bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation Optimization, Characterization, and Antioxidant and Prebiotic Activities of Carboxymethylated Polysaccharides from Jujube
Authors: Feng Runfang , Kou Jingjing , Chen Shan , Wang Na , Wang Weiwei , Wang Lili , Wang Huiqiang , Ference Christopher , Liu Mengjun , Ao Changwei , Zhao Zhihui
Published: July 2021

In this study, jujube polysaccharides (JP) were extracted from Jinsixiaozao, and carboxymethylated jujube polysaccharides (CMJP) were prepared. The optimum carboxymethylation conditions optimized by Response Surface Methodology (RSM) were as follows: the reaction temperature was 60°C, the concentration of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) solution was 2.8 mol/L, and the content of chloroacetic acid was 2.12% with a degree of substitution (DS) of 0.2275 ± 0.0108. Physicochemical characterizations and in vitro antioxidant and prebiotic activities of JP and CMJP were evaluated. Compared with unmodified JP, water solubility and viscosity were improved in CMJP. Chemical analysis revealed that CMJP was composed of Rha: Ara: Xyl: Glc: Gal = 0.18 : 9.09 : 0.45 : 0.36 : 0.98 with a molecular weight of 3.04 × 105 Da. The signals of carboxymethyl were observed at 1600, 1420, and 1328 cm−1 in FT-IR. In addition, CMJP showed obviously strong hydroxyl radical scavenging ability compared with JP and also exhibited stronger abilities than JP on the proliferation growth of Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus strains. These results indicated that CMJP could be explored as a promising resource for the development of functional foods.
[Retracted] Feature Recognition of Human Motion Behavior Based on Depth Sequence Analysis
Authors: Zhao Guangyong
Published: July 2021

The current research on still image recognition has been very successful, but the study of action recognition for video classes is still a challenging topic. In this work, we propose a random projection‐based human action recognition algorithm to address the lack of depth information in color information (RGB video frames) that is not easily affected by environmental factors such as illumination and the lack of ability to recognize actions along the direction of view. A network structure is designed to take the obvious advantage of long‐ and short‐term memory networks for controlling and remembering long sequences of historical information. The network structure in this paper is constituted by multiple memory units. At the same time, this paper constructs the spatial features, temporal features, and depth features of the three recognition stream outputs into a feature matrix, whose feature matrix is divided into multiple temporal segments according to the temporal dimension, then inputs them into the network layer in order, and achieves the fusion of the feature matrix in this paper according to their correlation characteristics on the temporal axis. Here, we proposed the concept of random batch projection operators. This basically uses as much sublimitation information as possible to improve projection accuracy by randomly selecting several subdependencies as projections defined during projection. A compressed sensing design of human motion acceleration data for low‐power body area networks is proposed, and the basic idea and implementation process of compressed sensing theory for human motion data compression and reconstruction in wireless body area networks are introduced in detail.
Intraoperative Blood Loss and Postoperative Pain in the Sagittal Split Ramus Osteotomy and Intraoral Vertical Ramus Osteotomy: A Literature Review
Authors: Lee Kun-Tsung , Lin Shiu-Shiung , Hsu Kun-Jung , Tsai Chi-Yu , Lee Yi-Hao , Chang Yu-Jen , Wu Te-Ju
Published: July 2021

Purpose. The purpose of the present study was to review the literature regarding the blood loss and postoperative pain in the isolated sagittal split ramus osteotomy (SSRO) and intraoral vertical ramus osteotomy (IVRO). Materials and Methods. Investigating the intraoperative blood loss and postoperative pain, articles were selected from 1970 to 2021 in the English published databases (PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library). Article retrieval and selection were performed by two authors, and they independently evaluated them based on the eligibility criteria. The articles meeting the search criteria had especially at least 30 patients. Results. In the review of intraoperative blood loss, a total of 139 articles were retrieved and restricted to 6 articles (SSRO: 4; IVRO: 2). In the review of postoperative pain, a total of 174 articles were retrieved and restricted to 4 articles (SSRO: 3; IVRO: 1). The mean blood loss of SSRO and IVRO was ranged from 55 to 167 mL and 82 to 104 mL, respectively. The mean visual analog scale (VAS) scores of the first postoperative day were 2 to 5.3 in SSRO and 2.93 to 3.13 in IVRO. The mean VAS scores of the second postoperative day were 1 to 3 in SSRO and 1.1 to 1.8 in IVRO. Conclusion. Compared to traditional SSRO, IVRO had a significantly lower amount of blood loss. However, the blood transfusion is not necessary in a single‐jaw operation (SSRO or IVRO). Postoperative pain was similar between SSRO and IVRO.
[Retracted] Protective Effect of Nicorandil on Cardiac Microvascular Injury: Role of Mitochondrial Integrity
Authors: Jiang Xiaosi , Wu Dan , Jiang Zichao , Ling Weiwei , Qian Geng
Published: July 2021

