bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Copy number gain of CMTM6 increases the expression of PD-L1 in undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma
Authors: Ishihara Shin , Iwasaki Takeshi , Kohashi Kenichi , Yamada Yuichi , Toda Yu , Ito Yoshihiro , Susuki Yousuke , Kawaguchi Kengo , Takamatsu Dai , Kawatoko Shinichiro , Kiyozawa Daisuke , Mori Taro , Kinoshita Izumi , Yamamoto Hidetaka , Fujiwara Toshifumi , Setsu Nokitaka , Endo Makoto , Matsumoto Yoshihiro , Nakashima Yasuharu , Oda Yoshinao
Published: February 2021

Background
Undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS) is a sarcoma with a poor prognosis. A clinical trial, SARC028, revealed that treatment with anti-PD-1 drugs was effective against UPS. Studies have reported that UPS expresses PD-L1, sometime strongly (≥ 50%). However, the mechanism of PD-L1 expression in UPS has remained still unclear. CKLF-like MARVEL transmembrane domain containing 6 (CMTM6) was identified as a novel regulator of PD-L1 expression. The positive relationship between PD-L1 and CMTM6 has been reported in several studies. The aim of this study was to examine CMTM6 expression in UPS and evaluate the relationship between PD-L1 and CMTM6.
Materials and methods
Fifty-one primary UPS samples were subjected to CMTM6 and PD-L1 immunostaining. CMTM6 expression was assessed using proportion and intensity scores. CMTM6 gene copy number was also evaluated using a real-time PCR-based copy number assay. We also analyzed the mRNA expression and copy number variation of PD-L1 and CMTM6 in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data.
Results
TCGA data indicated that the mRNAs encoded by genes located around 3p22 were coexpressed with CMTM6 mRNA in UPS. Both proportion and intensity scores of CMTM6 positively correlated with strong PD-L1 expression (≥ 50%) (both p = 0.023). CMTM6 copy number gain increased CMTM6 expression. Patients with UPS with a high CMTM6 intensity score had worse prognosis for overall survival.
Conclusions
CMTM6 expression was significantly correlated with PD-L1 expression. CMTM6 expression induced strong PD-L1 expression (≥ 50%). CMTM6 copy number gain promoted CMTM6 expression and increased PD-L1 expression in UPS.
Structural and magnetic properties of Sb3+ ions doped Ni-Ba-Co ferrite prepared by sol-gel method
Authors: Zhang Yanchun , Sun Aimin , Shao Liqiong , Suonan Zhaxi
Published: February 2021

In the present work, nanocrystalline Sb3+ ions doped Ni0.2Ba0.1Co0.7Fe2−xSbxO4 (0 ≦ x ≦ 0.1, step by 0.025) ferrites were prepared via sol-gel method. The spinel-phase structure of samples can be confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns. The composition and structure were further studied by fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). There were two typical characteristic bands ν1 and ν2 related to the stretching vibrations in spinel ferrite in FTIR spectra. Energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) analyzed the elements of samples. It indicated that the elements of Ni, Ba, Co, Fe, O and Sb existed in the samples. Vibrating sample magnetometer was used to characterize magnetic properties. The saturation magnetization decreased from 57.65 emu/g to 44.50 emu/g with the increasing Sb3+ ions content, which is attributed to Fe3+ ions replaced by the Sb3+ ions. Remanent magnetization and coercivity first decreased and then increased slightly.
A Global Non-Invasive Methodology for the Phenotyping of Potato Under Water Deficit Conditions using Imaging, Physiological and Molecular Tools
Authors: Musse Maja , Hajjar Ghina , Ali Nusrat , Billiot Bastien , Joly Gisèle , Pépin Jérémy , Quellec Stéphane , Challois Sylvain , Mariette François , Cambert Mireille , Fontaine Clément , Ngo-Dinh Charlotte , Jamois Frank , Barbary Arnauld , Leconte Patrick , Deleu Carole , Leport Laurent
Published: February 2021

Background: Drought is a major consequence of global heating that has negative impacts on agriculture. Potato is a drought-sensitive crop; tuber growth and dry matter content may both be impacted. Moreover, water deficit can induce physiological disorders such as glassy tubers and internal rust spots. The response of potato plants to drought is complex and can be affected by cultivar type, climatic and soil conditions, and the point at which water stress occurs during growth. The characterization of adaptive responses in plants presents a major phenotyping challenge. There is therefore a demand for the development of non-invasive analytical techniques to improve phenotyping.Results: This project aimed to take advantage of innovative approaches in MRI, phenotyping and molecular biology to evaluate the effects of water stress on potato plants during growth. Plants were cultivated in pots under different water conditions. A control group of plants were cultivated under optimal water uptake conditions. Other groups were cultivated under mild and severe water deficiency conditions (40 and 20% of field capacity, respectively) applied at different tuber growth phases (initiation, filling). Water stress was evaluated by monitoring soil water potential. Two fully-equipped imaging cabinets were set up to characterize plant morphology using high definition color cameras (top and side views) and to measure plant stress using RGB cameras. The response of potato plants to water stress depended on the intensity and duration of the stress. Three-dimensional morphological images of the underground organs of potato plants in pots were recorded using a 1.5 T MRI scanner. A significant difference in growth kinetics was observed at the early growth stages between the control and stressed plants. Quantitative PCR analysis was carried out at molecular level on the expression patterns of selected drought-responsive genes. Variations in stress levels were seen to modulate ABA and drought-responsive ABA-dependent and ABA-independent genes.Conclusions: This methodology, when applied to the phenotyping of potato under water deficit conditions, provides a quantitative analysis of leaves and tubers properties at microstructural and molecular levels. The approaches thus developed could therefore be effective in the multi-scale characterization of plant response to water stress, from organ development to gene expression.
Comparison of Endoscopic Injection of Botulinum Toxin and Steriods Immediately after Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection to Prevent Esophageal Stricture: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Zhou Xiaoying , Chen Han , Chen Meihong , Ding Chao , Zhang Guoxin , Si Xinmin
Published: February 2021

