bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular Characterization of MHC Class I Genes in Four Species of the Turdidae Family to Assess Genetic Diversity and Selection
Authors: Ghani Muhammad Usman , Bo Li , Buyang An , Yanchun Xu , Hussain Shakeel , Yasir Muhammad
Published: April 2021

In vertebrate animals, the molecules encoded by major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes play an essential role in the adaptive immunity. MHC class I deals with intracellular pathogens (virus) in birds. MHC class I diversity depends on the consequence of local and global environment selective pressure and gene flow. Here, we evaluated the MHC class I gene in four species of the Turdidae family from a broad geographical area of northeast China. We isolated 77 MHC class I sequences, including 47 putatively functional sequences and 30 pseudosequences from 80 individuals. Using the method based on analysis of cloned amplicons (n = 25) for each species, we found two and seven MHC I sequences per individual indicating more than one MHC I locus identified in all sampled species. Results revealed an overall elevated genetic diversity at MHC class I, evidence of different selection patterns among the domains of PBR and non‐PBR. Alleles are found to be divergent with overall polymorphic sites per species ranging between 58 and 70 (out of 291 sites). Moreover, transspecies alleles were evident due to convergent evolution or recent speciation for the genus. Phylogenetic relationships among MHC I show an intermingling of alleles clustering among the Turdidae family rather than between other passerines. Pronounced MHC I gene diversity is essential for the existence of species. Our study signifies a valuable tool for the characterization of evolutionary relevant difference across a population of birds with high conservational concerns.
Macrophage Polarization in the Skin Lesion Caused by Neotropical Species of Leishmania sp
Authors: Sandoval Pacheco Carmen M. , Araujo Flores Gabriela V. , Gonzalez Kadir , de Castro Gomes Claudia M. , Passero Luiz F. D. , Tomokane Thaise Y. , Sosa-Ochoa Wilfredo , Zúniga Concepción , Calzada Jose , Saldaña Azael , Corbett Carlos E. P. , Silveira Fernando T. , Laurenti Marcia D.
Published: April 2021

Macrophages play important roles in the innate and acquired immune responses against Leishmania parasites. Depending on the subset and activation status, macrophages may eliminate intracellular parasites; however, these host cells also can offer a safe environment for Leishmania replication. In this sense, the fate of the parasite may be influenced by the phenotype of the infected macrophage, linked to the subtype of classically activated (M1) or alternatively activated (M2) macrophages. In the present study, M1 and M2 macrophage subsets were analyzed by double-staining immunohistochemistry in skin biopsies from patients with American cutaneous leishmaniasis (ACL) caused by L. (L.) amazonensis, L. (V.) braziliensis, L. (V.) panamensis ,and L. (L.) infantum chagasi. High number of M1 macrophages was detected in nonulcerated cutaneous leishmaniasis (NUCL) caused by L. (L.) infantum chagasi (

M
1
=
112
±
12

,

M
2
=
43
±
12

cells/mm2). On the other side, high density of M2 macrophages was observed in the skin lesions of patients with anergic diffuse cutaneous leishmaniasis (ADCL) (

M
1
=
195
±
25

,

M
2
=
616
±
114

), followed by cases of localized cutaneous leishmaniasis (LCL) caused by L. (L.) amazonensis (

M
1
=
97
±
24

,

M
2
=
219
±
29

), L. (V.) panamensis (

M
1
=
71
±
14

,

M
2
=
164
±
14

), and L. (V.) braziliensis (

M
1
=
50
±
13

,

M
2
=
53
±
10

); however, low density of M2 macrophages was observed in NUCL. The data presented herein show the polarization of macrophages in skin lesions caused by different Leishmania species that may be related with the outcome of the disease.
Application of Visual Gene Clip‐Based Tailored Therapy for the Eradication of Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Yang Lili , Zou Ao , Wu Huihua , Guo Hai , Zhang Fangting , Zou Bing , Wang Junping
Published: April 2021

Background. Helicobacter pylori eradication with therapies employing a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) and antimicrobial agents is mainly achieved via bacterial susceptibility to antimicrobial agents and the magnitude of acid secretion inhibition. However, annual eradication rates have greatly declined in Mainland China, and therefore, tailored H. pylori eradication regimens that inhibit acid secretion and employ optimal antimicrobial agents determined based on gene clip testing may improve eradication rates. This study was aimed at evaluating the efficacy of tailored H. pylori eradication therapy guided by visual gene clip testing for antibiotic resistance and PPI metabolism genotypes. Methods. This prospective study included 244 patients (141 men and 103 women aged 20–79 years) receiving initial treatment for H. pylori infection. Visual gene clip testing using gastric mucosal specimens was performed to detect antibiotic resistance to clarithromycin conferred by the A2142G and A2143G point mutations of the H. pylori 23S rRNA gene and to levofloxacin conferred by the Asn87 and Asp91 point mutations of the H. pylori gyrA gene. Patients received a 14‐day bismuth quadruple therapy regimen guided by testing for antibiotic resistance and CYP2C19 polymorphisms, and primary H. pylori eradication was assessed at least 4 weeks after therapy. Results. H. pylori strains were successfully isolated from the gastric mucosa tissues of 244 patients. Antibiotic resistant isolates were identified in 63 patients, with clarithromycin resistance observed in 50 patients, levofloxacin resistance in 7 patients, and dual resistance in 6 patients. The PPI metabolic genotype of CYP2C19 was detected in 242 of 244 cases, and 97 cases were categorized as extensive metabolizers, 141 as intermediate metabolizers, and 4 as poor metabolizers. Among the 242 patients who received tailored therapy, the H. pylori eradication rate was 90.9% (95% confidence interval 87.3%~94.6%) in the intention‐to‐treat analysis and 96.9% (95% confidence interval 94.7%~99.2%) in the per protocol analysis. Conclusions. Tailored therapy for H. pylori infection guided by determination of antibiotic resistance and CYP2C19 polymorphism using visual gene chip technology may provide high clinical effectiveness as initial H. pylori eradication therapy.
Prevalence and Determinants of Undernutrition among 6- to 59-Months-Old Children in Lowland and Highland Areas in Kilosa District, Tanzania: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Mrema Jackline D. , Elisaria Ester , Mwanri Akwilina W. , Nyaruhucha Cornelio M.
Published: April 2021

