bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting Risks of Severe Windstorm Damage to Southeastern U.S. forests
Authors: Fortuin Christine Cairns , Montes Cristian R. , Vogt James T. , Gandhi Kamal J. K.
Published: December 2021

ContextThe southeastern U.S. experiences tornadoes and severe thunderstorms that can cause economic and ecological damage to forest stands resulting in loss of timber, reduction in short-term carbon sequestration, and increasing forest pests and pathogens. ObjectivesThis project sought to determine landscape-scale patterns of recurring wind damages and their relationships to topographic attributes, overall climatic patterns and soil characteristics in southeastern forests. MethodsWe assembled post-damage assessment data collected since 2012 by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). We utilized a regularized Generalized Additive Model (GAM) framework to identify and select influencing topographic, soil and climate variables and to discriminate between damage levels (broken branches, uprooting, or trunk breakage). Further, we applied a multinomial GAM utilizing the identified variables to generate predictions and interpolated the results to create predictive maps for tree damage. ResultsTerrain characteristics of slope and valley depth, soil characteristics including erodibility factor and bedrock depth, and climatic variables including temperatures and precipitation levels contributed to damage severity for pine trees. In contrast, valley depth and soil pH, along with climactic variables of isothermality and temperature contributed to damage severity for hardwood trees. Areas in the mid-south from Mississippi to Alabama, and portions of central Arkansas and Oklahoma showed increased probabilities of more severe levels of tree damage. ConclusionsOur project identified important soil and climatic predictors of tree damage levels, and areas in the southeastern U.S. that are at greater risk of severe wind damage, with management implications under continuing climate change.
Combined Treatment of Graft Versus Host Disease Using Donor Regulatory T Cells and Ruxolitinib.
Authors: Rodríguez-Gil Alfonso , Escamilla-Gómez Virginia , Nufer Melanie , Andújar-Sánchez Félix , Lopes-Ramos Teresa , Bejarano-García José Antonio , García-Guerrero Estefanía , Calderón-Cabrera Cristina , Caballero-Velázquez Teresa , García-Calderón Clara Beatriz , Hernández-Díaz Paola , Reguera-Ortega Juan Luis , Rodríguez-Torres Nancy , Martínez-Cibrián Nuria , Rodríguez-Barbosa José Ignacio , Villadiego Javier , Pérez-Simón José Antonio
Published: December 2021

Donor derived regulatory T lymphocytes and the JAK1/2 kinase inhibitor ruxolitinib are currently being evaluated as therapeutic options in the treatment of Chronic Graft versus Host Disease (cGvHD).In this work, we aimed to determine if the combined use of both agents can exert a synergistic effect in the treatment of cGvHD. For this purpose, we studied the effect of this combination both in vitro and in a progressive onset acute to chronic GvHD mouse model. Our results show that ruxolitinib favors the ratio of thymic regulatory T cells to conventional T cells in culture, without affecting the suppressive capacity of these Treg. The combination of ruxolitinib with Treg showed a higher efficacy as compared to each single treatment alone in our GvHD mouse model in terms of GvHD incidence, severity and survival without hampering Graft versus Leukemia effect. This beneficial effect correlated with the detection in the bone marrow of recipient mice of the infused donor allogeneic Treg after the adoptive transfer.
Force Interaction with a Small Insect by a Soft Microfinger with Active Tactile Sensing
Authors: Konishi Satoshi , Mori Fuminari , Kakehi Yugo , Shimizu Ayano , Sano Fumiya , Koyanagi Kodai
Published: December 2021

Human-robot interaction technology has contributed to improving sociality for humanoid robots. At scales far from human scales, a microrobot can interact with an environment in a small world. Microsensors have been applied to measurement of forces by flying or walking insects. Meanwhile, most previous works focused on the measurement of the behavior of insects. Here, we propose microrobot-insect interactions by soft microfingers integrated with artificial muscle actuators and tactile sensors, which has been developed for a haptic teleoperation robot system. A soft pneumatic balloon actuator acts as the artificial muscle, and a flexible strain sensor using a liquid metal provides tactile sensing. Force interaction between a pill bug and the microfinger could be accomplished. The microfiger (12 mm × 3 mm × 490 µm) can move and touch an insect, and it can detect reaction force from an insect. The measured reaction force from the legs of a pill bug as a representative insect was less than 10 mN. Our results demonstrate the potential of microfinger-insect interactions in a small world. We anticipate that our results will lead to novel human-environment interaction.
Predictors of the Intention to use of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Hong Kong Using Extended Theory of Planned Behavior: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ng Tommy K. C. , Lo Man Fung , Fong Ben Y. F. , Yee Hilary H. L.
Published: December 2021

