bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Presentation of Bilateral Facial Paralysis in Melkersson–Rosenthal Syndrome
Authors: Gaitan-Quintero Gustavo , Camargo-Camargo Loida , López-Velásquez Norman , González Miguel
Published: January 2021

Introduction. Melkersson–Rosenthal syndrome (MRS) is a neuromucocutaneous disorder characterized by the following classic symptom triad: peripheral facial paralysis, orofacial edema, and scrotal or fissured tongue. It is rare, and since most of the patients are oligo- or monosymptomatic, it makes it difficult to diagnose. Clinical Case. We present a 26-year-old male patient with a history of sickle cell trait, untreated snoring, and left peripheral facial paralysis when he was 11 years old. This was an overall 20-day clinical profile that started with left peripheral facial paralysis, which was accompanied by moderate-intensity occipital pulsatile headaches. Additionally, the patient experienced paresthesias in the tongue and feelings of labial edema. After one week, he manifested peripheral facial paralysis on the right side. Physical examination revealed bilateral peripheral facial paralysis, mild labial edema, and a scrotal or fissured tongue. The patient received corticosteroids, which resulted in improvement of the edema and facial paralysis. Discussion. MRS is a rare disorder that predominantly affects women, typically starting in their 20s or 30s. The etiology is unknown. However, a multifactorial origin that involves environmental factors and a genetic predisposition has been proposed, which causes a dysfunction of the local immune system and autonomic nervous system (ANS) and an appearance of granulomatous inflammation in the lips and tongue. Facial paralysis usually appears later on; however, it can occur from its clinical debut. There are no curative treatments. Therapy is focused on modulating the patient's immune response, and relapses are frequent.
The Mechanisms of Peripheral Nerve Preconditioning Injury on Promoting Axonal Regeneration
Authors: Yang Xiaoyan , Liu Ruixuan , Xu Ying , Ma XiangYu , Zhou Bing
Published: January 2021

Two major factors contribute to the failure of axonal regrowth in the central nervous system (CNS), namely, the neuronal intrinsic regenerative capacity and the extrinsic local inhibitory microenvironments. However, a preconditioning peripheral nerve lesion could substantially enhance the regeneration of central axons following a subsequent spinal cord injury. In the present review, we summarize the molecular mechanisms of the preconditioning injury effect on promoting axonal regeneration. The injury signal transduction resulting from preconditioning peripheral nerve injury regulates the RAG expression to enhance axonal regeneration. Importantly, preconditioning peripheral nerve injury triggers interactions between neurons and nonneuronal cells to amplify and maintain their effects. Additionally, the preconditioning injury impacts mitochondria, protein, and lipid synthesis. All these coordinated changes endow axonal regeneration.
An Unprecedented 2-Dimensional Discrete-Time Fractional-Order System and Its Hidden Chaotic Attractors
Authors: Khennaoui Amina Aicha , Almatroud A. Othman , Ouannas Adel , Al-sawalha M. Mossa , Grassi Giuseppe , Pham Viet-Thanh , Batiha Iqbal M.
Published: January 2021

Some endeavors have been recently dedicated to explore the dynamic properties of the fractional-order discrete-time chaotic systems. To date, attention has been mainly focused on fractional-order discrete-time systems with “self-excited attractors.” This paper makes a contribution to the topic of fractional-order discrete-time systems with “hidden attractors” by presenting a new 2-dimensional discrete-time system without equilibrium points. The conceived system possesses an interesting property not explored in the literature so far, i.e., it is characterized, for various fractional-order values, by the coexistence of various kinds of chaotic attractors. Bifurcation diagrams, computation of the largest Lyapunov exponents, phase plots, and the 0-1 test method are reported, with the aim to analyze the dynamics of the system, as well as to highlight the coexistence of chaotic attractors. Finally, an entropy algorithm is used to measure the complexity of the proposed system.
Zisheng Shenqi Decoction Ameliorates Monosodium Urate-Mediated Gouty Arthritis in Rats via Promotion of Autophagy through the AMPK/mTOR Signaling Pathway
Authors: Han Jieru , Shi Guangyu , Li Wenhao , Wang Shuhui , Bai Jixiang , Sun Xutao , Xie Ying , Sui Fangyu , Chen Fei , Jiang Deyou
Published: January 2021

Gouty arthritis (GA) is an inflammatory disease owing to the accumulation of monosodium urate (MSU) in joints, leading to redness and burning pain. In this study, the effect of Zisheng Shenqi Decoction (ZSD) on a rat model of MSU-induced GA was investigated. ZSD obviously diminished the right paw thickness, the degree of the swelling of the paw, and the infiltration of the inflammatory cell, as well as cartilage erosion, and widened the joint space in MSU-treated rats. Besides, MSU remarkably elevated the release of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, and IL-18; however, ZSD treatment dose dependently lowered these levels and resulted in a significant decrease in articular elastase activity. Also, ZSD administration increased the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and catalase (CAT) but declined malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitrogen monoxide (NO) contents. Importantly, western blotting analysis revealed that NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3), cleaved caspase-1, IL-1β, nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in the cytoplasm, phosphorylated mammalian target of rapamyclin (p-mTOR), and p62 expressions were downregulated, whereas the levels of nuclear Nrf2, phosphorylated AMP-activated protein kinase (p-AMPK), Beclin-1, and LC3II/I were upregulated by ZSD. Immunofluorescence assay indicated that ZSD evidently promoted nuclear translocation of LC3. Taken together, ZSD inhibited inflammation and oxidative stress and facilitated autophagy through the activation of the AMPK pathway and suppression of the mTOR signaling pathway, demonstrating its potential for preventing and curing GA.
Prediction of Histologic Subtype and FNCLCC Grade by SUVmax Measured on 18F-FDG PET/CT in Patients with Retroperitoneal Liposarcoma
Authors: Li Cheng-Peng , Liu Dao-Ning , Zhou Ni-Na , Tian Xiu-Yun , Wang Zhen , Liu Bo-Nan , Hao Chun-Yi
Published: January 2021

