bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exosomes from adipose-derived stem cells activate sebocytes through the PI3K/AKT/SREBP-1 pathway to accelerate wound healing
Authors: Zhang Yingbo , Zhang Miaobo , Liu Chang , Qin Youyou , Liu ying , Xu zidi , xiao zhibo
Published: August 2022

Background: Sebaceous glands (SGs) are epidermal appendages that are important constituents of fully functional skin. The reconstruction of SGs is an integral part of wound healing. Exosomes from adipose-derived stem cells (ADSC-EXO) accelerate wound healing by promoting the migration and proliferation of fibroblasts and keratinocytes. However, the effects of ADSC-EXO on SGs are largely unknown. Methods: In this study, three-dimensional scaffolds of gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) hydrogel loaded with the human SZ95 sebocytes were used as an in vitro model of human SGs. The effects of ADSC-EXO on SZ95 cell proliferation and migration were evaluated with the EdU colorimetric immunohistochemistry assay and the scratch and Transwell assays. The levels of phosphorylated Akt, Akt, mammalian target of rapamycin, sterol regulatory-element binding protein (SREBP), and perilipin-1 (PLIN-1) were detected with immunofluorescence, quantitative PCR, and western blot analysis. Lipogenesis and lipolysis were assessed with Oil Red O and Nile red staining. Full-thickness skin wounds in BALB/c nude mice were treated with GelMA hydrogel loaded with SZ95 sebocytes alone or in combination with ADSC-EXO. Histopathological assessments of the wound tissues were performed with hematoxylin and eosin, Masson Trichrome staining and Immunohistochemical staining. Results: The results showed that ADSC-EXO upregulated Akt, enhanced SZ95 cell proliferation and migration, and inhibited apoptosis, and these effects of ADSC-EXO were blocked by the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt inhibitor LY294002. ADSC-EXO also regulated SREBP and PLIN-1 through the PI3K/Akt pathway in an environment-dependent manner, and enhanced lipogenesis under normoxia but triggered lipolysis under hypoxia. In BALB/c mice, Oil red staining on day 14 post-treatment showing ADSC-EXO group had a lower total lipid content than control. More importantly, ADSC-EXO accelerated SZ95 sebocyte-assisted wound healing and reduced scar formation. Conclusions: These in vitro and in vivo results supported that ADSC-EXO can promote the regeneration of fully functional scarless skin after injury through the PI3K/Akt-dependent activation of sebocytes.
Effects of PPARα pathway on hepatic lipid metabolism in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease rat model
Authors: Du Tingwan , Xiang Lian , Zhang Jingjing , Zhao Wenxin , Li Jialu , Cheng Lei , Yang Yi , Han Nan , Zhou Yong , Ma Ling
Published: August 2022

Background Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common hepatic metabolic disorder that is characterized by the dyshomeostasis of lipid metabolism. It is usually accompanied by insulin resistance and hyperlipidemia. Regulating lipid metabolism via the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα) pathway in the liver could potentially constitute a new target for elucidating the pathology of NAFLD. Therefore, we aimed to explore the PPARα pathway in a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced NAFLD rat model by non-competitive inhibitor MK886. Method Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into control (CON), HFD, HFD + MK 886 groups. After 14 weeks of intervention, body weight, energy intake, liver weight, serum biochemical markers, histology, morphology, and protein expression of PPARα, CPT1A, CD36, FABP1 in the liver were detected. Results Inhibiting PPARα by MK886 significantly reduced body weight; it improved hepatic function and serum lipid parameters. Furthermore, MK886 ameliorated hepatic steatosis by reducing the levels of CD36, PPARα and CPT1A. Conclusion The study indicates that inhibiting PPARα pathway could improve hepatic homeostasis by improving liver function and alleviating hepatic steatosis; this validated the role of PPARα and its downstream protein in hepatic fatty acid metabolism in NAFLD.
Numerical Simulation and Experimental Study on Electrolytic Grinding/Milling of Cemented Carbide
Authors: he yafeng , Xu Bo , Guo Hun , Zhou Xurong , Bai Jianhui
Published: August 2022

Cemented carbide is widely used in industrial production owing to its high hardness, high strength, and excellent wear and corrosion resistance. However, traditional machining is prone to machining defects such as cracking and burn. To address this problem, the cathode of a cemented carbide electrolytic grinding/milling tool was designed in this study. The distribution of the electric field of full-edge electrolytic grinding/milling was numerically simulated, and the variation in the electric field was obtained. A four-factor four-level orthogonal test of the side-edge electrolytic grinding/milling process was carried out, and the process parameters were optimized through range analysis. Based on the obtained results, the influence of feed speed on full-edge electrolytic grinding/milling was investigated. A cemented carbide electrolytic grinding/milling sample was fabricated and measured. The measurement results show that the surface is relatively flat and has a roughness of 0.389 μm. The obtained parameters meet the requirements of cemented carbide finishing.
A Prognostic Model using FIGO 2018 Staging and MRI- derived Tumor Volume to Predict Long-term Outcomes in Patients with Uterine Cervical Squamous Cell Carcinoma Who Received Definitive Radiotherapy
Authors: Zang Lele , Chen Qin , Lin An , Chen Jian , Zhang Xiaozhen , Fang Yi , Wang Min
Published: August 2022

