in turn leads to a stronger vertical wind response during ENSO events over the CEP that strengthens both atmospheric feedbacks.We separate the climate models into sub-ensembles with STRONG and WEAK ENSO atmospheric feedbacks, as 2/3 of the models underestimate both feedbacks under present-day conditions by more than 40%, causing an error compensation in the ENSO dynamics. Both sub-ensembles show similar mean state and ENSO atmospheric feedback changes, but the ENSO atmospheric feedbacks remain weaker in WEAK under global warming. Due to the more realistic dynamics, we postulate that one should have more confidence in the ENSO predictions with models belonging to the STRONG sub-ensemble. Finally, we analyze the relation between ENSO amplitude change and ENSO atmospheric feedback change. We find that models simulating an eastward shift of the zonal wind feedback and increasing precipitation over the EEP during Eastern Pacific El Niño events tend to predict a larger ENSO amplitude in response to global warming.
Global geographical variation elemental and arsenic species concentration in paddy rice grain identifies a close association of essential elements copper, selenium and molybdenum with cadmium.
Authors: Meharg Prof. Andrew , Meharg Caroline , Carey Manus , Williams Paul , Shi Zhengyu , Campbell Katrina , Elliott Christopher , Marwa Ernest , Jiujin Xiao , Farias Júlia Gomes , Nicoloso Fernando Teixeira , De Silva P. Mangala C.S. , Lu Ying , Green Andy J. , Moreno-Jiménez Eduardo , Carbonell-Barrachina Ángel Antonio , Sommella Alessia , Pigna Massimo , Brabet Catherine , Montet Didier , Hossain Mahmud , Islam M. Rafiqul
Published: March 2022

Despite the centrality of staple grains for human well-being, both as a source of nutrients and of toxic ions, there is little understanding of where and how elements vary, and if there are particular elements that correlate. Here, for shop bought polished (white) rice we comprehensively characterize trace (arsenic species, cadmium, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum, rubidium and zinc) and macro-nutrients (calcium, chlorine, potassium, phosphorus and sulphur) for grain purchased in 18 countries, across 4 continents, a total of 1045 samples, to investigate if there were any major differences between geographic location and elemental content, and to observe if there were any patterns in elemental distribution. Greatest variation in the median was observed for the non-essential rubidium (15-fold) and arsenic species (5-fold). Rubidium was highest in the Americas, lowest in Europe, while inorganic arsenic and dimethylarsonic acid (DMA) were low for Africa and high in the South American and European continents. Cadmium had the highest concentration in Asian samples and lowest in South America. Calcium, potassium, molybdenum and phosphorus, were highest in European and lowest in African grain, though the fold-differences were relatively low, ~ 0.2, while iron was highest in African grain and low in European, Asian and South American grain, with a ~ 2-fold difference. Selenium was also higher in Africa versus other regions, and copper, manganese and zinc where highest in American grain. Factor analysis showed that copper, cadmium, molybdenum, rubidium and selenium were strongly associated together, and these element’s factor loadings were diametrically opposed to less tightly associated calcium, chlorine, manganese, potassium, phosphorus and sulphur. Stepwise additions linear region analysis was performed on log transformed concentrations to investigate cadmium associations in more detail. Selenium was the greatest predictor of cadmium concentration, followed by molybdenum, accounting for over 50% of the contribution to the adjusted R2. Arsenic species were only weakly correlated with other elements. The implications for these findings with respect to dietary nutrition are discussed.
Regulatory Role of Long Non-Coding RNA “Maternally-Expressed Gene-3” in Diabetic Nephropathy through Targeting microRNA-21 and Transforming Growth Factor-Beta
Authors: Elwi Heba Mostafa , El-Din Shimaa Saad , Rashed Laila , Sadek Noha Adly , Medhat Engy
Published: March 2022

