bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prefailure Deformation of Nailed Deep Excavations under Surcharge by Centrifuge Model Test
Authors: Shoari Shoar S. Mohammad. , Heshmati Ali A. , Salehzadeh Hossein
Published: August 2021

To study prefailure deformations in nailed deep vertical excavations under various surcharges, four centrifuge tests were used to explain the lateral deformation of facing, the fracture mechanism of cement facing, and the settlement profile of the ground surface. The soil used in this research was Firoozkooh sand No. 161. Both surcharge applying and excavation were performed at 40 g acceleration. The depth of the excavation was 30 cm, the length of the nail varied from H/3 to 2H/3 (H: excavation depth), and the nails were installed horizontally. The nails were made of brass pipes and then sand coated. The results showed that the effect of surcharge on the lateral deformation of the facing as well as the fracture mechanism of facing is obvious. Also, it was seen that the ground settlement profile is two‐line or three‐line at the moment of facing fracture and is affected by surcharge.
Analysis of Differences in ECG Characteristics for Different Types of Drivers under Anxiety
Authors: Guo Yongqing , Wang Xiaoyuan , Xu Qing , Yuan Quan , Bai Chenglin , Ban Xuegang (Jeff)
Published: August 2021

Anxiety is a complex emotion characterized by an unpleasant feeling of tension when people anticipate a threat or negative consequence. It is regarded as a comprehensive reflection of human thought processes, physiological arousal, and external stimuli. The actual state of emotion can be represented objectively by human physiological signals. This study aims to analyze the differences of ECG (electrocardiogram) characteristics for various types of drivers under anxiety. We used several methods to induce drivers’ mood states (calm and anxiety) and then conducted the real and virtual driving experiments to collect driver’s ECG signal data. Physiological changes in ECG during the experiments were recorded using the PSYLAB software. The independent sample t‐test analysis was conducted to determine if there are significant differences in ECG characteristics for different types of drivers in anxious state during driving. The results show that there are significant differences in ECG signal characteristics of drivers by gender, age, and driving experience, in time domain, frequency domain, and waveform under anxiety. Our findings of this study contribute to the development of more intelligent and personalized driver warning system, which could improve road traffic safety.
Reduced Insulin‐Like Growth Factor 1 Is Associated with Insulin Resistance in Obese Prepubertal Boys
Authors: Kuang Jiangying , Zhang Li , Xu Yueqin , Xue Jiang , Liang Shuang , Xiao Juan
Published: August 2021

As one of the most common features of obesity, insulin resistance is central to the pathogenesis of the metabolic syndrome. Low insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1) levels have been proven to be associated with many traditional cardiovascular risk factors, but it still remains controversial with the relationship between IGF‐1 and insulin resistance. Accordingly, the main purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between IGF‐1 and insulin resistance in obese prepubertal boys. We used the whole‐body insulin sensitivity index (WBISI) to represent insulin resistance. 70 obese prepubertal boys were included in the study, and the obese subjects were divided into two groups by using 1.285 as a threshold value for WBISI. Clinical examination and laboratory examinations were assessed for all participants. Among obese boys, the group of children with WBISI ≤ 1.285 had lower IGF‐1 standard deviation scores (SDS) (p = 0.021) than the WBISI > 1.285 group. The results of multiple linear analyses show that lg WBISI was positively correlated with IGF‐1 SDS (p = 0.031) after adjusting for traditional cardiovascular risk factors. IGF‐1 SDS was negatively associated with insulin resistance in obese prepubertal boys, independent of other traditional cardiovascular disease risk markers.
Design and Performance Analysis of Compact Wearable Textile Antennas for IoT and Body-Centric Communication Applications
Authors: Varma Sanjit , Sharma Somia , John Merbin , Bharadwaj Richa , Dhawan Anuj , Koul Shiban K.
Published: August 2021

This paper presents two compact textile-based planar dipole and loop antennas for wearable communication applications operating in the 2.4 GHz industrial, scientific, and medical radio (ISM) bands. The antennas were fabricated on a 0.44 mm thin camouflaged-military print, cotton jean cloth using conductive copper threads, and sewing embroidery technique to create the radiating structure. Design and performance analyses of the antennas were carried out using simulations; further experiments were performed in anechoic chamber and indoor environment to validate the designs. The experiments were carried out in a free space scenario and on the various locations of the human subject such as the torso and limb joints. The performance of the antennas was investigated based on the reflection coefficient in normal and bent conditions corresponding to the different radii of the locations of the human limbs. The antennas perform well in free space and on-body scenarios in flat and bend conditions providing return loss below −10 dB in all cases with an acceptable resonant frequency close to 2.4 GHz due to the antenna bending and body effects. The radiation pattern measurements are also reported in this work for free space and on-body scenarios. It is observed that the presence of the human body significantly influences the antenna radiation pattern which leads to an increase in the front-to-back ratio and also makes the antenna more directive. Overall, the performance of the fabricated embroidered textile antennas was found suitable for various wearable body-centric applications in indoor environments.
Estimation of High Structural Reliability Involving Nonlinear Dependencies Based on Linear Correlations
Authors: Kong Liulin , Li Heng , Zhang Bo , Luo Hanbin
Published: August 2021

