bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cells and CD68+CD163+M2-Like Macrophages as Therapeutic Response Biomarkers Are Associated with Plasma Inflammatory Cytokines: A Preliminary Study for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Patients in Radiotherapy
Authors: Lv Minghe , Zhuang Xibing , Shao Shali , Li Xuan , Cheng Yunfeng , Wu Duojiao , Wang Xiangdong , Qiao Tiankui
Published: July 2022

Background. Recent studies show that myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and M2-like macrophages are involved in the treatment of tumors; however, their therapeutic response role is rarely known in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) during radiotherapy. We aim to explore the dynamic alteration of the circulating MDSCs and M2-like macrophages, to examine their relationship, and to evaluate their therapeutic response value for NSCLC patients in radiotherapy. Methods. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy controls and NSCLC patients with different radiotherapy phases were isolated to examine the circulating MDSCs and M2-like macrophages by flow cytometry. 40 plasma inflammatory cytokines were measured by multiplex ELISA. Results. In comparison with healthy controls, the percentages of MDSCs and CD68+CD163+M2-like macrophages of NSCLC patients were significantly elevated and were distinctly higher in radiotherapy than in preradiotherapy. MDSCs were correlated positively with CD68+CD163+M2-like macrophages in NSCLC patients in radiotherapy and postradiotherapy. Especially, we found that in comparison with those in the poor group, the percentages of two cells in the good response group were markedly increased during radiotherapy and they had a significantly positive correlation. During radiotherapy, the proportions of MDSCs were clearly increased in adenocarcinoma patients and the percentages of CD68+CD163+M2-like macrophages were markedly elevated in squamous carcinoma patients. We found that after radiotherapy, the expressions of eotaxin, MIP-1β, MCP-1, and BLC were significantly increased in NSCLC patients. Further results showed that the low levels of eotaxin and TNF RII expression before radiotherapy could predict a good therapeutic response. IL-1ra and MIP-1β had a positive relation with MDSCs or CD68+CD163+M2-like macrophages in NSCLC patients during radiotherapy, and eotaxin was correlated with CD68+CD163+M2-like macrophages but not MDSCs in NSCLC patients after radiotherapy. Conclusions. MDSCs and CD68+CD163+M2-like macrophages serve as therapeutic response biomarkers and are associated with the expressions of plasma inflammatory cytokines for NSCLC patients during radiotherapy.
A Study on Hover Performance of Ducted Fans for an Unmanned VTOL Aircraft
Authors: Choi Young Jae , Wie Seong-Yong , Chae Sanghyun
Published: July 2022

In this study, ground tests and numerical analysis were performed to verify the hover performance of the second ducted fan model designed by this research team. Shape of the duct inner surface was asymmetric in longitudinal direction, and considering various aspects such as test site or costs for test operation, a 40% scaled-down model of the ducted fan was adopted for this study. Both the results of the tests and the analysis were found to be coherent, and it was verified that the ducted fan was verified to be well designed to achieve the targeted performance. Furthermore, the performance of this ducted fan was compared with that of the symmetric one to determine the effects of the difference in the duct shape on the performance. It was observed that the symmetric ducted fan performs better in hovering flight, although the asymmetric ducted fan was sufficiently satisfied with the design intention.
Effects of mir-195 Targeted Regulation of JAK2 on Proliferation, Invasion, and Apoptosis of Gastric Cancer Cells
Authors: Zhang Yu , Zhuang Kun , Yuan Shanshan , Si Wangli , Li Yijun , Zhang Jun , Liu Jiaming
Published: July 2022

Background. Overexpression of miR-195 can make gastric cancer cells stay in G1/G2 phase. miR-195 has been shown to inhibit gastric cancer cell replication and accelerate cell death by targeting JAK2. However, the relationship between miR-195, JAK2, and gastric cancer is not clear. Objective. To observe the effect of mir-195 regulated by JAK2 on the growth, invasion, and death of gastric cancer cells. Methods. MGC803 and NCI gastric N87 cells were introduced into the negative control sequences of miR-195 and RNA, respectively. To detect the expression of miR-195 in cells, to detect the effect of miR-195 on mitosis and proliferation of tumor cells, to analyze the effect of miR-195 on cell invasion and metastasis, and to detect the regulation of miR-195 on JAK2 expression. Results. The level of miR-195 in miR-195-MIMICS group was significantly higher than that in miR-NC group. The cell survival rate of miR-195 mimic group was lower than that of miR-NC group (

P
<
0.05

). Compared with miR-NC group, the number of cells in G1 phase increased, the cells in G2 phase and S phase decreased, and the proportion of cells in G2 and S phase decreased in miR-195 mimic group. The scratch distance of miR-195 simulator group was larger than that of control group. The number of invasive cells in the miR-195 mimic group was significantly lower than that in the control group. The expression of JAK2 protein in miR-195 mimic group was lower than that in miR-NC group. There was a significant negative correlation between the expression level of miR-195 and JAK2 (rhabdomile 0.326 and record 0.00). There are continuous interaction fragments between JAK2 and miR-195. The luciferase activity of miR-195 mimic and wild type JAK2 sequence expression vector was significantly lower than that of wild type JAK2 sequence expression vector. Conclusion. miR-195 may inhibit the occurrence, metastasis, and invasion of gastric tumor by downregulating the expression of JAK2. miR-195/JAK2 may be a new molecular target for the treatment of gastrointestinal tumors.
[Retracted] Comparative Genomic Characterization of Insulin‐Like Growth Factor Binding Proteins in Cattle and Buffalo
Authors: Rehman Muhammad Saif-ur , Mushtaq Muqeet , Hassan Faiz-ul , Zia-ur Rehman  , Mushahid Muhammad , Shokrollahi Borhan
Published: July 2022