Introduction: Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a leading cause of chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease worldwide. The maternally expressed gene-3 (MEG3), a lncRNA, is implicated in the development of diabetic microvascular complications like retinopathy and nephropathy. MicroRNA-21 (miRNA-21) and Transforming Growth Factor-Beta (TGF-β) are established playmakers in fibrogenesis in DN. Research stated that MEG3 can sponge miRNA-21 inhibiting it. Additionally, MEG3 modulates the activity of TGF-β genes by binding to promotor-distal regulatory elements. Aim: Investigate MEG3 regulatory role in DN pathogenesis, and its possible inhibitory effect on miRNA-21 and TGF-β signaling pathway. Methods: The study was performed on 75 subjects divided into 3 groups: 25 controls, 25 diabetics, and 25 DN patients. Participants were subjected to routine laboratory investigations, estimation of gene expression of MEG3 and miRNA-21 by RT-qPCR and measurement of serum TGF-β levels by ELISA. Results: DN group shows a highly significant decrease in MEG-3 relative gene expression, and a significant increase in both miRNA-21 relative gene expression and TGF-β sera levels, when compared to diabetic and control groups. In addition, MEG3 is significantly negatively correlated to miRNA-21, TGF-β1, and HbA1c confirming the sponging effect of MEG3 on miRNA-21 and predicting its potential protective role in DN. On the other hand, there is a statistically significant positive correlation between miRNA-21 gene expression and TGF-β1 levels indicating the up-regulatory role of miRNA-21 on TGF-β1 protein expression levels. Conclusion: Our data suggests that MEG3 is implicated in DN pathogenesis through a possible loop encompassing miRNA-21 and TGF- β1.
The experiences and attitudes among Chinese soft tissue sarcoma patients: a qualitative study using expressive writing
Authors: Lin Nan , Deng Yaotiao , Wei Weige , Qin Taolin , Jiang Yu
Published: March 2022

PurposeWith poor diagnose and limited knowledge, soft tissue sarcoma (STS) patients were affected by their suffering. Chinese STS patients are often not willing to talk about their feelings and thoughts publicly, which may have negative impact on their psychological status. Expressive writing allows people to disclose their thoughts during writing, which has not yet been studied in patients with soft tissue sarcoma. This study was conducted to understand the experience and attitude of Chinese STS patients using expressive writing.MethodSeven participants with soft tissue sarcoma were included to take 6 episodes of expressive writing with structured guidance. Standard qualitative research method was used to analyze the writing materials.ResultFour themes were identified: treatment process, interpersonal relationship, coping strategies, views about the future. We depicted some crucial aspects of life for STS patients in China, that they may have many difficulties and struggles, but most of them still face life with a positive attitude.ConclusionExpressive writing was acceptable and feasible in Chinese STS patients. We revealed the dynamic process of acceptance and adaptation to life change in them. Itis necessary for doctors and nurses to understand the specific psychological status of STS patients in order to improve their quality of life.Trial registration: ChiCTR2000038923
Difference in leukemia microenvironment induced by PAX5 mutations in acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Huang Wei , Gong Duanhao , Wang Lei , Xu Fangfei
Published: March 2022

Background:PAX5 mutations are involved in the development and recurrence of leukemia. There were few studies on how PAX5 mutations influencing leukemia bone marrow microenvironment. Methods: We obtained the mRNA profiling of B-acute lymphoblastic leukemia(ALL) patients from GSE11877 and the clinical features (including molecular genetics) from the literature. We identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between B-ALL with PAX5 mutations and B-ALL without PAX5 mutations in leukemia microenvironment using the LIMMA package of R. We assessed immune cell types by CIBERSORT. DEGs were analyzed using the DAVID,STRING and Coexpedia. Results:The results from CIBERSORT analysis showed that M0 macrophages were significantly increased from ALL PAX5 mutations. The results from DAVID analysis indicated that these DEGs were mostly involved in phosphorylation and antigen presentation from biological process categories. These DEGs may be involved in changes in macrophages. Other analyses from PPI network and co -expression network found three common genes such as IL1B, CD34, PDGFRB, which were highly related to angiogenesis. Conclusions:These changes hinted that PAX5 mutations led to macrophage changes, and macrophage changes were related to processes of antigen presentation and angiogenesis in leukemia microenvironment.
Degradation Characteristics of Pinoxaden by Acinetobacter and Prediction of Related Genes
Authors: Yang Fengshan , Wei Yuning , Sun Cong , Yuan Mingrui , Zeng Weimin , Liu Chunguang , Fu Haiyan
Published: March 2022

