bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Characterization of SILAR-Deposited Leaf-Like Copper Sulphide Films
Authors: Ugbo Chika , Nkele Agnes Chinecherem , Agbogu Ada , Ekwealor A. B. C. , Maaza Malik , Osuji Rose U. , Ezema Fabian I.
Published: May 2021

Successful synthesis of copper sulphide films deposited via successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction (SILAR) method at 100, 150, and 200 cycles. The deposited films were characterized for their morphological, structural, elemental, optical, and electrochemical features. A leaf-like morphology was obtained for the CuS films. Orthorhombic crystal structure with distinct peaks at (262) and (116) planes were observed. Good optical features, high absorbance with band gap energies ranging from 1.95 eV to 1.98 eV. The synthesized films possessed good electrochemical features with supercapacitive abilities. The synthesized materials find potential applications in optical devices and supercapacitors.
Evaluation of the Level of Fit of Radial Fracture Fixation Plates Using Virtual and 3D-printed Models
Authors: Siegler Sorin , Stolle Jordan , Ilyas Asif , Marcouiller Nicholas , Jones Christopher M.
Published: May 2021

Radial fractures often require surgical stabilization with fracture fixation plates. Incomplete morphological reconstruction was linked to poor outcome such as limited forearm rotation. Pre-contoured plates are often used, but large inter-subject morphological variations may result in poor fit. Therefore, the goal of this study was to develop a reliable virtual measure of plate-to-bone fit. In addition, the study evaluated the accuracy with which 3D printed bones reproduce the morphology of the physical radius. Virtual models and 3D-printed models of six cadaver radii were produced from bone scans. Level of fit of pre-contoured plates were measured in three ways: directly on pre-contoured physical plates fitted to cadaver bone; pre-contoured physical plates fitted to 3D printed bone; and virtual plate models fitted to virtual bone models. In addition, the study evaluated the accuracy with which 3D printed bone reproduces the physical bone morphology. The results indicate excellent agreement between the physical and virtual level of fit measures as well as excellent geometrical accuracy of the 3D-printed bones. These provide the necessary foundation for guiding the development of better fitted pre-contoured fracture fixation plates as well as for developing pre-surgically patient specific pre-contoured plates.
A Novel Prediction Prognosis Model of sepsis with acute respiratory failure: A cohort study from the MIMIC-IV database
Authors: Zhao Lina , Yang Jing , Wang Yunying , Zeng Zheng Ge. , Liu Tao , Li Yi
Published: May 2021

Objectives: Acute respiratory failure is significantly related to increased short-term mortality in sepsis patients. We aimed to develop a novel prognosis model for predicting the risk for hospital mortality in sepsis patients with acute respiratory failure.Methods: We researched the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC)-IV database, and developed a matched cohort of adult sepsis with acute respiratory failure. After applying multivariate Cox regression, a nomogram was developed based on identified risk factors of the mortality in the cohort. Besides, the discrimination of the nomogram in predicting individual hospital death was evaluated by the area under o the characteristic operating curve (ROC).Results: A total of 663 sepsis patients with acute respiratory failure were included in this study. Systolic blood pressure, white blood cell count, neutrophils, mechanical ventilation, PaO2 < 60mmHg, abdominal cavity infection, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, and immunosuppressive disease were the independent risk predictors of the mortality in sepsis patients with acute respiratory failure. The area under curve of the nomogram in the ROC was 0.880 (95% CI: 0.851-0.908) that provided significantly higher discrimination compared with simplified acute physiology score II [0.656 (95% CI: 0.612-0.701)].Conclusion: The model has good performance in predicting the mortality risk of sepsis patients with acute respiratory failure, and it can be clinically useful to evaluate the short-term prognosis in critically ill patients with sepsis and acute respiratory failure.
Mining Thousands of Genomes to Classify Somatic and Pathogenic Structural Variants
Authors: Layer Ryan , Sedlazeck Fritz , Pedersen Brent , Quinlan Aaron
Published: May 2021

Structural variants (SVs) are associated with cancer progression and Mendelian disorders, but challenges with estimating SV frequency remain a barrier to somatic and de novo classification. In particular, variability in filtering and variant calling heuristics limit our ability to use SV catalogs from large cohorts. We present a method to index and search the raw alignments from thousands of samples that overcomes these limitations and supports robust SV analysis.
Accessing Performance of Transport Sector Considering Risks of Climate Change and Traffic Accidents: Joint Bounded-Adjusted Measure and Luenberger Decomposition
Authors: Chen Xiaodong , Zhu Jiahao , Wang Fang
Published: May 2021

Green transformation of energy use in China’s transport sector will promote sustainable development in the country. This paper extends the Bounded-adjusted Measure and Luenberger indicators to detect the performance of China’s inland transport sector across 2006–2015. In the framework, the climate change and traffic accident risks are taken as undesirable outputs. In addition, source-specific and variable-specific decomposition are proposed for investigating the sources of inefficiency and productivity, and quantifying the contributions of climate change and traffic accident risks. This paper opens up the “black box” of technological progress, identifying the different channels (i.e., quantity and time dimensions) through which affect economic growth. Therefore, policymakers can find out the most effective pathway to boost productivity growth and mitigate climate change and traffic accident risks in transport sector, which are ignored in the conventional framework. Empirical results indicate great variances exist among 30 provinces in inefficiency scores, productivity change and technological progress. Hence, classified regulations help to tackle this issue. We cluster 30 provinces into 4 groups according to their technological progress along quantity and time dimensions. Variable-wise, CO2 emission-reduction and civil vehicles gains promote the TFP gains most. Also, we verify that economic development and environmental regulations can coordinate to promote the sustainable development of transport sector.
Barriers to Accessing Mental Health Services among Syrian Refugees in Ankara
Authors: Kilic Cengiz , Kaya Edip , Karadag Ozge , Uner Sarp
Published: May 2021

