bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stiffening of Circumferential F-Actin Bands Correlates With Regenerative Failure and May Act as a Biomechanical Brake in the Mammalian Inner Ear
Authors: Rudolf Mark A. , Andreeva Anna , Kim Christina E. , DeNovio Anthony C.-J. , Koshar Antoan N. , Baker Wendy , Cartagena-Rivera Alexander X. , Corwin Jeffrey T.
Published: May 2022

The loss of inner ear hair cells causes permanent hearing and balance deficits in humans and other mammals, but non-mammals recover after supporting cells (SCs) divide and replace hair cells. The proliferative capacity of mammalian SCs declines as exceptionally thick circumferential F-actin bands develop at their adherens junctions. We hypothesized that the reinforced junctions were limiting regenerative responses of mammalian SCs by impeding changes in cell shape and epithelial tension. Using micropipette aspiration and atomic force microscopy, we measured mechanical properties of utricles from mice and chickens. Our data show that the epithelial surface of the mouse utricle stiffens significantly during postnatal maturation. This stiffening correlates with and is dependent on the postnatal accumulation of F-actin and the cross-linker Alpha-Actinin-4 at SC-SC junctions. In chicken utricles, where SCs lack junctional reinforcement, the epithelial surface remains compliant. There, SCs undergo oriented cell divisions and their apical surfaces progressively elongate throughout development, consistent with anisotropic intraepithelial tension. In chicken utricles, inhibition of actomyosin contractility led to drastic SC shape change and epithelial buckling, but neither occurred in mouse utricles. These findings suggest that species differences in the capacity for hair cell regeneration may be attributable in part to the differences in the stiffness and contractility of the actin cytoskeletal elements that reinforce adherens junctions and participate in regulation of the cell cycle.
High Dose Vitamin D3 Supplementation Is Not Associated With Lower Mortality in Critically Ill Patients: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Control Trials
Authors: Gao Zhiwei , Xie Jianfeng , Li Cong , Liu Ling , Yang Yi
Published: May 2022

Background

Vitamin D deficiency is a common condition in critically ill patients. A high dose of vitamin D3 can rapidly restore vitamin D levels. The aim of this meta-analysis was to synthesize the results from up-to-date randomized control trials (RCT) and validate the effect of vitamin D3 in critically ill patients.

Study Methods

Several databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central database, were searched up to December 4th, 2020. All RCTs that investigated the use of a high dose of vitamin D3 in critically ill patients and reported mortality data were included in the meta-analysis. The primary outcome was the mortality truncated to day 28 and day 90.

Results

A total of 10 RCTs enrolling 2058 patients were finally included. The use of a high dose of vitamin D3 in critically ill patients could not decrease the mortality truncated to day 28 (RR 0.93, 95% CI 0.78–1.11, P = 0.43) or day 90 (RR 0.91, 95% CI 0.79–1.05, P = 0.21). A high dose of vitamin D3 could significantly reduce the ventilator days (MD −9.38, 95%CI −13.44 to −5.31, P < 0.001), but there were no statistic difference in length of ICU stay (MD −2.76, 95% CI −6.27 to 0.74, P = 0.12) and hospital stay (MD −2.42, 95% CI −6.21 to 1.36, P = 0.21). No significant difference was observed in adverse events between the vitamin D3 group and the placebo group.

Conclusion

The use of high dose vitamin D3 was not associated with decreased mortality in critically ill patients, but could significantly reduce the ventilator days.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier: CRD42020179195.
Postprandial Responses on Serum Metabolome to Milk and Yogurt Intake in Young and Older Men
Authors: Kim Jinyoung , Blaser Carola , Portmann Reto , Badertscher René , Marmonier Corinne , Blot Adeline , David Jérémie , Stoffers Helena , von Ah Ueli , Bütikofer Ueli , Vergères Guy , Dardevet Dominique , Polakof Sergio
Published: May 2022

The identification and validation of biomarkers of food intake (BFIs) is a promising approach to develop more objective and complementary tools to the traditional dietary assessment methods. Concerning dairy, their evaluation in terms of intake is not simple, given the variety of existing foods, making it difficult to establish the association between specific dairy products consumption and the effects on human health, which is also dependent on the study population. Here, we aimed at identifying BFI of both milk (M) and yogurt (Y) in 14 healthy young (20–35 years) and 14 older (65–80 years). After a 3-week run-in period of dairy exclusion from the diet, the subjects acutely consumed 600 ml of M or Y. Metabolomics analyses were conducted on serum samples during the following 6 h (LC-MS and GC-MS). Several metabolites showing increased iAUC after milk or yogurt intake were considered as potential BFI, including lactose (M > Y, 2-fold), galactitol (M > Y, 1.5-fold), galactonate (M > Y, 1.2-fold), sphingosine-1-phosphate (M > Y from 2.1-fold), as well as an annotated disaccharide (Y > M, 3.6-fold). Delayed serum kinetics were also observed after Y compared to M intake lysine (+22 min), phenylalanine (+45 min), tyrosine (+30min), threonine (+38 min) 3-phenyllactic acid (+30 min), lactose (+30 min), galactitol (+45min) and galactonate (+30 min). The statistical significance of certain discriminant metabolites, such as sphingosine-1-phosphate and several free fatty acids, was not maintained in the older group. This could be related to the physiological modifications induced by aging, like dysregulated lipid metabolism, including delayed appearance of dodecanoic acid (+60 min) or altered postprandial appearance of myristic acid (+70% Cmax), 3-dehydroxycarnitine (−26% Cmin), decanoylcarnitine (−51% Cmin) and dodecanoylcarnitine (−40% Cmin). In conclusion, candidate BFI of milk or yogurt could be identified based on the modified postprandial response resulting from the fermentation of milk to yogurt. Moreover, population specificities (e.g., aging) should also be considered in future studies to obtain more accurate and specific BFI.
Construction and Verification of Immunohistochemistry Parameters-Based Classifier to Predict Local-Recurrence of Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma After Kidney-Sparing Surgery
Authors: Cheng Xu , Liu Wentao , Li Yijian , Wang Yinhuai
Published: May 2022

