bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combining ability and genetic diversity under low-temperature conditions at germination stage of maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Zhang Jiayue , Li Yichen , Zhang Ziwen , Di Hong , Zhang Lin , Wang Xuerui , Wang Zhenhua , Zhou Yu
Published: February 2021

Low temperatures are important for the production of spring maize in northern China. While the low-temperature tolerance of maize seeds can be improved by coating them, this can result in environmental pollution, high costs, and instability. Identifying new varieties of maize is the most effective method of improving the ability of maize crops to withstand low temperatures. In this experiment, four low-temperature tolerant maize inbred lines (DNF266, Zhong451, B73, Dan340) and four low-temperature sensitive maize inbred lines (Luyuan92, Ji853, Huangzaosi, Si144) were selected from the northern spring maize area. The griffing double-row hybridization design method was used to prepare 28 hybrid combinations. After analysing the general combining ability and the special combining ability, we found that the indoor low-temperature index and low-temperature seedings were extremely similar. The hybridization and parental inbred lines were subjected to low-temperature treatments both indoors and in the field. Several low-temperature indexes were assessed to identify what results could be produced from combining them. Under both treatments, the inbred line DNF266 had a higher general combining ability, and the Zhong451 × Dan340 hybrid combination had a higher special combining ability. These results provide technical support for breeding new low-temperature maize varieties.
Lymphatic Leakage after Pelvic Lymphadenectomy for Cervical Cancer: A Retrospective Case-Control Study
Authors: Chen Li , Lin Liang , Li Ling , Xie Zuolian , He Haixin , Lin Cuibo , Chen Jian , Lin An
Published: February 2021

Background: The study aims to evaluate the clinical features and management of postoperative lymphatic leakage (PLL) in patients with cervical cancer who received pelvic lymphadenectomy. Methods: This retrospective study screened consecutive patients with cervical cancer (stage Ia2-IIb). Results: Among 3427 cases screened, 63 patients (1.8%) were diagnosed with PLL, which manifested as persistent abdominal drainage (42/63, 66.7%), chylous ascites (12/63, 19.0%) or vaginal drainage (9/63, 14.3%). Median time from surgery to onset of PLL was 6 days (range, 4-21 days). All cases resolved in a median 10 days (range, 3-56 days) after conservative treatment; although one case experienced recurrence of vaginal drainage after 26 days, this also resolved after conservative therapy. Multivariate analysis showed that two cycles of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (odds ratio [OR], 3.283; 95% confidence interval [95%CI], 1.289-8.360; P=0.013 ), a decrease in hemoglobin level of ≥20 and <30 g/L (OR, 6.175; 95%CI, 1.033-10.919; P=0.046) or ≥30 g/L (OR, 8.467; 95%CI, 1.248-17.426; P=0.029), and postoperative albumin level ≥30 and <35 g/L (OR, 2.552; 95%CI, 1.112-5.857; P=0.027) or <30 g/L (OR, 5.517; 95%CI, 2.047-18.148; P=0.012) were associated with PLL.Conclusion: Neoadjuvant chemotherapy, postoperative anemia and postoperative hypoproteinemia are risk factors for PLL.
Students’ attitudes toward digital learning during the COVID-19 pandemic: A survey conducted following an online course in gynecology and obstetrics
Authors: Olmes Gregor Leonhard , Zimmermann Julia Sarah Maria , Stotz Lisa , Takacs Zoltan Ferenc , Hamza Amr , Radosa Marc Philipp , Findeklee Sebastian , Solomayer Erich-Franz , Radosa J. C.
Published: February 2021

Purpose The purpose of this survey was to assess medical students’ opinions about online learning programs and their preferences for specific teaching formats.MethodsBetween May and July 2020, medical students who took an online gynecology and obstetrics course were asked to fill in a questionnaire anonymously. The questionnaire solicited their opinions about the course, the teaching formats used (online lectures, video tutorials featuring real patient scenarios, and online practical skills training), and digital learning in general.Results Of 103 students, 98 (98 %) submitted questionnaires that were included in the analysis. Eighty-four (86 %) students had no problem with the online course and 70 (72 %) desired more online teaching in the future. Thirty-seven (38 %) respondents preferred online to traditional lectures. Seventy-two (74 %) students missed learning with real patients. All digital teaching formats received good and excellent ratings from >80 % of the students.ConclusionThe survey results reflect medical students’ broad acceptance of the online course and indicate that digital learning options can partially replace conventional face-to-face teaching. Especially for theoretical content, such as that taught via lectures, online teaching might be an alternative or complement to traditional education. In contrast, skill development and the application of practical knowledge still need a patient-centered structure.
Enzymatic hydrolysis by Trichoderma reesei of diluted acid-pretreated wastepaper for bioethanol production
Authors: Hossain Nazia , Hoong Lee Lai , Barua Pranta , Soudagar Manzoore Elahi M , Mahlia Teuku Meurah Indra
Published: February 2021