Background
Uterine cervical carcinoma is a severe health threat worldwide, especially in China. The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) has revised the staging system with emphasise the strength of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We aim to investigate long-term prognostic factors for FIGO 2018 stage II-IIIC2r uterine cervical squamous cell carcinoma following definitive radiotherapy and establish a prognostic model using MRI-derived tumor volume.
Methods
Patients were restaged according to the FIGO 2018 staging system and randomly grouped into training and validation cohorts (7:3ratio). Optimal cutoff values of squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCC-Ag) and tumor volume derived from MRI for the training cohort were generated. A nomogram was onstructed based on overall survival (OS) predictors, which were selected using univariate and multivariate analyses. The performance of the nomogram was validated and compared with the FIGO 2018 staging system. Risk stratification cutoff points were generated, and survival curves of low-risk and high-risk groups were compared.
Results
We enrolled 396 patients (training set, 277; validation set,119). The SCC-Ag and MRI-derived tumor volume cutoff values were 11.5 ng/mL and 28.85 cm3, respectively. A nomogram was established based on significant prognostic factors, including SCC-Ag, poor differentiation, tumor volume, chemotherapy, and FIGO 2018 stage. Decision curve analysis indicated the net benefits of our model were higher. The high-risk group had significantly shorter OS than the low-risk group in both the training (p < 0.0001) and validation sets (p = 0.00055).
Conclusions
Our nomogram predicted long-term outcomes in patients with FIGO 2018 stage II-IIIC2r uterine cervical squamous cell carcinoma. This tool could assist both gynecologic oncologists and patients in treatment planning and prognosis.
Multi-inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) associated with COVID-19: A nursing perspective experience report from a high-income tertiary paediatric hospital context
Authors: Hjelmgren Henrik , Andersson Karin , Widegren Jessica , Bergman Erika , Vermé Anna , Mördrup Karina , Öhlander Marcus , Bartholdson Cecilia
Published: August 2022

Background
In the midst of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, a new disease that affects children has arisen called multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). Several research articles focusing on its medical aspects have been published, but very few have focused on nursing care. The aim of this study was therefore to describe the nursing status of children suffering from MIS-C and the experiences of registered nurses (RNs) in caring for these children in paediatric hospital inpatient care.
Methods
A mixed-method design was used, including both quantitative nursing clinical record data and qualitative interview data. Quantitative data from the clinical records were analysed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative data analysis of the interviews was conducted using both deductive and inductive approaches with content analysis.
Results
In total, 47 clinical records from children with MIS-C were investigated during January–March 2021. The mean age of the children was 8.8 years. Boys were more affected than girls. Challenges in children’s nursing status were related to circulation (fever and swelling), nutrition (great thirst and loss of appetite), pain, and psychosocial situations. When caring for children with MIS-C, nurses experienced “frustration over uncertainty of care”, “children’s illbeing” and “unavoidable procedures”.
Conclusion
This study contributes knowledge to the ongoing nursing care of children suffering from MIS-C. The results show many different areas of nursing focus, which challenges nurses and other disciplines within paediatric hospital care. One important factor when caring for these children was the use of a central venous line early in the care process, which improved the quality of care. Moreover, the care of children suffering from MIS-C demands resources and time from healthcare professionals, especially RNs, to meet caring needs and reduce illbeing.
Molecular characterization and antimicrobial susceptible profiles of Thai Mycoplasma synoviae isolates
Authors: Limpavithayakul Kriengwich , Sasipreeyajan Jiroj , Pakpinyo Somsak
Published: August 2022

Mycoplasma synoviae infection is mostly controlled by pathogen-free flocks’ maintenance, medication in infected flocks and vaccination in high risk flocks. The effective control strategy requires convenient assay for detecting and differentiating M. synoviae strains and the reliable drug susceptible evident for making decision in antimicrobial usage. Based on sequence analysis of partial vlhA gene in this study, Thai M. synoviae isolates collected from articular joint and respiratory tract of chickens during 2020, consisted of types E and L with 19 and 35 amino acid length, respectively, differing from MS-H vaccine strain classified as types C with 32 amino acid length. Consequently, the developed PCR-RFLP assay was definitely presented ability to detect and differentiate vaccine and Thai field strains. Furthermore, antimicrobial susceptible profiles of current Thai M. synoviae isolates was performed strong susceptible to tylosin, tylvalosin, and tiamulin at MIC50 value of 0.0391, 0.0098 and 0.0781 µg/ml, respectively; moderate susceptible to doxycycline, oxytetracycline and lincomycin-spectinomycin at MIC50 value of 0.1563, 0.1563 and 0.625 µg/ml, respectively; and resistance to enrofloxacin at MIC50 value of 10 µg/ml. Interestingly, at least three subpopulations of Thai M. synoviae isolates were presented with different MIC values; ranging 0.0195–0.625 µg/ml; from strong susceptiblity to resistance to tilmicosin.
USP14 regulates ATF2/PIK3CD axis to promote microvascular endothelial cell proliferation, migration and angiogenesis in diabetic retinopathy
Authors: He Fu-Tao , Fu Xiao-Lin , Li Mo-Han , Fu Chun-Yan , Chen Jian-Zhi
Published: August 2022

