bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Chemokine (C-C Motif) Receptor 5 and Ligand 5 with Recovery from Major Depressive Disorder and Related Neurocognitive Impairment
Authors: Bauer Olivia , Milenkovic Vladimir M. , Hilbert Sven , Sarubin Nina , Weigl Johannes , Bahr Lisa-Marie , Wetter Thomas C. , Heckel Barbara , Wetzel Christian H. , Rupprecht Rainer , Nothdurfter Caroline
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Inflammatory processes play an important role in the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder (MDD), but their relevance for specific symptoms such as neurocognitive impairment is rarely investigated. Methods: In this observational study, we investigated the changes of leukocyte chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 5 (CCR5) and ligand 5 (CCL5) mRNA levels and inflammatory cytokines in 60 MDD patients before (PRE) and after 5 weeks (W5) of antidepressive treatment in relation to therapy response and alterations in cognitive functions by means of the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB). We hypothesized that elevated CCR5 and CCL5 levels in depressed patients would decrease upon treatment and could differ with regard to cognitive impairment associated with MDD. Results: Both CCR5 and CCL5 levels were significantly decreased in the responder group compared to nonresponders even before treatment. The cytokine IL-6 as a marker of inflammation in depression did not show a difference before treatment in future responders versus nonresponders, but decreased significantly upon antidepressive therapy. Regarding neurocognitive impairment in MDD patients, an increased misperception of the emotion “anger” after 5 weeks of treatment proved to be associated with a more pronounced change in CCR5, and the perception of the emotion “disgust” became faster along with a stronger decrease in CCL5 over the same time. Executive functions typically impaired in MDD patients were not markedly associated with alterations in CCR5/CCL5. Discussion: CCR5 and CCL5 are important in the targeting of immune cells by HIV. This is the first study providing valuable hints that both CCR5 and CCL5 might also serve as markers of therapy response prediction in MDD. Regarding neurocognitive impairment in depression, CCR5 and CCL5 did not reveal characteristic changes upon MDD treatment such as executive functions, which are probably delayed. However, changes of emotional perception appear to be an earlier responding feature.
Sickle Cell Anemia Presenting with Vaso-Occlusive Pain: Should We Screen for COVID-19?
Authors: Ali Mohammad , Okar Lina , Omar Nabil E. , Parengal Jabeed , Soliman Ashraf , Yassin Mohamed A.
Published: January 2021

Despite the widespread of coronavirus disease-19 (CO­VID-19) infection around the world, there are very scarce reported literature about the care of patients with a known diagnosis of hemoglobin disorders such as sickle cell disease (SCD) or thalassemia and confirmed COVID-19 infection. Thalassemia International Federation issued a position statement to include patients with thalassemia and SCD among the high-risk groups of patients. Here, we present an interesting case of a 42-year-old patient know to have SCD presenting with Vaso-occlusive (VOC) pain episode in the absence of COVID-19 signs and symptoms, who tested positive for COVID-19 infection and had a smooth recovery. This case highlights the importance of screening SCD patients presenting with VOC-related events even in the absence of COVID-19 signs and symptoms.
Novel Pancreatic Cancer Therapy Targeting Cell Surface Glycans by Liposomes Modified with rBC2LCN Lectin
Authors: Kimura Sota , Oda Tatsuya , Shimomura Osamu , Enomoto Tsuyoshi , Hashimoto Shinji , Kuroda Yukihito , Yu Yang , Kurimori Ko , Furuta Tomoaki , Miyazaki Yoshihiro , Tateno Hiroaki
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Since the outermost layer of cancer cells is covered with various glycans, targeting these groups may serve as an effective strategy in cancer therapy. We previously reported that fucosylated glycans are specifically expressed on pancreatic cancer cells, and that a protein specifically binding to these glycans, namely rBC2LCN lectin, is a potential guiding drug carrier. In the present study, a novel type of glycan-targeting nanoparticle was developed by modifying the surface of doxorubicin-containing liposomes with rBC2LCN lectin. The efficiency and specificity of this formulation, termed Lec-Doxosome, were examined in vitro and in vivo in human pancreatic cancer models. Methods: Lec-Doxosome was prepared by a post-insertion method based on the insertion of rBC2LCN lectin into the liposomal surface via a lipid linker. The in vitro cellular binding, uptake, and cytotoxicity of Lec-Doxosome were compared with the corresponding parameters in the unmodified liposomes by applying to human pancreatic cancer cell line (Capan-1) with affinity for rBC2LCN lectin. For the in vivo assay, Lec-Doxosome was intravenously injected once per week for a total of 3 weeks into mice bearing subcutaneous tumors. Results: The in vitro application of Lec-Doxosome resulted in a 1.2- to 1.6-fold higher intracellular doxorubicin accumulation and a 1.5-fold stronger cytotoxicity compared with the respective rates of accumulation and cytotoxicity in the unmodified liposomes. In vivo, Lec-Doxosome reduced the mean tumor weight (368 mg) compared with that in mice treated with unmodified liposomes (456 mg), without causing any additional adverse events. Conclusion: It was demonstrated from the results obtained herein that rBC2LCN lectin is a potent modifier, as a means for boosting the efficiency of nanoparticles in the targeting of cancer cell surface glycans.
Protective Effect of Solutions Containing Polymers Associated with Fluoride and Stannous Chloride on Hydroxyapatite Dissolution
Authors: Augusto Marina Gullo , Santos Tamires Maria de Andrade , Scaramucci Taís , Aoki Idalina Vieira , Torres Carlos Rocha Gomes , Hara Anderson Takeo , Borges Alessandra Buhler
Published: January 2021

