bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CAMTA1 Transcription Factor Regulates Salinity And Drought Tolerance In Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)
Authors: Meenakshi  , Kumar Anil , Kumar Varun , Dubey Arvind Kumar , Narayan Shiv , Sawant Samir V. , Pande Veena , Shirke Pramod Arvind , Sanyal Indraneel
Published: September 2021

Various abiotic stresses like drought, salinity, high temperature, and chilling adversely affect plant growth and productivity. Terminal drought stress is one of the major concerns which limits the growth and yield of chickpea. CAMTA (Calmodulin binding transcription activator) plays a vital role in stress tolerance in plants. In this study, we have selected a CAMTA1 gene to explore its role against salinity and drought stress in an economically important crop, chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). CAMTA1 gene was then over-expressed in chickpea and was exposed to drought and salinity. The over-expression of CAMTA1 enhanced the activities of various antioxidant enzymes (ascorbate peroxidase; APX, catalase: CAT, glutathione S-transferase; GST, superoxide dismutase; SOD, monodehydroascorbate reductase; MDHAR). The reduced stress markers TBARS and H2O2 enhanced the survival of plants against both stresses. The physiological parameters (net photosynthesis; PN, transpiration; E, stomatal conductance; gs, photochemical quenching; qP, non-photochemical quenching; qN, and electron transport rate; ETR) were improved in the transgenics under both the stresses, that protected the plants from damage. This investigation verified that the CAMTA1 gene provides tolerance against drought and salinity by maintaining biochemical, physiological, and morphological performances, and could be exploited for genetic engineering strategies to overcome the stresses in other economically important crops.
Did the COVID-19 Pandemic Truly Adversely Affected the Disease Progress and Therapeutic Options in Breast Cancer Patients? - a Single-centre Analysis
Authors: Nowikiewicz Tomasz , Szymankiewicz Maria , Drzewiecka Marta , Glowacka-Mrotek Iwona , Tarkowska Magdalena , Nowikiewicz Magdalena , Zegarski Wojciech
Published: September 2021

Purpose The mass and uncontrolled spreading of infections with the SARS-CoV-2 virus resulted in significant disruptions affecting most areas of the social and economic life all over the world. The most important changes concerned problems related to functioning of health care systems. The aim of this study was to evaluate clinical consequences associated with the COVID-19 pandemic for patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer, treated at our centre.Methods The study participants were patients first time diagnosed with breast cancer, treated between January 2019 and March 2021, who were provided any type of cancer treatment at our centre. The study determined the grade of clinical and pathological progress of the disease and types of cancer treatment applied in patients.Results 2863 patients in total were included in the analysis. The number of hospitalised patients was 1228 (1123 treated surgically, 105 receiving conservative treatment) in 2019, 1318 (1206 and 112 patients, respectively) in 2020, and 317 (288 and 29 patients, respectively) in 2021. Conclusions Despite many hazards associated with the new epidemiological situation, we were able to maintain the continuous operation of our centre. We have achieved a measurable success, and even managed to increase the number of treated breast cancer patients.
Study on the emission characteristics and mechanism of sulfur-containing gas during sludge pyrolysis at low temperature
Authors: Shang Shuo , Fan Haihong , Li Binbin , Li Lin , Li Zhou
Published: September 2021

The effects of temperature, time, and calcium-based ultrafine powder on sulfur-containing gas in the sludge drying process were examined through experiments, and effective measures to control the release of sulfur-containing gases such as CS2, H2S, and SO2 were proposed. Experimental results showed that the drying temperature of sludge should be controlled below 250°C, and the drying duration should be kept within 1 min. Additionally, the release amount of three gases released was small. When the addition amount of calcium-based powder added reached 20% of the original sludge mass fraction, the concentration of sulfur-containing gas released was 59.81 mg/m3, 94% lower than that of the dry pure sludge gas. After absorption by calcium-based powder, there are almost no sulfur-containing organic compounds and sulfur-containing gases. The research results provide a direction for the selection of pyrolysis sludge treatment technology, which is conducive to control the discharge of harmful gases.
MIPO For Complex Comminuted Bone Fractures in the Floating Knee IIC According Fraser: a Case Report
Authors: Peng Chuangang , Ren Guangkai , Dou Minghan , Yuan Baoming , Wu Dankai
Published: September 2021

Objective:Floating knee type IIC according to Fraser’s classification is an uncommon severe injury that typically occurs in polytrauma. In this case, mainly due to both intraarticular fracture and the high degree of comminution and malformation on the femoral mid-distal segments, fixation was challenging. The purpose of this study was to prove that minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) technology can simplify complex problems and improve prognosis. Case Presentation:A 38-year-old man injured his left leg in a car accident, causing pain, swelling, deformity, and limited mobility on his left knee and thigh, and two small open wounds were noted mainly on the anterior aspect of the mid-distal thigh. Physical examination and lower limb computed tomography angiography (CTA) confirmed that the neurovascular status was normal. The clinical diagnosis were closed intraarticular fracture of the proximal tibia, open intraarticular fracture of the distal femur with extension to the diaphysis, and a patellar fracture on the ipsilateral knee.In this case, a locking plate system characterized by minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) technology was used as the treatment. Results and Conclusion:Postoperative evolution was satisfactory, with immediate functional exercise, full weight bearing after three months, and return to daily activity without pain. Final follow-up taken at 3 years showed good lower limb alignment and complete plasticity of the bone structure, by which time the patient showed good limb function. Minimally invasive techniques can provide a simple and effective treatment for some complex fractures.
Comparative Proteome Analysis Revealed the Differences in Response to both M.tb and Mb Infection of Bovine Alveolar Macrophages
Authors: Yurong Cai , Weifeng Gao , Pu Wang , Gang Zhang , Xiaoping Wang , Lingling Jiang , Jin Zeng , Yujiong Wang , Li Yong
Published: September 2021

