bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implication of Dynamic Recrystallization Mechanism for the Exhumation of Lower Crustal Rocks: A Case Study in the Shear Zones of the Ambaji Granulite, NW India
Authors: Tiwari Sudheer Kumar , Beniest Anouk , Rai Priti , Chatterjee Sohini , Daphale Ruturaj Vilas , Biswal Tapas Kumar , Yadav Anand Kumar , Kundu Subha
Published: March 2022

Shear zones are important channels for the exhumation of lower crustal rocks. The Ambaji granulite of the Aravalli-Delhi mobile belt (ADMB) has been exhumed along several shear zones, and earlier studies have shown a two-stage exhumation process during a continuous compressional tectonic event, consisting of an initial phase of vertical flow that brought the granulites to the brittle-ductile transition zone and a successive phase during which the granulite underwent a lateral flow. In this contribution, we studied the microtectonics of granulites by analyzing the dynamic recrystallization behaviour of quartz, while the granulite was passing through the vertical flow regime to the horizontal flow regime. We show that the dynamic recrystallization process assists the flow pattern at different levels of exhumation. The vertical flow is dominated by grain boundary migration (GBM), registering high temperatures for recrystallization between 490 and 600°C and low flow stresses of 12-15 MPa. The horizontal flow at the brittle-ductile transition (BDT) is characterized by bulging (BLG) and subgrain rotation (SGR), which occurred at low temperatures of 390-490°C and high flow stresses of 18-26 MPa. Strain rates are between 1.20×10−12 and 7.26×10−14/s. For the ductile exhumation of the granulite, we suggest that at depths of ~22 km, the granulite exhumed in a vertical direction facilitated by GBM. Once the granulite reached the BDT, at ~16 km depth, the material flowed laterally assisted by BLG and SGR. Once an exhuming body reaches the BDT, the deformation mechanism changes to BLG-SGR, and the only direction in which the material can move further is in the horizontal plane.
Study on evaluation indicators of protective effect and eligibility criteria of phase Ⅲ clinical trial of vaccine
Authors: Wang Ruyun
Published: March 2022

The phase Ⅲ vaccine trial is a field evaluation.It is of important value to study the current evaluation indicators of vaccine protection effect and the existing eligibility criteria for testing vaccines that are affected by local public health measures. We derive the magnification between the statistical bias of the incidence in phase Ⅲ vaccine trials and the bias of the current vaccine protection rate. This magnification is directly controlled by the public health protection rate, the greater the public health protection rate, the greater the magnification times. It reveals the internal mechanism that the current vaccine protection rate is not suitable for the evaluation of vaccines. The correctness of the conclusions was further verified using data from the phase Ⅲ trial of the available COVID-19 vaccine. An equivalent relationship with the existing eligibility criteria for testing vaccines was established by using the comprehensive protection rate with comparability and computational stability. It is proved that with the increase of public health protection rate, the existing eligibility criteria for testing vaccines will lead to the difficulty of vaccine approval.
A Randomized Trial on the Effect of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator on Glycemic Control in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Lu Jin-Ying , Ou Horng-Yih , Wu Chung-Ze , Yang Chwen-Yi , Jiang Ju-Ying , Lu Chieh-Hsiang , Jiang Yi-Der , Chang Tien-Jyun , Chang Yi-Cheng , Hsieh Meng-Lun , Wu Wan-Chen , Li Hung-Yuan , Du Ye-Fong , Lin Ching-Han , Hung Hao-Chang , Tien Kai-Jen , Yeh Nai-Cheng , Lee Shang-Yu , Yu Hui-I , Chuang Lee-Ming
Published: March 2022

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator (TENS) has been demonstrated to be beneficial in glycemic control in animal models, but its application in humans has not been well studied. We randomly assigned 160 patients with type 2 diabetes on oral antidiabetic drugs 1:1 to the TENS study device (n=81) and placebo (n=79). 147 (92%) randomized participants (mean [SD] age 59 [10] years, 92 men [58%], mean [SD] baseline HbA1c level 8.1% [0.6%]) completed the trial. At week 20, HbA1c decreased from 8.1% to 7.9% in the TENS group (-0.2% [95% CI: -0.4% to -0.1%]) and from 8.1% to 7.8% in the placebo group (-0.3% [95% CI: -0.5% to -0.2%]) (P = 0.821). Mean amplitude of glycemic excursion (MAGE) at week 20 were significantly different (66 mg/dL [95% CI: 58, 73] vs. 79 mg/dL [95% CI: 72, 87]) (P = 0.009). Besides, we noticed that hypoglycemia accounted for 6/54 (11%) of total adverse events and 14/46 (30%) in the TENS vs. the placebo groups. Our study provides the clinical evidence for the first time in humans that TENS does not demonstrate a statistically significant HbA1c reduction. However, it is a safe complementary therapy to improve MAGE in patients with type 2 diabetes.
World Development and Generation of Waste
Authors: Mendoza Ronaldo Rosales , Lima Aline Maria Menguins da , Pimentel Marcia Aparecida da Silva , Pontes Altem Nascimento , Rocha Edson José Paulino da
Published: March 2022