Background

Syrian refugees are seriously traumatized by the conflict in their country. Consequently, mental health problems, particularly depression and PTSD, are prevalent among refugees. Despite this fact, they make little use of mental health services. Using a population sample of Syrian refugees living in Ankara, we assessed the perceived need for and contact with mental health services, as well as the barriers to access these services.
Methods

This was a cross-sectional study of 420 Syrian refugees living in Ankara city center, using face to face interviews administered at the respondents’ home by trained, Arabic-speaking interviewers. The data were collected in October–November 2016 in two neighborhoods of Ankara, where most of Syrian refugees were concentrated. PTSD and depression were assessed using Harvard Trauma Questionnaire and Beck Depression Inventory, respectively. Both measures have been validated in Arabic.
Results

Of all the refugees in our sample, 14.8% (N = 62) stated that they felt the need for mental healthcare since arriving in Turkey. The actual number contacting any mental health service, however, was very low (N = 6). Multivariate analyses revealed that traumatic stress scores predicted the perceived need for contacting services. Though women reported much higher need for contact with mental health services than men, there was no gender effect on actual contact. Speaking Turkish seemed to increase contact with services, which is in line with language being listed as the most important barrier to accessing care.
Conclusions

Our results show that, although refugees with mental health problems are more likely to contact services than others, most of those who need mental health care go untreated, and there is a significant gender inequity in this regard. To address this treatment gap, and to provide adequate care for refugees with mental health problems, common barriers (language, stigma, and awareness) should be identified and dealt with.
Effects of symmetry breaking of the structurally-disordered Hamiltonian ensembles on the anisotropic decoherence
Authors: Chen Hong-Bin
Published: May 2021

It is commonly known that the dephasing in open quantum systems is due to the establishment of bipartite correlations with an environment.
Recently, a new approach of average over disordered Hamiltonian ensemble is developed and shown to capable of describing
both the incoherent dynamical behavior and the nonclassicality of dynamical processes.
Here we further extend the approach of Hamiltonian ensemble in the canonical form to the realm of structural disorder.
Under the separation of the probability distribution within the Hamiltonian ensemble,
the geometrical structural is easily visualized and can be characterized according to the degree of symmetry.
We demonstrate four degrees and investigate the effects of different types of symmetry breaking on the incoherent dynamics.
With these effects, we obtain rather general master equations, going beyond the previous frameworks of pure dephasing or isotropic depolarization.
The practicality of the Hamiltonian ensemble and the theory of process nonclassicality is significantly enhanced.
Mobile Footprinting: Linking Individual Distinctiveness in Mobility Patterns to Mood, Sleep, and Brain Functional Connectivity
Authors: Xia Cedric Huchuan , Barnett Ian , Tapera Tinashe , Cui Zaixu , Moore Tyler , Adebimpe Azeez , Rush-Goebel Sage , Piiwaa Kayla , Murtha Kristin , Linguiti Sophia , Leibenluft Ellen , Brotman Melissa , Martin Melissa , Calkins Monica , Roalf David , Wolf Daniel , Bassett Danielle , Lydon-Staley David , Baker Justin , Ungar Lyle , Satterthwaite Theodore
Published: May 2021

Mapping individual differences in behavior is fundamental to personalized neuroscience. Here, we establish that statistical patterns of smartphone-based mobility features represent unique “footprints” that allow individual identification. Critically, mobility footprints exhibit varying levels of person-specific distinctiveness and are associated with individual differences in affective instability, circadian irregularity, and brain functional connectivity. Together, this work suggests that real-world mobility patterns may provide an individual-specific signature linking brain, behavior, and mood.
Characteristics of Rifampicin-Resistant Tuberculosis Detection in China: 2015-2019
Authors: Su Wei , Ruan Yunzhou , Li Tao , Du Xin , Jiang Jiawen , Li Renzhong
Published: May 2021