Bovine tuberculosis, caused by MTB (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) and MB (Mycobacterium bovis) infection, is one of the most serious zoonotic diseases in the world. During MTB and MB infection, they interact closely with the host alveolar macrophages. However, the mechanisms of MTB/MB and infection of macrophages are still unknown. At Present, in our study, MTB/MB-infected macrophages were analyzed by in-depth comparative proteome analysis. We identified that macrophages were more easily infected with MB than MTB. Both pathogens could induce strong energy metabolism of macrophages. A bunch of proteins and signaling pathways, which involved in autophagy-or inflammatory-related progress, were significantly activated following MB-infected macrophages. In addition, proteins relative with energy metabolisms were highly expressed following MTB-infected macrophages. In summary, we proposed that macrophages could employ autophagy- and inflammatory-related signal pathway to avoid the MB infection. Our study provided a novel insight into the different mechanisms between the MTB and MB during the infected process.
Pan-cancer analysis of non-oncogene addiction to DNA repair
Authors: Bermúdez-Guzmán Luis
Published: September 2021

Cancer cells usually depend on the aberrant function of one or few driver genes to initiate and promote their malignancy, an attribute known as oncogene addiction. However, cancer cells might become dependent on the normal cellular functions of certain genes that are not oncogenes but ensure cell survival (non-oncogene addiction). The downregulation of DNA repair genes and the consequent genetic and epigenetic instability is key to promote malignancy, but the activation of the DNA-damage response (DDR) has been shown to become a type of non-oncogene addiction that critically supports tumour survival. While we know that different cancer types can become dependent on specific DDR genes for their survival, a systematic evaluation of DNA repair addiction at the pan-cancer level is missing. In the present study, this systematic evaluation was addressed using data derived from The Cancer Dependency Map and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Following this approach, 59 DDR genes were identified as commonly essential in cancer cells with 14 genes being exclusively associated with better overall patient survival and 19 with worse overall survival. Notably, a specific molecular signature among the latter, characterized by DDR genes showing the weakest dependency scores, but significant upregulation was strongly associated with worse survival, supporting the presence and relevance of non-oncogenic addiction to DNA repair in cancer. Particularly, UBE2T, RFC4, POLQ, BRIP1, and H2AFX represent the best predictors of poor overall survival, and some might represent promising therapeutic targets, especially under the synthetic lethality approach.
Large-Scale Societal Dynamics are Reflected in Human Mood and Brain
Authors: Lebedev Alexander , Abe Christoph , Acar Kasim , Deco Gustavo , Kringelbach Morten L. , Ingvar Martin , Petrovic Predrag
Published: September 2021

The stock market is a bellwether of socio-economic changes that may directly affect individual well-being. Using large-scale UK-biobank data generated over 14 years, we applied specification curve analysis to rigorously identify significant associations between the local stock market index (FTSE100) and 479,791 UK residents’ mood, as well as their alcohol intake and blood pressure adjusting the results for a large number of potential confounders, including age, sex, linear and non-linear effects of time, research site, other stock market indexes. Furthermore, we found similar associations between FTSE100 and volumetric measures of affective brain regions in a subsample (n = 39,755; measurements performed over 5.5 years), which were particularly strong around phase transitions characterized by maximum volatility in the market. The main findings did not depend on applied effect-size estimation criteria (linear methods or mutual information criterion) and were replicated in two independent US-based studies (Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative; n = 424; performed over 2,5 years and MyConnectome; n = 1; 81 measurements over 1,5 years). Our results suggest that phase transitions in the society, indexed by stock market, exhibit close relationships with human mood, health and the affective brain from an individual to population level.
Medical Student Education Through Flipped Learning and Virtual Rotations in Radiation Oncology During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross Sectional Research
Authors: Kim Tae Hyung , Kim Jin Sung , Yoon Hong In , Lee Joongyo , Lee Jason Joon Bock , Byun Hwa Kyung , Cho Yeona , Kim Yong Bae , Lee Ik Jae , Kim Kyung Hwan , Chang Jee suk
Published: September 2021

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic has stripped many medical students worldwide of their right to quality education. In response, we developed hybrid courses involving aspects of both online and in-person teaching for radiation oncology medical student clerkship.MethodsWe entitled students to customize their own rotation schedule using Google Forms and developed a flipped learning online class, which consisted of at least one video clip on basic knowledge of radiation oncology per day (yonsei-radonc.com). Students were instructed to watch online videos before the next day’s discussion session. Required components of the medical education program (e.g., target drawing, site visits to treatment facilities) were also prepared and conducted in accordance with the appropriate level of social distancing measures. Finally, we conducted questionnaire surveys after the completion of the week-long course and clerkship.ResultsFrom March to June 2020, 110 fourth-year medical students undertook a clinical module in our one-week radiation oncology program course. Each day, students completed the flipped learning prior to meeting with the educator and then participated in the online discussion session and conference. All activities were well performed as scheduled. Students’ motivation was high, as was their overall satisfaction with the course. The students were satisfied with the online contents, flipped learning strategy, and instructors.ConclusionsWe successfully integrated open and virtual educational platforms to improve access to and satisfaction with student clerkship. In the future “new normal,” minimized face-to-face learning interactions, such as flipped learning, should be actively utilized for medical and other students’ education.
A Service Evaluation Exploring The Factors Paramedics Consider When Selecting a Conveyance Destination For Survivors of Medical Out-Of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest.
Authors: Zorab Oliver , Kirby Kim , Griggs Matthew
Published: September 2021

