bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nanopore long-read RNA-seq and absolute quantification delineate transcription dynamics in early embryo development of an insect pest
Authors: Bayega Anthony , Oikonomopoulos Spyros , Gregoriou Maria-Eleni , Tsoumani Konstantina T. , Wang Yu Chang , Giakountis Antonis , Mathiopoulos Kostas D. , Ragoussis Jiannis
Published: May 2021

The Oxford Nanopore Technologies’ long-read RNA sequencing (RNAseq) platform can yield full length transcripts that can be very instrumental in improving the characterization of non-model organisms. The resolution of RNAseq can be increased by addition of external RNA molecules of known concentration such as ERCC in order to obtain absolute gene expression quantification. This protocol details the procedure to use ONT long-read RNAseq with addition of ERCC external RNAs. This protocol can be used with total RNA extracted from any source for which transcripts with a poly(A) tail at the 3’ end are the target. The protocol should be possible to complete in a single day (12 hours) followed by sequencing which takes another 48 hours.
Rod-like amphiphilic AIE-active NIR probe enables super-early precise in-vivo detection of Aβ fibrils/plaques
Authors: Wang Yipu , Mei Dong , Zhang Xinyi , Qu Da-Hui , Mei Ju , Tian He
Published: May 2021

Precise and early detection of Aβ fibrils/plaques is pivotal to the diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD), a serious disease threatening human health. Optical imaging stands out to be a promising technique for such task. However, restricted by poor blood-brain barrier penetrability, short-wavelength excitation and emission, and aggregation-caused quenching effect, the clinically used gold-standard probes are usually powerless in early in-vivo diagnosis of AD. To address these issues, we put forward an “all-in-one” design principle and develop a simple rod-like amphiphilic NIR AIE probe to demonstrate its feasibility. In-vitro, ex-vivo, and in-vivo experiments with different strains of mice indicates that AIE-CNPy-AD holds the universality to Aβ fibrils/plaques identification. Noteworthily, AIE-CNPy-AD is even able to precisely trace the small and sparsely-distributed Aβ fibrils/plaques in AD model mice as young as 4-month-old APP/PS1 mice, the youngest having Aβ deposits, suggesting the probe might be an ideal alternative for early AD diagnosis.
Study On The Responsiveness of A Novel Pyrimidine-BODIPY Probe For Rapid Identification of Different Amino Acids
Authors: Jin Feng , Shao Tingyu , Jin Guofan
Published: May 2021

Rapid identification of different amino acid responses is of great importance in the field of biomedicine. Through the combination of the drug intermediate pyrimidine with the fluorophore BODIPY, a new type of high-efficiency fluorescent probe for rapid identification of different amino acids was prepared. In terms of photophysical properties, the UV absorption and fluorescence emission of the mercapto groups were observed under the conditions of different hydroperoxide equivalents and different solvents, and the maximum values were in the range of 534–538 nm and 554–560 nm. When different amino acids were added, the UV absorption and fluorescence emission ranges were 538 ~ 540 nm and 560 ~ 564 nm. Finally, the identification sensitivity of amino acids with different equivalents under different oxidant conditions was quickly detected by fluorescence cuvette. Among them, the identification response to tyrosine was the most obvious.
Exact Solutions and Dynamics of the Raman Soliton Model in Nanoscale Optical Waveguides, with Metamaterials, Having Anti-cubic Nonlinearity
Authors: Xu Guoan , Li Jibin , Zhang Yi
Published: May 2021

This paper investigates Raman soliton model in optical metamaterials, having anti-cubic nonlinearity. By travelling wave transformation, the model is transformed into a singular planar dynamical system having three singular straight lines. Using the bifurcation theory method of dynamical systems, under different parameter conditions, bifurcations of phase portraits are studied. More than 30 exact explicit solutions of planar dynamical system are derived, such as exact periodic wave solutions, solitary wave solutions, kink and anti-kink wave solutions, periodic peakons and peakons as well as compacton solutions. In more general parametric conditions, all possible solutions are found.
Emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants follow a historical pattern recorded in outgroups infecting non-human hosts
Authors: Katoh Kazutaka , Standley Daron M.
Published: May 2021

The ability to predict emerging variants of SARS-CoV-2 would be of enormous value, as it would enable proactive design of vaccines in advance of such emergence. Based on molecular evolutionary analysis of the S protein, we found a significant correspondence in the location of amino acid substitutions between SARS-CoV-2 variants recently emerging and their relatives that infected bat and pangolin before the pandemic. This observation suggests that a limited number of sites in this protein are repeatedly substituted in different lineages of this group of viruses. It follows, therefore, that the sites of future emerging mutations in SARS-CoV-2 can be predicted by analyzing their relatives (outgroups) that have infected non-human hosts. We discuss a possible evolutionary mechanism behind these substitutions and provide a list of frequently substituted sites that potentially include future emerging variants in SARS-CoV-2.
Effective anti-mycobacterial treatment for BCG disease in patients with Mendelian Susceptibility to Mycobacterial Disease (MSMD)
Authors: Mahdaviani Seyed Alireza , Fallahi Mazdak , Jamee Mahnaz , Marjani Majid , Tabarsi Payam , Moniri Afshin , Farnia Parisa , Daneshmandi Zahra , Parvaneh Nima , Casanova Jean-Laurent , Bustamante Jacinta , Mansouri Davood , Velayati Ali Akbar
Published: May 2021

