bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulation of Spiral Ganglion Neuron Regeneration as a Therapeutic Strategy in Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Authors: Wang Man , Xu Lei , Han Yuechen , Wang Xue , Chen Fang , Lu Junze , Wang Haibo , Liu Wenwen
Published: January 2022

In the mammalian cochlea, spiral ganglion neurons (SGNs) are the primary neurons on the auditory conduction pathway that relay sound signals from the inner ear to the brainstem. However, because the SGNs lack the regeneration ability, degeneration and loss of SGNs cause irreversible sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). Besides, the effectiveness of cochlear implant therapy, which is the major treatment of SNHL currently, relies on healthy and adequate numbers of intact SGNs. Therefore, it is of great clinical significance to explore how to regenerate the SGNs. In recent years, a number of researches have been performed to improve the SGNs regeneration strategy, and some of them have shown promising results, including the progress of SGN regeneration from exogenous stem cells transplantation and endogenous glial cells’ reprogramming. Yet, there are challenges faced in the effectiveness of SGNs regeneration, the maturation and function of newly generated neurons as well as auditory function recovery. In this review, we describe recent advances in researches in SGNs regeneration. In the coming years, regenerating SGNs in the cochleae should become one of the leading biological strategies to recover hearing loss.
Development and Validation of a New Lymph Node Ratio-Based Staging System for Ampullary Carcinoma After Curative Pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Zhang Xiaojie , Sun Chongyuan , Li Zefeng , Wang Tongbo , Zhao Lulu , Niu Penghui , Guo Chunguang , Chen Yingtai , Che Xu , Zhao Dongbing
Published: January 2022

Background

Lymph node metastasis (LNM) is closely associated with the prognosis of ampullary carcinoma (AC). The purpose of this study is to explore the relationship between lymph node ratio (LNR) and the prognosis of patients with AC after curative pancreaticoduodenectomy and to establish a new LNR-based staging system.

Methods

AC patients in the Cancer Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, between 1998 and 2020 were retrospectively reviewed as the training cohort; and AC patients in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database between 2010 and 2018 were obtained as the validation cohort. Within the training group, Kaplan–Meier survival analyses and Cox proportional hazards regression were conducted to assess the prognostic value of LNR and establish a new LNR-based staging system. Then, the new staging system was compared with the 8th American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) TNM staging system in both the training and validation cohorts.

Results

A total of 264 patients in the training cohort and 199 patients in the validation cohort were enrolled. Significant overall survival (OS) difference was observed between LNR-low stage and LNR-high stage in both training (p = 0.001) and validation cohorts (p < 0.001). Then a new LNR-based staging system was developed. Under the new system, the number of patients in the training cohort and validation cohort of stage I, stage II, and stage III was 30 (11%) vs. 18 (9%), 190 (72%) vs. 96 (48%), and 44 (17%) vs. 85 (43%), respectively. The new staging system classified patients with respect to survival better than did the 8th AJCC TNM staging system.

Conclusions

The new LNR-based staging system had better discriminability for predicting survival in AC patients after curative pancreaticoduodenectomy. More data are needed for further validation.
Interleukin-6 Induced Proliferation Is Attenuated by Transforming Growth Factor-β-Induced Signaling in Human Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Srivastava Abhilasha , Sharma Harshita , Khanna Simran , Sadhu Balasundaram Tejasvini , Chowdhury Shibasish , Chowdhury Rajdeep , Mukherjee Sudeshna
Published: January 2022

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is often associated with an inflammatory setting. A plethora of cytokines are secreted in this milieu, actively contributing to the progression of the disease; however, the extent of cytokine interaction and how it contributes to HCC development remains an enigma. In this regard, our analysis of available patient-derived data suggests that cytokines like interleukin-6 (IL-6) and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) are enriched in HCC. We further analyzed the effect of these cytokines independently or in combination on HCC cells. Importantly, IL-6 was found to induce a STAT-3-dependent proliferation and mediate its pro-proliferative effects through activation and direct interaction with the p65 subunit of NFkB. Alternatively, TGF-β was found to induce a SMAD-dependent induction of epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) coupled to growth arrest in these cells. Interestingly, the simultaneous addition of IL-6 and TGF-β failed to profoundly impact EMT markers but resulted in attenuation of IL-6-induced pro-proliferative effects. Analysis of the putative molecular mechanism revealed a decrease in IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) transcript levels, reduced expression of IL-6-induced STAT-3, and its nuclear localization upon addition of TGF-β along with IL-6. Consequently, a reduced p65 activation was also observed in combination treatment. Importantly, SMAD levels were unperturbed and the cells showed more TGF-β-like features under combination treatment. Finally, we observed that TGF-β resulted in enrichment of repressive chromatin mark (H3K27me3) coupled to growth arrest, while IL-6 induced an open chromatin signature (H3K4me3) associated with an enhanced expression of EZH2. Overall, for the first time, we show that TGF-β attenuates IL-6-induced effects by regulating the receptor level, downstream signaling, and the epigenome. Understanding the complex interactions between these cytokines can be imperative to a better understanding of the disease, and manipulation of cytokine balance can act as a prospective future therapeutic strategy.
Efficacy and Safety of Ertugliflozin in Type 2 Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Liu Li , Shi Fang-Hong , Xu Hua , Wu Yue , Gu Zhi-Chun , Lin Hou-Wen
Published: January 2022

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ertugliflozin in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Methods: MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library were searched (July 31, 2021) for phase II/III randomized clinical trials, which reported the efficacy and safety of ertugliflozin. Continuous variables were calculated as weighted mean difference (WMD) and associated 95% confidence intervals (CIs); dichotomous data were expressed as risk ratios (RRs) with 95% CIs.