This study investigated the protective effect of experimental solutions containing 4 polymers (polyoxirane, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose [HPMC], pectin, and an amino methacrylate copolymer [AMC]) in 2 concentrations (low and high) associated or not with sodium fluoride (F; 225 ppm F–) or sodium fluoride plus stannous chloride (FS; 800 ppm Sn2+) on the dissolution of hydroxyapatite crystals (HA). Deionized water was the control. The pretreated HA was added to a 0.3% citric acid solution (pH 3.8). An automatic titrant machine added aliquots of 0.1 N HCl at a rate of 28 μL/min, in a total reaction time of 5 min. Groups were compared with 2-way ANOVA and Tukey’s test, and concentrations with Student t test (5%). The zeta potential of the HA treated with the solutions was measured. Significant differences were found for both factors and interaction (p < 0.0001). The treatments with F and FS solutions resulted in a lower amount of dissolved HA than the control. Among the polymers’ solutions, only AMC was able to reduce the amount of dissolved HA, changing the surface charge of HA to positive. AMC improved the protective effect of F, but it did not affect FS. Polyoxirane and HPMC reduced the protective potential of the FS solution. No differences were found between the concentrations of the polymers. It was concluded that F and FS reduced the amount of dissolved HA. The protective effect of the experimental solutions against HA dissolution was polymer dependent. The F effect was enhanced by its combination with AMC, but the protection of FS was impaired by polyoxirane and HPMC.
Gastroenterologists’ Attitude Regarding Medical Cannabis for Inflammatory Bowel Diseases in Israel
Authors: Koslowsky Benjamin , Mazuz Betty , Ben-Ya’acov Ami , Neumark Aliza , Bar-Gil Shitrit Ariella , Goldin Eran
Published: January 2021

Background: The use of medical cannabis (MC) for inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) is expanding. Current evidence does not support the efficacy of MC for reducing inflammation in IBD patients. Even so, many gastroenterologists encounter the issue of recommending use of MC to IBD patients. Methods: A Web-based survey was completed by 84 (34%) gastroenterologists in Israel. Results: Out of 84 physicians whom completed the questionnaire, 59 (70%) were male, 34 (40%) were under age 50 years, 71 (85%) were adult gastroenterologists, and 53 (63%) work mainly in a hospital. Of them, 15, 41, and 44% of physicians think that MC is very effective, mildly effective, and not effective at all, respectively. Physicians will commonly, rarely, and never recommend MC in 31, 47, and 22%, respectively. Older physicians (above age 50 years) were significantly more likely to have a positive attitude towards MC in both questions. When presented with a clinical scenario of a patient in deep remission, requesting to increase the dose, 32% would increase, 49% would maintain, and only 18% would stop prescribing MC altogether; 48% of physicians did not know the recommended initial dose for MC. Only 2 (2.5%) physicians initiated the use of MC to all patients. Female gastroenterologists were significantly more likely to initiate MC, p = 0.048. Conclusion: The use of MC for IBD patients is commonly encountered. Completely different attitudes regarding this treatment were seen. Age above 50 years and female physicians generally had a more positive attitude towards the use of MC. Guidelines and clear recommendations are needed.
Excesso de peso em crianças brasileiras e seus fatores de vulnerabilidade: uma revisão integrativa
Authors: Dratch Carolina Bulgacov , Silva Daiane Priscila Simão , Rosaneli Caroline Filla
Published: January 2021

O excesso de peso na criança compreende questões complexas, e situá-lo exclusivamente como um problema de saúde dificulta identificar outros aspectos associados, tais como o estado de vulnerabilidade. Este artigo utilizou o método de revisão integrativa adaptada com o objetivo de identificar a vulnerabilidade da criança brasileira frente ao excesso de peso na ótica da bioética. Para a análise das dimensões de vulnerabilidade, utilizou a matriz adaptada por Ayres et al. (2006), que compreende fatores de vulnerabilidade nas dimensões individual, social e programática. Na dimensão individual, foram descritos fatores biológicos, crenças e relações familiares. Na dimensão social, foram descritas relações de gênero e de etnia com acesso a saúde, educação, justiça, lazer e esporte. Na dimensão programática, foram descritas políticas públicas, integralidade e equidade da atenção, proteção e promoção de direitos humanos. Considerar os fatores de vulnerabilidade da criança frente ao excesso de peso coloca em destaque a urgência da implantação de políticas públicas transdisciplinares com vistas a uma proposta ética de atitude, solidariedade, responsabilidade mútua e respeito à dignidade humana.
Some new records of scarab beetles of the genus Onthophagus Latreille, 1802 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) from northern Western Ghats, Maharashtra, with a checklist
Authors: Kalawate Aparna Sureshchandra , Mukhopadhyay Banani , Pawar Sonal Vithal , Shinde Vighnesh Durgaram
Published: January 2021

The present paper presents two new records of the species, viz., Onthophagus (Onthophagus) madoqua Arrow, 1931; and Onthophagus (Gibbonthophagus) duporti Boucomont, 1914 with a checklist of the genus Onthophagus Latreille, 1802 from Maharashtra.
First report of the Asiatic Brush-tailed Porcupine Atherurus macrourus (Linnaeus, 1758) (Mammalia: Rodentia: Hystricidae) from West Bengal­­­, India
Authors: Dash Suraj Kumar , Chettri Abhisek , Naha Dipanjan , Sathyakumar Sambandam
Published: January 2021