Background: Post-vaccination BCG disease typically attests to underlying inborn errors of immunity (IEIs), with the highest rates of complications in patients with Mendelian susceptibility to mycobacterial disease (MSMD). However, therapeutic protocols for the management of BCG-osis (disseminated) and persistent BCG-itis (localized) are still controversial. Methods: Twenty-four Iranian patients with MSMD (BCG-osis or BCG-itis), followed from 2009 to 2020 in Tehran, were included in the study. Their medical records were retrospectively reviewed for demographics, clinical features, laboratory findings, and molecular diagnosis. The therapeutic protocol sheets were prepared to contain the types and duration of anti-mycobacterial agents. Results: BCG disease either as BCG-itis (33.3%) or BCG-osis (66.7%) was confirmed in all patients by positive gastric washing test (54.2%), microbial smear and culture (58.3%), or purified protein derivative (PPD) test (4.2%). The duration between BCG-osis onset and MSMD diagnosis was 21.6 months. All except three patients were initiated on second-line anti-mycobacterial agents with either a fluoroquinolone (levofloxacin: 15 mg/kg/day, ciprofloxacin: 20 mg/kg/day, ofloxacin: 15 mg/kg/day), aminoglycoside (amikacin: 10-15 mg/kg/day, streptomycin: 15 mg/kg/day), and/or macrolide (clarithromycin: 15 mg/kg/day) along with oral rifampin (10 mg/kg/day), isoniazid (15 mg/kg/day), and ethambutol (20 mg/kg/day). Three patients showed a clinical response to rifampin, despite in vitro resistance. Fourteen (58.3%) patients received also adjuvant subcutaneous IFN-γ therapy, 50 µ/m2 every other day. At the end of survey, most patients (n=22, 91.7%) were alive and two patients died following BCG-osis and respiratory failure. Conclusions: We recommend the early instigation of second-line anti-mycobacterial agents in MSMD patients with BCG disease.
Acceptability of Narrative Visualization with Physical Activity Monitoring Among Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Bentley Jason , Yu Xiaoying , Karmarkar Amol , Downer Brian , Prochaska John , Lyons Elizabeth
Published: May 2021

Purpose: Physical activity (PA) levels are low among breast cancer survivors. Narrative visualization (NV) is a technique that uses drawings, photographs, and text to contextualize data, which may increase integrated regulation, or motivation for PA by relating it to personal values and identity. The purpose of this study was to determine the acceptability of a NV intervention for older breast cancer survivors.Methods: Participants completed an NV workbook for 7 days using the provided instant camera, art supplies including a variety of stickers, and a wearable electronic activity monitor. The workbook pages prompted participants to re-draw their daily activity graphs from the monitor’s mobile app, then annotate them with text, photographs, stickers, etc. to reflect what the data meant to them. Thematic analysis and content analysis were used to identify emergent themes. Results: Of the 20 consented women (mean age 67±5 years, 45% non-Hispanic White), 17 participants completed all study procedures. Participants showed high levels of engagement (e.g., mean of 9 photos taken; mean of 56 stickers used over 7 days; all workbook questions completed) supporting intervention acceptability. Themes within the photos included family, specific locations, everyday objects, religion, and friends. Themes within the written portions of the workbook included family, chores and obligations, health, personal reflection, hobbies, and shopping. Weight loss was not a major theme. Conclusions: Breast cancer survivors successfully used NV techniques to reflect on their PA data and behavior. These techniques show promise for promoting integrated regulation in activity monitoring interventions.Trial Registration: NCT03612596
Does Fertigation With Fish Farming Effluent Alter the Morphophysiology and Biochemistry of Lippia Gracilis (Verbenaceae)?
Authors: Neto José Maria Damasceno Silva , de Morais Marciana Bizerra , Dias Nildo da Silva , de Souza Lindomar Maria , Vasconcelos Mayron Alves , Ulisses Cláudia , Teixeira Edson Holanda , Rodrigues Tigressa Helena Soares , Santos Hélcio Silva , de Souza Josiani Felix , Freitas Maria Daniela , de Albuquerque Cynthia Cavalcanti
Published: May 2021

In order to evaluate the response mechanisms of L. gracilis fertigated with saline effluent from fish farming, L. gracilis plants were nourished with fish farming effluent with electrical conductivity of 0.45, 2.68, 4.60, 5.55 and 7.02 dS m− 1 for 60 days. The experiment was carried out in the open field using a completely randomized design with five treatments and four replicates. The salinity levels of the nutrient solution containing fish farming effluent did not affect the leaf and stem biomass production, relative water content and leaf area of the studied species. The activity of antioxidant enzymes varied when the nutrient solution salinity level was increased, which also stimulated the breakdown of starch reserves, but did not interfere with the biochemical parameters proline, photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and carotenoids), levels of membrane damage and malondialdehyde, indicating that the plant showed no stress symptoms when fertigated with high-salinity effluent. The anatomy of L. gracilis leaf cross-sections shows a unistratified epidermis with glandular and non-glandular trichomes in the adaxial and abaxial sides. Plants that received only fish farming effluent (7.02 dS m− 1) showed a 25% reduction in the number of xylem bundles in the midrib region, compared to the control. The yield, chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of the essential oil extracted from L. gracilis leaves did not differ between treatments. Thus, the saline effluent from fish farming can be used in the fertigation of L. gracilis without compromising plant yield, avoiding environmental contamination with disposal in soil and/or water bodies.
Geospatial Distribution of Toxoplasmosis Prevalence among Livestock, Pets and Humans in China, 1984-2020
Authors: Su Yajing , Qiao Xia , Jia Wei , Wang Pengtao , Kang Yuting , Yang Ningai , Zhao Zhijun
Published: May 2021

