bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Socio-Cultural and Gender-Based Issues that Shape Sexuality of Emerging Adults in Nigeria: A Qualitative Approach
Authors: Adetutu Olufemi , Asa Sola , Solanke Bola , Aroke AbdulRahman Azeez , Okunlola David
Published: June 2021

Background Socio-cultural and gender-based issues influence sexuality of emerging adults. These gender-based issues worsen sexual health outcomes of emerging adults in studies outside Nigeria. Some of these issues are male dominance in sexual relationships, health care providers’ bias in attending to sexual health needs of emerging adults and age disparate sexual relationships. Studies have reported that males dominate females in sexual relationship largely in part owing to masculinity tendencies. Also, health care providers view emerging adults as randy when seeking information on sexual and reproductive health care services. Added to these is age disparate sexual relationships. Older men engage in exchanged sex while younger females are unable to negotiate condom. All these speak to gender and social inequality in sexual relationships are largely undocumented in Nigeria. Method This study collected information purposively using a qualitative inquiry. Thirty (30) in-depth interviews (IDIs), six (6) Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Eighteen (18) Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) were conducted across the three main ethnic groups in Nigeria. Result Narratives and interviews showed nuanced discourses of all these gendered issues. Males dominated females in sexual relationships through suppression to negotiate condom, diminished females’ individual agency, and engagement in multiple sexual partnerships. Females endured domination of males in sexual relationships to sustain relationships. Also, health providers were biased and indifferent in providing sexual and reproductive health services to emerging adults. This study showed poor socio-economic status makes older men to exploit and take advantage of younger females in sexual relationships. Wide age difference and the notion of fulfilling their side in a paid sexual intercourse made younger females unable to negotiate condom. Conclusion Gender-based issues and socio-cultural norms diminished individual agency of emerging adults, especially females, achieving positive sexuality. Policies that dispel socio-cultural and gendered norms in sexual relationships should be encouraged, including increased awareness on sex education to parents and children, skill acquisitions and empowerment programmes for emerging adults and capacity building of health providers to improve provision of SRH needs of emerging adults.
Accumulation of As and Pb in Vegetables Grown in Agricultural Soils Contaminated by Historical Mining in Zacatecas, Mexico
Authors: Muñoz Silvia Salas , Valdez Elvia Valdez , Castillo Jorge Armando Mauricio , Badillo Fátima Berenice Salazar , Carrillo Héctor René Vega , Salas-Luevano Miguel Angel
Published: June 2021

Historical mining activities are a source of environmental pollution that affects the food chain and the health of human beings. The aim of this study was assessment the accumulation of arsenic and lead in vegetables grown in agricultural soils contaminated by old mining in Zacatecas, Mexico. The concentration of arsenic and lead in agricultural soil and edible parts of carrot, garlic, and pepper was analyzed by atomic absorption spectrometry. The soil-vegetable bioconcentration factor and pollution load index were determined. The pH values of the farmland were alkaline. The concentration of arsenic in agricultural soil exceeds the permissible limit for arsenic of Mexican standards and international representing health risks. The lead content in most soil samples they were low. The arsenic and lead content in edible parts of species vegetable exceeded the national standard from various countries and the values established by the Codex Alimentarius (FAO-WHO). The highest arsenic concentration was found both in Capsicum annum and Allium sativum. The highest concentration of Pb was in pepper fruits. Among vegetable the high BCF value was for arsenic, ranging from 2.33 to 0.64, and the average for all vegetable samples was 1.01. The pollution index indicates that arsenic is the dominant pollutant accumulated in soil and vegetables grown in agricultural soils. According to the findings, the state and national agricultural and health authorities should not recommend the cultivation of vegetables in agricultural soil located in this area of historical mining activities. Likewise, preventive measures must be taken on the consumption of contaminated vegetables and certifying their safety.
Change of Intestinal Microbiota in Mice Model of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Authors: Fan Tianqun , Lu Ling , Jin Rong , Sui Aihua , Guan Renzheng , Cui Fengjing , Qu Zhenghai , Liu Dongyun
Published: June 2021

Background: Gut microbiota has been proposed to be related to the pathogenesis of pulmonary diseases such as asthma and lung cancer, according to the gut-lung axis. However, little is known about the relationship between broncho-pulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and gut microbiota. This study was designed to investigate the changes of gut microbiota in neonatal mice with BPD. Methods: BPD model was induced through exposure to high concentration of oxygen. HE staining was utilized to determine the modeling efficiency. Stool samples were collected from the distal colon for the sequencing of V3-V4 regions of 16S rRNA, in order to analyze the gut microbiota diversity.Results: BPD models were established in this study. Alpha diversity indicated that there were no statistical differences in the abundance of gut microbiota between model group and control group. On day 14, there were statistical differences in the genetic diversity between two groups (p<0.05). Beta diversity analysis showed that there were statistical differences in the gut microbiota on day 14 (R=0.368, p=0.021). Line discriminant analysis (LDA) showed that there were 22 markers with statistical differences on day 14 (p<0.05), while those on day 7 and 21 were 3 and 4, respectively. Functional prediction analysis showed that the top 3 metabolic pathways were signal transduction (PFDR=0.037), glycan biosynthesis and metabolism (PFDR=0.032), and metabolism of terpenoids and polyketides (PFDR=0.049). Conclusions: BPD mice showed disorder of gut microbiota, which may involve with specific metabolic pathways in the early stage. In the presence of intestinal maturity in mice, the differences of the gut microbiota between the two groups would gradually disappear.
Precise crystal regulation and harvest by constructing confined flexible droplet crystallizer on 3D-printed sessile platform
Authors: Yuan Zhijie , Jiang Xiaobin , Niu Yuchao , Wu Mengyuan , Meng Yingshuang , Li Zhengtao , Ruan Xuehua , Li Xiangcun , Xiao Wu , Wu Xuemei , He Gaohong
Published: June 2021

