bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Low-dose Priming of Gamma Radiation Enhanced Cadmium Tolerance in Chlamydomonas Reinhardtii by Modulating Physio-biochemical Pathways
Authors: Pradhan Biswajita , Patra Srimanta , Nayak Rabindra , Swain Shasank S. , Jit Bimal Prasad , Behera Chhandashree , Ragusa Andrea , Ki Jang-Seu , Jena Mrutyunjay 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Microalgae, the key components of aquatic environments, are executive natural biotic models for exploring genotoxic effect of heavy metals, irradiation and other external stimuli and the toxicant elimination. In the current scenario, removal of metal contaminants is a significant challenge. Recently, the effective removal of heavy metals from the aquatic environment using microalgae has gained immense intention. However, the concurrent toxicity has limited their use as bio-accumulants to reduce the concentration of heavy metals and promote heavy metal tolerance. Few studies opined that low dose priming with non-ionizing radiations, such as gamma radiation, increased heavy metal tolerance in plant as well as aquatic photosynthetic microalgae. In the present study, we have hypothesized the growth inhibitory physio-chemical properties by cadmium (Cd) in the green algae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, and analysed the protective role of low-dose gamma radiations priming against Cd induced growth inhibition. In addition, we have specially emphasized on the mechanism of cell survival in the experimental species with effective notation to antioxidant defence system during Cd induced toxicity. Experimentally, we primed the Chlamydomonas reinhardtii with low-dose gamma radiation prior to Cd treatment. On the other hand, gamma-radiated and Cd-treated organisms were considered as positive controls. We calculated the rate of cell death, the deployment of antioxidant enzymes such as catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), glutathione reductase (GSR), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Furthermore, the role of oxidative stress related genes was analysed computationally to delineate their involvement in cell death/survival, suggesting that the low-dose priming of gamma radiation enhances the Cd tolerance by alterating cell/death pathways and other biochemical responses.
Effect of Dexamethasone In Patients With ARDS And COVID-19 (REMED Trial) – Study Protocol For A Prospective, Multi-Centre, Open-Label, Parallel-Group, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Maláska Jan , Stašek Jan , Duška František , Balík Martin , Máca Jan , Hruda Jan , Vymazal Tomáš , Klementová Olga , Zatloukal Jan , Gabrhelík Tomáš , Novotný Pavel , Demlová Regina , Kubátová Jana , Vinklerová Jana , Svobodník Adam , Kratochvíl Milan , Klučka Jozef , Gál Roman , Singer Mervyn 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background: Since December 2019, SARS-Co-2 virus has infected millions of people worldwide. In patients with COVID-19 pneumonia in need for oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation, dexamethasone 6 mg per day is currently recommended. However, the dose of 6 mg of dexamethasone is currently being reappraised and may miss important therapeutic potential or may prevent a potential deleterious effects of a higher doses of corticosteroids. Methods: REMED is a prospective, open-label, randomised controlled trial testing superiority of dexamethasone 20 mg (dexamethasone 20 mg on day 1–5, followed by dexamethasone 10 mg on day 6–10) vs 6 mg administered once daily intravenously for 10 days in adult patients with moderate or severe ARDS due to confirmed COVID-19. 300 participants will be enrolled and followed up for 360 days after randomization. Patients will be randomised in a 1:1 ratio into one of the two treatment arms. Following stratification factors will be applied: age, Charlson Comorbidity index, CRP levels and trial centre. Primary endpoint is number of ventilator-free days (VFDs) at 28 days after randomisation. Secondary endpoints are mortality from any cause at 60 days after randomisation; Dynamics of inflammatory marker, change in WHO Clinical Progression Scale at Day 14; Adverse events related to corticosteroids and independence at 90 days after randomisation assessed by Barthel Index.The long-term outcomes of this study are to assess long-term consequences on mortality and quality of life at 180 and 360 days. The study will be conducted in the intensive care units (ICUs) of ten university hospitals in the Czech Republic. Discussion: We aim to compare two different dose of dexamethasone in patients with moderate to severe ARDS undergoing mechanical ventilation regarding efficacy and safetyTrial registration: EudraCT No.:2020-005887-70 and ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04663555 on December 11, 2020 on ClinicalTrials.gov
