bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Apoptin Mediates Endogenous Mitophagy and Apoptosis by Regulating the Level of ROS in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Li Yiquan , Shang Chao , Liu Zirui , Han Jicheng , Li Wenjie , Xiao Pengpeng , Li Nan , Li Shanzhi , Xiu Zhiru , Song Gaojie , Li Yaru , Jin Ningyi , Fang Jinbo , Li Xiao , Zhu Yilong
Published: December 2021

Background: Apoptin, as a tumor-specific pro-apoptotic protein, apoptin plays an important role in the field of anti-tumor, but its autophagy activation mechanism and the interaction between autophagy and apoptosis have not been accurately elucidated. Here, we studied the mechanism of apoptosis and autophagy induced by apoptin and the interaction between autophagy and apoptosis. Methods: Through crystal violet staining and CCK-8 assay, we analyzed the effect of apoptin in inhibiting liver cancer in vitro, and also analyzed the effect of inhibiting liver cancer in vivo by establishing a nude mouse tumor model. Flow cytometry and fluorescence staining were used to analyze the main types of apoptosis and autophagy induced by apoptin. Subsequently, the relationship between apoptosis and autophagy induced by apoptin was analyzed. Then, flow cytometry was used to analyze the effect of ROS on apoptosis and autophagy mediated by apoptin. Then, the affect of ROS on apoptosis and autophagy mediated by apoptin was analyzed. Finally, the key genes leading to autophagy were analyzed by silencing different genes.Results: The results showed that apoptin can significantly increase the apoptosis and autophagy of liver cancer cells, and apoptin can cause mitophagy through the increase of NIX protein. Apoptin can also significantly reduce the level of cellular ROS, which is related to the autophagy and apoptosis of liver cancer cells caused by apoptin. The change of ROS may be a key factor causing apoptosis and autophagy. Conclusion: The above results indicate that the increase of ROS level after apoptin treatment of liver cancer cells leads to the loss of mitochondrial transmembrane potential, which leads to endogenous apoptosis and mitophagy while recruiting NIX. Therefore, ROS may be a key factor connecting endogenous apoptosis and mitophagy induced by apoptin in liver cancer cells.
Allied Health and Complementary Therapy Usage in Australian Women With Chronic Pelvic Pain: a Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Malik Astha , SINCLAIR Justin , Ng Cecilia , Smith Caroline , ABBOTT Jason , ARMOUR Mike
Published: December 2021

Background Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) causes non-cyclical pelvic pain, period pain, fatigue and other painful symptoms. Current medical and surgical management strategies are often not sufficient to manage these symptoms and may lead to uptake of other therapies. Aims To determine the prevalence of allied health (AH) and complementary therapy (CM) use, the cost burden of these therapies and explore predictive factors for using allied health or complementary medicines.Materials and Methods An online cross-sectional questionnaire using the WERF EndoCost tool was undertaken between February to April 2017. People were eligible to participate in the survey if they were aged 18-45, living in Australia and had chronic pelvic pain. Results From 409 responses, 340/409 (83%) of respondents reported a diagnosis of endometriosis. One hundred and five (30%) women with self-reported endometriosis, and thirteen (18%) women with other forms of CPP saw at least one AH or CM practitioner in the previous two months, with physiotherapists and acupuncturists the most common. Women who accessed CM or AH services spent an average of $480.32 AUD in the previous two months. A positive correlation was found between education and number of AH or CM therapies accessed in the past two months (p<0.001) and between income level and number of therapists (p=0.028).Conclusions Women with CPP commonly access AH and CM therapies, with a high out of pocket cost. The high cost and associations with income and education levels may warrant a change to policy to improve equitable access to these services.
Effects of the Experience of Breastfeeding-Friendly Practices and Breastfeeding Intention and Self-Efficacy on Breastfeeding Behavior: A Cohort Study in Taiwan
Authors: Wang Yu-Wen , Chang Ying-Ju
Published: December 2021

Background: Approximately 80% of births occurred in Baby-Friendly-accredited facilities in Taiwan, although the trend of exclusively breastfeeding infants until 6 months of age has stagnated in the last 10 years. To guide breastfeeding promotion interventions during postnatal stays and encourage mothers to continue breastfeeding for the first 6 months, the factors of breastfeeding behavior within 6 months post-delivery must be investigated. This study explored the relationships among breastfeeding intention, experience of breastfeeding-friendly practices, breastfeeding self-efficacy, and breastfeeding behavior at 4 and 6 months after childbirth.Methods: In this longitudinal cohort study, women who gave birth to healthy newborns at two Baby-Friendly hospitals in Taiwan and who were willing to breastfeed were recruited. Data were collected through a self-developed questionnaire measuring the experience of breastfeeding-friendly practices and through the Chinese version of the Breastfeeding Self-Efficacy Scale-Short Form during hospitalization and at 1, 2, 4, and 6 months after childbirth.Results: A total of 155 women completed the questionnaires 5 times within 6 months. The determinants of exclusive breastfeeding at 4 months and any breastfeeding at 6 months were longstanding breastfeeding intention during hospitalization, a high score for the experience of breastfeeding-friendly practices, and a high level of breastfeeding self-efficacy during that period. The in-hospital experience of breastfeeding-friendly practices did not predict breastfeeding behavior at 4 and 6 months. Breastfeeding intention (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.40–0.14) and in-hospital breastfeeding self-efficacy (HR = 0.98) were significant as in-hospital risk factors contributing to breastfeeding duration 6 months after childbirth.Conclusions: Longstanding breastfeeding intention, continuation of the experience of breastfeeding-friendly practices, and maintenance of a high level of breastfeeding self-efficacy were the determinants of breastfeeding at 4 and 6 months. Healthcare professionals in Taiwan must support breastfeeding-friendly practices and consider interactive interventions to promote continued breastfeeding at different stages during the first 6 months after childbirth based on the mother’s informed plan of breastfeeding and breastfeeding self-efficacy during their postnatal hospitalization.
Phenotypical Comparison of Pseudomonas Aeruginosa Isolated from Human and Veterinary Samples; Impact of Host Adaptation on Infection Pathogenesis
Authors: Kaiser Stefan J. , DeRosa Annalisa , Ewers Christa , Günther Frank
Published: December 2021

