bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
No Evidence for an Association Between Variability in Sulcal Pattern and Academic Achievement
Authors: Roell Margot , Bellon E. , Polspoel B. , Declercq M. , De Smedt B.
Published: March 2021

Investigating how the brain may constrain academic achievement is not only relevant to understanding brain structure but also to providing insight into the origins of individual differences in these academic abilities. In this pre-registered study, we investigated whether the variability of sulcal patterns, a qualitative feature of the brain determined in-utero and not affected by brain maturation and learning, accounted for individual differences in reading and mathematics. Participants were 97 typically developing 10-year-olds. We examined (a) the association between the sulcal pattern of the intraparietal sulcus (IPS) and mathematical ability; (b) the association between the sulcal pattern of the occipitotemporal sulcus (OTS) and reading ability; and (c) the overlap and specificity of sulcal morphology of IPS and OTS and their associations with mathematics and reading. Despite its large sample, the present study was unable to replicate a previously observed relationship between the IPS sulcal pattern and mathematical ability and a previously observed association between the Left posterior OTS sulcal pattern and reading. We found no evidence for a possible overlap or specificity in the effect of sulcal morphology on mathematics and reading. Possible explanations for this absence of an association between sulcal morphology and academic achievement and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Tool Condition Monitoring in Milling Process Based on Multi-Dource Pattern Recognition Model
Authors: Liang Kui , Dai Wei , Huang Tingting , Lu Zhiyuan
Published: March 2021

In the milling process of metallic parts, appropriate tool condition is essential to reducing processing faults and ensuring manufacturing quality. However, the existing condition monitoring methods are usually limited by recognizing intermediate abnormal states in milling processing, which is inefficient and impractical for real practical applications. Therefore, this paper proposes a Tool condition monitoring (TCM) method in milling process based on multi-source pattern recognition and state transfer path. Firstly, improved K-Means clustering method is used to generate multiple patterns of tool wear. Secondly, a multi-source pattern recognition model framework is developed, and the multiple observation windows and the pattern transfer path are considered in multi-source pattern recognition model. Lastly, PHM2010 datasets are used to verify the feasibility of the proposed method, and the results demonstrate the applicability of the proposed method in practice for tool condition monitoring.
AZD2014, A Dual mTOR Inhibitor, Attenuates Cardiac Hypertrophy in Vitro and in Vivo
Authors: Cha Byung-Hyun , Jung Minjin , Kim Angela S. , Lepak Victoria C. , Colson Brett A. , Bull David A. , Won Youngwook
Published: March 2021

Cardiac hypertrophy is one of the most common genetic heart disorders and considered a risk factor for cardiac morbidity and mortality. The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway plays a key regulatory function in cardiovascular physiology and pathology in hypertrophy. AZD2014 is a small-molecule ATP competitive mTOR inhibitor working on both mTORC1 and mTORC2 complexes. Little is known about the therapeutic effects of AZD2014 in cardiac hypertrophy and its underlying mechanism. Here, AZD2014 is examined in in vitro model of phenylephrine (PE)-induced human cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and a myosin-binding protein-C (Mybpc3)-targeted knockout (KO) mouse model of cardiac hypertrophy. Our results demonstrate that cardiomyocytes treated with AZD2014 retain the normal phenotype and AZD2014 attenuates cardiac hypertrophy in the Mybpc3-KO mouse model through inhibition of dual mTORC1 and mTORC2, which in turn results in the down-regulation of the Akt/mTOR signaling pathway.
Vitamin D Status in Full-term Exclusively Breastfed Infants versus Full-term Breastfed Infants Receiving Vitamin D Supplementation in Thailand: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ruangkit Chayatat , Suwannachat Sukrit , Wantanakorn Pornchanok , Sethaphanich Napapailin , Assawawiroonhakarn Surapat , Dumrongwongsiri Oraporn
Published: March 2021

Background: Many international medical organizations recommend vitamin D supplementation for infants, especially exclusively breastfed infants. In Thailand, however, data regarding the vitamin D status in Thai infants are lacking. Such data would help to support physician decisions and guide medical practice. Methods: Full-term, exclusively breastfed infants were randomized into two groups at 2 months of age to continue exclusive breastfeeding either without vitamin D supplementation (control group, n = 44) or with vitamin D3 supplementation at 400 IU/day (intervention group, n = 43) until 6 months of age. At 6 months, the serum vitamin D (25OHD) of the infants and their mothers, serum bone marker, and infants' growth parameters were compared between the two groups. Results: The infants' serum 25OHD concentration was lower in the control group than intervention group (20.57 ± 12.66 vs. 46.01 ± 16.42 ng/mL, p < 0.01). More infants had vitamin D sufficiency (25OHD of >20 ng/mL) in the intervention group than control group (93.0% vs. 43.2%, p < 0.01). Vitamin D supplementation in breastfed infants increased the mean serum 25OHD concentration by 25.66 ng/mL (95% confidence interval, 19.07–32.25; p < 0.001) and contributed to an 88.7% decrease in the prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency/deficiency (relative risk, 0.11; 95% confidence interval, 0.04–0.35; p < 0.01).Conclusions: Most full-term, exclusively breastfed Thai infants have serum vitamin D concentration below sufficiency level at 6 months of age. However, vitamin D supplementation (400 IU/day) improves their vitamin D status and prevents vitamin D deficiency.Trial registration: The study was pre-registered in the Thai Clinical Trials Registry (TCTR20190622001) on 22/06/2019.
Clinical-grade hDPSCs Suppressed the Activation of Osteoarthritic Macrophages and Attenuated Cartilaginous Damage in a Rabbit OA Model
Authors: Li Pei-Lin , Wang Yu-Xing , Zhao Zhi-Dong , Li Zhi-Ling , Liang Jia-Wu , Wang Qian , Yin Bo-Feng , Hao Rui-Cong , Han Meng-Yue , Ding Li , Wu Chu-Tse , Zhu Heng
Published: March 2021

