bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of limonin treatment on the survival of random skin flaps in mice
Authors: Zhang Ting , Gan Kaifeng , Zhou Ke , Hu Keqi , Ding Wei , Li Jin
Published: April 2022

Background
Random skin flap is commonly used in plastic and reconstructive surgery, however, distal part of skin flap often occurs ischemia and necrosis. Limonin with bioactivities of pro-inflammation, anti-apoptosis and anti-oxidative stress, may be effective for skin flap survival.
Materials and methods
Random flap model was performed in mice, and animals were divided into the control and limonin groups and treated as follows: the limonin group was injected intraperitoneally with 40 mg/kg limonin for consecutive 7 days, and the control group received an equal volume of vehicle daily. On postoperative day 7, the necrosis skin flaps were observed, while visualization of blood flow below the tissue surface was performed through Laser Doppler blood flow imaging (LDBFI). Then Flap tissues were acquired to assess and levels of angiogenesis, apoptosis and oxidative stress.
Results
Limonin decreased necrosis and edema of skin flaps compared with the control group, with more blood flow in the flap under LDBFI detection. Limonin treatment also increased the mean vessels density, elevated the expression levels of angiogenic proteins (matrix metallopeptidase 9, vascular endothelial growth factor, Cadherin5) and antioxidant proteins (superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), endothelial nitric oxide synthase, heme oxygenase), and reduced the expression of apoptotic factors (BAX, CYC, Caspase3).
Conclusion
Limonin enhances survival of random skin flap through induction of angiogenesis, and inhibition of apoptosis and oxidative stress.
COVID-19-associated mucormycosis in Iran: A retrospective study on 52 patients
Authors: Tavakolpour Soheil , Irani Shirin , Yekaninejad Mir Saeed , Alimardi Masoud , Hasibi Mehrdad , Abdollahi Hamed , Kazemi Mohammad Ali , Lotfi Maryam , Shahbazian Haneyeh , Yazdi Nader Ali Nazemian , Samimiardestani Seyedhadi , Firouzifar Mohammadreza , Farahbakhsh Farbod , Goodarzi Mohammadreza Mirzaee , Feiz Firoozeh , Salehinia Farahnaz
Published: April 2022

Background: COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM) has become one of the most severe post-COVID-19 comorbidities.Objectives: To describe CAM cases, identify possible risk factors, and report outcomes of patients.Methods: This retrospective study was performed in Amir-Alam Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran between February 2020 and September 2021. Patients with an active or previous diagnosis of COVID-19 have been included. Results: Of 94 patients with mucormycosis, 52 (33 men and 19 women; mean age:57.0±11.82 years) were identified with the confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19. Rhino-orbital, rhinomaxillary, rhino-orbital cerebral subtypes were detected in 6(11.5%), 18(34.6%), and 28(53.8%) patients. As a control, 130 (69 men and 61 women; mean age:57.0±11.82 years) random RT-PCR-confirmed COVID-19 patients without mucormycosis have been included. The mean interval between COVID-19 diagnosis and initial mucormycosis symptoms was 16.63 ±8.4 days (range 0-51). Those in the CAM group had a significantly more severe course of COVID-19 (P-value<0.01). Diabetes mellitus (DM), high-dose corticosteroid pulse therapy, smoking were found as risk factors (P-value<0.01 for all). New-onset post-COVID-19 hyperglycemia was lower in the CAM group (46.2% vs. 63.8%; P-value=0.028). After treatment of the CAM group, 41 (78.8%) of patients recovered from mucormycosis. The mean ages of the expired patients were significantly higher (66.18±9.56 vs. 54.56±11.22 years; P<0.01); and COVID-19 disease was more severe (P=0.046). Conclusion: smokers, COVID-19 patients with a history of DM, and those with severe disease are at a high risk of CAM, and the mortality rate is higher in older patients. More studies are required to clarify risk factors.
Clinical significance and potential regulatory mechanism of overexpression of pituitary tumor-transforming gene transcription factor in bladder cancer
Authors: Li Sheng-Hua , Li Jian-Di , Farah Abdirahman Ahmed , Huang Zhi-Guang , Zhai Gao-Qiang , Wang Rui-Gong , Liu Jia-Lin , Wang Qin-Jie , Zhang Guan-Lan , Lei Zi-Long , Dang Yi-Wu
Published: April 2022