Background: Widespread endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) in early esophageal cancer patients is closely associated with esophageal stricture, which dramatically reduces patients’ quality of life and increases huge medical burdens. Endoscopic injection of steroid was proved as a protective method for post-ESD strictures. Other materials such as botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) may be potential candidates. We conducted this prospective cohort study to compare the efficacy and feasibility of endoscopic injection of BTX-A and triamcinolone acetonide (TA) for the prevention of esophageal stricture.Methods: Seventy-eight patients with esophageal mucosal defects of more than two thirds of the circumference were successively enrolled and divided into 3 groups: BTX-A group (group A, n=26), TA group (group B, n=16) and control group (group C, n=36). Patients in group A were immediately injected with BTX-A after ESD, in group B were immediately injected with TA and in group C received ESD only. Endoscopy was performed when patients reported dysphagia symptoms and at 6 and 12 weeks post-ESD in patients without symptoms. Patients who experienced post-ESD esophageal strictures in all groups received bougie dilation. All patients were followed up for one year.Results: The proportion of patients developing stricture in BTX-A group was 30.00% (intention to treat analysis, 9/30) and 26.92% (per protocol analysis, 7/26), in TA group was 40.90% (intention to treat analysis, 9/22) and 43.75% (per protocol analysis, 7/16), and in control group was 84.21% (intention to treat analysis, 32/38) and 83.33% (per protocol analysis, 30/36) (p<0.001). When further comparing between each of the two groups, the incidence of esophageal stricture was lower in BTX-A group than that in control group (p<0.001), and lower in TA group than that in control group (p=0.004). Furthermore, in entire circumference mucosal defect subgroup, the esophageal stricture was significantly lower in BTX-A group than that in TA group (33.3% vs 100%, p=0.0454).Conclusions: Endoscopic injection of BTX-A and TA were effective in preventing post-ESD esophageal strictures and BTX-A injection was particularly effective in entire circumference mucosal defect patients. Multi-centered, randomized prospective study with larger sample size should be conducted. (Clinical trial registration number: ChiCTR2100042970, registered 1 February 2021, retrospectively registered, http://www.chictr.org.cn/listbycreater.aspx)
In-Depth Genomic Characterization of Programmed Cell Death Ligand 1 (PD-L1) Expression in Chinese Lung Adenocarcinoma Patients
Authors: Li Kang , Liu Jun , Wu Lin , Xiao Yajie , Li Jia , Du Haijian , Zhao Zhikun , Li Xiaoting , Wu Dongfang , Zhao Zhuxiang , Chen Bolin
Published: February 2021

Background: Immune checkpoint blockades have revolutionized anticancer treatments for lung cancers, and PD-L1 expression has been served as crucial predictive biomarkers for immunotherapies. However, PD-L1 expression has been found to be influenced by some extrinsic or intrinsic factors in vitro or to be associated with other biomarkers in vivo. Methods: A amount of tumor tissues was taken from a biopsy or surgery for PD-L1 expression assay and genomic profiling in Chinese lung adenocarcinoma patients. In-depth retrospective analyses of clinical features, gene alternations, singling pathways and immune signatures was conducted in negative group (TPS < 1%), intermediate group (1% ≤ TPS < 50%), and high group (TPS ≥ 50%). Clinical responses to selected mutation were also evaluated from public database such as TCGA and MSKCC.Results: A total of 248 Chinese patients with lung adenocarcinoma was retrospectively identified and included in this study, consisting of negative group (n=124, 50%), intermediate group (n=93, 38%), and high group (n=38, 12%). High tumor mutation burden was significantly as associated with high PD-L1 expression. In addition, PD-L1 expression was highly related with gene alternations such as PRKDC, KMT2D, ERBB2 and SETD2. Moreover, signaling pathways of DDR, TP53, cell cycles and NOTCH also obviously related with PD-L1 expression. Besides, most of patients in high PD-L1 group were determined as high-grade immune subtypes (C2-C4), showing significant higher levels of IFN-gamma, CD8+ T-cells, NK cells, NK CD56 dim cells, Th1 cells, Th2 cells (P < 0.0001). Moreover, the prognostic value of SETD2 mutation was slight positive with overall survival from MSKCC cohort (HR 1.92 [95%CI 0.90-4.10], P =0.085), and the percentage of IFN-gamma was significantly higher in SETD2 mutant group than in wild-type subgroup (P < 0.01).Conclusions: This study illustrated in-depth genomic profiles and immune signatures of PD-L1 expression in Chinese lung adenocarcinoma patients, which might interpret more potential molecular mechanisms for anti-cancer immunotherapy in NSCLC.
PANICLE APICAL ABORTION 3 Controls Panicle Development and Seed Size in Rice
Authors: Yang Fayu , Xiong Mao , Huang Mingjiang , Li Zhongcheng , Wang Ziyi , Zhu Honghui , Chen Rui , Lu Lu , Cheng Qinglan , Wang Yan , Tang Jun , Zhuang Hui , Li Yunfeng
Published: February 2021

