bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Post-Operative Blood Pressure in 24 Hours and 3-Year Major Adverse Cardiac Events in Chinese Patients Undergoing PCI
Authors: Gan Lijun , Sun Dandan , Cheng Yuntao , Wang Deyang , Wang Fen , Wang Lin , Li Wei , Shen Dandan , Guo Daotong , Zhang Zonglei , Wang Haiyan , Li Jinli , Yang Yong , Liang Tao
Published: September 2021

Background: There is no clear evidence for the target value of blood pressure control within 24 hours after Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Therefore, our study was designed to explore the relationship between blood pressure within 24 hours after PCI and major adverse cardiac events (MACE) during 3-year follow-up. Methods: This study is a prospective study. The study initially collected information of 552 patients. The start and end times of the study are from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2020. The independent variables of this study are the average systolic blood pressure and the average diastolic blood pressure within 24 hours after PCI. The dependent variable is the occurrence of MACE events in patients within 3 years after PCI. Results: A total of 514 subjects met the inclusion criteria. The average age of the study subjects is 61.92 ± 9.49 years old, of which 67.12% are male. 94 subjects had a MACE event within 3 years, and the occurrence rate was 18.29%. There is no significant non-linear or linear relationship between diastolic blood pressure and MACE events. There is a curvilinear relationship between the average systolic blood pressure within 24 hours of patients after PCI and MACE events within 3 years and the inflection point is 134. On the left side of the inflection point, the effect size and 95% CI are 1.22 and 1.04-1.43, respectively (P=0.017). The impact size and 95% CI at the right inflection point were 0.96 and 0.83-1.11, respectively (P=0.604). Conclusion: There is a non-linear relationship between systolic blood pressure and the occurrence of MACE events in 3 years, and its inflection point is 134mmHg. In the case of ensuring patient safety, we should control the patient's systolic blood pressure within 24 hours after surgery.
Congress of neurological surgeons systematic review and evidence-based guidelines update on the role of cytoreductive surgery in the management of progressive glioblastoma in adults
Authors: Patrick Hayes H. , Sherman Jonathan H , Elder Bradley , Olson Jeffrey
Published: September 2021

Question: In patients with previously diagnosed glioblastoma who are suspected of experiencing progression, does repeat cytoreductive surgery improve progression free survival or overall survival compared to alternative interventions?Target population: These recommendations apply to adults with previously diagnosed glioblastoma who are suspected of experiencing progression of the neoplastic process and are amenable to surgical resection.Recommendation:Level II: Repeat cytoreductive surgery is recommended in progressive glioblastoma patients to improve overall survival.
Synthesis, Biological evaluation, Quantum Chemical Calculations, Molecular Docking and Effect of High Energetic Gamma Irradiation on Cu(I, II), Zn(II) and Cd(II) Complexes.
Authors: Elganzory Hussein
Published: September 2021

Novel complexes of Cu(I,II), Zn(II) and Cd(II) of thiosemicarbazide ligand (H2LB) have been prepared and characterized. The results confirmed that gamma ray enhanced the stability of irradiated compounds as compared to non-irradiated . XRD patterns proved that increasing the crystallinity of particles in nano range after gamma irradiation. Data obtained indicated that the Cu(I) and Cd(II) ions coordinated to the ligand through the (C=O), N(2)H and (C=S), (neutral tridentate ligand). While, Cu(II) and Zn(II) complexes the ligand behaves as neutral tetradentate and coordination take place via (C=O) and two N(2)H . These studies revealed that, two kinds of stereochemical geometries; Cu(II) and Zn(II) complexes were predicted to be octahedral, Cu(I) and Cd(II) complexes were found to be tetrahedral. The theoretical conformational structure analyses were performed using DFT at B3LYP functional with 6‐31G(++)d,p basis set for ligand and LANL2DZ basis set for complexes. The inhibitory effect on the growth against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria of prepared complexes have been tested. Results suggested that 1μg/ml and 5µg/ml for Cu(II) and Zn(II) complexes have higher activity than other complexes. The chelation could facilitate the ability to cross the cell membrane of E. coli. Molecular docking investigation proved that; the Zn(II) complex has interesting interactions with active site amino acids of topoisomerase II DNA gyrase enzymes (code: 2XCT).
Applying WHO COVID-19 Workforce Estimate Tools Remotely in an African Context: A Case Report From Mali and Kenya
Authors: McQuide Pamela A. , Finnegan Amy , Terry Katherine M , Brown Andrew Nelson , Toure Cheick Oumar , Tessougue Jeanne , Cisse Ibrahim , Thuku Mathew Kariuki , Muriuki Janet , Ochola Mary , Ogato Julius , Coulibaly Etienne , Togora Toure Djeneba
Published: September 2021

