bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Anatomical Locking Guide Plate in Treating Acetabular Transverse Posterior Wall Fracture: A Finite Element Analysis Study
Authors: Li Ming , Deng Junhao , Li Jiantao , Li Zhirui , Zhang Hao , Zhao Yanpeng , Zhang Licheng , Tang Peifu
Published: February 2021

Background: The acetabular transverse posterior wall fracture (ATPWF) is a classic type of associated acetabular fracture with an increasing prevalence worldwide. The optimal treatment for this complex facture remains a formidable challenge in orthopedics trauma. Our self-designed locking plate used to show a promising potential in treating acetabular fracture, but no direct comparison between our novel plate with traditional fixations are available.Materials and methods: The ATPWF model was constructed by the Mimics software using the volunteer’s cloud point data, and three internal devices were used to fix this model: the posterior-column locking plate with acterior-column screws (PCLP), double-column locking plates (DCLP), and the novel anatomical locking guidance plate (NALGP) with anterior-column screws and Magic screws. Then series of increasing downward vertical force (200N, 400N, and 600N) were loaded on above models. The stress distribution and peaks, and maximum displacements at two sites were assessed via a finite element analysis.Results: We found that the major stress concentrated on the middle and lower sections of the posterior plate and lag screws in all three groups after the fixation on the ATPWF. And the NAGLP with its screws stood the bigger stress under all loading force when compared with other two groups. Then the maximum displacement of three groups were evaluated, and NAGLP group were found to have less fracture fragment displacements than PCLP and comparable results to DCLP at both sites.Conclusion: Though our newly-designed plate with its screws showed larger stresses after fixation on the ATPWF, it also showed superiorities on the fracture stabilization over PCLP and comparable stability to DCLP, which might make the DCLP unnecessary for the treatment of ATPWF since DCLP would undoubtedly result in bigger surgical trauma and blood loss.
Interaction Between lncRNA SEMA3B-AS1 and CDK4 Mediated by mir-545 Regulates the Proliferation of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Sun Hao , Huo Hongjun , Hao Xiaoyan , Li Juanyun , Yuan Zishan
Published: February 2021

BackgroundAlthought lncRNA SEMA3B-AS1 was known to be involved in the development of many types of cancer, the role of SEMA3B-AS1 in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) remains unknown. This study was to investigate the role and underlying mechanism of SEMA3B-AS1 in TNBC.The mRNA expression of SEMA3B-AS1, miR-545 and CDK4 in TNBC tissues and non-cancer tissues of TNBC patients (n = 69) was detected by RT-qPCR. The protein expression of CDK4 was detected by Western blot. Cell proliferation were evaluated by CCK-8 assay.ResultsWe found that the expression of SEMA3B-AS1 was downregulated in TNBC tissues. The expression of SEMA3B-AS1 was positively correlated with the expression of miR-545 and inversely correlated with the expression of CDK4. Overexpression of SEMA3B-AS1 or miR-545 resulted in the downregulation of CDK4. Moreover, miR-545 inhibitor attenuated the effect of SEMA3B-AS1 overexpression on CDK4 expression. SEMA3B-AS1 overexpression also resulted in the upregulation of miR-545. Overexpression of SEMA3B-AS1 or miR-545 decreased the rate of TNBC cell proliferation, while overexpression of CDK4 increased the rate of TNBC cell proliferation. In addition, miR-545 inhibitor attenuated the effect of SEMA3B-AS1 overexpression on cell proliferation.Interaction between SEMA3B-AS1 and CDK4 mediated by miR-545 regulates the proliferation of TNBC cells.
Context-aware Heatstroke Relief Station Placement and Route Optimization for Large Outdoor Events
Authors: Wu Yan , Xia Tianqi , Jatowt Adam , Zhang Haoran , Feng Xiao , Shibasaki Ryosuke , Kim Kyoung-Sook
Published: February 2021

Heatstroke is becoming an increasingly serious threat to outdoor activities, especially, at the time of large events organized during summer, including Olympic Games or various types of happenings in amusement parks like Disneyland or other popular venues. The risk of heatstroke is naturally affected by a high temperature, but it is also dependent on various other contextual factors such as the presence of shaded areas along traveling routes or the distribution of relief stations. This study proposes a framework to evaluate the heatstroke risk in geographical areas by utilizing context-aware indicators which are determined by large and heterogeneous data including facilities, road networks and street view images. Based on the evaluation metric of the total heatstroke risk in the target area, we propose a Mixed Integer Nonlinear Programming model for optimizing routes of pedestrians, determining the location of relief stations and the supply volume in each relief station. Our experiments conducted on the planned site of the Tokyo Olympics and simulated during the two weeks of the Olympics schedule indicate that planning routes and setting relief stations with our proposed optimization model could effectively reduce heatstroke risk, thus letting organizers better prepare for the event.
Usefulness of 3D-printed Coplanar Puncture Template Assisted CT- guided Percutaneous Core Needle Biopsy of Small (≤20mm) Pulmonary Nodules: 3 Years of Experience
Authors: Wang Hansheng , Chen Xiao , Ren Tao , Chen Peipei , Luo Guoshi , Wang Xiao , Wei Na , Tang Yijun , Wang Meifang
Published: February 2021