Background: Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Western medicine are available and have a long history in Hong Kong. Little is known on the intention to use TCM in Hong Kong. In this study, the intention to use TCM were examined by the extended theory of planned behavior.Methods: An online cross-sectional survey was conducted from 15 and 29 November 2021. Respondents’ attitude towards using TCM, intention to use TCM, knowledge, perceived behavioral control, perceived service quality, satisfaction, subjective norms and demographic characteristics were collected from the survey. To examine the conceptual framework in this study, partial least square structural equation model (PLS-SEM) was adopted.Results: In total, 446 responses (completion rate = 74.3%) were analysed. Attitude towards TCM was the strongest predictor to the intention to use TCM followed by satisfaction and subjective norms. Attitude had a partial mediating effect on the relationship between subjective norms, perceived behavioral control and intention to use TCM. Attitude had a full mediating effect on the relationship between knowledge and intention to use TCM. Satisfaction had a full mediating effect on the relationship between perceived service quality and intention to use TCM.Conclusions: This is the first study to investigate the predictors of the intention to use TCM in Hong Kong by using TPB. Individuals’ attitude towards TCM has showed stronger effect to the intention to use TCM than other predictors, such as satisfaction, perceived behavioral control and subjective norms. To enhance the intention to use TCM in Hong Kong, key stakeholders, including TCM professional organisations, health professionals and policymakers, should develop a positive attitude towards TCM among Hong Kong population.
Does the Addition of Cellulosic Micro/nanofibrils Improve the Properties of Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Films?
Authors: Mascarenhas Adriano Reis Prazeres , Scatolino Mário Vanoli , Santos Allan de Amorim dos , Norcino Laís Bruno , Duarte Paulo Junio , de Melo Rafael Rodolfo , Dias Matheus Cordazzo , de Faria Caik Elisio Tonelli , Mendonça Maressa Carvalho , Tonoli Gustavo Henrique Denzin
Published: December 2021

Damages to ecosystems, due to the consumption of petroleum-based materials, can be mitigated with the use of biopolymers such as cellulose derivatives. The objective was to evaluate the influence of different proportions of cellulose micro/nanofibrils (MFC/NFC) on the properties of hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC) films. Films were prepared using proportions of 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100% (w/w) of MFC/NFC of Pinus sp. in relation to HPMC. The physical, barrier, surface, optical, morphological and mechanical properties were evaluated. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, linear regression, principal component analysis and Pearson correlation. Solids content, basis weight and density values increased with higher MFC/NFC amount, while thickness and porosity were reduced. SEM images showed that films with more than 50% MFC/NFC had a more granular surface resulting in reduction of transparency from 80 to 65%. The water vapor penetration did not differ between films and the degradation in water was reduced from 40 to 5% as MFC/NFC was added. There were no differences for contact angle and wettability, but all films showed high resistance to fat penetration. Films with MFC/NFC contents between 75 and 100% showed higher values for tensile strength (50 to 65 MPa) and Young's modulus (6 to 10 MPa) and lower elongation at break (1 to 2%). The experimental results indicated that films with MFC/NFC contents above 50% have potential to be used as packaging material.
AdipoR1 Regulates Ionizing Radiation-Induced Ferroptosis in HCC Cells Through Nrf2/xCT Pathway
Authors: Feng Hao , Liu Yi , Gan Yuhan , Li Mengke , Liu Rui , Liu Lianchang , Li Lan , Chen Huajian , Li Guanghui , Tian Zhujun , Ma Shumei , Liu Xiaodong
Published: December 2021

Background: Ferroptosis is a type of cell death accompanied by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation, however, how IR-induced ferroptosis is regulated in Hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HCC) remains largely unknown. We have previously found that adiponectin receptor 1(AdipoR1) might be a prognostic biomarker for HCC after stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT). In this study, we aimed to elucidate the roles of AdipoR1 in radiation-induced Ferroptosis of HCC.Methods: Human HCC cell line MHCC-97H and HepG2 and human hepatic cell lines LO2 were tested. qRT-PCR and western blotting were used to detect mRNA and protein expression respectively, colony formation assay was used to evaluate the radiosensitivity and flow cytometry was used to assess lipid peroxidation and cell death. Dual-Luciferase Reporter assay system was used to detect the transcription activity. Results: Ionizing Radiation (IR) upregulated the expression of AdipoR1 in HCC cells and AdipoR1 knockdown could promote radiation sensitivity of HCC cells. AdipoR1 knockdown could decrease the expression of Nrf2 and Nrf2 protein stability. Nrf2 could bind to xCT promoter and promoted the transcription and expression of xCT. AdipoR1 knockdown increased significantly lipid peroxidation and ferroptosis induced by IR or Erastin respectively, which could be abolished by overexpression of Nrf2 and xCT.Conclusion: AdipoR1 knockdown can promote radiation sensitivity of HCC cells; AdipoR1 regulates IR-induced cell death by AdipoR1-Nrf2-xCT pathway.
Stacking-dependent exciton multiplicity in WSe2 bilayers
Authors: Li Zhijie , Förste Jonathan , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Urbaszek B. , Baimuratov Anvar , Gerber Iann , Högele Alexander , Bilgin Ismail
Published: December 2021

Twisted layers of atomically thin two-dimensional materials realize a broad range of novel quantum materials with engineered optical and transport phenomena arising from spin and valley degrees of freedom and strong electron correlations in hybridized interlayer bands. Here, we report experimental and theoretical studies of WSe2 homobilayers obtained in two stable configurations of 2H (60° twist) and 3R (0° twist) stackings by controlled chemical vapor synthesis of high-quality large-area crystals. Using optical absorption and photoluminescence spectroscopy at cryogenic temperatures, we uncover marked differences in the optical characteristics of 2H and 3R bilayer WSe2 which we explain on the basis of beyond-DFT theoretical calculations. Our results highlight the role of layer stacking for the spectral multiplicity of momentum-direct intralayer exciton transitions in absorption, and relate the multiplicity of phonon sidebands in the photoluminescence to momentum-indirect excitons with different spin valley and layer character. Our comprehensive study generalizes to other layered homobilayer and heterobilayer semiconductor systems and highlights the role of crystal symmetry and stacking for interlayer hybrid states.
Rapid Differentiation of Vector Species: Development of Microsatellite Markers for Population Genetics of Biting Midges and a Potential Tool for Species Identification of Culicoides Sonorensis
Authors: Shults Phillip , Moran Megan , Blumenfeld Alexander J. , Vargo Edward L. , Cohnstaedt Lee W. , Eyer Pierre-Andre
Published: December 2021

