bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Fecal Collection Methods on Variation in Gut Metagenomics and Untargeted Metabolomics
Authors: Guan Huihui , Pu Yanni , Liu Chenglin , Lou Tao , Tan Shishang , Kong Mengmeng , Sun Zhonghan , Mei Zhendong , Qi Qibin , Quan Zhexue , Zhao Guoping , Zheng Yan
Published: September 2021

The choice of fecal collection method is essential for studying gut microbe-human interactions in large-scale population-based research. In this study, we examined the effects of fecal collection methods and storage time at ambient temperature on variations in the gut microbiome community composition; microbial diversity metrics at the species, gene, and pathway levels; antibiotic resistance genes; and metabolome profiling.
Proteogenomic Analysis Provides Novel Insight into Genome Annotation and Nitrogen Metabolism in
Nostoc
sp. PCC 7120
Authors: Yu Shengchao , Yang Mingkun , Xiong Jie , Zhang Qi , Gao Xinxin , Miao Wei , Ge Feng
Published: September 2021

Cyanobacteria are a large group of prokaryotes capable of oxygenic photosynthesis and play a vital role in nitrogen and carbon cycles on Earth.
Nostoc
7120 is a commonly used model cyanobacterium for studying cell differentiation and nitrogen metabolism. In this study, we presented the first comprehensive draft map of the
Nostoc
7120 proteome and a wide range of posttranslational modifications.
Deeply virtual Compton scattering off Helium nuclei with positron beams
Authors: Fucini Sara , Hattawy Mohammad , Rinaldi Matteo , Scopetta Sergio
Published: September 2021

Positron initiated deeply virtual Compton scattering (DVCS) off $$^4$$

4

He and $$^3$$

3

He nuclei is described. The way the so-called $$d-$$

d
-

term could be obtained from the real part of the relevant Compton form factor is summarized, and the importance and novelty of this measurement is discussed. The measurements addressed for $$^3$$

3

He targets could be very useful even in a standard unpolarized target setup, measuring beam spin and beam charge asymmetries only. The unpolarized beam charge asymmetries for DVCS off $$^3$$

3

He and $$^4$$

4

He are also estimated, at JLab kinematics and, for $$^4$$

4

He, also at a configuration typical at the future Electron–Ion Collider. Incoherent DVCS processes, in particular the ones with tagging the internal target by measuring slow recoiling nuclei, and the unique possibility offered by positron beams for the investigation of Compton form factors of higher twist, are also briefly addressed.
Determination of the up/down-quark mass within QCD sum rules in the scalar channel
Authors: Yin Fang-Hui , Tian Wen-Ya , Tang Liang , Guo Zhi-Hui
Published: September 2021

In this work, we determine up/down-quark mass $$m_{q=u/d}$$

m

q
=
u
/
d

in the isoscalar scalar channel from both the Shifman–Vainshtein–Zakharov (SVZ) and the Monte-Carlo-based QCD sum rules. The relevant spectral function, including the contributions from the $$f_0(500)$$

f
0

(
500
)

, $$f_0(980)$$

f
0

(
980
)

and $$f_0(1370)$$

f
0

(
1370
)

resonances, is determined from a sophisticated U(3) chiral study. Via the traditional SVZ QCD sum rules, we give the prediction to the average light-quark mass $$m_q(2 ~\text {GeV})=\frac{1}{2}(m_u(2 ~\text {GeV}) + m_d(2 ~\text {GeV}))=(3.46^{+0.16}_{-0.22} \pm 0.33) ~\text {MeV}$$

m
q

(
2

GeV
)

=

1
2

(

m
u

(
2

GeV
)

+

m
d

(
2

GeV
)

)

=

(
3
.

46

-
0.22

+
0.16

±
0.33
)

MeV

. Meanwhile, by considering the uncertainties of the input QCD parameters and the spectral functions of the isoscalar scalar channel, we obtain $$m_q (2~\text {GeV}) = (3.44 \pm 0.14 \pm 0.32) ~\text {MeV}$$

m
q

(
2

GeV
)

=

(
3.44
±
0.14
±
0.32
)

MeV

from the Monte-Carlo-based QCD sum rules. Both results are perfectly consistent with each other, and nicely agree with the Particle Data Group value within the uncertainties.
The dynamics of faculty hiring networks
Authors: Lee Eun , Clauset Aaron , Larremore Daniel B.
Published: September 2021

Faculty hiring networks—who hires whose graduates as faculty—exhibit steep hierarchies, which can reinforce both social and epistemic inequalities in academia. Understanding the mechanisms driving these patterns would inform efforts to diversify the academy and shed new light on the role of hiring in shaping which scientific discoveries are made. Here, we investigate the degree to which structural mechanisms can explain hierarchy and other network characteristics observed in empirical faculty hiring networks. We study a family of adaptive rewiring network models, which reinforce institutional prestige within the hierarchy in five distinct ways. Each mechanism determines the probability that a new hire comes from a particular institution according to that institution’s prestige score, which is inferred from the hiring network’s existing structure. We find that structural inequalities and centrality patterns in real hiring networks are best reproduced by a mechanism of global placement power, in which a new hire is drawn from a particular institution in proportion to the number of previously drawn hires anywhere. On the other hand, network measures of biased visibility are better recapitulated by a mechanism of local placement power, in which a new hire is drawn from a particular institution in proportion to the number of its previous hires already present at the hiring institution. These contrasting results suggest that the underlying structural mechanism reinforcing hierarchies in faculty hiring networks is a mixture of global and local preference for institutional prestige. Under these dynamics, we show that each institution’s position in the hierarchy is remarkably stable, due to a dynamic competition that overwhelmingly favors more prestigious institutions. These results highlight the reinforcing effects of a prestige-based faculty hiring system, and the importance of understanding its ramifications on diversity and innovation in academia.
Can the Hubble tension be resolved by bulk viscosity?
Authors: Normann Ben David , Brevik Iver Håkon
Published: September 2021

