bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of the Tropical Response to Periodic Extratropical Thermal Forcing
Authors: Shin Yechul , Kang Sarah M. , Takahashi Ken , Stuecker Malte F. , Hwang Yen-Ting , Kim Doyeon
Published: May 2021

This study examines the temporal evolution of the extratropically forced tropical response in an idealized aquaplanet model under equinox condition. We apply a surface thermal forcing in the northern extratropics that oscillates periodically in time. It is shown that tropical precipitation is unaltered by sufficiently high-frequency extratropical forcing. This sensitivity to the extratropical forcing periodicity arises from the critical time required for sea surface temperature (SST) adjustment. Low-frequency extratropical forcing grants sufficient time for atmospheric transient eddies to diffuse moist static energy to perturb the mid-latitude SSTs outside the forcing region, as demonstrated by a one-dimensional energy balance model with a fixed diffusivity. As the transient eddies weaken in the subtropics, a further equatorward advection is accomplished by the Hadley circulation. The essential role of Hadley cell advection in connecting the subtropical signal to the equatorial region is supported by an idealized thermodynamical-advective model. Associated with the SST changes in the tropics is a meridional shift of the Intertropical Convergence Zone. Since the time needed for SST adjustment increases with increasing mixed layer depth, the critical forcing period at which the extratropical forcing can affect the tropics scales linearly with the mixed layer depth. Our results highlight the important role of decadal-and-longer extratropical climate variability in shaping the tropical climate system. We also raise the possibility that the transient behavior of a tropical response forced by extratropical variability may be strongly dependent on cloud radiative effects.
Long-Lived Mesoscale Convective Systems over Eastern South Africa
Authors: Morake D. M. , Blamey R. C. , Reason C. J. C.
Published: May 2021

A climatology of large, long-lived mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) over eastern South Africa for the extended austral summer (September–April) from 1985 to 2008 is presented. On average, 63 MCSs occur here in summer, but with considerable interannual variability in frequency. The systems mainly occur between November and March, with a December peak. This seasonal cycle in MCS activity is shown to coincide with favorable CAPE and vertical shear profiles across the domain. Most systems tend to occur along the eastern escarpment and adjacent warm waters of the northern Agulhas Current with a nocturnal life cycle. Typically, initiation begins in the early afternoon, MCS status is reached midafternoon, maximum extent early in the night, and termination around midnight or shortly thereafter. It is found that most MCSs initiate over land, but systems that initiate over the ocean tend to last longer than those that develop over land. The results also show that there are differences in the seasonal cycle between continental and oceanic MCSs, with oceanic systems containing two intraseasonal peaks (December and April). There is a relatively strong positive relationship between the southern annular mode (SAM) and early summer MCS frequency. For the late summer, the frequency of MCSs appears related to the strength of the Mascarene high and Mozambique Channel trough, which modulate the inflow of moisture into eastern South Africa and the stability of the lower atmosphere over the region.
Effect of multi-walled carbon nanotubes with different diameters on morphology and thermal and mechanical properties of flexible polyurethane foams
Authors: Yang Fukai , Xie Miao , Yudi Zhang , Xu Xinyu
Published: May 2021

We report flexible polyurethane foams (PUFs) containing –OH functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with different diameters (10–20 nm, 20–30 nm, >50 nm) from 0.1–0.6 wt% (per 100 resins of polyol by weight) prepared via in situ polymerization. After synthesis, the morphology of the MWCNT/PUF composites was observed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) based on MWCNT amount. The MWCNTs acted as nucleating agents and increased the matrix viscosity. The pore size of the composites decreased and the number of pores increased with increasing MWCNT concentration. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) showed that the storage modulus of the composites increased, the loss modulus decreased, and the Tg gradually decreased with increasing MWCNT content. The incorporation of MWCNTs induced remarkable thermal stabilization of the matrix. The increase in the degradation temperature from 294°C to 304°C resulted in a 50% weight loss. The mechanical properties of the MWCNT/PUF materials increased with increasing MWCNT proportion because of the excellent compatibility and strong interface interaction between the MWCNT and flexible PUF.
Real-world effectiveness and tolerability of Zelesse cream® for treating vulvovaginitis in adult women: an observational, prospective study
Authors: Masero Ana Rosa , Frutos Luís Manuel San , Vizcaíno Ernesto , Palma María , Velasco-Ortega Syra , Nieto Concepción
Published: May 2021

Objective

To assess the efficacy, acceptability, and tolerability of a vaginal cream based on plant extracts for treating signs and symptoms of vulvovaginitis (VV) (Zelesse cream®), either as monotherapy (non-infectious VV) or adjuvant to antimicrobial therapy (infectious VV).

Methods

This prospective, observational, multicenter study included women who attended outpatient offices for VV. The severity of signs (vaginal discharge, erythema, and edema) and symptoms (pruritus, burning, and dysuria) was assessed before and after 15±5 days of daily treatment with Zelesse cream on a 4-point scale (18-point global score).

