bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eficácia erga omnes, efeito vinculante e coisa julgada no controle concentrado de constitucionalidade
Authors: Ferro Rodrigo Rage
Published: May 2021

Interpretar conceitos jurídicos como eficácia erga omnes, efeito vinculante e coisa julgada é uma tarefa complexa no contexto do controle concentrado de constitucionalidade. Sempre se discutiu na doutrina se o significado dos conceitos de eficácia erga omnes e efeito vinculante presentes nas emendas à Constituição de 1988 e na legislação infraconstitucional relativos ao controle concentrado poderia ser interpretado com base no Código de Processo Civil vigente ou se deveria ser de acordo com o direito tedesco. Ademais, ainda há quem sustente a tese da inexistência da coisa julgada no controle concentrado. Diante desses desafios e na tentativa de se aprofundar na interpretação dessas figuras e na relação entre elas, fez-se uma análise da dimensão processual-constitucional desses institutos, usando método hipotético-dedutivo com base na jurisprudência do STF e na doutrina nacional e estrangeira, sempre com foco no impacto deles sobre a imunização das decisões no âmbito do controle concentrado de constitucionalidade.
Twenty years later: Application of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union as an Anthropocentric and Innovative Document
Authors: VIGLIANISI FERRARO Angelo , Ilik Goran
Published: May 2021

The paper analyzes the legal content and scope of the norms of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the EU and their meaning and application as a para-constitutional document of anthropocentric and innovative nature in the last twenty years. Special attention is paid to the place and role of the CJEU as a judicial body in charge of implementing and harmonizing EU law. The article also deals with the possibility of direct application of the norms of the Charter, both vertically and horizontally. In addition, the paper cites the CJEU case law to confirm the thesis that it must undertake a moral and legal obligation in order to impose itself not only as a creator of legal doctrines but also as the guardian of the fundamental rights and freedoms of the EU.
Gerontology and Nursing in the Emergency Department
Authors: Charles Gerard , Lau Pei Wen Sophia , Bin Supandi Muhammad Saifuddin
Published: May 2021

Background: With a rapid rise in our older adult population globally and due to their multimorbidities, our older adults are more likely to engage in the services provided in the emergency department at a higher rate than younger adults. The current emergency service delivery model may be ineffective against such an ageing phenomenon. Research reports most older adults having one or more co-morbidities including functional decline, dementia, and frailty. Studies have shown that older adults have been undertriaged with physicians not being able to comprehend their complex needs related to their presenting complaints in the emergency department. Geriatric emergency departments have incepted worldwide to better manage this care deficiency in the rapidly ageing society around the world. Data Sources: A search of published literature from 2010-2020 using (keywords) as described below was undertaken of which, relevant literature were selected for an informed review. Implications for Nursing: Understanding geriatric emergencies can enable healthcare workers to reduce undertriaging and provide appropriate care that improves patient's health outcomes currently and in the future in the emergency department. Further education in gerontology can also be a platform for our nurses to enhance their care and thought process, likewise upskilling themselves for the future geriatric population seeking treatment. Older healthcare workers will also be able to enhance their current job scope before retirement. In-house teachings from trained gerontologists or certified programs can shed light on the special care needs of our senior citizens globally. Conclusion: With our rapidly increasing population, we can expect an influx of our older patients both from home and long-term care facilities to present to the emergency department with a wide range of geriatric emergencies. By being able to create a geriatric screening process and tailored care models, healthcare workers will be able to understand their care process and in turn, improve patients' health outcomes and provide a quicker transition of care.
Space Retrieval Training for Memory Enhancement in Adults with Dementia
Authors: Camenzind Lauren , Kafader Molly , Schwam Rachel , Taylor Mikayla , Wilkes Zoie , Williams Madison
Published: May 2021

The final portfolio contains 8 research articles from national and international journals. Study designs include one systematic review, one randomized control trial with pretest-posttest design, three small-scale randomized control trials, one quasi-experimental study with no control, one time-series study, and one case study. All studies relate directly to components of the evidence-based practice question and will be used to draft new recommendations for implementation regarding spaced retrieval training for memory enhancement in adults with dementia. Seven out of the eight articles looked at the effects of SR techniques on functional tasks. Articles looked at eating difficulty (1), independent use of walkers (1), iADL function (3), use of technology (1), and ADL function (1). One out of eight articles looked at benefits of spaced retrieval techniques on episodic memory, which is not necessarily a functional task, but is needed to perform functional tasks.
The Effect of Supervision, Motivation Andwork Commitment with Employee Performance at Directorate General of Islamic Community Guidance Ministry of Religion of The Republic Of Indonesia
Authors: Aliyati  , Supriyati Yetty , Akbar Ma'ruf
Published: May 2021

The objective of the research is to find out the effect of supervision, motivation, andwork commitment to the employee performance at DirektoratJenderalBimbinganMasyarakat Islam Kementerian Agama Republik Indonesia.Survey was applied in this study which data have been analyzed by path analysis after all variables put into correlation matrix and multiple regression. In this research, the employee have been chosen as a unit analysis and 150 samples selected randomly. The results of the study found that employee performance was directly influenced by supervision, motivation, and work commitment. And indirectly, employee performance is influenced by the supervisory variable and the motivation variable through work commitment, this shows that the commitment variable is not a good mediating variable. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that the variation of Supervision, Motivation and Commitment each has an effect on employee performance, but the motivation variable is more dominant in influencing employee performance, for that it is suggested to the leadership element that to improve employee motivation performance becomes a benchmark in the success of organizational performance. .