Background: Although increasing evidence has demonstrated that human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) are efficacious for the clinical treatment of skeletal disorders, the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common degenerative disorders in joints and is characterized by gradual and irreversible cartilaginous tissue damage. Notably, immune factors were newly identified to be closely related to OA development. In this study, we explored the modulatory effects of clinical-grade hDPSCs on osteoarthritic macrophages and their protective effects on cartilaginous tissues in OA joints.Methods: The cell morphology, immunophenotype and inflammatory factor expression of osteoarthritic macrophages were explored. Additionally, the factors and signaling pathways that suppressed macrophage activation by hDPSCs were determined. Furthermore, hDPSCs were administered to a rabbit knee OA model via intra-articular injection. Macrophage activation in vivo and cartilaginous tissue damage were also evaluated. Statistical significance was analyzed using Student's t test. The one-way ANOVA was used in multiple group data analysis.Results: We found that hDPSCs markedly inhibited osteoarthritic macrophage activation in vitro. The cell morphology, immunophenotype and inflammatory factor expression of osteoarthritic macrophages changed into less inflammatory status. in the presence of hDPSCs. Mechanistically, we observed that hDPSC-derived HGF and TGFβ1 mediated the suppressive effects on osteoarthritic macrophages. Moreover, phosphorylation of MAPK pathway proteins contributed to osteoarthritic macrophage activation, and hDPSCs suppressed their activation by partially inactivating those pathways. Most importantly, injected hDPSCs inhibited macrophage activation in osteochondral tissues in a rabbit knee OA model in vivo. Further histological analysis showed that hDPSCs alleviated cartilaginous damage to knee joints.Conclusions: In summary, our findings reveal a novel function for hDPSCs in suppressing osteoarthritic macrophages and suggest that macrophages are efficient cellular targets of hDPSCs for alleviation of cartilaginous damage in OA.
Improved Promotion of M2 Microglial Polarization by Zuogui Jiangtang Jieyu Formulation in Diabetes-Related Depression
Authors: zhang xiuli , Wu Dahua , Li Dandan , Liu Jian , Lei Chang , Li Yuehui , Liu Lin , Huang Dan , Ge Jinwen , Wang Yuhong
Published: March 2021

Background Zuogui Jiangtang Jieyu formulation (ZGJTJY) is a Chinese polyherbal prescription for diabetes-related depression (DD). The mechanism underlying hippocampal M1/M2 polarization in DD and the ZGJTJY treatment effects remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate M1/M2 microglial polarization in the hippocampus of DD rats and HAPI (highly aggressively proliferating immortalized) cells simulating the DD state, as well as to examine the ZGJTJY intervention effects, both in vivo and in vitro. Methods We subjected Sprague Dawley rats to a high-fat diet, streptozotocin, and unpredictable chronic mild stress; subsequently, we orally administered ZGJTJY. HAPI cells were induced using high glucose and corticosterone; subsequently, ZGJTJY-containing serum was added to examine changes in M1/M2 microglial polarization. Moreover, metformin combined with fluoxetine (DMGB/F) was used as a positive drug for evaluating the ZGJTJY intervention. Laser confocal scanning was used to examine the microglial morphology. Further, real-time PCR was used to determine M1 markers (MHCII, iNOS, MCP-1, CD11b), M2 markers (Arg1, Mrc1, Ym1), pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α), and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-10). Additionally, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to examine inflammatory cytokines. Results There was significant activation of M1 polarization in the hippocampus of DD rats and HAPI cells induced using high glucose and corticosterone. Compared with DMGB/F, ZGJTJY inhibited and promoted M1 and M2 polarization, respectively; moreover, it decreased the M1-to-M2 polarization ratio both in vivo and in vitro. Conclusions The study indicated that hippocampal M1 polarization is crucially involved in DD pathogenesis; moreover, there is a need for further research on the neuroprotective effect of Chinese medicine associated with M2-polarized microglia.
Superiority of Adipose-derived CD34+ Cells over Adipose-derived Stem Cells in Promoting Ischamic Tissue Survival
Authors: Liu Yan-Jun , Zhang Tian-Yu , Tan Poh-Ching , Xie Yun , Zhang Pei-Qi , Gao Yi-Ming , Zhang Xiao-Jie , Zhou Shuang-Bai , Li Qing-Feng
Published: March 2021