A major shortcoming of postischemic therapy for myocardial infarction is the no‐reflow phenomenon due to impaired cardiac microvascular function including microcirculatory barrier function, loss of endothelial activity, local inflammatory cell accumulation, and increased oxidative stress. Consequently, inadequate reperfusion of the microcirculation causes secondary ischemia, aggravating the myocardial reperfusion injury. ATP‐sensitive potassium ion (KATP) channels regulate the coronary blood flow and protect cardiomyocytes from ischemia‐reperfusion injury. Studies in animal models of myocardial ischemia‐reperfusion have illustrated that the opening of mitochondrial KATP (mito‐KATP) channels alleviates endothelial dysfunction and reduces myocardial necrosis. By contrast, blocking mito‐KATP channels aggravates microvascular necrosis and no‐reflow phenomenon following ischemia‐reperfusion injury. Nicorandil, as an antianginal drug, has been used for ischemic preconditioning (IPC) due to its mito‐KATP channel‐opening effect, thereby limiting infarct size and subsequent severe ischemic insult. In this review, we analyze the protective actions of nicorandil against microcirculation reperfusion injury with a focus on improving mitochondrial integrity. In addition, we discuss the function of mitochondria in the pathogenesis of myocardial ischemia.
Comprehensive Profile Analysis of Differentially Expressed circRNAs in Glucose Deprivation‐Induced Human Nucleus Pulposus Cell Degeneration
Authors: Chang Hongze , Wang Hongzhang , Yang Xiaolong , You Kemin , Jiang Mingwei , Cai Feng , Zhang Yan , Liu Liang , Liu Hui , Liu Xiaodong
Published: July 2021

Nucleus pulposus (NP) is the core substance to maintain the homeostasis of intervertebral disc and stability of biomechanics. The insufficient supply of nutrition (especially glucose) is an important factor that leads to the degeneration of NP cells. circRNAs play an important role in the process of intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) by regulating the functions of NP cells. However, glucose deprivation‐related circRNAs and their functions in IDD have not been reported. In this study, the differentially expressed circRNAs in NP cells after 0, 6, 12, and 24 h of glucose deprivation culture were detected by a microarray assay. Besides, time series clustering analysis by STEM software obtained the differentially up‐ and downregulated circRNAs during glucose deficiency. Then, the main functions and pathways of up‐ and downregulated circRNAs were predicted by the functional enrichment analysis. By constructing the circRNA‐miRNA regulatory network, the potential mechanisms of the most differentially expressed circRNAs were predicted. In addition, according to in vitro validation, circ_0075062 was upregulated in degenerating NP tissues and glucose deprivation‐induced NP cell degeneration. Based on Sanger sequencing and RNase tolerance assay, circ_0075062 was the circular transcript. Interfering with circ_0075062 expression could potentially alleviate the imbalance of extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis and degradation in the NP cells induced by glucose deprivation. Together, these findings help us gain a comprehensive understanding of the underlying mechanisms of IDD, and circ_0075062 may be a promising therapeutic target of IDD.
The Potential Benefits of Nanotechnology in Treating Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Ling Tan Sook , Chandrasegaran Shanthini , Xuan Low Zhi , Suan Tong Li , Elaine Elaine , Nathan Durrgashini Visva , Chai Yam Hok , Gunasekaran Baskaran , Salvamani Shamala
Published: July 2021

Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that is caused by the accumulation of beta‐amyloid plaques in the brain. Currently, there is no definitive cure available to treat Alzheimer’s disease. The available medication in the market has the ability to only slow down its progression. However, nanotechnology has shown its superiority that can be applied for medical usage and it has a great potential in the therapy of Alzheimer’s disease, specifically in the disease diagnosis and providing an alternative approach to treat Alzheimer’s disease. This is done by increasing the efficiency of drug delivery by penetrating and overcoming the blood‐brain barrier. Having said that, there are limitations that need to be further investigated and researched in order to minimize the adverse effects and potential toxicity and to improve drug bioavailability. The recent advances in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease using nanotechnology include the regeneration of stem cells, nanomedicine, and neuroprotection. In this review, we will discuss the advancement of nanotechnology which helps in the diagnosis and treatment of neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease as well as its challenges.
Combining Well‐Tempered Metadynamics Simulation and SPR Assays to Characterize the Binding Mechanism of the Universal T‐Lymphocyte Tetanus Toxin Epitope TT830‐843
Authors: Brandt Artur A. M. L. , Rodrigues-da-Silva Rodrigo N. , Lima-Junior Josué C. , Alves Carlos R. , de Souza-Silva Franklin
Published: July 2021

Peptide TT830‐843 from the tetanus toxin is a universal T‐cell epitope. It helps in vaccination and induces T‐cell activation. However, the fine molecular interaction between this antigen and the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) remains unknown. Molecular analysis of its interaction with murine MHC (H‐2) was proposed to explore its immune response efficiency. Molecular dynamics simulations are important mechanisms for understanding the basis of protein‐ligand interactions, and metadynamics is a useful technique for enhancing sampling in molecular dynamics. SPR (surface plasmon resonance) assays were used to validate whether the metadynamics results are in accordance with the experimental results. The peptide TT830‐843 unbinding process was simulated, and the free energy surface reconstruction revealed a detailed conformational landscape. The simulation described the exiting path as a stepwise mechanism between progressive detachment states. We pointed out how the terminus regions act as anchors for binding and how the detachment mechanism includes the opening of α‐helices to permit the peptide’s central region dissociation. The results indicated the peptide/H‐2 receptor encounter occurs within a distance lesser than 27.5 Å, and the encounter can evolve to form a stable complex. SPR assays confirmed the complex peptide/H‐2 as a thermodynamically stable system, exhibiting enough free energy to interact with TCR on the antigen‐presenting cell surface. Therefore, combining in silico and in vitro assays provided significant evidence to support the peptide/H‐2 complex formation.
A Comparative Study of the Effects of Valproate and Oxcarbazepine on Sexual Function, Sperm Quality, and Sex Hormones in Males with Epilepsy
Authors: Guo Yi , Chen Lang , Wu Dongmei , Yu Liang , Sun Hongbin , Zhu Qiong
Published: July 2021