Stochastic nonlinear dependencies have been reported extensively between different uncertain parameters or in their time or spatial variance. However, the description of dependency is commonly not provided except a linear correlation. The structural reliability incorporating nonlinear dependencies thus needs to be addressed based on the linear correlations. This paper first demonstrates the capture of nonlinear dependency by fitting various bivariate non‐Gaussian copulas to limited data samples of structural material properties. The vine copula model is used to enable a flexible modeling of multiple nonlinear dependencies by mapping the linear correlations into the non‐Gaussian copula parameters. A sequential search strategy is applied to achieve the estimate of numerous copula parameters, and a simplified algorithm is further designed for reliability involving stationary stochastic processes. The subset simulation is then adopted to efficiently generate random variables from the corresponding distribution for high reliability evaluation. Two examples including a frame structure with different stochastic material properties and a cantilever beam with spatially variable stochastic modulus are investigated to discuss the possible effects of nonlinear dependency on structural reliability. Since the dependency can be determined qualitatively from limited data, the proposed method provides a feasible way for reliability evaluation with prescriptions on correlated stochastic parameters.
Construction of a Visual Saliency Model for Neighborhood Building Landmarks Based on K‐Means Clustering
Authors: Li Chen , Qiao Zheng
Published: August 2021

In this paper, firstly, based on the quantitative relationship between K‐means clustering and visual saliency of neighborhood building landmarks, the weights occupied by each index of composite visual factors are obtained by using multiple statistical regression methods, and, finally, we try to construct a saliency model of multiple visual index composites and analyze and test the model. As regards decomposition and quantification of visual saliency influencing factors, to describe and quantify these visual significance factors of the landmarks, the significant factors are decomposed into several quantifiable secondary indicators. Considering that the visual saliency of the landmarks in the neighborhood is reflected by the variance of the influencing factors and that the scope of the landmarks is localized, the local outlier detection algorithm is used to solve the variance of the secondary indicators. Since the visual significance of neighborhood building landmarks is influenced by a combination of influencing factors, the overall difference degree of secondary indicators is calculated by K‐means clustering. To facilitate the factor calculation, a factor‐controlled virtual environment was built to carry out the experimental study of landmark perception and calculate the different degrees of each index of the building. The data of visual indicators of the neighborhood buildings for this experiment were also collected, and the significance values of the neighborhood buildings were calculated. The influence weights of the indicators were obtained by using multiple linear regression analysis, the visual significance model of the landmarks of the neighborhood buildings in the factor‐controlled environment was constructed, and the model was analyzed and tested.
Lie Symmetry Analysis of

C

1

m
,
a
,
b

Partial Differential Equations
Authors: Wang Hengtai , Ma’aruf Nass Aminu , Zou Zhiwei
Published: August 2021

In this article, we discussed the Lie symmetry analysis of

C

1

m
,
a
,
b

fractional and integer order differential equations. The symmetry algebra of both differential equations is obtained and utilized to find the similarity reductions, invariant solutions, and conservation laws. In both cases, the symmetry algebra is of low dimensions.
Writing with the Eyes: The Effect of Age on Eye‐Tracking Performance in Non‐Disabled Adults and a Comparison with Bimanual Typing
Authors: Caligari Marco , Giardini Marica , Arcolin Ilaria , Godi Marco , Corna Stefano , Colombo Roberto
Published: August 2021

Eye‐tracking technology is advancing rapidly, becoming cheaper and easier to use and more robust. This has fueled an increase in its implementation for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Nowadays, Eye‐Tracking Communication Devices (ETCDs) can be an effective aid for people with disabilities and communication problems. However, it is not clear what level of performance is attainable with these devices or how to optimize them for AAC use. The objective of this observational study was to provide data on non‐disabled adults’ performance with ETCD regarding (a) range of eye‐typing ability in terms of speed and errors for different age groups and (b) relationship between ETCD performance and bimanual writing with a conventional PC keyboard and (c) to suggest a method for a correct implementation of ETCD for AAC. Sixty‐seven healthy adult volunteers (aged 20–79 years) were asked to type a sample sentence using, first, a commercial ETCD and then a standard PC keyboard; we recorded the typing speed and error rate. We repeated the test 11 times in order to assess performance changes due to learning. Performances differed between young (20–39 years), middle‐aged (40–59 years), and elderly (60–79 years) participants. Age had a negative impact on performance: as age increased, typing speed decreased and the error rate increased. There was a clear learning effect, i.e., repetition of the exercise produced an improvement of performance in all subjects. Bimanual and ETCD typing speed showed a linear relationship, with a Pearson’s correlation coefficient of 0.73. The assessment of the effect of age on eye‐typing performance can be useful to evaluate the effectiveness of man‐machine interaction for use of ETCDs for AAC. Based on our findings, we outline a potential method (obviously requiring further verification) for the setup and tuning of ETCDs for AAC in people with disabilities and communication problems.
Morroniside Promotes PGC‐1α‐Mediated Cholesterol Efflux in Sodium Palmitate or High Glucose‐Induced Mouse Renal Tubular Epithelial Cells
Authors: Gao Junwei , Liu Peng , Shen Zhengri , Xu Ke , Wu Chenguang , Tian Feng , Chen Ming , Wang Lifan , Li Ping
Published: August 2021