Enzymatic hydrolysis of waste biomass for bioethanol production is considered a traditional, inexpensive, and energy-effective approach decades ago. In the present study, waste office paper was pretreated with diluted sulfuric acid (H2SO4) and hydrolysed with one of the most available and cost-effective enzymes, cellulase from Trichoderma reesei, under submerged static condition. Wastepaper size was reduced to 2cm2, blended with water and dry wet-blended, and pretreated with diluted H2SO4. Among different concentrations (0.5M, 1.0M, 1.5M, 2.0M) of H2SO4, the maximum glucose content was obtained at 2.0M H2SO4 at 90 min reaction time, and glucose yield was 0.11g glucose/g wastepaper. The cut paper, wet-blended, and acid-treated wastepaper was hydrolysed with cellulase enzyme for 2, 4, and 5 consecutive days with 5mg, 10mg, 15mg, and 20mg enzyme loadings. The maximum glucose content was obtained, 9.75g/l after 5 days of enzymatic hydrolysis with 20mg enzyme loading and a glucose yield of a 0.5g glucose/g wastepaper. The wastepaper hydrolysate was further fermented for 6, 8, and 10 hours continuously with Saccharomyces cerevisiae (yeast), and at 10 hours of fermentation, the maximum glucose consumption was 0.18g by yeast. Later, HPLC analysis of the fermented medium presented a strong peak of bioethanol content at 16.12min. Further, the distillation of bioethanol by rotary evaporator presented 0.79ml bioethanol/fermented solution, which indicated the conversion efficiency of 79%.
Serum alkaline phosphatase is associated with arterial stiffness and 10‐year cardiovascular disease risk in a Chinese population
Authors: Guo Wen , Li Xiaona , Wu Juan , Zhu Wenfang , Lu Jing , Qin Pei , Diao Qingqing , Xu Nainzhen , Zhang Qun
Published: February 2021

Background
Serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) has been recognized as a biomarker of cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk or mortality, recently. This study aimed to explore the association of ALP with arterial stiffness and 10-year CVD risk.
Methods
A total of 12539 participants without CVD who underwent health examinations including serum ALP level were retrospectively analyzed. Arterial stiffness was measured by brachial ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) and10-year CVD risk was evaluated by Framingham risk score (FRS).
Results
All participants were stratified into four groups according to the quartile of serum ALP. Participants with high ALP quartiles had higher cardiovascular parameters and baPWV, as well as an increase 10-year CVD risk. Logistic regression analysis showed that serum ALP was an independently risk factor for elevated baPWV and 10-year CVD risk after adjustment for traditional CVD risk factors in both women and men. In receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, the area under the ROC curve (AUROC) of serum ALP for predicting elevated baPWV was 0.740 (95%CI 0.726–0.754, P < 0.001) in women, larger than that in men.
Conclusions
Serum ALP is independently associated with arterial stiffness and 10-year CVD risk in the general Chinese population. Our results also imply the better performance of serum ALP in women than men for predicting subclinical atherosclerosis.
3D Kinetic Analysis: A Rapid, Model Independent, Method for Enzyme Kinetics
Authors: Abbasi Armina , Rodgers John T. , Jones Jeffrey P.
Published: February 2021

In this work, we present the 3D Kinetics approach as a step forward in the field of enzyme kinetics. Normally in enzyme kinetics, it is first assumed that the kinetics will conform to the assumption of Michaelis and Menten and an experiment is conducted at various concentrations around the concentration that gives half-maximal velocity. Often, these experiments could be compromised by having too much substrate, nonlinear reaction over time, time-dependent or substrate inhibition, or several other kinetic models. Herein, we present a general strategy that will decrease the number of experiments required to develop an accurate representation of the kinetics of an enzymatic reaction. We show that with a single experimental protocol, we can fit a number of the most common kinetic models associated with enzyme-catalyzed reactions. Through this experiment, we introduce the effect of time on saturation curves by modeling the reaction velocity over time and across a set of substrate concentrations. Michaelis-Menten (MM) kinetics and other analytical solutions used to solve more complex kinetic models were introduced to the field of enzymology over a hundred years ago and have only marginally changed over the years with each analytical model requiring a different set of experiments and concentration ranges. Although this approach was necessary at the time, the computational power today makes any such simplifying and limiting efforts unnecessary and avoidable. In this study, we use a single experimental protocol and fit a number of different models to the resulting data. We present four different case studies to compare and contrast the outcomes of 3D Kinetics with MM analysis for different kinetic scenarios such as enzymatic reactions with linear kinetics, biphasic kinetics, substrate inhibition, and time-dependent inhibition (TDI) to confirm the advantage of the 3D Kinetics method to the long-established MM analysis.
Comprehensive Analysis of Angiogenesis Subtype of Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: qin fanglu , Deng Kun , Qin Junqi , Xu Zhanyu , Yuan Liqiang , Wei Jiangbo , Sun Yu , Zheng Tiaozhan , Li Shikang
Published: February 2021

Background: Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a disease with distinct management complexities as it displays a remarkably heterogeneous molecular subtype. However, the landscape of angiogenesis for SCC is not fully investigated.Method and materials: The integrated analysis for the angiogenesis-related subtype for SCC and was performed using the ConsensusClusterPlus package based on angiogenesis-related genes and TCGA data respectively. We analyzed the alternation of the genes and miRNAs as well as pathways associated with angiogenesis. Next, we evaluated the prognostic value of the SCC subtype, the mode of regulation, the correlation with genomic characteristics, immune microenvironment, and clinical features of the angiogenesis subtypes.Results: Totally, a total of 1368 SCC samples were included in this study. Two angiogenesis subtypes were then identified based on the one hundred and sixty-three angiogenesis-related genes with subtype1 of 951 SCC patients and subtype2 of 417 SCC. GSEA revealed that angiogenesis and epithelial-mesenchymal transition, inflammatory response, hypoxia was enriched in the subtype1 and suggested that the subtype 1 were angiogenesis-subtype of SCC. Eight of the 15 immune checkpoints (ADORA2A, BTLA, CD276, CYBB, HAVCR2, SIGLEC7, SIGLEC9, and VTCN1) were significantly up-regulated while C10orf54 were significantly down-regulated in the angiogenesis subtype. The survival analysis revealed that the patients in the angiogenesis subtype have a poorer survival outcome than that in the non-angiogenesis subtype (P=0.017 for disease free interval and P=0.00013 for overall survival).Conclusion: Our analysis suggests that the importance of the angiogenesis pathway in SCC and may represent an underappreciated hallmark of SCC progression.
Normalization of glucose metabolism by Exendin-4 in the chronic phase after stroke promotes functional recovery in diabetes
Authors: Augestad Ingrid , Dekens Doortje , Karampatsi Dimitra , Elabi Osama , Zabala Alexander , Pintana Hiranya , Larsson Martin , Nyström Thomas , Paul Gesine , Darsalia Vladimer , Patrone Cesare
Published: February 2021

