bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exosomes derived from EphB2-overexpressing bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells regulate immune balance and repair barrier function
Authors: Chu Si , Yu Ting , Wang Wenzhu , Wu Hui , Zhu Feng , Wei Chunzhu , Gao Fei , Liu Chang , Fan Heng
Published: September 2022

Background
Disruption of intestinal barrier function and an imbalance in intestinal immunity are crucial for the occurrence and development of ulcerative colitis. Because of their important roles in regulating inflammation and immunity, exosomes (Exos) released from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) may be useful for treating ulcerative colitis. The EphB/EphrinB signaling pathway plays a crucial role in the inflammatory process and the development and function of immune cells, and can mediate long-distance intercellular communication through extracellular vesicles. This study was conducted to explore the effects of pre-modified BMSC-Exos expressing EphB2 (EphB2-Exos) on immunoregulation in vitro.
Methods
We transfected a lentivirus vector encoding EphB2 into BMSCs and isolated EphB2-Exos from the culture supernatant. Inflammation and oxidative damage in the human colon adenocarcinoma cell line (Caco-2) were induced by dextran sulfate sodium/hydrogen peroxide. In addition, spleen CD4+ T lymphocytes of rats were sorted in vitro. We conducted a series of experiments to explore the biological functions of EphB2-Exos.
Results
EphB2-Exos were successfully isolated and were found to significantly protect the activity, proliferation, and migration of Caco-2 cells that were inhibited by dextran sulfate sodium. EphB2-Exos alleviated inflammation and apoptosis and increased the activity of antioxidant enzymes while inhibiting oxidative stress in Caco-2 cells. EphB2-Exos restored barrier function by inhibiting the RhoA/ROCK pathway and regulated the polarization of CD4+T cells.
Conclusion
EphB2-Exos enhanced intestinal barrier function and regulated the immune balance by inhibiting the RhoA/ROCK pathway in vitro. These findings suggest that EphB2-Exos can be applied as a cell-free therapy for ulcerative colitis.
Pathway and effects of ascorbic acid during wound healing in rat dental pulp
Authors: Ohkura Naoto , Yoshiba Kunihiko , Yoshiba Nagako , Edanami Naoki , Ohshima Hayato , Takenaka Shoji , Noiri Yuichiro
Published: September 2022

Ascorbic acid (AA; vitamin C) plays a crucial role in the biosynthesis and secretion of collagen to produce the organic matrix of hard tissues. Nevertheless, the detailed mechanism by which AA induces reparative dentinogenesis is still unknown. This study aimed to investigate the pathway and function of AA during wound healing in a rat pulpotomy model. Sodium-dependent vitamin C transporter (SVCT) 2 and glucose transporter (GLUT) 1 were detected in odontoblasts, endothelial cells, and nerve fibers in normal pulp tissues. SVCT2 and GLUT1 were also expressed in odontoblast-like cells in pulpotomized tissues of Wistar rats and osteogenic disorder Shionogi (ODS) rats, which cannot generate AA. However, in ODS rats, a thick layer of osteopontin was detected beneath the wound surface, and odontoblast-like cells observed along this layer expressed Nestin and α-SMA, but the formation of dentin bridges was not evident. Macrophages expressing CD68 and CD206 increased beneath the wound site. Hence, AA may be involved in odontoblast-like cell differentiation and anti-inflammatory response during dental pulp wound healing. Our results provide new insights into the function of AA through SVCT2 and GLUT1 in reparative dentinogenesis and may help in developing new therapeutic targets for dental pulpal disease.
A high-efficiency Discretized Immersed Boundary Method for moving boundaries in incompressible flows
Authors: Xu Dong , Liu Jianing , Wu Yunfeng , Ji Chunning
Published: September 2022

The Immersed Boundary Method (IBM) has an advantage in simulating fluid-structure interaction, owning to its simplicity, intuitiveness, and ease of handling complex object boundaries. The interpolation function plays a vital role in IBM and it is usually computationally intensive. For moving or deforming solids, the interpolation weights of all of the immersed boundary points ought to be updated every time step, which takes quite a lot CPU time. Considering the fact that the interpolation procedure within all uniform structured grids is highly repetitive and very similar, we propose a simple and generalized Discretized Immersed Boundary Method (DIBM), which significantly improves efficiency by discretizing the interpolation functions onto subgrid points within each control volume and forming and reusing a universal interpolation stencil. The accuracy and performance of DIBM are analyzed using both theoretical estimation and simulation tests. The results show speedup ratios of 30 ~ 40 or even higher using DIBM when compared with traditional IBM for typical moving boundary simulations like particle-laden flows, while the error is estimated to be under 1% and can be further decreased by using finer subgrid stencils. By balancing the performance and accuracy demands, DIBM provides a efficient alternative way for handling moving boundaries in incompressible viscous flows.
Impact of Mobile Health on Maternal and Child Health Service Utilization and Continuum of Care in Northern Ghana
Authors: Kantamah Abdul Ganiyu , Dwomoh Duah , Amuasi Susan Ama , Dotse-Gborgbortsi Winfred , Kubio Chrysantus , Apraku Edward Anane , Timbire Jonas Kolong , Nonvignon Justice
Published: September 2022

