bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conservation genetics of a wide-ranged temperate snake: same species, different locations, and different behaviour
Authors: vacher jean-pierre , Graitson Eric , Cauwenbergh Julie , Ursenbacher Sylvain
Published: February 2021

Even though reptiles are threatened worldwide, few studies address their conservation, especially snakes. The goal of our study was to measure the genetic structure of a widely distributed temperate reptile, the smooth snake Coronella austriaca using eight microsatellite markers in two different areas at the core (Alsace, north-eastern France) and at the edge (Wallonia, southern Belgium) of its range. We sampled 506 individuals in 38 localities (respectively 10 and 28). Analysis of genetic structure conducted with a clustering method detected three clusters in Alsace, one group gathering all populations but two. In Wallonia, differentiation was observed on both sides of the Meuse river and in the Southern Ardenne region (southernmost sampling sites). Spatial autocorrelation analysis showed that individuals share parental relationship up to a distance of 2.8 km in Alsace and up to 10 km in Wallonia. Isolation by distance was detected in Wallonia but the distance explained a very limited part of the differentiation (r = 0.033), whereas no isolation-by-distance pattern was detected in Alsace. Even though genetic differentiation between populations separated by large rivers, highways, or crop fields was detected, dispersal between populations seem currently sufficient to avoid any kind of genetic drift in both regions. These results are strongly contrasting with a previous study in England, suggesting sharp local variation of genetic structuring and diversification between location within the same species, probably related to the position in the distribution area and different densities.
Patient's Perceived Empathy Can Predict Doctor-patient Relationship in Medical Interaction
Authors: Han Caixia , Wu Qing , Liu Chenchen , Wang Pei
Published: February 2021

Objective To explore the relationship among patient perception of doctors' empathy, doctor-patient communication, and doctor-patient relationship.Methods From November 2019 to April 2020, we used the CARE scale, the SEGUE framework and the PDRQ-15 scale to survey 3,039 patients from 14 provinces in China, ranging in age from 18 to 92 years old.Results 1. The age of the patient, the level and type of hospital, the length of consultation, and the presence or absence of verbal and physical conflict have significant differences in the scores of perceived empathy; 2. There was a significantly positive correlation among patient's perceived empathy, doctor-patient communication, and the doctor-patient relationship (r = 0.65 ~ 0.75, p < 0.001). 3. The patient's perception of doctor empathy can not only directly predict doctor-patient relationship (β = 0.75, p < 0.001), but also influence doctor-patient relationship through the mediating effect of doctor-patient communication (β = 0.56, p < 0.001). Besides, the scores of CARE can effectively explain the variation of each stage of doctor-patient communication skills (R2 = 0.28 ~ 0.37) and the satisfaction (52%) and approachability (54%) of the doctor-patient relationship scale.Conclusion The age of the patient, the type and level of the hospital, and the consultation time affected perceived empathy. Doctor-patient communication plays a partial mediating effect in the influence of empathy on the doctor-patient relationship.Practice implications: Medical institutes should improve the medical environment and carry out humanistic education and patient-centered communication skills training for doctors. These approaches will enhance patients' perceived empathy and therefore improve the doctor-patient relationship.
Colors and dyes of archaeological textiles from Tarapacá in the Atacama Desert (South Central Andes)
Authors: Sepulveda Marcela , Urzúa Cecilia Lemp , Vega José Cárcamo- , Gónzalez Edgar Casanova- , Rojas Miguel Ángel Maynez- , Gutiérrez Sebatian , Ballester Benjamin , Sil José Luis Rulvacaba-
Published: February 2021

This work concerns the study of colors and dyes identified on archaeological textiles from the Atacama Desert. The different garments and ornaments come from the excavation of two important pre-Columbian cemeteries of the Tarapacá region: Tarapacá-40 attributed to the Formative period (1100 BC - 660 AD) and Pica-8 to the Late Intermediate period (900 - 1450 AD). For the first time, a multi-analytical approach with non-invasive techniques using Fiber Optics Reflectance Spectroscopy (FORS), Attenuated Total Reflection Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) and Surface-enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) were applied on samples of less than 2 cm of length for physicochemical characterization of the raw materials and the dyes employed in the textile production of northern Chile. The fibers are from animal origin. Blue, green, and yellow are identified as indigo, but we cannot discard a mixture with other dyes to vary hue and shade; while carminic acid and alizarin - to a lesser extent - are found on red, orange and brown samples. This research provides new elements for the discussion about the textile technology developed in this desertic region, its changes and continuities along with the history. Our results are compared to recent findings on neighbouring regions from northern Chile, to improve the current knowledge and discuss the existence of dyeing textile cultural traditions.
Mesenchymal Stem Cell Mediated Immune Modulation Is Donor Sex Specific
Authors: Mckinnirey Flyn , Herbert Benjamin , Vesey Graham , McCracken Sharon
Published: February 2021

Mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) are currently being used in clinical trials as proposed treatments for a large range of genetic, immunological, orthopaedic, cardiovascular, endocrine and neurological disorders. MSCs are potent anti-inflammatory mediators which are considered immune evasive and employ a large range of secreted vesicles to communicate and repair damaged tissue. Despite their prolific use in therapy, sex specific mechanism of action is rarely considered as a potential confounding factor for use.The purpose of this study was to examine the potency and functionality of both female and male adipose derived MSCs in order to gain further insights into donor selection. Using functional immune assays, ELISA, multiplex and immunophenotyping we showed female MSCs (fMSC), consistently suppressed Peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) proliferation significantly (p<0.0001) more than male MSC (mMSC). In co-culture mPBMCs, showed 60.7+/-15.6% suppression with fMSCs compared with 22.5+/-13.6% suppression with mMSCs. Similarly, fPBMCs were suppressed by 67.9+/-10.4% with fMSCs compared to 29.4+/-9.3% with mMSCs. The enhanced immunosuppression of fMSCs was attributed to the production of higher concentrations of the anti-inflammatory IL-1RA (1025 pg/ml vs 701 pg/ml), PGE-2 (6142pg/ml vs 2448 pg/ml), IDO (3301pg/ml vs 1699pg/ml) and prolonged expression of VCAM-1 post activation relative to mMSCs. In contrast, mMSCs produces more inflammatory G-CSF than fMSCs (806pg/mL vs 503 pg/mL). Moreover, fMSCs, but not mMSCs induced downregulation of the IL-2 receptor and sustained expression of the early T cell activation marker, CD69 in PBMCs further highlighting the differences in immunomodulation potentials between the sexes. In conclusion, our data shows that female MSC are more potent in vitro than their male counterparts. The inability of male MSC to match female MSC driven immunomodulation and to use the inflammatory microenvironment to their advantage is evident and is likely a red flag when using allogeneic male MSC as a therapeutic for disease states.
Gain-of-Function NH787 Ethylmethanesulfonate Mutant of Nagina22 Rice Variety Confers Augmented PUE
Authors: Yugandhar Poli , Veronica Nallamothu , Ai Hao , Goud Muddapuram Deeksha , Wang Xiaowen , Subrahmanyam Desiraju , Satendra Mangrauthia , Ajay Jain
Published: February 2021

Rice (Oryza sativa L.), a major dietary source, is often cultivated in soils poor in available inorganic orthophosphate (Pi), which is a pivotal nutrient for growth and development. Poor soils are amended by phosphorus (P) fertilizer, which is derived from the non-renewable rock phosphate reserves. Therefore, there is a need for developing rice varieties with high productivity under low P conditions. At the ICAR-IIRR, ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS) mutagenized rice genotype Nagina22 (N22) were screened for high grain yield in Pi-deprived soil, which led to the identification of ~10 gain-of-function mutants including NH787. Here, detailed comparative morphophysiological, biochemical, and molecular analyses of N22 and NH787 were carried out in hydroponics and potting soil under different Pi regimes. Under Pi-deprived conditions, compared with N22, NH787 exhibited higher root and vegetative biomass, the number of tillers, and grain yield. The augmented agronomic traits of NH787 were corroborated with significantly higher photosynthetic rate, pollen fertility, stigma receptivity, and the activities of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT). Further, several genes involved in the maintenance of Pi homeostasis (GPH) were differentially regulated. The study thus revealed a wide-spectrum influence of the mutation in NH787 that contributed towards its higher Pi use efficiency.
Genetic Association of ERAP1 and ERAP2 With Eclampsia and Preeclampsia in Northeastern Brazilian Women
Authors: FERREIRA LEONARDO CAPISTRANO , GOMES CARLOS EDUARDO MAIA , DUGGAL PRIYA , HOLANDA INGRID DE PAULA , DE LIMA AMANDA SAMARA , NASCIMENTO PAULO RICARDO PORFÍRIO DO , JERONIMO SELMA MARIA BEZERRA
Published: February 2021

The clinical spectrum of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) is determined by the interplay between environmental and genetic factors, most of which remains unknown. ERAP1, ERAP2 and LNPEP genes code for multifunctional aminopeptidases involved with antigen processing and degradation of small peptides such as angiotensin II (Ang II), vasopressin and oxytocin. We aimed to test for associations between genetic variants in aminopeptidases and HDP. A total of 1282 pregnant women (normotensive controls, n=693; preeclampsia, n=342; chronic hypertension with superimposed preeclampsia, n=61; eclampsia, n=74; and HELLP syndrome, n=112) were genotyped for variants in LNPEP (rs27300, rs38034, rs2303138), ERAP1 (rs27044, rs30187) and ERAP2 (rs2549796 rs2927609 rs11135484). We also evaluated the effect of ERAP1 rs30187 on plasma Ang II levels in an additional cohort of 65 pregnant women. The genotype C/C, in ERAP1 rs30187 variant (c.1583T>C, p.Lys528Arg), was associated with increased risk of eclampsia (OR=1.85, p=0.019) whereas ERAP2 haplotype rs2549796(C)-rs2927609(C)-rs11135484(G) was associated with preeclampsia (OR=1.96, corrected p-value=0.01). Ang II plasma levels did not differ across rs30187 genotypic groups (p=0.895). In conclusion, ERAP1 gene is associated with eclampsia whereas ERAP2 is associated with preeclampsia, although the mechanism by which genetic variants in ERAPs influence the risk of preeclampsia and eclampsia remain to be elucidated.
Occurrence and Potentially Zoonotic Genotypes of Enterocytozoon Bieneusi in Wild Rhesus Macaques (Macaca Mulatta) Living in Nanwan Monkey Island, Hainan, China: A Public Health Concern
Authors: Zhao Wei , Zhou Huan-Huan , Ren Guang-Xu , Qiang Yu , Huang Hui-Cong , Lu Gang , Tan Feng
Published: February 2021