Pathological Investigations And Correlation Research of Microfibrillar-Associated Protein 4 And Tropoelastin In Oral Submucous Fibrosis
Authors: Liu Binjie , Gou Wenqun , Feng Hui 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background: Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF), distinguished by abnormal collagen deposition, is a precancerous disorder with 7%-30% of malignant transformation and rising global prevalence. However, the precise pathogenesis and effective treatment still remains elusive and controversial despite superfluity of literature. Therefore, it is extremely necessary and significant to explore the clinicopathological characteristics and potential markers for diagnosis and prognosis of OSF. Here, the objective of this research is to evaluate the influence and correlation of Microfibrillar-associated protein 4 [MFAP4] and tropoelastin [TE] on the development of OSF patients. Material and Methods: Classic clinicopathological factors, HE and Masson trichome staining, immunohistochemical characteristics and the correlation (MFAP4 and TE) were recorded and compared among different stages of OSF cases (n = 60) and among those normal individuals (n = 10). Then, the comparison using Student's t test, ANOVA analysis, the chi-square test for categorical variables was conducted in clinicopathological characteristics and the expression level of MFAP4 and TE between the patients' and normal tissue. The correlation analysis of MFAP4 and TE were assessed via means of Pearson's correlation test and linear regression. Results: MFAP4 and TE proteins are upregulated and even increasing gradually in varying grades of OSF patients relative to the normal cases. Furthermore, statistical analyses yielded that the expression level of MFAP4 was positively associated with TE, and the Pearson correlation coefficient was 0.3781 (p = 0.0048). Clinically, we found that OSF affected more male than female with a ratio of 29: 1. The age range was 16-60 years, and the mean age was 36.25 ± 10.25 years old. Moreover, the positive expression rate of MFAP4 and TE in patients less than 40 years old is higher than that of those over 40 years old. Meanwhile, all OSF cases had chewed areca nut, with 51.67% smoking tobacco. Conclusions: Our study elucidates that the accumulation of MFAP4 and TE proteins may play a vitally important effect in the occurrence and development of OSF and has a hope to become a promising candidate molecular for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies of OSF in the future.
Volunteering Among Pre-clinical Medical Students: Study of Its Association With Academic Performance Using Institutional Data.
Authors: Alsuwaidi Laila , Powell Leigh , Alhashmi Deena , Khamis Amar Hassan , Zary Nabil 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background: Participating in volunteering activities during students’ higher education experience is becoming more commonplace. Studies have noted that volunteering has a positive impact on the academic performance of undergraduate medical students. However, the majority of these studies rely on self-reported data like surveys, interviews, and journals. In this study, we leverage actual institutional data to examining the relationship between volunteering and academic performance among medical students in the pre-clinical phases of the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) program. The current study also explores the factors that might influence the studied relationship. Methods: A retrospective-longitudinal analysis was conducted in the College of Medicine at the Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Three years of volunteering records for three cohorts of undergraduate medical students enrolled in the MBBS program between 2016 – 2018 were reviewed and analyzed to complete this study. In addition, the correlation between the Annual Grade Point Average (AGPA) and volunteering was studied, and the regression coefficients for the two variables were observed across the three cohorts in each study year. Results: Analysis of 153 undergraduate medical students' volunteering records revealed a significant positive relationship between the AGPA and the number of volunteering in year two. The correlation was insignificant in year one, year three, and across the three cohorts. Conclusions: The association between academic performance and volunteering among undergraduate medical students appeared to be positive. However, this relationship differs across the pre-clinical study years in medical school and is likely influenced by factors that impact students’ motivation towards volunteering. Therefore, having the volunteerism program embedded in curriculum planning and testing students’ personality traits related to volunteering motivation, are aspects to be explored to enhance medical students’ learning and professional development through volunteerism.