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic has increased the burden on health systems, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where health systems already struggle. To meet health workforce planning needs during the pandemic, IntraHealth International used two tools created by the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Europe. The Health Workforce Estimator (HWFE) allows the estimation of the quantity of health workers needed to treat patients during a surge, and the Adaptt Surge Planning Support Tool helps to predict the timing of a surge in cases and the number of health workers and beds needed for predicted caseload. These tools were adapted to fit the African context in a rapid implementation over five weeks in one region in Mali and one region in Kenya with the objective to test the feasibility of adapting these tools, which use a Workload Indicators of Staffing Need (WISN)-inspired human resources management methodology, to obtain daily and surge projections of COVID-19 human resources for health needs.Case presentationUsing a remote team in the US and in-country teams in Mali and Kenya, IntraHealth enacted a phased plan to gather stakeholder support, collect data related to health systems and COVID-19 cases, populate data into the tools, verify modeled results with results on the ground, enact policy measures to meet projected needs, and conduct national training workshops for the ministries of health.ConclusionsThis phased implementation in Mali and Kenya demonstrated that the WISN approach applied to the Health Workforce Estimator and Adaptt tools can be readily adapted to the local context for African countries to rapidly estimate the number of health workers and beds needed to respond to the predicted COVID-19 pandemic caseload. The results may also be used to give a proxy estimate for needed health supplies—e.g., oxygen, medications, and ventilators. Challenges included accurate and timely data collection and updating data. The success of the pilot can be attributed to the adapted WHO tools, the team composition in both countries, access to human resources data, and early support of the ministries of health, with the expectation that this methodology can be applied to other country contexts.
Low-dose Priming of Gamma Radiation Enhanced Cadmium Tolerance in Chlamydomonas Reinhardtii by Modulating Physio-biochemical Pathways
Authors: Pradhan Biswajita , Patra Srimanta , Nayak Rabindra , Swain Shasank S. , Jit Bimal Prasad , Behera Chhandashree , Ragusa Andrea , Ki Jang-Seu , Jena Mrutyunjay
Published: September 2021

Microalgae, the key components of aquatic environments, are executive natural biotic models for exploring genotoxic effect of heavy metals, irradiation and other external stimuli and the toxicant elimination. In the current scenario, removal of metal contaminants is a significant challenge. Recently, the effective removal of heavy metals from the aquatic environment using microalgae has gained immense intention. However, the concurrent toxicity has limited their use as bio-accumulants to reduce the concentration of heavy metals and promote heavy metal tolerance. Few studies opined that low dose priming with non-ionizing radiations, such as gamma radiation, increased heavy metal tolerance in plant as well as aquatic photosynthetic microalgae. In the present study, we have hypothesized the growth inhibitory physio-chemical properties by cadmium (Cd) in the green algae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, and analysed the protective role of low-dose gamma radiations priming against Cd induced growth inhibition. In addition, we have specially emphasized on the mechanism of cell survival in the experimental species with effective notation to antioxidant defence system during Cd induced toxicity. Experimentally, we primed the Chlamydomonas reinhardtii with low-dose gamma radiation prior to Cd treatment. On the other hand, gamma-radiated and Cd-treated organisms were considered as positive controls. We calculated the rate of cell death, the deployment of antioxidant enzymes such as catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), glutathione reductase (GSR), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Furthermore, the role of oxidative stress related genes was analysed computationally to delineate their involvement in cell death/survival, suggesting that the low-dose priming of gamma radiation enhances the Cd tolerance by alterating cell/death pathways and other biochemical responses.
Effect of Dexamethasone In Patients With ARDS And COVID-19 (REMED Trial) – Study Protocol For A Prospective, Multi-Centre, Open-Label, Parallel-Group, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Maláska Jan , Stašek Jan , Duška František , Balík Martin , Máca Jan , Hruda Jan , Vymazal Tomáš , Klementová Olga , Zatloukal Jan , Gabrhelík Tomáš , Novotný Pavel , Demlová Regina , Kubátová Jana , Vinklerová Jana , Svobodník Adam , Kratochvíl Milan , Klučka Jozef , Gál Roman , Singer Mervyn
Published: September 2021

Background: Since December 2019, SARS-Co-2 virus has infected millions of people worldwide. In patients with COVID-19 pneumonia in need for oxygen therapy or mechanical ventilation, dexamethasone 6 mg per day is currently recommended. However, the dose of 6 mg of dexamethasone is currently being reappraised and may miss important therapeutic potential or may prevent a potential deleterious effects of a higher doses of corticosteroids. Methods: REMED is a prospective, open-label, randomised controlled trial testing superiority of dexamethasone 20 mg (dexamethasone 20 mg on day 1–5, followed by dexamethasone 10 mg on day 6–10) vs 6 mg administered once daily intravenously for 10 days in adult patients with moderate or severe ARDS due to confirmed COVID-19. 300 participants will be enrolled and followed up for 360 days after randomization. Patients will be randomised in a 1:1 ratio into one of the two treatment arms. Following stratification factors will be applied: age, Charlson Comorbidity index, CRP levels and trial centre. Primary endpoint is number of ventilator-free days (VFDs) at 28 days after randomisation. Secondary endpoints are mortality from any cause at 60 days after randomisation; Dynamics of inflammatory marker, change in WHO Clinical Progression Scale at Day 14; Adverse events related to corticosteroids and independence at 90 days after randomisation assessed by Barthel Index.The long-term outcomes of this study are to assess long-term consequences on mortality and quality of life at 180 and 360 days. The study will be conducted in the intensive care units (ICUs) of ten university hospitals in the Czech Republic. Discussion: We aim to compare two different dose of dexamethasone in patients with moderate to severe ARDS undergoing mechanical ventilation regarding efficacy and safetyTrial registration: EudraCT No.:2020-005887-70 and ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04663555 on December 11, 2020 on ClinicalTrials.gov
Pathological Investigations And Correlation Research of Microfibrillar-Associated Protein 4 And Tropoelastin In Oral Submucous Fibrosis
Authors: Liu Binjie , Gou Wenqun , Feng Hui
Published: September 2021

