bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Isotopic Signature of the “Arthropod Rain” in a Temperate Forest: Wingless Are From Crowns, Winged Are From Soil
Authors: Rozanova Oksana L. , Tsurikov Sergey M. , Krivosheina Marina G. , Tanasevitch Andrei V. , Fedorenko Dmitry N. , Leonov Vladislav D. , Timokhov Alexander V. , Tiunov Alexei V. , Semenina Eugenia E.
Published: August 2021

Invertebrate phyto-, sapro-, and microbophages, as well as predators and parasitoids, densely populate tree crowns. Eventually, all crown inhabitants fall from the trees and become a food source for litter-dwelling predators, scavengers, and saprophages. However, the functional significance of the arthropod rain, i.e., the flux of invertebrates falling from the crowns, remains unexplored. We collected arthropod rain in a temperate mixed forest throughout the growing season. The δ13С and δ15N values of the arthropods (730 samples in total) were compared to a large reference dataset of the isotopic composition of soil animals from temperate forests. The most numerous taxa in the arthropod rain were collembolans and mites. The most diverse orders were Diptera (18 families) and Coleoptera (29 families), which formed the major portion of the winged specimens. The total ranges of δ13С and δ15N values of individual animals forming arthropod rain reached 14‰ and 26‰, respectively. Nevertheless, invertebrates forming arthropod rain were on average depleted in 13C and 15N by 1.6‰ and 2.7‰, respectively, compared to the soil-dwelling animals. This difference can be used to detect the contribution of the arthropod rain to detrital food webs. Low average δ13С and δ15N values of the arthropod rain were primarily driven by the presence of microphytophages, represented mainly by Collembola and Psocoptera, and macrophytophages, mainly aphids, caterpillars, and heteropterans. Furthermore, wingless arthropods were depleted in heavy isotopes relative to winged specimens. Among wingless invertebrates, predators and parasitoids differed significantly in δ15N values from phytophages and microbi/saprophages. In contrast, there was no consistent difference in δ values between saprophages and predators among winged insects, all of them being similar in the isotopic composition to soil-dwelling invertebrates. This result suggests that winged insects in the arthropod rain represented a random assemblage of specimens originating in different biotopes, but most were tightly linked to soil food webs. Overall, our data suggest that invertebrates falling from the crown space and flying arthropods originating from the soil are an important channel connecting food webs in tree crowns and in the soil.
Influence of Specimen Size and Shape on the Uniaxial Compressive Strength Values of Rocks
Authors: Durmeková Tatiana , Bednarik Martin , Dikejová Petra , Adamcová Renáta
Published: August 2021

The most significant factors affecting the results of Uniaxial Compressive Strength (UCS) test are the size, slenderness ratio h/d (ratio of height to diameter), and the shape of the rock specimen. The proposed experimental study shows the variable impact of these parameters on UCS values by implementing several lithological types. Standard strength tests were performed on four lithological types: granodiorite, limestone, sandstone and andesite. Cylindric and cube-shaped test specimens of different sizes were prepared from each rock. Cylindric specimens with diameter 20 mm, 35 mm, 50 mm and 70 mm with height to diameter ratio of 1:1 and 2:1, and cubic and prismatic specimens with an edge dimension of 50 mm were tested and analyzed. Obtained results of strength tests confirmed a high variability of current research opinions on how the size and shape of specimens influence the strength values of rocks. The study revealed the impossibility of conclusive correlations between the UCS and specimens to be generally applicable for all lithological types. Of the observed effects on the strength, the aspect of the specimen slenderness ratio was the most pronounced on all studied rocks.
Evaluation of the Therapeutic Effect of Pulmonary Embolism by CT Pulmonary Angiography Combined With Clinical Indexes
Authors: Yuan Meng , Cui XinYuan , Yang ChunXue , Zhang XinYang , Zhao DeLi , Zhang JinLing
Published: August 2021

Background To evaluate the value of CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) in evaluating the therapeutic efficacy of pulmonary embolism (PE) through the study of CT pulmonary artery obstruction index (PAOI),right ventricular function parameters and some clinical indexes related to coagulation function and cardiac function injury.Materials and methods Select 30 patients with pulmonary embolism who underwent CTPA examination before and after treatment in our hospital, sort out their CTPA images before and after treatment, and obtain PAOI and right heart function parameters, including ascending aorta diameter (AAd), main pulmonary artery diameter (MPAd), ratio of main pulmonary artery diameter to ascending aorta diameter (MPAd/AAd), right pulmonary artery trunk diameter (RPAd), left pulmonary artery trunk diameter (LPAd), the ratio of the maximum short axis diameter of the right ventricle to the maximum short axis diameter of the left ventricle (RVd/LVd), and calculate the pulmonary artery obstruction index (PAOI).At the same time obtain the required clinical indicators, including serum D-dimer, N-terminal B-type natriuretic peptide precursor (NT-proBNP), cardiac troponin I (cTnI), myocardial enzyme profile (aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK)).Results MPAd, RPAd, LPAd, RVd / LVd, PAOI, D-dimer, cTnI, CK, LDH, AST had significant changes after treatment (P < 0.05), while the other parameters and indexes had no significant differences before and after treatment (P > 0.05). PAOI is positively correlated with RVd/LVd, MPAd, D-dimer. The correlation coefficient ranges from 0.281 to 0.423, among which, the correlation with D-dimer is the closest, with a correlation coefficient of 0.423. There was no significant correlation between other parameters and PAOI (P < 0.05).Conclusion CTPA is of great significance in evaluating the severity of pulmonary embolism, right heart function and therapeutic efficacy.
Local Complement Regulation in Preeclampsia
Authors: Wang Menglu , Li Zheng , He yingdong , Chen Qian , Yang Huixia
Published: August 2021