Background: Proper vector surveillance relies on the ability to identify species of interest accurately and efficiently, though this can be difficult in groups containing cryptic species. Culicoides is a genus of small biting flies responsible for the transmission of numerous pathogens to a multitude of vertebrates. Regarding pathogen transmission, the C. variipennis species complex is of particular interest in North America. Of the six species within this group, only C. sonorensis is a proven vector of bluetongue virus and epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus. Unfortunately, subtle morphological differences, cryptic species, and mitonuclear discordance make species identification in the C. variipennis complex challenging. Recently, a SNP analysis enabled discrimination between the species of this group; however, this demanding approach is not practical for vector surveillance. Methods: The aim of the current study was to develop a reliable and affordable way of differentiating the species within the C. variipennis complex, especially C. sonorensis. Twenty-five putative microsatellite markers were identified using the C. sonorensis genome and tested for amplification within five species of the C. variipennis complex. Machine learning was then used to determine which markers best explain the genetic differentiation between species. This led to the development of a subset of four and seven markers which were also tested for species differentiation.Results: A total of 21 microsatellite markers were successfully amplified in the species tested. Clustering analyses of all of these markers recover the same species-level identification as the previous SNP data. Additionally, the subset of seven markers was equally capable of accurately differentiating the members of the C. variipennis complex as the 21 microsatellite markers. Finally, one microsatellite marker (C508) was found to be species-specific, only amplifying in the vector species C. sonorensis among the samples tested. Conclusions: These microsatellites provide an affordable way in which to differentiate the species of the C. variipennis complex and could lead to a better understanding of the species dynamics within this group. Additionally, after further testing, marker C508 may allow for the identification of C. sonorensis with a single-tube assay, potentially providing a powerful new tool for vector surveillance in North America.
Multifunctional MOF-based Electrochemiluminescent Nanocubes for an Ultrasensitive Biosensing Strategy of B. Pseudomallei Determination Coupled With 3D Magnetic Walking Nanomachine
Authors: Wang Yuexin , Shen Bo , Li Cai , Wu Haiping , Wang Yanshuang , Tian Shen , Li Xuemiao , Luo Nini , Liu Rui , Li Xinmin , Chen Junman , Cheng Wei , Ding Shijia , Zhu Chuanlong , Xia Qianfeng
Published: December 2021

Burkholderia pseudomallei (B. pseudomallei) can cause melioidosis that is usually fatal. A reliable and rapid detection method is greatly needed for disease surveillance and diagnosis. Herein, an ultrasensitive electrochemiluminescence (ECL) biosensor was constructed for accurate determination of B. pseudomallei coupled with multifunctional Au@Co-MOF@ABEI nanocubes and 3D magnetic walking nanomachine. The synthesized nanocubes could not only immobilize enormous ABEI but exhibit superior peroxidase-like activity to decompose H2O2 to produce plentiful reactive oxygen species (ROSs) that could further react with ABEI, so that the enhanced ECL signals were achieved. Meanwhile, the target-activated walking nanomachine was efficiently driven by Exonuclease III (Exo III) for further improving the sensitivity of the biosensor. As a result, the fabricated ECL biosensor could detect pathogenic gene down to 60.3 aM with a linear range from 100.0 aM to 100.0 pM. Moreover, the biosensing platform successfully achieved the determination of B. pseudomallei down to 9.0 CFU mL−1 in serum samples. This work exhibited an ultrasensitive and specific performance for B. pseudomallei detection, which would become a versatile tool in the early diagnosis and treatment of melioidosis.
Estimation And Compensation of Angular Misalignment At Robot End Brush Roller - Workpiece Contact Interface Via Elastic Contact Force Perception
Authors: Feng Xiaozhi , Lv Rui , Qian Chen , Wang Yudi , Tian Linli , Zhu Dahu
Published: December 2021

When the non-standard customized brush roller tool is used for robotic grinding of large-scale components, the clamping and positioning error of the brush roller at the end of the robot is extremely easy to cause misalignment at the brush roller - workpiece contact interface, which will affect the machining accuracy and surface quality. In order to ensure the parallel contact between the brush roller and the workpiece surface during the machining process, a calculation model of the angular misalignment at the brush roller - workpiece contact interface is proposed based on the elastic contact force perception, and then the accurate positioning of the robot end brush roller is realized by a fast compensation method. Firstly, according to the geometric force relationship between the brush roller and the workpiece, as well as the determined brush roller material properties parameters, the estimation model of angular misalignment is established. Secondly, both the axial force and normal torque at the time of initial contact detected by the force-controlled sensor are regarded as the input parameters in the model. Further, the calculated brush roller - workpiece contact offset is used as the geometric error compensation amount, and the brush roller is deflected to achieve error compensation by the robot RAPID program control command. The finite element simulation results are compared with the theoretical calculation values, and the average relative error is 15.1%. The experiment on robotic grinding and brushing of high-speed rail body indicates that the compensated angle can be reduced to 0.024° from an average of 0.179° before compensation, coupled with uniform material removal depth. The proposed method can significantly improve the contour accuracy of large-scale components.
A New Cynodont from the Late Triassic Los Colorados Formation (Argentina, South America) Reveals a Novel Paleobiogeographic Context for Mammalian Ancestors
Authors: GAETANO L. C. , ABDALA F. , SEOANE F. D. , TARTAGLIONE A. , SCHULZ M. , OTERO A. , LEARDI J. M. , APALDETTI C. , KRAPOVICKAS V. , STEINBACH E.
Published: December 2021

