bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Post-Operative Radiotherapy With Survival in Resected N2 Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients with Chemotherapy
Authors: Zeng Yuan , Liu Jun , Wan Minghui , Li Qiwen , Liu Hui , Cui Fei , Hao Zhexue , Wang Wei , Jiang Long , Liang Wenhua , He Jianxing
Published: July 2021

BackgroupThe current staging system for completely resected pathologic N2 non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with chemotherapy is not suitable for predicting those patients most likely to benefit or not from post-operative radiotherapy (PORT). This study aimed to construct a survival prediction model that will enable individualized predictions of the net survival difference of PORT.MethodsA total of 3094 cases between 2002 and 2014 were extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results databases. Patient characteristics were included as covariates, and their association for overall survival (OS) with and witout PORT was assessed. Externally validate data of 602 patients were included from China.ResultsAge, gender, examined lymph node, positive lymph node, tumor size, extent of surgery, and visceral pleural invasion were significantly associated with OS (P < .05). The two nomograms were developed based on clinical variables to estimate an individual's net survival difference attributable to PORT. The calibration curve for OS showed great agreement between prediction by survival prediction model and actual observation. In the training cohort, the C-index for OS was 0.619 (95% CI, 0.598-0.641) in the PORT group and 0.627 (95% CI, 0.605-0.648) in the non-PORT group. We found that PORT could improve OS (HR, 0.861; P = 0.044) for patients with a positive PORT net survival difference. Conclusions﻿We established a practical survival prediction model that can be used to make individualized estimate of the net survival difference of PORT and without PORT in patients with completely resected N2 NSCLC, treated with chemotherapy.
Urosepsis secondary to ureterosciatic hernia corrected with ureteral stent placement: A case report and literature review
Authors: Kakimoto Kohei , Hikone Mayu , Nagai Ko , Yamakawa Jun , Sugiyama Kazuhiro , Hamabe Yuichi
Published: July 2021

BackgroundUreterosciatic hernia is a rare type of pelvic floor herniation that occurs through the sciatic foramen. The resulting ureteral obstruction may lead to hydronephrosis and to further complications including urinary tract infection and urosepsis. There have been 30 reported cases of ureterosciatic hernia. Ureteral stenting and surgical repair have been used as treatment options.Case PresentationWe report the case of an 86-year-old woman who was transferred to our hospital with symptoms of fever and septic shock. Her computed tomography scan revealed left hydronephrosis and deviation of the left ureter into the sciatic foramen; she was therefore diagnosed with a left ureteral sciatic hernia, and admitted in our intensive care unit for further treatment with resuscitative fluids, vasopressors, and antibiotics. Following a retrograde insertion ureteral catheter insertion, ureteral incarceration was relieved, and a double-J ureteral stent was placed in situ. Antibiotic treatment was initiated, and the patient’s hemodynamic status gradually improved.ConclusionsAlthough ureterosciatic hernia is a rare disorder, it is associated with serious complications including urinary tract infection with sepsis, which may warrant urgent corrective procedure to relieve the structural obstruction. Treatment may be conservative or surgical, though treatment with ureteral stent placement may be a favorable approach in elderly patients with multiple comorbidities presenting with urosepsis.
Comparison of combined intraarticular (IA) and intravenous (IV) administration of tranexamic acid with IA and IV alone in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty without drainage catheter: a clinical trial study
Authors: Bagheri Nima , Amini Mohammad Amin , Pourahmad Arezu , Vosughi Farzad , Moharrami Alireza , Mortazavi Seyed Mohammad Javad
Published: July 2021

Purpose

we aim to determine the most effective route for TXA administration (among IA, IV, combined IA/IV) for TKA surgeries using tourniquet without drainage catheters
Methods

We performed a double-blinded clinical trial on a total of 147 TKA candidates. The amount of blood loss and hemoglobin drop were evaluated in three matched case groups administered TXA during the TKA either via IV, IA or IV plus IA route. Drainage catheter was used for none of the cases.
Results

The combined group showed an average blood loss of 630 ± 252 ml which was significantly lower than the IV group (878 ± 268 ml, P-value < 0.01) and the IA group (774 ± 288 ml, P-value = 0.03). Besides, the mean hemoglobin and hematocrit drop was significantly lower in the combined group compared to the other two groups, 48 and 72 hours postoperatively (P value < 0.05).
Conclusions

The TXA administration via IV plus IA route had 28% and 19% reduction of blood loss in comparison with using the TXA via IV alone and IA alone methods respectively. Therefore, given the surgery is performed with tourniquet application, TXA usage via IV plus IA route may be a more effective way for reducing the perioperative blood loss in TKA cases in patients undergoing TKA without drain placement.
Using the Winglet Toe and Twist Angle to Improve Wing Aerodynamics Performance
Authors: Al-Khafaji Ali Jabbar , Panatov Gennady S. , Boldyrev Anton S.
Published: July 2021

