bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mountains to climb: on the role of seamounts in upwelling of deep ocean waters
Authors: Mashayek Ali , Gula Jonathan , Baker Lois , Garabato Alberto Naveira , Cimoli Laura , Riley James
Published: October 2021

Ocean turbulent mixing exerts an important control on the rate and structure of the overturning circulation.
Recent observational evidence suggests, however, that there could be a mismatch between the observed intensity of mixing integrated over basin or global scales, and the net mixing required to sustain the overturning's deep upwelling limb.
Here, we investigate the hitherto largely overlooked role of tens of thousands of seamounts in resolving this discrepancy. Dynamical theory indicates that seamounts may stir and mix deep waters by generating lee waves and topographic wake vortices. At low latitudes, this is enhanced by a layered vortex regime in the wakes.
We consider three case studies (in the equatorial zone, Southern Ocean and Gulf Stream) that are predicted by theory to be representative of, respectively, a layered vortex, barotropic wake, and hybrid regimes, and corroborate theoretical scalings of mixing in each case with a realistic regional ocean model. We then apply such scalings to a global seamount dataset and an ocean climatology to show that seamount-generated mixing makes a leading-order contribution to the global upwelling of deep waters. Our work thus brings seamounts to the fore of the deep-ocean mixing problem, and urges observational, theoretical and modeling efforts toward incorporating the seamounts' mixing effects in conceptual and numerical models of the ocean circulation.
Development And Evaluation of Transferosomal Gel Using Cephalexin.
Authors: Singh Vinay , Dharashivkar Sanket , Gaikwad Madhuri , Shaikh Shirin
Published: October 2021

Background: In the present research work transferosomal gel was developed for an effective treatment of skin infection using cephalexin as model drug. The Transferosomes were prepared by thin film hydration method using Phospholipon 90H as a Lipid, Sodium deoxycholate as a surfactant and the vesicles were characterized on the basis of entrapment efficiency, particle size, Zeta potential, shape, morphology, x-ray diffraction analysis and in-vitro drug release. The transfersomal gel was prepared by dispersion method using Carbopol 934 as a gelling agent and evaluated for spreadability, viscosity, pH, drug release, antimicrobial study and stability.Results: The entrapment efficiency of the optimized transferosomes was found to be 90.62% and the % Cumulative release of gel across the dialysis membrane was found to be 91.26% at the end of 24h. Conclusion: Vesicular system can be of great help in decreasing the burden of Bacterial infections and other infections around the globe.
WITHDRAWN: PLK1 is A Promising Biomarker for the Prognosis of Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Wang Lina , Gao Man , Sun Dongjie , Wu Haitao , Lv Shuang , Qian Xiaoli , Li Yulin , Li Lisha
Published: October 2021

Background: As one of the commonly occurred lung cancer, over 40% of lung cancer are lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) in the world. However, due to the lack of effective treatment method, the prognosis of this disease is poor. In this study, we identified a novel treatment target for LUAD. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were extracted from 551 LUAD cases in the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and used for Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis. Gene set variation analysis (GSVA) and the CIBERSORT method were applied for the estimation of the biological pathways and the tumor-infiltrating immune cells (TICs). Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and Cox regression analyses were conducted for the analysis of DEGs. Quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) and immunoblotting were used for the validation of DEGs.Results: Genes related to cell cycle were sorted out. Positive association between cell cycle scores and clinical features including age, clinical stages and metastasis was found. Negative association between cell cycle scores and overall survival of LUAD patients was detected. In PPI and Cox analyses, PLK1 was estimated to be a factor for the prognostic predictions of LUAD patients. In LUAD patients, PLK1 was positively associated to the clinical stages and negatively associated to the overall survival. As suggested by CIBERSORT analysis, significant positive correlations were found between the transcription level of PLK1 and the function of CD8+ and activated memory CD4+ T cell. Meanwhile, significant negative correlation between the transcription level of PLK1 and activated natural killer cell was also found out. Moreover, PLK1 overexpression caused elevated immune cytotoxicity, including cytolytic activity score, IFN-γ score and IFN-γ level.Conclusions: PLK1 displayed robust correlations with key features of TICs related to the immune-microenvironment of cancer, and therefore was suggested as a promising biomarker for the prognostic prediction of LUAD.
QRS Fragmentation in Preserved Ejection Fraction Heart Failure: Functional Insights, Pathological Correlates, and Prognosis
Authors: Sung Kuo-Tzu , Chang Sheng-Hsiung , Chi Po-Ching , Chien Shih‐Chieh , Lo Chi‐In , Lin Chao‐Feng , Huang Wen‐Hung , Yun Chun‐Ho , Tsai Cheng-Ting , Su Cheng-Huang , Hou Charles Jia-Yin , Yeh Hung-I , Tsao Chin-Ho , Kuo Jen-Yuan , Hung Chung-Lieh
Published: October 2021