We show that the cosmic bulk viscosity estimated in our previous works is sufficient to bridge the [Formula: see text] value inferred from observations of the early universe with the value inferred from the local (late) universe.
Mouse organoid culture is a suitable model to study esophageal ion transport mechanisms
Authors: Korsós Marietta Margaréta , Bellák Tamás , Becskeházi Eszter , Gál Eleonóra , Veréb Zoltán , Hegyi Péter , Venglovecz Viktória
Published: September 2021

Altered esophageal ion transport mechanisms play a key role in inflammatory and cancerous diseases of the esophagus, but epithelial ion processes have been less studied in the esophagus because of the lack of a suitable experimental model. In this study, we generated three-dimensional (3D) esophageal organoids (EOs) from two different mouse strains and characterized the ion transport processes of the EOs. EOs form a cell-filled structure with a diameter of 250–300 µm and were generated from epithelial stem cells as shown by FACS analysis. Using conventional PCR and immunostaining, the presence of Slc26a6 Cl−/HCO3− anion exchanger (AE), Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE), Na+/HCO3− cotransporter (NBC), cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), and anoctamin 1 Cl− channels was detected in EOs. Microfluorimetric techniques revealed high NHE, AE, and NBC activities, whereas that of CFTR was relatively low. In addition, inhibition of CFTR led to functional interactions between the major acid-base transporters and CFTR. We conclude that EOs provide a relevant and suitable model system for studying the ion transport mechanisms of esophageal epithelial cells, and they can be also used as preclinical tools to assess the effectiveness of novel therapeutic compounds in esophageal diseases associated with altered ion transport processes.
Variation in the gene Tas1r3 reveals complex temporal properties of mouse brainstem taste responses to sweeteners
Authors: McCaughey Stuart A.
Published: September 2021

The gene Tas1r3 codes for the protein T1R3, which dimerizes with T1R2 to form a sweetener-binding receptor in taste cells. Tas1r3 influences sweetener preferences in mice, as shown by work with a 129.B6-Tas1r3 segregating congenic strain on a 129P3/J (129) genetic background; members of this strain vary in whether they do or do not have one copy of a donor fragment with the C57BL/6ByJ (B6) allele for Tas1r3 (B6/129 and 129/129 mice, respectively). Taste-evoked neural responses were measured in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NST), the first central gustatory relay, in B6/129 and 129/129 littermates, to examine how the activity dependent on the T1R2/T1R3 receptor is distributed across neurons and over time. Responses to sucrose were larger in B6/129 than in 129/129 mice, but only during a later, tonic response portion (>600 ms) sent to different cells than the earlier, phasic response. Similar results were found for artificial sweeteners, whose responses were best considered as complex spatiotemporal patterns. There were also group differences in burst firing of NST cells, with a significant positive correlation between bursting prevalence and sucrose response size in only the 129/129 group. The results indicate that sweetener transduction initially occurs through T1R3-independent mechanisms, after which the T1R2/T1R3 receptor initiates a separate, spatially distinct response, with the later period dominating sweet taste perceptions and driving sugar preferences. Furthermore, the current data suggest that burst firing is distributed across NST neurons nonrandomly and in a manner that may amplify weak incoming gustatory signals.
Stem Cell-Derived Nanovesicles: A Novel Cell-Free Therapy for Wound Healing
Authors: Huang Jianghong , Zhang Jun , Xiong Jianyi , Sun Shuqing , Xia Jiang , Yang Lei , Liang Yujie
Published: September 2021

Wound healing and regeneration are a dynamic and complex process that requires a collaborative effort between growth factors, epidermal cells, dermal cells, extracellular matrix, and vessels local to the wound area. Mesenchymal stem cells participate in the recruitment site, mainly by releasing secretory factors and matrix proteins to promote wound healing. Stem cell-derived nanovesicles (CDNs), including microvesicles, exosomes, and exosome mimetics, contain most of the biologically active substances of their parent cells and have similar effects. CDNs can shuttle various proteins, messenger RNAs, and microRNAs to regulate the activity of receptor cells, and they play important roles in skin wound healing. This article reviews recent research progress on CDNs for wound repair. We summarize current knowledge on how CDNs regulate immunity, fibroblast activity, angiogenesis, and scar formation in the wound healing process. This review can help researchers explore new treatment strategies to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of CDNs, which have a promising future as naturally cell-free therapies.
Ecofriendly/Rapid Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Extract of Waste Parts of Artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) and Evaluation of their Cytotoxic and Antibacterial Activities
Authors: Baran Ayşe , Baran Mehmet Fırat , Keskin Cumali , Kandemir Sevgi Irtegun , Valiyeva Mahbuba , Mehraliyeva Sevil , Khalilov Rovshan , Eftekhari Aziz
Published: September 2021