Purpose: Determinants of virulence in Pseudomonas aeruginosa vary strongly depending on its habitat. In this study, we analyzed these alterations depending on the host organism in isolates cultured from canine ears and compared it to clinical extended-spectrum antibiotic-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates (XDR), clinical antibiotic-sensitive (non-XDR) from humans and environmental isolates (EI) analyzed during our first study in 2017. Methods: A total of 22 veterinary isolates cultured from canine ears (VET) were examined for spontaneous biofilm formation, stress response in biofilm formation induced by meropenem, in vitro fitness, susceptibility to human serum and polymorphonuclear leukocytes and the genetically determined virulence factors toxA, exoS, exoT, exoU, exoY, nan1, cif, lasA and lasB.Results: We observed significantly elevated spontaneous biofilm formation and serum susceptibility in VET isolates compared to EI and non-XDR isolates as well as significantly decreased in vitro fitness compared to XDR isolates. The VET isolates resembled most the XDR subgroup of isolates previously cultured from blood. Within the environmental isolates, we observed an increase of spontaneous biofilm formation and exoU presence in isolates cultured from community water samples over hospital water samples to pool samples.Conclusions: Considering the distinct differences in some features of the examined VET isolates, a higher degree of phenotypical adaption can be assumed. Increased biofilm formation seems to be a common and characteristic event in isolates adapted to a specific habitat. Therefore amplification of potentially more virulent Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains in domestic animals may lead to elevated zoonotic risk for example for pet owners.
Graphene Oxide Embedded Copper Composite as an Efficient Mordant to Enhance the Properties of Natural Dye Coated Cotton Fabric.
Authors: Khade Pratiksha , Bhakare Madhuri , lokhande kshama , Some Surajit
Published: December 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Isolation, Marginalisation and Disempowerment – Understanding How Interactions with Health Providers Can Influence Smoking Cessation in Pregnancy
Authors: Fletcher Cherise , Hoon Elizabeth , Gialamas Angela , Dekker Gustaaf , Lynch John , Smithers Lisa
Published: December 2021

BackgroundMaternal smoking during pregnancy can lead to serious adverse health outcomes for both women and their infants. While smoking in pregnancy has declined over time, it remains consistently higher in women with lower socioeconomic circumstances. Furthermore, fewer women in this group will successfully quit during pregnancy. AimThis study explores the barriers to smoking cessation experienced by socially disadvantaged pregnant women and investigates how interactions with health providers can influence their smoking cessation journey.Methodsomen (either pregnant or birthed in the previous 10 years, who smoked or quit smoking in pregnancy) were recruited from a metropolitan public hospital antenatal clinic in South Australia and community organisations in surrounding suburbs. Seventeen women participated in qualitative semi-structured small focus groups or interviews. The focus groups and interviews were recorded, transcribed and thematically analysed. FindingsFour interconnected themes were identified: 1) smoking embedded in women’s challenging lives and pregnancies, 2) cyclic isolation and marginalisation, 3) feeling disempowered, and 4) autonomy and self-determination. Themes 3 and 4 are characterised as being two sides of a single coin in that they coexist simultaneously and are inseparable. A key finding is a strong unanimous desire for smoking cessation in pregnancy but women felt they did not have the necessary support from health providers or confidence and self-efficacy to be successful.ConclusionWomen would like improvements to antenatal care that increase health practitioners’ understanding of the social and contextual healthcare barriers faced by women who smoke in pregnancy. They seek assistance from health providers to make informed choices about smoking cessation and would like women-centred care. Women feel that with greater support, consistency and encouragement from health providers they could be more successful at antenatal smoking cessation.
A Descriptive Study to Assess Wellbeing, Quality of Life and Satisfaction of Omani Patients with Chronic Wounds
Authors: Natarajan Jansi Rani , Joseph Mickael Antoine , Alawi Rashid Mohammed Al , Balushi Taimoor Al , Alawi Ibrahim Al , Junaibi Suad Moosa Al , John Anitha Nesa Thanka , Balushi Laila bint Darwish Al , Ismaili Issa Sulaiman Al , Shummo Moath
Published: December 2021