Backgrounds: Fragmented QRS (fQRS) morphology as a surrogate marker of the possible presence of myocardial scarring has been shown to confer a higher risk in patients with reduced ejection fraction heart failure. We aimed to investigate the pathophysiological correlates and prognostic implications of fQRS in patients with preserved ejection fraction heart failure (HFpEF). Methods and Results: We consecutively studied 960 patients with HFpEF (76.4±12.7 years, men: 37.2%). fQRS was assessed using a body surface electrocardiogram during hospitalization. QRS morphology was available and classified into three categories among 960 HFpEF subjects as non-fQRS, inferior fQRS, and anterior/lateral fQRS groups. Despite comparable clinical features in most baseline demographics among the three fQRS categories, anterior/lateral fQRS showed significantly higher BNP/troponin levels (both p<0.001), with both the inferior and anterior/lateral fQRS HFpEF groups demonstrating a higher degree of unfavorable cardiac remodeling, greater extent of myocardial perfusion defect, and slower coronary flow phenomenon (all p<0.05). Anterior/lateral fQRS HFpEF patients exhibited significantly altered cardiac structure/function and more impaired diastolic indices (all p<0.05). During a median of 657 days follow-up, the presence of anterior/lateral fQRS conferred a doubled HF re-admission risk (adjusted HR: 1.90, p<0.001), with both inferior and anterior/lateral fQRS having a higher risk of cardiovascular and all-cause death (all p<0.05) by using Cox regression models.Conclusions: The presence of fQRS in HFpEF was associated with more extensive myocardial perfusion defects and worsened mechanics, which possibly denotes a more severe involvement of cardiac damage. Early recognition in such HFpEF patients likely benefits from targeted therapeutic interventions.
Neutron-upscattering enhancement of the triple-alpha process
Authors: Bishop Jack , Parker Cody , Rogachev Grigory , Ahn Sunghoon , Koshchiy Evgeniy , Brandenburg Kristyn , Brune Carl , Charity Robert , Derkin Joseph , Dronchi Nicholas , Hamad Gulakhshan , Jones-Alberty Yenuel , Kokalova Tzanka , Massey Thomas , Meisel Zachary , Ohstrom Eva , Paneru Som , Saxena Mansi , Singh Nisha , Smith Robin , Sobotka Lee , Soltesz Douglas , Subedi Shiv Kumar , Voinov Alexander , Warren Justin , Wheldon Carl
Published: October 2021

The neutron inelastic scattering of carbon-12, populating the Hoyle state, is a reaction of interest 17 for the triple-alpha process. The inverse process (neutron upscattering) can enhance the Hoyle state’s decay rate to the bound states of 12 18 C, effectively increasing the overall triple-alpha reaction rate. 19 The cross section of this reaction is impossible to measure experimentally but has been determined 20 here at astrophysically-relevant energies for the first time using detailed balance. This cross section 21 will inform astrophysical models on the importance of neutron upscattering in neutron-rich stellar 22 environments. 23 Using a highly-collimated monoenergetic beam of neutrons incident on the Texas Active Target 24 Time Projection Chamber (TexAT TPC) filled with CO2 gas, the 3α-particles (arising from the decay 25 of the Hoyle state following inelastic scattering) were measured and a cross section was extracted 26 between En = 8.15 MeV and En = 10.0 MeV. The cross section above the threshold was dominated by a few resonances in 13 27 C around Ex = 13.5 MeV. This has a significant effect on the contribution 28 of neutron upscattering in stellar environments. 29 The neutron-upscattering enhancement is observed to be much smaller than previously expected. 30 For a temperature of 1 GK, the total enhancement factor, from upscattering to the ground state and 31 first-excited state, was seen to be 5, rising to around 46 at 10 GK thereby exceeding the contribution 32 from proton enhancement. The importance of the neutron-upscattering enhancement may therefore 33 not be significant aside from in very particular astrophysical sites (e.g. neutron star mergers).
Minimum Accepted Competency Examination: Test Item Analysis
Authors: McCrossan Paddy , Nicholson Alf , McCallion Naomi
Published: October 2021

BackgroundThe minimum accepted competency (MAC) examination in paediatrics was a set of MCQ’s designed to test undergraduate medical students on the most basic, ‘must know’ knowledge as determined by non-faculty paediatric clinicians. The faculty standard set the examination at a relatively difficult 41.2% with only two-thirds of students attaining this score (even though 96% of the same students passed their university paediatric examination). We will now describe the psychometric properties of the examination in a bid to explain these results and provide specific suggestions for future practiceMethodsThe methodology for designing the content, standard setting and administration of the MAC examination has already been described. The examination was set by three groups of undergraduate medical students and paediatric trainee doctors. Test item analysis was performed using difficulty index, discrimination index and Cronbach’s alpha.ResultsTest item difficulty between each group was positively correlated. Correlation of item difficulty with the standard set for each item showed a statistically significant positive relationship. However, for 10 of the items, the mean score did not even reach two standard deviations below the standard set by the faculty. Medical students outperformed the trainee doctors on three items. 18 of 30 items achieved a discrimination index >0.2. Cronbach’s alpha ranged from 0.22-0.59.ConclusionQuestions on respiratory paediatrics and seizures were answered poorly. Despite these topics being major topics within the curriculum, it is possible that the clinical emphasis in these non-faculty derived questions was juxtaposed with the factual recall often required for university examinations. Interestingly, for the questions on which the students performed better than the doctors, the questions were quite specific, and the answer found directly in the curriculum. This reflects how students learn with limited clinical experience and is a good example of assessment being a key driver of learning.The concept of a MAC examination to test basic medical knowledge is feasible and the study presented is an encouraging first step towards this method of assessment. This method is readily transferable to other medical (and allied health) specialties.
A gut feeling: how your gut and brain changes your risk and time preferences
Authors: Dantas Aline , Jiao Peiran , Sack Alexander , Bruggen Elisabeth , Schuhmann Teresa
Published: October 2021