BackgroundPituitary tumor transforming gene-1 (PTTG1) transcription factor is identified carcinogenic and associated with tumor invasiveness, but its roles in bladder cancer (BLCA) remains obscure. This research is intended to analyze the aberrant expression and clinical significance of PTTG1 in BLCA, to explore the relationship between PTTG1 and tumor microenvironment characteristics, and to predict its potential transcriptional activity in BLAC tissue.MethodsWe compared the expression discrepancy of PTTG1 mRNA in BLCA and normal bladder tissue, using the BLCA transcriptomic datasets from GEO, ArrayExpress, TCGA, and GTEx. In-house immunohistochemical staining was implemented to determine the PTTG1 protein intensity. The prognostic value of PTTG1 was evaluated using the Kaplan-Meier Plotter. CRISPR screen data was utilized to estimate the effect PTTG1 interference has on BLCA cell lines. We predicted the immune cells abundance in BLCA tumor microenvironment using the microenvironment cell populations-counter and ESTIMATE algorithms. Single cell sequencing data was applied to identify the major cell types in BLCA cancer, and the dynamics of BLCA progression was revealed using pseudotime analysis. PTTG1 target genes were predicted by CistromeDB.ResultsThe elevated expression level of PTTG1 was confirmed in 1037 BLCA samples compared with 127 non-BLCA samples, with a standard mean difference value of 1.04. Higher PTTG1 expression status exhibited poorer BLCA prognosis. Moreover, the PTTG1 Chronos genetic effect scores were negative, indicating PTTG1 silence may inhibit the proliferation and survival of BLCA cells. With PTTG1 mRNA expression level increasing, higher natural killer, cytotoxic lymphocyte, and monocyte lineage cells infiltration levels were observed. A total of four candidate targets containing CHEK2, OCIAD2, UBE2L3 and ZNF367 were determined ultimately.ConclusionsPTTG1 mRNA over-expression may become a potential biomarker for BLCA prognosis. Additionally, PTTG1 may correlate with BLCA tumor microenvironment and exert transcriptional activity by targeting CHEK2, OCIAD2, UBE2L3, and ZNF367 in BLCA tissue.
Treatment of VLCAD deficient patient fibroblasts with peroxisome-proliferator activated receptor δ agonist improves cellular bioenergetics
Authors: D'Annibale Olivia , Phua Yu Leng , Land Clinton Van't , Karunanidhi Anuradha , Dorenbaum Alejandro , Mohsen Al-Walid , Vockley Jerry
Published: April 2022

Very long chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (VLCADD) is an autosomal recessive disease that prevents the body from utilizing long chain fatty acids for energy, most needed during stress and fasting. Symptoms can appear from infancy through childhood and adolescence or early adulthood, and include hypoglycemia, recurrent rhabdomyolysis, myopathy, hepatopathy, and cardiomyopathy. REN001 is a peroxisome proliferator activated receptor delta (PPARδ) agonist that modulates gene expression of fatty acid β-oxidation enzymes and oxidative phosphorylation proteins. VLCADD fibroblasts responded differently to REN001 based on genotype. All cells had statistically significant increases in ACADVL gene expression. Small increases in VLCAD protein and enzyme activity were observed and were cell line and dose dependent. Cellular bioenergetics improved in all REN001 treated fibroblasts as demonstrated by oxygen consumption rate and ATP production. VLCADD fibroblasts containing missense mutations responded better to REN001 treatment than one containing a duplication mutation in ACADVL. REN001 treated VLCADD fibroblasts results in an increase in VLCAD protein, enzyme activity, and a decrease in cellular stress. These results establish REN001 as a potential therapy for VLCADD as enhanced expression may provide therapeutic increase in total VLCAD activity but suggests the need to mutation specific treatment augmented by other treatment measures.
Carbohydrate ProLectin-M, a Galectin-3 Antagonist, Blocks SARS-CoV-2 Activity
Authors: SIGAMANI ALBEN , Chen-Walden Hana , Pahan Jayeeta , Miller Michelle C. , Mayo Kevin H , Platt David
Published: April 2022