Background

Enterocytozoon bieneusi, a microsporidian species, is a zoonotic pathogen found in both humans and animals. Here, we determined the prevalence, explored the different genotypes of E. bieneusi in wild rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) (Hainan Island of China), and assessed their zoonotic potential.
Methods

We collected 173 fecal specimens from wild M. mulatta living in Nanwan Monkey Island, Hainan, China. Subsequently, we identified and genotyped E. bieneusi using nested PCR analysis amplification of the internal transcribed spacer region (ITS) of the rRNA gene. Lastly, a neighbor-joining tree was built based on gene sequences from the ITS region of E. bieneusi.
Results

Of the 173 specimens from wild M. mulatta, 26 (15%) were infected with E. bieneusi. We identified six genotypes of E. bieneusi, of which five were known: PigEBITS7 (n = 20), D (n = 2), Type IV (n = 1), Peru6 (n = 1), Henan-III (n = 1), and a novel genotype: HNM-IX (n = 1). From the phylogenetic analysis, the six genotypes identified here were all categorized into zoonotic group 1.
Conclusion

Based on the results taht the novel genotype falling under zoonotic group 1 and all the known genotypes found in humans, we conclude that the wild M. mulatta infected with E. bieneusi have a public health significance.
Effect of Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Goal Achievement on Vascular Physiology Evaluated by Quantitative Flow Ratio in Patients Underwent Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Chen Long , Zhong Jiaxin , Ye Zhen , Chen Qin , Ye Mingfang , Yan Yuanming , Luo Yukun
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The change in coronary physiology from lipid-lowing therapy(LLT)lacks an appropriate examination method. Quantitative flow ratio (QFR) is a novel angiography-based method allowing fast assessment of coronary physiology. This study sought to determine the impact of the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) goal achievement on coronary physiology through QFR.
Methods

Patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and one-year angiographic follow-up were screened and computed by QFR analysis. According to the LDL-C level at one-year follow-up, patients were divided into two groups:1) goal-achievement group (LDL-C < 1.8 mmol/l or reduction of ≥ 50%, n = 146, lesion = 165); 2) non-achievement group (n = 286, lesion = 331). All QFR data and major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) at one year were compared between groups.
Results

No differences between the groups were found in quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) data and QFR at post-PCI. At one-year follow-up, lower percentage diameter stenosis (DS %) and percentage area stenosis (AS %) were recorded in goal-achievement group (27.89 ± 10.16 vs. 30.93 ± 12.03, p = 0.010, 36.57 ± 16.12 vs. 41.68 ± 17.39, p = 0.003, respectively). Meanwhile, a higher QFR was found in goal-achieved patients (0.96 ± 0.05 vs. 0.94 ± 0.09, p = 0.005). Furthermore, goal-achievement group had a lower incidence of physiological restenosis and MACCEs (2.1% vs. 8.4%, p = 0.018, 5.4 % vs. 12.6 %, p = 0.021, respectively).
Conclusions

Evaluated by QFR, patients who achieved the LDL-C goal seem to have a better coronary physiological benefit. Meanwhile, this group of patients is presented a better clinical outcome.
“Double X” Fixation for Rare and Particular Pediatric Supracondylar Humerus Fractures
Authors: Burnei Gheorghe , Răducan Ionut Daniel , Enache Florin-Daniel , Dărăban Adriana Maria , Avram Cecilia Roberta , Burnei Cristian
Published: February 2021

Background Context. The presence of special, rare and various forms which we can encounter when treating supracondylar humeral fractures (SHF) in children, call into question what therapeutic methods can be used to increase the effectiveness of the treatment applied. The aim of this paper is to present the results obtained by using double cross-fixation, "in double X", by closed reduction and percutaneous pinning (CRPP) or open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) in treating rare and particular forms. Comments and opinions on "double X" method and other cross or side configurations are presented. Patient Sample. All patients with rare and particular forms presented in this article, were operated during 2001–2020 in state and private hospitals. Fixation in "double X" was used either by CRPP and ORIF. The epitrochlear approach (EA) was performed in cases where stability by CRPP could not be ensured or when there were clear signs of ulnar nerve damage. The minimal medial-approach (mMA) highlights the epitrochlea and the fracture of the medial pylon; it has the role of anatomically reducing the medial pylon, thinner and very unstable in rare and particular forms. During 1982–2020 we consulted, treated and evaluated patients with SHF to whom all known treatment methods were applied: orthopedic reduction and immobilization in plaster cast, CRPP, ORIF, minimal-open reduction and internal fixation (mORIF) by mMA and external fixator. Internal fixation was done by the techniques of Judet, San Antonio, San Diego, Dorgan, in “X” and “double X”. In 2001, I introduced "double X" fixation to better stabilize anatomical reductions that showed signs of instability during intraoperative verification. All indications given in the study protocol have been made in accordance with the regulations mentioned in the experimental program. Results. All SHFs operated by CRPP and ORIF by “double X” were cured and satisfactory and good results were obtained in the neglected types operated between 14 and 60 days and good and excellent results were obtained in the rare forms. Conclusions. “Double X” fixation gives the best stabilization and postoperatively there is no need for immobilization in a plaster cast. Recovery may begin the day after surgery.
Phosphorylation of β1-integrin in juxtaglomerular cells helps control blood pressure during the progression of diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Saito Nobumichi , Kondo Masumi , Ono Moe , Kaneyama Noriko , Abe Makiko , Sawada Kaichiro , Moriya Hitomi , Kimura Moritsugu , Toyoda Masao , Fukagawa Masafumi
Published: February 2021