Background
Current guidance suggests that adult survivors of medical out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) should be considered for direct transport to specialist centres. Much of the research that informs this recommendation originates from urban environments where patients achieve rapid access to hospital. The factors which facilitate this transport model remain unclear. This regional service evaluation sought to explore the factors influencing paramedic decision making when selection a conveyance destination for survivors of medical OHCA with sustained spontaneous circulation in rural South West England.
Methods
Qualitative data was collected from two socially-distanced focus groups lead by a facilitator using a pre-determined topic guide. Thematic analysis was subsequently used to explore the factors influencing paramedic decision-making when selecting a destination for survivors of medical OHCA. Nine paramedic participants took part in the evaluation from a single regional UK ambulance service.
Findings
: Factors considered by participants were categorised under five primary themes; published guidance, hospital characteristics, non-technical skills, patient characteristics and technical skills. Subthemes were identified resonating with existing literature including proximity to hospital, access to specialist services and the availability of enhanced prehospital care. Additional factors including dealing with conflict, decision making based on experience and a reliance on local guidance emerged and were felt to be unexpected.
Conclusion
Paramedics consider multiple factors when selecting a destination for survivors of OHCA, including the hospital’s distance from scene and access to specialist services. The patient’s stability and availability of enhanced prehospital care to manage agitation are also considered. Paramedics mainly use local guidance, or rely on previous experience to help support their decision making and may need to overcome conflict from hospital colleagues to select an appropriate conveyance destination.
Identification of intrinsic active sites in ternary CuZnTi catalysts toward low-temperature water gas shift reaction
Authors: Zhang Jian , Yin Pan , Xu Ming , Cui Guoqing , Yu Jun , Liu Ning , Hong Song , Zheng Li Rong , Wei Min
Published: September 2021

In the heterogeneous field, modulation over strong metal-support interactions (SMSI) plays a crucial role in boosting catalytic performance toward interface-sensitive reactions (e.g., water gas shift reaction, WGSR). Herein, a CuZnTi ternary catalyst was prepared via in situ structural topological transformation from CuZnTi-layered double hydroxides precursor (CuZnTi-LDHs). The resulting catalyst Cu/ZnTi-MMO(H350) exhibits an extraordinarily high catalytic activity toward low temperature-WGSR with a reaction rate of 19.7 μmolCO gcat-1 s-1 at 250 °C, among the highest level in Cu-based catalysts. Advanced electron microscope and in situ spectroscopy characterizations verify that Cu nanoparticles (particle size: 7~10 nm) are modified by ZnTi-mixed metal oxides with abundant Cuδ+−Ov−Ti3+ (0<δ<1) interfacial sites. Incorporation of Ti element facilitates the reduction of ZnO to stabilize Cuδ+ species at the interface, which enhances the chemisorption of CO molecule. Simultaneously, neighboring Ov−Ti3+ species significantly promotes the dissociation of H2O molecule. The structure-activity correlation studies based on quasi-in situ XPS, in situ DRIFTS, in situ and operando EXAFS reveal that the interfacial sites (Cuδ+−Ov−Ti3+) serve as the intrinsic active sites of WGS reaction. A combination of in situ characterization techniques and DFT calculations further substantiate that associative mechanism is the predominant reactive path below 200 °C whilst redox mechanism is overwhelming above 250 °C in the presence of Cu/ZnTi-MMO catalyst. This work demonstrates a facile modulation on metal-support interfacial structure via LDHs approach, which paves a way for rational design and preparation of heterogeneous catalysts.
Comparison between the Extraperitoneal Route with the Transperitoneal Route for the Permanent Colostomy: A Meta-Analysis with Rcts and Systematic Review
Authors: Luo Jinlong , Singh Dujanand , Zhang Faqiang , Yang Xinting , Zha Xiaoying , Jiang Huaiwu , Yang Lie , Yang Hua
Published: September 2021

