bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Standardized astragalus extract for attenuation of the immunosuppression induced by strenuous physical exercise: randomized controlled trial
Authors: Latour Ewa , Arlet Jarosław , Latour Emilia Ewa , Juszkiewicz Artur , Łuczkowska Karolina , Marcinkiewicz Anita , Basta Piotr , Trzeciak Jerzy , Machaliński Bogusław , Skarpańska-Stejnborn Anna
Published: February 2021

Background
This paper aimed to verify how a supplementation of rower’s diet with Astragalus Membranaceus Root (AMR) modulated their immune system response to maximal physical exertion.
Methods
The doubleblind study included 18 members of the Polish Rowing Team assigned to the supplemented group (n = 10), and the placebo group (n = 8). The participants performed a 2000 m test on a rowing ergometer at the beginning and at the end of the sixweek of intensive training camp during which the supplemented group received 500 mg of AMR. Blood samples were obtained prior to, one minute after completing, and 24 hours after the exertion test. The levels of interleukin 2 (IL2), interleukin 4 (IL4), interleukin 10 (IL10), interferon ɤ (IFNɣ), and lactate acid were determined. Subpopulations of T regulatory lymphocytes [CD4+/CD25+/CD127−] (Treg), cytotoxic lymphocytes [CD8+/TCRαβ+] (CTL), natural killer cells [CD3−/CD16+/CD56+] (NK), and TCRδγpositive cells (Tδγ) were determined with flow cytometry.
Results
After the camp, the initial NK and Treg levels sustained at the baseline, while Tδγ counts increased by about x [y z] % relative to the levels in the placebo group. In the supplemented subgroup, a change in IL2 level in reaction to maximal exertion clearly decreased (x [y x]%), while the change in IL2/IL10 level induced by the recovery after this exertion clearly increased (x[y z] %), relative to the changes in the placebo group.
Conclusions
AMR restored the immunological balance through a stabilization of NK and Treg cells with a positive trend in Tδγ towards Th1 response during restitution by cytokine IL2 modulation.
Primary Intraosseous Carcinoma in the Pediatric Mandible
Authors: Oh Hyun Jun , Shin Dong Whan , Myoung Hoon , Yoon Hye-Jung , Kim Soung Min
Published: February 2021

Background: Primary intraosseous carcinoma (PIOC) is a rare malignant odontogenic tumor that predominantly occurs in males older than 50 years. PIOC can be misdiagnosed as odontogenic cyst because it occasionally shows well-defined border on radiography. In this study, a case of a 14-year-old female with PIOC who was misdiagnosed with odontogenic cyst clinically is reported along with a literature review of pediatric PIOC cases.Case Presentation: A 14-year-old female patient presented with painful swelling on the mandibular right premolar area. There was a radiolucent lesion with a well-defined border in panoramic view. She was diagnosed with odontogenic cyst, and the cystic mass was enucleated with extraction. However, the biopsy result was consistent with PIOC. After cancer work-up, she underwent partial mandibulectomy, selective neck dissection, and reconstruction with a fibular free flap. Although the surgical resection margins were clear, local recurrence and lung metastasis occurred four months after surgery. She underwent concurrent chemo-radiation therapy, but the prognosis was poor.Conclusions: PIOC should be diagnosed differentially from odontogenic cyst even in pediatric populations.
Molecular characterization of plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance (PMQR) and ESBLs-producing Klebsiella pneumonia isolated from an Iranian teaching hospital
Authors: Talebzadeh Hamid , Mellali Hamid , solgi hamid
Published: February 2021

Background

The spread of plasmid-mediated multidrug resistance in Klebsiella pneumonia is a serious threat to the public health. We investigated the clinical characteristics and molecular epidemiology of K. pneumoniae isolated at a teaching hospital in Iran.
Methods

A total of 50 third-generation cephalosporins resistant K. pneumoniae strains were collected from patients’ clinical cultures. Antibiotic susceptibility testing and determination of MIC values for ceftazidime, cefotaxime and ciprofloxacin were performed. PCR and DNA sequencing were used to assess the presence of ESBL genes (blaCTX−M, blaTEM, blaSHV) and PMQR genes (qnrA, qnrB, qnrS, qepA, oqxA, oqxB and aac(6)-Ib-cr). Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) was performed on the strains to assess homology.
Results

Our results showed that the rates of resistance to all of antibiotics is high. All 50 K. pneumoniae strains harboured at least one of the ESBL resistance determinants. The blaCTX−M−15 gene was the major ESBLs determinant found in K. pneumoniae (88%; 44/50). PMQR was detected in 96% of the isolates and aac(6′)-Ib-cr was the most common (78% 39/50) followed by oqxA 36 (72%), oqxB 34 (68%), qnrS 20 (40%), qnrB 14 (28%) and qepA 1 (2%). MLST identified seven sequence types (STs), with the most common being ST11 (19/39). There was a strong association between PMQR genes (especially aac(6′)-Ib-cr) and ESBL genes.
Conclusion

The widespread detection of ESBLs-producing K. pneumoniae that co-carried PMQR determinants has become a threat to the treatment of infections in Isfahan Province of center Iran. Our findings suggest that K. pneumoniae ST11 and ST893 has a clonal distribution in our hospital. Therefore, this study highlighted the crucial need for implementing strict control measures to prevent cross transmission of these endemic clones.
Excellent Dispersion Stability and Tribological Properties of Biocarbon-based Magnesium Silicate Hydroxide Modified with Oleylamine
Authors: Gao Rongqin , Chang Qiuying , Wang Kai , Liu Yang
Published: February 2021