Background
In rice, panicle apical abortion is a common phenomenon that usually results in a decreased number of branches and grains per panicle, and consequently a reduced grain yield. A better understanding of the molecular mechanism of panicle abortion is thus critical for maintaining and increasing rice production.
Results
We reported a new rice mutant panicle apical abortion 3 (paa3), which exhibited severe abortion of spikelet development on the upper part of the branches as well as decreased grain size over the whole panicle. Using mapping-based clone, the PAA3 was characterized as the LOC_ Os04g56160 gene, encoding an H+-ATPase. The PAA3 was expressed highly in the stem and panicle, and its protein was localized in the cytoplasm. Our data further showed that PAA3 played an important role in maintaining normal panicle development by participating in the removal of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in rice.
Conclusions
Our studies suggested that PAA3 might function to remove ROS, the accumulation of which leads to programmed cell death, and ultimately panicle apical abortion and decreased seed size in the paa3 panicle.
Identification of saponins detoxification genes in I. mors-panacis G3B inducing root rot of Panax notoginseng by RNA-Seq
Authors: Zeng Guohong , Li Jin , Ma Yuxiu , Pu Qian , Xiao Tian , Yang Ruihuan , Hu Xiufang
Published: February 2021

Saponins are kinds of antifungal compounds produced by P. notoginseng to resist invasion by pathogens. I. mors-panacis G3B was the dominant pathogen inducing root rot of P. notoginseng, and the abilities to detoxify saponins were the key to infect P. notoginseng successfully. To research the molecular mechanisms of detoxifying saponins in I. mors-panacis G3B, we used high-throughput RNA-Seq to identify 557 and 1519 differential expression genes (DEGs) in I. mors-panacis G3B with saponins treatments for 4 H and 12 H compared with no saponins treatments, respectively. Among these DEGs, we found 93 genes which were simultaneously highly expressed in I. mors-panacis G3B with saponins treatments for 4 H and 12 H, they mainly belong to genes encoding transporters, glycoside hydrolases, oxidation-reduction enzymes, transcription factors and so on. In addition, there were 21 putative PHI (Pathogen-Host Interaction) genes out of those 93 up-regulated genes. In this report, we identified virulence associated genes in I. mors-panacis G3B which may be related to detoxifying saponins to infect P. notoginseng successfully. They provided an excellent starting point for in-depth study on pathogenicity of I. mors-panacis G3B and developed appropriate root rot disease management strategies in the future.
DFT study of the fouling deposition process in the steam generator by simulating the absorption of Fe2+ on Fe3O4 (001) 
Authors: Pan Sanchuan , Lu Ren , Xu Jian , Shoji Tetsuo , Li Ningning , Zhang Tong , Yu Hongying , Sun Dongbai
Published: February 2021

In this paper, the interaction between free Fe2+ and Fe3O4 corrosion products on the pipe surface in the secondary circuit of PWR nuclear power plant was studied, and the reason of agglomeration formation was analyzed. The complex physical and chemical interaction was simplified by describing the electron interaction. Based on the first principles, CASTEP was used to simulate seven kinds of highly symmetric adsorption structure models of Fetet1 and Feoct1 on Fe3O4 (001) surface, and their adsorption energies and stable adsorption conformations were calculated. The results show that the most stable adsorption structures of the Fe2+/Fe3O4 (001) configurations are Feoct1-b and Fetet1-Oh. During the adsorption, the Fe-Fe, Fe-O bond length and Fe-Fe-O bond angle of (001) surface changed, and the atomic positions parallel and perpendicular to (001) surface changed correspondingly, the surface layer changes the most. The results prove that the adsorption has great effect on the physical structure of Fe2+ and Fe3O4 (001). The calculation of charge population, the density of states and electron local function of Fe2+/Fe3O4 (001) optimal adsorption configuration also shows that there is electron transfer between Fe2+ and Fe3O4 (001), and the adsorption type is chemisorption. Among them, Fe (Fe2+)-Fe (Fe3O4) forms a metal bond, and Fe (Fe2+)-O (Fe3O4) forms the ionic bond.
Structural, Chemical and Low Temperature Magnetic Properties of Lead Free 0.6NiFe2O4 - 0.4Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3 Magnetoelectric Composite
Authors: Kumar G Jegadish , Sarathbavan M , Kumar E Senthil , Navaneethan M , Bharathi K Kamala
Published: February 2021

We report on structural, chemical and low temperature magnetic properties of lead free 0.6NiFe2O4 - 0.4Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3 composite. NiFe2O4 (NFO) and Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3 (NBTO) are seen to crystallize in inverse spinel and perovskite structure respectively. 0.6NiFe2O4 - 0.4Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3 composite exhibits both NFO and NBTO phases in appropriate composition. Zero field cooled (ZFC) and field cooled (FC) magnetization measurements carried out from 15 K to 300 K shows a large bifurcation at room temperature. ZFC and FC magnetization measurement exhibit a hump at Tm ⁓ 259.5 K, indicates the possible existence of competing magnetic interactions in 0.6NiFe2O4 - 0.4Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3 composite. Saturation magnetization, remanent magnetization and coercivity values are observed to increase with decreasing the temperature. Temperature dependent saturation magnetization is fit to the Bloch’s law. Magnetocrystalline anisotropy (K1) value at various temperatures are estimated and is seen to increase from 0.23 x104 erg/cc (at 300 K) to 0.34 x104 erg/cc (at 15 K).
Ultrapotent SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibodies effectively block new-emerging mutational variants
Authors: Jin Aishun , Li Tingting , Wang Yingming , Han Xiaojian , Gu Chenjian , Guo Hangtian , Wang Kai , Liu Fengjiang , Luo Feiyang , Hu Jie , Hu Chao , Li Shenglong , Hao Yanan , Huang Jingjing , Long Yingyi , Song Shuyi , Wang Wang , Shen Meiying , Wu Ruixin , Mu Song , Chen Qian , Gao Fengxia , Wang Jianwei , Long Shunhua , Li Luo , Wu Yang , Gao Yan , Xu Wei , Cai Xia , Qu Di , Gao Qingzhu , Zhang Guiji , He Changlong , Wang Wei , Ji Xiaoyun , Tang Ni , Yuan Zhenghong , Xie Youhua , Yang Haitao , Huang Ai-Long
Published: February 2021