Maternal and child mortality are of public health concern. Most of these deaths occur in rural communities of developing countries. Technology for maternal and child health (T4MCH) is an intervention introduced to increase Maternal and Child Health (MCH) services utilization and continuum of care in some health facilities across Ghana. The objective of this study is to assess the impact of T4MCH intervention on MCH services utilization and continuum of care in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District in the Savannah Region of Ghana. A quasi-experimental study with a retrospective review of records of MCH services of women who attended antenatal services in some selected health centers in the Bole (comparison district) and Sawla-Tuna-Kalba (intervention district) of the Savannah region, Ghana. In total 469 records were reviewed, 263 in Bole and 206 in Sawla-Tuna-Kalba. A multivariable modified Poisson and logistic regression with augmented inverse-probability weighted regression adjustment based on propensity scores were used to quantify the impact of the intervention on service utilization and continuum of care. The implementation of T4MCH intervention increased antenatal care attendance, facility delivery, postnatal care and continuum of care by 18 percentage points (ppts) [95% CI: -17.0, 52.0], 14ppts [95% CI: 6.0%, 21.0%], 27ppts [95% CI: 15.0, 26.0] and 15.0ppts [95% CI: 8.0, 23.0] respectively compared to the control districts. The study showed that T4MCH intervention improved antenatal care, skilled delivery, postnatal services utilization, and continuum of care in health facilities in the intervention district. The intervention is recommended for a scale-up in other rural areas of Northern Ghana and the West-African sub-region.
Predictive role of cardiac valvular calcification in all-cause mortality of Chinese initial hemodialysis patients: a follow-up study of 4 years
Authors: Cheng Yun , Zou Jianzhou , Jin Huimin , Lu Zhihui , Ding Xiaoqiang , Cao Xuesen
Published: September 2022

Background Cardiac valvular calcification (CVC) is prevalent in hemodialysis (HD) patients. However, its association with mortality in Chinese incident hemodialysis (IHD) patients remians unknown.
Methods 224 IHD patients who had just begun HD therapy in Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University were enrolled and divided into two groups according to the detection of cardiac valvular calcification(CVC) using echocardiography. The patients were followed for a median of 4 years for all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality.
Results During follow up,56 (25.0%) patients died including 29 (51.8%) of cardiovascular disease. The adjusted HR related to all cause mortality was 2.14(95% CI, (1.05-4.39) for patients with cardiac valvular calcification. However, CVC was not an independent risk factor for cardiovascular mortality for patients who had just begun HD therapy.
Conclusion CVC at baseline is an independent risk factor of all cause mortality in HD patients and provides an independent contribution in the prediction of all cause mortality. These findings support the use of echocardiography at the beginning of HD.
Study on the mechanism of unidirectional loading rubber bulging of bionic egg-shaped shell
Authors: Shi Zhengxian , sun zhiying , Shen Mingting , Zhang Jian , Zhan Ming
Published: September 2022

Aiming at the problems of complex processing technology, uneven deformation, and poor forming accuracy of multi-curvature positive Gaussian slewing egg-shaped shells, we propose using unidirectional loading rubber flexible medium bulging technology to improve the tube deformation distribution and enhance the processing accuracy of plastic forming of bionic egg-shaped shells. The optimization problems in the rubber bulging technology of non-homogeneous deformation egg-shaped shells are explored by analyzing the structure and manufacturing method of egg-shaped shells. The simulation analysis and experimental verification methods are used to study the different technological parameters and forming accuracy of rubber bulging of egg-shaped shells under unidirectional loading and to master the deformation mechanism of rubber bulging of egg-shaped shell structural components under unidirectional loading. The study shows that optimizing technological parameters in unidirectional loading mode can effectively improve the uniformity of strain distribution and thickness distribution during the forming of egg-shaped shells, thus improving the processing accuracy of plastic deformation of bionic egg-shaped thin-walled parts. Furthermore, the simulation of the rubber bulging technology of the egg-shaped shell after the optimization of technological parameters is in good agreement with the experiment.
Investigation on cutting performance in ultrasonic assisted helical milling of Ti6Al4V alloy by various parameters and cooling strategies
Authors: Yunhe Zou , Guo Shijie , Li Huaqiang , Deng Xiaofan
Published: September 2022