This study aimed to evaluate the usefulness of maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) on 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography with computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) in differentiating the subtypes and tumor grades of retroperitoneal liposarcoma (RPLS). The data of RPLS patients who underwent surgical resection from November 2013 to December 2019 at the sarcoma center of our institute were reviewed. The demographics, clinical features, and SUVmax of 84 patients who underwent preoperative 18F-FDG PET/CT scans were analyzed. Of these, 19 patients (22.6%) were with well-differentiated liposarcoma (WDLPS), 60 patients (71.4%) were with dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLPS), and 5 patients (6.0%) were with pleomorphic liposarcoma (PMLPS). The median SUVmax of WDLPS, DDLPS, and PMLPS groups was 2.8 (IQR: 1.9–3.2), 6.2 (IQR: 4.1–11.3), and 4.5 (IQR: 4.0–7.4). The ROC curve suggested 3.8 as an approximate cutoff value of SUVmax for distinguishing WDLPS and non-WDLPS (sensitivity = 0.769; specificity = 0.895). The median SUVmax for FNCLCC Grades 1, 2, and 3 of RPLS was 2.5 (IQR: 1.9–3.2), 4.5 (IQR: 3.2–6.7), and 9.0 (IQR: 6.0–13.3). The ROC curves suggest that SUVmax of ≤3.8 and >5.3 can be used for predicting FNCLCC Grades 1 and 3, respectively. The result showed that 18F-FDG PET/CT exhibited high sensitivity and specificity for identifying the subtypes and FNCLCC grades of RPLS. Additionally, 18F-FDG PET/CT might be a useful complementary imaging modality for guiding suitable biopsy location of RPLS.
Lipolytic and Lipophagic Effects of Pinellia ternata Pharmacopuncture on Localized Adiposity
Authors: Lee Haesu , Kim Mi Hye , Jin Seong Chul , Han Jae Min , Park Jun Hyuk , Yang Woong Mo
Published: January 2021

Localized adiposity is not only a common aesthetic issue but also a health risk factor. Pharmacopuncture can be a therapeutic option for the imbalance of regional fat distribution. The tuber of Pinellia ternata has been prescribed as antitussive and expectorant as a traditional Korean medicine. This study investigated the effects of pharmacopuncture with P. ternata water extract (PT) on localized adiposity. Male C57BL/6J mice were fed on a high-fat diet (HFD) for 6 weeks. 100 μL of 10 mg/mL of PT was injected into the left-side inguinal fat pad, while saline was injected into the right-side inguinal fat pad as self-control. Treatments were performed 3 times per week for 4 weeks. The inguinal fat weight was analyzed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. PT pharmacopuncture significantly decreased the weight of the inguinal fat pad. The adipocyte size was reduced with increases of lipolytic enzymes and lipophagy-related factors by PT pharmacopuncture. There was marked inhibition of lipid accumulation content in 3T3-L1 adipocytes by PT treatment. The expressions of adipose triglyceride lipase (ATGL), hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL), autophagy-related gene (ATG) 5, ATG7, and LC3 were markedly increased by PT treatments in vivo and in vitro. This study suggests that pharmacopuncture of Pinellia ternata has ameliorative effects on adiposity by lipid catabolic effects via activating both lipolysis and lipophagy in a localized region.
Correlation of Indoleamine-2,3-Dioxygenase and Chronic Kidney Disease: A Pilot Study
Authors: Pan Binbin , Zhang Feng , Sun Jian , Chen Dawei , Huang Wenjuan , Zhang Hao , Cao Changchun , Wan Xin
Published: January 2021

Objective. To explore the correlation of indoleamine-2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Methods. A total of 154 CKD patients and 42 non-CKD patients were recruited. Patients were grouped into ACR1~ACR3 (<30 mg/g, 30-300 mg/g, and >300 mg/g). Biomarkers in different groups were compared by ANOVA. Correlation was calculated by Pearson or Spearman analysis and binary logistic regression. The ROC curve was also performed. Results. The levels of albumin, serum creatinine (sCr), and IDO in non-CKD patients were significantly different from those in CKD3-CKD5 stages (

p
<
0.05

). IDO was correlated with age, proteinuria, ACR, and eGFR (

p
<
0.01

). After adjusting for CKD-related indices, ln(IDO) was an independent risk factor for CKD (3.48,

p
<
0.05

). The analysis of ROC curve revealed a best cut­off for IDO was 0.0466 and yielded a sensitivity of 83.8% and a specificity of 75%. Hemoglobin, total protein, and albumin in the ACR1 group were significantly higher than those in the ACR2 and ACR3 groups (

p
<
0.01

), while sCr and IDO levels were significantly lower than those in the ACR2 and ACR3 groups (

p
<
0.01

or

p
<
0.05

). After adjusting for CKD-related indices, ln(IDO) was still an independent risk factor for ACR (