The objective of the research is to find out the effect of supervision, motivation, andwork commitment to the employee performance at DirektoratJenderalBimbinganMasyarakat Islam Kementerian Agama Republik Indonesia.Survey was applied in this study which data have been analyzed by path analysis after all variables put into correlation matrix and multiple regression. In this research, the employee have been chosen as a unit analysis and 150 samples selected randomly. The results of the study found that employee performance was directly influenced by supervision, motivation, and work commitment. And indirectly, employee performance is influenced by the supervisory variable and the motivation variable through work commitment, this shows that the commitment variable is not a good mediating variable. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that the variation of Supervision, Motivation and Commitment each has an effect on employee performance, but the motivation variable is more dominant in influencing employee performance, for that it is suggested to the leadership element that to improve employee motivation performance becomes a benchmark in the success of organizational performance.
Deradicalization of Terrorism Prisoner: Evaluation of The Terrorism Client Guidance Program at the Surakarta Correctional Facility
Authors: Isnanto Samto Hadi , Akbar Ma'ruf , Tunas Billy
Published: May 2021

The radicalism that leads to terrorism is a threat to almost every country in the world, leading many countries to employ a deradicalization program to deradicalize people that have been influenced by terrorist ideology. This research purpose is to evaluate the effectiveness of deradicalization effort conducted through “terrorism client guidance program at Surakarta Correctional Facility”. Using the CIPP model of evaluation, data is collected from eighteen terrorism clients and a few structural officials as well as all related documents at Surakarta Correctional Facility. The result of this study found that: (1) Evaluation of context component is worth average, (2) Evaluation of input component is worth poor, (3) Evaluation of process component is worth good, and (4) Evaluation of product component is worth average. Overall, the effectiveness of deradicalization conducted through guidance for terrorism client program at Surakarta Correctional Facility is worth average. Although the total evaluation merit of the terrorist client’s guidance program is still in the level of average, however, the author suggests that the program should be continued by revising some areas of concern.

 

Keywords: Deradicalization, Evaluation Program, Guidance of Terrorism Client.
Reinventing High School: Understanding the Challenges and Successes of
Transforming Education to Meet Student, Society, and Industry Needs

Authors: Bartholomew Scott R. , Strimel Greg J. , Lucietto Anne , Akdere Mesut
Published: May 2021

Efforts to revamp existing educational systems and approaches result in various
new models in STEM education. Accordingly, a new urban public charter school, located in
a Midwest state in the United States, was established in partnership with the state’s
land-grant university to create a transformed integrated STEM educational environment
characterized by industry-focused and design-based learning to help prepare students for
the future of work and learning. This article presents findings from an exploratory
study that examined the experiences of teachers and administrative staff of this
innovative high school (IHS) during the first year of school operation. A purposive
sample of 16 teachers and administrators from the IHS completed a semi-structured
interview and a focus group. Several themes—related to the experiences during the first
year of the school—from the interviews with the participants emerged including: (1)
developing novel approaches for planning and implementing design-based learning cycles,
(2) facing challenges with personalized learning, (3) establishing methods for creating
authentic and industry-driven learning experiences, (4) addressing challenges with
open-ended learning, (5) confronting concerns about competencies that are not measured
through standardized assessments, (6) struggling with teacher burnout, and (7)
challenging traditional school systems and facilities with integrated learning
environments. Based on these findings, potential implications, considerations, and
future directions for the implementation of innovative industry- driven, design-based
educational approaches are provided.
Note. To preserve anonymity the name of the
high school has been generalized and the acronym IHS will be used throughout
Immediate Impact of Dynamic Graphics Instruction on Learners of Varied
Levels of Spatial Ability

Authors: Grant Gabriel
Published: May 2021

Spatial ability is a skill set that has shown to be vital to success in a variety
of academic disciplines and professional careers, particularly in engineering- and
technology-related fields. Various instructional mediums such as animation, video, and
static graphics are utilized by educators as a means to help develop and promote spatial
ability. The effort to produce some of these instructional tools can be considerable.
The impact of each form of media used can also impact retention and application in
learners of varying levels of spatial ability. This study investigated the immediate
impact of static graphics, animation, and video on mental rotation abilities of
non-engineering university students with varying levels of spatial ability at a
midwestern university. Statistical significance was not found between each of the
groups, but multiple interactions were observed that posit that a single form media may
not be the solution for all learners. Educators should weigh the cognitive task and the
abilities of learners prior to selecting the media. Where possible multiple forms of
instructional tools should be made available to cater to the classroom.
Challenges in evaluating efficacy of scientific visualization for usability and aesthetics
Authors: Baca Julie , Carruth Daniel , Calhoun Alex , Stephens Michael , Lewis Christopher
Published: May 2021

