bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new nomogram for predicting lung metastasis in newly diagnosed endometrial carcinoma patients: A study based on SEER
Authors: Yuan Yufei , Wang Ruoran , Zhang Yidan , Yang Yang , Zhao Jing
Published: July 2022

Background

Lung metastasis (LM) is an independent risk factor for survival in patients with endometrial cancer (EC).

Methods

We reviewed data on patients diagnosed with EC between 2010 and 2015 from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. The independent predictors of LM in patients with EC were identified using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. A nomogram for predicting LM in patients with EC was developed, and the predictive model was evaluated using calibration and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves.

Results

Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that high grade; specific histological type; high tumor and node stages; larger tumor size; and liver, brain, and bone metastases were positively associated with LM risk. A new nomogram was developed by combining these factors to predict LM in patients newly diagnosed with EC. Internal and external verification of the calibration charts showed that the nomogram was well calibrated. The areas under the ROC curves for the training and validation cohorts were 0.924 and 0.913, respectively.

Conclusion

We performed a retrospective analysis of 42,073 patients with EC using the SEER database, established a new nomogram for predicting LM based on eight independent risk factors, and visualized the model using a nomogram for the first time.
CCDC69 is a prognostic marker of breast cancer and correlates with tumor immune cell infiltration
Authors: Yi Yi , Xu Tao , Tan Yufang , Lv Wenchang , Zhao Chongru , Wu Min , Wu Yiping , Zhang Qi
Published: July 2022

Purpose

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common malignancy and the leading cause of cancer-related death among women worldwide. Early detection, treatment, and metastasis monitoring are very important for the prognosis of BC patients. Therefore, effective biomarkers need to be explored to help monitor the prognosis of BC patients and guide treatment decisions.

Methods

In this study, the relationship between CCDC69 expression levels and tumor clinical characteristics were analyzed using RNA-seq information in BC samples from the TCGA database. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was performed to analyze the prognostic value of CCDC69 in BC patients. Besides, gene enrichment analysis in BC samples was used to confirm the main function of CCDC69 in BC. The correlation between the expression of CCDC69 and the number of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes was confirmed by interaction analysis of TIMER and GEPIA.

Results

The results showed that CCDC69 expression was significantly lower in cancer samples than in normal tissues, and was significantly lower in highly invasive BC than in carcinoma in situ. Meanwhile, low levels of CCDC69 were associated with a further poor prognosis. CDCC69 expression was positively correlated with the amount of different tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. Mechanically, it could be presumed that the low expression of CCDC69 in BC might be caused by hypermethylation of the promoter region.

Conclusions

Summarily, CDCC69 could be used as a potential biomarker to predict the prognosis of BC and the sensitivity to immunotherapy such as PD-1/PD-L1 checkpoint inhibitors.
Comparative endoscopic techniques of medial rectus muscle retraction for approaching intraconal tumors: Our experience with five cases
Authors: Chen Linli , Yan Xiaorong , Fu Yunshan , Wang Tingting , Zhan Zhiyun , Ye Shengnan , Jiang Changzhen , Chen Guohao
Published: July 2022

Objective

To examine the role of transnasal endoscopic approaches in the management of intraconal tumors and demonstrate the use of an eyelid speculum in comparison with different techniques of medial rectus muscle (MRM) retraction.

Methods

Retrospective data of five patients with intraconal tumors operated on and followed up by the senior authors between December 2019 and April 2022 was collected. Presenting symptoms, technical details, imaging and histology findings, outcomes, and complications were evaluated.

Results

Four primary and one recurrent tumor were identified. The mean patient age was 50 (range, 29–64) years. One tumor was located lateral to the optic nerve, one central and three medial. A complete surgical resection was obtained in four primary cases and a partial resection was achieved in the recurrent case. The MRM was retracted using three different techniques: (1) an infant eyelid speculum creating an operative window between the medial and inferior rectus muscle, (2) external MRM disinsertion transconjunctivally, (3) a four-handed technique performed transseptally by two surgeons. Transient postoperative ophthalmoplegia was recorded in four cases and transient ptosis in one. Three patients completely recovered in 2–3 months while one undergoing MRM disinsertion ended up in restricted strabismus at 15-month follow-up. No other long-term complications have been noted in all five patients with a mean follow-up of 22 (range, 14–32) months. No patients with primary tumors have required additional surgery for tumor recurrence.

Conclusion

The indication of endoscopic intraconal surgery may expand to lesions lateral to the optic nerve when the nerve is not in its natural position. The well-known advantages of the endoscopic techniques, namely the lack of external scars, better visualization, less bleeding, and fewer complications, were confirmed. An eye speculum provides a better surgical corridor and eases the pressure exerted on the MRM, which has a promising application prospect.
“In Litero” Screening: Retrospective Evaluation of Clinical Evidence to Establish a Reference List of Human Chemical Respiratory Sensitizers
Authors: Ponder Jessica , Rajagopal Ramya , Singal Madhuri , Baker Nancy , Patlewicz Grace , Roggen Erwin , Cochrane Stella , Sullivan Kristie
Published: July 2022