Background

Kidney-sparing surgery (KSS) for upper tract urothelial carcinomas (UTUCs) has been gradually performed in selected patients beyond the recommendation of guidelines. However, there is still a lack of tools to evaluate postoperative local recurrence. Herein, a new nomogram was established to predict the local recurrence risk after KSS.

Methods

Patients were randomly divided into two cohorts (training: testing cohorts = 7:3). Cancer samples after KSS were used for immunohistochemical tests to detect molecules missing in previous pathology reports. Then, the total number of molecules were screened by the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) method to construct an IHCscore, which was further tested in the validation cohort. Finally, the IHCscore and other clinicopathologic parameters were combined to develop a more accurate model using univariate and multivariate Cox regression methods.

Results

In total, 200 patients were included. The Kaplan–Meier test showed that high Ki-67 and loss of Uroplakin III and E-cadherin were correlated with poor recurrence-free survival. The individual IHCscore was calculated based on the expression levels of Ki-67, Her2 and E-cadherin. Based on the IHC score, patients were further classified as low- or high-risk, and a significant difference in the recurrence-free survival was observed between the two groups. Then, the nomogram was developed based on Gender, surgical margin and IHCscore; this nomogram had a higher AUC (0.847) in predicting 3-year recurrence-free survival than the IHCscore alone (0.788).

Conclusions

This easy-to-use nomogram shows better prediction accuracy in recurrence-free survival after KSS and may guide individualized intravesical chemotherapy. However, a larger sample is required for external validation.
Comprehensive Evaluation and Application of a Novel Method to Isolate Cell-Free DNA Derived From Bile of Biliary Tract Cancer Patients
Authors: Shen Ningjia , Zhu Bin , Zhang Wei , Nian Baoning , Xu Xiaoya , Yu Lianghe , Ruan Xiang , Chen Sheng , Liu Yang , Cao Xinkai , Shi Xintong , Li Zhikuan , Huang Xingfeng , Wang Xiang , Chen Caifu , Xiong Lei , Zhang Dadong , Fu Xiaohui , Zhang Yongjie
Published: May 2022

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) exists in various types of bodily fluids, including plasma, urine, bile, and others. Bile cfDNA could serve as a promising liquid biopsy for biliary tract cancer (BTC) patients, as bile directly contacts tumors in the biliary tract system. However, there is no commercial kit or widely acknowledged method for bile cfDNA extraction. In this study, we established a silica-membrane-based method, namely 3D-BCF, for bile cfDNA isolation, exhibiting effective recovery of DNA fragments in the spike-in assay. We then compared the 3D-BCF method with four other commercial kits: the BIOG cfDNA Easy Kit (BIOG), QIAamp DNA Mini Kit (Qiagen), MagMAXTM Cell-Free DNA Isolation Kit (Thermo Fisher), and NORGEN Urine Cell-Free Circulating DNA Purification Mini Kit (Norgen Biotek). The proposed 3D-BCF method exhibited the highest cfDNA isolation efficiency (p < 0.0001) from patient bile samples, and bile cfDNA of short, medium or long fragments could all be extracted effectively. To test whether the extracted bile cfDNA from patients carries tumor-related genomic information, we performed next-generation sequencing on the cfDNA and verified the gene-mutation results by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-Sanger chromatograms and copy-number-variation (CNV) detection by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) of tumor tissues. The 3D-BCF method could efficiently extract cfDNA from bile samples, providing technical support for bile cfDNA as a promising liquid biopsy for BTC patient diagnosis and prognosis.
Case Report: Inguinal Myxofibrosarcoma Arising From the Surgical Site of Resected Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Hu Hongyu , Hu Xianwen , Li Dandan , Cai Jiong , Wang Pan
Published: May 2022

