bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From marginal zone lymphoma to aggressive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: a whole-exome and clinicopathological characteristics analysis of transformed lymphoma
Authors: Zhao Xia , Bian Haiyan , Hao Fengyun , Shao Shihong , Wu Chuanhong , Zhang Qian , Zhao Xiangzhong , Wu Mingxuan , Li Zhiqiang , Gao Chengwen
Published: January 2023

Background
Transformed lymphoma occurs when indolent lymphoma transforms into more aggressive lymphoma usually associated with poor prognosis.
Methods
In this study, we analyzed the immunophenotypes, prognostic factors, and outcomes of 35 patients with transformed lymphoma from among 306 marginal zone lymphoma (MZL), 544 follicular lymphoma (FL), and 871 chronic lymphocytic leukaemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL) cases. In addition, we performed whole-exome sequencing study of 7 transformed MZL (tMZL) cases.
Results
Our results demonstrate that the median time from indolent lymphoma diagnosis to transformed DLBCL was 35 months (range, 14–53 months). The 5-year overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) rates after histological transformation (HT) were 50% and 26%, respectively. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed that asynchronous HT and transformed CLL/SLL (tCLL/SLL) were significant adverse prognostic factors for OS after DLBCL HT. Our study found that TNFAIP3 was the most frequently mutated gene in tMZL samples. We identified mutations involvement in chromatin remodeling (CREBBP and EP300) and regulators of NF-κB signaling(TNFAIP3, BCL10, MYD88, CD79B, and CARD11) were affected in tMZL.
Conclusion
Whole-exome sequencing and copy-number analysis revealed that tMZL derives from the divergent evolution of an ancestral common progenitor clone (CPC). Collectively, this study provides clinicopathological characteristics of three common types of transformed lymphomas and the genetic profile of tMZL with diagnostic and therapeutic implications.
Relevance of circulating Semaphorin 4A for rheumatoid arthritis progression and response to treatment
Authors: Avouac Jérôme , Vandebeuque Eloïse , Combier Alice , Poiroux Lucile , Barnetche Thomas , Truchetet Marie-Elise , Richez Christophe , Allanore Yannick , Steelandt Alexia
Published: January 2023

The lack of validated tools to predict rheumatoid arthritis (RA) disease course warrants the development of new reliable biomarkers. Our aim was to evaluate the merit of circulating SEMA4A for the prediction of outcomes in patients with RA. In a first cohort of 101 consecutive RA patients followed up for 41±15 months, increased baseline SEMA4A levels were identified as an independent predictor of disease progression (hazard ratio, HR: 2.71, 95%CI 1.14–6.43), defined by the occurrence of patient-reported flares and initiation or change of targeted therapy. The highest predictive value of disease progression was obtained with the combination of increased circulating SEMA4A and/or Disease Activity Score (DAS) 28-CRP > 3.2 and/or synovial hyperemia on doppler ultrasound (HR: 10.42, 95%CI 1.41–76.94). In a second independent cohort of 40 consecutive RA patients who initiated new therapy because of insufficient disease control, baseline SEMA4A levels were significantly higher in patients who further experienced none or moderate response, and SEMA4A concentrations were markedly decreased in the group of patients with good clinical response as compared to non-responders. Circulating SEMA4A appears as an appealing biomarker in RA with ability to predict disease progression, and with association with response to therapy.
Deformation Error Compensation in 5-Axis Milling Operations of Turbine Blades
Authors: Soori Mohsen
Published: January 2023

The precision and performance of machined flexible parts are under influence of deformation errors during end milling operations. Thus, prediction and compensation of deformation errors during milling operations of flexible parts can provide a key tool in accuracy enhancement of part production. In this study, an improved virtual machining system is proposed in order to assess and compensate deformation errors caused by cutting temperature and forces in 5-axis milling operations of flexible parts. The improved Johnson–Cook model is utilized to investigate the cumulative impact of strain rate and deformation temperatures on flow stress during milling operations of turbine blade. To estimate deformation errors caused by cutting forces and temperature on the workpiece and cutting tool, the finite element analysis is then applied. As a result, volumetric vectors of deformation error at each cutting location along the machining pathways are then generated in order to be compensated within new compensated machining tool paths. Thus, the deformation error created by cutting forces and temperature on the workpiece and cutting tool are compensated in order to enhance accuracy during 5-axis milling operation of flexible turbine blades. Experiments are carried out using a 5-axis CNC machine tool and errors are quantified using a CMM to verify the developed strategy in the study. As a consequence, precision of machining operations on flexible turbine blades can be enhanced by employing the developed virtual machining system in the study.
Co-infection of Microsporidia with Mycobacterium tuberculosis in pulmonary patients
Authors: Liu Lirong , Ni Lan , Mo Biying , Yue Jun , Cheng Zhenshun , Chen Jie , Bao Jialing , Zhou Zeyang
Published: January 2023