Accumulating mutations on SARS-CoV-2 Spike (S) protein may increase the possibility of immune escape, challenging the present COVID-19 prophylaxis and clinical interventions. Here, in a panel of receptor binding domain (S-RBD) specific monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) with high neutralizing potency against authentic SARS-CoV-2, at least 6 of them were found to efficiently block the pseudovirus of 501Y.V2, a highly transmissible SARS-CoV-2 variant with escape mutations. The top 3 neutralizing Abs (13G9, 58G6 and 510A5) exhibited comparative ultrapotency as those being actively pursued for clinical development. Interestingly, the antigenic sites for the majority of our neutralizing Abs overlapped with a single epitope (13G9e) on S-RBD. Further, the 3-dimensional structures of 2 ultrapotent neutralizing Abs 13G9 or 58G6 in complex with SARS-CoV-2 S trimer demonstrated that both Abs bound to a steric region within S472–490. Moreover, a specific linear region (S450–457) was identified as an additional target for 58G6. Importantly, our cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) analysis revealed a unique phenomenon that the S-RBDs interacting with the fragments of antigen binding (Fabs) of 13G9 or 58G6 encoded by the IGHV1-58 and the IGKV3-20 gene segments were universally in the ‘up’ conformation in all observed particles. The potent neutralizing Abs presented in the current study may be promising candidates to fulfill the urgent needs for the current pandemic of SARS-CoV-2, and may of fundamental value for the next-generation vaccine development.
Use of Extracorporeal Life Support for Heart Transplantation: Key Factors to Improve Outcome
Authors: Lee Jun Ho , Park Ilkun , Kim Joo Yeon , Sung Kiick , Kim Wook Sung , Kim Darae , Yang Jeong Hoon , Jeon Eun-Seok , Choi Jin-Oh , Cho Yang Hyun
Published: February 2021

Although patients receiving extracorporeal life support (ECLS) as a bridge to transplantation have demonstrated worse outcomes than those without ECLS, we investigated the key factors in the improvement of their posttransplant outcome. From December 2003 to December 2018, 257 adult patients who underwent heart transplantation (HTx) at our institution were included. We identified 100 patients (38.9%) who underwent HTx during ECLS (ECLS group). The primary outcome was 1-year mortality after HTx. The median duration of ECLS was 10.0 days. A central type of ECLS was used in 35.0% of patients in the ECLS group. The 1-year mortality rate was 12.8%, with no significant difference between the ECLS and non-ECLS groups (16.0% versus 10.8%, p = 0.227). Multivariable analysis indicated that the use of ECLS was not a predictor of 1-year mortality (p = 0.140). Independent predictors of 1-year mortality were found to be cardiopulmonary resuscitation before HTx (p = 0.002) and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score (p < 0.001). A SOFA score greater than 10 was suggested the a cutoff value for 1-year survival. Early ECLS application, sophisticated ECLS and intensive care, and liberal use of central cannulation may be important steps in achieving favorable survival after HTx.
A Novel Design of All-optical Full-adder Using Nonlinear X-shaped Photonic Crystal Resonators
Authors: Naghizade Saleh , Saghaei Hamed
Published: February 2021

This paper proposes a new all-optical full-adder design based on nonlinear X-shaped photonic crystal (PhC) resonators. The PhC-based full-adder consists of three input ports, two X-shaped PhC resonators (X-PCRs), and two output ports. The dielectric rods made of silicon and nonlinear rods composed of doped glass are used to design the X-PCRs. Two well-known plane wave expansion and finite difference time domain methods are applied to study and analyze the photonic band structure and light propagation inside the PhC, respectively. Our numerical results demonstrate when the incoming light intensity increases, the nonlinear Kerr effect appears and manages the direction of light propagation inside the structure. The maximum time delay and footprint of the proposed full-adder are about 2.5ps and 663 μm2, making it an appropriate adder for high-speed data processing systems.
Manufacturing of a 3d Finned Tube for Enhanced Boiling and Condensation Using Rolling-cutting-extruding Composite Forming
Authors: Huang Xiaofang , Chen Hanping , Wan Zhen-ping , Lu Longsheng , Zhu Hongguan , Tang Yong
Published: February 2021

3D finned tube is a high efficient enhanced heat transfer element and its manufacturing has always been the focus of research’s attention. It is a challenging job to manufacture a 3D finned tube that can enhance both boiling and condensation because the enhanced boiling structure is completely different from the enhanced condensation structure due to different heat transfer enhancement mechanisms. An innovative rolling-cutting-extruding composite forming method is developed to realize the manufacture of a staggered stepped lattice finned tube (SLFT) with helical fins, two layers of staggered stepped lattice fins and inner helical threads, which can enhance boiling as well as condensation heat transfer. The three skewed rolling-cutting tools specially designed are uniformly distributed around the base tube and the kinematics conditions of rolling-cutting-extruding process is analyzed. The relative plunge depth of a rolling blade can’t exceed a certain limit value and the feeding angle has to be equal to the helix angle of outer helical fin. According to the kinematic conditions, the parameters of the rolling-cutting tool are selected and processing experiments of the SLFT are conducted.
Phase structures, loss, storage, damping, voice-absorption, and mechanical properties: NCB/BWZT/RTV
Authors: wang juanjuan , Jiao Hua , Deng Qijiu , Feng Yaning , Yang Yule
Published: February 2021