Background: Tissue ischemia usually leads to necrosis and is a threatening condition associated with reconstructive surgery. Promoting the survival of ischemic tissue is critical for improving clinical outcomes. Although various solutions based on stem cells have been reported, there are still limitations to clinical translation. The aim of this study was to develop an effective method to promote the survival of ischemic tissue. Methods: Adipose-derived CD34+ and CD34- cells were obtained by magnetic bead sorting from the stromal vascular faction (SVF). Adipose-derived stem cell (ADSC) were collected by subculture. The angiogenic capacities of CD34+ cells, CD34- cells and ADSC were evaluated in vitro by comparing mRNA and protein expression. Random axial flaps in nude mice were used to evaluate the efficacy of these cells in protecting tissue from necrosis. The effect of these cells in preventing inflammation was also evaluated. Results: Our data suggest that CD34+ cells expressed higher levels of angiogenetic factors and lower levels of inflammatory factors than the other cell types. More vessel branches were formed when human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were treated with conditioned medium from CD34+ cells than conditioned medium from the other cell types. Compared to ADSC, CD34+ cells showed significantly higher efficacy in promoting tissue survival. More CD31+ cells and higher levels of angiogenic factors were observed in tissues from the CD34+ Group than from the other Groups. Lower levels of the proinflammatory factors TNF-α and IL-1b and higher levels of anti-inflammatory factors were found in the CD34+ Group than in the other Groups.Conclusion: Adipose-derived CD34+ cells showed better efficacy in improving ischemic tissue survival than ADSC by reducing tissue inflammation and promoting angiogenesis. CD34+ cells can be obtained easily and may be suitable for clinical applications.
Pathogen-induced alterations in methylome during Lr48-mediated APR in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) 
Authors: Jain Neelu , Batra Ritu , Saripalli Gautam , Sinha Nivedita , Rani Sushma , Sharma Jai Bhagwan , Gautam Tinku , Prasad Pramod , Balyan Harindra Singh , Gupta Pushpendra Kumar
Published: March 2021

Differential DNA methylation due to APR gene Lr48 for leaf rust resistance in wheat cv. CSP44 was examined at pre-adult plant (P-AP) susceptible stage and adult plant (AP) resistant stage. As many as 52,872 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) carrying 897 differentially methylated genes (DMGs) and many intergenic regions were identified. DMGs included exons/introns, promoters and UTRs. Little less than half of DMGs, were also compared with transcriptome data based on RNA-sEq. Susceptibility (at P-AP) was found to be governed by activation (due to hypomethylation) of relatively more genes, whereas resistance (at AP) involved silencing of relatively large number of genes. Using GO terms, DMGs were found to belong to a variety of biological processes including transcription regulation, protein synthesis, signal transduction, defense, photosynthesis, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism. The results of the present study improved our understanding of the epigenetic control of leaf rust APR in wheat.
Short- to mid-term outcomes of computer navigation assisted total knee arthroplasty using adjusted mechanical alignment compared to mechanical alignment
Authors: Zheng Kai , Sun Houyi , Zhang Weicheng , Zhu Feng , Zhou Jun , Xu Yaozeng
Published: March 2021

Purpose

To evaluate efficacy of navigation-assisted total knee arthroplasty (TKA) achieved using adjusted mechanical alignment (aMA) and mechanical alignment (MA) technique.
Methods

The authors performed a retrospective study enrolled a single-center series of patients who underwent navigation-assisted TKA with aMA (n = 77) and with MA (n = 61) technique. The demographic data was recorded. Functional scores including Hospital for Special Surgery score, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index score and Forgotten Joint Score-12 were evaluated. In addition, the parameter of resection and soft tissue balance as well as radiographic evaluation was measured and compared between groups.
Results

The HSS score at 1-month and 6-months postoperatively were significant higher using aMA compared to MA. The postoperative coronal alignment was made with a mean of 1.11° more varus/valgus in the aMA group compared to MA. The femoral prosthesis was positioned in a mean of 2.29° more varus/valgus using aMA compared to MA. The medial extension gap was significantly tighter in the MA group. In addition, the femoral prosthesis in the aMA group was positioned in a mean of 0.77° more external rotation than the MA group. The lateral flexion gap was wider in the aMA group with a mean of 0.71 mm more laxity.
Conclusions

Both aMA and MA technique in TKA obtained good clinical outcomes. Notably, aMA-TKA grant superior functional scores at 1-month and 6-months follow-up, might due to the preservation of mild constitutional frontal deformity with less release of soft tissue and a biomimetic wider lateral flexion gap was remained.
Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: A Pediatric Case Report
Authors: Faid Tiaaza , Boutaleb Amine Mamoun , Sakhi Asmaa , Drighil Abdenasser , Bouayed Kenza
Published: March 2021

Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease that can affect any organ in the body, nonetheless cardiac involvement is frequent. Pericarditis is the most common type of heart attack followed by endocarditis, whereas myocarditis is rare. Despite improvements in the survival and quality of life of children with SLE, morbidity from the disease continues to be a major cause of death. Over the past three decades, lupus-related mortality has declined in all categories except cardiovascular disease. Heart disease is currently recognized as a major cause of death and morbidity in children with SLE. In fact, in the majority of cohort studies, the mean cardiovascular mortality is between 7 and 30%. We report full recovery of a little girl with SLE who developed dilated cardiomyopathy and review the literature. Case presentation: A 7-year-old girl presented with persistent fever, severe weight loss, alopecia, purpuric spots, positive anti-lupus antibodies, and decreased complement. She was diagnosed with SLE and treated with oral corticosteroids and hydroxychloroquine. On the third day of hospitalization, she developed a macrophage activation syndrome which improved with the methylprednisolone bolus. Additional examinations have been performed, including chest x-ray and echocardiography. They showed respectively marked enlargement of the cardiac silhouette and dilated cardiomyopathy with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of approximately 35% associated with low pericardial effusion. She was diagnosed with SLE-related dilated cardiomyopathy and treated with furosemide, captopril, digoxin, spironolactone, and acetyl-salicylic acid. Clinical improvement was observed and the echocardiographic examination after 4 months of evolution was normalized, allowing cardiac treatments to be stopped while maintaining captopril.Conclusions: It is mandatory to check cardiac involvement in all patients with pediatric lupus to make an early diagnosis and ensure optimal management of cardiomyopathy, which is a rare, severe and silent complication.
VAMP-2 Is a Surrogate Cerebrospinal Fluid Marker of Alzheimer-related Cognitive Impairment in Adults With Down Syndrome
Authors: Lleó Alberto , Carmona-Iragui Maria , Videla Laura , Fernández Susana , Benejam Bessy , Pegueroles Jordi , Barroeta Isabel , Altuna Miren , Valldeneu Silvia , Xiao Mei-Fang , Xu Desheng , Núñez-Llaves Raúl , Querol-Vilaseca Marta , Sirisi Sònia , Bejanin Alexandre , Iulita M. Florencia , Clarimón Jordi , Blesa Rafael , Worley Paul , Alcolea Daniel , Fortea Juan , Belbin Olivia
Published: March 2021