Background: Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is an important foodborne zoonotic parasite with respect to abortion, intracranial calcifications, congenital hydrocephalus, retinochoroiditis, and toxoplasmic encephalitis in severely immunosuppressed individuals. Undercooked/raw meat containing cyst-stage bradyzoites and contaminated pets are presumed to constitute a major source of human infection. Although many seroprevalence studies have been performed in humans and different animal species in China, data on the geospatial distribution of toxoplasmosis prevalence are extremely scarce. The aim of the present study was to investigate the prevalence and geospatial distribution of toxoplasmosis among livestock, pets and humans in China using geographic information system (GIS) for the prevention and control of toxoplasmosis.Methods: This article is based on the data from PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Baidu Scholar databases from 1984 up to 2020 regarding prevalence data of toxoplasmosis among livestock (sheep and goats, swines, cattle and yaks), pets (cats, dogs) and humans in China. Geospatial distribution of the prevalence of toxoplasmosis in these hosts was performed using the GIS visualization techniques.Results: Analysis revealed wide geospatial variation of toxoplasmosis in China. The estimated pooled seroprevalence of T. gondii was ranged from 3.98% to 43.02% among sheep and goats in China, 0.75% to 30.34% in cattle and yaks, 10.45% to 66.47% in swines, 2.50% to 60.00% in cats, 0.56% to 27.65% in dogs, and 0.72% to 23.41% in humans. The higher seroprevalences of T. gondii were observed in districts Chongqing, Zhejiang and Beijing in sheep and goats. The infection rates of T. gondii in cattle and yaks were higher in districts Guizhou, Zhejiang and Chongqing. Moreover, the swines from districts Chongqing and Guizhou were also most severely infected with T. gondii. In cats, districts Shanxi, Hebei and Yunnan had higher seroprevalences of T. gondii and, the infections among dogs were higher in districts Yunnan and Hebei as well. Furthermore, higher infection pressure of T. gondii exists in districts Taiwan and Tibet in humans.Conclusion: The present study indicated that the infection with T. gondii was widely spread in China, with a wide range of variation. The investigation of T. gondii infection in livestock, pets and humans can be useful for assessing T. gondii environmental contamination and the risk for public health. Certain measures can be taken to prevent the prevalence of T. gondii infection in China, such as strengthening the management of livestock farms, keeping the barn clean, preventing feline excreta from polluting environment, using filtered water or water boiling, wearing gloves when handling raw meat and improving the practice of good hand hygiene.
Systemic and Intrathecal Baclofen Produce Bladder Antinociception in Rats
Authors: Ness Timothy J. , Randich Alan , Su Xin , DeWitte Cary , Hildebrand Keith
Published: May 2021

Background

Baclofen, a clinically available GABAB receptor agonist, produces non-opioid analgesia in multiple models of pain but has not been tested for effects on bladder nociception.
Methods

A series of experiments examined the effects of systemic and spinally administered baclofen on bladder nociception in female anesthetized rats. Models of bladder nociception included those which employed neonatal and adult bladder inflammation to produce bladder hypersensitivity.
Results

Cumulative intraperitoneal dosing (1–8 mg/kg IP) and cumulative intrathecal dosing (10–160 ng IT) of baclofen led to dose-dependent inhibition of visceromotor responses (VMRs) to urinary bladder distension (UBD) in all tested models. There were no differences in the magnitude of the analgesic effects of baclofen as a function of inflammation versus no inflammation treatments. Hemodynamic (pressor) responses to UBD were similarly inhibited by IT baclofen as well as UBD-evoked excitatory responses of spinal dorsal horn neurons. The GABAB receptor antagonist, CGP 35348, antagonized the antinociceptive effects of IT baclofen on VMRs in all tested models but did not affect the magnitude of the VMRs by itself suggesting no tonic GABAB activity was present in this preparation. Tolerance to a seven day continuous IT infusion of baclofen was not observed.
Conclusions

These data provide support for a clinical trial of baclofen as a non-opioid treatment of human bladder pain.
Effect of Angiotensin Receptor-Neprilysin Inhibitor and Sodium-Glucose Co-transporter-2 Inhibitor Combination Therapy in Diabetic Patients with Heart Failure with Reduced Ejection Fraction: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Kim Hyue Mee , Hwang In-Chang , Choi Wonsuk , Yoon Yeonyee E. , Cho Goo-Yeong
Published: May 2021

Background

Angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI) and sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) have shown robust benefits in improving cardiac function and disease prognosis in diabetic patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). However, their combined effect has not been revealed.
Methods

We retrospectively identified diabetic patients with HFrEF who were prescribed an ARNI and/or SGLT2i. Diabetic patients with HFrEF treated with standard HF therapy but not ARNI or SGLT2i were included as controls. The patients were divided into groups treated with both ARNI and SGLT2i (group 1), ARNI but not SGLT2i (group 2), SGLT2i but not ARNI (group 3), and neither ARNI nor SGLT2i (group 4). After propensity score-matching, the occurrence of hospitalization for heart failure (HHF), cardiovascular mortality, and changes in echocardiographic parameters were analyzed.
Results

Of the 206 matched patients included in the study, 90 (43.7%) had to undergo HHF and 43 (20.9%) died of cardiovascular causes during a median 25 months of follow-up. Patients in group 1 exhibited a lower risk of HHF and cardiovascular mortality compared to those in the other groups. Improvements in the left ventricular ejection fraction and mitral E/e’ were more pronounced in group 1 than in groups 2, 3 and 4. These echocardiographic improvements were more prominent after the initiation of ARNI, compare to the initiation of SGLT2i.
Conclusion