Results

The study included 58 women aged 43.0±13.2 years, including 42 who were treated with Zelesse cream only and 16 who used Zelesse cream as adjuvant to antimicrobial therapy. All participants showed significantly reduced scores and absolute prevalence of individual signs and symptoms in both groups. Similarly, the median signs/symptoms decreased by 4.0 and 8.0 points in women using Zelesse only and those using Zelesse plus antimicrobial therapy, respectively. This product was well tolerated and had high acceptability.

Conclusions

Zelesse cream relieves signs and symptoms of VV, either as monotherapy in non-infectious VV or as adjuvant to antimicrobial therapy in infectious VV. Future randomized, placebo-controlled trials with larger sample sizes are warranted.
Limited Technology Access Among Residents of Affordable Senior Housing During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Ellison-Barnes Alejandra , Moran Alyssa , Linton Sabriya , Chaubal Manotri , Missler Michelle , Evan Pollack Craig
Published: May 2021

While U.S. adults living in affordable senior housing represent a vulnerable population during the COVID-19 pandemic, affordable housing may provide a foundation for interventions designed to improve technology access to support health. To better understand technology access among residents of affordable senior housing, we surveyed members of a national association of resident service coordinators to assess their experiences working with residents during the pandemic ( n = 1,440). While nearly all service coordinators report that most or all residents have reliable phone access, under a quarter report that most or all have reliable internet access; they also report limited access to technology for video calls. Lack of internet access and technology literacy are perceived as barriers to medical visits and food procurement for low-income older adult residents of affordable housing. Policies to expand internet access as well as training and support to enable use of online services are required to overcome these barriers.
Children’s Peritraumatic Responses During Sexual Abuse Incidents: Exploring the Narratives of Children From Different Ethnoreligious Groups in Israel
Authors: Klebanov Bella , Katz Carmit
Published: May 2021

The peritraumatic response of children during incidents of child sexual abuse (CSA) is a neglected construct in the literature. Despite the widespread use of the fight-flight-freeze model, recent studies have shown that in the unique context of child abuse, additional peritraumatic responses could be relevant. The current mixed-methods study examined children’s peritraumatic responses to CSA. The sample consisted of 249 forensic interviews with children aged from 4 to 13 years. An initial qualitative analysis resulted in identifying various ways in which the children responded to the abuse, the children’s decision-making around these responses, as well their perceptions of their response. This analysis was followed by quantitative analyses, which explored the frequency of these peritraumatic responses and their correlation with the characteristics of the children and abuse. Six peritraumatic response categories were identified, the most common being fight, flight, and fear. Only ethnoreligious identity was significantly correlated with the fight-or-flight response, with a significantly lower frequency among Muslim and ultra-Orthodox Jewish children. Frequency of abuse and perpetrator familiarity were correlated with the frequency of the fight-or-flight response, indicating that the latter was less relevant in reoccurring incidents of abuse and with perpetrators who were family members. The findings promote the conceptualization of children’s peritraumatic responses during incidents of abuse and the realization of the crucial role of children’s ecological systems in their peritraumatic responses to incidents of abuse.
Study of plate vibrating in fluids having part-through crack at random angles and locations
Authors: Ikram Ruqia , Israr Asif
Published: May 2021

This study presents the vibration characteristics of plate with part-through crack at random angles and locations in fluid. An experimental setup was designed and a series of tests were performed for plates submerged in fluid having cracks at selected angles and locations. However, it was not possible to study these characteristics for all possible crack angles and crack locations throughout the plate dimensions at any fluid level. Therefore, an analytical study is also carried out for plate having horizontal cracks submerged in fluid by adding the influence of crack angle and crack location. The effect of crack angle is incorporated into plate equation by adding bending and twisting moments, and in-plane forces that are applied due to antisymmetric loading, while the influence of crack location is also added in terms of compliance coefficients. Galerkin’s method is applied to get time dependent modal coordinate system. The method of multiple scales is used to find the frequency response and peak amplitude of submerged cracked plate. The analytical model is validated from literature for the horizontally cracked plate submerged in fluid as according to the best of the authors’ knowledge, literature lacks in results for plate with crack at random angle and location in the presence of fluid following validation with experimental results. The combined effect of crack angle, crack location and fluid on the natural frequencies and peak amplitude are investigated in detail. Phenomenon of bending hardening or softening is also observed for different boundary conditions using nonlinear frequency response curves.
Factors Influencing Technology Transfer in Companies at Emerging Economies
Authors: Dubickis Mikus , Gaile-Sarkane Elīna
Published: May 2021

One of the ways how to catch up with developed countries is through innovation. Companies can develop innovation in-house, but it has been determined that a more efficient approach is to acquire new knowledge and technology from external parties. In the meantime, relatively few companies choose to cooperate, therefore the aim of this research is to identify the key factors that need to be addressed in order to facilitate new knowledge and technology acquisition. In a systematic literature review, the scientific literature on technology transfer has been analysed, which determines an existing lack of holistic approach on the different impact of factors. Therefore, in this article, through the analysis of different sources, the innovation and technology transfer affecting factors have been summarised. The empirical research is based on a survey of sixty-five companies that hypothetically work with the technology transfer. Besides, an interrelationship analysis of the technology acquisition affecting factors was carried out. The research results indicate that acquisition of new knowledge and technology is closely linked with the internal research and development (R&D) work and presence in a foreign market, as well as indirectly with the fact whether the company is a part of a group. In the final of the article, the acquired results and their implications have been explained.
Corporate Governance in the Hospitality and Tourism Industry: Theoretical Foundations and Future Research
Authors: Li Yuan , Singal Manisha
Published: May 2021