The somatotropic axis consists of genes associated with economic traits like muscle growth and carcass traits in livestock. Insulin‐like growth factor binding proteins (IGFBPs) are the major proteins that play a vital role in the somatotropic axis. The present study performed a genome‐wide characterization of IGFBP genes in cattle. Genomic sequences of the IGFBP gene family for different mammals (cattle, buffalo, goat, and sheep) were recovered from the NCBI database. Sequence analyses were performed to investigate cattle’s genomic variations in the IGFBP gene family. Phylogenetic analysis, gene structure, motif patterns, and conserved domain analysis (CDA) of the IGFBP family revealed the evolutionarily conserved nature of the IGFBP genes in cattle and other studied species. Physicochemical properties of IGFBP proteins in cattle revealed that most of these proteins are unstable, hydrophilic, thermostable, and acidic. Comparative amino acid analysis revealed variations in all protein sequences with single indels in IGFBP3 and IGFBP6. Mutation analysis revealed only one nonsynonymous mutation D212 > E in the IGFBP6 protein of cattle. A total of 245 nuclear hormone receptor (NHRs) sites were detected, including 139 direct repeats (DR), 65 everted repeats (ER), and 41 inverted repeats (IR). Out of 133 transcription factors (TFs), 10 TFs (AHR, AHRARNT, AP4, CMYB, E47, EGR2, GATA, SP1, and SRF) had differential distribution (P value < 0.05) of putative transcriptional binding sites (TFBS) in cattle compared to buffalo. Synteny analysis revealed the conserved nature of genes between cattle and buffalo. Two gene pairs (IGFBP1/IGFBP3 and IGFBP2/IGFBP5) showed tandem duplication events in cattle and buffalo. This study highlights the functional importance of genomic variation in IGFBP genes and necessitates further investigations better to understand the role and mechanisms of IGFBPs in bovines.
A New Prognostic Indicator of Immune Microenvironment and Therapeutic Response in Lung Adenocarcinoma Based on Peroxisome-Related Genes
Authors: Xiong Zhen , Zhang Liwen , Fan Wei
Published: July 2022

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) has been the major cause of tumor-associated mortality in recent years and exhibits a poor outcome. New data revealed that peroxisomes have a function in the regulation of the development and progression of several tumors. However, the prognostic values of peroxisome-related genes (PRGs) were rarely reported. Genomic sequence, mutation, and clinical data of 535 LUAD tissues were obtained from TCGA data sets. Within the TCGA cohort, a multigene signature was constructed with the assistance of the LASSO Cox regression model. Three GEO data sets, including GSE3141, GSE31210, and GSE72094, were obtained as validation cohorts. ROC assays, Kaplan-Meier methods, and multivariate assays were applied to examine the prognostic capacities of the novel signature. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) was performed to further understand the underlying molecular mechanisms. In this study, we identified 47 differentially expressed peroxisome-related genes (PRGs), including 25 increased and 22 decreased PRGs. A prognostic model of six PRGs was established. The univariate and multivariate Cox analyses both showed that the

p

value of risk score was less than 0.05. In LUAD patients, the strong connection between the risk score and overall survival was further verified in three other GEO data sets. TMB and cancer stem cell infiltration were shown to be significantly higher in the high-risk group in comparison to the low-risk group. The TIDE score of the group with the low risk was considerably greater than that of the group with the high risk. Several drugs, targeting PRG-related genes, were available for the treatments of LUAD. Overall, we developed a novel peroxisome-related prognostic signature for LUAD patients. This signature could successfully indicate LUAD patients’ chances of survival as well as their immune system’s responsiveness to treatments. In addition, it has the potential to serve as immunotherapeutic targets for LUAD patients.
Identification of Metabolite Markers Associated with Kidney Function
Authors: Peng Hongquan , Liu Xun , Aoieong Chiwa , Tou Tou , Tsai Tsungyang , Ngai Kamleong , Cheang Hao I , Liu Zhi , Liu Peijia , Zhu Haibin
Published: July 2022