Background and Objective: Computed tomography guided percutaneous lung biopsy is a commonly used method for clarifying the nature of pulmonary nodules. However, due to the existence of breathing movement, the lungs have greater mobility, and biopsy of small pulmonary nodules is difficult. In recent years, 3D-printed coplanar templates are gradually used in percutaneous biopsy of small pulmonary nodules. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the application value of 3D-printed coplanar puncture template assisted computed tomography guided percutaneous core needle biopsy of small (≤20mm) pulmonary nodules. Method: From January 2018 to January 2021 in Taihe Hospital, 210 hospitalized patients with pulmonary nodules underwent percutaneous core needle biopsy for histopathology/cytopathology diagnosis and were included in the study. All patients were randomly allocated into two groups, patients in Free-hand group underwent percutaneous core needle biopsy without 3D-printed coplanar templates, and patients in 3D-PCT group underwent percutaneous core needle biopsy with 3D-printed coplanar templates. The number of needle adjustments, number of CT scans, surgical time-consuming, diagnostic accuracy, and incidence of complications were recorded and compared between the two groups. Rapid on site evaluation was routinely used for guiding specimens’ triage. Approval for this trial was obtained from the Ethics Committee of the Taihe hospital. Result: The number of needle adjustments (1.41±0.63 vs. 2.23±0.85), the number of CT scans (3.63±0.73 vs. 4.25±0.81) and the incidence of pneumothorax (9.6% vs. 21.1%) during the procedure were significantly lower in the observation group than the control group (P< 0.05), whereas there were no significant differences in the diagnostic accuracy (95.2% vs. 94.3%) and incidence of pulmonary hemorrhage (65.4% vs. 62.3%) between the two groups (P> 0.05), however, the surgical time-consuming in 3D-PCT group is significantly more than Free-hand group.Conclusions: These findings indicated that the 3D-printed coplanar puncture template combined with CT guided percutaneous biopsy can relatively fix the target lesion, reduce the number of needle adjustments and number of CT scans, reduce iatrogenic radiation, and reduce the incidence of complications, especially pneumothorax.
Downregulation of TMEM220 Promotes Tumor Progression in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Li Ting , Guan Lei , Tang Guangbo , He Bing , Huang Lili , Wang Juan , Li Mingyue , Bai Yanxia , Li Xinyuan , Zhang Huqin
Published: February 2021

Background: In the process of long-term carcinogenesis, cells accumulate many mutations. Deregulated genes expression causes profound changes in cell proliferation, which is one of the hallmarks of HCC. Comprehensive understanding of these changes will contribute to the molecular mechanism of HCC progression. Methods: Western blot and real-time PCR analyses were performed to examine the TMEM220 expression in HCC. Patients’ transcript profiling was used to identify gene cohorts related to TMEM220. Reverse phase protein arrays (RPPA) were preformed to obtain expression data for TMEM220 relevant proteins. The effect of TMEM220 on tumor growth and metastasis were analyzed by in vitro and in vivo studies.Results: Through clinical sample analysis, we found that TMEM220 is downregulated in tumor and lower levels of TMEM220 is associated with poor prognosis in HCC patients. Through overexpressing TMEM220 in HCC cell lines, we found that the proliferation of cancer cells was significantly slowed down and metastasis was significantly reduced. For further study of its molecular mechanism, we performed Reverse Phase Protein Array (RPPA). The results suggest that phenotypic changes caused by TMEM220 in HCC cells might be associated with FOXO and PI3K-Akt pathways. Mechanism studies showed that overexpression of TMEM220 could regulate β-catenin and FOXO3 transcriptional activity by altering their subcellular localization, affecting the expression of downstream gene p21 and SNAIL, and ultimately reducing the progression of HCC. Conclusion: Altogether, our study proposes a working model in which upregulation of TMEM220 expression alters the genes expression involved in cell proliferation, thereby inhibiting HCC progression, which suggests that TMEM220 might serve as a clinical biomarker.
Photosynthetic linear electron flow drives CO2 assimilation in maize leaves
Authors: Shimakawa Ginga , Miyake Chikahiro
Published: February 2021

Photosynthetic organisms commonly develop the strategy to keep the reaction centre chlorophyll of photosystem I, P700, oxidised for preventing the generation of reactive oxygen species in excess light conditions. In photosynthesis of C4 plants, CO2 concentration is kept at higher levels around ribulose 1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (Rubisco) by the cooperation of the mesophyll and bundle sheath cells, which enables them to assimilate CO2 at higher rates and to survive under drought stress. However, the regulatory mechanism of photosynthetic electron transport for P700 oxidation is still poorly understood in C4 plants. Here we assessed gas exchange, chlorophyll fluorescence, electrochromic shift, and near infrared absorbance in the intact leaves of NADP-malic enzyme subtype of C4 plants maize in a comparison with the C3 plant field mustard. Instead of the alternative electron sink due to photorespiration, photosynthetic linear electron flow was strongly limited between photosystems I and II dependent on the proton gradient across the thylakoid membrane (ΔpH) in response to the suppression of CO2 assimilation in maize. The increase of ΔpH for P700 oxidation was caused by the regulation of proton conductance of chloroplast ATP synthase but not by promoting cyclic electron flow, which was supported by linear relationships among CO2 assimilation rate, linear electron flow, P700 oxidation, ΔpH, and the oxidation rate of ferredoxin. At the scale of intact leaves, the ratio of PSI to PSII was estimated almost 1:1 in both C3 and C4 plants. Overall, the photosynthetic electron transport was regulated for P700 oxidation in maize through the same strategies as in C3 plants only except for the capacity of photorespiration despite the structural and metabolic differences in photosynthesis between C3 and C4 plants.
Successes, surprises and pitfalls in modular polyketide synthase engineering: generation of ring-contracted stambomycins
Authors: Su Li , Hotel Laurence , Paris Cédric , Brachmann Alexander , Piel Jörn , Jacob Christophe , Aigle Bertrand , Weissman Kira
Published: February 2021