In this paper, we study the effect of winglet Toe & Twist angle on the wing of the aircraft aerodynamics performances and how to improve it, we analyze the aerodynamics properties of the wing with winglets with Cant angle 60o and winglet span = 3.5 m, we test wings with different toe angles (+10o, +5o, 0o, -5o, and -10o) and twisted angles (+5o, 0o, and +5o) and all model are tested for four Angle of attack AOA (0o, 3o, 6o, and 9o). Then calculate the value of L/D to decide which wing has a high value of lift and lower drag. All models of a wing (sixty models) are drawn for 3D using the SOLIDWORKS program where we used Boeing 737-800 wing dimensions. Then all models of a wing were analyzed using ANSYS FLUENT.
Platelet–Tumor Cell Hybrid Membrane-Camouflaged Nanoparticles for Enhancing Therapy Efficacy in Glioma
Authors: Wu Lingling , Li Qin , Deng Junjie , Xu Weide , Chen Bingyu , Du Yaoqiang , Zhang Wei , Ge Feihang , Lei Siyun , Shen Jinglan , Li Kaiqiang , Wang Zhen
Published: July 2021

Cell membrane-camouflaged nanoparticles are drawing increasing attention because their surfaces retain the natural functionalities of the cell plasma membranes, making them a unique class of biomimetic materials combining natural and synthetic components. Modifying the cell membranes or combining the functions of different types of membranes enhances their functionality. Herein, we prepared platelet and tumor cell membrane camouflaged antitumor nanoparticles. The effects of β-mangostin-loaded nanoparticles on the target and its anticancer action in glioma were measured in vitro and in vivo. Multifunctional nanoparticles were manufactured with platelet–C6 hybrid biomimetic coating (PCM), lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA), and β-mangostin. PCM increased the proportion of active drug targeting in C6 and immune escape characteristics in THP-1 cells, thus enhancing the cytotoxicity of β-PCNPs. The β-PCNPs were comprehensively characterized to study the inherent properties of both source cells. Compared with bare β-NPs, β-PCNPs exhibited high tumor-targeting ability and induced apoptosis of C6 cells in vitro. Mice experiments with intravenous administration of the drug revealed that the β-PCNP platform enhanced the tumor targeting capability and exhibited excellent chemotherapy with high inhibition rate of glioma tumor growth in vivo. The mice in the β-PCNP group had a markedly prolonged circulation lifetime and exhibited better outcome than those in the β-NP group. These results provide a new strategy of utilizing PCNPs as carriers for drug delivery, which improves the targeting efficiency and therapeutic efficacy of chemotherapeutic agents for glioma therapy.
Molecular Dynamics Modeling of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein at PH2 Through PH11.5
Authors: Niu Ziyuan , Zhang Peng , Rafailovich Miriam , Simon Marcia , Song Meichen , Deng Yuefan
Published: July 2021

The spike glycoprotein (S protein) of the SARS-CoV-2 that has be studied extensively in vitro is modeled by all-atom molecular dynamics for its conformational states at six pH values ranging from 2 to 11.5. The MD simulations up to 3.7 T demonstrate interesting discoveries while confirming known facts. (1). At pH2, the protein’s time averaged RMSD is 62.5% higher than that of pH7, as the control group, and the receptor binding domain (RBD) deviates from that of pH7 by 200%. (2). For pH4 through pH10.5, the S protein remains relatively stable evident by the invariance of the side chain H bond counts and RMSD from pH7, suggesting high tolerance of the S protein to a wide range of pH values other than the extreme acidic and basic conditions. (3). For pH2 to pH4, the structure of the S protein alters significantly, suggesting the existence of a critical pH value at which the S protein responds to acid sharply. (4). In the residue-based relative entropy analysis, we identify several RBM and RBD residue clusters with maximum deviations that cause the overall protein structure changes.
Optimal Liquid Spawn Conditions and Grain Medium Enhanced Hispidin Production by Phellinus linteus in Solid-State Fermentation
Authors: Liang Chih-Hung , Wu Chiu-Yeh , Ou Chin-Hao , Liang Zeng-Chin
Published: July 2021

This study aimed to screen a highest hispidin production of strain from 12 strains of Phellinus, and to evaluate the effects of liquid spawn conditions and grain medium on this strain’s hispidin production levels after solid-state fermentation. Results showed that the P. linteus 04 led to the highest hispidin production, this strain was then selected to elucidate the optimal liquid spawn conditions and grain medium for hispidin production. Various liquid spawn conditions were evaluated, and the highest hispidin yield, specific productivity of hispidin, and total content of hispidin were found to be optimal at 1 week of liquid spawn age, cultured with potato dextrose borth, and using 10 % inoculum rate, with each condition resulting to 0.350, 0.325, and 0.328 mg/g dry weight of mycelium, 0.352, 0.251, and 0.249 µg/mg week− 1 specific productivity, 57.90, 60.23, and 61.77 mg/kg dry weight of brown rice medium, respectively. These liquid spawn conditions were then used to determine the appropriate grain medium for hispidin production. The highest hispidin yield and total content of hispidin were observed in pearl barley which resulted in 1.107 mg/g dry weight of mycelium and 199.76 mg/kg dry weight of pearl barley, which led to results that were 4.73-fold and 5.35-fold higher than those of control (brown rice medium). Overall, this study shows that P. linteus hispidin production can be enhanced by solid-state fermentation using optimal liquid spawn conditions and the appropriate grain medium.
Systematic Analysis of Sugar Unloading And Accumulation Mechanism In Sucrose- And Hexose- Accumulating Tomato Fruits
Authors: Sun Lulu , Wang Jianli , Song Jian , Du Xueni , Liu Wenke , Zhao Wenchao , Yang Liu , Li Changbao , Qin Yong , Yang Rui
Published: July 2021