Nowadays, it is almost impossible argue about global development without immediately stopping to think about waste; it is claimed that waste materials are correlated with the growth of population as a consequence of consumption habits. The applied multivariable statistical analysis, both quantitative and qualitative of the BIG DATA of the OECD in the period of 1960–2050 of the World Bank from the decades of 1990–2020, and SCOPUS (1996–2020) using applied multivariate statistics. The results reveal that consumption habits are strongly influenced by access to public services more than by purchasing power, in addition, it was determined that the rate of subscriptions to cellular service is a catalyst for population indicators and ordinary waste, study shows the trace of evolution due to the most significant advance in communication technologies.
Evolutionary conservatism of color pattern in freshwater bivalves
Authors: Asato Kaito , Nakayama Kentaro
Published: March 2022

The phylum Bivalvia is one of the most successful at survival groups of animals with diverse color patterns on their shells, and they are occasionally preserved in the fossil record as residual color patterns. However, the fossil record of the residual color patterns in freshwater bivalves could be traced only to the Miocene, greatly limiting color pattern evolution knowledge. We present the color patterns of the Cretaceous freshwater bivalves (hereinafter the Kitadani Freshwater Bivalves) from Japan, which is the oldest and the second fossil record of freshwater molluscan color patterns. The Kitadani Freshwater Bivalves consists of two types of color patterns: stripes along the growth lines and radial rays tapered toward the umbo, which resemble that of the colored bands of extant freshwater bivalves. This resemblance of the color patterns between the Kitadani Freshwater Bivalves and the extant species indicates that the color patterns of the freshwater bivalves have remained unchanged for approximately 120 million years, representing an extreme evolutionary conservatism. To explain this evolutionary conservatism, we advocate two conceivable factors: one is promoted by monotonous habitats typical of freshwater ecosystems, and the predation pressure by visual predators against such pressure for camouflaging in freshwater sediments.
Intercomparison of regional loss estimates from global synthetic tropical cyclone models
Authors: Meiler Simona , Vogt Thomas , Bloemendaal Nadia , Ciullo Alessio , Lee Chia-Ying , Camargo Suzana , Emanuel Kerry , Bresch David
Published: March 2022

Tropical cyclones (TCs) cause devastating damage to life and property. Historical TC data is scarce, complicating adequate
TC risk assessments. Synthetic TC models are specifically designed to overcome this scarcity. While these models have been evaluated on their ability to simulate TC activity, no study to date has
focused on the model performance and applicability in TC risk
assessments. This study performs the first model intercomparison of four different global-scale synthetic TC datasets in the impact space, comparing impact return period curves, probability of rare events, and hazard intensity distribution over land. We find that the model choice influences the costliest events, particularly in basins with limited TC activity. Modelled direct economic damages in the North Indian Ocean, for instance, range from 40 to 246 billion USD for the 100-yr event over the four synthetic hazard sets. We furthermore provide guidelines for the suitability of the different synthetic models for various research purposes.
Specific Intracellular Signature of SARS-CoV-2 Infection Using Confocal Raman Microscopy
Authors: Salehi Hamideh , Ramoji Anuradha , Mougari Said , Merida Peggy , Neyret Aymeric , Popp Juergen , Muriaux Delphine , Horvat Branka , cuisinier frederic
Published: March 2022

SARS-CoV-2 infection remains to spread worldwide and requires a better understanding of virus-host interactions. Here, we analyzed biochemical modifications due to SARS-CoV-2 infection in cells by confocal Raman microscopy. Obtained results were compared with the infection with another RNA virus, the measles virus. Our results have demonstrated a virus-specific Raman hallmark of molecular signature, reflecting intracellular modification during each infection. Advanced data analysis has been used to distinguish non-infected versus infected cells for two RNA viruses. Further, classification between non-infected and SARS-CoV-2 and measles virus-infected cells yielded an accuracy of 98.9 and 97.2 respectively, with a significant increase of the essential amino-acid tryptophan in SARS-CoV-2-infected cells. These results present proof of concept for the application of Raman spectroscopy to study virus-host interaction and to identify factors that contribute to the efficient SARS-CoV-2 infection and may thus provide novel insights on viral pathogenesis, targets of therapeutic intervention and development of new COVID-19 biomarkers.
Identification of B3GNT6 Gene Associated with Development of Colon Carcinoma by Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis
Authors: Yuan Lebin , Cheng Fei , Wu Zhao , Shen Wei
Published: March 2022

