bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exposure to pesticides and development of hematological cancers: a case-control study
Authors: Cembranel Lucinara Regina , Silva Maria Isabel Gonçalves da , Rodrigues Junior Sinval Adalberto , Sá Clodoaldo Antônio de , Corralo Vanessa da Silva
Published: November 2021

The aim of this study was to analyze the association between chronic exposure to pesticides and the development of hematological cancers in a region with intense agricultural activity. This is a hospital-based case-control study. Socioeconomic, demographic, occupational and health-related aspects of patients were investigated. The univariate odds ratio (OR) of cases was verified using logistic regression analysis. In the multivariate analysis, the relevant variables in the model were maintained (p = 0.05). There was a predominance of males in the case (54.0%) and control (53.0%) groups. The mean age was 58.8 ± 14.5 years in the case group and 55.6 ± 12.9 years in the control group. It was found that 38.7% of the cases were farmers, and that contact for more than five years with pesticides increases the chances of developing hematological cancers by 2.19 times (OR = 2.19; 95% CI 1, 19 - 4.06). It was also found that the higher the family income, the lower the chances of these neoplasms to appear (OR = 0.26; 95% CI 0.11 - 0.65). In addition, patients who did not have a family history of cancer were 96% less likely (OR = 0.04; 95% CI 0.02 - 0.08) to develop the disease. Chronic exposure to pesticides, family history of cancer and socioeconomic status are associated with greater chances of developing hematological neoplasms. Rural workers exposed to these substances for periods of more than five years are more vulnerable.
O uso da laserterapia de baixa intensidade na prática do enfermeiro: uma revisão integrativa
Authors: Ferreira Larissa Pereira Stelet , Pérez Júnior Eugenio Fuentes , Pires Ariane da Silva , Gonçalves Francisco Gleidson de Azevedo , Nunes Alessandra Sant' Anna , Coutinho Vânia Lima , Moraes Advi Catarina Barbachan , Gomes Helena Ferraz , Peres Ellen Marcia , Mello Livia Fajin de , Andrade Priscila Cristina da Silva Thiengo de , Costa Carolina Cabral Pereira da , Souza Carolina Gomes da Silva de
Published: November 2021

Objetivo: Analisar as produções científicas acerca da utilização do laser de baixa intensidade na prática do enfermeiro. Metodologia: Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa da literatura realizada na Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde que inclui, dentre outras, as seguintes bases de dados: LILACS, MEDLINE, BDENF, IBECS, CUMED e nas bases de dados SciELO, PUBMED e Science Direct Online, entre os anos de 2016 e 2021. Resultados: Foram analisados dezesseis estudos. Em relação ao ano das publicações, evidenciou-se que dois são do ano 2016 (12,5%); três de 2018 (18,75%); quatro de 2019 (25%); quatro de 2020 (25%); três de 2021 (18,75%). Quanto a metodologia usada nas pesquisas, observou-se que dez são revisão integrativa/sistemática/bibliográfica (62,5%); dois são qualitativos (12,5%) e de estudos randomizados (12,5%); um estudo descritivo (6,25%); um estudo metodológico (6,25%). Identificou-se que se destaca como o uso mais frequente na prática do enfermeiro o uso do laser como terapia complementar no processo de cicatrização e reparo tecidual de lesões cutaneomucosas (81,2%), outras utilizações do laser pelo enfermeiro observadas foram: finalidade analgésica (25%); terapia complementar na drenagem de edemas e laser-acupuntura (18,75%); tratamento de infecções fúngicas (12,5%). Conclusão: Nos últimos cinco anos foi possível identificar a escassez da produção científica na área. A produção encontrada nas bases de dados nacionais e internacionais são incipientes e apresentam métodos baseados em revisões e poucos estudos clínicos de alto rigor metodológico.
ANALISIS RISIKO OPERASIONAL DI PERGURUAN TINGGI
Authors: Jener David Syamsia  , Dr. Ir. Ktut Silvanita Mangani, MA  , Dr. M.L. Denny Tewu, SE.MM
Published: November 2021

ABSTRAKPenelitian ini dilakukan di Perguruan Tinggi tentang risiko operasional. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisis risiko operasional yang diakibatkan dari hubungan kelembagaan Yayasan XY dan Universitas X. Secara spesifik tujuan penelitian ini adalah (1) mengidentifikasi kejadian-kejadian yang tidak dikehendaki (KTD) yang diakibatkan dari hubungan kelembagaan antara Yayasan XYdanUniversitas X;(2) menganalisis seberapa besar risiko operasional dari kejadian-kejadian yang tidak dikehendaki; dan (3) memitigasi risiko sesuai dengan peluang dan dampak.Untuk menemukan data yang valid dan reliable maka metode penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode kualitatif dengan teknik pengumpulan data observasi partisipatif, wawancara,studi dokumen, dan angket. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa ada sepuluh kejadian yang tidak dikehendaki yaitu (1) pengangkatan dosen dan pegawai tidak sesuai SOP; (2) aktivitas perkuliahan terhambat; (3) peran YPKH yang pasif; (4) pemberhentian rektor tidak sesuai amanat statuta; (5) intervensi dewan Pembina;