The modular organization of the type I polyketide synthases (PKSs) would seem propitious for rational engineering of desirable analogous. However, despite decades of efforts, such experiments remain largely inefficient. Here, we combined multiple, state-of-the-art approaches including modification of docking domains, use of modules of varying domain composition, alternative interdomain fusion sites, and targeted adaptation of key domain-domain interfaces, to reprogram the stambomycin PKS by deleting seven internal modules – the most substantial modification to an intact system reported to date. One such system produced the target 37-membered mini-stambomycin metabolites, a reduction in chain length of 14 carbons relative to the 51-membered parental compounds, but also substantial quantities of shunt metabolites released from the multienzyme subunit upstream of the newly-installed junction. Our data also provide evidence for an unprecedented off-loading mechanism of such stalled intermediates involving the C-terminal thioesterase domain acting on chains located four modules upstream. The yields of all metabolites were substantially reduced compared to the wild type compounds, likely reflecting the poor tolerance to the non-native substrates of the modules downstream of the introduced interfaces. Taken together, our data demonstrate that even ‘optimized’ PKS engineering strategies remain inadequate for efficient production of target polyketide derivatives, and highlight several areas for future investigation.
A Bioinspired Strategy for Directional Charge Propagation in Photoelectrochemical Devices Using Supramolecular Machinery
Authors: Bouwens Tessel , Bakker Tijmen , Hasenack Jenny , Dieperink Mees , Mathew Simon , Reek Joost
Published: February 2021

Molecular photoelectrochemical (PEC) devices are hampered by electron–hole recombination after photoinduced electron transfer (PET), causing losses in power conversion efficiency (PCE). Inspired by natural photosynthesis, we demonstrate the use of molecular machinery as a strategy to inhibit recombination, through organization of molecular components and unbinding of the final electron acceptor after reduction. We show that preorganization of the macrocyclic 3-NDI-ring electron acceptor to the PSTATION dye forming the PSTATION:3-NDI-ring pseudorotaxane, enables a “ring launching” event, upon PET from PSTATION to 3-NDI-ring releasing 3-NDI-ring•−. Implementing PSTATION:3-NDI-ring into p-type dye-sensitized solar cells (p-DSSCs) revealed a fivefold increase in PCE compared to benchmark dye P1, unable to facilitate pseudorotaxane formation. This active repulsion of anionic 3-NDI-ring•− with concomitant reformation PSTATION:3-NDI-ring circumvents recombination at semiconductor–dye interface, affording a twofold enhancement in hole lifetime. We envision this concept of supramolecular-directed charge-propagation will encourage further integration of molecular machinery into PEC devices.
The squamous cell carcinoma antigen/SERPINB3 protects cervical cancer cells from chemoradiation by preventing lysoptosis
Authors: Wang Songyan , Luke Cliff , Pak Stephen , Shi Victoria , Chen LiYun , Moore Jonathan , Andress Arlise , Yi Huang , Platik Marina , Apicelli Anthony , Schwarz Julie , Grigsby Perry , Silverman Gary , Markovina Stephanie
Published: February 2021

The endogenous lysosomal cysteine protease inhibitor SERPINB3 (squamous cell carcinoma antigen 1, SCCA1) is elevated in patients with cervical cancer and other malignancies. High serum SERPINB3 is prognostic for recurrence and death following chemoradiation therapy (CRT). Cervical cancer cells genetically lacking SERPINB3 are more sensitive to ionizing radiation (IR), suggesting this protease inhibitor plays a role in therapeutic response. Here we demonstrate that SERPINB3-deficient cells have enhanced sensitivity to IR-induced cell death. Knock out of SERPINB3 sensitizes cells to a greater extent than cisplatin, the current standard of care. IR in SERPINB3 deficient cervical carcinoma cells induces cell death morphologically consistent with necrosis, with biochemical and cellular features of lysoptosis. Moreover, rescue with wild-type SERPINB3 or a reactive site loop mutant indicates that protease inhibitory activity is required to protect cervical tumor cells from radiation-induced death. These data suggest targeting of SERPINB3 and lysoptosis to treat radioresistant cervical cancers.
Insight into dynamic magnetic properties of YMnO3/FM bilayer in a time-dependent magnetic field
Authors: Chang Chun-lu , Wang Wei , Lv Dan , Liu Zhen-yu , Tian Ming
Published: February 2021

Based on the Monte Carlo simulation, a mixed-spin (5/2, 2, 3/2) Ising model is constructed to investigate the dynamic magnetic properties of antiferromagnetic/ferromagnetic YMnO 3 /FM bilayer under the existence of a time-dependent magnetic field. The effects of exchange interaction, oscillating magnetic field as well as temperature are involved in this work. Masses of numerical results of the dynamic order parameter, susceptibility, internal energy, and blocking temperature are obtained with diverse physical parameters. Moreover, the phase diagrams and the hysteresis loops of the system are discussed in detail as well for a better understanding of the dynamic properties of the present system.
Differential Metabolism-associated Gene Expression of Duck Pancreatic Cells in Response to Two Subtypes of Duck Hepatitis A Virus Type 1
Authors: Chen Zhen , Shi Shao-hua , Huang Yu , Huang Cui-qin , Liu Rong-chang , Cheng Long-fei , Fu Guang-hua , Chen Hong-mei , Wan Chun-he , Fu Qiu-ling
Published: February 2021

