bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fertility-Sparing Treatment and Assisted Reproductive Technology In Patients With Endometrial Carcinoma And Endometrial Hyperplasia: Pregnancy Outcomes After Embryo Transfer
Authors: Friedlander Hilary , Blakemore Jennifer , McCulloh David , Fino M.
Published: September 2021

Purpose: To evaluate pregnancy outcomes following embryo transfer in patients with endometrial carcinoma (EMCA) or endometrial hyperplasia (EH) who elected for fertility-sparing treatment (FST). Methods: This retrospective cohort study at a large urban university-affiliated fertility center included all patients who underwent embryo transfer after fertility-sparing treatment for EMCA or EH between January 2003 and December 2018. Primary outcomes included embryo transfer results and a live birth rate (defined as number of live births per number of transfers).Results: There were 14 patients, 3 with EMCA and 11 with EH, who met criteria for inclusion with a combined total of 40 embryo transfers. An analysis of observed outcomes by sub-group, compared to the expected outcomes at our center (patients without EMCA/EH matched for age, embryo transfer type and number, and utilization of PGT-A) showed that patients with EMCA/EH after FST had a significantly lower live birth rate than expected (Z = -5.04, df =39, p < 0.01). A sub-group analysis of the 14 euploid embryo transfers resulted in a live birth rate of 21.4% compared to an expected rate of 62.8% (Z = -3.32, df = 13, p < 0.001).Conclusions: Among patients with EMCA/EH who required assisted reproductive technology, live birth rates were lower than expected following embryo transfer when compared to patients without EMCA/EH at our center. Further evaluation of the impact of the diagnosis, treatment and repeated cavity instrumentation for FST is necessary to create an individualized and optimized approach for this unique patient population
A Systematic Review on the Toxicological Implications of Microplastic to Human Health
Authors: Rokomatu Malelili Naulivou , Bhagwat Geetika , Senathirajah Kala , Palanisami Thava
Published: September 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
HER2 and p53 Expression in Marjolin’s Ulcer
Authors: chen xia , Gang Chu Zhi , May Jin Dong , Yan Xiao , Wen Ma
Published: September 2021

Background：Marjolin's ulcer is a malignant tumor that is different from other skin ulcers, and its pathogenesis is not yet clear. The diagnosis and prognosis of Marjolin's ulcer lack valuable marks on immunohistochemistry (IHC).Methods: In this study, we detected the expression of HER2 and p53 in Majorlin’s ulcer with immunohistochemistry, and retrospectively analyze the clinicopathological characteristics of Marjolin's ulcer samples.Results: Our results showed that no HER2 but p53 was detected in Majorlin’s Ulcer samples. Meanwhile, by statistic analysis we found that the positive expression rate of p53 in Majorlin’s Ulcer samples was associated with sex, course of disease, ulcer size, pathological type of ulcer canceration, and degree of tumor differentiation. Furthermore, we showed that the positive rate of p53 was proportional to the malignancy degree of Marjolin’s ulcer. Conclusions:Our results of this study will lay a foundation for diagnosis of Marjolin's ulcer and even prevention of Marjolin's ulcer progression
Analysis of the Influence of Sources on the Spatial Variation in Atmospheric Methane Concentrations in the City of Tandil, Argentina
Authors: Fusé Victoria Susana , Stadler Carla Sofia , Picone Natasha , Linares Santiago , Guzman Sergio Alejandro , Juliarena Maria Paula
Published: September 2021

There is an overall trend in urban methane (CH4) emissions due to the presence of several sources; however, differences exist between cities, and therefore further local research should be undertaken. The present study analyzes the spatiotemporal variation in atmospheric CH4 concentrations during a year at ten sampling sites in the urban core of a medium-sized city. The mean annual atmospheric CH4 concentrations varied between 2.02 ppm and 5.45 ppm; the maximum concentrations were found in a site close to a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP), presenting a significant increase toward the summer. In the rest of the sites, the maximum concentrations were recorded in the coldest months due to the influence of combustion sources dependent on natural gas (NG). An exploratory regression analysis was performed, in which the variables “homes connected to the gas network” and “distance from compressed NG stations” each explained 66 and 65% of the spatial variation of the atmospheric CH4 concentrations at the 9 sites (excluding that one nearest the WWTP). The results show the need to prevent NG leaks in all urban areas to reduce the emissions of this potent greenhouse gas, which, at the same time, will provide economic benefits for the sectors involved.
The Clinical Manifestation of Straight Back Syndrome in Echocardiogram Performance
Authors: Yu Wanqian , Zhang Hongzhou , Yang Pingping , Gan Lujin , Wang Chenxi , Zhu Dan , Yao Xiongda , Zhao Yuanbin , Wu Tao , Liu Yanna , Wu Qinghua
Published: September 2021