OR
=
2.7

,

p
<
0.05

). The analysis of ROC curve revealed a best cut­off for IDO was 0.075 and yielded a sensitivity of 71.9% and a specificity of 72.2%. Conclusion. IDO may be a promising biomarker to predict CKD and assess kidney function.
Reestablishment of Redox Homeostasis in the Nociceptive Primary Afferent as a Mechanism of Antinociception Promoted by Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells in Oxaliplatin-Induced Chronic Peripheral Neuropathy
Authors: Oliveira Anna Lethicia L. , Santos Gisele G. L. , Espirito-Santo Renan F. , Silva Gessica Sabrina A. , Evangelista Afrânio F. , Silva Daniela N. , Soares Milena B. P. , Villarreal Cristiane Flora
Published: January 2021

Painful neuropathy is a common adverse effect of oxaliplatin (OXL), a platinum-derivative chemotherapeutic agent. Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction are key factors contributing to the development of OXL-induced peripheral neuropathy (OIPN). Based on the antioxidant and antinociceptive properties of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSC), the present study tested the hypothesis that MSC induce antinociceptive effects during OIPN by promoting regulation of redox environment and mitochondrial homeostasis in the nociceptive primary afferents. C57Bl/6 mice submitted to the OXL-chronic neuropathy induction protocol by repeated intravenous administration of OXL (1 mg/kg) were evaluated to determine the paw mechanical and thermal nociceptive thresholds using the von Frey filaments and cold plate tests, respectively. Two weeks after the neuropathy induction, mice were treated with bone marrow-derived MSC (

1
×

10

6

), vehicle, or gabapentin (GBP, 70 mg/kg). Four weeks later, mitochondrial morphology, gene expression profile, and oxidative stress markers in the sciatic nerve and dorsal root ganglia (DRG) were evaluated by transmission electron microscopy, RT-qPCR, and biochemical assays, respectively. OXL-treated mice presented behavioral signs of sensory neuropathy, such as mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia. The behavioral painful neuropathy was completely reverted by a single administration of MSC, while the daily treatment with GBP induced only a short-lived antinociceptive effect. The ultrastructural analysis of the sciatic nerve and DRG of OIPN mice revealed a high proportion of atypical mitochondria in both myelinated and unmyelinated fibers. Importantly, this mitochondrial atypia was strongly reduced in MSC-treated neuropathic mice. Moreover, MSC-treated neuropathic mice showed upregulation of Sod and Nrf2 mRNA in the sciatic nerve and DRG. In line with this result, MSC reduced markers of nitrosative stress and lipid peroxidation in the sciatic nerve and DRG from OIPN mice. Our data suggest that the reestablishment of redox homeostasis in the nociceptive primary afferents is a mechanism by which MSC transplantation reverts the OXL-induced chronic painful neuropathy.
Thermoelastic Characteristics of Functionally Graded Circular Disk Models under the Loading of Contact Forces
Authors: Go Jaegwi
Published: January 2021

A rotating functionally graded circular disk undergoing a contact load is taken into account to investigate the thermoelastic characteristics. By considering contact force, a pair of partial differential equations is induced as the governing equations based on Hooke’s law. The behavior of circular disk modes is described with the variations of contact force and homogeneous thickness. A finite volume model is introduced to obtain approximate solutions for the governing equations because of the complexity of the equations. Contact force is highly influential in the radial direction compared to the circumferential direction in the displacement distribution, while a large radial stress appears near the area of the contact point. In the strain distribution, the magnitude increases as the angle grows near part of the outer boundary in the circular domain. The radial distribution profiles are susceptible to the growth of contact force in nearby area of the outer boundary, whereas the influences on the circumferential direction profiles are trivial. The increase of homogeneous thickness dwindles the radial magnitude of displacement, stress, and strain distribution profiles over nearby area of the outer boundary of the circular domain. As a result, numerical approach demonstrates that contact force and homogeneous thickness are indispensable parameters and provide deep influence on the thermoelastic movements of a rotating circular disk. Thus, the results obtained may be useful to design an appropriate FGM circular disk model for the industrial area by controlling the above parameters.
Adaptive Observer-Based Sliding Mode Control for a Two-Wheeled Self-Balancing Robot under Terrain Inclination and Disturbances
Authors: Jmel Ines , Dimassi Habib , Hadj-Said Salim , M’Sahli Faouzi
Published: January 2021

This paper investigates an output feedback sliding mode control scheme for a two-wheeled self-balancing robot under terrain inclination and disturbances. First of all, an adaptive high-gain observer is designed for the robot to estimate, simultaneously, the unmeasured states and the unknown terrain inclination angle which appears nonlinearly in the dynamics of the wheeled robot, using the only measured linear and angular positions. Then, the estimated states and the reconstructed unknown inclination angle are used by an appropriate continuously implemented sliding mode controller whose the design is based on the boundary layer approximation approach to reduce the chattering phenomenon. The objective of the proposed robust controller is to ensure the tracking control of the two-wheeled robot despite the unknown terrain inclination and the presence of friction disturbances. The stability of the adaptive observer-based output feedback system is established through a Lyapunov analysis, and it is inspired from sliding modes theory. Numerical simulations results highlight the effectiveness of the proposed tracking control scheme applied on two-wheeled self-balancing robot subject to terrain inclination even in the presence of unavailable disturbances.
Effect of Gas on Burst Proneness and Energy Dissipation of Loaded Coal: An Experimental Study Using a Novel Gas‐Solid Coupling Loading Apparatus
Authors: Wang Zuguang , Li Huamin , Wang Shen , Gao Baobin , Wang Wen
Published: January 2021