Duck hepatitis A virus type 1 (DHAV-1) causes a highly contagious disease in domestic ducklings, which is traditionally characterized by lesions in the liver and rarely in the pancreas. However, several outbreaks of DHAV-1, which were characterized by yellow coloration and hemorrhage in pancreatic tissues, have occurred in China. The causative agent was named as pancreatitis-type DHAV-1. Genomic sequencing indicated variation rates of 3.4-6.5% in the genome of the pancreatitis-type DHAV-1 compared with those of the classical type DHAV-1. The antigenic relationship between the pancreatitis-type DHAV-1 and classical type DHAV-1 indicated large variation. However, the mechanism involved in infection of the pancreatitis-type DHAV-1 is still unclear. Transcriptome analysis of duck pancreas infected with classical type DHAV-1 and pancreatitis-type DHAV-1 was carried out. Following deep sequencing with Illumina-Solexa, a total of 53.9 Gb clean data were obtained from the cDNA library of the pancreas and a total of 29,597 unigenes with an average length of 993.43 bp were generated following de novo sequence assembly. The expression levels of D-3-phosphoglyceratedehydrogenase, phosphoserine aminotransferase, phosphoserine phosphatase, which are involved in glycine, serine and threonine metabolism pathway, were significantly downregulated in the pancreatitis-type DHAV-1-infected group compared with those of the classical type DHAV-1-infected group. These findings provide information regarding differential expression levels of metabolism-associated genes between pancreatitis-type DHAV-1 and classical type DHAV-1, indicating that intensive metabolism disorders may contribute to different subtypes of DHAV-1-infection.
Association of subclinical atherosclerosis with retinal vein occlusion: A prospective, case-control study
Authors: Lyu Minhyung , Lee Yonggu , Kim Byung Sik , Kim Hyun-Jin , Hong Rimkyung , Shin Yong Un , Cho Heeyoon , Shin Jeong-Hun
Published: February 2021

Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is known to be associated with atherosclerotic cardiovascular risk factors, but the association between specific markers of subclinical atherosclerosis has not been established. To investigate this association, we compared the results of cardiovascular examinations of 76 patients with RVO and 175 age- and sex-matched control subjects. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) level and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) were significantly higher in the RVO group than in the control group. Carotid plaque (54.3% vs. 28.6%, p = 0.004) was more frequent in the RVO group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the presence of carotid plaque [odds ratio (OR) 3.15, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.38–7.16, p = 0.006], as well as smoking, LDL-C level, and baPWV was associated with RVO. Additionally, a multinomial logistic regression model showed that the presence of carotid plaque (OR 3.94, 95% CI 1.65–9.41, p = 0.002) and LDL-C level were associated with branch RVO, whereas smoking and baPWV were associated with central RVO. In conclusion, RVO is associated with subclinical atherosclerosis markers, including carotid plaques and baPWV. These results support the hypothesis of a vascular etiology of RVO and suggest the evaluation of subclinical atherosclerosis in patients with RVO.
Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Derived Exosomes Protect Trabecular Meshwork from Oxidative Stress
Authors: Li Ying-chao , Zheng Juan , Wang Xi-zi , Wang Xin , Liu Wen-jing , Gao Jian-lu
Published: February 2021

This study aims to investigate potential effects of exosomes derived from bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) on trabecular meshwork cells under oxidative stress and predict candidate genes associated with this process. Trabecular meshwork cells were pretreated with BMSC-derived exosomes, and exposed to 0.1mM H2O2. Survival rate of trabecular meshwork cells was measured with CCK-8 assay. Production of iROS was measured using a flow cytometer. RT-PCR and ELISA were used to detect mRNA and protein levels of inflammatory cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). RNA sequencing for trabecular meshwork cells from Exo- and control groups was performed on BGISEQ500 + bgiseq-500 platform. Phenotypically, pretreatment of BMSC-derived exosomes improves survival rate of trabecular meshwork cells exposed to H2O2, reduces production of iROS, and inhibits expression of inflammatory cytokines, whereas increases expression of MMPs. There are 23 DEmiRNAs, 307 DElncRNAs, and 367 DEmRNAs differentially expressed between Exo- and control groups. Exosomes derived from BMSCs may protect trabecular meshwork cells from oxidative stress. Candidate genes responsible for beneficial effects ,such as DIO2 and HMOX1, such as DIO2 and HMOX1, are predicted.
A Randomized Crossover Air Purifier Intervention Study of Patients with Stable Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Liu Zhe , Wang Qin , Li Na , Xu Chunyu , Li Yunpu , Zhou Jun , Liu Liu , Zhang Haijing , Mo Yang , Xu Dongqun
Published: February 2021