Aims. Although several studies have indicated that valproate (VPA) and oxcarbazepine (OXC) cause reproductive endocrine disorders and sexual dysfunction, there remains some controversy regarding these issues in males with epilepsy. This study is aimed at evaluating the effects of VPA and OXC on sexual function, sperm quality, and sex hormones in young males with epilepsy. Methods. Males with newly diagnosed epilepsy treated with VPA and OXC were recruited, and sexual function questionnaires (International Index of Erectile Function‐5 (IIEF‐5)), sperm quality, and sex hormone levels were assessed before treatment and at 6 months after treatment with VPA or OXC monotherapy. Results. Forty‐four young males with epilepsy (23 treated with VPA, 21 treated with OXC) and 30 age‐matched healthy individuals were recruited for our study. The sexual function, sperm quality, marriage rate, and fertility rate of these young males with epilepsy were lower than those of healthy controls. Sperm quality were significantly reduced in young male patients after 6 months of VPA administration. The level of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) was increased in patients after OXC treatment. Meanwhile, sexual function and sperm quality were not affected. Conclusion. Sexual function and sperm quality were reduced in young males with epilepsy. VPA may exert a negative effect on sperm quality, whereas OXC has no harmful effect on sexual function and sperm quality in young males with epilepsy.
Mechanism and Control of Roadway Floor Rock Burst Induced by High Horizontal Stress
Authors: Guo Dongming , Kang Xinchao , Lu Zhiying , Chen Qiyu
Published: July 2021

According to the characteristics of rock burst of high horizontal stress roadway floor, the rock burst mechanism of roadway floor was studied with the background of south track roadway Xing’an mine. Based on the deflection theory and energy principle of the slab, the mechanical model of the floor of the roadway under high horizontal stress was established, the stress and energy criteria of rock burst occurred in the floor of the roadway were deduced, the prevention and control measures of the floor pressure relief with large diameter borehole and concrete‐filled steel tube pile support were put forward, and the key parameters were determined. By establishing a numerical model, the evolution law of plastic zone, horizontal stress, and elastic strain energy density of roadway floor with or without support is contrastively analyzed. The results show that the effective means to prevent and control the floor rock burst is to cut off the stress transfer path by weakening the hard floor to reduce floor energy accumulation so as to reduce the floor rock burst risk. Based on the above research, field tests were carried out, and the microseismic monitoring results showed that the floor pressure relief of large diameter boreholes and concrete‐filled steel tube pile support effectively relieved the floor rock burst and guaranteed the safety and efficiency of roadway excavation. This technology can provide a reference for the prevention and control of floor rock burst of similar roadways.
Two-Sided Matching on Comprehensive Transportation Network Emergency Vehicles’ Allocation
Authors: Xie Kunwei , Xu Heying , Lv Hongxia
Published: July 2021

In emergency rescue, the allocation of comprehensive transportation network emergency vehicles often affects the efficiency of the whole rescue process. In the context of disasters, this paper researches the one-to-many two-sided matching problem between the emergency vehicles and the materials to be transported. Firstly, based on the needs of both parties involved in the matching, the satisfaction evaluation systems are constructed; with the goal of maximizing the weighted satisfaction of the affected areas and vehicles, the optimization model of the materials and emergency vehicles matching is established; then, an improved National Intern Matching Program (NIMP) algorithm is designed to solve the model, which is based on the k: 1 experimental pairing and updating ideas, and can take into account the capacity and destination constraints of vehicles in the matching process. Finally, through the calculation of an example, the matching scheme can make the satisfaction of material transportation reach 0.7392, and the simulation analysis proves that the scheme keeps certain stability in risky conditions.
On State-Dependent Delay Intuitionistic Fuzzy Partial Functional Differential Equations with Integral Boundary Conditions
Authors: Ben Amma Bouchra , Melliani Said , Chadli Lalla Saadia
Published: July 2021

This paper addresses the issue of the existence and uniqueness of intuitionistic fuzzy solutions for some classes of partial functional differential equations with state-dependent delay in a new weighted complete metric space. Theorems on the existence and uniqueness of intuitionistic fuzzy solutions for these problems with integral boundary conditions are established under some sufficient assumptions. Some numerical examples of applications of the main result of this work are presented.
Electromagnetic Shielding Techniques in the Wireless Power Transfer System for Charging Inspection Robot Application
Authors: Jiao Chaoqun , Xu Yang , Li Xiang , Zhang Xiumin , Zhao Zhibin , Pang Chengzong
Published: July 2021