Background
Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is the foremost cause of blindness in diabetic patients. However, the pathogenesis of DR is complex, and no firm conclusions have been drawn so far. It has become a hot spot in ophthalmology research to deeply study the mechanism of DR pathological changes and find effective treatment options.
Methods
Human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (HRMECs) were induced using high glucose (HG) to construct DR cell model. CCK-8 assay was utilized to ascertain the viability of HRMECs. Transwell assay was manipulated to ascertain the migration ability of HRMECs. Tube formation assay was utilized to ascertain the angiogenesis ability of HRMECs. The expressions of USP14, ATF2 and PIK3CD were ascertained by qRT-PCR assay and Western blot analysis. Immunoprecipitation (IP) was manipulated to identify the relationship of USP14 and ATF2. To explore the regulatory relationship between ATF2 and PIK3CD by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay, along with dual-luciferase reporter gene assay.
Results
The proliferation, migration and angiogenesis of HRMECs were enhanced after high glucose treatment, and the expressions of USP14, ATF2 and PIK3CD were significantly up-regulated. Knockdown of USP14 or ATF2 inhibited cell proliferation, migration and angiogenesis in HG-induced HRMECs. USP14 regulated the expression of ATF2, and ATF2 promoted PIK3CD expression. PIK3CD overexpression attenuated the inhibitory effectiveness of USP14 knockdown on proliferation, migration and angiogenesis of DR cell model.
Conclusion
Here we revealed that USP14 regulated the ATF2/PIK3CD axis to promote proliferation, migration and angiogenesis in HRMECs upon high glucose.
Assessing the causes and consequences of gut mycobiome variation in a wild vertebrate population
Authors: Worsley Sarah F. , Davies Charli S. , Mannarelli Maria-Elena , Komdeur Jan , Dugdale Hannah L. , Richardson David S.
Published: August 2022

Background
Considerable research has focussed on the importance of bacterial communities within the vertebrate gut microbiome (GM). However, studies investigating the significance of other microbial kingdoms, such as fungi, are notably lacking, despite their potential to influence host processes. Here, we characterise the fungal GM of individuals living in a natural population of Seychelles warblers (Acrocephalus sechellensis). We evaluate the extent to which fungal GM structure is shaped by environment and host factors, including genome-wide heterozygosity and variation at key immune genes (Major histocompatibility Complex (MHC) and Toll-like receptor (TLR) genes). Importantly, we also explore the relationship between fungal GM differences and subsequent host survival. To our knowledge, this is the first time that the genetic drivers and fitness consequences of fungal GM variation have been characterised for a wild vertebrate population.
Results
Environmental factors, including season and territory quality, explain the largest proportion of variance in the fungal GM. In contrast, neither host age, sex, genome-wide heterozygosity, or TLR3 genotype were associated with fungal GM differences in Seychelles warblers. However, the presence of four MHC-I alleles and one MHC-II allele were associated with changes in fungal GM alpha diversity. Changes in fungal richness ranged from between 1 and 10 sequencing variants lost or gained; in some cases, this accounted for 20% of the fungal variants carried by an individual. In addition to this, overall MHC-I allelic diversity was associated with small, but potentially important, changes in fungal GM composition. This is evidenced by the fact that fungal GM composition differed between individuals that survived or died within seven months of being sampled.
Conclusions
Our results suggest that environmental factors play a primary role in shaping the fungal GM, but that components of the host immune system – specifically the MHC – may also contribute to variation in fungal communities across individuals within wild populations. Furthermore, variation in the fungal GM can be associated with differential survival in the wild. Further work is needed to establish the causality of such relationships and, thus, the extent to which components of the GM may impact upon host evolution.
Impact of HIV infection and integrase strand transfer inhibitors-based treatment on the gut virome
Authors: Villoslada-Blanco Pablo , Pérez-Matute Patricia , Íñiguez María , Recio-Fernández Emma , Jansen Daan , Coninck Lander , Close Lila , Blanco-Navarrete Pilar , Metola Luis , Ibarra Valvanera , Alba Jorge , Matthijnssens Jelle , Oteo José A.
Published: August 2022

Purpose: Viruses are the most abundant components of the human gut microbiome with a significant impact on health and disease. The impact of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection on the gut virome has been scarcely analysed and several studies suggested that integrase strand transfers inhibitors (INSTIs) are associated with a healthier gut. Thus, the objective of this work was to evaluate the effects of HIV infection and INSTIs on the gut virome composition.Methods: 26 non-HIV-infected volunteers, 15 naive HIV-infected patients and 15 INSTIs-treated HIV-infected patients were recruited and their gut virome composition was analysed using shotgun sequencing.Results: Bacteriophages are the most abundant and diverse viruses in gut. HIV infection was accompanied by a decrease in phage richness which was reverted after INSTIs-based treatment. β-diversity of phages revealed that samples from HIV-infected patients clustered separately from those belonging to the control group. Differential abundant analysis showed an increase in phages belonging to Caudoviricetes class in the naive group and a decrease of Malgrandaviricetes class phages in the INSTIs-treated group compared to the control group. Besides, it was observed that INSTIs-based treatment was not able to reverse the increase of lysogenic phages associated with HIV infection or to modify the decrease observed on the relative abundance of Proteobacteria-infecting phages.Conclusions: Our study describes for the first time the impact of HIV and INSTIs on the gut virome and demonstrates that INSTIs-based treatments are able to partially restore gut dysbiosis at the viral level, which opens several opportunities for new studies focused on microbiota-based therapies.
Performance Analysis for Molecular Communication under Feedback Channel using Multipath and Single path Technique
Authors: Ningthoujam Sanjit , Chingkheinganba Tekcham , Chakraborty Swarnendu Kumar , Elngar Ahmed A. , Chakrabarti Prasun , Chakrabarti Tulika , Praveen S Phani , Gupta Amit , Margala Martin
Published: August 2022