Precise regulation of the mass-heat-momentum transfer carried great implications to the crystallization behavior in microscale droplet, which is one of the core concerns in crystal engineering. Herein, a confined flexible droplet crystallizer (CFDC) was facilely constructed on designed 3D-printed, matrix-type regular sessile platforms. Owing to the flexible morphology of CFDC, the synergized micro-flows generated by the integration of capillary flow and Marangoni flow in CFDC could be precisely controlled, which was validated from both experimental and simulative aspects. Standard cubic crystal was manufactured at the sessile platform center after evaporating an optimized CFDC (with 120° featured angle), where the synergized micro-flows created the perfect flow zone to balance the mass transfer and particle location. In addition, larger standard cubic crystal could be obtained via simply scale-up the platform (16 times) or supplementary feeding (secondary to forth feeding), manifesting great potential for high-quality crystal parallel preparation and harvest.
Eliminating Delayed Cracks in Deep-Drawn SUS304 Cups Under Wider Range and Lower Magnitude of Blank Holding Forces Using Tin Coated Die
Authors: Tan Chin Joo , Phoo Yoong Hau
Published: June 2021

The effect of TiN coated die on eliminating delayed cracks in deep drawing processes of stainless steel SUS304 cylindrical cups under elevated blank holding forces (BHF) using a commercial lubricant at room temperature is investigated in the experiment. For comparison, the experiment is repeated using an uncoated and finely polished die under the same conditions. The results shows that the crack-free BHF range for the coated and the uncoated dies are 5~10 kN and 12 kN, respectively. Both the magnitude and range of the crack-free BHF are successfully lowered and enlarged by applying TiN coating to the die surface. Lower magnitude and wider range for BHF are preferred in the industries as it is difficult to maintain a high, constant and precise BHF during the deep drawing process using coil springs or die cushions. The elimination of the cracks is mainly due to the decrease in amount of strain-induced martensite resulting from the lower amount of wall thickening, particularly in the valley points along the cup earring profiles. The improved tribological performance by the coating enhances the radial flow of the materials into the die cavity resulting in lower amount of wall thickening. The chance for delayed cracks is reduced with decreasing amount of wall thcikening. Overall, the amount of tensile residual stresses along the outer surface of the cup, particularly in the upper portion is reduced with the coated die due to its low BHF. Therefore, the risk for the cracks is reduced.
Poly(Lactic Acid)/Poly(Butylene Succinate) Dual-Layer Membranes With Cellulose Nanowhisker for Heavy Metal Ion Separation
Authors: Kian Lau K , Jawaid Mohammad , Nasef Mohamed Mahmoud
Published: June 2021

In this study, poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) dual-layer membranes filled with cellulose nanowhisker (CNWs), were fabricated by employing an integrated method combining water vapor-induced and crystallization-induced phase inversions. Four membranes (denoted as C-neat, C-I, C-II, and C-III) loaded with CNWs in the range of 0-3 wt% were prepared and characterized using various materials research aspects. The use of CNWs fillers was found to synergize the precipitation of the polymer layers in the integrated water vapor-induced and crystallization-induced method. With morphological examination, the C-III membrane showed prominent and well-laminated two layers structure, evidencing the great precipitating effect of 3 wt% CNWs on the crystallization the polymeric layers. The increase in CNWs loadings was found to improve the membrane porosity with, which was accompanied by a decrease in the pore size. The heat resistance of C-neat membrane was enhanced by CNWs loading of 1 wt% (C-I) whereas it decreased with loadings of 2 and 3 wt% (C-II and C-III) due to flaming behaviour of sulphated nanocellulose. Furthermore, The C-III membrane displayed the best mechanical properties in with respect to tensile strength, elongation at break and Young’s modulus compared to other membrane samples. For wastewater filtration performance, the continuous operation test showed that C-III membrane exhibited the highest removal efficiency for both Co2+ and Ni2+ metal ions reaching 83 and 84%, respectively. Thus, it can be concluded that CNWs filled dual-layer membranes have a strong potential for future development for the removal of heavy metal ions from wastewater streams.
SLC17A9 Is a Novel Prognostic Biomarker Correlated With Immune Infiltrates in Human Lung Adenocarcinoma and Lung Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Gao Yan , Chen Yi-Jia , Li Fuyan , Wu Ruimin , Zeng Daobing , Tan Fan , Liu Xusheng , Li Xiaohui , Li Yang , Su Shan-Chun , Yang Jianwei , Zhou Lumeng , Ke Changbin , Pei Zhijun
Published: June 2021