Results: Nine randomized clinical trials including 5638 type 2 diabetes patients were included. For efficacy, ertugliflozin significantly reduced HbA1c (%) (WMD −0.452%; 95% CI −0.774 to −0.129), fasting plasma glucose (FPG) (WMD −0.870 mmol/L; 95% CI −1.418 to −0.322), body weight (WMD −1.774 kg; 95% CI −2.601 to −0.946), and blood pressure levels (systolic blood pressure: WMD −2.572 mmHg; 95% CI −3.573 to −1.571 and diastolic blood pressure: WMD −1.152 mmHg; 95% CI −2.002 to −0.303) compared with placebo and other hypoglycaemic agents. Compared with placebo, ertugliflozin was superior in reducing HbA1c (%) (WMD −0.641%) and FPG (WMD −1.249 mmol/L). And compared with active agents, ertugliflozin also could decrease HbA1c by 0.215% and FPG by 0.266 mmol/L. The interactive effect between different controls was significant (Pinteraction of 0.039). For safety, similar to other sodium-glucose cotransporter type-2 inhibitors, ertugliflozin mainly increased the risk of genital mycotic infection (RR: 4.004; 95% CI 2.504–6.402). There was no significant difference in the incidence of any adverse events (AEs), AEs related to study drug, serious AEs, deaths, and discontinuations due to AEs. Results were consistent with the most primary outcomes in subgroups analysis and sensitivity analysis.

Conclusion: Ertugliflozin was relatively effective and tolerated in patients with type 2 diabetes compared with placebo or other hypoglycaemic agents, except for a high risk of genital mycotic infection.

Systematic Review Registration: (ClinicalTrials.gov), identifier (CRD42020206356).
Spatiotemporal Variation of Osmanthus fragrans Phenology in China in Response to Climate Change From 1973 to 1996
Authors: Wang Xianping , Liu Yinzhan , Li Xin , He Shibin , Zhong Mingxing , Shang Fude
Published: January 2022

Climate change greatly affects spring and autumn plant phenology around the world consequently, and significantly impacts ecosystem function and the social economy. However, autumn plant phenology, especially autumn flowering phenology, has not been studied so far. In this study, we examined the spatiotemporal pattern of Osmanthus fragrans phenology, including both leaf phenology (the date of bud-bust, BBD; first leaf unfolding, FLD; and 50% of leaf unfolding, 50 LD) and flowering phenology (the date of first flowering, FFD; peak of flowering, PFD; and end of flowering, EFD). Stepwise multiple linear regressions were employed to analyze the relationships between phenophases and climatic factors in the long term phenological data collected by the Chinese Phenological Observation Network from 1973 to 1996. The results showed that spring leaf phenophases and autumn flowering phenophases were strongly affected by latitude. BBD, FLD, and 50LD of O. fragrans were delayed by 3.98, 3.93, and 4.40 days as per degree of latitude increased, while FFD, PFD and EFD in O. fragrans advanced 3.11, 3.26, and 2.99 days, respectively. During the entire study period, BBD was significantly delayed across the region, whereas no significant trends were observed either in FLD or 50LD. Notably, all flowering phenophases of O. fragrans were delayed. Both leaf and flowering phenophases negatively correlated with growing degree-days (GDD) and cold degree-days (CDD), respectively. BBD and FLD were negatively correlated with total annual precipitation. In addition to the effects of climate on autumn flowering phenology, we found that earlier spring leaf phenophases led to delayed autumn flowering phenophases. Our results suggest that future climate change and global warming might delay the phenological sequence of O. fragrans. Our findings also advanced the flowering mechanism study of autumn flowering plants, and facilitated the accurate prediction of future phenology and climate change.
Community Composition and Structure Affect Ecosystem and Canopy Water Use Efficiency Across Three Typical Alpine Ecosystems
Authors: Li Yuzhe , Zhang Xinyuan , Shao Quanqin , Fan Jiangwen , Chen Zhi , Dong Jinwei , Hu Zhongmin , Zhan Yue
Published: January 2022

Unique ecosystems distributed in alpine areas of the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau play important roles in climate change mitigation, local food supply, and conservation of species diversity. To understand the water use efficiency (WUE) of this fragile and sensitive region, this study combined observed data from the eddy covariance system and the Shuttleworth–Wallace (S-W) model to measure the continuous mass exchange, including gross primary productivity (GPP), evapotranspiration (ET), and canopy transpiration (T) throughout 2 or 3 years (2016–2018) in three common alpine ecosystems (i.e., alpine steppe, alpine meadow, and alpine swamp). These ecosystems represent a water availability gradient and thus provide the opportunity to quantify environmental and biological controls on WUE at various spatiotemporal scales. We analyzed the ecosystem WUE (WUEe; defined as the ratio of GPP to ET) and canopy WUE (WUEc; defined as the ratio of GPP and canopy T). It was found that the yearly WUEe was 1.40, 1.63, and 2.16 g C kg–1 H2O, and the yearly WUEc was 8.93, 2.46, and 5.19 g C kg–1 H2O in the three typical ecosystems, respectively. The controlling factors of yearly WUE diverged between WUEe and WUEc. We found that plant functional group proportion (e.g., gramineous and Cyperaceae) highly explained the yearly WUEe variation across sites, and a good correlation was observed between community species diversity and WUEc. These findings suggest that community composition and trait change are critical in regulating WUEe and WUEc across different alpine ecosystems and that the regulation mechanisms may differ fundamentally between WUEe and WUEc.
Phenotyping and Quantitative Trait Locus Analysis for the Limited Transpiration Trait in an Upper-Mid South Soybean Recombinant Inbred Line Population (“Jackson” × “KS4895”): High Throughput Aquaporin Inhibitor Screening
Authors: Sarkar Sayantan , Shekoofa Avat , McClure Angela , Gillman Jason D.
Published: January 2022