Background: The objective of this study was to investigate whether local regulatory proteins are insufficient in patients with preeclampsia and whether VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) can regulate the expression of complement regulatory proteins on trophoblast membranes.Methods: A case-control study was performed. The study group enrolled 20 patients with severe preeclampsia, matched with 16 patients comprising the control group. Western blotting was used to assess CD46 and CD55 protein in the placentas of the patients. Human trophoblast cells (HTR-8/SVneo) were treated with VEGF at different concentrations, and the expression of CD46 and CD55 was assessed by immunofluorescence and western blot.Results: The CD46 protein level was significantly higher both in early-onset and late-onset severe preeclampsia group than the L-control group (P=0.028 and P=0.041, respectively). With the increase of VEGF concentration, there was no significant difference in expression of CD46 and CD55 on the HTR-8/SVneo cells.Conclusions: No deficiency of local complement regulatory proteins was found in the patients with preeclampsia. A maternal-fetal interface feedback mechanism of CD46 may exist in severe preeclampsia. VEGF may have no effect on the expression of CD46 and CD55 on trophoblast membranes.
Smart Solar-Metal-Air Batteries Based on BiOCl Photocorrosion for Monolithic Solar Energy Conversion and Storage
Authors: Ma Tianyi , Lan Yalin , Batmunkh Munkhbayar , Li Peng , Qian Bingzhi , Bu Degang , Zhao Qin , Huang Hongwei , Sun Wenping , Zhang Yu , Song Xi-Ming , Jia Baohua
Published: August 2021

Solar energy generation and storage are two distinct processes and integrating them in a single device is of great challenge. Herein, BiOCl hydrogel film electrode featuring excellent photocorrosion and regeneration properties acts as the anode to construct a novel type of smart Solar-Metal-Air Batteries (SMABs), which combine the characteristics of solar cell (direct photovoltaic conversion) and metal-air battery (electric energy storage and release interacting with atmosphere). The cyclic photocorrosion processes between BiOCl (Bi3+) and Bi can simply be achieved by solar light illuminating and standing in dark, corresponding to the charging and discharging processes of the battery, respectively. Upon illumination, the device takes open-circuit configuration to charge itself from the sunlight. Photogenerated electrons in the conduction band of BiOCl reduce Bi3+ to Bi0 following the photocorrosion process of BiOCl; and in the meantime, photogenerated positive charges (holes) initiate the oxygen evolution reaction to produce O2. Notably, in this system, the converted solar energy can be stored in the SMABs without the need of external batteries to store the electricity like those for the traditional solar cells. In the discharging process in the dark, Bi0 spontaneously turns back to Bi3+ producing electrons to induce oxygen reduction reaction occurring at the counter electrode (Pt/C) like metal-air battery. With an illumination of 15 min, the battery with an electrode area of 1 cm2 can be continuously discharged for approximately 3,000 s, demonstrating a theoretical capacity of 384.75 mAh·g− 1, which is higher than the theoretical capacity of lithium-ion batteries (LiCoO2, 274 mAh·g− 1). This novel type of SMABs is developed for the first time based on the unique photocorrosive and self-oxidation reaction of BiOCl to achieve photochemical energy generation and storage. The revealed fundamental mechanism and proposed device design create new solutions to the renewable energy harvesting and storage field. This class of solar light direct-charging battery is an effective step to fulfill the need for green and sustainable energy developments and exhibits great promise for the commercial market.
Prognostic Role of Tumor Subtype and Germline BRCA Mutation in Advanced Breast Cancer Patients Treated with Palbociclib Plus Endocrine Therapy
Authors: Park Song Yi , Suh Koung Jin , Lee Dae-Won , Ryu Han Suk , Kim Miso , Kim Se Hyun , Lee Kyung-Hun , Kim Tae-Yong , Kim Jee Hyun , Park In Ae , Im Seock-Ah
Published: August 2021

Background/Aims: Palbociclib is a cyclin dependent kinase 4 and 6 inhibitor which shows promising effect in hormone receptor positive breast cancer. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the real-world efficacy and toxicity of palbociclib plus endocrine therapy. Methods: This is a retrospective study performed in two tertiary referral hospitals in Korea. Advanced breast cancer patients who were treated with 1st line palbociclib plus endocrine therapy were enrolled.Results: A total of 216 patients were included between August 2016 and May 2019. Median age was 56 (29-89) years old and 75 patients (34.7%) were premenopausal. Median progression-free survival (PFS) was 33.0 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 24.7 to 41.3) and objective response rate was 59.3%. Luminal B patients had shorter PFS (Not reached vs. 33.0 months, p = 0.019) and tendency of lower ORR (58.3 vs. 62.0%, p = 0.19) compared to luminal A patients. Multivariate analysis revealed luminal B (adjusted hazard ratio 1.90, p = 0.038) and germline BRCA mutation (adjusted hazard ratio 5.57, p = 0.002) as an independent poor prognostic factor for PFS. The most common grade 3 or 4 adverse event was neutropenia (86.7%).Conclusions: The efficacy and toxicity of palbociclib in the real-world was comparable to those of clinical trials. In addition, palbociclib with endocrine therapy was an effective treatment option for young patients. Luminal B and germline BRCA mutation was associated with inferior outcome.
Role of ADP Ribosylation Factor Guanylate Kinase 1 in the Malignant Biological Behavior of Gastric Cancer
Authors: Luo Qiong , Zhang Suyun , Yang Fan , Feng Rui , Xu Qian , Chen Xiangqi , Yang Sheng
Published: August 2021

