bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arthroscopic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Repair Versus Autograft Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Meta-Analysis of Comparative Studies
Authors: Pang Long , Li Pengcheng , Li Tao , Li Yinghao , Zhu Jing , Tang Xin
Published: April 2022

Purpose

To compare the clinical outcomes of arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) repair and autograft ACL reconstruction for ACL ruptures.

Methods

PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science and The Cochrane Library were searched for relevant studies from 1 January 1990 to 21 March 2022. Two evaluators independently screened the literature, extracted data and assessed the methodological quality of the enrolled studies. Meta-analysis was conducted using RevMan 5.4 software.

Results

Ten studies with mean follow-up periods from 12 to 36 months were included. For 638 patients with ACL ruptures, arthroscopic ACL repair showed statistically comparable outcomes of failure (p = 0.18), complications (p = 0.29), reoperation other than revision (p = 0.78), Lysholm score (p = 0.78), Tegner score (p = 0.70), and satisfaction (p = 0.45) when compared with autograft ACL reconstruction. A significantly higher rate of hardware removal (p = 0.0008) but greater International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score (p = 0.009) were found in the ACL repair group. The heterogeneity of the side-to-side difference of anterior tibial translation (ΔATT) was high (I2 = 80%). After the sensitivity analysis, the I2 decreased dramatically (I2 = 32%), and the knees with ACL repair showed significantly greater ΔATT (P = 0.04).

Conclusion

For proximal ACL ruptures, arthroscopic ACL repair showed similar clinical outcomes, and even better functional performance when compared to autograft ACL reconstruction. ACL repair has a higher rate of hardware removal, and might be related to greater asymptomatic knee laxity. More high-quality prospective trials are needed to confirm our findings.
Case Report: Successful Reperfusion of Pulmonary Thromboembolism Using tPA in a Cat
Authors: Sutton Blake , Long Mays Erin , McLaughlin Chris
Published: April 2022

Pulmonary thromboembolism is a potentially life threatening condition that is uncommonly recognized in cats. Thrombolytic agents have been described as a treatment for this condition in human and canine patients, particularly in cases where hemodynamic instability is persistent despite supportive care. This report describes the clinical course, echocardiographic diagnosis, and successful thrombolysis of a cat with pulmonary thromboembolism. Despite confirmed reperfusion, the cat succumbed to thromboembolic disease highlighting the dearth of knowledge about optimal treatment of this disease process in small animals, particularly in cats.
Gallic acid analogues with antibreast cancer and antioxidant action: synthesis and pharmacological assessment
Authors: Dhingra Naveen , Kar Anand , Sharma Rajesh
Published: April 2022

Breast cancer is one of the important public health problems today and recent treatments have not been found to be very effective for advanced-stage metastatic disease of the breast. In the present study ten 3,4,5- trihydroxybenzohy- drazone derivatives (AR 01- AR 10) were synthesized by two different methods viz. reflux and stirring. It was observed that compounds synthesized by stirring method acquire good yield and require less time in comparison to reflux method. Further cytotoxicity activity performed on two breast cancer cell lines viz. MDA-MB-468 and MCF-7 revealed moderate activity in all compounds at 40 μg/mL and 80 μg/mL which has the highest in samples AR 01 and AR 10 for both cell lines. Considerably all compounds have shown potent antioxidant activity at 50 μg/mL and above concentrations. Tumor in mice treated with compound AR 01 was found to be smaller in comparison to control and AR 10. Findings revealed that compound having electron donating group showed more potent activity against breast cancer cell lines both in vitro and in vivo. Cytotoxicity activity also corelates with QSAR study and showed that compounds having donating group showed positive contribution towards the toxicity. These findings suggest that gallic acid derivatives were potent cytotoxic against breast cancer cell lines and may provide potent therapeutic effects against breast cancer.
Development of meloxicam potassium-containing co-spray-dried inhalation powder with sodium stearate
Authors: Benke Edit , Szabó-Révész Piroska , Ambrus Rita
Published: April 2022

Pulmonary drug delivery (PDD) has potential for both local and systemic therapy. Our research group is focus- ing on the development of dry powder inhalation (DPI) systems for PDD due to their beneficial properties. Although there is not yet a marketed inhalation product for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), their therapeutic use in sev- eral lung diseases is well established and successful DPI developments have been performed with them. Sodium stearate (NaSt) is a promising excipient for DPI development, but its role in NSAIDs has not yet been investigated. Thus, the aim was to study DPI samples produced by co-spray-drying, applying meloxicam potassium (MXP) as an NSAID drug, and different concentrations (0-2 w/w%) of NaSt. Physicochemical investigations, in vitro lung deposition, and in vitro drug release measurements were performed. It can be stated that co-spray-drying of MXP with NaSt resulted in remarkable morphological differences by increasing the concentration of NaSt, which had a positive effect on cohesive work. Further- more, applying of NaSt accelerates the dissolution in simulated lung fluid (SLF). NaSt as excipient has a future for the formulation of the DPI systems because there are in the development focus the attaintment of the higher FPF values and improvement of dissolution in SLF.
Recent insight into strategies for the design of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs)
Authors: Manteghi Reihaneh , Kristó Katalin , Szakonyi Gerda , Csóka Ildikó
Published: April 2022