Recent research has shown that the gut microbiota can influence the interaction between the central and the enteric nervous systems via the gut-brain axis (GBA). Animal models and human neuroimaging studies have revealed that changes in the gut microbiota affect neural activity in brain regions linked to basic emotional and cognitive processes. Whether the gut microbiota also affect human decision-making and, more specifically, risk and time preferences, however, remains largely unknown. Here, we examine the role of the gut-brain axis in decision-making in the face of risk and intertemporal choices. In a placebo-controlled double-blinded design, with two sessions separated by 28 days, during which participants received daily doses of probiotics (or a placebo), we investigate whether the prolonged and controlled intake of probiotics affects risk-taking behavior and intertemporal choices using incentivised economic tasks. We found a significant decrease in risk-taking behavior and an increase in future-oriented choices in the probiotics group as compared to the placebo group. These findings provided the first direct experimental evidence suggesting a potential functional role on the part of the microbiota-gut-brain axis in decision-making, creating a path for potential clinical applications and allowing for a better understanding of the underlying neural mechanisms of risk-taking behavior and intertemporal choices.
Effectiveness and Safety Evaluation of Microresection of Vestibular Schwannoma After Gamma Knife Treatment
Authors: Huang Bowen , Ren Yanming , Liu Xuesong , Lan Zhigang , Hui Xuhui , Ju Yan , Li Xuehan , Zhang Yuekang
Published: October 2021

PURPOSEWe aimed to explored the influence of preoperative gamma knife treatment on the clinical effect of microsurgical resection of vestibular schwannoma.METHODSThe patients who underwent vestibular schwannoma resection in our hospital between November 2010 and December 2019 were retrospectively collected. According to retrospectively collected data, the patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were defined as group A. The 1:3 ratio design was adopted in this study to select the group B that was not subjected to gamma knife treatment in the same period. The pre/postoperative clinical manifestations, neurological function grade, postoperative complications, tumor recurrence and increase were collected and compared between the two groups.RESULTSThere were 40 patients in group A and 120 patients in group B. At the last follow-up, the number of patients with poor facial nerve function was 15 (39.5%) in group A and 25 (21.2%) in group B (P = 0.025). In group A and group B, disequilibrium occurred in 14 patients and 17 patients respectively after operation (P=0.003). 7 patients caught the pulmonary infection in group A and 3 patients had a pulmonary infection in group B (P=0.03) after operation. CONCLUSIONSwhen a patient with vestibular schwannoma undergoes microsurgical surgery, the preoperative history of gamma knife treatment will make a recovery from postoperative facial paralysis difficult for the patients, making them more prone to suffer from postoperative disequilibrium and postoperative pulmonary infection.
Differential Expression of Circulating MiRNAs After Alemtuzumab Induction Therapy in Lung Transplantation
Authors: Benazzo Alberto , Bozzini Sara , Auner Sophia , Berezhinskiy Hatice Oya , Watzenboeck Martin L. , Schwarz Stefan , Schweiger Thomas , Klepetko Walter , Wekerle Thomas , Hoetzenecker Konrad , Meloni Federica , Jaksch Peter
Published: October 2021

Alemtuzumab is a monoclonal antibody targeting CD52, used as induction therapy after lung transplantation (LTx). Its engagement produces a long-lasting immunodepletion; however, the mechanisms driving cell reconstitution are poorly defined. We hypothesized that miRNAs are involved in this process. The expression of a set of miRNAs, cytokines and co-signaling molecules was measured with RT-qPCR and flow cytometry in prospectively collected serum samples of LTx recipients, after alemtuzumab or no induction therapy. Twenty-six LTx recipients who received alemtuzumab and twenty-seven matched LTx recipients without induction therapy were included in the analysis. One year after transplantation four miRNAs were differentially regulated: miR-23b (p=0.05) miR-146 (p=0.04), miR-155 (p<0.001) and miR-486 (p<0.001). Expression of 3 miRNAs changed within the alemtuzumab group: miR-146 (p<0.001), miR-155 (p<0.001) and miR-31 (p<0.001). Levels of IL-13, IL-4, IFN-γ, BAFF, IL-5, IL-9, IL-17F, IL-17A and IL-22 were different one year after transplantation compared to baseline. In no-induction group, concentration of sCD27, sB7.2 and sPD-L1 increased overtime. Expression of miR-23b, miR-146, miR-486, miR-155 and miR-31 was different in LTx recipients who received alemtuzumab compared to recipients without induction therapy. The observed cytokine pattern suggested proliferation of specific B cell subsets in alemtuzumab group and co-stimulation of T-cells in no-induction group.
Comparative Efficacy and Safety of Novel Therapeutic Drugs for Chronic Heart Failure: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wu Honghui , Wen Yalu , Huang Jukai , Zhang Li , Yang Xiaohui
Published: October 2021

Recently, several novel therapeutic drugs (NTDs) were found to have therapeutic potential in treating chronic heart failure (CHF). This network meta-analysis aimed to compare and rank different NTDs in patients with CHF. We searched Medline/PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library of Clinical Trials database through February 9, 2021, for RCTs comparing the NTDs with standard of care (SOC) in adult patients with CHF. Trials of angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI), sodium-glucose transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, ivabradine, non-steroidal mineralcorticoid receptor antagonists (MRA), soluble guanylate cyclase (SGC) stimulators and cardiac myosin activators (CMA) were included. We performed a Bayesian network meta-analysis to indirectly compare the mortality, HF hospitalization and adverse events of the NTDs. Thirty-three studies enrolling 63614 patients were included in this analysis. The results showed none of the NTDs was associated with a significant superiority in reducing all-cause mortality, composite outcome of cardiovascular mortality or HF hospitalization and HF hospitalization alone. For cardiovascular mortality alone, ARNI was superior to ivabradine and CMA, while SGLT2 inhibitors were superior to CMA. For adverse events, SGLT2 inhibitors were associated with a lower risk of serious adverse events than ivabradine and CMA. ARNI and SGLT2 inhibitors were recommended as better choices in reducing CV mortality, while SGLT2 inhibitors performed better regarding serious adverse event.
Effectiveness of partial COVID-19 vaccination on the outcome of hospitalized COVID-19 patients during the second pandemic In India
Authors: De Sajal , Sahu Dibakar , Mahilang Diksha , IT Kalleshwara , Ganga Ranganath , Behera Ajoy
Published: October 2021