Exposure to PM2.5 will accelerate the progression of cardiovascular diseases. Air purifier can reduce the PM2.5 exposure and theoretically alleviate the influence of PM2.5 on patients with stable coronary artery disease (SCAD). However, few studies of the protective effect showed significant results because the interferent effects of routine medication had not been taken into account. In order to explore the actual effect on patients with SCAD, we conducted a randomized crossover air purifier intervention trial. Levels of the subjects’ PM2.5 exposure during intervention and cardiovascular indicators (inflammation, coagulation, plaque stability, and blood lipids) after intervention were detected, meanwhile the information of drug use was obtained by questionnaire. Then the kinds of drug used by more than 20% of the subjects were sorted out. And the influence of these drugs on cardiovascular indicators was summarized through literature review. Based on that, the drug use was included as a variable in linear mixed effects models that used to analyze the associations between PM2.5 exposure reduction by air purifier and cardiovascular indicators. The result revealed that the interpretation contribution rate of drug use was more than that of PM2.5 exposure. The level of C-reactive protein (CRP) significantly decreased on lag1, lag01 and lag02, while the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) significantly increased on lag0, lag1 and lag01 associated with an interquartile range (IQR) decrease in PM2.5 exposure. The study can provide reference for future relevant research in methodology.
Predictors and Prognostic Significance of Persistent Fluid Overload: a Longitudinal Study in Chinese Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
Authors: Ng Jack Kit-Chung , Kwan Bonnie Ching-Ha , Chan Gordon Chun-Kau , Chow Kai-Ming , Pang Wing-Fai , Cheng Phyllis Mei-Shan , Leung Chi-Bon , Li Philip Kam-Tao , Szeto Cheuk-Chun
Published: February 2021

Background: Cross-sectional studies showed that fluid overload (FO) measured by bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS) predicted adverse outcomes in patients on peritoneal dialysis (PD). We describe the longitudinal change in volume status in Chinese PD patients, and determine its relation with clinical outcomes.Methods: We performed a single-center, retrospective analysis of all PD patients who underwent repeated BIS from 2010 to 2015. FO was defined by relative hydration index (RHI; volume of overhydration adjusted by extracellular water >7%). Variability of volume status (VVS) was denoted by the standard deviation of all RHI. The association of time-averaged RHI and VVS on patient and technique survival was explored by a competing risk model.Results: A total of 269 patients were followed for a median of 47.1 months. Multivariate mixed linear regression revealed that RHI was significantly associated with time-varying systolic blood pressure, and inversely with time-varying albumin level, lean tissue index and fat tissue index (P <0.0001 for all). Patients without FO at baseline, as compared with those who had FO, showed significantly more fluid accumulation with time (adjusted between-group mean difference in RHI: 3.2% per year, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.5 to 4.9%, P =0.0002). Time-averaged RHI independently predicted patient survival (subdistribution hazard ratio [SHR] 1.05, 95% CI 1.03-1.08, P <0.0001) and technique survival (SHR 1.04, 95% CI 1.01-1.06, P =0.001), whereas VVS did not.Conclusions: Persistent FO was a strong predictor of patient and technique failure. Repeated bioimpedance measurements for the monitoring of volume status provided additional prognostic information in PD patients.
Quantification of bone marrow interstitial pH and calcium concentration by intravital ratiometric imaging
Authors: Yeh Shu-Chi , Hou Jue , Wu Juwell , Camargo Fernando , Lin Charles
Published: February 2021

The fate of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) in the bone marrow can be directed by microenvironmental factors including extracellular calcium ion concentration (T h can vary significantly with bone remodeling, but the local e around individual HSCs in vivo remains unknown. Here we developed an intravital ratiometric imaging approach to quantify the absolute pH and in the mouse calvarial bone marrow, taking into account the pH sensitivity of the calcium probe and the wavelength-dependent optical loss through bone to ensure unbiased ratiometric analyses. We uncovered substantial heterogeneity in f (1.0 - 3.6 mM) surrounding steady-state HSCs. While the lowest a (0.3 mM) was found in regions dominated by bone formation, HSCs were not found in those locations. This work thus established a tool to further investigate t and pH in the HSC niche under malignant or stressed conditions and can be broadly applied to other tissue types.
Modified Superior Oblique Intrasheath Tenectomy in a-pattern With Superior Oblique Overaction  
Authors: Sun Chunhua , Wang Ze , Xia Bo
Published: February 2021

Background: To evaluate the effect of modified superior oblique intrasheath tenectomy (MSOIT) on superior oblique overaction (SOOA) with A-pattern.Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the data of 66 patients (130 eyes) with SOOA and A-pattern underwent MSOIT at the nasal border of the superior rectus under an operating microscope between January 1, 2004 and December 31, 2018.. The preoperative and postoperative SOOA, objective torsion, ocular motility, and A-pattern deviation findings were compared. The correlation between the preoperative A-pattern deviation and the corrected deviation was analysed. All patients were followed up for more than 12 months. Results: The superior oblique (SO) tendon fibres were resected, and the sheath was preserved in all patients. The average follow-up period was 33.45±29.88 (range: 12–122) months. The mean SOOA deviation improved from 2.95±0.54 to 0.34±0.55 (P < 0.001), while the A-pattern deviation difference between upgaze and downgaze improved from 23.15±7.64 prism dioptres (PD) to 3.50±2.90 PD (P < 0.001). The average objective fundus intorsion value improved from +2.96±0.58 to +0.38±0.60 (P < 0.001). The magnitude of correction in A-pattern was significantly correlated with the preoperative severity of A-pattern (r = 0.812, P<0.001).Conclusions: MSOIT at the nasal border of the superior rectus (SR) under an operating microscope is safe and yields beneficial outcomes in patients with SOOA and A-pattern.
An approach for a sustainable decision-making in product portfolio design of dairy supply chain in terms of environmental, economic and social criteria
Authors: Kirilova Elisaveta Georgieva , Vaklieva-Bancheva Natasha , Vladova Rayka , Petrova Tatyana , Ivanov Boyan , Nikolova Desislava , Dzhelil Yunzile
Published: February 2021

