bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SENSITIVITY OF Microsporum canis ISOLATED FROM DOGS TOWARDS ANTIFUNGALS
Authors: I Sakan Gerson Yohanes , Indarjulianto Soedarmanto , Nururrozi Alfarisa , Yanuartono Yanuartono , Raharjo Slamet
Published: February 2021

The dermatophytosis treatment in dogs can fail due to dermatophyte resistance to antifungals. The purpose of this study is to determine the antifungal sensitivity of dermatophyte Microsporum canis (M. canis) isolated from dogs with dermatophyte. A total of 17 M. canis dog isolateswere tested for sensitivity to 25 µg fluconazole, 25 µg griseofulvin, 15 µg ketoconazole and 30 µg terbinafine, using the disc diffusion method.The M. canis isolates were cultured on Sabouraud's Dextrose Agar media, placed an antifungal disc, and then incubated at 28 C for 7 days. Thediameter of inhibition zone was measured, then compared with the standard, to determine whether they were sensitive, intermediate or resistant.The results of this study indicate that 16 isolates were sensitive to fluconazole; 17 isolates were sensitive to griseofulvin, ketoconazole andterbinafine; and one isolate was intermediate to fluconazole. Based on these results, it is concluded that all 17 (100%) isolates are sensitive to theantifungals griseofulvin, ketoconazole, terbinafine, and 16 (94%) isolates are sensitive to fluconazole. Thus, the four antifungals can be selectedto treat dermatophytes in dogs.
Engineering sub-2 nm ultrasmall high-entropy alloy nanoparticles with extremely superior performance for hydrogen evolution catalysis
Authors: Xia Dingguo , Feng Guang , Ning Fanghua , Song Jin , Shang Huaifang , Zhang Kun , Ding Zhengping , Gao Peng , Chu Wangsheng
Published: February 2021

The development of intrinsically effective and low-cost catalysts is critical for the large-scale commercial applications of electrocatalytic hydrogen production. Although various electrocatalysts have demonstrated high activities for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), it remains a formidable challenge to develop an extremely efficient and durable catalyst for practical use, especially in acidic media. Here, we report quinary ultrasmall NiCoFePtRh high-entropy alloy (us-HEA) nanoparticles (NPs) with extremely superior performance for HER. The us-HEA NPs are well dispersed on the carbon supports, with an average diameter of 1.68 nm, which is the smallest size in the reported HEAs. The us-HEA/C achieves an ultrahigh mass activity of 28.3 A mg-1noble metals (much higher than that of other reported advanced catalysts) at -0.05 V (vs the reversible hydrogen electrode, RHE) for HER in 0.5 M H2SO4 solution, which is 40.4 and 74.5 times higher than those of the commercial Pt/C and Rh/C catalysts, respectively. Moreover, the us-HEA/C demonstrates the highest reported turnover frequency of 30.1 s−1 at 50 mV overpotential (41.8 times higher than that of the Pt/C catalyst) and excellent stability with no decay after 10,000 cycles. Both operando X-ray absorption spectroscopy and theoretical calculations reveal the true active sites and a synergistic effect among five elements, which endow us-HEA/C with significantly enhanced HER activity. This work not only provides a general and facile strategy for synthesizing us-HEA NPs, highlights HEAs as sufficiently advanced materials in energy electrocatalysis, but also acts as a guidance for elucidating the actual reaction process and catalytic mechanism of complex multi-element systems.
Sec3 Exocyst Component Knockdown Inhibits Axonal Formation and Cortical Neuronal Migration During Brain Cortex Development
Authors: Plonka Florentyna Bustos , Sosa Lucas , Quiroga Santiago
Published: February 2021

During neuronal development cell polarization is of vital importance. The establishment of polarity necessitates initial axonal outgrowth in concomitance with the addition of new membrane to the axon’s plasmalemma. Axolemmal expansion occurs by exocytosis of plasmalemmal precursor vesicles primarily at the neuronal growth cone membrane. The multiprotein exocyst complex drives spatial location and specificity of vesicle fusion at plasma membrane. However, the specific participation of its different proteins on neuronal differentiation has not been fully established. In the present work we analyzed the role of Sec3, a prominent exocyst complex protein on neuronal differentiation. Using mice hipocampal primary cultures we determined that Sec3 is expressed in neurons at early stages prior to neuronal polarization. Furthermore, we determined that silencing of Sec3 in mice hippocampal neurons in culture precluded polarization. Moreover, using in utero electroporation experiments, we determined that Sec3 knockdown affected cortical neurons migration and morphology during neocortex formation. Our results demonstrate that the exocyst complex protein Sec3 plays an important role in axon formation in neuronal differentiation and the migration of neuronal progenitors during cortex development.
Long-Term Study of Borrelia and Babesia Species Distribution in Ixodes Ricinus and Dermacentor Recticulatus Ticks Removed From Humans in Poland, 2016-2019
Authors: Welc-Falęciak Renata , Bednarska Małgorzata , Hamera Adrianna , Religa Emilia , Poryszewka Milena , Mierzejewska Ewa , Pawełczyk Agnieszka
Published: February 2021