(6) kurangnya kompetensi direktur human resources development; (7) penunjukan rektor tidak sesuai kebutuhan kampus pasca konflik; (8) pembayaran biaya kuliah secaracicil; (9) sistem akademik dan keuangan belum terintegrasi; dan (10) budaya masyarakat yang tidak mendukung. Risiko yang ditimbulkan dari kejadian yang tidak diinginkan dengan bobot risiko sedang sampai sangat tinggi. Kejadian yang tidak dikehendaki telah dimitigasi sesuai dengan peluang dan dampak.
Solar System Wave Function and its Achievements
Authors: Soltani Abolfazl
Published: November 2021

Pluto, Ceres and all planets of solar system except Neptune, with a high approximation, follow a rule called Titius-Bode rule or Bode rule, which can by no means be considered as a stochastic event. This rule shows that the distance of the planets from the sun in Solar system is regulated. Here, we prove that the existence of a standing and cosine wave packet in solar system, with the wavelength λ = 0.6 AU (AU represents the distance of earth from the sun) and the phase constant ∅_0=π/6, is the reason for Bode rule. Moreover, we prove that this huge wave packet belongs to the sun. In the following of the article, based on the solar system wave function, we will enter into the atomic field and arrive to a new atomic model that helps us to describe many phenomena such as the normal Zeeman effect.
Two-Dimensional Nanomaterials for Peripheral Nerve Engineering: Recent Advances and Potential Mechanisms
Authors: Yan Zhiwen , Chen Cheng , Rosso Gonzalo , Qian Yun , Fan Cunyi
Published: November 2021

Peripheral nerve tissues possess the ability to regenerate within artificial nerve scaffolds, however, despite the advance of biomaterials that support nerve regeneration, the functional nerve recovery remains unsatisfactory. Importantly, the incorporation of two-dimensional nanomaterials has shown to significantly improve the therapeutic effect of conventional nerve scaffolds. In this review, we examine whether two-dimensional nanomaterials facilitate angiogenesis and thereby promote peripheral nerve regeneration. First, we summarize the major events occurring after peripheral nerve injury. Second, we discuss that the application of two-dimensional nanomaterials for peripheral nerve regeneration strategies by facilitating the formation of new vessels. Then, we analyze the mechanism that the newly-formed capillaries directionally and metabolically support neuronal regeneration. Finally, we prospect that the two-dimensional nanomaterials should be a potential solution to long range peripheral nerve defect. To further enhance the therapeutic effects of two-dimensional nanomaterial, strategies which help remedy the energy deficiency after peripheral nerve injury could be a viable solution.
Validation of an Echidna Forelimb Musculoskeletal Model Using XROMM and diceCT
Authors: Regnault Sophie , Fahn-Lai Philip , Pierce Stephanie E.
Published: November 2021

In evolutionary biomechanics, musculoskeletal computer models of extant and extinct taxa are often used to estimate joint range of motion (ROM) and muscle moment arms (MMAs), two parameters which form the basis of functional inferences. However, relatively few experimental studies have been performed to validate model outputs. Previously, we built a model of the short-beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatus) forelimb using a traditional modelling workflow, and in this study we evaluate its behaviour and outputs using experimental data. The echidna is an unusual animal representing an edge-case for model validation: it uses a unique form of sprawling locomotion, and possesses a suite of derived anatomical features, in addition to other features reminiscent of extinct early relatives of mammals. Here we use diffusible iodine-based contrast-enhanced computed tomography (diceCT) alongside digital and traditional dissection to evaluate muscle attachments, modelled muscle paths, and the effects of model alterations on the MMA outputs. We use X-ray Reconstruction of Moving Morphology (XROMM) to compare ex vivo joint ROM to model estimates based on osteological limits predicted via single-axis rotation, and to calculate experimental MMAs from implanted muscles using a novel geometric method. We also add additional levels of model detail, in the form of muscle architecture, to evaluate how muscle torque might alter the inferences made from MMAs alone, as is typical in evolutionary studies. Our study identifies several key findings that can be applied to future models. 1) A light-touch approach to model building can generate reasonably accurate muscle paths, and small alterations in attachment site seem to have minimal effects on model output. 2) Simultaneous movement through multiple degrees of freedom, including rotations and translation at joints, are necessary to ensure full joint ROM is captured; however, single-axis ROM can provide a reasonable approximation of mobility depending on the modelling objectives. 3) Our geometric method of calculating MMAs is consistent with model-predicted MMAs calculated via partial velocity, and is a potentially useful tool for others to create and validate musculoskeletal models. 4) Inclusion of muscle architecture data can change some functional inferences, but in many cases reinforced conclusions based on MMA alone.
Protein Kinase A and 5′ AMP-Activated Protein Kinase Signaling Pathways Exert Opposite Effects on Induction of Autophagy in Luteal Cells
Authors: Przygrodzka Emilia , Monaco Corrine F. , Plewes Michele R. , Li Guojuan , Wood Jennifer R. , Cupp Andrea S. , Davis John S.
Published: November 2021