Background
Overexpression of vesicular nucleotide transporter (SLC17A9) has been found in different types of cancers. Nonetheless, little is known about its influence on lung cancers including human lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC).
Methods
Integrative analysis of SLC17A9 and other solute carrier family 17 genes (SLC17A1-8) was performed in patients with LUAD and LUSC based on The Cancer Genome Atlas database. Real-time PCR, western blots, MTS assay, EdU assay, ATP production assays and cell cycle analysis were applied to determine the effect and mechanism of SLC17A9 knockdown in LUAD cells.
Results
Compared with normal tissue, two SLC17 genes (SLC17A5 and SLC17A9) exhibited a distinctly different expression pattern in LUAD and LUSC. The expression of SLC17A3/7/8/9 expression was significantly correlated with worse overall survival (p < 0.05) in LUAD. Conversely, SLC17A1/2/4/6/9 expression was correlated with poorer OS (p < 0.05) in LUSC. ROC analysis suggested that the area under the curve of most SLC17 family genes was higher than 0.5. Meanwhile, multiple types of genetic alterations in SLC17 family genes were observed in tumor samples. Gene set enrichment analysis GSEA and protein-protein interaction results revealed that oncogenic signaling pathways and biological regulation, metabolic process, hallmark of myc targets, DNA repair, coagulation and complement were linked to SLC17A9 upregulation. Moreover, SLC17A9 knockdown significantly inhibited cell proliferation and ATP levels by affecting Myc, MFN2, STAT3, Cytochrome C and P2X1 expression in A549 cells. Specifically, SLC17A9 expression correlated negatively with overall survival and positively with most LUSC immune cells. SLC17A9 expression has correlations with infiltrating levels of B cells, CD4 + T cells, M1 macrophages, natural killer cells, Th1, Th2, Tfh, Th17 and Treg cells, as well as PD-1, CTLA4, and LAG3 of T cell exhaustion in LUAD.
Conclusions
Together, SLC17A9 could potentially serve as a prognostic biomarker correlated with immune infiltrates in LUAD and LUSC.
Modelling Clamping Force Deflection in Dexel-Based Material Removal Simulations
Authors: Brecher Christian , Loba Matthäus , Fey Marcel
Published: June 2021

Machining simulations of material removal that predict workpiece quality are a key factor in gaining an understanding of the possible causes of manufacturing defects. Particularly in the case of thin-walled workpieces, as are frequently produced in the aerospace industry, the workpiece stiffness is of utmost importance. Form deviations on the final workpiece can result due to the the process force or the clamping situation. This article presents a method for modelling the deformation due to the clamping force in dexel-based material removal simulations. To prevent distortion of the dexel model, triangulated surface meshes are generated separately for the start and end points of a dexel field by means of a Delaunay triangulation for the final contour. With the help of an FE simulation of the near contour state, the resulting displacements for the corner points of the triangles are determined and then inversely displaced. Subsequently, the new start and end points of the machined dexels are determined through a 2D interpolation. The method is validated for flatness and roundness deviations using two specimen workpieces. It shows that the prediction can be significantly improved, especially for thin-walled components.
A Clinical Prediction Tool for Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: Liu Hui , Qiu Suishan , Chen Minghao , lyu Jun , Yu Guangchao , Xue Lianfang
Published: June 2021

Background To explore the risk factors of extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (ESBL-PE) infection through urine samples of hospitalized patients and establish a predictive model to improve treatment outcomes.MethodsThis retrospective study included all patients with an Enterobacteriaceae-positive urine sample at the first affiliated hospital of Jinan university from January 2018 to December 2019. Antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of ESBL-PE were analyzed, and multivariate analysis of related factors was performed. From these, a nomogram was established to predict the possibility of ESBL-PE infection. Simultaneously, susceptibility testing of a broad array of carbapenem antibiotics was performed on ESBL-PE cultures to explore possible alternative treatment options.ResultsOf the total 874 patients with urinary tract infections (UTIs), 272 (31.1%) were ESBL-PE positive. In the predictive analysis, five variables were identified as independent risk factors for ESBL-PE infection: male gender (OR=1.607, 95% CI 1.066-2.416), older age (OR=4.100, 95% CI 1.678-12.343), a hospital stay in preceding 3 months (OR=1.872, 95% CI 1.141-3.067), invasive urological procedure (OR=1.810, 95% CI 1.197-2.729), and antibiotic use within the previous 3 months (OR 0.546, 95% CI 0.314-0.948). In multivariate analysis, the data set was divided into a training set of 611 patients and a validation set of 263 patients The model developed to predict ESBL-PE infection was effective, with the AuROC of 0.650 (95% CI 0.577-0.725). Among the antibiotics tested, several showed very high effectiveness against ESBL-PE: amikacin (85.7%), carbapenems (83.8%), tigecycline (97.1%) and polymyxin (98.2%). ConclusionsThe nomogram is useful for estimating a bacteremic patient’s likelihood of infection with ESBL-PE. It could improve clinical decision making and enable more efficient empirical treatment. Empirical treatment may be informed by the results of the antibiotic susceptibility testing.
Techno-Economic Analysis of Vinasse Treatment Alternatives Through Process Simulation: A Case Study of Cuban Distillery
Authors: Llerena Arletis Cruz , Ones Osney Perez , de Cárdenas Lourdes Zumalacárregui , Ríos José Luis Pérez de los
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Vinasse is one of the organic industrial effluents with major polluting effect. The objective of this work was to perform a techno-economic assessment of vinasses treatment alternatives for valorization of this waste through process simulation with Aspen Hysys v10.0.
Methods

Four alternatives were studied: (A_1) incineration and electricity generation, (A_2) desalinization, (A_3) anaerobic digestion and electricity generation and (A_4) drying. The selected packages for the evaluation and prediction of properties were: Lee-Kesler-Plöcker and NBS Steam, NRTL-Ideal, Peng-Robinson-Stryjer-Vera and NBS Steam and NRTL-Ideal respectively; the validation in these cases was carried out with data reported in the literature. The economic evaluation was carried according to the changes that each alternative determines in each one of the elements of effective cash flow comparing with the actual condition.
Results