In diabetic patients with HFrEF, combination of ARNI and SGT2i showed significant improvement in cardiac function and prognosis. ARNI-SGLT2i combination therapy may improve the clinical course of HFrEF in diabetic patients.
Comparison of Buyang Huanwu Granules and Naoxintong Capsules in Treatment of Stable Angina Pectoris: Rationale and Design of a Randomized, Double-blind, Multicenter Clinical Trial
Authors: Wang Yu , Xu Yuhan , Zhang Ling , Huang Shuwei , Dou Liping , Yang Jiehong , Fu Wei , Zhou Peng , Wan Haitong
Published: May 2021

Background: Stable angina pectoris (SAP) is seriously threatened the health of human life currently, and the mortality is in a continuous rising stage. The current treatment strategies mainly include pharmaceutical therapy and revascularization. In China, Buyang Huanwu granules (BYHW) and Naoxintong capsule (NXT) have been used in the treatment of SAP, but it is not clear which one is better in terms of relieving symptoms and improving quality of life. Therefore, we design a clinical trial to compare the efficacy and safety between NXT and BYHW in the treatment of SAP. Methods: This is a randomized, double-blinded, parallel controlled, multicenter clinical trial protocol. On the basis of western medicine standardized treatment, a total of 128 SAP patients will be randomly divided into intervention group 1 (NXT group), intervention group 2 (BYHW group) and control group (placebo group) at a 2:1:1 ratio. A 2-week run-in period is required prior to randomization, and 1-week baseline period and 4-week treatment period are included in this study. The primary outcome is the efficacy rate of stable angina symptom score improvement; the secondary outcomes include the effect of electrocardiogram, Seattle Angina Questionnaire scores, and the nitroglycerin consumption. Discussion: This study will evaluate the efficacy and safety between NXT and BYHW in the treatment of SAP. The results will provide critical evidence of the Chinese herbal medicine for SAP. Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trials Registry ChiCTR1800015191. Registered on 13 March 2018. http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=25818
The Effects of Bathing in Neutral Bicarbonate Ion Water
Authors: Saito Ichiro , Yamazaki Tomoe , Nakayama-Ushikoshi Ryoko , Supriya Syakya , Omagari Daisuke , Matsumoto Naoyuki , Nukuzuma Chiyoko , Komatsu Tomoko , Lee Masaichi Chang-il , Inoue Hiroko
Published: May 2021

Percutaneously absorbed carbon dioxide enhances blood flow. The mechanism by which it does so is unclear, we hypothesized that it involves bicarbonate ions. Balb/c mice were bathed in neutral bicarbonate ionized water (NBIW) and showed increased blood bicarbonate levels and blood flow via phosphorylation of peripheral vascular endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and production of nitric oxide (NO). Phosphorylation of eNOS and NO production were also increased in human umbilical vein endothelial cells cultured in medium containing NBIW, and NBIW showed reactive oxygen species scavenging activity. In a double-blind, randomized study in men and women aged 30 to 59 years with subjective cold intolerance, bathing in NBIW elevated body temperature faster than bathing in a control solution and improved chills and sleep quality. Taken together, our results show that percutaneously absorbed bicarbonate ions act directly on endothelial cells, phosphorylation of eNOS increases NO production and thus improves blood flow.
A Cross-sectional Study on Infectious Health Risks Regarding Freshwater Sport Practice in Brittany, France
Authors: Velardo Fanny , Bouziri Hanifa , Adélaïde Lucie , Oliosi Emma , Layan Maylis , Descamps Alexandre , Berthod Delphine , Patlán-Hernández Alan R. , Ledrans Martine , Pivette Mathilde , Lefort Mathilde , Roux Jonathan , Crépey Pascal
Published: May 2021

Background: Freshwater sports can be associated with infections from pathogenic microorganisms. In French Brittany, such infections are a major concern since a leptospirosis outbreak in 2016. Objectives: We aimed to estimate the prevalence of infectious diseases related to the practice of freshwater sports and identify the factors associated with these pathologies in Brittany, France. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study from March 18 to May 8, 2019, among freshwater sport licensees (online study) and clubs (phone study). Licensees were 18 years old or more, and practiced at least one freshwater sport, in one of the 79 Brittany clubs. Club presidents and instructors were also surveyed. We used logistic regression models to study the association between our variables of interest and potential risk factors. Results: In total, 551 licensees (20.3% of the total number of licensees) and 38 clubs (48.1%) were surveyed. A diagnosis of leptospirosis was reported by 29 (5.3%) licensees, of which 41.3% occurred in the last five years. The most reported symptoms were skin symptoms (24.3%) and 7.1% of individuals reported at least one hospitalization in their lifetime for a disease related to freshwater sports. The occurrence of leptospirosis was negatively associated with boarding from a pontoon (OR=0.20 [0.06-0.56]), practicing for less than 4 years (OR=0.17 [0.04-0.56]) compared to more than 10 years, and the occurrence of leptospirosis was positively associated with taking a soapy shower after practice (OR=4.38 [1.90-10.51]). Eskimo roll was positively associated with the occurrence of otitis and conjunctivitis (OR=3.22 [1.82-6.03]) and skin irritations (OR=1.66 [0.99-2.84]). Conclusion: This study provides a better understanding of the proportion and factors associated with infectious diseases linked to the practice of freshwater sports in French Brittany. Complementary studies are necessary to better understand the link between these diseases and the practice of freshwater sports.
Seroconversion rates following 2 doses of Measles- Mumps- Rubella Vaccination Given at the Ages 12 and 18 Months: Data for possible additional dose at older age
Authors: Saffar Hana , Mousavi Sayed Jaber , Saffar Hiva , Parsaei Mohammad-Reza , Ghorbani Gholam-Reza , Saffar Mohammad-Jafar
Published: May 2021