In the absence of pregnancy the ovarian corpus luteum undergoes regression, a process characterized by decreased production of progesterone and structural luteolysis involving apoptosis. Autophagy has been observed in the corpus luteum during luteal regression. Autophagy is a self-degradative process important for balancing sources of cellular energy at critical times in development and in response to nutrient stress, but it can also lead to apoptosis. Mechanistic target of rapamycin (MTOR) and 5′ AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), key players in autophagy, are known to inhibit or activate autophagy, respectively. Here, we analyzed the signaling pathways regulating the initiation of autophagy in bovine luteal cells. In vivo studies showed increased activating phosphorylation of AMPKα (Thr172) and elevated content of LC3B, a known marker of autophagy, in luteal tissue during PGF2α-induced luteolysis. In vitro, AMPK activators 1) stimulated phosphorylation of regulatory associated protein of MTOR (RPTOR) leading to decreased activity of MTOR, 2) increased phosphorylation of Unc-51-Like Kinase 1 (ULK1) and Beclin 1 (BECN1), at sites specific for AMPK and required for autophagy initiation, 3) increased levels of LC3B, and 4) enhanced colocalization of autophagosomes with lysosomes indicating elevated autophagy. In contrast, LH/PKA signaling in luteal cells 1) reduced activation of AMPKα and phosphorylation of RPTOR, 2) elevated MTOR activity, 3) stimulated phosphorylation of ULK1 at site required for ULK1 inactivation, and 4) inhibited autophagosome formation as reflected by reduced content of LC3B-II. Pretreatment with AICAR, a pharmacological activator of AMPK, inhibited LH-mediated effects on RPTOR, ULK1 and BECN1. Our results indicate that luteotrophic signaling via LH/PKA/MTOR inhibits, while luteolytic signaling via PGF2α/Ca2+/AMPK activates key signaling pathways involved in luteal cell autophagy.
Transthyretin Promotes Axon Growth via Regulation of Microtubule Dynamics and Tubulin Acetylation
Authors: Eira Jessica , Magalhães Joana , Macedo Nídia , Pero Maria Elena , Misgeld Thomas , Sousa Mónica M. , Bartolini Francesca , Liz Márcia A.
Published: November 2021

Transthyretin (TTR), a plasma and cerebrospinal fluid protein, increases axon growth and organelle transport in sensory neurons. While neurons extend their axons, the microtubule (MT) cytoskeleton is crucial for the segregation of functional compartments and axonal outgrowth. Herein, we investigated whether TTR promotes axon elongation by modulating MT dynamics. We found that TTR KO mice have an intrinsic increase in dynamic MTs and reduced levels of acetylated α-tubulin in peripheral axons. In addition, they failed to modulate MT dynamics in response to sciatic nerve injury, leading to decreased regenerative capacity. Importantly, restoring acetylated α-tubulin levels of TTR KO dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons using an HDAC6 inhibitor is sufficient to completely revert defective MT dynamics and neurite outgrowth. In summary, our results reveal a new role for TTR in the modulation of MT dynamics by regulating α-tubulin acetylation via modulation of the acetylase ATAT1, and suggest that this activity underlies TTR neuritogenic function.
Construction of a Ferroptosis-Related Long Non-coding RNA Prognostic Signature and Competing Endogenous RNA Network in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Fei Xiang , Hu Congli , Wang Xinyu , Lu Chaojing , Chen Hezhong , Sun Bin , Li Chunguang
Published: November 2021

Ferroptosis-related genes play an important role in the progression of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). However, the potential function of ferroptosis-related lncRNAs in LUAD has not been fully elucidated. Thus, to explore the potential role of ferroptosis-related lncRNAs in LUAD, the transcriptome RNA-seq data and corresponding clinical data of LUAD were downloaded from the TCGA dataset. Pearson correlation was used to mine ferroptosis-related lncRNAs. Differential expression and univariate Cox analysis were performed to screen prognosis related lncRNAs. A ferroptosis-related lncRNA prognostic signature (FLPS), which included six ferroptosis-related lncRNAs, was constructed by the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) Cox regression. Patients were divided into a high risk-score group and low risk-score group by the median risk score. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, principal component analysis (PCA), and univariate and multivariate Cox regression were performed to confirm the validity of FLPS. Enrichment analysis showed that the biological processes, pathways and markers associated with malignant tumors were more common in high-risk subgroups. There were significant differences in immune microenvironment and immune cells between high- and low-risk groups. Then, a nomogram was constructed. We further investigated the relationship between six ferroptosis-related lncRNAs and tumor microenvironment and tumor stemness. A competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network was established based on the six ferroptosis-related lncRNAs. Finally, we detected the expression levels of ferroptosis-related lncRNAs in clinical samples through quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assay (qRT-PCR). In conclusion, we identified the prognostic ferroptosis-related lncRNAs in LUAD and constructed a prognostic signature which provided a new strategy for the evaluation and prediction of prognosis in LUAD.
Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes Accelerate Functional Recovery After Spinal Cord Injury by Promoting the Phagocytosis of Macrophages to Clean Myelin Debris
Authors: Sheng Xiaolong , Zhao Jinyun , Li Miao , Xu Yan , Zhou Yi , Xu Jiaqi , He Rundong , Lu Hongbin , Wu Tianding , Duan Chunyue , Cao Yong , Hu Jianzhong
Published: November 2021