With the alternative A_1, fertilizers ashes are obtained removing all the residual and the energy generation. By the alternative A_2, fertilizers salts and desalinate vinasses (for animal food) were obtained. By the alternative A_3, energy is generated from biogas. By the alternative A_4, dry vinasse is obtained which is used as fertilizer and animal food.
Conclusion

The polluting effect of the vinasse can be reduced with the proposed treatment alternatives. It was showed that the alternatives are feasible, being the alternative A_1 the best, with a NPV of $ 1.29 MMUSD, IRR 25.5% and DPBP 2.7 years. Process simulation are a valuable supporting tool when making decisions in investment projects for valorization of vinasse from the ethanol industry.
Acentrosomal spindle morphogenesis is dependent on the unconventional TPX2 family protein TPXL3 and a Aurora kinase in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Deng Xingguang , Higaki Takumi , Lin Honghui , Lee Yuh-Ru Julie , Liu Bo
Published: June 2021

The α Aurora kinase serves as an essential mitotic regulator of spindle assembly in Arabidopsis thaliana. This indispensable function was thought to be dependent on an evolutionarily conserved targeting factor known as TPX2. However, our previous work indicated that the canonical TPX2 protein was dispensable but the plant specific TPX2 family protein TPXL3 became essential in A. thaliana. Here, we found that the TPXL3 polypeptide contains a microtubule-binding domain following the N-terminal Aurora-binding and activation motif, and its TPX2 signature domain with an importin-binding motif is followed by a novel short C-terminus. To test the hypothesis that TPXL3 dictated the essential mitotic function of α Aurora, we generated artificial microRNA lines in which TPXL3 expression was compromised. The amiR-TPXL3 mutants exhibited phenotypes of TPXL3 expression-correlated growth retardation. Due to the compromised TPXL3 expression, α Aurora delocalized from spindle microtubules and diffused in the cytoplasm. Such a phenotype was concomitant with defects in spindle morphogenesis as represented by disorganized spindle poles. A functional TPXL3-GFP fusion protein colocalized with α Aurora by exhibiting a highly dynamic cell cycle-dependent localization pattern highlighted by prominent appearance on the prophase nuclear envelope, spindle microtubules with biases towards poles, and reforming nuclear envelope during telophase and cytokinesis. However, TPXL3 was largely absent from phragmoplast microtubules that exhibited prominent γ-tubulin association. Finally, we found that the C-terminal domain was dispensable while other domains are required for its mitotic function. Hence, our discovery of the TPXL3 function shifted the TPX2-centered paradigm of mitotic kinase regulation in plants.
miR-138 from Adipose-Derived Stem-Cell Exosomes Accelerates Wound Healing in Diabetic Rats Through Targeting SIRT1/PTEN Signaling to Promote Angiogenesis and Fibrosis
Authors: Li Xue , Hu Nan , Zhang Miaomiao , Han Jianhong , Sun Yi , Yang Hualan , Li Maoquan
Published: June 2021

Background: Exosome (Exo) secretion by adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) promotes cutaneous wound healing by transfer of bioactive molecules. miR-138 is a micro (mi)RNA that stimulates endothelial progenitor cells and promotes proliferation and locomotion of human scar fibroblasts (HSFs). However, the underlying molecular mechanism is unclear. Methods: miR-138 activity in Exo-mediated healing was investigated by subcutaneous injection of exosomes isolated with ultracentrifugation from control ADSCs or ADSCs expressing miR-138 into full-thickness skin wounds in a rat diabetes model. Wound healing was evaluated by wound closure rate, histological evaluation, and immunofluorescence staining. Cultures of HSFs and human mammary epithelial cells (HMECs) were treated with Exos from wild-type and miR-138-modified ADSCs under high glucose conditions (HG). Cell proliferation and apoptosis were measured with cell counting kit (CCK)-8 assay and flow cytometry. Cell migration was assayed in Transwell chambers, and the effect of miR-138 on Exo-mediated angiogenesis and protein expression were evaluated. The miR-138 target was identified with a luciferase reporter assay. Results: ADSC-Exos were incorporated by endothelial cells and HSFs, and miR-138 enhanced cell proliferation and migration and suppressed apoptosis under HG conditions. Exos promoted endothelial tubule formation by HSFs, and western blotting showed that miR-138 mediated the therapeutic effects by reversing SIRT1/PTEN-mediated PI3K/Akt and ERK1/2 signaling inhibition. The luciferase reporter assay confirmed that miR-138 interacted with the 3'-UTR of SIRT1 to suppress SIRT1 mRNA expression. Injection of miR-138-enriched Exos into skin wounds accelerated re-epithelialization, reduced scar width, and enhanced angiogenesis. Conclusions: In conclusion, miR-138-enriched Exos promoted wound healing in a rat diabetes model by targeting SIRT1, and their effects in promoting soft tissue wound healing warrant further study.
The Results of Recurrent Patellar Dislocation Treatment With MPFL Reconstruction in Adolescents With a Minimum Three-year Follow-up: A Prospective Study
Authors: Małecki Krzysztof , Flont Paweł , Beczkowski Jacek , Stelmach Wojciech , Niedzielski Kryspin Ryszard
Published: June 2021

