bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bending of Symmetric Sandwich FGM Beams with Shear Connectors
Authors: Nguyen Thai Dung , Minh Phung Van , Phan Hoang Cuong , Ta Duc Tam , Nguyen Thi Cam Nhung , Nguyen Thi Dung
Published: July 2021

This paper carries out the static bending analysis of symmetric three-layer functionally graded sandwich beams, in which each layer is made from different functionally graded materials, and they are connected by shear connectors due to sliding movement. The finite element formulations are based on Timoshenko’s first-order shear deformation beam theory (FSDT) and the finite element method to establish the equilibrium equation of beams. The calculation program is coded in the MATLAB environment, and then verification examples are given out to compare the numerical data of present work with those of exact open sources. The impact of several geometrical and material parameters on the mechanical response of the structure, such as the height-to-length ratio, boundary conditions, volume fraction index, and especially the shear coefficient of connectors, is being explored. When designing and using these types of structures in engineering practice, the computed results can be utilized as a valid reference.
A Complex Case of Emphysematous Cystitis in a Peritoneal Dialysis Patient
Authors: Okello Christina , Raj Rajesh
Published: July 2021

Emphysematous cystitis (EC) is a relatively rare condition characterized by gas formation in the bladder wall and/or lumen. We report a case of emphysematous cystitis with a bladder perforation in an 84-year-old male on peritoneal dialysis who presented with fever, dysuria, hematuria, and hypotension. Gas in the bladder wall, as well as a small perforation in the roof of the urinary bladder, was seen on the abdominal CT scan. The causative organism identified was Escherichia coli. The patient recovered with broad-spectrum antibiotics along with bladder irrigation and drainage. After initial bladder washouts, peritoneal dialysis was continued with close monitoring. Early antibiotic therapy and a conservative approach to the management of small intraperitoneal bladder perforations were effective in this patient. Peritoneal dialysis was uninterrupted for the duration of the admission and after discharge.
Mechanism of Coal Bump among Mine Group under the Control of Large Geological Body: A Case Study of Yima Mining Area, China
Authors: Li Yizhe , Zhao Shankun , Qi Qingxin , Pan Pengzhi , Wei Xiangzhi , Wang Yin , Zhang Ningbo , Zhao Yang , Chai Haitao , Hao Qilin
Published: July 2021

Coal bump often occurs in coal mining among many working faces in mine group under the control of large geological bodies. In order to study the coal bump mechanism between adjacent working faces under the conditions of large fault and huge thick overburden conglomerate, this paper regards Yima mining area as a practical engineering background and theoretically analyzes the mechanical behavior of overlying rock in the spatial structure. Then, the deep‐ground and whole‐space measurement is carried out in the 13230 working face of Gengcun mine and 21121 working face of Qianqiu mine. The results show that the basic structural unit in Yima mining area is composed of two goafs, middle coal pillar, and overlying conglomerate. Under the condition of nonsynchronous mining in adjacent working faces, there is a comovement effect similar to lever’s “prying” phenomenon in thick conglomerate beam—the conglomerate strata above larger goaf side induce an overall uplift movement of the corresponding strata above smaller goaf side, and uplift length of the conglomerate strata is related to the mining length, coal pillar width, caving angle, and coal‐conglomerate distance. The results of surface subsidence, microseism, and stress in the two working faces verify the conglomerate’s phenomenon of comovement effect and disturbance range and further explain the role of active movement of F16 fault and overall causes of huge thick conglomerate on the coal bump. The vertical stress of the 13230 face is relatively low at the beginning, and high horizontal stress by fault activation causes typical bump accident with the horizontal sliding of coal body. With the increasing development of 13230 face, the intensity and frequency of coal bump in horizontal direction decrease obviously, but with high proportion in vertical direction. The results provide a theoretical basis for the study on the mechanism of coal bump between two adjacent working faces under the conditions of huge thick conglomerate and large thrust fault.
Ground Displacements due to the Deformations of Shallow Tunnels with Arbitrary Cross Sections in Soft Ground
Authors: Zhang Qiongfang , Cheng Kang , Lin Cungang , Lou Yadong , Guo Panpan , Gan Xiaolu
Published: July 2021

Nowadays, a huge number of shield‐driven tunnels with noncircular cross sections are constructed in urban areas all around the world. However, the ground displacements associated with tunneling still form a difficult issue, especially for noncircular tunnels. In this study, an analytical solution is derived to estimate the ground displacements induced by the deformations of shallow noncircular tunnels in soft ground. First, a solution for the stresses and displacements around a deep tunnel in a full plane is formulated by imposing a specified convergence pattern over the cavity boundary. Subsequently, this solution is validated using finite element simulations in a case study of an elliptical tunnel with four different convergence patterns. Afterward, the solution in the full plane is extended to a half plane using the virtual image technique to estimate the ground displacements around shallow tunnels. The solution is also validated using finite element simulations.
Associations of TG/HDL Ratio with the Risk of Prediabetes and Diabetes in Chinese Adults: A Chinese Population Cohort Study Based on Open Data
Authors: Gong Rongpeng , Liu Yuanyuan , Luo Gang , Liu Wenjing , Jin Ziqi , Xu Zixin , Li Zheng , Yang Lixin , Wei Xiaoxing
Published: July 2021