Background. Despite high rate of vaccination coverage with 2-doses of measles vaccine among Iranian children, outbreaks of measles occurred among different age groups and fully vaccinated subjects. Although the main reason for these outbreaks is unknown, however, vaccine failure was supposed to be an important cause. This study was designed to determine the immunogenicity of measles- mumps- rubella (MMR) vaccine currently in use among Iranian children.Methods. This prospective study was conducted among ³ 12 month- old healthy children who were candidates of scheduled MMR vaccination. Blood samples were obtained from each mother- infant pair just before vaccination, and from infants 4- 6 weeks after MMR1 and MMR2 immunization. Collected sera were tested for specific lgG antibodies against MMR agents using ELISA method. The proportion of seroprotected subjects among mother- infant pairs before vaccination as well as the prevalence rates of seroconversion after MMR1 and MMR2 vaccination were calculated. Collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods.Results. During 22-months study period, 92 mother- infant pairs were participated. Seroimmunity rates against MMR viruses were 85.8%, 84.7% and 86.9% for mothers, and 3.2%, 2.1% and 1.0% for children, respectively. After MMR1 vaccination of 52 seronegative children, 80.7%, 78.8% and 75% were seroconverted. These rates increased to 94.8%, 89.7% and 92.3% after the MMR2 vaccination. Also, the specific immunity was enhanced among seropositive children.Conclusion. Majority of the mothers and few infants were immune to MMR viruses, prior to MMR1 vaccination. Seroconversion rates detected after MMR1 injection, and overall seroprotection rates achieved after 2-doses of MMR vaccination were less than expected and inadequate to preserve long-term protection against MMR agents.
Investigation on risk factors of adult allergic rhinitis in China
Authors: Hong Guo , Yibo Zhou , Fengxia Li , Ping Liu Ming , Yong Cao
Published: May 2021

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the risk factors associated with allergic rhinitis in adults. METHODS: Using the 1:1 matching principle, 1096 cases of allergic rhinitis patients aged 18-65 years were selected as the observation group, and another group of healthy medical checkups were selected as the control group, and the data related to allergic rhinitis were collected by allergen testing and questionnaire survey, and univariate and multifactorial analyses were performed respectively. RESULTS: The univariate analysis showed that allergic rhinitis may be related to temperature changes, dryness and humidity, air pressure, wind speed, seasonal changes and exposure to allergens such as dust mites and house dust mites. After allergen testing of all patients in the observation group, it was found that dust mite and house dust mite were the highest percentage of allergens, accounting for 40.51%, indicating that environmental factors play a decisive role in allergic rhinitis. Multi-factor analysis showed that exposure to dust mites, house dust mites, Penicillium punctatum, Streptomyces crossatus and Aspergillus fumigatus were independent risk factors for allergic rhinitis when it was humid, when it was cold, when it was windy and when the air pressure was low. CONCLUSION: The epidemiological status of allergic rhinitis in adults in China was initially understood, and the main allergens were house dust mite and dust mite, which provided scientific epidemiological information for the standardized prevention and treatment of allergic rhinitis in this region.
Mass Distribution of elementary fermions
Authors: Mishulan Li-Gong
Published: May 2021

Through careful analysis of the observational data on the mass of elementary fermions, we determine that an intrinsic pattern does exist. A geometric progression is proposed to describe the mass distribution of elementary fermions, and using the observational data of neutrino oscillations, we estimate the masses of neutrino.
Evaluation of Intracellular Processes in Quinolinic Acid-Induced Brain Damage by Imaging Reactive Oxygen Species Generation and Mitochondrial Complex I Activity
Authors: Hosoi Rie , Fujii Yuka , Hiroyuki Ohba , Shukuri Miho , Nishiyama Shingo , Kanazawa Masakatsu , Todoroki Kenichiro , Arano Yasushi , Sakai Toshihiro , Tsukada Hideo , Inoue Osamu
Published: May 2021

Purpose Our study aimed to elucidate the intracellular processes associated with quinolinic acid (QA)-induced brain injury by acquiring semiquantitative fluorescent images of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and positron emission tomography (PET) images of mitochondrial complex I (MC-I) activity.MethodsEx vivo fluorescent imaging with dihydroethidium (DHE) and PET scans with 18F-BCPP-EF were conducted at 3 hours and 1 day after QA injection into the rat striatum. Immunohistochemical studies were performed 1 day after QA injection into the rat brain using monoclonal antibodies against neuronal nuclei (NeuN) and CD11b.ResultsA strong DHE-derived fluorescent signal was detected in a focal area within the QA-injected striatum 3 hours after QA injection, and increased fluorescent signal spread throughout the striatum and parts of the cerebral cortex after 1 day. By contrast, 18F-BCPP-EF uptake in the QA-injected rat brain was unchanged after 3 hours and markedly decreased after 1 day, not only in the striatum but also in ​​the cerebral hemisphere. The fluorescent signal in the striatum 1 day after QA injection colocalised with microglial marker expression.ConclusionsWe successfully obtained functional images of focal ROS generation during the early period of excitotoxic injury, and microglial ROS generation and mitochondrial dysfunction were observed during the progression of the inflammatory response. Both ex vivo DHE imaging and in vivo 18F-BCPP-EF-PET were sufficiently sensitive to detect the respective processes of QA-induced brain damage. Our study contributes to the functional imaging of multiple events during the pathological process.
Predicting the 10-year Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases and Its Relation to Healthy Diet Indicator in Iranian Military Personnel
Authors: Parastouei Karim , Sepandi Mojtaba , Eskandari Eslam
Published: May 2021