Background. Undernutrition is the most dominant form of malnutrition among children in developing countries. Studies conducted in Tanzania have reported high levels of undernutrition among children below five years of age. However, there is limited information on differences in stunting prevalence across agroecological zones. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of undernutrition and its determinants in the lowland and highland areas in Kilosa District, Tanzania. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted in a sample of 200 randomly selected households from the lowland and 141 from the highland areas of Kilosa District in Morogoro Region, Tanzania. Sociodemographic, feeding practices, hygiene, and sanitation data were collected using a structured questionnaire. Weight and height of children were measured using a standard procedure, and age was calculated from the birth date obtained from the child growth card. Anthropometric data were analyzed by using Emergency Nutrition Assessment (ENA) software. The logistic regression model was used to explore the determinants of undernutrition. Results. Prevalence of stunting, underweight, and wasting was 41.0%, 11.5%, and 2.5% in lowland and 64.5%, 22.0%, and 1.4% in highland areas, respectively. The prevalence of stunting and underweight was higher in the highland compared to the lowland areas (

p
<
0.001

). Significant determinants of underweight were areas of residence (AOR 4.21, 95% CI: 1.62–10.9), age of the children (AOR 5.85, 95% CI: 1.81–18.97), and child birth weight (AOR, 4.98 95% CI: 1.65–15.05), while determinants of stunting were the area of residence (AOR, 2.77 95% CI: 1.43–5.36), maternal age (AOR, 0.33 95% CI: 0.14–0.79), sex of a child (AOR, 1.89 95% CI: 1.03–3.50), and child birth weight (AOR, 3.29 95% CI: 1.21–8.97). Conclusion. The prevalence of undernutrition, especially stunting and underweight, was high in the study areas. Determinants of stunting differed between highlands and lowland areas, highlighting the needs of having properly integrated interventions based on the geographical location.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Complicated with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Ma Huihui , Cao Xin , Zhang Jing , Zhou Yongmei , Luo Rong , He Tao , Tao Jianhong , Li Xiaoping
Published: April 2021

A 32-year-old female with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) for more than 7 years, and long-term treatment with cyclophosphamide, cyclosporine, methotrexate, and tacrolimus, later found to be combined with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) for one year. The patient denied a family history of cardiomyopathy and sudden cardiac death (SCD). Echocardiography suggested that uneven thickening of the left ventricle (LV), mainly in the lower middle segment. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) showed that the walls of the left ventricular (LV) were significantly thickened, as about 21 mm, mainly in the middle and lower segments. Genetic tests showed no known or suspected pathogenic variations were found and no significant enhancement in CMR, so secondary HCM was diagnosed clinically. After symptomatic treatment, the patient was discharged, and long-term follow-up was conducted. The diagnosis of HCM, which combined with SLE or second to usage of tacrolimus, was based on symptoms, echocardiography, and CMR; no endomyocardial biopsies were performed.
Diagnostic Accuracy with Total Adenosine Deaminase as a Biomarker for Discriminating Pleural Transudates and Exudates in a Population-Based Cohort Study
Authors: Maranhão Bernardo Henrique Ferraz , da Silva Junior Cyro Teixeira , Barillo Jorge Luiz , de Castro Carmem Lucia Teixeira , de Souza Joeber Bernardo Soares , Silva Patricia Siqueira , Stirbulov Roberto
Published: April 2021

Background. An initial step in the evaluation of patients with pleural effusion syndrome (PES) is to determine whether the pleural fluid is a transudate or an exudate. Objectives. To investigate total adenosine deaminase (ADA) as a biomarker to classify pleural transudates and exudates. Methods. An assay of total ADA in pleural fluids (P-ADA) was observed using a commercial kit in a population-based cohort study. Results. 157 pleural fluid samples were collected from untreated individuals with PES due to several causes. The cause most prevalent in transudate samples (21%,

n
=
33
/
157

) was congestive heart failure (79%, 26/33) and that among exudate samples (71%,

n
=
124
/
157

) was tuberculosis (28.0%, 44/124). There was no significant difference in the proportion of either sex between the transudate and exudate groups. The median values of P-ADA were significantly different (

P
<
0.0001

) between both total exudates (18.4 U/L; IQR, 9.85-41.4) and exudates without pleural tuberculosis (11.0 U/L; IQR, 7.25-19.75) and transudates (6.85; IQR, 2.67-11.26). For exudates, the AUC was 0.820 (95% CI, 0.751-0.877;

P
<
0.001

), with excellent discrimination. The optimum cut-off point in the ROC curve was determined as the level that provided the maximum positive likelihood ratio (PLR; 14.64; 95% CI, 2.11-101.9) and was22.0 U/L. For transudates, the AUC was 0.8245 (95% CI, 0.7470-0.9020;