Background: The very high burden of rifampicin resistance tuberculosis (RR-TB) and the very low RR-TB cases detection are a major challenge that China has been faced since the implementation of Programmatic Management of Drug-resistant Tuberculosis in 2006. To deal with the challenge of inadequate detection of RR-TB cases, China expanded the scope of screening for RR and the application of rapid molecular drug susceptibility testing tools after 2015 and included it in the "13th Five-Year" National Tuberculosis Prevention and Control Program (2016-2020). This study analyzed the changes of RR-TB detection during 2015-2019.Method: We used data from the national Tuberculosis Information Management System to descriptively analyze characteristics of RR-TB detection from 2015 to 2019.Results: 68200 RR-TB cases were detected in 2015-2019, of which 48.1% were new cases. In 2019, the coverage rate of PMDT in prefectures nationwide reached 95.0%, an increase from 70.0% in 2015. The number and detection rate of RR-TB cases increased year by year, from 10019 and 14.3% in 2015 to 18623 and 28.7% in 2019, respectively. Of the bacteriologically confirmed TB cases, 81.9% were tested for RR, a considerable increase from 29.5% in 2015. Only 41.0% of RR-TB cases had FQs susceptibility testing performed in 2019, and this proportion has been declining year by year since 2016. The proportion of application of rapid molecular tools increased from 24.0% in 2015 to 67.1% in 2019, and the median days to obtain RR results was significantly shortened from 61 days (IQR 27–91) in 2015 to 15days (IQR 2–55) in 2019. In 2019, 76.0% of RR-TB cases were diagnosed as presumptive RR-TB in county-level hospitals.Conclusions: After China modified the RR-TB detection policies, the screening rate of RR and the number of RR-TB cases increased significantly, the RR testing methods have been transformed into the vast majority of the utilization of rapid molecular tools. However, comprehensive measures should be implemented to close the gap in the detection of RR-TB cases. It is imperative to take FQs susceptibility testing seriously and effectively strengthen the laboratory capacity of county-level hospitals.
Cellulose Derivative/Barium Titanate Composites with High Refractive Index, Conductivity and Energy Density
Authors: Barzic Andreea Irina , Soroceanu Marius , Rotaru Razvan , Doroftei Florica , Asandulesa Mihai , Harabagiu Valeria
Published: May 2021

High refractive index and transparent materials are useful in various technical domains, ranging from energy sector to microelectronics. This work deals with polymer composites prepared by embedding small amounts of barium titanate in hydroxypropyl cellulose matrix. Optical transparency of the composite films varies in agreement with polymer doping level. Light dispersion in the prepared composites allowed evaluation of specific parameters, which are related to the sample structural order and possible optical transitions. Conductivity of the composites is increased due to ceramic particle addition in the polymer. Dielectric studies reveal that the prepared materials are suitable for electric energy storage applications.
Expected and Predicted Curves of Markov Stochastic Processes and a New Interpretation of Deterministic Models
Authors: Sokol Miloslawa
Published: May 2021

Two curves characterizing a set of realizations of Markov stochastic process were analysed: the expected curve and the predicted curve. Although the definition of the predicted curve is new, curves with the same formulas are known in science as so-called deterministic models. This can be seen in the examples of the most well-known models in biology: logistics, Lotka-Volterra and Hardy-Weinberg. Attention was paid to the efficiency of calculating these both curves and their interpretation as the central tendency characteristics of Markov stochastic processes.
Clinical Observation of Two Bone Cement Distribution Modes After Percutaneous Vertebroplasty for Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures
Authors: Li Qiujiang , Long Xingxia , Wang Yinbin , Guan Tao , Fang Xiaomin , Guo Donggeng , Lv Jinhan , Hu Xuehua , Jiang Xiaocheng , Cai Lijun
Published: May 2021

Background:Current findings suggest that percutaneous vertebroplasty(PVP) is a suitable therapeutic approach for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs).The present retrospective study aimed to investigate the differences in clinical efficacy and related complications between the two bone cement distribution modes. Methods:We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of the patients with single-segment OVCFs who underwent bilateral percutaneous vertebroplasty.Patients were divided into blocky and spongy group according to the type of postoperative bone cement distribution. Clinical efficacy and related complications was compared between the two bone cement distribution modes on 24h after the operation and last follow-up.RESULTS: The mean follow-up time was 17.54 months. The VAS and ODI after operation improved significantly in both two groups. The VAS and ODI in the spongy group was significantly lower than that in the blocky group, 24h postoperatively, and at the last follow-up. There were 42 cases (12.8%) of adjacent vertebral fractures, 26 cases (19.8%) in the blocky group and 16 cases (8.1%) in the spongy group. There were 57 cases (17.3%) of bone cement leakage, 18 cases (13.7%) in blocky group and 39 cases (19.7%) in the spongy group. At 24 hour postoperatively and at the last follow-up, local kyphosis and anterior vertebral height were significantly corrected in both groups, but gradually decreased over time, and the degree of correction was significantly higher in the spongy group than in the block group. Loss of local kyphosis and loss of vertebral body height were also less severe in the spongy group at the last follow-up.Conclusions: Compared with blocky group, spongy group can better maintain the height of the vertebral body, correct local kyphosis, reduce the risk of the vertebral body recompression, long-term pain and restore functions.
Embedding mentoring to support trial processes and implementation fidelity in a randomised controlled trial of vocational rehabilitation for stroke survivors
Authors: Craven Kristelle , Holmes Jain , Powers Katie , Clarke Sara , Cripps Rachel L , Lindley Rebecca , Phillips Julie , Tyerman Ruth , McKevitt Christopher , Clarke David , Radford Kathryn
Published: May 2021