Background

This study investigated the effects of COVID-19 vaccination on the outcome of hospitalized COVID-19 patients.
Methods

We included COVID-19 patients aged ≥45 years and hospitalized between 1st March to 30th June 2021 at our center. We stratified them into unvaccinated and vaccinated (received one or both doses of vaccine).
Results

Total 1430 COVID-19 patients (male: 876) were included. Five hundred thirty-six patients (37.5%) received a single vaccine dose, and 43 patients (3%) received two doses before developing COVID-19 disease. The median days of hospital stay of those who survived were ten days (IQR: 8-15). The overall mortality rate, irrespective of vaccination status, was 28.5%. The mortality in the vaccinated was significantly less than the unvaccinated (25.2% vs. 30.7%, p<0.05).The moderate (37.3% vs. 43.4%, P<0.01) and severe (16.8% vs. 21.7%) COVID-19 cases were significantly less in the vaccinated.
Conclusion

The present study showed even a single dose of COVID-19 vaccination significantly reduces the severity of the disease, mortality, and length of hospitalization.
m5C-Related lncRNAs impact on Prognosis and Tumor Microenvironment in Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Wang WenLong , Li Xinying
Published: October 2021

BackgroundEmerging evidence has indicated that 5-methylcyosine (m5C) modification plays a vital role in cancer development. However, the function of m5C RNA methylation-related long noncoding RNAs (m5C-lncRNAs) in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) has never been reported. We aimed to investigate the role of m5C-lncRNAs in the prognosis and tumor immune microenvironment of PTC.MethodsPearson correlation analysis, univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis to filter the prognostic significance of m5C-lncRNAs. Corresponding risk score and immune risk score models were established. ESTIMATE, CIBERSOFT, ssGSEA, and MCP counter algorithms to analysis the tumor microenvironment. Finally, the expression level of m5C-lncRNAs were validated by PTC tissues and cell lines.ResultsA total of 6 m5C-related lncRNAs and five immune cell types were selected to construct risk score and immune risk score (IRS) model, respectively. Patients with a high-risk score had a worse prognosis and the ROC indicated a reliable prediction performance (AUC=0.796). As expected, the ESTIMATE and immune scores were higher (P <0.001) and the tumor purity (P <0.05) was significantly lower in the low-risk subgroup. CIBERSORT analysis showed Tregs, M0 macrophages, dendritic cells resting, and eosinophils were positively correlated to the risk score. Moreover, the expression levels of PD-1, PD-L1, CTLA-4, TIM-3, LAG-3, and KLRB1 were lower in the high-risk subgroup. Importantly, patients in high-risk subgroup tended to have a better response to immunotherapy than those in low-risk subgroup (P =0.022). Similar to the above risk score, IRS model also showed favorable prognosis predictive performance (AUC=0.764). The abundance levels and proportions of B cell naive, plasma cell, M1 macrophages, mast cells activated were higher in high-IRS subgroup. Similarly, MCP-counter algorithms analysis showed that the level of B cell, monocytes, myeloid dendritic cells were higher in high-IRS subgroup. Finally, an integrated nomogram combining risk score, IRS, and age exhibited good prognostic predictive performance. Additionally, 20 clinical samples and 7 PTC cell lines were validated.ConclusionsOur research confirm that m5C-lncRNAs not only contribute to evaluate the prognosis of patients with PTC but also help predict immune cell infiltration and immunotherapy response.
Full Molecular Screening of Colon Cancer in Patients Inherited Familial/Highly Germline BRCA1 and BRCA2 Mutations
Authors: Alshaya Dalal S. , Al-Hazani Tahani Mohamed , Alotaibi Mashael Alhumaidi , Domiaty Dalia Mostafa , AlQahtani Alaa Ali , AlQassim Fatima Abdullah , Albasher Gadah , Al-Qahtani Wedad Saeed
Published: October 2021