Recycling wastes and providing their use in useful fields attract attention every day. In our study, with the extract prepared from the parts of the Cynara scolymus L. (artichoke) plant that is not suitable for human consumption, silver nanoparticles were easily synthesized in an ec-friendly, energy-free way. Characterization of the obtained nanoparticles was done with a UV-visible spectrophotometer (UV-Vis.), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and zeta potential analysis data. In these data, it was determined that AgNPs have a maximum absorbance at 458.8 nm wavelength, a crystal nanosize of 28.78 nm, and a spherical appearance. The zeta potential of (-) 16.9 mV indicates that silver nanoparticles exhibit a stable structure. Particles show antimicrobial effects on pathogenic species at concentrations of 0.03-0.25 μg/ml, and it was determined by using the minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) microdilution method. By examining their cytotoxic effects on U118, CaCo-2, and Skov-3 cancer cell lines and healthy HDF cell lines by the MTT method, concentrations of inhibitive effects on survival were determined.
Nano‐Derived Therapeutic Formulations with Curcumin in Inflammation‐Related Diseases
Authors: Quispe Cristina , Cruz-Martins Natália , Manca Maria Letizia , Manconi Maria , Sytar Oksana , Hudz Nataliia , Shanaida Mariia , Kumar Manoj , Taheri Yasaman , Martorell Miquel , Sharifi-Rad Javad , Pintus Gianfranco , Cho William C.
Published: September 2021

Due to its vast therapeutic potential, the plant‐derived polyphenol curcumin is utilized in an ever‐growing number of health‐related applications. Here, we report the extraction methodologies, therapeutic properties, advantages and disadvantages linked to curcumin employment, and the new strategies addressed to improve its effectiveness by employing advanced nanocarriers. The emerging nanotechnology applications used to enhance CUR bioavailability and its targeted delivery in specific pathological conditions are collected and discussed. In particular, new aspects concerning the main strategic nanocarriers employed for treating inflammation and oxidative stress‐related diseases are reported and discussed, with specific emphasis on those topically employed in conditions such as wounds, arthritis, or psoriasis and others used in pathologies such as bowel (colitis), neurodegenerative (Alzheimer’s or dementia), cardiovascular (atherosclerosis), and lung (asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) diseases. A brief overview of the relevant clinical trials is also included. We believe the review can provide the readers with an overview of the nanostrategies currently employed to improve CUR therapeutic applications in the highlighted pathological conditions.
Computational Method and Simulation of Reliability for Series, Parallel, and k-Out-of-n Systems with Interval Parameters
Authors: Fang Yongfeng , Tee Kong Fah , Cheng Zhengwei , Yong Xu
Published: September 2021

For series, parallel, and k-out-of-n voting system reliability calculation methods, the six

σ

principles have been proposed in this study to derive the interchange relationship between interval parameters and random parameters. The interval reliability index can be expressed in the function of the random reliability index. The interval reliability index can then be transformed into a random reliability index. The computational method of the reliability for series, parallel, and k-out-of-n voting systems with interval parameters is established. Finally, it has been shown that the proposed method is rational, practical, and applicable with two engineering practical simulations.
Advances in Magnetic Nanoparticle-Driven Delivery of Gene Therapies towards Prostate Cancer
Authors: Panday Raju , Abdalla Ahmed M. E. , Neupane Manisha , Khadka Sujan , Kricha Aymane , Yang Guang
Published: September 2021

Conventional treatment possibilities for one of the most common diseases among men, i.e., prostate cancer has several side effects. Gene-based therapy such as siRNA, CRISPR/Cas9, pDNA, and miRNA have emerged as an alternative, combating posttherapy side effects and drug resistance. Magnetic nanoparticles have been appropriately modified and functionalized to efficiently deliver the gene therapy-based active compounds to prostate tumor cells. The main purpose of this review article is to highlight the strategies currently being utilized for the treatment of prostate cancer using magnetic nanoparticles for delivery of genetic material using both the passive and active (ligand-based) targeting. It further discusses the challenges in efficient delivery of therapeutics to tumor sites and their remedial approaches. Finally, it provides a glimpse of future advances for tumor-specific modifications of magnetic nanoparticles to combat prostate cancer.
Prediction and Evaluation Model of Physical Training for Volleyball Players’ Effect Based on Grey Markov Theory
Authors: Guo Chengcheng
Published: September 2021

Physical competition is becoming the new focus of volleyball in an increasingly perfect technical and tactical system. Unfortunately, poor physical fitness is a recognized weakness of volleyball players and a critical factor that has restricted the rapid development of volleyball for a long time. This paper proposes a grey Markov model-based approach to improve the evaluation ability of physical training. It aims to construct an empirical analysis model by combining statistical results and analyzing the evaluation parameters for physical training effects. The sports parameter analysis method is adopted to establish an optimal model of these parameters. Finally, a distribution model of moments of inertia combined with fuzzy information fusion’s feature extraction method is proposed for the distributed reconstruction of physical training. The optimization of training effects based on parameter optimization and construction of a grey Markov model enhances the physical training of volleyball players.
Experimental Study on the Comprehensive Identification and Improvement of Dispersive Soil in Western Jilin Province, China
Authors: Yang Jun , Song Yi , Fu Rui , Lu Changwei , Liu Hongcheng
Published: September 2021