Colon cancer (COAD) stem cells are resistant to cancer treatment, so they are easy to lead to tumor progression after routine treatment failure. However, little is known about the molecular mechanism of cancer cells. The purpose of our study is to identify differential gene modules and representative candidate biomarkers for the clinical prognosis of patients, help to predict the prognosis and reveal the mechanism of cancer progression. In our study, based on the tumor Genome Atlas (TCGA) COAD database and gene expression profiles of GSE44076 from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), the differentially co-expressed genes in COAD and normal tissues were explored. Combined with weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and differential gene expression analysis, 451 differential co-expression genes were screened out. As shown by functional annotation analysis using R clusterProfiler software package, these genes are mainly enriched in lipid catabolic process (biological process), cell apical part (cellular component) and phosphate hydrolase activity (molecular function). In addition, in the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network, 20 hub genes (ACAA2, FABP1, ACOX1, EHHADH, CPT2, ACADS, CPT1A, MT1G, MT1E, MT1X, MT1H, PPARGC1A, ACSS2, MT2A, MT1F, CRAT, UGT2B17, B3GNT6, and MUC4) were identified using Cytoscape's CytoHubba plug-in. Based on Kaplan–Meier univariate survival analysis and UALCAN database analysis, lower expression of B3GNT6 was associated with better overall survival (OS), which could greatly influence cancer development. Also, online TIMER and CIBERSORT database showed that there was a great correlation between high B3GNT6 gene expression and immune infiltrating cells in poor tumor progression. Finally, we verified the protein levels of B3GNT6 through HPA database. In conclusion, our study shows that B3GNT6 can play an important role in the progression of colon cancer and serve as potential biomarkers for future diagnosis and treatment.
Two cases of microcytic hypochromic anemias albiet not iron deficiency but iron excess
Authors: chauhan Kriti
Published: March 2022

Two cases of microcytic hypochromic anemias albiet not iron deficiency but iron excess
Diagnostic challenges of pericardial mesothelioma: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Kejriwal Nand K. , Thanalingam Yattheesh , Sinha Sanjay , McCormack David J
Published: March 2022

Background Primary pericardial malignant mesothelioma (PPMM) is a rare malignancy arising from the serous mesothelial lining of the pericardium. These neoplasms are aggressive in nature, pose diagnostic difficulties, have a poor prognosis, and have a median survival of fewer than six months. Case presentation The first case involves a 75-year-old woman who presented with progressively worsening dyspnoea, unintentional weight loss, intermittent fevers, and chest pain. A chest computed tomography (CT) scan revealed thickened pericardium and two large pericardial masses anterior to the right ventricle. The second case involves a 77-year-old man who presented with progressively worsening dyspnoea, fatigue, and decreased exercise tolerance. A chest CT scan revealed an irregular soft tissue mass posterior to the left atrium with bilateral pleural effusions and an absence of mediastinal lymphadenopathy. Histopathological analysis of both cases revealed malignant pericardial mesothelioma with homozygous deletion of CDKN2A. Due to extensive disease, both patients were referred to medical oncology for palliative chemotherapy. Both patients died two months following receiving a formal diagnosis of PPMM. Conclusion PPMM remains a rare and poorly understood malignancy of undetermined aetiology. We describe two cases of PPMM and provide an update and guidance on the contemporaneous management of this challenging condition.
Post-Earthquake Safety and Resilience of Concrete Bridges with Debonded High-Strength Reinforced Concrete Encased-and-Filled Steel Tubular Columns
Authors: Du D.F , Wang Junhua , Su C.
Published: March 2022

In this study, debonded high-strength rebar (DHSR) is used to reinforce a concrete encased-and-filled steel tubular (CEFST) column, reducing residual deformation through high elastic self-centering (SC). The experimental results confirm that the CEFST column with DHSR has a strong SC capacity. Owing to the simple and low-cost technology, the advantages of the standard CEFST columns, the resilient CEFST column is an ideal option for constructing bridge columns. A bridge archetype with four spans and two-column bents is designed to compare seismic responses and post-earthquake resilience. The steel-bond slip due to debonding is described using the softening of Young’s modulus of DHSR, which is used to simulate the seismic behaviors of the CEFST columns with DHSR. The applicability is verified by comparing the hysteretic behaviors between the experimental and predicted results. An incremental dynamic analysis (IDA) of bridge archetypes is performed, based on 20 ground motions to accumulate a database for fragility analysis. The results show that the yield and failed lateral drifts of the CEFST bridge column with DHSR are larger than that of other types of CEFST bridge columns. The seismic and fragility analyses of the residual lateral drift results indicate that DHSR can greatly improve seismic safety and post-earthquake resilience. Further refinement of the predictions of the residual lateral drift based on the JAR and FEMA codes is required.
Dose-response prediction for in-vitro drug combination datasets: a probabilistic approach
Authors: Rønneberg Leiv , Kirk Paul D.W. , Zucknick Manuela
Published: March 2022

In this paper we propose PIICM, a probabilistic framework for dose-response prediction in high-throughput drug combination datasets. PIICM utilizes a Permutation Invariant version of the Intrinsic Co-regionalization Model for multi-output Gaussian Process regression, to predict dose-response surfaces in untested drug combination experiments. Coupled with an observation model that incorporates experimental uncertainty, PIICM is able to learn from noisily observed cell-viability measurements in settings where the underlying dose-response experiments are of varying quality, utilize different experimental designs, and the resulting training dataset is sparsely observed. We show that the model can accurately predict dose-response in held out experiments, and the resulting function captures relevant features indicating synergistic interaction between drugs.
Lack of extracellular matrix switches TGF-β-induced apoptosis of endometrial cells to Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal transition through AKT, ERK and SMAD2/3-depdendent mechanisms
Authors: Ruiz-Mitjana Anna , Navaridas Raúl , Vidal-Sabanés Maria , Perramon-Güell Aida , Felip Isidre , Eritja Núria , Egea Joaquim , Encinas Mario , Matias-Guiu Xavier , Dolcet Xavier
Published: March 2022