Background: A chronic wound is one that has failed to proceed through the normal phases of wound healing in an orderly manner. Chronic wounds are a common problem around the world. They can be distressing to the patients causing physical, social and emotional damage such as decreased activities of daily living, pain, discomfort, unpleasant odor, and insomnia. Wellbeing, quality of life and satisfaction of these patients with chronic wounds can be impaired by a complex set of aspects. The purpose of this article is to describe the impact of chronic wounds on the wellbeing, quality of life and satisfaction of Omani patients with chronic wounds. Methods: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study of 275 patients with chronic wounds attending three tertiary care hospitals in Muscat city, Sultanate of Oman. Adult patients of 18 years and above with wounds of duration of more than 4weeks were chosen by consecutive non-probability sampling. A pre-tested, semi-structured self-reported questionnaire was provided to each patient to complete. Data was analysed using SPSS IBM version 23.Results: The average age of the patients was 47.13±16.917 and the majority of them (64.7%) were males. Most of them (29.1%) had diabetic ulcers and 45.8% of them presented with mildly severe wounds based on Bates-Jensen wound assessment scale. Patients with chronic wounds reported a poor wellbeing scores (M=10.47, SD= 1.813), moderate quality of life (M=5.22, SD= 2.388) and satisfaction scores (M=6.89, SD= 2.388). Significant mean differences were reported with age, gender, educational level, and type of wound at p<.05 levels.Conclusion: These findings demonstrated that chronic wounds could influence the wellbeing, quality of life and overall satisfaction with the quality of life of patients suffering with it. These results also suggest a need to pay increased attention by the healthcare providers to the patients suffering from chronic wounds on the aspects of wellbeing and quality of life along with treating the physical symptoms.
Thromboembolic Events in Critically Ill Children with Multiple Risk Factors for Venous Thrombosis
Authors: Östlund Åsa KM , Fläring Urban , Larsson Peter , Kaiser Sylvie , Vermin Lena , Frisk Tony , Dahlberg Ann , Berner Jonas , Norberg Åke , Andersson Andreas
Published: December 2021

The risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE) is considered to be low in the general paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) population, and pharmacological thromboprophylaxis is not routinely used. PICU patients considered at high-risk of VTE could possibly benefit from pharmacological thromboprophylaxis, but the incidence of VTE in this group of patients is unclear. This was an observational, prospective study at a tertiary multi-disciplinary paediatric hospital. We used comprehensive ultrasonography screening for VTE in critically ill children with multiple risk factors for VTE. Patients admitted to PICU ≥72 hours and with ≥two risk factors for VTE were included. Patients receiving pharmacological thromboprophylaxis during their entire PICU stay were excluded. Since pharmacological thromboprophylaxis has not been proven effective for central venous catheter(CVC)-related VTE, the primary outcome was VTEs not related to the use of a CVC. Ultrasonography screening of the great veins was performed at PICU discharge. Seventy patients with median (interquartile range) 3 (2-4) risk factors for VTE were evaluated. Median age was 0.34 years (0.03-4.3) and median PICU length of stay 9 days (5-17). Regarding the primary outcome, no symptomatic VTEs occurred and no asymptomatic VTEs were found on ultrasonography screening. The observed proportion of VTE, 0 in 70 patients, corresponds to a VTE incidence of 0-5.1%. Conclusion: No VTEs where pharmacological thromboprophylaxis could potentially have been an effective prophylactic measure were found. This indicates that VTE is an uncommon event even in a selected group of severely ill small children considered to be at high risk of VTE.
The Symptom Discounting Effect : What to Do When Negative Genetic Test Results Become Risk Factors for Alcohol Use Disorder
Authors: ahn woo-kyoung , Perricone Annalise
Published: December 2021

Most consumers of genetic testing for health conditions test negative, yet the psychological perils of this are hardly known. In three experiments (N=2,103) participants discounted repercussions of Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), after learning or imagining that they were not genetically predisposed to AUD. Such discounting can lead people to avoid treatment and to feel safe to continue or even increase their drinking, ironically turning the negative genetic feedback into a risk factor for AUD. This misconception derives from not understanding the Causal Markov condition as applied to this case; once AUD symptoms are present, their ramifications remain the same regardless of whether genes or environments caused the symptoms. Educating participants about this principle mitigated the irrational discounting of threats of AUD, even among Individuals already engaging in problematic drinking, for whom the debriefing currently used by a direct-to-consumer genetic testing company was found to be ineffective in the current study.
A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Effect of Probiotic Supplementation on Age-related Sarcopenia in Elderly Adults
Authors: Saraf-Bank Sahar , Navab Fatemeh , Rouhan Mohammad Hossein , Hajhashemy Zahra , Shokri-mashhadi Nafiseh
Published: December 2021

Background: Several clinical studies emphasized the role of bio-diversities of gut microbiota in age-related disorders. Nevertheless, the effect of probiotic administration on sarcopenia indices are unclear. This meta-analysis aimed to investigate the effect of probiotic administration on muscle strength, muscle mass, and muscle function. Methods: We assessed all interventional studies through different electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, ISI –Web of Science, and Cochrane library using defined keywords from inception to Jun 2021. Studies that investigated the effect of probiotic administration on at least one of the components of sarcopenia or anthropometric indices versus non- probiotics in old adults (>55 years) were included. Results: The initially overall effect of meta-analysis on 1393 participants declared a null effect of probiotic supplementation on main outcomes, including muscle mass (WMD: -0.05, 95% CI: -1.54, 1.43; I-square: 0.0%, P=0.985), and muscle strength (WMD: 0.7, 95% CI: -0.01, 1.40; I-square: 76.8%, P=0.005). Subgroup analysis showed that administration of probiotic supplementation for more than 12 weeks significantly increased muscle strength (WMD: 1.15, 95% CI: 0.86, 1.43; I-square: 0.0%, P=0.679). However, probiotic supplementation had no effect on anthropometric indices, including body mass and body mass index, (WMD: -0.05, 95% CI:-2.57, 1.56; I-square: 0.0%, P=0.976) and (WMD: 0.08, 95% CI:-0.16, 0.32; I-square: 0.0%, P=0.718), respectively. Conclusion: This study confirmed the positive impact of probiotic supplementation on the muscle strength (based on the last definitions by EWGSOP), in particular, probiotic administration for more than 12 weeks. More clinical trials on sarcopenic elderly subjects are wanted to confirm our findings.
Piezoelectric Voltage Constant and Sensitivity Enhancements Through Phase Boundary Structure Control of Lead-free (K,Na)NbO3-based ceramics
Authors: Lee Min-Ku , Kim Byung-Hoon , Lee Gyoung-Ja
Published: December 2021