Sugar is the key factor in the formation of fruit quality. Hexose is the main form of sugar accumulated in ordinary cultivated tomatoes, while a small number of wild-type tomato varieties can also accumulate sucrose. Although several studies have focused on wild sucrose-accumulating tomatoes, the sugar accumulation mechanism in tomato is still unclear. Here, two cherry tomatoes lines that accumulated sucrose and hexose respectively were selected to analyze the assimilates unloading pathway and sugar accumulation mechanism using CF tracing, cytological observation, proteomics methods, etc. The results indicated that the later stages of fruit development were key stages for sugar accumulation, and sucrose-accumulating (S) cherry tomatoes had higher sucrose contents in the fruits, while hexose-accumulating (H) cherry tomatoes accumulated more glucose, fructose and starch. The unloading pathway of assimilates in the S cherry tomato was switched from apoplastic to symplastic during fruit development, and the opposite was true in the H type. Plasmodesmata transport may be the main means of sucrose accumulation and high activity or expression levels of acid invertase (AI) and SUT1 may be important factors in hexose accumulation in H and S cherry tomatoes, respectively. In addition to sugar metabolism, photosynthesis, fatty acid metabolism and other secondary metabolism pathways also play important roles in sugar accumulation. This study provides detailed evidence for the tomato sugar accumulation mechanism from the perspective of cell structure, physiology and molecular biology, providing a theoretical basis for the improvement of tomato quality and aiding the utilization of tomato genetic resources.
Factors Affecting the Outcome of Lower Extremity Osteomyelitis Treated With Microvascular Free Flaps: An Analysis of 65 Patients
Authors: Thai Duy Quang , Jung Yeon Kyo , Hahn Hyung Min , Lee Il Jae
Published: July 2021

Background: Free flaps have been a useful modality in the management of lower extremity osteomyelitis particularly in limb salvage. This study aimed to determine the factors affecting the outcome of free flap reconstruction in the treatment of osteomyelitis.Methods: This retrospective study assessed 65 osteomyelitis patients treated with free flap transfer from 2015 to 2020. The treatment outcomes were evaluated in term of the flap survival rate, recurrence rate of osteomyelitis, and amputation rate. The correlation between outcomes and comorbidities, causes of osteomyelitis, and treatment modalities was analyzed. The following factors were considered: smoking, peripheral artery occlusive disease, renal disease, diabetic foot ulcer, flap types, using antibiotic beads and negative pressure wound therapy. Result: Among the 65 patients, 21 had severe peripheral arterial occlusive disease. Osteomyelitis developed from diabetic foot ulcers in 28 patients. Total flap failure was noted in six patients, and osteomyelitis recurrence was noted in eight patients, for which two patients underwent amputation surgery during the follow-up period. Only end-stage renal disease had a significant correlation with the recurrence rate (odds ratio = 16.5, p = 0.011). There was no significant relationship between outcomes and the other factors. Conclusion: This study showed that free flaps could be safely used for the treatment of osteomyelitis in patients with comorbidities and those who had osteomyelitis developing from diabetic foot ulcers. However, care should be taken in patients diagnosed with end-stage renal disease.
Power to Gas Plant Design, Modelling and Control for Precise and Flexible Methane Production
Authors: Šundrica Marijo , Vašak Mario , Maroušek Joseph , Bieringer Tim
Published: July 2021

Production of green electrical energy and green natural gas are the main goals of zero-carbon emission policy. Power to Gas plants (P2G) can be used to overcome difficulties with increase in intermittent renewable energy production, gas shortages and organic waste management. In this paper, a design, a model, and a control system for a Power to Gas plant is proposed. To achieve a high performance P2G plant, its design is based on biochar gasification and biological methanation processes. With the given mathematical models of electrolysis, gasification and methanation, calculation of needed feedstock and energy consumption as well as calculation of produced methane becomes easy obtainable. Proposed control system enables to precisely follow frequent operation change requests due to dynamical conditions in leaned electricity or gas grids. Simulation study of the automated plant operation using Matlab/Simulink has been done. This research gives all prerequisites for optimal sizing and planning of the P2G plant operation in dynamic technical and economic conditions.
Official Development Aid: Plaster in A Wound? Evidence Using Data From Ethiopia
Authors: Meaza Cherkos
Published: July 2021

The flow of aid to developing countries has increased massively and they receive billions of dollars per year in the form of aid from bilateral and multilateral donors. However, the economic growth achieved by many developing countries, in general, has not been satisfactory. Poverty is still there and resulted in a custom of aid dependence and foster the opportunity for the corrupted political leader. The conclusion on aid effectiveness is doubtful among economists, found to be inconclusive.This paper intends to see how the Ethiopian economy is reacting to the flow of foreign aid coming from the rest of the world viz-a-viz the current most prestigious and influential arguments against and pro-effectiveness of aid. A time series on important parameters extending from 1981 to the most current 2017 is used and an econometrics technique ECM is employed to examine the short-run dynamics and long-run relationship among the variables.The result of the short-run dynamics showed that aid has a negative and statistically significant impact on economic growth. However, the impacts turn to be positive in the long run. economic growth measured by the real GDP adjusts to its long-run equilibrium with an average speed of about 25.7 percent annually and it will roughly take it about 4 years to restore to equilibrium, ceteris paribus.
Organic carbon content in grassland soil in Poland
Authors: Pietrzak Stefan , Hołaj-Krzak Jakub
Published: July 2021