Background: A significant body of research has presented evidence regarding an increasing number of cases of early colon cancer among young people. The present study aimed to assess the inherited germinal mutations in breast cancer 1 (BRCA1) and breast cancer 2 (BRCA2) coding areas in four consanguineous cases in generations of a single Saudi family. Methods: The sample consisted of a single Saudi family of four generations in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The family has been diagnosed with colon cancer and inherited germline mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2. DNA sequencing was used to examine the entire coding BRCA1 and BRCA2 sections. The colon samples were immunohistochemically and histologically analysed using BRCA1 and BRCA2 antibodies and H&E Staining Kit (Hematoxylin and Eosin), respectively. Results: A total of 21 scenarios at-risk consanguineous cases were mutations carriers of the BRCA genes (2 BRCA2 and 4 BRCA1), comprised of 3 affected consanguineous cases with malignant colon cancer. The BRCA nucleotide sequencing revealed substantial mutation’s cases in the BRCA1 genes (frameshift mutations situated within exon 11 and exon 2, where no such mutations were present in the BRCA2 genes). A novel replacement mutation within BRCA2 (exon 18) of 139 C > A was obtained with (45.83%) in females and (31.26%) in males. Immunohistochemical staining showed positive staining for BRCA1 and BRCA2. Conclusions: The major factor responsible for colon cancer incidences among the family is associated with the inherited mutations of the germline in BRCA2 and BRCA1 through repeated endogamy of consanguineous cases of the carriers of the mutation.Trial registrationRetrospectively registered.
Risk Factors and Prognostic Impact of the Completion of Adjuvant Chemotherapy with Oxaliplatin Plus Oral Fluorouracil for AGC After D2 Gastrectomy
Authors: Pan Meng-Ting , Huang Yu-Qiang , Wu Yan-Yun , Luo Ming-Xu , Ji Yu-Fei , Baima Zha-Xi , Lin Hui-Yao , Chen Bo
Published: October 2021

Background: To analyze the risk factors and prognostic impact of the completion of adjuvant chemotherapy with oxaliplatin plus oral fluorouracil for advanced gastric cancer (AGC) after D2 gastrectomy.Methods: A total of 234 patients with AGC who underwent D2 gastrectomy and received oxaliplatin plus oral fluorouracil adjuvant chemotherapy between January 1, 2012 to January 1, 2021 in the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University were identified (203 cases with SOX regime;31 cases with XELOX regime) and their clinicopathological information was retrospectively analyzed. The tolerability and safety of oxaliplatin plus oral fluorouracil therapy were analyzed. Patients were divided into high completion group (n = 135) and low completion group (n = 99) according to whether they had completed 6 cycles of adjuvant combined chemotherapy. Relevant risk factors and the prognostic impact of the completion rates of chemotherapy were analyzed.Results: 99 patients have completed more than 6 cycles of adjuvant chemotherapy with oxaliplatin plus oral fluorouracil and the chemotherapy completion rate was 42.31%. Chemotherapy completion was correlated with age ( P = 0.000) and the extent of gastric resection ( P = 0.039). Age was independent risk factor of chemotherapy completion ( OR ,2.487; 95%CI ,1.449-4.268; P = 0.001). As of January 1,2021, 124 patients were followed up for more than three years, the three-year survival rate (86.9% vs 68.8%; P = 0.02) were significantly different between two groups, and the differences of pN stage, pTNM stage and nerve invasion were also statistically significant ( P < 0.05, respectively). Cox regression analysis showed that pN3 stage ( HR ,2.645; 95%CI ,1.138-6.146 ; P = 0.024) was independent prognostic factor about poor survival.Conclusions: Oxaliplatin plus fluorouracil oral adjuvant chemotherapy was safe and tolerable. Advanced age and total gastrectomy were risk factors for chemotherapy completion. The key to improve the prognosis of patients with AGC after D2 gastrectomy was to improve the completion rate of adjuvant chemotherapy.
Lifetimes of Buildings in Japan
Authors: Kayo Chihiro , Tonosaki Mario
Published: October 2021

Ascertaining the lifetime distribution of a nation’s buildings is critical for estimating their stock flow, determining their environmental impacts, and exploring future predictions and effective measures. It is particularly necessary in climate-change-mitigating measures such as the estimation of wood carbon stock dynamics. This work uses the latest data on building stocks and inflows to identify the lifetime function and half-life of all wooden and non-wooden buildings existing in Japan from 1964–2020. The log-normal distribution of wooden buildings proved to be the most suitable lifetime function, with a half-life of 38 years in 1964, 56 years between 1965 and 1996, and 63 years between 1997 and 2020. On the other hand, the log-normal distribution resembled exponential distribution (first order decay) and was the most suitable for non-wooden buildings, with half-life of 22 years in 1964, 33 years between 1965 and 1990, and 52 years between 1991 and 2020. The lifetimes of both wooden and non-wooden buildings have increased over the course of the past half-century. It is important that future research uses these lifetime functions to explore future predictions of building stock based on new building demand, changes in lifetime, and effective climate change measures.
Anti-cancer Effects and Mechanisms of Diosmin in HepG2 Cells in Vitro Revealed by Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking
Authors: Cheng Cuilin , Wang Rongchun , Xia Debin , Zhang Yingchun , Xu Ning , Lu Weihong , Zheng Zhiqiang
Published: October 2021

Diosmin is able to exert anti-cancer effects on various cancer cells, including Caco-2 and HT-29. Herein, we set out to investigate the anti-cancer effects and action mechanisms of diosmin in the HepG2 cell line. We utilized the PharMapper server and Genecards database to identify the target proteins. The Autodock software was used to dock key targets with diosmin to identify action sites. MTT and Western blot assays were utilized to determine cancer cell proliferation, as well as expression of related target proteins in order to validate the antitumor effect of diosmin. Results demonstrated that 13 key targets and 14 tumor signaling pathways were involved in the anti-cancer effect of diosmin. In vitro experiments demonstrate that the number of HepG2 cells were significantly reduced with increasing Bax/Bcl-2 expression ratio after 200 µg/mL of diosmin treatment. Concomitantly, the degrees of RAS p-ERK and p-MEK were significantly decreased, whereas those of Caspase-3 was increased. In conclusion, antitumor effect of diosmin is a comprehensive effect of multi-cell signaling pathways, multi-biological processes and multiple targets. The MAPK signaling pathway is one important pathways by which diosmin exerts its anti-tumor effects. The study provides a rationale for the application of diosmin in the treatment of HepG2.
USMRI Radiomics-based Model for Predicting the Degree of Placental Implantation and Develop Radiomics-based Prediction Models
Authors: An Peng , Li Xiumei
Published: October 2021