The production of dairy products is related to water and energy costs and generation of large amounts of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and wastewater. This has a direct bearing on the reduction of natural resources, the negative impact on the environment as well as the rise of social concerns due to increased product costs, pollution, etc. Full sustainability of this type of systems can be achieved by optimizing all activities across the chain of raw materials, through production to customers while considering all aspects of sustainability - environmental, economic and social. The study proposes a multi-objective modelling approach for optimal design of three-echelon supply chain (SC) for production of dairy products according to different recipes where all aspects of sustainability are taken into consideration. The approach was implemented on a real case study from Bulgaria. Four mix integer nonlinear programming (MINLP) optimization models were defined without and with social impact consideration. They are solved using General Algebriac Modeling System (GAMS) software. The obtained results have shown how the social impact assessment affects the obtained optimal products portfolios and profits. In these cases, varying the values of environmental constraints also affect the products portfolios and profits without affect the social costs. The stricter constraints on the environment impact leads to higher economic costs and lower profits, and conversely, high values of environmental constraints result in higher profits and lower economic costs. The obtained solutions can be used in the decision-making process to achieve social sustainability of the considered dairy supply chain.
5-Aminosalicylic acid Attenuates Paraquat-induced Lung Fibroblasts Activation and Pulmonary Fibrosis of Rats
Authors: Chen Hui , Cui Jinfeng , Wang Juan , Wang Yuan , Tong Fei , Tian Yingping , Gong Yu , Ma Yu , Liu Liang , Zhang Xianghong
Published: February 2021

Pulmonary fibrosis is one of the most common complications of paraquat (PQ) poisoning, which becomes the focus of treatment. More and more studies have found that 5-Aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) may be a prospective therapy against fibrotic diseases. In the present study, we observed whether 5-ASA could attenuate the pulmonary fibrosis in PQ-treated rats and human lung fibroblasts (WI38VA13) cells, and subsequently explored the possible underlying mechanisms. Wistar rats were divided into control group, 5-ASA group, PQ group and PQ + 5-ASA group. Rats were sacrificed on 3, 7, 14, and 28 days after PQ treatment. We observed pulmonary histopathological changes and fibrosis formation among different groups through hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson staining and TGF-β1, p-Smad3 and the peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ (PPARγ) pulmonary content via immunohistochemical staining and Western blot. In addition, human lung fibroblasts WI38VA13 were also divided into control group, PQ group, 5-ASA group and PQ + 5-ASA group. And the role of TGF-β1 signaling pathway regulated factors (TGF-β1, p-Smad3 and PPARγ) were explored. Treatment with 5-ASA significantly inhibited the PQ-induced activation of TGF-β1 signaling pathway in human lung fibroblasts WI38VA13 cells. In conclusion, the results of this study suggested that 5-ASA has potential value in the treatment of PQ-induced pulmonary fibrosis via suppressing the activation of TGF-β1 signaling pathway.
Higher risk of chronic kidney disease and progressive kidney function impairment in primary aldosteronism than in essential hypertension. Case-control study
Authors: Argüeso María Fernández , Pascual-Corrales Eider , Rojano Nuria Bengoa , Cano Ana García , Mendiguchía Lucía Jiménez , Araujo-Castro Marta
Published: February 2021

Purpose: To study the differences in the prevalence, risk, and grade of control of different cardiometabolic comorbidities in patients with primary aldosteronism (PA) and essential hypertension (EH) matched by age, sex, and blood pressure levels at diagnosis.Methods: Case-control study of a secondary base (PA patients in follow-up in a tertiary hospital between 2018-20). Controls were patients with EH, matched by age, sex, and baseline diastolic (DBP) and systolic blood pressure (SBP). Results: Fifty patients with PA and 50 controls were enrolled in the study. At diagnosis, PA patients had a higher prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) than controls (18.4% vs. 2.1%, P=0.008). No differences were detected in the prevalence of other cardiometabolic comorbidities nor in their degree of control (P>0.05). All patients received antihypertensive medical treatment and 10 PA patients underwent unilateral laparoscopic adrenalectomy.After a median follow-up of 31.9 [IQR=1.0-254.8] months, PA patients presented a greater degree of declination of kidney function than controls (Average decrease in glomerular filtration rate (MDRD-4) -17.6±3.1 vs -2.8±1.8 ml/min/1.73m2, P<0.001). There were no differences in the grade of SBP (P=0.840) and DBP control (P=0.191), nor in the risk of developing other comorbidities or in their degree of control.Conclusions: PA patients have a prevalence of CKD ten times higher than those with EH matched by age, sex, and blood pressure levels. Furthermore, the risk of kidney function impairment throughout the follow-up is significantly greater in PA patients and is independent of the degree of blood pressure control.
Modifying the Electronic and Optical Properties of Nano ZnS via Doping With Mn and Fe
Authors: Heiba Zein , Mohamed Mohamed , Shimy H. El , Badawi Ali
Published: February 2021

5% Fe and Mn-doped nano ZnS (Zn0.95A0.05S, A=Fe or Mn) was prepared using the thermolysis technique. The effect of Fe and Mn doping on the lattice parameter, crystallite size, and lattice microstrain was examined applying Rietveld refinement. The analysis showed the incorporation of Fe and Mn substitutionally for Zn ions; a result confirmed by Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy spectra from the shift in the vibration bands upon doping. The energy of ZnS band gap was reduced by doping, giving ZnS new applications. The different defects inside the different samples were investigated using photoluminescence spectroscopy. The effect of Fe/ Mn doping and incorporation of atmospheric oxygen on the bandgap characteristics, the absorption, optical conductivity, refractive index and the extinction coefficient, reflectance, the real and imaginary parts of the dielectric constant were explored using density function theory calculation (DFT).
Stepwise Implementation of a Cardiovascular Risk Management Care Program in Primary Care: A Research Article
Authors: Smits Geert , Hollander Monika , Doorn Sander van , Bots Michiel
Published: February 2021