With the increasing development of antibiotic resistance among key bacterial pathogens, there is an urgent need to discover novel classes of antibiotics. Although antimicrobial peptides (AMP) with their specific mode of action are considered major candidates for next-generation antibiotics, several challenges limit the use of these peptides for therapeutic applications. In a large body of research, the focus is given to different approaches to the chemical modification of AMPs and how these modifications may improve the stability, antibiotic activity, proteolytic activity and prevent the cytotoxicity and side effects of AMPs. On the other hand, another group of research investigates the delivery of AMPs via nanocarrier systems as strategies used to enhance stability, control the release of peptides and reduce adverse peptide-related side effects, as well as improve their anti-microbial activities. In the present article, we surveyed most recently published researches that provide us with good knowledge on structural features, mechanism of action, therapeutic aim, advantages and limitations, chemical modification approaches and carrying strategies of AMPs. Finally, according to Quality by Design, the most important potential effective factor and potential risk were mentioned in the development of AMP delivery systems.
Relative bioavailability study of a generic effervescent tablet formulation of dexketoprofen and thiocolchicoside versus the originator 25 mg film coated tablet (dexketoprofen) and 8 mg capsule (thiocolchicoside)
Authors: Hincal A. Atilla , Özseven Cemre , van der Meer Mike , Erenmemişoğlu Aydin , Bilgiç Mahmut , Martin Wolfgang
Published: April 2022

Aims: The aim of this study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetic profiles and the relative bioavailability of dexketoprofen and thiocolchicoside of the test preparation (dexketoprofen / thiocolchicoside 25 mg / 8 mg effervescent tablet) in comparison with the reference preparations (Keral 25 mg film coated tablet, containing dexketoprofen trometamol equivalent to 25 mg dexketoprofen (Menarini International Operations Luxembourg S.A.) (R1) and Muscoril 8 mg capsule, containing 8 mg thiocolchicoside (Sanofi Aventis İlaçları Ltd. Şti.) (R2) under fasting conditions. Methods: 25 healthy male subjects were enrolled in the study. Volunteers were hospitalised from the evening before drug administration (Day 0) until after the 24-hour blood sampling time on Day 2. Results: 24 subjects completed the study. Relative bioavailability (AUCT/AUCR1) of dexketoprofen from the test preparation was 100.99 %; (AUCT/AUCR2) of 3-O-glucuronide of thiocolchicoside (aglycone) from the test preparation was 100.47 %; (Cmax,T/Cmax,R1) of dexketoprofen from the test preparation was 122.59 %; (Cmax,T/Cmax,R2) of 3-O-glucuronide of thiocolchicoside (aglycone) from the test preparation was 111.43 %. Conclusions: The relative bioavailability AUCT /AUCR of the test preparation compared with both reference preparations is comparable, as shown by the geometric mean ratios of 100.59 % (dexketoprofen) and of 98.20 % (3-O-glucuronide of thiocolchicoside (aglycone).
Impact Pressure Distribution Recognition for Large Non-Cooperative Target in Ground Detumbling Experiment
Authors: Peng Siqi , Zhang Huibo , Qi Chaoqun , Xu Jialiang , Ma Rui , Dai Shijie
Published: April 2022

During the contact between the detumbling end-effector and large non-cooperative target, the recognition of impact pressure distribution is important for estimating the success rate of detumbling mission. To figure out the pressure trends, the ground experiments before the real space mission are necessary. However, due to the drawbacks of the pressure array-like sensor, dynamic characteristics of impact, and unavoidable noise, the accurate dynamic pressure distribution is hard to obtain. In this letter, we propose a recognition method, Impact Pressure Distribution Recognition. The proposed method can quickly generate dynamic impact pressure distribution without limitation on sensor accuracy through pressure data supplement and area correction based on contact model. The analysis results show that our method can efficiently recognize multiple distributed pressure and rebuild the more accurate impact pressure distribution.
Effects of New Compounds into Substrates on Seedling Qualities for Efficient Transplanting
Authors: Han Luhua , Mo Menghan , Gao Yansu , Ma Haorui , Xiang Daqian , Ma Guoxin , Mao Hanping
Published: April 2022

Automating vegetable seedling transplanting has led to labor-saving opportunities and improved productivity. Some changes in seedling agronomy are necessary for efficient transplanting. In this study, the local nursery substrates were added with the herbaceous peat, the sphagnum peat, and the coir peat, respectively. Effects of the new compound substrates were investigated on the seedling growth qualities and the root substrate strength. In the results, we found that the addition of three compound mediums significantly affected the physiochemical properties of the original substrates. Under the same conditions of cultivating seedlings, appropriate additions of new compounds promoted the seedling growth. Moreover, deficient or excessive additions inhibited the growing development of seedlings and their roots. The corresponding additions also improved the structural characteristics of the root lumps. Compared with the two other compounds, the nursery substrates added with the sphagnum peat were optimized in contribution to the seedling qualities and the root substrate strengths. As the local substrate and the sphagnum peat were mixed at a volume ratio of 2:1, the dry matter accumulation of seedlings was 2.18 times more than the original. Their root lumps had the best consolidation strength. This new compound of substrates may be an effective application for the necessary qualities of seedlings for automatic transplanting.
Adaptation to Climate Change Effects by Cultivar and Sowing Date Selection for Maize in the Northeast China Plain
Authors: Han Xiangfei , Dong Lina , Cao Yujun , Lyu Yanjie , Shao Xiwen , Wang Yongjun , Wang Lichun
Published: April 2022