Background. There is an urgent need for objective markers of Alzheimer’s disease (AD)-related cognitive impairment in people with Down syndrome (DS) to improve diagnosis, monitor disease progression and assess response to disease-modifying therapies. Previously, GluA4 and Neuronal Pentraxin 2 (NPTX2) showed limited potential as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) markers of cognitive impairment in adults with DS. Here we compare the CSF profile of a panel of synaptic proteins (Calsyntenin-1, Neuroligin-2, Neurexin-2A, Neurexin-3A, Syntaxin-1B, Thy-1, VAMP-2) to that of NPTX2 and GluA4 in a large cohort of subjects with DS across the preclinical and clinical AD continuum and explore their correlation with cognitive impairment. Methods. We quantified the synaptic panel proteins by selected reaction monitoring in CSF from 20 non-trisomic cognitively normal controls (mean age 44) and 80 adults with DS grouped according to clinical AD diagnosis (asymptomatic, prodromal AD or AD dementia). We used regression analyses to determine CSF changes across the AD continuum and explored correlations with age, global cognitive performance (CAMCOG), episodic memory (modified cued-recall test; mCRT) and CSF AD biomarkers, CSF Aβ42:40 ratio, CSF Aβ1-42 and CSF p-tau. P-values were adjusted for multiple testing. Results. In adults with DS, VAMP-2 was the only synaptic protein to correlate with episodic memory (delayed recall adj.p=.04) and age (adj.p=.0008) and was the best correlate of CSF Aβ42:40 (adj.p=.0001) and CSF p-tau (adj.p<.0001). Compared to controls, mean VAMP-2 levels were lower in asymptomatic adults with DS only (adj.p=.02). CSF levels of Neurexin-3A, Thy-1, Neurexin-2A, Calysntenin-1, Neuroligin-2, GluA4 and Syntaxin-1B all strongly correlated with NPTX2 (p<.0001), which was the only synaptic protein to show reduced CSF levels in DS at all AD stages compared to controls (adj.p<.002). Conclusion. CSF VAMP-2 represents a promising objective surrogate marker of cognitive failure in DS. VAMP-2 also has potential for use in AD clinical trials as a measure of synapse engagement and therapeutic response that does not directly measure the drug target (typically Aβ and tau).
Morphological and Ecological Features of Some Nematodes of the Genus Rhabdochona in Marinka Obtained From Fergana Valley, Uzbekistan
Authors: Kuchboev Abdurakhim , Najmidinov Eldor Kh , Mukhamediev Muzaffar A , Karimova Rokhatoy R , Yildiz Kader
Published: March 2021

The aim is to study the morphological and ecological features of some nematode species of the genus Rhabdochona parasites of marinka fish in the Fergana Valley, Uzbekistan. Rhabdocona gnedini, Rhabdochona denudata and Rhabdocona hellichi turkestanica were detected as 5.3%, 7.9% and 3.7%, respectively. According to the Authors’ knowledge, Rh. hellichi turkestanica was recorded in Uzbekistan and Central Asian republics for the first time. Rhabdocona spp. were only detected in the intestine of marinkas lived in the mountain rivers Rezaksay, Chodaksay and small tributaries of the Syrdarya river in western Fergana. Some abiotic factors such as the flow rate, water temperature and high content of dissolved oxygen in it, as well as the nutritional characteristics of the fish can be most important factors to spread of Rh.denudata, Rh. gnedini, Rh. hellichi turkestanica in marinkas from mountain rivers of the Fergana Valley.
FDG PET/CT to Detect Bone Marrow Involvement in the Initial Staging of Patients With Aggressive Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Results From the Prospective, Multicenter PETAL and OPTIMAL>60 Trials
Authors: Kaddu-Mulindwa Dominic , Altmann Bettina , Held Gerhard , Angel Stephanie , Stilgenbauer Stephan , Thurner Lorenz , Bewarder Moritz , Schwier Maren , Pfreundschuh Michael , Löffler Markus , Menhart Karin , Grosse Jirka , Ziepert Marita , Herrmann Ken , Dührsen Ulrich , Hüttmann Andreas , Barbato Francesco , Poeschel Viola , Hellwig Dirk
Published: March 2021

PURPOSEFluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography combined with computed tomography (FDG PET/CT) is the standard for staging aggressive non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Limited data from prospective studies is available to determine whether initial staging by FDG PET/CT provides treatment-relevant information of bone marrow (BM) involvement (BMI) and thus could spare BM biopsy (BMB).METHODSPatients from PETAL (NCT00554164) and OPTIMAL>60 (NCT01478542) with aggressive B-cell NHL initially staged by FDG PET/CT and BMB were included in this pooled analysis. The reference standard to confirm BMI included a positive BMB and/or FDG PET/CT confirmed by targeted biopsy, complementary imaging (CT or magnetic resonance imaging), or concurrent disappearance of focal FDG-avid BM lesions with other lymphoma manifestations during immunochemotherapy.RESULTSAmong 930 patients, BMI was detected by BMB in 85 (prevalence 9%) and by FDG PET/CT in 185 (20%) cases, for a total of 221 cases (24%). All 185 PET-positive cases were true positive, and 709 of 745 PET-negative cases were true negative. For BMB and FDG PET/CT, sensitivity was 38% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 32%-45%) and 84% (CI: 78%-88%), specificity 100% (CI: 99%-100%) and 100% (CI: 99%-100%), positive predictive value 100% (CI: 96%-100%) and 100% (CI: 98%-100%), and negative predictive value 84% (CI: 81%-86%) and 95% (CI: 93%-97%), respectively. In all of the 36 PET-negative cases with confirmed BMI patients had other adverse factors according to IPI that precluded a change of standard treatment. Thus, the BMB would not have influenced the patient management.CONCLUSIONIn patients with aggressive B-cell NHL, routine BMB provides no critical staging information compared to FDG PET/CT and could therefore be omitted. Trial registration numberPETAL study, NCT00554164, registered 6 November 2007OPTIMAL>60 study, NCT01478542, registered 23 November 2011
Late-onset X-linked Chronic Granulomatous Disease in a Female Carrier: Therapeutic Role of Interferon-γ and Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Trevisan Matteo , Kang Elizabeth , Salton Francesco , Naviglio Samuele , Ruaro Barbara , Confalonieri Paola , Valencic Erica , Corin Kelly , Parta Mark , Notarangelo Luigi Daniele , Tommasini Alberto , Malech Harry Lewis , Confalonieri Marco
Published: March 2021

X-linked Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD) is a rare inherited immunodeficiency characterized by early life-threatening infections from bacteria and fungi in male children. Female carriers of X-linked CGD usually do not develop any manifestations of the disease, yet in rare cases they may present with CGD-related manifestations due to skewed X chromosome inactivation, even in advanced age. Here, we report the case of a 49-year-old woman with no history of previous frequent or severe infections, who presented acutely with life-threatening bilateral pneumonia caused by Nocardia asteroides and was eventually diagnosed with late-onset X-linked CGD due to skewed X chromosome inactivation in white blood cells. Treatment with interferon-γ as a rescue therapy resulted in normalization of the intensity of the oxidative burst in the residual positive cells and resolution of the infection, which was otherwise resistant to conventional treatments. After discharge, however, recurrent severe pulmonary infections despite prophylactic treatments as well as appearance of granulomatous colitis led to considering definitive treatment. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation from unaffected HLA-identical brother using a non-myeloablative conditioning protocol with intravenous busulfan followed by high-dose peripheral blood stem cell graft and post-transplant cyclophosphamide was successfully performed. After three years of follow-up, white blood cell chimerism remained stable with about 60% donor cells in the myeloid lineage, with no further infections and no recurrence of inflammatory bowel disease.
Effect of Tourniquet Application on Postoperative Outcomes in Minimally Invasive Surgery for Intra-articular Calcaneus Fractures
Authors: Zaid Hamood H.G. , Di Wu , Yang Rufei , Zhao Tianyuan , yang Maowei
Published: March 2021

Background: Tourniquets are commonly used during foot and ankle surgery to provide a bloodless operative field and for the sake of the surgeon`s comfort, despite the potential risks associated with it. This study was performed to compare postoperative outcomes of tourniquet-assisted to non-tourniquet-assisted operative fixation of calcaneal fractures.Methods: A total of 131 patients with closed calcaneal fracture who underwent minimally invasive surgery of calcaneal fractures between March 2015 and December 2018 were reviewed retrospectively. Patients for whom a tourniquet was used intraoperatively (n = 62) were compared to those without (n = 69). Operating time and visualization, blood loss, postoperative pain according to visual analogue scale (VAS), the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot score, and hospital length of stay were recorded for all the patients.Results: Statistical analysis of the results showed significant differences between tourniquet and non-tourniquet groups in the mean operation time, visibility of the surgical field, mean estimated intraoperative and postoperative blood loss, and mean VAS pain scores 24 H, 48 H, 72 H postoperatively (P < 0.05), whereas no significant difference between two groups in the mean Serum CPK levels, post-operative swelling, mean length of stay, AOFAS score, wound and fracture healing time, and the mean time for return to work.Conclusion: Our study demonstrated that tourniquet application during minimally invasive surgery of calcaneal fractures can significantly shorten the operation time, improve surgical visualization, and reduce intraoperative blood loss. However, adverse events associated with the use of tourniquet include increased postoperative pain, and more amount of postoperative bleeding. Due to higher postoperative pain and more amount of postoperative bleeding, more attention should be paid on the postoperative phase for those who tourniquet was used. The surgeon's decision to use a tourniquet during calcaneal fractures surgery should be carefully considered.
Effect of Mineralocorticoid Receptor Antagonists on Secondary Prevention of Cardiomyopathy Progression in Childhood Cancer Survivors
Authors: Wilson-Raya Averi E. , Bowen Trey , Bosler Teresa , Hynan Linda S. , Bowers Daniel C. , Cochran Cindy J. , Lee Simon C , Orlino Angela M. , Zaha Vlad
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUNDThe effect of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRA) on secondary prevention of late anthracycline-induced cardiomyopathy in childhood cancer survivors is unknown, while other heart failure therapies showed only transient effect. This study sought to assess whether MRA’s may prevent the left ventricular systolic dysfunction caused by latent anthracycline cardiotoxic effects.METHODSCross-sectional, proof of concept study of adult survivors of childhood cancer followed up at the After Cancer Experience and Cardio-Oncology clinics, UT Southwestern Medical Center, after completing anthracycline treatment at least two years prior to this study, in the prior decade. Cross-sectional symptom questionnaires administered during the study and retrospective clinical, laboratory, and imaging data extracted from the electronic medical records were analyzed in 3 groups of patients: on MRA therapy, on heart failure therapy regimen without MRA, and not on therapy for heart failure.RESULTSOf 105 enrolled, 67 patients completed the study. At baseline, the MRA group demonstrated lower LVEF (46% (30-51), n=8 MRA therapy vs 61% (57-63), n=46 no therapy; p<0.01) and higher ESV (59mL (41-90), n=8 MRA therapy vs 36mL (29-43), n=40 no therapy, p<0.05). The MRA group reported a decreased ability to walk one block compared with the non-MRA and no therapy groups (p=0.013). Administration of MRA resulted in a significant improvement in LVEF (52% (34-56), p=0.031 compared to baseline).CONCLUSIONSMRA administration as single drug therapy or in combination with standard of care heart failure therapy may prevent the progression of left ventricular dysfunction in childhood cancer survivors with late anthracycline-induced cardiomyopathy.
The Staged Treatment for Tibial Plateau Fractures and the Reconstruction of Lateral Column With Autogenous Iliac Bone: an Efficacy Analysis Report
Authors: Li Dong , Liang Xiao , Xi Kun , Zhao Bin , Hou Fushan
Published: March 2021