Deep coal mining is seriously affected by a combined dynamic disaster of rock burst and coal and gas outburst, but the influence mechanism of gas on this combined dynamic disaster is still not very clear, which is significantly different from the single type disasters. In this study, to explore the effect of gas on the coal‐rock burst, a novel gas‐solid coupling loading apparatus is designed to realize gas adsorption of coal sample with burst proneness and provide uniaxial loading environment under different gas pressure. A series of uniaxial compression tests of gas‐containing coal with different gas pressure is carried out, and the energy dissipation process is monitored by an acoustic emission (AE) system. Results show that the macroscopic volume strain of the coal sample increases as gas adsorption and gas pressure increase under constant uniaxial loading pressure. Gas has the ability to expand the pores and natural fractures in coal sample by mechanical and physicochemical effects, which leads to a degradation in microstructure integrity of coal sample. With the increase of gas pressure, both the macrouniaxial compression strength (UCS) and elastic modulus show a downward trend; the UCS and elastic modulus of coal samples with 2 MPa gas pressure reduce by 58.78% and 48.82%, respectively, compared to those of the original coal samples. The main reason is that gas changes the pore‐fissure structure and the mesoscopic stress environment inside the coal sample. Owing to the gas, the accumulated elastic energy of the gas‐containing coal samples before failure reduces significantly, whereas the energy dissipated during loading increases, and the energy release process in the postpeak stage is smoother, indicating the participation of gas weakens the burst proneness of the coal sample. This study is of important scientific value for revealing the mechanism of combined dynamic disaster and the critical occurrence conditions of coal‐rock burst and coal and gas outburst.
Public Opinion Communication Model under the Control of Official Information
Authors: Zhang Yuexia , Chen Ziyang , Zou Lie
Published: January 2021

The rapid development of Internet technology has facilitated the dissemination of information that can threaten national security and public health, and effectively controlling the process of public opinion communication is an important topic in contemporary social network research. This paper establishes an official information‐controlled public opinion propagation (OI‐SEIR) model based on the delay, latency, and conversion of public opinion communication under the control of official information. According to the influence and importance of the network nodes, we theoretically derive the attitude conversion probability of the nodes, making the model more in line with the actual situation. Through actual cases, we analyzed the important influence of official information on the public opinion communication process and provided a theoretical basis for the government and relevant departments to supervise and correctly guide the public opinion network, which has certain practical significance.
Cichoric Acid Ameliorates Monosodium Urate-Induced Inflammatory Response by Reducing NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation via Inhibition of NF-kB Signaling Pathway
Authors: Wang Qi , Lin Bingfeng , Li Zhifeng , Su Jie , Feng Yulin
Published: January 2021

Gouty arthritis is characterized by the deposition of monosodium urate (MSU) within synovial joints and tissues due to increased urate concentrations. Here, we elucidated the role of the natural compound cichoric acid (CA) on the MSU crystal-stimulated inflammatory response. The THP-1-derived macrophages (THP-Ms) were pretreated with CA and then stimulated with MSU suspensions. The protein levels of p65 and IκBα, the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway by measuring the expression of its downstream inflammatory cytokines, and the activity of NLRP3 inflammasome were measured by western blotting and ELISA. CA treatment markedly inhibited the degradation of IκBα and the activation of NF-κB signaling pathway and reduced the levels of its downstream inflammatory genes such as IL-1β, TNF-α, COX-2, and PGE2 in the MSU-stimulated THP-M cells. Therefore, we infer that CA effectively alleviated MSU-induced inflammation by suppressing the degradation of IκBα, thereby reducing the activation of the NF-κB signaling pathway and the NLRP3 inflammasome. These results suggest that CA could be a novel therapeutic strategy in averting acute episodes of gout.
Combining Neratinib with CDK4/6, mTOR, and MEK Inhibitors in Models of HER2-positive Cancer
Authors: Zhao Ming , Scott Stephen , Evans Kurt W. , Yuca Erkan , Saridogan Turcin , Zheng Xiaofeng , Wang Heping , Korkut Anil , Cruz Pico Christian X. , Demirhan Mehmet , Kirby Bryce , Kopetz Scott , Diala Irmina , Lalani Alshad S. , Piha-Paul Sarina , Meric-Bernstam Funda
Published: January 2021

Purpose:

Neratinib is an irreversible, pan-HER tyrosine kinase inhibitor that is FDA approved for HER2-overexpressing/amplified (HER2+) breast cancer. In this preclinical study, we explored the efficacy of neratinib in combination with inhibitors of downstream signaling in HER2+ cancers in vitro and in vivo.

Experimental Design:

Cell viability, colony formation assays, and Western blotting were used to determine the effect of neratinib in vitro. In vivo efficacy was assessed with patient-derived xenografts (PDX): two breast, two colorectal, and one esophageal cancer (with HER2 mutations). Four PDXs were derived from patients who received previous HER2-targeted therapy. Proteomics were assessed through reverse phase protein arrays and network-level adaptive responses were assessed through Target Score algorithm.

Results:

In HER2+ breast cancer cells, neratinib was synergistic with multiple agents, including mTOR inhibitors everolimus and sapanisertib, MEK inhibitor trametinib, CDK4/6 inhibitor palbociclib, and PI3Kα inhibitor alpelisib. We tested efficacy of neratinib with everolimus, trametinib, or palbociclib in five HER2+ PDXs. Neratinib combined with everolimus or trametinib led to a 100% increase in median event-free survival (EFS; tumor doubling time) in 25% (1/4) and 60% (3/5) of models, respectively, while neratinib with palbociclib increased EFS in all five models. Network analysis of adaptive responses demonstrated upregulation of EGFR and HER2 signaling in response to CDK4/6, mTOR, and MEK inhibition, possibly providing an explanation for the observed synergies with neratinib.