Cultivar and sowing date selection are major factors in determining the yield potential of any crop and in any region. To explore how climate change affects these choices, this study performed a regional scale analysis using the well-validated APSIM-maize model for the Northeast China Plain (NEC) which is the leading maize (Zea mays L.) producing area in China. Results indicated that high temperature had a significantly negative effect on grain yield, while effective accumulated temperature and solar radiation had significant positive effects on grain yield and kernel number. Cloudy and rainy weather in flowering stage had significant negative effects on kernel number. Delayed sowing led to less cloudy and rainy weather during flowering and reduced the negative effect on kernel number. Higher diurnal thermal range and less precipitation during the grain-filling stage also increased the 1000-kernel weight. Delayed sowing, however, also significantly increased the risk of early senescence and frost (>80%) in middle and high latitude areas. In the middle and high latitude areas of the NEC, the grain yield of a long-season cultivar (LS) under early sowing (I) (6.2–19.9%) was significantly higher than under medium sowing (II) or late sowing (III), and higher than that of an early sown (I) short-season (SS) and medium-season cultivar (MS). In the low latitude area of the NEC, the grain yield of MS under medium sowing date (II) was higher than that under I and III, meanwhile, this was also higher than that of SS and LS. Therefore, under climate warming, LS sown earlier in high and medium latitudes and MS sown medium in low latitude were the appropriate cultivar and sowing date choices, which could mitigate the stress of high temperatures and reduce the risk of early senescence and frost. Cultivar and sowing date selection are effective measures to alleviate negative effects of climate change on maize production in the NEC, and provides valuable advice for breeders on cultivar selection, and the choice of varieties and sowing dates for farmers in actual production.
SspH, a Novel HATPase Family Regulator, Controls Antibiotic Biosynthesis in Streptomyces
Authors: Yang Xue , Zhang Yanyan , Li Shanshan , Ye Lan , Wang Xiangjing , Xiang Wensheng
Published: April 2022

Streptomyces can produce a wealth of pharmaceutically valuable antibiotics and other bioactive compounds. Production of most antibiotics is generally low due to the rigorously controlled regulatory networks, in which global/pleiotropic and cluster-situated regulatory proteins coordinate with various intra- and extracellular signals. Thus, mining new antibiotic regulatory proteins, particularly the ones that are widespread, is essential for understanding the regulation of antibiotic biosynthesis. Here, in the biopesticide milbemycin producing strain Streptomyces bingchenggensis, a novel global/pleiotropic regulatory protein, SspH, a single domain protein containing only the HATPase domain, was identified as being involved in controlling antibiotic biosynthesis. The sspH overexpression inhibited milbemycin production by repressing the expression of milbemycin biosynthetic genes. The sspH overexpression also differentially influenced the expression of various antibiotic biosynthetic core genes. Site-directed mutagenesis revealed that the HATPase domain was essential for SspH’s function, and mutation of the conserved amino acid residues N54A and D84A led to the loss of SspH function. Moreover, cross-overexpression experiments showed that SspH and its orthologs, SCO1241 from Streptomyces coelicolor and SAVERM_07097 from Streptomyces avermitilis, shared identical functionality, and all exerted a positive effect on actinorhodin production but a negative effect on avermectin production, indicating that SspH-mediated differential control of antibiotic biosynthesis may be widespread in Streptomyces. This study extended our understanding of the regulatory network of antibiotic biosynthesis and provided effective targets for future antibiotic discovery and overproduction.
Element Geochemical Characteristics and Provenance Conditions of the 1st Member of Jurassic Zhongjiangou Formation in Wudun Sag, Dunhuang Basin
Authors: Xu Tao , Feng Ling , Yin Wen , Wei Jinpeng , Wang Yarong , Zou Xianli
Published: April 2022

In order to clarify the provenance of the 1st member of the Zhongjiangou formation in Wudun sag, Dunhuang basin, the structural attributes, weathering and sedimentary characteristics of the provenance area were analyzed by means of element geochemistry, so as to determine the differences of sediment sources in different well areas. The results show that the higher the Al2O3 and K2O contents, the higher the enrichment of large ion lithophile elements and high field strength elements, while the iron and magnesium elements are relatively deficient, and there are characteristics of medium degree differentiation of light and heavy rare earth elements in Well XC1 and Well D2. The lower the Al2O3 content and the higher the SiO2 content, a loss of large ion lithophile elements and high field strength elements are observed, while the ferrophilic magnesium elements show serious loss, as shown in the characteristics of the high degree of differentiation of light and heavy rare earth elements in Well D1. In the UCC-normalized element spidergrams, the trend of Well XC1 and Well D2 is similar, which is different from that of well D1, indicating that the sediments of Well XC1 and Well D2 come from the same provenance area, while the sediment of Well D1 comes from a different provenance area. The provenance area of Well XC1 and Well D2 shows strong tectonic activity and strong weathering, while the provenance area of well D1 exhibits relatively weak tectonic activity and weathering. Combined with previous research results, Wudun sag is mainly characterized by a faulted lacustrine basin controlled by the southern boundary fault in the Jurassic layer. Therefore, the sediments of Well XC1 and Well D2 mainly come from the southern Sanweishan uplift provenance area, with strong tectonic activity; the sediments of Well D1 mainly come from the northern Beishan provenance area, with relatively weak tectonic activity.
Fire Risk Analysis in Large Multi-Compartment Structures Using a Hybrid Multiscale Approach
Authors: Dizet Nina , Porterie Bernard , Pizzo Yannick , Mense Maxime , Sardoy Nicolas , Alibert David , Louiche Julien , Porterie Timothé , Pouschat Priscilla
Published: April 2022