The aim of the study is to evaluate the content of organic carbon (Corg) in the soils of Polish grasslands (GL). The Tiurin's method (mineral soils) and the mass loss method (soil of organic origin) were used. It was found that: /i/ the average Corg content of mineral soils is 2.44% and of organic soils – 10.42%; /ii/ according to the Polish criteria, about 84% of GL mineral soils are classified as classes with high and very high Corg content, and over 15% and 1% – in classes with medium and low Corg content, respectively; more than 99% of organic soils belong to two classes with the highest Corg content and less than 1% to the class with an average content; /iii/ according to the European Soil Bureau, the share of GL mineral soils with a high Corg content is slightly over 4%, medium – slightly over 47%, and low and very low – around 50%; for organic soils they are 67%, 29%, and 4%, respectively; /iv/ the reserves of organic carbon in the 0–30 cm layer on the entire surface of GL soils amount to 412.7 million tons of Corg. There are opportunities to increase the Corg stock in meadow soils.
Intermediate Physical State of Gel And LC In Cellulose Solution And Its Synergetic Effects
Authors: Kim Taeho , Song Younghan , Ahn Jungbin , Kim Minhyung , Kim Hyungsup
Published: July 2021

In this study, the physical state of cellulose in solution was analyzed via rheological observations under three different conditions, i.e. steady state, small amplitude oscillatory shear, and large amplitude oscillatory shear conditions. The physical states of the solution were changed from isotropic phase to gel structure via liquid crystalline (LC) phase as the concentration increased. The rheological analysis showed that the solution of 16 wt% was physically gelled at the anisotropic phase. This instantaneous gelation at the LC phase dramatically enhanced the mechanical performance of the film obtained from the solution. The study provides a fundamental strategy for the huge improvement of the mechanical properties of the cellulose fibers or films.
Combined Rg1 and adipose-derived stem cells Alleviate DSS-induced colitis in a mouse model
Authors: Zhang Rui , Zhang Qingqing , Chen Yanni , Zhao Qing , Zhang Bo , Wang Ling , Zhou Chungen , Zhang Qi , Chen Kun , Zhang Yuqing , Hou Xiaotao , Chen Hao , Liu Xingyin , Ni Min , Jiang Bin
Published: July 2021

Background

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis are chronic inflammatory disorders that can affect the entire gastrointestinal tract and the colonic mucosa, no medical or surgical cure for IBD, and all have side effects that limit their use, exhibit a high necessity for new therapeutic strategies. Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSC) therapy represents a promising option for the treatment of IBD. Rg1 Previous study indicated that ginsenoside (Rg1) can ameliorate inflammatory disease such as colitis by inhibiting the binding of LPS to TLR4 on macrophages and restoring the Th17/Treg imbalance [1]. In this study, we investigated whether Rg1 can enhance the effect of ADSC on DSS-induced colitis in a mouse model.
Methods

Mice with dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis were injected intravenously with ADSC and administered with Rg1 by gavage. Body weight change, colon length, H&E staining were used to evaluate colon inflammation severity in a DSS-induced colitis Serum were collected for Cytokine detection by ELISA. The proportion and FMI of immune cells in spleen were analyzed by flow cytometry. Stool DNA was extracted for 16S rRNA gene sequencing.
Results

Rg1 and ADSC showed significantly ameliorated colon inflammation, such as body weight loss, shortening of colon length, histology score. Rg1 and ADSC treatment downregulated the level of proinflammatory cytokines, including IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-4 and IL-17A and upregulated the immunosuppressive cytokine IL-10 in serum. We observed that the structure of the microbial community in Rg1 + ADSC group were significantly changed compared to that of ADSC and Rg1 groups, respectively. Additionally, Rg1 and ADSC treated selectively upregulated the percentage of spleen regulatory T (Treg) cells as well as downregulated the frequency of T helper type 17 (Th17) cells, ameliorating the Treg/Th17 balance to maintain intestinal homeostasis. Furthermore, we found the combination of ADSC + Rg1 groups showed more efficiently than that of ADSC and Rg1 alone, respectively, which indicates that the regulation effect of Rg1 on gut microbiome may enhance the effects of ADSCs in restoring immune balance.
Conclusions

Our study indicated that the combination of Rg1 and ADSC can alleviate dextran sulfate sodium-induced colitis more efficiently than that of ADSC alone, Rg1 can enhance the effect of ADSC on DSS-induced colitis in a mouse model.
Evaluation of Intermediary and Mitochondrial Metabolic Responses to 4-nonylphenol in the Freshwater Fish, Labeo Rohita
Authors: S REMYA V , S RESHMI , S SHEHNA MAHIM , R ANJALI V , C ARUNA DEVI
Published: July 2021