Background:To investigate the ability of ultrasound/MRI-based radiomics signature for preoperatively predicting the degree of placental implantation and develop radiomics‑based prediction models. Methods: From January 2016 to December 2020,Clinicopathological characteristics, prenatal ultrasound images, and MRI radiomics features of 132 pregnant women with placental implantation at Xiangyang NO.1 people's Hospital were retrospectively reviewed.In the training set of 100 patients, ultrasound/MRI radiomics model, Clinicopathological model, and combined model were developed by multivariate logistic regression analysis to predict the degree of placental implantation,and the prediction performance of different models were compared using the Delong test. The developed models were validated by assessing their prediction performance in test set of 33 patients.Results:Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified history of abortion、history of endometrial injury、blurred boundary between the uterine serosa and bladder to construct combined model for predicting degree of placental implantation [the area under the curve (AUC) = 0.931; 95% CI 0.874-0.968].While the AUC of clinical model and ultrasound/MRI radiomics model were 0.858 (95% CI 0.787-0.913) and 0.709 (95% CI 0.624-0.785), respectively. The AUC of the combined model was significantly higher than that of the radiomics model (p ＜0.001) or clinical model (p = 0.0015) in training set.In test set, the combined model also showed higher prediction performance. Conclusions:Ultrasound/MRI-based radiomics signature is a powerful predictor for early degree of placental implantation. Ultrasound/MRI radiomics (constructed with Complete placenta previa、blurred boundary between the placenta and myometrium、blurred boundary between the uterine serosa and bladder) and combined model (constructed with history of abortion、history of endometrial injury、blurred boundary between the uterine serosa and bladder) can improve the accuracy for predicting the early degree of placental implantation.
PFC2D Simulation Research on Arched Structure of Salix Granules in Dense Forming
Authors: Qianyi Sha , Zhen Li , Wei Wang , Jinda Li
Published: October 2021

The influencing factors of biomass molding play an important role in the entire biomass molding research. This study uses the arch structure to study the relationship between the microscopic and macroscopic influencing factors.Using PFC2D software to carry out uniaxial compression simulation, by changing the two influencing factors of compression speed and forming granularity, the influence of arched structure on the compact forming of Salix granules from the meso level. By analyzing the stress-strain relationship and the changes of various types of energy, the influence of the arched structure on the energy during the compression process is reflected. The research results show that the arched structure formed in the compression process will cause the stagnation or even decrease of the stress and bonding energy; the destruction of the arched structure will also cause a sudden increase in the friction energy of the particles.When the compression speeds are 0.075mm·s-1, 0.1mm·s-1, and 0.125mm·s-1, the number of particles in the arched structure are 55, 60 and 75, respectively, and the boundary energy is transformed into cohesive energy. The efficiencies are 87.2%, 73.8% and 89.9%, respectively. When the molding particle size is 0.1mm to 0.25mm, 0.25mm to 0.4mm, 0.4mm to 0.55mm, the first sudden change in stress during the compression molding process is 0.746MPa, 0.812MPa and 1.161MPa.
Adenosquamous Carcinoma of Sigmoid Colon: First Case Report in Pediatrics and Literature Review
Authors: Lu Shuaibing , Ge Fusheng , Liu Chen , Peng Liangqun , Ma Fei , Yang Wei , Zhang Zhandong , Luo Suxia , Hua Yawei
Published: October 2021

Background Colon adenosquamous carcinoma is an extremely rare cancer, especially in young people. No case of colon adenosquamous carcinoma in pediatric patient has been reported so far. Case presentation Here we present the case of a 16-year-old Chinese girl diagnosed with adenosquamous carcinoma of sigmoid colon. We performed laparoscopic sigmoidectomy with lymphadenectomy on the patient. Unfortunately, she developed liver metastasis less than 1 month after surgery. Then we implemented percutaneous radiofrequency ablation of liver mass and 4 cycles of adjuvant chemotherapy on her. However, liver metastasis recurred less than 4 months after radiofrequency ablation. The girl eventurally died in 8 months after surgical resection of sigmoid colon. As far as we know, this girl is the youngest patient with sigmoid colon adenosquamous carcinoma reported so far, and the first reported case of colon adenosquamous carcinoma in pediatrics. Conclusion Only 8 months from detection to death, this case indicates the prognosis of colon adenosquamous carcinoma is poor, and adenosquamous carcinoma of colon may even have worse prognosis in pediatrics than in adults. In addition, cases with liver metastasis have a awfully unfavorable prognosis for colon adenosquamous carcinoma patients.
The Potential of Bacillus subtilis and Phosphorus in Improving the Growth of Wheat under Chromium Stress.
Authors: Ilyas Noshiin , Akhtar Nosheen , naseem Aqsa , Qureshi Rahmatullah , Satti Abid Majeed , Sayyed R Z
Published: October 2021