Despite decades of investigation, test methods to identify respiratory sensitizers remain an unmet regulatory need. In order to support the evaluation of New Approach Methodologies in development, we sought to establish a reference set of low molecular weight respiratory sensitizers based on case reports of occupational asthma. In this context, we have developed an “in litero” approach to identify cases of low molecular weight chemical exposures leading to respiratory sensitization in clinical literature. We utilized the EPA-developed Abstract Sifter literature review tool to maximize the retrieval of publications relevant to respiratory effects in humans for each chemical in a list of chemicals suspected of inducing respiratory sensitization. The literature retrieved for each of these candidate chemicals was sifted to identify relevant case reports and studies, and then evaluated by applying defined selection criteria. Clinical diagnostic criteria were defined around exposure history, respiratory effects, and specific immune response to conclusively demonstrate occupational asthma as a result of sensitization, rather than irritation. This approach successfully identified 28 chemicals that can be considered as human respiratory sensitizers and used to evaluate the performance of NAMs as part of a weight of evidence approach to identify novel respiratory sensitizers. Further, these results have immediate implications for the development and refinement of predictive tools to distinguish between skin and respiratory sensitizers. A comparison of the protein binding mechanisms of our identified “in litero” clinical respiratory sensitizers shows that acylation is a prevalent protein binding mechanism, in contrast to Michael addition and Schiff base formation common to skin sensitizers. Overall, this approach provides an exemplary method to evaluate and apply human data as part of the weight of evidence when establishing reference chemical lists.
Case Report: 18F-Fluoro-L-Phenylalanine Positron Emission Tomography Findings and Immunoreactivity for L-Type Amino Acid Transporter 1 in a Dog With Meningioma
Authors: Lee Dohee , Yun Taesik , Kim Sanggu , Koo Yoonhoi , Chae Yeon , Kim Soochong , Chang Dongwoo , Yang Mhan-Pyo , Kim Hakhyun , Kang Byeong-Teck
Published: July 2022

A 12-year-old intact female Miniature Pinscher dog weighing 5.4 kg presented with a history of seizures. On neurological examination, postural reactions were decreased in the left-sided limbs, and menace responses were bilaterally absent. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain was performed, and a solitary amorphous mass (2.7 × 1.9 × 2.2 cm) was observed on the right side of the frontal lobe. Based on the signalment, clinical signs, and MRI findings, a brain tumor was tentatively diagnosed, and meningioma was suspected. The dog was treated with hydroxyurea, prednisolone, and other antiepileptic drugs. One week after the treatment began, postural reactions returned to normal, and the menace response improved. At 119 days after treatment, 18F-fluoro-L-phenylalanine (18F-FDOPA) positron emission tomography (PET) was performed. Marked 18F-FDOPA uptake was observed in the lesion. The mean and maximal standardized uptake values of the lesion were 2.61 and 3.72, respectively, and the tumor-to-normal tissue ratio was 1.95. At 355 days after the initial treatment, a second MRI scan was performed and the tumor size had increased to 3.5 × 2.8 × 2.9 cm. The dog died 443 days after the initial treatment and was definitively diagnosed with grade 1 meningioma by histopathological examination. Immunohistochemical staining for Ki67 and L-type amino acid transporter 1 was positive and negative for p53, respectively. The labeling index of Ki67 was 2.4%. This is the first case to demonstrate 18F-FDOPA PET findings in a clinical case of a dog histologically diagnosed with a meningioma.
Maternal Dietary Forsythia suspensa Extract Supplementation Induces Changes in Offspring Antioxidant Status, Inflammatory Responses, Intestinal Development, and Microbial Community of Sows
Authors: Long Shenfei , Wang Qianqian , He Tengfei , Ma Jiayu , Wang Jian , Liu Sujie , Wang Hongliang , Liu Li , Piao Xiangshu
Published: July 2022

This experiment aims to investigate the effect of maternal diet supplemented with Forsythia suspensa extract (FSE) on the performance, antioxidant status, inflammatory responses, intestinal development, and microbial community of sows. A total of 24 gestating sows (Landrace × Yorkshire) were assigned to 2 treatments with 12 sows per treatment. From d 107 of gestation to d 21 of lactation, sows were supplemented with a basal diet as control (CON) or an FSE diet (basal diet + 100 mg/kg FSE). Compared with CON, sows fed FSE showed lower (P < 0.05) wean-to-estrus interval, body weight loss, and higher (P < 0.05) average daily gain of suckling piglet. Sows fed FSE had reduced (P < 0.05) serum malondialdehyde (MDA) content and enhanced (P < 0.05) catalase and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) contents at farrowing and weaning compared with CON. The suckling piglets of FSE-fed sows had increased (P < 0.05) mRNA expressions of nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor 2, heme oxygenase-1 in the liver, and lower (P < 0.05) serum MDA content on d 0, 7, and 14 of lactation. Sows fed FSE had lower (P < 0.05) serum tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-8 (IL-8) contents at farrowing and reduced (P < 0.05) serum IL-6 and IL-8 contents at weaning compared with CON. Piglets from FSE-fed sows had enhanced (P ≤ 0.05) villus height and villus height to crypt depth ratio in the jejunum, and higher (P < 0.05) protein expression of Occludin in jejunal mucosa compared with CON. Sows fed FSE tended to have higher (P = 0.09) relative abundance of Lactobacillus at genus level in feces at weaning compared with CON. Our results showed maternal diet supplemented with FSE in lactating sows could effectively induce improvement of performance, antioxidant status, anti-inflammatory function, intestinal morphology, barrier function, and microbial community.
Molecular Detection and Genotyping of Enterocytozoon bieneusi in Pigs in Shanxi Province, North China
Authors: Zhang Zhen-Huan , Qin Rui-Lin , Liu Ya-Ya , Zou Yang , Mei Jin-Jin , Liu Qing , Gao Wen-Wei , Zhu Xing-Quan , Ren Yu-Hong , Xie Shi-Chen
Published: July 2022