Monitoring changes in the prevalence of different Borrelia genospecies/ species in ticks might be an important indicator of risk assessment and of differences in pathogenicity in humans. Furthermore, the evaluation of pathogens in feeding ticks represents the risk of human exposure better than studies on questing ticks. The objective of our study was to assess the prevalence and distribution of Borrelia and Babesia species in ticks removed from humans, in a larger sample collected for several months during four years of studies. We confirmed high Borrelia prevalence, including B. miyamotoi, in ticks removed from humans as well as the shift in Borrelia genospecies/ species frequency of occurrence during the four-year study. Despite the fact that Babesia prevalence was relatively low, the majority of tested isolates are considered to be pathogenic for humans. The results of our study have also shown that Borrelia and Babesia coinfections in ticks are more common in Borrelia-infected ticks. Even if the overall risk of developing Lyme borreliosis after a tick bite in Europe is rather low, the knowledge of prevalence and distribution of Borrelia and Babesia species in ticks might be an important indicator of both tick-borne disease risk and pathogenicity assessment.
The Manifestations of Social Maladjustment in Children With leukemia at Different Ages: A Descriptive Qualitative Study based on Phenomenology
Authors: Tang Xinyue , Mo Lin , Liu Qian , Liu Yixuan , Yu Lu , Liu Yang , Gao Chunhai
Published: February 2021

Background Leukemia is a pediatric malignancy with the highest incidence rate and large onset age span. Children with leukemia at different ages show various social maladjustments after illness, which are mainly reflected in psychological and behavioral changes. It is of great significance to improve children's social adaptation level and purposefully prevent children from having social adaptation problems. Objective To describe the social adaptation problems faced by Chinese children with leukemia at different ages, and to provide the basis for formulating targeted preventive intervention strategies. Method The purpose sampling method was adopted to conduct semi-structured interviews on 20 Chinese children with leukemia and their main caregivers, and the Colaizzi phenomenological research method in the qualitative research was used to organize and analyze the data. Results The existing social adaptation problems of children with leukemia at different ages were summarized. In terms of psychological maladjustment, children with leukemia aged 2~7 years showed "fear and excessive attachment"; Children with leukemia aged 8-18 years are characterized by "Impatience, irritability and anxiety". In terms of behavioral maladjustment, children with leukemia aged 2~7 years have the problem of "less independent behavior" and "dependence on electronic products"; Children with leukemia aged 8-18 years showed "learning obstruction" and "indulging in mobile games". Conclusions Develop targeted intervention strategies based on the physical and mental characteristics of children with leukemia at different ages to improve their existing social adaptation problems. Pay attention to early intervention in the social adaptation of children with leukemia. Predictably improve the social adaptation level of children to prevent more adaptation problems, so that children can smoothly return to their families and society and improve their quality of life in the long term.
Establish Reference Intervals of Complete Blood Count for Twin Pregnancy
Authors: Zeng Yifan , Li Lei , Mao Man , Liang Xinghua , Chen Min , He Wenyin , Xia Yong
Published: February 2021

Background: Twin pregnancy is of high risk, which increased in recent years. Establishment of reference intervals of complete blood count (CBC) for twin-pregnant women during pregnancy might help for the properly prognosis of adverse outcomes in twin pregnancy. Methods: We screened out 253 cases of twin pregnancy reference cohort from 1153 twin pregnancy after the complications and adverse pregnancy outcomes were excluded. Complete blood count data were collected during the mid- and late-term of pregnancy and analyzed by SPSS to establish the reference intervals of peripheral blood of twin pregnancy. Results: The RBC, HGB, HCT, and PLT were lower in twin pregnant women than those in healthy nulligravida women during gestation, while the levels of WBC, NEU, and NEU% increased, especially in the mid-term. The reference intervals of late-term pregnancy validated by using 20 samples of twin pregnancy, then utilized for figuring out the distinctive characteristics of CBC with preterm birth (PTB) pregnancy. Absolutes of WBC and NEU increased in PTB pregnancy using our established reference intervals, implying they might be prognosis indicators of this adverse outcome. Conclusion: Establishing the reference interval of blood cell-related indicators of normal twin pregnancy is helpful for the monitoring and prognosis of PTB.
Impact of COVID-19 on Health-Related Behaviours, Well-Being and Weight Management
Authors: Avery Amanda , Toon Josef , Kent Jennifer , Holloway Laura , Lavin Jacquie , Bennett Sarah-Elizabeth
Published: February 2021

Background: Weight management is complex even in times of stability. Supporting individuals to develop strategies to maintain a healthier weight is beneficial. This paper reports data from an ongoing mixed-methods study describing the impact the COVID-19 lockdown situation had on people engaged in weight management. Information on health-related behaviours and well-being was captured from surveys completed by Slimming World (SW) members 0-4 weeks after joining providing pre-joining and baseline (T0&T1) data, and after 3 (T2) and 6 months (T3-during COVID-19). Representative samples from the general population, not attending a weight management service, completed the same questionnaires.Results: 1884 SW members completed the baseline survey and 222 completed all three surveys up to May 2020, achieving a weight loss of 7.7±7.5% during this time. SW members were able to maintain most of the positive health-related behaviour changes they had made since joining, including increased fruit and vegetable consumption (p<0.001), having fewer sugary drinks (P<0.001), cooking from scratch more (p<0.001) and increasing activity levels (p<0.001). During the COVID-19 situation members were still reporting improvements in all behaviours compared to before joining and had healthier scores than the general population on all but alcohol intake, although still within guidelines. Qualitative data indicated that the COVID-19 situation created various challenges to managing weight for both groups with fresh foods harder to access, comfort eating, drinking more alcohol, eating more sugary foods and snacking through boredom. However, some people also reported having more free time enabling better planning, more time to cook from scratch and increased physical activity.Conclusions: The findings highlight the value of supporting individuals to develop sustainable behaviour changes and a level of resilience to draw upon and manage their weight even in challenging times.
Relationship Between Sleep Duration and Stroke in Middle-Aged and Elderly in Guiyang: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Liu Li , Yang Jingyuan , Wang Junhua , Nie Meng , Wang Ziyun , Guan Han , Hu Jin , Hong Feng
Published: February 2021

