bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Let-7i Regulates KGN Proliferation and Estradiol Biosynthesis By Directly Targeting IMP2 in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Xu Xiao , Shen Hao-Ran , Yu Min , Du Mei-Rong , Li Xue-Lian 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: Increased granulosa cell division is associated with abnormal folliculogenesis in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). As the most abundant microRNA molecule in the development of follicles, let-7i was found to be differentially expressed in PCOS patients and controls. This study aimed to investigate the role of let-7i in PCOS and explore its related mechanisms.Methods: The expression of let-7i was measured in GCs from women with PCOS and without PCOS. An immortalized human granulose cell line, KGN, was used for the functional study. Let-7i mimics, let-7i inhibitors, lentiviruses expressing IMP2 and small-interfering RNA were transfected respectively into KGN cells. KGN cell proliferation was determined by an EdU assay kit and cck-8. Cell cycle and apoptosis were determined by PI staining and flow cytometry analysis. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and western blotting were utilized to evaluate genes expression. Estradiol biosynthesis was determined by ELISA analysis. Bioinformatics analysis and luciferase reporter assay were applied to confirm the target gene of let-7i.Results: let-7i was down-regulated in PCOS GCs. Let-7i mimics (150 nM) inhibited KGN proliferation, arrested cell cycle progression, and decreased aromatase expression and estradiol production, while the let-7i inhibitors (150 nM) had the opposite effect. Bioinformatics analysis and qRT-PCR identified IMP2 was a target of let-7i. QRT-PCR and western blot analysis indicated that IMP2 was up-regulated in PCOS GCs and the expression of IMP2 was suppressed by let-7i in KGN. The further luciferase reporter assay combined with rescue assay validated that let-7i inhibited KGN proliferation and estradiol production by directly targeting IMP2 mRNA.Conclusions: Let-7i was down-regulated in PCOS GCs. Let-7i overexpression inhibited KGN proliferation and decreased estradiol production in an IMP2-dependent manner, providing insights into the pathogenesis of PCOS.
A High Sensitive Sensor Using Mim Coupled With a Rectangular Cavity Based on Fano Resonance
Authors: bahri hocine , Mouetsi Souheil , Hocini Abdesselam , Salah hocine Ben 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
In this paper, a design with high sensitivity of a plasmonic biosensor by waveguide system is proposed, based on Metal-Insulator-Metal (MIM) coupled with unique rectangular cavities, this structure numerically simulated using the Finite-Difference Time-Domain method (FDTD) in two Dimensions (2D), and analyzed for the optimal sensor performance, by detecting the resonance wavelength and varying the refractive index (RI). The results show two sharp transmission peaks with high transmittance and asymmetrical line-shaped Fano resonances achieved with high value of sensitivity is 3010nm/RIU, by taking the wavelength resolution reach as high as 3.84×10-6 RIU. Considering the standards of Chip-scale integrated planar photonic sensing, the newly designed of the proposed structure with such high sensitivity provides remarkable properties suitable for biosensors, filter, and provide a new possibility for designing compact and high-performance plasmonic biosensors devices.
Evaluation of the Dietary Composition of Eurasian Perch (Perca Fluviatilis) in an Interconnected River-lake-gulf Aquatic System as a Supplementary Tool for the Interpretation of Measured Mercury (Hg) Concentrations (One-Year Study).