Although the importance of effective corporate governance for firm performance is recognized by scholars across hospitality and tourism (HT) as well as finance and general management fields, there seem to be several gaps, mixed findings, and conflicting results. To facilitate scholarly advancement, identify gaps in the current knowledge base, make suggestions for theory development, and provide direction for future research, we undertake a systematic review of research on corporate governance in the HT literature. Based on 120 peer-reviewed articles published since 1961, we identify 21 themes explored by scholars, and find that topics related to institutional ownership, determinants of executive compensation, board size, and merger and acquisition outcomes are commonly examined, whereas topics related to family ownership, debt, and regulation/law are seldom explored. Our comprehensive review contributes to the literature by synthesizing current knowledge and offering suggestions to scholars to extend corporate governance literature published in the HT field.
Racism and silencing in the media in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: MacDonald Liana , Ormond Adreanne
Published: May 2021

Racism in the Aotearoa New Zealand media is the subject of scholarly debate that examines how Māori (Indigenous Peoples of New Zealand) are broadcast in a negative and demeaning light. Literature demonstrates evolving understandings of how the industry places Pākehā (New Zealanders primarily of European descent) interests at the heart of broadcasting. We offer new insights by arguing that the media industry propagates a racial discourse of silencing that sustains widespread ignorance of the ways that Pākehā sensibilities mediate society. We draw attention to a silencing discourse through one televised story in 2018. On-screen interactions reproduce and safeguard a harmonious narrative of settler–Indigenous relations that support ignorance and denial of the structuring force of colonisation, and the Television Code of Broadcasting Practice upholds colour-blind perceptions of discrimination and injustice through liberal rhetoric. These processes ensure that the media industry is complicit in racism and the ongoing oppression of Indigenous peoples.
Simulated Lamb wave propagation method for nondestructive monitoring of matrix cracking in laminated composites
Authors: Mardanshahi A , Shokrieh MM , Kazemirad S
Published: May 2021

The estimation of the damping coefficient may help to improve the damage detection in composite materials. The purpose of this study was to develop the simulated Lamb wave propagation method for nondestructive monitoring of matrix cracking in laminated composites via the accurate estimation of their damping coefficient. Cross-ply composite specimens with different crack densities were fabricated and tested by the Lamb wave propagation technique. The phase velocity of the Lamb wave and the damping coefficient of the specimens were measured. The finite element models were developed at micro-scale (representative volume elements) and macro-scale (laminated specimens) levels to simulate the Lamb wave propagation in composite specimens. An optimization process was performed through the model updating procedure to achieve finite element models that were in good agreement with experiments. The phase velocity and damping coefficient, obtained from the updated FE models for two crack densities other than those used in the model updating procedure, were successfully examined by experimental results. It was also revealed that the damping coefficient and the rate of increase in the damping coefficient in terms of the crack density were higher for the composite laminates with a higher number of 90° layers. The damping of the fiber–matrix interphase and crack regions were considered in the model and shown as a significant contribution to the overall damping of the composite specimens. The proposed simulated Lamb wave propagation method can be used as a virtual lab for in-situ monitoring of laminated composites with different material properties, stacking sequences, and crack densities.
Solving the multi-level location routing problem considering the environmental impact using a hybrid metaheuristic
Authors: Theeraviriya Chalermchat , Ruamboon Kitchanut , Praseeratasang Nat
Published: May 2021

The multi-level location routing problem (MLLRP) is an extension of the capacitated location routing problem (CLRP). MLLRPs are considered a class of combinatorial optimization problems that arise in transportation applications, such as agricultural logistic planning. Along with concerns regarding the environmental harmfulness, recent studies have considered “green” logistics. This paper addressed a low environmental impact model for MLLRP by considering characteristics, emissions, and traffic congestion that have not appeared in the recent literature. The mathematical model was formulated to deal with a reverse flow problem, which was a real case that occurs in Thailand agriculture. We developed a hybrid metaheuristic algorithm to solve the MLLRP by integrating a variable neighborhood search (VNS) with an adaptive large neighborhood search (ALNS). The experimental results shown that the hybrid algorithm had clear advantages in the time consumption and quality of the solution. The extended study indicated that the proposed algorithm obtained competitive results compared with the previously published methods. The proposed practice is useful not only for the agricultural industry but also for other industries.
Airway management in a patient with an intratracheal tumor near the carina by a two-stage operation
Authors: Oh Chaerim , Kim Hyun Joo
Published: May 2021

