bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel cut‐off values of time from diagnosis to systematic therapy predict the overall survival and the efficacy of targeted therapy in renal cell carcinoma: A long‐term, follow‐up, retrospective study
Authors: Cao Chuanzhen , Shou Jianzhong , Shi Hongzhe , Jiang Weixing , Kang Xiangpeng , Xie Ruiyang , Shang Bingqing , Bi Xingang , Zhang Jin , Zheng Shan , Zhou Aiping , Li Changling , Ma Jianhui
Published: December 2021

Objectives

Metastatic renal cell carcinoma can occur synchronously or metachronously. We characterized the time from diagnosis to systematic therapy as a categorical variable to analyze its effect on the overall survival and first‐line treatment efficacy of metastatic renal cell carcinoma patients.

Methods

We initially enrolled 949 consecutive metastatic renal cell carcinoma patients treated with targeted therapies retrospectively from December 2005 to December 2019. X‐tile analysis was used to determine cut‐off values of time from diagnosis to systematic therapy referring to overall survival. Patients were divided into different groups based on the time from diagnosis to systematic therapy and then analyzed for survival.

Results

Of 358 eligible patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma, 125 (34.9%) had synchronous metastases followed by cytoreductive nephrectomy, and 233 (65.1%) had metachronous metastases. A total of 28 patients received complete metastasectomy. Three optimal cut‐off values for the time from diagnosis to systematic therapy (months) – 1.1, 7.0 and 35.9 – were applied to divide the population into four groups: the synchro group (time from diagnosis to systematic therapy ≤1.0), early group (1.0 < time from diagnosis to systematic therapy ≤ 7.0), intermediate group (7.0 < time from diagnosis to systematic therapy < 36.0) and late group (time from diagnosis to systematic therapy ≥36.0). The targeted therapy‐related overall survival (P < 0.001) and progression‐free survival (P < 0.001) values were significantly different among the four groups. Patients with longer time from diagnosis to systematic therapy had better prognoses and promising efficacy of targeted therapy. With the prolongation of time from diagnosis to systematic therapy, complete metastasectomy was more likely to achieve and bring a better prognosis.

Conclusions

The time from diagnosis to systematic therapy impacts the survival of metastatic renal cell carcinoma patients treated with targeted therapy. The cutoff points of 1, 7 and 36 months were statistically significant. The statistical boundaries might be valuable in future model establishment.
Frequency dispersion model of the complex permeability of soft ferrites in the microwave frequency range
Authors: Barba‐Juan Antonio , Mormeneo‐Segarra Andrés , Vicente Nuria , Jarque Juan Carlos , Clausell‐Terol Carolina
Published: December 2021

The complex permeability of Cu‐doped nickel‐zinc polycrystalline ferrites is strongly dependent on microstructure, particularly, on relative density () and average grain size (). In this study, a mathematical model, able to fit the measured magnetic permeability spectra from 106 to 109 Hz, is proposed and validated for a width range of average grain sizes (3.40–23.15 μm) and relative densities (0.83–0.96). To the authors’ knowledge, domain‐wall motion and spin rotation contributions to magnetic permeability have been integrated jointly with the microstructure for the first time in the proposed model, highlighting the relative influence of each magnetizing mechanism and microstructure on the magnetic permeability at different angular frequencies.
Targeting STAT3 prevents bile reflux‐induced oncogenic molecular events linked to hypopharyngeal carcinogenesis
Authors: Vageli Dimitra P. , Doukas Panagiotis G. , Siametis Athanasios , Judson Benjamin L.
Published: December 2021

The signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) oncogene is a transcription factor with a central role in head and neck cancer. Hypopharyngeal cells (HCs) exposed to acidic bile present aberrant activation of STAT3, possibly contributing to its oncogenic effect. We hypothesized that STAT3 contributes substantially to the bile reflux‐induced molecular oncogenic profile, which can be suppressed by STAT3 silencing or pharmacological inhibition. To explore our hypothesis, we targeted the STAT3 pathway, by knocking down STAT3 (STAT3 siRNA), and inhibiting STAT3 phosphorylation (Nifuroxazide) or dimerization (SI3‐201; STA‐21), in acidic bile (pH 4.0)‐exposed human HCs. Immunofluorescence, luciferase assay, Western blot, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and qPCR analyses revealed that STAT3 knockdown or pharmacologic inhibition significantly suppressed acidic bile‐induced STAT3 activation and its transcriptional activity, Bcl‐2 overexpression, transcriptional activation of IL6, TNF‐α, BCL2, EGFR, STAT3, RELA(p65), REL and WNT5A, and cell survival. Our novel findings document the important role of STAT3 in bile reflux‐related molecular oncogenic events, which can be dramatically prevented by STAT3 silencing. STA‐21, SI3‐201 or Nifuroxazide effectively inhibited STAT3 and cancer‐related inflammatory phenotype, encouraging their single or combined application in preventive or therapeutic strategies of bile reflux‐related hypopharyngeal carcinogenesis.
Simultaneous Policy Expansion and Reduction? Tracing Dismantling in the Context of Experimentalist Governance in European Union Environmental Policy
Authors: Pollex Jan
Published: December 2021