Macrophage phagocytosis contributes predominantly to processing central nervous system (CNS) debris and further facilitates neurological function restoration after CNS injury. The aims of this study were to evaluate the effect of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSC)-derived exosomes (BMSC-Exos) on the phagocytic capability of macrophages to clear myelin debris and to investigate the underlying molecular mechanism during the spinal cord injury (SCI) process. This work reveals that monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) infiltrating into the SCI site could efficiently engulf myelin debris and process phagocytic material. However, the phagocytic ability of macrophages to clear tissue debris is compromised after SCI. The administration of BMSC-Exos as an approach for SCI treatment could rescue macrophage normal function by improving the phagocytic capability of myelin debris internalization, which is beneficial for SCI repair, as evidenced by better axon regrowth and increased hindlimb locomotor functional recovery in a rodent model. Examination of macrophage treatment with BMSC-Exos revealed that BMSC-Exos could promote the capacity of macrophages to phagocytose myelin debris in vitro and could create a regenerative microenvironment for axon regrowth. In addition, we confirmed that BMSC-Exo treatment resulted in improved phagocytosis of engulfed myelin debris by promoting the expression of macrophage receptor with collagenous structure (MARCO) in macrophages. The inhibition of MARCO with PolyG (a MARCO antagonist) impaired the effect of BMSC-Exos on the phagocytic capacity of macrophages and resulted in compromised myelin clearance at the lesion site, leading to further tissue damage and impaired functional healing after SCI. In conclusion, these data indicated that targeting the phagocytic ability of macrophages may have therapeutic potential for the improvement in functional healing after SCI. The administration of BMSC-Exos as a cell-free immune therapy strategy has wide application prospects for SCI treatment.
PPy@Fe3O4 Nanoparticles Inhibit Tumor Growth and Metastasis Through Chemodynamic and Photothermal Therapy in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Fang Danruo , Jin Hansong , Huang Xiulin , Shi Yongxin , Liu Zeyu , Ben Suqin
Published: November 2021

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is considered to be a principal cause of cancer death across the world, and nanomedicine has provided promising alternatives for the treatment of NSCLC in recent years. Photothermal therapy (PTT) and chemodynamic therapy (CDT) have represented novel therapeutic modalities for cancer treatment with excellent performance. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the effects of PPy@Fe3O4 nanoparticles (NPs) on inhibiting growth and metastasis of NSCLC by combination of PTT and CDT. In this study, we synthesized PPy@Fe3O4 NPs through a very facile electrostatic absorption method. And we detected reactive oxygen species production, cell apoptosis, migration and protein expression in different groups of A549 cells and established xenograft models to evaluate the effects of PPy@Fe3O4 NPs for inhibiting the growth of NSCLC. The results showed that the PPy@Fe3O4 NPs had negligible cytotoxicity and could efficiently inhibit the cell growth and metastasis of NSCLC in vitro. In addition, the PPy@Fe3O4 NPs decreased tumor volume and growth in vivo and endowed their excellent MRI capability of observing the location and size of tumor. To sum up, our study displayed that the PPy@Fe3O4 NPs had significant synergistic effects of PTT and CDT, and had good biocompatibility and safety in vivo and in vitro. The PPy@Fe3O4 NPs may be an effective drug platform for the treatment of NSCLC.
Aortic Stiffness: Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Relevant Biomarkers
Authors: Angoff Rebecca , Mosarla Ramya C. , Tsao Connie W.
Published: November 2021

Aortic stiffness (AoS) is a maladaptive response to hemodynamic stress and both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors, and elevated AoS increases afterload for the heart. AoS is a non-invasive marker of cardiovascular health and metabolic dysfunction. Implementing AoS as a diagnostic tool is challenging as it increases with age and varies amongst races. AoS is associated with lifestyle factors such as alcohol and smoking, as well as hypertension and comorbid conditions including metabolic syndrome and its components. Multiple studies have investigated various biomarkers associated with increased AoS, and this area is of particular interest given that these markers can highlight pathophysiologic pathways and specific therapeutic targets in the future. These biomarkers include those involved in the inflammatory cascade, anti-aging genes, and the renin-angiotensin aldosterone system. In the future, targeting AoS rather than blood pressure itself may be the key to improving vascular health and outcomes. In this review, we will discuss the current understanding of AoS, measurement of AoS and the challenges in interpretation, associated biomarkers, and possible therapeutic avenues for modulation of AoS.
Cardiomyocytes Cellular Phenotypes After Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Lodrini Alessandra Maria , Goumans Marie-José
Published: November 2021

Despite the increasing success of interventional coronary reperfusion strategies, mortality related to acute myocardial infarction (MI) is still substantial. MI is defined as sudden death of myocardial tissue caused by an ischemic episode. Ischaemia leads to adverse remodelling in the affected myocardium, inducing metabolic and ionic perturbations at a single cell level, ultimately leading to cell death. The adult mammalian heart has limited regenerative capacity to replace lost cells. Identifying and enhancing physiological cardioprotective processes may be a promising therapy for patients with MI. Studies report an increasing amount of evidence stating the intricacy of the pathophysiology of the infarcted heart. Besides apoptosis, other cellular phenotypes have emerged as key players in the ischemic myocardium, in particular senescence, inflammation, and dedifferentiation. Furthermore, some cardiomyocytes in the infarct border zone uncouple from the surviving myocardium and dedifferentiate, while other cells become senescent in response to injury and start to produce a pro-inflammatory secretome. Enhancing electric coupling between cardiomyocytes in the border zone, eliminating senescent cells with senolytic compounds, and upregulating cardioprotective cellular processes like autophagy, may increase the number of functional cardiomyocytes and therefore enhance cardiac contractility. This review describes the different cellular phenotypes and pathways implicated in injury, remodelling, and regeneration of the myocardium after MI. Moreover, we discuss implications of the complex pathophysiological attributes of the infarcted heart in designing new therapeutic strategies.
The Pathogenic Role of Long Non-coding RNA H19 in Atherosclerosis via the miR-146a-5p/ANGPTL4 Pathway
Authors: Huang Shi-Feng , Zhao Guifang , Peng Xiao-Fei , Ye Wen-Chu
Published: November 2021