P
<
0.0001

). Internal validation of the AUC after 1000 resamples was evaluated with a tolerance minor than 2%. The clinical utility was equal to 92% (95% CI, 0.84 to 0.96,

P
<
0.05

).Conclusions. P-ADA is a useful biomarker for distinguishing pleural exudates from transudates.
Ranking Sustainable Projects through an Innovative Hybrid DEMATEL‐VIKOR Decision‐Making Approach Using Z‐Number
Authors: Akhavein Armin , RezaHoseini Ali , Ramezani AmirMohammad , BagherPour Morteza
Published: April 2021

According to the heavy reliance of economic growth on environmental and social matters, sustainable development has turned into one of the main strategies of the organizations associated with selecting the project basket. Moreover, market conditions, rapid global changes in several aspects, uncertainty in intellectual judgments of the experts, and many other factors have increased uncertainty in problems of this kind. Accordingly, the main objective of this paper is to develop a mixed decision‐making approach (DEMATEL‐VIKOR) with the aim of ranking and evaluating suggested projects considering sustainability indices in a “mass production and infrastructural” company under uncertainty, while also taking reliability (Z‐number information) into account. Given the existing uncertainty in the opinions of experts and previous data, fuzzy approach and Z‐number information have been employed for weighting the filtered sustainability indices that are aligned with the objectives of the considered company (Z‐DEMATEL), as well as ranking candidate projects (Z‐VIKOR), which contribute to the main innovation of the present research. In addition, for scoring in the Z‐number state, a novel definition of linguistic variable (fuzzy linguistic variable considering probabilities) has been put forward. The suggested approach was solved by an expert in two numerical examples in three certain, fuzzy, and Z‐number scenarios, the results of which show that different results are obtained for different scenarios. Apart from that, given that Z‐number takes the probability of reliance on the opinions of experts into consideration, the more the approach moves from being certain towards the fuzzy state and the Z‐number state, the more the results approach the real world, hence yielding more reliable results. Therefore, results obtained from the proposed Z‐DEMATEL‐VIKOR approach are far more reliable. Moreover, significance weights in the Z‐number scenario are 39%, 26%, and 36% in the economic, social, and environmental dimensions, respectively, which is indicative of the importance of social and environmental aspects apart from the economic dimension.
Incidence and Factors Associated with Postoperative Delayed Hyponatremia after Transsphenoidal Pituitary Surgery: A Meta-Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Lee Cheng-Chi , Wang Yu-Chi , Liu Yu-Tse , Huang Yin-Cheng , Hsu Peng-Wei , Wei Kuo-Chen , Chen Ko-Ting , Lin Ya-Jui , Chuang Chi-Cheng
Published: April 2021

Introduction. Postoperative delayed hyponatremia is a complication associated with transsphenoidal pituitary surgery. Due to a wide spectrum of symptoms, the reported incidence and predictors of postoperative delayed hyponatremia vary among studies, and this deserves to be reviewed systematically. Methods. PubMed, EMBASE, and CENTRAL databases were searched until September 1, 2020. Studies were included when (1) the event number of delayed hyponatremia after transsphenoidal pituitary surgery was reported, or (2) the associated factors of such complication were evaluated. Results. A total of 27 studies were included for meta-analysis. The pooled incidence of overall and symptomatic delayed hyponatremia was 10.5% (95% confidence interval (CI) = 7.4–14.7%) and 5.0% (95% CI = 3.6–6.9%), respectively. No overt variations of the pooled estimates were observed upon subgroups stratified by endoscopic and microscopic procedure, publication year, and patients’ age. In addition, 44.3% (95% CI = 29.6–60.2%) of unplanned hospital readmissions within 30 days were caused by delayed hyponatremia. Among the predictors evaluated, older age was the only significant factor associated with increased delayed hyponatremia (odds ratio = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.04–1.29,

P

 = 0.006). Conclusion. This meta-analysis and systematic review evaluated the incidence of postoperative delayed hyponatremia and found it as a major cause of unplanned readmissions after transsphenoidal pituitary surgery. Older patients are more prone to such complications and should be carefully followed. The retrospective nature and heterogeneity among the included studies and the small number of studies used for risk factor evaluation might weaken the corresponding results. Future prospective clinical studies are required to compensate for these limitations.
Robust H∞ Feedback Compensator Design for Linear Parabolic DPSs with Pointwise/Piecewise Control and Pointwise/Piecewise Measurement
Authors: Yaqiang Liu , Zhigang Ren , Zengwang Jin
Published: April 2021

In this paper, a robust H∞ control problem of a class of linear parabolic distributed parameter systems (DPSs) with pointwise/piecewise control and pointwise/piecewise measurement has been investigated via the robust H∞ feedback compensator design approach. A unified Lyapunov direct approach is proposed in consideration of the pointwise/piecewise control and point/piecewise measurement based on the distributions of the actuators and sensors. A new type of Luenberger observer is developed on the continuous interval of space domain to track the state of the system, and an H∞ performance constraint with prescribed H∞ attenuation levels is proposed in this paper. By utilizing Lyapunov technique, mathematical inequalities, and integration theory, a sufficient condition based on LMI for the exponential stability of the corresponding closed‐loop coupled system under an H∞ performance constraint is presented. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed design method is verified by numerical simulation results.
Dominating Number on Icosahedral-Hexagonal Network
Authors: Carević Miroslava Mihajlov
Published: April 2021