Enterocytozoon bieneusi is a common opportunistic intestinal pathogen that can cause acute diarrhea in immunosuppressed humans and animals. Though E. bieneusi has been widely detected in pigs around the world, little is known of its prevalence and genotype distribution in pigs in Shanxi province, north China. In this study, a total of 362 fecal samples were collected from pigs in three representative counties in north, south, and central Shanxi province, China. The prevalence and genotypes of E. bieneusi were investigated by nested PCR amplification of the ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of the ribosomal RNA (rRNA) gene. Overall, the prevalence of E. bieneusi in pigs in Shanxi province was 54.70% (198/362). Statistical analysis showed the difference in prevalence was statistically significant between regions (χ2 = 41.94, df = 2, P < 0.001) and ages (χ2 = 80.37, df = 1, P < 0.001). In addition, 16 genotypes of E. bieneusi were identified in this study by sequence analysis of the ITS region, including 15 known genotypes (EbpC, EbpA, EbpB, pigEb4, PigEBITS5, I, Henan-I, G, WildBoar 7, SH10, EbpD, CHC5, PigSpEb1, PigSpEb2, and CHG19) and one novel genotype (designated as PigSX-1). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that 14 known genotypes and the novel genotype were clustered into Group 1, whereas genotype I belonged to Group 2. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report on the prevalence and genotypes of E. bieneusi in pigs in Shanxi province. These findings enrich the genetic diversity of E. bieneusi and provide the baseline data for the prevention and control of E. bieneusi in pigs in the study regions.
The involvement of FATP1 regulating skeletal muscle fat deposition in stressed broilers was affected by fatty acid substrates
Authors: Wang Minghui , Jiao Hongchao , Zhao Jingpeng , Lin Hai , Wang Xiaojuan
Published: July 2022

Fatty acid transport protein 1 (FATP1), plays a major role in the transport and uptake of fatty acids into cells. The effect of FATP1 on the regulation of skeletal muscle fat uptake and deposition in stressed broiler chickens was investigated both in vivo and in vitro, and the effect of different fatty acid substrates were also included. Dexamethasone (DEX), a synthetic glucocorticoid (GCs), was employed to induce a hyper glucocorticoid milieu and simulate stress. The in vivo results showed that DEX would increase the mRNA expression of FATP1 and fat deposition in muscle tissues (P < 0.05), the very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) and insulin (INS) levels were significantly increased in the plasma by DEX (P < 0.05), and the mRNA levels of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR), adiponectin receptor (ADPNR) and peroxisomal proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) in thigh were also up-regulated by DEX (P < 0.05). In vitro experiment, DEX did not affect the myoblast fat deposition and PPARα and FATP1 expressions without the external fatty acid (P > 0.05). Under PA pre-treatment, both myoblast fatty acid uptake and fat deposition were promoted by DEX treatment (P < 0.05), and the effects of DEX on the gene expressions of GR, ADPNR, PPARα and FATP1 were upregulated first and then downregulated as the dose of DEX increases; while under OA pre-treatment, the myoblast fat deposition was not affected by DEX (P > 0.05), the fatty acid uptake was decreased by DEX at 500 nM compared to control (P < 0.05). When GR and PPARα were, respectively inhibited by specific inhibitors RU486 and GW6471, the effects of DEX on fatty acid uptake were reversed for PA pre-treated myoblasts (P < 0.05) but not for OA pre-treated myoblasts (P > 0.05). These results indicate that FATP1 regulation by GCs was affected by fatty acid substrate - saturated fatty acids were favorable for fat uptake and deposition, while unsaturated fatty acids were not. GCs may affect the ADPNR-PPARα-FATP1 pathway by binding to its receptors, thus regulating the uptake of saturated fatty acids into myoblasts.
Preliminary Assessment of an FBG-Based Landing Gear Weight on Wheel System
Authors: Brindisi Angela , Vendittozzi Cristian , Travascio Lidia , Di Palma Luigi , Belardo Marika , Ignarra Michele , Fiorillo Vincenzo , Concilio Antonio
Published: July 2022