The extracellular matrix and the correct establishment of epithelial cell polarity plays a critical role in epithelial cell homeostasis and cell polarity. In addition, loss of tissue structure is a hallmark of carcinogenesis. In this study, we have addressed the role of extracellular matrix in the cellular responses to TGF- β. It is well known that TGF-β is a double-edged sword: it acts as a tumor suppressor in normal epithelial cells, but conversely has tumor-promoting effects in tumoral cells. However, the factors that determine cellular outcome in response to TGF-β remain controversial. Here, we have demonstrated that the lack of extracellular matrix and consequent loss of cell polarity inhibits TGF-β-induced apoptosis, observed when endometrial epithelial cells are polarized in presence of extracellular matrix. Rather, in absence of extracellular matrix, TGF-β-treated endometrial epithelial cells display features of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. We have also investigated the molecular mechanism of such a switch in cellular response. On the one hand, we found that the lack of Matrigel results in increased AKT signaling which is sufficient to inhibit TGF-β-induced apoptosis. On the other hand, we demonstrate that TGF-β-induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition requires ERK and SMAD2/3 activation. In summary, we demonstrate that loss of cell polarity changes the pro-apoptotic function of TGF-β to tumor-associated phenotype such as epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. These results may be important for understanding the dual role of TGF- β in normal versus tumoral cells.
Adaptive reuse of historical buildings: The case of Qishla castle in Koya city
Authors: Mustafa Faris Ali
Published: March 2022

Preserving historical buildings is very essential as they represent socio-cultural indicators of the past. During their life stages, historic buildings may lose their function and become deserted. Adaptive reuse is a way to sustain a building by changing its function according to the needs of its area and the current context. Qishla Castle is one of the most important historical buildings in Koya, Iraq. In addition to its historical and cultural status, it has an important geographic location in the city centre. This paper aims to test the potentiality of reusing this important historical building. The Adaptive Reuse Potentiality (ARP) model was used and discussed in the context of its application to the Qishleh Castle in Koya. To apply this model to the Qishla area, a working paper was prepared, including a set of questions about the building, these questions were answered based on a survey and interviews with archaeologists. Thus, using mathematical equations, the physical life of the building is estimated at 250 years, the age of the building is 152 years, the useful life is estimated at 161 years, and the value of (ARP) is 62.24%, that is, Qishla building has a high potential for adaptive reuse.
Nonlinear dynamics in a discrete-time predator-prey system
Authors: Liu Yun , Liu Xijuan
Published: March 2022

In this article, the nonlinear dynamics of a discrete-time predator-prey system with simplified Holling type IV functional response are reported. Possible codimension-two bifurcations (1:2, 1:3 and 1:4 strong resonances) are investigated under variation of two parameters for certain critical values. For each bifurcation, normal form coefficients along with its scenario are investigated thoroughly. Besides, the numerical simulations have been done, in addition to supporting the analytical findings, more behaviors are extracted from the model, such as fractal structures, mode-locking structures, etc. Our results generate and improve some known results and show that the discrete model has richer dynamics than the continuous one.
A manganese oxide/MOF nano-composite for the adsorption of methylene blue from an aqueous solution
Authors: Geranmayeh Shokoofeh , Moradi Arezoo
Published: March 2022

Metal-organic framework composites exhibit several advantages, including water stability which is critical for the actual applications of MOF in aqueous-phase media. In this regard, a new MnO2/IRMOF-3 composite material was synthesized via the bottle-around-ship method and characterized using different methods such as FT-IR, PXRD, BET, TGA SEM-EDX analyses. The diffraction peaks reveal the high crystallinity of prepared material. Decrease in surface area for the composite material compared to IRMOF-3 can be attributed to the partial filling of the IRMOF-3 pores by the MnO2 nanoparticles. The potential of the synthesized material was examined for the removal of methylene blue from an aqueous solution. The effect of adsorbent dosages, adsorbate concentration, pH of the solution, and adsorbant-adsorbate contact time was investigated. The synthesized material shows high efficiency in removing the methylene blue from an aqueous solution at almost neutral pH conditions with low contact time. The results reveal the advantages of composite material over parent MOF material for applications in aqueous media.
Effect of maca powder supplementation to growing quail diets on performance, carcass, serum constituents and hormones, and bone and ileum characteristics
Authors: Olgun Osman , GÜL Esra Tuğçe , TÜZÜN Ahmet Engin , YILDIZ Alpönder
Published: March 2022