AimTo assess the efficacy of extraperitoneal colostomy(EPC) in the prevention of stoma-related complications.BackgroundTransperitoneal colostomy (TPC) is still a widely used surgical approach. However, TPC has been reported with highly incidence of stoma-related complications, like parastomal hernia, stomal retraction, stomal prolapse.The purpose of EPC is to prevent these complications. But it is still lack of evidence-based basis.Material and methodsMEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, Scopus, MOOSE, Pubmed, Google Scholar, Baidu Scholar, and the Cochrane Library were searched to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis with RCTs. Revman 5.4 was performed in the meta-analysis.ResultsA total of 5 RCTs were eligible in this study. Compared with TPC, EPC group had lower incidence in Parastomal Hernia (RR, 0.14; 95% CI, 0.04–0.52, P=0.003, I2=0%), Stomal Prolapse (RR, 0.27; 95% CI, 0.08–0.95, P=0.04, I2=0%) and a higher rate of defaecation Sensation (RR, 3.51; 95% CI, 2.47–5.0, P＜0.00001, I2=37%). No statistical difference was observed in Stoma Retraction, Colostomy Construction Time, Stoma Ischemia, and Necrosis.ConclusionAn extraperitoneal colostomy is associated with a lower rate of postoperative complication compared to transperitoneal colostomy. Randomized controlled trial meta-analysis showed better results in permanent colostomy after abdominoperineal resection.
Clinical and Radiological Evaluation of Cage Subsidence Following Oblique Lumbar Interbody Fusion
Authors: Zhao Long , XIE Tianhang , Wang Xiandi , Yang Zhiqiang , Pu Xingxiao , Lu Yufei , Zeng Jiancheng
Published: September 2021

Background

Cage subsidence was previously reported as one of the most common complications following oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF). We aimed to assess the impacts of CS on surgical results following OLIF, and determine its radiological characteristics and related risk factors.
Methods

Two hundred and forty-two patients underwent OLIF at L4-5 and with a minimum 12 months follow-up were reviewed. Patients were divided into three groups according to the extent disk height (DH) decrease during the follow-up: no CS (DH decrease ≤ 2 mm), mild CS (2mm < DH decrease ≤ 4 mm) and severe CS (DH decrease > 4mm). The clinical and radiological results were compared between groups to evaluate the radiological features, clinical effects and risk factors of CS.
Results

CS was identified in 79 (32.6%) patients, including 48 (19.8%) with mild CS and 31 (11.8%) with severe CS. CS mainly identified within 1 month postoperatively and did not progress after 3 months postoperatively, and more noted in the caudal endplate (44, 55.7%). In terms of clinical results, patients in the mild CS group were significantly worse than those in the no CS group, and patients in the severe CS group were significantly worse than those in the mild CS group. There was no significant difference in fusion rate between no CS (92.6%, 151/163) and mild CS (83.3%, 40/48) groups. However, significant lower fusion rate was observed in severe CS group (64.5%, 20/31) compared to no CS group. CS related risk factors included osteoporosis (OR = 5.976), DH overdistraction (OR = 1.175), flat disk space (OR = 3.309) and endplate injury (OR = 6.135).
Conclusion

CS following OLIF was an early postoperative complication. Higher magnitudes of CS were associated with worse clinical improvements and lower intervertebral fusion. Osteoporosis and endplate injury were significant risk factor for CS. Additionally, flat disk space and DH overdistraction were also correlated with the increased probability of CS.
COVID-19 and Autoimmunity: A Single Center Prospective Follow-Up Study
Authors: Sacchi Maria Cristina , Tamiazzo Stefania , Bonometti Ramona , Stobbione Paolo , Agatea Lisa , De Gaspari Piera , Lauritano Enrico Cristiano , Ciriello Maria Matilde , Maconi Antonio
Published: September 2021

Background: Various factors, such as viral infections, can act as triggers for the development of autoimmune diseases.In our recent study we reported the presence of autoantibodies in patients diagnosed with COVID-19. To verify whether these autoantibodies persisted over time and led to the development of chronic autoimmune diseases, we conducted a follow-up study at 3 and 6 months after admission.Methods:Thirteen of 40 patients enrolled in the previous study gave their consent to the analysis. The same autoimmunity tests performed at the time of diagnosis were carried out in these patients during follow up.Results:We showed, compatibly with an acute inflammatory response, that two patients were negative 6 months after diagnosis. In nine patients, autoantibodies were still present at follow-up. Among them, one patient had only ENA positivity. Another patient developed strong positivity for ANA and M2-β and Ku antigens. Currently, the symptoms do not meet full diagnostic criteria for diagnosis of polymyositis, but the patient is closely monitored to check its possible onset.Three patients developed: transient alopecia, autoimmune thrombocytopenia and hearing loss. Other four patients did not show any clinical symptoms.Conclusions:In conclusion, our data show that after 6 months, the autoantibodies are still present in the majority of patients. Further investigations will be necessary to check whether these patients will become negative over time or may develop clinical symptoms compatible with the onset of longer-term chronic autoimmune diseases.
Prognostic impact of hypochromic erythrocytes in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Xanthouli Panagiota , Theobald Vivienne , Benjamin Nicola , Marra Alberto Maria , D'Agostino Anna , Egenlauf Benjamin , Shaukat Memoona , Ding Cao , Cittadini Antonio , Bossone Eduardo , Kögler Maria , Grünig Ekkehard , Muckenthaler Martina , Eichstaedt Christina Alessandra
Published: September 2021

Background

Iron deficiency affects up to 50% of patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) but iron markers such as ferritin and serum iron are confounded by several non-disease related factors like acute inflammation and diet. The aim of this study was to identify a new marker for iron deficiency and clinical outcome in PAH patients.
Methods

In this single-center, retrospective study we assessed indicators of iron status and clinical parameters specifying the time to clinical worsening (TTCW) and survival in PAH patients at time of initial diagnosis and at 1-year follow-up using univariable and multivariable analysis.
Results