Biocarbon-based magnesium silicate hydroxide(M@C-ON) was synthesized by hydrothermal method with synthesized magnesium silicate hydroxide (MSH) as the template, glucose as carbon source, and oleylamine (ON) as the modified agent. The dispersion stability of M@C-ON as lubricant additive in PAO10 with ON as dispersant was measured by accelerated centrifugal and static sedimentation test. The results showed that M@C-ON, with the help of ON, can be stably dispersed in lubricating oil for at least 15 days. The stable dispersion was attributed to a combination of electrostatic attraction and steric hindrance. Besides, the tribological properties of M@C-ON as lubricant additive was tested under different concentration of additive and dispersant. A continuous carbon layer formed on the contact area and the repairing effect of inner MSH of M@C-ON were considered as the factors to play an anti-wear effect.
Characterizing Prognostic Factors in Adult-Onset Neuroblastoma: A Population-Based Study.
Authors: Zhang Yao , Yang Chenxuan
Published: February 2021

Background: Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most commonly diagnosed malignancy among pediatric patients with a high level of heterogeneity. NB is rarely seen in adult patients, yet adult-onset NB is associated with poor outcome and distinct clinical features from pediatric NB. Guidelines for the management of adult-onset NB are not yet defined and the treatment is largely dependent on the experience of corresponding oncologists. Previous reports on adult-onset NB have mostly been case reports or case series, without high-quality, population-based cohort study. Our study aims to provide new insights and promotes understanding of adult-onset NB using the data from Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) program.Methods: We extracted data of primary NB patients diagnosed by positive histology during 1975-2016 from the SEER database, and grouped the patients according to the age of diagnosis. Competing-risk model and Kaplan-Meier plot were used to compare survival rates of adult-onset neuroblastoma with pediatric neuroblastoma. Cox proportional hazard regression model was used in univariate and multivariate analysis to identify prognostic factors affecting overall and cancer-specific survival rates in adult patients. A nomogram was developed according to the multivariate model and internally validated using receiver operator curve (ROC) and decision curve analysis (DCA).Results: We found a worsened outcome (Median survival time 31 vs 70 months) and distinct clinical characteristics in adults compared with adolescents. Univariate analysis revealed that age (HR=1.7627, 95%CI: 1.1937-2.6027, p = 0.004), surgery (HR=0.3968, 95%CI: 0.2691-0.5852, p <0.0001), primary tumor site, histology type (HR=1.9792, 95%CI: 1.1159-3.5103, p = 0.0195), chemotherapy (HR=1.5723, 95%CI: 1.0284-2.4037, p = 0.0367) was significantly associated with prognosis. Upon multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression model, age, surgery, primary tumor site remained significant for cancer-specific survival. Using the multivariate regression model, we proposed a new nomogram for the prediction of 3-year and 5-year survival rate. The nomogram showed good performance on survival prediction and risk-group stratification in an internal validation cohort. Conclusion: In conclusion, our study provided novel evidence on prognosis of adult-onset NB using large-scale populational database and identified surgical intervention as the most effective treatment toward adult-onset NB. Our nomogram can serve as potential prediction and risk-stratification tool in clinical practice.
Effects of major antihypertensive drug classes on erectile function: a network meta-analysis
Authors: Farmakis Ioannis T , Pyrgidis Nikolaos , Doundoulakis Ioannis , Mykoniatis Ioannis , Akrivos Evangelos , Giannakoulas George
Published: February 2021

Aims

Major antihypertensive medication classes are suggested to exert diverse effects on erectile function (EF). Guideline recommendations suggest that thiazide diuretics and β-blockers possess the worst profile regarding erectile function (EF), while angiotensin receptor blockers and nebivolol the best profile. We aimed to determine the comparative effect of major antihypertensive classes on EF in patients with or at high risk of cardiovascular disease.
Methods

We performed a systematic review and frequentist network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials assessing the effect of antihypertensive agents on EF (PROSPERO: CRD42020189529). Records were identified through search of PubMed, Cochrane Library and Scopus databases and sources of grey literature until September 2020.
Results

We included 25 studies (7784 patients) in the qualitative and 16 studies in the quantitative synthesis. The risk of bias was concerning or high in the majority of studies and inconsistency was also high. No significant differences in EF were demonstrated in the pairwise comparisons between major antihypertensive classes. Similarly, when placebo was set as the reference treatment group, no treatment strategy yielded significant effects on EF. In the β-blockers analysis, nebivolol contributed a beneficial effect on EF only when compared to non-vasodilatory β-blockers (OR 2.92, 95% CI 1.3–6.5) and not when compared to placebo (OR 2.87, 95% CI 0.75–11.04) or to other vasodilatory β-blockers (OR 2.15, 95% CI 0.6–7.77).
Conclusion

All antihypertensive medication classes seem to exert neutral or insignificant effects on EF. Further high-quality studies are needed to better explore the effects of antihypertensive medication on EF.
Thermal Bragg Shields for Thermal Waves.
Authors: Rosa Angela Camacho de la , Becerril David , Gómez-Farfán Guadalupe , Esquivel-Sir Raul
Published: February 2021

Ultrafast heating processes do not follow Fourier's heat conduction law, but rather the proposed Cattaneo-Vernotte equation (CVe) which has wave-like solutions that have some important differences from other wave phenomenon. In a periodic system made of materials with different thermal conductivities, solutions of the CVe lead to a band-like structure in the dispersion relation. In this work, we show that highly reflective Bragg mirrors for thermal waves can be designed. Even for a mirrors with a few layers a very high reflectance is achieved (>90%). The mirrors are made of materials with large thermal response times, where thermal waves have been measured. A second alternative consists of adding a thin metallic film which also leads to an efficient thermal Bragg mirror. Finally, the role of defects in opening new thermal-stop bands is demonstrated.
Global Impact of Obesity and Diabetes on the Increase Incidence and Prevalence of Chronic Kidney disease (CKD) and End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD): A Systematic Review
Authors: kakar Asmatullah , Kakar Niamatullah , Durand Anne-Claire , Mouelhi Yosra , Gentile Stephanie
Published: February 2021