Background: epidemiological studies indicate increased prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) among military personnel. Accordingly, identifying at-risk individuals and modifying lifestyle such as increasing the dietary quality can have inhibitory effects against this trend. The aim of the study was predicting the 10-year risk of CVD and its association with healthy diet indicator (HDI) among military personnel. Methods: the participants in this cross-sectional study included 400 male military personnel within the age range of 30-75 years. HDI score was calculated based on food frequency questionnaire, and the 10-year risk of CVD was evaluated using Framingham risk score (FRS). The FRS items include age, gender, total cholesterol, HDL-C, systolic blood pressure, status of diabetes and status of smoking. Partial correlation test was employed to investigate the relationship between Framingham risk score and HDI score.Results: the participants had the mean age and BMI of 38.67±5.3 year and 25.28±3.22 kg/m2, respectively. Prediction of Framingham risk was as follows: 96.5% were low risk, 2% were moderate risk, and 1.5% were high risk. The mean score of HDI index for the participants in this study was 5.98±1.36. Although HDI score did not show a significant relationship with FRS (r:0.028, p:0.575), increased dietary sodium intake led to a significant rise in Framingham risk score (r: 0.110, p:0.030).Conclusion: a wide range of participants (96.5%) had low risk of developing CVD in the next 10 years. Meanwhile, the FRS showed no significant relationship with HDI score. Further research is required to confirm the results of the present study.
Enhancement of Luminous Power and Efficiency in InGaN/GaN based Light Emitting Diode using High-K Dielectric Material
Authors: G saranya , M Sivamangai N
Published: May 2021

A novel high-k dielectric material is proposed for InGaN/GaN-LED to improve the performance. The proposed LED is analyzed and benchmarked with conventional LED using Technological Computer Aided Design (TCAD). The qualitative consistency of the optical characteristics of LED in this work has been observed that validate the TCAD simulation. Further, it is observed that proposed LED recorded higher luminous power and internal quantum efficiency than that of conventional LED. At the injection current of 600 mA, the proposed and conventional LED yielded luminous power of 1600 mw and 1400 mW, respectively. Further, IQE of the proposed LED is higher than that of conventional LED by 12%. The improvement in the optical performance is attribute to high-k dielectric material induced additional electric field and radiative recombination rate. Thus, the proposed LED with high-k dielectric material is an outstanding device in lightning application.
Effects of the SLCO1B1 A388G single nucleotide polymorphism on the development, clinical parameters and survival of multiple myeloma cases in a Polish population
Authors: Michalska Katarzyna , Balcerczak Ewa , Pietrzak Jacek , Żebrowska-Nawrocka Marta
Published: May 2021

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant disease of plasma cells with complex etiopathogenesis, causing significant morbidity due to multi-organ damage. Changes in the genes encoding transport proteins, resulting in changes in their function, affect the cell defense potential and response to the chemotherapy applied. The aim of this study was to determine the A388G single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the SLCO1B1 gene in Polish multiple myeloma patients. The material for the study included DNA isolated from nucleus cells of peripheral blood in patients diagnosed with multiple myeloma. Clinicopathological characteristics, treatment processes, laboratory findings, and treatment outcomes were summarized and statistically analyzed. The studied polymorphism does not seem to affect the increased risk of development or treatment outcomes of multiple myeloma. Our research primarily focuses on investigating the association of transporter polymorphisms with multiple myeloma and providing theoretical evidence. Further studies are needed to better understand molecular mechanisms underlying an altered function of organic anion transporting polypeptides (OATPs) in MM.
Buspirone, a 5-HT1A agonist attenuates anger, aggression and suicidal tendencies in rats.
Authors: Aswar Urmila , Shende Hrudaya , Aswar Manoj
Published: May 2021

The purpose of the work was to evaluate the effect of buspirone (BUS) on social isolation induced anger, aggression and suicidal tendencies in rats. The male Wistar rats were randomized in 6 groups (n = 6) and caged individually for 14 days to elicit anger and aggression. They were then divided into the following groups vehicle control (no isolation), Stress control (SC), fluoxetine (Flx; 30 mg/kg, p.o), BUS (10 mg/kg, p.o), BUS (20 mg/kg, p.o), BUS (40 mg/kg, p.o). All treatments were administered from day 14 through day 28. On the last day of treatment, assessment of anger, aggression and suicide-related traits were performed. Serum cortisol, blood pressure were measured and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the rat's brain and of BDNF expression were performed. SC group showed significant increase in anger (wheel rolling activity), aggression (increased number of attack bites, wrestling, chasing behavior), irritability score, learned helplessness (number of attempts of escape success and failure, escape latency), increased level of serum cortisol as compared to normal confirming induction of anger, aggression and suicidal ideation. BUS significantly reduced all behavioral traits associated with anger, aggression and suicidal ideation, reduced cortisol levels and significantly increased BDNF compared to stress control. Blood pressure increased substantially in stress control was significantly reduced by BUS, but not by Flx. Neuroimaging studies in stress control brains showed a reduction in amygdala size compared to normal, while animals under BUS treatment mitigated this reduction. Buspirone has been found to be effective in preventing anger, aggression and suicidal tendencies.
The influence of N-Acetylcysteine on locomotor activity, brain oxidative damage, and demyelination in MK-801 model of schizophrenia
Authors: Akosmans Murat Sırrı , Turkmen Ruhi , Demirel Hasan Hüseyin
Published: May 2021