We report the western most distribution of the Asiatic Brush-tailed Porcupine Atherurus macrourus (Thomas, 1921) in India.  An individual was photo captured in the semi-evergreen forests of Mahananda Wildlife Sanctuary, northern West Bengal on the night of 28 January 2019.  It is a rare rodent species that is distributed in the northeastern states of India but was not reported from West Bengal.
Ecological importance of two large heritage trees in Moyar River valley, southern India
Authors: Thirumurugan Vedagiri , Prabakaran Nehru , Sreedharan Nair Vishnu , Ramesh Chinnasamy
Published: January 2021

Large old trees are critical to maintaining biodiversity in forested landscapes, however, they are often overlooked in forest management and conservation.  This article exemplifies the ecological importance of two such large trees that belong to Terminalia arjuna and Hardwickia binata in the Moyar River valley landscape of Tamil Nadu, India.
Myocardial Blood Flow Control by Oxygen Sensing Vascular Kvβ Proteins
Authors: Ohanyan Vahagn , Raph Sean M. , Dwenger Marc M. , Hu Xuemei , Pucci Thomas , Mack Gregory , Moore Joseph B. , Chilian William M. , Bhatnagar Aruni , Nystoriak Matthew A.
Published: January 2021

Rationale:

Voltage-gated potassium (Kv) channels in vascular smooth muscle are essential for coupling myocardial blood flow (MBF) with the metabolic demand of the heart. These channels consist of a transmembrane pore domain that associates with auxiliary Kvβ (voltage-gated potassium channel β)1 and Kvβ2 proteins, which differentially regulate Kv function in excitable cells. Nonetheless, the physiological role of Kvβ proteins in regulating vascular tone and metabolic hyperemia in the heart remains unknown.

Objective:

To test the hypothesis that Kvβ proteins confer oxygen sensitivity to vascular tone and are required for regulating blood flow in the heart.

Methods and Results:

Mice lacking Kvβ2 subunits exhibited suppressed MBF, impaired cardiac contractile performance, and failed to maintain elevated arterial blood pressure in response to catecholamine-induced stress. In contrast, ablation of Kvβ1.1 reduced cardiac workload, modestly elevated MBF, and preserved cardiac function during stress compared with wild-type mice. Coronary arteries isolated from Kvβ2
−/−
, but not Kvβ1.1
−/−
, mice had severely blunted vasodilation to hypoxia when compared with arteries from wild-type mice. Moreover, vasodilation of small diameter coronary and mesenteric arteries due to L-lactate, a biochemical marker of reduced tissue oxygenation and anaerobic metabolism, was significantly attenuated in vessels isolated from Kvβ2
−/−
mice. Inducible enhancement of the Kvβ1:Kvβ2 ratio in Kv1 channels of arterial smooth muscle abolished L-lactate-induced vasodilation and suppressed the relationship between MBF and cardiac workload.

Conclusions:

The Kvβ proteins differentially regulate vascular tone and MBF, whereby Kvβ2 promotes, and Kvβ1.1 inhibits oxygen-dependent vasodilation and augments blood flow upon heightened metabolic demand.
Influenza Causes MLKL-Driven Cardiac Proteome Remodeling During Convalescence
Authors: Lin Yi-Han , Platt Maryann P. , Gilley Ryan P. , Brown David , Dube Peter H. , Yu Yanbao , Gonzalez-Juarbe Norberto
Published: January 2021

Rationale:

Patients with and without cardiovascular diseases have been shown to be at risk of influenza-mediated cardiac complications. Recent clinical reports support the notion of a direct link between laboratory-confirmed influenza virus infections and adverse cardiac events.

Objective:

Define the molecular mechanisms underlying influenza virus–induced cardiac pathogenesis after resolution of pulmonary infection and the role of necroptosis in this process.

Methods and Results:

Hearts from wild-type and necroptosis-deficient (MLKL [mixed lineage kinase domain-like protein]-KO) mice were dissected 12 days after initial influenza A virus (IAV) infection when viral titers were undetectable in the lungs. Immunofluorescence microscopy and plaque assays showed presence of viable IAV particles in the myocardium without generation of interferon responses. Global proteome and phosphoproteome analyses using high-resolution accurate mass-based LC-MS/MS and label-free quantitation showed that the global proteome as well as the phosphoproteome profiles were significantly altered in IAV-infected mouse hearts in a strain-independent manner. Necroptosis-deficient mice had increased survival and reduced weight loss post-IAV infection, as well as increased antioxidant and mitochondrial function, indicating partial protection to IAV infection. These findings were confirmed in vitro by pretreatment of human and rat myocytes with antioxidants or necroptosis inhibitors, which blunted oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage after IAV infection.

Conclusions:

This study provides the first evidence that the cardiac proteome and phosphoproteome are significantly altered post–pulmonary influenza infection. Moreover, viral particles can persist in the heart after lung clearance, altering mitochondrial function and promoting cell death without active replication and interferon responses. Finally, our findings show inhibition of necroptosis or prevention of mitochondrial damage as possible therapeutic interventions to reduce cardiac damage during influenza infections.