Background: Little guidance exists regarding how best to upskill and support those delivering complex healthcare interventions to ensure robust trial outcomes and implementation fidelity. Mentoring was provided to occupational therapists (OTs) delivering a complex vocational rehabilitation (VR) intervention to stroke survivors. This study aimed to explore mentors’ roles in supporting OTs with intervention delivery and fidelity, and to describe factors affecting the mentoring process and intervention delivery.Methods: Quantitative data (duration, mode and total time of mentoring support) was extracted from mentoring records and emails between mentors and OTs, alongside qualitative data on barriers and facilitators to intervention delivery. Semi-structured interviews with mentors (n=6) and OTs (n=19) explored experiences and perceptions of intervention training, delivery and the mentoring process. Mean total and monthly time spent mentoring were calculated per trial site. Qualitative data were analysed thematically.Results: Forty-one OTs across 16 sites were mentored between March 2018 and April 2020. Most mentoring was provided by phone or Microsoft Teams (range: 88.6%-100%), with the remainder via email and SMS (Short Message Service) text messages. Mentors suggested strategies to enhance trial recruitment, improved OTs’ understanding of- and adherence to trial processes, intervention delivery and fidelity, and facilitated independent problem-solving. Barriers to mentoring included OT non-attendance at mentoring sessions and mentors struggling to balance mentoring with clinical roles. Facilitators included support from the trial team and mentors having protected time for mentoring. Conclusions: Mentoring supported mentee OTs in various ways, but it remains unclear to what extent the OTS would have been able to deliver the intervention without mentoring support, or how this might have impacted fidelity. Successful implementation of mentoring alongside new complex interventions may increase the likelihood of intervention effectiveness being observed and sustained in real-life contexts. Further research is needed to investigate how mentors could be selected, upskilled, funded and mentoring provided to maximise impact. The clinical- and cost-effectiveness of mentoring as an implementation strategy and its impact on fidelity also requires testing in a future trial.Trial registration: ISRCTN, ISRCTN12464275. Registered on 13th March 2018.
A novel BRCA1 duplication and new insights on the spectrum and frequency of germline large genomic rearrangements in BRCA1/BRCA2
Authors: Sahin Ibrahim , Saat Hanife
Published: May 2021

Heritable breast cancers account for 5 to 10% of all breast cancers, and monogenic, highly penetrant genes cause them. Around 90% of pathogenic variants in BRCA1 and BRCA2 are observed using gene sequencing, with another 10% identified through gene duplication/deletion analysis, which differs across various communities. In this study, we performed a next-generation sequencing panel and MLPA on 1484 patients to explain the importance of recurrent germline duplications/deletions of BRCA1-2 and their clinical results and determine how often BRCA gene LGRs were seen in people suspected of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome. The large genomic rearrangements (LGRs) frequency was approximately 1% (14/1484). All the 14 mutations were heterozygous and detected in patients with breast cancer. BRCA1 mutations were more predominant (n = 8, 57.1%) than BRCA2 mutations (6, 42.9%). The most common recurrent mutations were BRCA2 exon three and BRCA1 exon 24 (23) deletions. To the best of our knowledge, BRCA1 5'UTR-exon11 duplication has never been reported before. Testing with MLPA is essential to identify patients at high risk. Our data demonstrate that BRCA1-2 LGRs should be considered when ordering genetic testing for individuals with a personal or family history of cancer, particularly breast cancer. Further research could shed light on BRCA1-2 LGRs' unique carcinogenesis roles.
Clinical Efficacy of the Orthopdische Chirurgie München Approach With Bone Grafting for Pre-Collapse Non-Traumatic Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Liang Dawei , Pei Jia , Zhang Leilei , Ling Haonan , Liu Youwen , Chen Xiantao
Published: May 2021

BackgroundThis study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of autologous bone mixed with tricalcium phosphate porous bioceramic bone grafting via Orthopdische Chirurgie München approach (OCM approach) with fenestration of the femoral head-neck in patients with pre-collapse non-traumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH).MethodsThe clinical data of 47 patients (47 hips) with ONFH were retrospectively reviewed. The Harris hip score (HHS) was used to evaluate the clinical outcomes. Imaging was assessed by X-ray. Clinical failure was defined as postoperative total hip arthroplasty (THA) or the HHS was poor (<70). The Kaplan-Meier survival curve was used to conduct a univariate analysis of risk factors. The analysis factors included gender, age, International Association Research Circulation Osseous (ARCO) stage, etiology, body mass index (BMI), and 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D). The COX multivariate risk model was used to analyze the risk factors.ResultsAll the 47 hips were followed up for 24-58 months, with an average of 45 months. The Harris score (76.29 ± 10.38) at the last follow-up was significantly higher than the preoperative HHS (64.45 ± 2.93) (P<0.05). The postoperative HHS was excellent with a success rate of 36.17%. Postoperative imaging evaluation showed that 9 hips improved, 28 hips stabilized, and 10 hips progressed. Moreover, 17 out of 47 hips were defined as a postoperative clinical failure and the success rate was 63.83%. 25(OH)D and preoperative ARCO stage were risk factors for postoperative clinical failure (P<0.05). The COX multivariate risk model analysis showed that ⅢA stage was an independent risk factor for postoperative clinical failure (P<0.05).ConclusionsThe head and neck fenestration and bone grafting via the OCM approach in the treatment of non-traumatic ONFH in the pre-collapse stage can achieve good clinical outcomes. 25(OH)D deficient patients and ARCO IIIA patients had a higher failure rate of bone graft using this approach.
Improvement of Summer Precipitation Simulation by Correcting Biases of Spring Soil Moisture in the Seasonal Frozen-Thawing Zone over the Northern Hemisphere
Authors: Li Kechen , Zhang Feimin , Yang Kai , Shen Jiali , Wang Chenghai
Published: May 2021