This paper proposes a hybrid multiscale approach to evaluate the fire performance of large multicompartment structures. A probabilistic network model is at the core of the proposed approach, whose inputs, namely the mean durations of the fire phases and fire transmission through the barriers between compartments (e.g., walls or ventilation ducts), are determined beforehand by a zone model, which is detailed in a companion paper and a one-dimensional computational fluid dynamics code. Next, a proof of concept is developed by applying the hybrid approach to different fire scenarios in a full-scale generic military corvette and a four-story office building. The simulation results highlight the strengths and limitations of the proposed approach. Regarding the latter, a field model is used to evaluate how the hybrid approach performs depending on the interaction between the entire building system and its ventilation and the fire. Finally, a statistical study is carried out to produce fire vulnerability and risk maps, ranking the fire compartments according to their vulnerability or propensity to generate serious fires.
A New Solution to a Cubic Diophantine Equation
Authors: Butcher John
Published: April 2022

A positive integer, which can be written as the sum of two positive cubes in two different ways, is known as a “Ramanujan number”. The most famous example is 1729=103+93=123+13, which was identified by Ramanujan as the lowest such number. In this paper, we consider the homogeneous cubic Diophantine equation x3+y3=u3+v3, where there is no restriction on the signs of the integers x,y,u,v. We show that every solution can be written in terms of two parameters in the ring Z−3. It is also shown that solutions with arbitrarily high values of max(|x|,|y|,|u|,|v|) arise amongst the primitive solutions.
New Efficient Approach to Solve Big Data Systems Using Parallel Gauss–Seidel Algorithms
Authors: Chang Shih Yu , Wu Hsiao-Chun , Wang Yifan
Published: April 2022

In order to perform big-data analytics, regression involving large matrices is often necessary. In particular, large scale regression problems are encountered when one wishes to extract semantic patterns for knowledge discovery and data mining. When a large matrix can be processed in its factorized form, advantages arise in terms of computation, implementation, and data-compression. In this work, we propose two new parallel iterative algorithms as extensions of the Gauss–Seidel algorithm (GSA) to solve regression problems involving many variables. The convergence study in terms of error-bounds of the proposed iterative algorithms is also performed, and the required computation resources, namely time- and memory-complexities, are evaluated to benchmark the efficiency of the proposed new algorithms. Finally, the numerical results from both Monte Carlo simulations and real-world datasets are presented to demonstrate the striking effectiveness of our proposed new methods.
3D Printed Surgical Guide for Coronary Artery Bypass Graft: Workflow from Computed Tomography to Prototype
Authors: Cappello Ida Anna , Candelari Mara , Pannone Luigi , Monaco Cinzia , Bori Edoardo , Talevi Giacomo , Ramak Robbert , La Meir Mark , Gharaviri Ali , Chierchia Gian Battista , Innocenti Bernardo , de Asmundis Carlo
Published: April 2022

Patient-specific three-dimensional (3D) printed models have been increasingly used in many medical fields, including cardiac surgery for which they are used as planning and communication tools. To locate and plan the correct region of interest for the bypass placement during coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, cardiac surgeons can pre-operatively rely on different medical images. This article aims to present a workflow for the production of a patient-specific 3D-printed surgical guide, from data acquisition and image segmentation to final prototyping. The aim of this surgical guide is to help visualize the region of interest for bypass placement during the operation, through the use of dedicated surgical holes. The results showed the feasibility of this surgical guide in terms of design and fitting to the phantom. Further studies are needed to assess material biocompatibility and technical properties.
Reproductive Biology of the Sea Cucumber Holothuria mammata (Echinodermata: Holothuroidea)
Authors: Venâncio Eliana , Félix Pedro M. , Brito Ana C. , Azevedo e Silva Francisco , Simões Tomás , Sousa João , Mendes Susana , Pombo Ana
Published: April 2022

Holothuria mammata is one of the most valuable species of sea cucumber, as well as one of the main target species harvested in the Mediterranean and NE-Atlantic regions. This study aims to describe the reproductive cycle of H. mammata in a coastal area of southwest Portugal. Monthly samplings were carried out for 19 months, with the concomitant collection of environmental data and biometric data. H. mammata had a sex ratio of 1:1.2 (male:female) and a size at first maturity of 142 mm for males and 167 mm for females. The gonadosomatic index (GI) peaked between April and May for both sexes. Gonad development started when days had a shorter photoperiod (9 to 13 h of sunlight) and lower seawater temperature (<15 °C), and spawning occurred later, with longer photoperiod (13 to 15 h of sunlight) and higher seawater temperature (>15 °C) and chlorophyll-a concentrations. The development of new studies to increase the biological and ecological knowledge of the populations of H. mammata is essential to create conditions for the domestication of broodstock in captivity, to allow the development of fishing regulations based on informed decisions and to create precise measures for the conservation of ecosystems.
Cardiac Cell Exposure to Electromagnetic Fields: Focus on Oxdative Stress and Apoptosis
Authors: Martinelli Ilenia , Cinato Mathieu , Keita Sokhna , Marsal Dimitri , Antoszewski Valentin , Tao Junwu , Kunduzova Oksana
Published: April 2022

Exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) is a sensitive research topic. Despite extensive research, to date there is no evidence to conclude that exposure to EMFs influences the cardiovascular system. In the present study, we examined whether 915 MHz EMF exposure affects myocardial antioxidative and apoptotic status in vitro and in vivo. No statistically significant difference in the apoptotic cell profile and antioxidant capacity was observed between controls and short-term EMF-exposed mouse cardiomyocytes and H9C2 cardiomyoblasts. Compared with sham-exposed controls, mice subjected to a 915 MHz EMF for 48 h and 72 h had no significant effect on structural tissue integrity and myocardial expression of apoptosis and antioxidant genes. Therefore, these results indicate that short-term exposure to EMF in cardiac cells and tissues did not translate into a significant effect on the myocardial antioxidant defense system and apoptotic cell death.
A New Topical Candidate in Acne Treatment: Characterization of the Meclozine Hydrochloride as an Anti-Inflammatory Compound from In Vitro to a Preliminary Clinical Study
Authors: Grange Philippe A. , Ollagnier Guillaume , Beauvais Remigereau Laurianne , Nicco Carole , Mayslich Constance , Marcelin Anne-Geneviève , Calvez Vincent , Dupin Nicolas
Published: April 2022

Acne is a chronic inflammatory multifactorial disease involving the anaerobic bacterium Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes). Current acne treatments are associated with adverse effects, limiting treatment compliance and use. We showed that meclozine, an anti-histaminic H1 compound, has anti-inflammatory properties. In Vitro, meclozine reduced the production of CXCL8/IL-8 and IL-1β mRNA and protein by C. acnes-stimulated human keratinocytes and monocytes. No cell toxicity was observed at the IC50. Meclozine prevented the phosphorylation of ERK and JNK. In Vivo, 1% meclozine gel significantly decreased C. acnes-mouse ear induced inflammation by 26.7% (p = 0.021). Ex vivo experiments on human skin explants showed that meclozine decreased the production of GM-CSF, IL-1β and TNF-α at transcriptional and translational levels. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled proof-of-concept clinical trial on 60 volunteers, 2% meclozine pharmaceutical gel decreased by 20.1% (p < 0.001) the ASI score in the treated group after 12 weeks of treatment. No adverse event was reported. Together, these results indicate that meclozine is a potent topical anti-inflammatory compound of potential value for acne treatment.
The Evolution of Blood Cell Phenotypes, Intracellular and Plasma Cytokines and Morphological Changes in Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Berghäll Elisabeth , Hultström Michael , Frithiof Robert , Lipcsey Miklos , Hahn-Strömberg Victoria
Published: April 2022

Background: Severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) causes a strong inflammatory response. To obtain an overview of inflammatory mediators and effector cells, we studied 25 intensive-care-unit patients during the timeframe after off-label chloroquine treatment and before an introduction of immunomodulatory drugs. Material and methods: Blood samples were weekly examined with flow cytometry (FCM) for surface and intracytoplasmic markers, cytokine assays were analyzed for circulating interleukins (ILs), and blood smears were evaluated for morphological changes. Samples from healthy volunteers were used for comparison. Organ function data and 30-day mortality were obtained from medical records. Results: Compared to that of the healthy control group, the expression levels of leukocyte surface markers, i.e., the cluster of differentiation (CD) markers CD2, CD4, CD8, CD158d, CD25, CD127, and CD19, were lower (p < 0.001), while those of leukocytes expressing CD33 were increased (p < 0.05). An aberrant expression of CD158d on granulocytes was found on parts of the granulocyte population. The expression levels of intracellular tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and IL-1 receptor type 2 in leukocytes were lower (p < 0.001), and the plasma levels of TNFα, IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10 (p < 0.001), interferon gamma (IFNγ) (p < 0.01), and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) (p < 0.05) were higher in patients with severe COVID-19 than in the control group. The expression levels of CD33+ leukocytes and circulating IL-6 were higher (p < 0.05) among patients with arterial oxygen partial pressure-to-fractional inspired oxygen (PaO2/FiO2) ratios below 13.3 kPa compared to in the remaining patients. The expression levels of TNFα, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10 were higher in patients treated with continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) (p < 0.05), and the levels of the maximum plasma creatinine and TNFα Spearman’s rank-order correlation coefficient (rho = 0.51, p < 0.05) and IL-8 (rho = 0.44, p < 0.05) correlated. Blood smears revealed neutrophil dysplasia with pseudo-Pelger forms being most common. Conclusion: These findings suggest that patients with severe COVID-19, in addition to augmented ILs, lymphopenia, and increased granulocytes, also had effects on the bone marrow.
Placental Models for Evaluation of Nanocarriers as Drug Delivery Systems for Pregnancy Associated Disorders
Authors: Fliedel Louise , Alhareth Khair , Mignet Nathalie , Fournier Thierry , Andrieux Karine
Published: April 2022