This study research was carried out to determine the effects of the supplementation of maca powder at different levels to the diet on performance, carcass characteristics, serum biochemical constituents and hormone concentrations, bone biomechanical properties and ileum histomorphology in Japanese growing quails. In the study, a total of 480 day-old and mixed sex Japanese quail chicks were randomly distributed to six treatment groups with four subgroups. Experimental diets were formulated by adding 0.0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, and 2.5 g/kg maca powder to the basal diet. At the end of the experiment, the body weight and body weight gain increased linearly with the addition of maca powder up to 1.0 g/kg to the diet, feed conversion ratio was also linearly affected and improved significantly at 1.5 g/kg compared to other groups. While the treatments did not affect the slaughtering parameters except for testis weight, testis weight improved linearly with addition of increased levels of maca powder. In female quails, albumin level of the serum decreased linearly with the addition of maca powder to the diet, while in males, triglyceride and cholesterol levels decreased linearly, and albumin, calcium, phosphorus levels were also affected quadratically.While serum hormone concentrations were not affected by the treatments in females, follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinising-hormone were quadratically affected in male quails, and testosterone concentrated linearly with increased levels of maca, and also reached the highest value at 2.5 g/kg. Shear force and shear stress were positively affected by the addition of maca powder up to 1.0 g/kg to the diet, while negatively affected by higher maca powder levels. Villus height, villus width, crypth depth, and villus surface area increased linearly with the administration of maca powder at increased levels to the diet, and the best result was obtained at the level of 2.0 g/kg in these parameters. According to the results obtained from the present research, it can be said that the addition up to 2.0 g/kg maca powder to growing quail diets could be improve performance, serum hormone concentrations, bone biomechanical traits, and ileum parameters.
Generation and characterization of human U-2 OS cell lines with the CRISPR/Cas9-edited protoporphyrinogen oxidase IX gene
Authors: Novakova Zora , Milosevic Mirko , Kutil Zsofia , Ondrakova Marketa , Havlinova Barbora , Kasparek Petr , Sandoval-Acuña Cristian , Korandova Zuzana , Truksa Jaroslav , Vrbacky Marek , Rohlena Jakub , Barinka Cyril
Published: March 2022

In humans, disruptions in the heme biosynthetic pathway are associated with various types of porphyrias, including variegate porphyria that results from the decreased activity of protoporphyrinogen oxidase IX (PPO; E.C.1.3.3.4), the enzyme catalyzing the penultimate step of the heme biosynthesis. Here we report the generation and characterization of human cell lines, in which PPO was inactivated using the CRISPR/Cas9 system. The PPO knock-out (PPO-KO) cell lines are viable with the normal proliferation rate and show massive accumulation of protoporphyrinogen IX, the PPO substrate. Observed low heme levels trigger a decrease in the amount of functional heme containing respiratory complexes III and IV and overall reduced oxygen consumption rates. Untargeted proteomics further revealed dysregulation of 22 cellular proteins, including strong upregulation of 5-aminolevulinic acid synthase, the major regulatory protein of the heme biosynthesis, as well as additional ten targets with unknown association to heme metabolism. Importantly, knock-in of PPO into PPO-KO cells rescued their wild-type phenotype, confirming the specificity of our model. Overall, our model system reveals physiological consequences of the PPO ablation at the cellular level and can serve as a tool to study various aspects of dysregulated heme metabolism associated with variegate porphyria.
Ficoll density gradient sedimentation isolation of pelage hair follicle mesenchymal stem cells from adult mouse back skin: A novel methods for hair follicle mesenchymal stem cells isolation.
Authors: Gan Yuyang , Wang Hailin , Du Lijuan , Fan Zhexiang , Sun Pingping , Li Kaitao , Qu Qian , Wang Jin , Chen Ruosi , Hu Zhiqi , Miao Yong
Published: March 2022

Background: Hair follicle mesenchymal stem cells(HF-MSC) has great potential for cell therapy. Traditional method to isolate whisker HF-MSC is time consuming and few in cell numbers. How to quickly and conveniently obtain a large number of HF-MSC for experimental research is a problem worth exploring.Methods: Two steps Ficoll Density Gradient Sedimentation(FDGS) were performed to isolated pelage HF-MSC from adult mice. The characteristic of the isolated cells were identified and compared with whisker HF-MSC by immunofluorescence staining, flow cytometry, three-lineage differentiation and hair follicle reconstruction. Pelage HF-MSC were injected into the dorsal skin of mice to explore its role in promoting hair growth. The cells and exosomes distribution were located by immunofluorescence staining.Results: Isolated pelage HF-MSC expressed similar markers (ALP, Versican, NCAM, Nestin), showed similar growth pattern, possessed similar mesenchymal stem cells function and hair follicle induction ability as whisker HF-MSC. A large number of cells can be obtained with fewer mice compared to tranditional method. Pelage HF-MSC injection can promote hair growth. Pelage HF-MSC were distributed surround the host hair follicle, secreting exosomes that integrated into host hair follicle and located in dermal papillae and hair matrix region. Conclusion: A large number of Pelage HF-MSC can be isolated by FDGS, which can promote hair growth by secreting exosomes which targeted the dermal papilla and hair matrix region of host hair follicle.
Cluster B personality disorders among psychiatric outpatients in Southwest Ethiopia: Institution-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Jemal Muzeyen , Tessema Worknesh , Agenagnew Liyew
Published: March 2022