In patients with intratracheal tumors, airway management while maintaining oxygenation and providing surgical access to the airway can be challenging. Here, we present a case of a two-stage operation to remove an intratracheal tumor causing partial obstruction near the carina. In the otorhinolaryngology department, a biopsy was performed during apnea under high-flow nasal oxygenation support. A few days later, a thoracic surgeon performed tracheal resection after sternotomy under general anesthesia. Mechanical ventilation was performed by inserting a sterile endotracheal tube in the resected distal part of the trachea in the surgical field for tracheal end-to-end anastomosis. Airway was successfully secured through close communication between teams of anesthesiologists and surgeons.
Who set the narrative? Assessing the influence of Chinese global media on news coverage of COVID-19 in 30 African countries
Authors: Madrid-Morales Dani
Published: May 2021

The size of China’s State-owned media’s operations in Africa has grown significantly since the early 2000s. Previous research on the impact of increased Sino-African mediated engagements has been inconclusive. Some researchers hold that public opinion toward China in African nations has been improving because of the increased media presence. Others argue that the impact is rather limited, particularly when it comes to affecting how African media cover China-related stories. This article contributes to this debate by exploring the extent to which news media in 30 African countries relied on Chinese news sources to cover China and the COVID-19 outbreak during the first-half of 2020. By computationally analyzing a corpus of 500,000 written news stories, this paper shows that, compared to other major global players (e.g. Reuters, AFP), content distributed by Chinese media (e.g. Xinhua, China Daily) is much less likely to be used by African news organizations, both in English and French speaking countries. The analysis also reveals a gap in the prevailing themes in Chinese and African media’s coverage of the pandemic. The implications of these findings for the sub-field of Sino-African media relations, and the study of global news flows are discussed.
Concordant Ventriculoarterial Connections With Abnormally Related Arterial Trunks (Anatomically Corrected Malposition) Associated With Right Ventricular Outflow Tract Obstruction by Accessory Valvar Tissue
Authors: Kandachar Pranav Subbaraya , Maddali Madan Mohan , Kindi Hamood Al , Kindi Faiza al , Valliattu John
Published: May 2021

Anatomically corrected malposition of the great arteries is a rare conotruncal anomaly that is often confused with congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries. This case report describes the successful surgical management of an adolescent with severe right ventricular outflow obstruction caused by accessory tricuspid valve tissue in the presence of situs inversus with atrioventricular and ventriculoarterial concordance with malposed great arteries (anatomically corrected malposition) {I,L,D}.
The impact of foreign public evaluations of the US Presidents on the favorability toward the country
Authors: Kim Eun Bin , Oh Jinhwan
Published: May 2021

This study examines how international publics’ evaluations of US Presidents affect the favorability of their views of the US. More specifically, it investigates the impact of the US Presidents George W. Bush, Barak Obama and Donald Trump on attitudes toward the US in 32 nations. It analyzes the data from Pew Research Center’s Global Indicators Database on opinions of the US and confidence in the US President from 2002 to 2018. The analysis reveals a significant relationship between confidence in the US Presidents and favorable attitudes toward the US among foreign publics. The paper further discusses the implications of global evaluations of US Presidents for US public diplomacy.
Diagnostic utility of GeneXpert MTB/RIF assay versus conventional methods for diagnosis of pulmonary and extra-pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Elbrolosy Asmaa Mohammed , El Helbawy Rana H. , Mansour Osama M. , Latif Reda Abdel
Published: May 2021

Background

Tuberculosis (T.B) is one of the major infectious diseases in the developing countries. The diagnosis of extrapulmonary T.B (EPTB) remains problematic and emergence of resistant strains poses a significant threat. Improved diagnosis of tuberculosis is a global priority for proper control. The study aimed to assess the diagnostic accuracy of GeneXpert MTB/RIF assay for diagnosis of pulmonary TB (PTB) and EPTB and to evaluate the performance of GeneXpert system for demonstrating rifampicin resistance among the studied patients.

Methods

A total of 582 clinical samples (449 pulmonary; 430 sputum and 19 bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and 133 extra-pulmonary origins; 26 pleural fluid, 62 CSF, 19 ascetic fluid, 12 pus and 14 urine) were collected from patients under clinical and radiological assessment of either PTB or EPTB who were admitted to Menoufia Chest Hospital over a period of three years. Clinical samples were processed and investigated for detection ofMycobacterium tuberculosis(MTB) by both Xpert assay and the conventional methods including Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN)/acid-fast bacillus (AFB) smear microscopy and Lowenstein-Jensen (LJ) culture. Patients′ demographic, clinical characteristics and risk factors for acquiring rifampicin resistance were analyzed.

Results

The sensitivity, specificity, false- negative rate and total accuracy of AFB smear microscopy respectively were 72.1 %, 81.3 %, 27.9 and 78.8 % for PTB. However for EPTB, they were 63.2 %, 70.5 %, 36.8 and 68.4 % respectively in relation to LJ culture as the gold standard. GeneXpert MTB/RIF revealed better performance for PTB than EPTB. For PTB, it showed 90.2 % sensitivity, 86.9 % specificity, and 9.8 % false- negative rate. For EPTB, the assay showed a sensitivity of 81.6 %, specificity of 78.9 % and false- negative rate of 18.5 %. Multivariate regression analysis showed that presence of EPTB and contacts with known TB cases were independent risk factors for developing rifampicin resistance.