Conclusions:

Taken together, our results provide strong preclinical evidence for combining neratinib with CDK4/6, mTOR, and MEK inhibitors for the treatment of HER2+ cancer.
Impact of Liver Test Abnormalities and Chronic Liver Disease on the Clinical Outcomes of Patients Hospitalized with COVID-19
Authors: Garrido Mónica , Pereira Guedes Tiago , Alves Silva Joana , Falcão Daniela , Novo Inês , Archer Sara , Rocha Marta , Maia Luís , Sarmento-Castro Rui , Pedroto Isabel
Published: January 2021

Background and Aims: The impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on the liver and the possibility of chronic liver disease (CLD) as a risk factor for COVID-19 severity is not fully understood. Our goal was to describe clinical outcomes of COVID-19 inpatients regarding the presence of abnormal liver tests and CLD. Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection, hospitalized in a tertiary center in Portugal, was performed. Studied outcomes were disease and hospitalization length, COVID-19 severity, admission to intensive care unit (ICU) and mortality, analyzed by the presence of abnormal liver tests and CLD. Results: We included 317 inpatients with a mean age of 70.4 years, 50.5% males. COVID-19 severity was moderate to severe in 57.4% and critical in 12.9%. The mean disease length was 37.8 days, the median hospitalization duration 10.0 days and overall mortality 22.8%. At admission, 50.3% showed abnormal liver tests, and 41.5% showed elevated aminotransferase levels, from which 75.4% were mild. Elevated aminotransferase levels at admission were associated with COVID-19 severity (78.7 vs. 63.3%, p = 0.01), ICU admission (13.1 vs. 5.92%, p = 0.034) and increased mortality (25.8 vs. 13.3%, p = 0.007). However, in a subgroup analysis, only aspartate transaminase (AST) was associated with these worse outcomes. Alkaline phosphatase was elevated in 11.4% of the patients and was associated with critical COVID-19 (21.1 vs. 9.92%, p = 0.044) and mortality (20.4 vs. 9.52%, p = 0.025), while 24.6% of the patients showed elevated γ-glutamyl transferase, which was associated with ICU admission (42.3 vs. 22.8%, p = 0.028). Fourteen patients had baseline CLD (4.42%), 3 with liver cirrhosis. Alcohol (n = 6) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (n = 6) were the most frequent etiologies. CLD patients had critical COVID-19 in 21.4% (p = 0.237), mean disease length of 36.6 days (p = 0.291), median hospitalization duration of 11.5 days (p = 0.447) and a mortality rate of 28.6% (p = 0.595), which increased to 66.7% among cirrhotic patients (p = 0.176). Conclusions: Liver test abnormalities in COVID-19 patients were frequent but most commonly mild. AST, but not alanine transaminase, was associated with worse clinical outcomes, such as COVID-19 severity and mortality, probably indicating these outcomes were independent of liver injury. A low prevalence of CLD was seen, and a clear impact on COVID-19 outcomes was not seen.
Tornar-se um Historiador das Relações Internacionais no Brasil
Authors: Galvão Thiago
Published: January 2021

As vivências, intersubjetividades e intertextualidades entre o autor e Amado Luiz Cervo constituem o fio condutor desta narrativa que visa reafirmar ao mesmo tempo a relevância da História para o estudo das Relações Internacionais, o lugar do historiador como internacionalista; bem como o fato de que nos tornamos parte do tecido social, com representatividade, significância e identidade, na medida em que vivemos em um emaranhado complexo de relações emocionais, psicológicas e institucionais. Amado Cervo é o personagem principal desta narrativa que o entende como um tipo ideal que inspira gerações. Ao mesmo tempo, auxilia na tarefa de esquematizar alguns elementos definidores da trajetória e do ofício de historiador de Relações Internacionais, tais como viver o internacional, delinear um mapa de ações, olhar o mundo por lentes críticas, capturar os tempos, preservar as memórias e pensar o futuro.
Política externa do Brasil desde a redemocratização: evolução, mudanças e perspectivas futuras
Authors: Sato Eiiti
Published: January 2021

Este ensaio tem por objetivo apresentar uma reflexão sobre as perspectivas do Brasil no cenário internacional. O ensaio faz um balanço resumido da política externa brasileira após os governos militares revelando que os sucessivos governos eleitos pelo voto desde 1989 procuraram estabelecer prioridades e objetivos na política externa presumivelmente baseados na busca por uma coerência entre as demandas internas e as mudanças em curso no cenário internacional. Apesar de tudo, o pouco dinamismo na ordem interna e a ausência de uma visão mais orgânica e estruturada da nação no cenário internacional têm comprometido o desempenho do país tanto em termos econômicos quanto político. A conclusão é que os dados mostram que a estagnação tem sido a nota marcante da relevância do Brasil no cenário internacional tanto em termos regionais quanto globais. O ensaio é dedicado a Amado Luiz Cervo, notável professor de política externa brasileira na Universidade de Brasília, que agora completa oito décadas de uma vida produtiva e inspiradora.
CD4
+
T Cell‐Specific Proteomic Pathways Identified in Progression of Hypertension Across Postmenopausal Transition
Authors: Uhlorn Joshua A. , Husband Nathaniel A. , Romero‐Aleshire Melissa J. , Moffett Caitlin , Lindsey Merry L. , Langlais Paul R. , Brooks Heddwen L.
Published: January 2021

Background

Menopause is associated with an increase in the prevalence and severity of hypertension in women. Although premenopausal females are protected against T cell‐dependent immune activation and development of angiotensin II (Ang II) hypertension, this protection is lost in postmenopausal females. Therefore, the current study hypothesized that specific CD4
+
T cell pathways are regulated by sex hormones and Ang II to mediate progression from premenopausal protection to postmenopausal hypertension.