The objective of this work is to characterize the effect of NCB(Nano-carbon black)on the comprehensive performances and micro, chemical and phase structures of NCB/BWZT/RTV composite [BWZT is Ba (W1/2Cu1/2)O3-Pb0.98Sr0.02 (Mg1/3Nb2/3) 0.275(Ni1/3 Nb2/3)0.10(Zr0.25Ti0.375) O3 and, RTV is Room Temperature Vulcanizing silicone rubber.]. Composites with damping-absorption performances and storage-loss behaviors based on RTV, BWZT and, NCB as conductive agent were fabricated employing three steps methods of ball-milling, three-roller milling and pressing. The effects of NCB and its amount on storage, loss and damping properties were investigated by the method of DMTA and, absorption and mechanical performances are measured by the methods of standing wave tube and TG separately. The micro, chemical and phase structures of composites are characterized by SEM, XRD and IR. The results indicated that both doping of NCB and the combination of BWZT and RTV can be proposed to improve greatly the comprehensive performance of RTV matrixes and, there would be more excellent comprehensive properties in NCB/BWZT/RTV composites with amount of 4 wt. %.-6wt. % for NCB as d33 of 81 pC/N, storage modulus of 25003MPa, loss modulus of 398MPa, damping coefficient of 0.07–0.12, and absorption coefficients of 0.45–0.55 with the difference of frequency in the range of 400-1600Hz. Also, the lattice growth of BWZT is found showing strong dependences on the contents of NCB and, the absorption and damping performance of composites on frequency and temperature separately.
Cancer-related psychosocial factors and self-reported changes in lifestyle among gynecological cancer survivors: cross sectional analysis of PROFILES registry data
Authors: Driessen Karin A. J. , de Rooij Belle H. , Vos M. Caroline , Boll Dorry , Pijnenborg Johanna M.A. , Hoedjes Meeke , Beijer Sandra , Ezendam Nicole PM
Published: February 2021

Purpose: Obesity is prevalent in gynecological cancer survivors and is associated with impaired health outcomes. Concerns due to cancer and its treatment may impact changes in lifestyle after cancer. This study aimed to assess the association between cancer-related psychosocial factors and changes in physical activity and diet, 18 months post-diagnosis among gynecological cancer survivors.Methods: Cross-sectional data from the ROGY care study were used, including endometrial and ovarian cancer patients treated with curative intent. The impact of cancer scale (IOCv2) was used to assess cancer-related psychosocial factors. Self-reported changes in nutrients/food groups and in physical activity post-diagnosis were classified into change groups (less/equal/more). Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess associations.Results: Data from 229 cancer survivors (59% endometrial, 41% ovarian, mean age 66 ±9.5,70% tumor stage I) were analyzed. In total, 20% reported to eat healthier from diagnosis up to 18 months post-diagnosis, 17%reported less physical activity and 20% more physical activity. Health awareness, body change concerns, life interferences and worry were significantly associated with less physical activity up to 18 months post-diagnosis whereby gastrointestinal symptoms were an important confounder.Conclusion(s): This study underlines the need to raise awareness of the benefits of a healthylifestyle and to provide tailored lifestyle advice, taking into account survivors’ health awareness, body change concerns, life interferences, worry and gastrointestinalsymptoms, in order to improve health behavior among gynecological cancer survivors.Trial Registration: clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01185626, August 20, 2010
Protocols for Isolating and Characterizing Polysaccharides From 1 Plant Cell Walls: A Case Study Using Rhamnogalacturonan-II
Authors: Urbanowicz Breeanna , Barnes William , Koj Sabina , Black Ian , Archer-Hartmann Stephanie , Azadi Parastoo , Pena Maria , O’Neill Malcolm
Published: February 2021

Background: In plants, there is a large diversity of polysaccharides that comprise the cell wall. Each major type of plant cell wall polysaccharide, including cellulose, hemicellulose, and pectin, has distinct structures and functions that contribute to wall mechanics and influence plant morphogenesis. In recent years, pectin modification and valorization has attracted much attention due to its expanding roles of pectin in biomass deconstruction, food science, material science, and environmental remediation. However, pectin utilization has been limited by our incomplete knowledge of pectin structure. Herein, we present a workflow of principles relevant for the characterization of polysaccharide primary structure using nature’s most complex polysaccharide, rhamnogalacturonan-II (RG-II), as a model.Results: We outline how to isolate RG-II from celery and duckweed cell wall material and red wine using chemical or enzymatic treatments coupled with size-exclusion chromatography. From there, we demonstrate the use of mass spectrometry (MS)-based techniques to determine the glycosyl residue and linkage compositions of the intact RG II molecule and RG-II-derived oligosaccharides including special considerations for labile monosaccharides. In doing so, we demonstrated that in the duckweed Wolffiella repanda the arabinopyranosyl (Arap) residue of side chain B is substituted at O-2 with rhamnose. As RG-II is further modified by non-glycosyl modifications including methyl-ethers, methyl-esters, and acetyl-esters, we then describe ways to use electrospray-MS to identify these moieties on RG-II-derived oligosaccharides. We then explored the utility of proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-NMR) in identifying RG-II-specific sugars and non-glycosyl modifications to complement and extend MS-based approaches. Finally, we describe how to assess the factors that affect RG-35 II dimerization using liquid chromatographic and NMR spectroscopic approaches.Conclusions: The complexity of pectic polysaccharide structures has hampered efforts aimed at their valorization. In this work, we used RG-II as a model to demonstrate the steps necessary to isolate and characterize polysaccharides using chromatographic, MS, and NMR techniques. The principles can be applied to the characterization of other saccharide structures and will help inform researchers on how saccharide structure relates to functional properties in the future.
Three-dimensional Numerical Investigation of the Interaction Between Twin Tunnels
Authors: Chortis Filippos , Kavvadas Michael
Published: February 2021