Weight-on-Wheels (WoW) systems are aimed at indicating if the aircraft weight is loading onto the landing gear and its wheels, even partially. These systems are an integral part of the actuation system for safety-critical applications and shall provide reliable information on the actual operational status of the LG. That information reveals if the vehicle is in flight or on the ground. In this way, several kinds of accidents may be prevented, relating for instance, to the incorrect deployment of the landing gear, or even manoeuvres to a certain extent, therefore protecting the aircraft from dangerous damage. There are different architectures that have been proposed in the bibliography, some of them based on strain gauges deployed on the structure, or on proximity sensors installed on the wheels. Being this device and considered critical for safety, it is convenient to couple it with complementary measurements, recorded and processed by different sources. In general, it can be stated that such an intelligent sensor network may be seen as a fundamental support for proper landing gear deployment. The presented paper reports the results of a preliminary investigation performed by the authors to evaluate the possibility of deploying fibre optics on the landing gear structure as part of a WoW system to retrieve the required information. This choice would have a remarkable effect in terms of significant cabling reduction (a single array of sensing elements could be deployed over a single line), and cost abatement from both a manufacturing and operational point of view. There are many other benefits also when referring to an optical instead of a standard electrical sensor system. Due to its small size and ease of integration into different families of materials, it could be considered a system for monitoring the operating status of most actuators on board modern aircraft.
Zootechnical Performance and Some Physiological Indices of Tambaqui, Colossoma macropomum Juveniles during Biofloc Maturation and in Different Feed Regimes
Authors: Nakayama Cintia Labussière , Silva Luiz Felipe Silveira , Santos Fabio Aremil Costa dos , Boaventura Tulio Pacheco , Favero Gisele Cristina , Palheta Glauber David Almeida , Correia de Melo Nuno Filipe Alves , Romano Luiz Alberto , Luz Ronald Kennedy
Published: July 2022

The objective was to evaluate the hematological and biochemical blood parameters and performance of Colossoma macropomum submitted to BFT maturation and under different feeding regimes. BFT maturation was carried out for 60 days (Phase 1). Feeding on six or seven days a week and feeding rates of 4% or 6% of biomass were tested (Phase 2). The water quality parameters were monitored throughout the experimental period. At the end of Phases 1 and 2, blood samples and zootechnical performance were evaluated. In Phase 1, total ammonia was higher on the 17th day (1.25 mg TAN L−1) and stabilized from the 21st day onwards. Nitrite reached a peak (9.67 mg L−1) on the 26th day. There was an increase in nitrate between the 25th and 60th day (1.79 ± 0.01 vs. 5.45 ± 0.01 mg N-NO3− L−1, respectively). FCR (1.90 ± 0.21), weight gain (9.81 ± 1.08 g), and SGR (1.26 ± 0.12%) were highest at 30 days of phase 1. The glucose level (118.23 ± 26.30 mg dL−1) was highest on the 30th day. The plasmatic protein (5.36 ± 0.30 g dL−1) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels (27.58 ± 6.58 UI mL−1) were highest after 60 days. The hemoglobin level (5.77 ± 0.74 g dL−1) was lowest after 30 days. In Phase 2, the triglycerides, ALT, and hematocrit levels were different at the end of the experiment under all feeding regimes. Histological analysis of gills showed a normal condition for fish under BFT. It was possible to apply a feeding regime of six days a week and 4% biomass for juveniles, with 43 g on average.
An Experimental Study of Axial Poisson’s Ratio and Axial Young’s Modulus Determination of Potato Stems Using Image Processing
Authors: Fan Jiali , Li Yuyao , Wang Bing , Gu Fengwei , Wu Feng , Yang Hongguang , Yu Zhaoyang , Hu Zhichao
Published: July 2022

Potato stems removal is an important part of mechanized potato harvesting. However, there is still limited research on the physical properties of potato stems, especially the determination of Poisson’s ratio and Young’s modulus. This study determined the Poisson’s ratio and Young’s modulus of the potato main stems at different heights above the ground. Since the Potato stems are viscoelastic cylinders with non-standard circular cross-sections and complex textures, the existing determination methods are difficult to apply. We propose a new method to determine Poisson’s ratio and Young’s modulus by combining image processing in the mechanical compression process. The feasibility of this method was verified by determining the hardness value of 65 Shore ‘A’ nitrile rubber specimens, and the measured Poisson’s ratio and Young’s modulus were close to the relevant literature. This method can be used for the determination of potato stems. Atlantic potatoes are widely grown for their high solids content, resistance to pests and diseases, and good processing quality. Ten Atlantic potato main stems were randomly selected at harvest time. Specimens with a length of 11 ± 1 mm were taken at 0 cm, 10 cm, 20 cm, and 30 cm above the ground from each stem. The average values of the axial Poisson’s ratio were determined as: 0.21, 0.28, 0.30, 0.32, and the axial Young’s modulus as: 15.90 MPa, 12.38 MPa, 11.68 MPa, 11.28 MPa. This study has provided critical basic data for the discrete element model construction of potato stems and numerical simulation of potato haulm killers and potato harvesters, which is beneficial for improving the harvest quality of potato. It also provides new ideas for Poisson’s ratio and Young’s modulus measurement of non-regular cross-sectional cylindrical viscoelastic materials.
A Metal Chaperone Gene Regulates Rice Growth and Seed Development by Manganese Acquisition and Homeostasis
Authors: Li Chao , Li He , Rono Justice Kipkorir , Wang Mong Qi , Yang Zhi Min
Published: July 2022