Background. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global public health problem. Identifying new biomarkers that can be used to calculate the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) would greatly improve the diagnosis and understanding of CKD at the molecular level. A metabolomics study of blood samples derived from patients with widely divergent glomerular filtration rates could potentially discover small molecule metabolites associated with varying kidney function. Methods. Using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS), serum was analyzed from 53 participants with a spectrum of measured GFR (by iohexol plasma clearance) ranging from normal to severe renal insufficiency. An untargeted metabolomics assay (N ¼ 214) was conducted at the Calibra-Metabolon Joint Laboratory. Results. From a large number of metabolomics-derived metabolites, the top 30 metabolites correlated to increasing renal insufficiency according to mGFR were selected by the random forest method. Significant differences in metabolite profiles with increasing stages of CKD were observed. Combining candidate lists from six other unique statistical analyses, six novel, potential metabolites that were reproducibly strongly associated with mGFR were selected, including erythronate, gulonate, C-glycosyltryptophan, N-acetylserine, N6-carbamoylthreonyladenosine, and pseudouridine. In addition, hydroxyasparagine were strongly associated with mGFR and CKD, which were unique to this study. Conclusions. Global metabolite profiling of serum yielded potentially valuable biomarkers of different stages of CKD. Additionally, these potential biomarkers might provide insight into the underlying pathophysiologic processes that contribute to the progression of CKD as well as improve GFR estimation.
Analysis on the Influencing Factors and Training Strategies of Young Talents in Hospitals under the Background of Big Data
Authors: Liu Ping , Zhao Feng
Published: July 2022

Under the background of big data, young talents in hospitals across my country are constantly striving to exert their personal scientific research and technical capabilities in terms of scientific research performance. At the same time, it also exposed many problems that need to be solved urgently. Under the background of the new era, each hospital needs to exert and increase its training in terms of scientific research and technology research and the use of young talents. By building a scientific platform and establishing an effective scientific research performance evaluation management system, the backbone of outstanding young medical talents can be realized. In the context of big data, this paper studies and analyzes the influencing factors of hospital young talent scientific research and performance management. After the preliminary data collection work, the chi-square verification was carried out on the survey data of young medical scientific research talents. It is confirmed that the research conclusions based on big data have certain basis for improving the scientific research management level of each hospital based on the research conclusions, thus providing a certain theoretical basis for enhancing the scientific research performance of young talents in the hospital.
Blockchain-Based Crowdsourcing Makes Training Dataset of Machine Learning No Longer Be in Short Supply
Authors: Xu Haitao , Wei Wei , Qi Yong , Qi Saiyu
Published: July 2022

Recently, machine learning has become popular in various fields like healthcare, smart transportation, network, and big data. However, the labelled training dataset, which is one of the most core of machine learning, cannot meet the requirements of quantity, quality, and diversity due to the limitation of data sources. Crowdsourcing systems based on mobile computing seem to address the bottlenecks faced by machine learning due to their unique advantages; i.e., crowdsourcing can make professional and nonprofessional participate in the collection and annotation process, which can greatly improve the quantity of the training dataset. Additionally, distributed blockchain technology can be embedded into crowdsourcing systems to make it transparent, secure, traceable, and decentralized. Moreover, truth discovery algorithm can improve the accuracy of annotation. Reasonable incentive mechanism will attract many workers to provide plenty of dataset. In this paper, we review studies applying mobile crowdsourcing to training dataset collection and annotation. In addition, after reviewing researches on blockchain or incentive mechanism, we propose a new possible combination of machine learning and crowdsourcing systems.
The Pharmacologically Active Alkaloid Cryptolepine Activates a Type 1 Interferon Response That Is Independent of MAVS and STING Pathways
Authors: Domfeh Seth A. , Narkwa Patrick W. , Quaye Osbourne , Kusi Kwadwo A. , Addy Bright S. , Lant Sian , Sumner Rebecca P. , Maluquer de Motes Carlos , Awandare Gordon A. , Ansah Charles , Mutocheluh Mohamed
Published: July 2022

Type 1 interferons (IFN-1) are pleiotropic cytokines with well-established anticancer and antiviral properties, particularly in mucosal tissues. Hence, natural IFN-1-inducing treatments are highly sought after in the clinic. Here, we report for the first time that cryptolepine, a pharmacoactive alkaloid in the medicinal plant Cryptolepis sanguinolenta, is a potent IFN-1 pathway inducer. Cryptolepine increased the transcript levels of JAK1, TYK2, STAT1, STAT2, IRF9, and OAS3, as well as increased the accumulation of STAT1 and OAS3 proteins, similar to recombinant human IFN-α. Cryptolepine effects were observed in multiple cell types including a model of human macrophages. This response was maintained in MAVS and STING-deficient cell lines, suggesting that cryptolepine effects are not mediated by nucleic acids released upon nuclear or organelle damage. In agreement, cryptolepine did not affect cell viability in concentrations that triggered potent IFN-1 activation. In addition, we observed no differences in the presence of a pharmacological inhibitor of TBK1, a pleiotropic kinase that is a converging point for Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and nucleic acid sensors. Together, our results demonstrate that cryptolepine is a strong inducer of IFN-1 response and suggest that cryptolepine-based medications such as C. sanguinolenta extract could be potentially tested in resource-limited regions of the world for the management of chronic viral infections as well as cancers.
[Retracted] Effect of Transdermal Fentanyl Patch Combined with Enhanced Recovery after Surgery on the Curative Effect and Analgesic Effect of Liver Cancer
Authors: Zhu Hengmei , Xiao Hongmei , Lu Guihua , Fang Shuheng
Published: July 2022