Background: There were no studies on the mechanism of clinical manifestations of straight back syndrome. Our aim was to explore the mechanism of clinical symptoms of straight back syndrome.Methods: From February 2018 to February 2021, we included 4 patients (3 males and 1 female) with straight back syndrome as the experimental group, and 4 normal people matched with sex and BMI as the normal control group. Basic information of patients, laboratory examination, echocardiography in supine and standing position, chest film in positive and lateral position, basic information of control group and echocardiography in supine and standing position were collected. The differences of clinical data between the two groups were compared and analyzed. Results: There were significant differences in left ventricular outflow tract diameter, right ventricular outflow tract diameter and right ventricular outflow tract velocity in the experimental group (their P values were 0.035, 0.011 and 0.015, respectively), but there was no significant difference in left ventricular outflow tract velocity in the standing and supine position (P=0.638). The left ventricular outflow tract diameter, the right ventricular outflow tract diameter and the right ventricular outflow tract velocity in the experimental group were significantly different (P<0.05). The internal diameters of left ventricular outflow tract in upright position, supine position, right ventricular outflow tract, supine position, right ventricular outflow tract were20.50±1.91mm, 18.75±0.96mm;10.00±6.68mm, 15.45±6.06mm;124.25±40.29cm/s and 91.00±28.93cm/s, respectively, in standing position, recumbent position, right ventricular outflow tract, right ventricular outflow tract, supine position, right ventricular outflow tract, supine position, supine position. The velocity of left ventricular outflow tract in upright position was 82.50±2.01 cm/s, and that in supine position was 83.25±2.06 cm/s. There was no significant difference in left ventricular outflow tract velocity in standing and supine position, which may be related to the compression of right ventricular outflow tract.Conclusions: In this study, we got the clinical manifestations of direct-back syndrome patients through comparison of straight back syndrome.
Insights Into The Effect of Shelter Modification On Key Biochemical Aspects vis-a-vis the Performance of Sahiwal Zebu Cows Reared in Hot Arid Ambience
Authors: Arora R. , Maan R. , Gujar G.
Published: September 2021

This study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of shelter modifications in the form of floor alteration and heat stress amelioration aids on the biochemical aspects and productive performance of Sahiwal zebu cows. 24 healthy Sahiwal cows in their second or third parity were randomly assigned to four groups (G1, G2, G3, and G4) having 6 cows each and were studied for duration of 150 days from June to November. G1 acted as control without any shelter modification, while G2 cows were housed in stalls with rubber mat covered floors, G3 cows were provided with cooling fans along with water sprinkling twice a day, and G4 cows were housed in stalls combining rubber mat floors with cooling fans and water sprinkling twice a day. This study revealed a significant (p<0.05) effect of shelter modification on milk yield, though no significant effect on milk composition was found. Among blood biochemical parameters, serum cholesterol and cortisol levels registered a significant (p<0.05) effect of shelter modification. The use of heat amelioration aids with, and without rubber mat floors positively influenced the productive and biochemical aspects of Sahiwal cows. Such strategies can be utilized to reduce stress on animals and help in maintaining their production.
Metabolic Engineering of Escherichia Coli BL21 Strain Using Simplified CRISPR-Cas9 and Asymmetric Homolog Arms Recombineering
Authors: Shukal Sudha , Lim Xiao Hui , Zhang Congqiang , Chen Xixian
Published: September 2021

BackgroundThe recent CRISPR-Cas coupled with λ recombinase mediated genome recombineering has become a common laboratory practice to modify bacterial genomes. It requires supplying a template DNA or homolog arms for precise genome editing. However, it is often overlooked the process to generate the homolog arms which is a time-consuming, costly and inefficient step.ResultsIn this study, we first optimized CRISPR-Cas protocol in BL21 strain and successfully deleted 10 kb gene from the genome in one round of editing. To further simplify the protocol, asymmetric homolog arms as PCR fragments was used. It can be obtained by one-step PCR reaction with two primers and purified with desalting columns. Unlike conventional homolog arms that are prepared through overlapping PCR, cloning to plasmid or annealing synthetic DNA fragments, our method significantly shortened the time taken and reduced the cost to prepare the homolog arms. To test the robustness of the optimized workflow, we successfully deleted 26 / 27 genes across BL21 genome. Noteworthy, gRNA design is important for CRISPR-Cas system and a general heuristic gRNA design was proposed in the study. To apply our established protocol, we targeted 16 genes and iteratively deleted 7 genes from BL21 genome. The resulting strain increased lycopene production from ~15,000 ppm to > 40,000 ppm.ConclusionsOur work has optimized the homolog arms design for gene deletion in BL21 strains. The protocol efficiently edited BL21 strain to improve lycopene production. The same workflow is applicable to all E. coli strain which would be useful for genome rewiring to further increase metabolite production in microbial cell factories.
A Novel Nomogram Combined With Radiomics Features, Age and Albuminuria to Predict the Pathological Grade of Bladder Cancer Running Title: Application Study on the Prediction Model of Bladder Cancer Pathological Grade Based on Parameters of Thin-layer Enhanced CT. Author Information
Authors: Zhou Qi , Ma Lu , Zhang Haoyang , Ang Xiaojie , Hu Can , Mao Caiping , Zhang Zhiyu , Ouyang Jun
Published: September 2021