In total, 150 patients were included with an invasively confirmed PAH and complete data on iron metabolism. The proportion of hypochromic erythrocytes > 2% at initial diagnosis was identified as an independent predictor for a shorter TTCW (p = 0.0001) and worse survival (p = 0.002) at initial diagnosis as well as worse survival (p = 0.016) at 1-year follow-up. Only a subset of these patients (64%) suffered from iron deficiency. Low ferritin or low serum iron neither correlated with TTCW nor survival. Only severe hemoglobin deficiency at baseline was significantly associated with a shorter TTCW (p = 0.001).
Conclusions

The presence of hypochromic erythrocytes > 2% was a strong and independent predictor of mortality and shorter TTCW in this cohort of PAH patients. Thus, it can serve as a valuable indicator of iron homeostasis and prognosis even in patients without iron deficiency or anemia. Further studies are needed to confirm the results and to investigate therapeutic implications.
Transcriptome Changes Associated with Boron Applications in Fruits of Watercore-susceptible Pear Cultivar
Authors: Liu Xiao , Liu Dong-He , Shen Yan , Liu Jing , Wei Jun , Wang Chunlei
Published: September 2021

Watercore is a common physiological disorder in pear and is closely related to excessive accumulation of sorbitol and sucrose. Our previous research found the watercore incidence of ‘Akibae’ (Pyrus pyrifolia cv. Akibae) fruit significantly decreased after boron application (BA). Moreover, foliar spray of boric acid also significantly improved fruit quality. To uncover the mechanisms underlying pear fruit response to BA, a comprehensive transcriptome analysis was performed in this study. Transcriptome results revealed a total of 3146 up-regulated and 1145 down-regulated differently expressed genes (DEGs) between control and treated fruits of ‘Akibae’ pear, respectively. BA significantly induced expression of sorbitol metabolism and sucrose metabolism genes. Besides, BA also increased the expression of starch degradation, fatty acid synthesis, IAA (indole-3-acetic acid) degradation, GA (gibberellin acid) synthesis and inhibit the expression of ethylene synthesis genes. Overall, these findings suggested that BA alleviated ‘Akibae’ watercore occurrence and improve fruit quality by regulating the decrease of sorbitol and sucrose, increased of fatty acid and a balance of plant hormone. Our results provided further information for understanding the molecular mechanism of the effect of boron application on pear fruit.
The Effect of Metformin When Combined With Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: El-Khayat Shaimaa , Abouegylah Mohamed , Abdallah Dina , Geweil Ahmed Gaber , Elenbaby A.M. , Zahra Omar Shebl
Published: September 2021

BackgroundMetformin has been used to treat type 2 Diabetes Mellitus since long time. It has two proposed anti-neoplastic mechanisms, direct (insulin-independent) and indirect (insulin-dependent) actions. PurposeTo assess the effect of Metformin on pathological response when combined with neoadjuvant chemotherapy in breast cancer. Material and MethodsA prospective study included stage II, III non-diabetic breast cancer patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy in our center during the period from May 2017 to March 2019. 59 patients met our inclusion criteria and completed the study, 27 patients received 850mg Metformin every 12 hrs with chemotherapy (group A), 32 patients received chemotherapy without Metformin (group B). Pathological response was assessed by Chevallier classification and residual cancer burden score (RCB). ResultsBoth groups were well balanced regarding base line characteristics. The results of our study showed that the rate of pathological complete response (pCR) was 14.8% in group (A) vs. 6.3% in group (B) with a P-value of 0.39. RCB class 3 was 40.7% in group (A) Vs. 68.8% in group (B) which was statistically significant with a (P-value of 0.031). Patients with triple-positive histology who had RCB class 3 were only (14.3%) in group (A) versus (60%) in group B. Patients with body mass index (BMI) ≥25 who had RCB 3 were 40% and 66.7% in group (A) and (B) respectively. ConclusionMetformin may increase the pCR especially in patients with BMI≥25 and patients with triple-positive histology, a larger phase III study is needed to confirm this finding.
Identification of Immune-related lncRNA Panel for Predicting Immune Checkpoint Blockade and Prognosis in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Chongchang , Zhan Guowen , Shen Zhisen , Shen Yi , Deng Hongxia , Shen Yiming , Wang Jianing , Li Jinyun
Published: September 2021

Immunotherapy is changing head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) treatment pattern. According to the Chinese Society of Clinical Oncology (CSCO) guidelines, immunotherapy has been deemed as first-line recommendation for recurrent/metastatic HNSCC, marking that advanced HNSCC has officially entered the era of immunotherapy. Long non-coding RNAs impact every step of cancer immunity. Therefore, reliable immune-lncRNA able to accurately predict the immune landscape and survival of HNSCC are crucial to clinical management. In the current study, we downloaded the transcriptomic and clinical data of HNSCC from The Cancer Genome Altas and identified differentially expressed immune-related lncRNAs (DEir-lncRNAs). Further then, Cox and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analyses were performed to identify proper DEir-lncRNAs to construct optimal risk model. Low-risk and high-risk groups were classified based on the optimal cut-off value generated by the areas under curve for receiver operating characteristic curves (AUC), and Kaplan-Meier survival curves were utilized to validate the prediction model. We then evaluated the model based on the clinical factors, immune cell infiltration, chemotherapeutic and immunotherapeutic efficacy between two groups. Our results constructed a risk model consisted of 18 DEir-lncRNA pairs showing significantly association with survival of patients with HNSCC. Besides, HNSCC patients with low risk score significantly enriched of CD8+ T cell, and corelated with high chemosensitivity and immunotherapeutic sensitivity. In summary, our risk model could be served as a promising clinical prediction indicator, effective discoursing of the immune cell infiltration of HNSCC patients, and distinguishing patients who could benefit from chemotherapy and immunotherapy.
Design, Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of C-8 Modified Curcumol Derivatives as Potential Anticancer Agents
Authors: Meng Xiangwei , Wei Yingying , Nong Binglu , Zhao Huajun , Zhang xingxian
Published: September 2021