Nanomachines that can run tasks and molecular communication (MC) for interconnecting nanomachines have been made possible by advances in nanotechnology. Different techniques of Automatic Repeat Request (ARQ) protocols have been devised in MC for acquiring the necessary molecules, although retransmission of duplicate copies requires special attention. This work presents a diffusion-based MC with a feedback loop to improve MC performance. Based on the received ACK(s) or NACK(s), the Channel state determines if the state is good (G) or bad (B), and then single path or multipath procedures are used to the ‘G' and ‘B' states. The results of the MATLAB simulation illustrate how the systems compare in terms of communication rate, the possibility of complete transmission of the desired molecules, and energy consumption. When the channel state is bad, the multipath approach performs better, but when the channel state is perfect in MC, the single path strategy performs better.
A high neutrophil-to-platelet ratio is associated with hematoma expansion in patients with spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage: a retrospective study
Authors: Li Yujian , Yang Xiang , Zhou Huiqing , Hui Xuhui , Li Hao , Zheng Jun
Published: August 2022

Background
Early hematoma expansion (HE) occurs in 20 to 40% of spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) patients and is a primary determinant of early deterioration and poor prognosis. Previous studies have shown that inflammation is a major pathological feature of ICH, and the neutrophil-to-platelet ratio (NPR) is a marker of systemic inflammation. Therefore, we aimed to assess the association between the NPR and HE in ICH patients.
Methods
We retrospectively collected and analyzed data from ICH patients who received treatment at our institution from January 2018 to November 2019. The NPR was calculated from the admission blood test. Brain computed tomography (CT) scans were performed at admission and repeated within 24 hours. Hematoma growth was defined as relative growth > 33% or absolute growth > 6 ml.
Results
A total of 317 patients were enrolled in our study. Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that the NPR was an independent predictor of HE [odds ratio (OR) = 1.742; 95% CI: 1.508–2.012, p < 0.001]. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis revealed that the NPR could predict HE, with an area under the curve of 0.838 (95% CI, 0.788–0.888, p < 0.001). The best predictive cut-off of the NPR for HE was 5.47 (sensitivity, 75.3%; specificity, 77.6%).
Conclusions
A high NPR was associated with an increased risk of HE in patients with ICH.
High-Dose Polyethylene Glycol-3350 and Gatorade Solutions for Patients with Previous Inadequate Bowel Preparations for Colonoscopy are Safe and Effective
Authors: Gerard David , Gerard Sophia , Raiser Manfred
Published: August 2022

Background: Inadequate bowel preparation for colonoscopy remains an issue resulting in lower adenoma detection rates and increased cost. We assessed the efficacy, safety and tolerability of high-dose bowel preparations in subjects who previously had an inadequate colonoscopy preparation.Methods: We performed a multi-step prospective trial of high-dose bowel preparations with subjects assigned to the dose higher than their previous inadequate preparation. Step 1: 1.5 times the standard-dose of polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG, 459 g) and Gatorade; and Step 2: 2.0 times the standard-dose of PEG (612 g) and Gatorade, both were given as extended split-dose preparations. 69 outpatients consumed their preparation before a morning colonoscopy. The primary endpoint was colon cleanliness assessed by the Chicago Bowel Preparation Scale (BPS). Safety was assessed by comparing a baseline basic metabolic panel (BMP) to a post-cleansing BMP. Patients with no history of inadequate colon cleansing who consumed standard doses of PEG (306 g to 357 g) and Gatorade were used as a comparison group. Tolerability of the bowel preparation was assessed using a subject-questionnaire.Results: When compared to controls consuming standard-dose bowel preparations, subjects consuming high-dose preparations had no statistically significant difference in colon cleanliness as measured by the modified or total Chicago BPS scores or differences in tolerability. Baseline and post-cleaning BMPs were not significantly different other than the BUN falling (p<0.0001) after the preparation.Conclusions: The multi-step high-dose bowel cleansing protocol proved highly efficacious, safe and well tolerated in subjects who previously had an inadequate colonoscopy preparation.Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02661750
Expression and roles of interferon-induced protein with tetratricopeptide repeat (IFIT) genes in head-and-neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Hao , Shan Fayu , Chen Gang , Wang Xinxing
Published: August 2022