The piezoelectric voltage constant (g33) is a material parameter critical to piezoelectric voltage-type sensors for detecting vibrations or strains. Here, we report a lead-free (K,Na)NbO3 (KNN)-based piezoelectric accelerometer with voltage sensitivity enhanced by taking advantage of a high g33. To achieve a high g33, the magnitudes of piezoelectric charge constant d33 and dielectric permittivity er of KNN were best coupled by manipulating the intrinsic polymorphic phase boundaries effectively with the help of Bi-based perovskite oxide additives. For the KNN composition that derives benefit from the combination of er and d33, the value of g33 was found to be 46.9 ´ 10-3 V·m/N, which is significantly higher than those (20 - 30 ´ 10−3 V·m/N) found in well-known polycrystalline lead-based ceramics including commercial Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 (PZT). Finally, the accelerometer sensor prototype built using the modified KNN composition demonstrated higher voltage sensitivity (183 mV/g) when measuring vibrations, showing a 29% increase against the PZT-based sensor (142 mV/g).
I-V Characteristic and Performance of Three Electrode Alkaline Electrolyzer
Authors: Kafle Diwakar , Dumre Sushil , Tripathi Saroj , Shrestha Shankar
Published: December 2021

Hydrogen production by electrolysis of water is seen as a promising technique as it is environment friendly and it can use renewable energy source for the production of hydrogen gas. However, this technology has less than 4% contribution to the production of commercial hydrogen in the market. This is due to the high electricity consumption of the water splitting reaction. The main challenge to make this technology efficient and economically viable is to develop cost effective and highly efficient electrolyzer. Here we have developed a three electrode electrolyzer in which an extra electrode is inserted between conventional electrodes: cathode and anode. This novel electrolyzer utilizes an extra voltage source which reduces the overpotential and increases the anode current of the cell, which is responsible for the hydrogen production. Furthermore, we observed that, the operating resistance of the cell decreases under the application of the new voltage source. Our results demonstrate that the introduction of third electrode improves the performance of electrolysis by consuming less power as compared to the traditional or conventional two electrode electrolyzer system.
S-palmitoylation and sterol interactions mediate antiviral specificity of IFITM isoforms
Authors: Das Tandrila , Yang Xinglin , Lee Hwayoung , Garst Emma , Valencia Estefania , Chandran Kartik , Im Wonpil , Hang Howard
Published: December 2021

Interferon-induced transmembrane proteins (IFITM1, 2 and 3) are important antiviral proteins that are active against many viruses, including influenza A virus (IAV), dengue virus (DENV), Ebola virus (EBOV), Zika virus (ZIKV) and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV). IFITMs exhibit isoform-specific activity, but their distinct mechanisms of action and regulation are unclear. Since S-palmitoylation and cholesterol homeostasis are crucial for viral infections, we investigated IFITM interactions with cholesterol by molecular dynamic stimulations, nuclear magnetic resonance analysis in vitro and photoaffinity crosslinking in mammalian cells. These studies suggest that cholesterol can alter the conformation of IFITMs in membrane bilayers and directly interact with S-palmitoylated IFITMs in cells. Notably, we discovered that the S-palmitoylation levels regulate differential IFITM isoform interactions with cholesterol in mammalian cells and specificity of antiviral activity towards IAV, SARS-CoV-2 and EBOV. Our studies suggest that modulation of IFITM S-palmitoylation levels and cholesterol interaction may influence host susceptibility to different viruses.
Experimental observation of permanent magnet rotation
Authors: Tong Weiming , Chen Bihe
Published: December 2021

Why does the Earth rotate? At present, several theories on Earth rotation remain hypotheses. Hence, the aim of this study was to obtain experimental evidence of the relationship between the rotational force and magnetic field so that we can use experimental devices to demonstrate the rotation relationship among the planets and the sun. Each permanent magnet rotating under the action of an external force is installed on the shaft of DC motor; each magnetic ball designed to rotate in a magnetic field is placed in the center of a hollow sphere that can float on the water. Using the above setup, the experimental methods and procedures based on this research can be used to observe the rotation behaviour of a permanent magnet in a magnetic field, understand the reason for its rotation, and determine the strength of the rotational force of the permanent magnet in the magnetic field.
Local Assessment of the Immunohistochemical Expression of Foxp3 + Regulatory T Lymphocytes in the Different Pathological Forms Associated with Bovine Paratuberculosis
Authors: Zapico David , Espinosa José , Fernández Miguel , Criado Miguel , Arteche-Villasol Noive , Pérez Valentín
Published: December 2021