In this paper, we deal with the dominating set and the domination number on an icosahedral-hexagonal network. We will consider all cases of successive halving of the edges of triangles that are the sides of icosahedrons and thus obtain icosahedral-hexagonal networks.
The Important Role of Metal Ions for Survival of Francisella in Water within Amoeba Environment
Authors: Ozanic Mateja , Marecic Valentina , Knezevic Masa , Majstorovic Andrea , Zurga Paula , Curlin Marija , Piskur Vanda , Lenac Danijela , Bulog Aleksandar , Santic Marina
Published: April 2021

Francisella tularensis is a gram‐negative facultative intracellular bacterium that resists harsh environments. Several outbreaks of tularemia are linked to the consumption and contact with spring water. The number of F. tularensis in some waters is high, while in others, this bacterium does not survive. Except organic compounds, metals could be important for the survival of F. tularensis in water. Some Francisella strains showed the association with amoeba, which may act as the environmental reservoir. This study was aimed at following the role of metal ions and/or amoeba in the existence and replication of F. novicida in spring waters by growth kinetics, acquisition of metals, and ultrastructural analyses of bacteria. The bacteria showed a longer survival in water with higher initial concentrations of Mn and Zn. Although Mn and Zn were necessary for the survival of F. novicida, the results also showed that the bacterium does not grow in water with high levels of Zn. In contrast, high levels of Mn did not have such a negative effect on the survival of this bacterium in water. In addition, while F. novicida benefits presence of amoeba in spring water, the number of amoebae is decreasing in a coculture model with F. novicida.
Adaptive Fixed‐Time Trajectory Tracking Control for Underactuated Hovercraft with Prescribed Performance in the Presence of Model Uncertainties
Authors: Fu Mingyu , Zhang Tan , Ding Fuguang , Wang Duansong
Published: April 2021

This paper develops an adaptive fixed‐time trajectory tracking controller of an underactuated hovercraft with a prescribed performance in the presence of model uncertainties and unknown time‐varying environment disturbances. It is the first time that the proposed method is applied to the motion control of the hovercraft. To begin with, based on the hovercraft′s four degrees of freedom (DOF) model, the virtual control laws are designed using an error transforming function and the fixed‐time stability theory to guarantee that the position tracking errors are constrained within the prescribed convergence rates and minimum overshoot. In addition, by combining the Lyapunov direct method and the adaptive radial basis function neural network (ARBFNN), the actual control laws are designed to ensure that the velocity tracking errors converge to a small region containing zero while handling model uncertainties and external disturbances effectively. Finally, all tracking errors of the closed‐loop system are uniformly ultimately bounded and fixed‐time convergent. Results from a comparative simulation study verify the effectiveness and advantage of the proposed method.
A Fuzzy Shell for Developing an Interpretable BCI Based on the Spatiotemporal Dynamics of the Evoked Oscillations
Authors: Lekova Anna , Chavdarov Ivan
Published: April 2021

Researchers in neuroscience computing experience difficulties when they try to carry out neuroanalysis in practice or when they need to design an explainable brain‐computer interface (BCI) with quick setup and minimal training phase. There is a need of interpretable computational intelligence techniques and new brain states decoding for more understandable interpretation of the sensory, cognitive, and motor brain processing. We propose a general‐purpose fuzzy software system shell for developing a custom EEG BCI system. It relies on the bursts of the ongoing EEG frequency power synchronization/desynchronization at scalp level and supports quick BCI setup by linguistic features, ad hoc fuzzy membership construction, explainable IF‐THEN rules, and the concept of the Internet of Things (IoT), which makes the BCI system device and service independent. It has a potential for designing both passive and event‐related BCIs with options for visual representation at scalp‐source level in response to time. The feasibility of the proposed system has been proven by real experiments and bursts for β and γ frequency power have been detected in real time in response to evoked visuospatial selective attention. The presence of the proposed new brain state decoding can be used as a feasible metric for interpretation of the spatiotemporal dynamics of the passive or evoked neural oscillations.
Implementation of Virtual and Face-to-Face Childbirth Preparation Training for the Spouses of the Primiparous Women to Reduce the Fear of Childbirth, Improve the Pregnancy Experience, and Enhance Mother- and Father-Infant Attachment: Protocol for a Quasiexperimental Clinical Trial
Authors: Doaltabadi Zari , Amiri-Farahani Leila , Hasanpoor-Azghady Seyedeh Batool
Published: April 2021