The SARS-COV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2) virus binds to human lectins to gain entry into cells to replicate. Blocking the virus’s entry using a complex polysaccharide component of pectin [α (1–6)- D-mannopyranose termed “ProLectin M” and Rhamnogalacturonan-II (RG-II)] that has an effect on viral replication as a therapeutic tool and a safe alternative to existing anti-viral therapies. Little is known about antagonizing galectin-3 viral-blocking activity by inhibiting viral entry into cells and subsequent viral replication, and its impact on the course of infection. Here, we investigated the effect of these non-cytotoxic polysaccharides on Vero cells infected with SARS-CoV-2 virus and demonstrated a dose-dependent reduction in viral load over a 48-hour incubation period with the virus. A pilot clinical study in five patients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 disease were treated with an oral formulation of α(1–6)-D-mannopyranose (ProLectin M). All patients achieved complete disease remission with zero hospitalisation or need for oxygen support. Moreover, viral load was significantly lowered within 2 days of drug administration. On the viral envelope, glycans often play a crucial role in enabling transmission of the pathogen and/or entry into its susceptible target cells. In this regard, our NMR spectroscopic studies showed on the molecular level that ProLectin M binds relatively strongly to galectin-3, supporting the idea of an antagonist effect on the lectin. Overall, our study demonstrates that blocking the viral envelope glycans can compromise entry of the virus into susceptible target cells that may translate into a positive clinical effect on the course of infection.
The role of tetradecane in the identification of host plants by the pest bugs Apolygus lucorum and Adelphocoris suturalis
Authors: Yin Haichen , Li Wenjing , Xu Min , Xu Dong , Wan Peng
Published: April 2022

Apolygus lucorum and Adelphocoris suturalis are considered serious pests to many cultures in China. Safe alternatives are needed to manage these mirid pests. The current study tested the olfactory responses of mirid bugs to cotton leaves, Phaseolus vulgaris pods, and its ethanol extracts. The results showed that P. vulgaris pods extracts were attractive to mirid bugs, predominantly female A. lucorum. Seven compounds from volatiles of the extract were selected to measure electrophysiological (EAG) responses of mirid bugs. Tetradecane, 2-propyl-1-pentanol, and dodecanal showed strong EAG responses in mirid bugs and, thus, used for field experiments. The results exhibited that the tetradecane showed a significantly higher attraction than other attractants with 30.33 ± 2.19 mirid bugs trapped during seven days. Lab trials showed a significant female mirid bug attraction towards tetradecane. The selected-response rates were above 60%, and it was the most attractive to females A. lucorum at the concentration of 1.5 mg/mL. Among seven tetradecane derivatives, tetradecane and tetradecanoic acid were the best attractants to A. lucorum and A. suturalis at specific concentrations. GCMS detection showed that tetradecane was present in the volatiles of 10 common hosts, and the difference of relative content was significant. The presence of tetradecane could modulate the responses of mirid bugs towards host plants suggesting that tetradecane plays a vital role in the olfactory selection of mirid bugs, while host recognition of these pests depends on many kinds of sensory cues
A changing home: a cross-sectional study on environmental degradation, resettlement and psychological distress in a Western German coal mining region
Authors: Krüger Theresa , Kraus Thomas , Kaifie Andrea
Published: April 2022

Background: Unwelcome changes to familiar home environments can provoke emotional and psychological distress, known as ‘solastalgia’. In Germany, the world's largest producer of brown coal, environments are being degradaded and villages resettled until today, to make way for mine developments. These environmental alterations may lead to solastalgia, though research is scarce. We therefore investigated, to which extend open-pit mining pose risks for solastalgia and psychological disorders, such as depression, generalized anxiety and somatization, on local communities.Methods: A survey was carried out in June and July 2021 in the Rhenish mining region in Western Germany. Current and recently resettled residents of two open-pit mines (Garzweiler II and Hambach) were queried about perceived environmental stressors as well as personal, socioeconomic and health impacts of open-pit mining and resettlement, including feelings of change, place attachment and activities carried out in response. The questionnaire contained modules on depression, generalized anxiety and somatization of the Patient Health Questionnaire and items from the Environmental Distress Scale, including solastalgia.Results: A total of 620 participants responded to the survey, including n = 181 resettlers, n = 114 persons from resettlement threathened villages and n = 325 persons from villages not threatened by relocation near an open-pit mine. All groups self-reported high levels of psychological distress, around twice to 7.5 times above population average. Moderate to severe somatization levels were stated by 52.7% of respondents from resettlement threathened villages, which applied for only 28% of resettlers (p < .001). Highest symptom levels of generalized anxiety (45.4%) and depression (34.3%) were also found in participants threatened by relocation. Dust was the most frequent observed environmental hazard (up to 73%), followed by noise and increased traffic.Conclusion: The degradation and loss of home environments caused by open-pit mining are associated with an increased incidence of depressive, anxious and somatoform symptoms in local communities.
Lack of Association between Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Intracerebral Hemorrhage: A Community-based Cohort Study
Authors: Wu Jianwei , Guo Jiahuan , Wang Anxin , Zhang Yijun , Wu Shouling , Zhao Xinquan
Published: April 2022