Authors: Suhareva Natalija , Aigars Juris , Poikane Rita , Tunens Juris 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
BackgroundEurasian Perch (Perca fluviatilis) is one of ecologically significant fish species in the Baltic Sea and has been recognized as a suitable organism to measure concentrations of hazardous substances that characterize levels of local pollution (e.g. heavy metals or persistent organic pollutants). However, the ability of the species to inhabit a wide range of feeding grounds raises concerns about the adequacy of monitoring data in relation to the representativeness of measured levels of hazardous substances at specific locations. Accounting of the migratory characteristics of this species can shed light on the origin of the analyzed specimens and thus trace the pollution uptake chain. Perch samples and potential perch prey were collected at three remote stations in a fully interlinked system river– lake–coastal waters of the Gulf of Riga. Mercury (Hg) concentration and stable isotope ratios (13C/12C and 15N/14N) were measured in each sampled item. The perch data were divided into three subgroups associated with specific feeding grounds and one mixed group. A Bayesian mixing model was implemented to quantify the feeding preferences of each group, and based on the results, influence of each food source on Hg uptake by perch was modelled by means of Gaussian GAM model.ResultsCalculated stable isotope ratios of δ13C and δ15N demonstrated clear evidence that perch specimens migrate between the sampling stations. Substantial proportion of specimens sampled in river and lake stations had isotopic signals consistent with feeding in the gulf. The group of perch associated with feeding in river grounds exhibited the highest Hg concentrations with mean value of 209 µg kg-1 wet weight. The food item C. harengus membras and Crustacea showed significant mitigating effect on Hg concentration. The rest of the food items were not significant at the α = 0.05 level, although had different directions of the influence and slope values.ConclusionsThe study clearly showed that the high mobility of perch along associated aquatic systems has noticeable effect. Therefore, trophic position and isotopic signatures, along with identification of the food sources, can serve as important supplementary tools for more accurate data interpretation of Hg accumulation.
Insight Into Cellular Uptake and Transcytosis of Peptide Nanoparticles in a Generalist Caterpillar.
Authors: McGraw Erin , Roberts Jonathan D. , Kunte Nitish , Westerfield Matthew , Streety Xavier , Held David , Avila L.Adriana 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Development of novel and specific insect pest management methods is critical for overcoming pesticide resistance and off-target effects. Gene silencing through consumption of double stranded (dsRNA) by insects shows promise in this area. Association of dsRNA with nanoparticles confers protection against nucleases, and can also promote translocation of dsRNA across the midgut epithelial cell membranes, and overall enhance gene knockdown effects. However, many mysteries of how nanoparticles and dsRNA are internalized by cells and subsequently transported across the midgut epithelium remain to be unraveled. In this article, we investigate the role of endocytosis and transcytosis in the uptake and transport of dsRNA and nanoparticles through midgut epithelium cells. Spodoptera frugiperda (Sf9) cells and branched amphiphilic peptide nano-capsules (BAPCs) were used as an experimental model. Additionally, analyses of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS/RNS) were performed to demonstrated that cell viability was minimally impacted by the BAPCs-dsRNA complex. Results suggests that clathrin-mediated endocytosis and macropinocytois are largely responsible for cellular uptake, and once within the midgut, transcytosis is involved in shuttling BAPCs from the lumen to the hemolymph. BAPCs were not found to be toxic to Sf9 cells or generate damaging reactive species once internalized. This opens up further possibilities for BAPCs as a new insect pest management method.
WITHDRAWN: Laser Surface Texturing and Characterization of Austenitic Stainless Steel for the Improvement of Its Surface Properties
Authors: Ahmed Yassmin Seid , Paiva Jose Mario , Amorim Fred L. , Torres Ricardo D. , de Rossi Wagner , Veldhuis S.C. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
A detailed investigation of laser textured surfaces produced on austenitic stainless steel (AISI 304) was carried out. Three different textures were produced by a Ti sapphire laser. The processed surfaces were characterized by surface morphology, phase structure, micro-hardness, surface roughness, and wettability. A ball-on-disk tribometer was used to study the tribological performance of both untextured and textured samples. The experimental observations demonstrate that laser surface texturing (LST) improves both surface wettability and surface roughness. Average surface roughness (Ra) was increased by 350% and the contact angle was reduced from 43° to 22°. The textured surfaces show a lower coefficient of friction and better wear resistance than the untextured surface. Out of the investigated patterns, the square textures exhibited a maximum reduction of 68% in the friction coefficient and a 50% lower wear rate.