In order to improve crop yield per unit area, pinoxaden was widely used in weed control in the field to better degrade the residual pinoxaden in the soil. In this experiment, 14 strains were domesticated and isolated from soil samples using pinoxaden as the only carbon and nitrogen source, and the highly degraded strain was T4P20-1. The effects of different pH values, inoculation amount and culture time on the growth and degradation rate of strain T4P20-1 were studied. The optimal growth conditions of strain T4P20-1 were determined, and the degradation rate reached 92.23%. The morphological characteristics of strain T4P20-1 were determined by optical microscope. The strain T4P20-1 was identified as Acinetobacter Pittii by physiological and biochemical characteristics and 16S rDNA homology analysis, and the nucleic acid sequence was submitted to Gentbank to obtain the accession number MW350066. Through gene sequencing, the whole genome framework of strain T4P20-1 and database annotations of GO, KEGG, COG, CAZymes and PHI were obtained. Meanwhile, genes related to herbicide degradation were predicted by gene functional annotations. There was a negative correlation between herbicide and seed germination rate, bud length and root length of maize susceptible to subsequent crop. In conclusion, the strains screened in this study have certain remediation effects on soil contaminated by pinoxaden. It provides a new choice for the degradation of pinoxaden in the future. It can increase crop yields and reduce food security risks.
Removal of mixed cationic dyes by a biosorbent based on magnetic tragacanth gum hydrogel
Authors: Jaymand Mehdi
Published: March 2022

A magnetic tragacanth gum-grafted poly(acrylic acid) hydrogel (TG-g-PAA/Fe3O4) was applied for removal of malachite green (MG), basic yellow 28 (BY28), and rhodamine 6G (Rh6G) cationic dyes form industrial simulated wastewater via the well-known batch method. The most important parameters such as initial dyes concentrations, adsorbent dosage, pH, and contact time that affected adsorption performance were optimized in all single, binary, and ternary systemes. The adsorption for all dyes in all systemes were well-fitted with Langmuir model than those of the Freundlich model that revealed the linearity of the process. Maximum adsorption capacities (Qm) for MG, BY28, and Rh6G in ternary system were obtained as 626.5, 568.2, and 459.7 mgg-1, resepectively. Kinetic studies exhibited that the removal of all dyes in all systems were best-fitted with the pseudo-second-order model, which proved that the rate-limiting step might be the chemical adsorption. The hydrogel was regenerated by desorption process after loading process and reused for several times. As results, the removal efficiency of adsorbent almost remains the same for the first four cycles, and then decreased gradually.
Comparative ability of EDTA, GLDA, and MGDA to desorb Pb from contaminated montmorillonite: Aging effects
Authors: Shirvani Mehran , Parsadoust Farzad , Shariatmadari Hossein , Dinari Mohammad
Published: March 2022

Study of Pb desorption processes from clay minerals by chelating ligands is crucial to better understand the fate and transport of Pb in soil and sediment environments. In this study, Pb desorption from a Pb-loaded montmorillonite (MMT) was studied as affected by ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and its two alternative eco-friendly chelating agents, i.e., methylglycine diacetic acid (MGDA) and glutamic-N,N-diacetic acid (GLDA) at two concentrations of 0.25 and 1.0 mM. The impacts of a 30-day residence time on the rate and quantity of Pb desorption were also evaluated. The result showed that Pb desorption kinetics was biphasic with an initial rapid phase, lasting for about 3 h, followed by a slow phase, lasting to 12 h. The degree of Pb desorption from Ca-MMT was proven to be governed by the nature and concentration of the chelating ligands presented in the systems. The capacity of the ligands to desorb Pb from Ca-MMT was in the order EDTA > > MGDA > GLDA, according to the decreasing order in the stability constants of their complexes with Pb ions. The aging of the MMT systems caused a significant reduction in both Pb desorption quantity and rate parameters. The results suggest that EDTA would have a more serious Pb-mobilizing impact than GLDA and MGDA in contaminated soil and sediments which contain Ca-MMT as a major clay constituent.
Analysis of the intestinal flora of sucking goats with diarrhea by metagenomic Sequencing
Authors: Cheng Darong , Cheng Cheng , Zhu Shengmin , Chen Xiaofang , Tao Jianping
Published: March 2022