Background: Oral submucous fibrosis (OSF), distinguished by abnormal collagen deposition, is a precancerous disorder with 7%-30% of malignant transformation and rising global prevalence. However, the precise pathogenesis and effective treatment still remains elusive and controversial despite superfluity of literature. Therefore, it is extremely necessary and significant to explore the clinicopathological characteristics and potential markers for diagnosis and prognosis of OSF. Here, the objective of this research is to evaluate the influence and correlation of Microfibrillar-associated protein 4 [MFAP4] and tropoelastin [TE] on the development of OSF patients. Material and Methods: Classic clinicopathological factors, HE and Masson trichome staining, immunohistochemical characteristics and the correlation (MFAP4 and TE) were recorded and compared among different stages of OSF cases (n = 60) and among those normal individuals (n = 10). Then, the comparison using Student's t test, ANOVA analysis, the chi-square test for categorical variables was conducted in clinicopathological characteristics and the expression level of MFAP4 and TE between the patients' and normal tissue. The correlation analysis of MFAP4 and TE were assessed via means of Pearson's correlation test and linear regression. Results: MFAP4 and TE proteins are upregulated and even increasing gradually in varying grades of OSF patients relative to the normal cases. Furthermore, statistical analyses yielded that the expression level of MFAP4 was positively associated with TE, and the Pearson correlation coefficient was 0.3781 (p = 0.0048). Clinically, we found that OSF affected more male than female with a ratio of 29: 1. The age range was 16-60 years, and the mean age was 36.25 ± 10.25 years old. Moreover, the positive expression rate of MFAP4 and TE in patients less than 40 years old is higher than that of those over 40 years old. Meanwhile, all OSF cases had chewed areca nut, with 51.67% smoking tobacco. Conclusions: Our study elucidates that the accumulation of MFAP4 and TE proteins may play a vitally important effect in the occurrence and development of OSF and has a hope to become a promising candidate molecular for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies of OSF in the future.
Volunteering Among Pre-clinical Medical Students: Study of Its Association With Academic Performance Using Institutional Data.
Authors: Alsuwaidi Laila , Powell Leigh , Alhashmi Deena , Khamis Amar Hassan , Zary Nabil
Published: September 2021

Background: Participating in volunteering activities during students’ higher education experience is becoming more commonplace. Studies have noted that volunteering has a positive impact on the academic performance of undergraduate medical students. However, the majority of these studies rely on self-reported data like surveys, interviews, and journals. In this study, we leverage actual institutional data to examining the relationship between volunteering and academic performance among medical students in the pre-clinical phases of the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) program. The current study also explores the factors that might influence the studied relationship. Methods: A retrospective-longitudinal analysis was conducted in the College of Medicine at the Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU) in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Three years of volunteering records for three cohorts of undergraduate medical students enrolled in the MBBS program between 2016 – 2018 were reviewed and analyzed to complete this study. In addition, the correlation between the Annual Grade Point Average (AGPA) and volunteering was studied, and the regression coefficients for the two variables were observed across the three cohorts in each study year. Results: Analysis of 153 undergraduate medical students' volunteering records revealed a significant positive relationship between the AGPA and the number of volunteering in year two. The correlation was insignificant in year one, year three, and across the three cohorts. Conclusions: The association between academic performance and volunteering among undergraduate medical students appeared to be positive. However, this relationship differs across the pre-clinical study years in medical school and is likely influenced by factors that impact students’ motivation towards volunteering. Therefore, having the volunteerism program embedded in curriculum planning and testing students’ personality traits related to volunteering motivation, are aspects to be explored to enhance medical students’ learning and professional development through volunteerism.
Excavation of a Novel Transcription Factors-related Prognostic Signature for Osteosarcoma
Authors: Cheng Long , Liu Yi , Huang Xu , Zhang Jiting , Wu Bo , Liu Yanwei , Fu Zhaoyu , Zhu Dong
Published: September 2021

BackgroundTranscription factors (TFs) are involved in the initiation and development of many cancers, regulating cancer-related activities. However, the significance of TF-related genes in predicting the prognosis of osteosarcoma (OS) patients is not yet clear. Risk stratification using prognostic markers can facilitate clinical decision-making and effect in the treatment of cancer.Material and methodsIn the study, we aimed to establish an optimal TF signature for predicting the prognosis of OS patients. We identified 24 differentially expressed TFs in metastatic and non-metastatic OS samples from the Therapeutically Applicable Research to Generate Effective Treatments (TARGET) database. Subsequently, we performed univariate and multivariate cox regression analysis to built a TFs-related prognostic signature (TRPS) confirmed in an independent cohort (GSE39055). The ESTIMATE algorithm was used to estimate the immune/stromal cell score.ResultsWe built a TRPS for OS patients, including MESP1 and ZNF597. Kaplan-Meier (KM) survival analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve both confirmed the accuracy of the signature. Multivariate analysis proved that this TRPS was an independent prognostic predictor of OS, and it was further confirmed in the GSE39055 dataset and multiple clinical subtypes. In addition, we found a significant negative correlation between stromal score and risk score. Moreover, the relative abundance of NK cells in the low-risk prognosis group was notably higher than that in the high-risk prognosis group. Conclusion﻿In summary, we established a TFs-related prognostic signature with high diagnostic, prognostic efficacy in OS patients, which may optimize the prognostic management of osteosarcoma patients and help achieve individualized treatment.
Early Warning of Impending Flash Flood Based on AIoT
Authors: Sung Wen-Tsai , Devi Ihzany Vilia , Hsiao Sung-Jung
Published: September 2021