Methods and Results

Menopause was induced in C57BL/6 mice via repeated 4‐vinylcyclohexene diepoxide injections, while premenopausal females received sesame oil vehicle. A subset of premenopausal mice and all menopausal mice were infused with Ang II for 14 days (Control, Ang II, Meno/Ang II). Proteomic and phosphoproteomic profiles of CD4
+
T cells isolated from spleens were examined. Ang II markedly increased CD4
+
T cell protein abundance and phosphorylation associated with DNA and histone methylation in both premenopausal and postmenopausal females. Compared with premenopausal T cells, Ang II infusion in menopausal mice increased T cell phosphorylation of MP2K2, an upstream regulator of ERK, and was associated with upregulated phosphorylation at ERK targeted sites. Additionally, Ang II infusion in menopausal mice decreased T cell phosphorylation of TLN1, a key regulator of IL‐2Rα and FOXP3 expression.

Conclusions

These findings identify novel, distinct T cell pathways that influence T cell‐mediated inflammation during postmenopausal hypertension.
Early Aspirin Discontinuation After Coronary Stenting: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Wiebe Jens , Ndrepepa Gjin , Kufner Sebastian , Lahmann Anna L. , Xhepa Erion , Kuna Constantin , Voll Felix , Gosetti Rosanna , Laugwitz Karl‐Ludwig , Joner Michael , Kastrati Adnan , Cassese Salvatore
Published: January 2021

Background

The clinical impact of early aspirin discontinuation compared with dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention with stenting remains poorly studied. We investigated the clinical outcomes of patients assigned to either early aspirin discontinuation or DAPT after percutaneous coronary intervention with stenting.

Methods and Results

We performed a meta‐analysis of aggregate data from randomized clinical trials enrolling participants receiving a percutaneous coronary intervention with stenting and assigned to either early aspirin discontinuation or DAPT. Scientific databases were searched from inception through March 30, 2020. Trial‐level hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs were pooled using a random effects model with inverse variance weighting. The primary outcome was all‐cause death. Secondary outcomes were myocardial infarction, stent thrombosis, stroke, and major bleeding. Overall, 36 206 participants were allocated to either early aspirin discontinuation (experimental therapy, n=18 088) or DAPT (control therapy, n=18 118) in 7 trials. Median follow‐up was 12 months. All‐cause death occurred in 2.5% of patients assigned to experimental and 2.9% of patients assigned control therapy (hazard ratio [HR], 0.91, 95% CI, 0.75–1.11;
P
=0.37). Overall, patients treated with experimental versus control therapy showed no significant difference in terms of myocardial infarction (HR, 1.02 [0.85–1.22],
P
=0.81), stent thrombosis (HR, 1.02 [0.87–1.20],
P
=0.83), or stroke (HR, 1.01 [0.68–1.49],
P
=0.96). However, the risk for major bleeding (HR, 0.58 [0.43–0.77],
P
<0.01) was significantly reduced by experimental as compared with control therapy.

Conclusions

In patients treated with percutaneous coronary intervention and stenting, assigned to a strategy of early aspirin discontinuation versus DAPT, the risk of death and ischemic events is not significantly different but the risk of bleeding is lower.
Correlation of Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography Score With Computed Tomography Perfusion Core in Large Vessel Occlusion in Delayed Time Windows
Authors: Voleti Sriharsha , Vidovich Johnathan , Corcoran Brendan , Zhang Bin , Khandwala Vivek , Mistry Eva A. , Khatri Pooja , Tomsick Thomas , Vagal Achala
Published: January 2021

Background and Purpose:

The Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography (CT) Score (ASPECTS) and CT perfusion (CTP) are commonly used to predict the ischemic core in acute ischemic strokes. CT angiography source images (CTA-SI) can also provide additional information to identify the extent of ischemia. Our objective was to investigate the correlation of noncontrast CT (NCCT) ASPECTS and CTA-SI ASPECTS with CTP core volumes.

Methods:

We utilized a single institutional, retrospective registry of consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke with large vessel occlusion between May 2016 and May 2018. We graded ASPECTS both on baseline NCCT and CTA-SI and measured CTP core using automated RAPID software (cerebral blood flow <30%). We used Spearman’s correlation coefficients to evaluate the correlation between continuous variables.

Results:

A total of 52 patients fit the inclusion criteria of large vessel occlusion in 6 to 24 hours and baseline imaging work up of NCCT, CTA, and CTP. The median age was 63 (interquartile range=53.5–75) and 38.46% were female. The median NCCT ASPECTS was 7 (interquartile range=6–9), CTA-SI ASPECTS was 5 (interquartile range=4–7), and CTP core was 14.5 mL (interquartile range=0–46 mL). There was a moderate correlation between NCCT ASPECTS and CTP core (r
s
=−0.55,
P
<0.0001) and between CTA-SI ASPECTS and CTP core (r
s
=−0.50,
P
=0.0002). The optimal NCCT ASPECTS cutoff score to detect CTP core ≤70 mL was ≥6 (sensitivity, 0.84; specificity, 0.57; positive predictive value, 0.93; negative predictive value, 0.36) and the optimal CTA-SI ASPECTS was ≥5 (sensitivity, 0.76; specificity, 0.71; positive predictive value, 0.94; negative predictive value, 0.31).