In this study, physical experiments, clay mineral determination, and pH testing were performed to examine the basic properties of soil samples from a soil material yard selected for dam construction at Hua’ao Lake, Qian’an County, Jilin Province, China. The results show that the soil in the study area is cohesive, the mineral content of illite in the illite/montmorillonite mixed layer is approximately 50%, and the pH value of the environment from which the soil samples were taken is 8.43-8.91. These factors enable the soil in this area to be dispersed. The dispersibility of the soil sampled from this area was evaluated by a double hydrometer test, a pinhole test, a fragmentation test, a sodium adsorption ratio test, and determination of the percentage of exchangeable sodium ions. Because these test methods had inconsistent results, the test methods in combination with the typical geomorphic conditions of the sampling points were ultimately used to comprehensively evaluate the soil dispersion. The results demonstrate that the cohesive soil sampled from the soil material yard is dispersible and must be treated with improvement measures before it can be used as a filling material for the dam. To improve the dispersive and transitional soil, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, and 6% L1Fa2 (a 1 : 2 ratio of lime and fly ash) and C1L1Fa4 (a 1 : 1 : 4 ratio of cement, lime, and fly ash) were used to perform improvement tests on 10 groups of dispersive soil samples and 10 groups of transitional soil samples. The results reveal that the addition of 4% L1Fa2 best improves the dispersive soil in this area. Therefore, the soil intended for this project should be used as a dam-building material after improvement with the 4% addition of L1Fa2.
Wound-Healing Potential of Cucurbita moschata Duchesne Fruit Peel Extract in a Rat Model of Excision Wound Repair
Authors: Shaygan Saba , Fakhri Sajad , Bahrami Gholamreza , Rashidi Khodabakhsh , Farzaei Mohammad Hosein
Published: September 2021

Background and Aim. Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Duchesne) is a medicinal plant with different pharmacological effects such as antioxidant, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, and anticancer effects. In the present study, we aimed to investigate wound-healing activity of pumpkin fruit peel in a rat model of excision wound repair. Materials and Methods. Hydroalcoholic extractions of pumpkin fruit peel were obtained and used to prepare two different cold cream-based formulations, namely, 10% and 20% pumpkin peel extracts (PPEs). These formulations, phenytoin cream, and cold cream were topically used once daily for 14 days to compare their wound-healing effects in a rat model of excision wound repair. Wound sizes were monitored at different intervals. Skin tissue samples were subject to H&E staining for histopathological analysis. Blood samples were also taken on day 14 to measure serum levels of nitrite. Results. Both 10% and 20% PPE formulations resulted in a significant reduction of wound sizes compared to positive and negative controls. Wound closure rate was estimated to be higher in 20% PPE-treated rats. According to histopathological analysis, treatment with 20% PPE improved parameters associated with efficient wound repair, including better regeneration of epidemic layer, higher density of dermis collagen fibers, and lower presence of inflammatory cells. Also, both formulations lowered serum concentrations of nitrite. Conclusion. Given the obtained data from our study, the hydroalcoholic extract of Cucurbita moschata Duchesne fruit peel is proposed to be effective in accelerating the process of excision wound repair partly due to its antioxidant effect in terms of decreasing nitrite concentration.
Adaptive Finite-Time Control on SE(3) for Spacecraft Final Proximity Maneuvers with Input Quantization
Authors: Zhang Sai , Yang Zhen
Published: September 2021

In this paper, a bounded finite-time control strategy is developed for the final proximity maneuver of spacecraft rendezvous and docking exposed to external disturbance and input quantization. To realize the integrated control for spacecraft final proximity operation, the coupling kinematics and dynamics of attitude and position are modeled by feat of Lie group

SE

3

. With a view to improving the convergence rate and reducing the chattering, an adaptive finite-time controller is proposed for the error tracking system with one-step theoretical proof of stability. Meanwhile, the hysteresis logarithmic quantizer is implemented to effectively reduce the frequency of data transmission and the quantization errors are reduced under the proposed controller. The algorithms outlined above are based on an integrated model expressed by

SE

3

and denoted by uniform motion states, which can simplify the design progress and improve control precision. Finally, simulations are provided to exhibit the effectiveness and advantages of the designed strategy.
Multimedia Filtering Analysis of Massive Information Combined with Data Mining Algorithms
Authors: Wang Bo
Published: September 2021

With the advent of the big data era, information presentation has exploded. For example, rich methods such as audio and video have integrated more information, but with it, a lot of bad information has been brought. In view of this situation, this paper relies on data mining algorithms, builds a multimedia filtering system model for massive information, and integrates content recognition, packet filtering, and other technologies to match the two to ensure the integrity and real time of filtering. Practice results prove that the method is effective.
Association of Polygenetic Risk Scores Related to Immunity and Inflammation with Hyperthyroidism Risk and Interactions between the Polygenetic Scores and Dietary Factors in a Large Cohort
Authors: Song Mi Young , Park Sunmin
Published: September 2021

Graves’s disease and thyroiditis induce hyperthyroidism, the causes of which remain unclear, although they are involved with genetic and environmental factors. We aimed to evaluate polygenetic variants for hyperthyroidism risk and their interaction with metabolic parameters and nutritional intakes in an urban hospital-based cohort. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) of participants with (cases; n = 842) and without (controls, n = 38,799) hyperthyroidism was used to identify and select genetic variants. In clinical and lifestyle interaction with PRS, 312 participants cured of hyperthyroidism were excluded. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with gene-gene interactions were selected by hyperthyroidism generalized multifactor dimensionality reduction. Polygenic risk scores (PRSs) were generated by summing the numbers of selected SNP risk alleles. The best gene-gene interaction model included tumor-necrosis factor (TNF)_rs1800610, mucin 22 (MUC22)_rs1304322089, tribbles pseudokinase 2 (TRIB2)_rs1881145, cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 (CTLA4)_rs231775, lipoma-preferred partner (LPP)_rs6780858, and human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-J_ rs767861647. The PRS of the best model was positively associated with hyperthyroidism risk by 1.939-fold (1.317–2.854) after adjusting for covariates. PRSs interacted with age, metabolic syndrome, and dietary inflammatory index (DII), while hyperthyroidism risk interacted with energy, calcium, seaweed, milk, and coffee intake (