According to data from the Earth's Volcano and Geological Disaster Reduction Center, a country like Indonesia has experienced many natural disasters, one of which is flooding. Floods are an annual natural disaster, especially on mountain slopes. Mountainous areas experience more dangerous than floods than the urban areas because they can cause other natural disasters, such as landslides and damage the hiking trails. The steep and winding roads minimize and limit the number of officers working in the mountains. Therefore, flood detection and monitoring equipment is needed. The proposed system based on AIoT technology provides real-time flood analysis so that the authorities can monitor residents around mountainous areas and provide early warning. This research focuses on the flood observation system as an early warning system to effectively monitor the flood-prone mountain slopes in real time while taking into account the cost, time efficiency, and safety measurement. The proposed system design includes the integration of sensors into the microcontroller, and the communication between the posts using LoRa and SIM900 sends data to the cloud server via the Internet. All sensor readings for each post are displayed on the app, and alerts are sent via SMS and the app.
What Makes Community Health Worker Models for Tuberculosis Active Case Finding Work? A Cross-sectional Study of TB REACH Projects to Identify Success Factors for Increasing Case Notifications
Authors: Dam Thu , Forse Rachel , Tran Phuong , Vo Luan , Codlin Andrew James , Nguyen Lan , Creswell Jacob
Published: September 2021

Background: In the field of tuberculosis (TB), Community Healthcare Workers (CHWs) have been engaged for advocacy, case detection, and patient support in a wide range of settings. Estimates predict large-sale shortfalls of healthcare workers in low- and middle-income settings by 2030 and strategies are needed to optimize the health workforce to achieve universal availability and accessibility of healthcare. In 2018, the World Health Organization (WHO) published guidelines on best practices for CHW engagement, and identified remaining knowledge gaps. Stop TB Partnership’s TB REACH initiative has supported interventions using CHWs to deliver TB care in over 30 countries, and utilized the same primary indicator to measure project impact at the population-level for all TB active case finding projects, which makes the results comparable across multiple settings. This study compiled 10 years of implementation data from the initiative’s grantee network to begin to address key knowledge gaps in CHW networks.Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study analyzing the TB REACH data repository (n=123) and primary survey responses (n=50) of project implementers. We designed a survey based on WHO guidelines to understand projects’ practices on CHW recruitment, training, activities, supervision, compensation, and sustainability. We segmented projects by TB notification impact and fitted linear random-effect regression models to identify practices associated with higher changes in notifications. Results: Most projects employed CHWs for advocacy alongside case finding and holding activities. Model characteristics associated with higher project impact included incorporating e-learning in training and having the prospect of CHWs continuing their responsibilities at the close of a project. Factors that trended towards being associated with higher impact were community-based training, differentiated contracts, and non-monetary incentives.Conclusion: In line with WHO guidelines, our findings emphasize that successful implementation approaches provide CHWs with comprehensive training, continuous supervision, fair compensation, and are integrated within the existing primary healthcare system. However, we encountered a great degree of heterogeneity in CHW engagement models, resulting in few practices clearly associated with higher notifications.
WITHDRAWN: Novel Methotrexate-Loaded Zein Nanoparticles With Improved and Extended Biopharmaceutical Performance: QbD-Steered Development, and Extensive In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation
Authors: Jain Atul , Sharma Teenu , Kumar Rajendra , Saini Sumant , Kaur Jasleen , Katare OP , Bhoop Bhupinder Singh
Published: September 2021

The current work entails QbD-enabled preparation of methotrexate-loaded nanoparticles (NPs) using zein as the release-controlling natural polymer. Initially, quality risk estimationand factor screening studies using Taguchi design were undertaken to delineate “vital few” process and material attributes among “plausible so many”. Further, formulation optimization using central composite design and validation using correlation plots and percent predictive bias was carried out. Optimized NPs exhibited mean size of 159 nm, zeta potential of 14.85 mV and entrapment of 50.23%. In vitro dissolution kinetic modelling unearthed non-Fickian drug release extension mechanism from the proposed zein NPs. In vitro MTT and apoptosis assay using MCF-7 cells and cellular uptake studies using Caco-2 cells indicate remarkably superior anticancer potential of zein NPs over pure methotrexate, ascribable to their nanometric size and cationic nature. In vivo pharmacokinetic studies in rat construed significant enhancement by 2.15-fold in AUC48h (p<0.001), 1.30-fold in Cmax (p<0.05), 3.67-fold in Tmax (p<0.001), and 1.38-fold in T1/2 (p<0.01), along with notably reduced variability in biopharmaceutical performance. Establishment of significant point-to-point level A in vitro/in vivo correlations (IVIVC) and kinetic modeling construed the robustness and prognostic ability of drug release studies. Robustness of the nanoformulation was ratified under refrigerated storage through six months’stability studies. Overall, the studies unequivocally indicate development of a stable nanoparticulate formulation with significantly enhanced extent, extension and consistency of biopharmaceutical performance, along with improved anticancer potential of methotrexate.
Cancer coopts differentiation of B-cell precursors into macrophages
Authors: Chen Chen , Park Bongsoo , Ragonnaud Emeline , Bodogai Monica , Zong Le , Lee Jung-Min , Beerman Isabel , Biragyn Arya
Published: September 2021