Background. Men have a special role to play in promoting maternal and child health during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum period. The health of women also requires the participation and cooperation of men. The aim of this study is to compare the effect of virtual and face-to-face childbirth preparation training for spouses of the primiparous women on the pregnancy experience, fear of childbirth (FOC), and mother- and father-infant attachment. Methods. The primiparous women attending the prenatal clinics of Lolagar Hospital and Azadi and Tehransar health centers of Tehran along with their husbands will be studied. The inclusion criteria for the women’s husbands are the first experience of becoming a father, being at least 18 years of age, and the ability to read and write. The exclusion criteria for women’s husbands are the history of physical/mental illness; being a smoker; and consuming alcohol, drugs, or psychotropic substances. The participants will be selected by the convenience sampling method and will be divided into three groups of study A, study B, and control. Spouses in study groups A and B will receive childbirth training through virtual and face-to-face methods with similar content, respectively. The control group only receives ordinary prenatal care. At the 18–20 weeks of gestation, demographic information, pregnancy experience scale (PES), and version A of Wijma delivery expectancy/experience questionnaire (WDEQ-A) will be completed. At 37-38 weeks of gestation, the PES and WDEQ-A questionnaires will be completed again and maternal postnatal attachment scale (MPAS) and postnatal paternal-infant attachment questionnaire (PPAQ) will be completed by the parents 12 weeks after the delivery. Discussion. Improving the experience of pregnancy, especially reducing the FOC and creating a positive attitude towards it, is a vital strategy to promote vaginal childbirth and reduce the number of cesarean sections requested by women. Achieving this will reduce the cost of health care and improve the quality of life during pregnancy, after childbirth, and during the growth and development of infants. Ethics and Dissemination. This research has been funded by the Iran University of Medical Sciences, approved by the Thailand Registry of Clinical Trials, and will commence in May 2020. Results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals and shared with the academic and medical community to pregnancy and childbirth outcomes. This trial is registered with TCTR20200515011.
Pressure Relief Mechanism of Directional Hydraulic Fracturing for Gob‐Side Entry Retaining and Its Application
Authors: Xiao Zhang , Hongpu Kang
Published: April 2021

In order to make clear the pressure relief mechanism and application effect of directional hydraulic fracturing for gob‐side entry retaining, the directional hydraulic fracturing was carried out by 400 m in haulage gateway remaining along the goaf in 50108 working face of Hejiata Coal Mine. Taking this as the engineering background, a mechanical model of roof cutting was established and the pressure relief mechanism was clarified. The theoretical research shows that it is the moments of gravity FG of the curved triangular roof plate at the face end, the pressure q of the overlying soft rock, and the transverse force TCB in the “voussoir beam” structure to the left endpoint of the triangular block, that is, , Mq, and , which determines the roadside supporting resistance. Hydraulic fracturing can reduce the lateral cantilever length of the basic roof, thus greatly reducing the values of , , and Mq, and significantly reduce the roadside supporting resistance. The field test shows that the directional hydraulic fracturing technology can effectively improve the stress environment of the face end and reduce the deformation of the roadway, and it has a good application effect on the gob‐side entry retaining.
End-of-Life Options for (Bio)degradable Polymers in the Circular Economy
Authors: Sikorska Wanda , Musioł Marta , Zawidlak-Węgrzyńska Barbara , Rydz Joanna
Published: April 2021

End-of-life options for plastics include recycling and energy recovery (incineration). Taking into account the polymeric waste, recycling is the intentional action that is aimed at reducing the amount of waste deposited in landfills by industrial use of this waste to obtain raw materials and energy. The incineration of waste leads to recovery of the energy only. Recycling methods divide on mechanical (reuse of waste as a full-valuable raw material for further processing), chemical (feedstock recycling), and organic (composting and anaerobic digestion). The type of recycling is selected in terms of the polymeric material, origin of the waste, possible toxicity of the waste, and its flammability. The (bio)degradable polymers show the suitability for every recycling methods. But recycling method should be used in such a form that it is economically justified in a given case. Organic recycling in a circular economy is considered to be the most appropriate technology for the disposal of compostable waste. It is addressed for plastics capable for industrial composting such as cellulose films, starch blends, and polyesters. The biological treatment of organic waste leads also to a decrease of landfills and thereby reducing methane emissions from them. If we add to their biodegradability the absence of toxicity, we have a biotechnological product of great industrial interest. The paper presents the overview on end-of-life options useful for the (bio)degradable polymers. The principles of the circular economy and its today development were also discussed.
MicroRNA‐210‐3p Promotes Chondrogenic Differentiation and Inhibits Adipogenic Differentiation Correlated with HIF‐3α Signalling in Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Yang Meng , Yan Xin , Yuan Fu-Zhen , Ye Jing , Du Ming-Ze , Mao Zi-Mu , Xu Bing-Bing , Chen You-Rong , Song Yi-Fan , Fan Bao-Shi , Yu Jia-Kuo
Published: April 2021

Cartilage injury of the knee joint is very common. Due to the limited self‐healing ability of articular cartilage, osteoarthritis is very likely to occur if left untreated. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) are widely used in the study of cartilage injury due to their low immunity and good amplification ability, but they still have disadvantages, such as heterogeneous undifferentiated cells. MicroRNAs can regulate the chondrogenic differentiation ability of MSCs by inhibiting or promoting mRNA translation and degradation. In this research, we primarily investigated the effect of microRNA‐210‐3p (miR‐210‐3p) on chondrogenic and adipogenic differentiation of BMMSCs in vitro. Our results demonstrate that miR‐210‐3p promoted chondrogenic differentiation and inhibited adipogenic differentiation of rat BMMSCs, which was related to the HIF‐3α signalling pathway. Additionally, miR‐210‐3p promotes mRNA and protein levels of the chondrogenic expression genes COLII and SOX9 and inhibits mRNA and protein levels of the adipogenic expression genes PPARγ and LPL. Thus, miR‐210‐3p combined with BMMSCs is a candidate for future clinical applications in cartilage regeneration and could represent a promising new therapeutic target for OA.
The Diagnostic Value of Serum Gastrin-17 and Pepsinogen for Gastric Cancer Screening in Eastern China
Authors: Shen Hongzhang , Xiong Kangwei , Wu Xiangyu , Cheng Sile , Lou Qifeng , Jin Hangbin , Zhang Xiaofeng
Published: April 2021