Conclusions

GeneXpert MTB/RIF assay is a rapid and highly sensitive technique for diagnosis of PTB or EPTB. Its simplicity and accuracy make this new method a very impressive tool for diagnosis of MTB and rifampicin resistance.
Combining transposon mutagenesis and reporter genes to identify novel regulators of the topA promoter in Streptomyces
Authors: Gongerowska-Jac Martyna , Szafran Marcin Jan , Jakimowicz Dagmara
Published: May 2021

Background

Identifying the regulatory factors that control transcriptional activity is a major challenge of gene expression studies. Here, we describe the application of a novel approach for in vivo identification of regulatory proteins that may directly or indirectly control the transcription of a promoter of interest in Streptomyces.

Results

A method based on the combination of Tn5 minitransposon-driven random mutagenesis and lux reporter genes was applied for the first time for the Streptomyces genus. As a proof of concept, we studied the topA supercoiling-sensitive promoter, whose activity is dependent on unknown regulatory factors. We found that the sco4804 gene product positively influences topA transcription in S. coelicolor, demonstrating SCO4804 as a novel player in the control of chromosome topology in these bacteria.

Conclusions

Our approach allows the identification of novel Streptomyces regulators that may be critical for the regulation of gene expression in these antibiotic-producing bacteria.
Risk of cardiovascular mortality, stroke and coronary heart mortality associated with aircraft noise around Congonhas airport, São Paulo, Brazil: a small-area study
Authors: Roca-Barceló Aina , Nardocci Adelaide , de Aguiar Breno Souza , Ribeiro Adeylson G. , Failla Marcelo Antunes , Hansell Anna L. , Cardoso Maria Regina , Piel Frédéric B.
Published: May 2021

Background

Noise pollution is increasingly recognised as a public health hazard, yet limited evidence is available from low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), particularly for specific sources. Here, we investigated the association between day-night average (Ldn) aircraft noise and the risk of death due to cardiovascular disease (CVD), stroke and coronary heart disease (CHD) at small-area level around São Paulo‘s Congonhas airport, Brazil during the period 2011–2016.

Methods

We selected 3259 census tracts across 16 districts partially or entirely exposed to ≥50 dB aircraft noise levels around the Congonhas airport, using pre-modelled 5 dB Ldn noise  bands (≤50 dB to > 65 dB). We estimated the average noise exposure per census tract using area-weighting. Age, sex and calendar year-specific death counts for CVD, stroke and CHD were calculated by census tract, according to the residential address at time of death. We fitted Poisson regression models to quantify the risk associated with aircraft noise exposure, adjusting for age, sex, calendar year and area-level covariates including socioeconomic development, ethnicity, smoking and road traffic related noise and air pollution.

Results

After accounting for all covariates, areas exposed to the highest levels of noise (> 65 dB) showed a relative risk (RR) for CVD and CHD of 1.06 (95% CI: 0.94; 1.20) and 1.11 (95%CI: 0.96; 1.27), respectively, compared to those exposed to reference noise levels (≤50 dB). The RR for stroke ranged between 1.05 (95%CI: 0.95;1.16) and 0.91 (95%CI: 0.78;1.11) for all the noise levels assessed. We found a statistically significant positive trend for CVD and CHD mortality risk with increasing levels of noise (p = 0.043 and p = 0.005, respectively). No significant linear trend was found for stroke. Risk estimates were generally higher after excluding road traffic density, suggesting that road traffic air and noise pollution are potentially important confounders.

Conclusions

This study provides some evidence that aircraft noise is associated with increased risk of CVD and CHD mortality in a middle-income setting. More research is needed to validate these results in other LMIC settings and to further explore the influence of residual confounding and ecological bias. Remarkably, 60% of the study population living near the Congonhas airport (~ 1.5 million) were exposed to aircraft noise levels > 50 dB, well above those recommended by the WHO (45 dB), highlighting the need for public health interventions.
Prognostic value of regional lymph node involvement in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer: palliative versus curative resection
Authors: Kuo Ya-Ting , Tsai Wen-Sy , Hung Hsin-Yuan , Hsieh Pao-Shiu , Chiang Sum-Fu , Lai Cheng-Chou , Chern Yih-Jong , Hsu Yu-Jen , You Jeng-Fu
Published: May 2021

Background

Approximately 20% of patients with colorectal cancer are initially diagnosed with stage IV disease. This study aims to examine the role of regional lymph node (LN) status in metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) with respect to clinicopathologic features and survival outcomes.

Methods

We investigated 1147 patients diagnosed with mCRC and had undergone surgical resection of the primary CRC. A total of 167 patients were placed in the LN-negative (LN−) group and another 980 in the LN-positive (LN+) group.

Results

LN+ patients exhibited a significantly higher rate of T4 tumors (p = 0.008), poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma (p < 0.001), lymphovascular invasion (p < 0.001), and perineural invasion (p < 0.001) than those in the LN− group. LN− patients had a significantly higher rate of lung metastasis (p < 0.001), whereas the rate of peritoneal seeding (p < 0.001) and systemic node metastasis (p < 0.001) was both significantly higher in the LN+ group. The 5-year overall survival (OS) in the LN+ group was significantly poorer than that in the LN− group (LN− vs. LN+ 23.2% vs. 18.1%; p = 0.040). In patients with curative resection, the 5-year OS rate has no significant difference between the two groups (LN− vs. LN+ 19.5% vs. 24.3%; p = 0.890).