Myxofibrosarcoma (MFS) is a rare soft tissue sarcoma that originates in the mesenchymal tissue and occurs mainly in the limbs of elderly patients. Herein, we present the case of a 64-year-old woman who underwent extensive left vulvar resection and bilateral lymphadenectomy for vulvar squamous cell carcinoma 6 months previously. A mass was found again at the original surgical site of the left groin 3 months prior, and its size had increased significantly in the past 1 month, with ulceration and pus. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a 10-cm mass in the left groin area; fluoro18-labeled deoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) showed a marked increase in mass metabolism in the left groin area, which was highly suspected to be a recurrence of squamous cell carcinoma. Subsequently, the patient underwent surgery and the postoperative pathology and immunohistochemistry confirmed MFS. In conclusion, MFS has rarely been reported to arise from the surgical site of squamous cell carcinoma. Our case study demonstrates that MFS should be included in the differential diagnosis of superficial masses in patients with a prior surgical history who present with a soft tissue mass at the surgical site, especially for recently developed rapidly increasing masses. This study aimed to systematically review the clinical features, diagnosis, differential diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of this disease based on our case and related published literature and to provide clinicians with a broader perspective on the differential diagnosis of soft tissue tumors.
A Silicone Oil-Free Syringe Tailored for Intravitreal Injection of Biologics
Authors: Gjølberg Torleif T. , Lode Heidrun E. , Melo Gustavo B. , Mester Simone , Probst Christine , Sivertsen Magne S. , Jørstad Øystein K. , Andersen Jan Terje , Moe Morten C.
Published: May 2022

Intravitreal injections (IVI) of biologics targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) led to a paradigm shift in the management and prognosis of prevalent retinal conditions. Yet, IVI are typically performed with syringes that are neither developed nor approved for this purpose. Notably, syringes lubricated with silicone oil (SiO) are extensively used despite multiple reports showing that such syringes can cause deposition of SiO droplets in the vitreous body and patient discomfort. Thus, there is a need for SiO-free substitutes specifically tailored for IVI. Here, we report on the development and testing of such a syringe. This syringe has no dead volume, and its design allows for high-accuracy dosing. Also, it permits pharmaceutical compounding and storage of bevacizumab, ranibizumab, and aflibercept for up to 30 days without compromising their functional binding or transport properties. Finally, the new syringe demonstrated a favorable safety profile regarding release of SiO compared to SiO lubricated alternatives, including commercially prefilled syringes. Accordingly, the newly developed syringe is an appealing alternative for IVI.
Charts and LMS Tables of Transfontanellar and Transvertical Ear-to-Ear Distances for Gestational Age
Authors: Arnold Nancy , Ascherl Rudolf Georg , Thome Ulrich Herbert
Published: May 2022

Introduction

To date cranial development has only been described by analyzing occipitofrontal circumference (OFC). More precise methods of determining head measurements have not been widely adopted. The use of additional measurements has the potential to better account for the three-dimensional structure of the head. Our aim was to put forward centile curves of such measurements for gestational age along with a compound head volume index.

Methods

We created generalized additive models for location, scale, and shape of two ear-to-ear distances (EED), transfontanellar (fEED) and transvertical (vEED), from birth anthropometric data. Same was done for OFC, crown-heel length, and birth weight to allow for comparison of our models with growth charts by Voigt et al. and Fenton and Kim.

Results

Growth charts and tables of LMS parameters for fEED and vEED were derived from 6,610 patients admitted to our NICU and 625 healthy term newborns. With increasing gestational age EEDs increase about half as fast compared to OFC in absolute terms, their relative growths are fairly similar.

Discussion

Differences to the charts by Fenton and Kim are minute. Tape measurements, such as fEED or vEED can be added to routine anthropometry at little extra costs. These charts may be helpful for following and evaluating head sizes and growth of preterm and term infants in three dimensions.
The Relationship Between the Shape of the Spine and the Width of Linea Alba in Children Aged 6–9 Years. Case-Control Study
Authors: Zmyślna Anna , Żurawski Arkadiusz , Rosiński Tomasz , Pogorzelska Justyna , Śliwiński Zbigniew , Śliwiński Grzegorz , Kiebzak Wojciech
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Civilization development coupled with contemporary lifestyle leads to a systematic increase in postural disorders. An analysis of factors that may provoke postural disorders indicates that such a stimulus may be the diastasis of the rectus abdominis muscles. Moreover, abnormal activity of the rectus abdominis muscles may affect balance disorders through reduced spinal stabilization and disturbed body statics. There is an increase in body posture abnormalities between the ages of 6 and 9 related to new school duties.

Purpose of the Study

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the relationship between the shape of the spine and the width of the linea alba in children aged 6–9 years.

Material and Method

The study was designed to evaluate parameters determining the shape of the spine, and the width of the linea alba in healthy children aged 6–9 years. The study participants were divided into two groups based on the width of the linea alba. The study group with the width of the linea alba >10 mm and the control group with the width of the linea alba ≤ 10 mm. The study group were included 37 children and the control group 24 children. The examination of the linea alba width was performed by a radiology specialist using a linear transducer and SAOTE- My Lab Classc-type ultrasound at rest and during contraction of the rectus abdominis muscles. Parameters describing the shape of the spine were measured using the Diers Formetric 4D system: trunk inclination, trunk imbalance, pelvis tilt, pelvic torsion, kyphotic apex, lordotic apex, kyphotic angle, lordotic angle, rotation angle, trunk torsion, lateral deviation. The obtained results were statistically analyzed using a Paired t test for comparison of differences between the results in the study and control groups and Pearson's test to assess the correlation between the width of the linea alba and parameters describing spinal alignment.

Results

In both groups, the parameters describing the shape of the spine did not differ from the norms accepted as typical for the age norm. The only statistically significant difference between the study and control group concerned the trunk inclination, which was negative in the study group, signifying a shift of the entire spine axis backwards beyond the vertical.