Soil moisture (SM) plays an important role in the climate system, and the effects of SM anomalies on climate can persist from month to season. The seasonal frozen-thawing zone (SFTZ) is accompanied by apparently inter-annual SM variability, and it is a key region of land–atmosphere interactions in the Northern Hemisphere (NH). In this study, by assimilating spring SM in the SFTZ through indirect soil nudging (ISN) in the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model, the impacts of correcting spring SM biases in the SFTZ on the subsequent summer precipitation simulations in the NH were investigated. The results indicated that correcting spring SM biases in the SFTZ significantly improves the subsequent summer precipitation simulations in the NH. Correcting spring SM biases in the SFTZ significantly adjusts energy and moisture evolution on the land surface from spring to summer. Specifically, the correction of SM biases by assimilating SM in SFTZ in the spring can clearly reduce the biases of sensible heat flux (SH) and latent heat flux (LH) in the summer. This affects land–atmosphere interactions over NH, leading to correcting the negative biases of the geopotential height in the middle troposphere in June and July, as well as larger biases of water vapor transport and its divergence during the summer. Overall, it is evident that spring SM in the SFTZ can serve as an effective signal for predicting summer precipitation in the NH.
Complete mtgenome sequences of Anopheles peditaeniatus and An. nitidus and phylogenetic relationships of the genus Anopheles based on mtgenome sequences (Diptera: Culicidae: Anophelinae)
Authors: Guo Jing , Yan Zhen-Tian , Fu Wen-Bo , Yuan Huan , Li Xu-Dong , Chen Bin
Published: May 2021

Background: Despite the medical importance of the genus Anopheles in the transmission of malaria and other human diseases, its phylogenetic relationships are not unsettled and the characteristics of mitochondrial genome (mtgenome) are not well understood.Methods: The present study sequenced and analyzed the complete mtgenomes of An. peditaeniatus and An. nitidus, and investigated the characteristics and phylogenetic relationships of 76 complete mtgenome sequences in the genus Anopheles using Illumina sequencing and bioinformatics techniques.Results: The complete mtgenomes of An. peditaeniatus and An. nitidus are 15416 and 15418 bp long, respectively, and include 13 PCGs, 22 tRNAs, two tRNAs and one control region (CR). These 76 mtgenomes are similar as earlier reports in insects in general characteristics, and however the trnR and trnA have a reversal arrangement to form “trnR-trnA” as reported in other mosquito genera. Their variations mainly occur in CR with a length of 493 - 886 bp, and six repeat unit types are identified for the first time and demonstrate some evolutionary signals. The subgenera Lophopodomyia, Stethomyia, Kerteszia, Nyssorhynchus, Anopheles and Cellia, are proposed to be monophyletic with the phylogenetic relationships of (Lophopodomyia + ((Stethomyia + Kerteszia) + (Nyssorhynchus + (Anopheles + Cellia)))). Four series Neomyzomyia, Pyretophorous, Neocellia and Myzomyia in Cellia, and two series Arribalzagia and Myzorhynchus in Anopheles are proposed to be monophyletic, and three sections Myzorhynchella, Argyritarsis and Albimanus and their subdivisions in Nyssorhynchus all appear polyphyletic or paraphyletic. Conclusions: The study comprehensively uncovered the characteristics of mtgenome and the phylogenetics based on mtgenomes in the genus Anopheles, and provided an information frame for further study on the mtgenomes, phylogenetics and taxonomic revision of the genus.
Si-Miao-Yong-An Decoction maintains the cardiac function and protects cardiomyocytes from myocardial ischemia and reperfusion injury
Authors: cui wenwen , Shen Xin , Zhu Lingjuan , Wang Mingye , Hao Yuanyuan , Zhao Yuqian , Li Yang , Hou Yunlong
Published: May 2021

Objective ：The aim of this study was to determine whether Si-Miao-Yong-An decoction (SMYAD) could protect cardiomyocytes from ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury and its underlying mechanisms. Methods: C57BL/6 mice were used to establish a model of myocardial infarction by I/R injury and treated by SMYAD for 4 weeks. Then the cardiac functions of mice were evaluated by Cardiac Magnetic Resonance (CMR). Histopathological analysis for the heart remodeling was detected by H&E and Masson staining. The protein expression of Collagen I, MMP9 , and TNFα was detected by Western blot in the heart tissues. H9C2 cells were used to establish the hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) model and SMYAD intervention. MTT assays detected the cell viability of myocardial cells. The expression level of IL-1β was evaluated by ELISA. The expression levels of LC3B-II/LC3B‑I, p- mTOR, mTOR, NLRP3, pro-Caspase1, and cleaved-Caspase1 in H9C2 cells were evaluated by Western blot. Results : SMYAD improved cardiac functions such as ventricular volume and ejection fraction of the rats with ischemia/reperfusion injury. Morphological assay indicated that SMYAD reduced the scar size and inhibited fibrosis formation. It was found that SMYAD could regulate Collagen I, MMP9, and TNFα protein expression levels in the heart tissues. SMYAD improved the survival rate of cardiomyocytes H92C in the H/R injury model. SMYAD elevated the rate of LC3B-II/LC3B‑I protein expression, decreased the rate of p-mTOR/mTOR protein expression, and reduced expressions of Caspase 1, NLRP3, and IL-1β in H/R cardiomyocytes. Conclusion： SMYAD exerted protective effects on ischemia-reperfusion injury in myocardial cells by activating autophagy and inhibiting pyroptosis. This might be the reason why SMYAD protected myocardial tissue and improved cardiac function in mice with ischemia/reperfusion.
The Role of Residual Contaminants and Recycling Steps on Rheological Properties of Recycled Polypropylene
Authors: Paiva Robert da Silva , Veroneze Isabelly Bertochi , Wrona Magdalena , Nerín Cristina , Cruz Sandra Andrea
Published: May 2021