Background

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) activation can decrease stroke risk in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Moreover, animal studies have shown the efficacy of GLP-1R agonists to counteract stroke-induced acute brain damage. Whether GLP-1R activation can also improve stroke recovery during the post-acute, chronic phase after stroke, however, remains to be determined. We investigated whether post-acute, chronic administration of the GLP-1R agonist Exendin-4 improves poststroke recovery and examined possible underlying mechanisms in T2D and non-T2D mice.
Methods

We induced stroke via transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) in T2D/obese mice (8 months of high-fat diet) and age-matched controls. Exendin-4 was administered daily for 8 weeks from day 3 after tMCAO. We assessed functional recovery by weekly upper-limb grip strength tests, while insulin sensitivity and glycemia were evaluated at 4 and 8 weeks after tMCAO. Neuronal cell death, stroke-induced neurogenesis, neuroinflammation, potential atrophy of GABAergic, parvalbumin + interneurons, poststroke vascular remodeling and fibrotic scar formation were investigated by immunohistochemistry.
Results

Exendin-4 entirely normalized the T2D-induced impairment of forepaw grip strength recovery. The recovery correlated with the normalization of glycemia and insulin sensitivity. We also show that Exendin-4 counteracted the T2D-induced atrophy of parvalbumin + interneurons and decreased microglia activation. In addition, Exendin-4 normalized density and pericyte coverage of microvessels and restored fibrotic scar formation in T2D mice. In non-T2D mice the recovery effect of Exendin-4 was minor.
Conclusion

This study demonstrates that post-acute, chronic GLP-1R activation mediates neurological recovery after stroke in T2D mice likely through the normalization of glucose metabolism and neuroplasticity mechanisms as well as improved vascular remodeling in the recovery phase. The results promote launching clinical trials investigating whether GLP-1R agonists improve the efficacy of rehabilitation after stroke in people with T2D.
Pesticide residues determination in food premises in Bench-Maji zone, Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Mekonnen Besufekad , Siraj Jafer , Negash Samuel
Published: February 2021

Pesticides are very important risk factors in human life causing chronic human health effects. Pesticides are commonly used across the globe to enhance human endeavors. In Ethiopia, pesticides are widely used by local farmers and governmental organizations for pests control purpose. However, majority of pesticides are not specifically targeting the pest. As a result, pesticide residues in food items have been a concern to the consumers and environment they live in. Therefore, this study was aimed to determine the amount of organo-chlorine and organo-phosphate pesticide residues in cereal crops in Bench-Maji Zone, Ethiopia. Experimental study design was employed to determine the amount of pesticide residues and cereal crops were bought from the local farm sites and market of purposively selected sites. The samples were extracted using a Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged and Safe extraction and clean up method. Finally, the extracted samples were injected into Gas chromatography tandem Mass Spectrometer and the types, and concentrations of pesticide residues were analyzed using linear regression equation that obtained from calibration curves. The highest concentration of Endosulfan sulfate (0.076 mgkg− 1) was detected in rice, followed by Dimethoate (0.068 mgkg− 1) and p,p’-DDE (0.087 mgkg− 1) in Sorghum and common millet, respectively in the samples obtained from Gurafarda site. The highest concentration of p,p’-DDT (0.133 mgkg− 1) was detected in common millet, followed by Aldrin (0.082mgkg− 1) and Dimethoate (0.077mgkg− 1) in Sorghum and common millet, respectively in the samples obtained from North-Bench site. In addition, Aldrin detected in rice, sorghum and common millet obtained from the three sites was a residue of above the maximum residual limits set by Codex Alimentarius regulations and European Union. The finding shows that the detection of pesticide residues in cereal crops in samples obtained from the study area. It is an indication of the widespread use of pesticides in cereal crops production. Therefore, strict supervision of pesticide application in the fields, regulation of informal veterinary drug store and implmentation of integrated vector management strategy are recommended.
High-Yield Grafting of Carboxylated Polymers to Wood Pulp Fibers
Authors: Zhang Hongfeng , Bicho Paul , Doherty Erin A.S. , Riehle Richard J. , Mirabal Jose Moran , Pelton Robert
Published: February 2021