[Background] Co-infection of multiple pathogens into one host is a great threat to public health, for it exacerbates symptoms and leads to worse outcomes compared to single pathogen infection. Both Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) and microsporidia are wide spread pathogens world-widely. However, the co-infection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis with microsporidia has long been underestimated.
[Methods] Current study recruited Mtb-positive pulmonary patients and Mtb-negative patients yet immune-suppressed due to various causes. Stool samples were collected from these two groups of individuals and the total DNAs were isolated. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) assay was used to detect the presence of microsporidia in these samples.
[Results] The results showed that infection rates of microsporidia are 39.6% (23/58) in Mtb-positive group and 50% (4/8) in Mtb-negative yet immune-suppressed group. Sequencing of the positive further revealed that the infected microsporidia species include all four common human-infecting microsporidia which are Enterocytozoon bieneusi, Encephalitozoon intestinalis, Encephalitozoon cuniculi and Encephalitozoon hellem.
[Conclusion] Our report is the first to investigate and compare the influences of Mtb-infection and host immune state in microsporidia infection. Our findings demonstrated that microsporidia have high co-infection incidence with Mtb, and the host immune state has profound influence on infection of microsporidia.
[Trial Registration] N/A.
Progression to Myocardial Infarction Short-Term Death Based on Interval Sequential Pattern Mining
Authors: Wu Yang-Sheng , Taniar David , Adhinugraha Kiki , Wang Chao-Hung , Pai Tun-Wen
Published: January 2023

Background
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death globally, contributing to 32% of all global deaths. Moreover, myocardial infarction (MI) causes 11.9% of deaths among CVD patients. According to our Taiwan health insurance database analysis, the hazard rate reaches a peak in the initial year after diagnosis, drops to a relatively low value, and maintains stability for the following years. Therefore, identifying suspicious comorbidities before the diagnosis that may lead MI patients to short-term death is paramount.
Methods
Interval sequential pattern mining was applied with odds ratio to the hospitalization records from the Taiwan health insurance research database to evaluate the disease progression and identify potential subjects at the earliest stage possible.
Results
Our analysis resulted in five disease pathways, including “diabetes mellitus,” “other disorders of the urethra and urinary tract,” “essential hypertension,” “hypertensive heart disease,” and “other forms of chronic ischemic heart disease” that led to short-term death after MI diagnosis, and these pathways covered half of the cohort.
Conclusion
We explored the possibility of establishing trajectory patterns to identify the high-risk population of early mortality after MI.
Effect of low-magnitude, variable-frequency vibration therapy on pain threshold levels and mobility in adults with moderate knee osteoarthritis - randomized controlled trial
Authors: Pasterczyk-Szczurek Alicja , Golec Joanna , Golec Edward
Published: January 2023

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most commonly recorded diseases in clinical practice. Vibration therapy has been suggested for the treatment of knee OA. The purpose of the study was to determine the impact of vibrations of variable frequency and low amplitude on pain perception and mobility in patients suffering from knee OA.
Methods: 32 participants were allocated into two groups – Group 1 (oscillatory cycloidal vibrotherapy-OCV) and Group 2 - control (sham therapy). The participants were diagnosed with moderate degenerative changes in the knee (grade II based on the Kellgren-Lawrence (KL) Grading Scale). Subjects received 15 sessions of vibration therapy and sham therapy respectively. Pain, range of motion, and functional disability were assessed through Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Laitinen questionnaire, goniometer (ROM – range of motion), timed up and go test (TUG) and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). Measurements were taken at baseline, after the last session and four weeks after the last session (follow up). T-test and U-Mann Whitney test compare baseline characteristics. The Wilcoxon and ANOVA tests compared mean VAS, Laitinen, ROM, TUG and KOOS. The significant P-value was less than 0.05.
Results: After 3 weeks (15 sessions) of vibration therapy, reduced the sensation of pain and improved mobility was recorded. There was a more significant improvement in the vibration therapy group than the control group in pain alleviation on VAS scale (p <0.001), on Laitinen scale (p <0.001), knee ROMs flexions (p <0.001) and TUG (p <0.001) at the last session. KOOS score with pain indicator, symptoms, activities of daily living, function in sport and recreation and knee related quality of life improved more in the vibration therapy group than the control group. Effects maintained up to 4 weeks in vibration group. No adverse events were reported.
Conclusions: Our data demonstrated that the use of vibrations of variable frequency and low amplitude in patients with the knee OA is a safe and effective therapy. It is recommended to increase the number of treatments performed, primarily in patients with degeneration II° according to the KL classification.
Trial registration: Prospectively registered on ANZCTR (ACTRN12619000832178). Registered on 11 June 2019. https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?ACTRN=12619000832178
The translatome of Glioblastoma multiforme
Authors: Cornelissen F. M.G. , He A. , Haas R. R. , Houweling M. , Noske D. , Vandertop W. P. , Piersma S. R. , Jiménez CR. , Murre C. , Westerman BA.
Published: January 2023

Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) is the most common and aggressive brain tumor, containing intrinsic resistance to current therapies leading to poor clinical outcomes. Therefore, understanding the underlying mechanisms of GBM is an urgent medical need. Although radiotherapy contributes significantly to patient survival, GBMs recur typically within the initial radiation target volume, suggesting remaining GBM cells are highly radioresistant. Deregulation of the protein translation mechanism has been shown to contribute to cancer progression by driving translational control of specific mRNA transcripts involved in cancer cell regulation. To identify new potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of GBM we pioneered ribosome profiling of glioblastoma sphere cultures (GSCs) under normal and radiotherapeutic conditions. We found that the global translation of genes matched and overlapped with previously published GBM subtypes, based on the transcriptional level. In addition, we revealed a broad spectrum of open reading frame types in both coding and non-coding regions, including a set of lncRNAs and pseudogenes undergoing active translation. In addition, we identified new mRNA transcripts being translated. Finally, we show that translation of histones is inhibited while splicing factors are more intensively translated after irradiation of GSCs. Together, our unprecedented GBM riboprofiling provides new insights in real time protein synthesis in GBM under normal and radiotherapeutic conditions which forms a resource for future research and provides potential new targets for therapy. Teaser We show a pioneering riboprofiling effort of glioblastoma (GBM), which provides new insights in real-time protein synthesis under normal and radiotherapeutic conditions. We found that the global translation of genes matched and overlapped with previously published GBM subtypes, as based on the transcriptional level. In addition, we revealed a broad spectrum of open reading frame types in both coding and non-coding regions, including a set of lncRNAs and pseudogenes undergoing active translation. In addition, we identified new mRNA transcripts being translated. Finally, we show that translation of histones is inhibited while splicing factors are more intensively translated after irradiation of GSCs. Our data form a resource for future research and provides potential new targets for therapy.
Completion of Four or More ANC Visits Among Women of Reproductive Age in a Rural District in Uganda: A Quantitative Study on the Role of Service-Level Factors
Authors: Muhirwe Lorna Barungi , Aagard Magdeline
Published: January 2023

Uganda is one of 24 countries in the world where 70% of global maternal deaths occur. Evidence indicates that antenatal care (ANC) has both indirect and direct effects on maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality reduction. In Uganda, the ANC attendance rate stands at 97.3% for one visit, but 59.9% for four or more visits. The aim of this quantitative study was to assess service- level factors affecting completion of ANC attendance defined by completion of four or more visits among women of reproductive age in a rural district in Uganda to contribute to design of patient-centered ANC services. Facility assessment scores on the service-level factors of interest for health facilities were obtained using a service level index tool. The relationship between the ANC completion rates of clients sampled from records at the health facilities and facility scores on service-level factors of interest were analyzed. Regression was conducted to determine the predictive relationship between ANC service availability, ANC service content, and ANC service organization, and completion of ANC attendance. The model was statistically significant, χ2 (6) = 26.118, p ˂ 0.05, and accounted for approximately 17.3% of the variance of ANC attendance completion (R2 = .173). Completion of ANC attendance was primarily predicted by better timing of provision of ANC services, and to a lesser extent by higher levels of availability of medicines and medical supplies. This study demonstrated that service-level factors have a predictive value for completion of ANC attendance. The findings can be used to improve availability, content, and organization of ANC services with the aim of enhancing positive experiences for clients and motivating them to complete the recommended number of ANC visits.
L’évolution clinique des patients atteints de hernie idiopathique de la moelle épinière: une série de cas.
Authors: Paquet Jérôme , Flageol Stéphanie , Cottin Sylvine Carrondo , Turmel André , Côté Isabelle
Published: January 2023

Study Design
This study is a case series of 48 patients.
Objectives
This study’s primary objective was to provide a clinical description of a group of individuals with a working diagnosis of idiopathic spinal cord herniation (ISCH). The secondary objectives were to appreciate the natural history of these patients and describe their clinical evolution with conservative or surgical management.
Setting
The study was carried out at l’Hôpital de l’Enfant-Jésus, CHU de Québec (Québec, Canada), a tertiary care university hospital.
Methods
This case series study is based on routinely collected data. Forty-eight (48) cases were identified as having an ISCH on MR imaging, between 2009 and 2019. Their medical files have been searched retrospectively. Patient characteristics were described according to their asymptomatic or symptomatic status.
Results
The mean age of patients at the time of diagnosis was 52.5 years. Most of the patients identified were asymptomatic (69%) and followed clinically. The main neurologic presentation for the symptomatic group was Brown-Séquard-like syndrome. 20% of the symptomatic patients were rapidly treated surgically after consultation with the neurosurgeon. The mean follow-up duration was 56 months for asymptomatic patients and 51 months for symptomatic patients. Most of our patients (41 out of 45) were considered stable or unchanged at follow-up. There was no neurological progression in all asymptomatic patients.
Conclusions
Our study shows that ISCH and its variants are not always symptomatic and may be a fortuitous finding. As the natural history may be non-progressive, it is probably appropriate to treat some cases expectantly.
Fuzzy real weak inner product: A new approach
Authors: BYUN TAECHANG , Lee Ji Eun , Yoon Jin Hee
Published: January 2023

There are various kinds of fuzzy inner products.
It was shown \cite{BLLY} that a fuzzy inner product on a vector space, producing a fuzzy real number as its value, is merely the embedding of a real valued inner product into the fuzzy number systems over the set of tuples consisting of elements in the space because of its linear property.
Thus the linear property is needed to be weakened. In this paper, a new concept, called a \emph{fuzzy real weak inner product} on a vector space, is introduced and some nontrivial examples are given.
Then, a fuzzy real weak inner product in a suitable condition is deeply studied, which may be either almost positive-definite or positive-definite. Furthermore, it satisfies both Cauchy inequality and Parallelogram law even though it is not linear. And some properties of a general type of a fuzzy real weak inner product, especially the approximation related to the Parallelogram law, are investigated in analytic viewpoint.
Older age, internal carotid artery stenosis, and female sex as factors correlated with twisted carotid bifurcation based on 457 angiographic studies and a literature review
Authors: Tokugawa Joji , Kudo Kentaro , Mitsuhashi Takumi , Mitsuhashi Takashi , Hishii Makoto
Published: January 2023