We recently reported that some cancers induce accumulation of bone marrow (BM) B-cell precursors in the spleen to convert them into metastasis-promoting, immunosuppressive B cells. Here, using various murine tumor models and samples from humans with breast and ovarian cancers, we provide evidence that cancer cells also coopt differentiation of the extra nodal B-cell precursors to generate macrophages (termed B-MF). We link the trans-differentiation to a small subset of CSF1R+ Pax5Low cells within BM pre-B and immature B cells and cancer-secreted M-CSF that downregulates Pax5 via CSF1R signaling. Thus, cancer generates tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) from B-cell precursors in addition to their primary source, monocytes. Based on their differences from monocyte-derived TAM, such as a superior ability to induce FoxP3+ Tregs, suppress proliferation of T cells and more efficiently phagocytize apoptotic cells, we propose that cancer generates B-MF to mediate cancer escape.
Variations in Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior During and After Hospitalization in Acutely Admitted Older Medical Patients: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Jawad Baker Nawfal , Petersen Janne , Andersen Ove , Pedersen Mette Merete
Published: September 2021

Background: Inactivity and bedrest are frequent among older patients during hospitalization and are associated with functional decline. No longitudinal objective evidence exists on how patients' diurnal profile for physical activity changes during acute hospitalization and what happens when the patient is discharged to own home. By the use of accelerometers, this study aims to describe and compare the distribution of physical activity and sedentary behavior in acutely hospitalized older patients during hospitalization and after discharge. Methods: The study population consisted of 80 patients (+65 years) from the STAND-Cph trial, who were admitted with acute medical illness and were able to stand. Physical activity and sedentary behavior were measured as number of steps, uptime (walking/standing) and sedentary behavior (lying/sitting) per hour with an activity monitor worn on the thigh (activPAL3, PAL Technologies Ltd). The patients wore the monitor for three periods of one week: during hospitalization, after discharge, and four weeks after discharge. Results: The patients’ median age was 80 years [IQR: 75-88], 68% of the patients were female and The median DEMMI was 57 [IQR: 48-67]. The daily median uptime was 1.7 h [IQR: 1-2.8] during hospitalization, 4.0 h [IQR: 2.7-5.4] after discharge and 4.0 h [IQR: 2.8-5.8] four weeks after discharge. The median number of steps was 728 [IQR: 176-2089], 2207 [IQR: 1433-3148], and 2622 [IQR: 1714-3865], respectively. During hospitalization, a small peak was observed both for number of steps and uptime between 9-11 AM. However, the diurnal profile had no notable variation. At discharge and four weeks after discharge, the median of physical activity peaked 2-3 times and had mostly the same diurnal profile. Conclusion: Older hospitalized patients spend most of their time engaged in sedentary behavior, where their main activity peak is in the morning between 9-11 AM. The uptime doubles and the number of steps triples after discharge, where peaks of activity are seen throughout the day. This indicates that daily routines are disrupted during hospitalization and that older patients have the potential to be more physically active during hospitalization. This emphasizes the need for interventions that encourage physical activity throughout the day during hospitalization.
Investigation of the Oxidation of Plasma Sprayed Silicon Coating
Authors: Zhang Qi , Zhang XueQin , Ma Zhuang , Liu Ling , Liu Yanbo
Published: September 2021

The quality of plasma sprayed silicon coating determined by density and spreading condition of lamella greatly influences its performance. The oxidation of silicon coating deteriorates its performance. However, the investigators mostly focus on the oxidation and mechanism of amorphous silicon, porous silicon and specific crystal planes on single crystal. The factors which influence the quality and oxidation of silicon coating has never be studied. The helium secondary gas flow has more influence on the quality of silicon coating than other spraying parameters. So, we prepare the silicon coating by plasma spraying technology with different secondary gas flow. The relationship between silicon coating’s quality and secondary gas flow is investigated. Furthermore, the oxidation of plasma sprayed silicon coating is discussed. We find that the secondary gas has an adverse effect on quality and oxidation degree of silicon coating. With the decrease of secondary gas flow, both quality and oxygen content of coatings increase. Besides, the oxygen atoms heterogeneously concentrate at the outermost layer of silicon lamellas. Components of oxygen enrichment area (OEA) from outside to inside are Si + SiOx+SiO2→Si + Si2O + SiO2→Si + SiOx→Si (1 < x < 1.5). The width of OEA in lamellas at top layer of silicon coating is about 180nm, obviously thicker than that in inner lamellas. The results obtained from research can provide support to better understand the behavior of silicon coating in the service process.
Three-Dimensional Nonlinear Vibration Model and Fatigue Failure Mechanism of Deep-Water Test Pipe
Authors: Guo Xiaoqiang , Nie Yuxin , Liu Jun , He Yufa , Mao Liangjie , Wang Guorong , Dai Liming
Published: September 2021