Conclusions

There is a correlation between the shape of spine and the width of the linea alba in terms of selected parameters determining the body posture in the sagittal plane, which concern: the position of the lumbar lordotic apex, trunk inclination and the depth of the lumbar lordotic angle. The width of the linea alba is not explicitly related to abnormalities of pelvic and spinal alignment in the frontal and transverse planes.
Circulating C-X-C Motif Ligand 13 as a Biomarker for Early Predicting Efficacy of Subcutaneous Immunotherapy in Children With Chronic Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Cheng Shenghao , Wen Sihui , Xie Shaobing , Zhang Caixia , Zhang Hua , Gao Kelei , Fan Ruohao , Xie Zhihai , Jiang Weihong
Published: May 2022

Background

C-X-C motif ligand 13 (CXCL13) and B cell-activating factor (BAFF) are proven to be involved in inflammatory diseases, but their role in allergic rhinitis (AR) remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of serum CXCL13 and BAFF in AR and their clinical values as objective biomarkers to predict the efficacy of subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT).

Methods

We prospectively recruited 90 children with AR treated with SCIT and collected their serum specimens before SCIT. One-year follow-up was conducted for all patients, and they were categorized into effective and ineffective groups based on efficacy. The serum concentrations of CXCL13 and BAFF were detected and compared between the two groups. A validation cohort of 52 responders and 26 non-responders were further assessed for both cytokines and serum CXCL13 and BAFF levels were assayed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

Eighty children completed the follow-up schedule, and 56 children were categorized into the effective group and 24 children into the ineffective group. The serum levels of CXCL13 in the effective group were clearly higher than those in the ineffective group (P < 0.05). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves revealed the potential values of CXCL13 as a biomarker in predicting the response of SCIT. Further, in the validation cohort, ELISA results demonstrated that serum CXCL13 levels were increased in responders than non-responders (P < 0.05). ROC curves showed good accuracy of serum CXCL13 in predicting the efficacy of SCIT.

Conclusion

Our discovery–validation study demonstrated that circulating CXCL13 might serve as a novel biomarker to predict the outcome of SCIT in childhood AR. The findings indicated that CXCL13 was involved in the pathological mechanisms of AR and made help to the fundamental therapeutic mechanism of SCIT.
Efficacy and Safety of Stem Cell Therapy in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Qu Jiayang , Liu Zicai , Li Lincai , Zou Zhengwei , He Zhengyi , Zhou Lin , Luo Yaolin , Zhang Minhong , Ye Junsong
Published: May 2022

Aim

There is insufficient evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of stem cell therapy for autism spectrum disorders. We performed the first meta-analysis of stem cell therapy for autism spectrum disorders in children to provide evidence for clinical rehabilitation.

Methods

The data source includes PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and China Academic Journal, from inception to 24th JULY 2021. After sifting through the literature, the Cochrane tool was applied to assess the risk of bias. Finally, we extracted data from these studies and calculated pooled efficacy and safety.

Results

5 studies that met the inclusion criteria were included in current analysis. Meta-analysis was performed using rehabilitation therapy as the reference standard. Data showed that the Childhood Autism Rating Scale score of stem cell group was striking lower than the control group (WMD: −5.96; 95%CI [−8.87, −3.06]; p < 0.0001). The Clinical Global Impression score consolidated effect size RR = 1.01, 95%CI [0.87, 1.18], Z = 0.14 (p = 0.89), the effective rate for The Clinical Global Impression was 62% and 60% in the stem cell group and the control group, respectively. The occurrence events of adverse reactions in each group (RR = 1.55; 95%CI = 0.60 to 3.98; p = 0.36), there was no significant difference in the incidence of adverse reactions between the stem cell group and the control group.

Conclusions

The results of this meta-analysis suggested that stem cell therapy for children with autism might be safe and effective. However, the evidence was compromised by the limitations in current study size, lacking standardized injection routes and doses of stem cells, as well as shortages in diagnostic tools and long period follow-up studies. Hence, it calls for more studies to systematically confirm the efficacy and safety of stem cell therapy for children with autism spectrum disorders.
Optical Simulation Study of Perovskite/CIGS Tandem Solar Cells With Reduced Graphene Oxide Layers
Authors: Kovačič Milan , Krč Janez , Savva Kyriaki , Maragkaki Stella , Stratakis Emmanuel , Rashid Mudasar , Tutundzic Merve , Kuang Yinghuan , de Wild Jessica , Aernouts Tom , Vermang Bart , Topič Marko
Published: May 2022