Graphic Abstract:

A
graphic abstract
is available for this article.
Integrating Survivors of Stroke Into Exercise‐Based Cardiac Rehabilitation Improves Endurance and Functional Strength
Authors: Regan Elizabeth W. , Handlery Reed , Stewart Jill C. , Pearson Joseph L. , Wilcox Sara , Fritz Stacy
Published: January 2021

Background

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is a structured exercise program prevalent in the United States for people with cardiovascular disease that has been shown to increase cardiovascular endurance and improve quality of life. Despite similar cardiovascular risk factors, stroke is not among the covered diagnoses for CR. The purpose of this study was to examine the participant impact of integrating survivors of stroke into the exercise portion of an existing hospital‐based CR program through measures of physical function and other health impacts and through qualitative evaluation of participant perception.

Methods and Results

Subacute and chronic survivors of stroke were integrated into a standard 12‐week, 3 sessions per week, exercise‐based CR program. A total of 29 began the program, 24 completed the program, and 18 were available for 6‐month follow‐up. Quantitative measures were compared preprogram with postprogram with
t
‐test or equivalent, and preprogram with postprogram to 6‐month follow‐up with ANOVA or equivalent. Semistructured interviews were completed with 11 participants postprogram. Exercise‐based CR had significant impacts on cardiovascular endurance preprogram to postprogram, with maintenance at 6‐month follow‐up. The participants improved on the 6‐minute walk test on average by 61.92 m(95% CI, 33.99–89.84 m), and maximum metabolic equivalents improved by a median of 3.6 (interquartile range, 2.35). Five times sit to stand (functional strength) improved preprogram to postprogram by a median of 2.85 s (interquartile range, 4.03 s). Qualitative findings highlight additional health improvements. Most participants (83% [15/18]) reported continued exercise at follow‐up.

Conclusions

Exercise‐based CR has the potential to improve cardiovascular endurance, health status, and quality of life for survivors of stroke.

Registration

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT03706105.
The rank boost by inconsistency in university rankings: Evidence from
14 rankings of Chinese universities
Authors: Chen Wenyu , Zhu Zhangqian , Jia Tao
Published: January 2021

University ranking has become an important indicator for prospective students, job recruiters, and government administrators. The fact that a university rarely has the same position in different rankings motivates us to ask: To what extent could a university’s best rank deviate from its “true” position? Here we focus on 14 rankings of Chinese universities. We find that a university’s rank in different rankings is not consistent. However, the relative positions for a particular set of universities are more similar. The increased similarity is not distributed uniformly among all rankings. Instead, the 14 rankings demonstrate four clusters where rankings are more similar inside the cluster than outside. We find that a university’s best rank strongly correlates with its consensus rank, which is, on average, 38% higher (towards the top). Therefore, the best rank usually advertised by a university adequately reflects the collective opinion of experts. We can trust it, but with a discount. With the best rank and proportionality relationship, a university’s consensus rank can be estimated with reasonable accuracy. Our work not only reveals previously unknown patterns in university rankings but also introduces a set of tools that can be readily applied to future studies.
Ibadi Copyists in the Mzab Valley, Algeria (9th–10th/15th–16th Century)
Authors: Hadj Mahammed Aissa , Love Paul M.
Published: January 2021

This article examines the circulation of manuscripts in the Mzab Valley in southern Algeria during the 9th–10th/15th–16th centuries in an attempt to identify the most prominent copyists in the region. The primary aim of the paper is to highlight the importance of manuscripts for the Mzab’s Ibadi Muslim community in this period and to demonstrate its impact on the intellectual and cultural life of the region.
Typhonium phuocbinhense sp. nov. (Araceae: Areae), a new species from central Vietnam

Authors: NGUYEN VAN DU , TOAN LE CHI , NGUYEN VAN DINH , HA MINH TAM , THI VAN ANH NGUYEN , CROAT THOMAS
Published: January 2021

Typhonium phuocbinhense has been described as a new species from central Vietnam. The plant grows on sand-soil in the gaps of rocks and the banks of stream line in the Phuoc Binh National Park of Ninh Thuan Province. The species is different from all other species in the genus. It is closest to T. varians from Thailand but differs from this species by having leaves not variegated, spathe tube brown and spathe lamina much narrower and staminodes folded 180o at apex. Beside that the species key of Typhonium in Vietnam and the species information of distribution, ecology, habitat and conservation are also introduced.
3-Aminopropyl-Triethoxysilane Functionalized Graphene Oxide for Silane-Based Consolidation Treatments to Increase Mortar Performances
Authors: Cadar C. , Fort C. I. , Mihis A. , Kedves Zs. , Magyari K. , Baia L. , Baia M. , Dudescu M. C. , Olteanu I. , Cotet L. C. , Danciu V.
Published: January 2021