In deep-water test conditions, the riser-test pipe system (RTS) is subject to the vortex induced effect on riser, flow induced effect on test pipe and longitudinal/transverse coupling effect, which is prone to buckling deformation, fatigue fracture and friction perforation. To resolve this, the three-dimensional (3D) nonlinear vibration model of deep-water RTS is established using the micro-finite method, energy method and Hamilton variational principle. Based on the elastic-plastic contact collision theory, the nonlinear contact load calculation method between riser and test pipe is proposed. Compared with experimental measurement results, calculation results of the proposed vibration model in this study and the single tubing vibration model in our recent work, the correctness and effectiveness of the proposed vibration model of the deep-water RTS are verified. Meanwhile, the cumulative damage theory is used to establish the fatigue life prediction method of test pipe. Based on that, the influences of outflow velocity, internal flow velocity, significant wave height, as well as top tension coefficient on the fatigue life of test pipe are systematically analyzed. The results demonstrate that, first, with the increase of outflow velocity, the maximum alternating stress, the annual fatigue damage rate increased and the service life decreased significantly. The locations where fatigue failure of the test tube is easy to occur are mainly distributed at the upper “one third” and the bottom of test pipe. Second, with the increase of internal flow velocity, the “one third effect” of the test pipe will decrease, and is shown “the bottom damage effect”, which needs the attention of field operators. Third, during field operation, it is necessary to properly configure the top tension coefficient so that there can be a certain relaxation between the riser and the test pipe, so as to cause transverse vibration and consume some axial energy and load. The study led to the formulation of a theoretical method for safety evaluation and a practical approach for effectively improving the fatigue life of deep-water test pipe.
Tree – Open Grassland Structure Drives Carbon And Nitrogen Cycling In Mediterranean Wood Pastures of The Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Ibañez Mercedes , Aljazairi Salvador , Leiva María José , Werner Roland A. , Ghashghaie Jaleh , Sebastià Maria Teresa
Published: September 2021

Purpose: Mediterranean wood pastures are the largest agroforestry system in Europe. Traditional silvo-pastoral uses shaped these systems into a mosaic of trees and open grassland. However, little is known about how this structure may influence ecosystem carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) dynamics, considering different canopy types and interactions with the herbaceous layer.Aims: To unravel the canopy effect on C and N dynamics (1) under representative canopy types, including traditional Quercus stands and Pinus pinea L. plantations; and (2) in interaction with the herbaceous plant functional types (PFT).Methods: We analysed C and N content and the isotopic natural abundance on soil and plant materials at the open grassland and under the different tree canopies.Results: Under the canopy, soil C and N content, and N availability for the herbaceous layer increased. The canopy effect performed differences between Quercus and P. pinea plots, as detected on the belowground biomass C content. Also, the canopy effect was more pronounced with increasing environmental constraints, highlighting the relevance of trees in more restrictive environments. PFT ecophysiological characteristics interacted with tree canopies, as reflected the enhanced efficiency taking-up N, and/or exploiting symbiotic N of grasses, which was probably one of the causes of their dominancy under the canopy, at higher N availability.Conclusion: Changes in the tree coverage and tree species will significantly change ecosystem C and N storage and cycling. Therefore, it is highly advisable to preserve a balance between trees and open grassland, and traditional Quercus stands, to keep ecosystem services provisioning.
Personality Traits and Anxiety in Patients With Temporomandibular Disorders
Authors: Hekmati Atefeh , Mortazavi Nazanin , Ozouni-Davaji Rahman Berdi , Vakili Mohammad Ali
Published: September 2021

BackgroundTemporomandibular disorders have long been suggested to result from psychological factors. Recent studies, however, tend to consider TMD a chronic psychosomatic illness. The present study was designed to explore the association between TMD and personality profile. The Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2-Reconstructed form was used to evaluate the association for the first time.MethodsA total of 258 subjects were participated in this case-control study. TMD cases as detected by Helkimo index were questioned regarding their personality characteristics and anxiety levels using MMPI-2-RF and Spielberger state and trait anxiety inventory.ResultsPatients with TMD scored higher on all personality characteristics except for Aberrant Experiences. The psychological profile of TMD showed no significant difference between theoretical and experimental ideas of persecution means. Patients with TMD reported significantly higher mean levels of state and trait anxiety than controls. The most frequently found anxiety levels in TMD cases have been mild state and trait anxiety (77.5% versus 74.4%).ConclusionPersonality characteristic scores were considerably higher in TMD patients. TMD cases detected by Helkimo index manifest both trait and state anxiety as common findings.
MAPPINGS v1.0, a tool for network analysis of large phospho-signalling datasets: application to host erythrocyte response to Plasmodium infection
Authors: Adderley Jack , O'Donoghue Finn , Davis Stephen , Doerig Christian
Published: September 2021