Aiming at eliminating the leakage of magnetic fields from the wireless power transfer (WPT) system, the structural and working characteristics of the WPT system for the inspection robot are analyzed and an electromagnetic shielding method combining passive shielding and active shielding is proposed in this paper. Firstly, we simulated the magnetic field distribution of the WPT system in Maxwell. Secondly, passive shielding is configured in the WPT system, and the material, size, and position of the passive shielding are studied. Then, we add active shielding to areas where passive shielding cannot achieve a good shielding effect. Based on the analysis and summary of the two methods, we shield the WPT system in the horizontal direction with the appropriate size and distance of aluminum plate, and in the vertical direction, we use the active shielding coils. Simulation and experimental results show that the scheme only slightly reduces the transmission efficiency of the system (from 80.2% to 77.6%), but the shielding ability is 34.06% higher than that of only aluminum plates. The excellent effect of the proposed shielding method is verified in our experiment.
Membranous Nephropathy: It Is Time to Go Back to the Future
Authors: Sabiu Gianmarco , Podestà Manuel Alfredo
Published: July 2021

Context: Membranous nephropathy (MN) is an immune-mediated glomerular disease that can lead to nephrotic syndrome and progressive kidney function loss. The cyclic steroid-cyclophosphamide regimen (the modified Ponticelli protocol) and the monoclonal anti-CD20 antibody rituximab have been advocated as effective therapies to improve renal outcomes, but a direct comparison of these treatments had never been carried out in a prospective study. Subject of Review: Scolari et al. [J Am Soc Nephrol. 2021;32:972–82] recently reported the results of a pilot randomized controlled trial (RI-CYCLO) designed to provide direct estimates of the effect of rituximab (1 g × 2) compared to the cyclic steroid-cyclophosphamide regimen in 74 patients with MN. The proportion of patients with complete remission at 12 months was higher in the cyclic regimen arm than that of rituximab (32 and 16%, respectively), but the difference was not statistically significant in intention-to-treat analyses. Interestingly, differences in the cumulative incidence of complete and partial remissions between treatment arms progressively reduced over the follow-up and became virtually nonexistent from 24 months (>80% in both groups). The frequency of serious and nonserious adverse events was similar between the 2 treatment arms. Infusion reactions and drug discontinuation were more common with rituximab, while infections and leukopenia were more frequently observed with the cyclic regimen. The risk of cancer was similar in the 2 allocation groups, but the limited follow-up length did not allow to draw definitive conclusions. Independent of treatment allocation, 18% of patients experienced at least 1 relapse after achieving complete or partial remission. Second Opinion: Notwithstanding the intrinsic limitations of a pilot study, the RI-CYCLO trial represents an important milestone in the treatment of MN. Findings from this study support the hypothesis that the cyclic regimen and rituximab may have comparable efficacy in inducing disease remission over the long term. Considering its potentially better–albeit not yet formally proven–long-term safety profile, rituximab could be considered as a first-line therapy for most patients with MN. Several questions remain to be addressed, including rituximab ideal dose and its efficacy in patients with a significant reduction in glomerular filtration rate. In light of RI-CYCLO results, a large-scale trial to assess rituximab noninferiority to the cyclic regimen would require the enrollment of thousands of patients, and it would be probably unfeasible within a reasonable time frame. In our opinion, resources should be allocated to provide an answer to the pressing matter of treatment nonresponse and intolerance, which may be addressed in the near future with novel therapeutic strategies.
Analysis of 200,000 Exome-Sequenced UK Biobank Subjects Implicates Genes Involved in Increased and Decreased Risk of Hypertension
Authors: Curtis David
Published: July 2021

Background: Previous analyses have identified common variants along with some specific genes and rare variants which are associated with risk of hypertension, but much remains to be discovered. Methods and Results: Exome-sequenced UK Biobank participants were phenotyped based on having a diagnosis of hypertension or taking anti-hypertensive medication to produce a sample of 66,123 cases and 134,504 controls. Variants with minor allele frequency (MAF) <0.01 were subjected to a gene-wise weighted burden analysis, with higher weights assigned to variants which are rarer and/or predicted to have more severe effects. Of 20,384 genes analysed, 2 genes were exome-wide significant, DNMT3A and FES. Also strongly implicated were GUCY1A1 and GUCY1B1, which code for the subunits of soluble guanylate cyclase. There was further support for the previously reported effects of variants in NPR1 and protective effects of variants in DBH. An inframe deletion in CACNA1D with MAF = 0.005, rs72556363, is associated with modestly increased risk of hypertension. Other biologically plausible genes highlighted consist of CSK, AGTR1, ZYX, and PREP. All variants implicated were rare, and cumulatively they are not predicted to make a large contribution to the population risk of hypertension. Conclusions: This approach confirms and clarifies previously reported findings and also offers novel insights into biological processes influencing hypertension risk, potentially facilitating the development of improved therapeutic interventions. This research has been conducted using the UK Biobank Resource.
Upregulation of MicroRNA-199 (miR-199) Prompts the Apoptosis of K562 Cell in the Model of Mice with Leukemia
Authors: Hu Jijun , Rao Zongshen , Luo Min , Li Xiangyou
Published: July 2021