Objective. To evaluate the diagnostic value of gastrin-17 (G-17) and pepsinogen (PG) in gastric cancer (GC) screening in China, especially eastern China, and to determine the best diagnostic combination and threshold (cutoff values) to screen out patients who need gastroscopy. Methods. The serum concentrations of G-17 and pepsinogen I and II (PGI and PGII) in 834 patients were analyzed, and the PGI/PGII ratio (PGR) was calculated. According to pathological results, patients can be divided into chronic nonatrophic gastritis (NAG)/chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG)/intraepithelial neoplasia (IN)/GC groups. The differences in G-17, PG, and PGR in each group were analyzed, and their values in GC diagnosis were evaluated separately and in combination. Results. There were differences in serum G-17, PGII, and PGR among the four groups (NAG/CAG/IN/GC) (

P
≤
0.001

). In total, 54 GC cases were diagnosed, of which 50% were early GC. There was no significant difference in the PGI levels among the four groups (

P
=
0.377

). NAG and CAG composed the chronic gastritis (CG) group. The G-17 and PGII levels in the IN and GC groups were higher than those in the CG group (both

P
≤
oth
 
C

), while the PGR levels were lower (

P
≤
lower

). When distinguishing NAG from CAG, the best cutoff value for G-17 was 9.25 pmol/L, PGII was 7.06 μg/L, and PGR was 12.07. When distinguishing CG from IN, the best cutoff value for G-17 was 3.86 pmol/L, PGII was 11.92 μg/L, and PGR was 8.26. When distinguishing CG from GC, the best cutoff value for G-17 was 3.89 pmol/L, PGII was 9.16 μg/L, and PGR was 14.14. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and positive and negative predictive values of G-17/PGII/PGR for GC diagnosis were 83.3%/70.4%/79.6%, 51.8%/56.3%/47.8%, 53.8%/57.2%/49.9%, 10.7%/10.9%/9.6%, and 97.8%/96.5%/97.1%, respectively. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and positive predictive and negative predictive values of PGII/G-17 vs. PGR/G-17 vs. PGR/PGII in the diagnosis of GC were 63.0% vs. 70.4% vs. 64.8%, 70.5% vs. 70.1% vs. 60.4%, 70.0% vs. 70.1% vs. 60.7%, 12.9% vs. 14.0% vs. 10.2%, and 96.5% vs. 97.2% vs. 96.1%, respectively. Conclusion. The PGII and G-17 levels in patients with gastric IN and GC were significantly increased, while the serum PGR level was significantly decreased. Serological detection is effective for screening GC. The combination of different markers can improve the diagnostic efficiency. The highest diagnostic accuracy was G-17 combined with PGR, and the best cutoff values were

G
−
17
>
3.89
 
pmol
/
L

and

PGR
<
14.14

.
Dynamic Load Sharing Behaviours of Planetary Gear Trains and Parameter Study through Perturbation Analysis
Authors: Xun Chao , Dai He
Published: April 2021

In this paper, an analytical solution on the dynamic mesh forces of planetary gear trains (PGTs) is proposed by investigating a lumped‐parameter model. By using the method of multiple‐scales (MMS), closed‐form expressions of mesh force under the effects of manufacturing and assembly errors are obtained. From these expressions, the effects of several key factors such as the tooth thickness error, pin position error, applied torque, support stiffness of sun gear, and tooth profile modifications (TPM) on dynamic load sharing behaviours are explored. Numerical integration is carried out to verify the validation of the proposed method, and the developed expressions are also validated by comparing the results with previously published predictions. The results for several examined PGT systems show that the key factors abovementioned affect the dynamic load sharing behaviours as both static and dynamic factors. An important new conclusion obtained by this work is that proper tooth profile modifications keep the dynamic load sharing factors almost equal to the results obtained under static conditions. This conclusion provides the possibility to simplify the dynamic analysis to the static analysis on the dynamic load sharing problems.
A Finite Element Study on the Treatment of Thoracolumbar Fracture with a New Spinal Fixation System
Authors: Guo Hui , Li Jiantao , Gao Yuan , Nie Shaobo , Quan Chenliang , Li Jia , Zhang Wei
Published: April 2021

Objective. In this study, the mechanical properties of the new spinal fixation system (NSFS) in the treatment of thoracolumbar fractures were evaluated by the finite element analysis method, so as to provide a mechanical theoretical basis for the later biomechanical experiments and clinical experiments. Methods. T12‐L2 bone model was constructed to simulate L1 vertebral fracture, and three models of internal fixation systems were established on the basis of universal spinal system (USS): Model A: posterior short‐segment fixation including the fractured vertebra (PSFFV); Model B: short‐segment pedicle screw fixation (SSPF); Model C: new spinal fixation system (NSFS). After assembling the internal fixation system and fracture model, the finite element analysis was carried out in the ANSYS Workbench 18.0 software, and the stress of nail rod system, fracture vertebral body stress, vertebral body mobility, and vertebral body displacement were recorded in the three models. Results. The peak values of internal fixation stress, vertebral body stress, vertebral body maximum displacement, and vertebral body maximum activity in Model C were slightly smaller than those in Model B. Conclusions. Compared with the traditional internal fixation system, the new spinal internal fixation system may have the mechanical advantage and can provide sufficient mechanical stability for thoracolumbar fractures.
Hydromorphone Protects against CO2 Pneumoperitoneum‐Induced Lung Injury via Heme Oxygenase‐1‐Regulated Mitochondrial Dynamics
Authors: Shi Jia , Du Shi-Han , Yu Jian-Bo , Zhang Yan-Fang , He Si-Meng , Dong Shu-An , Zhang Yuan , Wu Li-Li , Li Cui , Li Hai-Bo
Published: April 2021