Tandem solar cells present a promising solution to overcome the Schottky–Queisser efficiency limit of single-junction solar cells. In this article, an all–thin-film tandem solar cell based on perovskite (PK) top cell and chalcopyrite Cu (In, Ga) Se2 (CIGS) bottom cell is researched. Device optical simulations are validated on the top and bottom cells and employed for the analysis of PK/CIGS tandem cells. In particular, the optical effects of introduced laser reduced graphene oxide (rGO) layers at two positions in the tandem cell: 1) at the position between the top PK and bottom CIGS cell and 2) underneath the front transparent electrode. The purpose of introducing rGO layers is to improve the optoelectrical properties of the device, based on the tunable electronic and optical characteristics of rGO layers. Optical simulation results show that the parasitic absorption in rGO layers may noticeably affect the optical performance of the tandem cell if the layers are not optimized. The use of a thin and a few nanometer-thick rGO is suggested from the analysis if its parasitic absorption is not reduced. Directions for further optimization of optical rGO, including the reduction of parasitic absorption and tuning of the real part of the refractive index, are performed.
A Procedure for the Characterization of Monocapillary X-Ray Lenses as Condensers for Full-Field Transmission X-Ray Microscopes
Authors: Sun Xuepeng , Shao Shangkun , Li Huiquan , Zhang Xiaoyun , Yuan Tianyu , Tao Fen , Sun Tianxi
Published: May 2022

Monocapillary x-ray lenses (MXRLs) are mostly used as condensers in full-field transmission x-ray microscopy (TXM) based on synchrotron radiation or laboratory x-ray tubes. The performance of the condenser has a significant impact on the imaging quality of the TXM. In this paper, a procedure for the characterization of the MXRL as a condenser is presented. The procedure mainly includes two parts: optical measurement and x-ray tests. From the test results of the characterization procedure, it can be seen that a relatively high-performance condenser can be screened out from a series of MXRLs drawn by an electric furnace. This is also fed back to the manufacturing process, and therefore, the technology of manufacturing the condenser can be gradually optimized. Moreover, the method of characterizing the performance of the condenser designed for synchrotron radiation TXM by laboratory x-ray tubes is proposed to be used in this procedure, which effectively reduces the manufacturing time of high-performance condensers for synchrotron radiation TXM.
Low Cancer Incidence in Naked Mole-Rats May Be Related to Their Inability to Express the Warburg Effect
Authors: Freire Jorge Pedro , Goodwin Matthew L. , Renes Maurits H. , Nijsten Maarten W. , Pamenter Matthew
Published: May 2022

Metabolic flexibility in mammals enables stressed tissues to generate additional ATP by converting large amounts of glucose into lactic acid; however, this process can cause transient local or systemic acidosis. Certain mammals are adapted to extreme environments and are capable of enhanced metabolic flexibility as a specialized adaptation to challenging habitat niches. For example, naked mole-rats (NMRs) are a fossorial and hypoxia-tolerant mammal whose metabolic responses to environmental stressors markedly differ from most other mammals. When exposed to hypoxia, NMRs exhibit robust hypometabolism but develop minimal acidosis. Furthermore, and despite a very long lifespan relative to other rodents, NMRs have a remarkably low cancer incidence. Most advanced cancers in mammals display increased production of lactic acid from glucose, irrespective of oxygen availability. This hallmark of cancer is known as the Warburg effect (WE). Most malignancies acquire this metabolic phenotype during their somatic evolution, as the WE benefits tumor growth in several ways. We propose that the peculiar metabolism of the NMR makes development of the WE inherently difficult, which might contribute to the extraordinarily low cancer rate in NMRs. Such an adaptation of NMRs to their subterranean environment may have been facilitated by modified biochemical responses with a stronger inhibition of the production of CO2and lactic acid by a decreased extracellular pH. Since this pH-inhibition could be deeply hard-wired in their metabolic make-up, it may be difficult for malignant cells in NMRs to acquire the WE-phenotype that facilitates cancer growth in other mammals. In the present commentary, we discuss this idea and propose experimental tests of our hypothesis.
A Shape Reconstruction and Measurement Method for Spherical Hedges Using Binocular Vision
Authors: Zhang Yawei , Gu Jin , Rao Tao , Lai Hanrong , Zhang Bin , Zhang Jianfei , Yin Yanxin
Published: May 2022

The center coordinate and radius of the spherical hedges are the basic phenotypic features for automatic pruning. A binocular vision-based shape reconstruction and measurement system for front-end vision information gaining are built in this paper. Parallel binocular cameras are used as the detectors. The 2D coordinate sequence of target spherical hedges is obtained by region segmentation and object extraction process. Then, a stereo correcting algorithm is conducted to keep two cameras to be parallel. Also, an improved semi-global block matching (SGBM) algorithm is studied to get a disparity map. According to the disparity map and parallel structure of the binocular vision system, the 3D point cloud of the target is obtained. Based on this, the center coordinate and radius of the spherical hedges can be measured. Laboratory and outdoor tests on shape reconstruction and measurement are conducted. In the detection range of 2,000–2,600 mm, laboratory test shows that the average error and average relative error of standard spherical hedges radius are 1.58 mm and 0.53%, respectively; the average location deviation of the center coordinate of spherical hedges is 15.92 mm. The outdoor test shows that the average error and average relative error of spherical hedges radius by the proposed system are 4.02 mm and 0.44%, respectively; the average location deviation of the center coordinate of spherical hedges is 18.29 mm. This study provides important technical support for phenotypic feature detection in the study of automatic trimming.
Temporal Predictions in Space: Isochronous Rhythms Promote Forward Projections of the Body
Authors: Ferreri Laura , Versace Rémy , Victor Camille , Plancher Gaën
Published: May 2022