Soybean is most often grown under rainfed conditions and negatively impacted by drought stress in the upper mid-south of the United States. Therefore, identification of drought-tolerance traits and their corresponding genetic components are required to minimize drought impacts on productivity. Limited transpiration (TRlim) under high vapor pressure deficit (VPD) is one trait that can help conserve soybean water-use during late-season drought. The main research objective was to evaluate a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population, from crossing two mid-south soybean lines (“Jackson” × “KS4895”), using a high-throughput technique with an aquaporin inhibitor, AgNO3, for the TRlim trait. A secondary objective was to undertake a genetic marker/quantitative trait locus (QTL) genetic analysis using the AgNO3 phenotyping results. A set of 122 soybean genotypes (120-RILs and parents) were grown in controlled environments (32/25-d/n °C). The transpiration rate (TR) responses of derooted soybean shoots before and after application of AgNO3 were measured under 37°C and >3.0 kPa VPD. Then, the decrease in transpiration rate (DTR) for each genotype was determined. Based on DTR rate, a diverse group (slow, moderate, and high wilting) of 26 RILs were selected and tested for the whole plant TRs under varying levels of VPD (0.0–4.0 kPa) at 32 and 37°C. The phenotyping results showed that 88% of slow, 50% of moderate, and 11% of high wilting genotypes expressed the TRlim trait at 32°C and 43, 10, and 0% at 37°C, respectively. Genetic mapping with the phenotypic data we collected revealed three QTL across two chromosomes, two associated with TRlim traits and one associated with leaf temperature. Analysis of Gene Ontologies of genes within QTL regions identified several intriguing candidate genes, including one gene that when overexpressed had previously been shown to confer enhanced tolerance to abiotic stress. Collectively these results will inform and guide ongoing efforts to understand how to deploy genetic tolerance for drought stress.
Expression Levels of Genes Encoding Proteins Involved in the Cell Wall–Plasma Membrane–Cytoskeleton Continuum Are Associated With the Maturation-Related Adventitious Rooting Competence of Pine Stem Cuttings
Authors: Pizarro Alberto , Díaz-Sala Carmen
Published: January 2022

Stem cutting recalcitrance to adventitious root formation is a major limitation for the clonal propagation or micropropagation of elite genotypes of many forest tree species, especially at the adult stage of development. The interaction between the cell wall–plasma membrane and cytoskeleton may be involved in the maturation-related decline of adventitious root formation. Here, pine homologs of several genes encoding proteins involved in the cell wall–plasma membrane–cytoskeleton continuum were identified, and the expression levels of 70 selected genes belonging to the aforementioned group and four genes encoding auxin carrier proteins were analyzed during adventitious root formation in rooting-competent and non-competent cuttings of Pinus radiata. Variations in the expression levels of specific genes encoding cell wall components and cytoskeleton-related proteins were detected in rooting-competent and non-competent cuttings in response to wounding and auxin treatments. However, the major correlation of gene expression with competence for adventitious root formation was detected in a family of genes encoding proteins involved in sensing the cell wall and membrane disturbances, such as specific receptor-like kinases (RLKs) belonging to the lectin-type RLKs, wall-associated kinases, Catharanthus roseus RLK1-like kinases and leucine-rich repeat RLKs, as well as downstream regulators of the small guanosine triphosphate (GTP)-binding protein family. The expression of these genes was more affected by organ and age than by auxin and time of induction.
Dissection of Closely Linked Quantitative Trait Locis Controlling Grain Size in Rice
Authors: Xue Pao , Chen Yu-yu , Wen Xiao-xia , Wang Bei-fang , Yang Qin-qin , Gong Ke , Kang Yi-wei , Sun Lian-ping , Yu Ping , Cao Li-yong , Zhang Ying-xin , Zhan Xiao-deng , Cheng Shi-hua
Published: January 2022

Grain size is a key constituent of grain weight and appearance in rice. However, insufficient attention has been paid to the small-effect quantitative trait loci (QTLs) on the grain size. In the present study, residual heterozygous populations were developed for mapping two genetically linked small-effect QTLs for grain size. After the genotyping and the phenotyping of five successive generations, qGS7.1 was dissected into three QTLs and two were selected for further analysis. The qTGW7.2a was finally mapped into a 21.10 kb interval containing four annotated candidate genes. Transcript levels assay showed that the expression of the candidates LOC_Os07g39490 and the LOC_Os07g39500 were significantly reduced in the NIL-qTGW7.2aBG1. The cytological observation indicated that qTGW7.2a regulated the grain width through controlling the cell expansion. Using the same strategy, qTGW7.2b was fine-mapped into a 52.71 kb interval containing eight annotated candidate genes, showing a significant effect on the grain length and width with opposite allelic directions, but little on the grain weight. Our study provides new genetic resources for yield improvement and for fine-tuning of grain size in rice.
Impact of Hepatitis C Virus Infection of Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells on the Immune System
Authors: Alhetheel Abdulkarim Fahad
Published: January 2022