Twisted carotid bifurcation (TCB) is a well-known anatomical variation of the carotid bifurcation in patients undergoing carotid endarterectomy. However, few investigations of TCB have focused on patients without internal carotid artery (ICA) stenosis. This study was performed to analyze the characteristics of TCB in patients with ICA stenosis and other diverse pathologies. All conventional cerebral angiographies performed in our institute for any reason from January 2012 to December 2018 were reviewed. The patients were divided into two groups, the TCB group and the anatomically normal non-TCB group, and the basic characteristics of the groups were analyzed. Both sides of the carotid bifurcation were clearly visualized in 457 patients. TCB was found in 89 of 457 patients (19.5%); among these 89 patients, 74 (83.1%) had TCB only on the right side, 8 (9.0%) only on the left side, and 7 (7.9%) bilaterally. TCB was found more frequently on the right than left [81 (17.7%) and 15 (3.3%), respectively, on each of the 457 sides (p < 0.0001)]. TCB was significantly more frequent in older patients (p = 0.02), female patients (p < 0.001), and patients with ICA stenosis or occlusion at the bifurcation (p = 0.005). The prevalence of TCB was 19.5%, and 84.4% of cases were on the right side in patients with diverse pathologies. In conclusion, older patients, female patients, and patients with ICA stenosis or occlusion are more prone to have TCB.
Risk factors for neck pain in college students: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Gao Yifang , Chen Zhiming , Chen Shaoqing , Wang Shizhong , Lin Jianping
Published: January 2023

Background: During the COVID-19 epidemic, the prevalence of neck pain among college students has increased due to the shift from offline to online learning and increasing academic and employment pressures. Therefore, this systematic review aimed to identify the personal, occupational, and psychological factors associated with the development of neck pain to promote the development of preventive strategies and early intervention treatment.
Methods: Seven electronic databases were searched from inception to April 2022 for cross-sectional studies, cohort studies, case-control studies, and randomized controlled trials (RCT) on neck pain. The quality of the selected studies was assessed by American Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) or the Newcastle-Ottawa scale (NOS). Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to evaluate the effects of the included risk factors on neck pain.
Results: Twenty-six studies were included, including 16,826 participants, and a total of 30 potentially associated risk factors were identified, with 20 factors only listed as risk factors in one or two studies. Ultimately, 10 risk factors were included in the meta-analysis, and all results were statistically significant (P<0.05). The factors supported by strong evidence mainly include the improper use of the pillow (OR=2.20, 95% CI: 1.39 to 3.48), lack of exercise (OR=1.88, 95% CI: 1.53 to 2.30), improper sitting posture (OR=1.97, 95% CI: 1.39 to 2.78), and history of neck and shoulder trauma (OR=2.32, 95% CI: 1.79 to 3.01), senior grade (OR=2.86, 95% CI: 2.07 to 3.95), staying up late (OR=1.80, 95% CI: 1.35 to 2.41), and long-time electronic product usage daily (OR=1.45, 95% CI: 1.27 to 1.65), long-time to bow head (OR=2.04, 95% CI: 1.58 to 2.64), emotional problems (OR=2.09; 95% CI: 1.66, 2.63). Risk factors supported by moderate evidence were high pressure (OR=1.91, 95% CI: 1.50 2.42).
Conclusion: Improper use of the pillow, lack of exercise, improper sitting posture, history of neck and shoulder trauma, senior grade, staying up late, long-term electronic product usage daily, long time to bow head, high pressure, and emotional problems affect neck pain in college students. More studies have been conducted to prove the risk and relevance of the remaining 20 factors.
Wax Metabolism is involved in Response to Alternate Freeze-thaw Stress to Regulate Shoot Shriveling
Authors: Gao Yanlong , Zhang Zhongxing , Wang Shuangcheng , Ma Naiying , Wang Yanxiu
Published: January 2023

Shoot shriveling is one of the main challenges for apple (Malus×domestica) growth and productivity. Cuticular wax plays a critical role in plant resistance. In this study, branches of 'Asi' and 'Miyazaki' with different overwintering characters were selected, and a series of physiological indicators were measured. The results showed that shoot shriveling rate of 'Miyazaki' was 2.31 times than 'Asi', the critical water content of 'Asi' was higher than 'Miyazaki'; In freeze-thaw alternate phase of 'Asi', the activities of starch phosphorylase (SP) and amylase (Amy) was 1.54 and 1.2 times that of 'Miyazaki', the relative conductivity (REC) and Proline (Pro) were 0.89 and 0.65 times that of 'Miyazaki'. The wax content of the two varieties in the freezing-thawing phase decreased to 41.84% and 60.63%, respectively, 'Asi' wax was tightly distributed and wax components was much diversify than 'Miyazaki'. The correlation analysis showed that the wax content was positively correlated with the water content and negatively correlated with shoot shriveling rate. Subsequently, eleven wax-related genes were selected for expression to verify their reliability. Under freeze-thaw stress, the expression of CER1 dramatically increased, and the expression of KCS1, CER3 and WIN1 increased firstly and then decreased with the elongation of stress time. Compared with the sensitive shriveling 'Miyazaki', the anti-sensitive shriveling 'Asi' strengthens its overwintering by containing higher water content, triggering the expression of CER1, CER3, WIN1 and other genes, enriching its waxy components, increasing the content of osmotic adjustment substances, and improving the water retention performance during the overwintering process.
Enhanced visible light photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue dye using efficient Mg/S codoped TiO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Kunnamareddy Mehala , Natchimuthu Karmegam , Tangavelu Kavitha , Palanisamy Senthilkumar , Diravidamani Barathi , Shkir Mohd , Hamed Algarni , Rajendran Ranjith
Published: January 2023