A regular rhythmic stimulation increases people’s ability to anticipate future events in time and to move their body in space. Temporal concepts are usually prescribed to spatial locations through a past-behind and future-ahead mapping. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that a regular rhythmic stimulation could promote the forward-body (i.e., toward the future) projections in the peri-personal space. In a Visual Approach/Avoidance by the Self Task (VAAST), participants (N = 24) observed a visual scene on the screen (i.e., a music studio with a metronome in the middle). They were exposed to 3 s of auditory isochronous or non-isochronous rhythms, after which they were asked to make as quickly as possible a perceptual judgment on the visual scene (i.e., whether the metronome pendulum was pointing to the right or left). The responses could trigger a forward or backward visual flow, i.e., approaching or moving them away from the scene. Results showed a significant interaction between the rhythmic stimulation and the movement projections (p < 0.001): participants were faster for responses triggering forward-body projections (but not backward-body projections) after the exposure to isochronous (but not non-isochronous) rhythm. By highlighting the strong link between isochronous rhythms and forward-body projections, these findings support the idea that temporal predictions driven by a regular auditory stimulation are grounded in a perception-action system integrating temporal and spatial information.
Factors Influencing Procurement Officers’ Preference for PPP Procurement Model: An Empirical Analysis of China
Authors: Cao Fuguo , Wang Cong
Published: May 2022

The selection of the procurement model, which is a process of discretion exercised by procurement officials, is crucial to the Public-private Partnership (PPP) procurement performance. From theoretical analysis and international practice, we could find that the negotiation method is more suitable for complex PPP projects, while the tendering method is widely used in China’s PPP procurement. To analyze the reasons for the phenomenon, we used the logit regression model to examine the influence of regulatory competition, risk aversion preference, and tacit interaction on the procurement model selection based on the data of 8,926 PPP projects from 2009 to 2021 in China. The results indicate that regulatory competition leads to confusion in procurement model selection, while risk aversion preference and tacit interaction significantly promote the application of tendering. Moreover, the heterogeneity analysis of regions and return models prove that provincial capitals and municipalities are more susceptible to regulatory competition, risk aversion preference, and tacit interaction than ordinary cities. Compared with user-pay projects, government-pay projects and viability gap funding projects are more susceptible to regulatory competition and risk aversion preference, and less affected by tacit interaction. Therefore, to optimize the procurement model selection, policymakers should improve procurement policies to reduce the adverse effects of regulatory competition, risk aversion preference, and tacit interactions.
Research on E-Commerce Data Standard System in the Era of Digital Economy From the Perspective of Organizational Psychology
Authors: Yue Hongqiang
Published: May 2022

With the rapid development of technology and the economy, the expansion of the network has had a huge impact on the rapid expansion of the industrial agglomeration e-commerce industry, as well as ensuring the shopping experience of consumers. The rapid expansion of industrial cluster e-commerce has avoided precisely the limitations of logistical bottlenecks. Current networks and modern information technologies can provide good support and maintain a huge growth potential. In addition, digital technologies such as multimedia are becoming increasingly important in industry cluster marketing, and the concept of industry cluster e-commerce models is gaining more and more attention from companies. However, virtual e-commerce systems under industrial clusters have not been well researched in the existing studies. In this paper, through extensive research, literature reading and website browsing statistics, the virtual e-commerce models of different industrial agglomerations are studied. Firstly, the concept of big data and the processing of big data are given. Secondly, the concept of industrial agglomeration and the relationship between industrial agglomeration and e-commerce are analyzed. The basic number of domestic Internet users in the last 10 years is also counted, proving that the expansion of the Internet has led to a substantial growth of Internet users in the country and that e-commerce plays a significant role in the future of business activities. Finally the study concludes that different e-commerce models have different performance and roles in industrial agglomeration e-commerce and cannot be generalized. Instead, it is not good and can only develop different industrial agglomeration e-commerce models according to different environments.
Associations of DNA Base Excision Repair and Antioxidant Enzyme Genetic Risk Scores with Biomarker of Systemic Inflammation
Authors: Mao Ziling , Gray Abigail L. H. , Gross Myron D. , Thyagarajan Bharat , Bostick Roberd M.
Published: May 2022

Background: Inflammation is implicated in the etiology of various aging-related diseases. Numerous dietary and lifestyle factors contribute to chronic systemic inflammation; genetic variation may too. However, despite biological plausibility, little is known about associations of antioxidant enzyme (AE) and DNA base excision repair (BER) genotypes with human systemic inflammation.

Methods: We genotyped 22 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 3 AE genes, and 79 SNPs in 14 BER genes to develop inflammation-specific AE and BER genetic risk scores (GRS) in two pooled cross-sectional studies (n = 333) of 30–74-year-old White adults without inflammatory bowel disease, familial adenomatous polyposis, or a history of cancer or colorectal adenoma. Of the genotypes, based on their associations with a biomarker of systemic inflammation, circulating high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) concentrations, we selected 2 SNPs of 2 genes (CAT and MnSoD) for an AE GRS, and 7 SNPs of 5 genes (MUTYH, SMUG1, TDG, UNG, and XRCC1) for a BER GRS. A higher GRS indicates a higher balance of variant alleles directly associated with hsCRP relative to variant alleles inversely associated with hsCRP. We also calculated previously-reported, validated, questionnaire-based dietary (DIS) and lifestyle (LIS) inflammation scores. We used multivariable general linear regression to compare mean hsCRP concentrations across AE and BER GRS categories, individually and jointly with the DIS and LIS.