Background: Diagnosis of co-occurring personality disorders, particularly the most comorbid cluster B personality disorders in psychiatric patients is clinically important because of their association with the duration, recurrence, and outcome of the comorbid disorders. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of cluster B personality disorders and associated factors among psychiatric outpatients in Jimma Medical Center.Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 404 patients with mental illnesses at Jimma Medical Center, psychiatry clinic, from July 15 to September 14, 2021. A systematic random sampling method was used to recruit the participants. Personality disorder questionnaire four (PDQ-4) was used to assess the prevalence of cluster B personality disorders through a face-to-face interview. Data were entered into Epi Data Version 4.6 and exported to SPSS Version 26 for analysis. Logistic regression analysis was done and variables with a p-value less than 0.05 with a 95% confidence interval in the final fitting model were declared as independent predictors of cluster B personality disorders. Result: Amongst 401 respondents with response rate of 99.3%, slightly less than one-fourth (23.19%, N=93) were found to have cluster B personality disorders. Unable to read and write(AOR = 3.28, 95%CI = 1.43 - 7.51), unemployment(AOR = 2.32, 95%CI = 1.19 - 4.49), diagnosis of depressive (AOR = 3.72, 95%CI = 1.52-9.10) and bipolar-I disorders (AOR = 2.94, 95%CI = 1.37 - 6.29), longer duration of illness (AOR = 2.44, 95%CI = 1.33 - 4.47), multiple relapses (AOR = 2.21, 95%CI = 1.18–4.15)), history of family mental illnesses (AOR = 2.05, 95%CI = 1.17 - 3.62), recent cannabis use (AOR = 4.38, 95%CI = 1.61 - 11.95), recent use of alcohol (AOR = 2.86, 95%CI = 1.34 - 6.10), starting to use substance at earlier age (AOR = 4.42, 95%CI = 1.51 -12.96), and suicidal attempt (AOR = 2.24, 95%CI= 1.01 - 4.96) , were the factors significantly associated with cluster B personality disorders.Conclusion: The prevalence of cluster B personality disorders was high among mentally ill outpatients and found to be important for mental health professionals working in the outpatient departments to screen for the cluster B personality disorders as part of their routine activities, particularly those who have mood disorders, longer duration of illness, multiple relapses, history of family mental illnesses, suicidal attempt and are a current user of alcohol and cannabis.
Morphometric Considerations on the Inferior Thyroid Artery With Its Origin in the Subclavicular Artery Determined by Ct Examination
Authors: Bunea Maria Cristina , Rusali Lavinia Maria , Bratu Iulian Cătălin , Tudorache Sorin , Bordei Petru
Published: March 2022

In the specialized literature, there is a low degree of information regarding the morphometric aspects of the inferior thyroid artery. The study was performed on CTAs, and the following was observed: the distance between the origin of the inferior thyroid artery in relation to the origin of the corresponding subclavian artery, as well as the artery diameter comparing right to left, according to gender and in comparison with the diameter of the subclavicular artery or thyrocervical trunk from which it originated.The study was performed on a total of 108 inferior thyroid arteries (64 on the right side and 44 on the left side, 48 in males subjects and 60 arteries in female subjects), analyzed on computed tomography angiography. Of the 108 arteries, the origin of the inferior thyroid directly from the subclavian artery was found in 34 cases, 20 cases being on the right side and 14 cases on the left side. In the other 74 cases, the origin of the inferior thyroid artery was in a thyrocervical trunk, 44 cases being on the right side, and 30 cases on the left side. The distance and mean diameters are variable between genders and the left/right side.The inferior thyroid artery is one of the arteries most susceptible to variations in terms of origin and size. With differences between the two sides (right and left), as well as differences related to gender.
Nitrogen Content and C/N Ratio in Straw are the Key to Affect Biological Nitrogen Fixation in a Paddy Field
Authors: Zhang Yanhui , Hu Tianlong , Wang Hui , Jin Haiyang , Liu Qi , Chen Zhe , Xie Zubin
Published: March 2022

Background and aims
Straw amendment can increase nitrogen fixation in paddy field, however, the efficiency of carbon sources with different biochemical properties to enhance N2 fixation and nitrogen fixation activity is still unclear.
Methods
A 15N2-labelling system was used in the field environment to determine biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) under the addition of three different carbon substrates. The nifH gene (DNA) and nifH RNA gene (cDNA) of soil were amplified by real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR to study the number of nitrogen fixing microorganisms and nifH gene expression. The diversity and community composition of nitrogen fixing microorganisms were studied by high-throughput sequencing of nifH DNA gene. The study is expected to reveal how different carbon sources impact biological nitrogen fixation and its mechanism in the paddy field system.
Results
Results showed that the absolute abundance (nifH DNA gene copy numbers) of heterotrophic diazotrophs in the treatment of mature stage wheat straw (MWS) was 4.88 times as high as that in the CK treatment, but jointing stage wheat straw (JWS) and poplar branch (PB) did not induce any significant changes. Straw amendment had no impact on cyanobacteria abundance. The proportion of N2 fixation increased by MWS was 2.07 times, but diazotrophic nitrogen fixation activity decreased. The enhanced N2 fixation by MWS compared with JWS and PB was due to its higher C/N ratio.
Conclusions
Low nitrogen content and high C/N ratio are vital to increase N2 fixation, but the efficiency of straw amendment on N2 fixation might not be as high as expected.
Uveitis Associated with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: A Continued Cohort Study 40 Years After Uveitis Onset
Authors: Skarin Angelika , Berthold Elisabet , Rauer Ola , Bengtsson-Stigmar Elisabeth
Published: March 2022