4-Nonylphenol (4-NP) is a breakdown product of nonylphenol ethoxylate (NPE) and attains much concern because of its persistence and toxicity to aquatic organisms. 4-nonylphenol is a known endocrine disruptor and a legendary xenoestrogen. However, non-estrogenic impacts of 4-NP were scarcely studied in aquatic organisms. Hence, the present study evaluated the effects of sublethal concentrations of 4-NP (1.5, 2 and 2.5µl/l) on major carp, Labeo rohita in the intermediary and mitochondrial metabolism. Exposure to 4-NP shows significant changes in the activities of intermediary enzymes like glucose 6 phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, cytosolic malic enzyme and isocitrate dehydrogenase and mitochondrial enzymes like malate dehydrogenase, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide dehydrogenase, succinate dehydrogenase and cytochrome c oxidase when compared to the control (p<0.05). Therefore, the current study indicates that 4-NP at environment concentration impairs the activity of metabolic enzymes and thereby affects the tricarboxylic acid cycle and electron transport system. Alteration in the levels of these parameters can be effectively used to surveil the impact of 4-NP in energy production in aquatic environment.
Maternal Nematode Infection Upregulates Expression of Th2/Treg and Diapedesis Related Genes In The Neonatal Brain
Authors: Ahdab Nawal El , Haque Manjurul , Koski Kristine G. , Scott Marilyn E.
Published: July 2021

Intestinal nematode infections common during pregnancy have recently been shown to have impacts that extend to their uninfected offspring including altered brain gene expression. If maternal immune signals reach the neonatal brain, they might alter neuroimmune development. We explored expression of genes associated with four distinct types of T cells (Th1, Th2, Th17, Treg) and with leukocyte trans-endothelial migration and endocytosis transport across the blood-brain barrier (BBB) in the postnatal brain of offspring of nematode-infected mice, through secondary analysis of a whole brain gene expression database. Th1/Th17 expression was lowered by maternal infection as evidenced by down-regulated expression of IL-1β, Th1 receptors and related proteins, and of IL22 and several Th17 genes associated immunopathology. In contrast, Th2/Treg related pathways were upregulated as shown by higher expression of IL-4 and TGF-β family genes. Maternal infection also upregulated expression of pathways and integrin genes involved in transport of leukocytes in between endothelial cells but downregulated endosome vesicle formation related genes that are necessary for endocytosis of immunoglobulins across the BBB. Taken together, pup brain gene expression indicates that maternal nematode infection enhanced movement of leukocytes across the neonatal BBB and promoted a Th2/Treg environment that presumably minimizes the proinflammatory Th1 response in the pup brain.
SPME Probes: A Novel Chemical Biopsy Tool for Spatially Resolved Profiling of Human Brain Tissue in vivo
Authors: Bojko Barbara , Bogusiewicz Joanna , Burlikowska Katarzyna , Łuczykowski Kamil , Jaroch Karol , Birski Marcin , Furtak Jacek , Harat Marek , Pawliszyn Janusz
Published: July 2021

It is extremely challenging to perform chemical analyses of the brain, particularly in humans, due to the restricted access to this organ. Imaging techniques are the primary approach used in clinical practice, but they only provide limited information about brain chemistry. Solid-phase microextraction (SPME) has been presented recently as a chemical biopsy tool for the study of animal brains. The current work demonstrates for the first time the use of SPME for the spatially resolved sampling of the human brain in vivo. Specially designed multi-probe sampling device was used to simultaneously extract metabolites from the white and grey matter of patients undergoing brain tumor biopsies. Samples were collected by inserting the probes along the planned trajectory of the biopsy needle prior to the procedure, which was followed by metabolomic and lipidomic analyses. The results revealed that studied brain structures were predominantly composed of lipids, while the concentration and diversity of detected metabolites was higher in white than in grey matter. Although the small number of participants in this research precluded conclusions of a biological nature, the results highlight the advantages of the proposed SPME approach, as well as disadvantages that should be addressed in future studies.
Capturing Hidden Regulation based on Noise Change of Gene Expression Level from Single Cell RNA-seq in Yeast
Authors: Itoh Thoma , Makino Takashi
Published: July 2021

Recent progress in high throughput single cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) has activated the development of data-driven inferring methods of gene regulatory networks. Most network estimations assume that perturbations produce downstream effects. However, the effects of gene perturbations are sometimes compensated by a gene with redundant functionality (functional compensation). In order to avoid functional compensation, previous studies constructed double gene deletions, but its vast nature of gene combinations was not suitable for comprehensive network estimation. We hypothesized that functional compensation may emerge as a noise change without mean change (noise-only change) due to varying physical properties and strong compensation effects. Here, we show compensated interactions, which are not detected by mean change, are captured by noise-only change quantified from scRNA-seq. We investigated whether noise-only change genes caused by a single deletion of STP1 and STP2, which have strong functional compensation, are enriched in redundantly regulated genes. As a result, noise-only change genes are enriched in their redundantly regulated genes. Furthermore, novel downstream genes detected from noise change are enriched in “transport”, which is related to known downstream genes. Herein, we suggest the noise difference comparison has the potential to be applied as a new strategy for network estimation that capture even compensated interaction.
A Systematic Method of Optimization of Machining Parameters Considering Energy Consumption, Machining time and Surface Roughness with Experimental Analysis
Authors: Feng Chunhua , Guo Haohao , Zhang Jingyang , Huang Yugui , Huang Shi
Published: July 2021