Background: Obesity and diabetes are the main causes of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end stage renal disease (ESRD). The objective of this study was to analyze the impact of obesity and diabetes on CKD and ESRD incidence and prevalence. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted from 2001 to 2018. 494 articles were retrieved via PubMed and 125 articles through Google scholar and reference list of the selected articles. Among which thirty (30) studies met our inclusion criteria consisting of 17 cohorts, 11 cross-sectional, and 2 case-control studies.Results: Majority of the studies indicated direct relationship between body mass index (BMI) and ESRD risk. Notably, the association of obesity and diabetes potentially increases the incidence and prevalence of CKD and ESRD. Results from the cohort, case-control and cross-sectional studies pointed out a positive association between obesity, diabetes and risks for renal disease outcomes. Even though many complications may occur, renal transplantation (RT) is still the preferred renal replacement therapy (RRT) advised in multiple studies for diabetic ESRD patients. Renal transplantation was associated with better quality of life and survival advantage than dialysis. Interestingly, overweight and obese ESRD patients on dialysis had a significant survival advantage in comparison to lean body weight patients. Conclusion: Taken together, obesity and diabetes are significantly associated with the increasing incidence and prevalence of CKD and ESRD. Regulation of Weight and diabetes are highly recommended in obese and diabetic patients to prevent the subsequent renal disease. Previous reviews have discussed the relationship between obesity and ESRD or diabetes and ESRD separately. However, importantly, this review gives an insight on the association between obesity, diabetes and CKD/ ESRD.
Association Between Self-Reported Tobacco Smoke Exposure and Serum Non-High-Density Lipoprotein Among Adults, Beijing
Authors: Wei Yingqi , Ma Aijuan , Kai Fang , Xie Chen , Dong Jing , Xie Jin , Jiang Bo , Dong Zhong
Published: February 2021

Background: Cigarette smoking, including secondhand exposure, is a leading cause of several atherosclerotic diseases (AS). Non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) is considered as a valuable predictor for dyslipidemia and AS. There is a need to identify the association of tobacco smoke exposure (TSE) and the marker of sub-clinical AS.Objective: To examine the association of TSE, including exposed status, cigarette smoking intensity and burden with serum non-HDL-C level.Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out on 18-79 years old residents in 2017 in Beijing. All participants were interviewed on their tobacco exposed status (unexposed, passively exposed, actively exposed), smoking intensity (number of cigarettes smoked per week) and smoking burden (pack-years of smoking) among current smokers. Non-HDL-C was calculated by subtracting high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) from total cholesterol (TC). Covariates were age, education status, alcohol drinking status within 30 days, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, physical inactivity and BMI. We plot graphs to show the tendency between the number of cigarettes smoked per week, passively exposed days per week and non-HDL-C levels, respectively. Multiple regression models were used to assess the association between non-HDL-C level and TSE after the adjustment for covariates. Results: Of the 12,798 participants, mean age was 44.9±15.4 years, 46.8% were male. The prevalence of actively exposed, passively exposed and unexposed to tobacco smoke was 25.7%, 35.7% and 38.6%, respectively. Of the tobacco passively exposed subjects, 21.7% had to exposed to second-hand smoke every day. Among current smokers, 41.2% were smoking more than 120 cigarettes per week, and 56.6% were smoking more over 20 pack-years. With the increasing of the number of cigarettes smoked per week, the serum level of non-HDL-C in male increased gradually (Male: F=2.83, P=0.04; Female: F=1.23, P=0.32; Total: F=3.29, P=0.02). After multivariable adjustment, smokers had a higher non-HDL-C level (OR=1.34, 95%CI: 1.20,1.59, P=0.001) compared with tobacco unexposed subjects. However, passively smokers were not associated with non-HDL-C levels regardless of gender (OR=0.98, 95%CI: 0.78,1.23, P=0.87). Compared with lighter smokers, male smokers who smoked more than 140 cigarettes per week had significantly higher non-HDL-C levels (OR=1.30, 95%CI: 1.00,1.70, P=0.04). Male higher burden smokers (>20 pack-years) had more risk of having higher non-HDL-C level (OR=1.88, 95%CI: 1.46,2.43, P<0.001) compared with other smokers. However, there were no significant differences between non-HDL-C and smoking intensity or burden among female smokers.Conclusions: This study showed that strong associations between TSE and non-HDL-C levels, especially in male smokers. Findings of this work emphasize the importance of encouragement to focus on blood lipid levels among smokers.
Expert Nurses’ Coping Experiences in Ethically Challenging Situations: a Qualitative Study
Authors: Kim Yeon-Hee , Kang Young-ah , Ok Jeong-Hui , Choe Kwisoon
Published: February 2021