P
<
0.05

). The PRS impact on hyperthyroidism risk was observed in younger (<55 years) participants and adults without metabolic syndrome. PRSs were positively associated with hyperthyroidism risk in participants with low dietary intakes of energy (OR = 2.74), calcium (OR = 2.84), seaweed (OR = 3.43), milk (OR = 2.91), coffee (OR = 2.44), and DII (OR = 3.45). In conclusion, adults with high PRS involved in inflammation and immunity had a high hyperthyroidism risk exacerbated under low intakes of energy, calcium, seaweed, milk, or coffee. These results can be applied to personalized nutrition in a clinical setting.
Clinical Effect Analysis of Laparoscopic Surgery for Gastric Tumor under Data Mining
Authors: Huang Lingmin , Guo Jianrong , Yin Bo , Zeng Yanqing , Li Na
Published: September 2021

This paper mainly analyzes the feasibility of laparoscopic local gastrectomy for the treatment of benign gastric tumors, evaluating its curative effect, and the use of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) such as Hedyotis diffusa, Radix Pseudostellariae, yi, Pinellia ternata, Ophiopogon japonicus, wood fragrance, Perilla, Scutellaria baicalensis, Yuzhu, hawthorn, Artemisia annua, chicken yellow film, nail, and turtle, and clinical symptoms of statistical analysis of data mining. A total of 86 patients with gastric benign tumor were selected as the research object and were divided into observation group and control group with 43 cases in each by the random number table method. The control group received radical gastrectomy for benign tumor under laparoscopy, while the observation group received local gastrectomy under laparoscopy. Perioperative indexes such as operative time, intraoperative blood loss, and length of hospital stay were recorded in the two groups. Serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and the incidence of complications was compared. Based on the clinical analysis of the drug used, the results of association significance were selected, and the top ten results were selected in order of confidence and grouped according to clinical symptoms, respectively, as follows: (1) abdominal distension: Hedyotis diffusa, Radix Pseudostellariae, Poria cocos, Huckleberry, and Coix seed; (2) dry mouth: Poria cocos, Radix Radix Pseudostellariae, Coix seed, Pinellia tuber, and Radix Ophiopogonis. The results showed that the minimum operation time in the observation group was 159.7 ± 13.07 min and the maximum was 172.57 ± 2.47 min, which was lower than that in the control group (the minimum was 172.46 ± 12.45 min and the maximum was 186.49 ± 24.32 min). The length of hospital stay (6.51 ± 1.29 days) was lower than that in the control group (7.56 ± 1.42 days) (P < 0.05). The CEA and CRP levels decreased significantly in both groups after treatment (P<0.05). However, the observation group’s CEA was (4.21 ± 1.05) mg/L and CRP was (8.46 ± 1.25) μg/L. In the control group, CEA was (4.18 ± 1.02) mg/L and CRP was (8.39 ± 1.24) μg/L. There were no significant differences (P<0.05). The incidence of complications in the observed group was 4.7% lower than 7.0% in the control group (P<0.05). Therefore, laparoscopic local gastric resection for benign gastric tumors can effectively reduce the incidence of CEA and CRP level and complications and improve the perioperative indicators, which is worth popularizing in clinical practice.
KLF4 Promotes Diabetic Chronic Wound Healing by Suppressing Th17 Cell Differentiation in an MDSC-Dependent Manner
Authors: Yang Xiong , Mathis Bryan J. , Huang Yu , Li Wencheng , Shi Ying
Published: September 2021

Objectives. Diabetic wound inflammation deficiencies lead to ulcer development and eventual amputation and disability. Our previous research demonstrates that myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) accumulate during inflammation and promote chronic wound healing via the regulation of Kruppel-like factor 4 (KLF4). In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential roles of MDSCs and KLF4 in diabetic wound healing. Methods. An ob/ob mouse pressure ulcer (PU) model was used to evaluate the process of wound healing. The expression levels of KLF4 and IL-17A were measured by real-time PCR, and the population of MDSCs and Th17 cells was measured by flow cytometry. The levels of cytokines were determined by an immunosuppression assay. Results. KLF4 deficiency in the diabetic PU model resulted in decreased accumulation of MDSCs, increased expansion of Th17 cells, and significantly delayed wound healing. Conversely, KLF4 activation by APTO-253 accelerated wound healing accompanied by increased MDSC populations and decreased numbers of Th17 cells. MDSCs have been proven to mediate Th17 differentiation via cytokines, and our in vitro data showed that elevated KLF4 expression in MDSCs resulted in reduced Th17 cell numbers and, thus, decreased levels of cytokines indispensable for Th17 differentiation. Conclusions. Our study revealed a previously unreported function of KLF4-regulated MDSCs in diabetic wound healing and identified APTO-253 as a potential agent to improve the healing of pressure ulcers.
An Automatic Measurement Method of Test Beam Response Based on Spliced Images
Authors: Liang Dong , Liu Jing , Wang Lida , Liu Chenjing , Liu Jia
Published: September 2021