Recycling of polymers is one of the alternatives to reduce the impact of polymers presence on the environmental. However, the contaminants, defined as non-intentionally added substances, present in recycled material may migrate into food and also change its molecular structure. This work addresses the extractability/migration of contaminants from polypropylene (PP) samples into food simulants and the influence of these contaminants on the molecular structure of recycled PP. For this PP was contaminated with several substances to simulate a “worst-case” scenario and, then it was submitted to a recycling process. Extractability tests were performed by solid-phase microextraction and gas chromatography coupled to mass spectroscopy both to evaluate the presence of contaminants in the PP samples and their ability to migrate in food simulants. Additionally, molecular changes of the PP samples were evaluated by oscillatory rheometry. After washing and extrusion of the PP samples the extractability results showed considerable reductions of migrations in the food simulants and indicated, in some cases, compliance with regulations for using recycled polymer in contact with food. The residual contaminants were present in the polymer, the high temperatures and shear rates play an important role in molecular changes. Finally, the results highlight the importance of the use of rheological measurements to detect the influence of contaminants in recycled materials. Their presence result in material with different molar mass, that may be applied in different market applications.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease Transcriptome and Metatranscriptome Meta-Analysis (IBD TaMMA) framework
Authors: Massimino Luca , Lamparelli Luigi , Houshyar Yashar , D’Alessio Silvia , Peyrin-Biroulet Laurent , Vetrano Stefania , Danese Silvio , Ungaro Federica
Published: May 2021

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a class of chronic inflammatory gut disorders whose aetiogenesis is still unknown. Despite the high number of omics studies, the RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) data produced for a better IBD pathogenesis understanding cannot be compared because of the experimental variability and different data analysis approaches. To overcome this hurdle, we here introduce the open-source IBD Transcriptome and Metatranscriptome Meta-Analysis (TaMMA) framework, a comprehensive survey of publicly available IBD RNA-Seq datasets. IBD TaMMA will expedite the profiling of the IBD-associated transcriptome and metatranscriptome, holding out the strong promise of being of high impact for the IBD community.
Design and Performance Enhancement of Gate-on-Source PNPN Doping–Less Vertical Nanowire TFET
Authors: Lal Kritika , Verma Anushka , Kumar Pradeep , Kumar Naveen , Amin S. Intekhab , ANAND SUNNY
Published: May 2021

This paper outlines the study of a Doping-Less Vertical Nanowire Tunnel Field Effect Transistor (DLVNWTFET) with a p-i-n structure, aiming to enhance the performance of this device. The proposed device, which is a p-n-p-n configured DLVNWTFET, switches with a steeper sub-threshold slope while keeping the Off-state current (IOFF) and threshold-voltage (VTH) low and also improves the On-state current (ION) of the device; which is one of the crucial problems in TFETs. The nanowire TFET structure is vertically grown on an intrinsic silicon wafer. This vertical structure eases the fabrication process and also helps in the implementation of Charge-Plasma (CP) Technique. It is a process by which electrodes of specific work functions are used to induce charges in the Source (P) and Drain (N) regions. To realize the p-n-p-n configured structure, pocketing technique is used where the N+ heavily doped pocket is introduced between the Source and the Channel through CP concept. Upon calculation and comparison of various analog and device parameters, the proposed p-n-p-n structure shows better performance in contrast to the p-i-n DLVNWTFET. Analysis of the performance of the two configurations has been done, comparing various parameters like transconductance (Gm), output conductance (GD), transfer characteristics (ID–VGS), output characteristics (ID–VDS), cut-off frequency (fT), total gate capacitance (CGG) and intrinsic gain.
Experimental Study On Antibacterial Properties of Iodine-Coated Implant in Acute Osteomyelitis Model
Authors: Zhuang Xiqi , Yang Weibing , Zhang Yongquan , Wang Wanming
Published: May 2021