Background: Based on multi-parameter thin-slice enhanced CT texture features and related clinical indicators, a preoperative pathological grade prediction model of bladder urothelial carcinoma was established.Methods: The CT images and clinical data of 372 patients with urothelial carcinoma in our hospital from January 2015 to October 2020 were collected. 372 patients were divided into two groups: HGUC(n=190) and LGUC(n=182). All patients were divided into 10 groups on average, of which 7 were used as training group (n=259) and the remaining 3 as verification group (n=113). Then, by using 3D-Slicer software from all enhanced in patients with preoperative CT images (Arterial and Venous phase calibration chart) split out the region of interest (ROI), respectively from the tumor image data extraction based on First-order and Second-order, High-order and filtering characteristics of 1223 texture features, and use the inter/intra-class correlation coefficient(ICC > 0.75) between classes and least absolute shrinkage selection operator (LASSO) regression feature selection; Secondly, the clinical effective factors were obtained by logistic regression analysis, and the clinical predictive model was constructed. Finally, the selected clinical key indicators and radiomics features were mapped. In order to verify the predictive ability of the nomogram, conformance index (C-index), calibration curve, Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve and clinical decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to test the nomogram.Results: Lasso regression analysis showed that 11 radiomics features were significantly correlated with the pathological grade of bladder cancer. After comparing the four models, it is found that Logistic regression model has the best prediction ability (AUC=0.858). The results of multivariate analysis showed that age and albuminuria were independent influencing factors. A comprehensive model for predicting the pathological grade of bladder cancer (radiomics + clinical) was constructed by combining clinical independent risk factors with 11 radiomics features. Compared with clinical feature model and radiomics model, it was found that the predictive performance of imaging comprehensive model combined with clinical factors was the best (AUC=0.864).Conclusions: The radiomics model based on multi-parameter thin-layer enhanced CT, combined with clinical factors, can effectively predict high-and low-grade urothelial carcinoma.
Comparison of Efficacy Between Triamcinolone Acetonide and Triamcinolone Hexacetonide for Intraarticular Therapy in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: De Ranieri Deirdre , Chun Angela , Muhammad Lutfiyya
Published: September 2021

Background

There are many FDA-approved corticosteroid preparations available for intra-articular injection, however triamcinolone hexacetonide is not one of them. It was the intraarticular drug of choice among pediatric rheumatologists up until approximately a decade ago, when production of this medication ceased. It can be obtained in the United States and Canada via importation from Europe, but it is not FDA-approved at this time. We wish to compare the duration of remission of intraarticular triamcinolone hexacetonide (TH) with that of triamcinolone acetonide (TA) in children with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) and demonstrate its safety in this population.
Methods

This retrospective chart review included 39 patients with JIA who received intraarticular corticosteroid injections (IACIs) from September 2018 to September 2019. These patients were reviewed and their life-time injections with either TH (41 joints) or TA (124 joints) was noted through May 30, 2021. Patients with concomitant systemic therapy initiation were excluded. The primary outcome was time to relapse. Relapse was defined by the presence of arthritis on physical examination by an attending rheumatologist. Kaplan-Meier curves and a log-rank test were constructed to compare the probability of time to relapse between IACI injections. Additionally, mixed effects cox regression models were constructed to account for multiple injections per participant.
Results

Kaplan-Meier estimator of median relapse time in months was higher for TH. Based on the log-rank test, TA joints had a higher probability of experiencing a relapse during the study time (p-value < 0.001). The hazard of time to relapse was reduced when comparing TH to TA in both unadjusted and adjusted mixed effects cox regression models (unadjusted hazard ratio (95% confidence interval): 0.184 (0.089, 0.381); adjusted hazard ratio (95% confidence interval): 0.189 (0.092, 0.386)).
Conclusions

TH has longer duration of action than TA and is associated with less systemic side effects. It should be considered the drug of choice for intraarticular corticosteroid injections in children with JIA.
Construction of Co-Expression Modules Related to Survival by WGCNA and Identification of Potential Prognostic Biomarkers in Liver Cancer
Authors: Wang Tian , Zhang Lin-li , Feng Qing-hui , Wang Meng-ling , Fan Yu-Chun , Wang Zhuan , Deng You-lin , Jiang Li-He
Published: September 2021

Background Many recent studies have reported the role of WGCNA in liver cancer, and screened out modules related to the clinical characteristics of liver cancer. The prognostic role of modular genes provides a reference for the treatment of liver cancer and the study of survival time extension. MethodsUse edgeR to screen differentially expressed genes, and use weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) method to divide differential genes into modules; combined with clinical data, select gene modules that are highly related to clinical information to construct a prognostic model. Use univariate Cox and multivariate Cox regression analysis to predict the value of prognosis. The Kaplan-Meier method and ROC curves were used to evaluate the value of features of predicting prognosis.ResultsIn the co-expression analysis of liver cancer, the two gene modules darkrey and navajowhite2 was highly correlated with the TNM stag of liver cancer. In addition, they were related to the reduction process and the activation of specific DNA-binding transcription factors. Constructing a risk ratio model with these two modules shows that the overall survival time of patients in the high-risk group is lower than that of the low-risk group. In the module, ABLIM2, RP11-109J4.1, TXNRD1, C9orf106, LINC00677, CYP11B2, AC005550.3 and MIR3945HG belong to the Hub gene, and can also be used as independent prognostic factors, which may become potential biomarkers for the diagnosis and treatment of liver cancer. Conclusion This studies identified and screened the prognostic genes RP11-109J4.1, TXNRD1, C9orf106, LINC00677, CYP11B2, AC005550.3 and MIR3945HG related to the progression of liver cancer, which can provide a reference form the diagnosis and treatment of liver cancer.
SMILE After DALK to Reduce Residual Refraction: Two-Year Results
Authors: Hashemi Hassan , Aghamirsalim Mohammadreza , Shahhoseini Saied , Moghaddasi Alireza , Asgari Soheila
Published: September 2021