A series of structural modification of curcumol derivatives at C-8 position were designed and synthesized, which structures were confirmed by 1H NMR,13C NMR and HRMS analysis. The tested compounds were evaluated for in vitro antitumor activity against colorectal cancer cell lines SW620, HCT116 and CaCo2. Many of the tested candidates exhibited higher inhibition efficiency than curcumol. Among them, compound 3l shows the best inhibitory effect on the viability of SW620 with IC50 value of 19.90 mM. The structure-activity relationships (SARs) of these derivatives were discussed, which showed that the introduction of amino or aryl groups tended to increase the anti-cancer activity. In addition, compound 3l may inhibit cancer cell proliferation through triggering cell apoptosis.
A hybrid open-top light-sheet microscope for multi-scale imaging of cleared tissues
Authors: Glaser Adam , Bishop Kevin , Barner Lindsey , Susaki Etsuo , Kubota Shimpei , Gao Gan , Serafin Robert , Balaram Pooja , Turschak Emily , Nicovich Philip , Lai Hoyin , Lucas Luciano , Yi Yating , Nichols Eva , Huang Hongyi , Reder Nicholas , Wilson Jasmine , Sivakumar Ramya , Shamskhou Elya , Stoltzfus Caleb , Wei Xing , Hempton Andrew , Pende Marko , Murawala Prayag , Dodt Hans , Imaizumi Takato , Shendure Jay , Beliveau Brian , Gerner Michael , Xin Li , Zhao Hu , True Lawrence , Reid R. Clay , Chandrashekar Jayaram , Ueda Hiroki , Svoboda Karel , Liu Jonathan
Published: September 2021

Light-sheet microscopy has emerged as the preferred means for high-throughput volumetric imaging of cleared tissues. However, there is a need for a user-friendly system that can address imaging applications with varied requirements in terms of resolution (mesoscopic to sub-micrometer), sample geometry (size, shape, and number), and compatibility with tissue-clearing protocols and sample holders of various refractive indices. We present a ‘hybrid’ system that combines a novel non-orthogonal dual-objective and conventional (orthogonal) open-top light-sheet architecture for versatile multi-scale volumetric imaging.
Independent prediction of aspartate aminotransferase to alanine aminotransferase ratio for adverse outcomes of patients with pyogenic liver abscess
Authors: Dai Huifang , Pan Youjin , Xu Jing
Published: September 2021

Background: In viral hepatitis, an increase in the ratio of aspartate aminotransferase to alanine aminotransferase (AAR) is associated with poor prognosis. However, the relationship between AAR and pyogenic liver abscess (PLA) remains to be unclear. In this study, the relationship between AAR and adverse outcomes in PLA patients were explored, and the predictive value of AAR were evaluated. Methods: In total, 240 PLA patients were consecutively enrolled in this study and followed up at 3 months. Univariate analysis, receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. Results: According to the ROC curve of AAR for adverse outcomes, the patients were divided into two groups using a cutoff of 0.97. Patients with high AAR had higher risk of mortality rate (16.5% vs 2.9%), empyema (23.7% vs 10.4%), metastatic infection (19.1% vs 9.7%), acute myocardial (7.3% vs 0.7%), acute hepatic failure (7.3% vs 2.2%) and septic shock (13.7% vs 4.4%) than patients with low AAR (all P<0.05). after adjusting for potential confounding factors in our logistic model, high AAR was independently associated with death (odds ratio (OR)=6.17, 95% of confidence interval (CI)=1.88-20.26) and all adverse outcomes (OR=4.03, 95% CI=2.12-7.66). AAR had the largest area under ROC curve (AUC) than ALT, AST in all adverse outcomes (AUC=0.690, cutoff value=0.97, P<0.01) and death prediction (AUC=0.821, cutoff value=1.31, P<0.01). Conclusion: In the clinical application of PLA, AAR may be a good method to predict the prognosis.
Detection of mild cognitive impairment by spinal posture assessment in health exams of the general older population: A Japanese cohort survey randomly sampled from a basic resident registry
Authors: Nishimura Hikaru , Ikegami Shota , Uehara Masashi , Takahashi Jun , Tokida Ryosuke , Kato Hiroyuki
Published: September 2021