Poly(ethylene-alt-maleic acid), PEMAc, is a linear polymer that, along with its isomer polyacrylic acid, has the highest carboxylic acid content of any polymer. The goal of this work was to elucidate the mechanisms that control the amount of PEMAc that is permanently fixed on pulp fibers after the impregnation of dry pulp with a dilute PEMAc solution followed by drying/heating (curing). Two mechanisms by which PEMAc is fixed to cellulose fibers were discovered, chemical, and physical fixation. With room temperature drying only physical fixation is operative. Evidence supports the explanation that physical fixation is a consequence of the slow swelling and dissolution of thick dried PEMAc deposits on fiber surfaces. Chemical fixation includes grafting to cellulose plus enhanced cohesion within thick PEMAc layers, possibly due to interchain crosslinking. The pH of the PEMAc impregnation solution determines the fixation mechanism for curing temperatures above 100 o C. Physical fixation dominates when pH > 8 whereas chemical fixation dominates for impregnation pH values < 7, suggesting the curing reactions require partial or complete protonation of the succinic acid moieties. The yield of impregnated polymer fixed to the fibers after washing depends upon the fixation mechanism. When chemical fixation dominates, the yields for low and high molecular weight PEMAc doses less than 0.1 meq/g (6.3 kg PEMA/tonne dry pulp) were close to or equaled 100%. By contrast, when the primary mechanism is physical fixation, yields are ~50% for high molecular weight PEMAc and 0-20% for low MW PEMAc. These results show that high PEMAc fixation yields can be achieved under curing conditions that could be implemented in pulp drying machines producing dry market pulp.
Work-Related Risk Factors For Ulnar Nerve Entrapment in The Northern Finland Birth Cohort of 1966
Authors: Miettinen Laura , Ryhänen Jorma , Shiri Rahman , Karppinen Jaro , Miettunen Jouko , Auvinen Juha , Hulkkonen Sina
Published: February 2021

Ulnar nerve entrapment (UNE) is the second most common entrapment neuropathy in the upper extremity. The aetiology of UNE is multifactorial and is still not fully understood. The aim of the study was to identify occupational risk factors for UNE and to determine whether smoking modifies the effects of work-related factors on UNE. The study population consisted of the Northern Finland Birth Cohort of 1966 (NFBC1966). In total, 6325 individuals active in working life participated in a 31-year follow-up study in 1997. Occupational risk factors were evaluated by a questionnaire at baseline in 1997. The data on hospitalizations due to UNE were obtained from the Care Register for Health Care between 1997 and 2018. The incidence rate of hospitalization due to UNE was 47.6 cases per 100 000 person-years. After adjusting for confounders, entrepreneurs (Hazard ratio (HR)=3.68, 95% CI 1.20-11.27), smokers (HR=2.51, 95% CI 1.43-4.41), workers exposed to temperature changes (HR=1.72, 95% CI 1.00-2.93), workers with physically demanding jobs (HR=3.02, 95% CI 1.39-6.58), and workers exposed to hand vibration (HR=1.94, 95% CI 1.00-3.77) were at an increased risk of hospitalization for UNE. Exposure to work requiring arm elevation increased the risk of hospitalization due to UNE among smokers (HR=2.62, 95% CI 1.13-6.07), but not among non-smokers. Work-related exposure to vibration and temperature changes, and physically demanding work increase the risk of hospitalization for UNE. Smoking may potentiate the adverse effects of work-related factors on UNE.
Evidence For The Involvement of B Cells and Antibody in The Pathogenesis of Multiple Sclerosis in Immunized Mouse With Recombinant Myelin Basic Protein Peptide
Authors: Sahlolbei Maryam , Hajizadeh Maryam , Naseri Marzie , Ghanbarian Hossein , Hashemi Seyed Mahmoud , Madjd Zahra , Kiani Jafar
Published: February 2021

Over the years, regarding great progresses in knowledge of immunology and neuroscience, the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) has been changed. The earlier strategies were focused mainly on T lymphocytes as pioneer cells responsible to inflammatory damage in the central nervous system lesions, whereas B cells, plasma cells and antibodies are also found in the active nerve lesions in MS patients. Despite the accumulating evidence, the role of Myelin basic protein (MBP) antibodies in progression of lesions in nervous system is not completely clear yet. In this regard, here, we present data on B cells and antibody level after MBP immunization of MS mice model. Recombinant fusion protein harboring Myelin basic protein peptide (amino acids 83–99) and CFP was produced in E. coli and purified with chromatography. Then, the C57BL / 6 mice were immunized by rMBP-CFP. Antibody-based assay was used to quantify the level of reactivity to the MBP in mice serum. Subsequently, humoral immunity was analyzed by immunohistochemistry (IHC), ELISA, and Flow cytometry. Our data indicated an increase in autoreactive B cells and MBP specific antibodies after immunization. IHC analysis revealed an increasing penetration rate of immune cells and the nerve lesions development in the nervous system following increasing in MBP antibody titers.This study represented data to support this idea that reactive B cells and antibodies to MBP may contribute to MS pathogenesis. Hence, targeting of these autoreactive B cells and antibodies can be used as potential tools in treatment of MS patients.
Title Plasma Repressor Element 1-Silencing Transcription Factor Levels Decrease in Patients With Alzheimer's Disease 
Authors: Wei Mingqing , Ni Jingnian , Shi Jing , Li Ting , Xu Xiaoqing , Li Chenmeng , Qin Bin , Fan Dongsheng , Xie Hengge , Wang Zhong , Wang Yongyan , Lu Tao , Tian Jinzhou
Published: February 2021