Selection for Papaya Resistance to Multiple Diseases in a Base Population of Recurrent Selection
Authors: MORAES RAMON de , Vivas Marcelo , Cruz Derivaldo Pureza da , Catarina Renato Santa , Almeida Rafael Nunes de , Souza Yure Pequeno de , Daher Rogério Figueiredo , Viana Alexandre Pio , Pereira Messias Gonzaga 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Papaya has a narrow genetic base concerning disease resistance, with few genetically distinct cultivars for planting in the world. Losses in crop production caused by fungal and viral diseases, added to the absence of resistant cultivars available to producers, have reduced the competitiveness of crops. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the direct and combined genetic gains in the base population of the recurrent papaya selection and to indicate promising individuals for resistance to phoma spot and black spot. The population used in this study originated from the crossing of dioecious, female individuals and holders of a gene pool for resistance to phoma spot and black spot. These were crossed with elite individuals with a gene pool for production traits and fruit quality. The experiment was carried out without an experimental design, containing one plant per plot. Three measurements were taken on 255 individuals for five traits of disease resistance, being: four associated with black spot (incidence and severity on the leaf and fruit) and one associated with phoma spot (severity on the leaf). With the observations obtained, the REML/BLUP procedure was performed to estimate the temporary and permanent environmental effects. Such values were used to know the genetic parameters of the population and to elaborate a combined selection index, as well as to compare the gains with the direct selection. The results indicate low repeatability for the traits and that the gains obtained from the use of the combined selection index better rank the genotypes in comparison to the gains obtained by direct selection.
WITHDRAWN: Self-assembling of Chimeric Mussel-inspired Bio-adhesives Originated from Mytilus Californianus and Anabaena Flos-aquae: A New Approach to Develop Underwater Adhesion
Authors: Iranpour Hamidreza , Shahsavarani Hossein , Hosseini Seyed Nezamedin , Far Hani Hosseini , Zhand Sareh , Ghanbarlou Mahdi Mohammadi , Bouzari Saeid , Shokrgozar Mohammad Ali 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Bio-adhesives play a pivotal role in a wide range of medical applications. However, there are some problems about their application in varied pH values and low adhesion force under wet conditions. Here, we report new recombinant fusion protein achieved by mussel foot proteins (Mfps) of Mytilus Californianus and gas vesicle protein A (GvpA) of Anabaena flos-aquae by genetic engineering methods. These chimeric proteins self-assembled into ß-sheet rich fibres because of GvpA amyloid structure. Also, their adhesion forces were significantly increased especially in alkaline environment based on Mfp-3 and Mfp-5. This study illustrates that copolymer of Mfp-5-GvpA:GvpA-Mfp-3 can be used as an underwater sturdy adhesive with tolerance to auto-oxidation, especially at basic conditions.
Mechanism of the Improvement of the Energy of Host–Guest Explosives by Incorporation of Small Guest Molecules: HNO3 and H2 O2 Promoted C–N Bond Cleavage of the Ring of ICM-102
Authors: Xiao Yiwen , Chen Lang , Yang Kun , Geng Deshen , Lu Jianying , Wu Junying 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Host–guest materials exhibit great potential applications as an insensitive high-energy-density explosive and low characteristic signal solid propellant. To investigate the mechanism of the improvement of the energy of host–guest explosives by guest molecules, ReaxFF-lg reactive molecular dynamics simulations were performed to calculate the thermal decomposition reactions of the host–guest explosives systems ICM-102/HNO3, ICM-102/H2O2, and pure ICM-102 under different constant high temperatures and different heating rates. Incorporation of guest molecules significantly increased the energy level of the host–guest system. However, the initial reaction path of the ICM-102 molecule was not changed by the guest molecules. The guest molecules did not initially participate in the host molecule reaction. After a period of time, the H2O2 and HNO3 guest molecules promoted cleavage of the C–N bond of the ICM-102 ring. Stronger oxidation and higher oxygen content resulted in the guest molecules more obviously accelerating destruction of the ICM-102 ring structure. The guest molecules accelerated the initial endothermic reaction of ICM-102, but they played a more important role in the intermediate exothermic reaction stage: incorporation of guest molecules (HNO3 and H2O2) greatly improved the heat release and exothermic reaction rate. Although the energies of the host–guest systems were clearly improved by incorporation of guest molecules, the guest molecules had little effect on the thermal stabilities of the systems.