Objectives: To study the effects of ADP ribosylation factor guanylate kinase 1 gene (ASAP1) on the biological behavior of malignant gastric cancer (GC), and explore its possible molecular mechanisms in tumorigenesis and tumor progression.Methods: Quantitative PCR and western blotting (WB) were performed to measure ASAP1 mRNA and protein expression in the GES-1 epithelial cell line, which is derived from normal human mucosa, and three GC cell lines. Molecular biology techniques such as lentivirus packaging, infection, and screening were used to obtain BGC823 GC cells overexpressing ASAP1 and BGC823 and MKN45 cells with ASAP1 knocked down. The Cell Counting Kit-8 assay, colony formation assay, flow cytometry using Annexin V/propidium iodide, Transwell migration and invasion assays, and scratch assay were used to assess the malignant biological behavior of GC cells with ASAP1 overexpression and knockdown. WB was conducted to evaluate the effects of ASAP1 expression on angiogenesis, as well as on the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), apoptotic proteins, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related proteins. Nude mice bearing transplanted tumors were evaluated to determine the effect of ASAP1 knockdown on BGC823 GC cells.Results: ASAP1 expression in GC cells was greater than that in GES-1 normal gastric mucosal epithelial cells. ASAP1 overexpression significantly enhanced the proliferation, invasion, and migration of GC cells and reduced apoptosis; whereas ASAP1 knockdown significantly reduced the proliferation, invasion, and migration of GC cells and promoted apoptosis. In the ASAP1-knockdown group, expression of cleaved-caspase 3, cleaved-poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP), and the epithelial marker E-cadherin increased significantly, whereas the expression of MMP2, MMP9, vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), and the mesenchymal markers N-cadherin, and vimentin decreased significantly (P<0.01). Knockdown of ASAP1 inhibited the growth of subcutaneously implanted tumors in nude mice.Conclusions: ASAP1 overexpression strongly promotes—whereas knockdown of ASAP1 effectively weakens—the malignant biological behavior of GC cells, possibly by reducing VEGFA expression and thus reducing angiogenesis, upregulating the expression of cleaved-caspase 3 and cleaved-PARP, and reducing the activity of MMPs and EMT.
Activation of LncRNA HOTAIR by STAT3 Promotes Gefitinib Resistance and Tumourigenesis by Targeting MicroRNA-216a in NSCLC
Authors: Zhu Hongge , Wang Xiuli , Zhou Xin , Lu Suqiong , Gu Guomin , Liu Chunling
Published: August 2021

Background:

Gefitinib resistance has become a major obstacle for cancer therapy of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Exosome-mediated transfer of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) is associated with the drug-resistance in various tumors. However, the role of NSCLC-specific exosomal lncRNAs remains largely unknown. The aim of this study is to explore the role of exosomal Hox transcript antisense intergenic RNA (HOTAIR) on gefitinib resistance in NSCLC.
Methods:

We investigated the expression of lncRNAs in 5 paired gefitinib-sensitive and gefitinib-resistant tissues of NSCLC by microarray analysis. The qRT-PCR analysis was to investigate the expression pattern of HOTAIR in gefitinib-resistant NSCLC patient tissues and cell lines. Then, we investigated the effects of HOTAIR on gefitinib resistance in vitro and in vivo.
Results:

In this study, we found HOTAIR was evidently up-regulated in both tissues and serum exosome of gefitinib-resistant NSCLC patients. Moreover, by knocking down HOTAIR, we found that HOTAIR promoted the proliferation of NSCLC cells in vitro, as well as inhibited cell apoptosis and cell sensitivity to gefitinib. Extracellular HOTAIR could be incorporated into exosomes and transmitted to sensitive cells, thus disseminated gefitinib resistance. The expression level of HOTAIR from circulating exosomes is significantly higher in NSCLC patients with gefitinib resistance than those without gefitinib resistance. Mechanistically, bioinformatic analysis coupled with dual luciferase assay revealed that HOTAIR served as miR-216a sponge, and MAP1S was identified as a functional target of miR-216a.
Conclusions:

In conclusion, these data suggest that exosomal HOTAIR serves as an oncogenic role in gefitinib resistance of NSCLC cells CRC through activating miR-216a/MAP1S signaling pathway, providing a novel avenue for the treatment of NSCLC.
Synergistic Anti-Proliferation and Anti-Angiogenesis Effects of Sevacizumab on Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells in Combination with Chemotherapy
Authors: Liu Lin , Qin Shukui , Liu Zhengcao , Zheng Yinghui , Han Li , Zhang Minmin , Luo Nuo , Gu Yawen , Zhang Yu , Gu Ning
Published: August 2021

Background

We previously found that (via inhibition of the VEGF/VEGFR signaling pathway) ckgroundSevacizumab (Sev), an anti-VEGF monoclonal antibody, was proven to have a superior inhibitory effect than bevacizumab (Bev) on the growth of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. This study aimed to explore the anti-proliferation and anti-angiogenic effects of Sev on HCC cells in combination with oxaliplatin (OXA) or 5-fluorouracil (5-Fu).
Methods