Information such as cracks and deflections is the important basis for structural safety. Existing methods have not achieved simultaneous detection. In most existing computer vision measurement systems, the view is fixed due to the fixed position of the camera. Thus, it is difficult to obtain the structures’ overall crack and deflection information. An automatic response measurement method is proposed in this study including (1) continuous image acquisition and signal transmission system based on self‐walking bracket and Internet of Things (IoT), (2) an image splicing method based on feature matching, and (3) a crack and deflection measurement method. The self‐walking bracket allows the industrial camera to move at a fixed distance to obtain the continuous image of the beam. Next, the spliced image is obtained through the PCA‐SIFT method with a screening mechanism. The cracks’ information is acquired by the dual network model. The simplified AKAZE feature detection algorithm and the modified RANSAC are used to track the natural features of the structures. The curve fitting is performed to obtain the deflection curve of the beam under different loads. Experimental results show that the method can directly reflect the crack and deflection information of the beam. The average deviation of width is 11.76%, average deviation of length is 8.18%, and the average deformation deviation is 4.50%, which verifies the practicability of the method and shows great potential to apply it in actual structures.
A Reflection on How Carcinoma-Associated Fibroblasts Were Recognized as Active Participants of Epithelial Tumorigenesis
Authors: Cukierman Edna
Published: September 2021

Today's view of cancer as a systemic disease was facilitated by studies accentuating the local as well as the systemic role that non-tumorigenic cells, such as carcinoma-associated fibroblasts, play in cancer onset, development, and progression. The study highlighted in this Cancer Research Landmark was instrumental for supporting the idea that cancer is a full-body disease that depends on reciprocal interactions between cancer cells and the tumor microenvironment. Fibroblasts are mesenchymal cells of the connective tissue and are responsible for maintaining tissue homeostasis. Importantly, contractile myofibroblastic activation and immunoregulatory fibroblastic nemosis (the process of mesenchymal cell activation, followed by death, associated with release of proinflammatory molecules) constitute two functional aspects of fibroblasts that are essential for organogenesis as well as for modulating wound healing. Yet, in epithelial cancers, fibroblastic cell functions are chronically misregulated. The study by Olumi and colleagues published in Cancer Research in 1999 exemplifies how normal fibroblasts play a tumor-suppressive role and how modulating fibroblastic activity provides carcinoma-associated fibroblasts with tumor-promoting functions, similar to the needed “second hit” in a tumor suppressor gene. The emphasis on tumor/fibroblast interactions has provided a new framework for thinking about tumorigenesis as well as new targets for therapeutic intervention.

See related article by Olumi and colleagues, Cancer Res 1999;59:5002–11
Lung Cancer as a Subsequent Malignant Neoplasm in Survivors of Childhood Cancer
Authors: Ghosh Taumoha , Chen Yan , Dietz Andrew C. , Armstrong Gregory T. , Howell Rebecca M. , Smith Susan A. , Mulrooney Daniel A. , Turcotte Lucie M. , Yuan Yan , Yasui Yutaka , Neglia Joseph P.
Published: September 2021

Background:

Lung cancer, the most common cause of cancer-related death in adults, has not been well studied as a subsequent malignant neoplasm (SMN) in childhood cancer survivors. We assessed prevalence, risk factors, and outcomes for lung SMN in the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (CCSS) cohort.

Methods:

Among 25,654 5-year survivors diagnosed with childhood cancer (<21 years), lung cancer was self-reported and confirmed by pathology record review. Standardized incidence ratios (SIR) and cumulative incidences were calculated, comparing survivors to the general population, and hazard ratios (HR) were estimated using Cox regression for diagnosis and treatment exposures.

Results:

Forty-two survivors developed a lung SMN [SIR, 4.0; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.9–5.4] with a cumulative incidence of 0.16% at 30 years from diagnosis (95% CI, 0.09%–0.23%). In a treatment model, chest radiation doses of 10–30 Gy (HR, 3.4; 95% CI, 1.05–11.0), >30–40 Gy (HR, 4.6; 95% CI, 1.5–14.3), and >40 Gy (HR, 9.1; 95% CI, 3.1–27.0) were associated with lung SMN, with a monotone dose trend (Ptrend < 0.001). Survivors of Hodgkin lymphoma (SIR, 9.3; 95% CI, 6.2–13.4) and bone cancer (SIR, 4.4; 95% CI, 1.8–9.1) were at greatest risk for lung SMN.

Conclusions:

Survivors of childhood cancer are at increased risk for lung cancer compared with the general population. Greatest risk was observed among survivors who received chest radiotherapy or with primary diagnoses of Hodgkin lymphoma or bone cancer.

Impact:

This study describes the largest number of observed lung cancers in childhood cancer survivors and elucidates need for further study in this aging and growing population.
Single-Cell Analyses Reveal Mechanisms of Cancer Stem Cell Maintenance and Epithelial–Mesenchymal Transition in Recurrent Bladder Cancer
Authors: Wang Huanjun , Mei Yan , Luo Cheng , Huang Qun , Wang Zifeng , Lu Guan-Ming , Qin Lili , Sun Zhun , Huang Chao-Wen , Yang Zhi-Wen , Chen Junxing , Yin Weiguo , Qian Chao-Nan , Zeng Jianming , Chen Lingwu , Leng Qibin , Guo Yan , Jia Guangshuai
Published: September 2021

Purpose:

Bladder cancer treatment remains a major clinical challenge due to therapy resistance and a high recurrence rate. Profiling intratumor heterogeneity can reveal the molecular mechanism of bladder cancer recurrence.