Excavation of a Novel Transcription Factors-related Prognostic Signature for Osteosarcoma
Authors: Cheng Long , Liu Yi , Huang Xu , Zhang Jiting , Wu Bo , Liu Yanwei , Fu Zhaoyu , Zhu Dong 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
BackgroundTranscription factors (TFs) are involved in the initiation and development of many cancers, regulating cancer-related activities. However, the significance of TF-related genes in predicting the prognosis of osteosarcoma (OS) patients is not yet clear. Risk stratification using prognostic markers can facilitate clinical decision-making and effect in the treatment of cancer.Material and methodsIn the study, we aimed to establish an optimal TF signature for predicting the prognosis of OS patients. We identified 24 differentially expressed TFs in metastatic and non-metastatic OS samples from the Therapeutically Applicable Research to Generate Effective Treatments (TARGET) database. Subsequently, we performed univariate and multivariate cox regression analysis to built a TFs-related prognostic signature (TRPS) confirmed in an independent cohort (GSE39055). The ESTIMATE algorithm was used to estimate the immune/stromal cell score.ResultsWe built a TRPS for OS patients, including MESP1 and ZNF597. Kaplan-Meier (KM) survival analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve both confirmed the accuracy of the signature. Multivariate analysis proved that this TRPS was an independent prognostic predictor of OS, and it was further confirmed in the GSE39055 dataset and multiple clinical subtypes. In addition, we found a significant negative correlation between stromal score and risk score. Moreover, the relative abundance of NK cells in the low-risk prognosis group was notably higher than that in the high-risk prognosis group. Conclusion﻿In summary, we established a TFs-related prognostic signature with high diagnostic, prognostic efficacy in OS patients, which may optimize the prognostic management of osteosarcoma patients and help achieve individualized treatment.
Early Warning of Impending Flash Flood Based on AIoT
Authors: Sung Wen-Tsai , Devi Ihzany Vilia , Hsiao Sung-Jung 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
According to data from the Earth's Volcano and Geological Disaster Reduction Center, a country like Indonesia has experienced many natural disasters, one of which is flooding. Floods are an annual natural disaster, especially on mountain slopes. Mountainous areas experience more dangerous than floods than the urban areas because they can cause other natural disasters, such as landslides and damage the hiking trails. The steep and winding roads minimize and limit the number of officers working in the mountains. Therefore, flood detection and monitoring equipment is needed. The proposed system based on AIoT technology provides real-time flood analysis so that the authorities can monitor residents around mountainous areas and provide early warning. This research focuses on the flood observation system as an early warning system to effectively monitor the flood-prone mountain slopes in real time while taking into account the cost, time efficiency, and safety measurement. The proposed system design includes the integration of sensors into the microcontroller, and the communication between the posts using LoRa and SIM900 sends data to the cloud server via the Internet. All sensor readings for each post are displayed on the app, and alerts are sent via SMS and the app.