Ti6Al4V alloy is the typical difficult-to-machine materials and often result in rapid tool wear, leading to poor machining quality in aircraft assembling. Compared to conventional helical milling, the ultrasonic assistant helical milling (UAHM) process has indicated its superior performance, however it is still a great challenge to improve the hole surface quality and accuracy. In addition, few studies has been conducted on the effect of different variables and cooling strategies on the hole-making performance in longitudinal-torsional ultrasonic assisted helical milling (LT-UAHM). This work mainly aims to investigate the surface finish and accuracy of the holes machined in LT-UAHM of Ti6Al4V alloy. The design approach of Taguchi experiment was employed to study how major variables such as the cutting speed, tangential feed, axial feed and the workpiece hardness influence the dimensional and geometrical tolerances and surface roughness. This paper also discussed the effect of three cooling strategies, i.e. dry condition, air coolant and minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) in LT-UAHM. Theoretical analysis demonstrated that the MQL coolant can be nebulized into hyper-fine droplets owing to the resonant cavitation phenomenon. Combined with the penetrating action caused by the separate-cutting principles of LT-UAHM, the cooling and lubrication performance of MQL was further enhanced. As a result, MQL<-UAHM had the most positive effect on circularity, cylindricity, nominal diameter and surface roughness, contributing to 34%, 32%, 39% and 40%, respectively. The second important machining factor was the cutting speed, contributing to 31%, 29%, 36% and 22%, respectively. The tangential feed and workpiece hardness have the negative effect on geometrical accuracy, respectively.
Participant attention on the intervention target during repetitive passive movement improved spinal reciprocal inhibition enhancement and joint movement function
Authors: Hirabayashi Ryo , Edama Mutsuaki , Takeda Mai , Yamada Yuki , Yokota Hirotake , Sekine Chie , Onishi Hideaki
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the participant’s attention target during repetitive passive movement (RPM) intervention on reciprocal inhibition (RI) and joint movement function. Twenty healthy adults participated in two experiments involving four attention conditions [control (forward attention with no RPM), forward attention (during RPM), monitor attention (monitor counting task during RPM), ankle joint attention (ankle movement counting task during RPM)] during 10-min RPM interventions on the ankle joint. Counting tasks were included to ensure the participant’s attention remained on the target during the intervention. In Experiment 1, RI was measured before, immediately after, and 5, 10, 15, 20, and 30 min after the RPM intervention. In Experiment 2, we evaluated ankle joint movement function at the same time points before and after RPM intervention. The maximum ankle dorsiflexion movement (from 30° plantar flexion to 10° dorsiflexion) was measured, reflecting RI. In Experiment 1, the RI function reciprocal Ia inhibition was enhanced for 10 min after RPM under all attention conditions (excluding the control condition. D1 inhibition was enhanced for 20 min after RPM in the forward and monitor attention conditions and 30 min after RPM in the ankle joint attention condition. In Experiment 2, the joint movement function decreased under the forward and monitor attention conditions but improved under the ankle joint attention condition. This study is the first to demonstrate that the participant’s attention target affected the intervention effect of the RI enhancement method, which has implications for improving the intervention effect of rehabilitation.
Molecular mechanism of IgM perception by IgM-specific receptor FcμR
Authors: Xiao Junyu , Li Yaxin , Shen Hao , Zhang Ruixue , Wang Yuxin , Ji Chenggong , Su Chen
Published: September 2022

Immunoglobulin M (IgM) is the first antibody to emerge during embryonic development and humoral immune response1. IgM can exist in several distinct forms, including monomeric, membrane-bound IgM (mIgM) within the B-cell receptor (BCR) complex, pentameric and hexameric IgM in serum, and secretory IgM on mucosal surface. FcμR/Toso/Faim3, the only IgM-specific receptor in mammals, recognizes different forms of IgM to regulate diverse immune responses2-4. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unknown. Here we delineate the structural bases of FcμR-IgM interaction by crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy. We show that two FcμR molecules interact with a Cμ4 dimer, suggesting that FcμR can bind to mIgM with 2:1 stoichiometry. Further analyses reveal that both FcμR-binding sites are accessible in the context of IgM-BCR. In contrast, the pentameric IgM can recruit four FcμR to bind on the same side and therefore impose the formation of an FcμR oligomer. One of these FcμR molecules occupies the binding site of the polymeric immunoglobulin receptor/secretory component (pIgR/SC). Nevertheless, four FcμR are recruited onto the other side of IgM in the presence of SC, which reconciles with, and further supports FcμR's function in the retro-transport of secretory IgM. These results reveal intricate mechanisms of IgM perception by FcμR.
Clinical and genetic characteristics of BCG disease in Chinese children: A retrospective study
Authors: Zeng Yuyuan , Ying Wenjing , Wang Wenjing , Hou Jia , Liu Luyao , Sun Bijun , Hui Xiaoying , Gu Yu , Song Xiaoyu , Wang Xiaochuan , Sun Jinqiao
Published: September 2022

Purpose
Summarize the characteristics of the largest cohort of BCG disease and compare differences in clinical characteristics and outcomes among different genotypes and between primary immunodeficiency disease (PID) and non-PID patients.
Methods
We collected information on patients with BCG disease in our center from January 2015 to December 2020 and divided them into four groups: chronic granulomatous disease (CGD), Mendelian susceptibility to mycobacterial disease (MSMD), severe combined immunodeficiency disease (SCID) and unspecified pathogenic group.
Results
A total of 134 patients were reviewed, and most of them had PID. A total of 112 (83.6%) patients had 19 different types of pathogenic gene mutations, most of whom (91.1%) were classified with CGD, MSMD and SCID. CYBB was the most common gene mutation (53/112). BCG disease behaves differently in individuals with different PIDs. Significant differences in sex (P < 0.001), age at diagnosis (P = 0.019), frequency of recurrent fever (P = 0.003) and infection severity (P = 0.038) were noted among the four groups. The CGD group had the highest rate of males and the oldest age at diagnosis. The MSMD group had the highest probability of disseminated infection (46.4%). The course of anti-tuberculosis treatment and the survival time between PID and non-PID patients were similar.
Conclusion
Greater than 80% of BCG patients have PID; accordingly, gene sequencing should be performed in patients with BCG disease for early diagnosis. BCG disease behaves differently in patients with different types of PID. Non-PID patients had similar outcomes to PID patients, which hints that they may have pathogenic gene mutations that need to be discovered.
A bispecific, crosslinking lectibody activates cytotoxic T cells and induces cancer cell death
Authors: Rosato Francesca , Pasupuleti Rajeev , Tomisch Jana , Meléndez Ana Valeria , Kolanovic Dajana , Makshakova Olga N. , Wiltschi Birgit , Römer Winfried
Published: September 2022