This paper presents the results of a study to evaluate the efficacy of scientific visualization for multiple categories of users, including both domain experts as well as users from the general public. Efficacy was evaluated for understanding, usability, and aesthetic value. Results indicate that aesthetics play a critical, but complex role in enhancing both user understanding and usability.
Apoptotic mechanisms of myricitrin isolated from Madhuca longifolia leaves in HL-60 leukemia cells
Authors: Sarkar Monaj Kumar , Kar Amrita , Jayaraman Adithyan , Shanmugam Karthi , Vellingiri Vadivel , Mahapatra Santanu Kar
Published: May 2021

Background: Myricitrin, a naturally occurring flavonoid in Madhuca longifolia, possesses several medicinal properties. Even though our earlier work revealed its role against the proliferation of acute myelogenous leukemia cells (HL-60), its molecular mechanisms have not yet been revealed. The current study aims to explore the molecular mechanisms of myricitrin (isolated from an ethnomedicinal drug Madhuca longifolia) to induce apoptosis in HL-60 cells. Methods and Results: Treatment with IC-50 dose of myricitrin (353 µM) caused cellular shrinkage and cell wall damage in HL-60 cells compared to untreated control cells. Myricitrin treatment reduced the mitochondrial membrane potential (22.95%), increased DNA fragmentation (90.4%), inhibited the cell survival proteins (RAS, B-RAF, & BCL-2) and also induced pro-apoptotic proteins (p38, pro-caspase-3, pro-caspase-9 and caspase-3) in the HL-60 cells. Conclusions: The present study provides scientific evidence for the apoptosis caused by myricitrin in HL-60 leukemia cells. Hence, the phytochemical myricitrin could be considered as a potential candidate to develop an anticancer drug after checking its efficacy through suitable pre-clinical and clinical studies.
Evaluation of sex steroid hormones and reproductive irregularities in diethyl phthalate exposed premature mice: modulatory effect of raw honey against potential anomalies
Authors: Ara Chaman , Asmatullah  , Yaseen Faiza , Ali Shaukat , Shakir Hafiz Abdullah , Khan Muhammad , Andleeb Shagufta , Ramzan Nageena
Published: May 2021

Phthalates, plasticizing chemicals are top-rated environmental contaminants. Diethyl phthalate (DEP), a chief member of this family was declared a potent endocrine-disruptor and carcinogen in animals and humans. The current study was designed to explore the probable reproductive damage induced by DEP and the therapeutic efficacy of raw honey in male albino mice. Four weeks old 50 male mice, were randomized equally in five groups, as control (C) received 0.1 ml distilled water; vehicle control (VC) received 0.1 ml corn oil; DEP (3mg/g/BW) dissolved in corn oil; Honey control (HC) administered 0.2 mg/g/day); P + H administered with DEP and honey (3mg and 0.2 mg/g/BW/day respectively). Mice were treated through oral gavage for 54 days routinely, acclimatized for 6 days and dissected. In the first instance, the antioxidant potential and total phenolic contents of honey were analyzed through Ferric reducing antioxidant power assay and Folin-Ciocalteu assay to confirm the antioxidant capacity of honey. The morphological, morphometric, histological, micrometric, sperm count, hormonal analyses, and antioxidant capacity test in tissue homogenates were conducted by using tissues (testis, epididymis) and blood samples of mice. Mice exposed to DEP have a significant increase in body weight, LH level, seminiferous tubule lumen diameter and decrease in the gonado-somatic index, testosterone level, sperm count, and seminiferous tubule diameter. Additionally, histopathology of testes showed interstitial spaces dilations, exfoliations, Leydig cells atrophy, germ cell degenerations and spermatid retention in DEP exposed testes sections. However, concomitant use of honey and DEP had shown a significant improvement in histopathological lesions, steroid hormone levels, and healthy sperm count. By these results, it is concluded that honey possessed antioxidant potential that can efficiently protect DEP-induced anomalies in male mice.
Distribution and size variability of Japanese eel leptocephali in their Pacific Ocean spawning area using carbon and nitrogen stable isotope ratio analyses
Authors: Kimura Shingo , Miyazaki Sachie , Onda Hiroaki , Kitagawa Takashi , Miyake Yoichi , Miller Michael J , Tsukamoto Katsumi
Published: May 2021

The diets of larval (leptocephali) anguillid and marine eels are poorly understood, despite studies on their gut contents or stable isotope ratios suggesting marine snow particles represent a food source. Concerns for Japanese eel Anguilla japonica stock conservation necessitate an improved knowledge of their larval ecology to better understand the causes of their recent decline in numbers and fluctuating recruitment into East Asia. To understand the distribution of and variation in size of leptocephali in relation to their feeding, we examine carbon and nitrogen stable isotope ratios of larvae from seven research cruises (2002–2013) in the North Equatorial Current spawning area. Preleptocephali (2–3 days old, ~5 mm total length) isotope ratios reflect maternal ratios, but feeding-stage leptocephali (8–56 mm) tend to have higher ∂15N values with decrease of latitude typically in areas south of a salinity front. Neither ∂15N nor ∂13C ratios are clearly related to longitude or larval size < 30 mm, but ∂13C values of larvae > 40 mm are lower further downstream in the North Equatorial Current and Subtropical Countercurrent. Differences in ∂13C values might be a function of varying spatial baselines in the two currents apart from the spawning area. Although among-year larval isotope ratio differences may reflect temporal baseline variation related to the location of the salinity front, more research with much wider range observations in the spawning season is required because ingested marine snow particles might differ with larval growth and location.
Novel Natural Inhibitors Targeting AKT1 by Computational Study
Authors: Wu Bo , Yang Wenzhuo , Zhang Zhiyun , Dou Gaojing , Lv Xiaye , Wang Xinhui , Ge Junliang , Pan Xuefeng , Wang Hongyu , Zhong Sheng
Published: May 2021