Background. In the global chronic diseases, type 2 diabetes shows a significant upward trend, and there are more people before prediabetes (impaired glucose tolerance). Many patients with impaired glucose tolerance and undiagnosed diabetes do not know that their glucose metabolism system has been in a state of disorder. Every year, about 5% to 10% of prediabetics develop diabetes. One of the important achieving factors may be the increase in blood lipids. However, it is not clear whether the triglyceride/high-density lipoprotein ratio is associated with impaired glucose tolerance and diabetes in the Chinese population. Therefore, we investigated the relationship between triglyceride/high-density lipoprotein and impaired glucose tolerance and diabetes in the Chinese population. Methods. We conducted a retrospective cohort study using data from the health screening program. The study included 116,855 participants from 32 locations in China, all of whom were adults over 20. Participants measured fasting blood glucose levels at each visit and collected information about their diabetes history. Impaired glucose tolerance was diagnosed as fasting blood glucose ≥6.00 mmol and self-reported diabetes mellitus. The patient was measured on the date of diagnosis or on his last visit (whichever comes first). Results. The results showed that, after adjusting the potential confounding factors, the ratio of TG/HDL was positively correlated with the occurrence of prediabetes and diabetes, and there was a saturation effect. The inflection points were 1.04 and 1.33, respectively. The effect value and 95% confidence interval before and after the inflection point of impaired glucose tolerance patients were 1.57 and (1.42, 1.73) and 1.03 and (1.01, 1.05), respectively. The effect value and 95% confidence interval before and after the inflection point in patients with diabetes were 2.07 and (1.80, 2.39) and 1.08 and (1.04, 1.12).
Control of Hopf Bifurcation Type of a Neuron Model Using Washout Filter
Authors: Yuan Chunhua , Li Xiangyu
Published: July 2021

A quantitative mathematical model of neurons should not only include enough details to consider the dynamics of single neurons but also minimize the complexity of the model so that the model calculation is convenient. The two-dimensional Prescott model provides a good compromise between the authenticity and computational efficiency of a neuron. The dynamic characteristics of the Prescott model under external electrical stimulation are studied by combining analytical and numerical methods in this paper. Through the analysis of the equilibrium point distribution, the influence of model parameters and external stimulus on the dynamic characteristics is described. The occurrence conditions and the type of Hopf bifurcation in the Prescott model are analyzed, and the analytical determination formula of the Hopf bifurcation type in the neuron model is obtained. Washout filter control is used to change the Hopf bifurcation type, so that the subcritical Hopf bifurcation transforms to supercritical Hopf bifurcation, so as to realize the change of the dynamic characteristics of the model.
miR‐101‐3p Serves as a Tumor Suppressor for Renal Cell Carcinoma and Inhibits Its Invasion and Metastasis by Targeting EZH2
Authors: Dong Yunze , Gao Yuchen , Xie Tiancheng , Liu Huan , Zhan Xiangcheng , Xu Yunfei
Published: July 2021

Background. The role of miRNAs in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is not certain. We wanted to study the biological functions and potential mechanisms of miR‐101‐3p in RCC. Methods. miR‐101‐3p was inhibited in A498 and OSRC‐2 (two RCC cell lines). We studied its effect on cell invasion and proliferation. Target EZH2 of miR‐101‐3p was designated by different methods, including luciferase functional analysis and Western blotting. The expression level of the target gene in treated cells was quantitatively analyzed by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. In addition, induction of miR‐101‐3p to prevent tumor formation of A498 cells in mice was further studied. Results. The overexpression of miR‐101‐3p significantly inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion in two RCC cells. Western blotting and luciferase functional analysis indicated that miR‐101‐3p regulated the expression of EZH2 in two cell lines. Mice inoculated with A498 and OSRC‐2 cells transfected with miR‐101‐3p mimics showed significantly smaller xenografts and weaker EZH2 expression levels than the control group. Conclusions. miR‐101‐3p inhibited RCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion by targeting EZH2.
Osteochondral Peg Fixation for Chondral Fragment of the Knee in Adolescent Patients: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Ichikawa Katsuhiro , Ogawa Hiroyasu , Matsumoto Kazu , Akiyama Haruhiko
Published: July 2021

Introduction. Purely chondral injuries of the knee are relatively rare, and no consensus exists on the appropriate treatment in such cases. We describe two adolescent patients with chondral injury of the knee who were successfully treated by osteochondral peg fixation. Patients, Concerns, and Clinical Findings. In case 1, a 14-year-old boy presented with complaints of right knee pain after landing on his leg while playing basketball. Radiography and computerized tomography revealed no abnormalities. However, magnetic resonance imaging revealed a chondral defect in his lateral femoral condyle and a loose chondral fragment measuring 6.5 cm2. In case 2, a 12-year-old boy presented with complaints of left knee pain after a rotational injury while playing baseball. Similar to case 1, magnetic resonance imaging revealed a chondral defect in his lateral femoral condyle and a loose chondral fragment measuring 3.0 cm2. Primary Diagnosis, Interventions, and Outcomes. The two patients were treated by surgical fixation using osteochondral pegs, which were harvested from the femoral condyle. After a year, postoperative computerized tomography and magnetic resonance imaging showed union of the chondral fragment with the osteochondral pegs and surrounding tissue. In both cases, the Lysholm score was 100 points at the final follow-up more than 2 years after surgery. Conclusion. The findings reported herein suggest that osteochondral peg fixation is a feasible treatment option for chondral injury of the knee, with satisfactory outcomes.
Interaction between Different Implant Surfaces and Liquid Fibrinogen: A Pilot In Vitro Experiment
Authors: Andrade Catherine X. , Quirynen Marc , Rosenberg David R. , Pinto Nelson R.
Published: July 2021