The abnormally expressed long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) H19 has a crucial function in the development and progression of cardiovascular disease; however, its role in atherosclerosis is yet to be known. We aimed to examine the impacts of lncRNA H19 on atherogenesis as well as the involved mechanism. The outcomes from this research illustrated that the expression of lncRNA H19 was elevated in mouse blood and aorta with lipid-loaded macrophages and atherosclerosis. Adeno-associated virus (AAV)-mediated lncRNA H19 overexpression significantly increased the atherosclerotic plaque area in apoE−/− mice supplied with a Western diet. The upregulation of lncRNA H19 decreased the miR-146a-5p expression but increased the levels of ANGPTL4 in mouse blood and aorta and THP-1 cells. Furthermore, lncRNA H19 overexpression promoted lipid accumulation in oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL)-induced THP-1 macrophages. However, the knockdown of lncRNA H19 served as a protection against atherosclerosis in apoE−/− mice and lowered the accumulation of lipids in ox-LDL-induced THP-1 macrophages. lncRNA H19 promoted the expression of ANGPTL4 via competitively binding to miR-146a-5p, thus promoting lipid accumulation in atherosclerosis. These findings altogether demonstrated that lncRNA H19 facilitated the accumulation of lipid in macrophages and aggravated the progression of atherosclerosis through the miR-146a-5p/ANGPTL4 pathway. Targeting lncRNA H19 might be an auspicious therapeutic approach for preventing and treating atherosclerotic disease.
The Sub-Daily Variability of Aerosol Loading and Associated Radiative Forcing Over the Indian Region
Authors: Mukherjee T. , Vinoj V.
Published: November 2021

The sub-daily variability of aerosols affects the estimates of daily mean aerosol loading. However, large spatial scale estimates of their climate effects are mostly based on snapshots from low orbit satellites that may bias the mean estimate for daily, monthly, or annual timescales. In this study, an attempt is made to estimate the magnitude of such bias based on ground and satellite-based datasets. Using ground-based measurements, we show an apparent asymmetry (of the order of 10–50%) in the sub-daily variability of aerosol loading over the Indian region. For the first time, it is reported that this sub-daily variability has a spatial pattern with an increasing amplitude toward the east of the subcontinent. We also find this variability in aerosol loading is well-captured by the satellites but with a lower amplitude. Our study shows that such differences could alter the annual surface radiative forcing estimates by more than ∼15 W m−2 over this region. We find that NASA’s Modern-Era Retrospective analysis for Research and Applications version 2 (MERRA-2), a state-of-the-art model-based chemical reanalysis, is unable to capture these sub-daily variabilities. This implies that both model and satellite-based radiative forcing estimates for large spatial scales should improve aerosol sub-daily information/variabilities for obtaining reliable radiative forcing estimates.
Lithofacies Architecture and Distribution Patterns of Lacustrine Mixed Fine-Grained Rocks —a Case Study of Permian Lucaogou Formation in Jimsar Sag, NW China
Authors: Yin Senlin , Zhu Baiyu , Wu Youxin , Xu Feng
Published: November 2021

As the controlling effect of complex lithofacies of lacustrine mixed fine-grained rocks on the shale oil sweet spot remains unclear, core, outcrop, general logging, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) logging, testing, and production data were used to study the types, combination pattern, and genesis of lithofacies architectures of lacustrine mixed fine-grained rocks in the study area by lithofacies hierarchy analysis, X-ray fluorescence (XRF) logging, UAV, and 3D geological modeling. The research shows that: 1) According to lithology and sedimentary structure, the mixed fine-grained rocks can be divided into 13 lithofacies types of different origins in 5 sub-categories and 2 categories. 2) UAV photography was combined with a traditional field survey to characterize the 3D spatial distribution of lithofacies architecture of the Lucaogou Formation on the outcrop, and it is found that the lithofacies architecture patterns of mixed fine-grained rocks include three types: gradual change type, abrupt change type, and special type. The gradual change type with higher sand development degree and symmetrical lithofacies architecture has a high quality reservoir with dissolution pores, and is mixed beach-bar sand in the mixed zone. It is high in development degree and often appears as several similar cycles stacking over each other. The abrupt change type can be subdivided into two sub-types, asymmetric and smaller in reservoir thickness. It is very high in development degree and often comes in several similar cycles. The special type belongs to thick clastic rock relatively independent in the mixed fine-grained rocks with a high development degree of sand. The sand is a higher quality reservoir with properties of tight reservoir. It often appears as stacking of single cycle sand. 3) The different lithofacies architectures in the mixed fine-grained rocks have significant differences in distribution. The gradual change type is mainly composed of mudstone, dolomitic siltstone, and sandy dolomite, dolomitic siltstone, and mudstone, and appears in lenticular shape overlapping with each other on the plane. The abrupt change type is made up of felsic siltstone, dolomitic siltstone, sandy dolomite, and mudstone, and appears as isolated thin layers on the plane. The special type is mainly composed of mudstone and felsic siltstone, and mudstone, and turns up as lenses of different sizes on the plane.
Here’s the TRIQ: The Tromsø Interest Questionnaire Based on the Four-Phase Model of Interest Development
Authors: Dahl Tove I. , Nierenberg Ellen
Published: November 2021