Background Nurses encounter ethically challenging situations in everyday practice. This study aimed to explore expert nurses’ experiences of coping with ethically challenging situations to understand nurses’ ethical competence.MethodsParticipants were recruited via purposive sampling. Small group interviews were conducted with 26 expert registered nurses in a general hospital in South Korea. The data were analysed using Giorgi’s descriptive phenomenological method. ResultsThe essential theme of nurses’ experience of coping with ethically challenging situations was ‘being faithful to the nature of caring’. This essential theme comprised three themes: self-monitoring of ethical insensitivity, maintaining honesty, and actively acting as an advocate. ConclusionsThe findings of this study showed that coping strategies of expert nurses are mostly consistent with the attributes of previously defined ethical competence in healthcare, and the way for expert nurses to deal with ethically challenging situations is to care for patients faithfully according to the spirit of caring. It is ethical to be faithful to the nature of caring. System-wide early counselling and interventions should be considered for nurses who have experienced ethical difficulties. Nursing administrators also should investigate ethically challenging situations and implement measures to improve such situations, if possible.
Post-Arthroscopy Osteonecrosis of the Knee: With Special Reference to Meniscal Extrusion before and after the Medial Meniscectomy
Authors: Yamaguchi Jun , Yasuda Kazunori , Kondo Eiji , Ueda Daisuke , Yabuuchi Koji , Onodera Jun , Iwasaki Norimasa , Saito Mitsuru , Yagi Tomonori
Published: February 2021

Background: Post-arthroscopic osteonecrosis of the knee (PAONK) is a rare disorder condition. In addition, no studies have analyzed the relationship between the meniscus extrusion and PAONK. The purposes of this retrospective study are to report 10 cases of PAONK and to evaluate location of the MM in the joint space, including the meniscus extrusion, before and after the meniscectomy in these 10 knees. Methods: Ten knees with PAONK were found in 876 knees which had undergone arthroscopic partial meniscectomy of the medial meniscus (MM). We retrospectively collected the clinical, surgical, and radiological data of these 10 patients. To evaluate intraarticular location of the menisci in the joint space, Extrusion width and Inner width were defined on magnetic resonance images, and they were statistically compared. Results: In the 10 patients (2 men and 8 women; the age ranged between 60 and 80 years), knee pain recurred within 12 weeks after the meniscectomy. Preoperatively, the Extrusion width of the MM (the mean, 4.7 mm) was significantly greater (P<0.0001) than that of the LM (0.2 mm). At the time of diagnosis of PAONK, the Extrusion width of the MM significantly increased by 1.2 mm and the Inner width was significantly reduced by 3.9 mm, compared with the preoperative values (P<0.0001). Conclusion: This is the first report that, in each of the 10 knees with PAONK, the MM had been extruded before the meniscectomy, and then, the Inner width of the MM almost disappeared postoperatively due to not only the increased meniscal extrusion but the partial meniscal resection. This study suggested that the intraarticular abnormal location of the MM, including the meniscal extrusion, is a critical factor that should be evaluated in future studies to clarify causative factors of PAONK.
Nutritional Profile and the use "Whole Grains" Claims in Packaged Food in Brazil
Authors: Andrade Giovanna , Mais Laís Amaral , Ricardo Camila , Duran Ana Clara , Martins Ana Paula
Published: February 2021

Background: Although the nutrition claim “whole grains” can be found in packaged foods marketed in Brazil, the current legislation does not establish composition or labelling criteria to its use, which may confuse and misinform consumers and lead to inadequate food choices. Thus, the present study aims to assess the use of “whole grains” claims in food products marketed in Brazil, and to assess the nutritional profile of these products. Methods: We used data from 775 grain-based packaged foods collected in Brazil from April to July 2017. Using the INFORMAS’s protocol for food labelling, we estimated the prevalence of packaged foods with “whole grains” claims. The amount of whole grains was evaluated using the ingredients list. We compared the nutritional profile of the products with and without "whole grains" claims using the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) nutrient profile criteria. Results: Results show that about 19% of the assessed products had "whole grains" claims; of these, 35% did not have any whole grain among the top three ingredients. These products also had a high proportion of refined ingredients (e.g. refined flour and sugar) and were high in critical nutrients according to PAHO´s criteria. Conclusion: Our results showed the need to improve Brazilian food labeling regulation in order to determine thresholds for wholemeal flour content to allow foods to receive “whole grains” claim.
STING/NF-κB/IL-6-mediated inflammation in microglia contributes to spared nerve injury (SNI)-induced neuropathic pain
Authors: Sun Jia , Zhou Ya-Qun , Xu Bing-Yang , Li Jia-Yan , Zhang Long-Qing , Wu Jia-Yi , Gao Shao-Jie , Liu Dai-Qiang , Lan Pei-Xiang , Ye Da-Wei , Mei Wei
Published: February 2021

Background

Innate immune response acts as a first line of host defense against damage and are initiated following the recognition of pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). For double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) sensing, interferon gene stimulator (STING) was discovered to be an integral sensor, and could mediate the immune and inflammatory response. However, it is unclear the underlying mechanisms of STING in the development of neuropathic pain.
Methods

Neuropathic pain model was established by spared nerve injury (SNI). STING agonist DMXAA was introduced into BV-2 cells to assess the inflammatory response in microglia cells. Selective STING antagonist C-176 were administered in the early and late stage following SNI and the mechanical sensitivity and thermal responsiveness were assessed using Von Frey filaments and hot plate tests separately. To investigate the underlying mechanisms, recombinant IL-6 was injected intrathecally and its downstream effectors were examined. The level of dsDNA in the peripheral blood following SNI was assessed using Elisa analysis. STING signaling pathway and its downstream effectors were assessed by qPCR, western blots, Elisa and immunofluorescence staining. Meanwhile, microglia activation and proinflammatory cytokines expression were also assessed in the spinal cord.
Results