Background: Diarrhea is one of the important diseases of sucking goats and seriously affects the survival rate of lambs. Many studies have been reported on the etiology of goat diarrhea, but the available information on the intestinal flora disorder in diarrheic goats was limited. Methods: To understand the impact of the gut microbes on goat health and to determine the changes in the intestinal flora of sucking goats with diarrhea, 13 fecal samples from 9 diarrheic lambs and 4 healthy lambs were collected and submitted to metagenomics analysis. Results: The data show that the intestinal flora of diarrheic goats was not only significant changed in the bacterial species, but also displayed abundances decrease in probiotics, such as Butyricicoccus pullicaecorum, Ruminococcus gnavus, Bacteroides fragilis, etc. Many harmful bacteria harboring in the intestinal flora and pathogenic bacteria invading from in vitro should be important bacteria that cause intestinal flora disorder. The most dominant harmful bacteria include Staphylococcus aureus, Lactococcus garvieae, Helicobacter pylori, Escherichia coli, Firmicutes bacterium, Bacteroides plebeius, etc. Conclusion: The intestine flora of sucking goats with diarrhea changed significantly in both species and abundance. Disorder of intestinal flora should be one of the important causes of diarrhea in sucking goats.
Psychiatric emergencies during, after, and before the COVID-19 lockdown; what happened to our patients? A naturalistic observational study
Authors: Brandizzi Martina , Polselli Annalivia , Corigliano Valentina , Tamorri Stefano Maria , Venturini Paola , Azzoni Antonella , Grasso Silvia , Onofri Antonio , Pesce Salvatore , Romani Fiammetta , Polselli Gian Marco , Forte Alberto
Published: March 2022

Background: Despite concerns on mental health problems related to COVID19 lockdown, recent reports revealed a reduction in psychiatric admissions in Emergency Departments (ED) during the lockdown period compared with the previous year in several countries. Most of the existing studies focused on the first lockdown not considering the different phases of the COVID-19 crisis. The present study aimed to analyze differences in ED admission for psychiatric consultation during three different phases of the COVID-19 pandemia in Italy. Methods: Information on ED admission for psychiatric consultations were retrospectively collected at the ED of the Santo Spirito Hospital in Rome (Italy), and compared between the three periods: the lockdown (March - June 2020) and the post-lockdown period (June 2020 - June 2021) compared to the pre-lockdown (January 2019 - March 2020). Multinomial logistic regression was used to assess the risk of accessing ED for psychiatric consultation before, during, after the lockdown. Results: 3,871 ED psychiatric consultations were collected. A significant reduction of psychiatric consultations in ED during the lockdown period and the post-lockdown (H: 762,45; p<0.001) was documented. Multinomial logistic regression analysis showed that compared to pre-lockdown during the lockdown and post-lockdown patients were more likely to be men (RRR: 1.52; 95% CI: 1.10 - 2.12) and more often diagnosed with non-severe mental illnesses (nSMI) (relative risk ratio [RRR]: 1.53, 95% CI: 1.10 - 2.15; and 1.72, 95% CI: 1.42 - 2.08); during the lockdown, patients were also more often diagnosed with alcohol/substance abuse (A&S) (RRR: 1.70; 95% CI: 1.10 - 2.65). Conclusions: Several changes in the clinical characteristics of psychiatric consultations during and after the lockdown emerged from the present study; nSMI and A&S abuse patients were more likely to present at the ED in the lockdown and post-lockdown periods while SMI patients appeared to be less likely. These may inform clinicians and future preventive strategies among community mental health services.
Uveitis Including Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada Syndrome Following Inactive Covid-19 Vaccination: A Case Series
Authors: Shariati Mehrdad Motamed , Abrishami Mojtaba , Jahani Shahin , Bolouki Ali , Astaneh Mohamadreza Ansari , Hosseini Seyedeh Maryam
Published: March 2022

Background: Currently, large populations around the world have been vaccinated against COVID-19. The whole inactivated Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccine has been the main available and widely used COVID-19 vaccine in Iran. Ocular inflammatory reactions have been reported following vaccination. This case report aimed to introduce four cases of uveitis after Sinopharm vaccine inoculation. Case presentation: The first case was a 38-year-old woman who was a known case of ulcerative colitis whose systemic disease was inactive during the past four years. Active uveitis was developed following the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccination. The other three cases were completely healthy individuals who developed the first episode of uveitis, including one case of Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada syndrome, after the COVID-19 vaccination. All cases responded well to corticosteroid treatments.Conclusion: our cases and ongoing reports around the world raise concerns about the possibility of uveal inflammations in cases with a history of auto-immune systemic diseases or inactive uveitis after the COVID-19 vaccination.
Impact of untethering of the spinal cord on urological management and antibiotic stewardship among spina bifida patients in Malaysia
Authors: Nisheljeet Singh , Azizi Abu Bakar , Palaniandy Kamalanathan , Ganesan Dharmendra , Ong Teng-Aik , Alias Azmi , Rajamanickam Ramalinggam , Atroosh Wahib Mohammed , Mohd-Zin Siti Waheeda , Lee-Shamsuddin Andrea , Nivrenjeet Singh , Abdul-Aziz Noraishah Mydin
Published: March 2022