Manganese (Mn) is a mineral element essential for plant growth and development. In agronomy reality, Mn deficiency or overload in crops disturbs metal homeostasis, photosynthesis, and many other biological processes. Mining genetic resources linking Mn acquisition and homeostasis is vitally important to help understand plant adaptation to Mn stress and breeding genetically improved crops for sustainable agriculture. Metallic chaperone (metallochaperone) is a class of family proteins playing an essential role in positive responses to metal and abiotic stresses. Here, we report a novel function of a metal chaperone gene OsHIPP56 in regulating Mn accumulation in rice (Oryza sativa) crops. OsHIPP56 was transcriptionally induced by excessive Mn stress but hardly by Mn deficiency. OsHIPP56-expression in a yeast Mn-sensitive mutant pmr1 rescued the Mn-defective phenotype by increasing Mn accumulation in cells. Knocking out OsHIPP56 by Crispr/cas9 protocol did not affect the growth and physiological responses of rice seedlings supplied with normal Mn concentration. However, excess Mn stress moderately retarded growth of the knockout plants compared with the wild-type. A life span field trial was conducted under natural conditions with the two rice varieties. Knocking out OsHIPP56 also distorted rice growth, leading to reduced plant height, stem elongation, panicle length, spikelet fertility, seed size, and grain yield. Mn concentrations in rice straw (leaves and stem/internodes), brown rice, and husk in cas9 plants were much lower than those in wild-type. This was particularly seen in the brown rice where the Mn concentrations in cas9 plants were reduced by 26.7–49.1% compared with the wild-type control. Overall, these lines of evidence point out that OsHIPP56 plays a primary role required for rice growth, seed development, and Mn acquisition.
The Effect of Supplementation of Rumen-Protected Choline on Reproductive and Productive Performances of Dairy Cows
Authors: Mečionytė Indrė , Palubinskas Giedrius , Anskienė Lina , Japertienė Renata , Juodžentytė Renalda , Žilaitis Vytuolis
Published: July 2022

We aimed to evaluate the effects of organic herbal preparations containing rumen-protected choline (RPC) in dairy cow milk’s BHB and progesterone (P4) concentration changes, reproduction, and production performances. Cows were divided into the following two groups: The CHOL (n = 60) cow diet was supplemented with 10 g/day RPC from 20 days pre-calving to 20 days post-calving, and CONT (n = 60) were fed a conventional diet. BHB and P4 concentrations were measured at 5–64 DIM and 21–64 DIM, respectively, with DelPro 4.2. BHB was lower in the CHOL group at 5–64 DIM than CONT p > 0.05. The first post-calving P4 peak, p < 0.001, was determined earlier in the CHOL group, and the P4 profile during 21–64 DIM was similar, p > 0.05. The insemination rate was lower, and the interval between calvings was shorter. The first insemination time was earlier in the CHOL group, p < 0.05. Milk yield was higher in the CHOL group at 21–64 DIM, p > 0.05. The CHOL group had more fat in their milk at 31–60 DIM, p < 0.05. There were no significant differences in protein and SCC between the groups, p > 0.05. Based on our results, we concluded that the supplementation of RPC pre- and post-calving had statistically significant effects on the first peak of P4, and benefited the reproduction performances, milk yield, and milk fat during the early postpartum period.
Role of Daptomycin in Cutaneous Wound Healing: A Narrative Review
Authors: Rizzetto Giulio , Molinelli Elisa , Radi Giulia , Diotallevi Federico , Cirioni Oscar , Brescini Lucia , Giacometti Andrea , Offidani Annamaria , Simonetti Oriana
Published: July 2022

Daptomycin is active against Gram-positive bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and the on-label indications for its use include complicated skin and skin structure infections (cSSSI). We performed a narrative review of the literature with the aim to evaluate the role of daptomycin in the skin wound healing process, proposing our point of view on the possible association with other molecules that could improve the skin healing process. Daptomycin may improve wound healing in MRSA-infected burns, surgical wounds, and diabetic feet, but further studies in humans with histological examination are needed. In the future, the combination of daptomycin with other molecules with synergistic action, such as vitamin E and derivates, IB-367, RNA III-inhibiting peptide (RIP), and palladium nanoflowers, may help to improve wound healing and overcome forms of antibiotic resistance.
What Factors Affect Outcome in the Treatment of Fracture-Related Infection?
Authors: McNally Martin , Corrigan Ruth , Sliepen Jonathan , Dudareva Maria , Rentenaar Rob , IJpma Frank , Atkins Bridget L. , Wouthuyzen-Bakker Marjan , Govaert Geertje
Published: July 2022