Pregnancy-associated disorders affect around 20% of pregnancies each year around the world. The risk associated with pregnancy therapeutic management categorizes pregnant women as “drug orphan” patients. In the last few decades, nanocarriers have demonstrated relevant properties for controlled drug delivery, which have been studied for pregnancy-associated disorders. To develop new drug dosage forms it is mandatory to have access to the right evaluation models to ensure their usage safety and efficacy. This review exposes the various placental-based models suitable for nanocarrier evaluation for pregnancy-associated therapies. We first review the current knowledge about nanocarriers as drug delivery systems and how placenta can be used as an evaluation model. Models are divided into three categories: in vivo, in vitro, and ex vivo placental models. We then examine the recent studies using those models to evaluate nanocarriers behavior towards the placental barrier and which information can be gathered from these results. Finally, we propose a flow chart on the usage and the combination of models regarding the nanocarriers and nanoparticles studied and the intended therapeutic strategy.
Retinal Changes in Astrocytes and Müller Glia in a Mouse Model of Laser-Induced Glaucoma: A Time-Course Study
Authors: Fernández-Albarral Jose A. , de Hoz Rosa , Matamoros José A. , Chen Lejing , López-Cuenca Inés , Salobrar-García Elena , Sánchez-Puebla Lidia , Ramírez José M. , Triviño Alberto , Salazar Juan J. , Ramírez Ana I.
Published: April 2022

Macroglia (astrocytes and Müller glia) may play an important role in the pathogenesis of glaucoma. In a glaucoma mouse model, we studied the effects of unilateral laser-induced ocular hypertension (OHT) on macroglia in OHT and contralateral eyes at different time points after laser treatment (1, 3, 5, 8 and 15 days) using anti-GFAP and anti-MHC-II, analyzing the morphological changes, GFAP-labelled retinal area (GFAP-PA), and GFAP and MHC-II immunoreactivity intensities ((GFAP-IRI and MHC-II-IRI)). In OHT and contralateral eyes, with respect to naïve eyes, at all the time points, we found the following: (i) astrocytes with thicker somas and more secondary processes, mainly in the intermediate (IR) and peripheral retina (PR); (ii) astrocytes with low GFAP-IRI and only primary processes near the optic disc (OD); (iii) an increase in total GFAP-RA, which was higher at 3 and 5 days, except for at 15 days; (iv) an increase in GFAP-IRI in the IR and especially in the PR; (v) a decrease in GFAP-IRI near the OD, especially at 1 and 5 days; (vi) a significant increase in MHC-II-IRI, which was higher in the IR and PR; and (vii) the Müller glia were GFAP+ and MHC-II+. In conclusion, in this model of glaucoma, there is a bilateral macroglial activation maintained over time involved in the inflammatory glaucoma process.
A Portable Biosensor Based on Au Nanoflower Interface Combined with Electrochemical Immunochromatography for POC Detection of Prostate-Specific Antigen
Authors: Dou Yanzhi , Li Zhenhua , Su Jing , Song Shiping
Published: April 2022

Serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a widely used for the detection of prostate cancer and is considered the most reliable biomarker. However, the currently reported detection methods cannot achieve rapid monitoring. Here, we report a novel electrochemical immunochromatography (EIC) system for clinically accurate PSA detection. First, we constructed a carbon interface modified with gold nanoflowers (Au NFs) based on screen-printed carbon electrodes (SPCE), which acted as nanostructures with larger specific surface area that increased the number of PSA capture antibodies and can further improve detection signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio. Then, we fabricated detection chips by combining the SPCE/Au NFs with EIC. Under optimized conditions, the proposed biosensor exhibits high accuracy, taking only 15 minutes to complete detection. By measuring the levels of PSA in clinical blood samples, the biosensor can successfully discriminate clinically diagnosed prostate cancer patients from healthy controls.
Prediction of the Yield Performance and Failure Mode of RC Columns under Cyclic-Load by PSO-BP Neural Network
Authors: Zhang Ge , Sun Baitao , Bai Wen , Zhang Haoyu
Published: April 2022

The yield performances and failure mode of reinforced concrete (RC) columns, which are critical structural performances to the design and research of engineering structures, have a significant impact on the dynamic response, the performance level, and the design of seismic ductility. The traditional empirical theoretical method used to predict the yield performances and failure mode leads to large dispersions in most cases. To better estimate the yield performances and failure mode of RC columns, this paper developed a novel neural network method. Empirical theoretical models are used to determine the input parameters of the neural network by analyzing the factors that affect the yield performance and failure mode of RC columns, and the rationality of these parameters is verified by sensitivity analysis. The back-propagation (BP) neural network method was adopted. The influence of the number of hidden neurons was studied to improve the model accuracy. Comparative analysis revealed that the prediction results of the neural network are in good agreement with the experimental results and are more accurate than other traditional empirical theoretical models. The initial parameters were optimized using particle swarm optimization (PSO), which has been proven to be superior to the genetic algorithm (GA) and sparrow search algorithm (SSA) optimization methods in terms of effectiveness and computation time. The high generalization ability of the prediction model was calibrated using the test and validation sets and another eight additional sets of experimental data. The proposed method provides a new way to predict the structural performance under seismic actions when experimental data are insufficient.
Hypoxia-Induced circRNAs in Human Diseases: From Mechanisms to Potential Applications
Authors: Huang Qi , Yang Juan , Goh Robby , You Mingliang , Wang Lingzhi , Ma Zhaowu
Published: April 2022