Background. Platelet concentrates like leucocyte‐ and platelet‐rich fibrin (L‐PRF) have been widely evaluated in different oral surgical procedures to promote the healing process. However, liquid L‐PRF products such as liquid fibrinogen have been poorly explored, especially in the biomimetic functionalization of dental implants. The aim of this in vitro study is to evaluate the interaction between 5 different dental implant surfaces and liquid fibrinogen. Methods. Five commercially available dental implants with different surfaces (Osseospeed™, TiUnite™, SLActive®, Ossean®, and Plenum®) were immersed for 60 minutes in liquid fibrinogen obtained from healthy donors. After this period, the implants were removed and fixed for scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results. All dental implants were covered by a fibrin mesh. However, noticeable noncontact areas were observed for the Osseospeed™, TiUnite™, and SLActive® surfaces. On the other hand, Ossean® and Plenum® surfaces showed a dense and uniform layer of fibrin covering almost the entire implant surface. The Osseospeed™, TiUnite™, and SLActive® surfaces presented with lower blood cell numbers inside the fibrin mesh compared with the others. Moreover, at higher magnification, thicker fibrin fibers were observed in contact with Ossean® and Plenum® surfaces. The Plenum ®surface showed the thickest fibers which also inserted and interconnect to the microroughness. Conclusion. The initial contact between an implant surface and the fibrin network differs significantly among different implant brands. Further studies are necessary to explore the clinical impact of these observations in the osseointegration process of dental implants.
Is Cadmium a Risk Factor for Breast Cancer – Results from a Nested Case–Control Study Using Data from the Malmö Diet and Cancer Study
Authors: Andersson Eva M. , Sandsveden Malte , Forsgard Niklas , Sallsten Gerd , Manjer Jonas , Engström Gunnar , Barregard Lars
Published: July 2021

Background:

Some studies have shown that cadmium (Cd) is associated with breast cancer risk. One hypothesis is that Cd has estrogen-like properties. This case-control study investigated the association between breast cancer risk and blood Cd (BCd) levels.

Methods:

All breast cancers in the Malmö Diet and Cancer cohort were identified through linkage to the Swedish Cancer Registry, baseline (1991–1996) through 2014. Two controls per case were selected from the same cohort. BCd was analyzed at baseline. Associations were analyzed using logistic regression.

Results:

Mean BCd was 0.51 μg/L among 1,274 cases and 0.46 among 2,572 controls. There was an overall increased risk of breast cancer [OR, 1.18; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.05–1.36] per μg/L of BCd. An increased risk was, however, only found at high BCd [OR, 1.34 (95% CI, 1.05–1.73)] for BCd more than 1.20 μg/L. The group with the highest BCd was mainly smokers. A spline indicated that at BCd less than 1.0 μg/L, the OR was not increased. The association with BCd was stronger in current smokers and at body mass index (BMI) above 25, while no modification due to receptor status was found.

Conclusions:

The results indicated increased risk of breast cancer only for high Cd exposure, which occurred mainly among smokers. This made it difficult to disentangle the effects of smoking and Cd, despite inclusion of smoking habits in the models.

Impact:

This study provides support for reducing Cd exposure through smoking cessation and dietary choice. On the population level, preventive measures against Cd pollution are warranted.
Prostaglandins for Postpartum Hemorrhage: Pharmacology, Application, and Current Opinion
Authors: Chen Yue , Jiang Wei , Zhao Yunchun , Sun Dongli , Zhang Xiao , Wu Fan , Zheng Caihong
Published: July 2021

Background: Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) remains a common cause of maternal mortality worldwide. Medical intervention plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of PPH. Prostaglandins (PGs) are currently recommended as second-line uterotonics, which are applied in cases of persistent bleeding despite oxytocin treatment. Summary: PG agents that are constantly used in clinical practice include carboprost, sulprostone, and misoprostol, representing the analogs of PGF2α, PGE2, and PGE1, respectively. Injectable PGs, when used to treat PPH, are effective in reducing blood loss but probably induce cardiovascular or respiratory side effects. Misoprostol is characterized by oral administration, low cost, stability in storage, broad availability, and minimal side effects. It remains a treatment option for uterine atony in low-resource settings, but its effectiveness as a uterotonic for independent application may be limited. Key Messages: The present review article discusses the physiological roles of various natural PGs, evaluates the existing evidence of PG analogs in the prevention and treatment of PPH, and finally provides a reference to assist obstetricians in selecting appropriate uterotonics.
The Long-Term Study of Urinary Biomarkers of Renal Injury in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Montoro-Molina Sebastián , Quesada Andrés , O’Valle Francisco , Morales Natividad Martín , de Gracia María del Carmen , Rodríguez-Gómez Isabel , Osuna Antonio , Wangensteen Rosemary , Vargas Félix
Published: July 2021