The induction of a high blood pressure due to diabetic nephropathy depends on the increase in renin secretion from juxtaglomerular cells, but many aspects of how juxtaglomerular cells sense blood pressure changes in the afferent arteriole and consequently react remain unclear. In this study, we detected the juxtaglomerular cell-specific phosphorylation of the threonine-788/789 site of β1-integrin, and its expression was negatively correlated with renin production. This relationship was also observed in a culture system of a juxtaglomerular cell line, suggesting that β1-integrin is deeply involved in the regulation of renin production. The knockdown of β1-integrin in the culture system increased renin production, but the degree of the increase was comparable to the increase in renin production by knockdown of connexin-40, which is considered to be an important molecule that plays a role in the pressure sensing mechanism of juxtaglomerular cells. This suggests that the mechanism underlying the regulation of renin production by β1-integrin in juxtaglomerular cells may contribute to the pressure-sensing function of juxtaglomerular cells themselves. Threonine-788/789 phosphorylation of β1-integrin may be involved in the regulation of this pressoreceptor function. (176 words)
The Influence of Widow Size on Remote Sensing-Based Prediction of Forest Structural Variables
Authors: ÖZKAN Ulaş Yunus , Demirel Tufan
Published: February 2021

Background: Determining the appropriate window size is a critical step for estimating stand structural variables based on remote sensing data. Because the value of the reference laser and image metrics that affect the quality of the prediction model depends on window size. However, suitable window sizes are usually determined by trial and error. There are a limited number of published studies evaluating appropriate window sizes for different remote sensing data. This research investigated the effect of window size on predicting forest structural variables using airborne LiDAR data, digital aerial image and WorldView-3 satellite image.Results: In the WorldView-3 and digital aerial image, significant differences were observed in the prediction accuracies of the structural variables according to different window sizes. For the estimation based on WorldView-3 in black pine stands, the optimal window sizes for stem number (N), volume (V), basal area (BA) and mean height (H) were determined as 1000 m2, 100 m2, 100 m2 and 600 m2, respectively. In oak stands, the R2 values of each moving window size were almost identical for N and BA. The optimal window size was 400 m2 for V and 600 m2 for H. For the estimation based on aerial image in black pine stands, the 800 m2 window size is optimal for N and H, the 600 m2 window size is optimal for V and the 1000 m2 window size is optimal for BA. In the oak stands, the optimal window sizes for N, V, BA and H were determined as 1000 m2, 100 m2, 100 m2 and 600 m2, respectively. The optimal window sizes may need to be scaled up or down to match the stand canopy components. In the LiDAR data, the R2 values of each window size were almost identical for all variables of the black pine and the oak stands.Conclusion: This study illustrated that the window size has an effect on the prediction accuracy in estimating forest structural variables based on remote sensing data. Moreover, the results showed that the optimal window size for forest structural variables varies according to remote sensing data and tree species composition.
A Free-standing Nanoporous NiCoFeMoMn High Entropy Alloy as An Efficient Electrocatalyst Fast Driving Water Splittling
Authors: Liu Hao , Qin Hongye , Kang Jianli , Ma Liying , Chen Guoxin , Huang Qin , Zhang Zhijia , Liu Enzuo , Lu Huanming , Zhao Naiqin
Published: February 2021

The development of low-cost non-noble metal-based electrocatalysts that can work stably at high current densities for the application of Hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in electrolyzed water is paramount crucial. Herein, we report a free-standing nanoporous high entropy alloy foil as dual-functional electrocatalyst via a combination of one-step dealloying and polarization, which exhibits excellent electrocatalytic activity in alkaline electrolyte with an extremely small overpotential of 150 mV at 1000 mA cm-2 for HER and a low Tafel slope of 29 mV dec-1 in 1 M KOH solution; At the same current density, the overpotential of OER is only 350 mV. The alkaline electrolyzer using it as both anode and cathode only need a cell voltage of 1.47 V to output a stable current density of 10 mA cm-2, enabling it as an efficient bifunctional electrocatalyst for alkaline overall water splitting, and remarkably better stability for more than 375 hours of continuous hydrogen production while providing substantial material cost savings relative to platinum. DFT calculations indicate that the ultrahigh HER activity of catalyst is originated from the synergetic eﬀect of optimized hydrogen adsorption in the segregation area and enhanced H2O adsorption in the un-segregation area produced by spinodal decomposition.
Hurdles to Developing and Scaling Remote Patients’ Health Management Tools & Systems: A Scoping Review
Authors: Ryobeza Barimwotubiri , Grobbelaar Sara , Botha Adele
Published: February 2021