Background: This study aimed to investigate whether Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and its severity predict future intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) events.Methods: We used data from the Kailuan study. Participants free of history of stroke, myocardial infarction, cancer, other liver diseases or alcohol abuse were enrolled in this study. Abdominal ultrasonography was used to diagnose NAFLD and access its severity. We stratified the participants into different groups including nonfatty liver, mild, moderate and severe NAFLD. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models, adjusted for potential covariates, were applied to estimate the Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CI of ICH events in the 11-year follow-up.Results: A total of 77,461 participants enrolled in our study. Among them, NAFLD was diagnosed in 23,890 (30.83%) participants, including 15,581 (20.11%) mild NAFLD, 6,839 (8.83%) moderate NAFLD and 1,470 (1.90%) severe NAFLD. We documented 692 ICH events during 848,579 person years of follow-up. Patients with more severe NAFLD tended to be older, had higher levels of BMI, higher proportions of hypertension, diabetes and other known risk factors of cerebrovascular disease. However, we did not find significant associations between NAFLD, its severity and incident ICH events. Relative to nonfatty liver participants, HRs for participants with mild NAFLD, moderate and severe NAFLD were 0.98 (95% CI, 0.80 to 1.20), 1.19 (95% CI, 0.92 to 1.54) and 1.29 (95% CI, 0.81 to 2.06), respectively. Conclusions: NAFLD and its severity appear not to be significantly associated with ICH after adjustment for potential risk factors.Trial registration: The Kailuan study was registered at International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (Unique identifier: ChiCTR-TNRC-11001489, date of registration: 24/08/2011).
Urbanization and Physical Activity in the Global Prospective Urban and Rural Epidemiology Study
Authors: Boakye Kwadwo , Bovbjerg Marit , Schuna John , Adam Branscum , Varma D Ravi , Ismail Rosnah , Barbarash Olga , Dominguez Juan , Altuntas Yuksel , Anjana Ranjit , Yusuf Rita , Kelishadi Roya , Jaramillo Patricio , Iqbal Romaina , Seron Pamela , Rosengren Annika , Poirier Paul , Lakshmi PVM , Khatib Rasha , Zatońska Katarzyna , Hu Bo , Yin Lu , Wang Chuangshi , Yeates Karen , Chifamba Jephat , Alhabib Khalid F , Avezum Álvaro , Das Antonio , Lear Scott , Yusuf Salim , Hystad Perry
Published: April 2022

The world is rapidly urbanizing, which may influence physical activity (PA) levels - although little evidence is available for low- and middle-income countries. We evaluated associations between urbanization and total PA, as well as work-, leisure-, home-, and transport-specific PA, for 138,206 adults (35-70 years) living in 698 communities across 22 countries within the Prospective Urban and Rural Epidemiology (PURE) study. The 1-week total PA long-form International PA Questionnaire (IPAQ) was administered at baseline (2003-2015) and we used satellite-derived population density and impervious surface area to quantify levels of urbanization for 5 and 10 years prior to PA measurements. Generalized linear mixed effects models were used to examine associations between urbanization measures and PA, controlling for individual, household and community factors. Higher community baseline levels of population density (-12.4%, 95% CI: -16.0%, -8.7% per IQR) and impervious surface area (-29.2%, 95% CI: -37.5%, -19.7% per IQR), as well as 5-year population density change (-17.2%, 95% CI: -25.7%, -7.7 per IQR) was associated with lower total PA. Important differences in the associations between urbanization metrics and PA were observed between PA domains, country income levels, urban and rural status, and gender. These findings provide new information on the complex associations between urbanization and PA.
The relationship between self-assessment living standard and mental health among the elderly in rural China: the mediating role of sleep quality
Authors: Ding Hong , Zhang Beibei , Wang Xianwen , Liu Song , Zhang Min , He Xinran , Zhu Weizheng
Published: April 2022