PurposeTo determine the two-year results of small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) for correcting post-keratoplasty myopia and myopic astigmatism.MethodsIn this case-series study, 10 eyes of 10 patients with a 6-10-year history of successful deep lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) underwent SMILE using VisuMax laser platform. Ophthalmologic examinations and visual acuity and refraction measurement were done pre- and 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively. Pentacam and Sirius imaging was done in the first and last follow-up session.ResultsThe mean age of the patients was 39.60±7.86 years. Six subjects were male. After two years, uncorrected distance visual acuity did not change in one eye and improved 1-6 lines in other eyes. Corrected distance visual acuity decreased in one eye, did not change in four eyes, and improved 1-8 lines in other eyes. The mean decrease of spherical equivalent, spherical error, and cylinder power was 1.92±1.96 diopter (D) (P=0.013), 0.70±3.05D (P=0.213), and 2.42±2.91D (P=0.024), respectively. The vector mean target induced astigmatism, surgical induced astigmatism, and difference vector was 1.30D@44˚, 1.11D@24˚, and 0.86D@73˚, respectively. Two years after surgery, vertical coma, horizontal coma, and spherical aberration increased by 0.44±0.51, 0.23±0.32, and 0.02±0.16µm respectively (all P>0.05) while trefoil reduced by 0.29±0.75µm (P=0.428).ConclusionSMILE is a successful procedure for reducing refraction and astigmatism after DALK in patients with moderate myopia and moderate to severe astigmatism and improves the visual acuity in these patients. Axis rotation during surgery may result in under-correction of astigmatism. Refinement of SMILE treatment nomogram for post-DALK cases seems necessary.
The Mechanism Revealing and Law Explorating for the Nonlinear Response of Blade Disk Rotor System Under the Coupling Effects of Crack and Aerodynamic Force
Authors: Yang Jinsong , Xie Jingsong , Wang Tiantian , Yang Fei , Chen Jinglong
Published: September 2021

Blade disk rotor system is a typical structure of industrial equipments such as aeroengines and gas turbines. The research on the response characteristics and mechanism of the system under the coupling effects of aerodynamic force and blade crack is of great significance to the interpretation of vibration phenomena and diagnosis of faults. From the numerical solution based response characteristic analysis to the kinematics and dynamics based essential response mechanism revealing, from the model based special case study to the Number Theory based general law establishing, in this paper, the response mechanism of blade disk rotor system under the coupling effects of crack and aerodynamic force is studied comprehensively and deeply. Firstly, a simplified dynamic model of typical blade disk rotor system is constructed by using the classical continuous parameter modeling method. Based on the dynamic model, for two structural forms of moving and stationary blades, the typical characteristics of vibration response under the actions of aerodynamic force and blade crack are analyzed by means of numerical solution. Then, from the perspective of kinematics and dynamics, the internal mechanism between the vibration responses and the excitations are revealed. Finally, based on Number Theory, the response characteristics and mechanism of typical structures are summarized, and the general laws of responses with general structural forms are established.
Spinal Instrumentation Failure from the Perspective of Load Sharing
Authors: Kato Takaya , Ishikawa Santo , Inaba Tadashi , Kasai Yuichi , Paholpak Permsak , Wisanuyotin Taweechok , Sirichativapee Winai , Kosuwon Weerachai , Nabudda Kreingkrai , Mizuno Tetsutaro
Published: September 2021

Background In recent years, pedicle screw (PS) fixation has often been used to stabilize the spine and correct deformities, yielding good clinical results. On the other hand, PS fixation is known to show problems such as instrumentation failure. However, few biomechanical studies have described causes of instrumentation failure. In this study, causes of instrumentation failure in lumbar PS fixation were investigated from the perspective of load sharing by measuring both strains generated in the rod and intradiscal pressure.Methods Four human cadaveric multi-segmental lumbar vertebrae (L2-L5) were used to prepare a control model and a PS fixation model. Next, axial compression tests were performed on each model using a universal material testing machine, and the strains generated in the rods and the intradiscal pressures were measured from strain gauges attached to the rods and a pressure sensor installed between L3-L4.Results Combined compressive and bending stresses were found to be generated in the rod, with bending stress around 10 times higher than compressive stress, and with vast differences in the levels of stress generated between right and left rods. Moreover, the stress shielding by PS fixation was small, and intervertebral discs were still subjected to a large load. Conclusion Preventing instrumentation failure in lumbar spine PS fixation, it seems necessary to strengthen the durability of the rod against bending stress and to ensure the stability of the anterior stabilizing element of the spine.
Can Serum Thymidine Kinase 1 Detect Small Invisible Malignant Tumours?
Authors: Zhou Ji , Li Huijun , Fang Cong , Tan Junye , Gao Peng , Jin Cuicui , Liu Sonbo , Li Jin , Wang Yu , He Ellen , Skog Sven
Published: September 2021