The Tromsø Interest Questionnaire (TRIQ) is the first suite of self-report subscales designed for focused investigations on how interest is experienced in relation to Hidi and Renninger’s four-phase model of interest development. In response to the plethora of varied interest measures that already exist in terms of theoretical grounding, form, and tested quality, the TRIQ subscales were designed with a consistent form to measure general interest, situation dependence, positive affect, competence level, competence aspirations, meaningfulness, and self-regulation answered in relation to some object of interest. Two studies testing the subscales’ performance using different objects of interest (self-chosen “object-general,” and prespecified “object-specific”) provide evidence of the subscales’ internal consistency, temporal reliability, and phase-distinguishing validity. Patterns across the two studies demonstrate that the TRIQ is a sufficiently reliable and valid domain-tailorable tool that is particularly effective at distinguishing phase 1 (triggered situational) from phase 4 (well-developed individual) interest. The findings raise interesting questions for further investigation about the distinction and distance between all interest phases, the push-pull factors that influence how interests evolve and additional subscales to add to the suite.
Autonomic Imbalance Increases the Risk for Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Jung Inha , Lee Da Young , Lee Mi Yeon , Kwon Hyemi , Rhee Eun-Jung , Park Cheol-Young , Oh Ki-Won , Lee Won-Young , Park Sung-Woo , Park Se Eun
Published: November 2021

Background

Although autonomic imbalance is associated with an increased risk for metabolic disease, its effects on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) remains unclear. We aimed to evaluate whether autonomic dysfunction predicts the risk for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Methods

A total of 33,899 participants without NAFLD who underwent health screening programs between 2011 and 2018 were enrolled. NAFLD was identified by ultrasonography. Autonomic activity was estimated using heart rate variability (HRV). Time domain [standard deviation of the normal-to-normal interval (SDNN) and root mean square difference (RMSSD)]; frequency domain [total power (TP), low frequency (LF), and high frequency (HF), and LF/HF ratio were analyzed.

Findings

A total 6,466 participants developed NAFLD within a median of 5.7 years. Subjects with incident NAFLD showed decreased overall autonomic modulation and vagal activity with lowered SDNN, RMSSD, HF, normalized HF, compared to those without NAFLD. As the SDNN, RMSSD, TP, LF, and HF tertiles increased, the risk of NAFLD decreased with tertile 1 being the reference group [the hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) of tertile 3 were 0.90 (0.85–0.96), 0.83 (0.78–0.88), 0.91 (0.86-0.97), 0.93 (0.87-0.99) and 0.89 (0.83-0.94), respectively] after adjusting for potential confounders. The risk for NAFLD was significantly higher in subjects in whom sustained elevated heart rate, normalized LF, and LF/HF ratio values than in those with sustained decrease in these parameters during follow-up.

Conclusions

Overall autonomic imbalance, decreased parasympathetic activity, and recently increased sympathetic activity might increase the risk of NAFLD.
Preference of Women for Gestational Diabetes Screening Method According to Tolerance of Tests and Population Characteristics
Authors: Raets Lore , Vandewinkel Marie , Van Crombrugge Paul , Moyson Carolien , Verhaeghe Johan , Vandeginste Sofie , Verlaenen Hilde , Vercammen Chris , Maes Toon , Dufraimont Els , Roggen Nele , De Block Christophe , Jacquemyn Yves , Mekahli Farah , De Clippel Katrien , Van Den Bruel Annick , Loccufier Anne , Laenen Annouschka , Devlieger Roland , Mathieu Chantal , Benhalima Katrien
Published: November 2021

Aims

To determine the preferred method of screening for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

Methods

1804 women from a prospective study (NCT02036619) received a glucose challenge test (GCT) and 75g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) between 24-28 weeks. Tolerance of screening tests and preference for screening strategy (two-step screening strategy with GCT compared to one-step screening strategy with OGTT) were evaluated by a self-designed questionnaire at the time of the GCT and OGTT.

Results

Compared to women who preferred one-step screening [26.2% (472)], women who preferred two-step screening [46.3% (834)] were less often from a minor ethnic background [6.0% (50) vs. 10.7% (50), p=0.003], had less often a previous history of GDM [7.3% (29) vs. 13.8% (32), p=0.008], were less often overweight or obese [respectively 23.1% (50) vs. 24.8% (116), p<0.001 and 7.9% (66) vs. 18.2% (85), p<0.001], were less insulin resistant in early pregnancy (HOMA-IR 8.9 (6.4-12.3) vs. 9.9 (7.2-14.2), p<0.001], and pregnancy outcomes were similar except for fewer labor inductions and emergency cesarean sections [respectively 26.6% (198) vs. 32.5% (137), p=0.031 and 8.2% (68) vs. 13.0% (61), p=0.005]. Women who preferred two-step screening had more often complaints of the OGTT compared to women who preferred one-step screening [50.4% (420) vs. 40.3% (190), p<0.001].

Conclusions

A two-step GDM screening involving a GCT and subsequent OGTT is the preferred GDM screening strategy. Women with a more adverse metabolic profile preferred one-step screening with OGTT while women preferring two-step screening had a better metabolic profile and more discomfort of the OGTT. The preference for the GDM screening method is in line with the recommended Flemish modified two-step screening method, in which women at higher risk for GDM are recommended a one-step screening strategy with an OGTT, while women without these risk factors, are offered a two-step screening strategy with GCT.