Background: Despite all the excitement and hype generated regarding the expected transformative impact of digital technology on the healthcare industry, traditional healthcare systems around world have largely remained unchanged and resultant improvements in developed countries are slower than anticipated. One area which was expected to significantly improve the quality of and access to primary healthcare services in particular, is remote patient monitoring and management. Based on a combination of rapid advances in body sensors and information and communication technologies (ICT), it was hoped that remote patient management tools and systems (RPMTSs) would significantly reduce the care burden on traditional healthcare systems as well as health related costs. However, the uptake or adoption of above systems has been extremely slow and their roll out has not yet properly taken off especially in developing countries where they ought to have made the greatest positive impact. Aim: The aim of the study was to assess whether or not recent, relevant literature would support the development of in-community, design, deployment and implementation framework based on three factors thought to be important drivers and levers of RPMTS’s adoption and scalability. Methods: A rapid, scoping review conducted on relevant articles obtained from PubMed, MEDLINE, PMC and Cochrance databases and grey literature on google and published between 2012 and May 2020, by combining a number of relevant search terms and phrases. Results: Most RPMTSs are targeted at and focused on a single disease, do not extensively involve patients and clinicians in their early planning and design phases, are not designed to best serve a specific catchment area and are mainly directed at post-hospital, diseases management settings. This may be leading to a situation where patients, potential patients and clinicians simply do not make use of these tools, leading to low adoption and scalability thereof. Conclusion: The development of a user-centered, context dependent, customizable design and deployment framework could potentially increase the adoption and scalability of RPMTSs, if such framework addressed a combination of diseases, prevalent in a given specific catchment area, especially in developing countries with limited financial resources.
Post-Annealing Effect on Optical and Electronic Properties of Thermally Evaporated MoOX Thin Films as Hole-Selective Contacts for p-Si Solar Cells
Authors: Jiang Yuanwei , Cao Shuangying , Lu Linfeng , Du Guanlin , Lin Yinyue , Wang Jilei , Yang Liyou , Zhu Wenqing , Li Dongdong
Published: February 2021

Owing to its large work function, MoOX has been widely used for hole-selective contact in both thin film and crystalline silicon solar cells. In this work, thermally evaporated MoOX films are employed on the rear sides of p-type crystalline silicon (p-Si) solar cells, where the optical and electronic properties of the MoOX films as well as the corresponding device performances are investigated as a function of post-annealing treatment. The MoOX film annealed at 100oC shows the highest work function and proves the best hole selectivity based on the results of energy band simulation and contact resistivity measurements. The full rear p-Si/MoOX/Ag contacted solar cells demonstrate the best performance with an efficiency of 19.19%, which is the result of the combined influence of MoOX’s hole selectivity and passivation ability.
Thrombospondin-2 Holds Prognostic Values and is Associated with the Metastasis and Mismatch Repair Process in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Chu Xiao-dong , Lin Zheng-bin , Huang Ting , Ding Hui , Zhang Yi-ran , Zhao Zhan , Huangfu Shu-chen , Qiu Sheng-hui , Guo Yan-guan , Chu Xiao-li , Pan Jing-hua , Pan Yun-long
Published: February 2021

Background: The study aims to investigate the expression level of Thrombospondin 2 (TSP2) in Gastric Cancer (GC) and determine the relationship between TSP2 and clinical characteristics and prognosis.Methods: The online database Gene Expression Profile Interactive Analysis (GEPIA) was used to analyze the mRNA expression level of TSP2 in GC. The Kaplan-Meier plotter prognostic analysis tool was used to evaluate the influence of TSP2 expression on clinical prognosis in GC patients. The expression level of TSP2 was analyzed in paraffin-embedded GC samples and adjacent normal tissues by immunohistochemistry. The relationship between clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of GC patients. Next, the relationship between clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of GC patients was assessed. Transwell experiment was used to evaluate the effect of TSP2 on the invasion and migration of HGC27 and AGS cells.Results: Compared with normal tissues, the expression of TSP2 mRNA in GC was significantly up-regulated, and it was closely related to the clinical stage of GC. The high expression of TSP2 significantly affected the OS, FP and PPS of patients with GC. Among them, the expression level of TSP2 did not affect the prognosis of patients with GC in N0 subgroup, but significantly affected the prognosis of patients with GC in N (1+2+3)subgroup. The protein expression level of TSP2 in GC tissue was significantly higher than in normal tissues (P<0.01). The overall survival (OS) rate of patients with high TSP2 expression was lower than the low TSP2 expression group (P=0.013). Knockdown of TSP2 can significantly inhibit the growth of GC cells. Proliferation, migration, invasion ability, and TSP2 expression level significantly correlate with mismatch repair genes such as PMS2, MSH6, MSH2, and MLH1 (P<0.05).Conclusion: The expression of TSP2 in GC is significantly increased, closely related to the metastasis and mismatch repair process of GC patients and affected GC patients' prognosis. It is a potential marker and treatment target for the prognosis of GC patients.
Curcubinoyl-conjugated flavonoids from methyl jasmonate-treated wild ginseng adventitious root cultures
Authors: Liu Qing , Kim Seon Beom , Jo Yang Hee , Ahn Jong Hoon , Turk Ayman , Kim Da Eun , Chang Bo Yoon , Kim Sung Yeon , Jeong Cheol-Seung , Hwang Bang Yeon , Park So-Young , Lee Mi Kyeong
Published: February 2021