The influence of chemically converted GO (graphene oxide) functionalized with APTES (3-aminopropyl-triethoxysilane) and unfunctionalized GO, dispersed in ethanolic solution of TEOS (tetraethyl orthosilicate), on the performances of the mortar samples, such as capillary water absorption
and compressive strength was evaluated. The effect of the GO based nanomaterials (GO and GO functionalized with APTES) on the mortar microstructure was investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy
(SEM). The multifunctionality of the mortar brushed with GO based nanomaterials consolidation suspension was proved by the results (i) of the mechanical tests which show an improvement of the compressive strength and (ii) the capillary water absorption results which indicate the decreasing
of the water penetration speed. For the mortar samples brushed with GO consolidation suspension, an increase value for the compressive strength of approximately twice compared to the untreated control samples and a decreased value for the capillary absorption water coefficient with one order
of magnitude in comparison with the untreated control samples were obtained.
Modifying the Silver–Titania Nanocomposites with Carbonaceous Materials to Remove the Pollutants from Domestic Waste Water
Authors: Peter Anca , Cozmuta Leonard Mihaly , Nicula Camelia , Cozmuta Anca Mihaly , Talasman Catalina Mihaela , Drazic Goran , Bele Marjan , Vizintin Alen , Tchernychova Elena , Peñas Antonio , Calahorro Antonio Jesús , Sagratini Gianni , Silvi Stefania
Published: January 2021

The aim of this study was to prepare and characterize nanostructured composites based of TiO2, carbonaceus materials (GN or GO) and Ag and the test their capacity to remove the pollutants from domestic wastewater. The composites were characterized by IR and UV-Vis spectroscopy,
X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy and nitrogen adsorption–desorption measurements. The photocatalytic activity was measured from the experiment of salicylic acid (SA) degradation. The capacity to remove the pollutants from domestic wastewater was performed by considering the absorbance
of residual solution at 200 nm. The non-calcined composites have high specific surface area (˜300 m2/g), but nitrogen adsorption–desorption isotherms showed a porous structure with closed pores. The porosity of the thermal treated composites is about 10 times less, but
the pores are open. The salicylic acid was 94% degraded over all composites, showing their efficient photoactivity. A percent of 70% of pollutants were removed over the calcined composites with GN and ˜67% on those with GO. It was no statistically significant difference between the photocatalytical
efficiency of GN- and GO-based composites. Even if the calcined composites have the specific surface area about 10 times lower, their lower gap energy, higher degree of crystallinity and photocatalytic activity make them efficient candidates for removal of pollutants from domestic waste water.
The photodegradation mechanism occurred mostly by π–π interactions between GN/GO and pollutant molecules.
Optical and Photocatalytic Properties of In-Situ Gr@ZnO Microspindle Composites Prepared by Hydrothermal Method
Authors: Anh Luu Thi Lan , Neto Mateus Manuel , Thang Pham Van , Mai Nguyen Thi Tuyet , Sang Nguyen Xuan , Tu Nguyen Cong
Published: January 2021

In-Situ composite materials of graphene (Gr) and ZnO microspindle with different Gr contents (1, 2 and 5 wt.%) were prepared via a facile one-step hydrothermal route with the assistance of hexamethylenetetramine. Graphene does not affect the hexagonal wurtzite crystal structure
of composite materials but strongly affects the morphological, structural, optical and photocatalytic properties of composite materials. In detail, Gr causes a decrease in both the dimensions of ZnO microspindle and photoluminescence efficiency. The average crystalline size and microstrain
first increase from 28.9 nm and 0.00394 to 49.5 nm and 0.00524 when Gr content increases from 0 to 1 wt.%, respectively; then decrease to 39.6 nm and 0.00404 when Gr content increase from 1 to 5 wt.%, respectively. Both pristine and composite materials show high photocatalytic activity with
high methylene blue degradation efficiency?more than 90%-just after 40 min under UV irradiation. Composite material having a Gr content of 5 wt.% shows the highest degradation efficiency of 96.5% which confirms the role of Gr in enhancing the photocatalytic activity of ZnO.
First-Principles Study of Electronic Conductivity, Structural and Electronic Properties of Oxygen-Vacancy-Defected SnO2
Authors: Krik Soufiane , Gaiardo Andrea , Valt Matteo , Fabbri Barbara , Malagù Cesare , Pepponi Giancarlo , Bellutti Pierluigi , Guidi Vincenzo
Published: January 2021

The use of computer simulations has become almost essential for prediction and interpretation of device's performance. In gas sensing field, the simulation of specific conditions, which determine the physical-chemical properties of widely used metal oxide semiconductors, can be used
to investigate the performance of gas sensors based on these kinds of materials. The aim of this work was to evaluate the physical-chemical properties of tin dioxide employed for environmental and health gas sensing application and to investigate the influence of oxygen vacancies on its properties
by means of density functional theory. Two samples, having different concentration of oxygen vacancies, were deeply studied in terms of their structural, electronic and electrical properties. It was proved the influence of oxygen vacancies on lattice parameter. By increasing oxygen vacancies
concentration, the increased number of impurity states took these closer to the conduction band minimum, which can lead to an easier adsorption process of oxygen species and their availability to be exchanges with the molecules of the target gases. In this way a reduction of the operating
temperature can be observed, thus reducing the power consumption of devices, while keeping the catalytic performance of the material.
Using Palladium Nanocubes on ZnO Nanostructures in Hydrogen Gas Sensor for Fast Response and Recovery Time
Authors: Hong Hoang Si , Hoang Tran Vinh
Published: January 2021