Background

Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis infected animals show a variety of granulomatous lesions: from focal forms, restricted to the gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT), related to latency and resistance, to diffuse lesions, with abundant (multibacillary) or scant (paucibacillary) bacteria, seen in clinical stages. Factors that determine the response to the infection and responsible for the occurrence of the different types of lesion are still not fully determined. It has been seen that regulatory T cells (Treg) play an important role in the progress of various diseases where they act on the limitation of the immunopathology associated with the immune response. In the case of paratuberculosis (PTB) the role of Treg lymphocytes in the immunity against Map is far away to be completely understood; therefore, several studies addressing this subject have appeared recently. The aim of this work was to assess, by immunohistochemical methods, the presence of Foxp3+ T lymphocytes in intestinal samples with different types of lesions seen in cows with PTB.
Methods

Intestinal samples of twenty cows showing the different pathological forms of PTB were evaluated: uninfected controls (n = 5), focal lesions (n = 5), diffuse paucibacillary (n = 5) and diffuse multibacillary (n = 5) forms. Foxp3+ lymphocyte distribution was assessed by differential cell count in intestinal lamina propria (LP), gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) and mesenteric lymph node (MLN).
Results

A significant increase in the number of Foxp3+ T cells was observed in all infected animals, but this increase was only significant in cows with focal lesions and, to a lesser extent, in animals with diffuse paucibacillary forms. The former showed the highest numbers, significantly different from those found in cows with diffuse lesions, where no differences were noted between the two forms. No specific distribution pattern was observed within the granulomatous lesions in any of the groups.
Conclusions

The increase of Foxp3+ T cells in focal forms, that have been associated with latency or resistance to infection, suggest an anti-inflammatory action of these cells at these stages, helping to prevent exacerbation of the inflammatory response, as occurs in diffuse forms, responsible for the appearance of clinical signs.
Mass Transfer Behavior and Microstructure Evolution of Li4TiO4-Li2TiO3 Core-shell Breeding Ceramic Under Harsh Operating Conditions
Authors: Chen Ruichong , Katayama Kazunari , Qi Jianqi , Ipponsugi Akito , Oyama Ran , Guo Hao , Lu Tiecheng
Published: December 2021

The development of novel tritium breeding materials was urgently needed in order to continuously optimize the tritium breeding ratio (TBR) of thermonuclear fusion reactors. From this point of view, Li4TiO4-Li2TiO3 core-shell breeding materials with more reasonable structure and theoretical Li density of 0.464 g/cm3 were prepared in this work. Notably, the mass transfer experiment at 900 °C in 1% H2/Ar shows that the theoretical Li density of this core-shell material after heating for 30 days was significantly higher than that of other breeding materials, indicating that it can provide more stable and efficient TBR. Specifically, the Li mass loss of the sample after 30 days heating was 3.4%, resulting in a decrease of Li density to 0.415 g/cm3. The mechanism of Li mass loss in Li4TiO4-Li2TiO3 core-shell breeding materials was investigated in detail. Moreover, the samples did not crack or collapse during the long-term heating process, and always maintained a satisfactory crushing load, revealing that this core-shell breeding ceramic can be used for a long time under severe operating conditions.
Molecular Detection and Characterization of Porcine Astrovirus on the basis of Partial ORF1b/ORF2 Region
Authors: Kaur Rajpreet , KUMAR PARVEEN , Jindal Naresh , Minhas Sanjeevna Kumari , Prakash Anand , Dahiya Swati , Kakker Naresh , Joshi Vinay G.
Published: December 2021

The porcine astrovirus (PAstV) is distributed globally and exists as five distinct lineages (PAstV1-PAstV5). PAstV is considered one of the important pathogen associated with diarrhea among pigs. In the present study, the PAstV was detected in 13.4% (19/141) of fecal samples including 14.4% (16/111) diarrheic and 10% (3/30) non-diarrheic samples by RT-PCR based on partial ORF1b/ORF2 gene from Haryana, India. The results indicated that the weaning piglets were more susceptible to PAstV infection followed by suckling piglets. The phylogenetic analysis of the viral strains revealed the circulation ofPAstV4 (55.5%) and PAstV2 (44.4%) lineages with PAstV4 being the predominant lineage. To conclude, RT-PCR screening followed by sequencing of PAstV revealed high genetic diversity among the PAstV strains suggesting the wide range of heterogeneity and possible recombination events of viral strains in the state.
What’s the difference between hyperprogressive disease and progressive disease for patients with treated immune checkpoint inhibitors?
Authors: Yıldırım Hasan Çağrı , Guven Deniz Can , Aktepe Oktay Halit , Taban Hakan , Yilmaz Feride , Yasar Serkan , Aktaş Burak Yasin , Güner Gürkan , Dizdar Ömer , Aksoy Sercan , Erman Mustafa , Yalcin Suayib , Kilickap Saadettin
Published: December 2021

Background

Although the immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) became a vital part of cancer care, many patients do not respond to treatment. Some of the patients in this group, which is considered to have hyperprogressive disease (HPD), have a shorter overall survival compared to progressive disease (PD). Therefore, biomarkers are needed to differentiate between HPD and PD. Here, we evaluated PILE score to differentiate HPD from PD in patients treated with ICI.
Methods

Ninety-five patients treated with anti-PD-1 or anti-PD-L1 inhibitors for any type of cancer with progression according to RECIST criteria in the first control imaging were included. HPD was defined according to Russo's work. The PILE scoring system was calculated, including PIV (< median vs. ≥ median), LDH (normal and > normal), and ECOG performance status (0 vs. ≥ 1). The relationship between PILE score and HPD was examined.
Results