Hepatitis C is a worldwide liver disease caused by hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. The virus causes acute and chronic liver inflammation, and it is transmitted mainly by exposure to contaminated blood. HCV is capable of infecting hepatocytes and peripheral blood mononuclear cells, causing complications and disease progression. This mini review provides an overview of HCV infection, including details on the virological aspects, infection of the immune cells, and its impact on the immune system.
Molecular Epidemiology of Extended-Spectrum Beta-Lactamase and AmpC Producing Enterobacteriaceae among Sepsis Patients in Ethiopia: A Prospective Multicenter Study
Authors: Legese Melese , Asrat Daniel , Aseffa Abraham , Hasan Badrul , Mihret Adane , Swedberg Göte
Published: January 2022

Extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs) and AmpC producing Enterobacteriaceae are public health threats. This study aims to characterize ESBL and AmpC producing Enterobacteriaceae isolated from sepsis patients. A multicenter study was conducted at four hospitals located in central (Tikur Anbessa and Yekatit 12), southern (Hawassa) and northern (Dessie) parts of Ethiopia. Blood culture was performed among 1416 sepsis patients. Enterobacteriaceae (n = 301) were confirmed using MALDI-TOF and subjected for whole genome sequencing using the Illumina (HiSeq 2500) system. The overall genotypic frequencies of ESBL and AmpC producing Enterobacteriaceae were 75.5% and 14%, respectively. The detection of ESBL producing Enterobacteriaceae at Hawassa, Yekatit 12, Tikur Anbessa and Dessie was 95%, 90%, 82% and 55.8%, respectively. The detection frequency of blaCTX-M, blaTEM and blaSHV genes was 73%, 63% and 33%, respectively. The most frequently detected ESBL gene was blaCTX-M-15 (70.4%). The common AmpC genes were blaACT (n = 22) and blaCMY (n = 13). Of Enterobacteriaceae that harbored AmpC (n = 42), 71% were ESBL co-producers. Both blaTEM-1B (61.5%) and blaSHV-187 (27.6%) were the most frequently detected variants of blaTEM and blaSHV, respectively. The molecular epidemiology of ESBL producing Enterobacteriaceae showed high frequencies and several variants of ESBL and AmpC genes. Good antimicrobial stewardship and standard bacteriological laboratory services are necessary for the effective treatment of ESBL producing Enterobacteriaceae.
Special Bioactivities of Phenolics from Acacia dealbata L. with Potential for Dementia, Diabetes and Antimicrobial Treatments
Authors: Paula Vanessa , Pedro Soraia I. , Campos Maria G. , Delgado Teresa , Estevinho Letícia M. , Anjos Ofélia
Published: January 2022

Some diseases still need better therapeutic approaches, including the prevention of development. Natural resources are investigated with this purpose; among them, we decided to use an invasive plant as a main strategy. This will help in two ways: screening new compounds in flowers prevents the plant from causing widespread damage by controlling the dissemination and also obtains crude material for further applications. In the present study, flower extracts from Acacia dealbata Link harvested in Portugal were studied during three stages of flowering. Phenolic compounds were evaluated using HPLC/DAD and the total phenolics as the total flavonoids content was determined. The bioactivities screened were antioxidant potential, inhibitory activities of some enzymes (acetylcholinesterase, lipase and α-glucosidase) and, to complete the screening, the inhibition of microbial growth was determined against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, as well as for yeasts. The data obtained suggested that the hydroethanolic extracts gave good results for all these biological activities and varied according to the maturation status of the flowers, with the early stage being the most active, which can be related to the chalcones content. This new approach will lead to the possible control of the invasive plant and also future perspective research for therapeutic purposes.
Therapeutic Potential of Seaweed-Derived Bioactive Compounds for Cardiovascular Disease Treatment
Authors: Cho Chi-Heung , Lu Yu-An , Kim Ming-Yeong , Jeon You-Jin , Lee Sang-Hoon
Published: January 2022

Cardiovascular diseases are closely related to hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, and hyperlipidemia. Many studies have reported that an unhealthy diet and sedentary lifestyle are critical factors that enhance these diseases. Recently, many bioactive compounds isolated from marine seaweeds have been studied for their benefits in improving human health. In particular, several unique bioactive metabolites such as polyphenols, polysaccharides, peptides, carotene, and sterol are the most effective components responsible for these activities. This review summarizes the current in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies related to the protective effects of bioactive compounds isolated from seaweeds against cardiovascular disorders, including anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, anti-hyperlipidemia, and anti-obesity effects. Therefore, this present review summarizes these concepts and provides a basis for further in-depth research.
Enhanced Thermal Stability in Dielectric Properties of NaNbO3–Modified BaTiO3–BiMg1/2Ti1/2O3 Ceramics for X9R-MLCC Applications
Authors: Muhammad Raz , Ali Asif , Camargo Javier , Castro Miriam , Lei Wen , Song Kaixin , Wang Dawei
Published: January 2022