Objective To explore the expression and roles of interferon-induced protein with tetratricopeptide repeats (IFITs) genes in head-and-neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Methods The mRNA expression levels of the IFIT family members in different cancers and normal tissues were explored by searching the ONCOMINE and GEPIA databases. The Human Protein Atlas was used to compare the protein expression of different IFITs between normal and HNSCC tissues. The cBioPortal, GEPIA, and LinkedOmics datasets were used to explore the clinicopathological parameters and prognostic value of IFITs in HNSCC patients. The migratory and invasive abilities of SCC25 cells were determined in wound healing and Transwell migration assays, respectively, after knockdown of IFIT genes with small interfering RNA. Results Both mRNA and protein expression levels of IFIT1, IFIT2, and IFIT3 were significantly increased in HNSCC compared with those in adjacent non-cancer tissue. In the LinkedOmics and GEPIA databases, high expression of IFIT1, IFIT2, and IFIT3 were not associated with the degree of malignancy and the prognostic value of HNSCC. Knockdown of IFIT1, IFIT2, and IFIT3 had no impact on the invasion and metastasis of SCC25 cells. Conclusion HNSCC was related to high expression of IFIT1, IFIT2, and IFIT3, which might be potential biomarkers of HNSCC. However, IFIT1, IFIT2, and IFIT3 were not correlated with the migration, invasion, stage, and prognosis of HNSCC.
Push-pull behavior of 2,7-disubstituted sila- and germafluorenes
Authors: Jarrett-Noland Shelby J. , McConnell William , Braddock-Wilking Janet , Dupureur Cynthia M.
Published: August 2022

Push-pull dyes exhibit intramolecular charge transfer behavior, which due to changes in dipole moment upon excitation, is the origin of their sensitivity to environment. Such compounds are of interest as probes for bioimaging and as biosensors to monitor cellular dynamics and molecular interactions. Desirable biological probes absorb in the visible region, have high extinction coefficients, high quantum yield and excellent photostability. Fluorophores with scaffolding that can be used to tune and optimize solvatochromic behavior are of particular interest. Here we investigate the environmental sensitivity of a small library of highly fluorescent 2,7-disubstituted sila- and germafluorenes. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations show that charge transfer occurs from the alkyne core out to the 2,7-substitutents and 3,6-methoxy substituents, the hallmark of push-pull behavior. They exhibit a HOMO-LUMO energy gap of about 3 eV with desirable dipole moments ranging from 2-3.25 D. These compounds exhibit desirable Stokes shifts in various solvents, with absorption wavelength maxima varying up to 14 nm in polar solvents and emission wavelength maxima up to 36 nm in polar solvents compared to nonpolar solvents. Interestingly, the dependence of Stokes shift on solvent polarizability are consistent with solvatochromic behavior. With the ability to tune push-pull properties via the 2,7-substituent, these disubstituted sila- and germafluorenes have excellent potential as biological probes.
Expression of EMT-Related Genes in Lymph Node Metastasis in Endometrial Cancer: A TCGA-based study
Authors: Li He , Li Liwei , Zhao Luyang , Wang Zhiqi
Published: August 2022

Background
Endometrial cancer (EC) identified in pelvic/para-aortic lymph nodes suggests a poorer prognosis. Literature focusing on the role of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in lymph node metastasis (LNM) remains few.
Methods
Transcriptional data were acquired from TCGA database. Patients with stage IA-IIIC2 EC were included, constituting the LN positive and negative groups. To evaluate the extent of EMT, an EMT signature composed of 315 genes was adopted. EMT-related genes (ERGs) were obtained from dbEMT2 database, differentially expressed ERGs (DEERGs) of which between the two groups were screened out. On the basis of DEERGs, pathway analysis was carried out. We finally used the logistic regression model to build an ERG-based gene signature with diagnostic value for LNM in EC.
Results
A total of 498 patients were included, with 75 in the LN positive group. Median EMT score of tumor tissues from LN negative group was − 0.369, while that from LN positive group was − 0.296 (P < 0.001), suggesting a more mesenchymal phenotype for LNM cases on the EMT continuum. By comparing the expression profiles, 266 genes were identified as DEGs, in which 184 were upregulated and 82 were downregulated. In pathway analyses, various EMT-related pathways were enriched. DEERGs shared between molecular subtypes were relatively few. The ROC curve and logistic regression analysis screened 7 genes with the best performance to discriminate between the LN positive and negative group, i.e. CIRBP, DDR1, F2RL2, HOXA10, PPARGC1A, SEMA3E and TGFB1. A logistic regression model including the 7-genes based risk score, age, grade, myometrial invasion and histological subtype was built, with an AUC of 0.850 and a good calibration (P = 0.074). In a validation dataset composed of 83 EC patients, the model exhibited a promising diagnostic value and was well calibrated (P = 0.42).
Conclusion
The EMT status and expression of ERGs varied in EC tissues from LN positive and negative cases, involving multiple EMT-related signalling pathways, and the distribution of DEGs differed among molecular subtypes. An ERG-based gene signature including 7 DEERGs exhibited a potential application value.
DOPESLAM: A high-precision ROS-based semantic SLAM system
Authors: Roch Jesse , Najjaran Homayoun
Published: August 2022

Recent advancements in deep learning techniques have accelerated the growth of robotic vision systems. One way this technology can be applied is to use a mobile robot to automatically generate a 3D map and identify objects within it. This paper explores a solution to this problem by combining Deep Object Pose Estimation (DOPE) with Real-Time Appearance-Based Mapping (RTAB-Map) through means of loose-coupled parallel fusion. DOPE’s abilities are enhanced by leveraging its belief map system to filter uncertain key points which increases precision so only the best object labels end up on the map. Additionally, DOPE’s pipeline is modified to enable shape-based object recognition using depth maps so it can identify objects in complete darkness. Three experiments are performed to find the ideal training dataset, quantify the increased precision, and to evaluate the overall performance of the system. The results show the proposed solution outperforms existing methods in most intended scenarios such as in unilluminated scenes.
Modeling the physiological parameters of beer yeast during storage with natural zeolite-containing tuffs using artificial neural networks
Authors: Shafrai Anton V. , Permyakova Larisa V. , Borodulin Dmitriy M. , Sergeeva Irina Y.
Published: August 2022