The median follow-up was 6.6 months and the median OS of all cohort were 11.18 ± 1.36 months. The patients in the HPD group had decreased OS (4.77 ± 0.89 vs. 13.94 ± 1.80 months, p <0.001) and PFS (1.89 ± 0.11 vs. 3.16 ± 0.12 months, p <0.001) compared to PD group. The risk of HPD was higher than the risk of PD in patİents with a high PILE score (p:0.001).
Conclusion

In this study, we showed that patients treated with ICI with a higher PILE score are at greater risk for HPD. If prospective studies confirm our results, the PILE score may be a biomarker to differentiate HPD from PD.
A simple and accurate method to calculate square roots and cube roots for Chemistry students without calculator.
Authors: Iyengar Anju
Published: December 2021

Presented here are two simple formulae, for the calculation of square and cube roots that are frequently encountered in Chemistry courses, at school and college levels (whether undergraduate or graduate). However, tests are difficult to be designed which do not provide for a calculator and which require the calculation of these quantities. The formulae are simple interval-weighted denominator method based to get an accurate value of these quantities. This will enable students to quickly and accurately compute square roots and cube roots.
Preoperative Inflammatory Response to Esophageal Cancer Is More Reliable Prognostic Factor in Patients Received Esophagectomy
Authors: Fujiwara Yoshinori , Endo Shunji , Higashida Masaharu , Kubota Hisako , Kinoshita Seiya , Yoshimatsu Kazuhiko , Ueno Tomio
Published: December 2021

Background: Inflammation and nutrition are closely related to the progression of gastrointestinal malignancies. We aimed to explore the potential of preoperative inflammation-based or nutrition-based biomarkers as predictors of survival in patients with resectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) using multivariate Cox analysis.Methods: We included 122 patients with resectable ESCC (stages I–IV) in the study. We assessed the inflammation-based modified Glasgow prognostic score (mGPS), nutrition-based modified controlling nutritional status (mCONUT) score, CRP(C-reactive protein),serum albumin, lymphocyte counts, and total cholesterol. The relationships of these biomarkers with overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) were evaluated. Three Cox model were performed for single parameters(CRP, albumin, lymphocyte, total cholesterol), for mCONUT and mGPS,and for clinicopathological factors.Results: The cut-off values for CRP, albumin, and mCONUT measured using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were 0.3, 3.5, and 4, respectively. Patients with high mGPS and high mCONUT scores were significantly associated with shorter OS and RFS (p < 0.05).Multivariate Cox analysis showed that mGPS,pStage,tumor location were independent prognostic factors both FRS and OS. Also, Cox analysis for single parameters showed that preoperative CRP, lymphocyte counts were independent prognostic factors for RFS and albumin was prognostic factor for OS.Conclusions: Preoperative inflammation-based mGPS is most reliable independent prognostic factor in patients with resectable ESCC. Suppression of preoperative inflammation can be improved nutritional status and may improve the prognosis in these patients.
Spatial Patterns and Climate Drivers of Malaria in Three Border Areas of Brazil, Venezuela and Guyana, 2016-2018
Authors: Wangdi Kinley , Wetzler Erica , Cox Horace , Marchesini Paola , Villegas Leopoldo , Canavati Sara
Published: December 2021

IntroductionIn 2020, 77% of malaria cases in the Americas were concentrated in Venezuela, Brazil, and Colombia. These countries are characterized by a heterogeneous malaria landscape and malaria hotspots. Furthermore, the political unrest in Venezuela has led to significant cross-border population movement. Hence, the aim of this study was to describe spatial patterns and identify significant climatic drivers of malaria transmission along the Venezuela-Brazil-Guyana border, focusing on Bolivar state, Venezuela and Roraima state, Brazil.MethodsMalaria case data, stratified by species from 2016-2018, were obtained from the Brazilian Malaria Epidemiology Surveillance Information System, the Guyana Vector Borne Diseases Program, the Venezuelan Ministry of Health, and civil society organizations. Spatial autocorrelation in malaria incidence was explored using Getis-Ord (Gi*) statistics. A Poisson regression model was developed with a conditional autoregressive prior structure and posterior parameters were estimated using the Bayesian Markov chain Monte Carlo simulation with Gibbs sampling. Climatic covariates were precipitation and minimum and maximum temperature. ResultsThere were 685,498 malaria cases during the study period. Plasmodium vivax was the predominant species (71.7%, 490,861). Malaria hotspots were located in eight municipalities along the Venezuela and Guyana international borders with Brazil. Plasmodium falciparum decreased by 1.6% (95% credible interval [CrI] 1.5%, 2.3%) and 9.6% (95% CrI 1.5%, 25.2%) per 1 cm increase in six-month lagged precipitation and each 1°C increase of minimum temperature without lag. Each 1°C increase of one-month lagged maximum temperature increased P. falciparum by 6.6% (95% CrI 4.8%, 21.7%). P. vivax cases decreased by 1.0% (95% CrI 1.0%, 1.1%) and 7.0% (95% CrI 6.5%, 7.5%) for each 1 cm increase of precipitation lagged at six-months and 1°C increase in minimum temperature lagged at six-months. There was no significant residual spatial clustering after accounting for climatic covariates.ConclusionMalaria hotspots were located along the Venezuela and Guyana international border with Roraima state, Brazil. In addition to population movement, climatic variables are important drivers of malaria transmission in these areas.
Paris Polyphylla Monomer PP-26 Induces Mitochondrial Pathway-Mediated Cell Apoptosis by Inhibiting the PI3K/Akt Pathway in Human Gastric Cancer Cells
Authors: Chen Jiajin , Zhou Junzhen , Xu Jun , Zhao Na , Li Qiang , Zhang Xiaoying , Liu Zhilong , Zhang Qing , Wang Guocai , Wang Yuechun , Jiang Jianwei
Published: December 2021