Its goal was to see how a transdermal fentanyl patch combined with accelerated recovery after surgery (ERAS) affected the treatment efficacy and analgesic effect of liver cancer, as well as to help patients with liver cancer choose the right analgesic treatment and nursing mode. 150 patients with liver cancer were divided into group A (transdermal fentanyl patch), group B (ERAS), and group C (transdermal fentanyl patch combined with ERAS). Patients in the three groups were compared in terms of pain, survival, psychological status, adverse responses, postoperative recovery, and patient satisfaction. The results showed that under different treatment and nursing methods, the number of patients with mild cancer pain in the three groups was increased, especially the number of patients with mild cancer pain in group C (P < 0.05). Besides, the quality of life score of patients in each group was decreased. Patients who received the combination analgesia had a significantly higher quality of life than those who received simply a transdermal fentanyl patch or ERAS (P < 0.05). The scores of both the Hamilton anxiety scale (HAMA) and Hamilton depression rating scale (HAMD) of patients with the combined analgesia were decreased signally (P < 0.05). There were few patients with combined analgesia who had adverse reactions (P < 0.05). After surgery, the time of the first anal exhaust, first defecation, and first ambulation in group C were shorter than those in the other two groups (P < 0.05). To summarize, combining the two techniques aided in the recovery of gastrointestinal function as well as the physical recovery of patients following surgery. Furthermore, combining the two approaches produced a clear analgesic impact, which could improve patients’ quality of life while also having a favorable clinical adoption effect.
Range extension and new ecoregion records of the Crocodile Monitor Varanus salvadorii (Peters & Doria, 1878) (Reptilia: Varanidae) in Papua New Guinea
Authors: Reh Borja , Thomas Jim
Published: July 2022

The Crocodile Monitor Varanus salvadorii is one of the longest lizards and an apex predator in New Guinea. Limited information is available on its ecology and distribution, mainly due to its arboreal lifestyle and preference for inaccessible primary forest habitats. Here we provide the first published record, using camera trapping technology in the Torricelli Mountain Range, of V. salvadorii living at a higher elevation than previously recorded in montane rainforest habitat. This range extension implies the occupation of a distinctive ecoregion for the species: the Northern New Guinea Montane Forest, a substantially cooler region from the formerly known distribution area. We present trail camera images of an active animal at an elevation of 1,500 m & at 18oC temperature and we discuss the implications of this finding for understanding the behaviour & conservation of the Crocodile Monitor.
Chamaegastrodia guidongensis (Orchidaceae), a new species from Hunan, China
Authors: QU CHEN-HUI , JIN YUE , YU XUN-LIN , HUANG CUN-ZHONG , WU LEI , TIAN HUAI-ZHEN
Published: July 2022

A new species, Chamaegastrodia guidongensis L.Wu, H.Z.Tian & C.Z.Huang from Hunan Province, China, is described and illustrated. The new species is distinct from other Y-shaped and T-shaped lip species of Chamaegastrodia by its unique canoe-shaped lip. It is most close to C. vaginata, but distinguishes by the lip and 2 triangular fleshy wings attached to the apex of column.
Assessing the Effects of Climate Change on Middle Rio Grande Surface Water Supplies Using a Simple Water Balance Reservoir Model
Authors: Holmes Robyn N. , Mayer Alex , Gutzler David S. , Chavira Luis Garnica
Published: July 2022

The middle Rio Grande is a vital source of water for irrigation in the region. Climate change is impacting regional hydrology and is likely to put additional stress on a water supply that is already stretched thin. To gain insight on the hydrologic effects of climate change on reservoir storage, a simple water balance model was used to simulate the Elephant Butte–Caballo Reservoir system (southern New Mexico). The water balance model was forced by hydrologic inputs generated by 97 climate simulations derived from CMIP5 global climate models, coupled to a surface hydrologic model. Results suggest that the percentage of years that reservoir releases satisfy agricultural water rights allocations over the next 50 years (2021–70) will decrease relative to the past 50 years (1971–2020). The modeling also projects an increase in multiyear drought events that hinder reservoir management strategies to maintain high storage levels. In most cases, changes in reservoir inflows from distant upstream snowmelt is projected to have a greater influence on reservoir storage and water availability downstream of the reservoirs than will changes in local evaporation and precipitation from the reservoir surfaces.
Warthin-like mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the parotid gland: a clinicopathological analysis of two cases
Authors: Lei Ruixue , Yang Haijun
Published: July 2022

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) is the most common malignant tumour of the salivary gland, primarily involving the parotid gland. Here, the cases of two patients, aged 47 and 67 years, respectively, who underwent surgery for pathologically confirmed Warthin-like MEC of the parotid gland between January 2019 and December 2019 in Anyang Tumour Hospital, are described. In each case, the tumour consisted of epithelial and lymphoid cell components, covered with two or more layers of epithelium, with visible scattered mucous cells, and lymphoid stroma with a large number of lymphocytes and germinal centres formed. Most importantly, the tumours lacked the well-organized, bilayered oncocytic epithelial structure that is characteristic of Warthin’s tumour. Mastermind like transcriptional coactivator 2 ( MAML2) gene rearrangements were identified in the tumour cells using break-apart fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) probes, confirming the diagnosis of Warthin-like MEC. Post-operatively, patients have remained disease free for 31 and 27 months, respectively. Warthin-like MEC of the parotid gland is rare and is often misdiagnosed as metaplastic Warthin’s tumour. Diagnosis depends mainly on the unique clinicopathologic features together with FISH analyses.
Estimating Average Daily Traffic on Low-Volume Roadways in Louisiana
Authors: Yeboah Afia Serwaa , Codjoe Julius , Thapa Raju
Published: July 2022