We investigated miR-199’s effect on the apoptosis of leukemia cells (K562) as so to provide reference idea for a new therapeutic target. 20 normal and healthy BALB/c nude rats were selected and equally and randomly assigned into inoculated group and blank group. The K562 cell
was obtained and then divided into blank control group, miR-199 mimic group, and miR-199NC group followed by analysis of miR-199 expression, cell activity and apoptosis as well as the expression of Bax, Bcl-2 and PCNA. Inoculated group showed significantly higher proportion of leukemia cells
and myeloid cells than blank group. The expression of miR-199 (3.22±0.03) in miR-199 mimic group was significantly higher than other two groups (P < 0.05) without difference between other two groups (P > 0.05). Bax expression (1.16±0.10) in miR-199 mimic group
was significantly higher, whereas Bcl-2 (0.02±0.01) and PCNA (0.47±0.05) expression was significantly lower than other two groups. Upregulation of miR-199 could restrain the expression of Bcl-2 and PCNA through upregulation of Bax, indicating that miR-199 might be a new therapeutic
target.
Dexmedetomidine Inhibited Proliferation and Invasion of Cervical Cancer Cells by Inhibiting the Janus Tyrosine Kinase/Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription Signaling Pathway
Authors: Xu FenLan , Xu Liying , Xu Xiaoyan , Huang Zhenhua , Su Liang
Published: July 2021

The role of anesthetics in the treatment of cancer has been reported, but the role of Dexmedetomidine (Dex) in the treatment of cervical cancer (CC) has not been reported.In this study, cell viability and proliferation were determined by MTT and cloning formation assay. The expression
of proliferation-related proteins ki67 and PCNA was detected by western blot. Wound healing and transwell detected cell migration and invasion, and western blot detected the expression of migration and invasion related proteins MMP4 and MMP9, and epithelial-mesenchymal transformation (ETM)-related
proteins N-cadherin, Snail, Vimentin and E-cadherin. Western blot also detected the expression of pathway related proteins p-JAK2, p-STAT1, p-STAT3, JAK2, STAT1 and STAT3. It showed that Dex inhibited the cell viability and proliferation of Hela and siHa and the expression of ki67 and PCNA
were also inhibited. Dex inhibited the cell migration and invasion, and inhibited the expression of MMP4 and MMP9. In addition, Dex inhibited the expression of N-cadherin, Snail and Vimentin, and promoted the expression of E-cadherin. Dex inhibited the expression of p-JAK2, p-STAT1 and p-STAT3.
After the addition of JAK/STAT signaling pathway agonist IL-6, the inhibition of Dex on proliferation, migration and invasion of CC cells was reversed. And the addition of JAK/STAT signaling pathway inhibitor AG490 could counteract the excitatory effect of IL-6 on the pathway, at which time
the cell proliferation, invasion and migration were significantly increased. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that Dex inhibited proliferation, migration, and invasion of cells in CC by blocking the JAK/STAT signaling pathway.
MicroRNA-3100 from Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells (BMSCs) Exosomes Alleviates Autoimmune Arthritis in Mice via Regulating Forkhead Box P3 Acetylase
Authors: Song Mengxiong , Zhang Chi , Zhang Yongtao , Chao Wang , Zhang Lin , Xu Derong , Zhu Kai , Li Guanghui , Zhao Han , Ma Xuexiao
Published: July 2021

To study the effect and mechanism of microRNA-3100 from exosome of BMSCs on autoimmune arthritis in mice. CIA mice model was established and treated with BMSCs exosomes or DMSO. The expression of Foxp3 was detected by PCR and Western blot. The Treg/Th17 population of T cells and the
expression of related inflammatory factors were analyzed by flow cytometry. BMSCs trans-fected with MicroRNA-3100 inhibitor or MicroRNA-3100 was used to treat CIA mice through intravenous injection. The levels of Foxp3 and its acetylation, Treg/Th17 differentiation and inflammatory factors
were detected, and the synovial tissues of mice were collected for analysis of its inflammatory infiltration. RA rats exhibited down-regulated Treg population and increased Th17 population in PBMC and SF, accompanied by reduced Foxp3 and acetylated Foxp3 expression, suppressed Tip60 expression
in SF, in relative to normal control. However, exosomes of BMSCs administration recovered the changes. Further result showed that exosomes from BMSCs was enriched for miR-3100. miR-3100 inhibitor exposed CD4+ T cell exhibited reduced Tip60 and acetylated-Foxp3 expression, decreased Tregs population
and increased Th17 cell population, vice versa as the miR-3100 mimics does. In addition, Tip60 inhibitors NU905 exerted the same effect as miR-3100 inhibitor transfection dose. Finally, miR-3100 overexpression could significantly reduce inflammation and immune cell infiltration, correct the
dysfunction between Th17 and Tregs, recovered Tip60 and acetylation Foxp3 expression. MiRNA-3100 is enriched in exosomes of BMSCs, and can up-regulatethe expression of Foxp3, acetylated Foxp3 and Tip60 level, improving the imbalance of Treg/Th17 ratio, and improve autoimmune arthritis in mice.
Sudden unexpected death in infancy: Severe pulmonary anatomopathological findings in spite of inconsistent clinical features
Authors: Pignotti Maria S , Maiese Aniello , Ugolini Sara , Iannaccone Francesca , Santoro Paola , Neri Margherita , Turillazzi Emanuela , Paolo Marco Di
Published: July 2021