Probainognathia is a derived lineage of cynodonts which encompass Mammalia as their crown-group. The profuse record of probainognathians from the Carnian of Argentina contrasts with their Norian representation, with only one named species. Here we describe a new probainognathian, Tessellatia bonapartei gen. et sp. nov., from the Norian Los Colorados Formation of the Ischigualasto-Villa Unión Basin of Argentina. The new taxon, represented by a partial cranium with articulated lower jaws, was analyzed through neutron and X-rays micro-tomography (µCT). The high-resolution neutron µCT data allowed the identification of a unique character state combination, including features inaccessible through traditional techniques. We constructed the largest phylogenetic data-matrix of non-mammalian cynodonts. The new species and its sister-taxon, the Brazilian Therioherpeton, are recovered as probainognathians, closely related to Mammaliamorpha. We conducted the first quantitative paleobiogeographic analysis of non-mammalian cynodonts, focusing in probainognathians. The results indicate that Probainognathia and Mammaliamorpha originated in Brazil, which was an important center of diversification during the Triassic. Finally, China is identified as the ancestral area of Mammaliaformes. These new findings, besides adding to the knowledge of the poorly represented Norian cynodonts from the Los Colorados Formation, are significant to improve our understanding of probainognathian diversity, evolution, and paleobiogeographic history.
Multiple Cannulated Screw Fixation of Femoral Neck Fractures with Comminution in Young and Middle Age Patients
Authors: Han Zhe , Wumiti Taxi , Ji Nengneng , Sun Xiang , Han Chao , Ma Xinlong , Dong Qiang , Cao DongDong
Published: December 2021

Objective

To investigate the distribution and influence of comminutions on femoral neck fracture (FNF) patients after cannulated screw fixation (CSF).
Methods

From January 2019 to June 2020, a total of 473 patients with FNF treated by CSF, aged 23–65 years, were included in present study. Based on location of the cortical comminution, the FNF patients were assigned as comminution group (anterior comminution, posterior comminution, superior comminution, inferior comminution, multiple comminutions) and without comminution group. The incidence of postoperative complications, quality of life and functional outcomes were recorded in different groups at 1 year-follow up.
Results

The comminution was more likely to appear in displaced FNF patients (86.8%) compared with non-displaced FNF patients (8.9%), while occurrence rate of comminution was also closely associated with Pauwels classification (3.2% vs 53.5% vs 83.9%, P<0.05). Besides, the incidence of osteonecrosis of femoral head (ONFH, 11.3% vs 2.9%, P<0.05), nonunion (7.5% vs 1.7%, P<0.05), femoral neck shortening (21.6% vs 13.4%, P<0.05) and internal fixation failure (11.8% vs 2.9%, P<0.05) in FNF patients with comminutions, especially with multiple comminutions, was significantly higher than those in FNF patients without comminution. Furthermore, there was a prominently difference in Harris hip score (HHS, 85.6±15.6 vs 91.3±10.8, P<0.05) and EuroQol five dimensions questionnaire (EQ-5D, 0.85±0.17 vs 0.91±0.18, P<0.05) score between FNF patients with comminution and FNF patients without comminution, whereas there was seem to be no significantly difference in Visual analogue scale (VAS, 1.46±2.49 vs 1.13±1.80, P>0.05) score between two groups at 1 year after surgery.
Conclusion

In our view, the comminution, easily happened in displaced FNF and Pauwel type III FNF, which was deemed to be a risk factor for postoperative complications in young and middle-aged patients underwent CSF, consequently causing an influence on recovery of hip function and life quality. However, further evaluation with better study design, larger sample and long-term follow-up was still imminently applied.
Inter Molecular Level Interaction Studies of Combination Drug Crizotinib And Temozolomide in Glioblastoma Multiforme Targets: An In-silico Approach
Authors: younus Saleena , S.S Vinod Chandra , K Sheeba , Nair Achuth Sankar S.
Published: December 2021

Combination drug treatments are frequently used in many diseases, including cancers and AIDS. The main aims of these treatments are to reduce toxicity, decrease or delay drug resistance, and improve drug efficacy by inhibiting the activity of a specific target or groups of targets in a cell. The net effect of combination drug efficacy is mainly quantified and interpreted by various terminologies like synergy, additive, agonism, and antagonism based on drugs dose ratio. In single or combination drug treatment, drug action occurs on cells due to the intermolecular level interaction of drugs with protein/DNA/RNA/Enzyme. This type of inter molecular level interaction can be detected with the help of docking software. The current study aims to identify the inter-molecular level interaction of combination drug Crizotinib and Temozolomide with C-MET, C-ROS1, and ALK targets in Glioblastoma Multiforme(GBM). To identify this, we performed forward and reverse docking of drugs with these proteins, and the results were evaluated by drug properties and the complex energy. From the analysis study, we recognized that first, Crizotinib and then, after Temozolomide bounded docked complexes showed the least complex energy in all the docked complex structures, and the better complexes were identified from the result by MD simulation.
Positive feedback loop of HMGB1 and tumor-associated macrophages plays a key role in osteosarcoma metastasis
Authors: Hou Changhe , Lu Ming , Lei Zixiong , Dai Shuangwu , Chen Wei , Du Shaohua , Jin Qinglin , Zhou Zhongxin , Li Haomiao
Published: December 2021