In vitro HCC/endothelial cell growth in different concentration drug was analyzed by MTT assay, DAPI and flow cytometry assay. Cell scratch test, transwell assay, tube formation assay, zebrafish assay, and CAM assay were used to investigate anti-angiogenesis effect of drugs. VEGF mRNA relative expression changes of zebrafish embryos were detected by RT-PCR.A fluorescence imaging system was applied to observe the growth of transplantation tumor and blood vessels in HCC mouse xenografts. Tissue H-E staining and TEM detection were used to detect the tumor cell apoptosis. MVD was detected by immunohistochemical analysis of CD31. ELISA and western-blots were used to detect the cell VEGF/VEGFR pathway and its downstream target activity both in vitro and in vivo.
Results

In vitro results showed that the combination of Sev with OXA/5-Fu can synergistically inhibit the proliferation of HCC and endothelial cells. Compared with the corresponding monotherapy group, combination therapy showed a stronger effect on inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. In vivo findings revealed that Sev in combination with chemotherapy can synergistically inhibit tumor growth by inducing cell apoptosis in nude mice with HCC xenografts. In addition, the wound healing and transwell migration assays demonstrated that Sev can inhibit the migration of endothelial cell lines in combination with chemotherapy. In vitro tube formation test, zebrafish and chicken embryonic-angiogenic assay, immunohistochemistry, and in vivo fluorescence imaging consistently verified that Sev and OXA/5-Fu can synergistically inhibit the growth of blood vessels, and the underlying mechanism may be associated with inhibition of the VEGF/VEGFR signaling pathway.
Conclusions

The combination of Sev and chemotherapy is associated with the inhibition of HCC growth and tumor angiogenesis, which may provide a significant biological rationale for evaluating the efficacy of Sev and OXA/5-Fu combination therapy on HCC.
Fixed-Charge Solid Transportation Problem with Budget Constraints Based on Carbon Emission in Neutrosophic Environment
Authors: Ghosh Shyamali , Roy Sankar Kumar , Verdegay Jose Luis
Published: August 2021

This paper is to integrate among solid transportation problem, budget constraints and carbon emission with probable maximum profit. The limits of air pollution and climate variation are solely dependent by exerting CO 2 gas and rest greenhouse gases due to myriad transportation system. Henceforth, it is our apt mission to minimize carbon emission for pollution free environment. Again transportation system with single objective is hardly applicable to the situation with more than one criterion. Therefore multi- objective decision making is incorporated for designing real-life transportation problem. Due to time pressure, data limitation, lack of information or measurement errors in practical problems, there exist some hesitations or suspicions. Based on the fact, decision maker considers indeterminacy in the designed problems. To overcome the restriction on occurrence and non-occurrence of fuzzy and intuitionistic fuzzy, neutrosophic set is very important and suitable to accommodate such general structure of problems. Therefore neutrosophic environment with neutrosophic linear programming, fuzzy programming and global criterion method are profiled to search the compromise solution of the multi- objective transportation problem ( MOTP ). Thereafter, the performance of the considered model is useful by evaluating a numerical example; and then the derived results are compared. Finally sensitivity analysis and conclusions with upcoming works of this research are stated hereafter.
Integrative Analysis of Pinin as A Prognostic Factor in Digestive Tract Cancers
Authors: Zhang Hui , Jin Ming , Ye Meng , Bei Yanping , Yang Shaohui , Liu Kaitai
Published: August 2021

Background: Pinin (PNN) was originally identified for acting an essential role in epithelial cell-cell adhesion. We aim to illuminate the expression profile, mutation feature, methylation status of PNN and its prognostic value in digestive tract cancers. Methods: Expression and methylation data of PNN, as well as clinical information on esophagus cancer (ESCA), gastric adenocarcinoma (STAD), colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) and rectal adenocarcinoma (READ) were acquired from The Cancer Genome Atlas database. The value of PNN expression, mutation feature and methylation status in prognosis were assessed. GO enrichment and Gene set enrichment analysis were performed to investigate the enriched biological functions and pathways of PNN in COAD. Tumor Immune Estimation Resource and CIBERSORT were applied for evaluating the effects of PNN on tumor immune infiltrating cells. Results: PNN was significantly overexpressed in digestive tract cancers and was remarkably related to tumor stage. Highly expressed of PNN was positively related to poor free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in COAD. Additionally, 10 CpG sites methylation in PNN had significant effects on survival. PNN expression was confirmed as an independent prognostic factor for predicting the OS in COAD. GO and GSEA analyses revealed that PNN participates in multiple biological processes underlying carcinogenicity in COAD. PNN was significantly associated with TIICs. Moreover, a promising prognostic nomogram incorporating the PNN expression and clinicopathological characteristics was established for predicting OS probability in COAD. Conclusions: Our comprehensive bioinformatics study demonstrated that PNN was highly expressed in digestive tract cancers, which could act as an independent prognostic factor for COAD.
Enhanced Expression of Plasma Membrane Intrinsic Protein 2 Improves Cotton Fiber Length and Potential Economic Viability of Gossypium Arboreum
Authors: Amat-ur-Rasool Hafsa , Latif Ayesha , Yasmeen Aneela , Shahid Naila , Azam Saira , Bashir Aftab , Husnain Tayyab , Rao Abdul Qayyum , Carter Wayne Grant , Shahid Ahmad Ali
Published: August 2021