Research on EU policy has detected two developments that seem contradictory at first sight. On the one hand, there is evidence of continued rule growth and policy expansion. On the other hand, research points to dismantling, primarily via the backdoor and in comitology. This article investigates how experimentalist governance settings can provide opportunities for policy reduction within an overall expanding policy. Therefore, it focuses on the EU's Ecodesign policy which is characterized by a mix of binding and voluntary measures that qualify as experimentation. Although the voluntary measures contribute to rule growth, they are characterized by lenient standards compared to binding regulation under Ecodesign. In particular, they allow the Commission to follow a strategy of non‐adjustment. The article points to simultaneous expansion and dismantling processes not yet fully covered in previous research. Experimentalist governance poses a crucial element in enabling such developments leading to shallow expansion and allowing for dismantling.
The microbial metabolome in metabolic‐associated fatty liver disease
Authors: Li Mengci , Rajani Cynthia , Zheng Xiaojiao , Jia Wei
Published: December 2021

Metabolism‐associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is defined as the presence of excess fat in the liver in the absence of excess alcohol consumption and metabolic dysfunction. It has also been described as the hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome. The incidence of MAFLD has been reported to be 43–60% in diabetics, ~90% in patients with hyperlipidemia, and 91% in morbidly obese patients. Risk factors that have been associated with the development of MAFLD include male gender, increasing age, obesity, insulin resistance, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia. All of these risk factors have been linked to alterations of the gut microbiota, that is, gut dysbiosis. MAFLD can progress to non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis with the presence of inflammation and ballooning, which can deteriorate into cirrhosis, MAFLD‐related hepatocellular carcinoma, and liver failure. In this review, we will be focused on the role of the gut microbial metabolome in the development, progression, and potential treatment of MAFLD.
Turkish adaptation of Desire to Avoid Pregnancy Scale: A validity and reliability study
Authors: Doğan Yüksekol Özlem , Duman Mesude , Timur Taşhan Sermin
Published: December 2021

Aim

The purpose of the study was to adapt the Desire to Avoid Pregnancy Scale into Turkish and to study its validity and reliability.

Methods

The methodological study design was used. The study sample consisted of 510 nonpregnant women in a university hospital of a province in the east of Turkey between the dates of August 2019–February 2020. Personal information form and Turkish form of the scale were administered to women. The contraceptive intention scale was used as a parallel form.

Results

In the study, it was determined that the scale consisted of 14 items as a result of exploratory factor analysis. As a result of the item analysis, it was determined that the scale item total correlations were between r = 0.71 and 0.92. The Cronbach alpha coefficient of the scale was 0.97. The item‐total correlation of the scale and parallel form reliability showed a high level of agreement.

Conclusion

It was determined that the Desire to Avoid Pregnancy Scale is a valid and reliable measurement tool for determining the wishes of Turkish women regarding pregnancy.
Atypical preeclampsia without underlying disease and elevated sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio
Authors: Mimura Kazuya , Tomimatsu Takuji , Endo Masayuki , Kimura Tadashi
Published: December 2021

Atypical preeclampsia before 20 weeks of gestation without an underlying disease is very rare; however, the soluble Fms‐like tyrosine kinase 1/placental growth factor (sFlt‐1/PlGF) ratios remain unknown. Four pregnant women with no underlying disease, except for a history of childhood IgA vasculitis, developed preeclampsia at 13, 14, 17, and 18 weeks of gestation with sFlt‐1/PlGF ratios of 1589, 1183, 500, and 1460 pg/mL, respectively. Their pregnancies were terminated, and they delivered within 2 weeks. All previously abnormal clinical findings normalized within 3 months. The sFlt‐1/PlGF ratios were elevated in the four patients with atypical preeclampsia without underlying disease before 20 weeks of gestation. A high sFlt‐1/PlGF ratio may be indicative of preeclampsia when no underlying disease is present in pregnancies of less than 20 weeks of gestation.
Who is eating quinoa?: How consumer characteristics and beliefs affect the expenditure on this functional food versus traditional staple items
Authors: Morales Luis Emilio , Higuchi Angie
Published: December 2021

The regular consumption of quinoa has been promoted worldwide based on its high nutritional value and health benefits. However, the industry has limited information about how consumer characteristics and beliefs about functional foods affect their expenditure on those items versus traditional staple foods. Survey data were collected in Modern Metropolitan Lima, Peru, which is a case study that presents the potential relevance that functional foods could reach as part of the population diet, when they are well established as mature products. The results indicate that household income, years of education, practicing exercise regularly, and a positive sensory appeal increase monthly expenditure on quinoa. Moreover, the more consumers consider quinoa as an expensive product, the higher is their expenditure on rice, pasta, and potato, suggesting a substitution effect between quinoa and staple foods based on relative prices and budget constraints, which are key outcomes to be considered when designing food campaigns.

Practical applications

Food policies and campaigns promoting a regular consumption of foods regarded as functional, as the case of quinoa, could have a positive impact on nutrition, health, and wellbeing of a growing population with malnutrition. This study provides practical implications for both policy makers and marketers of the food industry, who could develop strategies to increase the consumer expenditure and consumption of quinoa and other functional foods through the promotion of their regular intake based on their good taste when mixed with other food items and their positive contribution to a healthy diet. Considering their higher price compared to staple foods, governments could also subsidize the consumption of functional foods among families with low disposable income, allowing all citizens to consume these products and perceive their nutritional and health benefits.
Unraveling of Chlorella‐associated bacterial load, diversity, and their imputed functions at high‐ and low‐yield conditions through metagenome sequencing
Authors: Madhubalaji Chegu Krishnamurthi , Ravi Sarada , Mudliar Sandeep N.
Published: December 2021