We developed a novel sensor structure by synthesizing Pd nanocubes (NCs) decorated on ZnO nanostructures (NSs) applied to resistive-type H2 gas sensor with micro-length in sensing channel. The ZnO NSs were selectively grown between micro-size finger-like interdigital electrodes
through microelectromechanical technology. The novel H2 sensor structure with the sensing channel was reduced to micro-size by this proposed method to obtain a sensor with fast response/recovery time. The as-prepared structure exhibited robust sensing performance with a response
of 11% at optimal temperature of 150 °C, good linearity, and fast response/recovery time within 10 s. The speed of chemisorption through the diffusion pathway in Pd NCs combined with micro-length in sensing channel in sensor showed fast response and recovery times of 9 and 15 s, respectively,
toward 10,000 ppm (1%) H2 at 150 °C. The result showed approximate linearity response in H2 concentration range of 5÷10,000 ppm and a large operating temperature range from room temperature to 200 °C.
miR-199a-3p Inhibitor Delivered Through Nano-Drug Delivery Systems Suppresses Tumor Cell Survival and Metastasis
Authors: Wang Erli , Zhai Gang , Guo Kaiqing , Jiao Baoping , Jia Yi
Published: January 2021

Gastric cancer (GC) is a life-threatening malignant tumor present in the digestive tract. In this study the connection of miR-199a-3p, which is a gene abnormally expressed in GC, was analyzed along with the pathological parameters as well as the prognosis of GC patients. Moreover, the
influence of miR-199a-3p inhibitor delivered through the nano-drug delivery system (NDDS) was studied in regard of GC cell survival and metastasis, seeking to reveal its potential treatment effect. During the conduction of the study, high miR-199a-3p expression was detected in GC tissues,
sera, and cells along with its value for GC screening and pathological progression. In molecular research, polylactic-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs)-miRNA complexes that shaped like symmetrical spheres under the scanning electron microscope (SEM) were prepared to increase or decrease
the levels of miR-199a-3p. The GC cell survival and metastasis was remarkably facilitated by the elevated miR-199a-3p, and its knockdown produced an opposite effect to markedly inhibit GC cell survival and metastasis. In conclusion, the expression in GC patients was increased by miR-199a-3p
and the ability of its inhibitor delivered through the NDDS was demonstrated to control the survival and metastasis of GC cells.
Role and Clinical Significance of miR-144-3p in Primary Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Sun Xianghua , Li Fushun , Liu Qing , Liu Xilu , Dong Guomin , Zhang Yu
Published: January 2021

The morbidity of liver cancer (LC) is increasing and its high mortality poses a significant health threat worldwide. Therefore, it is crucial to identify the underlying mechanism of LC development and progression. The expression of miR-144-3p and ZEB1 gene in LC and paracanerous tissues
was measured by Polymerase chain reaction (PCR). We transfected miR-144-3p-mimics, miR-NC, si-ZEB1, and si-NC into HepG2, Huh-7, and HL-7702 normal liver cells to establish a cell model. Protein expression was examined by western blot (WB) analysis. Cell proliferation, invasion, and apoptosis
were assessed by CCK-8, Transwell, and flow cytometry assays. The relationship between miR-144-3p and ZEB1 was determined using a dual-luciferase reporter assay. We found that miR-144-3p expression decreased dramatically, whereas ZEB1 increased in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Moreover,
over-expressing miR-144-3p suppressed cell growth and induced apoptosis. The expression of apoptosis-related proteins was consistent with the induction of apoptosis. The relationship between miR-144-3p and ZEB1 was confirmed using a dual-luciferase reporter assay. Finally, rescue experiments
revealed that over-expressing ZEB1 counteracted miR-144-3p inhibition on LC cell growth, invasion, and apoptosis induction. We conclude that miR-144-3p suppresses HCC cell growth and invasion and promotes apoptosis by regulating ZEB1 expression, suggesting that this interaction may represent
a target for HCC treatment.
Method of Adhesion Cell Segmentation Based on Mathematical Morphology in the Preparation of Micro Nanowood Powder
Authors: Zhao Lei , Wang Jianhua
Published: January 2021

As a new type of environmental protection material, micro nanowood powder has a great relationship with mesh number and wood species, and the premise of wood property recognition is accurate extraction of cell parameters. Adhesion often exists in the cell images of coniferous wood,
and the right segmentation of adhesion cells constitutes the prerequisite to ensure the accuracy of the identification of species. In this paper, we have put forward a method based on mathematical morphology for the segmentation of adherent cells, and we have compared the method with that
of parallel cells and series cells respectively. As shown by the experimental results, the method proposed in this study proves to be effective for two ordinary adherent cells thanks to its optimal stability and robustness.
Nanocomposite Detection of Elemental Impurities and Process Correlation Analysis of Ceftriaxone Sodium for Injection
Authors: Zhu Li , Chong Xiaomeng , Zhao Yu , Xu Mingzhe , Yin Lihui
Published: January 2021

An inductively coupled plasma spectroscopy method was established to detect 29 elemental impurities in ceftriaxone sodium for injection by nanocomposite, and also used to detect the elemental impurities in the generic, domestic original and foreign original ceftriaxone sodium for injection.
This paper for the first time analysed the possible sources of elemental impurities and their potential impacts on the drug quality based on the process. The results showed that zinc and potassium were detected in both the generic drug and the domestic original ceftriaxone sodium for injection,
and zinc was not detected but potassium was detected in the foreign original drug; the content of zinc in the generic drug was significantly higher than that in the domestic original drug, and the content of potassium in generic drug and domestic original drug was higher than that in the foreign
original drug, according to the process, the elemental impurities may come from the activated carbon or nanocarriers used in the process, and further stability analysis of the samples showed that the stability of the generic drug was slightly lower than that of the original drug, so it was
speculated that impurity elements might also be one of the reasons for its instability.
Evolution of Idealized Vortices in Monsoon-Like Shears: Application to Monsoon Depressions
Authors: Diaz Michael , Boos William R.
Published: January 2021