Object: This study was designed to screen ideal lead compounds and drug candidates with an inhibitory effect on AKT1 from the drug library (ZINC database).Methods: A battery of computer-aided virtual techniques were used to identify potential inhibitors of AKT1. LibDock is used for structure-based screening followed by ADME (absorption distribution, metabolic excretion) and toxicity prediction. Molecular dynamics simulations were used to evaluate the stability of ligand-receptor complexes.Results: Two new natural compounds ZINC000049872065 and ZINC000021992902 were found to bind to AKT1 in the ZINC database, showing a higher binding affinity. Also, they were predicted to have lower rodent carcinogenicity, Ames mutagenicity, developmental toxicity potential, and high tolerance to cytochrome P4502D6. Molecular dynamics simulation shows that ZINC000049872065 and ZINC000021992902 have more favorable potential energies with AKT1, which can exist stably in the natural environment.Conclusion: This study suggests that ZINC000049872065 and ZINC000021992902 are ideal potential inhibitors of AKT1 targeting. These compounds are safe drug candidates and have important implications for the design and improvement of C-MET target drugs.
Effects of S24-7 on the weight of progeny rats after exposure to ceftriaxone sodium during pregnancy
Authors: Yang Xin , Tang Ting , Wen Jing , Li Mengchun , Chen Jie , Li Tingyu , Dai Ying , Cheng Qian
Published: May 2021

Antibiotic exposure during pregnancy will adversely affect the growth of offspring; however, this remains controversial and the mechanism is poorly understood. To study this phenomenon, we added ceftriaxone sodium to the drinking water of pregnant rats and continuously monitored the body weight of their offspring. The results showed that compared with the control group, the offspring exposed to antibiotics during pregnancy had a higher body weight up to 3 weeks old but had a lower body weight at 6 weeks old. To determine the role of the gut microbiota and its metabolites in the growth of offspring, we collected feces for sequencing and further established that the experimental group has a different composition ratio of dominant bacteria at 6 week old, among which S24-7 correlated negatively with body weight and the metabolites that correlated with body weight-related unique flora were L-Valine, L-Leucine, Glutaric acid, N-Acetyl-L-glutamate, and 5-Methylcytosine. To further explore how they affect the growth of offspring, we submitted these data to Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes website for relevant pathway analysis. The results showed that compared with the control, the following metabolic pathways changed significantly: Valine, leucine, and isoleucine biosynthesis; Protein digestion and absorption; and Mineral absorption. Therefore, we believe that our findings support the conclusion that ceftriaxone sodium exposure in pregnancy has a long-lasting adverse effect on the growth of offspring because of an imbalance of gut microbiota, especially S24-7, via different metabolic pathways.
Endoscopic Versus Minimally Invasive Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion In 1-Segment Lumbar Spondylolisthesis: A Prospective Randomised Pilot Study
Authors: Lv You , Chen Ming , Qin Ru-Jie , Ma Cheng , Ding Qi-Rui , Qin Hao-Nan , Chen Jing-Yang , Wang Xiang-fu , Wang Shou-Lin , Ren Yong-Xin
Published: May 2021

Background: There are currently several minimally invasive techniques for lumbar spine interbody fusion that have been shown to minimize surgical and perioperative morbidity. We aimed to evaluate the curative efficacy of endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (Endo-TLIF) by comparing perioperative characteristics and 1.5-year observational outcomes in 1-segment lumbar spondylolisthesis between the minimally invasive TLIF (MIS-TLIF) technique and the optimized Endo-TLIF technique. Methods: One hundred and two patients treated by MIS-TLIF (48 cases) or Endo-TLIF (54 cases) were included from March 2018 to April 2019. Perioperative parameters and clinical outcomes were evaluated. Inflammatory biomarkers were measured for postoperative traumatic stress and muscle injury. Fusion rates were determined at 18 months after surgery by CT.Results: The Endo-TLIF group had similar incision length, return to work time and rate (p>0.05). Blood loss, left bed time and analgesic ratio were significantly less in Endo-TLIF group (p<0.05). The Endo-TLIF group had a significantly longer operative and radiation exposure time compared with MIS-TLIF group (p<0.05). The CRP and ESR levels were lower in the Endo-TLIF group compared with the MIS-TLIF group (p<0.05). The VAS and ODI improved significantly in both groups after surgery. Significant decreases in low back VAS in the Endo-TLIF group were found at postoperative day 1 and 3 months after surgery (p<0.05). The fusion rate in the Endo-TLIF group (90.7%) was similar to that in the MIS-TLIF group (95.8%).Conclusions: Endo-TLIF has comparable perioperative analysis and clinical outcomes in comparison to MIS-TLIF and manifests a greater improvement in less multifidus muscle damage, inflammation and faster patient recovery. Thus, Endo-TLIF should be considered as a feasible and effective technique for 1-segment lumbar spondylolisthesis patients with similar fusion rate.Trial registration: ChiCTR1800015197, 13 March 2018. Trial registry: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry. Registered 13 March 2018. http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=25865
Engineering Physical Factor Considerations for Specifying Dam Type During Memve’ele Dam Construction (South-Cameroon).
Authors: NTOMBA sylvestre martial , Bisso Dieudonné , Atouba Lise Okomo , Takamte Rufine christelle Magnekou , Patipe Sylvie Durande Djikam , ONDOA Joseph MVONDO
Published: May 2021