Background Aberrant glycosylation patterns play a crucial role in the development of cancer cells as they promote tumor growth and aggressiveness. Lectins recognize carbohydrate antigens attached to proteins and lipids on cell surfaces and represent potential tools for application in cancer diagnostics and therapy. Among the emerging therapeutic strategies, immunotherapy has become a promising treatment modality for various hematological and solid malignancies. Here we present an approach to redirect the immune system into fighting cancer by means of a “lectibody”, a bispecific construct that is composed of a lectin linked to an antibody fragment. This lectibody is inspired by bispecific T cell engager (BiTEs) antibodies that recruit cytotoxic T lymphocytes while simultaneously binding to tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) on cancer cells. The tumor-related glycosphingolipid globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) represents the target of this proof-of-concept study. It is recognized with high selectivity by the B-subunit of the pathogen-derived Shiga toxin, presenting an opportunity for clinical development. Methods The lectibody was realized by conjugating an anti-CD3 single-chain antibody fragment to the B-subunit of Shiga toxin to target Gb3+cancer cells. The reactive non-canonical amino acid azidolysine (AzK) was inserted at predefined single positions in both proteins. The azido groups were functionalized by bioorthogonal conjugation with individual linkers that facilitated selective couplingviaan alternative bioorthogonal click chemistry reaction.In vitrocell-based assays were conducted to evaluate the antitumoral activity of the lectibody. Cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) isolated from healthy donors and Burkitt´s lymphoma-derived cells were screened in flow cytometry and cytotoxicity assays for their activation and lysis, respectively. Results This proof-of-concept study demonstrates that the lectibody activates T cells for their cytotoxic signaling, redirecting CTLs´ cytotoxicity in a highly selective manner and resulting in nearly complete tumor cell lysis – up to 93% – of Gb3+tumor cellsin vitro. Conclusions This research highlights the potential of lectins for targeting of certain tumors, with an opportunity for new cancer treatments. In a combinatorial strategy, lectin-based platforms of this type offer the possibility to target glycan epitopes on tumor cells and boost the efficacy of current therapies, providing an additional strategy for tumor eradication and improving patient outcomes.
Intergenerational Neuroprotection by an Intestinal Sphingolipid
in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Wang Wenyue , Sherry Tessa , Cheng Xinran , Fan Qi , Cornell Rebecca , Liu Jie , Xiao Zhicheng , Pocock Roger
Published: September 2022

In animals, maternal diet and environment can influence the health of offspring. Whether and how maternal dietary choice impacts the nervous system across multiple generations is not well understood. Here, we show that feeding Caenorhabditis elegans with ursolic acid (UA), a natural plant product, reduces adult-onset neurodegeneration intergenerationally. UA provides neuroprotection by enhancing maternal provisioning of sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) - a bioactive sphingolipid. Intestine-to-oocyte S1P transfer is required for intergenerational neuroprotection and is dependent on the RME-2 lipoprotein yolk receptor. S1P acts intergenerationally by upregulating transcription of the acid ceramidase-1 (asah-1) gene in the intestine. Spatially regulating sphingolipid metabolism is critical as inappropriate asah-1 expression in neurons causes developmental axon outgrowth defects. Our results show that sphingolipid homeostasis impacts the development and intergenerational health of the nervous system. The ability of specific lipid metabolites to act as messengers between generations may have broad implications for dietary choice during reproduction.
Profiles of circulating exosomal miRNA in SAPHO patients by high-throughput sequencing
Authors: Zhang Yunan , Sun Yuxiu , Li Yini , Zhou Yali , Li Chen , Tian Lichun , Zhen Jianhua
Published: September 2022

Background: Synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis, and osteitis (SAPHO) syndrome is a rare disease characterized by autoinflammatory lesions on bones and skin. Diversified manifestation and inadequate understanding of etiology have limited its diagnosis and treatment. SAPHO syndrome is also classified as primary inflammatory osteitis. The osteoarticular involvement is generally insidious in onset of this disease and associated biomarkers may be of significance for diagnosis, treatment, as well as clarifying the pathogenesis of SAPHO. In this study, we profiled the exosomal miRNA expression in peripheral blood of SAPHO patients to identify key miRNAs associated with this disease and try to find new molecule as potential biomarkers for SAPHO syndrome.
Methods: We recruited 6 SAPHO patients and 3 healthy volunteers. The expression profile of miRNAs in circulating exosome was analyzed by next generation sequencing. Linear discriminant analysis effect size analysis and Wilcoxon rank-sum test were used to screen the biomarker based on the differential miRNAs, and the receiver operating characteristic curve was constructed to assess the diagnostic value. We performed Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Ontology (GO) analyses to predict their potential functions and related pathways according to the target genes of the differential miRNAs.
Results: In total 45 differentially expressed miRNAs in SAPHO patients were identified, among which 22 were upregulated and 23 were downregulated. MiR-144-3p was the most significantly upregulated miRNA. Meanwhile, miR-30d-3p, miR-627-3p, miR-556-5p, miR-18a-5p, miR-2355-3p, miR-24-1-5p, miR-6734-5p, miR-548d-5p, miR-548o-3p, miR-185-3p were distinctly expressed in SAPHO patients and undetectable in healthy volunteers. We identified 4 differential miRNAs (hsa-miR-150-5p, hsa-miR-144-3p, hsa-miR-142-5p and hsa-miR-30d-3) as biomarkers for SAPHO syndrome and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 1. The differential KEGG pathways enriched in immune system and endocrine system, as well as the infectious disease and cancers; while most significantly indicated molecular function in GO function were protein binding and catalytic activity.
Conclusion: The exosomal miRNA profile in SAPHO syndrome was significantly changed and could be treated as biomarker to assist the diagnose, while their parts in pathology needed further exploration in the future.
Predictive Value of Urinary Cell Cycle Arrest Biomarkers for All Cause-Acute Kidney Injury: A meta-analysis
Authors: Huang Feng , Zeng Yan , Lv Linghai , Chen Yaoyao , Yan Yan , Luo Laimin , Pan Rong , Jiang Jiaming , Wei Xin
Published: September 2022