The recent increase in the older adult population has led to a higher prevalence of cognitive impairment, which is often overlooked in routine health examinations. Citizens aged 50 to 89 years were targeted for this cohort survey by random sampling from the resident registry of a cooperating town in 2014. A total of 413 participants (203 male and 210 female) were enrolled. We analyzed the distribution of cognitive function test scores as determined by Montreal Cognitive Assessment and Mini-Mental State Examination tests in each age (50’s, 60’s, 70’s and 80’s) and sex group to examine whether mild cognitive impairment (MCI) could be detected by sagittal spinal balance measurement based on a radiological approach. Sagittal spinal balance was quantitatively measured as sagittal vertical axis (SVA). We observed significant associations for higher age and/or SVA anteriorization with lower cognitive function. In men, spinal balance anteriorization was associated with MCI independently of age, with combinations of age and SVA also making valid MCI determinations; male cases of SVA ≥ 100 mm at any age, SVA ≥ 90 mm at ≥ 70 years, and SVA ≥ 70 mm at ≥ 80 years were all more likely to have MCI than cases below those values. For women, MCI was more likely in cases of SVA ≥ 70 mm, regardless of age. Thus, spinal balance anteriorization can be regarded as an easily visible indicator of latent MCI in community-dwelling older people.
Gap-Filling of Ocean Color Over the Tropical Indian Ocean Using Monte-Carlo Method
Authors: Modi A , K Roxy M , S Ghosh
Published: September 2021

Continuous remote-sensed daily fields of ocean color now span over two decades; however, it still remains a challenge to examine the ocean ecosystem processes, e.g., phenology, at temporal frequencies of less than a month. This is due to the presence of significantly large gaps in satellite data caused by clouds, sun-glint, and hardware failure; thus, making gap-filling a prerequisite. Commonly used techniques of gap-filling are limited to single value imputation, thus ignoring the error estimates. Though convenient for datasets with fewer missing pixels, these techniques introduce potential biases in datasets having a higher percentage of gaps, such as in the tropical Indian Ocean during the summer monsoon, the satellite coverage is reduced up to 40% due to the seasonally varying cloud cover. In this study, we fill the missing values in the tropical Indian Ocean with a set of plausible values (here, 10,000) using the classical Monte-Carlo method and prepare 10,000 gap-filled datasets of ocean color. Contrary to the previously used gap-filled datasets, the ecological indicators derived using our gap-filled datasets also quantifies uncertainty indicating the likelihood of estimates. Quantification of uncertainty is critical to address the importance of underlying datasets and hence, motivating future observations.
Characteristics of the deventilation syndrome in COPD patients treated with non-invasive ventilation: a prospective, controlled, non-blinded study
Authors: Lüthgen Mareike , Rüller Stephan , Herzmann Christian
Published: September 2021

Background

Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) is a recommended treatment for COPD patients suffering from chronic hypercapnic respiratory failure. Prolonged dyspnea after mask removal in the morning, often referred to as deventilation syndrome, is a common side effect but has been poorly characterized yet. This study aimed to explore the pathomechanism, identify risk factors and possible treatment strategies for the deventilation syndrome.
Methods

A prospective, controlled, non-blinded study was conducted. After a night with established NIV therapy, the patients underwent spirometry, blood gas analyses and 6-minute walking tests (6MWT) directly, at two and four hours after mask removal. Dyspnea was measured by the modified Borg scale. Bodyplethysmography and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) questionnaires were used. Patients suffering from deventilation syndrome (defined as dyspnea of at least three points on the Borg scale after mask removal) were treated with non-invasive pursed lip breathing ventilation (PLBV) during the second night of the study.
Results

Eleven of 31 patients included (35%) met the given criteria for a deventilation syndrome. They reported significantly more dyspnea on the Borg scale directly after mask removal (mean: 7.2 ± 1.0) compared to measurement after two hours (4.8 ± 2.6; p = 0.003). Initially, mean inspiratory vital capacity was significantly reduced (VCmax: 46 ± 16%) compared to two hours later (54 ± 15%; p = 0.002), while no changes in pulse oximetry or blood gas analysis were observed. Patients who suffered from a deventilation syndrome had a significantly higher mean airway resistance (Reff: 320 ± 88.5%) than the patients in the control group (253 ± 147%; p = 0.021). They also scored significantly lower on the Severe Respiratory Insufficiency Questionnaire (SRI; mean: 37.6 ± 10.1 vs 50.6 ± 16.7, p = 0.027). After one night of ventilation in PLBV mode, mean morning dyspnea decreased significantly to 5.6 ± 2.0 compared to 7.2 ± 1.0 after established treatment (p = 0.019) and mean inspiratory vital capacity increased from 44 ± 16.0% to 48 ± 16.3 (p = 0.040).
Conclusions

The deventilation syndrome is a serious side effect of NIV in COPD patients, associated with lower HRQoL. Our data suggests that it is most likely caused by dynamic hyperinflation. Patients with high airway resistance are at greater risk of suffering from morning dyspnea. Ventilation in PLBV mode may prevent or improve the deventilation syndrome.
Trial registration

The study was registered in the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS00016941) at 04 April 2019, https://www.drks.de/drks_web/navigate.do?navigationId=trial.HTML&TRIAL_ID=DRKS
Zoonotic Enteroparasites of Macaca Fascicularis In Palawan, Philippines
Authors: Chavez Geneva Carla S. , Paller Vachel Gay , Lorica Renee P. , Dimalibot Judeline
Published: September 2021