The construction of twin tunnels is an obligatory guideline and a prevailing practice in either conventional or mechanized tunneling. Nevertheless, most of the design methods for calculating the tunnel loads focus on single tunnels, thus, neglecting the potential interaction between neighboring tunnels. The effect of such interaction can be significant, especially for closely-spaced twin tunnels. In this context, this paper investigates via parametric 3D Finite Element (3D-FE) analyses the interaction between deep, parallel-twin, circular and non-circular tunnels excavated with a conventional (non-TBM) method and supported with shotcrete lining. The numerical investigation focuses on the axial forces acting on the primary support of the tunnels by examining the effect of a wide range of geometrical (pillar width, overburden height, tunnel diameter and section (shape), lagging distance), geotechnical (strength and deformability of the surrounding rockmass, horizontal stress ratio), structural (thickness and deformability of the shotcrete lining) and construction parameters (full- or partial- face excavation and support of the tunnels). The results of the analyses indicate that the construction of the subsequent tunnel influences the loads of the precedent. The stress state of the single tunnel is used as the reference for the quantification of the interaction effect. The output is presented in normalized design charts of the quantified interaction effect on the axial forces, versus key geomaterial and geometry parameters to facilitate preliminary estimations of primary support requirements for twin tunnels.
Synthesis and Characterizations of LaMnO3 Perovskite Powders Using Sol-Gel Method 
Authors: ÖZKAN Deniz ÇOBAN , Türk Ahmet , Celik Erdal
Published: February 2021

The present research demonstrates the synthesis and characterization of LaMnO3 perovskite powders using the sol-gel technique for dye-sensitive solar cell applications. With this respect, transparent solutions were prepared from La and Mn based precursors, distilled water and citric acid monohydrate. Ammonium hydroxide was incorporated into the La-Mn solution in order to neutralize/precipitate at 24oC for 1 hour in the air. The solution was allowed to evaporate on a hot plate device at 90 °C in the air. The obtained solutions were dried at 90 oC for 24 hours to form a xerogel structure, dried at 200 oC for 2 hours and consequently annealed at 500 and 850 oC for 2 hours in the air. Thermal, structural, microstructural, optical and magnetic properties of the powders were characterized through differential thermal analysis-thermogravimetry (DTA-TG), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Malvern zeta sizer (PSD), UV-vis spectrometer and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The obtained results indicate promise, especially the low band range, that LaMnO3 powders can be used in dye-sensitized solar cells and can positively affect performance and efficiency.
Analysis on the Interference Assembly of Camshaft With Knurled Tube and Cam
Authors: Huang Xiaoming , Sun Weitao , Liu Xiaoliang , Wang Yucan , Xing Jin , Bi Hailin , Wang Yuqian , You Wentao
Published: February 2021

Interference joint is one of the most advanced assembly methods for camshaft. In this paper, the mechanism of camshaft interference assembly is analyzed by thick-wall cylinder model. Joining/tortion experiments are done to estimate the joining force and connection strength. The relationship between the torque capacity, joining force and interference of the camshaft is established by the experiment results. Joining force linear increase with the interference, and torque exponential increase with it. The plastic deformation characteristics of knurled teeth on the tube during the joining process are obtained by metallographic observation. The results reveal the metal line changes continuously of the knurled tube. The knurled tooth tip turns over after joining. And elastic limit would be reached in the extrusion region.
Enzymatic Response of Ryegrass Cellulose and Hemicelluloses Valorization Introduced by Sequential Alkaline Extractions
Authors: Sun Shao-Fei , Yang Jing , Wang Da-Wei , Yang Hai-Yan , Sun Shao-Ni , Shi Zheng-Jun
Published: February 2021

Background
In view of the natural resistance of hemicelluloses in lignocellulosic biomass on bioconversion of cellulose into fermentable sugars, alkali extraction is considered as an effective method for gradually fractionating hemicelluloses and enhancing the bioconversion efficiency of cellulose. In the present study, sequential alkaline extractions were performed on the delignified ryegrass material to achieve high bioconversion efficiency of cellulose and comprehensively investigated the structural feature of hemicellulosic fractions for further application.
Results
Sequential alkaline extractions removed hemicelluloses from cellulose-rich substrates and degraded part of amorphous cellulose, reducing yields of cellulose-rich substrates from 73.0 to 27.7% and increasing crystallinity indexes of which from 31.7 to 41.0%. Alkaline extraction enhanced bioconversion of cellulose by removal of hemicelluloses and swelling of cellulose, increasing of enzymatic hydrolysis from 72.3 to 95.3%. In addition, alkaline extraction gradually fractionated hemicelluloses into six fractions, containing arabinoxylans as the main polysaccharides and part of β-glucans. Simultaneously, increasing of alkaline concentration degraded hemicellulosic polysaccharides, which resulted in a decreasing their molecular weights from 67510 to 50720 g/mol.
Conclusions
The present study demonstrated that sequential alkaline extraction conditions had a significant effects on the enzymatic hydrolysis efficiency of cellulose and the investigation of the physicochemical properties of hemicellulose. Overall, the investigation the enzymatic hydrolysis efficiency of cellulose-rich substrates and the structural features of hemicelluloses from ryegrass will provide useful information for the efficient utilization of cellulose and hemicelluloses in biorefineries.
Undulation of a moving fluid membrane pushed by filament growth
Authors: Noguchi Hiroshi , Pierre-Louis Olivier
Published: February 2021