Background
The cell cycle arrest markers tissue inhibitor metalloproteinases-2 (TIMP-2) and insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 7 (IGFBP7) have been identified as potential biomarkers of acute kidney injury (AKI) in critically ill adults in intensive care units and cardiac surgery-associated AKI (CSA-AKI). However, the clinical impact on all-cause AKI remains unclear. Here, we report a meta-analysis performed to evaluate the predictive value of this biomarker for all-cause AKI.
Methods
The PubMed, Cochrane, and EMBASE databases were systematically searched up to April 1, 2022. We used the Quality Assessment Tool for Diagnosis Accuracy Studies (QUADAS-2) to assess the quality. We extracted useful information from these studies and calculated the sensitivity, specificity, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC).
Results
Twenty studies with 3625 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The estimated sensitivity of urinary [TIMP-2]ⅹ[IGFBP7] in the diagnosis of all-cause AKI was 0.79 (95% CI:0.72, 0.84), and the specificity was 0.70 (95% CI:0.62, 0.76). The value of urine [TIMP-2]ⅹ[IGFBP7] in the early diagnosis of AKI was assessed using a random effects model. The pooled positive likelihood ratio (PLR), negative likelihood ratio (NLR), and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) were 2.6 (95% CI:2.1, 3.3), 0.31 (95% CI:0.23, 0.40), and 8 (95% CI:6, 13), respectively. The AUROC was 0.81 (95% CI: 0.78–0.84). No significant publication bias was observed in eligible studies. Subgroup analysis indicated that the diagnostic value was related to the severity of AKI, time measurement, and clinical setting.
Conclusion
This study shows that urinary [TIMP-2]ⅹ[IGFBP7] is a reliable effective predictive test for all cause-AKI. However, whether and how urinary [TIMP-2]ⅹ[IGFBP7] can be used in clinical diagnosis still requires further research and clinical trials.
Effect of nitrogen application levels on the photosynthetic nitrogen distribution and use efficiency in leaves of soybean seedlings
Authors: Qiang Binbin , Zhou Weixin , Zhong Xingjie , Fu Chenye , Cao Liang , Zhang Yuxian , Jin Xijun
Published: September 2022

Background

Nitrogen nutrition is closely related to crop growth and development. The nitrogen application level affects leaf size, nitrogen content in leaves, and nitrogen distribution between photosynthetic and non-photosynthetic systems. Nitrogen distribution in leaves alters the photosynthetic nitrogen use efficiency (PNUE) and photosynthetic rate, ultimately affecting crop yield. In this study (Heilongjiang Province, 2021–2022), Jinyuan 55 and Keshan 1 soybean varieties were treated with different nitrogen levels in the form of urea: N0, 0 kg·hm− 2; N0.5, 60 kg·hm− 2; N1, 120 kg·hm− 2; and N1.5, 180 kg·hm− 2. We compared the effects of different nitrogen levels on plant morphology, biomass, photosynthetic physiology, nitrogen distribution, PNUE, and other indicators of soybean seedling leaves.

Results

The maximum carboxylation, maximum electron transfer, net photosynthetic rates, and PNUE of both soybean varieties first increased significantly with the increase in nitrogen application rate, and then stabilized. The PNUE, carboxylation system components, electron transport components, and non-photosynthetic system distribution ratios in the photosynthetic system increased, and then decreased with the increase in nitrogen application rate. The proportion and content of components in the light-harvesting system decreased and increased gradually, respectively, with the increase in nitrogen application rate. The nitrogen ratios between the carboxylation and electron transport systems of both soybean varieties were positively correlated with the PNUE. Furthermore, the nitrogen ratio in the light-harvesting and non-photosynthetic systems was linearly negatively correlated with the PNUE

Conclusions

Overall, an appropriate nitrogen level maintained a high photosynthetic nitrogen ratio, whereas low or high nitrogen conditions increased or decreased the nitrogen ratio in non-photosynthetic and photosynthetic systems, respectively, thus decreasing the PNUE and photosynthetic capacity. Moreover, an increase in the nitrogen application rate can lead to a decrease in nitrogen ratio of the light-harvesting system and an increase in the nitrogen ratio of electron transport and carboxylation systems. Our results provide a theoretical basis for optimizing leaf nitrogen distribution, determining optimum nitrogen levels, and promoting soybean seedling growth.
Influence of local site effects on seismic risk maps and ranking of Italian municipalities
Authors: Sabetta Fabio , Fiorentino Gabriele , Bocchi Flavio , Sinibaldi Martina , Falcone Gaetano , Mendicelli Amerigo
Published: September 2022