Background: A third follow-up study, mean 40.7 years after uveitis onset, of a cohort originally consisting of 55 Swedish patients with uveitis associated with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA).Method: A retrospective study of the patients’ ophthalmic medical records. The results were compared to those of the same cohort previously studied at mean 7.2 and 24.0 years after uveitis onset. In the present follow-up study, 30 of the original 55 patients consented to participate. Of these, 26 had ophthalmic medical records that were reviewed. Results: In the 30 participants, active uveitis was seen in 43.4%, cataracts in 66.6% and glaucoma in 40.0%. When comparing data from previous follow-ups of the same cohort, a total of 61.8% were reported to have had cataracts at any of the three follow-ups, 29.0% had glaucoma or ocular hypertension and 12.7% had severe visual impairment in both eyes. At mean 40.7 years after uveitis onset 20% of patients in the original uveitis cohort were deceased. In 4 of the 11 deceased individuals, rheumatic disease was stated as the main cause of death, and in 3 it was considered a contributory factor in the patients deaths. Conclusions: Uveitis associated with JIA can be active into midlife and possibly longer. Ocular complications and visual loss increased up to 40 years after uveitis diagnosis. The mortality rate of this cohort was higher than that of a corresponding Swedish population. Lifelong ophthalmic check-ups are probably necessary for patients diagnosed with this type of uveitis.
Factors associated with contraceptive failure in Uganda: Analysis of the 2016 Uganda Demographic and Health Survey
Authors: Kisuza Ruth Ketty , Kicaber Saviour , Abila Derrick Bary , Bongomin Felix , Garimoi Christopher Orach
Published: March 2022

BackgroundSustained motivation is essential for effective use of contraceptive methods by women in low- and middle-income countries as many women are likely to abandon use of contraceptives especially when they continually experience episodes of failure. We aimed to determine contraceptive failure rates and associated factors among Ugandan women using data from the 2016 Uganda Demographic Health Survey (UDHS).MethodsWe analyzed data collected by the UDHS conducted in Uganda 2016. All eligible women aged 15 to 49 years at the time of the survey were enrolled. Discontinuation of contraceptive use due to failure within a 5-year period preceding the survey was the dependent variable.ResultsA total of 18,505 women were included in this study, 70.8% (n=5153) lived in rural areas while 56.9% (n=5153) owned a mobile phone. The mean age of the women was 29.6years (SD 7.6). The overall prevalence of contraceptive failure was 5.6%, and was higher (7.8%) among women aged 25-29 years or had completed secondary education (7.1%). The odds of contraceptive failure was 38% lower in women who had an informed choice on contraceptives compared to those who didn’t [Adjusted Odd ratio, 0.62; 95% confidence interval, 0.50 – 0.77; p< 0.001].ConclusionThe burden of contraceptive failure among women of reproductive age in Uganda is substantial and significantly varied by socio-demographic characteristics.
Quantification of cell contractile behavior based on non-destructive macroscopic measurement of tension forces on bioprinted hydrogel
Authors: Pragnere Sarah , Kholti Naima El , Gudimard Leslie , Essayan Lucie , Marquette Christophe , Petiot Emma , Pailler-Mattei Cyril
Published: March 2022

Contraction assay based on surface measurement have been widely used to evaluate cell contractility in 3D models. This method is straightforward and requires no specific equipment, but it does not provide quantitative data about contraction forces generated by cells. We expanded this method with a new biomechanical model, based on the work-energy theorem, to provide non-destructive longitudinal monitoring of contraction forces generated by cells in 3D. We applied this method on hydrogels seeded with either fibroblasts or osteoblasts. Hydrogel mechanical characteristics were modulated to enhance (condition HCAHigh: hydrogel contraction assay high contraction) or limit (condition HCALow: hydrogel contraction assay low contraction) cell contractile behaviors. Macroscopic measures were further correlated with cell contractile behavior and descriptive analysis of their physiology in response to different mechanical environments. Fibroblasts and osteoblasts contracted their matrix up to 47% and 77% respectively. Contraction pressure peaked at day 5 with 1.1 10-14 Pa for fibroblasts and 3.5 10-14 Pa for osteoblasts, which correlated with cell attachment and spreading. Negligible contraction was seen in HCALow. Both fibroblasts and osteoblasts expressed α-SMA contractile fibers in HCAHigh and HCALow. Failure to contract HCALow was attributed to increased cross-linking and resistance to proteolytic degradation of the hydrogel.
The Diversity and Function of The in Situ Fungal Communities in Response to Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in The Urban Wetland
Authors: Wu Huanling , Pan Shaobing , Sun Binghua , Li Jinhua
Published: March 2022