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a special class of endogenous RNAs characterized by closed loop structures lacking 5′ to 3′ polarity and polyadenylated tails. They are widely present in various organisms and are more stable and conserved than linear RNAs. Accumulating evidence indicates that circRNAs play important roles in physiology-related processes. Under pathological conditions, hypoxia usually worsens disease progression by manipulating the microenvironment for inflammation and invasion through various dysregulated biological molecules. Among them, circRNAs, which are involved in many human diseases, including cancer, are associated with the overexpression of hypoxia-inducible factors. However, the precise mechanisms of hypoxic regulation by circRNAs remain largely unknown. This review summarizes emerging evidence regarding the interplay between circRNAs and hypoxia in the pathophysiological changes of diverse human diseases, including cancer. Next, the impact of hypoxia-induced circRNAs on cancer progression, therapeutic resistance, angiogenesis, and energy metabolism will be discussed. Last, but not least, the potential application of circRNAs in the early detection, prognosis, and treatment of various diseases will be highlighted.
Anatomical Structures Responsible for CTEV Relapse after Ponseti Treatment
Authors: Laliotis Nikolaos , Chrysanthou Chrysanthos , Konstandinidis Panagiotis , Anastasopoulos Nikolaos
Published: April 2022

Relapse of deformity after a successful Ponseti treatment remains a problem for the management of clubfoot. An untreated varus heel position and restricted dorsal flexion of the ankle are the main features of recurrences. We analyze the anatomical structures responsible for these recurrences. Materials and methods: During 5 years, 52 children with CTEV (Congenital Talipes Equino Varus) were treated with casts according to the Ponseti method, with a mean number of 7 casts. Closed percutaneous tenotomy was performed in 28 infants. Children were followed monthly and treated with the continuous use of a molded cast. We had 9 children with relapsed clubfeet. During the standing and walking phase, they had a fixed deformity with a varus position of the heel and dorsal flexion of the ankle <10 d. They were surgically treated with the posterolateral approach. Results: In all patients, we found a severe thickening of the paratenon of the Achilles in the medial side, with adhesions with the subcutaneous tissue. The achilles after the previous tenotomy was completely regenerated. The achilles was medially displaced. Conclusions: A severe thickening of the paratenon of the achilles and adhesions with the subcutaneous tissue are anatomical structures in fixed relapsed cases of clubfoot. We treated our patients with an appropriate surgical release.
The Analysis of the Correlations between BMI and Body Composition among Children with and without Intellectual Disability
Authors: Ungurean Bogdan Constantin , Cojocariu Adrian , Abalașei Beatrice Aurelia , Popescu Lucian , Puni Alexandru Rares , Stoica Marius , Pârvu Carmen
Published: April 2022

Background: Compared to the great volume of studies focusing on children and adolescents without intellectual disability, research regarding body mass index among young populations (13–17 years old) with intellectual disability is scarce, mostly when we refer to the comparisons between various degrees of intellectual disability and gender. Methods: The purpose of this study was to assess a series of morphofunctional parameters among children with and without intellectual disability to characterise the morphofunctional normality and its perturbations. Within the study, we included 101 subjects from several educational institutions, distributed on five groups, by their gender and degree of intellectual disability. Results: The average values of body mass index exceed the values recommended by the WHO among all the five groups (boys and girls with and without intellectual disabilities) prone to obesity. Upon analysing the values of BMI by gender and type of intellectual disability, we note that the prevalence of obesity among boys is 28.07% (BMI > 24), while 19.29% are overweight (BMI ranging between 21.5 and 24). Conclusions: The prevalence of excess weight and obesity among persons with intellectual disabilities was similar among the male and female subjects. It shows an increasing trend by age.
The Effects of Zinc Oxide/Silicon Dioxide Composite Coating on Surface Wettability and the Mechanical Properties of Paper Mulching Film
Authors: Li Anling , Jia Yangyang , Zhang Fangyuan , Zhao Yiming , Zhang Fengwei
Published: April 2022

In order to improve the hydrophobic and mechanical properties of paper mulch film, ZnO/SiO2 composite coated paper mulch film was prepared with a brush coating method. Hydrophobicity and durability of the original paper mulch film and the coated paper mulch film were measured by static contact angle and mechanical torsion tests, and the mechanical properties of the two kinds of paper mulch films were measured by tensile and tear tests at different temperatures. The two kinds of paper mulch films were characterized by their micro-morphology and surface element distribution. The results show that the contact angle of the ZnO/SiO2 composite coated paper mulch film reaches 161.46°, and the contact angle can still reach 153.15° after 80 mechanical torsion cycles, which shows good superhydrophobic and hydrophobic durability. Compared with the original paper mulch film, the mechanical properties of the coated paper mulch film are also improved to some extent. Combined with the surface micro-morphology, it is found that a ZnO/SiO2 composite coating fills the pores between fibers in the paper mulch film and promotes the adhesion between fibers, thus improving the hydrophobicity, durability, and mechanical properties of the paper mulch film.
Performance and Acceptability of a New Dexpanthenol-Containing Hand Cream in Subjects with Sensitive and Very Dry Skin: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Stettler Hans , de Salvo Raffaella , Brandt Marianne , Effertz Ann-Kathrin , Laing Sabrina , Trapp Sonja
Published: April 2022