PurposeThe aim of this prospective study is to perform a clinical and radiological assessment of the results of surgical treatment in a homogenous group of adolescents with recurrent patellar dislocation (RPD), using medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction as the basic technique. MethodsTwenty-two patients reported to the follow-up examination after at least three years, including four patients who underwent bilateral surgery (26 knees). The mean age at the time of the surgery was 15.4 years. The subjects were asked to complete the Lysholm-Tegner Knee Scale and the Kujala Anterior Knee Pain Scale before surgery and after follow-up. Based on the imaging results, the Caton-Deschamps Index (CDI), congruence angle (CA), patellofemoral angle (PFA) and Wiberg classification of the patella shape were assessed. ResultsTwo incidents of patellar redislocation was noted. Both the Lysholm-Tegner and Kujala Scale scores significantly improved after follow-up (p<0.001). CDI did not change significantly (p=0.681). The values of both PFA and CA significantly decreased after surgery (p<0.001). An incorrect congruence angle (patellar shift) was present in 22 knees pre-op and ten post-op (p=0.002). Increased patellofemoral angle (patellar tilt) was present in 21 knees pre-op and seven post-op (p<0.001). A statistically significant correlation was demonstrated between PFA and both Lyscholm-Tegner and Kujala score (in both p<0.001, r=-0.5). A slight, but significant, correlation was found between CA and Kujala score (p=0.008, r= -0.036). ConclusionSurgical treatment causes a considerable improvement in the functional assessment of patients, as well as anatomical conditions within the patellofemoral joint.ClinicalTrials.gov record No PMMHRI-BCO.34/2019ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03983213https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03983213Registered 06/12/2019 - Retrospectively registered
Bioactive Coating With Low Reactive Sources for Application as Multi-nutrient Fertilizer Granules
Authors: Majaron Vinícius F. , Silva Marisa G da , Bortoletto-Santos Ricardo , Klaic Rodrigo , Ribeiro Sidney J.L. , Polito Wagner L. , Bevilaqua Denise , Farinas Cristiane S. , Ribeiro Caue
Published: June 2021

Fertilization is essential to provide suitable conditions for plant development and crop productivity, but the environmental cost of fertilizer production is a drawback for achieving a sustainable agriculture. Using unprocessed (raw) nutrient sources such as elemental sulfur (S0) and mineral oxides (ZnO, MnO, CuO) as fertilizers reduces the environmental impact, although they are not readily available to plants. Thus, we developed a polymeric coating material based on gelatinized starch loaded with S0 and oxides, and selected microorganisms – Aspergillus niger and Aciditiobacillus thiooxidans – aiming at a multi-nutrient fertilizer in which the biological components improve the solubility of the low reactive nutrient sources. The acidifying capacity of both microorganisms led to a synergic release and increased the availability of micronutrients and the elemental sulfur oxidation rate. For instance, the polymeric coating composition enabled a sulfate release of up to 76.4 and 71.3% for A. niger and A. thiooxidans, respectively. This innovative system can effectively supply nutrients to plants through the use of cheap and low reactivity nutrient sources with the advantage that it can be applied on currently used fertilizer granules, making easier the adoption by producers.
Engine Behaviour Characterisation of Roselle Biodiesel Through Experimental and Empirical Method
Authors: Verma Tikendra Nath , Rajak Upendra , Salam Satishchandra , Afzal Asif , Manokar A. Muthu , Aabid Abdul , Baig Muneer
Published: June 2021

Persistent increase in demand and depletion of world fossil fuel reserve has necessitated the lookout for alternative fuels. One such indigenous biodiesel with significant potential is the biodiesel extracted from Roselle whose technical feasibility to operate with compression ignition engine is investigated in this study. Experimental and empirical methodologies had been employed to characterise the fuel blends while operating at engine loads of 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%, and with fuel injection timings of 19°, 21°, 23°, 25° and 27° bTDC. Results showed that for 20% blend, with advanced injection timing from 19° bTDC to 27° bTDC at full load, brake specific fuel consumption and exhaust gas temperature for 20% blend was higher by 15.84% and 4.60%, while decrease in brake thermal efficiency by 4.4%. Also, 18.89% reduction in smoke, 5.26% increase in CO2 and 12.94% increase in NOx were observed. In addition, an empirical model was developed for full range characterisation. The artificial neural network model thus developed to characterise all the 10 variables was able to predict satisfactorily with r-squared value of 0.9980 ± 0.0011. Further, high correlation amongst certain variables indicated to plausible empirically reduced models.
Extracellular Vesicles from Adipose-derived Stem Cells Promote Microglia M2 Polarization and Neurological Recovery after Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Hu Xiaowen , Pan Jiaji , Li Yongfang , Jiang Yixu , Zheng Haoran , Shi Rubing , Zhang Qi , Liu Chang , Tian Hengli , Zhang Zhijun , Tang Yaohui , Yang Guo-Yuan , Wang Yongting
Published: June 2021