Background

Numerous studies have demonstrated the important roles of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) in osteosarcoma metastasis. In osteosarcoma, higher levels of HMGB1 correlate with osteosarcoma progression. However, whether HMGB1 is involved in the polarization of M2 macrophages into M1 macrophages in osteosarcoma still remains largely unknown.
Methods

HMGB1 and CD206 mRNA expression was measured by qRT-PCR in osteosarcoma tissues and cells. HMGB1 and RAGE protein expression was measured by western blotting. Osteosarcoma migration was measured using a Transwell and wound-healing assay. Osteosarcoma invasion was measured using a Transwell assay. Macrophage subtypes were detected using flow cytometry.
Results

HMGB1 is aberrantly overexpressed in osteosarcoma, and positively correlates with the TNM III & IV stages, lymph node metastasis, and distant metastasis. Silencing HMGB1 inhibits migration, invasion, and metastasis-related proteins in osteosarcoma cells. Furthermore, the reduced HMGB1 expression in the conditioned media derived from osteosarcoma cells also induces the polarization of M2 TAMs to M1 TAMs. In addition, silencing HMGB1 inhibits the liver and lung metastases of osteosarcoma and reduces the expression of HMGB1, CD163, and CD206 in vivo experiments. HMGB1 regulates macrophage polarization through RAGE. Interestingly, the polarized M2 macrophages could induce osteosarcoma migration and invasion, which in turn results in activation of HMGB1 expression in osteosarcoma cells to form a positive feedback loop.
Conclusions

HMGB1 and M2 macrophages enhance osteosarcoma migration, invasion, and metastasis capability through positive feedback regulation. These findings reveal the significance of tumor cell and TAM interaction in the metastatic microenvironment.
Assessment of Acute Stress Disorder of Young and Middle-Aged Patients With Acute Myocardial Infarction And Analysis of The Influencing Factors
Authors: Wu Minjuan , Wenqin Wang , Xingwei Zhang , Junhua Li
Published: December 2021

Background: Young and middle-aged people are considered a vulnerable group to experience acute stress disorder (ASD) after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). This study aims to explore influencing factors to ASD in young and middle-aged groups.Methods: 190 patients of 18–60 years of age with acute myocardial infarction were enrolled in this study. We assessed the association between ASD and demographic data, adult attachment, and social support.Results: A total of 190 young and middle-aged people were investigated in this study. Among them, 65 cases were positive for acute stress disorder, with a positive rate of 34.21%. Multivariate stepwise regression showed that attachment-related anxiety, distribution of criminal vessels, perceived support, complications, and attachment-related avoidance are the main factors affecting acute stress disorder of young and middle-aged patients with AMI.Conclusions: The incidence of acute stress disorder in young and middle-aged patients with AMI is high. We should strengthen social support and pay attention to the psychological state of patients in the process of follow-up cardiac rehabilitation to improve their ability to deal with acute stress events and actively participate in postoperative cardiac rehabilitation.
Genome-wide Identification of the GRAS Gene Family of Actinidia Arguta
Authors: Liu Zhenpan , Sun Yang , Li Dongsheng , Song Jianyu , Yao Rongsheng , You Wenzhong
Published: December 2021

GRAS transcription factors play important roles in plant growth, development, and abiotic and biotic stress responses. In this study, the genome-wide identification of the transcription factor family of Actinidia arguta was carried out including an analysis of the physical and chemical properties, phylogenetic development, gene structure, collinearity between genes, and protein interactions. A total of 88 GRAS genes were identified in the genome of Actinidia arguta with protein lengths of 103-510 aa, a molecular mass of 11,603.25-22,457.96 kDa, and isoelectric points in the hydrophilic range between 4.45 and 6.50 From these genes, 67 were located in the nucleus and 21 in the chloroplast. The identified genes were further divided into eight subfamilies: SCR, HAM, DELLA, PAT1, SHR, SCL4/7, and GIGR. Members of the same subfamily had similar gene structures and conserved motifs. Motif 5 was highly conserved in the GRAS family. On the chromosomes of LG3, LG15, LG22, LG24, LG26 and LG28, there was a large number of tandem duplications of GRAS genes, with 64 pairs of genes orthologous with Arabidopsis thaliana. The analysis of protein interactions found that there were interactive relationships between SCL28 in the DLT subfamily and SCL14 in the LISCL subfamily and between SCL13 in the PAT1 subfamily and proteins of the LAS subfamily. Interactions were also observed between the SCL30, SCL33, and HAM4 proteins in the LISCL subfamily. This study, therefore, provides a reference for mining and verification within the GRAS genes in the Actinidia arguta genome.
Flow Manipulation and the Association with Myocardial Systolic Function During Extracorporeal Life Support
Authors: NG Pauline Yeung , MA Tammy Sin Kwan , IP April , FANG Shu , LI Andy Chak Cheung , WONG Alfred Sai Kuen , NGAI Chun Wai , CHAN Wai Ming , SIN Wai Ching
Published: December 2021