Background: Gossypium arboreum is a cotton crop native to tropical and subtropical regions that are naturally resistant to Cotton Leaf Curl Virus (CLCuV). However, its cultivation is unfavorable due to the lower quality and shorter fiber length of cotton when compared to the market leading Gossypium hirsutum. Plasma membrane intrinsic protein 2 (PIP2) is an aquaporin responsible for the transport of water and small molecules across cellular membranes. This fluid transport influences cell elongation and cotton fibre development. Hence, increased PIP2 expression may yield plants with enhanced fiber qualities including length. Methods and Results: To test this hypothesis, G. arboretum was transformed with a PIP2 gene construct (35SCpPIP2)using the Agrobacterium-mediated shoot apex cutting method. Relative expression of the CpPIP2 gene in transgenic plants increased up to 35-fold when compared with non-transgenic controls. Transgenic plants displayed a corresponding increase of staple length (up to 150%) when compared with non-transgenic controls. Transgene integration was examined using FISH and karyotyping and revealed the presence of a single transgene located on chromosome 6. Conclusion: Since G. arboreum is naturally whitefly and CLCuV resistant, this improvement of fiber length evidenced for CpPIP2 transgenic plants renders their crop production more economically viable.
Significance of PTEN Mutational Status Associated Gene Signature in the Progression and Prognosis of Endometrial Carcinoma
Authors: Hu Qing , Wang Jun , Ge Lina , Wu Ying
Published: August 2021

BackgroundPTEN mutation had been reported to be involved in the development and prognosis of endometrial carcinoma (EC). However, a prognostic genes signature associated with PTEN mutational status has not been developed. In this study, we aim to conduct a PTEN mutation associated prognostic genes signature for EC.MethodsWe obtained the simple nucleotide variation and transcriptome profiling data from The Cancer Genome Atlas database as training data. Lasso Cox regression algorithm was used to establish PTEN mutation associated prognostic genes signature. The overall survival rate of the high-risk and low-risk groups was determined by Kaplan-Meier (K-M) method. The accuracy of risk score prediction was tested by ROC curve.ResultsK-M curves revealed that the EC patients with PTEN mutation have favorable survival outcome. Differential expression analysis between the EC patients with PTEN mutation and PTEN wild identified 224 differential expression genes (DEGs). Eighty-four DEGs with prognostic value was fitted into least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO)–Cox analysis and a seven PTEN mutation associated prognostic genes signature with robust prognostic ability was constructed, which was successfully validated in the other two datasets from cBioPortal database as well as 60 clinical specimens. Furthermore, the PTEN mutation associated prognostic genes signature had been proved to be an independent prognostic predictor for EC. Remarkably, the EC patients in high-risk group were characterized with higher stages and grades as well as lower tumor mutation burden of EC, with poor survival outcome. Collectively, the PTEN mutation associated prognostic genes signature was a favorable prognostic biomarker for EC.ConclusionIn summary, we conducted and validated a prognostic predictor for EC associated with PTEN mutational status, which may be used as favorable prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for EC.
Two Novel AMHR2 Gene Variants in Monozygotic Twins with Persistent Müllerian Duct Syndrome
Authors: Chen Hong , Lin Peng , Chen Ruimin , Xin Yuan
Published: August 2021

Background: Persistent müllerian duct syndrome (PMDS) is an autosomal recessive congenital abnormality for which müllerian derivatives, uterus, cervix, upper 2/3 vagina and fallopian tubes, persist in an otherwise normally virilized males. Mutations in the AMH gene and AMHR2 gene have been identified as causative. However, there has been no functional experimental analysis of AMHR2 or AMH variants that caused PMDS. We ascertained a Chinese PMDS pedigree. To elucidate the pathogenic mechanisms of variant, we used complementation-based NanoLuciferase Binary Technology (NanoBiT) to examine AMH and AMHR2 variants interaction in vivo. Using an ID-1 luciferase assay, we probed the effect of the two variants on the transcriptional activity of the TGFβ/BMP pathway. Results: Molecular studies revealed two novel variants [c.118G>C/p. Gly40Arg, c.1222G>C/p. Ala408Pro] in the AMHR2 gene of our monozygotic boys. The AMHR2 p. Ala408Pro variants affect a functional domain, result in impaired substrate recognition and affinity. For p.Gly40Arg variant, the arginine residue will disfigure the local backbone and alter function. The AMHR2 p.Gly40Arg variant reduces its ability to bind to AMH, while the p.Ala408Pro variant alters the kinase domain structure. Conclusion: Both variants significantly reduce TGFβ/BMP signaling. This study provides new methods and concepts as to the study of the molecular pathogenic mechanism of PMDS.
Reactive Compatibilization of Poly(Butylene Succinate)/Soy Protein Isolate Bio-Composites By Peroxide And Diacrylate Via Melt Blending
Authors: Zhou Xiu-xian , Dou Qiang
Published: August 2021

Poly(butylene succinate) (PBS)/soy protein isolate (SPI) bio-composites were reactive compatibilized by adding dibenzoyl peroxide (BPO) and hexanediol diacrylate (HDDA) via melt blending in an internal mixer. The structure and properties of composites were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Soxhlet extraction experiments, dynamic mechanical analyses (DMA), rheological tests, contact angle measurements, thermogravimetric analyses (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), wide-angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD), mechanical tests and water absorption tests. The results show that a branched graft copolymer (SPI-g-HDDA-g-PBS) was produced with the aid of BPO and HDDA via melt blending, which served as the compatibilizer and improved the compatibility and enhanced the adhesion between PBS matrix and SPI phase by forming a network structure in the composites. The crystal form of PBS was not changed in the composites. The melt viscocity and elasticity, hydrophobicity, thermal stability, crystallinity, tensile strength and water resistance of PBS/SPI-HDDA/BPO composites were improved compared with PBS/SPI composites.
A Novel Thrombectomy Device: An In Vitro Evaluation of a Prototype Catheter
Authors: Tanyildizi Yasemin , Krost-Reuhl Samantha , Payne Emily S. , Heimann Axel , Kempski Oliver , Keric Naureen , Masomi-Bornwasser Julia , Kloeckner Roman , Hahn Felix , Kramer Martin , Brockmann Marc A.
Published: August 2021