Traffic volume is an important parameter that agencies use as a decisive factor, especially at the time of design, maintenance, and operation of roadways. Thus, its correct estimation is very essential. There are already a few established proprietary products available on the market that can predict traffic volumes. In addition, past studies have used several mathematical models to predict traffic volume. Relatively fewer studies have been conducted on predicting traffic volume on low-volume roadways. To bridge the gap on the prediction of traffic volume for low- and high-volume roadways, this study seeks to find practical, cost-effective, and progressive methods of estimating and classifying traffic on low-volume rural roadways. Across the state of Louisiana, 395 locations with low traffic volumes of less than 500 vehicles per day were selected. Census tract data was used to extract demographic and socioeconomic information for each location. Two prediction models—linear regression and random forest regression models—were developed to predict traffic volumes on these low-volume roadways. The results showed that the linear regression model had the highest predictive accuracy, with R-square of 0.979 and root mean square error of 70.26 compared with the RMSE of 110.23 for the random forest regression model. Both models found functional class, land use, number of lanes, population density, median age, median household income, and household density significantly affecting the traffic volume.
Comparison of Vehicle-Based Crash Severity Metrics for Predicting Occupant Injury in Real-World Oblique Crashes
Authors: Dean Morgan E. , Gabauer Douglas J. , Riexinger Luke E. , Gabler Hampton C.
Published: July 2022

The flail space model (FSM) is currently used in U.S. roadside hardware crash testing as a means of assessing occupant injury risk using observed vehicle kinematics data. European roadside hardware crash tests use an FSM variant along with a variant of the acceleration severity index (ASI). Although the FSM and ASI are currently used in roadside hardware testing, other vehicle-based crash severity metrics exist. Previous research has focused on examining the ability of these metrics to predict injury in frontal crashes. Despite the Manual for Assessing Safety Hardware prescribing a significant number of oblique crash tests, there has been little research on how well these metrics predict real-world oblique crash injury. This study compared the ability of six different vehicle-based metrics to predict occupant injury in oblique crashes: maximum delta-v, occupant impact velocity, ridedown acceleration, ASI, occupant load criterion, and vehicle pulse index. The crash severity metrics were calculated from real-world crash pulse data recorded by event data recorders. Oblique crashes from the National Automotive Sampling System Crashworthiness Data System were used to train logistic regression models that predict moderate to fatal injuries. The models were then compared on a dataset of oblique crashes from the Crash Investigation Sampling System. The results of this study confirmed that vehicle-based metrics provide a reasonable means of predicting real-world occupant injury risk in oblique crashes and suggest little difference between the investigated metrics. In addition to the vehicle-based metrics, belt use and vehicle damage location were found to influence injury risk.
Telecommuting and Travel during COVID-19: An Exploratory Analysis across Different Population Geographies in the U.S.A.
Authors: Rafiq Rezwana , McNally Michael G. , Uddin Md Yusuf Sarwar
Published: July 2022

This study explores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on telecommuting (working from home) and travel during the first year of the pandemic in the U.S.A. (from March 2020 to March 2021), with a particular focus on examining the variation in impact across different U.S. geographies. We divided 50 U.S. states into several clusters based on their geographic and telecommuting characteristics. Using K-means clustering, we identified four clusters comprising 6 small urban states, 8 large urban states, 18 urban–rural mixed states, and 17 rural states. Combining data from multiple sources, we observed that nearly one-third of the U.S. workforce worked from home during the pandemic, which was six times higher than the pre-pandemic period, and that these fractions varied across the clusters. More people worked from home in urban states compared with rural states. As well as telecommuting, we examined several activity travel trends across these clusters: reduction in the number of activity visits; changes in the number of trips and vehicle-miles traveled; and mode usage. Our analysis showed there was a greater reduction in the number of workplace and nonworkplace visits in urban states compared with rural states. The number of trips in all distance categories decreased except for long-distance trips, which increased during the summer and fall of 2020. The changes in overall mode usage frequency were similar across urban and rural states with a large drop in ride-hailing and transit use. This comprehensive study can provide a better understanding of the regional variation in the impact of the pandemic on telecommuting and travel, which can facilitate informed decision-making.
Development of protective coating for X8CrNiMoVNb16-13 alloy in high-temperature molten salt environment through high-velocity oxy-fuel sprayed NiCrMoNb and Cr3C2-25NiCr powder coating
Authors: Sreenivasulu V , Subramani P , Jayakumar V , Mageshkumar K , Arivazhagan N , Manikandan M , Tofil Szymon , Sathishkumar M
Published: July 2022