Respiratory tract infections play a considerable pathogenetic role in many cases of sudden infant death (SID). Frequently, clinicians encounter difficulties in diagnosing the disease because of its often unspecific clinical and radiological presentation. We report three cases of sudden unexpected death in infancy (SUDI), involving two males and one female admitted to hospital due to mild respiratory distress. In all three cases, complete post-mortem investigations were successful in uncovering interstitial lung disease as the cause of death. These cases highlight the key role of infection-related interstitial lung diseases in the pathogenesis of some currently unexplained SUDI/SIDS and the diagnostic difficulties due to the variable clinical and histological pattern, thereby explaining the importance of performing complete post-mortem investigations whenever an infant dies suddenly and unexpectedly.
Effect of the Lockdown Due to COVID-19 on Sexuality: The Mediating Role of Sexual Practices and Arousal in the Relationship Between Gender and Sexual Self-Esteem
Authors: Rodríguez-Domínguez Carmen , Lafuente-Bacedoni Cristina , Durán Mercedes
Published: July 2021

The scientific evidence suggests that COVID-19 is affecting much more than the physical health of individuals, particularly in places where a lockdown has been established to slow down the spread of the virus. An area that may be particularly affected is human sexuality. This study explored the impact of the situation generated by COVID-19 on the sexuality of 201 adults living in Spain. We collected data cross-sectionally through an online survey during the month of April 2020. Results showed a reduction of sexual self-esteem and a decrease in the number of interpersonal sexual relations, although the frequency of masturbation and the consumption of pornography did not vary compared to previous levels. A regression analysis showed that masturbation, the ability to maintain sexual arousal and interpersonal sex were mediating variables in the relationship between gender – specifically being male – and having higher sexual self-esteem during the lockdown. This study provides new insight on the relevance of certain sexual behaviors in a pandemic situation with considerable social restrictions and on the effect of this situation on sexual self-esteem and arousal. It brings some clarity on the relationship between sexual self-esteem and gender, about which there is currently no consensus in the scientific literature.
The Most Important Aspects for a Good Death: Perspectives from Parents of Children with Cancer
Authors: Kim Ji Yoon , Park Bu Kyung
Published: July 2021

A good death is an important concept in pediatric palliative care. To improve the quality of pediatric palliative care, it is imperative to identify which domain is most important for a good death among children with cancer and their parents. This study aimed to (1) assess the essential domains for a good death from the perspectives of parents whose children have cancer using the Good Death Inventory (GDI) and (2) examine which characteristics are associated with the perception of a good death. An anonymous cross-sectional questionnaire was administered to 109 parents of children with cancer. Data were collected using a validated Korean version of the GDI. Descriptive statistics, t-test, and ANOVA were used to identify the preferred GDI domains. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with the GDI scores. The most essential domains for a good death included “maintaining hope and pleasure” and “being respected as an individual.” The factors most strongly associated with the perception of a good death were end-of-life plan discussion with parents or others and parental agreement with establishing a living will. Encouraging families to discuss end-of-life care and establish a living will in advance can improve the quality of death among children with cancer.
Simultaneous Sudden Hearing Loss and Peripheral Facial Paralysis in a Patient With Covid-19
Authors: Ozer Fulya , Alkan Ozlem
Published: July 2021

Although peripheral facial paralysis and sudden sensorineural hearing loss are not as common as anosmia, they are reported neurological manifestations of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). We present a 62-year-old, serologically COVID-19 positive woman with seventh and eighth nerve involvement showed electrophysiologically with Auditory Brainstem Response and electroneurography and radiologically with internal acoustic canal magnetic resonance imaging. This single case report suggests a possible association between the SARS-CoV-2 infection with simultaneous sudden sensorineural hearing loss and isolated facial paralysis. However, further studies are needed to determine whether this relationship is coincidental or occasional.
An Unusual Case of a Pharyngeal Fistula to the Cervical Spine Causing Osteomyelitis
Authors: Harris Kevin B. , Singh Achintya D. , Burkey Brian B. , Bhatt Amit , Vargo John J. , Baggott Brian B.
Published: July 2021

Significance Statement

Pharyngeal fistulas to the cervical spine resulting in vertebral osteomyelitis are a rare, yet clinically important, complication of total laryngectomy performed in conjunction with chemoradiotherapy or radiation therapy. This complication is likely underdiagnosed and can have a high mortality rate. It is very important that clinicians are aware of this complication as early diagnosis and management may improve patient outcomes.
Jephthah: Faithful Fighter; Faithless Father Ancient and Contemporary Views
Authors: Zucker David J.
Published: July 2021

Jephthah (Judges 11–12) is the eighth of the twelve charismatic/military leaders in the book of Judges. Prior to a crucial battle he vows that if he is successful and returns safely “then the one who comes out of the doors of my house to meet me … shall be offered up by me as a burnt offering to yhwh” (Judg 11:31). It is difficult to know what Jephthah means by these words. The Hebrew verb used ( ha-yotzey) in this context could mean equally “the one that comes out,” “whatever comes out,” or “whoever comes out.” In the event it is his only child, a daughter who greets him. Jephthah feels unable to revoke his vow and so appears actually to sacrifice her. This article considers how three sources address this narrative: ancient Rewritten Bibles; early as well as medieval and 18th/19th century Rabbinic commentary; and Contemporary scholarship.
Getting to the Pink Picket Fence: How LGB Migrants Negotiate Same-Sex Marriage
Authors: Vuckovic Juros Tanja
Published: July 2021