The latest studies concerning seismic risk assessment in Italy were developed without considering the site geo-lithological effects, thus limiting the assessment to rock soil type. In this study, for the evaluation of site amplification effects, we used the results of recent works based on the Italian seismic microzonation data. The site amplification factors have been assigned to the chief town of each of the 7,715 Italian municipalities, assuming that the building stock is concentrated in that small area. The PGA amplification ranges from 1 to 2.2 bringing to an average increase of 76% in the hazard. The seismic risk has been evaluated using the probabilistic hazard assessment adopted by the Italian building code and recent vulnerability/exposure models developed for Italy. The residential building stock was subdivided into 5 vulnerability classes (3 for masonry and 2 for concrete) derived from the national census data and further refined with the construction age and building height. The results show that, for a rock site condition, the loss estimates are comparable with those of previous works and with the historical data retrieved from a careful analysis of the major Italian earthquakes in terms of casualties, homeless, and economic damage. The introduction of the site effects brings to a significant increase in the expected losses, mainly due to the underestimation, in the adopted fragility curves, of the PGA taken from shakemaps not accounting correctly for the site amplification. To support the implementation of risk reduction programs, a seismic risk index is introduced, allowing a municipality ranking by risk, a cost estimation of the seismic retrofitting in the highest risk municipalities, and an assessment of the consequent risk reduction.
Nurses’ perceptions, experiences, and practices regarding human papillomavirus vaccination in a large, rural U.S. state
Authors: Thaker Juthika , Albers Alexandria N. , Newcomer Sophia R.
Published: September 2022

Purpose:Nationally, much of the focus on improving human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine uptake has focused on effective strategies physicians can use to promote vaccination. However, in large, rural states like Montana, nurses and medical assistants play critical roles in immunization services delivery, and their viewpoints are imperative in designing strategies to increase vaccination rates.Methods:We designed, pilot tested, and disseminated an online survey instrument to nurses and medical assistants working in clinics participating in the Vaccines for Children program in Montana. Survey questions focused on clinic vaccination practices, respondents’ perceptions of the HPV vaccine, perceived barriers to vaccine uptake, and general opinions on potential strategies to improve HPV vaccination rates.Results:We analyzed data from 227 respondents. Overall, 90% of nurses strongly agreed or agreed that the HPV vaccine is important and had confidence in the vaccine’s safety. More nurses reported experiencing greater parental vaccine refusal or delay for male patients regardless of age. About 53.7% of nurses indicated that their clinics had reminder/recall systems to encourage parents to bring their children for vaccination. Nurses identified misinformation from social media, infrequent wellness visits, and vaccine safety concerns as barriers to HPV vaccine uptake.Conclusion:Study findings identified several promising initiatives to accelerate vaccination in rural states like Montana, including promoting widespread adoption of reminder/recall systems, training nurses in evidence-based techniques to provide strong vaccine recommendations, and leveraging social media to disseminate consistent messages about the HPV vaccine recommendations for both sexes and its role in cancer prevention.
The screening of hepatitis B virus and hepatitis C virus infection in HIV-infected inpatients and evaluating correlated characteristics
Authors: Li ChengBo , Zhou Ying , Wang Yu , Liu Sheng , Wang Wen , Lu Xu , Sun Cui Ming , Liu Pei , Wen Ying
Published: September 2022

Background:This study surveyed the prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg）and hepatitis C virus（HCV）antibody (anti-HCV) among inpatients with HIV infection and analyzed the correlated factors.Methods:We conducted a retrospective data collection of the HIV-infected inpatients in our hospital from January 2010 to December 2020. We utilized multivariate logistic regression to find the correlated factors.Results:The proportion of patients screened for HBsAg were 81.8% , which increased from 66.7% in 2010 to 85.7% in 2020. The proportion of patients with anti-HCV screening were 73.9%, which increased from 58.3% in 2010 to 86.7% in 2020. The prevalence of HBsAg-positive was 10.9%, which decreased from 15.0% in the period of 2010-2015 to 9.0% for HBsAg during 2016-2020. There were 4.1% cases with positive anti-HCV. Compared to 4.8% at the period of 2010-2015, there was a similar prevalence of 3.1% for anti-HCV during 2016-2020. Among HBsAg-positive cases, HBV DNA was screened in 70.8% cases. Among anti-HCV positive cases, HCV RNA were screened in 90% cases. The ALB <30 g/L, thrombocytopenia, AST >40 U/L were associated with HBsAg-positive. The AST >40 U/L and higher CD4+ T counts were associated with HIV/HCV coinfection.Conclusions:The routine screening for both HBV and HCV among HIV-positive inpatients has been greatly improved in the past decade. However, the screening of the complete HBV serological markers in HIV-positive inpatients, and HCV genotyping among HCVRNA-positive cases leaves much to be desired. A concerted effort should be taken for improving HBV vaccine compliance in the HIV-positive population and providing direct-acting antiviral therapies to HCVRNA-positive patients.
Diagnostics in Waldenström’s Macroglobulinemia: a consensus statement of the European Consortium for Waldenström’s Macroglobulinemia
Authors: Dogliotti Irene , Jiménez Cristina , Varettoni Marzia , Talaulikar Dipti , Bagratuni Tina , Ferrante Martina , Perez Jose Juan , Drandi Daniela , Puig Noemí , Gilestro Milena , García-Álvarez María , Owen Roger , Jurczak Wojciech , Tedeschi Alessandra , Leblond Véronique , Kastritis Efstathios , Kersten Marie José , D'Sa Shirley , Kaščák Michal , Willenbacher Wolfgang , Roccaro Aldo , Poulain Stephanie , Morel Pierre , Kyriakou Charalampia , Fend Falko , Vos Josephine , Dimopoulos Meletios-Athanasios , Buske Christian , Ferrero Simone , García-Sanz Ramón
Published: September 2022