Results: The mean hsCRP concentrations among those in the highest relative to the lowest AE and BER GRS categories were, proportionately, 13.9% (p = 0.30) and 57.4% (p = 0.009) higher. Neither GRS clearly appeared to modify the associations of the DIS or LIS with hsCRP.

Conclusion: Our findings suggest that genotypes of DNA BER genes collectively may be associated with systemic inflammation in humans.
Trouble in the Forest: Whitebark Pine Trees, Mountain Pine Beetles, and Climate Change
Authors: Roche Alzada , Shanahan Erin , Nesmith Jonathan
Published: May 2022

Have you ever hiked up a mountain and felt a frosty wind blowing across your face? You might need to button up your jacket to visit this place, but here, whitebark pine trees are right at home. Whitebark pines thrive in the highest forests of western North America. In these environments, whitebark pines help other, less-hardy species to establish, grow, and survive. For this pine, chilly mountaintops provide a refuge from insects, disease, and competition with other trees. Yet as our climate changes, whitebark pines no longer have the cold on their side. They are dying at alarming rates, and one of the biggest killers is a tiny bark beetle. How is climate change helping this little insect munch through huge swaths of forest? National Park Service scientists use long-term monitoring studies to unravel this complicated relationship. This information guides resource managers entrusted with protecting whitebark pines.
Preferences for Income Redistribution in Unequal Contexts: Changes in Latin America Between 2008 and 2018
Authors: Franetovic Gonzalo , Castillo Juan-Carlos
Published: May 2022

In a developing and highly unequal region like Latin America, it is crucial to understand the determinants that affect people's support for redistribution of resources from the state. A series of theories focused on self-interest have continuously established a negative link between people's income and their support for the reduction of inequalities through redistribution. Despite this, the evidence is scarce and sometimes contradictory while its study in Latin America is almost non-existent. Using data from the LAPOP Survey between 2008 and 2018, a longitudinal dimension is considered for the first time in the measurement of Latin American redistributive preferences, using hybrid multilevel regression models. In contrast to the evidence from studies conducted in other regions, the results reveal that in Latin America it is not possible to detect a clear association between income and redistributive preferences at specific times, but it is possible when changes occur in countries' levels of inequality and economic development. Likewise, other elements that consistently affect preferences are evident, such as educational level, political ideology, and confidence in the political system. In light of this evidence, comparisons are made with previous research findings in industrialized countries, challenging rationalist theories of justice and solidarity.
Current Progress in Optimising Sustainable Energy Recovery From Cattle Paunch Contents, a Slaughterhouse Waste Product
Authors: Dowd Bronwyn , McDonnell Declan , Tuohy Maria G.
Published: May 2022

Paunch contents are the recalcitrant, lignocellulose-rich, partially-digested feed present in the rumen of ruminant animals. Cattle forage in Europe is primarily from perennial and Italian ryegrasses and/or white clover, so paunch contents from forage-fed cattle in Europe is enriched in these feedstuffs. Globally, due to its underutilisation, the potential energy in cattle paunch contents annually represents an energy loss of 23,216,548,750–27,804,250,000 Megajoules (MJ) and financial loss of up to ~€800,000,000. Therefore, this review aims to describe progress made to-date in optimising sustainable energy recovery from paunch contents. Furthermore, analyses to determine the economic feasibility/potential of recovering sustainable energy from paunch contents was carried out. The primary method used to recover sustainable energy from paunch contents to-date has involved biomethane production through anaerobic digestion (AD). The major bottleneck in its utilisation through AD is its recalcitrance, resulting in build-up of fibrous material. Pre-treatments partially degrade the lignocellulose in lignocellulose-rich wastes, reducing their recalcitrance. Enzyme systems could be inexpensive and more environmentally compatible than conventional solvent pre-treatments. A potential source of enzyme systems is the rumen microbiome, whose efficiency in lignocellulose degradation is attracting significant research interest. Therefore, the application of rumen fluid (liquid derived from dewatering of paunch contents) to improve biomethane production from AD of lignocellulosic wastes is included in this review. Analysis of a study where rumen fluid was used to pre-treat paper sludge from a paper mill prior to AD for biomethane production suggested economic feasibility for CHP combustion, with potential savings of ~€11,000 annually. Meta-genomic studies of bacterial/archaeal populations have been carried out to understand their ruminal functions. However, despite their importance in degrading lignocellulose in nature, rumen fungi remain comparatively under-investigated. Further investigation of rumen microbes, their cultivation and their enzyme systems, and the role of rumen fluid in degrading lignocellulosic wastes, could provide efficient pre-treatments and co-digestion strategies to maximise biomethane yield from a range of lignocellulosic wastes. This review describes current progress in optimising sustainable energy recovery from paunch contents, and the potential of rumen fluid as a pre-treatment and co-substrate to recover sustainable energy from lignocellulosic wastes using AD.
Percutaneous Mechanical Thrombectomy for Acute Limb Ischemia With Aorto-iliac Occlusion
Authors: Yang Xinrui , Li Xiangxiang , Yin Minyi , Wang Ruihua , Ye Kaichuang , Lu Xinwu , Li Weimin , Cheng Yong , Qin Jinbao
Published: May 2022

Background

To evaluate the outcomes of percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy (PMT) with Rotarex catheter in patients with acute lower limb ischemia (ALI) caused by aorto-iliac occlusion.