Conclusions

Metastatic CRC patients with LN+ who underwent primary tumor resection may present with more high-risk pathological features, more peritoneal seeding, and systemic node metastasis, but less lung metastasis than LN− patients. LN+ patients had poorer long-term outcomes compared with that in LN− patients. Nevertheless, with curative resection, LN+ patients could have similar survival outcomes as LN− patients.
Deep-inspirational breath-hold (DIBH) technique in left-sided breast cancer: various aspects of clinical utility
Authors: Gaál Szilvia , Kahán Zsuzsanna , Paczona Viktor , Kószó Renáta , Drencsényi Rita , Szabó Judit , Rónai Ramóna , Antal Tímea , Deák Bence , Varga Zoltán
Published: May 2021

Background

Studying the clinical utility of deep-inspirational breath-hold (DIBH) in left breast cancer radiotherapy (RT) was aimed at focusing on dosimetry and feasibility aspects.

Methods

In this prospective trial all enrolled patients went through planning CT in supine position under both DIBH and free breathing (FB); in whole breast irradiation (WBI) cases prone CT was also taken. In 3-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3DCRT) plans heart, left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD), ipsilateral lung and contralateral breast doses were analyzed. The acceptance of DIBH technique as reported by the patients and the staff was analyzed; post-RT side-effects including radiation lung changes (visual scores and lung density measurements) were collected.

Results

Among 130 enrolled patients 26 were not suitable for the technique while in 16, heart or LAD dose constraints were not met in the DIBH plans. Among 54 and 34 patients receiving WBI and postmastectomy/nodal RT, respectively with DIBH, mean heart dose (MHD) was reduced to < 50%, the heart V25 Gy to < 20%, the LAD mean dose to < 40% and the LAD maximum dose to about 50% as compared to that under FB; the magnitude of benefit was related to the relative increase of the ipsilateral lung volume at DIBH. Nevertheless, heart and LAD dose differences (DIBH vs. FB) individually varied. Among the WBI cases at least one heart/LAD dose parameter was more favorable in the prone or in the supine FB plan in 15 and 4 cases, respectively; differences were numerically small. All DIBH patients completed the RT, inter-fraction repositioning accuracy and radiation side-effects were similar to that of other breast RT techniques. Both the patients and radiographers were satisfied with the technique.

Conclusions

DIBH is an excellent heart sparing technique in breast RT, but about one-third of the patients do not benefit from that otherwise laborious procedure or benefit less than from an alternative method.

Trial registration: retrospectively registered under ISRCTN14360721 (February 12, 2021)
Genetic variant of MIR4300HG is associated with progression of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis in a Chinese population
Authors: Wang Yuwen , Dai Zhicheng , Wu Zhichong , Feng Zhenhua , Liu Zhen , Sun Xu , Xu Leilei , Qiu Yong , Zhu Zezhang
Published: May 2021

Background

A recent genome-wide association study identified a susceptible locus in MIR4300HG gene that was associated with curve progression of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) in the Japanese population. However, the association between the gene and curve progression in other populations remains unclear.

Methods

A cohort of 1952 AIS patients and 2495 healthy controls were included in the case-control analysis. In the case-only analysis, 747 patients were assigned to the progression group and 520 patients were assigned to the non-progression group, respectively. Rs35333564 was genotyped for all the subjects. Paraspinal muscles of 76 patients were collected for the analysis of gene expression. Chi-square test and ANOVA test were used for the intergroup comparison. Pearson correlation analysis was performed to investigate the relationship between the gene expression and curve magnitude.

Results

Variant rs35333564 was significantly associated with the curve severity of AIS (p = 0.025), but not the development of AIS (p = 0.418). Genotype GG was indicated by remarkably lower expression of MIR4300 (p = 0.020) which was significantly correlated with curve magnitude (p = 0.010). As a predicted target gene of MIR4300, the expression of CRTC1 was negatively correlated with MIR4300 expression (p = 0.012, r = −0.287) and positively correlated with curve severity (p = 0.025, r = 0.257).

Conclusions

The association between rs35333564 and curve progression was successfully replicated in a Chinese AIS population. CRTC1 may be the target gene of MIR4300 that plays a role in the curve progression of AIS.
Soufeng sanjie formula alleviates collagen-induced arthritis in mice by inhibiting Th17 cell differentiation
Authors: Hua Di , Yang Jie , Meng Qinghai , Ling Yuanyuan , Wei Qin , Wang Zhigang , Wei Qingyun , Chen Jiao , Ye Juan , Han Xuan , Su Kelei , Kong Weikang , Xu Chao , Cao Peng , Hu Chunping
Published: May 2021

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease. Soufeng sanjie formula (SF), which is composed of scolopendra (dried body ofScolopendra subspinipes mutilansL. Koch), scorpion (dried body ofButhus martensiiKarsch), astragali radix (dried root ofAstragalus membranaceus(Fisch.) Bge), and black soybean seed coats (seed coats ofGlycine max(L.) Merr), is a traditional Chinese prescription for treating RA. However, the mechanism of SF in treating RA remains unclear. This study was aim to investigate the anti-arthritic effects of SF in a collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) mouse model and explore the mechanism by which SF alleviates arthritis in CIA mice.