Biomembranes experience out-of-equilibrium conditions in living cells. Their undulation spectra are different from those in thermal equilibrium. Here, we report on the undulation of a fluid membrane pushed by the stepwise growth of filaments as in the leading edge of migrating cells, using three-dimensional Monte Carlo simulations. The undulations are largely modified from equilibrium behavior. When the tension is constrained, the low-wave-number modes are suppressed or enhanced at small or large growth step sizes, respectively, for high membrane surface tensions. In contrast, they are always suppressed for the tensionless membrane , wherein the wave-number range of the suppression depends on the step size. When the membrane area is constrained, in addition to these features, a specific mode is excited for zero and low surface tensions. The reduction of the undulation first induces membrane buckling at the lowest wave-number, and subsequently, other modes are excited, leading to a steady state.
Modelling and analysis of surface topography generated in end milling process
Authors: zhou ruihu , Qilin Chen
Published: February 2021

The surface topography of workpiece plays an important role in the performance and service life of workpiece. Complex surface parts are widely used in shipbuilding, aerospace and other industries. At present, the study of milling surface topography is mainly on 3-axis milling. A prediction model of milling surface topography is proposed, which can obtain the machined workpiece surface topography and roughness directly from cutting parameters, cutter location file and workpiece surface geometry. The effects of cutting parameters on surface roughness is discussed. Different milling experimental conditions are set up to validate the proposed model. This method can be used to analyze the surface topography of milling, and further to optimize the cutting parameters to improve the surface quality.
The effect of salmon calcitonin against glutamate-induced cytotoxicity in the C6 cell line and the roles the inflammatory and nitric oxide pathways play
Authors: Taskiran Ahmet Sevki , Ergul Merve
Published: February 2021

Recent evidence has shown that salmon calcitonin (sCT) has positive effects on the nervous system. However, its effect and mechanisms on glutamate-induced cytotoxicity are still unclear. The current experiment was designed to examine the effect of sCT on glutamate-induced cytotoxicity in C6 cells, involving the inflammatory and nitric oxide stress pathways. The study used the C6 glioma cell line. Four cell groups were prepared to evaluate the effect of sCT on glutamate-induced cytotoxicity. The control group was without any treatment. Cells in the glutamate group were treated with 10 mM glutamate for 24 h. Cells in the sCT group were treated with various concentrations (3, 6, 12, 25, and 50 µg/mL) of sCT for 24 hours. Cells in the sCT + glutamate group were pre-treated with various concentrations of sCT for 1 hour and then exposed to glutamate for 24 hours. The cell viability was evaluated with an XTT assay. Nuclear factor kappa b (NF-kB), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), nitric oxide (NO), cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), caspase-3, and caspase-9 levels in the cells were measured by ELISA kits. Apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry method. sCT at all concentrations significantly improved the cell viability in C6 cells after glutamate-induced cytotoxicity (p < 0.001). Moreover, sCT significantly reduced the levels of NF-kB (p < 0.001), TNF-α, and IL-6 levels (p < 0.001). sCT also decreased nNOS, NO, and cGMP levels (P < 0.001). Furthermore, it decreased the apoptosis rate and increased the live-cell rate in the flow cytometry (P < 0.001). In conclusion, sCT has protective effects on glutamate-induced cytotoxicity in C6 glial cells by inhibiting inflammatory and nitric oxide pathways. sCT could be a useful supportive agent for people with neurodegenerative symptoms.
Effect of epidural labor analgesia on postpartum depression and maternal and infant outcomes in parturients with gestational diabetes mellitus---A prospective cohort study
Authors: Li Gehui , Qi Xiaofei , Tan Xuhong , Wu Mingguang , Wang Hao , Wang Xiaoguang , Sun Jing , Li Yong , Wen Ping , Huang Xiaolei , li Yuantao
Published: February 2021