Objective: Psychological problems are the main cause of anxiety, depression and happiness reduction in the elderly. Mental health imbalance not only has a direct impact on physical health, but also has an indirect impact on social support, quality of life, and brings a huge burden of disease. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between self- assessment living standard and mental health and the mediating role of sleep quality among the elderly in rural areas of China. Methods: Using typical field sampling method, Mengcheng County, Anhui Province was selected as the investigation site, and a total of 1223 respondents were selected. With the help of questionnaires, face-to-face interviews were used to collect data. Self- assessment living standard can be divided into five subjective dimensions. Mental health was evaluated by 12 Items General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12). Sleep quality was measured by Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Scale (PSQI). Bootstrap test was used for data analysis.Results: The results showed that 24.7% of the elderly had a tendency to have mental health problems, which was similar to 18.5%-24.47% of the general elderly population. 59.3% of the elderly had a general self-assessment living standard (average score was 2.89 ± 0.726). The average sleep quality score was (6.97 ± 4.066), and 2.5% of the respondents reported serious sleep problems. Elderly with low self- assessment living standards were more likely to report a higher propensity for psychological problems (β=0.420, P < 0.001) and poorer sleep quality (β= 0.608, P < 0.001) than elderly with high self- assessment living standards. Mental health of the elderly may be related to sleep quality (β= 0.117, P < 0.001). In addition, the effect of self- assessment living standard on mental health was significantly mediated by sleep quality (β= 0.071, P < 0.001).Conclusions: Mental health is associated with self-assessment living standard, with this association mediated by sleep quality. A reasonable mechanism needs to be established to improve self-assessment living standard and sleep quality.
Does CAMEL affect financial performance of banks in emerging economy? From post IFRS adoption audited financial statement.
Authors: Abebe Gobena
Published: April 2022

To sustain the development of the economy, the performance and health of banks has to be patterned and assessed periodically. This study aimed to examine the impact of CAMEL components on banks performance in Ethiopia. The distinctive feature of this study is use of data that is from post IFRS adoption audited financial statement and it ensure the reliability and accuracy of data. From total 22 banks, 13 were taken as sample of the study based on availability and accessibility of their data for the period 2018 to 2021 which is post IFRS adoption. Ordinary least square regression with their assumption has been employed to investigate the level of impact of independent variables (Capital adequacy, Assets quality, Management Efficiency, Earnings ability and Liquidity) on the dependent variable (ROA & ROE). The study found that Capital adequacy, Asset quality and management efficiency have statistically significant effect on performance measured by ROA and ROE. Earning ability and Liquidity has no significant effect on performance measured by ROA and ROE. So it is advisable for banks to give their attention to Capital adequacy, Asset quality and management efficiency to improve their performance
The techniques, short and long term outcomes of laparoscopic transverse colectomy comparing to laparoscopic hemicolectomy in mid-transverse colon cancer.
Authors: Sun Rui , Zhang Guannan , Sun Xiyu , Niu Beizhan , Zhou Jiaolin , Cong Lin , Qiu Huizhong , Lin Guole , Wu Bin , Xiao Yi
Published: April 2022

Purpose: Our study was aimed to depict and summarize the technique, short and long term outcomes of laparoscopic transverse colectomy in one single clinical center and compare with laparoscopic hemicolectomy.Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of patients with mid-transverse colon cancer in one single clinical center from February 2012 to October 2020. The enrolled patients were divided into two groups undergoing laparoscopic transverse colectomy and laparoscopic hemicolectomy, respectively. The intraoperative, postoperative complications, oncological outcomes and functional outcomes were compared between the two groups. The primary endpoint was disease free survival (DFS).Results: The study enrolled 70 patients with 40 patients undergoing laparoscopic transverse colectomy and 30 patients undergoing hemicolectomy. The intraoperative accidental hemorrhage and multiple organ resection occurred similarly in the two groups. In transverse colectomy, caudal-to-cephalic approach was likely to harvest more lymph nodes although require more operation time than cephalic-to-caudal approach (23.1(14.3) versus 13.4(5.4) lymph nodes, P=0.004; 184.3(37.1)min versus 146.3(44.4)min, P=0.012). The laparoscopic transverse colectomy was marginally associated with lower incidence of overall postoperative complications and shorter postoperative hospital stay although without statistical significance (8(20.0%) versus 12(40.0%), P=0.067; 7(5-12) VS 7(5-18), P=0.060). The 3-year DFS showed no significant difference (3-year DFS 89.7% in transverse colectomy versus 89.9% in hemicolectomy, P=0.688) between the two groups. The alternating consistency of defecation occurred significantly less after transverse colectomy (15(51.7%) VS 20(80.0%), P=0.030). Conclusions: The laparoscopic transverse colectomy is technically, oncologically and functionally feasible for mid-transverse colon cancer. Performing the caudal-to-cephalic approach might be more advantageous in lymphadenectomy.
Therapist voices on a youth mental health pilot: Gender, sexual and cultural responsiveness and therapy modality
Authors: Mathieson Fiona , Garrett Sue , Stubbe Maria , Hilder Jo , Tester Rachel , Fedchuk Dasha , Dunlop Abby , Dowell Anthony
Published: April 2022