For improving energy efficiency of machining process, extensive studies have focused on how to establish energy consumption model and optimize cutting parameters. However, the existing methods lack a systematic method to promote the widespread use of energy efficiency methods in the industry. This paper proposes a systematic method integrating energy model, experiment design, and multi-objective optimization model. Firstly, the energy model is established considering cutting energy and non-cutting energy. Then, the orthogonal experiment is designed with the three levels of four factors of spindle speed, feed speed, cutting depth, and cutting width in the X and Y cutting directions. The data of energy consumption, surface quality and machining time are obtained to study the effects of different cutting elements and cutting directions. Meanwhile, the standby, spindle idling, feed, SEC, material cutting and idling feed models of the CNC machine tools are established based on the experimental data. In addition, for verifying the accuracy of the established energy consumption model, five sets of experimental data are tested that show the prediction accuracy can reach 99.4%. Finally, a multi-objective optimization model for high efficiency and energy saving of processing process is establishes to optimize the cutting parameters from the three perspectives of energy consumption, processing time and surface quality. Combining the case of milling with constraints including machine tool performance, tool life, processing procedures, and processing requirements, the Pareto solution set is used to solve the Pareto of the target model. Through drawing a three-dimensional needle graph and two-dimensional histogram, the optimal cutting parameter combination for rough machining and semi-finish machining are provided, assisting in promoting the application of the sustainable techniques in the industry.
Inferior Vena Cava Filter Thrombosis Associated With a Free-Floating Thrombus on a Retrieval Hook: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Duan Ruihua , Li Weihao , Liu Min , Bai Chenhui , Lin Yisheng , Wang Fangjun
Published: July 2021

Background: It has been widely reported that IVCFT is a type of thrombotic disease. However, there are very few case reports regarding free-floating thrombi on retrieval hooks.Case presentation: This case report describes inferior vena cava filter thrombosis (IVCFT) associated with a free-floating thrombus on a retrieval hook in a 26-year-old male. Rotational digital subtraction angiography (RDSA) was used for the diagnosis and a second retrievable filter was placed above the original filter to prevent detachment of the thrombi. Catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) and aspiration thrombectomy (AT) were used to treat the thrombosis, and both filter retrievals were performed successfully.Conclusions: Attention should be paid to the diagnosis and endovascular procedures of a free-floating thrombus on a retrieval hook. In the event of thrombosis, the therapeutic effect and safety level can be increased through CDT combined with AT.
Presence of a Cryptic Onchocerca Species in Black flies of Northern California, USA
Authors: Kulpa Matthew , Nelson Kimberly J. , Morales Alana M. , Ryan Bonnie M. , Koschik Michelle L. , Scott Jamesina J. , Verocai Guilherme G.
Published: July 2021

Background: Black flies (Diptera: Simuliidae) serve as arthropod vectors for various species of Onchocerca (Nematoda: Onchocercidae) that may be associated with disease in humans, domestic animals, and wildlife. The emergence of zoonotic Onchocerca lupi in North America and reports of cervid-associated zoonotic onchocerciasis highlight the need for increased entomological surveillance. In addition, there is mounting evidence that Onchocerca diversity in North America is far greater than previously thought, currently regarded as Onchocerca cervipedis species complex. This study reports new geographic records and black fly vector associations of an uncharacterized Onchocerca species.Methods: To better understand the biodiversity and geographic distribution of Onchocerca, 485 female black flies (2015: 150, 2016: 335) were collected using CO2-baited traps from February to October, 2015-2016 in Lake County, northern California, USA. Individual flies were morphologically identified and pooled (£ 10 individuals) by species, collection date, and trap location. Black fly pools were processed for DNA extraction, and subsequent PCR and sequencing targeting of the NADH dehydrogenase subunit 5 gene.Results: Among the pools of black flies, there were: 158 individuals of S. tescorum (2015: 57, 2016: 101), 302 individuals of S. vittatum (s.l.) (2015: 82, 2016: 220), 16 individuals of S. clarum “black” phenotype (2015: 5, 2016: 11), and 13 individuals of S. clarum “orange” phenotype (2015: 6, 2016: 7). PCR analysis revealed the percentage of positive pools in 2015-16 were 7.50% (n=3) for S. tescorum, 3.75% (n=3) for S. vittatum (s.l.; likely S. tribulatum), 7.69% (n=1) for S. clarum “black” phenotype, and no positives for S. clarum “orange” phenotype. Genetic distance and phylogenetic analyses suggest that the northern California Onchocerca isolates belong to the same species reported in black flies from southern California (average pairwise comparison: 0.32%), and seems closely related to Onchocerca isolates of white-tailed deer from upstate New York (average pairwise comparison: 2.31%).Conclusion: Onchocerca cervipedis is part of larger, continentally-distributed species complex rather than a single described species of North America. It is unclear how many isolates of Onchocerca cervipedis exists at this time and more data sampling will be required before a scientific consensus can be determined. In addition, there are at least three putative vectors of black flies (S. clarum, S. tescorum, S. vittatum) associated with this cryptic Onchocerca species. A comprehensive reassessment of North American Onchocerca biodiversity, host, and geographic range is necessary.
First-Principles Study of The Structural Phase Transition Process of Solid Nitrogen Under Pressure
Authors: Bai Zhi-Xin , Jiang Cheng-Lu , Zhu Sheng-Hai , Zhong Mi , Zhang Ming-Jian , Liu Fu-Sheng , Tang Bin , Liu Qi-Jun , Chang Xianghui
Published: July 2021