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on potential cerebral demyelination, oxidative damage and schizophrenia-like behaviors caused by MK-801 which is an N-methyl-D-aspartate glutamate receptor antagonist. For this, 4 groups were formed by dividing 24 male BALB/c mice into groups of six. The control group was given a saline solution (10 ml/kg) intraperitoneally (i.p.). While MK-801 (1 mg/kg-i.p.) was given both alone and with NAC (100 mg/kg-i.p.), the last group was given only NAC (100 mg/kg-i.p.). The injections were made for 14 days. It was observed that, MK-801 caused behavioral problems. When the brain was examined, it was determined that it caused a reduction in the weight of the brain, glial cell infiltration, vacuolization in neurons and shrinking in the cell nuclei in the hippocampus. A reduction in myelin basic protein (MBP) secretion was also observed. In the mice given NAC as a protector, it was observed that behavioral problems covered, antioxidant levels increased, and other impairments were repaired. It was concluded that NAC may have a neuroprotective effect.
Improved antimicrobial spectrum of the N-acetylmuramoyl-L-alanine amidase from Latilactobacillus sakei upon LysM domain deletion
Authors: López-Arvizu Adriana , Rocha-Mendoza Diana , Farrés Amelia , Ponce-Alquicira Edith , García-Cano Israel
Published: May 2021

The gene encoding N-acetylmuramoyl-L-alanine amidase in Latilactobacillus sakei isolated from a fermented meat product was cloned in two forms: its complete sequence (AmiC) and without one of its anchoring LysM domains (AmiLysM4). Deletion of the LysM domain is believed to affect the target microorganism’s affinity to the cell wall, which influences antimicrobial activity. To compare activity and inhibitory spectra, AmiC and AmiLysM4 were expressed in Escherichia coli BL21. Using the zymography technique, two bands with lytic activity were observed, which were confirmed by LC-MS/MS analysis, with molecular masses of 71 kDa (AmiC) and 66 kDa (AmiLysM4). The recombinant proteins were active against Listeria innocua and Staphylococcus aureus strains; however, the inhibitory spectrum of AmiLysM4 was broader because AmiLysM4 could inhibit Leuconostoc mesenteroides and Weissella viridescens, which are microorganisms associated with food deterioration. Optimal temperature and pH values were determined for both proteins using L-alanine-p-nitroanilide hydrochloride as a substrate for N-acetylmuramoyl-L-alanine amidase activity. Both proteins showed similar maximum activity values for pH (8) and temperature (50°C). Furthermore, in silico predictions did not show differences for the catalytic region, but differences were found for the region called 3dom, which includes 3 of the 5 LysM domains. Therefore, the modification of the LysM domain offers new tools for the development of novel food biopreservatives.
Genetic characterization of Blastocystis from wild animals in Sichuan Wolong National Natural Reserve, southwestern of China-Zoonotic potential
Authors: Chen Shanyu , Meng Wangyu , Zhou Ziyao , Deng Lei , Shi Xiaogang , Chai Yijun , Liu Haifeng , Cheng Yuehong , Zhong Zhijun , Fu Hualin , Shen Liuhong , Zhang Kun , He Tingmei , Peng Guangneng
Published: May 2021

Background: Blastocystis, a highly prevalent eukaryotic parasite, has been identified in a wide range of hosts, including humans, domestic and wild animals. Many animals are potential sources of Blastocystis infection for humans, while few information about the prevalence of Blastocystis in wild animals have being documented. Therefore, the present study was designed to investigate the prevalence and subtypes of Blastocystis in wild animals of Sichuan Wolong National Natural Reserve, southwestern of China, so as to assess the zoonotic potential of these animals.Methods: A total of 300 faecal samples were collected from 27 wildlife species in three areas of Sichuan Wolong National Natural Reserve in southwestern China. The subtype (ST) genetic characteristics and prevalence of Blastocystis were determined by PCR amplification of the barcode region (a fragment of ∼600 bp) of the SSU rRNA gene, and phylogenetic analysis were further performed to determine the genetic characteristics of Blastocystis subtypes.Results: 30 of 300 faecal samples (10.0%) were Blastocystis-positive. The highest prevalence of Blastocystis was found in Yinchanggou (18.3%), which was significantly higher than that in Niutoushan (7.5%), and Genda (5.5%) (P < 0.05). Specifically, the highest prevalence of Blastocystis was found in primates (20.0%, 1/5), followed by rodentia 14.3% (1/7), artiodactyla 13.1% (26/198), carnivora 2.3% (2/87), galliformes 0% (0/3). Sequence analysis showed 5 subtypes (ST1, ST3, ST5, ST13, and ST14), with ST13 and ST14 as the predominant subtype (33.3%, 10/30), followed by ST1 (20.0%, 6/30).Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first molecular investigation on Blastocystis infection in wild animals in southwestern of China. ST1, ST3, and ST5 were identified in both humans and wild animals, suggesting that these wild animals may be potential reservoirs of Blastocystis for human infection.
Short and Long-Term Follow up Results of Daily 5 Mg Tadalafil as a Treatment for Erectile Dysfunction and Premature Ejaculation
Authors: Gharib Tarek , Abdelal Ibrahim , Elatreisy Adel , Salih Elsayed , Sebaey Ahmed
Published: May 2021