Background: Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) and their extracellular vesicles (EVs) have therapeutic potential in ischemic brain injury, but the underlying mechanism is poorly understood. The current study aimed to explore the contribution of miRNAs in ADSC-EVs to the treatment of cerebral ischemia. Methods: After the intravenous injection of ADSC-EVs, therapeutic efficacy was evaluated by neurobehavioral tests and brain atrophy volume. The polarization of microglia was assessed by immunostaining and qPCR. We further performed miRNA sequencing of ADSC-EVs and analyzed the relationship between the upregulated miRNAs in ADSC-EVs and microglial polarization-related proteins using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA). Results: The results showed that ADSC-EVs reduced brain atrophy volume, improved neuromotor and cognitive functions after mouse ischemic stroke. The loss of oligodendrocytes was attenuated after ADSC-EVs injection. The number of blood vessels, as well as newly proliferated endothelial cells in the peri-ischemia area were higher in the ADSC-EVs treated group than that in the PBS group. In addition, ADSC-EVs regulated the polarization of microglia, resulting in increased repair-promoting M2 phenotype and decreased pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype. Finally, STAT1 and PTEN were highlighted as two downstream targets of up-regulated miRNAs in ADSC-EVs among 85 microglia/macrophage polarization related proteins by IPA. The inhibition of STAT1 and PTEN by ADSC-EVs were confirmed in cultured microglia. Conclusions: In summary, ADSC-EVs reduced ischemic brain injury, which was associated with the regulation of microglial polarization. miRNAs in ADSC-EVs contributed to their function in regulating microglial polarization by targeting PTEN and STAT1.
MMP1 is a Promiseful Prognostic Biomarker and Correlating with Immune Infiltrates in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Dai Lei , Muggnyi Joseph , cai xingchen , mao shuqi , zhang tongyue , shi haihong , lu caide , lu changjiang
Published: June 2021

Background: Recombinase-aided amplification(RAA) is a new, simple, and ultrafast isothermal molecular diagnostic technique performed within 30min at 39°C–42°C.In this study, we evaluated the clinical performance of four duplex RAA kits for hepatitis B virus(HBV), human adenovirus 3(HAdV3), human adenovirus 7(HAdV7), and Bordetella pertussis and one duplex reverse-transcription RAA (RT-RAA) kit for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).Methods: A total of 392 sera and 374 respiratory tract samples were collected from five institutions in four China regions. Each RAA kit’s sensitivity and specificity were compared with those of real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction(qPCR),real-time quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction(qRT-PCR), or sequencing. Results: Compared with qPCR or qRT-PCR, the sensitivities of HBV RAA,RSV RT-RAA, and B.pertussis RAA were 97.55%,96.67%, and 100%,respectively,and all of the specificities were 100%.The total coincidence rates were 97.78%(383/392,95%CI:95.63%–98.85%),97.70%(212/217, 95%CI:94.57%–99.16%), and 100%(60/60,95%CI:92.80%–100%),respectively. The Kappa values were 0.977,0.947, and 1,respectively(P<0.05).Regarding the sequencing, the sensitivities of HAdV3 RAA and HAdV7 RAA were 100% and 97.37%, respectively, and all specificities were 100%.The total coincidence rates were 100%(97/97,95%CI:91.58%–100%) and 98.97%(96/97,95%CI:94.39%–99.82%),and the Kappa values were 1 and 0.978 (P<0.05),respectively.Conclusions: With comparable clinical performance, these RAA kits are suitable assays for rapidly detecting pathogens in resource-limited laboratories.
Melatonin Receptor 2 Promotes Lipid Metabolism of Cumulus-oocyte Complexes via the cAMP/PKA Pathway
Authors: Jin Jun-Xue , Cui Hong-Di , Jiang Chao-Qian , Qi Zi-Cheng , Bian Ya , Liu Jia-Hui , Jiang Xi-Qing , Sun Jing-Tao , Liu Zhong-Hua
Published: June 2021

Background: The importance of the processes of lipogenesis and lipolysis in providing an essential energy source during oocyte maturation is increasingly being recognized. Recent our studies have demonstrated that melatonin up-regulated lipid metabolism during oocyte maturation. Nevertheless, there is still limited information regarding the underlying molecular mechanisms of action of melatonin on lipid metabolism in porcine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs). Here, our aim was to investigate the effect of melatonin on COCs, and the melatonin receptor-mediated lipid metabolism signaling pathway.Materials/methods: To determine the melatonin-mediated lipolysis pathway in cumulus cells, COCs were treated with melatonin and the correlated metabolic responses were assessed using melatonin receptor-mediated signaling.Results: The results showed that exposure of COCs to melatonin during in vitro maturation significantly increased cumulus expansion index, blastocyst formation rate and total cell numbers/blastocyst, although nuclear maturation was no significant difference. The levels of proteins MT1, MT2, Gsα, PKA, and lipolysis-related factors (AGTL, HSL, PLIN A+B) were significantly increased by melatonin supplementation, and this effect was inhibited by simultaneous treatment with melatonin antagonists (luzindole or 4P-PDOT), although 4P-PDOT treatment did not completely block the effect of melatonin on MT1. Further, the gene expression patterns reflected their relevant protein levels in cumulus cells. Melatonin-mediated lipolysis could significantly reduce lipid droplets (LDs) numbers and increase fatty acid (FA) production and ATP levels by increasing the β-oxidation-related gene expression in cumulus cells. Simultaneously, melatonin significantly increased the amount of LDs, FAs, ATP, and enhanced the lipid metabolism-related gene expression in oocytes. Finally, the oocyte quality was improved by increasing GDF9, BMP15 and GSH and decreasing ROS levels.Conclusion: These findings revealed that the MT2-mediated cAMP/PKA signaling pathway promotes intracellular lipolysis and FA production in cumulus cells, which provided an essential energy source for COCs development.
GOLGA2/GM130 is a Novel Target for Neuroprotection Therapy in Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Deng Shuwen , Hu Qing , He Qiang , Chen Xiqian , Lu Wei
Published: June 2021