0.5BaTiO3–(0.5 − x)BiMg1/2Ti1/2O3–xNaNbO3 (x = 0.10–0.30) ceramics were processed via a conventional solid state sintering route. X-ray diffraction analysis and Raman spectroscopy showed the formation of a cubic perovskite structure. Microstructural analysis of the samples revealed densely packed grains. The addition of NaNbO3 resulted in the enhancement in dielectric properties as a function of temperature. Relative permittivity decreased from 850 to 564 (at room temperature) with an increase in x; however, the stability in dielectric properties was improved with an increase in NaNbO3 concentration. At x = 0.25, relative permittivity (εr) was ~630 ± 15% in a temperature range of −70–220 °C with low dielectric loss (tan δ) < 0.025 (−57 to 350 °C) and high recoverable energy density ~0.55 J/cm3 which meet the criterion for X9R MLCC applications.
An Optimized Machine Learning Model Accurately Predicts In-Hospital Outcomes at Admission to a Cardiac Unit
Authors: Bollepalli Sandeep Chandra , Sahani Ashish Kumar , Aslam Naved , Mohan Bishav , Kulkarni Kanchan , Goyal Abhishek , Singh Bhupinder , Singh Gurbhej , Mittal Ankit , Tandon Rohit , Chhabra Shibba Takkar , Wander Gurpreet S. , Armoundas Antonis A.
Published: January 2022

Risk stratification at the time of hospital admission is of paramount significance in triaging the patients and providing timely care. In the present study, we aim at predicting multiple clinical outcomes using the data recorded during admission to a cardiac care unit via an optimized machine learning method. This study involves a total of 11,498 patients admitted to a cardiac care unit over two years. Patient demographics, admission type (emergency or outpatient), patient history, lab tests, and comorbidities were used to predict various outcomes. We employed a fully connected neural network architecture and optimized the models for various subsets of input features. Using 10-fold cross-validation, our optimized machine learning model predicted mortality with a mean area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.967 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.963–0.972), heart failure AUC of 0.838 (CI: 0.825–0.851), ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction AUC of 0.832 (CI: 0.821–0.842), pulmonary embolism AUC of 0.802 (CI: 0.764–0.84), and estimated the duration of stay (DOS) with a mean absolute error of 2.543 days (CI: 2.499–2.586) of data with a mean and median DOS of 6.35 and 5.0 days, respectively. Further, we objectively quantified the importance of each feature and its correlation with the clinical assessment of the corresponding outcome. The proposed method accurately predicts various cardiac outcomes and can be used as a clinical decision support system to provide timely care and optimize hospital resources.
Association of Left Atrial Size Measured by Non-Contrast Computed Tomography with Cardiovascular Risk Factors—The Danish Cardiovascular Screening Trial (DANCAVAS)
Authors: Fredgart Maise Høigaard , Lindholt Jes Sanddal , Brandes Axel , Steffensen Flemming Hald , Frost Lars , Lambrechtsen Jess , Karon Marek , Busk Martin , Urbonaviciene Grazina , Egstrup Kenneth , Khurrami Lida , Gerke Oke , Diederichsen Axel Cosmus Pyndt
Published: January 2022

Left atrium (LA) size is associated with adverse cardiovascular events. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association of LA enlargement measured by non-contrast CT (NCCT) with traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Individuals aged 60–75 years from the population-based multicentre Danish Cardiovascular Screening (DANCAVAS) trial were included in this cross-sectional study. The LA was manually traced on the NCCT scans, and the largest cross-section area was indexed to body surface area. All traditional risk factors were recorded, and a subgroup received an echocardiographic examination. We enrolled 14,987 individuals. Participants with known cardiovascular disease or lacking measurements of LA size or body surface area were excluded, resulting in 10,902 men for the main analysis and 616 women for a sensitivity analysis. Adjusted multivariable analysis showed a significantly increased indexed LA size by increasing age and pulse pressure, while smoking, HbA1c, and total cholesterol were associated with decreased indexed LA size. The findings were confirmed in a supplementary analysis including left ventricle ejection fraction and mass. In this population-based cohort of elderly men, an association was found between age and pulse pressure and increasing LA size. Surprisingly, smoking, HbA1c, and total cholesterol were associated with a decrease in LA size. This indicates that the pathophysiology behind atrial cardiomyopathy is not only reflected by enlargement, but also shrinking.
Transmitted Fetal Immune Response in Cases of SARS-CoV-2 Infections during Pregnancy
Authors: González-Mesa Ernesto , García-Fuentes Eduardo , Carvia-Pontiasec Rafael , Lavado-Fernández Ana I. , Cuenca-Marín Celia , Suárez-Arana María , Blasco-Alonso Marta , Benítez-Lara Blanca , Mozas-Benítez Laura , González-Cazorla Ana , Egeberg-Neverdal Herink , Jiménez-López Jesús S.
Published: January 2022

(1) Background: Little is known about the effects of SARS-CoV-2 on the placenta, and whether the maternal inflammatory response is transmitted vertically. This research aims to provide information about the effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection on maternal and fetal immunity. (2) Methods: We have studied placental changes and humoral and cellular immunity in maternal and umbilical cord blood (UCB) samples from a group of pregnant women delivering after the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy. IgG and IgM SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, Interleukin 1b (IL1b), Interleukin 6 (IL6), and gamma-Interferon (IFN-γ), have been studied in the UCB samples. Lymphocyte subsets were studied according to CD3, CD8, CD4, CD34, and invariant natural Killer T cells (iNKT) markers. We used in situ hybridization techniques for the detection of viral RNA in placentas. (3) Results: During the study period, 79 pregnant women and their corresponding newborns were recruited. The main gestational age at the time of delivery was 39.1 weeks (SD 1.3). We did not find traces of the SARS-CoV-2 virus RNA in any of the analyzed placental samples. Detectable concentrations of IgG anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, IL1b, IL6, and IFN-γ, in UCB were found in all cases, but IgM antibodies anti-ARS-CoV-2 were systematically undetectable. We found significant correlations between fetal CD3+ mononuclear cells and UCB IgG concentrations. We also found significant correlations between UCB IgG concentrations and fetal CD3+/CD4+, as well as CD3+/CD8+ T cells subsets. We also discovered that fetal CD3+/CD8+ cell counts were significantly higher in those cases with placental infarctions. (4) Conclusion: we have not verified the placental transfer of SARS-CoV-2. However, we have discovered that a significant immune response is being transmitted to the fetus in cases of SARS-CoV-2 maternal infection.
Realization of an Electronically Tunable Resistor-Less Floating Inductance Simulator Using VCII
Authors: Safari Leila , Barile Gianluca , Colaiuda Davide , Stornelli Vincenzo , Ferri Giuseppe
Published: January 2022