Objective: To evaluate effectiveness and safety of a 5mg tadalafil daily treatment for men with erectile dysfunction (ED) and premature ejaculation (PE) and assessment of long-term follow up by persistence of improvement 2 years after stoppage of tadalafil.Materials and Methods: The study included 160 patients diagnosed with erectile dysfunction from April 2018 to June 2020. All were evaluated using the international index of erectile function questionnaire-5 (IIEF-5) to evaluate ED and intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT) for PE. Patients subdivided into two equal groups. I included 80 patients treated with tadalafil 5 mg daily for 3 months, and group II included 80 patients treated with a placebo for same period. After 3 months treatment and 2 years later after stoppage of tadalafil, all patients were assessed for ED and PE using the same questionnaires. Results: The mean IELT and IIEF pretreatment were 37±11.24 s and 13.2±4.2 respectively for group I, while in group II was 35.98±10.8 s and 13.12±4.11, respectively. After 3 months of treatment, the mean value of IELT in group I showed a highly significant improvement from 37±11.24 sec to 120.5±47.37 sec (p-value < 0.001), but for group II, the mean values of IELT showed no significant improvement from baseline 35.98±10.8 to endpoint 39.43±13.6 ( p-value > 0.05). As regarding the IIEF, there was a highly significant improvement from baseline 13.2±4.2 to endpoint 20.45±4.5 in group I (p-value < 0.001) while there was no significant difference in group II from baseline 13.12±4.11 to endpoint 15±4.84 (p-value > 0.05) . 2 years later after stoppage of tadalafil , 75 patients from group I complete follow up and there was significant improvement in IELT and IIEF form base line (37±11.24) (13.2±4.2) to endpoint (98±18.3) (19.1±2.3) respectively but less than the results after 3 months treatment.ConclusionDaily Tadalafil 5 mg was effective, tolerable, and safe treatment for patients suffering from ED and PE. Long-term follow up after 2 years declared persistence of significant improvement.
Quantification of Litter Fall and Estimation of Nutrient Release Through in-Situ Decomposition of Leaf Litter From Some Important Mangrove Species of Indian Sundarbans
Authors: Das S.K. , Manna Ranjan Kumar , Gogoi Pranab , M. Roshith C. , M. Sajina A. , Das Basanta Kumar
Published: May 2021

Looking into the importance of mangrove leaf litter in regulation of sediment carbon sequestration and nutrient flux in Sundarbans ecosystem, an experiment was conducted at Jharkhali island of Sundarbans. In this experiment, collection of leaf litter-shedding from nine dominant mangrove species during December 2012 to November 2013 was donemonthly using ‘litter traps’ (1 m2) in Eco-garden on the bank of Herobhanga creek.Seasonal litter fall was highest in Geon (Excoecariaagallocha)(103 gm-2) followed by Keora (Sonneratiaapetala) (98.5 gm-2). Kal Bain (Avicennia alba) produced the highest amount (414.37 gm-2) of total annual leaf litter followed by Bruguieragymnorrhiza (410.43 gm-2). Kankra (Bruguieragymnorrhiza), Garjan (Rhizophoramucronata) and Geon (Excoecariaagallocha) dry leaf litters contained more than 50% carbon (oven dry basis). Litter from Avicennia group contained more nitrogen and carbon. Decomposition rates of various mangrove litters were estimated through twoshort-term (30 days and 52 days) in-situ experiments using mangrove leaf litter in nylon net bags (0.6 mm mesh) subjected to periodical diurnal submergence by tidalriver water at Jharkhali. During decomposition process,observation said thatmost susceptible and resistant litter with respect to mass loss were Geon (Excoecariaagallocha) (81±5.5%) and Taura (Aegialitisrotundifolia) (26±4%) respectivelyafter 30 days. The biomass retained after decomposition losses (average45±15.2%after 30 days and 56±20.2 % after 52 days) indicated the amount of carbon retained in mangrove soil and ultimately determines the carbon sequestered in soil through mangrove litter fall. The study gives important insight into contribution of different mangrove species in carbon sequestration and nutrient dynamics in mangrove ecosystem of Indian Sundarbans.
Bioinformatic Analysis of Prognostic Value and Immune Cell Infiltration of Chromobox Family Proteins in Esophageal Cancer
Authors: xia liangjiang , Jiang Wei , Pan Liangbin , Yuan Jingkang , Feng Yu , Ma Haitao
Published: May 2021

BackgroundChromobox (CBX) family proteins (CBXs) are important components of epigenetic regulation complexes. Abnormal expression of CBXs is related to the occurrence and development of various cancers. However, the role and mechanism of CBXs in esophageal cancer (ESCA) need further research. MethodsThe mRNA expression of CBXs, clinicopathological parameters, prognostic values, genetic alteration, enrichment analysis, and immune cell infiltration were analyzed with several databases including Oncomine, UALCAN, Kaplan-Meier plotter, cBioPortal, DAVID, and TIMER2.0.ResultsThe expression level of CBX1/2/3/4/8 was significantly upregulated in ESCA while that of CBX7 was down-regulated. Besides, mRNA expressions of CBX1/2/3/4/5/7/8 were correlated with patients’ individual cancer stages and the nodal metastatic status. The mRNA expression of CBX3/4/7/8 was significantly correlated with the overall survival (OS) in ESCA. What is more, high mutation rate of CBXs (49%) was also observed in ESCA patients. Then, CBXs were related to the infiltration of a variety of immune cells.Conclusions﻿This study may provide new ideas for the selection of prognostic biomarkers in the CBXs in ESCA.