The high magnitude of heavy metals contamination in daily food attracts the attention of researchers for finding efficient and eco-friendly approaches that can help resolve this problem. Hexavalent Chromium (Cr+6) is one of the most toxic heavy metals that have deteriorating effects on the growth and quality of the end product of wheat. In this research, the role of Bacillus subtilis and phosphorus fertilizer on wheat development in Cr+6 stress was evaluated. The statistical analysis of the data showed that the co-application of Bacillus subtilis and phosphorus gave considerably significant (p<0.05) results compared to their separate application. The increase in shoot length, root length, shoot fresh weight, and root fresh weight was 38.17%, 29.31%, 47.89%, and 45.85%, respectively, compared to untreated stress-facing plants. The use of Bacillus subtilis and phosphorus improved the process of osmolytes (proline 39.98%, and sugar 41.30%) production in plants which results in high water uptake and structural stability of proteins (86.65%) and improved cell membranes (66.66%) as well. They also augmented the production of antioxidants by 67.71% (SOD), 95.39% (APX), and 60.88% (CAT), respectively. The Cr+6 accumulations were reduced by 54.24%, 59.19%, and 90.26% in the shoot, root, and wheat grains, respectively. The combined application of Bacillus subtilis and phosphorus can reduce the heavy metals toxicity in crops.
Surface Plasmon Resonance Biosensor for Sensitive Detection of HER2-positive Exosomes Based on Reformative Tyramine Signal Amplification Activated by Molecular Aptamer Beacon Conversion
Authors: Chen Wenqin , Li Zhiyang , Cheng Wenqian , Wu Tao , Li Jia , Li Xinyu , Liu Lin , Bai Huijie , Ding Shijia , Li Xinmin , Yu Xiaolin
Published: October 2021

HER2-positive exosomes play an extremely important role in the diagnosis and treatment options of breast cancers. Herein, based on the reformative tyramine signal amplification (TSA) enabled by molecular aptamer beacon (MAB) conversion, a label-free surface plasmon resonance (SPR) biosensor was proposed for highly sensitive and specific detection of HER2-positive exosomes. The exosomes were captured by the HER2 aptamer region of MAB immobilized on the chip surface, which enabled the exposure of the G4 DNA that could form peroxidase-like G4-hemin. In turn, the formed G4-hemin catalyzed the deposition of plentiful tyramine-coated AuNPs (AuNPs-Ty) on the exosome membrane with the help of H2O2, generating significantly enhanced SPR signal. In the reformative TSA system, the horseradish peroxidase (HRP) as a major component was replaced with nonenzymic G4-hemin, bypassing the defects of nature enzymes. Moreover, the dual-recognition of the surface proteins and lipid membrane of the desired exosomes endowed the sensing strategy with high specificity without the interruption of free proteins. As a result, this developed SPR biosensor exhibited a wide linear range from 1.0 × 104 to 1.0 × 107 particles/mL. Importantly, this strategy was able to accurately distinguish HER2-positive breast cancer patients from healthy individuals, exhibiting great potential clinical application.
Immune Characteristics of Children With Autoimmune Encephalitis and the Correlation With Short-term Prognosis
Authors: HUANG Jin-Yue , FAN Wen-Xuan , MENG Jing , CAI Chun-Quan , LI Dong
Published: October 2021

Objective: To explore the immune characteristics and short-term prognosis of children with autoimmune encephalitis (AE), then to analyse the relationship between them. Methods: A total of 78 children with AE were identified through the clinic database and inpatient consults in Tianjin Children’s Hospital (238 Long-Yan Road, Bei-Chen District, Tianjin, China) from January 2018 to January 2021. Based on the recent follow-up (one-year follow-up) of the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) prognosis score, they were divided into a good prognosis group (59 cases, mRS <3 points) and a poor prognosis group (19 cases, mRS ≥3 points). The immune function characteristics of the two groups of children with AE were compared using Spearman correlation to analyse the mRS score and immune function indicators (IgA, IgG, IgM, CD4, CD8, CD4/CD8), and using binary logistic regression to analyse the factors affecting the prognosis of children with AE. Results: The differences in age, consciousness disorder, limb dyskinesia, cognitive impairment, onset type, mRS score at admission, and immune function status during remission between the two groups were statistically significant (p < 0.05). The mRS score of the good prognosis group at admission was significantly lower than that of the poor prognosis group (2.65 ± 0.76 vs 3.05 ± 0.71, p ＜ 0.05). IgA (0.61 ± 0.19 vs 0.87 ± 0.25, p < 0.001), IgG (8.17 ± 1.12 vs 9.02 ± 1.39, p = 0.001). IgM (1.01 ± 0.26 vs 1.23 ± 0.33, p < 0.001) in the good prognosis group were significantly lower than those in the poor prognosis group, while CD4 (36.35 ± 8.74 vs 23.89 ± 6.97, p < 0.001) and CD4/CD8 (1.68 ± 0.32 vs 1.01 ± 0.24, p = 0.001) were significantly higher than those in the poor prognosis group. Spearman correlation analysis showed that the mRS score at admission was significantly negatively correlated with CD4/CD8 (r ＝−0.775, p < 0.001), but not significantly correlated with other immune function indexes. Binary logistic regression showed that age (OR = 0.385; 95% CI = 0.200–0.741), consciousness disorder (OR = 39.3569; 95% CI = 4.073–380.262), limb movement disorder (OR = 17.107; 95% CI = 2.769–105.701), and abnormal immune function in remission (OR = 0.050; 95% CI = 0.007–0.372) were risk factors for poor prognosis in children with AE. Conclusion: There is a close correlation between mRS and immune function index CD4/CD8 in children with AE when they are admitted to the hospital. Young age, disturbance of consciousness, limb dyskinesia, and abnormal immune function in remission are risk factors for poor prognosis of children with AE. More attention should be paid in clinical treatment.
Pollutant Transport Via Sediments in Medium-Sized Meandering Rivers: The Example of Barium in Kupa River (Croatia)
Authors: Franciskovic-Bilinski Stanislav , Maldini Krešimir , Bilinski Halka , Legović Tarzan
Published: October 2021