Lipid deposition is an etiology of renal damage caused by lipid metabolism disorder in diabetic nephropathy (DN). Thus, reducing lipid deposition is a feasible strategy for the treatment of DN. Morroniside (MOR), an iridoid glycoside isolated from the Chinese herb Cornus officinalis Sieb. et Zucc., is considered to be an effective drug in inhibiting oxidative stress, reducing inflammatory response, and countering apoptosis. To explore the protective mechanism of MOR in attenuating renal lipotoxicity in DN, we investigated the effect of MOR on an in vitro model of lipid metabolism disorder of DN established by stimulating mouse renal tubular epithelial cells (mRTECs) with sodium palmitate (PA) or high glucose (HG). Oil Red O and filipin cholesterol staining assays were used to determine intracellular lipid accumulation status. Results revealed that PA or HG stimulation inhibited the expressions of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ coactivator 1α (PGC‐1α), liver X receptors (LXR), ATP‐binding cassette subfamily A member 1 (ABCA1), ABCG1, and apolipoprotein E (ApoE) in mRTECs as evidenced by western blot and quantitative real‐time PCR, resulting in increased intracellular lipid deposition. Interestingly, MOR upregulated expressions of PGC‐1α, LXR, ABCA1, ABCG1, and ApoE, thus reducing cholesterol accumulation in mRTECs, suggesting that MOR might promote cholesterol efflux from mRTECs via the PGC‐1α/LXR pathway. Of note, silencing PGC‐1α reversed the promotive effect of MOR on PA‐ or HG‐induced cellular cholesterol accumulation. In conclusion, our results suggest that MOR has a protective effect on mRTECs under high lipid or high glucose conditions, which may be related to the promotion of intracellular cholesterol efflux mediated by PGC‐1α.
Deformation Mechanism and Surrounding Rock Control in High‐Stress Soft Rock Roadway: A Case Study
Authors: Gao Yuwen , Wang Chen , Liu Yong , Wang Yuyang , Han Lianchang
Published: August 2021

Stability control for soft and broken surrounding rock of roadways is one important segment of mining support. Taking 1412 Roadway of a mine in Guizhou province as a research background, this paper studies the large deformation of surrounding rock and the failure of bolts and cables. The deformation and failure mechanism are analyzed by related theoretical analysis and field survey. Then, the feasibility of the composite controlling scheme, bolts and cables + grouting + steel tube concrete support, is verified by theoretical analysis, numerical simulation, and industrial test. Following results can be obtained: main reasons leading to the deformation of surrounding rock and the failure of cables and blots in the roadway are low strength and poor self‐stability of surrounding rock, complex stress environment, low support resistance, and lack of reinforced support in crucial supporting sites; the control scheme can reduce the surrounding rock deformation by 40%, which meets the requirements of field application so that this practice can provide some guidance for other similar projects.
Variationally Improved Bézier Surfaces with Shifted Knots
Authors: Ahmad Daud , Hassan Kanwal , Mahmood M. Khalid , Ali Javaid , Khan Ilyas , Fayz-Al-Asad M.
Published: August 2021

The Plateau-Bézier problem with shifted knots is to find the surface of minimal area amongst all the Bézier surfaces with shifted knots spanned by the admitted boundary. Instead of variational minimization of usual area functional, the quasi-minimal Bézier surface with shifted knots is obtained as the solution of variational minimization of Dirichlet functional that turns up as the sum of two integrals and the vanishing condition gives us the system of linear algebraic constraints on the control points. The coefficients of these control points bear symmetry for the pair of summation indices as well as for the pair of free indices. These linear constraints are then solved for unknown interior control points in terms of given boundary control points to get quasi-minimal Bézier surface with shifted knots. The functional gradient of the surface gives possible candidate functions as the minimizers of the aforementioned Dirichlet functional; when solved for unknown interior control points, it results in a surface of minimal area called quasi-minimal Bézier surface. In particular, it is implemented on a biquadratic Bézier surface by expressing the unknown control point

P

11

as the linear combination of the known control points in this case. This can be implemented to Bézier surfaces with shifted knots of higher degree, as well if desired.
Effect of Isoniazid Preventive Therapy on the Incidence of Tuberculosis among Seropositive Children Attending HIV/AIDS Care in Two General Hospitals, Northwest Ethiopia, 2021
Authors: Kebede Fassikaw , Kebede Birhanu , Kebede Tsehay , Agmasu Melaku
Published: August 2021

The human immune deficiency virus (HIV) is the strongest risk factor for the incidence of tuberculosis (TB) by way of reactivation of latent or new infection. The provision of isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) is one of the public health interventions for the prevention of TB. To date, there have been limited clinical data regarding the effectiveness of isoniazid preventive therapy (IPT) on TB incidence. This study aimed to assess the effect of isoniazid preventive therapy on the incidence of tuberculosis for seropositive children in Northwest Ethiopia. Methods. A facility-based retrospective follow-up was employed for reviewing 421 files from 1 January 2015 up to 30 December 2019. EpiData version 3.2 and Stata/14 software were used for data entry and analysis, respectively. Categorical variables at bivariable Cox regression were assessed for candidates transferred at P value <0.25 for multivariable Cox regression to claiming predictors associated with TB incidence rate at 95% CI at

P
<
0.005

. Result. The overall incidence of TB was found to be 4.99 cases per 100 person-years at 95% CI (3.89–6.53). Missed IPT (AHR = 7.45, 95% CI: 2.96, 18.74,

P
<
0.001

), missed cotrimoxazole preventive therapy (CPT) (AHR = 2.4, 95% CI: 1.84–4.74,

P
<
0.022

), age ≥ 11 years (AHR = 4.2, 95% CI: 1.04–7.03,

P
<
0.048

), MUAC ≤ 11.5 cm (AHR = 4.36, 95% CI: 1.97–9.97,

P
<
0.001

), WHO stages III and IV (AHR = 2.04, 95% CI: 1.12–3.74,

P
<
0.022

), and CD4 count ≤100 cells/μl (AHR = 3.96, 95% CI: 1.52–10.34,

P
<
0.005

) were significantly associated with TB incidence. Conclusion. Concomitant administration of ART with IPT had demoted more than ninety-six percent of new TB incidences for this report. Undertaking in-depth TB screening and frequent follow-up among all these children is critical in order to prevent and control tuberculosis.
RE-MIND: Comparing Tafasitamab + Lenalidomide (L-MIND) with a Real-world Lenalidomide Monotherapy Cohort in Relapsed or Refractory Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma
Authors: Zinzani Pier Luigi , Rodgers Thomas , Marino Dario , Frezzato Maurizio , Barbui Anna Maria , Castellino Claudia , Meli Erika , Fowler Nathan H. , Salles Gilles , Feinberg Bruce , Kurukulasuriya Nuwan C. , Tillmanns Sascha , Parche Stephan , Dey Debarshi , Fingerle-Rowson Günter , Ambarkhane Sumeet , Winderlich Mark , Nowakowski Grzegorz S.
Published: August 2021