Background: The age-related increase in blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) is associated to cardiac hypertrophy, heart failure, and renal injury. Here, we investigated for the first time the urinary enzymatic activities of glutamil aminopeptidase (GluAp), alanyl aminopeptidase (AlaAp), dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4), and Klotho urinary levels, proteins that are strongly expressed in the kidney, as early biomarkers of renal injury in SHRs. Methods: Male SHR and Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats were studied from 2 to 8 months old. Systolic blood pressure (SBP), the heart rate (HR), metabolic variables, and urinary markers were measured monthly. At the end of the study, a histopathological evaluation of the kidney was performed. Results: Kidneys of SHR did not develop signs of relevant histopathological changes, but showed increased glomerular area and cellularity. Plasma creatinine was decreased, and creatinine clearance was augmented in SHR at the end of the study. Urinary excretion of Klotho was higher in SHR at 5 and 8 months old, whereas plasma Klotho levels were similar to WKY. GluAp, AlaAp, and DPP4 urinary activities were increased in SHR throughout the time-course study. A positive correlation between glomerular area and cellularity with creatinine clearance was observed. Urinary GluAp, AlaAp, DPP4, and Klotho showed positive correlations with SBP. Conclusions: GluAp, AlaAp, DPP4, and Klotho in the urine are useful tools for the evaluation of renal damage at early stages, before the whole histopathological and biochemical manifestations of renal disease are established. Moreover, these observations may represent a novel and noninvasive diagnostic approach to assess the evolution of kidney function in hypertension and other chronic diseases.
Non-Emergent Early Surgical Management for Adhesive Small Bowel Obstruction
Authors: Horani Sawsan J. , Al-Ozaibi Labib S. , Kaiyasah Hadiel A.
Published: July 2021

Background: Adhesive small bowel obstruction (ASBO) is one of the leading reasons for emergency surgical admissions. Current guidelines recommend the conservative approach, unless operative intervention is indicated. Case: Here, we present a case of a young male who underwent early laparoscopic adhesiolysis for ASBO. Discussion: Nonoperative management resolves majority of ASBO cases but has high recurrence. Early surgical management (ESM) has been shown to reduce recurrence rate and long-term health consequences. Conclusion: ESM can be considered for recurrent ASBO in younger patients with fewer comorbidities.
Confocal Laser Microscopy for in vivo Intraoperative Application: Diagnostic Accuracy of Investigator and Machine Learning Strategies
Authors: Ellebrecht David Benjamin , Heßler Nicole , Schlaefer Alexander , Gessert Nils
Published: July 2021

Background: Confocal laser microscopy (CLM) is one of the optical techniques that are promising methods of intraoperative in vivo real-time tissue examination based on tissue fluorescence. However, surgeons might struggle interpreting CLM images intraoperatively due to different tissue characteristics of different tissue pathologies in clinical reality. Deep learning techniques enable fast and consistent image analysis and might support intraoperative image interpretation. The objective of this study was to analyze the diagnostic accuracy of newly trained observers in the evaluation of normal colon and peritoneal tissue and colon cancer and metastasis, respectively, and to compare it with that of convolutional neural networks (CNNs). Methods: Two hundred representative CLM images of the normal and malignant colon and peritoneal tissue were evaluated by newly trained observers (surgeons and pathologists) and CNNs (VGG-16 and Densenet121), respectively, based on tissue dignity. The primary endpoint was the correct detection of the normal and cancer/metastasis tissue measured by sensitivity and specificity of both groups. Additionally, positive predictive values (PPVs) and negative predictive values (NPVs) were calculated for the newly trained observer group. The interobserver variability of dignity evaluation was calculated using kappa statistic. The F1-score and area under the curve (AUC) were used to evaluate the performance of image recognition of the CNNs’ training scenarios. Results: Sensitivity and specificity ranged between 0.55 and 1.0 (pathologists: 0.66–0.97; surgeons: 0.55–1.0) and between 0.65 and 0.96 (pathologists: 0.68–0.93; surgeons: 0.65–0.96), respectively. PPVs were 0.75 and 0.90 in the pathologists’ group and 0.73–0.96 in the surgeons’ group, respectively. NPVs were 0.73 and 0.96 for pathologists’ and between 0.66 and 1.00 for surgeons’ tissue analysis. The overall interobserver variability was 0.54. Depending on the training scenario, cancer/metastasis tissue was classified with an AUC of 0.77–0.88 by VGG-16 and 0.85–0.89 by Densenet121. Transfer learning improved performance over training from scratch. Conclusions: Newly trained investigators are able to learn CLM images features and interpretation rapidly, regardless of their clinical experience. Heterogeneity in tissue diagnosis and a moderate interobserver variability reflect the clinical reality more realistic. CNNs provide comparable diagnostic results as clinical observers and could improve surgeons’ intraoperative tissue assessment.
Copper Ions Ameliorated Thermal Burn-Induced Damage in ex vivo Human Skin Organ Culture
Authors: Ogen-Shtern Navit , Chumin Katerina , Silberstein Eldad , Borkow Gadi
Published: July 2021

Introduction: The zone of stasis is formed around the coagulation zone following skin burning and is characterized by its unique potential for salvation. The cells in this zone may die or survive depending on the severity of the burn and therefore are target for the local treatments of burns. Their low survival rate is consistent with decreased tissue perfusion, hypotension, infection, and/or edema, resulting in a significant increase in the wound size following burning. Copper is an essential trace mineral needed for the normal function of almost all body tissues, including the skin. Objective: The aim of the work was to study the effect copper ions have on skin burn pathophysiology. Methods: Skin obtained from healthy patients undergoing abdominoplasty surgery was cut into 8 × 8 mm squares, and round 0.8-mm diameter burn wounds were inflicted on the skin explants. The burned and control intact skin samples were cultured up to 27 days after wounding. Immediately following injury and then again every 48 h, saline only or containing 0.02 or 1 µM copper ions was added onto the skin explant burn wounds. Results: We found that exposing the wounded sites immediately after burn infliction to 0.02 or 1 µM copper ions reduced the deterioration of the zone of stasis and the increase in wound size. The presence of the copper ions prevented the dramatic increase of pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8) and transforming growth factor beta-1 that followed skin burning. We also detected re-epithelialization of the skin tissue and a greater amount of collagen fibers upon copper treatment. Conclusion: The deterioration of the zone of stasis and the increase in wound size following burning may be prevented or reduced by using copper ion-based therapeutic interventions.
Combined Renal-Pulmonary Extracorporeal Support with Low Blood Flow Techniques: A Retrospective Observational Study (CICERO Study)
Authors: Consales Guglielmo , Zamidei Lucia , Turani Franco , Atzeni Diego , Isoni Paolo , Boscolo Gloria , Saggioro Debora , Resta Marco Vittorio , Ronco Claudio
Published: July 2021