BackgroundPostpartum depression (PPD) negatively affects the health of new mothers and can impair infant development. Both labor pain and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are potential risk factors for PPD. However, the effects of epidural labor analgesia in parturients with GDM on PPD and maternal and infant outcomes have not been characterized.MethodsParturients with GDM in our hospital were assigned to the epidural group (n = 133) and no epidural (control) group (n = 130) according to their choice to receive epidural labor analgesia. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was used to evaluate maternal mental status at 24 h and 42 days postpartum. Data for relative variables in the perinatal period were collected, and the potential associations of epidural analgesia with PPD and maternal and infant outcomes were analyzed by univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analyses.ResultsEpidural analgesia was a protective factor for PPD at 24 h postpartum (odds ratio [OR], 0.301, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.104–0.867, p < 0.05), and the EPDS score at 24 h post-delivery showed significant correlation with that at 42 days post-delivery (Pearson correlation coefficient = 0.527, p < 0.001). The rate of neonatal admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for hypoglycemia was higher in the epidural group (6.92%) than in the control group (1.50%; p < 0.05). Epidural analgesia and drug-based diabetes control were independent predictors of the rate of neonate transfer to the NICU for hypoglycemia.ConclusionEpidural analgesia was a protective factor for PPD at 24 h postpartum, but associated with an increased risk of neonatal transfer to the NICU for hypoglycemia. Thus, monitoring of neonatal blood glucose levels after administration of epidural analgesia in parturients with GDM may be beneficial.Clinical Trial Registrationthe study was registered in the China Clinical Registration Center (URL: http://www.chictr.org.cn/listbycreater.aspx, Registration No. ChiCTR-OOC-17013164)
The repurposed use of anesthesia machines to ventilate critically ill patients with Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
Authors: Bottiroli Maurizio , Calini Angelo , Pinciroli Riccardo , Mueller Ariel , Siragusa Antonio , Anelli Carlo , Urman Richard , Nozari Ala , Berra Lorenzo , Mondino Michele , Fumagalli Roberto
Published: February 2021

BackgroundThe surge of critically ill patients due to the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) overwhelmed critical care capacity in areas of northern Italy. Anesthesia machines have been used as alternatives to traditional ICU mechanical ventilators. However, the outcomes for patients with COVID-19 respiratory failure cared for with Anesthesia Machines is currently unknow. We hypothesized that COVID-19 patients receiving care with Anesthesia Machines would have worse outcomes compared to standard practice.MethodsWe designed a retrospective study of patients admitted with a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis at a large tertiary urban hospital in northern Italy. Two care units were included: a 27-bed standard ICU and a 15-bed temporary unit emergently opened in an operating room setting. Intubated patients assigned to Anesthesia Machines (AM group) were compared to a control cohort treated with standard mechanical ventilators (ICU-VENT group). Outcomes were assessed at 60-day follow-up. A multivariable Cox regression analysis of risk factors between survivors and non-survivors was conducted to determine the adjusted risk of death for patients assigned to AM group.ResultsComplete daily data from 89 mechanically ventilated patients consecutively admitted to the two units were analyzed. Seventeen patients were included in the AM group, whereas 72 were in the ICU-VENT group. Disease severity and intensity of treatment were comparable between the two groups. The 60-day mortality was significantly higher in the AM group compared to the ICU-vent group (12/17 vs. 27/72, 70.6% vs. 37.5%, respectively, p = 0.016). Allocation to AM group was associated with a significantly increased risk of death after adjusting for covariates (HR 4.05, 95% CI: 1.75–9.33, p = 0.001). Several incidents and complications were reported with Anesthesia Machine care, raising safety concerns.ConclusionsOur results support the hypothesis that care associated with the use of Anesthesia Machines is inadequate to provide long-term critical care to patients with COVID-19. Added safety risks must be considered if no other option is available to treat severely ill patients during the ongoing pandemic.Clinical Trial NumberNot applicable
EZH2 Promotes Extracellular Matrix Degradation via Nuclear Factor-κB(NF-κB) and p38 signaling Pathways in pulpitis
Authors: He jie , Qin Man , Chen Yingyi , Hu Ziqi , Ye Ling , Hui Tianqian
Published: February 2021

Background: Pulpitis is a complicated chronic inflammatory process which in a dynamic balance between damage and repair. Extracellular matrix plays an important regulatory role in wound healing and tissue repair. The aim of this study was to explore role of the epigenetic mark, enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) on the degradation of extracellular matrix during pulpitis. Methods : Quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to assess the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and type Ⅰ collagen in HDPCs upon EZH2 and EI1 stimulation. The mechanism of EZH2 affecting extracellular matrix was explored through quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. A rat model of dental pulp inflammation was established, and the expression of type Ⅰ collagen in dental pulp under EZH2 stimulation was detected by immunohistochemical staining. Results :EZH2 upregulated the expression of MMP-1, MMP-3, MMP-8 and MMP-10 and decreased the production of type Ⅰ collagen in HDPCs, while EI1 had the opposite effect .EZH2 activated the Nuclear Factor-κB(NF-κB)and p38 signaling Pathways in HDPCs, the inhibition of which reversed the induction of MMPs and the suppression of type Ⅰ collagen .EZH2 can downregulated the type Ⅰ collagen levels in an experimental model of dental pulpitis in rats. Conclusion: EZH2 promotes extracellular matrix degradation via Nuclear Factor-κB(NF-κB)and P38 signaling pathways in pulpitis.EZH2 can decrease the type Ⅰ collagen levels in vivo and vitro.
Daylight Saving Time Policy and Energy Consumption
Authors: Küfeoğlu Sinan , Üçler Şahincan , Eskicioğlu Furkan , Öztürk E. Büşra , Chen Hao
Published: February 2021

Daylight Saving Time is argued to be effective in saving energy. Turkey is one of the few countries that annulled the clock changes and remained in the summertime zone in 2016. This paper uses Multiple Linear Regression and Interrupted Time Series methods to study the impact of clock changes on energy consumption and load shift. We use historical energy consumption, electricity prices, and relevant atmospheric essential climate variables data in Turkey between 2012-2020. This paper shows that the Daylight Saving Time policy does not lead to a measurable amount of energy savings. Furthermore, it does not cause a noticeable continuous daily load shift throughout the year. We also claim that our findings should be applicable to those countries such as the United States, India, Japan, Australia or China and as well as continents of Africa and South America, whose latitudes are in between 42.0° north and south of the equator.