Chlorella‐associated bacteria can have a significant influence on facilitating higher Chlorella biomass yield due to their symbiotic relationship. In this study, non‐axenic Chlorella was cultivated in an airlift photobioreactor at high and low‐yield conditions. The associated bacterial diversity was analyzed using 16S rRNA metagenome sequencing. At high‐yield conditions, the bacterial load was observed in the range of 108‐1010CFU · mL−1, whereas at low‐yield conditions, bacteria were more dominant and observed in the range of 1014–1015 CFU · mL−1. The majority of the bacterial species associated with Chlorella at high‐yield conditions belongs to Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes. Further, Bacteroidetes levels were decreased at low‐yield conditions and were highly diversified with Planctomycetes, Firmicutes, and 18 others. Predicted functional genes indicated that Chlorella‐associated bacteria have the enzymes involved in the metabolism and biosynthesis of B‐complex vitamins (i.e., vitamin B12, thiamin, biotin, pyridoxine, and riboflavin). A critical evaluation revealed that vitamin biosynthesis genes were more abundant at low‐yield conditions; however, vitamin B12 transport genes (B12 transport ATP‐binding protein, B12 substrate‐binding transportation, and B12 permease protein) were less abundant, indicating even though vitamins production occurs, but their availability to Chlorella was limited due to the lack of vitamin transport genes. Further, at high yield, Chlorella‐associated bacteria enabled higher growth by supplementing the vitamins. In contrast, at low‐yield condition—an increased bacterial load, diversity, and limited vitamin transport functional genes affected the Chlorella yield. It can be inferred that Chlorella yield was significantly affected by three factors: associated bacterial load, diversity, and transport functional genes of vitamins.
The impact of acoustic stimulation during sleep on memory and sleep architecture: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Stanyer Emily C. , Baniqued Paul Dominick E. , Awais Muhammad , Kouara Layla , Davies Andrew G. , Killan Edward C. , Mushtaq Faisal
Published: December 2021

The relationship between sleep and cognition has long been recognized, with slow‐wave sleep thought to play a critical role in long‐term memory consolidation. Recent research has presented the possibility that non‐invasive acoustic stimulation during sleep could enhance memory consolidation. Herein, we report a random‐effects model meta‐analysis examining the impact of this intervention on memory and sleep architecture in healthy adults. Sixteen studies were identified through a systematic search. We found a medium significant effect of acoustic stimulation on memory task performance (g = 0.68, p = .031) in young adults <35 years of age, but no statistically significant effect in adults >35 years of age (g = −0.83, p = .223). In young adults, there was a large statistically significant effect for declarative memory tasks (g = 0.87, p = .014) but no effect for non‐declarative tasks (g = −0.25, p = .357). There were no statistically significant differences in polysomnography‐derived sleep architecture values between sham and stimulation conditions in either young or older adults. Based on these results, it appears that acoustic stimulation during sleep may only be an effective intervention for declarative memory consolidation in young adults. However, the small number of studies in this area, their small sample sizes, the short‐term nature of most investigations and the high between‐studies heterogeneity highlight a need for high‐powered and long‐term experiments to better elucidate, and subsequently maximise, any potential benefits of this novel approach.
Habitat associations between Streptococcus bovis/equinus complex and Streptococcus phocae, the causative agents of strep syndrome in sea otters, and the marine environment
Authors: Rouse Natalie M. , Counihan Katrina L. , Boege Tobin Deborah D. , Goertz Caroline E. C. , Duddleston Khrystyne N.
Published: December 2021

The bacteria in the Streptococcus bovis/equinus complex (SBEC) and Streptococcus phocae have caused significant morbidity and mortality in northern sea otters (Enhydra lutris kenyoni). In order to illuminate the persistence and possible mechanisms of transmission of SBEC and S. phocae, the presence and absence of these bacteria were compared with 31 habitat attributes in Kachemak Bay and Resurrection Bay, Alaska. Bay mussels or water were collected at 1600‐m intervals around the perimeters of each bay and habitat attributes were recorded onsite and/or determined using ShoreZone. PCR was used to confirm the presence of bacteria, and presence was correlated with habitat attributes. Geographic spatial analysis revealed a cluster of low occurrence of both SBEC and S. phocae in an extremely shallow portion of Kachemak Bay that may be due to drying of the area between tide cycles. A cluster of high occurrence of S. phocae on the northeast side of the Kachemak Bay was identified that may be associated with harbor seal presence. No statistically significant clusters were found in Resurrection Bay. Habitat attributes (rockweed, eelgrass, habitat class, soft brown kelp and substrates of rock, sand and boulder) were found to be associated with presence of the target bacteria; however, relationships were not consistent with the bacteria or each bay. This could be due to the complexity of the relationship between SBEC and S. phocae and their environments, as well as intrinsic differences (such as nearshore temperatures) between Kachemak and Resurrection Bays.
Image‐based monitoring of bolt loosening through deep‐learning‐based integrated detection and tracking
Authors: Pan Xiao , Yang T. Y.
Published: December 2021