Herein, the Mg-S codoped TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized by the sol-gel method, and their photocatalytic activity of MB (Methylene Blue) dye was examined under simulated visible light. The crystal structure, morphology analysis, optical properties, and photocatalytic performance of synthesized nanoparticles (NPs) were characterized by XRD, FTIR, SEM with EDS, TEM, UV-DRS, and UV-Vis spectroscopy. Results showed that Mg/S codoped TiO2 NPs had pure anatase structure with spherical morphology. The band gap energy Mg/S codoped TiO2 was decreased from 3.12 eV to 2.78 eV by adding the doping and codoping of Mg and S into TiO2 NPs. The Mg/S codoped TiO2 NPs showed excellent photocatalytic activity compared to that of pristine TiO2, Mg-TiO2, and S-TiO2 NPs. The maximum degradation efficiency of MB was achieved at 94.8% for Mg/S codoped TiO2 NPs. Meanwhile, the possible photocatalytic mechanism of Mg/S codoped TiO2 was discussed. The current investigation delivers a promising strategy to promote photocatalytic activity for the elimination of waterborne contaminants.
Walnut cultivation in Kashmir Valley, India: An economic & profitability assessment
Authors: Lone Fayaz A. , Ganaie M. Imran , Ganaie Showkat A. , Bhat M. Shafi , Rather Javeed A.
Published: January 2023

Jammu and Kashmir is the largest producer of walnuts in India and it acts as an important source of livelihood for a large section of farmers. The present study aims to measure the profitability and economic efficiency of walnut orchards and subsequently explore constraints hindering walnut cultivation in the Valley of Kashmir, India. It relies on cross-sectional database collected from 240 walnut growers in the study area during the 2018-19 production period. Results reveal that walnut cultivation is highly labour-intensive as it incurs 80% of total production costs. The cost-benefit ratio of 1:5.35/ha indicates better economic prospects for the walnut industry in Kashmir Valley. The regression coefficients of production analysis and marginal value product and marginal factor cost (MVP/MFC) ratio indicate that there is ample scope for the expansion of walnut cultivation in the research area. However, walnut growers are confronted by several problems that more or less tend to be location specific. The study calls for policy intervention concerning better extension services, greater access to credit and farmer training programs to boost walnut production in the study region.
Cr oxide coated woodland camouflage textiles for protection of defense target signature in UV-Visible-IR spectrum opposing of hyperspectral and digital imaging
Authors: Hossain Md. Anowar
Published: January 2023

The chromatic intensity and thermal mechanism are vital segment for protection of military target in ultraviolet (UV)-visible (Vis)-infrared (IR) imaging. Defense operations need to confront with UV-Vis-IR imaging to distinguish/conceal the target from combat background (CB). The key purpose of this experimentation is to develop the imaging and optical intensity concepts of chromatic appearance for concealment, detection, recognition, and identification (CDRI) of Cr oxide coated target signature against hyperspectral and digital camera imaging in UV-Vis-IR optical signal. Chromatic intensity of Cr oxide formulated polyamide 6,6 (PA-6,6) fabric was examined by Vis-IR-hyperspectral imaging (HSI) in 400 nm, 500 nm, 600 nm, 700 nm, 1000 nm, 1300 nm, 1600 nm, 1900 nm, 2200 nm, 2500 nm. UV-Vis-IR-HSI has been experimented by international commission on illumination (CIE); red-green-blue standardized color scale for concealment and detection in UV-Vis-IR optical ranges. Concealment of target signature was observed in 400 nm, 500 nm, 600 nm, 700 nm, 2200 nm and 2500 nm when Cr oxide coated PA-6,6 fabric was scanned in 22,948 μs (microsecond)-Vis-HSI and 10,500 μs-IR-HSI. The optical reflection and CIE-chromaticity of Australian grass, Bothriochloa Pertusa, woodland CB and Cr oxide coated PA-6,6 fabric have been observed similarity under UV-Vis-IR optical assessment.
In vitro and in vivo evaluation of a bio-inspired adhesive for bone fixation
Authors: Schlund Matthias , Dartus Julien , Defrançois Sarah , Ferri Joël , Delattre Jerôme , Blanchemain Nicolas , Woisel Patrice , Lyskawa Joël , Chai Feng
Published: January 2023