There is a need for mental health services for young people. A large pilot project was conducted in Wellington New Zealand for young people aged 18-25 and included an individual CBT-informed therapy component. Therapists were asked about their views using two surveys, individual interviews and focus groups at various stages of the life of the pilot.Therapists commented on cultural responsiveness, therapy (delivery, modality and duration) and working with LGBTQIA+ youth. Some therapists felt CBT was imposed on them and preferred to use therapy-modalities they were familiar with. Many therapists liked CBT for its client-centred approach and reported using CBT-informed approaches with many of their clients to good effect. Some therapists felt pressured by their workplace to see clients for fewer sessions than they needed. Therapists wanted to see a more culturally diverse workforce, to increase their cultural competence through training and to have more easily available cultural supervision. There was some acknowledgement of the importance of training therapists to work competently with LGBTQIA+ young people. Involving therapists in co-design of services from the outset will likely benefit future service development.
Water regulates the residence time of Benzamidine in Trypsin
Authors: Ansari Narjes , Rizzi Valerio , Parrinello Michele
Published: April 2022

We simulate with state-of-the-art enhanced sampling techniques the binding of Benzamidine to Trypsin which is a much studied and paradigmatic ligand-protein system. We use machine learning methods and in particular Time-lagged Independent Component Analysis to determine efficient collective coordinates. These coordinates are used to perform On-the-fly Probability Enhanced Sampling simulations, which we adapt to calculate also the ligand residence time. Our results, both static and dynamic, are in good agreement with experiments. We underline the role of water in the unbinding process and find that the presence of a water molecule located at the bottom of the binding pocket allows via a network of hydrogen bonds the ligand to be released into the solution. On a finer scale, even when unbinding is allowed, another water molecule further modulates the exit time.
The role of neutrophil extracellular traps in early microthrombosis and brain injury after subarachnoid hemorrhage in mice
Authors: Hao Xiaoke , Zeng Zongwei , Liang Liang , Feng Zhou , Li Wu , Xiong Binyuan , Guo Peiwen , Zhang Qiang , Chen Yujie , Feng Hua , Chen Zhi
Published: April 2022

Microthrombosis plays an important role in secondary brain injury after experimental subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), but the specific mechanism of microthrombosis remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in microthrombosis after SAH. SAH was induced in male C57BL/6 mice using an endovascular perforation technique. The marker protein of NETs, citrullinated histone H3 (CitH3), was significantly elevated in the cerebral cortex after SAH, and was co-labeled with microthrombi. Both depletion of neutrophils by anti-Ly6G antibody and DNase I treatment significantly reduced the formation of NETs and microthrombi, ameliorated neurological deficits, brain edema, BBB disruption, and neuronal injury at 24 h after SAH induction. Cerebral hypoperfusion in the first hours after SAH is a major determinant of poor neurological outcome, in this study, we found that DNase I treatment significantly improved the restoration of early cortical perfusion after SAH. In addition, DNase I treatment also significantly attenuated cerebrospinal fluid (CFS) flow and glymphatic system dysfunction after SAH, which was associated with the diffusion barrier caused by microthrombi in the paravascular space after SAH. In conclusion, NETs is associated with early microthrombosis after SAH, it may be a novel therapeutic target for early brain injury (EBI) after SAH.
Endoscopic therapy strategy for upper gastrointestinal early cancer complicated with esophagogastric varices
Authors: Deng Chao , Wu Suhua , Xu Feng , Lv Lin , Li Juan , Chen Zhiji , Zhou Zhihang , He Song
Published: April 2022