Structural bolts are critical components used in different structural elements, such as beam‐column connections and friction damping devices. The clamping force in structural bolts is highly influenced by the bolt rotation. Much of the existing vision‐based research about bolt rotation estimation relies on traditional computer vision algorithms such as Hough transform to assess static images of bolts. This requires careful image preprocessing, and it may not perform well in the situation of complicated bolt assemblies, or in the presence of surrounding objects and background noise, thus hindering their real‐world applications. In this study, an integrated real‐time detect‐track method, namely, RTDT‐bolt, is proposed to monitor the bolt rotation angle. First, a real‐time convolutional‐neural‐networks‐based object detector, named YOLOv3‐tiny, is established and trained to localize structural bolts. Then, the target‐free object tracking algorithm based on optical flow is implemented to continuously monitor and quantify the rotation of structural bolts. In order to enhance the tracking performance against background noise and potential illumination changes during tracking, the YOLOv3‐tiny is integrated with the optical flow tracking algorithm to re‐detect the bolts when the tracking gets lost. Extensive parameter studies were conducted to identify optimal tracking performance and examine the potential limitations. The results indicate that the RTDT‐bolt method can greatly enhance the tracking performance of bolt rotation, which can achieve over 90% accuracy using the recommended range for the parameters.
The desmin mutation R349P increases contractility and fragility of stem cell‐generated muscle micro‐tissues
Authors: Spörrer Marina , Kah Delf , Gerum Richard C. , Reischl Barbara , Huraskin Danyil , Dessalles Claire A. , Schneider Werner , Goldmann Wolfgang H. , Herrmann Harald , Thievessen Ingo , Clemen Christoph S. , Friedrich Oliver , Hashemolhosseini Said , Schröder Rolf , Fabry Ben
Published: December 2021

Aims

Desminopathies comprise hereditary myopathies and cardiomyopathies caused by mutations in the intermediate filament protein desmin that lead to severe and often lethal degeneration of striated muscle tissue. Animal and single cell studies hinted that this degeneration process is associated with massive ultrastructural defects correlating with increased susceptibility of the muscle to acute mechanical stress. The underlying mechanism of mechanical susceptibility, and how muscle degeneration develops over time, however, has remained elusive.

Methods

Here, we investigated the effect of a desmin mutation on the formation, differentiation, and contractile function of in vitro‐engineered three‐dimensional micro‐tissues grown from muscle stem cells (satellite cells) isolated from heterozygous R349P desmin knock‐in mice.

Results

Micro‐tissues grown from desmin‐mutated cells exhibited spontaneous unsynchronised contractions, higher contractile forces in response to electrical stimulation, and faster force recovery compared with tissues grown from wild‐type cells. Within 1 week of culture, the majority of R349P desmin‐mutated tissues disintegrated, whereas wild‐type tissues remained intact over at least three weeks. Moreover, under tetanic stimulation lasting less than 5 s, desmin‐mutated tissues partially or completely ruptured, whereas wild‐type tissues did not display signs of damage.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that the progressive degeneration of desmin‐mutated micro‐tissues is closely linked to extracellular matrix fibre breakage associated with increased contractile forces and unevenly distributed tensile stress. This suggests that the age‐related degeneration of skeletal and cardiac muscle in patients suffering from desminopathies may be similarly exacerbated by mechanical damage from high‐intensity muscle contractions. We conclude that micro‐tissues may provide a valuable tool for studying the organization of myocytes and the pathogenic mechanisms of myopathies.
Association of Epstein–Barr virus, cytomegalovirus and lipocalin with periodontitis in type 2 diabetic subjects
Authors: Mahendra Jaideep , Mahendra Little , divya Dhana , Ilango Paavai , Devarajan Nalini , Thanigaimalai Abirami
Published: December 2021

Objective

The current study aims to evaluate and compare the lipocalin, adiponectin and periodontal viruses in the generalized periodontitis patients with and without diabetes mellitus.

Materials and methods

Seventy subjects were grouped into 35 systemically healthy (GP) and 35 patients with diabetes mellitus (GP+DM). The periodontal parameters, demographic and diabetic variables were evaluated in both the groups. The subgingival tissue samples were procured from the diseased sites and were analysed for the detection of EBV, CMV, HSV and protein markers by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and lipocalin and adiponectin were identified by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

The demographic variables such as age and BMI did not differ between the groups. PI and CAL were found to be significantly higher in GP+DM (p < 0.05). EBV (82.9%), CMV (71.4%) and protein marker: lipocalin were also found to be statistically highly significant in GP+DM and adiponectin was found to be higher in GP group and reduced in GP+DM group (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

The increased prevalence of EBV and CMV and lipocalin with reduced levels of adiponectin in patients with diabetes and periodontitis which may show aggravation of the diabetic status of the periodontitis patients thereby reinforcing a strong Periodontitis‐DM continuum.
Trends and Patterns of Global Refugee Migration
Authors: Fransen Sonja , de Haas Hein
Published: December 2021

This paper studies long‐term trends and patterns in global refugee migration. We explore the intensity, spread, and distance of refugee migration at a global, regional, and country level between 1951 and 2018. The analysis did not detect a long‐term increase in the global intensity of refugee migration. Primarily depending on levels of conflict, refugee numbers have fluctuated at levels of between 0.1 and 0.3 percent of the world population. Apparent increases in numbers of the globally displaced are driven by the inclusion of populations and countries that were previously excluded from the data. While refugee populations continue to be concentrated in countries with low‐to‐medium income levels, the analysis reveals several geographic shifts in refugee migration. Refugees tend to come from a shrinking number of origin countries and move to an increasing variety of destination countries. This trend seems to reflect a concentration of recurrent conflict cycles in a relatively small number of countries and a parallel increase in the number of safe destinations. Although the vast majority of refugees remain near to origin countries, the average distance between origin and destination countries has increased over time, presumably linked to the greater ease of travel and migration‐facilitating networks.
Export Restrictions and COVID-19
Authors: Thiam Mamadou , Brou Jean-Claude Kouakou , Varela Benur Andrade
Published: December 2021