Background:Peripheral veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-A ECMO) is used to support circulatory failure refractory to conventional therapy. However, data on the heart-ECMO interaction at different levels of ECMO blood flow during the immediate period after ECMO initiation are sparse. We evaluated the effects of varying ECMO blood flow rate on left ventricular systolic function.Methods:Adult patients who were supported by peripheral V-A ECMO in a tertiary referral center were recruited. Serial hemodynamic and cardiac performance parameters were measured by transthoracic echocardiogram within the first 48 hours after implementation of V-A ECMO. Measurements at 100%, 120%, and 50% of target blood flow (TBF) were compared.Results:A total of 45 patients were included, 32 (71.1%) were male, and the median age was 57 (50-64) years. The main indications for V-A ECMO were myocardial infarction 25 (55.6%) and myocarditis 6 (13.3%). With a decrease in extracorporeal blood flow from 100% to 50% of TBF, mean arterial pressure dropped from 75±18 to 67±20 mmHg (p<0.001), but stroke volume increased from 15 (8-25) to 21 (13-34) mL (p<0.001), and cardiac index increased from 0.8 (0.5-1.3) to 1.2 (0.7-1.7) L/min/m2 (p<0.001). All indices of left ventricular contractility improved at 50% compared with 100% TBF: the global longitudinal strain improved from -2.8 (-5.4-0) to -4.7 (-8.2- -1.1)% (p<0.001); left ventricular ejection fraction increased from 16.8 (10.0-28.5) to 28.2 (18.0-35.5)% (p<0.001); and left ventricular outflow tract velocity time integral increased from 4.7 (2.7-7.8) to 7.7 (3.9-11.3) cm (p<0.001). The addition of echocardiographic parameters improved the discrimination of the SAVE score in predicting hospital mortality (AUROC 0.71 vs 0.58).Conclusions:In the initial period of V-A ECMO support, left ventricular systolic function quantified bedside echocardiography was inversely related to ECMO blood flow rate. The heart-ECMO interaction should be considered when determining goals of ECMO flow after initiation.
The Clinical and Prognostic Factors for Biliary Neuroendocrine Neoplasm: A Study Based on the SEER Database
Authors: Zheng Bohao , Zhang Cheng , Wan Wenze , Sun Wentao , Cheng Xi , Ni Xiaojian , Ni Xiaoling , Suo Tao , Liu Han , Shen Sheng , Liu Houbao
Published: December 2021

Background: In this study, we aimed at elucidating the postoperative survival and prognostic factors in patients with biliary neuroendocrine neoplasm (NEN).Methods: Cases of biliary system NEN and adenocarcinoma were extracted from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. A propensity score matching (PSM) method was used to adjust baseline differences in clinicopathological characteristics in our analysis. The Kaplan-Meier analysis was carried out for survival analysis. Results：A total of 243 patients with biliary system NEN were enrolled in this study, of which 119 patients’ lesions located in gallbladder, while the others’ located in bile duct. The postoperative overall survival of bile duct NEN is significantly longer than that of gallbladder NEN (P<0.001). For GB-NENs, surgery method (P=0.020) and lymph node metastasis (P=0.018) were identified as independent prognostic factors. In terms of AOV NENs, age (P=0.017) and lymph node metastasis (P=0.006) were identified was independent prognostic factor, while grade (P=0.002) and lymph node metastasis (P=0.036) were identified as independent prognostic factors for EBD NENs. PSM analysis indicated that patients with biliary duct NENs have better postoperative prognosis than biliary duct adenocarcinoma.Conclusions: Patients with NEN have better overall survival than patients with adenocarcinoma. Gallbladder NEN has adverse prognosis than that of biliary tract NEN. Pathological subtype, differentiation, lymph node metastasis, surgery method and lymph node resection could affect postoperative prognosis of gallbladder and biliary tract NEN.
‘It’s the Same Thing as Giving Them CPR Training’: Rural Emergency Responders Perspectives on Naloxone
Authors: Filteau Matthew , Green Brandn , Kim Frances , McBride Ki_Ai
Published: December 2021

Most states in the US have implemented Good Samaritan Laws (GSLs) that provide legal protections for anyone calling law enforcement and first responders trained to administer naloxone and reverse overdoses. Despite these laws, some bystanders are reluctant to call the authorities, prompting requests to increase naloxone access and administration training among lay persons. This study examines the perceptions of emergency first responders in a frontier and remote (FAR) state to understand their job responsibilities and perceptions of layperson naloxone administration training. This study includes 22 interviews with law enforcement, EMS and/or fire personnel, members of community organizations responsible for responding to opioid overdoses. The study finds widespread support for layperson naloxone training and administration throughout Montana due to rural first responders’ inability to meet the needs of residents and an overall lack of resources to address substance use. This study adds to the literature because of it focuses on first responders in a frontier and remote area (FAR) that would benefit from layperson naloxone education and administration training due to its geographic expansiveness and the area’s overall lack of resources. A harm reduction approach that trains laypeople to administer naloxone might be FAR residents’ best chance for survival after an opioid overdose.
Efﬁcacy and Safety of Radiotherapy Plus Anti-PD1 Versus Transcatheter Arterial Chemoembolization Plus Sorafenib For Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma: a Real-World Study
Authors: Li Jian-Xu , Deng Wen-Xiang , Huang Shi-Ting , Lin Xiao-Feng , Long Mei-Ying , Zhang Jie , Su Ting-Shi , Li Li-Qing , Pang Ya-Dan , Liang Chun-Feng , Zhou Hong-Mei , Lu Hai-Yan , Liang Shi-Xiong , Xiang Bang-De
Published: December 2021