Despite the increasing legalization trend, same-sex marriage remains inaccessible to couples in most countries. Such exclusions, however, can be circumvented by migrants who, in the process, also negotiate diverse and even divergent meanings of marriage embedded in different socio-institutional contexts. This study examines such diverse meanings of marriage among LGB transnational migrants based on biographic narrative interviews with nine individuals married to same-sex partners in Belgium and the Netherlands and coming from Central and Eastern European countries with constitutional protection of heterosexual marriage. The study highlights the negotiations of intimate relationships in the context of the new institutional opportunity of marriage and stresses how the similarities between migrants and non-migrants testify to the strengthening of same-sex marriage as a social institution. Focusing further on migrants' unique experiences of marriage in divergent socio-institutional contexts, this study also shows how same-sex marriage empowers LGB migrants even where it is (still) not available.
Synchronous bilateral testicular cancer with discordant histopathology occurring in a 20-year-old patient: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Symeonidis Evangelos N , Tsifountoudis Ioannis , Anastasiadis Anastasios , Mutomba Wilbert F , Kotakidou Rodoula , Hatzichristou Dimitrios , Dimitriadis Fotios
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

Bilateral testicular tumors are very rare, accounting for 1%–5% of all testicular germ-cell tumors (TGCTs). The vast majority of primary bilateral TGCTs are metachronous, with synchronous tumors comprising approximately 0.5%–1% of all cases. Those occurring synchronously share mostly the same histological pattern, predominantly seminoma, with synchronous bilateral TGCTs (SBTGCTs) with discordant subtypes being extremely rare.

Case presentation:

We present the case of a 20-year-old male complaining of a palpable painless right testicular mass incidentally noticed during sexual intercourse. Ultrasonography (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the scrotum demonstrated bilateral testicular lesions, while staging with contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) exhibited normal findings. Right radical orchiectomy and left testis-sparing surgery (TSS) with concomitant onco-testicular sperm extraction (onco-TESE) were initially performed. Histology of the right testis revealed a mixed germ-cell tumor, consisting of seminoma and embryonal carcinoma, while that from the left testis disclosed embryonal carcinoma and intratubular germ-cell neoplasia unclassified (IGCNU) infiltrating the surgical margins. Hence, left orchiectomy was subsequently scheduled with histology unveiling IGCNU in the greatest part of the remaining testicular parenchyma. Following adjuvant chemotherapy, with bleomycin, etoposide, and cisplatin (BEP), the patient received testosterone replacement therapy and remained free of recurrence at an 18-month follow-up.

Conclusion:

This case highlights both the rarity of a bilateral testicular tumor’s synchronous appearance and its extremely infrequent discordant histopathology. A comprehensive review of the major series of SBTGCTs with discordant histology cited in the literature is additionally presented.
Credit Guidance for a Desired Economy: An Original Institutional Economics Critique of Financialization
Authors: McDonagh Naoise
Published: July 2021

Financialization describes the turn to speculative asset trading that has become increasingly central to economic life in recent decades. Critics argue this has occurred at the expense of the “real economy,” referring to production and trade. Critics further argue that finance’s normal role is to serve the needs of the productive sector. Financialization, which diverts capital from production to speculation, is viewed as a deviant form of capitalist development. Drawing on original institutionalist insights, this article argues that such a juxtaposition of the so-called real economy versus deviant financialization is misleading. Financial speculation is a logical outcome of capitalism’s actual real economy—capital accumulation. Firms within a capitalist economy must continually engage profit-seeking practices, which in turn produces psychological habituation in agents. The latter makes profit-seeking, not production-seeking, the psychological foundation of capitalist agency, such that all legal profit-making activity is an instance of capitalism’s real economy. Prioritizing productive investment is a desired economy, an outcome that requires regulatory intervention. This paper proposes that credit guidance is a regulatory solution to financialization, one that can increase economic welfare.

JEL Classification: O38, D91, H11, P10
Matrices, internal groups, and the psychic apparatus. Response to article by Clarisse Vollon and Guy Gimenez ‘A “complementarist” approach to the group as matrix and as psychic apparatus’
Authors: Tubert-Oklander Juan
Published: July 2021

There is usually more than one theoretical view of a hypercomplex situation, which may be cognitively complementary, but they bring about different results when used to orient our practice, on account of their underlying assumptions, values, and intentions. The authors compare two approaches to work with groups: Foulkes’s group analysis and Kaës’s psychoanalytic approach to groups, exploring their coincidences and differences, through their respective concepts of the matrix and the group psychic apparatus.

Psychoanalysis starts from the assumption of an isolated individual subject, and then constructs the additional dimension of relations and collective life. Group analysis takes as its starting point the assumption of the primary and essential relational and social nature of the human being, and the subject is a secondary construction that emerges from the initial participatory existence.

The concept of the internal group in Kaës is strictly intrapsychic and abstract, while in Pichon-Rivière it is experiential and introjective. Psychoanalysis and group analysis are based on two different conceptions of human existence, and this is clearly shown by the authors’ clinical vignette.