Purpose We have developed a iodine-coated implant and evaluated its antibacterial properties against Gram-negative bacteria by constructing an experimental osteomyelitis model.Methods In this study, 16 titanium Kirschner-wires were selected, of which 8 titanium K-wires were treated with iodine on the surface by electrophoretic deposition with PVP-I solution. In our study, the standard strain of Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922) was selected, and 16 New Zealand rabbits were selected. There were 8 rabbits in the iodine-coated group and 8 rabbits in the non-iodine-coated group. All animals were drilled in the left proximal tibia after successful anesthesia.After that,the iodine-coated group was implanted with iodine-coated titanium K-wires.Then, 25ul of 2×108CFU/ml bacterial suspension was injected into the bone marrow cavity with pipette gun, and the bone hole was sealed with bone wax.They were reared in cages for 1 week after operation, and evaluated and analyzed by microbiology, histopathology, scanning electron microscopy, etc.Results The results of gross wound score and microbiology showed that the wound infection of the iodine-coated group was less severe than that of the non-iodine-coated group, which was confirmed by the histopathological results. Scanning electron microscopy and confocal microscopy showed that the amount of bacteria on the surface of iodine-coated K-wires was significantly lower than that non-iodine-coated K-wires. Conclusions In this study, we have verified that the iodine-coated titanium implant could effectively inhibit E. coli infection in the early stage of infection by constructing an acute osteomyelitis model.
Biological and Clinical Factors contributing to the Metabolic Heterogeneity of Hospitalized Patients with and without COVID-19
Authors: D'Alessandro Angelo , Akpan Imo , Thomas Tiffany , Reisz Julie , Cendali Francesca , Gamboni Fabia , Nemkov Travis , Thangaraju Kiruphagaran , Katneni Upendra , Tanaka Kenichi , Kahn Stacie , Wei Alexander , Valk Jacob , Hudson Krystalyn , Roh David , Moriconi Chiara , Zimring James , Hod Eldad , Spitalnik Steven , Buehler Paul , Francis Richard
Published: May 2021

The Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic represents an ongoing worldwide challenge. Exploratory studies evaluating the impact of COVID-19 infection on the plasma metabolome have been performed, often with small numbers of patients, and with or without relevant control data; however, determining the impact of biological and clinical variables remains critical to understanding potential markers of disease severity and progression. The present large study, including relevant controls, sought to understand independent and overlapping metabolic features of samples from acutely ill patients (n = 831), testing positive (n = 543) or negative (n = 288) for COVID-19. High-throughput metabolomics analyses were complemented with antigen and enzymatic activity assays on 831 plasma samples from acutely ill patients while in the emergency department, at admission, and during hospitalization. We then performed additional lipidomics analyses of the 60 subjects with the lowest and highest body mass index, either COVID-19 positive or negative. Omics data were correlated to detailed data on patient characteristics and clinical laboratory assays measuring coagulation, hematology and chemistry analytes. Significant changes in arginine/proline/citrulline, tryptophan/indole/kynurenine, fatty acid and acyl-carnitine metabolism emerged as highly relevant markers of disease severity, progression and prognosis as a function of biological and clinical variables in these patients. Further, machine learning models were trained by entering all metabolomics and clinical data from half of the COVID-19 patient cohort and then tested on the other half yielding ~ 78% prediction accuracy. Finally, the extensive amount of information accumulated in this large, prospective, observational study provides a foundation for follow-up mechanistic studies and data sharing opportunities, which will advance our understanding of the characteristics of the plasma metabolism in COVID-19 and other acute critical illnesses.
Can platelet-rich plasma enhance the effect of meniscus repair?:a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Xie Yulei , Wang Shan , Yang Ju , Hu Anli , Wu Qing
Published: May 2021

Background: Studies have shown that platelet-rich plasma (PRP) can enhance the effect of meniscus repair, but some studies have suggested different views on the role of PRP.Purpose: To determine whether PRP can enhance the effect of meniscus repair with respect to pain reduction and improved functionality and cure rate in patients with meniscus injury.Methods: By searching PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library databases, clinicaltrials.gov, and the CNKI database from their inception till December 1, 2020, we performed a meta-analysis of RCTs reporting the results of the Pain Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Lysholm score, healing rate, and adverse events. The risk of bias is assessed using Cochrane’s collaborative tools. The summary results are expressed with effect size and 95% confidence interval, and sensitivity and subgroup analysis were performed.Results: The meta-analysis included eight RCTs and 431 patients. In general, compared with the control group, use of PRP during meniscus surgery significantly improved the VAS (SMD: -0.40, P=0.002, 95%CI: -0.66 to -0.15) and Lysholm score (MD: 4.86, P=0.0009, 95%CI: 1.98–7.75) of patients with meniscus injury, but the PRP enhancement technique showed no benefit in improving the cure rate of meniscus repair (risk ratio [RR]: 1.22, P=0.06, 95%CI: 0.99–1.51). No serious adverse events were reported in any study. Conclusion: PRP deserves further consideration as an enhancement program for meniscus repair. However, the evidence still needs to be interpreted carefully because of the quantity and quality of the included studies.
Dynamic Assessment of the Pulmonary Veins in the Cardiac Cycle of Adults without Heart Disease by Cardiac CT
Authors: Dong Jing , Li Hui , Deng Yu-Jiao , zhou Jin-Rong , Shu Jian , Chen Jing
Published: May 2021

Purpose The purpose of this study was to explore the influence of cardiac cycle and the traditional risk factors on the four pulmonary veins (PVs) of adults and to determine the phase for measuring the maximum value of PVs. Methods Cardiac CT was performed in 101 subjects. The diameter, area, cross-sectional angle, and coronal-section angle of four PVs in 10 phase were reconstructed and measured at 10% step from 5%-95% R-R interval. The differences in PVs size and spatial angles in cardiac cycles and the correlation between the indicators of four PVs and traditional risk factors were analized using two-level model. Results All the maximum size values of the four PVs were found in 45%, while the minimum values were found in 5% or 95% of cardiac phases. Gender influenced the size of three PVs—right superior pulmonary vein (RSPV), right inferior pulmonary vein (RIPV), and left inferior pulmonary vein (LSPV). The diameter of the RSPV was small in hypertensive patients and smokers. In addition, the cross-sectional angles of the left superior pulmonary vein (LIPV) changed during cardiac cycles, and age affected these changes. We found no changes in the spatial angles of the RSPV, RIPV, and LSPV, as well as the coronal-section angle of the LIPV. Conclusions PVs ostia size of normal person varies during cardiac phases. Compared with nomal person, AF could affect the cardiac phase in which the maximum and minimum of PVs is, and it may lead to a reduction of the PVs’ size slightly. For life science journals only.
Spread Risk Assessment of Invasive Axis Deer using Bioclimatic Niche Models
Authors: Etges Matheus Fragoso , Martínez-Lanfranco Juan A. , Guadagnin Demétrio Luis
Published: May 2021