Purpose:

Tafasitamab, an Fc-modified, humanized, anti-CD19 monoclonal antibody, in combination with lenalidomide, demonstrated efficacy in transplant-ineligible patients with relapsed/refractory (R/R) diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), in the single-arm, phase II L-MIND study (NCT02399085). RE-MIND, a retrospective observational study, generated a historic control for L-MIND to delineate the contribution of tafasitamab to the efficacy of the combination.

Patients and Methods:

Data were retrospectively collected from patients with R/R DLBCL treated with lenalidomide monotherapy for comparison with tafasitamab + lenalidomide–treated patients (L-MIND). Key eligibility criteria were aligned with L-MIND. Estimated propensity score–based Nearest Neighbor 1:1 Matching methodology balanced the cohorts for nine prespecified prognostic baseline covariates. The primary endpoint was investigator-assessed best overall response rate (ORR). Secondary endpoints included complete response (CR) rate, progression-free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS).

Results:

Data from 490 patients going through lenalidomide monotherapy were collected; 140 qualified for matching with the L-MIND cohort. The primary analysis included 76 patients from each cohort who received a lenalidomide starting dose of 25 mg/day. Cohort baseline covariates were comparable. A significantly better ORR of 67.1% (95% confidence interval, 55.4–77.5) was observed for the combination therapy versus 34.2% (23.7–46.0) for lenalidomide monotherapy [odds ratio, 3.89 (1.90–8.14); P < 0.0001]. Higher CR rates were achieved with combination therapy compared with lenalidomide monotherapy [39.5% (28.4–51.4) vs. 13.2% (6.5–22.9)]. Survival endpoints favored combination therapy. Lenalidomide monotherapy outcomes were similar to previously published data.

Conclusions:

RE-MIND enabled the estimation of the additional treatment effect achieved by combining tafasitamab with lenalidomide in patients with R/R DLBCL.
Genome-Derived Classification Signature for Ampullary Adenocarcinoma to Improve Clinical Cancer Care
Authors: Chakraborty Saptarshi , Ecker Brett L. , Seier Ken , Aveson Victoria G. , Balachandran Vinod P. , Drebin Jeffrey A. , D'Angelica Michael I. , Kingham T. Peter , Sigel Carlie S. , Soares Kevin C. , Vakiani Efsevia , Wei Alice C. , Chandwani Rohit , Gonen Mithat , Shen Ronglai , Jarnagin William R.
Published: August 2021

Purpose:

The clinical behavior of ampullary adenocarcinoma varies widely. Targeted tumor sequencing may better define biologically distinct subtypes to improve diagnosis and management.

Experimental Design:

The hidden-genome algorithm, a multilevel meta-feature regression model, was trained on a prospectively sequenced cohort of 3,411 patients (1,001 pancreatic adenocarcinoma, 165 distal bile-duct adenocarcinoma, 2,245 colorectal adenocarcinoma) and subsequently applied to targeted panel DNA-sequencing data from ampullary adenocarcinomas. Genomic classification (i.e., colorectal vs. pancreatic) was correlated with standard histologic classification [i.e., intestinal (INT) vs. pancreatobiliary (PB)] and clinical outcome.

Results:

Colorectal genomic subtype prediction was primarily influenced by mutations in APC and PIK3CA, tumor mutational burden, and DNA mismatch repair (MMR)–deficiency signature. Pancreatic genomic-subtype prediction was dictated by KRAS gene alterations, particularly KRAS G12D, KRAS G12R, and KRAS G12V. Distal bile-duct adenocarcinoma genomic subtype was most influenced by copy-number gains in the MDM2 gene. Despite high (73%) concordance between immunomorphologic subtype and genomic category, there was significant genomic heterogeneity within both histologic subtypes. Genomic scores with higher colorectal probability were associated with greater survival compared with those with a higher pancreatic probability.

Conclusions:

The genomic classifier provides insight into the heterogeneity of ampullary adenocarcinoma and improves stratification, which is dictated by the proportion of colorectal and pancreatic genomic alterations. This approach is reproducible with available molecular testing and obviates subjective histologic interpretation.
Spatial UMAP and Image Cytometry for Topographic Immuno-oncology Biomarker Discovery
Authors: Giraldo Nicolas A. , Berry Sneha , Becht Etienne , Ates Deniz , Schenk Kara M. , Engle Elizabeth L. , Green Benjamin , Nguyen Peter , Soni Abha , Stein Julie E. , Succaria Farah , Ogurtsova Aleksandra , Xu Haiying , Gottardo Raphael , Anders Robert A. , Lipson Evan J. , Danilova Ludmila , Baras Alexander S. , Taube Janis M.
Published: August 2021

Multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) can detail spatial relationships and complex cell phenotypes in the tumor microenvironment (TME). However, the analysis and visualization of mIF data can be complex and time-consuming. Here, we used tumor specimens from 93 patients with metastatic melanoma to develop and validate a mIF data analysis pipeline using established flow cytometry workflows (image cytometry). Unlike flow cytometry, spatial information from the TME was conserved at single-cell resolution. A spatial uniform manifold approximation and projection (UMAP) was constructed using the image cytometry output. Spatial UMAP subtraction analysis (survivors vs. nonsurvivors at 5 years) was used to identify topographic and coexpression signatures with positive or negative prognostic impact. Cell densities and proportions identified by image cytometry showed strong correlations when compared with those obtained using gold-standard, digital pathology software (R2 > 0.8). The associated spatial UMAP highlighted “immune neighborhoods” and associated topographic immunoactive protein expression patterns. We found that PD-L1 and PD-1 expression intensity was spatially encoded—the highest PD-L1 expression intensity was observed on CD163+ cells in neighborhoods with high CD8+ cell density, and the highest PD-1 expression intensity was observed on CD8+ cells in neighborhoods with dense arrangements of tumor cells. Spatial UMAP subtraction analysis revealed numerous spatial clusters associated with clinical outcome. The variables represented in the key clusters from the unsupervised UMAP analysis were validated using established, supervised approaches. In conclusion, image cytometry and the spatial UMAPs presented herein are powerful tools for the visualization and interpretation of single-cell, spatially resolved mIF data and associated topographic biomarker development.
Association of Hypertension with Mild Cognitive Impairment in Population from Less-Developed Areas of Multiethnic Northwest China
Authors: Heizhati Mulalibieke , Li Nanfang , Wang Lin , Hong Jing , Li Mei , Yang Wenbo , Yao Ling , Lin Mengyue , Pan Fengyu , Yang Zhikang , Wang Zhongrong , Abudereyimu Reyila
Published: August 2021

Background: Relationship between hypertension and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) remains undetermined in population from less-developed regions. We aimed to explore whether hypertension is associated with MCI in this specific population. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we enrolled subjects aged ≥18 years using multistage random sampling from Emin, China, in 2019. Participants underwent questionnaires and data collection including mini-mental state examination (MMSE) and blood pressure measurement. Results: Finally, 31,329 subjects were included, with 11,270 hypertensives. Compared with normotensive subjects, hypertensives were characterized by significantly older age (55.19 ± 12.25 vs. 43.26 ± 12.71), more men (52.5% vs. 42.9%), low education attainment (≤primary education: 42.4% vs. 26.3%), more abdominal obesity (39.7% vs. 19.1%), poor sleep quality (39.1% vs. 28.7%), and chronic kidney disease (6.6% vs. 3.4%, p for all <0.001). Prevalence of MCI in hypertensives was significantly higher than that of normotensive subjects (24.3% vs. 15.6%, p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed in a fully adjusted model that the odds for MCI were significantly increased in hypertensives than in normotensive population (OR = 1.19, 95% CI: 1.09, 1.30, p < 0.001) and independent of all the parameters studied including age, education level, and stroke. In the age-stratified regression model, presence of hypertension significantly increased the odds of MCI by 1.17-fold (95% CI: 1.03, 1.33, p = 0.020) and by 1.22-fold (95% CI: 1.04, 1.44, p = 0.016) in middle-aged and elderly population. Sensitivity analysis of excluding those with stroke history showed that hypertension was still a risk factor for MCI in total, middle-aged, and elderly population. Conclusion: Hypertension is in independent negative association with MCI in middle-aged and elderly population from underdeveloped regions.
Characterizing Sex Differences in Physical Frailty Phenotypes in Heart Failure
Authors: Denfeld Quin E. , Habecker Beth A. , Camacho S. Albert , Roberts Davis Mary , Gupta Nandita , Hiatt Shirin O. , Medysky Mary E. , Purnell Jonathan Q. , Winters-Stone Kerri , Lee Christopher S.
Published: August 2021

Background:

Although women with heart failure (HF) are potentially more likely to be physically frail compared with men with HF, the underlying contributors to this sex difference are poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to characterize sex differences in physical frailty phenotypes in HF.

Methods:

We prospectively enrolled adults with class I–IV HF. Physical frailty was measured with the frailty phenotype criteria. Symptoms of dyspnea, sleep-related impairment, pain interference, depression, and anxiety were assessed. Body composition was measured using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Simple comparative statistics and stepwise regression modeling were used.

Results:

The average age of the sample (n=115) was 63.6±15.7 years, 49% were women, and 73% had nonischemic cause. Forty-three percent of the sample was physically frail. Women had a 4.6 times greater odds of being physically frail compared with men, adjusting for covariates (odds ratio=4.63 [95% CI, 1.81–11.84],
P
=0.001). Both physically frail men and women were characterized by more type 2 diabetes, higher comorbidity burden, and worse dyspnea symptoms. Physically frail women had significantly worse symptoms compared with non–physically frail women but no difference in body composition characteristics. Physically frail men had significantly lower appendicular muscle mass, higher percent fat, lower hemoglobin, and more depressive symptoms compared with non–physically frail men.