Background: With over 2 million new cases annually, stroke is associated with the highest disability-adjusted life-years lost of any disease in China. The relationship between sleep time and stroke has not been concluded yet. To study the relationship between sleep duration and stroke in middle-aged and elderly in Guiyang, China. Methods: This study was a cross-sectional survey carried out in 40-99-years-old permanent residents in Guiyang. Yunyan, Wudang, and Baiyun districts and Xiuwen County were selected by stratified multilevel sampling for a face-to-face survey. Demographics, stroke, sleep behavior, and health behavior were collected. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to gradually adjust the association between sleep duration and stroke for possible confounding factors. Results: A total of 5065 participants were included, and 126 (2.5%) had a stroke. Insufficient sleep (<7 h) was observed in 11.0%, sufficient sleep (7-9 h) in 69.4%, and long sleep (>9 h) in 19.6%. Sleep duration and stroke prevalence showed a U-shaped distribution. When taking the sleep duration of 7-9 h as reference, sleep duration >9 h was associated with stroke (all P<0.05) in the univariable model (OR=2.68, 95%CI: 1.83-3.93) and in the multivariable models 1 (OR=2.35, 95%CI: 1.59-3.47), 2 (OR=2.27, 95%CI: 1.53-3.37), 3 (OR=2.25, 95%CI: 1.51-3.33), and 4 (OR=2.11, 95%CI: 1.39-3.19). There were no significant differences between the <7 and 7-9 h groups (P>0.05). Conclusion: Long sleep duration (>9 h) is independently associated with stroke in middle-aged and elderly people in Guiyang.
A New Approach in DENV Diagnostic based on Linear Peptides Obtained by Phage Display
Authors: Burciaga-Flores Mirna , Camacho-Villegas Tanya A. , Lugo-Fabres Pavel H. , Gutiérrez-Ortega Abel , Muñoz-Medina José Esteban , Elizondo-Quiroga Darwin E.
Published: February 2021

Dengue is a viral disease caused by any of the four distinct dengue virus (DENV) serotypes that circulate in many parts of the world. DENV now co-circulates with Zika and Chikungunya viruses (ZIKV and CHIKV) in many regions of the Americas. Having this in mind, plus the fact that DENV clinical diagnosis persists as a difficult task, due to the similarity in symptoms, as well as false-positive results by the cross-reactivity of the IgG and IgM against these three viruses, correct identification of DENV at an early stage of the disease is essential to minimise transmission and prevent potentially devastating sequelae. Here, by phage display, we isolate specific peptides for dengue virus NS1 protein. The specificity of the linear peptides as diagnostic tools for DENV NS1 protein in sera samples was investigated, and the selected peptides showed the ability to recognise DENV, and no cross-reactivity was shown.
Moreover, in silico analysis was performed to assess the possible binding modes of these peptides to DENV-NS1, using a molecular docking approach. These peptides are suitable for use in an ELISA assay for dengue virus detection in human serum and the possibility to adapt these peptides to PoC platforms.
Wireless Communication for Flying Cars
Authors: Saeed Nasir , Al-Naffouri Tareq Y. , Alouini Mohamed-Slim
Published: February 2021

The existing ground-based transportation systems suffer from various challenges, mainly the high cost of infrastructure development, limited land space, and the growing urban population. Therefore, the automotive and aviation industries are collaborating to develop flying cars, also knows as electric vertical takeoff and landing aircrafts (eVTOLs). These eVTOLs will enable reliable and rapid urban and suburban transportation. Safe operation of eVTOLs will require well-developed wireless communication networks. However, existing communication technologies need advancement to provide services to flying cars. We report various potential solutions that are feasible for communication among the eVTOLs and with the ground. These possibilities include on-ground three-dimensional cellular networks, tethered balloons, high altitude platforms, and satellites.
Temporal Structure of Brain Oscillations Is A Biomarker of Pain and Predicts Learned Nocebo Responses.
Authors: Thomaidou Mia A. , Blythe Joseph S. , Houtman Simon J. , Veldhuijzen Dieuwke S. , Laarhoven Antoinette I. M. , Evers Andrea W. M.
Published: February 2021