This study examines processes fundamental to the development of South Asian monsoon depressions using an array of integrations of an idealized convection-permitting numerical model. In each integration, a wave of initially small amplitude is subjected to a different amount of vertical and meridional wind shear, with temperature and moisture fields constructed according to realistic constraints. Based on the evolution of this disturbance into monsoon depression–like vortices, two features of the background environment emerge as important: the low-level gradient of moist static energy (MSE) and the low-level meridional shear. As the low-level MSE gradient steepens, the disturbance becomes stronger and produces more rain. This strengthening results from the interaction of the vortex with latent heat release by convection that is in turn organized by positive MSE advection in the northerly flow west of the vortex. In this region of advection, moister air from the north ascends along upward-sloping isentropes, driving moist convection. The disturbance also becomes stronger with increasing meridional shear, which makes the environment more barotropically unstable. The absence of either of these two features of the background environment prevents substantial growth of the disturbance. Our results suggest that monsoon depression growth in South Asia is fostered by the coexistence of a strong low-level MSE gradient with strong meridional wind shear associated with the monsoon trough.
Prediction of Arctic Temperature and Sea Ice Using a High-Resolution Coupled Model
Authors: Chang Le , Luo Jing-Jia , Xue Jiaqing , Xu Haiming , Dunstone Nick
Published: January 2021

Under global warming, surface air temperature has risen rapidly and sea ice has decreased markedly in the Arctic. These drastic climate changes have brought about various severe impacts on the vulnerable environment and ecosystem there. Thus, accurate prediction of Arctic climate becomes more important than before. Here we examine the seasonal to interannual predictive skills of 2-m air temperature (2-m T) and sea ice cover (SIC) over the Arctic region (70°–90°N) during 1980–2014 with a high-resolution global coupled model called the Met Office Decadal Prediction System, version 3 (DePreSys3). The model captures well both the climatology and interannual variability of the Arctic 2-m T and SIC. Moreover, the anomaly correlation coefficient of Arctic-averaged 2-m T and SIC shows statistically significant skills at lead times up to 16 months. This is mainly due to the contribution of strong decadal trends. In addition, it is found that the peak warming trend of Arctic 2-m T lags the maximum decrease trend of SIC by 1 month, in association with the heat flux forcing from the ocean surface to lower atmosphere. While the predictive skill is generally much lower for the detrended variations, we find a close relationship between the tropical Pacific El Niño–Southern Oscillation and the Arctic detrended 2-m T anomalies. This indicates potential seasonal to interannual predictability of the Arctic natural variations.
The Impact of Under-triage on Trauma Outcomes in Older Populations ≥65 Years
Authors: Knotts Chelsea M. , Modarresi Milad , Samanta Damayanti , Richmond Bryan K.
Published: January 2021

Background

Undertriage of older trauma patients is implicated as a cause for outcome disparities. Undertriage is defined by an Injury Severity Score (ISS) ≥16 without full trauma activation. We hypothesized that in patients ≥65 years, undertriage is associated with unfavorable discharge.

Methods

This is a retrospective study of patients ≥65 years admitted at a Level 1 Trauma Center between July 2016 and June 2018 with blunt trauma. The Matrix method was used to determine the undertriage rate, and outcomes were compared between undertriaged and fully activated patients with ISS ≥16. Favorable outcomes in undertriaged patients instigated further analyses to determine factors that predicted unfavorable discharge condition, defined by discharge from the hospital with severe disability, persistent vegetative state, and in-hospital death.

Results

The undertriage rate was 7.9%. When compared to fully activated patients with ISS ≥16, a lower percentage of undertriaged patients were discharged in an unfavorable condition (16.6% vs 64.7%, P < .001). On the multivariate analysis, male sex (OR = 1.52), preexisting coronary artery disease (OR = 1.86), age >90 years (OR = 2.31), ISS 16-25 (OR = 3.50), Glasgow Coma Score (GCS) ≤14 (OR = 6.34), and ISS >25 (OR = 9.64) were significant independent risk factors for unfavorable discharge.

Discussion

The undertriage rate in patients ≥65 years was higher than the accepted standard (5%). However, undertriaged patients had better outcomes than those fully activated with ISS ≥16. Factors more predictive of unfavorable discharge condition were GCS ≤14 and ISS >25. These data suggest that ISS alone is a poor marker for assessing undertriage in older patients. Additional parameters established in this study should be considered as potential markers for better predicting outcomes in older trauma patients.
The Role of Preoperative Anemia in Predicting Short-Term Morbidity and Mortality After Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass
Authors: Wise Eric S. , Beckman Tiffany R. , Amateau Stuart K. , Ikramuddin Sayeed , Leslie Daniel B.
Published: January 2021

Background

Preoperative anemia has been suggested as a contraindication to gastric bypass. Using the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement database, this study sought to determine the role of preoperative hematocrit on 30-day morbidity and mortality after laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass for weight loss.

Methods

A cohort of 31 981 patients was reviewed for factors associated with a composite primary end point including 30-day reoperation, readmission, reintervention, or mortality, including degree of anemia. Analyzed separately by gender, factors significant on bivariate analysis were included in nominal logistic multivariate analysis to assess for independent significance of the hematocrit level as a risk factor for the primary end point.