Purpose: This prototype catheter is a newly-developed distal access catheter featuring a self-expanding, flexible, funnel-shaped tip. The purpose of its design is to reduce the risk of thrombus fragmentation during mechanical thrombectomy and improve first-pass recanalization (TICI 3). In this experimental setup, we preclinically evaluated the effectiveness and navigability of the new catheter. Methods: A vessel model was filled with a blood-like-viscous medium, and the image was projected with the corresponding vessel area by camera transmission to correspond to the conditions in an angiography. Thrombi from porcine blood were placed into the Arteria Carotis interna of the vascular model and subsequently mechanically thrombectomized with a stent retriever. In the first part, the prototype was compared to a standard distal-access-catheter without using an external catheter. (N = 20 for each catheter). In the second part the prototype was inserted through a guiding catheter (n=11) to determine the navigability performance. Results: In the first experimental series, mechanical thrombectomy was successful 19 out of 20 times (95% success rate) for the prototype catheter versus 15 out of 20 times (75% success rate) for the standard distal-access-catheter. In the second experimental series, the prototype catheter achieved first-pass recanalization 10 out of 11 times (91 % success rate) and 1 out of 11 times at second pass (9%). Conclusion: This series of experiments demonstrated higher first-pass recanalization rates for the newly-developed funnel-shaped prototype featuring a self-expanding tip in comparison to a cylindrical standard distal-access-catheter.
Clinical Benefits and Harms of Diuretics for Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Outcomes in Black People With Essential Hypertension: A Protocol for a Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials With Meta-analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis
Authors: Martí-Carvajal Arturo , Alegría Eduardo , Correa Andrea , Martí-Amarista Cristina , Aziz Mohamed Abd El , Hidalgo Ricardo , Viteri Andrés , Nicola Susana , López-Alcalde Jesús , Ciapponi Agustín , Alvarez-Diaz Noelia , de Leonardo Cristina García , Monge Diana
Published: August 2021

Background The overall mortality attributable to cardiovascular diseases (coronary heart disease, sudden cardiac death/sudden cardiac arrest, stroke/transient ischemic attack, and peripheral arterial disease) is higher in the Black population when compared to the White population. Essential hypertension (EH) is the most important modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. The prevalence of hypertension among Black adults is also higher. Diuretics are antihypertensive drugs, and their role in the primary prevention of clinical cardiovascular outcomes in the Black population with essential hypertension remains unknown. To assess the clinical benefits and harms of diuretics, as a primary prevention approach, compared with placebo or any other antihypertensive medications.MethodsWe will search the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (to update), OVID MEDLINE (1946 to update), Embase (1980 to update), LILACS (1986 to update), and Web of Science (to update). We will manually search the reference lists of the included papers and contact researchers in the field. There will be no language restrictions in the search. We will include parallel-design and crossover randomized clinical trials that has adult Black people with essential hypertension as the population. The primary outcomes are all-cause mortality, myocardial infarction, stroke, and serious adverse events. Pregnant women will be excluded from the study. We will perform study selection, risk of bias assessment, and data extraction in duplicate. We will estimate risk ratios (RRs) with a 95% confidence interval (95% CI) for dichotomous outcomes. For continuous outcomes, such as health-related quality of life, systolic blood pressure, and diastolic blood pressure, we will calculate the mean difference with 95% CI or the standardized mean difference with 95% CI. We will measure statistical heterogeneity using the I² statistic and use a fixed-effects and random-effects model. We will conduct a sequential trial analysis. DiscussionOur aim is to provide external validity and try to solve conflicts about the evidence regarding use of diuretics as a primary prevention of cardiovascular outcomes in Black people with essential hypertension to guide appropriate clinical practice.Systematic review registration PROSPERO registration number: CRD42021240864
Evaluation and analysis of climate change on the quantity and quality water resources in Lorestan province (Case study of Khorram river)
Authors: Hassanzadeh Reza , Komasi Mehdi , Ahmadi Masoud
Published: August 2021

In recent decades due to many droughts many changes have been made in the quantity and quality of the country’s water resources. this factor has caused many uncertainties in the management of the country’s water resources. The purpose of this study was to improve the understanding of the effects of drought on the quantity and quality of water resources in Lorestsn province in the years 2008 to 2018 by coherence and cross wavelet method. To achieve this goal, first to drought assessment according to precipitation data has been examined using(SPI) index and then the effect of drought on Khorram river water runoff are analyzed. In the next step, the global index of water and the impact of drought on this index in the Khorram river were evaluated. In the next step, the global index of water quality(WQI) and the impact of drought on this index in the Khorram river were evaluated. The results of coherence and cross wavelet indicated which the relative effect of precipitation with a wavelet coherence coefficient of 0.6 on changes in water runoff in the Khorram river is of degree first importance. Also, the relative impact of drought with a wavelet coherence coefficient of 0.4 changes in water quality of Khorram river has been more than other factors. Therefore, climatic factors in reducing the water runoff of Khorram river from factors other are more important. Also, the research results show human factors in changes water quality of Khorram river of degree first importance.
Implementation Fidelity of a Complex Behavioral Intervention to Prevent Diabetes Mellitus in Two Safety Net Patient-Centered Medical Homes in New York City
Authors: Gupta Avni , Hu Jiyuan , Huang Shengnan , Diaz Laura , Gore Radhika , Levy Natalie , Bergman Michael , Tanner Michael , Sherman Scott E , Islam Nadia , Schwartz Mark D
Published: August 2021