This study aimed to identify electrophysiological biomarkers of nocebo-augmented pain. Nocebo hyperalgesia (i.e., increases in perceived pain resulting from negative expectations) was induced in 36 healthy participants through classical conditioning and negative suggestions. In a baseline phase, participants received high thermal pain stimulations. During acquisition, participants learned to associate an inert gel applied to their forearm with high pain, relative to a moderate intensity control stimulus administered without gel. During evocation, nocebo and control stimuli were both accompanied by moderate pain to measure nocebo responses. Electroencephalography was recorded during rest (pre and post nocebo acquisition) and during pain stimulation (baseline, nocebo acquisition and evocation). Nocebo hyperalgesia led to pre- to post-acquisition increases in long-range temporal correlations (LRTC), with beta-band alterations being negatively associated with nocebo magnitudes. Moreover, individuals with strong LRTC at rest showed larger nocebo responses than those with weaker LRTC. Nocebo acquisition trials showed reduced alpha power. Alpha power was higher while LRTC were lower during nocebo-augmented pain, compared to baseline. By involving LRTC, these findings support nocebo learning theories and highlight a role of nocebo-induced cognitive processing. This study provides novel insights into neural underpinnings of nocebo hyperalgesia, a phenomenon that greatly impacts the experience of pain.
The Association Between Employment Status and Timely Initiation of Infant Complementary Feeding Practice in Addis Zemen Town, Ethiopia, 2018.
Authors: Kassie Bekalu , Degu Genet , Tarekegn Teklemariam
Published: February 2021

Background

Complementary feeding is giving other foods or fluids to infants in addition to breast milk at six months of age. For better health and development of children, it should be timely (at six months of age). Thus, this study aimed to assess timely initiation of complementary feeding and associated factors among mothers with children aged 6–23 months in Addis Zemen Town.
Methods

A Community based cross-sectional study design was conducted from March 21 to April 10, 2018. Researchers recruited four hundred sixteen mothers whose child was aged from 6 to 23 months by systematic random sampling technique. We used interviewer-administrated questionnaire and then the data were coded and entered to EpiData version 4.2. It was exported to SPSS version 23 for analysis. Binary logistic regression model was fitted and variables p-values < 0.05 with multi-variable logistic regression analysis were considered as statistically significant at 95% confidence interval (CI). Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) was used to measure the strength of association.
Result

Timely initiation of complementary feeding was 57.7% with 95% CI (52.9, 62.3). In this study Being employed (AOR 2.34(1.07–5.16), visit antenatal care clinic four times and above (AOR 2.36(1.44, 3.85)), having good knowledge on complementary feeding (AOR 3.47(2.20, 5.48)), and having favorable attitude towards complementary feeding practice (AOR 3.87(2.46, 6.11) were found to be statically significantly associated with timely initiation of complementary feeding practice.
Conclusion

Timely initiation of complementary feeding practice was lower than WHO cut of point. Educate women, enhance antenatal visits and work to increase mothers’ knowledge are recommended. Additionally, special focus is better to be given for unemployed mothers.
Eight Months Into The COVID-19 Outbreak, Whether This Pandemic Still Psychologically Affected Convalescent Psychiatric Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study.
Authors: Ren Xin , Huang Wanli , Pan Huiping , Wang Xinwei , Huang Tingting , Ma Yongchun
Published: February 2021

Background

This study aimed to find out eight months into the COVID-19 outbreak, how much psychological effect was experienced by convalescent psychiatric patients, and identify the potential risk and protective factors related to their psychological response.
Methods

Data from 136 convalescent psychiatric patients were collected. We used binary logistic regression analyses to identify participants’ SRQ score and the factors associated with it.
Results

There were 47 (34.5%) participants scored eight or higher. Working or marital status and annual income were significantly associated with a higher score in SRQ. Similarly, sleep duration, interpersonal relationship, exercise time, special events, and general condition were linked to SRQ grade.
Conclusions

Eight months into the COVID-19 pandemic, this widespread virus psychologically impacted convalescent psychiatric patients. This result was related to less annual income, which stressed the necessity to provide closer follow-up and financial support in this crisis's late stage.
The Prophylactic Effect of Silver Sulphadiazine and Chloroquine in-situ Gel Formulation Against Rodent Malaria Parasite Plasmodium Berghei
Authors: Zelai Noha
Published: February 2021

Background: Despite the technological advances made in the pharmaceutical field, globally, malaria remains one of the major causes of mortality. The resistance of malaria parasites to conventional drugs is one of the primary challenges facing researchers. Therefore, the aim of this study is to examine the validity of a single dose in-situ gel formulation of chloroquine and silver sulfadiazine against rodent model malaria, Plasmodium berghei.Results: Following administration of the free or gel drug formulations to mice four days before infection, the in-situ gelled formulation were not found to improve drug parasitaemia nor increase the life span of the infected mice. This may be attributed to the initial high burst of drug release within the initial days of treatment before infection. Conclusions: Additional studies are warranted to determine the timing of the malarial drug burst, and to design the prophylactic interval based on the drug pharmacokinetics and their metabolites.
Methodology for Automated Monitoring of Induced Vibrations in Tailings Dams Built Upstream
Authors: De Sousa Gustavo Marçal , Ferreira Sérgio Augusto , Gomes Romero César
Published: February 2021