This work aims to use artificial neural networks for mathematical modeling of correcting the biosynthetic activity of yeast during storage with natural minerals. The object of the research is the brewer's seed yeast of the C34 race. Artificial neural networks were created on the basis of experimental data, which were used to solve the problems of regression and prediction of output values. Four networks were created: the first one modeled the values of all output variables, while the second, the third and the fourth modeled the number of yeast cells with glycogen, budding cells and dead cells respectively. Next, the optimal yeast storage parameters were determined. As a result of the study, the possibility of using artificial neural networks for mathematical modeling of undesirable deviations in the physiological parameters of brewer's seed yeast during storage with natural minerals was proved.
A longitudinal characterization of the seminal microbiota and antibiotic resistance in yearling beef bulls subjected to different rate of gains using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and culturing
Authors: Webb Emily M. , Holman Devin B. , Schmidt Kaycie N. , Crouse Matthew S. , Dahlen Carl R. , Cushman Robert A. , Snider Alexandria P. , McCarthy Kacie L. , Amat Samat
Published: August 2022

Background: Increasing evidence supports the existence of a microbial community in bovine semen, and that this seminal microbiota may influence not only the male fertility but also female reproduction. In this study, we evaluated the seminal and fecal microbiota in yearling beef bulls fed a common diet to achieve moderate (1.13 kg/d) or high (1.80 kg/d) rates of weight gain. Semen samples were collected on days 0 and 112 of dietary intervention (n = 19/group) as well as post-breeding (n = 6/group) using electroejaculation and the microbiota was assessed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, qPCR, and culturing. The fecal microbiota was also evaluated and its similarity with seminal microbiota assessed. A subset of seminal bacterial isolates (n = 33) was screened for resistance against 28 antibiotics.Results: A complex and dynamic microbiota was detected in bovine semen, and the community structure was affected by sampling time (R2 = 0.16, P < 0.001). Microbial richness increased from d 0 (ASVs, 253 ± 12) to d 112 (293 ± 14) (P < 0.05). Microbial diversity did not change during pre-breeding but increased after breeding (P < 0.05). Fusobacteriota, Bacteroidota, Firmicutes and Actinobacteriota were dominant in the seminal microbiota, and their abundance changed over time and following breeding (P < 0.05). Seminal microbiota remained unaffected by the differential rate of gains, and its overall composition was distinct from fecal microbiota, with only 6% of the taxa shared between them. The fecal microbiota did not differ between the two dietary treatments at d 112 and post-breeding but changed over time from d 112 to post-breeding (P < 0.05). A total of 364 isolates from 49 different genera were recovered under aerobic and anaerobic culturing. Among these seminal isolates were pathogenic species associated with respiratory disease, liver abscesses and reproductive infections, as well as those resistant to several antibiotics. Conclusions: Our results suggest that bovine semen harbors a rich and complex microbiota which changes over time and in response to breeding activity but appears to be resilient to differential gains achieved via a common diet. Seminal microbiota is distinct from the fecal microbiota and harbors potentially pathogenic and antibiotic-resistant bacterial species.
Prevalence, Clinical Characteristics, and Impact of Headache on Daily Activities of Medical Students at the University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates: A Community-based Research
Authors: Azrak Omar Ahmed Talal , Hashem Anas Mohamad , Al-Ali Maryam , Khouly Mai Al , Kilani Mohammad Munzer , Taher Mina , Khalouf Amani , Mahmoud Amir
Published: August 2022

BackgroundHeadache is one of the most common and debilitating neurological disorders. As it is highly common and impacts the quality-of-life and academic performance of medical undergraduates, it is essential to uncover the prevalence, clinical characteristics, and perceived triggering factors of headache among medical students at the University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates. We aim to conduct this cross-sectional study that aids in discovering factors influencing the frequency and severity of headache which can guide healthcare providers to early detect, counsel, and treat it.MethodSelf-administered questionnaires were distributed among 471 medical students from Medicine, Pharmacy, and Health Sciences from September 2019 and May 2020. Data was analyzed by JMP Pro-14 using Chi-square, t-tests, and ANOVA. MIDAS was adopted, with some modifications, for measuring headache impact.ResultsA total of 471 students (75.2% females) participated. The prevalence of headache was 84.9% with a higher incidence among Medicine (p=0.001), wearing eyeglasses (p=0.033) and in a higher year of study (p=0.026). Among those who experienced headaches recently, most had one headache episode per month (35%), for less than an hour (46.5%), described it as tightness (46.1%) and frontal in location (35.5%). Frequent headache sufferers had prolonged episodes (p<0.001), during the afternoon (p<0.0001), throbbing and severe in nature (p<0.001). A significant reduction in academic performance (p=0.0075) and routine activities (p=0.028) were noticed. Stress or tension and too little sleep were the most common triggering factors. For the management of headaches, sleeping and relaxation were the most used by respondents.ConclusionDue to the stressful university life, headache is commonly experienced by a majority of undergraduates, especially Medicine students. The high prevalence of the headache and its incapacitating symptoms on medical students’ academic performance necessitate more attention from the healthcare providers to take serious steps towards early headache detection and intervention.
Simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation: Which graft warns the most?
Authors: Giuliani Tommaso , Ibanez Javier Maupoey , Orón Eva Montalvá , Robledo Andrea Boscá , Chicote Cristina Martínez , Sanz Ana Hernando , Ibanez Cristina Ballester , Mizrahi David Calatayud , Andújar Rafael López
Published: August 2022