The diagnosis of Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia (WM), an IgM-associated lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma, can be challenging due to the different forms of disease presentation. Furthermore, in recent years, WM has witnessed remarkable progress on the diagnostic front, as well as a deeper understanding of the disease biology, which has affected clinical practice. This, together with the increasing variety of tools and techniques available, makes it necessary to have a practical guidance for clinicians to perform the initial evaluation of patients with WM. In this paper, we present the consensus recommendations and laboratory requirements for the diagnosis of WM developed by the European Consortium of Waldenström’s Macroglobulinemia (ECWM), for both clinical practice as well as the research/academical setting. We provide the procedures for multiparametric flow cytometry, fluorescence in situ hybridization and molecular tests and with this offer guidance for a standardized diagnostic work-up and methodological workflow of patients with IgM monoclonal gammopathy of uncertain significance, asymptomatic and symptomatic WM.
Newly Synthesized Azo Derived from Coumarine as Analytical Reagent and Metallic Corrosion Inhibitor
Authors: El-Dossoki F. I. , El-Seify F. A. , Goda M. M.
Published: September 2022

A new Coumarine derivatives azo dye; 8-(3-phenyl-5-pyrazolylazo)-7-Hydroxy-4-Methyl Coumarine were synthesized. The effect of pH on the spectra of the synthesized ligand, the chromogenic reaction and the stability constant of Co+ 2, Cu+ 2, Ni+ 2, and Zn+ 2 ion complexes with the synthesized ligand were studied and determined conductmetrically and spectrophotometrically. The optimum pH was determined for the complexes. 1:1and 2:1(L:M) stoichiometric complexes has been formed in solutions. The order of the stability constants of the complexes under study was; Co+ 2<Ni+ 2< Cu+ 2. These metal ions were determined using the ligand as indicator. The ligand can be used as acid-base indicator. The ability of controlling corrosion of carbon steel in 1M of acidic solution of hydrochloric was electrochemically proven at room temperature. The inhibition indicated with different tests including Open circuit potential (OCP), Potentiodynamic Polarization (PP) and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) tests. The adsorption of inhibitor indicated from PP test followed Longmuir isotherm. Adsorption constant and Gibbs free energy were also calculated and explained.
WITHDRAWN: Biomimetic dual layered keratin/ hydroxyapatite scaffolds for alveolar bone regeneration
Authors: Feroz¹ Sandleen , Muhammad Nawshad , Cathro Peter , Dias George
Published: September 2022

A new biomimetic dual layered keratin/hydroxyapatite scaffold was designed using the iterative freeze-drying technique. The physical, structural, and chemical properties of the keratin/hydroxyapatite (HA) scaffolds were studied using several analytical techniques. The developed multilayered, interconnected, porous keratin scaffold with different HA content in the outer and inner layer, mimics the inherent gradient structure of alveolar bone. The FT-IR analysis confirmed that the secondary structure of keratin was not destroyed with the successful incorporation of hydroxyapatite particles during the process of scaffold fabrication. X-ray diffraction analysis showed that the keratin and hydroxyapatite retained their crystalline structures in the prepared keratin/HA scaffolds. SEM studies showed an interconnected porous architecture of the prepared scaffolds with seamless integration between the upper and lower layers. EDX analysis showed that the inorganic phases of both the upper and lower layers of the keratin/HA scaffold mainly consist of calcium and phosphorous ions. EDX mapping confirmed the even distribution of calcium (Ca) and phosphorous (P) in both the upper and lower layers of the scaffold. The prepared scaffolds showed a gradual degradation during the 28-day incubation period in PBS. The incorporation of HA improved the mechanical properties of keratin/HA scaffolds. The keratin/HA scaffolds exhibited superior mechanical properties in terms of Young’s modulus and compressive strength in comparison to pure keratin scaffolds. The biocompatibility studies suggested that both keratin and keratin/HA scaffolds were cytocompatible, in terms of cell viability and proliferation. Furthermore, it showed that both the tested materials can be served as an ideal substrate for the differentiation of Saos-2 cells, leading to mineralization of the extracellular matrix. In summary, the development of a non-toxic green method was investigated for keratin extraction to fabricate keratin/HA scaffolds and our results showed great potential for the use of these scaffolds to regenerate alveolar bone due to their structural similarity and excellent in vitro biocompatibility.
Experimental study on wear laws and mechanisms of end cutting edge in end-milling of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer
Authors: Mu Han , Wei Gang , Zhang Boyu , Hu Xiaohang , Wang Fuji
Published: September 2022