In this paper, a new implementation of an electronically tunable resistor-less floating inductance simulator using a second-generation voltage conveyor (VCII) is presented. The proposed circuit is resistor-free (benefiting from the intrinsic resistors at the Y terminals of the employed VCIIs) and composed of three VCIIs and a single grounded capacitor. Using a control current (Icon), the value of impedance at the Y terminal of the VCII is varied, whereby the value of the simulated inductance is tuned. The proposed circuit is designed at a transistor level using 0.18 µm TSMC CMOS parameters and ±0.9 V supply voltage. PSpice simulations are carried out to confirm the effectiveness of the proposed circuit. For a range of Icon from 0 µA to 50 µA, the value of the simulated L can be varied from −576 µH to −324 µH and from +316 µH to +576 µH for negative and positive simulators, respectively, in the frequency range of 100 kHz–3 MHz. Favorably, the value of the series resistance remains below 76 Ω. Simulation results show an error value below 4.8% and power consumption variation is from 1.64 mW to 1.92 mW. Moreover, application of the proposed circuit as a standard band-pass RLC filter is also included.
Battery Sizing Optimization in Power Smoothing Applications
Authors: Zulueta Asier , Ispas-Gil Decebal Aitor , Zulueta Ekaitz , Garcia-Ortega Joseba , Fernandez-Gamiz Unai
Published: January 2022

The main objective of this work was to determine the worth of installing an electrical battery in order to reduce peak power consumption. The importance of this question resides in the expensive terms of energy bills when using the maximum power level. If maximum power consumption decreases, it affects not only the revenues of maximum power level bills, but also results in important reductions at the source of the power. This way, the power of the transformer decreases, and other electrical elements can be removed from electrical installations. The authors studied the Spanish electrical system, and a particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm was used to model battery sizing in peak power smoothing applications for an electrical consumption point. This study proves that, despite not being entirely profitable at present due to current kWh prices, implanting a battery will definitely be an option to consider in the future when these prices come down.
Mountain Permafrost Hydrology—A Practical Review Following Studies from the Andes
Authors: Arenson Lukas U. , Harrington Jordan S. , Koenig Cassandra E. M. , Wainstein Pablo A.
Published: January 2022

Climate change is expected to reduce water security in arid mountain regions around the world. Vulnerable water supplies in semi-arid zones, such as the Dry Andes, are projected to be further stressed through changes in air temperature, precipitation patterns, sublimation, and evapotranspiration. Together with glacier recession this will negatively impact water availability. While glacier hydrology has been the focus of scientific research for a long time, relatively little is known about the hydrology of mountain permafrost. In contrast to glaciers, where ice is at the surface and directly affected by atmospheric conditions, the behaviour of permafrost and ground ice is more complex, as other factors, such as variable surficial sediments, vegetation cover, or shallow groundwater flow, influence heat transfer and time scales over which changes occur. The effects of permafrost on water flow paths have been studied in lowland areas, with limited research in the mountains. An understanding of how permafrost degradation and associated melt of ground ice (where present) contribute to streamflow in mountain regions is still lacking. Mountain permafrost, particularly rock glaciers, is often conceptualized as a (frozen) water reservoir; however, rates of permafrost ground ice melt and the contribution to water budgets are rarely considered. Additionally, ground ice and permafrost are not directly visible at the surface; hence, uncertainties related to their three-dimensional extent are orders of magnitude higher than those for glaciers. Ground ice volume within permafrost must always be approximated, further complicating estimations of its response to climate change. This review summarizes current understanding of mountain permafrost hydrology, discusses challenges and limitations, and provides suggestions for areas of future research, using the Dry Andes as a basis.
Real-World Treatment Selection Factors and 7-Year Clinical Outcomes between Percutaneous Coronary Intervention and Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery in Left Main Disease
Authors: Jang Albert Youngwoo , Kim Minsu , Lee Joonpyo , Seo Jeongduk , Shin Yong Hoon , Oh Pyung Chun , Suh Soon Yong , Lee Kyounghoon , Kang Woong Chol , Ahn Taehoon , Han Seung Hwan
Published: January 2022