Background: Repressor element 1-silencing transcription/neuron-restrictive silencer factor (REST) was considered as a new therapeutic target for neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, the relationships between AD and REST remain unclear. This study aimed to 1) examine plasma REST levels and REST gene AD patients, and 2) further explore the pathological relationships between REST protein levels and cognition decline in clinic, including medial temporal-lobe atrophy. Methods: Subjects (n=252, mean age 68.95±8.78 years old) were recruited in Beijing, China, and then divided into normal cognition (NC) group (n=89), amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) group (n=79) and AD group (n=84) according to diagnostic criteria. All subjects received neuropsychological assessments, laboratory tests and neuroimaging scans (MRI) at baseline. Plasma REST protein levels and distribution of the single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of REST were compared across the three groups. Correlation between cognitive function, neuro-image and REST level was calculated using multi-linear-regression analysis. medial temporal-lobe atrophy (need to add this method). Results: The plasma REST levels in both NC group (430.30±303.43) and aMCI group (414.27±263.39) were significantly higher than AD group ( NC vs AD, p=0.034; aMCI vs AD, p=0.033). There was no significant difference between NC and aMCI group (p=0.948). There was no significant difference among three groups on the distribution of the genotype distribution of Rs2227902 and Rs3976529 of REST gene. The REST level was correlated to left medial temporal-lobe atrophy index (r=0.306, p=0.023). After 6-month follow up, the REST level in NC group was positively related to the change scores of mini-mental state examination scale (MMSE) (r=0.289, p=0.02). Conclusion: Plasma REST protein declines in AD patients, which also associated with memory impairment and left temporal-lobe atrophy, which may have potential value for clinical diagnosis of AD.
Retention of Bovie scratch pad radio-opaque marker during VATS pleurodesis
Authors: Akras Deena , Raymond Daniel , Akhrass Rami , Murhty Sudish
Published: February 2021

Background: Surgical intervention for spontaneous pneumothorax typically includes mechanical pleurodesis that frequently utilizes a bovie scratch pad given its universal presence, low cost and ease of use. The pad is folded on itself after dividing it in half, allowing easier passage through the smaller incisions. This case is reported to raise awareness that dividing the scratch pad may allow the embedded radio-opaque marker to fall out and become retained as a foreign body.Case presentation: The patient is a 41 year-old female who presented with shortness of breath secondary to spontaneous pneumothorax. Chest CT scan showed apical blebs. The patient underwent video assisted thorascopic surgery (VATS) with bleb resection and mechanical pleurodesis using a divided and folded bovie scratch pad. Postoperative chest x-ray showed a retained foreign body. Reoperation confirmed this to be the radio-opaque marker of the scratch pad and was removed. The patient did well and was discharge the following day.Conclusion: Dividing the bovie scratch pad may damage and “weaken” the product allowing the radio- opaque marker to fall out during its use for pleurodesis and should be discouraged. Recommendation is made of using the scratch pad as a whole and not dividing it.
Seed Layer-Assisted Chemical Bath Deposition of Cu2O Nanoparticles On ITO-Coated Glass Substrates With Tunable Morphology, Crystallinity, and Optical Properties
Authors: Alsultany Forat H. , Alhasan Sarmad Fawzi Hamza , Salim Evan T.
Published: February 2021

A seed layer-assisted chemical bath deposition (SCBD) method at low temperature has been developed to growth uniform and high crystal quality cuprous oxide (Cu2O) nanoparticles on transparent conductive/glass substrates. These films were grown on indium-doped tin oxide (ITO) as seed layer which deposited on glass substrates using magnetron sputtering-RF . The ITO seed annealing process by continuous beam (CW) of CO2 laser was used prior to growing the Cu2O nanoparticles. In this study, controlled synthesis of Cu2O films were investigated by controlling the growth temperature at 55, 60, 65, and 70 oC, respectively. The products of films were characterized in detail by using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD). Optical properties of this Cu2O nanoparticles were examined UV-Vis spectroscopy. The study suggests synthesis route for developing high quality Cu2O nanoparticles using SCBD method for optical and electronic applications.
A Case of Primary Apocrine Adenocarcinoma Presenting With Axillary Mass
Authors: Bulut Gulcan , Celikaslan Sukran Senyurek , Eren Remziye
Published: February 2021

Introduction: Primary apocrine sweat gland adenocarcinoma is a very rare tumour. Apocrin carcinoma is a high incicence of local recurrence and lymph node metastasis. When the location of the tumor is axilla, it should be differentiated from occult breast cancer. Surgery is the first step in primary apocrine cancer treatment. However, there is no clear consensus about adjuvant part of treatment.Methods: The case with axillary apocrin carcinoma was presentated diagnosis, differential diagnosis and treatment approach.Result : Axillary localized apocrine carcinoma was differentiated from occult breast cancer by pathological findings. For this reason, the patient was operated only an axillary dissection operation. Operated patient with axillary apocrine carcinoma was treated with radiotherapy. As a result of pathological evaluation of the tumor, tamoxifen was added to the treatment when the hormone receptor was positive.Conclusions: The patient with apocrine carcinoma was treated with sequential radiotherapy and tamoxifen, and disease-free follow-up to this day
The Covid-19 Pandemic Impact on the Absorption of Non-Tax State Revenue Budget: A Study in Gorontalo Province National Land Agency Region
Authors: HM Muhdar , Mohamad Roni , Muhtar Muhtar , Maguni Wahyuddin , St Rahma , Mohamad Hamdan
Published: February 2021