BackgroundComplications in treating comminuted tibial plateau fractures with extensive soft tissue damage are common. In this study, we discussed the effect of staged treatment in the reconstruction of the lateral column with autogenous iliac bone using case follow-up.MethodsA retrospective analysis of 18 patients with comminuted tibial plateau fractures and extensive soft tissue damage from October 2016 to February 2020 who underwent staged treatment in our hospital. After the soft tissue damage repair, a large autologous iliac bone was used to reconstruct the lateral column of the tibial plateau.ResultsAll 18 patients were followed up over the course of 8-40 months, with an average of 23.44 months. All patients reported zero postoperative infection, skin and soft tissue necrosis, and loosening/breakage of the internal fixation. Regular postoperative review revealed that all patients achieved complete bony union, as evidenced by X-ray film, at 6 months after operation. Knee function (HSS) scores averaged 86.72 points at 1 year after operation; 15 people with 85 points or more, 2 people with 70-84 points, and one with 68 points. The excellent rate, according to HSS was 90%.Conclusions﻿Complex tibial plateau fractures with extensive soft tissue damage can be effectively remedied with a staged treatment, wherein a lateral column reconstruction is performed using a large iliac bone.
A Unifying Model to Estimate Thermal Tolerance Limits in Ectotherms Across Static, Dynamic and Fluctuating Exposures to Thermal Stress
Authors: Jørgensen Lisa Bjerregaard , Malte Hans , Ørsted Michael , Klahn Nikolaj Andreasen , Overgaard Johannes
Published: March 2021

Temperature tolerance is critical for defining the fundamental niche of ectotherms and researchers classically use either static (exposure to a constant temperature) or dynamic (ramping temperature) assays to assess tolerance. The use of different methods complicates comparison between studies and here we present mathematical model (and R-scripts) to reconcile thermal tolerance measures obtained from static and dynamic assays. Our model uses input data from several static or dynamic experiments and is based on the well-supported assumption that thermal injury accumulation rate increases exponentially with temperature (recently re-introduced as Thermal Tolerance Landscapes). The model also assumes thermal stress at different temperatures to be additive and using experiments with Drosophila melanogaster, we validate these central assumptions by demonstrating that heat injury attained at different heat stress intensities and durations is additive. In a separate experiment we demonstrate that our model can accurately describe injury accumulation during fluctuating temperature stress and further we validate the model by successfully converting literature data of ectotherm heat tolerance (both static and dynamic assays) to a single, comparable metric (the temperature tolerated for 1 hour). The model presented here has many promising applications for the analysis of ectotherm thermal tolerance and we also discuss potential pitfalls that should be considered and avoided using this model.
Prodigiosin-functionalized Lactobacillus acidophilus ghost: A bioinspired combination against colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Saleh Nessrin , Mahmoud Hoda , Eltaher Hoda , Helmy Maged , El-Khordagui Labiba , Hussein Ahmed
Published: March 2021

Lactobacillus acidophilus ghosts (LAGs) with the unique safety of a probiotic, inherent tropism for colon cells and multiple bioactivities offer great promise as drug carrier for colon targeting. We report herein on a novel bioinspired drug delivery system against colorectal cancer (CRC) cells based on LAGs functionalized with prodigiosin (PG), a proapoptotic bacterial metabolite. LAGs were prepared by a chemical method and highly purified by density gradient centrifugation. Multiple microscopic and staining techniques characterized LAGs by a relatively small size, size uniformity, a relatively large internal volume devoid of cytoplasmic and genetic materials and an intact negatively charged envelop. PG was highly bound to LAGs cell wall, generating a physiologically stable bioactive entity (PG-LAGs) active against HCT116 CRC cells at the cellular and molecular levels. Cell viability data underlined cytotoxicity of PG and LAGs and LAGs-induced enhancement of PG selectivity for HCT116 cells. Combination and Dose reduction indices anticipating dose reduction of PG and LAGs. Molecularly, PG-LAGs significantly modulated the expression of apoptosis-related biomarkers, caspase 3, P53 and BCL2, in favor of cytotoxicity against HCT116 cells relative to PG and 5-fluorouracil. Accordingly, LAGs offer promise as novel drug carrier for targeted colon delivery and PG-LAGs may bring therapeutic benefits in colorectal carcinoma.
Polygenic scores for handedness and their association with asymmetries in brain structure
Authors: Ocklenburg Sebastian , Metzen Dorothea , Schlüter Caroline , Fraenz Christoph , Arning Larissa , Streit Fabian , Güntürkün Onur , Kumsta Robert , Genc Erhan
Published: March 2021