Conclusions:

There was a moderate correlation between NCCT and CTA-SI ASPECTS in predicting CTP defined ischemic core in delayed time windows. Further studies are needed to determine if NCCT and CTA imaging could be used for image-based patient selection when CTP imaging is not available.
Average Lifespan Shortened due to Stroke in Canada
Authors: Pham Truong-Minh , Thanh Nguyen Xuan , Wasylak Tracy , Hill Michael D. , Jeerakathil Thomas , Sikdar Khokan C. , Kaposhi Bethany , Shack Lorraine , Cheung Winson Y.
Published: January 2021

Background and Purpose:

There are challenges in comparability when using existing life lost measures to examine long-term trends in premature mortality. To address this important issue, we have developed a novel measure termed average lifespan shortened (ALSS). In the present study, we used the ALSS measure to describe temporal changes in premature mortality due to stroke in the Canadian population from 1990 to 2015.

Methods:

Mortality data for stroke were obtained from the World Health Organization mortality database. Years of life lost was calculated using Canadian life tables. ALSS was calculated as the ratio of years of life lost in relation to the expected lifespan.

Results:

Over a 25-year timeframe, the age-standardized rates adjusted to the World Standard Population for deaths from all strokes and stroke types substantially decreased in both sexes. The ALSS measure indicated that men who died of stroke lost 12.1% of their lifespan in 1990 and 11.4% in 2015, whereas these values among women were 11.1% and 10.0%, respectively. Patients with subarachnoid hemorrhagic stroke lost the largest portion whereby both sexes lost about one-third of their lifespan in 1990 and one-fourth in 2015. Men with intracerebral hemorrhagic stroke lost around 18% of their lifespan in 1990 and 14% in 2015 as compared to women who lost about 16% and 12% over the same timeframe. The loss of lifespan for patients with ischemic stroke and other stroke types combined was relatively stable at about 10% throughout the study period.

Conclusions:

Our study demonstrated a modest improvement in lifespan among patients with stroke in Canada between 1990 and 2015. Our novel ALSS measure provides intuitive interpretation of temporal changes in lifespan among patients with stroke and helps to enhance our understanding of the burden of strokes in the Canadian population.
Spider monkey use of natural and artificial terrestrial water sources in Calakmul, Mexico
Authors: Delgado-Martínez Carlos M. , Spaan Denise , Contreras-Moreno Fernando M. , Simá-Pantí David E. , Mendoza Eduardo
Published: January 2021

Geoffroy’s spider monkeys (Ateles geoffroyi) satisfy their need for water mainly from food items and arboreal water sources, but climate change and other anthropogenic impacts can drive a more frequent use of ground water by this arboreal species. Here, we report 25 events of use of natural and artificial terrestrial water bodies by spider monkeys recorded using camera-trapping in the Calakmul region, Mexico. Interestingly, these events occurred during the rainy season in locations where we did not record large predators and in most cases involved adult male individuals. These records suggest that habitat disruptions such as those associated with changing weather patterns and selective logging of large trees holding water reservoirs can lead to a greater use of terrestrial water sources by spider monkeys.
Problem-solving performance in wild Steller’s jays using a string-pulling task
Authors: Harvey Derek P. , Black Jeffrey M.
Published: January 2021

Animals that exploit resources from human-modified environments may encounter unique problems when searching for food. Pulling a string tied to a food reward (string-pulling task) is one of the most widespread methods of testing a species’ problem-solving performance in non-human animals. Performance in problem-solving tasks may be influenced by an individual’s characteristics and social interactions, especially in its natural habitat. We examined problem solving by free-ranging Steller’s jays (Cyanocitta stelleri) when extracting food from a string-pulling task presented in their natural habitat. During the study, seven of 50 jays successfully solved the task on their first to eighteenth experimental opportunity; solvers differed from nonsolvers by showing higher levels of persistence by pulling the string in more trials. Of the successful jays, five birds solved without observing others, while two birds were present during successful trials and subsequently completed the task. All seven jays demonstrated improvement in the task by using less string pulls over additional successful trials. Nineteen other jays in the population interacted with the apparatus and pulled the string, but not enough to acquire the food. These 19 jays were significantly bolder (shorter latencies to approach), more explorative (contacted more parts of the apparatus), and had observed solvers more than the 24 individuals that did not pull the string. These results indicate a broad spectrum of individual differences in propensity for solving novel tasks in our population of Steller’s jays.
Camellia proensis (Theaceae, sect. Piquetia), a new species from Southern Vietnam

Authors: HOI QUACH VAN , DUNG LUONG VAN , DOUDKIN ROMAN V. , AVERYANOV LEONID V. , THINH BUI BAO , LIEU NGUYEN THI , TRUONG LUU HONG
Published: January 2021

A new species of the genus Camellia L. (Theaceae) from Southern Vietnam is described and illustrated under the name Camellia proensis. Morphological differences between C. proensis and closely related species in the genus Camellia L. (sect. Piquetia) were identified. C. proensis is easily distinguishable from C. honbaensis, C. piquetiana and C. longii by the yellow flowers; from C. dalatensis by the glabrous twigs and leaves; from C. dongnaiensis by light yellow flowers; from C. sonthaiensis by mature fruit flat-globose, 4.0–5.5 cm tall and 8.5–10.0 cm wide. Ecological environment and distribution were also provided for this new species. The images and type specimens of this species were processed and stored in Vietnam (holotype, isotypes, DLU).
Aerobic exercise improves VCI through circRIMS2/miR-186/BDNF-mediated neuronal apoptosis
Authors: Niu Yali , Wan Chunxiao , Zhang Jing , Zhang Shu , Zhao Zilong , Zhu Leshan , Wang Xiaodong , Ren Xiaodong , Wang Jing , Lei Ping
Published: January 2021