Induced vibrations in tailings dams in Brazil became subject to studies after two major accidents in upstream-built structures. These ground vibrations may be responsible for liquefaction triggers and that motivated the development of this paper, which consists in the presentation of a methodology to perform homogeneous vibration monitoring tests along the entire embankment with an initial offline stage that later progressed to an automated process that represents the core object of the paper. Data collected from the initial monitoring enabled analyses of dam stability when correlating vibration levels in the embankment. As a consequence of such analyses, it was possible to parameterize control levels associated to safety criteria. Monitoring methodology, analysis techniques and gains resulting from the use of automated monitoring systems are presented herein. Parameterized control levels regarding the structure under study as well as their association to the stability condition, analysis of liquefaction trigger set for vibration values, advanced analysis of seismographic records and an automated operational vibration control system from monitoring using seismographic stations are shown. The implementation of the automated monitoring system associated to safety control levels allowed a robust diagnosis of eventual structural damages caused by vibrations in dams. That methodology was applied to a dam in operation and permitted evaluation of operation continuity concerning industrial plants and different operations with earthworks equipment on the embankment and its surrounding area.
Is the impact of high reward sensitivity and poor cognitive control on adolescent risk-taking more visible in rewarding conditions?
Authors: Fryt Joanna , Smoleń Tomasz , Czernecka Karolina , Szczygieł Monika , Torre Amelia La
Published: February 2021

Adolescents are expected to take more risks than adults. The presented study was designed to determine whether adolescent risk-taking results from high reward sensitivity and poor cognitive control. In particular, we aimed to examine whether the impact of these variables is more visible in rewarding than non-rewarding conditions. Ninety adolescents (aged 13–16) and 95 young adults (aged 20–28) took part in the study. We used a driving task in rewarded and non-rewarded conditions to measure risk-taking. We also used tasks measuring reward sensitivity, cognitive control and impulsivity. Additionally we used self-report measures of reward sensitivity, self-control and everyday risk-taking to see whether the effects observed for self-reports mimic the effects observed for behavioral tasks. We found that the higher the reward sensitivity, the more adolescents (but not adults) risk in the rewarded condition of a driving task. We found no impact of cognitive control or impulsivity on risk-taking, regardless of age and condition. At the self-report level, we found that the higher the reward sensitivity and the poorer the self-control, the more both adolescents and adults displayed everyday risk-taking behavior.
Melatonin Protects Cardiomyocytes from Oxygen Glucose Deprivation And Reperfusion-Induced Injury by Inhibiting Rac1/JNK/Foxo3a/Bim Signaling Pathway
Authors: Wang Yulin , Jian Ying , Zhang Xiaofu , Ni Bin , Wang Mingwei , Pan Chunqi
Published: February 2021

Melatonin has been shown to exert protective effect during myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). However, the underlying mechanism is not completely understood. Using the oxygen-glucose deprivation and reperfusion (OGD/R) model of H9c2 cells in vitro, we found that melatonin alleviated OGD/R-induced H9c2 cell injury via inhibiting Foxo3a/Bim signaling pathway. Inhibition of Rac1 activation contributed to the protective effect of melatonin against OGD/R injury in H9c2 cells. Additionally, melatonin inhibited OGD/R-activated Foxo3a/Bim signaling pathway through inactivation of Rac1. Furthermore, JNK inactivation was responsible for Rac1 inhibition-mediated inactivation of Foxo3a/Bim signaling pathway and decreased cell injury in melatonin-treated H9c2 cells. Taken together, these findings identified a Rac1/JNK/Foxo3a/Bim signaling pathway in melatonin-induced protective effect against OGD/R injury in H9c2 cells. This study provided a novel insight into the protective mechanism of melatonin against myocardial I/R injury.
Analysis of Reversible Switching Capacitive DAC Based Low Power SAR-ADC
Authors: G Prathiba , M Shanthi
Published: February 2021

This paper presents an analysis of Reversible Switching Capacitive Digital to Analog converter (RSC-DAC) based low power Successive Approximation Register Analog to Digital Converter (SAR-ADC).The proposed structure involves, the QVDC (Quantum Voltage Differential Comparator) constructed using Simple Transconductance Amplifier (STA) technique , the RSC-DAC switching energy reduced by 93% contrast to the standard Charge Redistribution Switching Capacitive DAC (CRSC-DAC) method, and the Successive Approximation Register(SAR) control logic is designed with D-FF based shift register. The QVDC comparator allows very small voltage comparison, and consumes low power and area effective. The linearity parameters such as Integral Nonlinearity, Differential Nonlinearity and parasitic effect of the capacitor of the RSC-DAC is analyzed and improved by the new approach is named as Adaptive Random Code Generation (ARCG) Technique. The above overall design is implemented by TANNER-EDA tool in 250nm CMOS technology, consumes 1.74mW power at 60MS/s. The INL and DNL of the proposed structure is +0.18/-0.12 LSB and +0.11/-0.05 LSB respectively.
Sulforaphane Inhibits Self-renewal of Lung Cancer Stem Cells Through the Modulation of Sonic Hedgehog Signaling Pathway and Polyhomeotic Homolog3
Authors: Wang FanPing , Sun Yanwei , Huang Xiaoyu , Qiao Caijuan , Zhang Wenrui , Liu Peijun , Wang Mingyong
Published: February 2021