Various industries extensively use the high-velocity oxy-fuel coating technique due to its superior quality, cost-effectiveness, flexibility and convenience for use. The present research distinguishes the high-temperature corrosion characteristics of high-velocity oxy-fuel coated NiCrMoNb and Cr3C2-25NiCr powder on X8CrNiMoVNb16-13 alloy. The oxidation and hot corrosion characteristics of X8CrNiMoVNb16-13 alloy were evaluated through the air and molten salt condition (60% V2O5 + 40% Na2SO4) for 50 cycles at a temperature of 900°C. Thermogravimetric measurement was performed to evaluate the weight gain square of coated and uncoated substrates. Vickers hardness, thickness, porosity and microstructure of the coating were analysed. The metallurgical integrity of the corrosion product is evaluated through scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The laminar structure was observed in the coated region. Also, the dense microstructure with maximum porosity of 0.66% was observed, and the thickness of both the coatings was similar. The Cr3C2-25NiCr coating (766 ± 11 HV0.3) showed higher Vickers hardness than NiCrMoNb (377 ± 10 HV0.3). The occurrence of Cr2O3, NiFe2O4 and NiCr2O4 increased the corrosion resistance in both molten salts and air oxidation environments. The development of Fe2O3 in NiCrMoNb coating increases the weight gain when exposed to the molten salt condition. The present research recommended that Cr3C2-25NiCr coating can be used for the molten salt condition, whereas NiCrMoNb can be used for air oxidation application.
Studies on structural, electrical and electrochemical properties of biodegradable PVP/starch blend polymer electrolytes with ammonium ceric nitrate for energy storage devices
Authors: Nithya Priya C , Muthuvinayagam M , Ramesh S , Ramesh K
Published: July 2022

As a new approach, biodegradable solid polymer blend polymer electrolytes are prepared using a synthetic polymer Poly [vinyl pyrrolidone] (PVP) and a biopolymer Starch with constant amount of Ammonium ceric nitrate. The Biopolymer starch is used to enhance the biodegradability of the polymer membranes. The polymer electrolytes are prepared by solution casting method using deionized water as solvent. The prepared electrolytes are analyzed with structural, vibrational, electrical and electrochemical behavior by using different characterization techniques. The amorphous nature of the blend polymer electrolytes has been confirmed by X-Ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. PVP/cassava starch/ammonium ceric nitrate polymer electrolyte shows high amorphous nature. In FTIR study, polymers-salt complexation and molecular vibrations are observed in the electrolytes. The ionic conductivity and dielectric measurement of the electrolytes are carried out by impedance spectroscopy. The maximum ionic conductivity of 8.1 × 10−6 S/cm is observed at room temperature for 80% PVP: 20% cassava starch: 2% ammonium ceric nitrate (ACN) system. The dielectric properties of the prepared polymer electrolytes are also analyzed. The electrolyte having higher ionic conductivity is tested with cyclic voltammetry (CV) and linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) studies that reveal the electrochemical properties and range of potential window of the polymer electrolyte.
Cohort Comparison of Radiographic Correction and Complications Between Minimal Invasive and Open Lapidus Procedures for Hallux Valgus
Authors: Vieira Cardoso Diogo , Veljkovic Andrea , Wing Kevin , Penner Murray , Gagne Oliver , Younger Alastair
Published: July 2022

Background:

The Lapidus procedure corrects hallux valgus first ray deformity. First tarsometatarsal (TMT) fusion in patients with hallux valgus deformity using minimally invasive surgery (MIS) is a new technique, but comparative outcomes between MIS and open techniques have not been reported. This study compares the early radiographic results and complications of the MIS with the open procedure in a single-surgeon practice.

Methods:

47 MIS patients were compared with 44 open patients. Radiographic measures compared preoperatively and postoperatively were the intermetatarsal angle (IMA), hallux valgus angle (HVA), foot width (FW), distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA), sesamoid station (SS), metatarsus adductus angle (MAA), first metatarsal to second metatarsal length, and elevation of the first metatarsal. Early complications were recorded, as well as repeat surgeries.

Results:

The mean follow-up was 82 (range, 31-182) months for the open group and 29 (range, 14-47) months for the MIS group. In both techniques, postoperative measures (IMA, HVA, DMAA, FW, and sesamoid station) were significantly improved from preoperative measures. When comparing postoperative measures between both groups, the IMA was significantly lower in the open group (4.8 ± 3.6 degrees vs 6.4 ± 3.2 degrees, P < .05). Differential between pre- and postoperative measures for both techniques were compared, and the open group was associated with more correction than the MIS group for IMA (12.4 ± 5.3 degrees vs 9.4 ± 4.4 degrees, P = .004) and HVA (25.5 ± 8.3 degrees vs 20 ± 9.9 degrees, P = .005). Wound complication and nonunion rates trended higher in the open group (4 vs 0) ( P = .051).

Conclusion:

Both techniques resulted in good to excellent correction. However, the open technique was associated with lower postoperative IMA values and more correction power for IMA and HVA, than the MIS.
Vascular response to stress: Protective action of the bisphosphonate alendronate
Authors: Cutini Pablo H , Campelo Adrián E , Massheimer Virginia L
Published: July 2022

Background:

Since several additional actions of bone bisphosphonates have been proposed, we studied the effect of the bisphosphonate alendronate (ALN) on the vascular response to environmental stress.