Objectives. Early detection of malignant tumour is a prerequisite for a successful treatment. Here we investigate if thymidine kinase 1 is more sensitive than imaging technology to discover small invisible malignant tumours.Material and Methods. The cellular concentration of TK1 was determined by a novel automatic chemiluminescence analyzer of magnetic particle immune sandwich minimum. The primary and secondary antibodies linked to the magnetic beads were chicken anti-human thymidine kinase 1 IgY-polyclonal antibodies (IgY pAb). The minimum number of cells able to be detected by the novel detection technology using an automatic chemiluminescence analyzer were determined based on the cellar TK1 concentration of low and high TK1 cell lines of known cell count.Results. The TK1 concentration of malignant cell was found to be 0.021 pg/cell. Assuming 200 pg of total protein/cell, TK1 corresponds to 0.01 % of the total protein/cell. The concentration of TK1 in human blood serum of malignant patients is in the range of 2-10 pmol/l (pM), corresponding to about 50 x106 growing cells in the body that release TK1 into 5 litre blood. The limit visibility by imaging of a tumour is about 1 mm in diameter, corresponding to about 109cells of a cell diameter of 1µm. Conclusion. TK1 is more sensitive than imaging.
M-cell Targeting Acid-resistant Oral Vaccine Delivery for Immunization Against Hepatitis B Infection Using Cationic Solid Lipid Nanoparticles
Authors: Saraf Surendra , Sahoo Rudra Narayan , Jain Shailesh , Mallick Subrata
Published: September 2021

Background: Viral infection caused by Hepatitis B is transmitted by permucosal or parenteral exposure and also one of the prime causes of hepatocellular carcinoma and liver cirrhosis. Objectives: M-cell targeting acid-resistant oral vaccine delivery have been formulated for immunization against Hepatitis B infection. Methods: Cationic solid lipid nanoparticles (cSLNs) were prepared utilizing solvent injection technique. Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) loaded alginate coated cSLNs were anchored with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). SDS-PAGE was performed to evaluate acid degradation protection of prepared formulation. Induction of immunity produced by prepared nanoparticle for Hepatitis B was determined on female Balb/c mice followed by ELISA assays for assessing anti-HBsAg IgG/IgA antibodies in mucosal fluids. Results: Sustained release of HBsAg (60.66 %) has been exhibited from alginate coated cSLNs in comparison to cSLNs without alginate coating (97.72 %) after 48 h. The production of anti-HBs titer in intestinal, salivary and vaginal secretions was 3.41 IU/ml, 3.1 IU/ml and 2.51 IU/ml respectively in comparison to the control group. Integrity of the M-cells has been maintained after binding with SLN, and oral administration delivered the antigen to the desired site of gut. Conclusion: It was found effective in producing antibodies in mucosal immunization against Hepatitis B virus. So, this formulation could be used as a promising alternative preexisting vaccine to prevent Hepatitis B infection.
Vaccine Induced Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia (VITT): First report from India and utility of risk score for diagnosis in resource limited settings.
Authors: John Christy , Kumar Rajesh , Sivan Anil Kumar , Jithin Sangeetha , Abraham Rojin , Philip Chepsy C
Published: September 2021

Vaccine induced thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) is a rare but devastating adverse event following adenoviral vector based vaccinations for COVID-19. Guidance statements and available reports lack clarity on the choice of imaging modalities and emphasize on the need for specialized tests as a requisite criterion. Such tests have practical limitations of availability likely to restrict the treatment and reporting of such catastrophic events and need reconsideration. We describe two young men with VITT who had no other contributory cause besides a recent ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccination. They were treated with IVIG and full dose anticoagulation. In both our cases the primary neuroimaging was normal and the recommended PF-4 testing was not reported due to technical limitations. Diagnosis was based on a 4T inspired score. Clinicians should report and though counter intuitive; not delay the institution of full dose anticoagulation, IVIG and limit platelet transfusion in the appropriate setting.
Retrograde Island Flap Bridge Transfer of Adjacent Phalangeal Artery Combined With Vascular Pedicle Tubular Skin Grafting to Repair Finger Pulp Defect
Authors: Du Weibin , Zhu Fangbing , Hou Qiao , Hong Shenghu , Ren Guohua , Chen Cheng , Zhang Zhijing , Yang Jun , Zhuang Wei
Published: September 2021