BackgroundThe incidence and severity of urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to spina bifida is poorly understood in Malaysia. Tethering of the spinal cord is a pathological fixation of the cord in the vertebral column that can result in neurogenic bladder dysfunction and other neurological problems. It occurs in patients with spina bifida and the authors of this study sought to determine the effects of untethering on the urological outcome of children with a tethered cord and thus identifying proper urological management for individuals with spina bifida. MethodsDemographic and clinical data were collected via an online questionnaire and convenient sampling technique were used. 49 spina bifida individuals participated in this study. ResultsThe diagnosis of UTIs is dependent on patients reporting cloudy and smelly urine (67%) and urine validation (60%). 18% of the respondents claimed to have been prescribed antibiotics even though they had no history of UTI. Indiscriminate prescription of antibiotics by healthcare workers further compounds the severity of UTI. Employing CISC (73%) including stringent usage of sterile catheters (71%) did not prevent patients from getting UTI. Overall, 33% of our respondents reported manageable control of UTI (0 – 35 years of age). All individuals below the age of 5 (n=14) had improved urological outcome due to the untethering surgery under the guidance of the Malaysia NTD support group. ConclusionSpina biﬁda individuals may procure healthy bladder and bowel continence for the rest of their lives provided that neurosurgical and urological treatment being instigated soon after birth and continuing into adulthood.
Successful multidisciplinary treatment with laparoscopic hepatectomy and adjuvant therapy for metachronous solitary hepatic metastasis after excision of a primary anorectal malignant melanoma: A case report
Authors: Yokoo Hideki , Shimazaki Ryotaro , Hagiwara Masahiro , Tani Chikayoshi , Iwata Hiroyoshi , Takahashi Hiroyuki , Imai Koji , Fukuyama Marika , Matsuya Taisuke , Yamamoto Akemi , Yuzawa Sayaka , Tanino Mishie , Matsuno Naoto
Published: March 2022

Background: Anorectal malignant melanoma (ARMM) is extremely rare and generally lethal, irrespective of the treatment administered. The disease is often diagnosed late, metastases being present in approximately two-third of patients at the time of initial diagnosis. Solitary metastasis of ARMM to a distant organ is exceedingly rare. To the best of our knowledge, only two cases of hepatic resection for a synchronous solitary liver metastasis from a primary ARMM have been reported, and only one of hepatic resection for a metachronous solitary liver metastasis after excision of a primary ARMM. Additionally, we did not find any previous reports of multidisciplinary therapy incorporating surgery and a full course of adjuvant therapy for the latter condition. Case presentation: A 76-year-old woman with a history of laparoscopic abdominoperineal resection of an ARMM 13 months previously was found to have a solitary liver metastasis on follow-up computed tomography. A preoperative work-up showed no other distant metastases nor contraindication to surgery. It was therefore considered that resection was indicated. The metachronous solitary liver metastasis from an ARMM was treated by laparoscopic wedge hepatectomy of the eighth segment 18 months after excision of her primary ARMM. Adjuvant therapy with pembrolizumab was initiated and continued at 6-week intervals. The patient has now completed 12 months of adjuvant pembrolizumab therapy, having survived 33 months from the initial operation for primary ARMM, and remaining recurrence-free 14 months after hepatectomy.Conclusions: We here report a rare case of hepatectomy for a solitary metachronous liver metastasis after resection of a primary ARMM, followed by completion of 12 months of adjuvant therapy with pembrolizumab. ARMM is extremely rare and resection of a metachronous solitary metastasis followed by adjuvant therapy has not previously been reported. We hope this case will be useful for clinicians treating similar patients.
The design process of the chassis of a prototype vehicle for Shell Eco-marathon
Authors: Odi-Owei Steven , Anisiji Emeka Obiora , Erukainure Frank Efe
Published: March 2022