As a result of COVID-19, the export of medical goods has been subject to various global restrictions. Consequently, several countries have increased the supply of medical goods to alleviate the effects of this health crisis. This study entails a theoretical and empirical analysis of the effects of such remedial measures. To this end, we have utilized a consistent conjectural variation in a three-country model entailing firms competing in two reciprocal markets in Cournot. When the restrictions are unilateral, the number of medical goods available in the exporting country tends to increase, culminating in better management of the pandemic. In contrast, bilateral restrictions typically reduce the total output of medical goods; therefore, they are inappropriate in a pandemic situation.
Economic Globalization, Entrepreneurship, and Inclusive Growth in Africa
Authors: Ajide Folorunsho M. , Osinubi Tolulope T. , Dada James T.
Published: December 2021

An increasing number of studies are examining the relationship between entrepreneurship and growth. This relationship is controversial, especially for developing countries. Recent improvements in economic growth have led to a focus on growth inclusiveness, which spreads economic opportunities throughout a society. However, studies that focus on the role of entrepreneurship in inclusive growth remain scarce. To fill that gap, this study investigates the dynamic relationship between economic globalization, entrepreneurship, and inclusive growth in 21 African countries using panel econometrics to examine data covering 2006 to 2018. The results reveal that the impact of economic globalization and entrepreneurship on inclusive growth is positive and significant. We find that economic globalization enhances entrepreneurial development, and causality tests show that economic globalization drives inclusive growth. We also find a unidirectional causality from entrepreneurship to inclusive growth. Finally, we observe no direction of causality between economic globalization and entrepreneurship but observe a bidirectional causality between governance and entrepreneurship. We discuss the implications of these results.
Time-dependent variation of lead isotopes of lead white in 17th century Dutch paintings
Authors: D’Imporzano Paolo , Keune Katrien , Koornneef Janne M. , Hermens Erma , Noble Petria , Vandivere A. L. S. , Davies Gareth R.
Published: December 2021

Changing lead isotope ratios of 17th century Dutch paintings over time suggest usefulness of isotope data for art authentication.
A macro-nano-atomic–scale high-throughput approach for material research
Authors: Ju Yiwei , Li Shuai , Yuan Xiaofei , Cui Lei , Godfrey Andy , Yan Yunjie , Cheng Zhiying , Zhong Xiaoyan , Zhu Jing
Published: December 2021

A multiscale high-throughput approach helps to study the carbides in a nickel-base single-crystal superalloy.
Illumination of serotonin transporter mechanism and role of the allosteric site
Authors: Yang Dongxue , Gouaux Eric
Published: December 2021

Cryo-EM and binding experiments reveal the molecular mechanism of serotonin transport by the human serotonin transporter.
ssDNA nanotubes for selective targeting of glioblastoma and delivery of doxorubicin for enhanced survival
Authors: Harris Michael A. , Kuang Huihui , Schneiderman Zachary , Shiao Maple L. , Crane Andrew T. , Chrostek Matthew R. , Tăbăran Alexandru-Flaviu , Pengo Thomas , Liaw Kevin , Xu Beibei , Lin Lucy , Chen Clark C. , O’Sullivan M. Gerard , Kannan Rangaramanujam M. , Low Walter C. , Kokkoli Efrosini
Published: December 2021

DNA nanotubes can cross blood-brain tumor barrier and enhance survival with no toxicity when used for the local delivery of DOX.
ChAdOx1 interacts with CAR and PF4 with implications for thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome
Authors: Baker Alexander T. , Boyd Ryan J. , Sarkar Daipayan , Teijeira-Crespo Alicia , Chan Chun Kit , Bates Emily , Waraich Kasim , Vant John , Wilson Eric , Truong Chloe D. , Lipka-Lloyd Magdalena , Fromme Petra , Vermaas Josh , Williams Dewight , Machiesky LeeAnn , Heurich Meike , Nagalo Bolni M. , Coughlan Lynda , Umlauf Scott , Chiu Po-Lin , Rizkallah Pierre J. , Cohen Taylor S. , Parker Alan L. , Singharoy Abhishek , Borad Mitesh J.
Published: December 2021

We observe previously unknown interactions between clinically important adenovirus vector capsids, platelet factor 4, and CAR.
Therapeutic inhibition of RBM20 improves diastolic function in a murine heart failure model and human engineered heart tissue
Authors: Radke Michael H. , Badillo-Lisakowski Victor , Britto-Borges Thiago , Kubli Dieter A. , Jüttner René , Parakkat Pragati , Carballo Jacobo Lopez , Hüttemeister Judith , Liss Martin , Hansen Arne , Dieterich Christoph , Mullick Adam E. , Gotthardt Michael
Published: December 2021

RBM20-targeted antisense oligonucleotides improve cardiac function in mice with diastolic dysfunction and relaxation in human engineered heart tissue.
Single-Site Sampling versus Multisite Sampling for Blood Cultures: a Retrospective Clinical Study
Authors: Ekwall-Larson Anna , Yu David , Dinnétz Patrik , Nordqvist Hampus , Özenci Volkan
Published: December 2021

The performance of blood cultures (BCs) relies on optimal sampling. Sepsis guidelines do not specify which sampling protocol to use but recommend two sets of BC bottles, each set containing one aerobic and one anaerobic bottle.
ATF6-Mediated Unfolded Protein Response Facilitates Adeno-associated Virus 2 (AAV2) Transduction by Releasing the Suppression of the AAV Receptor on Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress
Authors: Cui Mengtian , Zhao Qingfang , Wang Jing , Si Yang , Cheng Shan , Ding Wei
Published: December 2021