Non-Tax State Revenue (PNBP) as a budget source for government was eroded by Covid-19 pandemic. The decline in the PNBP value of nationally results in low budget absorption at work unit level. This study aims to describe the impact caused by the Covid-19 Pandemic on budget absorption of PNBP in within Regional Office of the Gorontalo Province National Land Agency. This research uses descriptive quantitative research. The results showed that the Covid-19 pandemic had a negative impact in terms of budget absorption where budget absorption rate in third quarter did not reach the target of 60% so that the budget absorption performance value of all work units was below 80, which means that budget absorption was in poor and very bad criteria less. Meanwhile, Covid-19 pandemic has also had a positive impact in terms of savings and efficiency in budget use, thereby reducing burden on the State Budget
The Maintenance of Microbial Community in Human Fecal Samples by a Self-made Cost-effective Preservation Buffer
Authors: Wu Chongming , Chen Tianda , Xu Wenyi , Zhang Tingting , Pei Yuwei , Yang Yanan , Zhang Fang , Guo Hao , Wang Qingshi , Wang Li , Zhao Bowen
Published: February 2021

In the burgeoning microbiome filed, powerful sequencing approaches and accompanied bioanalytical methods have made tremendous contributions to the discoveries of breakthroughs, which favor to unravel the intimate interplay between gut microbiota and human health. Maintaining sequencing samples is essential to guarantee the authenticity and reliability of microbiome studies. Hence, the development of preservation methods is extremely important to hold samples eligible for the consequent analysis, especially population cohort-based investigations or those spanning species or geography, which frequently facing difficulties in suppling freezing conditions. Although there are several commercial products available, the exploration of cost-efficient and ready-to-use preservation methods are still in a large demand. Here, we performed shotgun metagenomic sequencing and demonstrated that in a short-term storage, microbial consortia in human fecal samples were substantially maintained, independent of the storage temperature. We also verified a self-made preservation buffer could not only maintain fecal microbiota at ambient temperature up to several weeks but also enable samples to endure a high temperature condition which mimics temperature variations in summer logistics. Moreover, PB buffer exhibited suitability for human saliva as well. Collectively, PB buffer may be a valuable choice to stabilize sequencing samples if neither freezing facilities nor liquid nitrogen is available.
CircRNA-DAPK1 promotes vascular cell pyroptosis in diabetes by regulating the circ-DAPK1/miR-4454/TXNIP axis.
Authors: Chen Tianchi , Zheng Xiangtao , He Yangyan , Qiu Chenyang , Wang Xiaohui , Xiang Yilang , Zhu Qianqian , Zeng Qinglong , Shang Tao , He Yunjun , Li Donglin , Wu Ziheng , Zhang Hongkun
Published: February 2021

Background

Circular RNAs have been demonstrated to play an important role in the development of vascular diseases. However, little is known about the role of circ-021774, also named circ-DAPK1, in vascular cell pyroptosis.
Methods

Circ-DAPK1 was selected from circular RNA sequencing data of HUVECs treated with high glucose medium and normal medium. RT-qPCR was used to determine the expression of circ-DAPK1 in vivo and in vitro. Dual luciferase reporter assay, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) were performed to prove the interaction of circ-DAPK1, miRNA-4454 and thioredoxin-interactingprotein (TXNIP). Adeno-associated virus (AAV) was injected intravenously to establish mouse models. PI staining, western-blot and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses were performed to identify the role of circ-DAPK1 in promoting pyroptosis.
Results

We found that circ-DAPK1 was highly expressed in high glucose medium cultured HUVECs and db/db mice. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that circ-DAPK1 knockdown decreased the number of PI+ cells, the expression of ASC, NLRP3, GSDMD-N, cleaved caspase-1, IL-18 and IL-1β. In a mechanistic study, the circ-DAPK1/miRNA-4454/TXNIP signaling axis was demonstrated to promote vascular cell pyroptosis in diabetes.
Conclusions

Circ-DAPK1 functions as a promoter of vascular cell pyroptosis in diabetes via the circ-DAPK1/miRNA-4454/TXNIP signaling axis.
Application of Modified Laparoscopic Radical Hysterectomy in The Treatment of Early Cervical Cancer
Authors: Li Xuqing , Pei Xueting , Li Hongyan , Wang Yan , Zhou Youwei , Wei Zhaolian , Yin Zongzhi
Published: February 2021

Background: To investigate the safety and efficacy of modified laparoscopic radical hysterectomy (MLRH) in the treatment of early stage cervical cancer by comparing relevant indices of different surgical procedures in patients with early stage cervical cancer.Methods: Patients with 2014 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) clinical stages IB1 and IIA1 cervical cancer who underwent radical hysterectomy in the Gynecological Department of our hospital from October 2015 to June 2018 were enrolled. Patients were divided into two groups based on the surgical procedure: the open radical hysterectomy (ORH) group (n=336) and MLRH group (n=302). We retrospectively analyzed and compared the clinical characteristics, surgical indices, and survival prognosis between the groups.Results: Compared to the ORH group, the MLRH group exhibited a longer operative time, normal bladder function recovery time, less intraoperative blood loss volume, and more harvested pelvic lymph nodes (P<0.05). No significant differences were observed in postoperative complications, the 2.5-year overall survival (OS) rate, 2.5-year disease-free survival (DFS) rate, and recurrence rate between the groups (P>0.05), but the recurrence pattern was significantly different between the groups (P<0.05). Stratified analysis revealed that OS time was shorter in the ORH group than in the MLRH group in patients with stage IB1 and middle invasion (P<0.05). Pathological type was an independent factor for DFS and OS in early stage cervical cancer.Conclusion: MLRH incorporates a series of measures to prevent tumor spillage. It is a feasible and effective surgical procedure for the treatment of early stage cervical cancer.Trial registration: Present research is a retrospective study. The study had retrospectively registered on Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (http://www.chictr.org.cn/) and the registered number is ChiCTR1900026306.
A Novel Precast Concrete Beam–Column Connection With Replaceable Energy-Dissipation Connector: Experimental Investigation and Theoretical Analysis
Authors: Tong Chao , Wu Jing , Li Chunyu
Published: February 2021