Background: Compared to metallic hardware, an effective bone adhesive can revolutionize the treatment of clinically challenging situations such as comminuted, articular and pediatric fractures. The present study aims at developing such a bio-inspired bone adhesive, based upon a modified mineral-organic adhesive with tetracalcium phosphate (TTCP) and phosphoserine (OPS) by incorporating nanoparticles of polydopamine (nPDA).
Methods: The optimal formulation was screened using in vitro instrumental traction tests. Adhesion to bone, cohesion, setting time, and biomineralization of the optimized adhesive was then assessed with ex vivo instrumental and manual tests, compression tests, setting time measurement and simulated body fluid assay. Cytotoxicity was assessed by extraction test (ISO 10993-5). A new in vivo model was developed: the rat fibula was glued to the ipsilateral tibia, simulating the clinical scenario of autograft fixation under low mechanical load. Analysis was performed clinically, radiologically with micro-computed tomography and histologically (without decalcification).
Results: The optimal formulation was found as 50%molTTCP/50%molOPS-2%wtnPDA with a liquid-to-powder ratio of 0.21 mL/g. This adhesive has a substantially stronger adhesive strength (1.0–1.6 MPa) to bovine cortical bone (after a 24-hour soak in a physiological saline) than the adhesive without nPDA (0.5–0.6 MPa), and is more quickly induced and has more abundant surface mineralization when immersed in simulated body fluid. Moreover, non-cytotoxicity of this adhesive was confirmed in vitro. In vivo, the TTCP/OPS-nPDA adhesive (n=7) was shown to be effective in stabilizing the graft without displacement (clinical success rate of 86% and 71% respectively at 5 and 12 weeks) compared to a sham control (0%). Significant coverage of newly formed bone was particularly observed on the surface of the adhesive, thanks to the osteoinductive property of nPDA.
Conclusions: To conclude, the TTCP/OPS-nPDA adhesive fulfilled many clinical requirements for the bone fixation, and potentially could be functionalized via nPDA to offer more biological activities, e.g. anti-infection after antibiotics loading.
Trial Registration: Not applicable
Risk factors of Traumatic Myocardial Contusion and Establishment of Nomogram Prediction Model
Authors: Yu Changyong , Song Yuekun , Liu Wuxin , Chen Xiang , Zhu Kangyu , Zhu Xinfeng
Published: January 2023

Objectives
To clarify the risk factors of traumatic myocardial contusion (MC) and to build an MC prediction model and assess its clinical application values.
Methods
The clinical data of 370 rib fracture patients treated upon emergency call in the Department of Thoracic Surgery at Jiangsu Shengze Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University between January 2017 and December 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Of them, 159 patients were diagnosed as MC. All patients were fully randomly divided at a 7:3 ratio to a training cohort (264 cases, 106 MC cases, 158 NMC cases) and a validation cohort (106 cases, 53 MC cases, 53 NMC cases). The related risk factors of MC in the training cohort were identified via univariate Logistics regression, then the optimal independent risk factors were screened out using LASSO regression and multivariate Logistics regression. A Nomogram model for MC prediction in the training cohort was built with the selected independent risk factors. The receiver's operating characteristic (ROC) curves and calibration curves in the two cohorts were plotted and used to analyze the prediction efficacy of the Nomogram model, and the clinical application value of the model was assessed using decision curve analysis (DCA) and clinical impact curves (CIC).
Results
The multivariate Logistics regression and LASSO regression analysis showed there were five independent risk factors of MC, including the upper chest anterolateral segment (UAL), the middle chest proximal spinal segment (MSS), sternal fracture (SF), Pneumothorax and aspartic transaminase (AST). The ROC curves showed the Nomogram model based on the C index had discrimination of 0.838 (95%CI, 0.790–0.886) and 0.846 (95%CI, 0.770–0.921) in the training cohort and the validation cohort respectively. The calibration curves showed there was high predictive precision between the actual probability and predicted probability in both cohorts. DCA showed at threshold probability > 0.1, the Nomogram model had significant clinical net benefits in both cohorts. CIC showed at the threshold probability > 0.6, the predicted number of positive patients was basically consistent with the actual number.
Conclusions
SF, UAL, MSS, Pneumothorax and AST are the independent risk factors and predictors of MC in rib fracture patients. The Nomogram model based on the 5 independent risk factors has high discrimination, calibration and clinical net benefits, and shows extensive prospects for clinical application in basic hospitals.
Overcoming Small-Bandgap Charge Recombination in Visible and NIR-Light-Driven Hydrogen Evolution by Engineering the Polymer Photocatalyst Structure
Authors: Elsayed Mohamed , Abdelah Mohamed , Mekhemer Islam , Aboubakr Ahmed , Mohamed Mohamed , Kuo Shiao-Wei , Hung Chen-Hsiung , Chen Li-Chyong , Chen Kuei-Hsien , Chou Ho-Hsiu
Published: January 2023

Designing an organic polymer photocatalyst for efficient hydrogen evolution with visible and near-infrared (NIR) light activity is still a major challenge. Unlike the common behaviour of increasing the charge recombination gradually while shrinking the bandgap, here we present a series of polymers nanoparticles (Pdots) based on ITIC and BTIC units with different π-linkers between the acceptor-donor-acceptor (A-D-A) repeated moieties of the polymer, which acts as an efficient single polymer photocatalyst for H2 evolution under both visible and NIR light without combining or hybridizing with other materials. Importantly, the difluorothiophene (ThF) π-linker facilitates the charge transfer between acceptors of different repeated moieties (~ A-D-A-(π-Linker)-A-D-A~) leading to enhancement of charge separation between D and A. As a result, the PITIC-ThF Pdots exhibit superior hydrogen evolution rates of 339.7 mmol g− 1 h− 1 (0.279 mol/h) and 4100 µmol g− 1 h− 1 (20.5 µmol/h) with visible (> 420 nm) and NIR (> 780 nm) light irradiation, respectively. Furthermore, PITIC-ThF Pdots exhibit a record-breaking apparent quantum yield (AQY) at 700 nm (4.76%).
Bring It Up: An Adapted Collaborative Care Model for Depression in a Safety-net Primary Care Clinic
Authors: Ochoa-Frongia Lisa , Garcia Maria E. , Bendahan Tamara , Ponce Andrea N. , Pumar Margo , Yee Karen , Schillinger Dean , Loewy Rachel , Mangurian Christina
Published: January 2023

Background

While over 90 clinical trials demonstrate the efficacy of the collaborative care model (CCM) to treat depression in primary care, there is significant variability in real-world CCM implementation and scalability. Our objective was to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of an adapted CCM in a safety-net primary care setting.