Objective: To investigate the surgical method and therapeutic effect of retrograde island flap bridge transfer of adjacent phalangeal artery combined with vascular pedicle tubular skin grafting to repair finger pulp defect.Methods: From June 2008 to May 2020, 14 patients (16 fingers) with severe contusion of proximal and middle phalangeal body combined with finger pulp defect, and 5 patients (5 fingers) with finger pulp defect more than distal interphalangeal joint were repaired by retrograde island flap bridge transfer of adjacent phalangeal artery combined with vascular pedicle tubular skin grafting. The dorsal branch of digital nerve was carried in the skin flap for anastomosis with the proper nerve at the stump of the injured finger. The donor area was covered with medium thickness skin of abdominal or elbow transverse stripes, and the vascular pedicle was wrapped with tubular skin. The pedicle was severed 16-22 days after surgery. The survival rate and complications of postoperative flaps were observed. The finger function was evaluated by the Michigan functional questionnaire and Dagan functional criteria, and the clinical effect was evaluated. Result: All flaps survived and all patients were followed up for a period of 6 to 46 months. The skin flap of the affected finger was of good texture, and the appearance was naturally not bloated. The two-point discrimination was 7 ~ 11mm, and no obvious complications were observed in the donor area. Evaluation of the Michigan Hand Function Questionnaire: Nineteen patients were satisfied with the overall appearance and function of the hand. Finger joint Dargan function evaluation: excellent in 15 cases, good in 4 cases.Conclusions: It is a safe and effective operation to repair finger pulp defect with the retrograde island flap of adjacent finger artery combined with vascular pedicle tubular skin grafting. the skin flap has the advantages of simple cutting, good texture and concealed donor area, which is convenient for the early functional exercise of the finger body.
Icariin Ameliorates Metabolic Syndrome-Induced Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in Rats
Authors: Aljehani Abeer A. , Albadr Nawal A. , Nasrullah Mohammed Z. , Neamatallah Thikryat , Eid Basma G , Abdel-Naim Ashraf B.
Published: September 2021

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is an immense health issue that causes serious complications in aging males with MetS. Icariin (ICA) is a flavonol glycoside that exerts a plethora of pharmacological effects. The present investigation tested the potential of ICA to ameliorate benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) induced by MetS in rats. Animals were allocated to 5 groups in which the first and second groups were kept on water and regular food pellets. MetS was induced in the third, fourth and fifth groups by keeping the animals on high fructose and salt diets for twelve consecutive weeks. These groups were given vehicle, ICA (25 mg/kg) and ICA (50 mg/kg) respectively. MetS was confirmed by the apparent increase in rats’ weight, accumulation of visceral fat, insulin resistance and dyslipidemia. This was accompanied by signs of BPH including increased prostate weight, prostate index and histopathological alterations. Treating the animals with both doses of ICA significantly ameliorated the raise in weight and index of the prostate as well as prostate histopathology. In addition, ICA significantly decreased cyclin D1 expression, up-regulated Bax and down-regulated Bcl2 mRNA expression. ICA prevented lipid peroxidation, reduced glutathione (GSH) depletion and catalase (CAT) exhaustion, which further lowered inflammatory markers of the prostate such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Moreover, ICA prevented the decrease in prostate content of phosphorylated 5ʹ-adenosine monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (pAMPK). In conclusion, ICA protects against MetS-induced BPH. This is due to its antiproliferative, proapoptotic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities as well as the activation of AMPK.
Total Knee Arthroplasty to Treat Acute Knee Dislocation Associated With Osteoarthritis: a Case Report
Authors: Xiong Huazhang , Li Yuwan , Yu Hao , Jin Ying , Xiong Wei , Peng Jiachen , Liu Yi
Published: September 2021

Background: Knee dislocation (KD) is a common disease in the young people. It is rare to report treatment of the KD associated with osteoarthritis (OA) in the old population. In this case report, we present two cases in which total knee arthroplasty (TKA) was performed to treat acute KD associated with osteoarthritis (OA) in two female patients. Methods: The two patients underwent knee injuries and limited range of motion (ROM). After diagnosing acute KD, including KD II and KD III-M, associated with OA with X-ray, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) investigations, we considered TKA to be the best management.Results: TKA was successfully used to treat acute KD associated with OA, and the patients achieved significant improvements in their clinical and functional outcomes.Conclusion: Acute KD associated with OA could be an indication for TKA. However, early TKA procedures can lead to a risk of arthrofibrosis and joint stiffness.Level of evidence V.
Attenuation of Trauma-induced Osteoarthritis by Repetitive Intra-articular Administration of Peripheral Blood Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Lin Weiping , Yang Zhengmeng , Shi Liu , Wang Haixing , Pan Qi , Zhang Xiaoting , Lin Sien , Li Gang
Published: September 2021

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic joint disease, characterized by articular cartilage degradation, subchondral bone hardening, and inflammation of the whole synovial joint. There is no pharmacological treatment in slowing down OA progression, leading to costly surgical interventions eventually. Cell therapy using chondrocytes or progenitor cells from different sources has been reported in clinical trials for OA management with some success, but outcomes are varied. Peripheral blood derived mesenchymal stem cells (PB-MSCs) are promising cells owing to their easy collection, superior migration, and differentiation potentials. In the current study, we evaluated the effect of intra-articular administration of PB-MSCs on the progression of OA in mice.Methods: C57BL/6J mice (8-10 weeks old male) were subjected to destabilization of the medial meniscus surgeries (DMM) on their right joints following protocols as previously reported. The mice after DMM were randomly treated with saline (vehicle control), PB-MSCs, or adipose tissue derived MSCs (AD-MSCs) (n = 7 per group). The mice treated with sham surgery were regarded as sham controls (n = 7). PB-MSCs and AD-MSCs were harvested and cultured according to previous published protocols, and pre-labeled with BrdU for 48 h before use. PB-MSCs or AD-MSCs (5 × 105 cells/mouse; passage 3~5) were injected into the right knee joints thrice post-surgery (except sham surgery group). The mice were euthanized at 8 weeks post-surgery and knee joint samples were collected for micro-CT and histological examinations.Results: PB-MSCs administration significantly reduced hardening of subchondral bone comparing to vehicle controls. Safranin O staining showed that PB-MSCs treatment ameliorated degeneration of articular cartilage, which is comparable to AD-MSCs treatment. The expression of catabolic marker MMP13 was significantly reduced in articular cartilage of PB-MSCs-treated groups comparing to vehicle controls. Co-expression of BrdU and Sox9 were detected, indicating injected PB-MSCs differentiated towards chondrocytes in situ. Reduced level of IL-6 in the peripheral sera of PB-MSCs- and AD-MSCs-treated mice was also determined. Conclusions: Repetitive administration of PB-MSCs or AD-MSCs halted OA progression through inhibiting cartilage degradation and inflammation. PB-MSCs may become a promising cell source for cartilage tissue repair and alleviation of OA progression.
Aberrant Visual-Related Networks in Familial Cortical Myoclonic Tremor with Epilepsy
Authors: Wang Haotian , Wang Bo , Cen Zhidong , Wang Jue , Zang Yu-Feng , Yang Dehao , Ding Yao , Wang Shuang , Wu Sheng , Luo Wei
Published: September 2021