Background: Critically ill patients with acute respiratory failure frequently present concomitant lung and kidney injury, within a multiorgan failure condition due to local and systemic mediators. To face this issue, extracorporeal carbon dioxide removal (ECCO2R) systems have been integrated into continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) platforms to provide a combined organ support, with efficient clearance of CO2 with very low extracorporeal blood flows (<400 mL/min). Objectives: To evaluate efficacy and safety of combined ECCO2R-CRRT support with PrismaLung®-Prismaflex® in patients affected by hypercapnic respiratory acidosis associated with AKI in a second level intensive care unit. Methods: We carried out a retrospective observational study enrolling patients submitted to PrismaLung®-Prismaflex® due to mild to moderate acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) or acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (aeCOPD). The primary endpoints were the shift to protective ventilation and extubation of mechanically ventilated patients and the shift to invasive mechanical ventilation of patients receiving noninvasive ventilation (NIV). Clinical-laboratoristic data and operational characteristics of ECCO2R-CRRT were recorded. Results: Overall, 12/17 patients on mechanical ventilation shifted to protective ventilation, CO2 clearance was satisfactorily maintained during the whole observational period, and pH was rapidly corrected. Treatment prevented NIV failure in 4 out of 5 patients. No treatment-related complications were recorded. Conclusion: ECCO2R-CRRT was effective and safe in patients with aeCOPD and ARDS associated with AKI.
Recurrent Hypocalcemic Tetany as the Initial Presentation in Some Persons with Hyperthyroidism: A Case Series
Authors: Lawal Yakubu , Dahuwa Umar Faruk , Abdullahi Ibrahim , Anumah Felicia Ehusani
Published: July 2021

This is a case series of recurrent hypocalcemic tetany as the initial presentation in some cases of hyperthyroidism. Literature review has revealed more reports of hypercalcemia than hypocalcemia as a feature of hyperthyroidism. The recurrence of hypocalcemic tetany in the 3 cases reported ceased following the treatment of hyperthyroidism. The aim of this case series is to alert clinicians to the fact that hypocalcemic tetany can be the initial clinical presentation of hyperthyroidism. It also highlights the resilience of managing endocrine patients in resource-poor settings with the aid of high clinical acumen and fewer-than-expected laboratory investigations. Further research is needed to investigate our hypothesis that disordered calcium metabolism in thyrotoxicosis may manifest in successive phases of hypercalcemia-normocalcemia-hypocalcemia. The rate at which individual thyrotoxic patient traverses these phases may be directly proportional to the background vitamin D deficiency, negative calcium balance, and bone mineral density.
A Taxonomy for Psycho-Oncological Intervention Techniques in an Acute Care Hospital in Germany
Authors: Madl Martina , Lieb Marietta , Schieber Katharina , Hepp Tobias , Erim Yesim
Published: July 2021

Background: Due to the establishment of a nationwide certification system for cancer centers in Germany, the availability of psycho-oncological services for cancer patients has increased substantially. However, little is known about the specific intervention techniques that are applied during sessions in an acute care hospital, since a standardized taxonomy is lacking. With this study, we aimed at the investigation of psycho-oncological intervention techniques and the development of a comprehensive and structured taxonomy thereof. Methods: In a stepwise procedure, a team of psycho-oncologists generated a data pool of interventions and definitions that were tested in clinical practice during a pilot phase. After an adaptation of intervention techniques, interrater reliability (IRR) was attained by rating 10 previously recorded psycho-oncological sessions. A classification of interventions into superordinate categories was performed, supported by cluster analysis. Results: Between April and June 2017, 980 psycho-oncological sessions took place. The experts agreed on a total number of 22 intervention techniques. An IRR of 89% for 2 independent psycho-oncological raters was reached. The 22 techniques were classified into 5 superordinate categories. Discussion/Conclusion: We developed a comprehensive and structured taxonomy of psycho-oncological intervention techniques in an acute care hospital that provides a standardized basis for systematic research and applied care. We expect our work to be continuously subjected to further development: future research should evaluate and expand our taxonomy to other contexts and care settings.
A Novel SCN5A Variant Causes Temperature-Sensitive Loss Of Function in a Family with Symptomatic Brugada Syndrome, Cardiac Conduction Disease, and Sick Sinus Syndrome
Authors: Sanner Karolina , Mueller-Leisse Johanna , Zormpas Christos , Duncker David , Leffler Andreas , Veltmann Christian
Published: July 2021