Wild ginseng (Panax ginseng) adventitious root cultures were prepared by elicitation using methyl jasmonate and investigated further to find new secondary metabolites. Chromatographic fractionation of wild ginseng adventitious root cultures led to the isolation of eleven compounds. The chemical structures of isolated compounds were identified as four known flavanone derivatives (1–4), one new curcubinoyl derivative, jasmogin A (5) and six new curcubinoyl-flavanone conjugates, jasmoflagins A-F (6–11) by extensive spectroscopic analysis. Newly isolated curcubinoyl derivatives showed inhibitory activity against lipopolysaccharide-stimulated nitric oxide production in RAW 264.7 macrophages. Curcubinoyl moiety is structurally similar with methyl jasmonate, which was used as an elicitor. Therefore, our present study suggested that elicitor might increase the content of active constituents and also contribute to the production of new metabolites by participation as precursors in biosynthesis. Taken together, plant cell cultures are useful not only for efficient production of active compounds but also development of new secondary metabolites.
64Cu-PSMA-BCH: A New Radiotracer for Delayed PET Imaging of Prostate Cancer
Authors: Liu Teli , Liu Chen , Zhang Zhongyi , Zhang Ning , Guo Xiaoyi , Xia Lei , Jiang Jinquan , Xie Qing , Yan Kun , Rowe Steven P. , Zhu Hua , Yang Zhi
Published: February 2021

PurposeDevelop a 64Cu labeled radiopharmaceutical targeting prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA) and investigate its application for prostate cancer imaging. Methods64Cu-PSMA-BCH was prepared and investigated for stability, PSMA specificity and micro-PET imaging. With the approval of Ethics Committee of Beijing Cancer Hospital (No. 2017KT97), PET/CT imaging in 4 patients with suspected prostate cancer was performed and the radiation dosimetry was estimated. Then, PSMA PET-ultrasound image-guided biopsies were performed on 3 patients and the fine needle aspirates were further performed for autoradiography and immunohistochemistry analysis. Results64Cu-PSMA-BCH was prepared with high radiochemical yield and stability. In vivo study showed higher uptake in PSMA (+) 22Rv1 cells than PSMA (-) PC-3 cells (5.59±0.36 and 1.97±0.22 IA%/106 cells at 1 h). It accumulated in 22Rv1 tumor with increasing radioactivity uptake and T/N ratios from 1 h to 24 h post-injection. In patients with suspected prostate cancer, SUVmax and T/N ratios increased within 24 h post-injection. Compared with image at 1 h post-injection, more tumor lesions were detected at 4 h and 24 h post-injection. The human organ radiation dosimetry showed gallbladder wall was most critical, liver and kidneys were followed, and the whole-body effective dose was 0.0292 mSv/MBq. Two fine needle aspirates obtained by PET-ultrasound guided targeted biopsy showed high radioactive signal by autoradiography, with 100% PSMA expression in cytoplasm and 30% expression in nucleus. Conclusion64Cu-PSMA-BCH was PSMA specific and showed high stability in vivo with lower uptake in liver than 64Cu-PSMA-617. Biodistribution in mice and PCa patients showed similar profile compared with other PSMA ligands and it was safe with moderate effective dosimetry. The increased tumor uptake and T/N ratios by delayed imaging may facilitate the detection of small lesions and guiding targeted biopsies.
WITHDRAWN: The Effect of Iodine-131 Beta-particles in Combination With A-966492 and Topotecan on Radio-sensitization of Glioblastoma
Authors: Koosha Fereshteh , Eynali Samira , Eyvazzadeh Nazila
Published: February 2021

Glioblastoma tumors are resistant to radiotherapy, and the need for drugs to induce radio-sensitization in tumor cells has always been a challenge. Besides, radiotherapy using targeted radionuclide is effective even for resistant tumors. Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) and topoisomerase I enzymes have critical roles in the repairmen of DNA damage in cells. Thus, the inhibition of the activity of these enzymes can prevent the process of DNA repair and lead to the accumulation of damaged DNA in cells, resulting in the induction of cell death in tumors. In the current study, we investigated the effect of beta-particles of iodine-131 in combination with Topotecan (TPT), as the inhibitor of topoisomerase I, and A-966492, as the inhibitor of the PARP enzyme to increase radio-sensitivity of glioblastoma cells.The U87MG cell line (a human glioblastoma cell line) were cultured in Poly-Hema-coated flasks to reach 300μm-diameter spheroids. Then, the cells were treated with non-toxic concentrations of A-966492 and TPT. The viability of the cells treated with iodine131 in combination with A-966492 and TPT was determined by the clonogenic assay. The expression level of the gamma-H2AX protein, as a biomarker of DNA double-strand breaks, was measured by the immunofluorescence staining method to examine the impact of A-966492 (1μM), TPT, and radiation on the induction cell death.The combination of A-966492 and TPT with radiation resulted in the enhanced cell death, and sensitizer enhancement ratios at 50% survival (SER50) were 1.25 and 1.45, respectively. Radio- and chemo-sensitization were promoted when iodine-131 was combined with A-966492 and TPT, with the SER50 of 1.68. Also, the expression of γ-H2AX was significantly increased in cells treated with A-966492 and TPT combined with radiation.The results demonstrated that iodine-131, in combination with A-966492 and TPT, had marked effects on radio-sensitizing and can be used as a targeted radionuclide for targeting radiotherapy in combination with PARP and topoisomerase I inhibitors to improve radiotherapy in clinics.
Enhancement of Photocatalytic Degradation of MB by Recyclable Li/Mn3O4 Thin films.
Authors: Amara M. A. , Larbi T. , Mahdhi N. , saadallah Faycel , Amlouk M.
Published: February 2021