High and low latitude controls on Mid-Brunhes coccolithophore bloom and its implications on ocean carbon cycle
Authors: Zhang Hongrui , Liu Chuanlian , Hernández‐Almeida Iván , Mejia Luz Maria , Stoll Heather 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Periodic ~400 kyr orbital scale variations in the ocean carbon cycle, manifest in indicators of deep sea dissolution and benthic 13C, have been observed throughout the Cenozoic but the driving mechanisms remain under debate. Changes in coccolithophore productivity may change the global rain ratio (Corganic: Cinorganic fluxes from ocean into sediment) and the balance of ocean carbonate system and thereby, potentially contributing to the ~400 kyr oscillation of the marine carbon cycle. Some evidence suggests that Pleistocene coccolithophore productivity was characterized by “bloom” events of high productivity coincident with the orbital benthic 13C signal. However, there is no consensus on the mechanism responsible for bloom events nor whether they were regional or global phenomena. In this study, we investigate the timing and spatial pattern of the most recent purported coccolithophore bloom event, which occurred during the Mid-Brunhes period. We find that maximum coccolithophore productivity is diachronous, peaking in the Southern Ocean sub-Antarctic zone with eccentricity minimum (~430 ka), peaking in upwelling zones some ~28 kyr later, and finally peaking in the western tropical Pacific occurred some ~80 kyr later. Simple globally homogeneous mechanisms of driving productivity such as temperature or light duration are not consistent with this pattern. Rather, we propose a dual high and low latitude control on blooms. Coincident with eccentricity minimum, increased high-latitude diatom silica consumption lowers the Si/P, leading to coccolithophorid blooms in the Southern Ocean north of the polar front. Coincident with increasing eccentricity, stronger tropical monsoons deliver higher fluvial nutrients to surface waters, increasing total (diatom and coccolithophore) productivity. Most of the tropical and subtropical locations are influenced by both processes with varying degrees, through the effect of silicic acid leakage on tropical thermocline waters and monsoon-related nutrient supply. Moreover, we propose that the high latitude processes have intensified over the Pleistocene, extending the 405 kyr carbon cycle to about 500 kyr.
Synthesis of Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) Ink by an Easy Hydrothermal Method
Authors: Karbassi Mahnaz , Baghshahi Saeid , Riahi-Noori Nastaran , Moakhar Roozbeh Siavash 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The quadrilateral p-type semiconductor Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) with a direct bandgap of 1.4 to 1.5 eV and a high absorption coefficient in the visible light range, is considered an excellent absorbent layer in the production of solar cells. The application of Cu2ZnSnS4 film absorbent materials is promising in the field of low-cost solar cell production. In this paper, a simple, efficient, controllable, and inexpensive solvothermal method is used to make the CZTS nanoparticles from zinc acetate, copper acetate, tin chloride, thiourea, and hexadecyl amine solvent. The ink was prepared from the CZTS powder and applied by the doctor Blade technique on soda-lime glass. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy analysis showed that the CZTS synthesis nanoparticles had a pure Kesterite structure. The thermo-gravimetric analysis showed about 12% of the loss weight of CZTS nanoparticles using field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, and zeta potential indicated that the synthesized nanoparticles had a strong absorption in the range of 125–477 nm with an average particle size of 300 nm and plate shape. The energy bandgap of CZTS nanoparticles was measured to be 1.49 eV using UV-Vis spectroscopy.
Limited time Interval between Symptomatic Presentation in Primary Care and Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis
Authors: Kuiper Josephina G. , Herk-Sukel Myrthe P.P. , Lemmens Valery E.P.P. , Kuipers Ernst J. , Herings Ron M.C. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Background: Timely recognition of colorectal cancer related symptoms is essential to reduce time to diagnosis. This study aims to investigate the primary healthcare use preceding a colorectal cancer diagnosis.Methods: A population-based case-control study was conducted using data from a cohort of linked data from the Netherlands Cancer Registry (NCR) and the PHARMO General Practitioner (GP) Database (NCR-PHARMO GP cohort). Primary healthcare use among colorectal cancer cases before diagnosis was compared with matched cancer-free controls. Information on primary health care use was derived from the GP Database of the PHARMO Database Network and included all GP consultations and prescribed medication. Mean monthly number of GP consultations and new drugs users was assessed in the year before index date (diagnosis date for cases). Results were stratified by colorectal cancer site: proximal colon cancer, distal colon cancer and rectal cancer.Results: While mean monthly number of GP consultation were stable through the year among cancer-free controls, a statistical significant increase was seen among colorectal cancer cases in the last 4-8 months before diagnosis. Proximal colon cancer cases showed the longest time interval of increased mean monthly number of GP consultations. This increase was largely driven by a consultation for malignant neoplasm colon/rectum. The number of new drug users was stable around 120 per 1,000 persons per month until 8 months before index date for proximal colon cancer cases, 4 months before index date for distal colon cancer cases and 3 months for rectal cancer cases. This increase was mainly driven by the prescription of laxatives drugs.Conclusion: A relatively short time interval of increased GP consultations and new drug users was seen before colorectal cancer diagnosis. The longest period of increased GP consultations and new drugs users was seen among patients diagnosed with proximal colon cancer. This can be explained by the difficultly to diagnose proximal colon cancer given the more subtle signs compared to distal colon cancer and rectal cancer. Therefore, faster diagnosis for this specific tumour subtype is only possible when clear clinical signs and symptoms are present.