Phosphorylation-based signalling implicates a complex and intertwined series of pathways and is critical to all domains of life. The interconnectivity between pathways results in the emergence of complex networks whose elucidation present a serious challenge. Large datasets of phosphorylation interactions through the activity of kinases on their numerous substrates are constantly being generated, however deciphering the complex network structure hidden in these datasets remains challenging. Many phosphorylation interactions occurring in human cells have been identified and constitute the basis for the known phosphorylation interaction network. We overlayed onto this network phosphorylation datasets obtained from an antibody microarray approach aimed at determining changes in phospho-signalling of host erythrocytes to infection with the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. To analyse the datasets now mapped into the interaction network, we designed a pathway analysis tool denoted MAPPINGS that uses random walks to identify chains of phosphorylation events occurring much more or much less frequently than expected. MAPPINGS highlights pathways of phosphorylation that work synergistically, providing a rapid interpretation of the most critical pathways in each dataset. MAPPINGS confirmed several signalling interactions previously shown to be modulated by infection, and revealed additional interactions which could form the basis of numerous future studies. The MAPPINGS analysis strategy described here is widely applicable to comparative phosphorylation datasets in any context (e.g. response of cells to infection, treatment, or comparison between differentiation stages of any cell populations) and provides a rapid and reliable analysis to guide validation studies.
Urinary Extracellular Vesicles contain simplified transcriptomes enriched in circular & long noncoding RNAs with functional significance in prostate cancer
Authors: Almeida anna , Gabriel Marc , Firlej Virginie , Martin-Jaular Lorena , Lejars Matthieu , Cippola Rocco , Vogt Nicolas , Destouches Damien , Vacherot Francis , Taille Alexandre De la , Théry Clotilde , Morillon Antonin
Published: September 2021

Long noncoding (lnc)RNAs modulate gene expression alongside presenting unexpected source of neoantigens. Despite their immense interest, their ability to be transferred and control adjacent cells is unknown. Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) offer a protective environment for nucleic acids, with pro and anti-tumorigenic functions by controlling the immune response. In contrast to extracellular non-vesicular RNA, few studies have addressed the full RNA content within human fluids’ EVs and none have compared them with their tissue of origin. Here, we performed Total RNA-Sequencing on 6 Formaldehyde-Fixed-Parafilm-Embedded (FFPE) prostate cancer (PCa) tumor tissues and their paired urinary (u)EVs to provide the first whole transcriptome comparison from the same patients. UEVs contain simplified transcriptome with intron-free cytoplasmic transcripts and specific lnc/circular (circ)RNAs, strikingly common to all patients. Our full cellular and EVs transcriptome comparison within 3 common PCa cell lines identified a set of overlapping 14 uEV-circRNAs characterized as essential for prostate cell proliferation in vitro and 15 uEV-lncRNAs that we predicted to encode 768 high-affinity neoantigens. Our dual analysis of EVs-lnc/circRNAs both in urines’ and in vitro’s EVs provides a fundamental resource for future uEV-lnc/circRNAs phenotypic characterization involved in PCa.
Experience of Serious Intestinal Hemorrhage and Perforation in Small Bowel Lymphoma: A Case Report
Authors: Kim Seo Ree , Chun Sang Hoon , Jin Jong Youl , Gweon Tae-Geun , Lee Hayemin , Jin Min-Sun , Lee Guk Jin
Published: September 2021

Background: There have been several reports of complications of small bowel lymphoma, such as bleeding, obstruction, and perforation, which require emergency surgery. It is hardly showed complication of bleeding and wound dehiscence for diffuse large B cell lymphoma with distal ileum involvement, which needed urgent surgery and medical management. Chemotherapy is also important when treating small bowel lymphoma, but complications such as bleeding and perforation should always be kept in mind.Case presentation: A 65 year-old man with stage III diffuse large B-cell lymphoma of the activated-B cell (ABC) type with distal ileum involvement experienced both intestinal bleeding and perforation during the course of treatment. As the patient was diagnosed with stage III disease, resection before chemotherapy was not considered due to the resulting delay in chemotherapy, which necessitated sufficient tissue healing. Conclusion: As shown in this case, complications such as bleeding and perforation should always be considered for the treatment of small bowel lymphoma, and surgery is necessary in this situation. After surgery of the small bowel, subsequent chemotherapy could cause the wound dehiscence and perforation; therefore, adequate recovery time should be given before chemotherapy.
Group I lytic polysaccharide monooxygenase (LPMO1) is required for efficient chitinous cuticle turnover during insect molting
Authors: Qu mingbo , Kim Myeongjin , Guo Xiaoxi , Mun Seulgi , Tian Shuang , Noh Mi Young , Kramer Karl J , Muthukrishnan Subbaratnam , Arakane Yasuyuki , Yang Qing
Published: September 2021