A new dexpanthenol-containing hand cream (ND-HC) was developed for people with dry, sensitive, and/or environmentally stressed hands. To explore the performance and acceptability of ND-HC, we conducted a randomized, intraindividual comparison study in 40 healthy adult subjects with sensitive and very dry skin on the hands. Instrumental measurements determined the effects on stratum corneum (SC) hydration and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) after single and/or 4 weeks’ use of ND-HC. Single and continued at least four times daily applications of ND-HC to very dry skin of the hand for 4 weeks triggered significant increases in SC hydration. On day 29, the mean change in skin capacitance from baseline was significantly greater when ND-HC was applied to the test area compared with the untreated area on the contralateral hand (12.41 vs. 4.46 a.u.; p < 0.001). Upon use of ND-HC over 4 weeks, mean TEWL decreased significantly (bilateral difference: −1.8 vs. 1.0 g/m2/h; p = 0.003), indicating an improvement in SC barrier function. A reduction in dry hand symptoms was observed over the study course. ND-HC was well tolerated and achieved a high level of acceptance and satisfaction. Our findings suggest that ND-HC complies with the required features of a state-of-the-art hand cream.
Feedback Control of Crystal Size Distribution for Cooling Batch Crystallization Using Deep Learning-Based Image Analysis
Authors: Gan Chenyang , Wang Liangyong , Xiao Shunkai , Zhu Yaolong
Published: April 2022

The shape of the crystal size distribution directly determines the quality of crystal products. It is often assumed that distributional properties of crystal size conform to the Gaussian distribution or the log normal distribution. The mean and variance or relative crystal number are widely adopted to describe the crystal size distribution and taken as the control objectives. Therefore, the resulting control methods have difficulties in controlling the crystal size distribution with a general shape. In this article, a novel feedback control system of crystal size distribution based on image analysis is designed for the effective control of crystal size distribution with a general shape. First, a deep learning network-based image analysis method is adopted and implemented to extract the crystal size distribution. Second, the crystal size distribution is approximated by a radial basis function neural network. Consequently, a feedback controller is designed and the tracking control of the target crystal size distribution is finally realized. The results of crystallization experiments demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Microplastics Risk into a Three-Link Food Chain Inside European Hake
Authors: Cabanilles Paula , Acle Susana , Arias Andrés , Masiá Paula , Ardura Alba , Garcia-Vazquez Eva
Published: April 2022

Microplastics (MPs) are increasing in the marine environment as well as inside marine organisms, having an important effect on biological diversity. The trophic transfer of MPs was demonstrated under laboratory conditions, but this study is based on the analysis of preys found in stomach contents. MPs from Merluccius merluccius individuals caught in the Cantabrian Sea and preys inside their guts (blue whiting, and northern krill inside blue whiting) were analyzed. MPs with different chemical composition occurred inside every hake and their preys, with different damages, from aquatic life hazards with long lasting effects, to allergic skin reactions and respiratory irritation, not only for aquatic species and fishing resources, but also for humans through hake consumption. The similarity of MPs profiles from gills and seawater samples would support seawater as the main source of gill microplastics. The MPs profile of hake GIT was similar to that of hake preys inside. Despite the small sample size, the presence of MPs in all the tissues analyzed of hakes and their preys, together with the evidence of hazard compositions of some of them, highlights the need for policies and actions to reduce plastic and microplastic production and consumption.
Endometriosis and Impaired Placentation: A Prospective Cohort Study Comparing Uterine Arteries Doppler Pulsatility Index in Pregnancies of Patients with and without Moderate-Severe Disease
Authors: Salmeri Noemi , Farina Antonio , Candiani Massimo , Dolci Carolina , Bonavina Giulia , Poziello Caterina , Viganò Paola , Cavoretto Paolo
Published: April 2022

The aim of this study was to evaluate if moderate-severe endometriosis impairs uterine arteries pulsatility index (UtA-PI) during pregnancy when compared to unaffected controls. In this prospective cohort study, pregnant women with stage III–IV endometriosis according to the revised American Fertility Society (r-AFS) classification were matched for body mass index and parity in a 1:2 ratio with unaffected controls. UtA-PIs were assessed at 11–14, 19–22 and 26–34 weeks of gestation following major reference guidelines. A General Linear Model (GLM) was implemented to evaluate the association between endometriosis and UtA-PI Z-scores. Significantly higher third trimester UtA-PI Z-scores were observed in patients with r-AFS stage III–IV endometriosis when compared to controls (p = 0.024). In the GLM, endometriosis (p = 0.026) and maternal age (p = 0.007) were associated with increased third trimester UtA-PI Z-scores, whereas conception by in-vitro fertilization with frozen-thawed embryo transfer significantly decreased UtA-PI measures (p = 0.011). According to these results, r-AFS stage III–IV endometriosis is associated with a clinically measurable impaired late placental perfusion. Closer follow-up may be recommended in pregnant patients affected by moderate-severe endometriosis in order to attempt prediction and prevention of adverse pregnancy and perinatal outcomes due to a defective late placental perfusion.