Methods

Bring It Up! (BIU) is a pilot trial comparing an adapted CCM (intervention group) to usual care (historical controls) for patients with depression in a primary care safety-net clinic. Inclusion criteria: 1) age ≥ 18; 2) PHQ-9 score ≥ 10; and 3) major depressive disorder diagnosis. We included patients who completed ≥ 6 months of treatment upon rolling enrollment (4/1/18 − 10/31/19). Historical controls completed ≥ 6 months of usual care in 2017. BIU included all aspects of CCM except accountable care and leveraged existing staff rather than a dedicated care manager. Referring PCPs received evidence-based depression care training, and the team enrolled patients and delivered depression care. Usual care consisted of appointments with PCP and behavioral health staff if referred by PCP. The primary outcome was depression remission (PHQ-9 < 5) within six months. Other depression care secondary outcomes included depression response and adherence to treatment guidelines. We also collected care coordination process outcomes. Data were extracted from the electronic health record.

Results

Thirty-six patients received the BIU intervention; 41 controls received usual care. Depression remission was achieved in 35.3% of intervention patients and 0% of controls (p = 0.001); and 47.1% of intervention patients achieved ≥ 50% reduction in PHQ-9 compared to 9.1% of controls (p = 0.003). Further, 72.7% of intervention patients had guideline-recommended antidepressant medication titration compared to 35.5% of controls (p = 0.003); 94.4% of intervention patients had PHQ-9 repeated compared to 53.7% of controls (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

An adapted CCM was feasible and improved depression care in a safety-net clinic.

Trial registration

Retrospectively registered with UCSF IRB on 12/22/2020. UCSF IRB number: 20-31424
Antiviral activity of Ugandan medicinal plants against human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (HIV-1)
Authors: Anywar Godwin , Kakudidi Esezah , Oryem-Origa Hannington , Schubert Andreas , Jassoy Christian
Published: January 2023

Introduction: In Uganda, many people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV) use untested herbs for therapy
Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-HIV-1 activity of selected plant species.
Methods: Twenty-two 22 plant extracts were tested against HIV-1 Pseudovirions (PV) HXB2 (IIIB) strain in using the human glioblastoma cell line; U87.CD4.CXCR4, transfected with the luciferase firefly reporter gene. The selective inhibition of the growth of HIV-1 PV was measured using the selectivity index (SI). The in vitro cytotoxicity of each of the plant extracts was also evaluated using the AlamarBlue cell viability assay on U87.CD4.CXCR4 cells.
Results: The ethanol and DMSO extracts of Cryptolepis sanguinolenta (Lindl.) Schltr., (SI = 74.7 and 56.3), Psorospermum febrifugium Spach (SI = 54.1 and 47.5) and B. micrantha (SI = 25.3 and 38.7), exhibited the highest SI against HIV-1 PV. Conclusion: Some of the plant extracts tested have potential antiviral activity against HIV-1.
Performance of a Single Slope Solar Still Using Different Porous Absorbing Materials: An Experimental Approach
Authors: Ramzy Khaled , Abdelgaleel Mohmed , kabeel abd elnaby , Mosalam Heba
Published: January 2023

The desalination process is important for converting seawater drinking water in many arid regions of the world. Solar stills are considered one of the best economical solutions to overcome the shortage of water despite of the limitations in its productivity. In this research two, similar solar stills were designed and fabricated and different absorbing materials were used to increase productivity and enhance the still’s performance. These materials are luffa, black luffa, fine steel wool and, steel wool pads and the performance of the two solar stills were evaluated at the same climate conditions. Different parameters were measured such as the still productivity, solar intensity, temperature, and wind velocity to calculate the still thermal efficiency and the exergoeconomic analysis. The results concluded that the still productivity was about 1.872, 2.923, 3.325, 3.712, and 4.384 l/m2 for conventional solar still (CSS), solar still with luffa (CSS-NLF), with black luffa (CSS-BLF), with fine steel wool (CSS-FSW) and with steel wool pads (CSS-SWP) respectively. The thermal efficiency ratings were roughly for the comparable values 17.13, 21.22, 24.71, 28.60 and 32.74% respectively. In addition, the cost per liter (CPL) for these solar stills was about 0.0082, 0.0058, 0.0049, 0.004,4 and 0.0034 $/l/m2 respectively. Finally the payback period and the exergoeconomic analysis were performed and evaluated for these modifications and the findings cleared that using steel wool pads showed a promising performance compared with the other modifications.
Molecular characterization of a new probiotics Ligilactobacillus salivarius F14 from the gut of Tribes of Odisha
Authors: Dash Jayalaxmi , Sethi Manisha , Deb Sushanta , Parida Deepti , Kar Salona , Mahapatra Soumendu , Minz Aliva P , Pradhan Biswaranjan , Prasad Punit , Senapati Shantibhusan
Published: January 2023