Conclusions:

Women are significantly more likely to be physically frail compared with men in HF. Physical frailty in both women and men is characterized by comorbidities and worse symptoms; physical frailty in men is characterized by worse physiological characteristics.
When Is a Moabite a Moabite? Selectivity, Stereotypes, and Identity in the Gemeindegesetz, Deut. 23:2–9 [Eng 1–8]
Authors: Timmer Daniel C.
Published: August 2021

This article argues that the Gemeindegesetz’s exclusion of Ammonites and Ammonites from the qahal-YHWH, like its inclusion of Edomites and Egyptians, is not based on ethnobiology or essentialist ethnicity. It draws on social identity and stereotyping theory to explore the text’s characterization of these different groups, and proposes that the salience of moral-behavioral features subordinates but does not efface ethnic and other factors. This interpretation is also integrated with approaches to identity for Israelites and non-Israelites elsewhere in Deuteronomy.
Milieux marchands et institutions du commerce : La question du droit d’étape à Mayence de 1797 à 1814
Authors: Garner Guillaume
Published: August 2021

Cet article étudie les débats sur l’abolition du droit d’étape de Mayence et Cologne entre 1797 et 1814. Lorsque les Français ont conquis la rive gauche du Rhin, ils proclament leur intention de libéraliser le commerce et la navigation sur le Rhin, en même temps qu’ils abolissent les privilèges dans les quatre nouveaux départements du Rhin. Ceci a relancé un débat ancien sur le droit d’étape : tandis que les chambres de commerce de Cologne et Mayence le défendent comme un moyen de police de la navigation et du commerce, les milieux marchands de villes allemandes (Francfort, Düsseldorf) et de certaines villes françaises (Coblence) demandent son abolition au nom de la liberté économique et des principes de la Révolution française. L’article analyse les raisons pour lesquelles le gouvernement français maintient et confirme, de la signature de la Convention de l’octroi du Rhin en 1804 jusque 1813, ce qui constitue un privilège.
The first molecular phylogeny of the weevil subfamily Lixinae (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) casts doubts on the monophyly of its tribes
Authors: VOLOVNIK SEMYON V. , BOLDGIV BAZARTSEREN , IDERZORIG BADAMNYAMBUU , KHOBRAKOVA LARISA TS. , KOLOV SERGEY V. , RUDYKH SERGEY G. , ZABALUEV ILYA A. , GREBENNIKOV VASILY V.
Published: August 2021

This paper targets the nearly cosmopolitan weevil subfamily Lixinae. A phylogenetic analysis of one mitochondrial and two nuclear DNA fragments obtained from 87 Lixinae and 49 outgroup terminals strongly supports the monophyly of the subfamily. The molytine tribe Mecysolobini is the likeliest sister group of Lixinae; adults of both taxa share the likely synapomorphic condition of the greatly shortened labial palpi. Phylogenetic relationships within the subfamily are poorly resolved. None of three Lixinae tribes is recovered as monophyletic. The subfamily’s oldest dichotomy is formed by a clade of two genera Rhabdorrhynchus plus Pachycerus sister to the rest of the subfamily. The genera Chromonotus, Larinus, Lixus, and Stephanocleonus are recovered as non-monophyletic. The genera Asproparthenis, Chromonotus, and Maximus form a strongly supported clade. The genus Eumecops is the likeliest sister to the clade formed by the genera Stephanocleonus plus Coniocleonus. The cleonine genus Scaphomorphus is a sister to a subset of externally most similar species of the genus Lixus; the same clade likely includes the genus Lixoglyptus not represented in the analysis. As an aside we provide a short summary of active flight in adult Cleonini.
Synthesis and Characterization of Yttrium-Doped Hydroxyapatite Nanoparticles and Their Potential Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Albulym Obaid , Kaygili Omer , Hussien Mai S. A. , Zahran H. Y. , Kilany Mona , Darwish R. , Bulut Niyazi , Alshahrie Ahmed , Yahia I. S.
Published: August 2021

This study reports a detailed analysis of the yttrium doping effects into hydroxyapatite (HAp) nano-structures at different amounts (e.g., 0, 1, 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, and 15%) on the structural, spectroscopic, dielectric, and antimicrobial properties. For this purpose, seven HAp samples having the Y-contents mentioned above were prepared using the microwave-assisted sol-gel precipitation technique. The structure of synthesized samples was fully described via X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transforms infrared (FTIR). Raman spectroscopy and dielectric measurements were used to characterize the spectroscopic properties. Furthermore, the samples’ antimicrobial features have been assisted through the agar disk diffusion technique. This study showed that the crystallinity decreased with the adding of Y-ions inside the HAp matrix. The Y-contents have influenced the crystallite size, lattice parameters, dislocation density, lattice strain, and unit cell volume. The surface morphology is composed of the agglomerated smaller particles. Remarkable changes in the dielectric properties were observed with the adding of Y-ions. The alternating current conductivity obeys the Jonscher’s relation. Y-doped hydroxyapatite nanoparticles have a considerable inhibitory effect against bacteria and fungi(Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli,andCandida albicans).The Y-doped hydroxyapatite nanoparticles are a promising material for bone cement engineering with a potential bio-activity
Cardioprotective Effect of Pretreatment with A Single High-Dose Atorvastatin via Regulating Myocardial Uncoupling Protein 3 in a Rat Ischemia/Reperfusion Model
Authors: Zou Yuhai , Xu Cheng , Zhang Ben , Liu Wenting
Published: August 2021

Objective: Since ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) can cause malignant arrhythmia, we explored the cardioprotective effect of pretreatment with a single and large dose of atorvastatin in the SD rat model. Methods: Rats were distributed into atorvastatin (Ator), I/R model and
sham groups (n = 8/group) by random number table method. In Ator group, atorvastatin was gavaged with a single dose (80 mg/kg) 12 h before I/R. The heart was treated with ischemia for 30 min and then reperfusion for 2 h. Results: Myocardial infarct area was induced by I/R when compared
with Sham group. Compared with I/R group, the pretreatment of atorvastatin significantly reduced area at risk/left ventricle (40.78 ± 1.39% vs. 46.76 ± 1.42%, p < 0.01), infarct area/area at risk (21.47 ± 1.65% vs. 29.16 ± 1.21%, p < 0.01), and
lactate dehydrogenase activity (3056.17 ± 136.22 RFU vs. 3864.15 ± 162.92 RFU, p < 0.05). I/R induced uncoupling protein 3 (UCP3) in transcriptional and translational levels, but atorvastatin significantly increased the UCP3 expression when compared with I/R group,
1.91 ± 0.42 vs. 1.42 ± 0.21 fold (p < 0.05) in mRNA levels measured by RT-PCR and 2.07 ± 0.18 versus 1.45 ± 0.23 fold in protein levels by Western blots. Conclusion: A single high-dose atorvastatin pretreatment 12 h before I/R reduces the infarct
area in I/R model in rats. The cardioprotection may be via regulating myocardial UCP3.
Ceramide-Graphene Oxide Nanoparticles Enhance the Cytotoxicity and Reduce the Occurrence and Development of Breast Cancer Xenografts
Authors: Lin Hongxia , Liu Xiaoping , He Chunnuan
Published: August 2021