In familial cortical myoclonic tremor with epilepsy, photic stimulation can trigger visual-related symptoms and induce a photoparoxysmal response on electroencephalography. This is known as photosensitivity. To explore the mechanism of prominent visual-related symptoms and photosensitivity in patients with genetically confirmed familial cortical myoclonic tremor with epilepsy type 1, resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging data and electroencephalography data were collected from 31 patients carrying the heterozygous pathogenic intronic pentanucleotide (TTTCA)n insertion in the sterile alpha motif domain-containing 12 gene and from 52 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Results: (1) Both regional homogeneity and degree centrality values in the bilateral calcarine sulcus were significantly increased in patients compared with HCs. (2) When the calcarine sulcus area with increased regional homogeneity was taken as a seed, increased functional connectivity values were observed in the right precentral gyrus, while decreased functional connectivity values were observed in the right superior frontal gyrus and right inferior parietal lobule. (3) independent component analysis showed increased connectivity in the left calcarine sulcus inside the medial visual network. (4) Correlation analysis revealed significant positive correlation between regional homogeneity values and frequency of seizure, and photoparoxysmal response grades were positively correlated with the severity of cortical tremor and duration of epilepsy. The findings provide strong evidence for the interpretation of visual-related symptoms and photosensitivity in familial cortical myoclonic tremor with epilepsy and may also relate to other epilepsy syndromes with photosensitivity. We speculate the significant functional change in primary visual cortex probably an imaging biomarker for the disease.
An e-Learning Course on the Patient-Centered Approach to Colorectal Cancer Screening: GPs First Choice!
Authors: Aïm-Eusébi Amélie , Bouziane Antoinette , Sekri Karima , Clary Bernard , Freche Bernard , Breton Julien Le , Aubin-Auger Isabelle
Published: September 2021

BACKGROUND: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer in men and the second in women worldwide. During the period 2017-2018, in France, 32.1% of the eligible population completed screening, which is under the acceptable uptake rate. The FORCEPS study aimed to test whether a training program focused on improving general practitioners’ (GPs’) communication skills could increase their patients’ CRC screening rate. Our study reports on the construction of, participation in and evaluation of the e-learning training program tested in the FORCEPS study.METHODS: An interdisciplinary team designed an e-learning program for French GPs on the Moodle® platform. Learning activities related to the stated learning objectives and interactive approaches were specified. Two sessions took place, in May and November 2018. The training lasted 6 weeks. RESULTS: In all, 116 GPs registered for the training program. Seventy per cent of the GPs who registered for the first session opted to follow the training via e-learning rather than in person. Among the participants, 36.0% followed the training in its entirety during session 1, as did 24.0% during session 2. At the end of the training, none of the participating GPs self-assessed themselves as a “novice”, and the number of GPs self-assessing as “intermediate” or “experienced” increased. Overall, 62.9% of the participants were generally satisfied with the e-learning course.CONCLUSIONS: The web-based program focused on improving GPs’ communication skills to encourage CRC screening was chosen by a large majority of the participating GPs and received positive reviews. While GPs’ theoretical knowledge can be improved through our training program, it remains to be seen whether or not this will be reflected in their everyday practice, thus resulting in an increased CRC screening participation rate among patients.
Cy3-ATP Labeling of Unfixed, Permeabilized Hair Cells
Authors: Pacentine Itallia V. , Barr-Gillespie Peter G.
Published: September 2021