Microbial lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs) catalyze the oxidative cleavage of crystalline polysaccharides including chitin and cellulose. The discovery of a large assortment of LPMO-like proteins widely distributed in insect genomes suggests that they could be involved in assisting chitin degradation in the exoskeleton, tracheae and peritrophic matrix during development. However, the physiological functions of insect LPMO-like proteins are still undetermined. To investigate the functions of insect LPMO subgroup I-like proteins, which contain an AA15 LPMO catalytic domain and a conserved C-terminal cysteine-rich motif, two evolutionarily distant species, Tribolium castaneum and Locusta migratoria, were chosen for study. RNAi for the T. castaneum protein, TcLPMO1, caused molting arrest at all developmental stages, whereas RNAi of the L. migratoria protein, LmLPMO1, prevented only adult eclosion. In both species, LPMO1-deficient animals were unable to shed their exuviae and died. TEM analysis revealed failure of turnover of chitinous cuticle, which is critical for completion of molting. Purified recombinant LPMO1-like protein from Ostrinia furnacalis (rOfLPMO1) exhibited oxidative cleavage activity and substrate preference for chitin. These results reveal for the first time the physiological importance of catalytically active LPMO1-like proteins from distant insect species and provide new insight into the enzymatic mechanism of chitin turnover during molting.
Impact of Hypertension on Pathological Features of Papillary Thyroid Cancer: A Large Sample Single-Center Study
Authors: Li Ling-Rui , Song Jun-Long , Yu Xi-Zi , Zhan Ling , Liu Han-Qing , Chen Chuang
Published: September 2021

Background: Hypertension (HTN) is known to increase the risk of thyroid cancer. However, few studies have explored the association between HTN and the prognostic factors of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC). Methods: We retrospectively evaluated PTC patients treated with surgery at our center between January 2017 and September 2020. The association between both HTN and antihypertensive drug use and the clinicopathological features of the PTC patients was analyzed. The odds ratios (OR) were estimated using both univariate and multivariate logistic regression models, which were adjusted for the patients’ age, sex, and thyroid-stimulating hormone level.Results: A total of 2838 patients were enrolled in this study, including 409 patients with HTN. In the multivariate analysis, HTN was associated with larger tumor size [OR = 1.51, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.10–2.07] and lymph node metastasis (OR = 1.43, 95% CI: 1.02–1.99). There was no statistical difference between females older than 40 years of age and any pathological features, while a positive association between older males and larger tumors (OR=1.87, 95% CI: 1.014-3.45), lymph node metastasis (OR=2.01, 95% CI: 1.08-3.73), and capsule invasion (OR = 1.98, 95% CI: 1.002–3.91). With regard to antihypertensive drug use, the patients taking enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin II-receptor blockers (ACEi/ARB) seemed more likely to develop bilateral PTC comparing ones using calcium channel blockers (CCB) alone, while no statistical difference was found for these taking CCB alone and the combination of CCB and ACEi/ARB. Conclusion: PTC patients with HTN, particularly age >40 males, tend to have invasive features. Antihypertension therapy appears to exert little to no different effect on the pathological characteristics in these patients.
Development and characterization of Silicon Carbide Coating on Graphite Substrate
Authors: Mohammad F.Z , Sharif M. Akhtar , Ahmed Anas , Suhail Muhammad
Published: September 2021

The development of materials with unique and improved properties using low cost processes is essential to increase performance and reduce cost of the solid rocket motors. Specifically advancements are needed for boost phase nozzle. As these motors operate at very high pressure and temperatures, the nozzle must survive high thermal stresses with minimal erosion to maintain performance. Currently three material choices are being exploited; which are refractory metals, graphite and carbon-carbon composites. Of these three materials graphite is the most attractive choice because of its low cost, light weight, and easy forming. However graphite is prone to erosion, both chemical and mechanical, which may affect the ballistic conditions and mechanical properties of the nozzle. To minimize this erosion Pyrolytic Graphite (PG) coating inside the nozzle is used. However PG coating is prone to cracking and spallation along with very cumbersome deposition process. Another possible methodology to avoid this erosion is to convert the inside surface of the rocket nozzle to Silicon Carbide (SiC), which is very erosion resistant and have much better thermal stability compared to graphite and even PG. Due to its functionally gradient nature such a layer will be very adherent and resistant to spallation. Despite its very good adhesion due to its functionally gradient nature, this layer due to its porous nature exhibit poor oxidation performance compared to a dense SiC layer. The current research is focused on synthesizing, characterizing and oxidation testing of a bi-layer; a functionally gradient inner layer and dense outer layer, SiC coating on graphite.
Scalable High-Speed Hybrid Complementary Integrated Circuits based on Solution-Processed Organic and Amorphous Metal Oxide Semiconductors
Authors: Watanabe Shun , Wei Xiaozhu , Kumagai Shohei , Makita Tatsuyuki , Tsuzuku Kotaro , Yamamura Akifumi , Sasaki Mari , Takeya Jun
Published: September 2021

Solution-processed single-crystal organic semiconductors (OSCs) and amorphous metal oxide semiconductors (MOSs) are promising for high-mobility, p- and n-channel thin-film transistors (TFTs), respectively. Organic−inorganic hybrid complementary circuits hence have great potential to satisfy practical requirements; however, some chemical incompatibilities between OSCs and MOSs, such as heat and chemical resistance, conventionally make it difficult to rationally integrate TFTs based on solution-processed OSC and MOS into the same substrates. In this work, we achieved a rational integration method based on the solution-processed semiconductors by carefully managing the device configuration and the deposition and patterning techniques from materials point of view. The balanced high performances as well as the uniform fabrication of the TFTs led to densely integrated five-stage ring oscillators with the stage propagation delay of 1.3 µs, which is the fastest operation among ever reported complementary ring oscillators based on solution-processed semiconductors.