Ceramide exerts crucial effect on inducing tumor cell apoptosis, while its insolublility limits the application in treating tumors. In this study, we used NGO-PEG-PEI (NPP) and C6-NPP/Cer (NPP/C) as method to explore NPP/C’s effect and its anti-tumor ability on breast cancer.
Confocal microscopy was used to detect the transfection efficiency in tumor cells. Breast cancer cells were treated with C6-NGO-PEG-PEI solution (control group) or NPP/C followed by analysis of cell proliferation and apoptosis by flow cytometry. C6-ceramide solution (control group) or NPP/C
was administrated into nude mice with tumor followed by measuring tumor volume and size as well as cell proliferation and apoptosis. NGO-PEG-PEI could significantly enhance cell intake and inhibit cell proliferation and promote apoptosis. In vivo transplantation tumor model experiments
showed that NPP/C could decrease tumor growth, slow down the multiplication rate and accelerate apoptosis. In conclusion, Ceramide-graphene oxide can inhibit tumor growth by inhibiting tumor cell growth and promoting cell apoptosis.
Long Noncoding RNA HOXA Cluster Anti-Sense RNA 2 Inhibits Mycoplasma pneumoniae-Induced Inflammation by Regulating the Nuclear Factor-KappaB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Feng Mei , Zhuo Chengjie , Zhu Xuefen
Published: August 2021

Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) is the primary cause of community-acquired lung inflammation. The MP-induced manifestations of pneumonia are associated with the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines; however, the mechanisms of MP-induced inflammation have not been fully clarified.
The purpose of the present study was to determine whether long noncoding RNA HOXA cluster anti-sense RNA 2 (lncRNA HOXA-AS2) is involved in MP-induced inflammation. A model of MP-induced cellular inflammation was established using the human BEAS-2B lung epithelial cell line and lncRNA HOXA-AS2
levels were detected using reverse transcription-quantitative (RT-q) PCR. MTT and flow cytometric analysis were used to assess cell viability and apoptosis, respectively. The secretion of pro-inflammatory factors including tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β
and IL-6 were measured by ELISA, and protein levels of phosho- (p-)p65 and p-NF-κB inhibitor α (p-IκBα) were detected by western blotting. The results suggest that MP infection significantly decreases the level of lncRNA HOXA-AS2 in BEAS-2B
cells. lncRNA HOXA-AS2 overexpression significantly enhanced cell viability, inhibited apoptosis, decreased pro-inflammatory factor expression (TNF-α, IL-β and IL-6) and inhibited NF-κB pathway activation in MP-stimulated BEAS-2B cells. Conversely, lncRNA
HOXA-AS2-knockdown resulted in the opposite effects. In conclusion, lncRNA HOXA-AS2 is involved in MP infection-induced inflammation and regulates the NF-κB signaling pathway.
MicroRNA-375 Inhibits Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells Osteogenic Differentiation by Targeting The-Eleven Translocation-2 in Aplastic Anemia
Authors: Zhang Jiayu , Li Yi
Published: August 2021

Aplastic anemia (AA) is a potentially life-threatening disease and the exact mechanism is still unclear. Herein, we aimed to investigate whether microRNA (miRNA)-375 participates in BMSCs osteogenic differentiation in AA. BMSCs were collected from AA patients to detect the expression
of miR-375. BMSCs were transfected with plasmids, followed by analysis of osteogenic differentiationrelated genes by western blot and RT-qPCR, Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and the correlation between miR-375 and TET2. miR-375 was significantly upregulated in BMSCs. Transfection of miR-375
inhibitor significantly enhanced BMSCs osteogenic differentiation.On the contrary, upregulation of miR-375 alleviated BMSC osteogenic differentiation. miR-375 was indicated to target and inhibit TET2 in BMSCs, and reduction of TET2 was accompanied with decreased 5-hydroxymethylcytosine and
osteogenic gene expression. Interestingly, TET2 knockdown inhibited osteogenic capacity and TET2 upregulation reversed miR-375-mediated inhibition of BMSC differentiation.miR-375 mitigates BMSCs osteogenic ability in AA by inhibiting TET2, indicating a novel miR-375-based therapeutic strategy
for AA.
MicroRNA-21 Derived from Exosomes of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BMSCs) Alleviates Pancreatic Cancer by Downregulation of a Disintegrin and Metalloprotease 9 (ADAM9)
Authors: Zhong Jie , Tang Juncheng , Huang Kun
Published: August 2021