This paper presents the results of engineering investigations used to select a best design for the Memve’ele dam. The selection of Memve’ele dam type has been based on consideration of physical factors such as topography, climate, availability of construction material, geology, geotechnical and foundation conditions and the selection of optima alternative between three dam types. According to these factors, Memve’ele valley is very wide and situated in the warm climate zone with dry and rainy seasons favorable to embankment type dam; the geology reveals very good conditions with Ntem formations and residual deposits as foundation materials and the dam site is not influenced by earthquake; this behavior is confirmed by geotechnical data and further indicates that this site is favorable to a composite dam type (embankment and concrete dams or connecting concrete structures) and the construction materials found within or near the dam site are suitable for usage. These characteristics have contributed retaining three dam types. The alternative of these three dams is a composite dam type option including homogeneous earth dam and rock fill dam with central core link by concrete structures. Engineering geological map and general layout of Memve’ele’s dam highlight the important role plays by engineers. The main dam that is observed actually in the Memve’ele dam site is composed from left to right of left connecting dam section, flushing sluice, main spillway section, riverbed dam section, auxiliary spillway section and right bank dam section.
Clinical Outcomes after Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Over Time on the Basis of CYP2C19 Polymorphisms: Evidence from a Chinese Cohort
Authors: Zhang Yang , Zhao Xiliang , Ye Yicong , Li Quan , Zeng Yong
Published: May 2021

Purpose：To investigate the association between CYP2C19 gene polymorphism and the risk of ischemic and bleeding complications in the different period after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) among patients who received clopidogrel.Methods：Between October 2015 and January 2017, CYP2C19 genotyped patients who were treated clopidogrel after PCI were enrolled this observational cohort study. Included patients were categorized as non-loss-of-function metabolizers (NLOFMs), intermediate metabolizers (IMs) and poor metabolizers (PMs) based on CYP2C19 genotype. The primary outcome was a composite of any-cause mortality, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal ischemic stroke and stent thrombosis occurring during exposure to clopidogrel. The rates of clinical outcome events were compared between CYP2C19 phenotypes. Landmark analyses were processed at 90 days and 1-year post-PCI.Results：Of 1,341 patients, 161 (12.0%) had two copy of loss-of-function (LOF) alleles, 621(46.3%) had one LOF allele, and 559 (41.7%) had no LOF allele. At the 3-month follow-up, the primary outcome events were more frequent in carriers of two LOF alleles (5.6%) than in noncarriers (1.8%) (adjusted HR 2.944, 95% CI 1.184-7.321, p = 0.020). A similar finding was observed among in patients with acute coronary syndrome indications at the index PCI (adjusted HR 3.046, 95% CI 1.237-7.501, p = 0.015). These differences did not persist within the subsequent 9 months of follow-up, among either all-comers or subjects with ACS. The incidences of bleeding outcome events were similar among CYP2C19 phenotypes throughout the follow-up period.Conclusion：These data demonstrate a higher risk for ischemic events in patients with two CYP2C19 LOF alleles who are prescribed clopidogrel, previously seen at 3 months following PCI, that is not sustained for 12 months. These ﬁndings emphasize the need to place greater weight on a PM result during early antiplatelet therapy de-escalating decisions.
The Changes of Soil Seed Banks In Time Series Before And After The Invasive Artemisia Trifida Was Removed From Grassland
Authors: Wang Hanyue , Liu Tong , Dong Hegan , Zhao Wenxuan , Liu Xuelian , Wang Ruili , Xu Wenbin
Published: May 2021

Artemisia trifida (giant ragweed) is an invasive weed with an expanding distribution area. In recent years it has been found to invade grasslands, bringing great challenges for effective weed control and restoration of native herbage. Although it has been reported that plant invasion can cause a decline in species richness and biodiversity in native seed banks, which may eventually lead to the depletion of native seed banks, few location- and species-specific case studies have been conducted regarding the dynamic characteristics of the invaded seed banks from invasion back to restoration. The purpose of this study was to compare and quantify the seed banks of grassland communities after (1) giant ragweed invasion for 0-8 years, and (2) giant ragweed removal, in Yili Valley, Xinjiang, China. The results showed that the duration of invasion determined whether giant ragweed could pose a significant threat to the native community seed bank. The seed bank density of native community had significantly decreased by 30.44% after 4 years of invasion, and in the sixth year, the species richness in the seed bank had decreased significantly by 12.36%. After the invasion had lasted for eight years, the seed bank density of the native community had decreased by 83.28%, the species richness in the seed bank decreased by 39.33%, and the seed bank tended to be homogeneous. After the giant ragweed was removed, the potential for restoration was limited by the residual seed bank. Three years after the restoration, although the density of seed banks increased significantly, new growth was dominated by weedy species, rather than crucial components of the grassland habitat. This study is of great significance to the control of giant ragweed and the restoration of grassland vegetation invaded by giant ragweed.
An In-Silico Analysis of Differentially Expressed Genes and mi-RNA Regulating Them in HPV Positive and HPV Negative Head and Neck Cancers (H&NC).
Authors: Shekhawat Jyoti , Gadwal Ashita , Khokhar Manoj , Gauba Kavya , Gupta Shruti , Choudhury Bikram , Banerjee Mithu
Published: May 2021