Background: Primary care plays a pivotal role in sustainable cardiovascular risk management (CVRM) but little is known about the organizational process of implementing the guidelines. The aim of the study was to describe the approach taken by a primary care group to implement the CVRM guideline.Methods: Stepwise introduction and implementation of a programmatic CVRM care program was organized and facilitated by the care group between April 2010 and April 2012 in 143 affiliated general practices with 190 committed general practitioners (GPs), in the vicinity of Eindhoven, Netherlands. Care group support comprised sufficient staff, support with data extraction based on ICPC and ATC codes and with identification of eligible patients by scrutinizing patient health records and adequate coding of disease conditions. Results: Within 2 years, patient selection based on availability of structured information on ICPC codes and risk factor levels from the electronic health records, led to 38.082 eligible patients in 2013. October 2020, the CVRM program is still running in 157 practices with 49380 patients receiving programmatic CVRM care. Linking problems between 8 different electronic health record systems and the multidisciplinary information system for integrated care ( Care2You) delayed adequate data collection until the beginning of 2013.Conclusion: Introduction and implementation of integrated primary care for cardiovascular risk management is feasible when a number of conditions are met: commitment of affiliated GPs, adequate coding of diagnoses and risk factors, a structured approach and additional funding for sufficient staff support. This approach constitutes the basis for long-term follow up and annual evaluation.
Neonatal Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy Diagnosis and Treatment: A National Survey in China
Authors: Wang Zheng , Zhang Peng , Zhou Wenhao , Xia Shiwen , Zhou Wei , Zhou Xiaoyu , Cheng Xiuyong , Shi Yuan , Lin Zhenlang , Song Dongli , Cheng Guoqiang
Published: February 2021

Background: Neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) affects as many as 100,000 infants each year in China. Therapeutic hypothermia reduces HIE related mortality and long-term neurodevelopmental disabilities. National guidelines for HIE management were published a decade ago. This study aimed to investigate the current status of HIE diagnosis and treatment in China. Method: This prospective cross-sectional national survey used a questionnaire evaluating practices related to HIE management. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square or Fisher's exact test were used, and a p-value of <0.05 was considered significant. Results: The 273 hospitals that completed the survey were located in 31 of the 34 provincial districts in China. Eighty-eight percent of the hospitals were Level III hospitals, and 74% treated ten or more HIE cases annually. Awareness rates of the national guidelines for HIE diagnosis, HIE treatment, and therapeutic hypothermia protocol were 85%, 63%, and 78%, respectively. Neurological manifestations and blood gas were used as HIE diagnostic criteria by 96% (263/273) and 68% (186/273) of the hospitals, respectively. Therapeutic hypothermia was used in 54% (147/273) of hospitals. The percentage of general hospitals that implemented therapeutic hypothermia (43%, 71/165) was significantly lower than that in maternity and infant hospitals (67%, 49/73) (χ2=11.752, p=0.001) and children’s hospitals (77%, 27/35) (χ2=13.446, p<0.001). Reasons for not providing therapeutic hypothermia included reduction of HIE cases in recent years (39%), high cost of cooling devices and treatment (31%), lack of training (26%), and safety concerns (4%). Among the hospitals that provided therapeutic hypothermia, 27% (39/147) were in full compliance with the recommended protocol. Eighty-one percent (222/273) of the hospitals treated HIE infants with putative neuroprotective agents alone or in combination with cooling. Ninety-one percent of the hospitals had long-term neurodevelopmental follow-up programs for infants with HIE. Conclusions: There is significant heterogeneity in HIE diagnosis and treatment in China. Therapeutic hypothermia has not become a standard of care for neonatal HIE nationwide. Unproven agents are widely used for HIE treatment. Nationwide standardization of HIE management and dissemination of therapeutic hypothermia represent the opportunities to reduce mortality and improve long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes of children affected by HIE.
Opioid Use Disorder Treatment Disruptions during the COVID-19 Pandemic and Other Disasters: A Scoping Review Addressing Dual Public Health Emergencies
Authors: Henderson Rita , McInnes Ashley , Mackey Leslee , Head Myles Bruised , Crowshoe Lynden (Lindsay) , Hann Jessica , Hayward Jake , Holroyd Brian , Lang Eddy , Larson Bonnie , Leonard Ashley Jane , Persaud Steven , Raghavji Khalil , Sarin Chris , Virani Hakique , Wadsworth Iskotoahka (William) , Whitman Stacey , McLane Patrick
Published: February 2021