Various pharmacological agents and protective methods have been shown to reverse pneumoperitoneum‐related lung injury, but identifying the best strategy is challenging. Herein, we employed lung tissues and blood samples from C57BL/6 mice with pneumoperitoneum‐induced lung injury and blood samples from patients who received laparoscopic gynecological surgery to investigate the therapeutic role of hydromorphone in pneumoperitoneum‐induced lung injury along with the underlying mechanism. We found that pretreatment with hydromorphone alleviated lung injury in mice that underwent CO2 insufflation, decreased the levels of myeloperoxidase (MPO), total oxidant status (TOS), and oxidative stress index (OSI), and increased total antioxidant status (TAS). In addition, after pretreatment with hydromorphone, upregulated HO‐1 protein expression, reduced mitochondrial DNA content, and improved mitochondrial morphology and dynamics were observed in mice subjected to pneumoperitoneum. Immunohistochemical staining also verified that hydromorphone could increase the expression of HO‐1 in lung tissues in mice subjected to CO2 pneumoperitoneum. Notably, in mice treated with HO‐1‐siRNA, the protective effects of hydromorphone against pneumoperitoneum‐induced lung injury were abolished, and hydromorphone did not have additional protective effects on mitochondria. Additionally, in clinical patients who received laparoscopic gynecological surgery, pretreatment with hydromorphone resulted in lower serum levels of club cell secretory protein‐16 (CC‐16) and intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1), a lower prooxidant‐antioxidant balance (PAB), and higher heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) activity than morphine pretreatment. Collectively, our results suggest that hydromorphone protects against CO2 pneumoperitoneum‐induced lung injury via HO‐1‐regulated mitochondrial dynamics and may be a promising strategy to treat CO2 pneumoperitoneum‐induced lung injury.
Based on Network Pharmacology and RNA Sequencing Techniques to Explore the Molecular Mechanism of Huatan Jiangzhuo Decoction for Treating Hyperlipidemia
Authors: Zhou Xiaowen , Yan Zhenqian , Wang Yaxin , Ren Qi , Liu Xiaoqi , Fang Ge , Wang Bin , Li Xiantao
Published: April 2021

Background. Hyperlipidemia, due to the practice of unhealthy lifestyles of modern people, has been a disturbance to a large portion of population worldwide. Recently, several scholars have turned their attention to Chinese medicine (CM) to seek out a lipid-lowering approach with high efficiency and low toxicity. This study aimed to explore the mechanism of Huatan Jiangzhuo decoction (HTJZD, a prescription of CM) in the treatment of hyperlipidemia and to determine the major regulation pathways and potential key targets involved in the treatment process. Methods. Data on the compounds of HTJZD, compound-related targets (C-T), and known disease-related targets (D-T) were collected from databases. The intersection targets (I-T) between C-T and D-T were filtered again to acquire the selected targets (S-T) according to the specific index. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment, as well as network construction, were applied to predict the putative mechanisms of HTJZD in treating hyperlipidemia. Thereafter, an animal experiment was conducted to validate the therapeutic effect of HTJZD. In addition, regulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were processed from the RNA sequencing analysis results. Common genes found between regulated DEGs and S-T were analyzed by KEGG pathway enrichment to select the key targets. Lastly, key targets were validated by real-time quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis. Results. A total of 210 S-T were filtered out for enrichment analysis and network construction. The enrichment results showed that HTJZD may exert an effect on hyperlipidemia through the regulation of lipid metabolism and insulin resistance. The networks predict that the therapeutic effect of HTJZD may be based on the composite pharmacological action of these active compounds. The animal experiment results verify that HTJZD can inhibit dyslipidemia in rats with hyperlipidemia, suppress lipid accumulation in the liver, and reverse the expression of 202 DEGs, which presented an opposite trend in the model and HTJZD groups. Six targets were selected from the common targets between 210 S-T and 202 regulated DEGs, and the qRT-PCR results showed that HTJZD could effectively reverse Srebp-1c, Cyp3a9, and Insr mRNA expression (P < 0.01). Conclusion. In brief, network pharmacology predicted that HTJZD exerts a therapeutic effect on hyperlipidemia. The animal experimental results confirmed that HTJZD suppressed the pathological process induced by hyperlipidemia by regulating the expression of targets involved in lipid metabolism and insulin resistance.
Towards a Computational Fluid Dynamics-Based Fuzzy Logic Controller of the Optimum Windcatcher Internal Design for Efficient Natural Ventilation in Buildings
Authors: Balabel Ashraf , Faizan Mohammad , Alzaed Ali
Published: April 2021