Studies like this contribute to a better understanding among the various traditions and schools of analytic work with groups.
Missed marks: This is no longer the 20th century
Authors: Hannud Abdo Alexandre
Published: July 2021

Following an invitation by the editors of Social Science Information to react to an article by Olof Hallonsten, this article joins a debate about ways of evaluating science in our current context. This article presents an argument in support of the following four assertions and their importance to properly approach today the transformations of science evaluation and governance in the last decades: (a) scientific communities have failed to update their self-governance as societies transitioned from ‘rural-labor societies’ to ‘urban-knowledge societies’; (b) the ensuing discrepancy from expectations contributed to the economization of science; (c) we must consider two distinct processes of democratization; and (d) geopolitics plays an important role in the establishment of commodification in wealthy nations.
Emerging Pharmacotherapies for Motor Symptoms in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Majali Mohammad Al , Sunnaa Michael , Chand Pratap
Published: July 2021

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second commonest neurodegenerative disorder in the older adult and is characterized by progressive disabling motor symptoms of bradykinesia, tremor, rigidity, postural instability and also non motor symptoms that affect quality of life. The pharmacotherapy of PD consists of oral, transdermal, and subcutaneous medications, as well as invasive advanced therapies at later stages of the disease. PD medications are often started as monotherapy but with the progression of the illness often there is a need to add more medications and frequently comprises of a challenging polypharmacotherapy. Adverse effects of pharmacotherapy often add to the problems of adequate treatment. Patients and physicians have to prioritize treatment goals on the most disabling symptoms and the safest and most effective treatments. Almost every year newer medications and modes of delivery continue to be researched and added to the therapeutic armamentarium. This review article outlines existing and emerging pharmacotherapies for motor symptoms in PD.
Study of the thermo-mechanical couple deformation of the meshing pairs of a single-screw compressor
Authors: Meng Xin , Zhang Zhao , Li Xuwang , Wu Weifeng , Wang Xiaolin , Wu Gang , Wang Subiao , Zhu Zhongqing
Published: July 2021

Single-screw compressor has attracted attentions from the scientific community due to its excellent performance. However, thermal deformations of the star wheel, screw, and casing substantially affect the clearance between the components, and hence reduce the performance of the single-screw compressor. In this study, the thermal deformation of a meshing pair of the single-screw compressor was investigated using a finite-element-based thermo-mechanical coupled model. This model was developed based on measured thermal boundary conditions during compressor operation. The effect of thermal deformation on the compressor sealing clearance was then studied. The results showed that the thermal deformation of the casing, screw, screw shaft, and star wheel significantly affected the clearance between the tooth tip and the groove bottom as well as the meshing pair clearance distribution. The change of clearance between the casing and screw is up to 0.03 mm while the change of the clearance between the star wheel tooth tip and screw groove is up to 0.05 mm. Furthermore, it was found that the spatial position meshing error caused by the thermal deformation was one of the major reasons for the wear of the meshing pair of the single-screw compressor. The simulated thermal deformation results agreed well with the experimental data. The clearances of the compressor were modified based on the thermal deformation in a single-screw compressor with a capacity of 6 m3/min and the results showed that the modified compressor can operate reliably. This indicated that the developed model could be used in the design of the single-screw compressor. It provides guidance for the design and optimization of large single-screw compressors.
Limitations of eddy current inspection for the characterization of near-surface cracks in railheads
Authors: Anandika Rayendra , Lundberg Jan
Published: July 2021

Eddy current (EC) testing is the most commonly used method to inspect near-surface cracks in railheads. Monitoring surface defects periodically is important to assess the track quality for serving daily operations. Nevertheless, despite being used in many countries, this method has limitations when characterizing cracks under the rail surface. Theoretically, EC testing is unreliable for the inspection of many cracks situated too close to each other in a concentrated location. This study has aimed to prove these limitations. EC signals from inspected cracks were compared with real crack profile parameters, i.e. depth and area, which were delivered by slicing the inspected cracked spots into 0.65 mm-thick pieces. The results show that the EC signal responses to the parameters of area and depth may lead to misleading measurements of the near-surface crack depth in the railhead. For instance, a shallower crack with a larger area can generate a higher EC signal response than a deeper crack with a smaller area. Another important conclusion is that the EC testing in this experiment could not be used to measure densely located cracks, which are those near-surface cracks which are typically found in a rail track.
From talking cure to play- and group-therapy: outpatient mental health care for children in the Netherlands c. 1945–70
Authors: Bakker Nelleke
Published: July 2021

After World War II in the Netherlands, outpatient mental health care for children expanded greatly. The number of Child Guidance Clinics grew, and university child-psychiatric clinics and Youth Psychiatric Services were newly established. The leading diagnostic and treatment ideology was mainly Freudian and focused on psychotherapy. During the 1960s the Child Guidance Clinics were outstripped by the more innovative university clinics that introduced new kinds of treatment, such as play- and group-therapy. This ended the hegemony of psychiatrists, as child psychologists and psychiatric social workers replaced them as therapists. At the same time, psychologists of the two denominational university Paedological Institutes took the lead in the scientific study of children’s more serious psychopathology and the development of play-therapy and remedial teaching methods.