We aimed to explore underlying mechanism by which microRNA-21 (miR-21) derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) extracted exosomes (exo) in pancreatic cancer (PC). Bioinformatics analysis identified candidate miRNAs and target mRNAs in PC those were verified by luciferase
reporter assay. BMSCs and exo were isolated and co-cultivated with PC cells. PC cells were then treated with plasmids loaded with miR-21 or a disintegrin and metalloprotease 9 (ADAM9), followed by detection of invasion, metastasis and apoptosis through Transwell assay and flow cytometry. MiR-21
was downregulated in PC tissues and cells, while ADAM9 was upregulated and positively correlated with poor prognosis. Overexpression of miR-21 restrained the capacities of proliferation, invasion and migration of PC cells by inhibiting ADAM9 expression. Specific inhibitor GW4869 reduced release
of exo and declined miR-21 expression. Treatment with BMSC-exo containing miR-21 suppressed the malignant characteristics of cancer cells. MiR-21 derived from exo of BMSCs inhibited PC progression by ADAM9 down-regulation, providing insight into novel strategy against PC.
Sotagliflozin (LX4211) Alleviates Lower Limb Ischemic Reperfusion by Inhibiting Paracrine of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Guo Xiaopeng , Liu Yingsong , Wei Mingzhu
Published: August 2021

We aimed to explore the mechanism by how LX4211 affects bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) during ischemia-reperfusion (I/R). BMSCs were extracted and treated with LX4211 followed by analysis of cell proliferation and migration by CCK-8, Transwell assay and wound healing tests,
cell apoptosis and cycle by flow cytometry, exosomes and VEGFA secretion by immunoenzyme-linked adsorption. BMSCs treated with LX4211 or DMSO were administrated into mice with blood perfusion and capillary or arteriolar density was detected. Treatment with LX4211 significantly inhibited BMSCs
proliferation, increased apoptosis and activated AMPK/ACC signaling along with reduced the number of exosomes and VEGFA level and impaired physiological functions. In vivo experiments determined that LX4211 alleviated I/R of lower limbs by inhibiting the muscle retention of BMSCs and
paracrine. In conclusion, LX4211 treatment can delay the blood recovery of ischemic non-diabetic mice by reducing the proliferation, migration and impairing paracrine of BMSCs.
miR-140-5p Affects TCC8113 Cell Biological Activity and Matrix Metalloproteinases 9 (MMP-9) in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC) Cell Line
Authors: Liu Shaobin , Liu Zichen , Meng Changjuan , Zhang Cuili , Yu Wei
Published: August 2021

Whether the miR-140-5p affects the biological activity of Tca8113 cells and MMP-9 in OSCC cell line was explored. Tca8113 cells were divided into Tc group (normal Tca8113 cells), Tm group (Tca8113 cell transfection+miR-140-5p mimic), and Nc group (Tca8113 cell transfection+miR-140-5p-negative
control) followed by analysis of MMP-9 expression by western blot, cell migration by Transwell assay, cell viability by MTT method, and apoptosis by flow cytometry. Compared with TC group and NC group, mir-140-5p in TM group was significantly higher (P <0.05), however, the MMP-9
level of TM group was significantly lower (P <0.05).Western blot analysis showed that there was no significant difference (P <0.05) in the comparison of MMP-9 protein expression between TC group and NC group, and MMP-9 expression in the TM group was decreased significantly
(P <0.05). MTT assay showed that the cell viability of TM group was increased slowly and lower than that of group (P <0.05). In conclusion, mir-140-5p can induce apoptosis of OSCC cell line Tca8113, which may be achieved by reducing the expression of MMP-9.
The Regulatory Effect of miR-126-3p Exosomes Derived from Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BMSCs) Targeting Endothelial Cell Specific Molecule 1 on Gastric Cancer
Authors: Wu Sujuan , Wang Jinyan , Niu Tao
Published: August 2021

Exosomes can transmit microRNAs (miRNAs) and other substances between different cells. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) can migrate to tumor sites. They are related to a variety of tumors, but the role of miR-126-3p exosomes derived from BMSCs in gastric cancer has not been
elucidated. miR-126-3p overexpressing BMSCs were established and cell supernatant exosomes were collected followed by measuring miR-126-3p level by PCR, ESM1 expression by western blot, targeting relationship by dual luciferase gene reporter assay along with analysis of cell proliferation,
invasion and apoptosis. The addition of BMSCs exosomes to gastric cancer cells reduced the miR-126-3p level, promoted ESM1 expression, and worsened the biological behaviors of tumor cells. miR-126-3p-overexpressed BMSCs exosomes promoted miR-126-3p expression, resulting in the decrease of
ESM1 expression and inhibiting the further deterioration. In conclusion, BMSCs can inhibit the increase of miR-126-3p expression and ESM1 to inhibit the deterioration of biological behaviors of gastric cancer cells.
MiR-189 Exerts Anticancer Activity Through Janus Kinase 2/Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (JAK2/STAT3) Pathway in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Ji Hongyun , Lu Hui , Li Feng , Qu Ying , Hu Qing , Li Xiaoran
Published: August 2021

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains a threat to human health but its etiology remains unclear. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in NSCLC progression. This study aims to elucidate the mechanism by how exosomal miR-189 functions in NSCLC. After identification, BMSCs were co-cultured
with NSCLC cells which were then transfected with miR-189 mimics followed by analysis of the expression of JAK2/Stat3 proteins and miR-189, cell migration and invasion by Transwell assay, cell viability by MTT assay, apoptosis by flow cytometry. miR-189 is downregulated in NSCLC cells and
tissues. miR-189 overexpression inhibited the phosphorylation of JAK2/Stat3 and suppressed malignant characteristics of cancer cells and induced apoptosis. Co-culture with BMSCs and NSCLC cells elevated miR-189 level and inactivated JAK2/STAT3 signaling, thereby suppressing malignant characteristics
of cancer cells. In conclusion, BMSCs carrying miR-189 restrain NSCLC progression by blocking JAK2/STAT3 signaling, which may help development of gene therapy for NSCLC.