What Makes Community Health Worker Models for Tuberculosis Active Case Finding Work? A Cross-sectional Study of TB REACH Projects to Identify Success Factors for Increasing Case Notifications
Authors: Dam Thu , Forse Rachel , Tran Phuong , Vo Luan , Codlin Andrew James , Nguyen Lan , Creswell Jacob 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background: In the field of tuberculosis (TB), Community Healthcare Workers (CHWs) have been engaged for advocacy, case detection, and patient support in a wide range of settings. Estimates predict large-sale shortfalls of healthcare workers in low- and middle-income settings by 2030 and strategies are needed to optimize the health workforce to achieve universal availability and accessibility of healthcare. In 2018, the World Health Organization (WHO) published guidelines on best practices for CHW engagement, and identified remaining knowledge gaps. Stop TB Partnership’s TB REACH initiative has supported interventions using CHWs to deliver TB care in over 30 countries, and utilized the same primary indicator to measure project impact at the population-level for all TB active case finding projects, which makes the results comparable across multiple settings. This study compiled 10 years of implementation data from the initiative’s grantee network to begin to address key knowledge gaps in CHW networks.Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study analyzing the TB REACH data repository (n=123) and primary survey responses (n=50) of project implementers. We designed a survey based on WHO guidelines to understand projects’ practices on CHW recruitment, training, activities, supervision, compensation, and sustainability. We segmented projects by TB notification impact and fitted linear random-effect regression models to identify practices associated with higher changes in notifications. Results: Most projects employed CHWs for advocacy alongside case finding and holding activities. Model characteristics associated with higher project impact included incorporating e-learning in training and having the prospect of CHWs continuing their responsibilities at the close of a project. Factors that trended towards being associated with higher impact were community-based training, differentiated contracts, and non-monetary incentives.Conclusion: In line with WHO guidelines, our findings emphasize that successful implementation approaches provide CHWs with comprehensive training, continuous supervision, fair compensation, and are integrated within the existing primary healthcare system. However, we encountered a great degree of heterogeneity in CHW engagement models, resulting in few practices clearly associated with higher notifications.
WITHDRAWN: Novel Methotrexate-Loaded Zein Nanoparticles With Improved and Extended Biopharmaceutical Performance: QbD-Steered Development, and Extensive In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation
Authors: Jain Atul , Sharma Teenu , Kumar Rajendra , Saini Sumant , Kaur Jasleen , Katare OP , Bhoop Bhupinder Singh 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
The current work entails QbD-enabled preparation of methotrexate-loaded nanoparticles (NPs) using zein as the release-controlling natural polymer. Initially, quality risk estimationand factor screening studies using Taguchi design were undertaken to delineate “vital few” process and material attributes among “plausible so many”. Further, formulation optimization using central composite design and validation using correlation plots and percent predictive bias was carried out. Optimized NPs exhibited mean size of 159 nm, zeta potential of 14.85 mV and entrapment of 50.23%. In vitro dissolution kinetic modelling unearthed non-Fickian drug release extension mechanism from the proposed zein NPs. In vitro MTT and apoptosis assay using MCF-7 cells and cellular uptake studies using Caco-2 cells indicate remarkably superior anticancer potential of zein NPs over pure methotrexate, ascribable to their nanometric size and cationic nature. In vivo pharmacokinetic studies in rat construed significant enhancement by 2.15-fold in AUC48h (p<0.001), 1.30-fold in Cmax (p<0.05), 3.67-fold in Tmax (p<0.001), and 1.38-fold in T1/2 (p<0.01), along with notably reduced variability in biopharmaceutical performance. Establishment of significant point-to-point level A in vitro/in vivo correlations (IVIVC) and kinetic modeling construed the robustness and prognostic ability of drug release studies. Robustness of the nanoformulation was ratified under refrigerated storage through six months’stability studies. Overall, the studies unequivocally indicate development of a stable nanoparticulate formulation with significantly enhanced extent, extension and consistency of biopharmaceutical performance, along with improved anticancer potential of methotrexate.
Cancer coopts differentiation of B-cell precursors into macrophages
Authors: Chen Chen , Park Bongsoo , Ragonnaud Emeline , Bodogai Monica , Zong Le , Lee Jung-Min , Beerman Isabel , Biragyn Arya 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
We recently reported that some cancers induce accumulation of bone marrow (BM) B-cell precursors in the spleen to convert them into metastasis-promoting, immunosuppressive B cells. Here, using various murine tumor models and samples from humans with breast and ovarian cancers, we provide evidence that cancer cells also coopt differentiation of the extra nodal B-cell precursors to generate macrophages (termed B-MF). We link the trans-differentiation to a small subset of CSF1R+ Pax5Low cells within BM pre-B and immature B cells and cancer-secreted M-CSF that downregulates Pax5 via CSF1R signaling. Thus, cancer generates tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) from B-cell precursors in addition to their primary source, monocytes. Based on their differences from monocyte-derived TAM, such as a superior ability to induce FoxP3+ Tregs, suppress proliferation of T cells and more efficiently phagocytize apoptotic cells, we propose that cancer generates B-MF to mediate cancer escape.