Endothelial Cell Loss Rate Following Penetrating Keratoplasty: Optical versus Therapeutic Grafts
Authors: Shams Abdelrhman , Gaafar Ayman , Elkitkat Rania , Yousif Mohamed 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Purpose: To compare the rate of endothelial cell loss (ECL) following penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) for optical and therapeutic indications and to state whether therapeutic PKP is inferior to optical PKP or not.Methods: This is a Prospective, observational, comparative study that included patients who sought medical advice at the Cornea Outpatient Clinic of Ain Shams University Hospitals. The study enrolled two groups; group 1 included 30 corneas of 30 patients who performed optical PKP for various purposes, while group 2 comprised 30 corneas of 30 patients who were planned for performing therapeutic PKP for unhealed, resistant corneal infections. Specular microscopy was done to all the patients at the 3-, 6- and 12-months visits using Nidek CEM-530 (NIDEK Co., Ltd. Japan) specular microscope. Results: There were no statistically significant differences between both groups as regards to the timing of the graft clarity following surgery or the rate of ECL at the 3- and 6- months intervals, yet the rate of ECL was significantly higher in group 2 compared to group 1 at the 12 months interval (P-value <0.05), though the statistical difference was narrow from a clinical point of view. There was also no statistically significant difference between both groups regarding the rate of graft rejection.Conclusion: Therapeutic PKP can be considered non-inferior to optical PKP regarding the graft viability, the rate of ECL, and the rate of graft rejection along a follow up interval of one year.
Schools Proximity to Plantations de Haut Penja, Learners’ Attitudes and Incidence of Pesticide Contamination in Cameroon
Authors: NKEMLEKE EFUETLANCHA Ernest , Martin Kuété 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Learners at school can be subjected to pesticide exposures both from use in the schools and from nearby operations. Plantations de Haut Penja (PHP) is an agro-industrial plantation that uses pesticides to spray its bananas (Musa spp) using helicopters. This aerial spray couple with air drift of noxious particles exposes learners in nearby schools to acute and chronic effects. This paper sought to compare learners’ attitudes with regards to pesticide, in schools located closer to, and further away from the PHP as well as the incidence of contamination among the latter. Data was collected from 600 learners across 10 secondary schools in two subdivisions. Analysis was done with Microsoft Excel 2016 and Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) 16.0 software. Findings depicted that schools are located 5m away from the PHP where pesticides are used on a daily basis. Hence, this exposes learners to the harmful effects of these chemicals. Wind was perceived as the main driver of pesticides drift into schools as it blows from the south west direction at a maximum speed of 30ms-1 which facilitates the drifting of airborne particles of pesticides. As a result, learners closer to the PHP are more vulnerable than their counterparts further away. Kruskal–Wallis test depicted that learners are also involved in pesticides related activities due to a plethora of reasons which further broadens the incidence of contamination among the latter. The study concludes that an environmental impact assessment be carried out in order to install wind barriers in the PHP to prevent spray drifts from entering into schools and that, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MINADER) with its decentralized units, should ensure strict implementation of the legal framework on pesticide use and the development, application and evaluation of government policy in the domain of agriculture and environmental surveillance for the proper management of pesticides in Cameroon.