End cutting edges of tool determine machining quality of the bottom surface of the slot in end-milling of CFRP. However, due to anisotropy and heterogeneous of CFRP, and also semi-closed characteristic of blind slots, the end cutting edges are more vulnerable to wear than the peripheral edges under the strong abrasive fibers, leading to the poor machining quality of the bottom surface of the slots, and thereby decreases the assembly performance of the components. This paper aims to reveal the wear laws and mechanisms of the end cutting edge which serves under the poor machining conditions in end-milling of CFRP. In order to obtain major wear forms of the end cutting edge, the tool’s structure and the removal characteristics in end-milling of CFRP are analysed. For acquiring the wear laws accurately, slot-milling experiments are conducted, in which the quantitative characterization of each wear form is proposed. According to the wear laws obtained from the experiments, combining with the associated relationships of each wear form, the wear mechanisms of end cutting edge are revealed, and also, the influences of the tool wear on the surface’s machining quality are got. The results show that there are three wear forms in all including the corner wear, the cutting-edge wear and the flank wear. Concretely, the corner wear is rapid, the cutting-edge radius is fluctuating and tends to decrease, while the flank face is wearing constantly. The conclusions of this study can provide foundations for further studies on suppression of the tool wear.
Consumer Willingness to Pay for Farmed Seaweed with Education on Ecosystem Services
Authors: Boduc Will , Griffin Robert M. , Byron Carrie J.
Published: September 2022

Kelp aquaculture in the US is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. While the market potential is substantial, increasing demand is widely seen as a key step towards realizing this potential. Recent work on restorative aquaculture practices has led to increased study and valuation of ecosystem services of kelp aquaculture. This study demonstrates the efficacy of education on ecosystem services of kelp aquaculture as marketing material for kelp end products. Through an online willingness to pay survey, this study found a significant increase in consumer willingness to pay for end products after a brief education on ecosystem services. Price point of the product, income, gender, knowledge of ecosystem services, and frequency of kelp product consumption were found to be significant predictors of the magnitude of change in consumer willingness to pay. Of the four major categories of ecosystem services, supporting services were reported to be most important to consumers. These findings can guide private and public organizations in marketing efforts to drive consumer behavior and to actualize the large potential of kelp aquaculture in the US.
Telehealth Utilization Barriers among Alabama Parents of Pediatric Patients during COVID-19 Outbreak
Authors: Rahim Md Jillur , Ghosh Pallavi , Brisendine Anne E. , Yang Nianlan , Roddy Ryan , Broughton Mia Jeanette , Kinzer Alexis , Wingate Martha S. , Sen Bisakha
Published: September 2022

Background
Telehealth can improve access to evidence-based care at a lower cost for patients, especially those living in underserved and remote areas. The barriers to the widespread adoption of telehealth have been well documented in the literature. However, the barriers may not be the same for pediatric patients, who must rely on their parents or guardians to make healthcare decisions. This paper presents some of the leading barriers parents or guardians of pediatric patients report in using telehealth to meet their children’s healthcare needs.
Methods
This cross-sectional survey was conducted in a tertiary care pediatric ED at a children’s hospital in Alabama between September 2020 to December 2020. The parents or guardians of pediatric patients were asked about their reasons for not using telehealth despite having healthcare needs for their children, whether they canceled or rescheduled healthcare provider visits and facility visits, and whether the child’s health conditions changed over the past three months. Descriptive analyses were conducted that explored the distribution of telehealth use across the variables listed above.
Results
597 parents or guardians of pediatric patients participated in the survey, and 578 answered the question of whether they used telehealth or not over the past three months. Of them, 33.1% used telehealth, 54.3% did not, and 12.6% did not have healthcare needs for their child. The leading reason for not using telehealth was that the doctor or health provider did not give them a telehealth option, the second main reason was that they did not know what telehealth is, and the third leading reason was that the parents did not think telehealth would help meet healthcare needs for their child.
Conclusions
Physicians and policymakers can better serve patients by understanding some of the barriers to telehealth usage. Physicians can routinely ask parents or guardians if they prefer a telehealth visit. Besides creating an environment that makes telehealth adoption easier, policymakers must pay attention to health literacy and health insurance literacy to increase telehealth utilization.
The Southern Cross Block (SCB) technique for intraoperative mastectomy analgesia.
Authors: Hassan Summer
Published: September 2022

Purpose :
Mastectomy is a life-altering physical and psychological event for patients. Suboptimal management of immediate postoperative pain increases the risk of post-mastectomy pain syndrome. PECs II block is a regional analgesic technique expected to anesthetize the lateral chest wall. We propose an intraoperative surgeon-delivered modification to the PECs II block to improve the quality of recovery.
Objective :
To develop a reproducible, efficient, safe intraoperative field block, and to assess its efficacy by pain scores and opiate consumption.
Patients and Methods :
The SCB was performed on 96 consecutive patients undergoing mastectomy by a single surgeon from 2020 to 2021. The block consisted of 40mls of bupivacaine given under direct vision to five areas : pectoralis major, the interpectoral groove, pectoralis minor lateral intercostal nerves with the nerve to serratus anterior, and the medial cutaneous nerves. Patients were assessed using visual analogue pain scale from 0–10 for movement and at rest at 1,3,6,12, and 24 hours. Rescue analgesia was freely given, and the total requirements were obtained from patient notes.
Results :
The median pain score at rest and with movement at 1h was 0 out of 10. The median pain score at 3hours, at rest and movement, were 1 and 2, respectively. Only 28.1% of patients required second-line analgesia within the first 24 hours with average commencement at 4.8 hours. Total opioid consumption was minimal, averaging 0.42mg of Oxynorm, 1.3mg of Oxycodone, 1.8mg of Sevredol, and 3.07mg of Morphine. Only 12.5% of patients required a short course of opioids on discharge, and none returned to theatre or required pain-related readmission.
Conclusion :
The SCB is a simple and effective technique to minimize post-mastectomy pain.