Characterization of new potential probiotics is desirable in the field of research of probiotics for their extensive use in health and disease. Tribes could be unusual source of probiotics due to their unique food habits and least dependence on medications and consumption of antibiotics. The aim of the present study is to isolate lactic acid bacteria from tribal fecal samples of Odisha, India, and characterize their genetic and probiotic attributes. In this context one of the catalase-negative and Gram-positive isolates, identified using 16S rRNA sequencing as Lactobacillus salivarius,was characterized in vitro for its acid and bile tolerance, cell adhesion and antimicrobial properties. The whole genome sequence was obtained and analyzed for strain level identification, presence of genomic determinants for probiotic-specific features, and safety. Genes responsible for its antimicrobial and immunomodulatory functions were detected. The secreted metabolites were analyzed using high resolution mass spectroscopy; the results indicated that the antimicrobial potential could be due to the presence of pyroglutamic acid, propionic acid, lactic acid, 2-hydroxyisocaproic acid, homoserine, and glutathione, and the immuno-modulating activity, contributed by the presence of short chain fatty acids such as acetate, propionate, and butyrate. So, to conclude we have successfully characterized a Ligilactobacillus salivarius species with potential antimicrobial and immunomodulatory ability. The health-promoting effects of this probiotic strain and/or its derivatives will be investigated in future.
Neuronal selectivity for stimulus information determines prefrontal LFP gamma power regardless of task execution
Authors: Singh Balbir , Wang Zhengyang , Constantinidis Christos
Published: January 2023

Local field potential (LFP) power in gamma frequency has been thought to be modulated by cognitive variables during task execution. We sought to understand how the properties of neurons and LFPs from same sites representing information before and after training in cognitive tasks. We therefore trained monkeys to perform working memory tasks and analyzed the neurons and LFPs in different prefrontal subdivisions. In agreement with previous studies, we found that sites containing neurons selective for stimuli held in memory exhibit increased gamma power during and after the presentation of stimuli compared to the baseline period. Unexpectedly, we also found that the elevation of gamma power above the baseline was diminished after training, compared to power observed prior to training in the same monkeys; despite an overall in firing rate observed after training. Learning to perform the task did alter some properties of LFP gamma power, it decreased at the time that subjects needed to make a judgment about whether two stimuli were same or not, and differential gamma power was observed for matching and nonmatching stimuli. Our results indicate that gamma power elevation in the prefrontal cortex represents automatic stimulus processing, not necessarily tied to a cognitive task being executed.
Identification and phylogenetic analysis of R2R3-MYB subfamily in Brassica napus
Authors: luo Dingfan , Mei Desheng , Liu Jia , Wei Wenliang
Published: January 2023

Background: The majority of the MYB protein's members, plant-specific transcription factors (TFs) that are divided into four classes based on the number of MYB repeats, make up the R2R3-MYB subfamily of proteins. In particular, they play a role in the body's reactions to diverse biotic and abiotic stimuli. R2R3-MYB TFs are involved in physiological and biochemical processes. However, the functions of the rapeseed R2R3-MYBgenes are still mainly unknown (Brassica napus).
Results: In this study, a total of 35 BnaMYB genes were found in the rapeseed genome, and details about their physical and chemical characteristics, evolutionary relationships, chromosome locations, gene structures, three-dimensional protein structures, cis-acting promoter elements, and gene duplication were uncovered. The BnaMYB genes had undergone segmental duplications and positive selection pressure, according to the evolutionary study. The same subfamilies have similar intron-exon patterns and motifs, according to gene structure and conserved motif. Additionally, by cis-element analysis, many drought-response and other stress responsive cis-elements were found in the promoter regions of the BnaMYB genes. BnaMYB gene expression displayed a variety of tissue-specific patterns. Twenty of the BnaMYB genes, however, were primarily expressed in stems, therefore 10 lignin-related genes were chosen for drought treatment.
Conclusions: Our research screened four genes (BnaMYB7, BnaMYB11, BnaMYB26 and BnaMYB30)showed significant upregulation under drought stress, which may be important drought-response genes. The findings laid a new foundation for understanding the complex mechanisms of BnaMYB in multiple developmental stages and pathways related to drought stress in rapeseed.
Biomechanical outcomes of targeted endodontic microsurgery: 3D finite element analysis
Authors: Mon Aein , Kim Mi-El , Lim Young-Joon , Kim Myung-Joo , Kum Kee-Yeon , Kwon Hobeom
Published: January 2023

This study compared the biomechanical responses of resected teeth between endodontic microsurgery (horizontal resection) and targeted endodontic microsurgery (round resection). Five different models were developed. The basic model without resection (NR) was the control model, and the others involved: horizontal resection without bone grafting (HN), horizontal resection with bone grafting (HG), round resection without bone grafting (RN), and round resection with bone grafting (RG) models. The maximum von-Mises stress and tooth displacement values were analysed and compared. Both the HN and RN models exhibited lower stress distribution values on bone compared with the NR (control) model. Regarding maximum stress distribution at the root apex, the stress value of the RN model was slightly higher compared to the HN model, whereas the RG model displayed a slightly lower stress value in comparison with the HG model. For maximum tooth displacement value, there were no significant differences between the HN and RN models, as well as the HG and RG models. The round resection pattern had comparable stress distribution behaviours at the root apex and tooth displacement values with the horizontal resection pattern. Targeted endodontic microsurgery provides a favourable biomechanical response of the resected tooth after root-end resection.