ATP-utilizing enzymes play key roles in hair bundles, the mechanically sensitive organelles of sensory hair cells in the inner ear. We used a fluorescent ATP analog, EDA-ATP-Cy3 (Cy3-ATP), to label ATP-binding proteins in two different preparations of unfixed hair-cell stereocilia. In the first preparation, we lightly permeabilized dissected cochleas, then labeled them with Cy3-ATP. Hair cells and their stereocilia remained intact, and stereocilia tips in rows 1 and 2 were labeled particularly strongly with Cy3-ATP. Co-application with vanadate (VO43-) enhanced the tip labeling, which is consistent with myosin isoforms being responsible; by contrast, the actin polymerization inhibitors latrunculin A and cytochalasin D had no effect, suggesting that actin turnover at stereocilia tips was not involved. Cy3-ATP labeling was substantially reduced—but did not disappear altogether—in mutant cochleas lacking MYO15A; by contrast, labeling remained robust in cochleas lacking MYO7A. In the second preparation, used to quantify Cy3-ATP labeling, we labeled vestibular stereocilia that had been adsorbed to glass, which demonstrated that tip labeling was higher in longer stereocilia. We found that tip signal was reduced by ~50% in Myo15ash2/sh2 stereocilia as compared to Myo15ash2/+ stereocilia of the same length range. These results suggest that MYO15A accounts for a substantial fraction of the Cy3-ATP tip labeling in vestibular hair cells, and so this novel preparation could be utilized to examine the control of MYO15A ATPase activity in situ.
Maraviroc, An Inhibitor of Chemokine Receptor Type 5, Alleviates Neuroinflammatory Response after Cerebral Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury via Regulating JNK Signaling
Authors: Chen Beilei , Cao Pingping , Guo Xin , Li Xiaobo , Jiang Li , Lian Xiongfeng , Chen Xin , Jiang Chao , Tao Luhang , Yu Hailong
Published: September 2021

Neuroinflammation is a key factor that contributes to the secondary injury after cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (CI/R) injury. Chemokine receptor type 5(CCR5) has shown its pro-inflammatory effects during central nervous system (CNS) diseases. However, the role of CCR5 in CI/R injury is still unclear. In this study, we administered maraviroc (MVC,APEXBIO,UK-427857), a CCR5 antagonist, to the middle cerebral artery occlusion(MCAO) mice. In vivo studies showed that MVC was successively intraperitoneally (i.p.) with different doses (5, 20, or 50 mg/kg body weight) for 3 days after mice MCAO. MVC showed its neuroprotective effects in alleviating neurological deficits and infarct volumes after MCAO. The level of apoptosis and inflammation were remarkably decreased by MVC treatment after CI/R injury. Subsequently, primary microglia were stimulated with different doses of MVC (0.2, 2, 20 or 200nM) for 12h after oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation model (OGD/R) in vitro. MVC significantly increased the viability of primary microglia after (OGD/R). The expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and IL-6) in microglia were down-regulated by MVC treatment. Mechanistically, MVC also inhibited the secretion of IL-1β and IL-6 by microglia after OGD stimulation. Furthermore, the key components of NF-κB pathway were measured in vivo and in vitro after MCAO and OGD. MVC significantly inhibited the activity of NF-κB pathway in the above pathological environments. Finally, our data indicated that MVC treatment decreased the activation of JNK signaling pathway after CI/R injury in vivo and in vitro. The JNK activator anisomycin (AN，Beyotime，SC0132-5mg) reversed the neuroprotective effects of MVC, indicating that the JNK pathway is involved in the anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic mechanisms of MVC in CI/R injury. Our data demonstrated that CCR5 inhibition exhibits neuroprotective effects after CI/R injury. MVC, which is widely used for HIV treatment by its anti-virus effect, is a potential drug for the treatment of ischemic stroke in the future clinical trials.
Robust Error Estimation Based on Factor-Graph Models for Non-Line-of-Sight Localization
Authors: Vanli O. Arda , Taylor Clark N.
Published: September 2021

This paper presents a method to estimate the covariances of the inputs in a factor-graph formulation for localization under non-line-of-sight conditions. A general solution, based on covariance estimation and M estimators in linear regression problems, is presented that is shown to give unbiased estimators of multiple variances and are robust against outliers. An iteratively re-weighted least squares (IRLS) algorithm is proposed to jointly compute the proposed variance estimators and the state estimates for the non-linear factor graph optimization. The efficacy of the method is illustrated in a simulation study using a robot localization problem under various process and measurement models and measurement outlier scenarios. A case study involving a Global Positioning System (GPS) based localization in an urban environment and data containing multipath problems demonstrates the application of the proposed technique.
Forward Dynamic Solution and Optimization of a 1-DOF Parallel Mechanism for Vibrating Screen
Authors: Xiao Si-Jin , Wu Guang-Lei , Li Ju , Shen Hui-Ping , Yang Ting-Li
Published: September 2021

In this paper, the ordered single-open-chain (SOC) method in combination with the principle of virtual work is adopted to model and solve the forward dynamics of a single degree-of-freedom (DOF) parallel mechanism (PM), featuring one translation and two rotations (1T2R), which is applied in spatial vibrating screen (i.e., parallel vibrating screen mechanism, PVSM). Afterwards, the dynamic performances of the PVSM is optimized using differential evolution algorithm. Based on the kinematics of the PM, the forward dynamic model is derived and the dynamic response equation is built, of which the coefficient matrix is determined by means of the generalized velocity equation. Moreover, the Euler method was adopted to solve the numerical solution of the differential equation of motion to characterize the motion law and dynamics of the screen surface of the PVSM, which is verified with ADAMS simulation. With the parametric model, the dynamic optimization of PVSM is carried out to maximize the energy transfer efficiency, subject to the constraints on the link mass. The comparison of the dynamic performances of the PVSM with and without optimization reveals the improvement of the PM.