Methods:

Primary cultures of endothelial cells (EC) and vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) exposed to strained conditions were employed for experimental evaluation. After ALN treatment, cell migration, proliferation, and angiogenesis assays were performed. The participation of signal transduction pathways in the biochemical action of ALN was also assessed.

Results:

In VSMC cultures, ALN counteracted the stimulation of cellular migration elicited by the proinflammatory agent lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or by high levels of calcium and phosphorus (osteogenic medium). Indeed, ALN reduced the increase of VSMC proliferation evoked by the stressors. When LPS and osteogenic medium were added simultaneously, the enhancement of cell proliferation dropped to control values in the presence of ALN. The mechanism of action of ALN involved the participation of nitric oxide synthase, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and protein kinase C (PKC) signaling pathways. The study revealed that ALN exhibits a proangiogenic action. On EC, ALN enhanced vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) synthesis, and induced capillary-like tube formation in a VEGF-dependent manner. The presence of vascular stress conditions (LPS or osteogenic medium) did not modify the proangiogenic action elicited by ALN.

Conclusion:

The findings presented suggest an extra-bone biological action of ALN, which could contribute to the maintenance of vascular homeostasis avoiding cellular damage elicited by environmental stress.
Research on Gut Microbiota-Derived Secondary Bile Acids in Cancer Progression
Authors: Yang Rong , Qian Li
Published: July 2022

The interaction between gut microbiota-derived metabolites and the body plays a significant role in the occurrence and development of cancer. Secondary bile acids (BAs) are the important products produced from gut microbial fermentation of primary BAs, mainly deoxycholic acid (DCA) and lithocholic acid (LCA). In the gut, they can influence the structure of the microbial communities. Several studies have demonstrated that secondary BAs, as signaling molecules, can activate a variety of signaling pathways. They can inhibit the apoptosis of cancer cells, induce the progression of cancer cell cycles, enhance the ability of metastasis and invasion of cancer cells, and promote the transformation of cells into cancer stem cells (CSCs). Moreover, secondary BAs promote cancer by regulating the function of immune cells. Therefore, targeted manipulation of gut microbial and secondary BAs has the potential to be developed as for treatment and prevention of various cancers.
Educational Technologies for Teaching Social Skills to Individuals With Schizophrenia: Scoping Review
Authors: Surdyka Nicole , Clark Amy , Duncan Andrea
Published: July 2022

Schizophrenia interventions incorporate improving quality of life and social functioning. Educational technologies are a potential treatment method for social skills development among individuals with schizophrenia. The objective of the study is to provide an overview of the characteristics and range of approaches of educational technologies in the context of social skills for individuals with schizophrenia. A scoping review methodological framework was applied. Search strategy was conducted on Ovid MEDLINE® and CINAHL Plus. Data were synthesized using a charting form for a logical, descriptive summary of results. The search yielded 771 results and 23 included studies that met eligibility criteria. The data showed persons with schizophrenia respond well to educational technologies to address illness self-management. Using technology in conjunction with traditional evidence-based interventions demonstrates promising results to improve social skills functioning. Occupational therapists can use educational technologies to decrease the gap in health care services and improve social support for individuals with schizophrenia.
Repercussions of perceived threat to health in the Spanish population
Authors: Molero Jurado María del Mar , Martos Martínez África , Pérez-Fuentes María del Carmen , Simón Márquez María del Mar , Méndez Mateo Inmaculada , Barragán Martín Ana Belén , Gázquez Linares José Jesús
Published: July 2022

Studies have shown that COVID-19 has had a worldwide psychological impact. Confinement due to COVID-19 has had important repercussions on the mental health of the general population, with high levels of stress, anxiety, depressive symptoms, post-traumatic stress disorder, and so forth. Similarly, important labor, economic and social changes taking place are affecting people’s well-being. The objective of this study was to analyze the repercussions of perceived threat from COVID-19 on the mental health of the population, and to evaluate the mediating role of perceived economic impact. The participants were 1160 adult residents of Spain aged 18 to 82, 69.9% of whom were women. A sociodemographic questionnaire, the Questionnaire on Perception of Threat from COVID-19 and the General Health Questionnaire were administered. Perceived threat had a positive direct effect on all four health dimensions analyzed. Among the indirect effects, the perceived economic impact of COVID-19 mediated in the relationship between perceived threat and each of the health dimensions. The results of this study have demonstrated the need to promote joint action promoting public mental health to minimize the psychological repercussions of new outbreaks.
Identification of Potential Active Ingredients and Mechanisms of Cattail Pollen for Treating Infertile Patients With Endometriosis Based on Bioinformatics and Molecular Docking
Authors: Wang Xiaotong , Lu Hongdan , Wen Lijuan , Chen Huamei , Wang Xing , Li Lifang , Lin Haixiong
Published: July 2022