Blood–brain barrier (BBB) impairment after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) can lead to secondary brain injury and aggravate neurological deficits. Currently, there are no effective methods for its prevention or treatment partly because of to our lack of understanding of the mechanism of ICH injury to the BBB. Here, we explored the role of Golgi apparatus protein GM130 in the BBB and neurological function after ICH. The levels of the tight junction-associated proteins ZO-1 and occludin decreased, whereas those of LC3-II, an autophagosome marker, increased in hemin-treated Bend.3 cells (p < 0.05). Additionally, GM130 overexpression increased ZO-1 and occludin levels, while decreasing LC3-II levels (p < 0.05). GM130 silencing reversed these effects and mimicked the effect of hemin treatment (p < 0.05). Moreover, tight junctions were disrupted after hemin treatment or GM130 silencing and repaired by GM130 overexpression. GM130 silencing in Bend.3 cells increased autophagic flux, whereas GM130 overexpression downregulated this activity. Furthermore, GM130 silencing-induced tight junction disruption was partially restored by 3-methyladenine (an autophagy inhibitor) administration. Similarly, an in vivo ICH rat model showed elevated perihematomal ZO-1 and occludin expression and decreased LC3-II expression (p < 0.05); these results were reversed following GM130 silencing (p < 0.05). Perihematomal Evans Blue staining and brain water content were elevated in GM130-silenced ICH rats relative to control ICH rats. GM130 overexpression can protect BBB integrity from brain injury, inhibit excessive autophagy flux in ICH, and improve neurobehavioral prognosis. Therefore, therapy targeting GM130 regulation might represent a potential treatment for acute brain injury after ICH.
Are Cut-off Lows Simulated Better in CMIP6 Compared to CMIP5 ?
Authors: Pinheiro Henri , Ambrizzi Tercio , Hodges Kevin , Gan Manoel , Andrade Kelen , Garcia Jose
Published: June 2021

This is the first study to show the global Cut-off Low (COL) activity in 23 models participating in the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) and 17 models from Phase 6 (CMIP6). The COL historical simulations for the period 1979-2005 obtained from the CMIP5 and CMIP6 models and their ensembles are compared with the ERA5 reanalysis using an objective feature-tracking algorithm. The results show that the CMIP6 models simulate the spatial distribution of COLs more realistically than the CMIP5 models. Some improvements include reduced equatorward bias and underestimation over regions of high COL density. Reduced biases in CMIP6 are mainly attributed to the improved representation of the zonal wind due to the poleward shift of the subtropical jet streams. The CMIP5 models systematically underestimate the COL intensity as measured by the T42 vorticity at 250 hPa. In CMIP6, the intensity is still underestimated in summer, but overestimated in winter in part due to increased westerlies. The overestimation is enhanced by the finer spatial resolution models that identify more of the strong systems compared to coarser resolution models. Other aspects of COLs such as their temporal and lifetime distributions are modestly improved in CMIP6 compared to CMIP5. Finally, the predictive skill of climate models is evaluated using five variables and the Taylor diagram. We find that 10 out of the 15 best CMIP5-CMIP6 models belong to CMIP6, and this highlights the overall improvement compared to its predecessor CMIP5. Despite this, the use of the multi-model ensemble average seems to be better in simulating COLs than individual models.
The Risk Atlas of Mexico City, Mexico: A Tool for Decision-Making and Disaster Prevention
Authors: Novelo-Casanova David A. , Suárez Gerardo , Cabral-Cano Enrique , Fernández-Torres Enrique A. , Fuentes-Mariles Oscar A. , Havazli Emre , Jaimes Miguel Á. , López-Espinoza Erika D. , Martin-Del-Pozzo Ana Lillian , Morales-Barrera Wendy V. , Moráles-Rodríguez Hipólito L. , Nieto-Torres Amiel , Rodríguez-Elizarrarás Sergio , Solano-Rojas Darío , Velasco-Herrera Victor M.
Published: June 2021

We present a Geographical-Information-System-based Risk Atlas (GIS-RA) of Mexico City, Mexico. The main purposes are to provide a local-government level tool for implementing preventive and remedial actions useful for land-use development plans and to strengthen the culture for disaster prevention. We identified the prevalent social risk to the more relevant hazards in Mexico City (CDMX): earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, floods, landslides, forest fires, and land subsidence. A total of 274 shape-file maps were generated in this project. Seismic hazard was estimated for return periods (RP) of 20, 125, 250, and 475 years. Three areas in central and northwestern CDMX were identified along the Younger Chichinautzin Monogenetic Volcanic Field with high probability of forming a new volcano. Subsidence is concentrated to the east and southeast of CDMX, where subsidence rates are among the highest worldwide. Flooding events were estimated for RP of 2, 5, 10, 50 and 100 years and the majority of them are concentrated in the central and northern sectors of the city. During the dry season (December-April), southern CDMX has very high probability of forest fire occurrence. There is high susceptibility of landslides on the west and southwest of the city. The goals of this GIS-RA are to: 1) improve the knowledge of the potential impact of local hazards; 2) provide elements for disaster prevention, mitigation, preparedness, and response; 3) benefit decision-makers with robust risk data; 4) provide information for land-use planning; and 5) support further research to reduce the impact of disasters.
Intake of Potatoes is Associated with Higher Diet Quality, and Improved Nutrient Intake and Adequacy Among US adolescents: NHANES 2001-2018 Analysis.
Authors: Agarwal Sanjiv , Fulgoni III Victor L
Published: June 2021