Sulforaphane (SFN), an active compound in cruciferous vegetables has been characterized for its antiproliferative capacity. We investigated the role and molecular mechanism through which SFN regulates proliferation and self-renewal of lung cancer stem cells (CSCs). CD133-positive lung cancer cells were isolated by MACs from lung cancer A549 and H460 cells. And then, the expression of CD133 was measured by flow cytometry assays (FACS). The ability of cell proliferation was assessed by MTT assays and tumorsphere formation assays. The mRNA expression of Sonic Hedgehog (Shh), Smoothened (Smo), Gli1 and Human Polyhomeotic Homolog 3 (PHC3) was measured by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (QPCR). And the protein expression of Shh, Smo, Gli1 and PHC3 was determined by western blotting. Shh was knocked down by siRNA to further study the role of Shh signaling pathways in lung CSCs. SFN inhibited the proliferation of lung cancer cells and lung CSCs simultaneously. Meanwhile, the mRNA and protein expressions of Shh, Smo, Gli1 and PHC3 were highly activated in A549 /CD133+ and H460 /CD133+ cells. Compared with siRNA-control group, Knock-down of Shh inhibited proliferation of A549/ CD133+ and H460/ CD133+ cells, and decreased the protein expression of PHC3 in A549/ CD133+ and H460/ CD133+ cells. In addition, SFN inhibited the activities of Shh, Smo, Gli1 and PHC3 in A549/ CD133+ and H460/ CD133+ cells. Furthermore, the inhibitory effect of SFN on the proliferation of siRNA-shh cells is weaker than that of siRNA-control cells. SFN is an effective new drug which can inhibit proliferation of lung CSCs through the modulation of PHC3 and SHH signaling pathways. It provides a novel target for improving therapeutic efficacy for lung CSCs.
Hydatid Cysts of the Liver Rupture into the Peritoneal Cavity: Fifteen Cases and Review of the Literature
Authors: MEJRI Atef , ARFAOUI Khaoula , SAAD Sarra , RCHIDI Jasser , OMRI Ahmed , MSEDDI Mohamed Ali
Published: February 2021

BackgroundHydatid cyst is a parasitic infection caused mainly by E. Granulosus, which is generally considered benign. However, the hepatic Hydatid Cyst rupture in the abdominal cavity is a life-threatening incident that requires urgent and multidisciplinary management (emergency physician, radiologists, anesthetists, and surgeons). This study describes clinical and paraclinical liver hydatid cyst rupture in the peritoneal cavity and details the appropriate treatment.Materials and MethodsFifteen liver hydatid cyst cases ruptured into the abdominal cavity that underwent urgent surgery were collected over eight years. Results There were nine men and six women. Patients' age ranged from 14 to 59 years, with an age average of 38 years. Two patients were admitted with abdominal trauma, and acute abdominal pain was the common consultation's reason. Only one patient had an anaphylactic shock. Both abdominal ultrasound and CT scan showed discontinuous cyst wall and intraperitoneal fluid in 100% of cases. Intraoperatively, the intraperitoneal effusion was clear in thirteen cases and purulent in two. All patients underwent unroofing procedure associated with intra-operative peritoneal lavage and external drainage. The mean hospital stay was 6.11 days, and the mean follow-up was 19 months. No case of recurrence was reported among the patients.ConclusionRupture of a hydatid cyst in the abdominal cavity should be evoked in front of acute abdominal pain, especially in endemic areas, and in the presence of an allergic reaction or anaphylactic shock signs. Combined surgical and medical care starting in the emergency room is the only guarantee of a good outcome.
Developing Research Competence of Teachers as a Way of Increasing Competitiveness of HEIs in Kazakhstan
Authors: Begunova Mariya , Qingyu Xu
Published: February 2021

The present article shows the findings of a basic quantitative research of the teachers’ research competence and its influence on higher educational institutions’ (hereafter: HEI) competitiveness on the sample of Kazakh University of International Relations &World Languages after Ablaikhan (hereafter: KazUIR&WL). Using the method of questionnaire, the study investigates the level of satisfaction of the students and parents with the education quality in KazUIR&WL, their needs and expectations, as well as shows the linkage between teachers’ research competence and the quality of education. The research involves 19 teachers, 70 students and 70 parents, who present their opinions by answering both open-ended and close-ended questions. The present research is inductive non-experimental and helps build a strong theoretical platform for generating further research questions. The main purpose of the research is mostly an assessment of the current situation in teaching English in Kazakhstan, with elements of evaluation and description. In this aspect, the current study can become a good scientific background for generating further research ideas in the sphere of education, linguistics, methodology, history, foreign culture studies and others. The method used in the present research is the method of questioning.
Time-Domain Correlation Quantitative Analysis Method of Regional Rainfall-Landslide Displacement Responses Based on a Time-Domain Correlation Model
Authors: Wu Tingchen , Xie Xiao , Zhu Qing , Zhang YeTing , Wu Haoyu , Zeng Haowei
Published: February 2021

Landslide deformation is the most intuitive and effective characterization of the evolution of landslides and reveals their inherent risk. Considering the inadequacy of existing deformation monitoring data in the early warning of landslide hazards, resulting in insufficient disaster response times, this paper proposes a time-domain correlation model. Based on a regional rainfall-landslide deformation response analysis method, a time-domain correlation measure between regional rainfall and landslide deformation and a calculation method based on impulse response functions are proposed for prevalent rainfall-induced landslide areas, and the correlation with the rainfall-triggered landslide deformation mechanism is quantitatively modeled. Furthermore, using rainfall monitoring data to optimize the indicator system for landslide deformation monitoring and early warning significantly improves the preliminary warning based on landslide deformation. The feasibility of the method proposed in this paper is verified by analyzing the historical monitoring data of rainfall and landslide deformation at 15 typical locations in 5 landslide hidden hazard areas in Fengjie County, Chongqing city. (1) The correlation models for the XP landslide and XSP landslide involve a 5-day lagged correlation under a 56-day cycle and a 18-21-day lagged correlation under a 49-52-day cycle, which means that the deformation in the above areas can be modeled cyclically according to monitoring data, and early landslide warnings can be provided in advance with a lag time. (2) The correlation models for the TMS landslide and OT landslide show consistent correlations under a 48-50-day cycle and a 58-day cycle, which means that the deformation in the above areas can be predicted based on rainfall accumulation, and real-time warnings of future landslide deformation and displacement can be obtained. (3) The HJWC landslide presents a disorderly correlation pattern, which means that a preliminary landslide deformation warning cannot be provided based on rainfall alone; other monitoring data need to be supplemented and analyzed.
Expression and Gene Regulation Network of SOX9 in Skin Metastasis of Gastric Carcinoma Derived From One Special Patient
Authors: Chen Guofeng , Zhu Jiyun , Yang Tang , Wang Huifang , Zhu Liegang , Yan Zhilong , Zhang Moucheng
Published: February 2021