Background: Paris polyphylla is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb that has been used as a haemostatic, antimicrobial and anticancer agent. Gastric cancer (GC) is a global health problem, with more than 1 million people newly diagnosed with gastric cancer worldwide each year.Methods: The MTT and colony formation assay were used to test the anti-proliferative effects of PP-26 on MGC-803 and BGC-823 cells. Flow cytometry assays, Hoechst 33258 staining assay and Caspase inhibitor Z-VAD-FMK were used to test apoptosis. JC-1 staining used to measure changes in mitochondrial membrane potential and western blot analysis were used to test apoptotic and PI3K/Akt pathway related proteins.Results: PP-26 had a dose-dependent inhibitory effect on the proliferation of MGC-803 and BGC-823 cells, but had no obvious anti-proliferative effect on normal liver LO2 cells and normal embryonic kidney HEK-293 cells. Additionally, PP-26 induced typical apoptotic morphological changes, such as nuclear pyknosis, nuclear cracking and apoptotic bodies. Moreover, PP-26 induced a decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential. And PP-26 modulated the expression of Bcl-xL, Mcl-1, Bax, caspase-9/-3 and PARP proteins and induced cell apoptosis through the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. Next, using an irreversible general caspase inhibitor (Z-VAD-FMK), we confirmed the activation of the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway induced by PP-26. Furthermore, PP-26 inhibited the phosphorylation of Akt and GSK-3β. The inhibition of Akt protein activated the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway.Conclusion: Collectively, these results indicated that PP-26 inhibited the proliferation of MGC-803 and BGC-823 cells by inhibiting the Akt signalling pathway and activating the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway.
Sesquiterpene from Polygonum Barbatum Disrupt Mitochondrial Membrane Potential to Induce Apoptosis and Inhibits Metastasis by Downregulating Matrix Metalloproteinase and Osteopontin in NCI-H460 Cells
Authors: Zehra Binte , Ahmed Ayaz , Khan Ajmal , Shams Afshan , Uddin Reaz , Rafi Sidra , Khan Taseer Ahmed , Farooq Umar , Ali Syed Abid
Published: December 2021

Background: Globally, lung cancer accounts for 18% of cancer-associated mortalities. Among the subtypes, non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most prevalent one. The increased resistance and poor survival rates, signifies disease aggressiveness and thus require a search for an alternative anticancer molecule. Hypothesis/Purpose: Earlier, the isolated sesquiterpene i.e. compound 1 ((E)-Methyl 6-acetoxy-7-methoxy-1-(2-methylpropylidene)-1H-indene-3-carboxylate) from P. barbatum was isolated, characterized by us and reported for preliminary anticancer activity. Considering its potent activity, this study was designed to explore the underlying molecular mechanism of apoptosis and metastasis against NCI-H460 cells. Method: The molecular mechanism of compound 1 inducing apoptosis and inhibiting metastasis was elucidated by analyzing mitochondrial membrane potential, DNA fragmentation, clonogenic assay, invasion assay and expression of apoptotic (Caspases 3, 6, 8, 9 and BAK) and metastatic markers (MMP 2, 9 and osteopontin). Results: Compound 1 significantly inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis via intrinsic route i.e. the mitochondrial pathway by disrupting mitochondrial membrane potential. The enhanced expression of caspases 6, 9, BAK and HRK with downregulation of Bcl-2L1 and Ki67 further confirmed the involvement of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. Moreover, compound 1 restricted the invasive nature of NCI-H460 cells evinced by reduced cell invasion in Boyden chamber invasion assay and downregulating the expression of metastatic markers i.e. matrix metalloproteinase 2 / 9 and VEGF. It was also found that it blocks osteopontin by negatively regulating its expression; a marker protein in cancer management. Conclusion: Conclusively, this sesquiterpene exhibited potent anticancer and anti-metastatic activity and can be explored further as possible pharmacophores
Evaluating Student Levelling Based on Machine Learning Model’s Performance
Authors: Ghareeb Shatha , Hussain Abir Jaafar , Al-Jumeily Dhiya , Khan Wasiq , Al-Jumeily Rawaa , Baker Thar , shammaa Ahmed Al , Khalaf Mohammed
Published: December 2021

In this paper, a novel application of machine learning algorithms is presented for student levelling. In multicultural countries such as UAE, there are various education curriculums where the sector of private schools and quality assurance is supervising various private schools for many nationalities. As there are various education curriculums in United Arab Emirates, specifically Abu Dhabi, to meet expats’ needs, there are different requirements for registration and success. In addition, there are different age groups for starting education in each curriculum. Every curriculum follows different education methods such as assessment techniques, reassessment rules, and exam boards. Currently, students who transfer to other curriculums are not correctly placed to their appropriate year group as a result of the start and end dates of each academic year as well as due to their date of birth, in which students who are either younger or older for that year group can create gaps in their learning and performance. In addition, pupils’ academic journeys are not stored which create a gap for the schools to track their learning process. In this paper, we propose a computational framework applicable in multicultural countries such as United Arab Emirates in which multi-education systems are implemented. Machine Learning are used to provide the appropriate student’ level aiding shoolds to provide a smooth transition when assigning students to their year groups and provide levelling and differentiation information of pupils for a smooth transition between one education curriculums to another, in which retrieval of their progress is possible. For classification and discriminant analysis of pupils levelling, three machine learning classifiers are utilised including random forest classifier, Artificial Neural Network, and combined classifiers. The simulation results indicated that the proposed machine learning classifiers generated effective performance in terms of accuracy.
Dynamics of Parasympathetic Activity in Violent Incarcerated Offenders Before, During, and in Recovery From An Emotional Inhibition Task
Authors: Palix Julie , Gillespie Steven M. , Abbiati Milena , Abu-Akel Ahmad
Published: December 2021