This international, multi-center study investigated the effect of individual components of surgery on the clinical outcomes of patients treated for fracture-related infection (FRI). All patients with surgically treated FRIs, confirmed by the FRI consensus definition, were included. Data were collected on demographics, time from injury to FRI surgery, soft tissue reconstruction, stabilization and systemic and local anti-microbial therapy. Patients were followed up for a minimum of one year. In total, 433 patients were treated with a mean age of 49.7 years (17–84). The mean follow-up time was 26 months (range 12–72). The eradication of infection was successful in 86.4% of all cases and 86.0% of unhealed infected fractures were healed at the final review. In total, 3.3% required amputation. The outcome was not dependent on age, BMI, the presence of metalwork or time from injury (recurrence rate 16.5% in FRI treated at 1–10 weeks after injury; 13.1% at 11–52 weeks; 12.1% at >52 weeks: p = 0.52). The debridement and retention of a stable implant (DAIR) had a failure rate of 21.4%; implant exchange to a new internal fixation had a failure rate of 12.5%; and conversion to external fixation had a failure rate of 10.3% (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) DAIR vs. Ext Fix 2.377; 95% C.I. 0.96–5.731). Tibial FRI treated with a free flap was successful in 92.1% of cases and in 80.4% of cases without a free flap (HR 0.38; 95% C.I. 0.14–1.0), while the use of NPWT was associated with higher recurrence rates (HR 3.473; 95% C.I. 1.852–6.512). The implantation of local antibiotics reduced the recurrence from 18.7% to 10.0% (HR 0.48; 95% C.I. 0.29–0.81). The successful treatment of FRI was multi-factorial. These data suggested that treatment decisions should not be based on time from injury alone, as other factors also affected the outcome. Further work to determine the best indications for DAIR, free flap reconstruction and local antibiotics is warranted.
Thidiazuron: New Trends and Future Perspectives to Fight Xylella fastidiosa in Olive Trees
Authors: Catalano Alessia , Ceramella Jessica , Iacopetta Domenico , Mariconda Annaluisa , Scali Elisabetta , Bonomo Maria Grazia , Saturnino Carmela , Longo Pasquale , Aquaro Stefano , Sinicropi Maria Stefania
Published: July 2022

These days, most of our attention has been focused on the COVID-19 pandemic, and we have often neglected what is happening in the environment. For instance, the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa re-emerged as a plant pathogen of global importance in 2013 when it was first associated with an olive tree disease epidemic in Italy, called Olive Quick Decline Syndrome (OQDS), specifically caused by X. fastidiosa subspecies pauca ST53, which affects the Salento olive trees (Apulia, South-East Italy). This bacterium, transmitted by the insect Philaenus spumarius, is negatively reshaping the Salento landscape and has had a very high impact in the production of olives, leading to an increase of olive oil prices, thus new studies to curb this bacterium are urgently needed. Thidiazuron (TDZ), a diphenylurea (N-phenyl-1,2,3-thiadiazol-5-yl urea), has gained considerable attention in recent decades due to its efficient role in plant cell and tissue culture, being the most suitable growth regulator for rapid and effective plant production in vitro. Its biological activity against bacteria, fungi and biofilms has also been described, and the use of this low-cost compound to fight OQDS may be an intriguing idea.
Prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus and mec-A Cassette in the Throat of Non-Hospitalized Individuals Randomly Selected in Central Italy
Authors: Scapoli Luca , Palmieri Annalisa , Pellati Agnese , Carinci Francesco , Lauritano Dorina , Arcuri Claudio , Baggi Luigi , Gatto Roberto , Martinelli Marcella
Published: July 2022

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a cause of life-threatening infections that are difficult to treat because of resistance to several antibiotics. Most documented MRSA infections are acquired nosocomially or among community with frequent contact with health facilities. However, an increasing attention to community acquired MRSA strains appears justified. A population of Central Italy was investigated for the presence of S. aureus and for the methicillin-resistance determinant mec-A gene. Exclusion was due to systemic diseases, pathologies or therapies inducing systemic immunosuppression, facial trauma or poor oral hygiene. Throat swabs obtained from 861 randomly selected participants were tested for the presence of DNA sequences of S. aureus and the mec-A gene by real-time PCR. The DNA of S. aureus was detected in 199 specimens (23.1%), while the mec-A gene was detected in 27 samples (3.1%). The prevalence of patients carrying methicillin-resistant strains was higher in younger and older strata. The prevalence of mec-A among S. aureus positive samples was 7.5%. Our data confirm that S. aureus and methicillin-resistant strains are common in the throat of the general population of Central Italy. Although the PCR methods used in this study are different from traditional culture-based approaches, the observed prevalence was consistent to those observed in Italians and other populations. Considering that carriers have a higher risk to develop post surgically life-threatening infections, it is worth evaluating a preventive approach based on rapid PCR screening of incoming patients to reduce the risk of developing health-care-associated infections.
Hesperidin Protects Human HaCaT Keratinocytes from Particulate Matter 2.5-Induced Apoptosis via the Inhibition of Oxidative Stress and Autophagy
Authors: Fernando Pincha Devage Sameera Madushan , Piao Mei Jing , Kang Kyoung Ah , Zhen Ao Xuan , Herath Herath Mudiyanselage Udari Lakmini , Kang Hee Kyoung , Choi Yung Hyun , Hyun Jin Won
Published: July 2022