We found dsDNA was significantly increased and STING signaling pathway was activated in dorsal horn microglia following SNI, and our study using BV-2 cells showed that DMXAA significantly activated STING/TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1)/nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathway, and increased the production of proinflammatory cytokines, as well as phosphorylated the Janus-activated kinase 2/signal transducer activator of transcription 3 (JAK2/STAT3) signal in microglia. Early but not late intrathecal injection of C-176 attenuated SNI-induced pain hypersensitivity, microglia activation, proinflammatory factors and phosphorylated JAK2/STAT3 in the spinal cord dorsal horn. Last, the analgesic effect of C-176 were greatly abolished by recombinant IL-6 following SNI.
Conclusions

We provided evidence clarifying dsDNA mediated activation of microglial STING signaling pathway, after which promoting expression of proinflammatory cytokines that are required for central sensitization in the spinal cord dorsal horn of SNI model. Further analysis showed that microglial STING/TBK1/NF-κB may contribute to hyperalgesia initiation via IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 signaling. Pharmacological blockade of STING may be a promising target during the initiation of neuropathic pain.
Genome-Wide Identification and Functional Analysis of U-Box E3 Ubiquitin Ligases Gene Family Related to Drought Stress Response in Chinese white pear (Pyrus bretschneideri)
Authors: Wang Chunmeng , Song Bobo , Dai Yuqin , Zhang Shaoling , Huang Xiaosan
Published: February 2021

Background

The plant U-box(PUB) proteins are a family of ubiquitin ligases (E3) enzymes that involved in diverse biological processes, as well as in responses to plant stress response. However, the characteristics and functional divergence of the PUB gene family has not yet been previously studied in the Chinese White Pear (Pyrus bretschneideri).
Results

In the present study, we identified 62 PbrPUBsin Chinese white pear genome. Based on the phylogenetic relationship, 62 PUB genes were clustered into five groups. The conserved motif and gene structure analysis provided further evidence to support the classification phylogenetic tree. The PbrPUB genes were unevenly distribution on 17 pear chromosomes, chromosome 15 housed most member of PUB family, with eight PUB genes. Cis-acting element analysis indicted PUB genes might participate in diverse biological processes, especially in the response to abiotic stresses. Based on RNA-data from “Dangshansuli” at seven tissues, we found that PUB genes exhibited diverse of expression level in seven tissues, and qRT-PCR experiment further support the reliable of RNA-Seq data. To identify candidate genes associated with resistance, we conducted qRT-PCR experiment the expression level of pear seed plant under four abiotic stresses, including: ABA, dehydration, salt and cold treatment. One candidate PUB gene associated with dehydration stress was selected to conduct further functional experiment. Subcellular localization revealed PbrPUB18 gene was located on cell nucleus. Furthermore, heterologous over-expression of PbrPUB18 in Arabidopsis indicated that the over-expression of PbrPUB18 could enhance resistance in drought treatment. In conclusions, we systematically identified the PUB genes in pear, and provided valuable information for the molecular mechanism of PUB genes in pear.
Novel design of Multiband Slotted and Miniaturized Microstrip Patch Antenna for X and Ku -band Applications
Authors: Mercy P. , Wilson K. S. Joseph
Published: February 2021

This article takes a research on a novel design of a multiband slotted microstrip patch antenna. It depicts a multi ultra wideband compressed and developed antenna with double F- slots, four rectangular slots, and side corner cuttings on the patch using partial Ground. The proposed multiband microstrip patch antenna can resonate at six unique frequencies between 8 GHz and 19 GHz in X and ku bands and execute the reflected power of − 23.8351 dB, − 32.9380 dB, − 14.6726 dB, − 22.2810 dB, − 19.0592 dB, and − 18.8137 dB at 8.6181 GHz, 12.3116 GHz, 14.1960 GHz, 15.6281 GHz, 18.1910 GHz, and 18.9447 GHz, respectively. The gained voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) is less than 1(0.3918). A maximum directivity and gain of 6.9104 dB and 6.3769 dB is achieved at the resonating bands. Moreover, the effectiveness of the proposed multi-band patch antenna has been verified through the radiation pattern and radiation efficiency of measured results. The low size, weight, and cost of the geometry of this antenna make it entice for Radar engineering, police radars for measuring the speed of the vehicles, for military applications, for navigation intentions, and in finding out the weather forecast and Satellite broadcast communication, space-crafts, wireless computer networks, etc.
A Configurable Simulator for Neural Network Processors
Authors: Hu Jian Hu Jian , Zhang Xianlong , Shi Xiaohua
Published: February 2021

Deep learning has achieved competing results comparing with human beings in many fields. Traditionally, deep learning networks are executed on CPUs and GPUs. In recent years, more and more Neural Network accelerators have been introduced in both academia and industry to improve the performance and energy efficiency for deep learning networks. In this paper, we introduce a flexible and configurable functional NN accelerator simulator, which could be configured to simulate u-architectures for different NN accelerators. The extensible and configurable simulator is helpful for system-level exploration of u-architecture, as well as operator optimization algorithm developments. We also integrated the simulator into the TVM compilation stack as an optional back-end. Users can use TVM to write operators and execute them on the simulator. The simulator is going to be open sourced.
Biomechanical Profile of People with Diabetic Neuropathy Attended in Primary Care In East Paulista, Brazil
Authors: JORGETTO JULIANA VALLIM , Oggiam Daniella da Silva , Gamba Mônica Antar , Kusahara Denise Miyuki
Published: February 2021