Introduction: Brugada syndrome (BrS) is an inherited arrhythmia syndrome associated with an increased risk of sudden cardiac death. SCN5A is the most important disease-modifying gene for BrS, but many SCN5A variants have not been functionally characterized. Furthermore, the temperature dependency of SCN5A is only rarely explored in in vitro analyses. Methods: The clinical phenotype of the affected family was assessed by medical history, ECGs and ajmaline challenge. Whole-cell patch clamp recordings were performed on HEK 293T cells expressing Nav1.5-G1712S, a novel SCN5A variant found in the symptomatic family. Results: Three male family members had experienced sudden cardiac death, sudden cardiac arrest, and rhythmogenic syncopes. Beside a positive ajmaline challenge with demarcation of a Brugada type 1 ECG, 1 patient also showed evidence of symptomatic cardiac conduction disease and sick sinus syndrome (SSS). In patch clamp analyses, Nav1.5-G1712S generated reduced peak currents as compared to the wild type. At body temperature, Nav1.5-G1712S additionally exhibited an enhanced slow inactivation and an impaired recovery from inactivation. Conclusion: We conclude that G1712S is a pathogenic SCN5A loss-of function mutation at physiological temperature associated with an overlapping presentation of BrS, SSS, and cardiac conduction disease.
MicroRNA-21 Controls Circadian Regulation of Apoptosis in Atherosclerotic Lesions
Authors: Schober Andreas , Blay Richard M. , Saboor Maleki Saffiyeh , Zahedi Farima , Winklmaier Anja E. , Kakar Mati Y. , Baatsch Isabelle M. , Zhu Mengyu , Geißler Claudia , Fusco Anja E. , Eberlein Anna , Li Nan , Megens Remco T.A. , Banafsche Ramin , Kumbrink Jörg , Weber Christian , Nazari-Jahantigh Maliheh
Published: July 2021

Background:

The necrotic core partly formed by ineffective efferocytosis increases the risk of an atherosclerotic plaque rupture. Microribonucleic acids contribute to necrotic core formation by regulating efferocytosis and macrophage apoptosis. Atherosclerotic plaque rupture occurs at increased frequency in the early morning, indicating diurnal changes in plaque vulnerability. Although circadian rhythms play a role in atherosclerosis, the molecular clock output pathways that control plaque composition and rupture susceptibility are unclear.

Methods:

Circadian gene expression, necrotic core size, apoptosis, and efferocytosis in aortic lesions were investigated at different times of the day in
Apoe

–/–

Mir21
+/+

mice and
Apoe

–/–

Mir21

–/–

mice after consumption of a high-fat diet for 12 weeks. Genome-wide gene expression and lesion formation were analyzed in bone marrow–transplanted mice. Diurnal changes in apoptosis and clock gene expression were determined in human atherosclerotic lesions.

Results:

The expression of molecular clock genes, lesional apoptosis, and necrotic core size were diurnally regulated in
Apoe

–/–

mice. Efferocytosis did not match the diurnal increase in apoptosis at the beginning of the active phase. However, in parallel with apoptosis, expression levels of oscillating
Mir21
strands decreased in the mouse atherosclerotic aorta.
Mir21
knockout abolished circadian regulation of apoptosis and reduced necrotic core size but did not affect core clock gene expression. Further,
Mir21
knockout upregulated expression of proapoptotic Xaf1 (XIAP-associated factor 1) in the atherosclerotic aorta, which abolished circadian expression of Xaf1. The antiapoptotic effect of
Mir21
was mediated by noncanonical targeting of
Xaf1
through both
Mir21
strands.
Mir21
knockout in bone marrow cells also reduced atherosclerosis and necrotic core size. Circadian regulation of clock gene expression was confirmed in human atherosclerotic lesions. Apoptosis oscillated diurnally in phase with
XAF1
expression, demonstrating an early morning peak antiphase to that of the
Mir21
strands.

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest that the molecular clock in atherosclerotic lesions induces a diurnal rhythm of apoptosis regulated by circadian
Mir21
expression in macrophages that is not matched by efferocytosis, thus increasing the size of the necrotic core.
Comparing the Prognostic Impact of Age and Baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale in Acute Stroke due to Large Vessel Occlusion
Authors: Ospel Johanna Maria , Brown Scott , Kappelhof Manon , van Zwam Wim , Jovin Tudor , Roy Daniel , Campbell Bruce C.V. , Mitchell Peter , Roos Yvo , Guillemin Francis , Buck Brian , Muir Keith , Bracard Serge , White Phil , du Mesnil de Rochemont Richard , Goyal Mayank ,   for the HERMES Investigators
Published: July 2021

Background and Purpose:

Little is known about the combined effect of age and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) in endovascular treatment (EVT) for acute ischemic stroke due to large vessel occlusion, and it is not clear how the effects of baseline age and NIHSS on outcome compare to each other. The previously described Stroke Prognostication Using Age and NIHSS (SPAN) index adds up NIHSS and age to a 1:1 combined prognostic index. We added a weighting factor to the NIHSS/age SPAN index to compare the relative prognostic impact of NIHSS and age and assessed EVT effect based on weighted age and NIHSS.

Methods:

We performed adjusted logistic regression with good outcome (90-day modified Rankin Scale score 0–2) as primary outcome. From this model, the coefficients for NIHSS and age were obtained. The ratio between the NIHSS and age coefficients was calculated to determine a weighted SPAN index. We obtained adjusted effect size estimates for EVT in patient subgroups defined by weighted SPAN increments of 3, to evaluate potential changes in treatment effect.