Experimental Design:

Here, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing and Assay for Transposase-Accessible Chromatin using sequencing (ATAC-seq) on tumors from 13 patients with low recurrence risk, high recurrence risk, and recurrent bladder cancer.

Results:

Our study generated a comprehensive cancer-cell atlas consisting of 54,971 single cells and identified distinct cell subpopulations. We found that the cancer stem-cell subpopulation is enriched during bladder cancer recurrence with elevated expression of EZH2. We further defined a subpopulation-specific molecular mechanism whereby EZH2 maintains H3K27me3-mediated repression of the NCAM1 gene, thereby inactivating the cell invasive and stemness transcriptional program. Furthermore, taking advantage of this large single-cell dataset, we elucidated the spectrum of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in clinical samples and revealed distinct EMT features associated with bladder cancer subtypes. We identified that TCF7 promotes EMT in corroboration with single-cell ATAC with high-throughput sequencing (scATAC-seq) analysis. Additionally, we constructed regulatory networks specific to recurrent bladder cancer.

Conclusions:

Our study and analytic approaches herein provide a rich resource for the further study of cancer stem cells and EMT in the bladder cancer research field.
Immunization with a Plasmid DNA Vaccine Encoding the N-Terminus of Insulin-like Growth Factor Binding Protein-2 in Advanced Ovarian Cancer Leads to High-level Type I Immune Responses
Authors: Cecil Denise L. , Liao John B. , Dang Yushe , Coveler Andrew L. , Kask Angela , Yang Yi , Childs Jennifer S. , Higgins Doreen M. , Disis Mary L.
Published: September 2021

Purpose:

Cancer vaccines targeting nonmutated proteins elicit limited type I T-cell responses and can generate regulatory and type II T cells. Class II epitopes that selectively elicit type I or type II cytokines can be identified in nonmutated cancer-associated proteins. In mice, a T-helper I (Th1) selective insulin-like growth factor binding protein-2 (IGFBP-2) N-terminus vaccine generated high levels of IFNγ secreting T cells, no regulatory T cells, and significant antitumor activity. We conducted a phase I trial of T-helper 1 selective IGFBP-2 vaccination in patients with advanced ovarian cancer.

Patients and Methods:

Twenty-five patients were enrolled. The IGFBP-2 N-terminus plasmid-based vaccine was administered monthly for 3 months. Toxicity was graded by NCI criteria and antigen-specific T cells measured by IFNγ/IL10 ELISPOT. T-cell diversity and phenotype were assessed.

Results:

The vaccine was well tolerated, with 99% of adverse events graded 1 or 2, and generated high levels of IGFBP-2 IFNγ secreting T cells in 50% of patients. Both Tbet+ CD4 (P = 0.04) and CD8 (P = 0.007) T cells were significantly increased in immunized patients. There was no increase in GATA3+ CD4 or CD8, IGFBP-2 IL10 secreting T cells, or regulatory T cells. A significant increase in T-cell clonality occurred in immunized patients (P = 0.03, pre- vs. post-vaccine) and studies showed the majority of patients developed epitope spreading within IGFBP-2 and/or to other antigens. Vaccine nonresponders were more likely to have preexistent IGFBP-2 specific immunity and demonstrated defects in CD4 T cells, upregulation of PD-1, and downregulation of genes associated with T-cell activation, after immunization.

Conclusions:

IGFBP-2 N-terminus Th1 selective vaccination safely induces type I T cells without evidence of regulatory responses.
The MAGNOLIA Trial: Zanubrutinib, a Next-Generation Bruton Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor, Demonstrates Safety and Efficacy in Relapsed/Refractory Marginal Zone Lymphoma
Authors: Opat Stephen , Tedeschi Alessandra , Linton Kim , McKay Pamela , Hu Bei , Chan Henry , Jin Jie , Sobieraj-Teague Magdalena , Zinzani Pier Luigi , Coleman Morton , Thieblemont Catherine , Browett Peter , Ke Xiaoyan , Sun Mingyuan , Marcus Robert , Portell Craig A. , Ardeshna Kirit , Bijou Fontanet , Walker Patricia , Hawkes Eliza A. , Mapp Sally , Ho Shir-Jing , Talaulikar Dipti , Zhou Ke-Shu , Co Melannie , Li Xiaotong , Zhou Wenxiao , Cappellini Massimo , Tankersley Chris , Huang Jane , Trotman Judith
Published: September 2021

Purpose:

Marginal zone lymphoma (MZL) is an uncommon non–Hodgkin lymphoma with malignant cells that exhibit a consistent dependency on B-cell receptor signaling. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of zanubrutinib, a next-generation selective Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitor, in patients with relapsed/refractory (R/R) MZL.

Patients and Methods:

Patients with R/R MZL were enrolled in the phase II MAGNOLIA (BGB-3111–214) study. The primary endpoint was overall response rate (ORR) as determined by an independent review committee (IRC) based on the Lugano 2014 classification.

Results:

Sixty-eight patients were enrolled. After a median follow-up of 15.7 months (range, 1.6 to 21.9 months), the IRC-assessed ORR was 68.2% and complete response (CR) was 25.8%. The ORR by investigator assessment was 74.2%, and the CR rate was 25.8%. The median duration of response (DOR) and median progression-free survival (PFS) by independent review was not reached. The IRC-assessed DOR rate at 12 months was 93.0%, and IRC-assessed PFS rate was 82.5% at both 12 and 15 months. Treatment was well tolerated with the majority of adverse events (AE) being grade 1 or 2. The most common AEs were diarrhea (22.1%), contusion (20.6%), and constipation (14.7%). Atrial fibrillation/flutter was reported in 2 patients; 1 patient had grade 3 hypertension. No patient experienced major hemorrhage. In total, 4 patients discontinued treatment due to AEs, none of which were considered treatment-related by the investigators.