Due to the diversity of solid nitrogen structure, its phase transition has been a hot topic for many scientists. Herein, we first studied the structural softening of rhombohedral solid nitrogen under pressure using first-principles calculations. Then, a new criterion, Egret criterion, was proposed to predicting the whole process from beginning to end of structural phase transition of solid nitrogen. Based on the discussion of acoustic phonons, we concluded that the phase transition of rhombohedral solid nitrogen starts from k-point F along the [-1, -1, 0] direction in a-axis, and the structural phase transition velocity is slow. Also, we use the Egret criterion proposed by us to predict the emergence of ξ-N2 and the stability of ξ-N2 at 17 GPa and 22 GPa, respectively, and this result is in good agreement with the phase diagram of nitrogen.
Evaluation of breastfeeding attitudes and education of Greek gynecology professionals to improve the educational curriculum of Obstetrics & Gynecology Departments
Authors: Theodoridis Theodoros , Vavoulidis Eleftherios , Dinas Konstantinos , Saranti Evagelia , Voziki Evagelia , Iliaskou Stella , Chatzigrigoriou Fotini , Karakatsani Stella , Chatziioannidis Ilias , Tzitiridou Maria , Aletras Vassilis , Gotzamani Aikaterini
Published: July 2021

Background

To investigate the knowledge level, attitudes and perceptions of Gynecology healthcare professionals in Greece towards breastfeeding.
Methods

A self-administered questionnaire was provided asking to answer multiple choice questions. The study was conducted mainly at the facilities of Medical Faculty Aristotle University of Thessaloniki. The questionnaire was administered to 312 healthcare professionals (nurses, students, physicians and other healthcare professionals).
Results

Over 70% supported that their breastfeeding knowledge was moderate at best and could be further improved. 30% lacked knowledge concerning the management of special breastfeeding scenarios. 84% had previous personal breastfeeding experience or at least are willing to do so in the future (themselves or their partners) with 39.1% aiming to breastfeed approximately for one year. The same pattern was observed in terms of their breastfeeding recommendations to other mothers regardless of their sex. 59.6% admitted that they do not have the necessary time to properly inform mothers about breastfeeding while 72.4% acknowledged improper breastfeeding information as an important factor for the low breastfeeding rates in Greece. Finally, 80.4% stated that their education was lacking in didactic depth and their training in hands-on experience while 88.8% clearly underlined that there was definitely room for improvement in their education/training curriculum. Expert teams, well-organized educational programs and advanced computing could contribute to the personnel’s harmonization with the various breastfeeding objectives to create a “breastfeeding-friendly” social environment.
Conclusions

This study revealed that although most Greek gynecology healthcare professionals have very positive attitudes towards breastfeeding, their breastfeeding knowledge was moderate at best and could be further improved.
Mothers' Experiences in Milk Management Out of the Hospital: a Qualitative Study
Authors: Yang Rui , Chen Danqi , Wang Hua , Xu Xinfen
Published: July 2021

BackgroundHuman milk(HM) is important for the health and development of preterm infants. China’s neonatal intensive care units have adopted a closed management system of maternal–infant separation. A prerequisite for feeding human milk to preterm infants in hospitals is to have sufficient and safe human milk. Therefore, out-of-hospital human milk management is crucial. Little is known about mothers’ opinions on out-of-hospital human milk management. This study aimed to explore the experiences of Chinese mothers providing their newborns in the neonatal intensive care units with human milk expressed outside of the hospital.MethodsSemi-structured interviews were conducted with 23 participants who transferred their human milk to the hospital human milk bank during the hospitalization of their preterm infants. This study adopted a qualitative research approach with thematic analysis.ResultsThree main themes were identified: 1) human milk management awareness; 2) lack of standardization regarding expressing, storing, and transporting expressed HM; and 3) external support. Theme 2 additionally has three sub-themes: I) differentiation of preparations before human milk expression; II) differentiation of devices for human milk expression; and III) insufficient knowledge and understanding.ConclusionsIn this study, all participants who received health education showed enthusiasm for participating in out-of-hospital human milk management. However, most participants had questions during the implementation process. Medical staff should provide professional and continuous external support to support mothers in implementing HM management.
Bright Ring Lattice Generated by Nesting Spiral-Pinhole-Arrays Plate
Authors: Li Wenren , Liu Pusheng , Liu Yidong
Published: July 2021

A nesting spiral-pinhole-arrays plate (NSP) is designed to produce bright ring lattice (BRL) formed by the superposition of two different orbital angular momentum (OAM) modes. The OAM modes of the BRL can be manipulated by the propagation distance and the spiral arrays of the NSP. We have studied the influences of rotating NSP on the BRL, and found that the rotational angle and direction of the BRL are not consistent with the results of the NSP.
Clinical Relevance of Estrogen Reactivity in the Breast Cancer Microenvironment
Authors: Takeshita Takashi , Oshino Tomohiro , Tokumaru Yoshihisa , Oshi Masanori , Patel Ankit , Tian Wanqing , Hatanaka Yutaka , Hatanaka Kanako C , Yan Li , Takabe Kazuaki
Published: July 2021