This paper presents the design, modelling, and fabrication procedures for the chassis of a prototype car with the aim of achieving the objectives: rigid and high strength chassis, reduced vehicle weight, driver safety, and an energy efficient vehicle. The novelty of this work is that it demonstrates how aluminium alloy could be used to construct non-integrated chassis for super mileage vehicles through a load-stress calculation model. Furthermore, a method of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was presented which achieves the same result as the analytical calculation. The work also presents a method of fabricating aluminium square tube for the chassis by joining two angle bars. The results show that the FEA approach agrees with the analytical design model thereby reducing the time consumed in conceptual design process. The fabricated chassis was found to show no cracks and it was able to resist bending and shear from the loads acting on the vehicle in line with the design data. The energy efficiency recorded from the first test-run of the vehicle was 250 km/L of gasoline. The methods presented could be characterized as accurate and reliable for manufacturers of super mileage racing cars for Shell Eco-marathon events.
Feasibility indicators in obesity-related behavioral intervention preliminary studies: A historical scoping review
Authors: Pfledderer Christopher D , von Klinggraeff Lauren , Burkart Sarah , Wolfenden Luke , Ioannidis John P.A. , Beets Michael W.
Published: March 2022

Background: Behavioral interventions are often complex, operate at multiple levels, across settings, and employ a range of behavior change techniques. Collecting and reporting key indicators of initial trial and intervention feasibility is essential to decisions for progressing to larger-scale trials. The extent of reporting on feasibility indicators and how this may have changed over time is unknown. The aims of this study were to: 1) conduct a historical scoping review of the reporting of feasibility indicators in behavioral pilot/feasibility studies related to obesity published through 2020, and 2) describe trends in the amount and type of feasibility indicators reported in studies published across three time periods: 1982-2006, 2011-2013, and 2018-2020.Methods: A search of online databases (PubMed, Embase, EBSCOhost, Web of Science) for health behavior pilot/feasibility studies related to obesity published up to 12/31/2020 was conducted and a random sample of 600 studies, 200 from each of the three timepoints (1982-2006, 2011-2013, and 2018-2020) was included in this review. The presence/absence of feasibility indicators, including recruitment, retention, participant acceptability, attendance, compliance, and fidelity, were identified/coded for each study. Univariate logistic regression models were employed to assess changes in the reporting of feasibility indicators across time.Results: A total of 16,365 unique articles were identified of which 6,873 of these were reviewed to arrive at the final sample of 600 studies. For the total sample, 428 (71.3%) studies provided recruitment information, 595 (99.2%) provided retention information, 219 (36.5%) reported quantitative acceptability outcomes, 157 (26.2%) reported qualitative acceptability outcomes, 199 (33.2%) reported attendance, 187 (31.2%) reported participant compliance, 23 (3.8%) reported cost information, and 85 (14.2%) reported treatment fidelity outcomes. When compared to the Early Group (1982-2006), studies in the Late Group (2018-2020) were more likely to report recruitment information (OR=1.60, 95%CI:1.03-2.49), acceptability-related quantitative (OR=2.68, 95%CI:1.76-4.08) and qualitative (OR=2.32, 95%CI:1.48-3.65) outcomes, compliance outcomes (OR=2.29, 95%CI:1.49-3.52), and fidelity outcomes (OR=2.13, 95%CI:1.21, 3.77).Conclusion: The reporting of feasibility indicators within behavioral pilot/feasibility studies has improved across time, but key aspects of feasibility, such as fidelity, are still not reported in the majority of studies. Given the importance of behavioral intervention pilot/feasibility studies in the translational science spectrum, there is a need for improving the reporting of feasibility indicators.
Ligation of Left Gastric Vein May Cause Delayed Gastric Emptying After Pancreatoduodenectomy: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Kimura Koichi , Minagawa Ryosuke , Izumi Takuma , Otake Akihiko , Aoyagi Takehiko , Taniguchi Daisuke , Yano Hiroko , Kajiwara Yuichiro , Minami Kazuhito , Nishizaki Takashi
Published: March 2022