Background: The combination of transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) plus sorafenib prolonged progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) than sorafenib or TACE monotherapy for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study assessed the efficacy and safety of radiotherapy (RT) plus monoclonal antibody against programmed cell death 1 (anti-PD1) versus TACE plus sorafenib for patients with advanced HCC.Methods: Patients with advanced HCC who treated with RT plus anti-PD1 and TACE plus sorafenib were enrolled. Objective response rate (ORR), PFS, disease control rate (DCR) and OS were calculated to assess the antitumor response and the treatment-related adverse events to the safety.Results: Between January 2018 to March 2021, 37 patients underwent RT plus anti-PD1 and 41 patients underwent TACE plus sorafenib. The baseline characteristics between the two groups were comparable. The ORR and DCR were significantly higher in the RT+PD1 group than the TACE plus sorafenib group according to RECIST 1.1 (54.05% vs 12.20%, P < 0.001; 70.27% vs 46.37%, P = 0.041; respectively) and according to mRECIST (56.76% vs 31.71%, P = 0.039; 70.27% vs 46.37%, P = 0.041; respectively). RT plus anti-PD1 provided significantly better PFS (HR, 0.51; 95% CI 0.30-0.86; p=0.017) than TACE plus sorafenib. Moreover, patients with RT plus anti-PD1 had significantly higher 3-, 6-, and 9-month OS rates than those with TACE plus sorafenib(97.3% vs 92.30%, P < 0.001; 91.89% vs 68.60%, P < 0.001; 75.5% vs 60.60%, P < 0.001; respectively). The median OS was more favorable 17.4 months for the RT+PD1 group and 11.9 months for the TACE plus sorafenib group. No treatment-related death was observed. Grade 3 or more treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) occurred significantly less in patients in the RT+PD1 group than the TACE plus sorafenib group (29.7% vs 75.6%, p < 0.001), and all TRAEs were manageable.Conclusions: In this real-world study, RT plus anti-PD1 showed significantly promising efficacy and manageable safety than TACE plus sorafenib in patients with advanced HCC. Toxicities were manageable, with no unexpected safety signals. The study provides evidence on a new therapeutic method in the treatment of advanced HCC.
The Effects of Antidepressants Fluoxetine, Sertraline, and Amitriptyline on the Development of Antibiotic Resistance in Acinetobacter Baumannii
Authors: Gürpınar Suna Sibel , Kart Didem , Eryı Müjde
Published: December 2021

In this study, we investigated the effects of antidepressants fluoxetine, sertraline, and amitriptyline on the development of antibiotic resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii. Susceptible clinical A. baumannii isolates were exposed to fluoxetine, sertraline, amitriptyline for 30 days, respectively. After exposure, the bacteria that developed resistance to gentamicin, imipenem, colistin, and ciprofloxacin were isolated and expression levels of some antibiotic resistance genes were compared with test bacteria in initial cultures using the quantitative Reverse-Transcriptase PCR method. The data obtained were analyzed using Student's t-test method. Increases in the MIC values of test bacteria were also determined after the exposure. The number of test bacteria that developed resistance and the MIC values of some bacteria were increased with the extension of exposure time. After exposure to fluoxetine and sertraline, decreases were observed for efflux and outer membrane porin genes in isolates that developed colistin resistance, and increases were observed in isolates that developed ciprofloxacin resistance. These observations suggest that these antidepressants have similar effects on the development of resistance. While the exposure to fluoxetine didn’t result in the development of resistance to imipenem, it was observed after exposure to sertraline and amitriptyline, and a common decrease in ompA gene expression was determined in these isolates. This study is one of the preliminary investigations that demonstrates the role of non-antibiotic drugs on the development of antibiotic resistance. To the best of our knowledge, our findings report the comparative effects of selected antidepressants on the development of antibiotic resistance in A. baumanni for the first time in the literature.
Comprehensive Analysis of the Functions, Prognostic and Diagnostic Values of RNA Binding Proteins in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Ke Xueping , Fu Zhen , Yang Jingjing , Yu Shijin , Yan Tingyuan , Li Xin , Li Zhongwu , Wu Xiang
Published: December 2021