Dynamics of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) are hypothesized to play a role in the emergence of interpersonal violence. In the present study, we examined continuous activities of the inhibitory parasympathetic pathway of the ANS through the root mean square of successive differences between normal heartbeats (RMSSD) in 22 male offenders who committed interpersonal violence and 24 matched controls from the general population across three successive phases: resting baseline, while performing an emotional Go/No-Go task, and post-task recovery. Results showed that across the three phases, the offender group presented lower RMSSD at baseline (pFDR = .003; Cohen’s d = -1.11), but similar levels during the task, attributed to a significant increase in their RMSSD level (pFDR = .027, Cohen’s d = -1.26). During recovery, no distinction between the two groups was found, but although both groups showed signs of recovering toward baseline values. These findings suggest that violent incarcerated offenders can flexibly engage parasympathetic resources to meet environmental challenges. This underscores the necessity of considering parasympathetic dynamics and its respective mobilization/flexibility to better understand ANS profiles underlying interpersonal violence and designed more tailored intervention.
Banoxantrone Coordinated Metal-Organic Framework for Photoacoustic Imaging-Guided High Intensity Focused Ultrasound Therapy
Authors: Sun Tingyu , Li Jingnan , Zeng Chao , Luo Chengyan , Luo Xirui , Zhang Huijie , Li Huanan
Published: December 2021

Background
Photoacoustic imaging (PA) with high spatial resolution has great potential as desired monitoring means in the high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) surgery of tumor. However, its penetration depth in the tissue does not meet the clinical needs. Nanomedicine provides a new opportunity for PA imaging to guide HIFU surgery. Our studies found that hypoxic heterogeneity of tumor was effectively reversed by HIFU.
Methods
Herein, specific metal-organic framework nanosystem, constructed by coordination of banoxantrone (AQ4N) and Mn2+, is designed based on HIFU to reverse hypoxic heterogeneity of tumor.
Results
It could provide exogenous light-absorbing substances, thus improves the penetrability of PA imaging signal through the deep tissue and achieves clearer PA imaging for guiding HIFU surgery. In turn, AQ4N, in the hypoxic homogenous environment of tumor provided by HIFU, is activated sequentially to specifically treat the residual hypoxic tumor cells.
Conclusions
This strategy addresses the dissatisfaction of PA imaging-guided HIFU therapy and is promising for translation into a clinical combination regimen.
Role of SPAK-NKCC1 Signaling Cascade in the Choroid Plexus Blood-CSF Barrier Damage After Stroke
Authors: Wang Jun , Liu Ruijia , Hasan Md Nabiul , Fischer Sydney , Como Matt , Fiesler Victoria M , Begum Gulnaz , Chen Yang , Bhuiyan Mohammad Iqbal H. , Dong Shuying , Li Eric , Kahle Kristopher T , Zhang Jinwei , Deng Xianming , Subramanya Arohan R , Yin Yan , Sun Dandan
Published: December 2021

Background: The mechanisms underlying dysfunction of choroid plexus (ChP) blood-cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) barrier and lymphocyte invasion in neuroinflammatory responses to stroke are not well understood. In this study, we investigated whether stroke damaged the blood-CSF barrier integrity due to dysregulation of major ChP ion transport system Na+-K+-Cl- cotransporter (NKCC1) and regulatory Ste20-related proline-alanine-rich kinase (SPAK).
Methods: Sham or ischemic stroke was induced in C57Bl/6J mice. Changes of the SPAK-NKCC1 complex and tight junction proteins (TJs) in the ChP were quantified by immunofluorescence staining and immunoblotting. Immune cell infiltration in the ChP was assessed by flow cytometry and immunostaining. Cultured ChP epithelium cells (CPECs) and cortical neurons were used to evaluate H2O2-mediated oxidative stress in stimulating the SPAK-NKCC1 complex and cellular damage. In vivo or in vitro pharmacological blockade of the ChP SPAK-NKCC1 cascade with SPAK inhibitor ZT-1a or NKCC1 inhibitor bumetanide were examined.
Results: Ischemic stroke stimulated activation of the CPECs apical membrane SPAK-NKCC1 complex, NF-κB, and MMP9, which was associated with loss of the blood-CSF barrier integrity and increased immune cell infiltration into the ChP. Oxidative stress directly activated SPAK-NKCC1 pathway and resulted in apoptosis, neurodegeneration, and NKCC1-mediated ion influx. Pharmacological blockade of the SPAK-NKCC1 pathway protected the ChP barrier integrity, attenuated ChP immune cell infiltration or neuronal death.
Conclusion: Stroke-induced pathological stimulation of the SPAK-NKCC1 cascade caused CPECs damage and disruption of TJs at the blood-CSF barrier. The ChP SPAK-NKCC1 complex emerged as a therapeutic target for attenuating ChP dysfunction and lymphocyte invasion after stroke.