The native function of the AAVR as an ER-Golgi localized protein is largely unknown. We showed that AAVR acted as a functional molecule to regulate UPR signaling under induced ER stress.
Herpes Simplex Virus 1 Small Noncoding RNAs 1 and 2 Activate the Herpesvirus Entry Mediator Promoter
Authors: Tormanen Kati , Wang Shaohui , Matundan Harry H. , Yu Jack , Jaggi Ujjaldeep , Ghiasi Homayon
Published: December 2021

HSV-1 causes recurrent ocular infections, which is the leading cause of corneal scarring and blindness. Corneal scarring is caused by the host immune response to repeated reactivation events.
Age-Dependent Reduction in Neutralization against Alpha and Beta Variants of BNT162b2 SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine-Induced Immunity
Authors: Kawasuji Hitoshi , Morinaga Yoshitomo , Tani Hideki , Saga Yumiko , Kaneda Makito , Murai Yushi , Ueno Akitoshi , Miyajima Yuki , Fukui Yasutaka , Nagaoka Kentaro , Ono Chikako , Matsuura Yoshiharu , Niimi Hideki , Yamamoto Yoshihiro
Published: December 2021

Since mRNA vaccines utilize wild-type SARS-CoV-2 spike protein as an antigen, there are potential concerns about acquiring immunity to variants of this virus. The neutralizing activity in BNT162b2-vaccinated individuals was higher against the wild-type virus than against its variants; this effect was more apparent in older age groups.
Symphyseal fracture in a three-month-old infant
Authors: Labib Amir , Elbarbary Amir Samir
Published: December 2021

Mandibular fractures are rare in infants, and diagnosis can be easily missed due to the difficulty in obtaining an adequate history and the subtle signs. A high index of suspicion and detailed history taking from the caregiver are mandatory to pick up these cases.

There are a plethora of management options that have been reported in dealing with such fractures. They range from conservative management to internal fixation by absorbable plates. While conservative management does not interfere with mandibular growth and teeth development, any surgical intervention can carry this risk. Nevertheless, a severely displaced fracture may need anatomical reduction and fixation to allow early nutrition.

This study reports a 3-month-old male infant with a fracture in the mandibular symphysis who underwent reduction of the fracture and circummandibular fixation using immobilisation by an acrylic splint for 4 weeks. His long-term follow-up after 20 months showed adequate dentition with proper healing of the fracture site.
Huge subcutaneous extraperitoneal pseudocyst after migration of the ventriculoperitoneal shunt catheter
Authors: De Jesus Orlando , Rios-Vicil Christian , Pellot Cestero Joel E , Carro-Figueroa Eric F
Published: December 2021

The formation of an intraperitoneal pseudocyst as a complication of ventriculoperitoneal shunts is well known. However, the formation of a pseudocyst at the subcutaneous extraperitoneal abdominal space is unusual and likely secondary to the migration of the peritoneal catheter. We present a 53-year-old male who had placement of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt for hydrocephalus secondary to a vestibular schwannoma. Five months later, he presented with an enormously distended abdomen. Investigations showed the peritoneal catheter in the extraperitoneal space within a large right lower quadrant abdominal wall pseudocyst. The patient was taken to the operating theatre, and the shunt was externalised at the original abdominal incision. Approximately 3 L of cerebrospinal fluid were aspirated from the distal peritoneal catheter. After negative cultures, a new peritoneal catheter was placed intraperitoneally at the contralateral lower abdominal quadrant. The contralateral quadrant was utilised to prevent fluid accumulation into the old extraperitoneal cavity.
Urothelial carcinoma in a child with gross hematuria: a complaint not to be dismissed
Authors: Ong Han Lim , Lee Han Jie , Ng Tze Kiat , Yap Te-Lu
Published: December 2021

Hematuria is not uncommonly seen among children. We describe the case of a 13-year-old boy who was diagnosed with urothelial carcinoma after presenting with persistent gross hematuria for 2 weeks. We highlight the importance of adequate workup for gross hematuria as it is often associated with an underlying pathology that could lead to significant morbidity if left undiagnosed.
Universe as Klein–Gordon eigenstates
Authors: Matone Marco
Published: December 2021

We formulate Friedmann’s equations as second-order linear differential equations. This is done using techniques related to the Schwarzian derivative that selects the$$\beta $$
β
-times $$t_\beta :=\int ^t a^{-2\beta }$$

t
β

:
=

∫
t

a

-
2
β

, where a is the scale factor. In particular, it turns out that Friedmann’s equations are equivalent to the eigenvalue problems $$\begin{aligned} O_{1/2} \Psi =\frac{\Lambda }{12}\Psi , \quad O_1 a =-\frac{\Lambda }{3} a , \end{aligned}$$

O

1
/
2

Ψ
=

Λ
12

Ψ
,

O
1

a
=
-

Λ
3

a
,

which is suggestive of a measurement problem. $$O_{\beta }(\rho ,p)$$

O
β

(
ρ
,
p
)

are space-independent Klein–Gordon operators, depending only on energy density and pressure, and related to the Klein–Gordon Hamilton–Jacobi equations. The $$O_\beta $$

O
β

’s are also independent of the spatial curvature, labeled by k, and absorbed in $$\begin{aligned} \Psi =\sqrt{a} e^{\frac{i}{2}\sqrt{k}\eta } . \end{aligned}$$

Ψ
=

a

e

i
2

k

η

.