Diabetic neuropathy is one of the main complications of Diabetes Mellitus, which can lead to loss of protective sensation, motor alteration, in plantar pressure, generating deformities, abnormal gait and mechanical trauma to the feet. OBJECTIVEto evaluate the distribution of plantar pressure, sensory, motor changes and balance in people with peripheral diabetic neuropathy. METHODCross-sectional study conducted with individuals registered in the municipal public health network of a city in the east of São Paulo - Brazil, with Diabetes Mellitus and Peripheral Neuropathy identified by the Michigan Screening Instrument, sensory-motor changes by the International Consensus, static and dynamic assessments of plantar pressure using Baropodometry with BaroScan and balance using the Berg scale. RESULTSOf the 200 individuals evaluated, 52.55% had no plantar protective sensitivity, the static evaluation did not identify changes in the peak of plantar pressure, however in the dynamics the average in the right foot was 6.08 (± 2) kgf / cm2 and 6 , 7 (± 1.62) kgf / cm2 on the left foot, the center of static pressure on the right foot was lower (10.55 ± 3.82) than on the left foot (11.97 ± 3.90), pointing hyper plantar pressure. The risk of falling was high, ranging from 8 to 56 points, with an average of 40.96 (± 10.77). CONCLUSIONThe absence of protective plantar sensitivity, increased pressure, biomechanical changes lead to loss of balance and are predictive of complications in the feet due to diabetic neuropathy.
A Probabilistic Cross Sectional Imaging Atlas of Healthy Axillary and Paraclavicular Lymph Nodes in Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Ernst Lucia , Borm Kai Joachim , Combs Stephanie E , Düsberg Mathias , Duma Marciana Nona
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUNDThe aim of the present study was to generate an atlas of lymphatic drainage in breast cancer patients to be used in cross sectional diagnostic and therapeutic imaging. METHODSThe distribution of healthy lymph nodes is investigated as a surrogate for lymphatic drainage in cross sectional imaging. 2094 healthy LN were contoured contralateral to the primary tumor site on PET-CT datasets of 153 breast cancer patients. Using rigid and non-rigid registration techniques 1939 LN were transferred to a “standard patient” CT data set. Thus, a healthy lymph node atlas was generated. The location of the healthy LN was compared to the RTOG and ESTRO clinical target volumes radiotherapy contouring recommendations.RESULTSThe mean volume of healthy LN was 0.17cm3±0.28cm3 and the mean diameter was 0.77cm±0.36cm. Most LN were in level I (69.20%), supraclavicular (14.80%) and level II (10.50%). The remaining LN were in the internal mammary (2.70%), intraglandular (1.80%) and level III (1.00%). The ESTRO guideline encompassed the healthy LN in 35.00% completely, in 31.10% partly and in 33.90% not at all. The RTOG encompassed 48.00% of the healthy LN completely, 28.80% in part and 23.20% not at all.CONCLUSIONOur study lead to the most comprehensive 3D-imaging atlas of healthy LN in cross sectional imaging. The results can be used to generate a strategy to further reduce the rate of lymphedema by irradiation. Further, the atlas can be used to determine the probability of a visible LN in a specific location to be healthy.
Inhibition of jack bean urease by amphiphilic peptides
Authors: Shah Zafar Ali , Hussain Sadam , Khan Serab , Ali Nawab , Shah Syed Uzair , Burki Samiullah , Ahmad Ashfaq , -Ur-Rehman Faiz -Ur-Rehman Faiz , Qureshi Muhammad Nasimullah , Shah Syed Muhammad Mukarram , Shaheen Farzana
Published: February 2021

In the current study, amphiphilic peptides were designed and screened against Jak bean urease by using computer aided drug discovery approach. The result showed that out of thirty eight amphiphilic peptides 1, 3, 12, 18, 30, and 33 exhibit stronger binding affinity with the active site of the enzyme and establish hydrogen bonds with the nickel ions i.e. Ni 841 and Ni 842 as well as make non-polar and hydrophobic contacts with the nonpolar residues in the active site. The selected amphiphilic peptides were synthesized by solid-phase peptide synthesis strategy, characterized by Fast atomic bombardment mass spectroscopy (FAB-MS) and Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H and 13C-NMR) and performed in vitro urease inhibitory activity. Amphiphilic peptides 12 and 33 showed excellent urease inhibitory activity, (p < 0.001) with IC50 values 20.5 ± 0.01 µM, and 28.1 ± 0.03 µM respectively, which was considerably better than thiourea used as positive control. We suggest that these amphiphilic could be potent urease inhibitors and sever as the starting point for effective interventions.
HPV16 E6-specific T Cell Response and HLA-A Alleles Are Related to the Prognosis of Patients With Cervical Cancer 
Authors: Cai Hongchao , Feng Yaning , Fan Peiwen , Guo Yuping , Kuerban Gulina , Chang Cheng , Yao Xuan , Peng Yanchun , Wang Ruo zheng
Published: February 2021

Background: It is worthwhile to identify more epitopes as target to design T cell-based therapeutic interventions that can benefit cervical cancer patients whose disease cannot be well controlled with current treatment modalities. This study investigated T cell response to HPV16 E6 and E7 in patients with cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC). Also, the human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-A allele distribution was compared among patients and evaluated as factors to predict prognosis in these patients.Materials and Methods: This study recruited a total of 76 patients with International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage IIB–IIIB CSCC. Mononuclear cells were isolated from the peripheral blood before any treatment and then enzyme-linked immunosorbent spot (ELISpot) assay was employed to measure the E6 and E7-specific T cell response. HLA‐A alleles were typed using Sanger sequence‐based typing techniques with DNA extracted from the peripheral blood. The correlation between the T cell responses, HLA‐A allele distribution and patient prognosis were analysed using the Kaplan–Meier method, univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard models.Results: The frequency of HPV E6-specific T cell responses in patients with pelvic lymph node metastasis was lower than that in patients without metastasis (P=0.022). The 5-year overall survival (OS) rates of patients were 87.5% for the multiple overlapping peptide group, 72.7% for the 1–2 overlapping peptide group, and 47.7% for the negative group (P=0.032). Cox regression analysis indicated that the presence of HLA*A02:07 was independently associated with worse OS (hazard ratio [HR] 3.042; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.348–6.862; P=0.007), while concurrent chemoradiation therapy (CCRT) was independently associated with better OS (HR 0.475; 95% CI: 0.232–0.975; P= 0.042).Conclusion: The results of our study demonstrated that the level of HPV16 E6-specific T cell response and HLA*A02:07 were correlated with prognosis in patients with advanced CSCC.
The Relationship Between the Atherogenic Index of Plasma and Arterial Stiffness in Essential Hypertensive Patients from China: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Yin Juan , Li Minghui , Yu Lingling , Hu Feng , Yu Yu , Hu Longlong , Bao Huihui , Cheng Xiaoshu
Published: February 2021