Background: Simultaneous pancreas-kidney transplantation (SPK) is still characterized by high rates of postoperative complications. This study aims to offer an in-depth characterization of short-, medium- and long-term complications following SPK to derive insights for postoperative management and follow-up.Methods: Consecutive SPK transplantations were analysed. Pancreatic graft (P-graft)- and kidney graft (K-graft)-related complications were analysed separately. The global postoperative course was assessed in three timeframes (early, medium-term, and late) using the comprehensive complication index (CCI). Predictors of complications and early graft loss were explored.Results: Complications occurred in 61.2% of patients, and the 90-day mortality was 3.9%. The overall burden of complications was significantly high during admission (CCI 22.4 ± 21.1) and decreased gradually afterwards. P-graft-related complications burdened the most in the early postoperative course (CCI 11.6 ± 13.8); postoperative ileus and perigraft fluid collection were the most frequent complications, and pseudoaneurysms, haemorrhages, and bowel leaks were the major concerns. K-related complications were milder but represented the largest proportion of the CCI in the late postoperative timeframe (CCI 7.6 ± 13.6). No predictors of P-graft- or K-graft-related complications were found. Conclusion: Pancreas graft-related complications represent the largest part of the clinical burden in the early postoperative timeframe but are negligible after 3 months. Kidney grafts have a relevant impact in the long term. The multidisciplinary approach to SPK recipients should be driven based on all graft-specific complications and tailored on a time-dependent basis.
A novel high-quality and high-efficiency immersion fluid chemical mechanical polishing process for integral impeller
Authors: Liao Longxing , Shanming Luo , Chang Xuefeng , Fu Shengping , Mo Jingyu
Published: August 2022

A novel process of immersion fluid chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) is proposed to replace the traditional manual polishing and the mechanical polishing for integral impeller. Using the FLUENT software to simulate the force state on the integral impeller surface and the fluid motion trajectory during the polishing process, in order to determine the optimal polishing process , and to reveal the formation mechanism of the high-quality integral impeller surface. The immersion fluid CMP process experiment was carried out on the integral impeller with the developed CMP slurry containing phosphoric acid (H3PO4), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), citric acid (CA), silicon carbide (SiC) and deionized water. After 2.5 hours of CMP, the surface roughness decreased from Ra 1.651 μm to Ra 0.658 μm, the polished surface is smooth and without tool marks. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and infrared (IR) were used to reveal the polishing mechanism of the oxidation, dissolution, removal and complex precipitates on the surface of the integral impeller. This research provides a novel process for the precision machining of other complex structural parts similar to the integral impeller, which has the characteristics of simple polishing process, high efficiency and good polishing effect.
Antifungal activities of vineyard-habitat wild yeast for grape gray-mold disease and its initial promotion of alcohol fermentation in spontaneous wine brewing
Authors: Yamaguchi Akihiro , Hudagula Hu , Maeno Naoko , Minami Noriko , Takahashi Soichiro , Yoshida Kuniko , Ohtani Katsuki , Funatsu Yasuhiro , Kondo Ryosuke
Published: August 2022

Microorganisms, including native yeasts, are abundant in vineyard fields. Herein, we studied the possibility of using vineyard-derived wild yeast as a microbial pesticide against Botrytis cinerea, a pathogen that causes grape gray mold disease, to boost the initial alcohol production of spontaneously fermented wine. We identified the Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain KONDO170908, which showed the most effective antifungal activity in an ex vivo yeast dripping experiment on grape berries. This strain was utilized in an in vivo spray test on grape bunches in vineyard fields and was proven to significantly suppress gray mold disease on the grape berries in test plot #16 when the yeast was sprayed during both the flowering and ripening periods (morbidity 11.2% against 15.3% of the control plot, χ2 test, P < 0.0001). However, in test plot #17, spraying the yeast during only the ripening period had no effect (morbidity 16.3%). The grapes from each test plot were also submitted for spontaneous wine fermentation. Alcoholic fermentation of the grapes from test plot #16 provided the most active bubbling of CO2 gas and the highest ethanol production and colony counts over seven days of fermentation. Unique changes in the different strains of S. cerevisiae among the plots were observed throughout the early fermentation stage. Thus, yeast spraying during the flowering period might trigger modification of the entire microbiota and could ultimately contribute to promoting alcohol production in the spontaneously fermented wine.
Perfluorooctanoic acid exposure and its neurodegenerative consequences
Authors: Khosravi Azadeh , Mousavi Mahboobeh Kafi , Soltani Masoud , Aliomrani Mehdi
Published: August 2022