The above pair of equations is the unique possible linear form of Friedmann’s equations unless $$k=0$$

k
=
0

, in which case there are infinitely many pairs of linear equations. Such a uniqueness just selects the conformal time $$\eta \equiv t_{1/2}$$

η
≡

t

1
/
2

among the $$t_\beta $$

t
β

’s, which is the key to absorb the curvature term. An immediate consequence of the linear form is that it reveals a new symmetry of Friedmann’s equations in flat space.
The NUMEN Technical Design Report
Authors: Cappuzzello Francesco , Agodi Clementina , Calabretta Luciano , Calvo Daniela , Carbone Diana , Cavallaro Manuela , Colonna Maria , Finocchiaro Paolo , Iazzi Felice , Linares Roberto , Oliveira José R. B. , Pandola Luciano , Santopinto Elena , Torresi Domenico , Tudisco Salvatore , Acosta Luis , Altana Carmen , Amador-Valenzuela Paulina , Avanzi Luis Humberto , Bellone Jessica , Bonanno Danilo , Boztosun Ismail , Brasolin Sandro , Brischetto Giuseppe A. , Brunasso Oscar , Calabrese Salvatore , Campajola Luigi , Capirossi Vittoria , Lomelí Efrain R. Chávez , Ciraldo Irene , de Aguiar Vitor Ângelo Paulino , Delaunay Franck , Ferraresi Carlo , Fisichella Maria , Gandolfo Elisa , Guazzelli Marcilei Aparecida , Via Francesco La , Lambarri Daniel J. Marin , Lenske Horst , Lubian Jesus , Medina Nilberto H. , Mereu Paolo , Moralles Mauricio , Muoio Annamaria , Petrascu Horia , Pinna Federico , Sartirana Diego , Sgouros Onoufrios , Solakci Selçuk O. , Soukeras Vasilis , Spatafora Alessandro , Russo Antonio D. , Yildirim Aydin
Published: December 2021

NUMEN proposes an innovative technique to access the nuclear matrix elements entering the expression of the lifetime of the double beta decay by cross-section measurements of heavy-ion induced Double Charge Exchange (DCE) reactions. Despite the fact that the two processes, namely neutrinoless double beta decay and DCE reactions, are triggered by the weak and strong interaction respectively, important analogies are suggested. The basic point is the coincidence of the initial and final state many-body wave functions in the two types of processes and the formal similarity of the transition operators. The main experimental tools for this project are the K800 Superconducting Cyclotron and MAGNEX spectrometer at the INFN-LNS laboratory. However, the tiny values of DCE cross-sections and the resolution requirements demand beam intensities much higher than those manageable with the present facility. The on-going upgrade of the INFN-LNS facilities promoted by the POTLNS a project in this perspective is intimately connected to the NUMEN project. This paper describes the solutions proposed as a result of the R&D activity performed during the recent years. The goal is to develop suitable technologies allowing for the measurements of DCE cross-section under extremely high beam intensities.

a PIR01_00005 — potenziamento dell’infrastruttura di ricerca Laboratori Nazionali del Sud per la produzione di fasci di ioni ad alta intensitá.
Kinetic Aspects of the Electrochemical Reduction of Uranyl in HCl Solutions
Authors: Muñoz Andrés G. , Weiss Stephan
Published: December 2021

The interfacial mechanism of uranyl electroreduction at Au-electrodes in HCl solutions was discussed on the light of systematic studies of cyclovoltammetry, normal pulse voltammetry, UV–vis spectroscopy and published electroanalytical research. Voltammetric waves were numerically deconvoluted on the basis of a reaction model consisting of a first mass-controlled, quasi-reversible first electron transfer and a subsequent reduction of interfacial U(V) intermediate species with adsorption of generated U(IV) products. The dependence of the kinetic parameters on [HCl] indicates an electron transfer following an inner-sphere type mechanism assisted by electrosorption of chloride ligands. The interfacial accumulation of chloride exerts a strong electrostatic repulsion of complexed uranyl and a consequent edged drop of electron transfer rates at [HCl] ∼ 0.5 mol l−1. The electron transfer steps are followed by a chemical desorption reaction of the unstable tetravalent uranyl in U(H2O)9
4+ species. It is shown that the numerical reproduction of voltammetric waves suits as a method for calculating kinetic parameters in multi-steps electrochemical reactions.
Ternary Composite of Molybdenum Disulfide-Graphene Oxide-Polyaniline for Supercapacitor
Authors: Qu Ke , Bai Yuqi , Deng Miao
Published: December 2021

The ever-increasing need for small and lightweight power sources for use in portable or wearable electronic devices has spurred the development of supercapacitors as a promising energy storage and conversion system. In this work, a simple, facile and easy-to-practice method has been developed to employ carbon paper (CP) as the support to coat molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) and graphene oxide (GO), followed by electrodeposition of polyaniline (PANI) to render CP/MoS2-GO-PANI. The preparation parameters, such as amounts of MoS2, GO and number of aniline electropolymerization cycles, have been optimized to render CP/MoS2-GO-PANI the best capacitive performance. The as-prepared optimal CP/MoS2-GO-PANI is characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The supercapacitive properties of CP/MoS2-GO-PANI as an electrode have been evaluated electrochemically via cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge/discharge, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy testing. CP/MoS2-GO-PANI delivers a specific capacitance of 255.1 F g−1 at 1.0 A g−1 and exhibits excellent rate capability under larger current densities. Moreover, a symmetrical supercapacitor is assembled and three are connected in series to power a light-emitting diode for ∼15 min, demonstrating the promising application potential of CP/MoS2-GO-PANI-based supercapacitor.
[Retracted] Insight into the Protective Effect of Salidroside against H2O2‐Induced Injury in H9C2 Cells
Authors: Gao Hui , Liu Xueping , Tian Kunming , Meng Yichong , Yu Cuicui , Peng Yingfu
Published: December 2021