Conclusions:

Zanubrutinib demonstrated high ORR and CR rate with durable disease control and a favorable safety profile in patients with R/R MZL.
Off-Label 9-Valent Human Papillomavirus Vaccination for Actinic Keratosis: A Case Series
Authors: Wenande Emily , Bech-Thomsen Niels , Togsverd-Bo Katrine , Haedersdal Merete
Published: September 2021

Background: The suspected link between human papillomavirus (HPV) and the development of premalignant and malignant skin lesions remains inadequately examined in clinical settings. This case series describes HPV vaccination as an off-label adjuvant therapy for actinic keratosis (AK). Methods: Twelve immunocompetent AK patients underwent HPV vaccination at a private dermatology clinic in Naestved, Denmark. Prior to vaccination, all patients demonstrated a high AK burden that required regular control visits. At 0, 2, and 6 months, the patients received an intramuscular injection of a commercially available 9-valent HPV vaccine. Concurrently, patients continued conventional AK therapies at 3-month intervals. Clinical response, consisting of reduction in AK number and general change in skin appearance, was assessed by a dermatologist over 12 months following first vaccination. Results: All patients (mean age 76.2 years; 10 M and 2 F) completed the vaccine schedule. Overall, an average 85% reduction in total AK burden was recorded 12 months after beginning vaccination. Median AK burden thus fell from 56 (IQR: 44–80) to 13.5 (IQR: 1–18) lesions after 12 months. Lesion reduction was observable by the second inoculation at month 2 (34 AKs; IQR 22–80), continuing steadily until month 6 (15 AKs; IQR 5–30) and plateauing between 6 and 12 months. Clinically, HPV vaccination elicited fading of lesions’ erythematous background after the first dose, often followed by sloughing of hyperkeratotic elements in subsequent weeks. Patients reported no adverse effects related to HPV vaccination. Conclusion: This case series introduces the possibility that 9-valent HPV vaccination in combination with conventional treatments may be used as a therapeutic strategy for AK.
Optimal integration of capacitor and PV in distribution network based on nomadic people optimizer
Authors: Abdel-Mawgoud Hussein , Kamel Salah , Salih Sinan Q. , Alghamdi Ali S.
Published: September 2021

Since the last decades, capacitor and photovoltaics (PV) are installed in distribution networks to meet the increasing in system loads. In this paper, a new application of nomadic people optimizer (NPO) algorithm is proposed to obtain the best locations and sizes of capacitor and PV alone or simultaneously in radial distribution system (RDS). Also, reactive loss sensitivity factor (QLSF) can be used for obtaining the candidate locations for installing PV and capacitor units in RDS. The efficiency of the presented technique can be applied on IEEE 69-bus and IEEE 33-bus RDS. From simulation result, installing capacitor and PV units alone in RDS decreases the total losses and increases the bus voltages. Also, simultaneous integration of PV and capacitor units give better results than integration capacitor and PV units alone in distribution network. The presented algorithm is able to explore most area of search and obtain better results than recent optimizations algorithms.
Effect of electrical discharge on the properties of natural esters insulating fluids
Authors: Chairul Imran Sutan , Ghani Sharin Ab , Ab Aziz Nur Hakimah , Ahmad Khiar Mohd Shahril , Johal Muhammad Syahrani , Azmi Mohd Aizzat
Published: September 2021

Vegetable oils have been an alternative to mineral oil for oil-immersed transformers due to concern on less flammable, environmental-friendly, biodegradable, and sustainable resources of petroleum-based insulating oil. This paper presents the effect of electrical discharges (200 up to 1000 discharges) under 50 Hz inhomogeneous electric field on the properties (acidity, water content, and breakdown voltage) of two varieties of vegetable based insulating oils; i) natural ester (NE) and ii) low viscosity insulating fluids derived from a natural ester (NELV). Results show the water content, acidity and breakdown voltage of NE fluctuate due to applied discharges, while NELV display insignificant changes. Hence, results indicate that the low viscosity insulating fluids derived from natural ester tend to maintain their properties compared to natural ester.
WISE game: wireless interactive software educational game
Authors: Ruiz Muel Fred L. , Esclada Rica I. , Balderama Jannica H. , Aguirre Anzel Anne I. , Cutin Ma. Nancy I. , Lozada Raymund M.
Published: September 2021

This study presents the development of a wireless, interactive, educational (WISE) game that incorporates the use of smartphones for reviewing lessons that might suit the standards of the Philippine government’s education department. It is easier today to engage students using digital platforms for education using interactive digital games. In this study, the users can play the game by connecting the smartphones to the prototype through wireless local area network. It consists of two types of cards: power cards which contribute excitement to the game, and question cards which contain questions to be answered by the players. The prototype is an integration of the following components: Raspberry Pi 3B, RFID reader and cards, and speakers. A graphical user interface where the players interact with the game was created using scripting languages, such as PHP, and JavaScript. The project was evaluated by different grade school students of Metro Manila, Philippines. The results of users’ evaluation show that the prototype is accessible and effective for use based on functionality and that the project can also serve as a tool for lesson reviews. Future development of WISE game includes its integration and compatibility to different operating systems with larger databases and accessibility.