BackgroundAn exceptional case of a patient with advanced gastric cancer is presented in this study, treated with multiple chemotherapy, radiotherapy and immune regimens, who exhibited regression of one metastatic lesion with concomitant progression of the other lesion during a treatment of PD-1 antibody period. MethodsUsing whole-exome sequencing, TBM, MSI/MSS, PD-1 positive or negative respond measurement, gene function, tumor expression, clinical stage, survival curve, pathopoiesia gene prediction, neoantigen score and immunogenomic approaches. ResultsWe found that SOX9 might mainly participate into the response process of PD-1 antibody in the right skin metastasis. Then, we used sequencing data from the Cancer Genome Atlas database and Gene Expression Omnibus, analyzing SOX9 expression and gene regulation networks in gastric carcinoma (GC). Expression and CNVs were analyzed using Oncomine and Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis tools, at the same time, SOX9 alterations and related pathway were identified using cBioPortal. LinkedOmics and GeneMANIA were used to identify differential mRNA expression with SOX9 and to analyze Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways. Gene enrichment analysis examined target networks of kinases, miRNAs, transcription factors and PPIs. The results show that SOX9 is overexpressed and the alteration type of SXO9 is mutation in GC. Expression of this gene coding protein is associated with biological interaction networks involving the cell dedifferentiation and WNT signaling process. Functional network analysis indicates that SOX9 mRNA level regulates the RNA process, DNA replication and cell cycle via pathways involving several cancer-related kinases, miRNAs and transcription factors, like casein kinase 2 alpha 1, cyclin dependent kinase 2, Mir296 and Mir214. ConclusionsOur results finally demonstrate that bioinformation analysis efficiently reveals online information of SOX9 expression and potential regulatory networks in GC, laying a foresight for further study of the role of SOX9 and a new PD-1 treatment predictor in gastric carcinogenesis.
Research on micro milling mechanism and surface roughness of high volume fraction SiCp/Al composites
Authors: Jin Po , Gao Qi , Wang Quanzhao , Li Wenbo
Published: February 2021

In this paper, the finite element simulation model of diamond tool milling SiCp/Al composites was established.The milling force, stress distribution and removal mechanism of SiC reinforced granular material were studied. The correctness of finite element simulation is verified by micro milling experiments. The results show that the maximum stress mainly occurs when the SiC particles are milled with PCD tool. The removal mechanism of particles is different when the tool is milling particles at different positions. The material surface defects are reduced and the surface quality is improved as the cutting speed is increased. The surface defects of SiCp/Al milling with single edge diamond milling tool mainly include cavities, microcracks, scratches and pits. According to the measurement results, it can be founded that the milling depth has the greatest influence on the surface roughness, followed by the spindle speed and the feed speed.
High Expression of eIF4E Regulates Immune Cell Infiltration and Leads to Poor Prognosis in Breast Cancer
Authors: Li Fan , Sun Huizhi , Li Yue , Bai Xiaoyu , Dong Xueyi , Zhao Nan , Meng Jie , Sun Baocun , Zhang DanFang
Published: February 2021

Background: The expression and activation of Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E (eIF4E) is related to tumor transformation and genesis, but the functional role and the mechanism whereby it drives immune infiltration in breast cancer remain uncertain.Methods: Multiple databases were used for assessing the expression and clinic-pathological features of eIF4E, after which ImmuCellAI and TIMER database were used to explore the relationship between eIF4E and immune infiltration of breast cancer. Finally, the genes co-expressed with eIF4E were identified by LinkedOmics. These genes were analyzed protein interaction network and TF-miRNA interaction network by Networkanalyst, and enriched by GO and KEGG. The key genes of immune markers were functionally annotated.Results: High expression of eIF4E was associated with poor overall survival (OS) and relapse-free survival (RFS) in breast cancer samples from multiple databases. It is notable that the expression of eIF4E is positively correlated with the infiltration of CD8+T cells, macrophages, neutrophils and dendritic cells. The expression of eIF4E is closely related to many immune markers in breast cancer. Functional analysis of co-expressed genes showed that they were involved in the biological process of human immune response. GO analysis showed that co-expressed immune marker genes were involved in human immune response, adaptive immune response, macrophage activation, extracellular structure organization and regulation of DNA metabolism process. KEGG enrichment showed that it was involved in inflammatory bowel disease, cell adhesion molecule pathway, JAK-STAT signal pathway, T cell receptor signal pathway and so on.Conclusions: These results suggest that high expression of eIF4E regulates immune cell infiltration, especially promotes macrophage M2 polarization by JAK / STAT6 and PI3K / AKT pathway, which is associated with poor prognosis of breast cancer patients. It is a valuable prognostic biomarker for breast cancer patients, and may be a potential therapeutic target in the future.
Lcsain3, A Novel Gene From Sheepgrass, Regulates Arabidopsis Seed Germination And Seedling Growth Under Salt Stress
Authors: Li Xiaoxia , Yang Weiguang , Li Qian , Zhao Pincang , Jia Junting , Qi Dongmei , Chen Shuangyan , Cheng Liqin , Liu Gongshe
Published: February 2021