Introduction: Cattail Pollen is a commonly used Chinese medicine for promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis in infertility patients with endometriosis, but its ingredients and mechanism of action are still unclear. The aims of this study were to explore the potential active ingredients, targets and mechanisms of Cattail Pollen in treating infertility patients with endometriosis based on bioinformatics and molecular docking. Methods: The GSE120103 dataset was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database to screen out differentially expressed genes. Cytoscape software was constructed to construct the protein–protein interaction network and screen for hub proteins, and molecular docking was performed to identify the binding activity of Cattail Pollen active ingredients and infertility genes. Then, DAVID software was used to perform gene ontology (GO) functional analysis and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis on differentially expressed genes. Results: There were 1320 differentially expressed genes in patients with endometriosis. ADCY5, RLN3, and ADCY6 proteins encoded by genes that were upregulated in infertile patients with endometriosis. Eight active ingredients of Cattail Pollen were obtained from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform: naringenin ((2R)-5,7-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)chroman-4-one), arachidonic acid, isorhamnetin, β-sitosterol, kaempferol, Testosterone palmitate, kaempferol-3-O-α-L-rhamnosyl(1→2)-β-D-glucoside and quercetin. Molecular docking identified that the binding activity of arachidonic acid with ADCY5, RLN3, and ADCY6; and testosterone palmitate with ADCY5 and ADCY6 was strong. GO analysis suggested that differentially expressed genes were involved in multiple biological processes, cellular components, and molecular functions. KEGG enrichment analysis found that differentially expressed genes were enriched in neuroactive ligand–receptor interaction, cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction, chemokine signaling pathway, and Jak-STAT signaling pathway. Conclusions: This study discovered the differentially expressed genes of naturally conceived and infertile patients with endometriosis, and clarified the effective ingredients, targets, and potential signaling pathways of Cattail Pollen in the treatment of infertility patients with endometriosis.
Management of acquired, immune thrombocytopenic purpura (iTTP): beyond the acute phase
Authors: Westwood John Paul , Scully Marie
Published: July 2022

Modern therapy for acute TTP has resulted in a dramatic improvement in outcomes, with the combination of plasma exchange, immunosuppression, and caplacizumab being associated with >90% survival rates following an acute episode. TTP is no longer associated with just the acute episode, but requires long-term follow-up. There remains significant morbidity associated with acute TTP, and many patients suffer marked neuropsychological sequelae, including impairment in cognitive functioning, affective disorders, and reduction in health-related quality of life measures. The focus of management beyond the acute phase centres on relapse prevention, via careful monitoring of patients and the use of either ad hoc or regular immunosuppressive therapies. The main therapy used is rituximab, but despite more limited evidence, other immunosuppressive therapies may be required to aim for normalisation of ADAMTS 13 activity. Follow-up with a reduction in ADAMTS 13 activity levels (ADAMTS 13 relapse), rituximab is central to normalisation of activity levels and prevention of a clinical relapse. Fundamental to elective therapy is the role of ADAMTS 13 activity monitoring, and impact of reduced ADAMTS13 activity on end organ damage. This review discusses monitoring and treatment strategy for long-term management of TTP, including the variety of therapies available to maintain remission, prevent relapse and a summary of a long-term treatment pathway.
A randomized, controlled trial on fenofibrate in primary biliary cholangitis patients with incomplete response to ursodeoxycholic acid
Authors: Li Chunlei , Zheng Kunyu , Chen Yiran , He Chengmei , Liu Suying , Yang Yunjiao , Li Mengtao , Zeng Xiaofeng , Wang Li , Zhang Fengchun
Published: July 2022

Introduction:

About one-third of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) patients do not exhibit complete response to ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). Some of these patients were reported to benefit from the combination therapy of fibrates and UDCA, but more clinical evidence is required. In this study, we conducted a randomized, controlled trial on the safety and efficacy of fenofibrate in the treatment of patients with PBC.

Methods:

Forty-eight PBC patients with incomplete response to UDCA were enrolled and randomly assigned to two groups (24 in the experiment group and 24 in the control group). For the experimental group, the patients were administered 13–15 mg/kg/day UDCA in combination with 200 mg/day fenofibrate. For the control group, the patients continued to receive UDCA at 13–15 mg/kg/day. The patients were followed up for at least 12 months. The serum levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyl transferase (γ-GT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and other biochemical parameters were measured at 3, 6, and 12 months during the trial to assess patient conditions.

Results:

At 12 months, 20.8% of the patients in the experimental group had all three indexes of serum ALP, γ-GT, and total bilirubin normalized, while 0% of patients in the control group reached the primary outcome (difference, 20.8 percentage points; 95% CI, 4.6–37.0). 54.2% of the patients had normal ALP levels in the experimental group and 4.2% in the control group (difference, 50 percentage points; 95% CI, 28.5–71.5). The experimental group had greater improvement of ALP ( p < 0.001) and IgG ( p = 0.026) than the control group. The biochemical indexes of the patients in the experimental group also significantly improved during the treatment of fenofibrate.

Conclusion:

Addition of fenofibrate can improve biochemical indexes of PBC patients who had an incomplete response to UDCA. Reversible elevation of serum creatine and transaminases is observed in some patients. The trial was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR) as ChiCTR1800020160 (protocol available online: http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=32443 ).