Results:

We included 1750/1766 patients from the HERMES collaboration (Highly Effective Reperfusion Using Multiple Endovascular Devices) with available age and NIHSS data. Median NIHSS was 17 (interquartile range, 13–21), and median age was 68 (interquartile range, 57–76). Good outcome was achieved by 682/1743 (39%) patients. The NIHSS/age effect coefficient ratio was ([−0.0032]/[−0.111])=3.4, which was rounded to 3, resulting in a weighted SPAN index defined as ([3×NIHSS]+age). Cumulative EVT effect size estimates across weighted SPAN subgroups consistently favored EVT, with a number needed to treat ranging from 5.3 to 8.7.

Conclusions:

The impact on chance of good outcome of a 1-point increase in NIHSS roughly corresponded to a 3-year increase in patient age. EVT was beneficial across all weighted age/NIHSS subgroups.
Acute Stroke Imaging Research Roadmap IV: Imaging Selection and Outcomes in Acute Stroke Clinical Trials and Practice
Authors: Campbell Bruce C.V. , Lansberg Maarten G. , Broderick Joseph P. , Derdeyn Colin P. , Khatri Pooja , Sarraj Amrou , Saver Jeffrey L. , Vagal Achala , Albers Gregory W. ,   on behalf of the STAIR XI Consortium†, Adeoye Opeolu , Ansari Saeed , Boltze Johannes , Buchan Alastair , Chaisinanunkul Napasri , Chen Christopher , Davis Thomas P. , Ermakova Tatiana , Fisher Marc , Haddad Walid , Hill Michael D. , Houser Gary , Jadhav Ashutosh P. , Kimberly W. Taylor , Landen Jaren W. , Liebeskind David S. , Lyden Patrick , Lynch John , Mansi Chris , Mocco J , Nogueira Raul G. , Savitz Sean I. , Schwamm Lee H. , Sheth Kevin N. , Solberg Yoram , Venkatasubramanian Chitra , Warach Steven , Wechsler Lawrence R. , Zhu Bin , Ziogas Nikolaos K.
Published: July 2021

Background and Purpose:

The Stroke Treatment Academic Industry Roundtable (STAIR) sponsored an imaging session and workshop during the Stroke Treatment Academic Industry Roundtable XI via webinar on October 1 to 2, 2020, to develop consensus recommendations, particularly regarding optimal imaging at primary stroke centers.

Methods:

This forum brought together stroke neurologists, neuroradiologists, neuroimaging research scientists, members of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, industry representatives, and members of the US Food and Drug Administration to discuss imaging priorities in the light of developments in reperfusion therapies, particularly in an extended time window, and reinvigorated interest in brain cytoprotection trials.

Results:

The imaging session summarized and compared the imaging components of recent acute stroke trials and debated the optimal imaging strategy at primary stroke centers. The imaging workshop developed consensus recommendations for optimizing the acquisition, analysis, and interpretation of computed tomography and magnetic resonance acute stroke imaging, and also recommendations on imaging strategies for primary stroke centers.

Conclusions:

Recent positive acute stroke clinical trials have extended the treatment window for reperfusion therapies using imaging selection. Achieving rapid and high-quality stroke imaging is therefore critical at both primary and comprehensive stroke centers. Recommendations for enhancing stroke imaging research are provided.
Asymmetric hybridization origin of Rhododendron agastum (Ericaceae) in Guizhou, China
Authors: LI QIAN , LI HUIE , YANG LAN , GUO QIQIANG , FU YARU , HUANG JIAYONG
Published: July 2021

Rhododendron is one of the famous flowers in the world. Four wild Rhododendron species, namely, R. delavayi Franch., R. agastum Balf. f. et W. W. Smith., R. decorum Franch., and R. irroratum Franch., belong to subgenus Hymenanthes, which are sympatrically distributed in the Baili Rhododendron Nature Reserve of Guizhou Province, China. The intermediate morphology of R. agastum in the reserve, which is between R. delavayi and R irroratum or between R. delavayi and R. decorum, has been speculated that R. agastum is a hybrid of one of the two combinations. However, the exact parentage of R. agastum in the reserve remains controversial. In this study, the four Rhododendron species were investigated to identify the parental origin of R. agastum based on 13 morphological characteristics, 20 co-dominant inherited microsatellite markers, and two maternal inherited plastid DNA makers. Results of genetic structure and origin scenario clearly support that R. agastum is a natural hybrid between R. delavayi and R. irroratum rather than R. delavayi and R. decorum, which is consistent with their morphological characteristics. In addition, hybridization analysis indicates that R. agastum is dominated by F2 generation in the reserve. Furthermore, haplotype analysis suggests that natural hybridization between R. delavayi and R. irroratum is bidirectional but asymmetric with R. delavayi, the main maternal parent of R. agastum. Our results provide theoretical basis for future utilization and conservation of genetic resources of these Rhododendron species.
Lectotypification of two names belonging to Olyra (Olyreae, Bambusoideae, Poaceae)
Authors: OLIVEIRA IASMIN LAIANE DE CASTRO , DÓREA MARCOS DA COSTA , CLARK LYNN G. , OLIVEIRA REYJANE PATRICIA DE
Published: July 2021