Background: Increasing evidence has suggested that RNA binding protein (RBP) dysregulation plays an important part in tumorigenesis. Here, we sought to explore the potential molecular functions and clinical significance of RBP and develop diagnostic and prognostic signatures based on RBP in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Methods: The Limma package was applied to identify the differently expressed RBPs between HNSCC and normal samples with |log2 fold change (FC)|≥1 and false discovery rate (FDR)<0.05. the immunohistochemistry images from the Human Protein Atlas database The diagnostic signature based on RBP was built by LASSO-logistic regression and random forest and the prognostic signature based on RBP was constructed by LASSO and stepwise Cox regression analysis in training cohort and validated in validation cohort. All these analyses were performed using the R software.Results: A total of 84 aberrantly expressed RBPs were obtained, comprising 41 up-regulated and 43 down-regulated RBPs. Seven RBP genes (CPEB3, PDCD4, ENDOU, PARP12, DNMT3B, IGF2BP1, EXO1) were identified as diagnostic related hub gene and were used to establish a diagnostic RBP signature risk score (DRBPS) model by the coefficients in LASSO-logistic regression analysis and shown high specificity and sensitivity in the training (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC] = 0.998), and in all validation cohorts (AUC > 0.95 for all). Similarly, seven RBP genes (MKRN3, ZC3H12D, EIF5A2, AFF3, SIDT1, RBM24 and NR0B1) were identified as prognosis associated hub genes by least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) and stepwise multiple Cox regression analyses and were used to construct the prognostic model named as PRBPS. The area under the curve of the time-dependent receiver operator characteristic curve of the prognostic model were 0.664 at 3 years and 0.635 at 5 years in training cohort and 0.720, 0.777 in the validation cohort, showing a favorable predictive effificacy for prognosis in HNSCC.Conclusions: Our results demonstrate the values of consideration of RBP in the diagnosis and prognosis for HNSCC and provide a novel insights to understand potential role of dysregulated RBP in HNSCC.
Recursive State and Parameter Estimation of COVID-19 Circulating Variants Dynamics
Authors: Silva Daniel Martins , Secchi Argimiro Resende
Published: December 2021

COVID-19 pandemic response with non-pharmaceutical interventions is an intrinsic control problem. Governments balance social distancing policies to avoid overload on health system without major economic impact. A control strategy requires reliable predictions to be efficient on long-term. SARS-CoV-2 mutability, vaccination coverage and time-varying restrictive measures change virus evolution dynamics frequently. State and parameter estimations are an option do deal with these uncertainties. In this paper, a SIR-based model is proposed considering data available and feedback corrections over time. State and parameter estimations were done on state estimators with augmented states. Three observers were implemented: Constrained Extended Kalman Filter (CEKF), CEKF and Smoother (CEKF&S) and Moving Horizon Estimator (MHE). The parameters estimated therein are based on vaccine efficacy studies regarding transmissibility, severeness of disease and lethality. Social distancing is a measured disturbance calculated with Google mobility data. Six federative units from Brazil are used to evaluate proposed strategy: Amazonas, Mato Grosso do Sul, Rio Grande do Norte, Rio Grande do Sul, Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. State and parameter estimations were realized from October 1 st 2020 to July 1 st 2021 during which Zeta and Gamma variants emerged. Results showed an efficient detection of circulating variants from proposed parameter estimation. In addition, it asserted dynamics related to virus mutations. Zeta mutations increase lethality between 19 and 45%, and increased transmissibility between 20 and 38%. Gamma mutations, on the other hand, increased lethality between 62 and 110% while increasing transmissibility between 52 and 107%. Furthermore, parameter estimation indicated existence and temporal change of subnotification on hospitalized and deceased individuals. Overall, dynamics estimated were within expectations and are applicable to control theory.
The Effects of Exercise Therapy Moderated by Sex in Rehabilitation of COVID-19
Authors: Rausch Linda Katharina , Puchner Bernhard , Fuchshuber Jürgen , Seebacher Barbara , Löffler-Ragg Judith , Pramsohler Stephan , Netzer Nikolaus C. , Faulhaber Martin
Published: December 2021

BackgroundPulmonary rehabilitation serves as a key component in the recovery of COVID-19 and standardized exercise therapy programs in pulmonary rehabilitation have been shown to significantly improve physical performance and lung function parameters in post-acute COVID-19 patients. However, it has not been investigated if these positive effects are equally beneficial for both sexes, especially considering a more severe physical impact of COVID-19 in men when compared to women. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to analyze outcomes of a pulmonary rehabilitation program with respect to sex differences, in order to identify sex-specific pulmonary rehabilitation requirements.MethodsData of 233 patients were analyzed before and after a three-week standardized pulmonary rehabilitation program. Patients were admitted to rehabilitation due to post-acute COVID-19 illness and staged using the COVID-19 Severity Scale by Huang et al. (2021). Lung function parameters were assessed as part of the clinical routine using spirometry (ICmax, maximal inspiratory capacity) and body plethysmography (FVC, forced vital capacity; FEV1, forced expiratory volume in the first second) and functional exercise capacity was measured by the Six-Minute Walk Test (6MWT). For the comparison of lung function and walking parameters by sex, Welch-ANOVA was used, as results of Levene's test suggested significant heteroscedasticity regarding the investigated parameters (p > 0.05). When comparing post-treatment 6MWT, FEV1 and FCV to corresponding reference values, paired t-tests were used.ResultsAt post-rehabilitation, ICmax, FVC, FEV1 and 6MWT has been improved in both sexes. Females showed a significantly smaller improvement in FEV1 and ICmax (F = 5.86, ω2 = .02; p < 0.05) than males. There was no statistically significant difference in FVC and 6MWT performance improvements between men and women. After the rehabilitation stay, females made greater progress towards reference values of 6MWT (T(231) = -3.04; p < 0.01) and FEV1 (T(231) = 2.83; p < 0.01) than males.ConclusionsSex differences in the improvement of lung function parameters seem to exist when completing a three-week pulmonary rehabilitation program and should be considered when personalizing standardized exercise therapies in pulmonary rehabilitation.Trial registrationthis study was registered in the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS00026936) on 2021/10/19.