Background: During public health emergencies, disruptions to social landscapes and amplification of inequities for people with opioid use disorder raise important questions about reducing harms and providing treatment accountability to support this population during disasters including COVID-19. This research aims to a) identify how disasters impact persons with opioid use disorder (OUD) and their access to healthcare, with specific attention to COVID-19, and b) inform ongoing responses to the pandemic and future disaster-mitigation plans related to healthcare disruptions affecting persons with opioid use disorder (PWOUD). Methods: We conducted knowledge synthesis based on a 6-stage scoping review framework methodology. Stakeholder consultation was completed using a Nominal Group Technique with two groups, each composed of including providers in primary, emergency and community-based care. One group (n=7) represented voices from urban services, and the other (n=4) Indigenous contexts allowing for attention to healing the whole person, beyond OAT. Results: 61 scientific journal articles and 72 grey literature resources were included after full-text screening. Stakeholder NGT process revealed three contextual factors affecting system and service accountability for responsive OUD care during disaster-driven disruptions: (1) disasters focus attention on single risks and generalized solutions; (2) data-poor decision-making perpetuates stigma and produces policy inattentive to social determinants of health; and (3) harm reduction and contextually-tailored care prepare a system for future disasters. Conclusion: COVID-19 public health efforts require a coordinated systemic approach to serving PWOUD, based on accountability to patients and support for providers.
3D Sub-Nanometer Analysis of Glucose in an Aqueous Solution by Cryo-Atom Probe Tomography
Authors: Schwarz Tim , Dietrich Carolin , Ott Jonas , Weikum Eric , Lawitzki Robert , Solodenko Helena , Hadjixenophontos Efi , Gault Baptiste , Kästner Johannes , Schmitz Guido , Stender Patrick
Published: February 2021

Atom Probe Tomography (APT) is currently a well-established technique to analyse the composition of solid materials including metals, semiconductors and ceramics with up to near-atomic resolution. Using an aqueous glucose solution, we now extended the technique to frozen solutions. While the mass signals of the common glucose fragments CxHy and CxOyHz overlap with (H2O)nH from water, we achieved stoichiometrically correct values via signal deconvolution. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations were performed to investigate the stability of the detected pyranose fragments. This paper demonstrates APT’s capabilities to achieve sub-nanometre resolution in tracing whole glucose molecules in a frozen solution by using cryogenic workflows. We use a solution of defined concentration to investigate the chemical and spatial resolution capabilities as a step toward the measurement of biological molecules in solution in 3D with sub-nanometre resolution by using cryo-APT. Our analyses take analytical techniques to a new level, since chemical characterization methods for cryogenically-frozen solutions or biological materials are limited.
The Incidence, Risk Factors, Predictors, and Prognoses of Cytomegalovirus Reactivation in Immunocompetent Mechanical Ventilation Patients: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Zhang Zhihui , Liu Xuesong , Sang Ling , Chen Sibei , Wu Zhan , Zhang Jierong , Sun Yining , Xu Yonghao , He Weiqun , Li Yimin , Liu Xiaoqing
Published: February 2021

Background: Cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation can seriously affect the clinical prognoses of critically ill patients. However, the epidemiology and predictors of CMV in immunocompetent patients with mechanical ventilation are not very clear. Methods: A single-center, prospective observational study (conducted from June 30, 2017 to July 01, 2018) with a follow-up of 90 days (September 29, 2018) that included 71 CMV-seropositive immunocompetent patients with mechanical ventilation at a 37-bed university hospital general intensive care unit (ICU) in China. Routine detection of CMV DNAemia was performed once a week until 28 days (Day1, 7, 14, 21, 28) and serology, laboratory findings, and clinical data were obtained at admission.Results: Among 71 patients, 13 (18.3%) showed CMV reactivation within ICU 28-day admission. The median time to reactivation was 7 days. CMV reactivation was related to various factors, including body weight, body mass index (BMI), sepsis, NT-proBNP, BUN, and Hb levels (P< 0.05). In the multivariate regression model, BMI, Hb level, and sepsis were associated with CMV reactivation patients (P< 0.05). Moreover, the area under the curve (AUC) of BMI, Hb and BMI combined Hb was 0.69, 0.70, 0.76, respectively. The rate of complications, duration of mechanical ventilation, hospitalization expense, length of ICU stay, and 90-day all-cause mortality rate in patients with CMV reactivation was significantly higher than in those without CMV reactivation (P< 0.05).Conclusions: Among immunocompetent patients with mechanical ventilation, the incidence of CMV reactivation was high. CMV reactivation can lead to various adverse prognoses. BMI, Hb, and sepsis were independent risk factors for CMV reactivation. BMI and Hb may predict CMV reactivation.
Cryopreservation of Iranian Markhoz Goat Fibroblast Cells as an Endangered National Genetic Resource
Authors: Gorji Zahra Elyasi , Farzaneh Parvaneh , Nasimian Ahmad , Ganjibakhsh Meysam , Izadpanah Mehrnaz , Farghadan Maryam , Vakhshiteh Faezeh , Rahmati Hedieh , Fazeli Seyed Abolhassan Shahzadeh , Khaledi Hamidreza , Amoli Abdolreza Daneshvar
Published: February 2021

The sustainable use of local animals is being eroded annually. Thus, a strategic vision for the conservation of biodiversity is of far-reaching emphasis to deal with unprecedented challenges in the local population growth process facing in the future. This study aimed to establish, characterize and cryopreserve endangered Markhoz goat (Capra hircus) fibroblast cell lines in vitro. These primary fibroblast cells were isolated from 58 Iranian Markhoz goats and individually cultured by explant technique in DMEM media supplemented with 10 % FBS. The cultured cell lines were morphologically consistent with fibroblast cells. The population doubling time for DMEM-cultured cells were 23±0.5 h. Chromosomal analysis indicated a total chromosome number of 2n = 60 with >95% frequency. Experimental assays for bacteria, fungi, yeast, and mycoplasma were reported negative. The efficiencies of VSV-G (pMDG) and lentiviral pCSGW vectors encoding fluorescent proteins showed an approximate value of 65%. Species identification for each sample was performed and confirmed correct goat cell banking without any miss- and cross-contamination. This study demonstrated the successful establishment of genetically stable fibroblast bank as a valuable genetic resource for endangered Iranian Markhoz goat breed.