Clinical Trial Registration

NCT02036619 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02036619
Research on the Percolation Mechanism of Perturbation Under Simultaneous Fracturing in Shale Reservoirs
Authors: He Jie , Niu Xiaobing , Meng Qingchun , Guo Fajun , Wang Hongmei , Liu Yicang , Wang Lianguo , Kang Yongmei , Hu Kelai , Zhu Yushuang
Published: November 2021

Compared with conventional reservoirs, shale gas reservoirs usually have no natural productivity or lower productivity, and the rate of production decline is high in the later stage. The production of shale gas can be effectively improved by designing reasonably or fracturing. Therefore, it is critical for shale gas reservoir to study how to design proper parameters to make it effectively developed. Based on data of block-A region of the Zhejiang gas field, considering the contribution of rock compression to the production, the productivity formula of horizontal well at different seepage stages is deduced. Data from block-A are verified by orthogonal experiment, including gas reservoir parameters and engineering parameters. The results show that the order of reservoir parameters that affect the development of shale gas is as follows: Langmuir pressure, diffusion coefficient, cross flow coefficient, and Langmuir volume; the order of engineering parameters that affect the development of shale gas is as follows: number of fractures, horizontal section length, production pressure, fractures length, row spacing, and well spacing. The research results have been applied to the Zhejiang gas field. The initial rate of decline after adjustment is reduced by 26.08% and production increases by 17.06% after stabilization compared to wells without adjustment parameters. The research has important reference significance for the efficient development of similar gas reservoirs.
Patterns of Benthic Communities in Arctic Fjords (Novaya Zemlya Archipelago, Kara Sea): Resilience vs. Fragility
Authors: Udalov Alexey , Chikina Margarita , Chava Alexandra , Vedenin Andrey , Shchuka Sergey , Mokievsky Vadim
Published: November 2021

Despite a large number of studies, a detailed overall picture of benthic communities zonation in the Arctic fjords is currently lacking. Our study aimed to find out whether there is a universal model for the distribution of benthic communities based on the structural features of the fjords. We examined benthic macrofaunal communities in fjords with various environmental settings on the eastern coast of Novaya Zemlya Archipelago, Kara Sea. The material was collected during five cruises undertaken from 2013 to 2016. A total of 50 stations located in the five fjords were taken. In all five fjords, macrofauna had a similar composition assembled from a regional species pool, with a predominance of species tolerant to glacial sedimentation and fluctuations in temperature and salinity. Benthic communities changed consistently along the axis of the bay from the outer slope to the inner parts. Biodiversity and quantitative characteristics of the macrofauna decreased along the environmental gradient related to terrigenous and glacial runoff, consistent with patterns reported in other studies of Arctic glacial fjords. The most impoverished communities were dominated by bivalvePortlandia arcticaand isopodSaduria sabini. At the same time, fjord walls and sills, characterized by low sedimentation rates, strong currents and the presence of ice-rafted debris, were inhabited by patchy distributed benthic communities dominated by species confined to hard substrates. In general, the distribution of communities corresponded to five zones: depleted inner periglacial areas, the upper subtidal belt with stony substrates, deep inner semi-isolated basin, outer non-isolated basins and upper slope transitioning to lower slope. Our study can provide a reference point for monitoring changes in fjord ecosystems in response to climate change and the potential impact of human activities.
Complement Factor H-Related 3 Enhanced Inflammation and Complement Activation in Human RPE Cells
Authors: Schäfer Nicole , Rasras Anas , Ormenisan Delia M. , Amslinger Sabine , Enzmann Volker , Jägle Herbert , Pauly Diana
Published: November 2021

Complement Factor H-Related 3 (FHR-3) is a major regulator of the complement system, which is associated with different diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). However, the non-canonical local, cellular functions of FHR-3 remained poorly understood. Here, we report that FHR-3 bound to oxidative stress epitopes and competed with FH for interaction. Furthermore, FHR-3 was internalized by viable RPE cells and modulated time-dependently complement component (C3, FB) and receptor (C3aR, CR3) expression of human RPE cells. Independently of any external blood-derived proteins, complement activation products were detected. Anaphylatoxin C3a was visualized in treated cells and showed a translocation from the cytoplasm to the cell membrane after FHR-3 exposure. Subsequently, FHR-3 induced a RPE cell dependent pro-inflammatory microenvironment. Inflammasome NLRP3 activation and pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion of IL-1ß, IL-18, IL-6 and TNF-α were induced after FHR-3-RPE interaction. Our previously published monoclonal anti-FHR-3 antibody, which was chimerized to reduce immunogenicity, RETC-2-ximab, ameliorated the effect of FHR-3 on ARPE-19 cells. Our studies suggest FHR-3 as an exogenous trigger molecule for the RPE cell “complosome” and as a putative target for a therapeutic approach for associated degenerative diseases.
SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Pregnancy: Clinical Signs, Placental Pathology, and Neonatal Outcome—Implications for Clinical Care
Authors: Moresi Sascia , Dell'Aquila Marco , Salvi Silvia , Rullo Roberta , Fruci Stefano , Stollagli Francesca , Arena Vincenzo , Lanzone Antonio
Published: November 2021

Introduction: The current COVID-19 pandemic has been associated with high rates of mortality and significant morbidity. Both the risk of infection for pregnant women and the risk of vertical transmission have been evaluated, and the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus has been demonstrated both in the placenta and in the amniochorionic membranes. However, the actual effects of this pathogen on pregnancy and on placental morphology are still unclear.