In order to avoid the damage of the connection due to the overstrength of beam strength, and the alternation of the strength hierarchy in the structural system. The additional bending moment produced by the combined action of the pressure generated by the concrete compression zone and the tension generated by the reinforcements needs to be reduced. A novel precast concrete beam–column connection is proposed herein. In the proposed connection, the precast beam is laid on a steel corbel embedded in the precast column. A novel replaceable energy-dissipation connector (REDC) is placed at the bottom of the steel corbel, which ensures that it is in the same horizontal position aligned with the longitudinal reinforcement at the bottom of the connection. In addition, there is a narrow vertical slot adjacent to the column face. The total yield capacity of the top reinforcement is larger than that of the bottom REDC energy-dissipation connector. Theory study focused on the structural features and mechanical mechanism of this novel precast connection. Three low-cycle quasi-static loading tests were carried out on a single full-scaled specimen by replacing three REDCs with different sizes. The cracking pattern of this novel precast connection, and the effects of different parameters of the REDCs on the energy-dissipation capacity and load capacity of the connections were discussed. By performing a finite-element simulation, a method for reducing the additional bending moment and keeping the top reinforcements always in elastic was developed. In addition, the relevant design suggestions were provided. The conclusion shows that the seismic performance of this novel precast concrete beam–column connection is excellent. The positive and negative bending moments of novel precast concrete beam–column connection both reduce the additional bending moment. In view of this, the bending moment of the novel connection is a controllable variable.
Endovascular Coiling versus Microsurgical Clipping for Ruptured Intracranial Aneurysms: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review.
Authors: Peng Chao , Diao Yu-hang , Cai Shi-fei , Yang Xinyu
Published: February 2021

Objectives: The purpose of this analysis is to evaluate the current evidence with regard to efficiency and safety between coiling and clipping in patients with ruptured intracranial aneurysms (RIAs).Methods: We performed a meta-analysis that compared clipping with coiling between July 2000 and September 2019. PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library were searched for related articles systematically. Results: We identified three randomized controlled trials and thirteen-six observational studies involving 60217 patients with ruptured cerebral aneurysms. The summary results showed that coiling was related a better quality of life (mRS0-2; OR=1.462; CI=1.2375-1.676; P=0.000), a higher risk of mortality (OR=1.116; CI=1.054-1.180; P=0.000), higher rate of rebleeding (RR=1.410; CI=1.092-1.822; P=0.000), lower incidence of vasospasm (OR=0.787; CI=0.649-0.954; P=0.015), lower risk of hydrocephaly (RR=1.143; CI=1.043-1.252; P=0.004), lower risk of cerebral infarction (RR=0.669; CI=0.596-0.751; P=0.000), lower risk of neuro deficits(RR=0.720; CI=0.582-0.892; P=0.003), lower pulmonary complications(RR=0.456; CI=0.232-0.896; P=0.023), and shorter length of stay in hospital and ICU(WMD=-2.290; CI=-3.423--1.157; P=0.000, SMD=-0.346; CI=-0.459--0.234; P=0.000, respectively), a lower rate of complete occlusion(OR=0.495; CI=0.280-0.876; P=0.016). There were no significant difference with regard to the result of GOS (4-5) and the incidence of seizure, intracranial infection.Conclusion: Coiling was significantly associated with a better life quality (mRS0-2), a lower incidence of postoperative complications (vasospasm, hydrocephaly, cerebral infarction, neuro deficits, pulmonary complications), and a higher rate of mortality, rebleeding than clipping. What’s more, coiling was associated with a lower rate of complete occlusion. There was no significant difference about seizure and intracranial infection and the result of GOS (4-5) between the two groups.
Landslide Susceptibility Mapping Using GIS-based Information Value and Frequency Ratio Methods in Gindeberet area, West Shewa Zone, Oromia Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Genene Alembante , Meten Matebie
Published: February 2021

The study area is found in Gindeberet district of West Shewa zone in Oromia Regional State of Ethiopia.This area is highly susceptible to active surface processes due to the presence of rugged morphology with steep scarps, sharp ridges, cliffs, deep gorges and valleys. This study aimed to identify and evaluate the causative factors and to prepare the landslide susceptibility maps (LSMs) of the study area. Two bivariate statistical models i.e. Information value(IV) and the Frequency ratio(FR), were used. First, active, reactivated and passive landslides and scarps were identified using Google Earth image interpretation and extensive field survey for landslide inventory. A total of 580 landslide were randomly selected into two datasets in which (80%)460 landslides were used for modeling and (20%)116 landslidesfor validation. conditioning factors (slope, aspect, curvature, distance from stream, distance from lineaments, lithology, rainfall and land use) were combined with a training landslide dataset in a ArcGIS to generate LSMs which weredivided into verylow, low, moderate, high and veryhigh susceptibility zones. LSMs for IV and FR models were validated using the Area under(ROC) curve showing a success rate of 0.836 and 0.835 respectively and a predictive rate of 0.817 and 0.818 respectively wich showed a good performance of both models. The resulting LSMs can be used for land use planning and management.
In Vitro Propagation and Nuclear DNA Content of Tripleurospermum Insularum (Asteraceae) – A Critically Endangered Insular Endemic Species From Turkey
Authors: Inceer Huseyin , Cuce Mustafa , Imamoglu Kemal Vehbi , Ergin Tugba , Ucler Ali Omer
Published: February 2021