Background: The atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) always remains in a potential association with the arterial stiffness, however, in large hypertensive patient populations, this relation is not fully discovered and needs to be studied in depth. The present analysis thus sought to further explore the association that exists between AIP and arterial stiffness in patients diagnosed with arterial hypertension in China.Methods: This cross-sectional study analyzed 4744 Chinese individuals with essential hypertension. AIP was defined as the base 10 logarithm of the ratio of plasma of triglycerides (TG) to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) levels indicates as in molar concentrations. Measurement of arterial stiffness was carried out via brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV).Results: Data were adjusted for potential confounding variables, after which a multivariate linear regression analysis revealed AIP to be positively correlated with baPWV (β = 1.34, 95% CI: 0.96 to 1.72, P < 0.001). When AIP was instead treated as a categorical variable divided into quartiles, this same relationship was observed (P for trend < 0.001). We additionally found AIP and baPWV had a stronger positive association in individuals with a body mass index (BMI) < 24 kg/m2 (P for interaction < 0.05).Conclusion: AIP and arterial stiffness were positively correlated in essential hypertension patients in China, especially in those with a BMI < 24 kg/m2.
Does Exchange Rate Impact Commodity Prices: Evidence From a Small Open Economy 
Authors: Guei Kore Marc Antoine , CHOGA IREEN
Published: February 2021

The paper assesses the dynamics of exchange rate and the terms of trade on industrial commodity prices. We investigate the linear and asymmetric effects of exchange rate on commodity prices using an error correction model (ECM) and a threshold autoregressive (TAR) model that allows to estimate the dynamics of different regimes. Further we employ a structural vector autoregressive (SVAR) model to examine the impact of an external shock on the terms of trade using quarterly data over the period 1992q1 to 2019q4.The results suggest that an exchange rate above or equal 4.6 has a positive and significant impact on commodity prices. Specifically, if real exchange rate is above the threshold 4.6, the price of gold, copper, and nickel increases by 0.9 %, 1.1%, and 2.7%, respectively. We also find that a 1% increase in real interest rate is associated with a 0.003% fall in the terms of trade. JEL classification: E31, E43, F3
Reducing Handoffs and Improving Patient Flow in the ED
Authors: Prabhu Vishnunarayan Girishan , Taaffe Kevin , Pirrallo Ronald , Jackson William , Ramsay Michael
Published: February 2021

Over 145 million people visit US Emergency Departments annually. The diverse nature and overwhelming volume of patient visits make the ED one of the most complicated healthcare settings. In particular, handoffs, the transfer of patient care from one physician to another during shift transition are a common source of errors resulting from workflow interruptions and high cognitive workload. This research focuses on developing a hybrid agent-based discrete event simulation model to identify physician shifts that minimize handoffs without affecting other performance metrics. By providing overlapping shift schedules as well as implementing policies that restrict physicians from signing up a new patient during the last hour of the shift, we observed that handoffs and patient time in the emergency department could be reduced by as much as 42% and 17%, respectively.
Defining the resilience of the human salivary microbiota by a 520 days longitudinal study in confined environment: the Mars500 mission
Authors: Fani Renato , Bacci Giovanni , Mengoni Alessio , Emiliani Giovanni , Chiellini Carolina , Cipriani Edoardo Giovanni , Bianconi Giovanna , Canganella Francesco
Published: February 2021

Background The human microbiota plays several roles in health and disease but is often difficult to determine which part is in intimate relationships with the host vs. the occasional presence. During the Mars500 mission, six crewmembers lived completely isolated from the outer world for 520 days following standardized diet regimes. The mission constitutes the first spaceflight simulation to Mars and was a unique experiment to determine, in a longitudinal study design, the composition and importance of the resident vs. a more variable microbiota—the fraction of the human microbiota that changes in time and according to environmental conditions—in humans.Methods Here we report the characterization of the salivary microbiota from 88 samples taken during and after Mars500 mission for a total of 720 days. Amplicon sequencing of the V3-V4 region of 16S rRNA gene was performed and results were analyzed monitoring the diversity of the microbiota while evaluating the effect of the three main variables present in the experimental system: time, diet, and individuality of each subject.Results Results, showed statistically significant effects for either time, diet, and individuality of each subject. The main contribution came from the individuality of each subject, emphasizing salivary microbiota personalized features and an individual-based resilience of the microbiota.Conclusions The uniqueness of Mars500 mission, allowed to clearly dissect the environmental variables of salivary microbiota, highlighting its pronounced personalization even after sharing the same physical space for more than a year.
Oral Propranolol in Von Hippel Lindau Ocular Affection
Authors: GONZÁLEZ-RODRÍGUEZ BEATRIZ , GONZÁLEZ-RODRÍGUEZ MARIA , RAMÍREZ NATALIA BEJARANO , ESCRIBANO ROSA MARÍA JIMÉNEZ , CALVO FRANCISCO JAVIER REDONDO
Published: February 2021