Sheepgrass is a perennial native grass species with an aggressive and vigorous rhizome system, and it can tolerate high levels of salt stress. Many salt stress-responsive genes have been identified in sheepgrass. Here, we identified and characterized a novel salt-induced gene, LcSAIN3 (Leymus chinensis salt-induced 3), from sheepgrass. Expression analysis confirmed that LcSAIN3 is induced by PEG, ABA and salt stress. Subcellular localization analysis indicated that the LcSAIN3 protein is mainly localized in the chloroplasts. The heterologous of LcSAIN3 in Arabidopsis increases seed germination under various stress conditions. More importantly, the seedling survival, plant height and weight of the transgenic plants are higher than those of the WT plants under salt stress. The overexpression of LcSAIN3 causes a relatively high accumulation of free proline; enhances SOD activity; and leads to the upregulated expression of several stress-responsive genes, such as AtRAB26, AtRD29B, AtSOS1 and AtP5CS1. Our results suggest that LcSAIN3 may be a useful gene for the molecular breeding to improve plants salt stress tolerance.
Efficacy and Radiographic Analysis of Posterior Mono Axial Pedicle Screw Fixation in Treating Thoracolumbar Burst Fractures
Authors: Lee Sang-Soo , Shim Jae-Hoon , Seo Eun-Min
Published: February 2021

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of posterior mono axial pedicle screws fixation in the treatment of thoracolumbar burst fractures.Methods: In the present study we analyzed 50 patients retrospectively who had thoracolumbar burst fractures without a neurological deficit. Patients were divided into 2 groups: mono axial pedicle Screw fixation group (n = 25) and poly axial pedicle Screw fixation group (n = 25). We collected clinical data (visual analog scale score for back pain) and included radiographic measurements. The latter were used to calculate the sagittal plane kyphosis.Results: For the mono group, the preoperative mean sagittal index (SI) was O.59 ± 0.12 (range, 0.37–0.77), and the last follow up sagittal index (SI)was O.76 ± 0.09 (range, 0.56–0.89). For the poly group, the preoperative sagittal index (SI) was O.57 ± 0.11 (range, 0.34–0.82),and the last follow up sagittal index (SI) was O.65 ± 0.11 (range, 0.36–0.87). For the mono group, the mean postoperative regional kyphosis correction rate was 62.31%, and correction loss was 14.18% in late follow-up. For the poly group, the mean postoperative regional kyphosis correction rate was 52.17%, and correction loss was 33.42% in late follow-up. The mono axial pedicle screw group had good correction rate, and reduce the risks of correction loss. The mean visual analog scale (VAS) scores for back pain improved by 2.4/2.5 and 3.8/4.2 for the mono and poly groups. There was no significant difference between groups.Conclusions: The mono axial pedicle screw fixation was better for reducing and maintaining anterior vertebral height and regional kyphosis. Therefore, the mono axial pedicle screw is a better optional instrumentation to treat thoracolumbar vertebral fractures.
Three-Dimensional Printing of Mitral Valve Models Using Echocardiographic Data: Does it Add to The Knowledge of Cardiology Fellow Physicians in Training?
Authors: Bulbul Ziad , Rassi Issam El , Atweh Lamya , Hamade Ramsey F. , Tamim Hani , Bitar Fadi
Published: February 2021

Background: High fidelity three-dimensional Mitral valve models (3D MVM) printed from echocardiography are currently being used in preparation for surgical repair. We hypothesize that printed 3DMVM could have relevance to cardiologists in training by improving their understanding of normal anatomy and pathology. Methods: Fifteen fellow physicians in pediatrics and adult cardiology training were recruited. 3D echocardiography video clips of 6 mitral valves (one normal and five pathological) were displayed and the fellows were asked to name the prolapsing segments in each. Following that, still images of 3D MVMs corresponding to the same MVs seen in the clip were presented on a screen and the participating physicians were asked to answer a comprehensive questionnaire aimed at assessing whether the 3D model has improved their understanding of valvular anatomy. Finally, a printed 3D MVM of each of the previously projected valves was handed out, and the same questionnaire was re-administered to identify any further improvement in the participants’ perception of the anatomy. Results: The correct diagnosis using the echocardiography video clip of the Mitral valve was attained by 45% of the study participants. Both pediatric and adult trainees, regardless of the year of training demonstrated improved understanding of the anatomy of MV’s after observing the latter’s model image, with an even further improvement in that understanding after they had seen and physically examined the printed model. Conclusion: Printed 3D MVM has a beneficial impact on the understanding of MV anatomy and pathology compared to 3D-Echocardiography (3DE) images in cardiology trainees.