Materials and Methods

Data of patients with ALI caused by aorto-iliac occlusion in our institutions from January 2010 and April 2020 were reviewed. The primary end point was limb salvage rate. The secondary end points included technical success rate, survival rate, complications after the operation and during the follow-up.

Results

A total of 85 patients with ALI was diagnosed with aorto-iliac occlusion. Thirty-eight patients were treated by PMT with Rotarex catheter and enrolled in present study. Twenty-four were male (63.2%), and 14 were female (36.8%). The mean age was 66 years (range 28–83). All 38 patients were treated with PMT, with additional catheter directed thrombolysis (2/38, 5.3%), balloon angioplasty (8/38, 21.1%) and stent deployment (7/38, 18.4%). The mean procedure time was 123 ± 31 min. Seven patients (18.4%) underwent continuous renal replacement therapy. Two patients received major amputations (above the knee) and 2 patients died for renal insufficiency and heart failure during the hospital stay. Thirty-day survival rate was 94.7% and limb salvage was 94.4%. The mean follow-up time was 14.0 months (8–22 months). There was no major amputation and target artery occlusion occurred during the follow-up period.

Conclusion

PMT with Rotarex catheter could be new option for acute aorto-iliac occlusion, leading to safe and effective results.
Improving Voice Outcomes after Thyroid Surgery and Ultrasound-Guided Ablation Procedures
Authors: Pace-Asciak Pia , Russell Jon O. , Tufano Ralph P.
Published: May 2022

The field of endocrine surgery has expanded from the traditional open neck approach to include remote access techniques as well as minimally invasive approaches for benign and malignant thyroid nodules. In experienced hands and with careful patient selection, each approach is considered safe, however complications can and do exist. Post-operative dysphonia can have serious consequences to the patient by affecting quality of life and ability to function at work and in daily life. Given the significance of post-procedural dysphonia, we review the surgical and non-surgical techniques for minimizing and treating recurrent laryngeal nerve injury that can be utilized with the traditional open neck approach, remote access thyroidectomy, or minimally invasive thermal ablation.
Prediction of Post-operative Long-Term Outcome of the Motor Function by Multimodal Intraoperative Neuromonitoring With Transcranial Motor-Evoked Potential and Spinal Cord-Evoked Potential After Microsurgical Resection for Spinal Cord Tumors
Authors: Yamada Shinsuke , Kawajiri Satoshi , Arishma Hidetaka , Isozaki Makoto , Yamauchi Takahiro , Akazawa Ayumi , Kidoguchi Masamune , Kodera Toshiaki , Shibaike Yoshinori , Umeda Hideto , Tsukinowa Yu , Hagihara Ryota , Kikuta Kenichiro
Published: May 2022

Objective

To examine the effect of multimodal intraoperative neuromonitoring on the long-term outcome of motor function after microsurgical resection for spinal cord tumors.

Materials and Methods

Consecutive fourteen patients with spinal tumors who were surgically treated at the University of Fukui Hospital between 2009 and 2020 [M:F = 10:4, ages ranging from 22 to 83 years (mean ± SD = 58 ± 21 years)] were included in this study. There were eight intra-axial tumors and six extra-axial tumors. There were four patients with hypertension, two patients with diabetes mellitus, and four patients with hyperlipidemia. Three patients were under antithrombotic medication, two were under steroid medication, four were current smokers, and four were current drinkers. Manual muscle test (MMT) of the upper and lower extremities of the patients was examined before surgery, 2 weeks after surgery, and at the final follow-up. The mean follow-up period was 38 ± 37 months. McCormick scores were examined before surgery and at the final follow-up. Microsurgical resection of the tumor was underwent through the posterior approach under transcranial motor-evoked potential (TcMEP) monitoring. The MEP of 46 extremities was recorded during the surgery. Gross total resection was achieved in 13 of 14 surgeries. Spinal cord-evoked potential (Sp-SCEP) monitoring was performed in eight of 14 patients.

Results

The length of peritumoral edema was significantly longer in patients with deterioration of McCormick scores than in patients with preservation of McCormick scores (p = 0.0274). Sp-SCEP could not predict the deterioration. The ratio of MEP at the beginning of the surgery to that at the end of the surgery was the only significant negative factor that predicts deterioration of motor function of the extremity at the final follow-up (p = 0.0374, odds ratio [OR] 1.02E-05, 95% CI 9.13E+01–7.15E+18). A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis revealed that the cutoff value of the ratio of MEP to predict the deterioration at the final follow-up was 0.23 (specificity 100%, specificity 88%, positive predictive value 100%, and negative predictive value 88%) to predict deterioration at the final follow-up.

Conclusions

Ratio MEP was the most significant negative factor to predict the deterioration of motor weakness at spinal tumor surgery. The setting of the cutoff value should be more strict as compared to the brain surgery and might be different depending on the institutions.