Background: Estrogen signals play an important role in the phenotype of estrogen receptor positive breast cancer (BC). However, comprehensive analyses of the effect of estrogen signals on the tumor microenvironment (TME) and treatment response in large cohorts of primary BC patients have been lacking. We aimed to test the hypothesis that estrogen reactivity effects gene expression and immune cell infiltration profiles in the TME and relates to response to chemotherapy (CT) and endocrine therapy (ET). Methods: A total of 3091 BC cases were analyzed; 1075 from TCGA cohort, 1904 from METABRIC cohort, and 112 from Hokkaido University hospital cohort. We divided the group into estrogen reactivity-high and estrogen reactivity-low groups utilizing estrogen response genes.Results: BC with high estrogen reactivity was related to Myc targets, Metabolism-related signaling, cell stress response, TGF-beta signaling, androgen response, and MTORC1 signaling gene sets in the TME. Low estrogen reactivity was related to immune-related proteins, IL2-STAT5 signaling, IL6-JAK-STAT3 signaling, KRAS signaling, cell cycle related gene sets, and EMT. In addition, BC with high levels of estrogen reactivity had low immune cytolytic activity, low levels of immunostimulatory cells, and high levels of immunosuppressive cells. It also had low levels of stimulatory and inhibitory factors of the cancer immunity cycle (CIC). Patients with high estrogen reactivity were also associated with a better prognosis. Regarding the effect of estrogen reactivity on treatment, patients who were treated with ET and CT but relapsed (BC with CT rec) were related with higher levels of E2F targets and G2M checkpoint, but lower levels of immunosuppressive M2 macrophages or Tregs cells. In addition, the TME in CT rec had higher levels of CIC regulators.Conclusions: We demonstrated the relationship between estrogen reactivity and the profiles of immune cells and gene expression within the TME, as well as the treatment effect of CT given in addition to ET.
Effect of Post-Exercise Sauna Bathing on Targeted Gut Microbiota and Intestinal Barrier Function in Healthy Men: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Karolkiewicz Joanna , Nieman David C. , Cisoń Tomasz , Szurkowska Joanna , Gałęcka Mirosława , Sitkowski Dariusz , Szygula Zbigniew
Published: July 2021

Background: Body temperature fluctuations induced by acute exercise bouts may also influence the intestinal barrier with related effects on epithelial permeability, immune responses, and release of metabolites produced by the gut microbiota.To evaluate the combined influence of 4-weeks exercise training and post-exercise sauna treatments on gut bacteria and fungi, inflammation, and intestinal barrier function. Methods: Randomized, parallel group design with pre- and post-study measurements.Fifteen (15) untrained males aged 22±1.5 years were randomly assigned to exercise training (ET) with or without post-exercise sauna treatments (S). Participants in the group ET+S (n=8) exercised 60 minutes, 3 times per week, on a bicycle ergometer followed by a 30-minute dry Finish sauna treatment. The control group (ET, n=7) engaged in the same exercise training program without the sauna treatments. Blood and stool samples were collected before and after the 4-week training program. Blood samples were analysed for the concentration of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and complete blood counts. Stool samples were analysed for pH, quantitative and qualitative measures of targeted bacteria and fungi, zonulin, and secretory immunoglobulin A. Group comparisons showed no significant differences for blood and stool sample measurements during the 4-week study.Results: Group comparisons showed no significant differences for blood and stool sample measurements during the 4-week study.Conclusions: The combination of 4-weeks exercise training and post-exercise sauna treatments did not have a measurable influence on targeted gut microbiota, intestinal barrier function, and inflammation biomarkers in young males compared to exercise training alone.
Inter- and Intrapopulational Heterogeneity of Characteristic Markers in Adult Human Neural Crest-Derived Stem Cells
Authors: Windmöller Beatrice A. , Höving Anna L. , Greiner Johannes F.W.
Published: July 2021

Adult human neural crest-derived stem cells (NCSCs) are found in a variety of adult tissues and show an extraordinary broad developmental potential. NCSCs are therefore promising candidates for applications in regenerative medicine, although increasing evidence suggest a remaining nichedependent variability between different NCSC-populations regarding their behavior and expression signatures. In the present study, we extended the view on heterogeneity of NCSCs by identifying heterogeneous expression levels and protein amounts of characteristic markers even between NCSCs from the same niche of origin. In particular, populations of neural crest-derived inferior turbinate stem cells (ITSCs) isolated from different individuals showed significant variations in characteristic NCSC marker proteins Nestin, S100 and Slug in a donor-dependent manner. Notably, increased nuclear protein amounts of Slug were accompanied by a significantly elevated level of nuclear NF-κB-p65 protein, suggesting an NF-κB-dependent regulation of NCSC-makers. In addition to this interpopulational genetic heterogeneity of ITSC-populations from different donors, single ITSCs also revealed a strong heterogeneity regarding the protein amounts of Nestin, S100, Slug and NF-κB-p65 even within the same clonal culture. Our present findings therefor strongly suggest ITSC-heterogeneity to be at least partly based on an interpopulational genetic heterogeneity dependent on the donor accompanied by a stochastic intrapopulational heterogeneity between single cells. We propose this stochastic intrapopulational heterogeneity to occur in addition to the already described genetic variability between clonal NCSC-cultures and the niche-dependent plasticity of NCSCs. Our observations offer a novel perspective on NCSC-heterogeneity, which may build the basis to understand heterogeneous NCSC-behavior and improve their clinical applicability.