Background: The decision-making factors and long-term clinical outcomes between PCI and CABG in left main (LM) disease are still not well defined in the real world. Methods: We evaluated consecutive patients (n = 230) with LM disease either treated by PCI (n = 118) or CABG (n = 112). The primary endpoint was major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), defined as a composite of cardiac death, spontaneous myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, and target vessel revascularization (TVR) for 7 years. Results: In the multivariate-adjusted analysis, the presence of intermediate EuroSCORE II and high SYNTAX scores predisposed to CABG. Isolated LM disease was associated with receiving PCI. The PCI group had a similar rate of MACE (HRadj 0.97, 95% CI [0.48–1.94], p = 0.92) and a lower tendency of hard MACE (HRadj 0.49, 95% CI [0.22–1.07], p = 0.07) compared to the CABG group, mainly due to the balance between a higher rate of TVR (HRadj 9.71, p = 0.02) and a lower rate of stroke (HRadj 0.22, p = 0.09) with the PCI group than in the CABG group. Conclusions: The decision making of treatment strategy was made based on clinical and angiographic factors. The selected patients who received PCI showed similar MACE and trend of a lower rate of composite hard endpoints despite multivariate adjustment.
Pediatric Acute Myeloid Leukemia—Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Reinhardt Dirk , Antoniou Evangelia , Waack Katharina
Published: January 2022

This review reports about the main steps of development in pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML) concerning diagnostics, treatment, risk groups, and outcomes. Finally, a short overview of present and future approaches is given.
Association between Thyroid Cancer and Breast Cancer: Two Longitudinal Follow-Up Studies Using a National Health Screening Cohort
Authors: Jin Young Ju , Kwon Mi Jung , Kim Ji Hee , Kim Joo-Hee , Choi Hyo Geun
Published: January 2022

Background: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between thyroid cancer and breast cancer. Methods: Data from the Korean National Health Insurance Service-Health Screening Cohort were collected from 2002 to 2013. In study I, 3949 thyroid cancer participants were 1:4 matched with 15,796 control I participants, and hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for breast cancer were evaluated using a stratified Cox proportional hazard model. In study II, 3308 breast cancer participants were 1:4 matched with 13,232 control II participants, and HRs with 95% CIs for thyroid cancer were assessed in the same way as in study I. In the subgroup analyses, associations were analyzed according to radioactive iodine (RAI) treatment and age (<60 years old and ≥60 years old). Results: The adjusted HR for breast cancer in the thyroid cancer group was 1.64 (95% CI = 1.13–2.39, p = 0.010). The adjusted HR for thyroid cancer in the breast cancer group was 1.91 (95% CI = 1.47–2.49, p < 0.001). In the subgroup analyses, the groups that were older and not treated with RAI treatment showed consistent results in study I, and the younger and older groups showed consistent results in study II. Conclusions: Based on this cohort study, breast and thyroid cancer have a reciprocal positive association.
DNA-Based Molecular Engineering of the Cell Membrane
Authors: Li Xiaodong , Wang Tiantian , Sun Yue , Li Chang , Peng Tianhuan , Qiu Liping
Published: January 2022

The cell membrane serves as a barrier and gatekeeper to regulate the cellular transportation of substances and information. It plays a significant role in protecting the cell from the extracellular environment, maintaining intracellular homeostasis, and regulating cellular function and behaviors. The capability to engineer the cell membrane with functional modules that enable dynamic monitoring and manipulating the cell-surface microenvironment would be critical for studying molecular mechanisms underlying various biological processes. To meet this goal, DNA, with intrinsic advantages of high versatility, programmability, and biocompatibility, has gained intense attention as a molecular tool for cell-surface engineering. The past three decades have witnessed the rapid advances of diverse nucleic acid materials, including functional nucleic acids (FNAs), dynamic DNA circuits, and exquisite DNA nanostructures. In this mini review, we have summarized the recent progress of DNA technology for cell membrane engineering, particularly focused on their applications for molecular sensing and imaging, precise cell identification, receptor activity regulation, and artificial membrane structures. Furthermore, we discussed the challenge and outlook on using nucleic acid materials in this specific research area.
Effect of Ion-Plasma Nitriding on Phase Composition and Tensile Properties of AISI 321-Type Stainless Steel Produced by Wire-Feed Electron-Beam Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Moskvina Valentina , Astafurova Elena , Astafurov Sergey , Reunova Kseniya , Panchenko Marina , Melnikov Eugenii , Kolubaev Eugeny
Published: January 2022

We study the effect of ion-plasma surface nitriding on the phase composition, microstructure, surface microhardness, and tensile properties of the AISI 321-type stainless steel produced by wire-feed electron-beam additive manufacturing (EBAM). Ion-plasma nitriding at 550 °C for 12 h in N2/H2 gases provides the formation of a 10-μm thick surface layer with solid solution strengthening by nitrogen atoms (Fe-γN и Fe-αN) and dispersion hardening (γ’-Fe4N) with a fivefold increase in surface hardness up to ≈12 GPa. Surface ion-plasma nitriding of additively produced steel does not affect the anisotropy of mechanical properties, but rather increases the yield strength and ultimate tensile strength while maintaining high plasticity in the specimens. In specimens after ion-plasma nitriding, the fracture mechanism changes from initially ductile to a quasi-brittle fracture near the surface and ductile transgranular mode in the central parts of the specimens. The nitrided layer fractured in a transgranular brittle manner with the formation of quasi-cleavage facets and secondary cracks near the surface of the specimens. Brittle fracture of the compositional layer occurs due to the complex solid solution strengthening and particle hardening of austenite.
Regularities of Friction Stir Processing Hardening of Aluminum Alloy Products Made by Wire-Feed Electron Beam Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Kalashnikova Tatiana , Chumaevskii Andrey , Kalashnikov Kirill , Knyazhev Evgeny , Gurianov Denis , Panfilov Alexander , Nikonov Sergey , Rubtsov Valery , Kolubaev Evgeny
Published: January 2022