Numerous epidemiological studies have reported that particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) causes skin aging and skin inflammation and impairs skin homeostasis. Hesperidin, a bioflavonoid that is abundant in citrus species, reportedly has anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, we evaluated the cytoprotective effect of hesperidin against PM2.5-mediated damage in a human skin cell line (HaCaT). Hesperidin reduced PM2.5-induced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and oxidative cellular/organelle damage. PM2.5 increased the proportion of acridine orange-positive cells, levels of autophagy-related proteins, beclin-1 and microtubule-associated protein light chain 3, and apoptosis-related proteins, B-cell lymphoma-2-associated X protein, cleaved caspase-3, and cleaved caspase-9. However, hesperidin ameliorated PM2.5-induced autophagy and apoptosis. PM2.5 promoted cellular apoptosis via mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation by promoting the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase, c-Jun N-terminal kinase, and p38. The MAPK inhibitors U0126, SP600125, and SB203580 along with hesperidin exerted a protective effect against PM2.5-induced cellular apoptosis. Furthermore, hesperidin restored PM2.5-mediated reduction in cell viability via Akt activation; this was also confirmed using LY294002 (a phosphoinositide 3-kinase inhibitor). Overall, hesperidin shows therapeutic potential against PM2.5-induced skin damage by mitigating excessive ROS accumulation, autophagy, and apoptosis.
Antioxidant Properties of New Phenothiazine Derivatives
Authors: Voronova Olesya , Zhuravkov Sergey , Korotkova Elena , Artamonov Anton , Plotnikov Evgenii
Published: July 2022

Phenothiazine and its derivatives have a number of properties that contribute to their wider practical use in the production of biologically active substances, drugs, dyes, etc. Therefore, the synthesis and study of new compounds is of great relevance. The aim of this work was to investigate the antioxidant activity of a number of new phenothiazine derivatives. The patterns of electroreduction of oxygen and its radicals in the presence of phenothiazine derivatives in aqueous ethanol media were studied by voltammetry. The influence of various factors on antioxidant activity was considered by the methods of experiment planning. The optimal conditions for the manifestation of the antioxidant activity of phenothiazine derivatives have been found, which seems to be relevant since it opens up new possibilities for their further use as complex preparations with antioxidant activity, including in psychiatric practice.
Analytical and Numerical Models for TE-Wave Absorption in a Graded-Index GNP-Treated Cell Substrate Inserted in a Waveguide
Authors: Svendsen Brage B. , Söderström Mika , Carlens Hampus , Dalarsson Mariana
Published: July 2022

In this paper, absorption phenomena in a hollow waveguide with an inserted graded dielectric layer are studied, for the case of transverse electric (TE) wave propagation. The waveguide model aims to be applicable to a study of a potential cancer treatment by heating of gold nanoparticles (GNPs) inside the cancer cells. In our previous work, general exact analytical fomulas for transmission, reflection, and absorption coefficients were derived. These fomulas are further developed here to be readily applicable to the calculation of the absorption coefficient within the inserted lossy layer only, quantifying the absorption in the GNP-fed cancer tissue. To this end, we define new exact analytic scale factors that eliminate unessential absorption in the surrounding lossy medium. In addition, a numerical model was developed using finite element method software. We compare the numerical results for power transmission, reflection and absorption coefficients to the corresponding results obtained from the new modified exact analytic fomulas. The study includes both a simple example of constant complex permittivities, and a more realistic example where a dispersive model of permittivity is used to describe human tissue and the electrophoretic motion of charged GNPs. The results of the numerical study with both non-dispersive and dispersive permittivities indicate an excellent agreement with the corresponding analytical results. Thus, the model provides a valuable analytical and numerical tool for future research on absorption phenomena in GNP-fed cancer tissue.
Scorecard Model-Based Motion Stability Evaluation of Manipulators for Robot Training
Authors: Lin Mingming , Xu Li
Published: July 2022

Motion stability is vital for the industrial application of robotic manipulators; therefore, its evaluation becomes an important task for robot training. This paper proposes an evaluation system based on the scorecard model to evaluate the stability performance of manipulators. Firstly, the wavelet modulus maximum filtering method is employed to divide the vibration signal into structural vibration components and motion-generated vibration components. Secondly, the evaluation index (EI) is designed based on the processed data to judge whether the vibration signal of the moving process is stable. Finally, the scorecard model is proposed to evaluate the stability of vibration samples, including the process of attribute extraction, binning, WOE coding, feature selection, logistic regression, and score transformation. Additionally, an endpoint localization method is employed to segment the vibration signal of a continuously moving manipulator into single-step motion segments, making it possible to score the motion subprocesses. Experiments are conducted on physical robotic arms to verify the effectiveness of the proposed scheme, and the results show that the model can reasonably score the motion stability of robotic arms for robot training.
Risk-Based Selection of Inspection Method for External Post-Tensioning System of Bridges
Authors: Taeby Mahdy , Mehrabi Armin B.
Published: July 2022