HPV contributes to the pathogenesis of H&NC. H&NC patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage and are more disposed to lymph node metastasis. There is conflicting evidence with regard to distant metastasis in H&NC. Identification of potential candidate genes which can be used as predictors of prognosis in HPV positive/negative H&NCs are needed. We initiated the study using publicly available microarray gene expression datasets from the GEO. Functional enrichment analysis of significant genes was done using the DAVID. The PPI network was constructed in the STRING and visualized using Cytoscape. The CytoHubb plugin was utilized to identify the key genes in this complicated network. The MCODE plugin was applied to screen out significant gene modules. Hub genes identified were analysed for overall survival (OS) in GEPIA. Analysis of the miRNA and transcription factors targeting the hub gene with significance was done using miRNet. GEO datasets GSE39366, GSE40774, GSE117973 were used in this study. We identified 67 overlapping DEGs which were significant. Gene Ontology identified key terms as ‘cellular component’, ‘biological process’, and ‘molecular function’ respectively. Cytoscape and MCODE revealed two significant modules. The common hub genes identified using cytohubb plugin. CAV1 has been reported to be significantly associated with OS in H&NC patients. 3 targeting miRNA and 54 transcription factors were identified using miRNet. In-silico survival and expression analyses revealed CAV1 as a candidate gene that may be used to predict the course of disease progression in HPV positive and HPV negative H&NC patients. Further invitro studies validating CAV1 and its three target miRNAs as predictors of prognosis in H&NC are highly warranted.
Effects of Steam-Flaked Grains On Foals Growth Performance And Faecal Microbiota
Authors: Li XiaoBin , Huang Xin Xin , Zang Chang Jiang , Ma Chen , Chen Kai Xu , Zhao Guo Dong , Li Qian , Li Xuan Yue , Zhang Wen Jie , Yang Kai Lun
Published: May 2021

BackgroundThere is little objective information concerning the effect of steam-flaked grains on foal’s growth performance and faecal microbiota.To determine the effects of steam-flaked grains on foal’s growth performance and faecal microbiota.Faecal samples were collection from 18 foals which had been fed corn, oat or barley diets over the 60 days of the experiment. Body weight and measurements were collected. Next-generation sequencing of the V3+V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene was used to assess the microbial composition of faeces. Alpha diversity, Venn graph, Relative abundance and beta diversity are presented.ResultsThere was a significantly higher increase in the body weight of those foals fed barley compared to either corn or oats, both in terms of the total weight gain and the daily weight gain (P=0.0185). There were also significant changes in the Alpha diversity. The Shannon and Simpson indices were higher in the barley fed group than those fed corn or oats (P<0.05, P<0.05, P<0.05 and P<0.05). The Chao1 index was higher in the oat fed group than the corn or barley fed groups (P<0.05 and P<0.05). There were significant changes in the relative abundance of bacteria in the microbiota in terms of phylum, family and genus. The histogram of LDA value distribution showed that the statistically different biomarkers of the bacteria was 12. Tax4Fun function annotation clustering heat map showed that functional information was detected from 26 species of bacteria in faecal samples from the foals.ConclusionsDifferences were seen in the faecal microbiota of foals fed either corn, oat or barley, and also differences in the overall growth of the foals. Different grains have different impact on faecal microbiota, which are mainly related to the grain sources. Further investigation is required to look at the potential impact of changes in the microbiota on the functional impact on foals when fed grains.
Effect of Sintering Mechanisms On The Mechanical Behaviour of SiC And Kaoline Reinforced Hybrid Aluminium Metal Matrix Composite Fabricated Through Powder Metallurgy Technique
Authors: Venkatesh V.S.S , Deoghare Ashish B
Published: May 2021