Olyra Linnaeus (1759: 238) is the best known genus of the herbaceous bamboos, belonging to the tribe Olyreae Kunth ex Spenner (1825: 172), which is composed of the subtribes Buergersiochloinae L.G.Clark & Judz. in Judziewicz & Clark (2007: 311), Parianinae Hackel (1887: 88) and Olyrinae Krombach (1875: 496) (Oliveira et al. 2014, Clark & Oliveira 2018, Ferreira et al. 2019, Oliveira et al. 2020a, Oliveira et al. 2020b). Olyra is the largest genus within the subtribe Olyrinae, including 25 species in its current delimitation, but this estimate will soon be revised since phylogenetic studies evidenced its non-monophyletic nature (Oliveira et al. 2014, Clark & Oliveira 2018, Oliveira et al. 2020a, Oliveira et al. 2020b). All species occur throughout the Neotropics, except O. latifolia Linnaeus (1759: 1261), which is also found in Africa/Madagascar and Sri Lanka (Judziewicz & Clark 2007, Ruiz-Sanchez et al. 2019).
Observation of Dominant Nuclei and Magic-Sized CdS Nanoparticles in a Single-Phase System
Authors: Nie Xiaobo , Chen Yanming
Published: July 2021

Cadmium sulfide nanoparticles (CdS NPs) were synthesized by using cadmium acetate and thiourea as precursors and sodium oleate as the surfactant under different cadmium acetate concentrations in anhydrous ethanol. Cadmium (Cd) precursor concentration greatly affected the nucleation-growth
of CdS NPs. In extremely dilute solution with a Cd precursor concentration of 0.1 mmol · L−1, an overlapped nucleation and growth corresponding to two pronounced absorption peaks at 310 nm and 350 nm, respectively, was observed. Unparalleled nucleation was dominant
within very long reaction time until 10 hours. The nuclei and the resulting magic-sized CdS NPs may be used as seeds to prepare size and shape controllable nanoparticles. On the contrary, at a high Cd precursor concentration (5 mmol · L−1), nucleation and growth were
separated. Only one first exciton absorption peak standing for the growth of regular CdS NPs appeared at 440 nm. Many techniques including transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) absorption and photoluminescence (PL) spectrometers
were applied to characterize the morphology, crystalline structure, and optical properties of CdS NPs.
Study on Cavitation and Tribological of TiO2 Nano-Film on Bearing Pads Surface
Authors: Zhang Juan , Li Donghui , Zhang Bo
Published: July 2021

Bearings play a vital role in the operation of a two-axis system. Long-term bearing use inevitably produce bubbles and frictional damage. Therefore, the protection of bearings is critical for the stable operation of a two-axis system. In this study, a TiO2 nanofilm is used
to physically protect a bearing. The discretization method is used to analyse the cavitation process. Cavitation primarily occurs on the front surface of the pad during bearing operation. A finite element analysis of a bearing pad coated and not coated with TiO2 nanofilms shows
that TiO2 nanofilms can effectively absorb the cavitation force exerted on pads, thereby reducing inflicted damage. Moreover, the TiO2 nanofilm reduces the friction coefficient of the pad surface, promoting good bearing capacity of the bearing during rotation. The TiO2
nanofilm serves as a protective layer that improves the anti-wear and bearing performance of a two-axis system.
Compatibility of Photoluminescence Properties in ScPO4:Eu3+, Tb3+ Phosphor for White Light Emitting Diodes
Authors: Zhou Jian , Zhao Jian-Wen , Ren Si-Li , Dong Jun
Published: July 2021

ScPO4:Eu3+, Tb3+ phosphors with tuned emission color were prepared through high temperature solid-state reaction. The structure, morphology and photoluminescence properties of the title samples were collected by XRD, SEM and fluorescence spectrophotometer,
respectively. Co-doping Eu3+ and Tb3+ in ScPO4 does not change the body-centered tetragonal structure of the host. And the morphology remains essentially unchanged except for slight agglomeration. Changing the ratio of Tb3+/Eu3+, the tuned
emission can be achieved, the color could be adjusted from green through yellow to orange-red. The ScPO4:0.03Tb3+, 0.03Eu3+ phosphor with high thermal stability as the single matrix phosphor can be suitable for the NUV-pumped white LED. The white LED with a
color rendering index of 86.5 and a correlated color temperature of 3470 K has been generated by packaging BAM:Eu2+ with ScPO4:0.03Tb3+, 0.03Eu3+ on an NUV-InGaN chip.
Impact of Synthesis Methods on Structural and Antifungal Properties of Metal Sulfide Nanoparticles
Authors: Ahuja Radha , Sidhu Anjali , Bala Anju
Published: July 2021

Nanotechnology has the ability to produce novel nano-sized materials with excellent physical and chemical properties to act against phytopathogenic diseases, essential for revolution of agriculture and food industry. The development of facile, reliable and eco-friendly processes for
the synthesis of biologically active nanomaterials is an important aspect of nanotechnology. In the present paper, we attempted to compare sonochemical and co-precipitation method for the synthesis of metal sulfide nanoparticles (MS-NPs) for their structural and antifungal properties against
various phytopathogenic fungi of rice. The preparation of nanospheres (NSs) and nano rods (NRs) of CuS, FeS and MnS was monitored by UV-Visible spectroscopy complemented by transmission electron microscope (TEM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), dynamic light
scattering (DLS) and Zeta potential analyser. Sonochemical method resulted in formation of spherical shaped nanoparticles of size (7–120 nm), smaller than those of nanorods (50–200 nm) prepared by co-precipitation produced. It was observed that the metal sulfide nanospheres exhibited
a better antifungal potential against D. oryzae, C. lunata and S. oryzae as compared to rod shaped metal sulfide nanoparticles. Smaller size and large surface area of spherical shaped particles opens up an important perspective of the prepared MS-NPs.