Background

Vascular cognitive impairment (VCI) is a common cognitive disorder caused by cerebrovascular disease, ranging from mild cognitive impairment to dementia. Studies have shown that aerobic exercise might alleviate the pathological development of VCI, and our previous study observed that aerobic exercise could alleviate VCI through NF-κB/miR-503/BDNF pathway. However, there are few studies on the mechanism. Therefore, it is of great significance to fill the gaps in the mechanism for the early diagnosis of VCI and the clinical prevention and treatment of vascular dementia.

Methods

CircRNA microarray analysis and quantitative real-time PCR were used to detect the expression of circRNA regulating synaptic be exocytosis 2 (RIMS2) (circRIMS2). Cell apoptosis was determined by TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay. The dual-luciferase reporter assay was performed to verify the interaction between circRIMS2 and miR-186, as well as miR-186 and BDNF. RNA pull-down assay detected the binding between circRIMS2 and miR-186. A VCI mouse model was established by repeated ligation of bilateral common carotid arteries (2VO). The lentiviral interfering vector was injected into the VCI mice through the lateral ventricle. The mice in the aerobic exercise group performed 30 min (12 m/min) running for 5 days a week. A Morris water maze test was performed after 4 weeks.

Results

The expression of circRIMS2 and BDNF in the serum of VCI patients was significantly reduced, miR-186 expression was increased, and the expression of circRIMS2 was increased in the 2VO group of mice undergoing aerobic exercise. The expression levels of circRIMS2 and BDNF in the oxygen and glucose deprivation-treated (OGD-treated) cells were decreased, the miR-186 expression and cell apoptosis were increased, while the effect was weakened after transfection with the lentiviral vector pLO-ciR-RIMS2. CircRIMS2 could bind to miR-186, and after interference with circRIMS2 in HT22 cells, the expression of miR-186 was increased. Besides, miR-186 could bind to BDNF, and BDNF expression was decreased because of the overexpression of miR-186 in HT22 cells. The expression level of BDNF in the pLO-ciR-RIMS2 group was increased, and apoptosis was decreased, but the miR-186 mimic weakened the effect of pLO-ciR-RIMS2. Aerobic exercise could shorten the average time that mice reached the platform in the Morris water maze, increase the expression level of circRIMS2 and BDNF, reduce miR-186 expression, and inhibit neuronal apoptosis. However, the interference with circRIMS2 weakened this effect.

Conclusion

The expression of circRIMS2 was down-regulated in VCI and aerobic exercise reduced neuronal apoptosis, and circRIMS2 improved VCI through the circRIMS2/miR-186/BDNF axis.
Wind-induced vibration performance of early Chinese hall-style timber buildings
Authors: Han Yidan , Chun Qing , Jin Hui
Published: January 2021

Traditional Chinese timber buildings are lightweight, flexible, and quite vulnerable to wind. This paper aims to present a methodology for evaluating the wind-induced vibration performance of early Chinese hall-style timber buildings based on numerical simulations. First, the architectural and structural characteristics of early Chinese hall-style timber buildings were presented and analyzed. It is found that the main hall of the Tianning Temple can be considered a representative to carry out the research. Second, the wind pressure coefficients of the main hall were determined via computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation. Finally, the time-series wind pressures were generated, and the wind-induced vibration performance was analyzed by the finite-element method (FEM). The CFD simulation results show that the eave corners bear the maximum wind suction, and the windward pediment bears the maximum wind pressure. The FEM analysis has revealed that the lateral structural stiffness in the depth direction is smaller. Under the depth-direction wind load, most of the large displacement occurs intensively at the middle part of the windward frames. The structural response is dominated mainly by the top three vibration modes. The time-series wind vibration coefficients are larger than the code values by a factor of 1.39–1.82. This study can provide a reference for evaluating the wind-induced vibration performance of early Chinese hall-style timber buildings.
Enhanced UV Emission from ZnO on Silver Nanoparticle Arrays by the Surface Plasmon Resonance Effect
Authors: Wang Xiao , Ye Qiong , Bai Li-Hua , Su Xi , Wang Ting-Ting , Peng Tao-Wei , Zhai Xiao-Qi , Huo Yi , Wu Hao , Liu Chang , Bu Yu-Yu , Ma Xiao-Hua , Hao Yue , Ao Jin-Ping
Published: January 2021

Periodical silver nanoparticle (NP) arrays were fabricated by magnetron sputtering method with anodic aluminum oxide templates to enhance the UV light emission from ZnO by the surface plasmon resonance effect. Theoretical simulations indicated that the surface plasmon resonance wavelength depended on the diameter and space of Ag NP arrays. By introducing Ag NP arrays with the diameter of 40 nm and space of 100 nm, the photoluminescence intensity of the near band-edge emission from ZnO was twofold enhanced. Time-resolved photoluminescence measurement and energy band analysis indicated that the UV light emission enhancement was attributed to the coupling between the surface plasmons in Ag NP arrays and the excitons in ZnO with the improved spontaneous emission rate and enhanced local electromagnetic fields.