Background: Potatoes are nutrient rich white vegetables and are most widely consumed staple food. Research on potato consumption and impact on public health is limited and inconclusive. The objective of this study was to provide updated evaluation of the cross-sectional association between potato consumption and diet quality, nutrient intake and adequacy among adolescents. Methods: Two day 24-hour diet recall data from adolescents (n=16,633; age 9-18 years) participating in National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2001-2018 were used. Consumers were defined as those consuming any amount of potatoes (baked or boiled potatoes, mashed potatoes and potato mixtures, fried potatoes, and potato chips) on the days of dietary recall. Usual intakes of nutrients were determined using the National Cancer Institute method and diet quality was calculated using the Healthy Eating Index-2015 (HEI-2015) scores after adjusting the data for demographic factors. Results: Intake of potatoes did not change over the last 18 years among US adolescent. Consumers of baked or boiled potatoes, mashed potatoes and potato mixtures had 4.70% higher (P<0.05) HEI-2015 total score and the score gradually increased with increasing intake quartile. HEI-2015 total scores were also higher for consumers of baked or boiled potatoes, mashed potatoes and potato mixtures, and fried potatoes (+2.01%, P<0.05) and for consumers of baked or boiled potatoes, mashed potatoes and potato mixtures, fried potatoes, and potato chips (+1.57%, P<0.05) than non-consumers. Consumers of potatoes had higher (P<0.05) intake of energy and nutrients (dietary fiber, protein, copper, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc, niacin, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin K and total choline); and higher (P<0.05) nutrient adequacy for protein, copper, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, thiamine, niacin, vitamin B6 and vitamin C, vitamin K than non-consumers. However, potato consumers also had a higher intake of sodium.Conclusion: The results show that potato consumption was associated with better diet quality, higher nutrient intake and improved nutrient adequacy. Potatoes are nutrient rich foods and encouraging their consumption may be an effective strategy for improving intakes and adequacy of key nutrients.Trial Registration: Not applicable, as this was a secondary analysis of publicly available data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).
Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: Review of 1430 Cases in Cure International Hospital, Kabul, Afghanistan
Authors: Farda Wais , Tani Mohammad Kamal , Manning Richard G. , Fahmi Mohammad Samim , Barai Nasratullah
Published: June 2021

BackgroundLaparoscopic Cholecystectomy (LC) is the gold standard for the treatment of cholelithiasis in most countries of the world. The objective of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of LC in the surgery department of Cure International Hospital, Kabul, Afghanistan. MethodsA retrospective study was conducted on 1430 LC cases performed by the general surgery department of Cure International hospital. Data was collected from patient files and the operation theatre registry for whom LC was performed during January 2008 through December, 2019. ResultsMean age was 45.77±13.45 years (14-90 years), with male/female ratio of 1:4.7. One third (33%) had comorbidities. Most of patients (~97%) were classified as ASA grade I and II. Of all patients, 26.8% of males and 13.2% of females had gallbladder inflammation (OR=2.203, 95%CI 1.56 – 2.61, P=0.000). Overall mean duration of anesthesia was 75±25.6 minutes. The conversion rate to OC was 4.6% (N=66), most commonly dense adhesions at Callot’s triangle (3.8%). The intraoperative complication rate was 17.5% (N=249), where bile/stone spillage was the most common indication (N=235, 16.4%). Immediate postoperative complication rate was 2.4% (N=35). Average length of stay (ALOS) after LC was 2.23±1.43 days (1-19 days).ConclusionThis study shows that elective LC can be performed safely in Afghanistan with comparable outcomes in terms of complications, conversion rates, and ALOS to other countries of the region and the world. Proper case selection and careful preoperative evaluation and management can decrease further conversion, intra- and postoperative complications.
Serpina3c Deficiency Induced Necroptosis Promotes Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis Through β-Catenin/Foxo1/TLR4 Signaling
Authors: Qian Linglin , Ji Jing-jing , Jiang Yu , Guo Jia-Qi , Wu Ya , Yang Ziwei , Ma Gen-Shan , Yao Yu-Yu
Published: June 2021

Background: Hepatocyte death and liver inﬂammation have been recognized as central characteristics of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH); however, the underlying molecular mechanism remains elusive. The aim of this study is to determine the precise role of serpina3c in the progression of NASH.Methods: Male Apoe-/-/serpina3c-/- double knockout (DKO) and Apoe-/- mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) for 12 weeks to induce NASH. Several markers of steatosis and inﬂammation were evaluated. In vitro cell models induced by palmitic acid (PA) treatment were used to evaluate the beneficial effect of serpina3c on necroptosis and the underlying molecular mechanism.Results: Compared with Apoe-/- mice, DKO mice exhibited a signiﬁcantly exacerbated NASH phenotype that included hepatic steatosis, inflammation, ﬁbrosis and liver damage, and increased hepatic triglyceride contents. We also indicated that the expression of the receptor-interacting protein 3 (RIP3) and phosphorylated mixed lineage kinase domain-like (MLKL) was increased in DKO mice. Our results found that serpina3c knockdown promoted necroptosis and lipid droplet formation under conditions of lipotoxicity in vitro. However, these phenomena were reversed by the overexpression of serpina3c. Mechanistically, downregulation of serpina3c expression promoted Foxo1 and β-catenin expression, and Foxo1 and β-catenin colocalized in the nucleus under conditions of lipotoxicity, consequently upregulating the expression of Toll-like receptor4 (TLR4). However, disruption of the Foxo1-β/catenin by Foxo1 and β-catenin inhibitors decreased TLR4 expression and ameliorated hepatic necroptosis in vitro.Conclusion: Serpina3c plays a protective role against the progression of NASH by inhibiting necroptosis. Serpina3c, a Wnt/β-catenin inhibitor, inhibits necroptosis via β-catenin/Foxo1 by inhibiting TLR4 expression.