The expansion of ecotourism and forest encroachment in the Philippines creates a high-risk interface where human-macaque interactions occur at rates were cross-species transmission of disease may occur more frequently than previously known. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is a prime tourist destination in the country where long-tailed macaques live as commensals to humans. This study was conducted to assess zoonotic enteroparasites of Macaca fascicularis to determine their prevalence in the extant population. Fecal samples were collected during two-kilometer transect walks whilst opportunistic sampling was also conducted in the park proper where there is high tourist traffic. Among protozoans, Entamoeba coli showed the highest prevalence (34.29%), followed by Entamoeba spp. and Iodamoeba butschlii (31.43%), Endolimax nana (28.57%), Blastocystis sp. (22.86%), Chilomastix mesnili Entamoeba polecki (20%), and Giardia intestinalis (8.57%). From the helminth group, hookworm larva was the most prevalent (40%), followed by hookworm/strongylids ova (34.29%), Strongyloides sp. larva (28.57%), T. trichiura (20%), Ascaris sp. (11.43%), and lastly, Hymenolepis nana and Enterobius vermicularis (2.86%). This study demonstrates the importance of long-tailed macaques in the transmission of enteroparasites in an environment where there is frequent contact between nonhuman primates and people.
Time Difference Between the 1854 CE Ansei–Tokai and Ansei–Nankai Earthquakes Estimated from Distant Tsunami Waveforms on the West Coast of North America
Authors: Kusumoto Satoshi , Imai Kentaro , Hori Takane
Published: September 2021

We estimated the time difference between the 1854 CE Ansei–Tokai and Ansei–Nankai earthquakes from tidal records of two tide gauge stations (San Francisco and San Diego) on the west coast of North America. The first signals of the Ansei–Tokai tsunami were apparent, whereas those of the Ansei–Nankai tsunami were obscured by the later waves of the Ansei–Tokai tsunami. Waveforms of the Ansei–Nankai tsunami simulated with non-linear dispersive wave theory by assuming an origin time of 07:00 GMT on 24 December arrived earlier than in the observations. The normalized root mean square and the misfit between the simulated and observed waveforms of the Ansei–Nankai tsunami showed a time difference between them of approximately 0.4 h. This finding suggests that the actual origin time of the Ansei–Nankai tsunami was approximately 07:24 GMT on 24 December. A previous study estimated the origin time of the Ansei–Tokai tsunami to be about 00:30 GMT on 23 December. Thus, we concluded that the time difference between the 1854 CE Ansei–Tokai and Ansei–Nankai tsunamis was 30.9 h. Despite the significant difference in the time resolution between the seasonal timekeeping system used in Japan in 1854 and waveform digitization, our result is roughly in agreement with historical descriptions of the tsunamis, suggesting that such information can be effectively used to determine the origin times of historical earthquakes.
Effects of Austempering on the Microstructure, Corrosion and Mechanical Properties of AISI 1018 Steel
Authors: Adigun Oluwole Daniel , Bodude Muyideen Adebayo , Adigun Aanuoluwapo Rebecca , Obadele Babatunde Abiodun , Adebayo Abdullahi Olawale , Umunakwe Reginald , Kolawole Funsho Olaitan , Borisade Sunday Gbenga
Published: September 2021

In this study, the effects of austempering on the microstructure, mechanical properties (micro hardness, impact energy and tensile strength) and corrosion behaviours of AISI 1018 low carbon steel were evaluated. The steel specimens were subjected to heat treatment by austenitizing at 830°C, maintained in this condition for 90 min before rapid cooling in a NaNO3 salt bath sustained at 300°C for isothermal transformation for additional 50 min and finally allowed to air cool to room temperature. The as-received and the austempered samples were tested for corrosion in both 0.5M aqueous acidic (HCl) and 0. 5M alkaline (NaOH) media. Microstructural investigation using scanning electron microscope (SEM) reveals transformation from ferrite/pearlite phases to bainite over the austempering process. Interestingly, significant improvements of 15.7% to 95.7% in the various mechanical properties (micro hardness, impact energy and tensile strength) and corrosion resistance in both media were observed.
A Data Calibration Method of Micro Air Quality Detector Based on LASSO Regression and NARX Neural Network Combined Model
Authors: Liu Bing , Jin Yueqiang , Xu Dezhi , Wang Yishu , Li Chaoyang
Published: September 2021

Studies have shown that there is a certain correlation between air pollution and various human diseases, especially lung diseases, so it is very meaningful to monitor the concentration of pollutants in the air. Compared with the national air quality monitoring station (national control point), the micro air quality detector has the advantage that it can monitor the concentration of pollutants in real time and grid, but its measurement accuracy needs to be improved. In this paper, the measurement data of the micro air quality detector is calibrated with the help of the LASSO regression and NARX neural network combination (LASSO-NARX) model using the data measured by the national control point. First, correlation analysis is used to test whether the correlation between the concentration of air pollutants and its influencing factors is significant. Second, LASSO regression is used to give the quantitative relationship between pollutant concentration and various influencing factors. Third, the predicted value of each pollutant concentration in the LASSO regression model and the measurement data of the micro air quality detector are used as input variables, and the LASSO-NARX model is constructed using the NARX neural network. Finally, several indicators such as Root Mean Square Error, goodness of fit, Mean Absolute Error and Relative Mean Absolute Percent Error are used to compare various air quality models. The results show that the prediction results of the LASSO-NARX model are not only better than the LASSO model alone and the NARX model alone, but also better than the commonly used multilayer perceptron and radial basis function neural network. The LASSO-NARX model performed equally well on the training set and test set, indicating that the model has excellent generalization capabilities. Using this model to calibrate the measurement data of the micro air quality detector can increase the accuracy by 61.3% to 91.7%.