Objective: To describe histopathologic findings in the placentas of women with SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy and their correlation with clinical signs and perinatal outcome.

Methods: Placental tissues from pregnant women with SARS-CoV-2 infection delivering between March 2020 and February 2021 were analyzed.

Results: One hundred six placentas from women with SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy who delivered in Fondazione Policlinico A. Gemelli were examined. Most of them were asymptomatic. All neonates had available test results for SARS-CoV-2 and only one resulted positive. Placental tissues mainly showed signs of maternal vascular malperfusion and of placenta injury in terms of syncytial node increase (96.2%), villar agglutination (77.3%), neointimal hyperplasia (76.4%), excessive fibrin deposition (43.3%), and chorangiosis (35.8%). No significant differences in the frequency of the histopathological lesions were observed according to maternal symptoms.

Conclusion: Looking to placental tissues from SARS-CoV-2 positive women at the screening performed close to delivery, placental injuries could be detected without any correlation with fetal and neonatal outcomes. We hypothesize that short latency between SARS-CoV-2 infection and delivery is the main reason for these observations.
Bone Marrow-Resident Vδ1 T Cells Co-express TIGIT With PD-1, TIM-3 or CD39 in AML and Myeloma
Authors: Brauneck Franziska , Weimer Pauline , Schulze zur Wiesch Julian , Weisel Katja , Leypoldt Lisa , Vohwinkel Gabi , Fritzsche Britta , Bokemeyer Carsten , Wellbrock Jasmin , Fiedler Walter
Published: November 2021

Background: γδ T cells represent a unique T cell subpopulation due to their ability to recognize cancer cells in a T cell receptor- (TCR) dependent manner, but also in a non-major histocompatibility complex- (MHC) restricted way via natural killer receptors (NKRs). Endowed with these features, they represent attractive effectors for immuno-therapeutic strategies with a better safety profile and a more favorable anti-tumor efficacy in comparison to conventional αβ T cells. Also, remarkable progress has been achieved re-activating exhausted T lymphocytes with inhibitors of co-regulatory receptors e.g., programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1), T cell immunoreceptor with Ig and ITIM domains (TIGIT) and of the adenosine pathway (CD39, CD73). Regarding γδ T cells, little evidence is available. This study aimed to immunophenotypically characterize γδ T cells from patients with diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in comparison to patients with multiple myeloma (MM) and healthy donors (HD).

Methods: The frequency, differentiation, activation, and exhaustion status of bone marrow- (BM) derived γδ T cells from patients with AML (n = 10) and MM (n = 11) were assessed in comparison to corresponding CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and peripheral blood- (PB) derived γδ T cells from HDs (n = 16) using multiparameter flow cytometry.

Results: BM-infiltrating Vδ1 T cells showed an increased terminally differentiated cell population (TEMRAs) in AML and MM in comparison to HDs with an aberrant subpopulation of CD27−CD45RA++ cells. TIGIT, PD-1, TIM-3, and CD39 were more frequently expressed by γδ T cells in comparison to the corresponding CD4+ T cell population, with expression levels that were similar to that on CD8+ effector cells in both hematologic malignancies. In comparison to Vδ2 T cells, the increased frequency of PD-1+-, TIGIT+-, TIM-3+, and CD39+ cells was specifically observed on Vδ1 T cells and related to the TEMRA Vδ1 population with a significant co-expression of PD-1 and TIM-3 together with TIGIT.

Conclusion: Our results revealed that BM-resident γδ T cells in AML and MM express TIGIT, PD-1, TIM-3 and CD39. As effector population for autologous and allogeneic strategies, inhibition of co-inhibitory receptors on especially Vδ1 γδ T cells may lead to re-invigoration that could further increase their cytotoxic potential.
Systemic Therapy for Microsatellite Instability Small Bowel Adenocarcinoma With Mesenteric Vascular Embolism as Initial Symptom: A Case Report
Authors: Dong Zhongyi , Xia Xiang , Zhang Zizhen
Published: November 2021

Background: Small bowel adenocarcinoma are relatively rare tumors of the digestive system. Due to the lack of specific screening methods, patients are often diagnosed at an advanced stage. At present, there is no specific surgical guidance and chemotherapy regimen for small bowel adenocarcinoma. Here, we report a rare small bowel adenocarcinoma case with mesenteric vascular embolization and microsatellite instability, in which palliative surgery combined with chemotherapy and anti-Programmed cell death protein 1(PD-1) therapy resulted in complete remission.

Case Presentation: The patient was a 55-year-old man who was admitted for suspected small bowel adenocarcinoma combined with incomplete ileus, mesenteric vascular occlusion and distant metastasis. We performed palliative surgery to remove adenocarcinoma as well as relieve obstruction. Then according to the pathological and immunohistochemical results (Stage IV and microsatellite instability), we used XELOX regimen combined with anti-PD-1 therapy. In last 2 years follow up, this patient achieved complete remission.

Conclusions: The possibility of small intestinal tumor should be considered in patients with mesenteric vascular obstruction. PD-1 blockade is an effective therapy for small bowel adenocarcinoma with microsatellite instability.