Thin films of physical--mixture of Hausmannite Mn3O4 and lithium (Li) are synthesized by spray pyrolysis technique. Structural, morphological, optical, electrical, wettability and photocatalytic properties have been investigated. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectra, Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images and electrical measurements show that Li nanoparticles are formed both on top surface of the film and inside grain boundaries. Bandgap and Urbach energies and optical relaxation time have been determined from transmittance T and reflectance R spectra. Impedance spectroscopy shows that charge separation increases with Li content, which improves photocatalytic efficiency of the film. The best photocatalytic efficiency is obtained for Li/Mn ratio of 15%. Indeed, the degradation of methylene blue (MB) under ultraviolet (UV) and visible light exposure, is improved by a factor of 5.7 and 2.4 respectively, when compared to undoped Mn3O4. In addition, this film exhibits a high photostability (10 cycles consecutively) under solar light. On the other hand, hydrophobicity reveals the hydrophilic character of the films.
Study on the Key Technology of Electrochemical Machining Flow Field in Aero-Rotor Blades
Authors: Huang Liang , Cao Yan , Tian Chunlei , Zhao Ruochen , Du Jiang , Wang Yuanfei
Published: February 2021

With the rapid development of aerospace industry in recent years, the use of aero-rotor engine blades with new special alloy materials and high distortion and thin-walled structure has been paid more and more attention. Aiming at the problems of poor tool accessibility, serious tool loss and easy deformation of blade profile in NC milling technology, electrochemical machining can realize the processing of complex special structure products with advanced materials by means of non-contact electrochemical etching process. However, in the process of electrochemical etching, the flow channel structure of electrochemical machining affects the stability of the distribution of electrochemical etching characteristics in various parts of the machining surface and ultimately acts on the forming quality by controlling the liquid phase mass transfer process in the machining gap. Therefore, reasonable design and optimization of the flow channel is of great significance in the process of electrochemical machining. In this paper, based on the existing traditional vertical single-axis feed machining mode and combined with the traditional side flow processing blade flow characteristics, innovatively proposed two kinds of electrolyte flow schemes under the vertical machining mode; Then, based on the above two flow channel structures and the energy loss characteristics of viscous fluid during liquid phase mass transfer, a mathematical model of liquid phase mass transfer flow field is established, which combines the viscosity loss characteristics of electrolyte, and by introducing a optimized flow channel structure that combined with the characteristics of positive flow and side flow and adjusting the parameters of electrolyte inlet / outlet, the optimal design channel structure and uniform flow field of aero-rotor blades are realized. Finally, the accuracy and rationality of the proposed scheme are verified by electrochemical machining verification test, which lays a research foundation and guarantee for the feasibility and accuracy of vertical electrochemical machining machine tool in aero-rotor blades.
Thrombus Aspiration Reduces Contrast Volume in ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction Patients with High Thrombus Burden
Authors: Chen Bao-Feng , Tang Liang-Qiu , Liang Min-Lie , Deng Yun
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUD Due to the emergency nature of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), the estimation of the risk of contrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) is always limited and the hydration prior to primary percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) is difficult. Minimizing contrast volume (CV) might be the most desirable option for preventing the incidence of CIN in these patients. The improvement of myocardial perfusion due to thrombus aspiration (TA) may be accompanied by a reduction in CV.OBJECTIVES This study aimed to determine the effect of TA prior to angioplasty on CV in patients with STEMI.METHODS Consecutive 380 STEMI patients undergoing primary PCI with high thrombus burden (HTB) were randomly assigned to receive either TA before primary PCI (TA group, n = 190) or primary PCI alone (control group, n = 190). Serum creatinine was detected at the time of admission, and 48 and 72 hours after primary PCI.RESULTS Baseline characteristic were well matched. Although the CV in TA group was significantly lower than that in control group (71.5 ± 15.7 mL vs. 82.3 ± 17.5 mL, p = 0.000), the incidence of CIN was comparable (9.5% vs. 13.3%, p = 0.249). During hospitalization, no significant differences between groups was observed in major bleeding, urgent dialysis, stroke, reoperation after 72 hours, death after 72 hours and total incidence of adverse clinical events.CONCLUSIONS The study demonstrated that TA reduces CV but not CIN or adverse clinical events during hospitalization in STEMI patients undergoing primary PCI with HTB.
Triggering Factors Associated With a New Episode of Recurrent Acute Anterior Uveitis
Authors: Neti Nutnicha , Pimsri Anchisa , Boonsopon Sutasinee , Tesavibul Nattaporn , Choopong Pitipol
Published: February 2021