BackgroundIt is critical to assess implementation fidelity for complex interventions to understand the reasons for their success or failure. However, few interventions systematically report implementation evaluation. Therefore, we conducted a concurrent process evaluation of CHORD (Community Health Outreach to Reduce Diabetes), a pragmatic, cluster-randomized, controlled trial to test the impact of a Community Health Workers (CHW) led, health coaching intervention on preventing incident type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (DM). MethodsThe study population included primary care (PC) patients with prediabetes at 2 safety-net hospitals - VA NY Harbor and Bellevue (BH). PC teams were randomized to receive the one-year intervention or usual care. Of the 559 patients in the intervention group to date, 79.4% completed an intake survey, constituting the analytic sample for fidelity assessment. The Conceptual Framework for Implementation Fidelity (CFIF) was applied to measure implementation fidelity and factors moderating fidelity of four core intervention components: patient goal setting, education topic coaching, PC visits, and referrals to address social determinants of health, using descriptive statistics and regression models.ResultsBH contributed 60.0% of the sample and VA contributed 40.0%. Content adherence was high for three components with nearly 80.0% of patients setting >1 goal, having >1 PC visit and receiving coaching on >1 education topic. Only 45.0% patients received >1 referral. After adjusting for patient gender, language, race, ethnicity, and age, the study site moderated adherence to goal setting (77.4% BH vs. 87.7% VA), educational coaching (78.9% BH vs. 88.3% VA), number of successful CHW-patient encounters (6 BH vs 4 VA) and percent of patients receiving all four components (41.1% BH vs. 25.7% VA). ConclusionsThe CFIF enabled analysis of implementation fidelity of a complex, behavioral intervention. The fidelity of CHORD implementation varied across its four components and was moderated by site. Despite implementation in a research setting, interventions may not completely adhere to their core components, which can influence outcomes. Our study emphasizes the importance of examining implementation fidelity of interventions and of assessing moderating factors. Our study also empirically tested the CFIF using quantitative concurrent intervention fidelity evaluation.Trial registration: The trial was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov on 12/30/2016 and the registration number is NCT03006666. The link to trial registration is: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03006666
Surface electromyographic activity of the erector spinae and multifidus during arm and leg ergometer exercises in young healthy men
Authors: Shima Daichi , Kamijo Yoshi-ichiro , Hashizaki Takamasa , Minoshima Yuta , Yoshikawa Tatsuya , Mikami Yukio , Arakawa Hideki , Umemoto Yasunori , Tajima Fumihiro
Published: August 2021

Surface electromyographic activities of the erector spinae and multifidus during graded arm- and leg-ergometer exercise were investigated. Fifteen young healthy male participants performed arm- and leg-ergometer exercises at 50W and 100W for 1 min, while monitoring the electrocardiograms of the paraspinal muscles and heart rate, and the root mean squares of the electromyograms were calculated. Time series of contractions of the paraspinal and extremity muscles during both exercises were assessed (n = 7). Both paraspinal muscle activities increased with increased workload in both exercises similarly (P < 0.01, each). Heart rate increased with increased workload, and the increase was greater for arm-ergometer exercise than for leg-ergometer exercise. Each contraction time of trunk and limb muscles suggested that the paraspinal muscles facilitated trunk rotation and prevented excessive lateral bending of the trunk, respectively. The activities of these paraspinal muscles increased with increased workload similarly in both exercises, although heart rate response was different between them.
A Complete Description of the Dynamics of Legal Outer-totalistic Affine Continuous Cellular Automata
Authors: Wolnik Barbara , Dembowski Marcin , Augustynowicz Antoni , De Baets Bernard
Published: August 2021

We present an investigation into the evolution and dynamics of the simplest generalization of binary cellular automata: Affine Continuous Cellular Automata (ACCAs), with [0,1] as state set and local rules that are affine in each variable. We focus on legal outer-totalistic ACCAs, an interesting class of dynamical systems that show some properties that do not occur in the binary case. A unique combination of computer simulations (sometimes quite advanced) and a panoply of analytical methods allow to lay bare the dynamics of each and every one of these cellular automata.
Two or four injections of leukocyte-poor platelet-rich plasma for osteoarthritic knee did not affect changes of synovial cytokines and growth factors but similarly improved clinical outcomes
Authors: Ngarmukos Srihatach , Tanavalee Chotetawan , Amarase Chavarin , Phakham Suphattra , Mingsiritham Warayapa , Reantragoon Rangsima , Leearamwat Nitigorn , Kongkaew Thidarat , Tharakhet Kittipan , Honsawek Sittisak , Dechsupa Sinsuda , Tanavalee Aree
Published: August 2021