The increasing complexity associated with the maintenance of bridges with post-tensioning tendons, along with growing public awareness to ensure higher levels of safety in bridges, has put additional pressure on the designers and the owners to find innovative solutions to ensure safe as well as economically viable solutions. Risk-based inspection and maintenance helps in finding such solutions and, thus, it is gaining more importance in the field of infrastructure management. Within the framework of current risk-based inspection methodologies, it is normally assumed that the method by which the inspection is performed is known beforehand. However, the selection of the inspection method by itself should be given importance and viewed as the first key step for any inspection. The lack of quantitative data in the initiation step makes this selection uncertain and the decision making rather subjective. Despite recent release of comprehensive reports and other publications on condition assessment of bridges with post-tensioning systems, a quantitative approach and a decision-making framework for the selection of the inspection method and associated protocol are still missing, and the inspection strategy and methods are determined purely by the experience of the inspector or the owner. In this paper, a simple and structured risk-based selection methodology is presented that can bridge the existing knowledge gap. The proposed methodology uses a statistical approach to quantify the likelihood of the inspection error utilizing a variety of applicable NDE (Non-destructive Evaluation) methods. To give the methodology both accuracy and practicality, the specifications for the national bridge inventory (SNBI) condition rating was incorporated in this methodology and the accuracy of the inspection methods are measured against determining the correct SNBI condition. Application and effectiveness of the proposed methodology are demonstrated using a case study inspection conducted earlier by the authors. The results, in this case, converged to the selection of one of the NDE methods, which consequently was accepted by the bridge stakeholders.
Analysis of Initial Cracking of an Interface between a Bundled Lipped Channel–Concrete Composite Wall and an Infill Wall
Authors: Cheng Pengyun , Zhang Lifeng , Lin Gaohang , Qian Kuangliang , Qian Xiaoqian , Ruan Shaoqin
Published: July 2022

The bundled lipped channel–concrete (BLC-C) composite wall structure is a new structure with several advantages such as a high bearing capacity and good seismic performance. However, interface cracks between a BLC-C composite wall and the infill wall (non-structural wall) are a severe problem and need to be urgently resolved. Interface cracks affect not only the esthetics, but also the normal use of a building. The presence of interface cracks changes the perceptions of the owners of a structure, forcing them to question its safety and even take legal action against its developer. Therefore, in this study we aimed to investigate the initial cracking of the interface between a BLC-C composite wall and an infill wall. Unidirectional horizontal loading tests were conducted on two infill wall specimens constrained by BLC-C composite walls on both sides. The finite element analysis software ANSYS was used to simulate the loading process of the tests. The test results were compared to verify the accuracy of the finite element model. A finite element analysis was conducted to determine the effect of the horizontal displacement of the specimens when the interface initially cracked under different parameters such as the widths of the BLC-C composite wall, infill wall, and opening as well as the strength grade of the bricks and maximum normal contact stress. The results showed that a decrease in the width of the BLC-C composite wall or a rise in the width of the infill wall delayed the appearance of interface cracks. A large opening also delayed the occurrence of interface cracks. An enhancement in the strength grade of the bricks led to an earlier appearance of interface cracks. Interface cracks occurred later with an increase in the maximum normal contact stress between the BLC-C composite wall and the infill wall.
Predicting Tensile Strength for Prestressed Reinforced Concrete-Driven Piles
Authors: Nguyen Thuyet N. , Pham Thang Q. , Vu Thuy T. , Malik Adnan A. , Dinh Duc N.
Published: July 2022

Reinforced concrete piles installed by impact hammers have been used as a common solution for deep foundations because they are cost effective and require less time for construction. Driven piles are often used in large volumes for infrastructure and industrial projects in rural areas. Unlike other installation methods, installing piles using impact hammers can generate tensile stress during construction, which can result in pile failures. Induced tensile stress occurs when piles are being driven through a hard soil layer to a softer soil layer, and transverse cracks happen when induced tensile stress exceeds the pile tensile strength. This issue is not explicitly stated in most standards; the rare code that mentions this issue is AASHTO 2014. AASHTO 2014 uses correlations between the concrete tensile and compressive strengths to obtain the pile tensile strength. However, data collected from more than 1300 tests on the correlations between the concrete tensile and compressive strengths show that the concrete pile tensile strengths obtained using AASHTO 2014 are significantly conservative. This paper provides an adjustment in the correlation for the tensile strength based on previous data, and it proposes an approach to estimate the tensile strength for concrete-driven piles. A case study of the effects of pile failures on the tensile strength is also presented to verify the approach. The obtained tensile strength from the proposed approach agrees well with the measured field data. For the case study, the pile tensile strength obtained using the proposed approach is 38% and 59% higher than the tensile strength obtained using AASHTO 2014. These quantities are significant but may vary, depending on the compression strength of the concrete used and the pile configurations. The proposed approach better predicts the tensile strength of concrete piles and can lead to cost savings.
Lower Molar Distalization Using Clear Aligners: Bodily Movement or Uprighting? A Preliminary Study
Authors: Rota Elisa , Parrini Simone , Malekian Kamy , Cugliari Giovanni , Mampieri Gianluca , Deregibus Andrea , Castroflorio Tommaso
Published: July 2022

Background: Lower molar distalization is considered to be one of the most difficult movements to obtain with clear aligners. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possibility to distalize the lower molars using clear aligners in adults without miniscrews. Material and methods: rx cephalograms of 16 patients (8 males, 8 females; mean age of 25.6 years), who underwent lower molar distalization, were analyzed. Cephalograms were taken before the beginning of treatment (T0) and after the end of treatment (T1). Dental and skeletal changes between T0 and T1 were evaluated. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: At T1, the lower second molar moved distally 2.47 mm, but there was a significant tipping (p = 0.027); the same result was found at the first molar, with a mean distal movement of 1.16 mm and a significant tipping (p = 0.003). No significant changes were detected on the sagittal and vertical skeletal variables. Conclusion: Clear aligner therapy can provide more distal tipping than bodily movement in the lower molars when a distalization is programmed. This movement could be sufficient to correct the initial malocclusion and gain a class I molar relationship.