Handedness is the most widely investigated motor preference in humans. The genetics of handedness and especially the link between genetic variation, brain structure and right-left preference have not been investigated in detail. Recently, several well-powered genome-wide association studies (GWAS) on handedness have been published, significantly advancing the understanding of the genetic determinants of left- and right-handedness. In the present study, we estimated polygenic scores (PGS) of handedness based on the latest GWAS by de Kovel and Francks (2019) in an independent validation cohort (n = 296). PGS reflect the sum effect of trait-associated alleles across many genetic loci. For the first time, we could show that these GWAS-based PGS can significantly predict individual handedness lateralization quotients in an independent validation cohort. Additionally, we investigated whether handedness-derived polygenic scores can predict asymmetries in gray matter macrostructure across the whole brain determined using magnetic resonance imaging. Our results indicate that none of these predictions reached significance after correction for multiple comparisons. This indicates that the genetic determinants of handedness are only weakly associated with structural asymmetries in gray matter. Other brain phenotypes may link genetic variation to handedness.
Rate of losing energy in Quantum Redshift
Authors: Kalhor Bahram , Mehrparvar Farzaneh , Kalhor Behnam
Published: March 2021

The paper simulates the losing energy of the electromagnetic waves in a non-expansion space and no gravitational Redshift. We use the distance and Redshift of 93,060 nearby space objects, including stars, quasars, white dwarfs, and carbon stars, for obtaining the rate of losing the energy of their waves during traveling in space. Quantum Redshift disagrees expansion of space and describes Redshift by losing the energy of electromagnetic waves over time. In the Quantum Redshift, regardless of the material and type of the space objects (stars, quasars, white dwarfs, and carbon stars), the Redshift depends on the distance and temperature of the space objects, and the temperature of space. We have used SIMBAD Astronomical Database. We have retrieved this information from almost 2,200,000 records. The objects' temperature is between 671 and 99,575 K. The distance of the objects is between 413.13 and 0.5 (mas). The paper obtains the average rate of losing the waves' energy for different objects in different distances. The results show that by increasing the distance of space objects, the rate of losing the energy of their electromagnetic waves will be decreased. The paper inspires investigating the expansion space theory by the Quantum Redshift.
BCMA targets bispecific fusion protein for induction of NK cell activity against multiple myeloma
Authors: Xu Wei , Wang Yang , Li Hui , Wang Min , Zhang Juan
Published: March 2021

PurposeMultiple myeloma (MM) is the second most common hematological malignancy, and B-cell maturation antigen (BCMA) is a highly regarded target of MM research. In tumors, the natural killer (NK) cell receptor NK group 2, member D (NKG2D), and its ligand MHC class I-related chain A (MICA) play important roles in immune surveillance and killing. We developed a bispecific fusion protein (BFP) that targeted NKG2D and BCMA, which may be useful for the MM therapeutic market.MethodsThe Homo MICA extracellular domains (hMICA) α1-3 or α1-2 were fused to the end of the single chain antibody (ScFv) 2A9 with the flexible linker (G4S), which formed 2A9-MICA and 2A9-MICAα1-2. These were further identified using sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and western blotting (WB). The dual-targeting specificity was characterized using Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) technology and a flow cytometry assay. In addition, a cytotoxicity assay showed that the design of BFP mediated the lysis of MM cells. Further, in MM-bearing nude mice, the anti-tumor effect and the ability to activate NK cells within tumor tissues of BFP were verified.ResultsCompared with 2A9-MICA, 2A9-MICAα1-2 had a stronger affinity to BCMA and NKG2D, which mediated cytotoxicity of NK effector cells against MM cells. In vivo, 2A9-MICAα1-2 showed superior anti-MM efficacy, significantly reduced malignancy, effectively activated CD56+TNF-α+ NK cells, and promoted immune infiltration within the tumor environment.ConclusionAfter we evaluated aspects of 2A9-MICA and 2A9-MICAα1-2 comprehensively, we concluded that 2A9-MICAα1-2 deserves further study and investigation, and it provides a possible strategy for immunotherapy that targets MM.
WITHDRAWN: Structural Performance of Automated Multi-Depth Shuttle Warehouses (Amsws) Under Low-to-Moderate Seismic Actions
Authors: Kondratenko Aleksei , Kanyilmaz Alper , Castiglioni Carlo Andrea , Morelli Francesco , Kohrangi Mohsen
Published: March 2021