Background
Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is a member of Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), an industrial pollutant that has been produced for decades and widely used in various industries. Accumulation of this compound in the environment and body of organisms led to increased concerns about this compound. The toxic effects of PFOA on the nervous system are unknown, yet. We aimed to assess the myelination and neurogenesis in brain tissue.
Method and Materials:
In this study, PFOA at doses of 1, 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg were injected intraperitoneally into C57BL/6J mice for 14 days, and the myelin content, CD4 + and CD8 + cell infiltration to brain regions were evaluated. Also, bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) labeling was performed to compare neurogenesis among the groups.
Results
The LFB stating revealed a significant decrease in myelin content in both gender at high concentrations (p < 0.001). The impaired neurogenesis was observed in both genders especially females which was highly related to the dose and region of the brain. The infiltration rates of CD4 + and CD8 + cells to the brain were shown to be decreased meanwhile the lymphocyte count was not significantly changed among groups over time and vice versa for the monocyte and neutrophils.
Conclusion
Our results showed that PFOA had a negative impact on neurogenesis and the myelination process through the specific region of the brain depending on the dose and gender. Also, PFOA could disturb the number of CD4 + and CD8 + cells infiltrating the brain, which plays a crucial role in neurogenesis, leading to toxicity and neurological abnormalities. It seems that more research is needed to determine the exact mechanisms of PFOA neurotoxicity and its long-term behavioral consequences.
Genetic variation of Picea abies in response to the artificial inoculation of Heterobasidion parviporum
Authors: Durodola Blessing , Blumenstein Kathrin , Terhonen Eeva
Published: August 2022

Norway spruce Picea abies is one of Europe's most economically important tree species. However, it is highly susceptible to the root rot fungus Heterobasidion parviporum. Climate change will benefit the pathogen as the tree host is weakened by, e.g., extended drought. Breeding can improve forest health, and several root rot genetic markers are suggested to improve the resistance of Norway spruce. This study aimed to compare the resistance (here defined as necrosis length) of Norway spruce families and genotypes against two strains of H. parviporum under different water availabilities. Our results show that the family and the genotype within have an impact on the necrosis length that is related to the aggressiveness of the fungal strains. Under low water conditions, the necrosis increased only in horizontal directions in phloem and sapwood. Similarly, the growth was not disturbed by abiotic stress (less water), indicating that the stress level (drought) was too low in this setting. The knowledge gained in this study could improve forest health in the changing climate by understanding the response of Norway spruce to pathogenic attacks under additional stress at the family level. This knowledge could be strategically used in forest breeding to improve the resistance of Norway spruce trees against root rot.
Anastomosis within and between networks of Rhizophagus irregularis MUCL 41833 is influenced by mode of action and concentration of fungicides
Authors: Rodriguez-Morelos Victor Hugo , Calonne-Salmon Maryline , Declerck Stéphane
Published: August 2022

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi play key roles in soil fertility of agroecosystems. They develop dense extraradical mycelial (ERM) networks via mechanisms such as hyphal anastomosis. These connections between hyphae can be affected by agricultural practices such as the use of fungicides, but how these compounds affect anastomosis formation within and more importantly between networks of the same AM fungal strain remains poorly unexplored. Here, the impact of azoxystrobin, pencycuron, flutolanil, and fenpropimorph at 0.02 and 2 mg L−1 were tested in vitro on the anastomosis formation within and between networks of Rhizophagus irregularis MUCL41833. Azoxystrobin and fenpropimorph had a particularly detrimental impact, at the highest concentration (2 mg L−1), on the number of anastomosis within and between networks, and for fenpropimorph in particular at both concentrations (0.02 and 2 mg L−1), on the number of anastomosis per length of hyphae. Curiously fenpropimorph at 0.02 mg L−1 significantly stimulated spore production, while with azoxystrobin, the reverse was observed at 2 mg L−1. The two other fungicides, pencycuron and flutolanil had no detrimental effects on spore production or anastomosis formation within and between networks. These results suggest that fungicides with different modes of action and concentrations differentially impact anastomosis possibly by altering the hyphal tips of AM fungi and may thus affect the capacity of AM fungi to develop large hyphae networks exploring and exploiting the soil at the service of plants.
Impact of Covid-19 Pandemic on Diagnosis of Oesophageal and Gastric Cancers – A Single Centre Study
Authors: Aoko Olufemi , Harewood G. , Doherty R. , Boland K. , Ryan J. , Cheriyan D. , Patchett S.
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND
Due to a huge focus of healthcare resources on acute COVID-19 care during the early phase of the pandemic, endoscopy activity worldwide was significantly reduced. This subsequently led to a reduction in the number of Oesophageal and Gastric cancers diagnosed during this period, resulting in delayed diagnosis.
AIM
To measure the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the diagnosis of Oesophageal and Gastric cancers in a single tertiary referral centre.
METHODS
This was a retrospective study. Patients were divided into three groups based on the period of diagnosis. Period A represented October 2019 – March 2020, B represented April 2020-June 2020, and C represented July 2020-October 2020. Patients were then further subdivided based on the stage of the cancer at diagnosis.
RESULTS
A total of 153 patients diagnosed between October 2019 and October 2020 were included. The mean age was 69.4. During period B, which correlates with the early phase of the pandemic, and reduced endoscopy activity, there was a reduction in the number of cancers diagnosed. 66 patients (43.1%) were diagnosed in Period A, 25 (16.3%) in Period B and 62 (40.5%) in Period C. In respect to Period B, in comparison to the same period in 2019, 40 patients were diagnosed. There was also an increase in the number of cancers diagnosed at an advanced stage in Period C, correlating with the recovery/decelerating phase of the first wave of the pandemic.
CONCLUSION
This study highlights the risk associated with delayed diagnosis of Upper GI Cancers due to the pandemic.