To identify triggering factors for the next inflammatory episode of recurrent acute anterior uveitis (RAAU), a 1:1 case-control study was conducted. Patients with recent acute anterior uveitis and matched controls were interviewed using Srithanya Stress Test (ST-5) and questionnaires about potential triggering factors. Asymptomatic controls were matched for age (±5 years), sex, and HLA-B27. There were 39 pairs of cases and controls. Within 1-month before the interview, patients who recently experienced a uveitis attack demonstrated higher mean ST-5 scores (3.7±2.9 vs 0.7±1.1) and shorter sleep time (6.3±1.4 vs 7.4±0.7) compared with their controls. In the multivariate conditional logistic regression analysis, ST-5 score ≥3 (OR 9.17; 95%CI 1.15-72.84, p=0.036) and sleep time <7 hours per day (OR 11.57; 95% CI 1.42-94.55, p=0.022) were more likely to trigger a uveitis attack in RAAU accounted for age, sex, and HLA-B27 positivity of the patients. Other suspected triggering factors were not found to have any significant association. In short, emotional stress and inadequate sleep are the major triggering factors that lead to the future episode of acute anterior uveitis in RAAU. Both physical and emotional stress management may be helpful to minimize recurrences and further complications.
The impact of atrial fibrillation on one-year mortality in patients with severe lower extremity arterial disease
Authors: Su Min-I , Liu Cheng-Wei
Published: February 2021

Backgroundand Aims: Atrial fibrillation (Afib) is associated with the incidence of lower extremity arterial disease (LEAD), but its effect on severe LEAD prognosis remains unclear. We investigated the association between Afib and clinical outcomes.Methods and ResultsWe retrospectively enrolled consecutive severe LEAD patients receiving percutaneous transluminal angioplasty between 2013/1/1 and 2018/12/31. Patients were divided by a history of any type of Afib and followed for at least one year. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality. Secondary outcomes were cardiac-related mortality, major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), and major adverse limb events (MALEs). The study included 222 patients aged 74 ± 11 years (54% male), and 12.6% had acute limb ischemia. The Afib group had significantly higher rates of all-cause mortality (42.9% vs. 20.1%, P = 0.014) and MACEs (32.1% vs. 14.4%, P = 0.028) than the non-Afib group. After adjustment for confounders, Afib was independently associated with all-cause mortality (adjusted HR: 2.153, 95% CI: 1.084–4.276, P = 0.029) and MACEs (adjusted HR: 2.338, 95% CI: 1.054–2.188, P = 0.037).ConclusionsAfib was significantly associated with increased risks of one-year all-cause mortality and MACEs in severe LEAD patients. Future studies should investigate whether oral anticoagulants benefit these patients.
Identification of analytical singularity in non-plasmonic nano-sensing system
Authors: Zhou Yanyan , Zhang Haixi
Published: February 2021

Nanosensors based on small particles are essential in the advancement of countless areas involving biomedical and fundamental physics. While the Clausius-Mossoti relation reveals the natural advantage of plasmonic nanoparticles as a singularity-generating device with the possibility of achieving ultra-high sensitivity, practical issues such as metallic losses and sensor configuration often preclude them from being considered as the ideal nanosensor. Non-plasmonic, or dielectric nanoparticles, though have distinct advantage in small material loss and design flexibility, cannot have a pole in the Clausius-Mossoti relation. Here, we demonstrate how such limitation on dipolar resonance of a dielectric nanoparticle can be fundamentally overturned if the nanoparticle is placed in an assisting dielectric cavity. Using the pseudo-orthonormal eigenmode method (POEM), we pinpoint the singularity of such non-plasmonic system in the complex frequency plane. The framework of the study provides not only analysis of the underlying physics, but also generates a set of guidelines to facilitate the device optimization in the real world. For numerical simulation, we use finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method to demonstrate giant sensitivity of the structure when it operates around the pole.
Investigating the power of eyes open resting state EEG for assisting in dementia diagnosisComputing
Authors: Jennings Jack , Peraza Luis R , Baker Mark , Alter Kai , Taylor John-Paul , Bauer Roman
Published: February 2021

Introduction: The differentiation of Lewy body dementia from other common dementia types clinically is difficult, with a considerable number of cases only being found post-mortem. Consequently, there is a clear need for inexpensive and accurate diagnostic approaches for clinical use. Electroencephalography (EEG) is one potential candidate due to its relatively low cost and non-invasive nature. Previous studies examining the use of EEG as a dementia diagnostic have focussed on the eyes closed (EC) resting state; however, eyes open (EO) EEG may also be a useful adjunct to quantitative analysis due to clinical availability.Methods: We extracted spectral properties from EEG signals recorded under research study protocols (1024 Hz sampling rate, 10:5 EEG layout). The data stems from a total of 40 dementia patients with an average age of 74.42, 75.81 and 73.88 years for Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB) and Parkinson’s disease dementia (PDD) respectively and 15 healthy controls (HC) with an average age of 76.93 years. We utilised k-nearest neighbour, support vector machine and logistic regression machine learning to differentiate between groups utilising spectral data from the delta, theta, high theta, alpha and beta EEG bands. Results: We found that the combination of EC and EO resting state EEG data significantly increased inter-group classification accuracy compared to methods not using EO data. Secondly, we observed a distinct increase in the dominant frequency variance for HC between the EO and EC state, which was not observed within any dementia subgroup. For inter-group classification we achieved a specificity of 0.87 and sensitivity of 0.92 for HC vs Dementia classification and 0.75 specificity and 0.91 sensitivity for AD vs DLB classification, with a k nearest neighbour machine learning model which outperformed other machine learning methods. Conclusions: The findings of our study indicate that the combination of both EC and EO quantitative EEG features improves overall classification accuracy when classifying dementia types in older age adults. In addition, we demonstrate that healthy controls display a definite change in dominant frequency variance between the EC and EO state. In future, a validation cohort should be utilised to further solidify these findings.