Ecological niche models (ENM) calibrated with data from native and invaded ranges are useful tools to manage biological invasions and can be challenged by niche shifts and non-equilibrium processes. We modeled the extent of the potential invasion by the axis deer (Axis axis) worldwide, testing the reciprocal hypotheses of niche conservatism and shift. We quantified niche overlap on the multivariate climatic space and modeled climatic realized niche based on detailed field information. We showed that the axis deer shifted its realized niche after the invasion. We rejected the niche equivalency hypothesis. Most of the climatic niche available in invaded areas is contained in the native climatic niche. Non-equilibrium between native and invasive niches of the axis deer was confirmed due to a large number of unfilled areas in invaded regions. Our projections predict that the most significant regions suitable for the axis deer are located in tropical and subtropical climates around the equator and the southern hemisphere, mostly in the Neotropics.
Opposite Peak Ratio to Characterize Ground Motion Loading History for Performance-Based Design
Authors: Jayaprakash Arjun , Kowalsky Mervyn J.
Published: May 2021

Recent studies have revealed the impact of ground motion loading history on performance limit states of reinforced concrete (RC) bridge columns such as reinforcement bar-buckling and residual drift ratio. Conventional hazard characterizations such as peak ground acceleration, spectral acceleration, and spectral displacement only capture peak values of ground motion hazard and, therefore, fall short of providing the necessary information to account for these limit states. In this study, a parameter termed as the opposite peak ratio (Rop) is defined, explored, and shown to be useful in reproducing loading history characteristics of ground motions for displacement-based design. Several past ground motion records were analyzed to develop empirical models that can estimate Rop. These models provide the mean and confidence intervals of Rop as a function of earthquake magnitude, epicentral distance, structural period, hysteretic model, and displacement ductility. To motivate practitioners to make use of Rop, a design scenario and two case studies are discussed. In an RC bridge column design scenario, it is shown that having prior information about the expected Rop at the site could reduce the structural cost of the bridge. Next, case studies designed to investigate correlations between Rop and the performance limit states of RC bridge columns are discussed. By analyzing the results of nonlinear time-history analyses of numerical RC column models, it is established that Rop could potentially be a significant variable in generating fragility models for these limit-states.
Automated Bag Breathing Unit for COVID-19 Ventilator Shortages
Authors: Gruslova Aleksandra , Katta Nitesh , Cabe Andrew G , Jenney Scott F , Valvano Jonathan W , Phillips Tim B , McElroy Austin B , LaSalle Robert K , Zahedivash Aydin , Truskett Van N , Viswanathan Nishi , Feldman Marc D , Wettstein Richard , Milner Thomas E , Derdak Stephen
Published: May 2021

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a global mechanical ventilator shortage for treatment of severe acute respiratory failure. Development of novel breathing devices has been proposed as a low cost, rapid solution when full-featured ventilators are unavailable. Here we report the design, bench testing and preclinical results for an 'Automated Bag Breathing Unit' (ABBU). Output parameters were validated with mechanical test lungs followed by animal model testing.Results: The ABBU design uses a programmable motor-driven wheel assembled for adult resuscitation bag-valve compression. ABBU can control tidal volume (200-800 ml), respiratory rate (10-40 bpm), inspiratory time (0.5-1.5 sec), assist pressure sensing (-1 to -20 cm H2O), manual PEEP valve (0- 20 cm H2O). All set values are displayed on an LCD screen. Bench testing with lung simulators (Michigan 1600, SmartLung 2000) yielded consistent tidal volume delivery at compliances of 20, 40 and 70 (mL/cm H2O). The delivered fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) decreased with increasing minute ventilation (VE), from 98% to 47% when VE was increased from 4-16 L/min using a fixed oxygen flow source of 5 L/min. ABBU was tested in Berkshire pigs (n=6, weight of 112±5.8 lb) utilizing normal lung model and saline lavage induced lung injury. Arterial blood gases were measured following changes in tidal volume (200-800 ml), respiratory rate (10-40 bpm), and PEEP (5-20 cm H2O) at baseline and after lung lavage. Physiological levels of PaCO2 (≤40 mm Hg [5.3 kPa]) were achieved in all animals at baseline and following lavage injury. PaO2 increased in lavage injured lungs in response to incremental PEEP (5-20 cm H2O) (p<0.01). At fixed low oxygen flow rates (5 L/min), delivered FiO2 decreased with increased VE.Conclusions: ABBU provides oxygenation and ventilation across a range of parameter settings that may potentially provide a low-cost solution to ventilator shortages. A clinical trial is necessary to establish safety and efficacy in adult patients with diverse etiologies of respiratory failure.