Background
This study aimed to determine which running pattern of the left gastric vein (LGV) is most frequently ligated in subtotal stomach-preserving pancreatoduodenectomy (SSPPD) and how LGV ligation affects delayed gastric emptying (DGE) after SSPPD.
Methods
We retrospectively analysed 105 patients who underwent SSPPD between January 2016 and September 2021. We classified the running pattern of LGV as follows: type 1 runs dorsal to the common hepatic artery (CHA) or splenic artery (SpA) to join the portal vein (PV), type 2 runs dorsal to the CHA or SpA and joins the splenic vein, type 3 runs ventral to the CHA or SpA and joins the PV, and type 4 runs ventral to the CHA or SpA and joins the SpV. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify differences between patients with and without DGE after SSPPD.
Results
Type 1 LGV running pattern was observed in 47 cases (44.8%), type 2 in 23 (21.9%), type 3 in 12 (11.4%), and type 4 in 23 (21.9%). The ligation rate was significantly higher in type 3 (75.0%) LGVs (p < 0.0001). Preoperative obstructive jaundice (p = 0.0306), LGV ligation (p < 0.0001), grade B or C pancreatic fistula (p = 0.0116), and sepsis (p = 0.0123) were risk factors for DGE in the univariate analysis. Multivariate analysis showed that LGV ligation was an independent risk factor for DGE (odds ratio: 13.60, 95% confidence interval: 3.80-48.68, p < 0.0001).
Conclusion
Type 3 LGVs are often ligated because they impede lymph node dissection; however, LGV preservation may reduce the occurrence of DGE after SSPPD.
One-dimensional infiltration equation based on Philip, Green, and Ampt models (El Kerma-Oran-Algeria)
Authors: Nabila BOUALLA
Published: March 2022

The control of water discharges in the El Kerma area is of paramount importance. These soils, which are generally rich in clay materials, are characterized by a (very) low permeability that leads to a rapid rise in pore pressure in the event of a massive influx of water. Thus, the prediction of the rate of water infiltration is essential for the prevention of flood risks. It is mainly stormwater that must be feared. However, these waters cannot always be carried out in a network, because of the connection distance, or the insufficiency of its section in front of the extension of the waterproofed soils, which transport too fast high flows. Sanitation and urban development specialists are interested in the increase in impervious surfaces due to the development of urbanization that leads to excessive runoff flows during rainy periods. Their control is therefore much more delicate than that of wastewater, whose flows are generally low and spread over time. The objective of this part is to study the infiltration regimes by using three models chosen for their simplicity (Philip, Green, and Ampt) and compare them to obtain the most effective model. Unfortunately, the result was not adequate since the infiltration time of the treated sample was short.
Association Between Urate-lowering Therapies and Cognitive Decline in Community-dwelling Older Adults: a Post-hoc Analysis of the MAPT Study.
Authors: MOLET-BENHAMOU Luc , GIUDICI Kelly VIRECOULON , BARRETO Philipe , CANTET Christelle , ROLLAND Yves
Published: March 2022

IntroductionLong-term use of urate-lowering therapies (ULT) may reduce inflammaging and thus prevent cognitive decline during aging. This article examined the association between long-term use of ULT and cognitive decline among community-dwelling older adults with spontaneous memory complaints.Material and methodsWe performed a secondary observational analysis using data of 1,673 participants ≥70 years old from the Multidomain Alzheimer Preventive Trial (MAPT Study), a randomized controlled trial assessing the effect of a multidomain intervention, the administration of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), both, or placebo on cognitive decline. We compared cognitive decline during the 5-year follow-up between three groups according to ULT use: participants treated with ULT during at least 75% of the study period (PT≥75; n=51), less than 75% (PT<75; n=31), and non-treated participants (PNT; n=1,591). Cognitive function (measured by a composite score) was assessed at baseline, 6 months and every year for 5 years. Linear mixed models were performed and adjusted for age, sex, body mass index (BMI), diagnosis of arterial hypertension or diabetes, baseline composite cognitive score, and MAPT intervention groups. ResultsAfter the 5-year follow-up, only non-treated participants presented a significant decline in the cognitive composite score (mean change -0.173, 95%CI -0.212 to -0.135; p<0.0001). However, there were no differences in change of the composite cognitive score between groups (adjusted between-group difference for PNT vs. PT<75: 0.089, 95%CI -0.160 to 0.338, p= 0.484; PNT vs. PT≥75: 0.174, 95%CI -0.042 to 0.391, p= 0.115).ConclusionUse of ULT was not associated with reduced cognitive decline over a 5-year follow-up among community-dwelling older adults at risk of dementia.
Balancing of Cost-Oriented U-Type General Resource-Constrained Assembly Line: New Constraint Programming Models
Authors: Alakaş Hacı Mehmet , Pınarbaşı Mehmet
Published: March 2022