Tripleurospermum insularum Inceer & Hayirlioglu-Ayaz (Asteraceae) is a critically endangered endemic species in Turkey that is face the risk of extinction as a result of the fragmentation of its habitat as well as overgrazing and trampling of its natural population. However, the protocol for micropropagation of this threatened species has not been developed yet. Here, its regeneration ability on MS media supplemented with different plant growth regulators were evaluated using nodal segments. The higher number and length of shoot per explant was achieved with the addition 4.6 µM ZEA and 0.5 µM IAA to the culture medium. Besides, the highest node number of shoot per explant was obtained from MS medium supplemented with 4.6 µM ZEA and 0.5 µM IBA. Flow cytometric analysis also revealed that most of the in vitro developed shoots of T. insularum possessed similar nuclear DNA content as well as ploidy level as initial material and plants from natural population. In vitro rooting of shoots was achieved at 100 % efficiency containing 2.9 µM IAA. Rooted and well-developed plantlets were initially acclimatized under greenhouse conditions and then moved to the botanical garden, where they matured and flowered. Finally, 76% and 74% survivals were achieved during the acclimatization process, respectively. This is the first report of a successfully developed micropropagation protocol of threatened T. insularum for its ex situ conservation.
An Unusual Presentation of Pyelonephritis: Is it COVID-19 Related?
Authors: Hof Liseanne van 't , Pellikaan Lucy , Soonawala Darius , Roshani Hossain
Published: February 2021

IntroductionIn severe cases of COVID-19, late complications such as coagulopathy and organ injury are increasingly described. In milder cases of the disease, the exact time frame and causal path of late onset complications has not yet been determined. Although direct and indirect renal injury by SARS-CoV-2 has been confirmed, hemorrhagic renal infection or coagulative problems in the urinary tract have not yet been described.Case PresentationThis case report describes a 35-year-old female without relevant medical history who, five days after having recovered from an infection with SARS-CoV-2, had an unusual course of acute pyelonephritis of the right kidney and persistent fever under targeted antibiotic treatment. A hemorrhagic ureteral obstruction and severe swollen renal parenchyma preceded the onset of fever and was related to the developing pyelonephritis. Sudden thrombotic vascular occlusion in the right eye appeared during admission. Symmetrical paresthesia in de limbs in combination of severe lower back pain and gastro-intestinal manifestation was documented and not been explained despite of intensive investigation.ConclusionWe present the unusual combination of culture confirmed bacterial hemorrhagic pyelonephritis with a blood clot in the proximal right ureter, complicated by a retinal venous thrombosis, in a patient who had recovered from SARS-CoV-2-infection five days before presentation. The case is suspect of a COVID-19 related etiology.
Predictors of Transient Congenital Primary Hypothyroidism: Data from the German Registry for Congenital Hypothyroidism (AQUAPE "HypoDok")
Authors: Matejek Nicola , Tittel Sascha R. , Haberland Holger , Rohrer Tilman , Busemann Eva-Maria , Jorch Norbert , Schwab Karl-Otfried , Wölfle Joachim , Holl Reinhard W. , Bettendorf Markus
Published: February 2021

Neonatal screening for congenital primary hypothyroidism (CH) may not distinguish between transient (TCH) and permanent dysfunction (PCH), causing potential overtreatment and concerns in affected families. To specify the indication for interruption of therapy we analysed the German registry "HypoDok" for infants with CH, which oversees 1,625 patients from 49 participating centres in Germany and Austria from 1997 until today. 357 Patients with a thyroid gland in loco typico were identified and retrospectively grouped according to cessation (TCH n=24) or continuation (PCH n=333) of L-Thyroxine (L-T4) treatment at 2 years of age. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to identify cut-offs predicting TCH by screening TSH concentrations and L-T4 dosages. Gestational ages, birth weights and prevalence of associated malformations were comparable in both groups. The cut-off screening TSH concentration was 73 mU/L. The cut-off daily L-T4 dosage at 1 year was 3.1 µg/kg (90% sensitivity, 63% specificity; 36 µg/d) and at 2 years of age 2.95 µg/kg (91% sensitivity, 59% specificity; 40 µg/d). At 2 years of age, specificity (71%) increased when these both parameters were considered together. Conclusion: The decision to continue or cease L-T4 treatment at 2 years of age in CH patients diagnosed in neonatal screening may be based on their screening TSH concentrations and individual L-T4 dosages at 1 and 2 years of age. Thus, TCH and PCH may be distinguished; overtreatment avoided, and affected families reassured.
Single Crystalline Highly Pure Long Ag2Te Nanowires for Thermoelectric Applications and its Structural Analysis.
Authors: Pillai Krishnakumar
Published: February 2021

Ag2Te is a relatively unexplored promising material, having a variety of potential applications. This paper reports the growth of highly uniform and single crystalline Ag2Te nanowires by a simple vapor transport method without using a catalyst. The morphology, structure and phase purity of the nanowires were investigated by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The chemical composition of the individual nanowire was examined by X-ray energy-dispersive spectrometry. Our results revealed the growth of monoclinic Ag2Te along (Ī13) planes. At lower temperatures, hexagonal Te nanowires instead of Ag2Te nanowires were grown along (001) planes. This strong dependence on the growth temperature suggests a candidate growth mechanism.