We compared two and four intra-articular injections of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in terms of changes of synovial cytokines and clinical outcomes. One hundred twenty-five patients having knee OA underwent leukocyte-poor PRP with a 6-week interval. Before each PRP injection, synovial fluid aspiration was collected for investigation. Patients were divided into two or four intra-articular PRP injections (group A and B, respectively). Changes in synovial cytokines and growth factors were compared with the baseline levels of both groups, and clinical outcomes were evaluated until one year. Ninety-four patients who had completed synovial fluid collection were included for final evaluation, 51 in group A and 43 in group B. There were no differences in mean age, gender, BMI, and OA grading. The average platelet count in PRP was 430,000/µL. There were no changes of synovial inflammatory cytokines (IL-1ß, IL-6, IA-17A, and TNF-alpha), anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4, IL-10, IL-13, and IL-1RA), and growth factors (TGF-B1, VEGF, PDGF-AA, and PDGF-BB) between baseline levels and six weeks in group A, and 18 weeks in group B. Both groups had significantly improved clinical outcomes from six weeks including visual analog scale (VAS), patient-reported outcome measure (PROM; WOMAC and SF-12), with a significant delayed improvement of performance-based measure [PBM; time up and go (TUG), 5-time sit to stand test (5×SST), and 3-minute walk test (3-min WT)]. In conclusion, two- or four-PRP injection at a 6-week interval for knee OA demonstrated no changes of synovial cytokines and growth factors but similarly improved clinical outcomes from 6 weeks until one year.
Genome-Wide Analysis of HAK/KUP/KT Potassium Transporter Genes in Banana (Musa Acuminata L.) and Their Tissue-Specific Expression Profiles Under Potassium Stress
Authors: Liu Siwen , Wu Bangting , Xie Yanling , Zheng Sijun , Xie Jianghui , Wang Wei , Xiang Dandan , Li Chunyu
Published: August 2021

Potassium is one of the most essential inorganic cations for plant growth and development. The high affinity K+ (HAK)/K+ uptake (KUP)/K+ transporter (KT) family plays essential roles in the regulation of cellular K+ levels and the maintenance of osmotic balance. However, the roles of these genes in the responses of bananas to low-potassium stress are unclear. In this study, 24 HAK/KUP/KT (MaHAK) genes were identified from banana genomic data. These genes were further classified into four groups based on phylogenetic analysis, gene structure and conserved domain analysis. Segmental duplication events played an important role in the expansion of the MaHAK gene family. Transcriptome analysis revealed the expression patterns of MaHAKs in various tissues under different K+ conditions. MaHAK14b was upregulated under both short- and long-term K+-deficient conditions, suggesting that it plays crucial roles in K+ uptake at low K+ concentrations. Furthermore, MaHAK14b mediated K+ uptake when it was heterologously expressed in the yeast mutant R5421 on low K+ medium. Collectively, these findings provide a foundation for further functional analysis of MaHAK genes, which may be used to improve stress resistance in bananas.
Folate Receptor Alpha Expression in Fallopian Tube: Further Evidence Supporting Tubal Contribution of “Ovarian” Endometriosis
Authors: Fan Rujia , Li Qiyan , Wei Li , Zhao Ruijiao , Wang Yan , Lin Wanrun , Zhang Jing , Chang Ruby , Yuan Zeng , Fadare Oluwole , Wang Yiying , Wang Yue , Zheng Wenxin
Published: August 2021

Background Ovary is the most common organ site involved by endometriosis. We previously found that fallopian tube may contribute to the histogenesis of ovarian endometriosis. The finding was novel and requires further studies. We addressed this issue by examining a differentially expressed gene folate receptor alpha FOLR1 and its protein FRA in this study. Results A total of 144 tissue samples were studied. These included 32-paired 32-paired tubal-endometrial-ovarian endometriosis samples (n = 96), 18 samples of ovarian endometriosis without corresponding tubal or endometrium, and 30 ovarian tissue samples with ovarian surface epithelia but without endometriosis. Multiple comparisons among groups of ovarian endometriosis, normal fallopian tube and benign endometrium were performed. FOLR1 was highly expressed in the epithelia of fallopian tube and ovarian endometriosis, with paired endometrial samples showing a significantly lower level of expression. Similar differential studies for FRA protein were performed through Western blot and immunohistochemistry (IHC). The expression of folate receptor alpha at both mRNA and protein levels in the tissues (fallopian tube or ovarian endometriosis vs. the endometrium) were significantly different (p < 0.001). All ovarian surface mesothelial epithelia showed negative expression of FRA by IHC. Conclusions The results further support that the fallopian tube may contribute to the development of ovarian endometriosis. Understanding the tubal contribution to ovarian endometriosis should ultimately contribute to ongoing investigative efforts aimed at identifying alternative ways to prevent and treat endometriosis.
A Case of Giant Posterior Mediastinal Mass: Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor Developed in Neurofibromatosis Type 1 Patient.
Authors: ASLAN Volkan , Gürler Fatih , yazıcı ozan , erdem özlem , çelik ali , özkan dilvin , özdemir nuriye
Published: August 2021

Introduction: Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors mostly located in the stomach and esophageal GIST is extremely rare. Various genetic disorders increase the risk of developing GIST, among these, NF-1 is the most common. A case of posterior mediastial GIST developing in the neurofibromatosis patient has not been reported yet.Case: A 48-year-old male patient is being evaluated with complaints of dyspnea and progressive dysphagia. Computed tomography detected a cystic, lobulated contour mass that was located at the posterior mediastinum and measuring 11 x 14x12 cm. The giant semisolid mass has been dissected from adjacent the vertebra, the esophagus, pericardium and inferior pulmonary vein and Histopathological examination revealed GİST. Pathological examination of skin lesions confirmed NF-1. Finally, NF-1-associated posterior mediastinal GIST was diagnosed and adjuvant imatinib treatment was initiated. Conclusion: To the best our knowledge, this patient was the first case, who diagnosed with posterior mediastinal GIST developing on the basis of NF-1.