Purpose. von Hippel Lindau (VHL) disease is a familiar syndrome associated with benign and malignant tumors. These tumors appear in the retina, cerebellum, spinal cord, and kidney. Retinal hemangioblastomas are one of the earliest and most frequent manifestations of this entity, and they can lead to blindness at a young age. Propranolol could be a promising treatment for retinal hemangioblastomas in von Hippel Lindau disease. Methods. Prospective cohort study. Seven patients with VHL disease and ocular affection that had rejected conventional treatment were included. Prospective analysis of seven patients was performed. We evaluated them for three years, with a complete ophthalmic evaluation that included: visual acuity, intraocular pressure, an examination of the anterior segment of the eye, fundoscopy, retinography, and optical coherence tomography (OCT). Heart rate and blood pressure on each patient were also measured. During the follow-up evaluation, two patients discontinued the treatment with propranolol after the first year and rejected any further treatment for their ocular affection; the rest continued therapy for the three years. Results: Visual acuity and tumor areas remained stable in 4 patients. Increased and new retinal exudation area was found in the two patients that discontinued the treatment with oral propranolol. Conclusions: Oral propranolol has shown a role in the reabsorption of retinal exudates in patients with von Hippel Lindau affection. It could delay or stabilize the ocular disease, maintaining visual acuity, and avoiding further complications in these patients. It is a well-known and available drug, without so many secondary effects, that could also have a role in other ocular diseases that course with exudation.
Topoi der Medienkritik
Authors: Hinrichs Boy
Published: February 2021

In dieser Veranstaltung sollte mit Hilfe von verschiedenen Textauszügen die Argumentationsweise der Medienkritik erarbeitet und analysiert werden. Dabei kritisierten diese Texte jeweils ein spezifisches Medium. Zu den in dieser Veranstaltung behandelten Medien zählte die Schrift sowie die sich mittels des Buchdrucks rasch ausbreitende Literatur, der Film und der Hörfunk bzw. das Radio, das Fernsehen und der Computer.
Konzeptionelle Überlegungen zum Ästhetik-Modul und zum zu Grunde liegenden Medienverständnis im Kontaktstudium zur Frühen Bildung an der PH Ludwigsburg
Authors: Imort Peter , Uhlig Bettina
Published: February 2021

Ausgabe 11 / 2008Themenschwerpunkt: Medienbildung in der frühen Kindheit
Die Relevanz professioneller Orientierungsmuster und Organisationsmilieus für die schulische Medienintegration
Authors: Brüggemann Marion , Welling Stefan
Published: February 2021

Ausgabe 12 / 2009Themenschwerpunkt: Medien in der Lehrerbildung
Medienpädagogische Grundbildung für Lehramtsstudierende an den PHen in Baden-Württemberg
Authors: Niesyto Horst
Published: February 2021

Ausgabe 12 / 2009Themenschwerpunkt: Medien in der Lehrerbildung
Schule und Bildung neu denken
Authors: Merz-Abt Thomas
Published: February 2021

Ausgabe 12 / 2009Themenschwerpunkt: Medien in der Lehrerbildung
Perspektiven aktiver Medienarbeit an Schulen und Hochschulen
Authors: Günnel Traudel , Löffler Monika
Published: February 2021

Ausgabe 12 / 2009Themenschwerpunkt: Medien in der Lehrerbildung
Neue Formen des digitalen Lernens – fächerübergreifende Arbeit mit dem iPad. Konzeptionelle Grundlagen und Erfahrungswerte aus dem Teilprojekt 2 von dileg-SL.
Authors: Autenrieth Daniel , Marquardt Anja
Published: February 2021

Das Teilprojekt 2 mit dem Titel „Neue Formen des digitalen Lernens – fächerübergreifende Arbeit mit dem iPad“ ist Teil des Entwicklungsprojekts Digitales Lernen Grundschule –Stuttgart/Ludwigsburg(dileg-SL) und verfolgt das Ziel einer nachhaltigen Integration ganzheitlicher didaktischer und pädagogischer Ansätze in der 1.Phase der Lehrerbildung. Fächerübergreifend meint in diesem Zusammenhang zum einen die Förderung eines fächerverbindenden Verständnisses von Unterricht unter Einbezug digitaler Medien, zum anderen aber auch die starke Anknüpfung an die Lebens- und Medienwelten der Schüler*innen. Studierende lernen vor allem praxisorientiert den Umgang mit digitalen Medien; die spielerische Vermittlung von Grundelementen informatischer Bildung erfolgt unter Bezug auf das Konzept "Computational Thinking" und damit verknüpften Aufgabenstellungen. Die Studierenden konzipieren im Rahmen eines Begleitseminars Unterrichtsmaterialien und Szenarien für das Lernen mit digitalen Medien. Diese werden im Rahmen von Unterrichtsversuchen an der Rosensteinschule in Stuttgart erprobt.
Filmanalyse in Filmform.
Authors: Holzwarth Peter
Published: February 2021

Im folgenden Beitrag wird eine kreative Filmanalysemethode vorgestellt, bei der Studierende bzw. Schülerinnen und Schüler aus Teilen des zu analysierenden Films und anderen audio-visuellen Elementen einen eigenen Analysefilm schneiden. Dies kann als Ergänzung zu einer schriftlichen Filmanalyse produziert werden oder als eigenständiges Produkt.