In simple assembly line balancing problems, it is assumed that the resources required to perform the tasks are available at the relevant station for task assignment. However, each task may need different resource types depending on the difficulty, complexity and technical requirements of the tasks in real life. For this reason, tasks and resources belonging to these tasks must be assigned to the relevant station while balancing the line. In this study, the resource-constrained U-shaped assembly line balancing problem(U-GRCALBP) is discussed. According to the literature research, there is no study dealing with U-GRCALBP. Two different constraint programming (CP) models that define the resource constraints as "and/or" constraint types with concurrent resource types have been developed. In these models, the sum of resource usage costs and station opening cost minimization is aimed. The models are explained with an illustrative example and the efficiency of the models was tested by deriving new resource constraints on sample data sets. The number of stations obtained, the total number of resources used, total station opening and resource usage costs, and CPU time were used as performance criteria. According to the numerical results, it has been shown that both models are effective in solving the problem.
Molecular Responses of Arabidopsis MET1 Cytosine Methyltransferase Mutants to Salinity
Authors: Yeşildirek Yağmur Vecide , Arıkan Burcu , Kara Neslihan Turgut
Published: March 2022

In this study, we investigated the morphological and molecular responses of Arabidopsis met1-7 and met1-3 null mutants under salinity stress. In this context, global DNA methylation changes of mutants exposed to salt stress were compared and expressions of DRM2, Pol IV and Pol V genes known to be involved in DNA methylation in plants were analyzed. We found that met1-7 and met1-3 mutants have a higher rate of hypomethylation than Col-0 under all conditions. According to the results of gene expression analysis, the increase in expression of DRM2, Pol IV and Pol V genes involved in CNN methylation in mutants than Col-0 plant suggests that hypomethylation is directly related to CG regions, but in met1 mutants, the lack of CG methylation is tried to be compensated by RdDM. In addition, we analyzed the expression of the TERT gene as a stress response indicator in order to examine the effect of salt stress on the telomerase enzyme in met1-7 and met1-3 mutants. Contrary to expected, we found that there was an increase in the expression of TERT gene in the salt stress applied plants. Within the scope of all the data, it is thought that in met1 mutants RdDM pathway is activated in order to deal with the lack of DNA methylation in CG islands. As a conclusion, it is believed that the morphological and molecular data obtained on the effects of NaCl application to met1 mutants will help us to understand the epigenetic basis of stress mechanisms.
TINGKAT KEPUASAN MASYARAKAT PADA PELAYANAN PAJAK KENDARAAN BERMOTOR DI KANTOR SAMSAT TANJUNGPINANG
Authors: Satriadi S
Published: March 2022

The quality of  public services is determined by the service providers (apparatus),who must realize that he is a servant of  the people and they must be served well,such that the factors and the indicators in determining the quality of  publicservices can be met. This would ultimately have an impact on increasing thequality of  public services. Society satisfaction in the opinion from public inobtaining services of  the public service providers aparatus by comparing theexpectation and needs. This research entitled is the level of  public satisfactionin the service taxes on motor vehicles at Samsat Office Tanjung pinang. The method used in this research is quantitative methods with questionnaire to 34 responden as samples. This questionnaire as an data collecting instruments.These results indicate service quality to public satisfaction in the service taxeson motor vehicles at Samsat Office Tanjung pinang is enough satisfactionslevels, with the frequencis results is 18 and percentage 52,9 %.Kualitas pelayanan publik ditentukan oleh penyedia layanan (aparatur), yangharus disadari adalah mereka sebagai penyedian layanan kepada masyarakatdan mereka harus dilayani dengan baik, sehingga faktor-faktor dan indikator dalam menentukan kualitas pelayanan publik dapat dipenuhi. Hal ini padaakhirnya akan berdampak pada peningkatan kualitas pelayanan publik.Opini masyarakat terbentuk dalam membangun kepuasan masyarakatdari para penyedia layanan publik dengan membandingkan harapan dankebutuhan. Penelitian ini berjudul tingkat kepuasan publik dalam layananpajak kendaraan bermotor di Kantor Samsat Tanjungpinang. Metodeyang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode kuantitatif  denganmemberikan kuesioner kepada 34 responden sebagai sampel. Kuesioner inisebagai instrumen pengumpulan data. Hasil menunjukkan bahwa kualitaspelayanan untuk kepuasan publik di layanan pajak kendaraan bermotordi Kantor Samsat Tanjungpinang dengan tingkat yang cukup puas, denganfrequensi hasil yaitu 18 dan persentase 52,9%.