Variations in Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior During and After Hospitalization in Acutely Admitted Older Medical Patients: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Jawad Baker Nawfal , Petersen Janne , Andersen Ove , Pedersen Mette Merete 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
Background: Inactivity and bedrest are frequent among older patients during hospitalization and are associated with functional decline. No longitudinal objective evidence exists on how patients' diurnal profile for physical activity changes during acute hospitalization and what happens when the patient is discharged to own home. By the use of accelerometers, this study aims to describe and compare the distribution of physical activity and sedentary behavior in acutely hospitalized older patients during hospitalization and after discharge. Methods: The study population consisted of 80 patients (+65 years) from the STAND-Cph trial, who were admitted with acute medical illness and were able to stand. Physical activity and sedentary behavior were measured as number of steps, uptime (walking/standing) and sedentary behavior (lying/sitting) per hour with an activity monitor worn on the thigh (activPAL3, PAL Technologies Ltd). The patients wore the monitor for three periods of one week: during hospitalization, after discharge, and four weeks after discharge. Results: The patients’ median age was 80 years [IQR: 75-88], 68% of the patients were female and The median DEMMI was 57 [IQR: 48-67]. The daily median uptime was 1.7 h [IQR: 1-2.8] during hospitalization, 4.0 h [IQR: 2.7-5.4] after discharge and 4.0 h [IQR: 2.8-5.8] four weeks after discharge. The median number of steps was 728 [IQR: 176-2089], 2207 [IQR: 1433-3148], and 2622 [IQR: 1714-3865], respectively. During hospitalization, a small peak was observed both for number of steps and uptime between 9-11 AM. However, the diurnal profile had no notable variation. At discharge and four weeks after discharge, the median of physical activity peaked 2-3 times and had mostly the same diurnal profile. Conclusion: Older hospitalized patients spend most of their time engaged in sedentary behavior, where their main activity peak is in the morning between 9-11 AM. The uptime doubles and the number of steps triples after discharge, where peaks of activity are seen throughout the day. This indicates that daily routines are disrupted during hospitalization and that older patients have the potential to be more physically active during hospitalization. This emphasizes the need for interventions that encourage physical activity throughout the day during hospitalization.
Investigation of the Oxidation of Plasma Sprayed Silicon Coating
Authors: Zhang Qi , Zhang XueQin , Ma Zhuang , Liu Ling , Liu Yanbo 
Published: September 2021

Abstract
The quality of plasma sprayed silicon coating determined by density and spreading condition of lamella greatly influences its performance. The oxidation of silicon coating deteriorates its performance. However, the investigators mostly focus on the oxidation and mechanism of amorphous silicon, porous silicon and specific crystal planes on single crystal. The factors which influence the quality and oxidation of silicon coating has never be studied. The helium secondary gas flow has more influence on the quality of silicon coating than other spraying parameters. So, we prepare the silicon coating by plasma spraying technology with different secondary gas flow. The relationship between silicon coating’s quality and secondary gas flow is investigated. Furthermore, the oxidation of plasma sprayed silicon coating is discussed. We find that the secondary gas has an adverse effect on quality and oxidation degree of silicon coating. With the decrease of secondary gas flow, both quality and oxygen content of coatings increase. Besides, the oxygen atoms heterogeneously concentrate at the outermost layer of silicon lamellas. Components of oxygen enrichment area (OEA) from outside to inside are Si + SiOx+SiO2→Si + Si2O + SiO2→Si + SiOx→Si (1 < x < 1.5). The width of OEA in lamellas at top layer of silicon coating is about 180nm, obviously thicker than that in inner lamellas. The results obtained from research can provide support to better understand the behavior of silicon coating in the service process.