PAHs (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons) increases the potential harm to ecosystem and human health. The fungi is considered as a powerful choice for degradation of PAHs. The researches on the effect of PAHs on fungal population in sediment/soil mostly stayed in the laboratory simulation that based on extreme pollution. This study investigated the fungal population of the urban wetland by high-throughput sequencing in situ micro-pollution state. Our statistical analysis revealed significant difference in the whole fungal population at the phylum among the three land use types. Among them, Ascomycota was the dominant fungi at the phyla in three land use types. Fungal genus of degrading PAHs were significantly correlated with Dibenz[a, h]anthracene (P = 0.018) in ditch wetland, Total Organic Carbon (P = 0.02) and Fluoranthene (P = 0.04) in riverine wetland, and Electrical Conductivity (P = 0.018) in agricultural land. PICRUSt (Phylogenetic Investigation of Communities by Reconstruction of Unobserved States) suggested that 20 enzymes were present related to PAHs metabolism in three land use types. Specifically, monoxygenase, dehydrogenase, and laccase were most abundant among inferred enzymes, indicating that the urban wetland had potential for the degradation of PAHs. This study contributed to in-depth understanding of the structure and function of fungal population and provided a theoretical basis for PAHs microbial remediation in the in-situ environment.
Endophytic Fungi Isolation and Identification from Stem of Tinospora Cordifolia
Authors: Dinodia Neelam , Sharma Rajesh K. , Gond Vijay K. , Dinodia Neelam
Published: March 2022

Endophytes refer to the microorganisms (mostly fungi and bacteria) colonising the intercellular and intracellular regions of healthy plant tissues at a particular time, whose presence is unobtrusive and asymptomatic. Fungal endophytes are believed to be treasure of structurally and biologically active compounds. Sometimes, the medicinal properties of plants result from the endophytes present in the host plant and the type of secondary metabolites produced by those endophytes. The present study was conducted with a culture-dependent based approach in order to isolate, identify endophytic fungi from stem of Tinospora cordifolia i.e. common medicinal plant Giloy. In this study a total of nine endophytic fungal isolates were obtained. All isolates were primarily identified by morphological characteristics and then were subjected to single spore isolation process where distinguished culture of every individual colony was prepared and phyto-genetically examined by molecular experiments. The endophytic fungi were velvety reddish white or grey, cottony and woolly grey or pink growth with spores touching the lid converted the agar into red, grey, pink colour. The growth characteristics of endophytic fungal isolates in Potato dextrose broth showed mycelia formation at the surface with colouration of the broth as seen on the agar. Molecular characterization was done by Polymerase chain reaction and gene sequencing of the internal transcribed spacer regions of the rDNA gene which revealed that the endophytic fungi isolates from Tinospora cordifolia stem belonged to Phoma sojicola and Lasiodiploda theobromae. Acknowledgements: We are thankful to the department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, India 482001 for providing necessary facilities to carry out the research work. ORCHIT: 0000-0001-5517-4161
The changing characteristics of post-COVID-19 syndrome: Cross-sectional findings from 458 consultations using the Stanford Hall remote rehabilitation assessment tool
Authors: O'Sullivan Oliver
Published: March 2022

Background In the UK, there have been multiple waves of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), with a five-tier alert system created to describe the transmission rate and appropriate restrictions. While acute mortality decreased, there continues to be significant morbidity, with individuals suffering persistent, life-restricting symptoms for months-to-years afterwards. A remote rehabilitation tool was created at the Defence Medical Rehabilitation Centre (DMRC) Stanford Hall to assess post-COVID-19 symptoms and their impact on the UK Military. This study aims to understand changes in post-COVID-19 syndrome between wave one and wave two, identify interactions between alert level and symptoms, and investigate any predictive nature of acute symptoms for post-acute symptomology in a young, physically-active population. Methods Cross-sectional study of 458 consecutive remote rehabilitation assessments performed at DMRC Stanford Hall between 2/4/2020 and 29/7/2021. Consultations were coded, anonymised, and statistical analysis was performed to determine associations between acute and post-acute symptoms, and between symptoms, alert level, and wave. Results 435 assessments were eligible; 174 in wave one and 261 in wave two. Post-COVID-19 syndrome prevalence reduced from 43% to 2% between the waves. Acutely, widespread pain was more prevalent in wave two (P<0.001). Post-acutely, there was increased anxiety (p=0.10) in wave one and increased sleep disturbance (p<0.001), memory/concentration issues (p<0.001), and shortness of breath/cough (p=0.017) in wave two. Increasing alert level was associated with increased post-acute symptom prevalence (p=0.046), with sleep disturbance increasing at higher alert level (p=0.016). Acute symptoms, including fatigue, sleep disturbance and myalgia, were associated with multiple post-acute symptoms. Conclusions This study reports the overall prevalence and symptom burden in the UK Military in the first two waves of COVID-19. By reporting differences in COVID-19 in different waves and alert level, this study highlights the importance of careful assessment and contextual understanding of acute and post-acute illness for individual management plans.