Methods

For in vivo studies, female DBA/1J mice were used to establish the CIA model, and either SF (183 or 550 mg/kg/day) or methotrexate (MTX, 920 mg/kg, twice/week) was orally administered to the mice from the day of arthritis onset. After administration for 30 days, degree of ankle joint destruction and serum levels of IgG and inflammatory cytokines were determined. The balance of Th17/Treg cells in the spleen and lymph nodes was analyzed using flow cytometry. Moreover, the expression levels of retinoic acid receptor-related orphan nuclear receptor (ROR) γt and phosphorylated STAT3 (pSTAT3, Tyr705) in the spleen were detected by immunohistochemistry. Furthermore, the effect of SF on Th17 cells differentiation in vitro was investigated in CD4+T cells under Th17 polarization conditions.

Results

SF decreased the arthritis score, ameliorated paw swelling, and reduced cartilage loss in the joint of CIA mice. In addition, SF decreased the levels of bovine collagen-specific IgG in sera of CIA mice. SF decreased the levels of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-17A) and increased the level of IL-10 both in the sera and the joint of CIA mice. Moreover, SF treatment rebalanced the Th17/Treg ratio in the spleen and lymph nodes of CIA mice. SF also reduced the expression levels of ROR γt and pSTAT3 (Tyr705) in the spleen of CIA mice. In vitro, SF treatment reduced Th17 cell generation and IL-17A production and inhibited the expression of RORγt, IRF4, IL-17A, and pSTAT3 (Tyr705) under Th17 polarization conditions.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that SF exhibits anti-arthritic effects and restores Th17/Treg homeostasis in CIA mice by inhibiting Th17 cell differentiation.
Urine-derived induced pluripotent/neural stem cells for modeling neurological diseases
Authors: Shi Tianyuan , Cheung Martin
Published: May 2021

Neurological diseases are mainly modeled using rodents through gene editing, surgery or injury approaches. However, differences between humans and rodents in terms of genetics, neural development, and physiology pose limitations on studying disease pathogenesis in rodent models for neuroscience research. In the past decade, the generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and induced neural stem cells (iNSCs) by reprogramming somatic cells offers a powerful alternative for modeling neurological diseases and for testing regenerative medicines. Among the different somatic cell types, urine-derived stem cells (USCs) are an ideal cell source for iPSC and iNSC reprogramming, as USCs are highly proliferative, multipotent, epithelial in nature, and easier to reprogram than skin fibroblasts. In addition, the use of USCs represents a simple, low-cost and non-invasive procedure for generating iPSCs/iNSCs. This review describes the cellular and molecular properties of USCs, their differentiation potency, different reprogramming methods for the generation of iPSCs/iNSCs, and their potential applications in modeling neurological diseases.
Venetoclax and Daratumumab combination treatment demonstrates pre-clinical efficacy in mouse models of Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Mistry Jayna J , Hellmich Charlotte , Lambert Amelia , Moore Jamie A , Jibril Aisha , Collins Angela , Bowles Kristian M , Rushworth Stuart A
Published: May 2021

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains an incurable malignancy despite recent advances in treatment. Recently a number of new therapies have emerged for the treatment of AML which target BCL-2 or the membrane receptor CD38. Here, we show that treatment with Venetoclax and Daratumumab combination resulted in a slower tumor progression and a reduced leukemia growth both in vitro and in vivo. These data provide evidence for clinical evaluation of Venetoclax and Daratumumab combination in the treatment of AML.
Simulated aeromedical evacuation exacerbates burn induced lung injury: targeting mitochondrial DNA for reversal
Authors: Xiao Meng-Jing , Zou Xiao-Fang , Li Bin , Li Bao-Long , Wu Shi-Jian , Zhang Bo
Published: May 2021

Background

Aeromedical evacuation of patients with burn trauma is an important transport method in times of peace and war, during which patients are exposed to prolonged periods of hypobaric hypoxia; however, the effects of such exposure on burn injuries, particularly on burn-induced lung injuries, are largely unexplored. This study aimed to determine the effects of hypobaric hypoxia on burn-induced lung injuries and to investigate the underlying mechanism using a rat burn model.

Methods

A total of 40 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (10 in each group): sham burn (SB) group, burn in normoxia condition (BN) group, burn in hypoxia condition (BH) group, and burn in hypoxia condition with treatment intervention (BHD) group. Rats with 30% total body surface area burns were exposed to hypobaric hypoxia (2000 m altitude simulation) or normoxia conditions for 4 h. Deoxyribonuclease I (DNase I) was administered systemically as a treatment intervention. Systemic inflammatory mediator and mitochondrial deoxyribonucleic acid (mtDNA) levels were determined. A histopathological evaluation was performed and the acute lung injury (ALI) score was determined. Malonaldehyde (MDA) content, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, and the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome level were determined in lung tissues. Data among groups were compared using analysis of variance followed by Tukey’s test post hoc analysis.