Automated Multi-Depth Shuttle Warehouses (AMSWs) are compact storage systems that provide a large surface occupation and therefore maximum storage density. AMSWs represent the future of storage technology, providing substantial savings in terms of cost, space, and energy with respect to traditional warehouses. Currently, designers refer to the standard building codes for the seismic design of AMSWs. Since structural characteristics of AMSWs are considerably different from the steel structures of typical buildings, this current approach used by designers is questionable in terms of safety and efficiency. In this article, the behavior of 5 AMSW structures has been studied performing 150 time-history analyses by direct integration including P-Delta effects. Demand/capacity ratios calculated for each element showed the dominance of the brittle failure mechanism in AMSWs subjected to low-to-moderate seismic actions. These mechanisms mainly took place in upright columns and their base connections prior to the activation of ductile energy dissipation mechanisms of the structure. Based on the results, further improvements have been recommended for the future design provisions, which may lead to a safer seismic design of AMSWs.
Prevalence of Diabetic Retinopathy and Risk Factors Among Diabetic Patients at University of Gondar Tertiary Eye Care and Training Center, North-West Ethiopia. 
Authors: Ejigu Tesfahun , Tsegaw Asmere
Published: March 2021

Purpose: Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the most serious complications of diabetes mellitus (DM). It is the most common cause of blindness among the working age group in the developed world and the fifth leading cause of global blindness. In Sub-Saharan Africa, 2.8% of all blindness is caused by DR. Studies addressing the patterns of DR and associated factors are scarce in Ethiopia. The objective of this study was to determine the Prevalence and associated factors of DR among DM patients attending University of Gondar (UOG), Tertiary Eye Care and Training center.Patients and methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out from March 2019 to February 2020 involving all consecutive diabetes patients who visited the center during the study period. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire and data extraction check list, and entered into SPSS version 20 and analyzed. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were done to identify predictors of DR. Statistical significance was determined with 95% confidence interval using odds ratio and p-values.Results: A total of 225 DM patients with mean age of 55.4 ± 13.5 years were studied, of whom 95 (42.2%) had DR. Duration of diabetes ≥ 6 years (AOR= 2.91: 95%CI; 1.01-8.35) and baseline age < 60 years (AOR= 3.2: 95%CI; 1.19 - 8.63) were significantly associated with DR. Diabetic retinopathy was significantly associated with the form of therapy. Those on insulin (p=0.025), and oral hypoglycemic agents (OHA) with insulin combination (p=0.014) had statistically significantly associated with development of DR. Patients with systolic blood pressure of <140 mmHg were 3.6 times (AOR=0.28:95%CI:0.09-0.82) less likely to have DR. A majority of patients had Non-proliferative DR (NPDR) without diabetic macular edema (DME) (34.2%). DME and proliferative DR (PDR) were seen in 5.7% and 3.6% of the patients respectively. Vision threatening DR (VTDR) was seen in 10.7% of patients. There was significant association between age <60 years and VTDR (AOR=4.19: 95%CI; 1.23-14.35).Conclusion: The prevalence of DR among our study patients was very high. Longer duration of diabetes, higher systolic blood pressure, baseline age < 60 years, use of insulin alone and use of combination of insulin with OHA were independently associated with DR. Health education; early screening and treatment are recommended.
Down-regulation of LAMP3 inhibits the proliferation and migration of HSCC
Authors: Qiu Xiaoxia , Li Juanjuan , Yang Keke , Jiang Song , Yin Yong , Bian Longjun , Huang Xiaorong , Sun Yi , Zhang Zhenxin
Published: March 2021

BackgroundLysosomal-associated membrane glycoprotein 3 (LAMP3) has been shown to be highly expressed in various types of tumors. It is associated with their poor prognosis, proliferation, invasion, and metastasis, respectively. However, the role of LAMP3 in hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HSCC) is unclear.ObjectiveThis article aims to investigate the role of LAMP3 in the proliferation and metastasis of HSCC.MethodDetection of the expression of LAMP3 in clinical HSCC and paired adjacent healthy tissue samples by using immunohistochemistry. Furthermore, LAMP3 was knocked out of the HSCC cell line, FaDu, using a lentivirus vector and the in vitro biological effects of LAMP3 knockdown in FaDu cells were studied.ResultsImmunohistochemistry results showed that LAMP3 was highly expressed in HSCC. Additionally, it was verified at the mRNA and protein levels that lentiviral transduction effectively down-regulated the expression of LAMP3 in FaDu cells. Cell colony formation assays and CCK8 proliferation assays showed that down-regulation of LAMP3 on FaDu cells inhibited cell proliferation and growth rate. Wound healing experiments and transwell experiments showed that significant down-regulation of LAMP3 on FaDu cells inhibited cell migration.ConclusionCollectively, our results suggest that LAMP3 is a useful therapeutic target for the treatment of hypopharyngeal cancer.
Monitoring and analysis of low-voltage network with smart grid architecture model by developing use cases
Authors: Kumar Haresh , Kumar Jagdesh , Devi Jherna
Published: March 2021

The objective of this paper is to show the characteristics of smart meters enabling to monitor and analyze the low-voltage (LV) network. This is achieved by developing use cases, where power quality and outage data are transferred from smart meters through distribution network to the control center. To visualize the monitoring process of LV network, the use cases are mapped into smart grid architecture model. The paper proposes a solution to analyze the LV network interruption and power quality problems (over-voltage, under-voltage, voltage sags, and swells). Thus, this paper provides a smart platform for monitoring LV network.
A short story of quantum and information thermodynamics
Authors: Auffèves Alexia
Published: March 2021

This Colloquium is a fast journey through the build-up of key thermodynamical concepts, i.e. work, heat and irreversibility -- and how they relate to information. Born at the time of industrial revolution to optimize the exploitation of thermal resources, these concepts have been adapted to small systems where thermal fluctuations are predominant. Extending the framework to quantum fluctuations is a great challenge of quantum thermodynamics, that opens exciting research lines e.g. measurement fueled engines or thermodynamics of driven-dissipative systems. On a more applied side, it provides the tools to optimize the energetic consumption of future quantum computers.