The aim of our study is to expand the world-wide knowledge about pollutant transport in sediments of medium-sized meandering rivers and to explain barium distribution in Kupa River (Croatia), as it showed as an ideal “natural laboratory”. Sampling was performed twice at the same places with the time span of 15 years to see the changes in Ba concentrations after that period. Ba was analyzed using ICP-MS method on clay + silt sediment fraction (<63 µm). Modelling was performed in R environment (R version 3.5.1, 2018) and for solving the sediment transport equation of Ba in Kupa River a program based on finite differences is constructed. After barite mine ceased operation in 1990, Ba is still entering Kupica and Kupa rivers, as karstic underground still contains large amounts of barite waste. Ba concentrations in Kupa River sediments are still increasing consequently along the whole river length, except in Kupica River and first downstream sample in Kupa River. It seems that in this part of river course erosion exceeded deposition processes. Also, there is an indication of changing the way of underground Ba transport. Erosion and deposition processes lead to formation of peak of Ba concentrations in the lower course of the Kupa River. Most important conclusion is that the mentioned peak was formed under one or two flood episodes, when sediment eroded from the upstream locations and was brought and deposited in the lower course of the river. Our modelling predicts that Ba source will not cease completely during the next 20 years.
Drivers of Substance Use and Related Disorders Among Young People in a Peri-urban District of Ghana
Authors: Kasore Vida , Acheampong Enoch , Owusu-Ansah Frances Emily , Owusu Mark , Worlanyo Ampeh Unity , Nyabamah Apaaya Gloria Winifred
Published: October 2021

Background: Substance use-related disorders have become a major psychiatric issue globally. The energetic youth who contribute meaningfully to national development are the most affected population by this social menace. This study aimed to examine the knowledge and perception of the youth on substance use-related disorders and the perceived effects on their lives.Methods: The study used a qualitative approach to explore the perceptions of substance use-related disorders in the Kwabre-East Municipality of the Ashanti Region of Ghana. The purposive technique was used to select 35 participants based on a set of inclusion and exclusion criteria. The data were gathered through focus group discussions and interviews in the Twi language and audio-recorded. Data were transcribed from Twi to English in a written form. The data were categorized into themes based on similarities and differences. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. The emerged themes have been presented as main findings, which are supported by quotations from the participants. Results: The study identified that substances commonly abused by the youth were alcohol, tramadol, gasoline product, glue, and marijuana. Again, it was found that peer influence, poor parental control, and loss of a job (poverty), perceived academic enhancement, and imitation of role models were factors that caused substance abuse among the youth. In addition, the following were identified in terms of the effects: mental illness, cardiovascular conditions, family exclusion, insecurity, and stigmatization.Conclusion: The initiation and implementation of drug preventive interventions by relevant stakeholders are crucial in preventing the commencement of any undesirable behaviour among the youth as far as substance abuse is concerned.
Identification of Atrial Fibrillation Risk Variant RS2200733 In Indian Young Adult Population
Authors: Manoharan Aarthi , Sambandam Ravikumar , Sathish Vithiavathi , Bhat Vishnu
Published: October 2021

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common cardiac arrhythmia that affects millions of people. a substantial genetic contribution to AF has been identified by number of studies over the years. The SNP that is often linked with genetic predisposition to AF is rs2200733 located in the intergenic region close to PITX2 gene which is implicated in cardiac structure and function. rs2200733 is commonly observed in major global populations. Our study aimed to establish the prevalence of this important SNP among young healthy adults in order to assess the risk of genetic susceptibility which could culminate into AF later in life. The study identified a substantial frequency of rs2200733 in Indian population at 21%.
Scale Dependency of Arboreal Mammals’ Responses to Landscape Spatial Changes in a Fragmented Rainforest
Authors: Cudney-Valenzuela Sabine Juliette , Arroyo-Roodríguez Victor , Andresen Ellen , Toledo-Aceves Tarin
Published: October 2021

Context. Biodiversity patterns depend on landscape structure, but the spatial scale at which such dependence is strongest (scale of effect, SoE) remains poorly understood, especially for elusive species such as arboreal mammals.Objectives. We assessed the SoE in arboreal mammals and evaluated whether it depends on which biological responses and landscape variables are measured. We expected the number of species to be more reliant on spatial patterns of larger landscapes than relative abundance, especially when considering larger bodied species, and connectivity-related landscape variables. Methods. We sampled arboreal mammals during one year using camera traps placed in 100 trees within 20 forest patches in the Lacandona rainforest, Mexico. We measured forest cover, matrix openness, patch density, and edge density within 13 concentric buffers to identify the SoE of each landscape variable on the number of species, total abundance, and species-specific abundance.Results. Unexpectedly, edge density tended to have larger SoE than forest cover and matrix openness, and the SoE did not differ between number of species and total abundance. Yet, the SoE tended to be positively related to body mass.Conclusions. Mammal responses to edge density seem to be regulated by large-scale processes, such as an increasing dispersal in landscapes with higher edge density, and not by local-scale processes (e.g. edge effects). Species richness and total abundance seem to be moderated by ecological processes acting across similar spatial scales, but the SoE tends to increase with body mass. Therefore, conservation plans for larger mammals should be implemented across larger spatial extents.