Results

Burns resulted in a remarkably higher level of systemic inflammatory cytokines and mtDNA release, which was further heightened by hypobaric hypoxia exposure (P < 0.01). Moreover, hypobaric hypoxia exposure gave rise to increased NLRP3 inflammasome expression, MDA content, and MPO activity in the lung (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). Burn-induced lung injuries were exacerbated, as shown by the histopathological evaluation and ALI score (P < 0.01). Administration of DNase I markedly reduced mtDNA release and systemic inflammatory cytokine production. Furthermore, the NLRP3 inflammasome level in lung tissues was decreased and burn-induced lung injury was ameliorated (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Our results suggested that simulated aeromedical evacuation further increased burn-induced mtDNA release and exacerbated burn-induced inflammation and lung injury. DNase I reduced the release of mtDNA, limited mtDNA-induced systemic inflammation, and ameliorated burn-induced ALI. The intervening mtDNA level is thus a potential target to protect from burn-induced lung injury during aeromedical conditions and provides safer air evacuations for severely burned patients.
Intravital microscopy imaging of kidney injury and regeneration
Authors: Liu Yue , Li Zongjin
Published: May 2021

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common clinical symptom, which is mainly manifested by elevated serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels. When AKI is not repaired in time, the patient is prone to develop chronic kidney disease (CKD). The kidney is composed of more than 30 different cells, and its structure is complex. It is extremely challenging to understand the lineage relationships and cell fate of these cells in the process of kidney injury and regeneration. Since the 20th century, lineage tracing technology has provided an important mean for studying organ development, tissue damage repair, and the differentiation and fate of single cells. However, traditional lineage tracing methods rely on sacrificing animals to make tissue slices and then take snapshots with conventional imaging tools to obtain interesting information. This method cannot achieve dynamic and continuous monitoring of cell actions on living animals. As a kind of intravital microscopy (IVM), two-photon microscopy (TPM) has successfully solved the above problems. Because TPM has the ability to penetrate deep tissues and can achieve imaging at the single cell level, lineage tracing technology with TPM is gradually becoming popular. In this review, we provided the key technical elements of lineage tracing, and how to use intravital imaging technology to visualize and quantify the fate of renal cells.
Adopting seasonal regimen (Ritucharya) to modulate the seasonal variation in gut microbiome
Authors: R Deepthi. , M Vandana Rani , Robin Delvin T. , Dileep Anusree
Published: May 2021

The science of Ayurveda with its strong and unique fundamentals holds its domain forever amidst all scientific and medical advancements. The concept of Shadkriyakala (the different phases of disease formation) holds relevance in preventive medicine and public health management as it provides ample chance to halt the disease process at each stage by timely intervention. In this review, we would like to bring to the limelight the relevance of Ritucharya (seasonal regimen) in primary prevention by modulating the gut microbiota. The modern gut microbiome researches now help us to better explore the Ayurveda theories of Agni (digestive fire) and Ama (metabolic toxins) preached centuries back. Ayurveda firmly proclaims that no disease ever arises without the derangement of Agni (digestive fire). The whole preventive and treatment methodology in Ayurveda focuses upon the modulation and management of “Agni” (digestive fire). When the functioning of Agni is deranged, Ama (metabolic toxin) is produced and it vitiates the doshas which spread throughout the body and manifest as varied diseases. A biomedical perspective of our reviews suggests that dysbiosis of microbial flora can cause a leaky gut by which the toxins of deranged digestive metabolism enter the bloodstream. Consequently, an inflammatory response occurs within the body which expresses out as diseases opportunistically. We meticulously reviewed the influence of extrinsic factors namely diet and climate on human gut microbiota, and our analysis emphasises the application prospects of Ritucharya (seasonal regimen), in regulating the dynamic host-microbe interaction.
The association of adiponectin gene polymorphisms with susceptibility and progression of NAFLD in a cohort of Egyptian patients
Authors: Hasan Eman M. , Abd Al Aziz Rasha A. , Sabry Dina , Badary Hedy A. , Gaber Yasmine , Yosry Ayman , Zakaria Zeinab
Published: May 2021

Background

Several genetic polymorphisms have been proven to play a key role in the progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) from simple steatosis to NASH with fibrosis. Our aim was to study the effect of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the adiponectin gene, namely rs266729 and rs3774261, on susceptibility to NAFLD and disease progression.

Results

There was a definitive association between polymorphisms of the studied SNPs and NAFLD. Among rs266729, CG was significantly higher among patients than controls showing increased risk for NAFLD (P<0.05). AA genotype of the rs3774261 variant was significantly lower in patients than in controls (P value< 0.001) while AG and GG genotypes were significantly higher in patients than in controls (P value<0.05); A allele was significantly higher among controls (P=0.019) which might have a protective effect. None of the variants correlated significantly with the degree of steatosis. Using multivariate regression analysis, there was no significant correlation with any of the independent risk factors to the degree of steatosis.

Conclusions

There was an association between polymorphisms of the studied SNPs of rs266729 and rs3774261 of the adiponectin gene and NAFLD.