Salidroside is the important active ingredient of Rhodiola species, which shows a wide range of pharmacological activities such as antioxidative stress, anti‐inflammation, and antiliver fibrosis. In this paper, we aimed to study the protective effect and mechanism of salidroside against H2O2‐induced oxidative damage in H9C2 cells by determining cell proliferation rate, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, antioxidant enzyme activities, and the expression of apoptosis‐related proteins. The results showed that salidroside significantly alleviated cell growth inhibition induced by H2O2 treatment in H9C2 cells, decreased the levels of intracellular ROS and malondialdehyde (MDA), and increased the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT); meanwhile, salidroside upregulated the expression of Bcl‐2 while downregulated the expression of Bax, p53, and caspase‐3 in H2O2‐treated H9C2 cells. Furthermore, the antiapoptotic effect of salidroside was almost eliminated by the knockdown of Bcl‐2. In the further exploration, the Bcl‐2 expression was decreased by the p53 overexpression and increased by p53 knockdown in H2O2‐treated H9C2 cells. Consequently, salidroside could protect H9C2 cells against H2O2‐induced oxidative damage, and the underlying mechanism may be related to scavenging intracellular ROS, increasing the activities of intracellular antioxidant enzymes and inhibiting the expression of apoptosis‐related proteins.
The Mental Health and Grade Point Average among College Students from Lower Socioeconomic Status Based on Healthcare Data Analysis
Authors: Dong Xue , Yang Kaige , Zhang Ruxin , Lv Yuecheng
Published: December 2021

This study evaluated the mediating role of social support in the relationships between mental health and academic achievement and used a sample of 640 college students from lower socioeconomic status (LSES) compared to 501 from higher socioeconomic status (HSES) in China. Self-report measures of depression, anxiety, Internet addiction, self-esteem, perceived social support, and grade point average (GPA) were measured online. Group differences were examined with Chi-square analyses. Results. (1) There were significant differences in mental health, academic achievement, and social support between LSES and HSES. (2) Anxiety, depression, and Internet addiction were significantly negatively correlated with academic achievement; self-esteem and social support were significantly positively correlated with academic achievement. (3) Social support has a mediating role between mental health and academic achievement. These results proved that it is necessary to pay more attention to their mental health and develop social support to improve their academic achievement for LSES students. Previous studies have paid little attention to the LSES students, but these students are more prone to psychological problems. Therefore, this study focuses on the LSES students.
AVoD: Advanced Verify-on-Demand for Efficient Authentication against DoS Attacks in V2X Communication
Authors: Ko Taehyoung , Ji Cheongmin , Hong Manpyo
Published: December 2021

Owing to the development of information and communication technology (ICT), autonomous cooperative vehicles are being developed. Autonomous cooperative driving combines vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication technology in existing autonomous driving and provides safe driving by sharing information between communication entities. However, security factors should be considered during communication. Security Credential Management System (SCMS) has been proposed as one of these elements, but it is vulnerable to denial-of-service (DoS) attacks due to message authentication costs. In congested situations, the number of messages exchanged between vehicles becomes very large. However, the performance of the on-board unit (OBU) is not sufficient to handle huge number of messages, which can lead to a DoS attack. Therefore, a technique to prevent DoS attacks on autonomous cooperative driving vehicles using SCMS has been proposed in this paper. The proposed technique reduces authentication costs by classifying similar messages into multiple categories and authenticating only the first message represented in the group for a unit time. The effectiveness of this technique has been demonstrated by comparing the time it takes to verify huge number of message signatures in each method.
Sheng Jing Decoction Can Promote Spermatogenesis and Increase Sperm Motility of the Oligozoospermia Mouse Model
Authors: Yan Guang , Tian Fang , Liu Peng , Sun Jianming , Mao Jianmin , Han Wenjun , Mo Ran , Guo Shishuai , Yu Quanyao
Published: December 2021

Sheng Jing Decoction (SJD), as a traditional Chinese medicine prescription, is mainly be used to treat male infertility. However, the pharmacological functions and molecular mechanisms of SJD are poorly understood. In this study, we investigated the functions of SJD on spermatogenesis and sperm motility and explored the potential mechanisms involved. Here, we demonstrated that high, medium, and low doses of SJD are effective in restoring the impairments of the whole body and testicular tissue by cyclophosphamide inducing and to rescue the damage of testicular tissue cells including Sertoli cells and germ cells. SJD can partly restore the decrease in sperm concentration, sperm vitality, sperm motility, and normal sperm morphology rate in oligozoospermic mouse models. Ki67 staining analyses confirm SJD can promote testicular tissue cell proliferation. Real-time RT-PCR analyses also reveal that SJD can upregulate the expression of proliferation-associated gene Lin28a and differentiation-associated genes Kit, Sohlh2, and Stra8. SJD can also reduce the impairment of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and sperm plasma membrane integrity by cyclophosphamide inducing. Our results reveal that SJD is effective in improving both sperm quantity and quality by increasing the sperm concentration, sperm vitality, sperm motility, and normal sperm morphology rate. SJD can promote spermatogenesis by upregulating the expression of the proliferation-associated gene Lin28a and the differentiation-associated genes (Kit, Sohlh2, and Stra8). SJD can sustain MMP and sperm plasma membrane integrity to increase sperm motility.