Friction stir processing of additive workpieces in the sample growth direction (the vertical direction) and the layer deposition direction (the horizontal one) was carried out. The hardening regularities of aluminum-silicon alloy A04130 and aluminum-magnesium alloy AA5056 manufactured by electron beam additive technology were studied. For each material, 1 to 4 subsequent tool passes were performed in both cases. It was found that the formation of the stir zone macro-structure does not significantly change with the processing direction relative to the layer deposition direction in additive manufacturing. The average grain size in the stir zone after the fourth pass for AA5056 alloy in the horizontal direction was 2.5 ± 0.8 μm, for the vertical one, 1.6 ± 0.5 μm. While for the alloy A04130, the grain size was 2.6 ± 1.0 μm and 1.8 ± 0.7 for the horizontal and vertical directions, respectively. The fine-grained metal of the stir zone for each alloy in different directions had higher microhardness values than the base metal. The tensile strength of the processed metal was significantly higher than that of the additively manufactured material of the corresponding alloy. The number of tool passes along the processing line is different for the two selected alloys. The second, third and fourth passes have the most significant effect on the mechanical properties of the aluminum-magnesium alloy.
Proposition of a Thermogravimetric Method to Measure the Ferrous Iron Content in Metallurgical-Grade Chromite
Authors: Sommerfeld Marcus , Friedrich Bernd
Published: January 2022

The oxidation state of iron in minerals is an important part of analysis. Especially for minerals used as a raw material for metallurgical processes, the oxidation state has a significant impact on the process. One crucial impact is the varying carbon requirement in smelting furnaces, which can be significantly different if the oxidation state is not assessed correctly. Compared to methods usually used to determine the oxidation state, a relatively simple and fast thermogravimetric method is proposed in this article. As a sample, a detailed analyzed chromite sample from Turkey is used. Bulk chemical analysis, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and QEMSCAN® are used to determine the preconditions of the sample. Mössbauer spectroscopy is used as a reference method to determine the oxidation state of iron in the sample. Uncertified wet chemical methods are investigated as well in this paper and the results are compared with the reference measurement. Using a thermochemical simulation tool, parameters for the thermogravimetric method are investigated and the limitation of this method is examined. The mean ferrous ratio in the sample determined by the proposed method is 75.205%, which is only slightly lower than the ferrous ratio of 76% determined by Mössbauer spectroscopy.
Mineral Chemistry and Trace Element Composition of Clinopyroxenes from the Middle Cambrian Ust’-Sema Formation Ankaramites and Diopside Porphyry Basalts and the Related Barangol Complex Intrusions, Gorny Altai, Russia
Authors: Khlif Nezar , Vishnevskiy Andrey , Izokh Andrey , Chervyakovskaya Maria
Published: January 2022

The origin and geodynamic settings of the Ust’-Sema Formation and the Barangol Complex are some of the most controversial issues in the Early Paleozoic history of the Altai–Sayan Fold Belt. The Ust’-Sema Formation volcanic rocks are enriched in high-Ca clinopyroxene phenocrysts and were classified as ankaramites and diopside porphyry basalts. In this work, we first present LA-ICP-MS analyses of the clinopyroxenes, along with studies of the petrography, mineral composition, and whole-rock chemistry of the Ust’-Sema Formation and related Barangol Complex rocks. An LA-ICP-MS clinopyroxene study showed a slight depletion of light rare-earth elements (La/Yb)N = 0.1–1.0 (on average 0.4); and strong depletion of the high-field-strength elements (Zr, Hf, and Nb) and large-ion lithophile (Rb) elements. An Sr anomaly showed a positive correlation with Mg#. Major- and trace-element composition of the clinopyroxene cores show that these clinopyroxene grains were not captured from the mantle rocks as previously assumed and that the Ust’-Sema Formation and the Barangol Complex rocks were formed from magma with island arc characteristics. The increased titanium and light rare-earth element contents in the phenocryst rims from Biyka volcano suggest an active interaction of the ankaramitic magma with rocks or melts of OIB type.
Citric Acid-Mediated Microwave-Hydrothermal Synthesis of Mesoporous F-Doped HAp Nanorods from Bio-Waste for Biocidal Implant Applications
Authors: Karunakaran Gopalu , Cho Eun-Bum , Kumar Govindan Suresh , Kolesnikov Evgeny , Sudha Kattakgoundar Govindaraj , Mariyappan Kowsalya , Han Areum , Choi Shin Sik
Published: January 2022

In this current research, mesoporous nano-hydroxyapatite (HAp) and F-doped hydroxyapatite (FHAp) were effectively obtained through a citric acid-enabled microwave hydrothermal approach. Citric acid was used as a chelating and modifying agent for tuning the structure and porosity of the HAp structure. This is the first report to use citric acid as a modifier for producing mesoporous nano HAp and F-doped FHAp. The obtained samples were characterized by different analyses. The XRD data revealed that F is incorporated well into the HAp crystal structure. The crystallinity of HAp samples was improved and the unit cell volume was lowered with fluorine incorporation. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images of the obtained samples revealed that a nano rod-like shape was obtained. The mesoporous structures of the produced HAp samples were confirmed by Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analysis. In vivo studies performed using zebrafish and C. elegans prove the non-toxic behavior of the synthesized F doped HAp samples. The obtained samples are also analyzed for antimicrobial activity using Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, which are majorly involved in implant failure. The F doped samples revealed excellent bactericidal activity. Hence, this study confirms that the non-toxic and excellent antibacterial mesoporous F doped HAp can be a useful candidate for biocidal implant application.