Hybrid metal matrix composites with naturally available and low-cost reinforcements made tremendous demand in the automobile industry to fabricate parts like Pistons, Automobile body and brake discs because of the superior properties of HMMC compared to monolithic Aluminium. Present work focusses on the fabrication of Al-10% SiC-4% Kaoline HMMC by using conventional sintering, Microwave sintering and Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) techniques. To reveal the phase identification and the distribution of reinforcements, Fabricated composites were investigated by using XRD, SEM integrated with an EDS analyser. Tensile, Compression and hardness tests were performed as per ASTM standards to study the effect of sintering mechanisms on the fabricated HMMC specimens. Results reveal that an enhancement of 13.3 % in U.T.S and 11.7 % Compression strength was observed in the Spark Plasma Sintered HMMC when compared to conventional sintered composite specimens because of lesser sintering temperature, time and the absence of intermetallic compounds in the Spark Plasma Sintering process. The formation of the Al2Cu intermetallic compound was identified in the XRD pattern of conventionally sintered Al-10% SiC-4% Kaoline HMMC sample due to the high sintering time and temperature which leads to inadequate mechanical properties. The fractured surface of tensile specimens reveals the presence of cleavages on the conventionally sintered HMMC which conforms the brittle fracture, and the existence of dimples on the Microwave sintered and Spark Plasma Sintered samples which signify that the ductile mode of failure in HMMC samples. Out of the three sintering techniques, Spark Plasma Sintering exhibits superior mechanical properties and lesser porosity levels.
KAZN As a Diagnostic Marker in Ovarian Cancer: A Comprehensive Analysis Based on Microarray, MRNA-Sequencing, and Methylation Data
Authors: Zhu Songling , Bao Hongxia , Zhang Mengchun , Zhao Xingjuan , Liu Shu-lin
Published: May 2021

Background: Previous studies have shown that KAZN is involved in multiple biological processes such as cell development, proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Most of the studies related to KAZN have been carried out in keratinocytes. Apart from that, KAZN is also expressed in other tissues, such as the ovary. However, the related research is relatively few and the function in other tissue or cell is still not clear. Methods: We investigated the correlations between KAZN expression and clinical characteristics of ovarian cancer (OC) and compared methylation levels of normal and OC samples through data collected from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) microarrays, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), and Clinical Proteomic Tumor Analysis Consortium (CPTAC). The relationships among differentially methylated sites in the KAZN gene, corresponding KAZN mRNA expression levels and prognosis were further analyzed.Results: KAZN was up-regulated in ovarian epithelial tumors and the expression of KAZN was correlated with the patients’ survival time. KAZN CpG site cg17657618 was positively correlated to the expression of mRNA and the methylation levels are significantly differential between the group of the stage of “I and II” the group of the stage “III and IV”. This study also presents a method to classify tumor and normal tissue in OC using DNA methylation pattern in the KAZN gene body region. Conclusions: We validated that KAZN was involved in ovarian cancer progression. These results may provide a new direction for ovarian cancer research and provide a potential diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target.
PNI, As a Nutritional and Inflammatory Index, Was Able to Predict Prognosis of Patients With Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Carcinoma
Authors: Liu Juan , Tian Xiangguo
Published: May 2021

Background: Recent studies have indicated that there is a strong link between the prognosis of cancer and the nutritional status. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether an indicator of nutritional status- the prognostic nutritional index (PNI), could affect overall survival in patients with pancreatic neuroendocrine carcinoma (p-NEC). Methods: A total of 147 patients with p-NEC, who had successfully undergone biopsy by surgical operation in Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University from October 2010 to February 2019, were investigated. The serum albumin concentration and absolute lymphocyte count were used to calculate the PNI: serum albumin concentration (g/L) +5×total lymphocyte count (×109/L).Results: Mean pretreatment PNI was 47.6. Weight loss (P = 0.003), lymphatic metastasis (P=0.006) and tumor ENETS (European Neuroendocrine Tumor Society) stage (P = 0.024), were significantly associated with PNI. Univariate analysis showed that the following factors caused decreased overall survival (OS): age (≧60years, p=0.006, vs. <60years), abdominal pain (p=0.038, vs absence of abdominal pain), weight loss (p=0.025, vs. absence of weight loss), lymphatic metastasis (p=0.0000 vs. absence of lymphatic metastasis) and tumor ENETS stage (I–II，p=0.0000, vs. III–IV). Following the multivariate analysis, PNI remained an independent prognostic factor in p-NEC. Patients with lower PNIs (PNI < 47.6) had higher risk of death than those with higher PNIs (PNI ≧ 47.6; hazard ratio: 4.508; 95 % confidence interval: 1.903–10.678; P = 0.001). Conclusions: Our present study indicated that pretreatment PNI may be a novel independent prognostic factor in patients with p-NEC.
The CRISPR-Cas System and its Relationship with MGEs in Klebsiella
Authors: Qu Daofeng , Zhou Yuqiao , Zhou Wei , Zhou Jinzhi , He Ze , Zhang Enbao , Zheng Xiner , Zong Shuaizhou , Tian Shiyi , Han Jianzhong
Published: May 2021

Microorganisms have developed many strategies in the process of long-term defense against external attacks, one of which is the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated proteins (Cas) bacterial immunological system. In this paper, the whole genome of 300 strains of Klebsiella was collected, the CRISPR-Cas system in the strains was statistically analyzed, and the types and structures of CRISPR system in Klebsiella were explored, as well as the correlation between CRISPR and mobile genetic elements (MGEs). Through principal component analysis (PCA), we found that Cas gene, plasmids, integron, IS1, IS609 and DNA-related enzymes were closely related to CRISPR. Compared the structural characteristics of plasmids, the DinG family helicases, Cas6, Csf2, and IS5 were observed near the CRISPR loci in plasmid, which is also confirmed by the the results of PCA that they may be important factors affecting the plasmid whith CRISPR.
Differential Hippocampal Protein Expression Betweennormal Mice and Mice With the Perioperative Neurocognitive Disorder: a Proteomic Analysis
Authors: Li Chuan , Li Jingzhu , Tao He , Shan Jinghua , Liu Fanghao , Deng Xiyuan , Lin Yanan , Lin Xu , Fu Li , Wang Bin , Bi Yanlin
Published: May 2021