Recently, increased attention has been given to the coupling of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) with the fuzzy logic control system for obtaining the optimum prediction of many complex engineering problems. The data provided to the fuzzy system can be obtained from the accurate computational fluid dynamics of such engineering problems. Windcatcher performance to achieve thermal comfort conditions in buildings, especially in hot climate regions, is considered as one such complex problem. Windcatchers can be used as natural ventilation and passive cooling systems in arid and windy regions in Saudi Arabia. Such systems can be considered as the optimum solution for energy-saving and obtaining thermal comfort in residential buildings in such regions. In the present paper, three-dimensional numerical simulations for a newly-developed windcatcher model have been performed using ANSYS FLUENT-14 software. The adopted numerical algorithm is first validated against previous experimental measurements for pressure coefficient distribution. Different turbulence models have been firstly applied in the numerical simulations, namely, standard k-epsilon model (1st and 2nd order), standard Wilcox k-omega model (1st and 2nd order), and SST k-omega model. In order to assess the accuracy of each turbulence model in obtaining the performance of the proposed model of the windcatcher system, it is found that the second order k-epsilon turbulence model gave the best results when compared with the previous experimental measurements. A new windcatcher internal design is proposed to enhance the ventilation performance. The fluid dynamics characteristics of the proposed model are presented, and the ventilation performance of the present model is estimated. The numerical velocity profiles showed good agreement with the experimental measurements for the turbulence model. The obtained results have shown that the second order k-epsilon turbulence can predict the different important parameters of the windcatcher model. Moreover, the coupling algorithm of CFD and the fuzzy system for obtaining the optimum operating parameters of the windcatcher design are described.
MAP3K7 Loss Drives Enhanced Androgen Signaling and Independently Confers Risk of Recurrence in Prostate Cancer with Joint Loss of CHD1
Authors: Jillson Lauren K. , Rider Leah C. , Rodrigues Lindsey U. , Romero Lina , Karimpour-Fard Anis , Nieto Cera , Gillette Claire , Torkko Kathleen , Danis Etienne , Smith Elizabeth E. , Nolley Rosalie , Peehl Donna M. , Lucia M. Scott , Costello James C. , Cramer Scott D.
Published: April 2021

Prostate cancer genomic subtypes that stratify aggressive disease and inform treatment decisions at the primary stage are currently limited. Previously, we functionally validated an aggressive subtype present in 15% of prostate cancer characterized by dual deletion of MAP3K7 and CHD1. Recent studies in the field have focused on deletion of CHD1 and its role in androgen receptor (AR) chromatin distribution and resistance to AR-targeted therapy; however, CHD1 is rarely lost without codeletion of MAP3K7. Here, we show that in the clinically relevant context of co-loss of MAP3K7 and CHD1 there are significant, collective changes to aspects of AR signaling. Although CHD1 loss mainly impacts the expansion of the AR cistrome, loss of MAP3K7 drives increased AR target gene expression. Prostate cancer cell line models engineered to cosuppress MAP3K7 and CHD1 also demonstrated increased AR-v7 expression and resistance to the AR-targeting drug enzalutamide. Furthermore, we determined that low protein expression of both genes is significantly associated with biochemical recurrence (BCR) in a clinical cohort of radical prostatectomy specimens. Low MAP3K7 expression, however, was the strongest independent predictor for risk of BCR over all other tested clinicopathologic factors including CHD1 expression. Collectively, these findings illustrate the importance of MAP3K7 loss in a molecular subtype of prostate cancer that poses challenges to conventional therapeutic approaches.

Implications:

These findings strongly implicate MAP3K7 loss as a biomarker for aggressive prostate cancer with significant risk for recurrence that poses challenges for conventional androgen receptor–targeted therapies.
Repurposing of Anticancer Drugs Expands Possibilities for Antiviral and Anti-Inflammatory Discovery in COVID-19
Authors: Aldea Mihaela , Michot Jean-Marie , Danlos Francois-Xavier , Ribas Antoni , Soria Jean-Charles
Published: April 2021

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic led to an unprecedented destabilization of the world's health and economic systems. The rapid spread and life-threatening consequences of COVID-19 have imposed testing of repurposed drugs, by investigating interventions already used in other indications, including anticancer drugs. The contours of anticancer drug repurposing have been shaped by similarities between the pathogenesis of COVID-19 and malignancies, including abnormal inflammatory and immunologic responses. In this review, we discuss the salient positive and negative points of repurposing anticancer drugs to advance treatments for COVID-19.

Significance:

Targeting anti-inflammatory pathways with JAK/STAT inhibitors or anticytokine therapies aiming to curb COVID-19–related cytokine storm, using antiangiogenic drugs to reduce vascular abnormalities or immune-checkpoint inhibitors to improve antiviral defenses, could be of value in COVID-19. However, conflicting data on drug efficacy point to the need for better patient selection and biomarker studies.
Use of Polarized Light in the Diagnosis of “Fuzz” Granuloma in the Conjunctiva of a Child
Authors: Dorion Andrew R. , Crabtree Gordon , Dorion R. Patrick
Published: April 2021

Synthetic fiber granulomas, also known as “Teddy Bear” granulomas or “Fuzz Ball granulomas,” are usually seen in childhood. We present a case of a 5-year-old child with a “Fuzz Ball” granuloma of the conjunctiva. The resected specimen was processed routinely. The use of polarized light during microscopic examination of the resected tissue made the diagnosis evident due to the prominent birefringence of the synthetic foreign material fibers.
Adjunct Use of Therapeutic Scleral Lens for Exposure Keratopathy after Severe Chemical Burn
Authors: Scanzera Angelica C. , Ahmad Amjad , Shorter Ellen
Published: April 2021

Severe chemical burns can damage the periocular area causing exposure keratopathy and resulting in ocular pain, foreign body sensation, epiphora, photophobia, and vision loss. A custom fit large diameter therapeutic scleral lens can protect the ocular surface by preventing desiccation and providing immediate improvement in comfort. This case describes the management of a patient with extensive chemical burn with complete lid loss and exposure keratopathy who has maintained excellent visual acuity and comfort with therapeutic scleral lens use.