Results

Upon multivariate analysis, the hematocrit level was significantly associated with the 30-day end point in the male cohort ( P = .05), specifically, severe anemia (hematocrit <35%) conferred an increased risk relative to a normal hematocrit (odds ratio 1.5, P = .03). There was no association of hematocrit with the 30-day end point in the female cohort.

Conclusion

Bariatricians should carefully consider the appropriateness of a gastric bypass over a less anemogenic procedure such as sleeve gastrectomy in patients, particularly men with preoperative anemia.
Early Chemoprophylaxis Against Venous Thromboembolism in Patients With Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Rivas Lisbi , Vella Michael , Ju Tammy , Fernandez-Moure Joseph S. , Sparks Andrew , Seamon Mark J. , Sarani Babak
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Timing to start of chemoprophylaxis for venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains controversial. We hypothesize that early administration is not associated with increased intracranial hemorrhage.

Methods

A retrospective study of adult patients with TBI following blunt injury was performed. Patients with penetrating brain injury, any moderate/severe organ injury other than the brain, need for craniotomy/craniectomy, death within 24 hours of admission, or progression of bleed on 6 hour follow-up head computed tomography scan were excluded. Patients were divided into early (≤24 hours) and late (>24 hours) cohorts based on time to initiation of chemoprophylaxis. Progression of bleed was the primary outcome.

Results

264 patients were enrolled, 40% of whom were in the early cohort. The average time to VTE prophylaxis initiation was 17 hours and 47 hours in the early and late groups, respectively ( P < .0001). There was no difference in progression of bleed (5.6% vs. 7%, P = .67), craniectomy/-craniotomy rate (1.9% vs. 2.5%, P = .81), or VTE rate (0% vs. 2.5%, P = .1).

Conclusion

Early chemoprophylaxis is not associated with progression of hemorrhage or need for neurosurgical intervention in patients with TBI and a stable head CT 7 hours following injury.
Vocal Fold Motion Impairment Following Chemotherapy Administration: Case Reports and Review of the Literature
Authors: Talmor Guy , Nguyen Brandon , Geller Melin Tan , Hsu Jeffrey , Kaye Rachel , Caloway Christen
Published: January 2021

Objective:

Chemotherapy-induced vocal fold motion impairment (CIVFMI) is a rare complication of cancer therapy with potential for airway compromise. The objective of this review is to present 2 new cases of CIVFMI to add to the literature as well as characterize the demographics, symptoms, exam findings, airway complication rates and prognosis of CIVFMI.

Methods:

A search of Pubmed/MEDLINE (1970 to May 1, 2020), Embase (1970 to May 1, 2020), and Cochrane Library using medical study heading (MeSH) terms related to chemotherapy ( drug therapy, chemotherapy, vincristine, vinblastine, paclitaxel) and vocal cord motion impairment ( vocal cord, cords, vocal folds, immobility, hypomobility) was performed. Exploratory pooling of data without formal meta-analysis was performed.

Results:

A preliminary search yielded 148 abstracts, review articles and studies. A total of 23 studies met inclusion criteria. There were 35 total cases presented in the literature, with a mean age of 29.5 (0.4-78). The most common cancer diagnosis was acute lymphoblastic leukemia (n = 15, 42.9%), and the most common agent was vincristine (n = 30, 85.7%). Dysphagia, bilateral CIVFMI, and vocal fold immobility rather than hypomobility were more common in pediatric patients. There were 8 cases of surgical airway intervention, including tracheostomy and posterior cordotomy. The duration of symptoms was 7 to 420 days, and spontaneous resolution was reported in 32 cases.

Conclusions:

CIVFMI has potential for airway complications requiring surgical intervention. Spontaneous resolution after cessation of the offending agent is the most likely outcome. Bilateral CIVFMI, dysphagia and vocal fold immobility are more common in the pediatric population.
Guaranteed cost synchronization for second-order discrete-time multi-node networks with switching transmission topologies and cost limitations
Authors: Yin Xinli , Tian Luogeng , Yang Bailong , Wang Zhong , Yang Kunyu
Published: January 2021

The guaranteed cost synchronization control for discrete-time second-order leader-following multi-node networks with varying transmission topologies and cost limitations is investigated. First, the control law and its cost function are proposed to balance the tradeoff between the synchronization regulation and the control cost. Then, we derive the sufficient conditions without cost limitations to achieve guaranteed cost synchronization with varying transmission topologies, where the dimensions of matrix variables do not rely on the number of nodes. In addition, we calculate an upper bound on the cost consumption index, which is a function of the initial conditions. Moreover, guaranteed cost synchronization criteria are formulated for control with cost limitations, which are involved by establishing the relation between the cost limitation and the upper bound on the cost consumption index. Numerical simulation experiments were conducted to validate the theoretical results.
The Relationship Between Values and Academic Major in a Sampled Chinese University Students in Hong Kong
Authors: Wong Shui-wai
Published: January 2021

This study investigates the relationship between values and academic major in university students in Hong Kong. The study used a survey based on a convenience sample of 645 university students in Hong Kong who responded to a questionnaire comprising Schwartz’s Values Survey and Super’s Work Values Inventory. Comparison between several majors of study and their counterparts reveals that business, as well as humanities and art, students demonstrated general and work values in accordance with the literature. This gains partial support to the claim that there is a close connection between values and choice of academic majors.