ObjectivesTo compare differential expression protein in hippocampal tissues from mice of perioperative neurocognitive disorder (PND) and normal control mice and to explore the possible mechanism of PND. MethodsMice were randomly divided into a PND group(n=9) and a control group(n=9).The mice in the PND group were treated with open tibial fracture with intramedullary fixation under isoflurane anesthesia, while the mice in the control group received pure oxygen without surgery. The cognitive functions of the two groups were examined using Morris water maze experiment,Open field test and Fear conditioning test. The protein expression of the hippocampus of mice were analyzed by High-Performance Liquid-Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) .Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were performed to explore the principal functions of dysregulated proteins. ResultsA total of 21 proteins were differentially expressed between PND and control mice on days 1, 3, and 7 after the operation. These proteins were involved in many pathological processes, such as neuroinflammatory responses, mitochondrial oxidative stress, impaired synaptic plasticity, and neuronal cell apoptosis. Also, the dysregulated proteins were involved in MAPK, AMPK, and ErbB signaling pathways. ConclusionThe occurrence of PND could be attributed to multiple mechanisms.
Brachial Artery Transposition Versus Catheters as Tertiary Vascular Access for Maintenance Hemodialysis: A Single-Center Retrospective Study
Authors: Yu Soma , Murakami Masaaki , Nakatani Eiji , Sato Yoko , Tanaka Satoshi , Mori Kiyoshi , Sugawara Akira
Published: May 2021

Background: Some hemodialysis patients are not suitable for creation of an arteriovenous fistula (AVF) or arteriovenous graft (AVG). They can receive a tunneled cuffed central venous catheter (tcCVC), but this carries risks of infection and mortality. We aimed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of brachial artery transposition (BAT) versus those of tcCVC.Methods: This retrospective study evaluated hemodialysis patients who underwent BAT or tcCVC placement because of severe heart failure, hand ischemia, central venous stenosis or occlusion, inadequate vessels for creating standard arteriovenous access, or limited life expectancy. The primary outcome was whole access circuit patency.Results: Thirty-eight patients who underwent BAT and 25 who underwent tcCVC placement were included. One-year patency rates for the whole access circuit were 84.6% and 44.9% in the BAT and tcCVC groups, respectively. The BAT group was more likely to maintain patency (unadjusted hazard ratio: 0.17, 95% confidence interval: 0.05-0.60, p=0.006). The two groups did not have significantly different overall survival (log-rank p=0.146), although severe complications were less common in the BAT group (3% vs. 28%, p=0.005).Conclusions: Relative to tcCVC placement, BAT is safe and effective with acceptable patency in hemodialysis patients not suitable for AVF or AVG creation.
Easy Multiple Sequential CRISPR/Cas9 Knockouts in Cell Lines Using a Cre/LoxP Re-Cyclable Vector
Authors: Vaux David , Dong Li , Etemadi Nima
Published: May 2021

To easily generate cell lines lacking multiple proteins, we inserted Cre/Lox sites flanking the guide RNA, Cas9, and mCherry fluorescent protein coding regions of a CRISPR/Cas9 lentiviral vector. Cells bearing an inducible Cre recombinase construct can be transfected with the CRISPR/Cas9 lentiviral vector, and mCherry positive cells sorted by flow cytometry. Induction of Cre causes deletion of the guide RNA, Cas9, and mCherry genes, so that mCherry negative cells can be isolated. After confirming successful targeting of the gene, the cells can be re-infected with the same vector bearing a different guide RNA, and mCherry-positive cells sorted once more. In this way, multiple genes can be mutated sequentially using the same vector and selection marker, without persistent expression of the guide RNA or Cas9. We used this system to sequentially mutate two candidate genes, Bak1 and Bcl2, and generated lines that lacked expression of both proteins.﻿
WP-UNet: Weight Pruning U-Net with Depth-wise Separable Convolutions for Semantic Segmentation of Kidney Tumours
Authors: Rao P Kiran , Chatterjee Subarna , Sha M Sreedhar
Published: May 2021

Background: Accurate semantic segmentation of kidney tumours in computed tomography (CT) images is difficult because tumours feature varied forms and, occasionally, look alike. The KiTs19 challenge sets the groundwork for future advances in kidney tumour segmentation.Methods: We present WP-UNet, a deep network model that is lightweight with a small scale; it involves few parameters with a quick assumption time and a low floating-point computational complexity.Results: We trained and evaluated the model with CT images from 300 patients. The findings implied the dominance of our method on the training Dice score (0.98) for the kidney tumour region. The proposed model only uses 1,297,441 parameters and 7.2e FLOPS, three times lower than those for other network models. Conclusions: The results confirm that the proposed architecture is smaller than that of U-Net, involves less computational complexity, and yields good accuracy, indicating its potential applicability in kidney tumour imaging.