Background: Endoscopic ligation and histoacryl injection have become the main methods for esophagogastric varices (EGV) in cirrhosis patients. And endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) has been widely used in the treatment of early gastrointestinal cancer. The present study aims to discuss the endoscopic therapy strategy for upper gastrointestinal early cancer in cirrhotic patients companied with EGV.Methods: This study retrospectively analyzed the clinical data and endoscopic treatment characteristics of 12 patients with cirrhosis complicated with both EGV and early tumor of the upper digestive tract.Results: The therapeutic decision depends on the relative location of early cancer to EGV and the general condition of patients. The international normalized ratio (INR) should be corrected to be no more than 1.5 and the platelet count no less than 50×106/ml. The early cancers were dissected if the lesions were far from the EGV. On the other hand, the EGV should be treated first if the early cancers were close to the varices. En bloc resection was 100% (11/11) for all ESD procedures. The average operation time was 55 min (25-180 min). No significant complications were observed during the perioperative period. During an average follow-up time of 22.2 months (16-28 months), neither local recurrence nor enlarged lymph nodes was found. The remaining one patient lost the ESD chance due to the cancer progression after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) treatment.Conclusions: ESD is a safe and effective way to remove early gastrointestinal cancer in patients complicated with EGV after comprehensive evaluation.
Global warming and tropical cyclones in the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman
Authors: Pourkerman Majid , Marriner Nick , Hamzeh Mohammadali , Mohammadpor Gholamreza , Lahijani Hamid , Tavakoli Morteza , Morhange Christophe , Amjadi Sedigheh , Lak Razyeh
Published: April 2022

An increase in the frequency and intensity of tropical cyclones (TCs) under global warming is global concern. To probe this relationship, regions of where TCs are strong but rare are particularly important. Within this context, the Arabian Sea (AS) and the Gulf of Oman (GO) constitute excellent case-study examples. TCs in the AS and GO are rare phenomena but during the last two decades three strong events (Gonu, Phet and Shaheen) have occurred, leading to a total of 6.07 billion USD in damages and 159 fatalities. In this study we use historical TC records, satellite data, atmospheric and oceanographic models to probe the link between TCs and global warming. The results demonstrate that global warming has modified three important environmental parameters in the AS and GO: 1- there has been an increase in water temperature and density in the Persian Gulf (PG), 2- there has been a northward migration of the monsoon belt and an increase in upwelling on the Oman coast, 3- there has been an increase in heat advection and transfer by cyclonic/anticyclonic Mesoscale Eddy (ME) and geostrophic currents that are involved TC intensification. These processes have led to a shallow warm and high-salinity water plume from the PG to the AS, and an accumulation of the ME center between 16°N and 22°N. Warm geostrophic currents lead the TCs to the Mesoscale Eddy centers, favoring an increase in TC intensity at higher latitudes. As a result, strong TCs have made landfall on the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea coasts. Our study suggests that the frequency of strong TCs will increase due to the effects of global warming. Education programs via international platforms such as the International Ocean Institute (IOI) and UNESCO are required for the countries at risk.
Aging-related changes in strength and cross-sectional area of knee flexor muscles
Authors: Park Soo Yeon , Yoon Kyoung Ho , Ko Taeg Su , Lee Hee Sung
Published: April 2022

Background: We aimed to study the association between flexor muscle strength in the knee joint and cross-sectional area (CSA) on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We also evaluated aging-related changes in flexor muscle strength and CSA. We hypothesized that muscle strength is associated with muscle CSA on MRI and that such relationships would differ among the flexor muscles. Furthermore, we hypothesized that muscle strength and CSA would decline, and the reduced rate of muscle CSA would differ among the flexor muscles with aging.Methods: A total of 252 patients (mean age, 33.6 years; range, 11–66 years) who visited the outpatient clinic with knee pain between September 2006 and August 2009 were retrospectively analyzed. The CSA of each knee joint flexor muscle (biceps femoris, sartorius, gracilis, semitendinosus, and semimembranosus) was measured on MRI axial images at the supra-patellar level. We evaluated flexor muscle strength (peak torque, N.m) using a Cybex dynamometer at 60 and 180°/s and evaluated its correlation with CSA.Results: Mean CSA was 605.4 mm2 for the semimembranosus, 444.7 mm2 for the biceps femoris, 282 mm2 for the sartorius, 55.4 mm2 for the semitendinosus, and 34.1 mm2 for the gracilis. Mean peak torque was 67.4 N.m and 52.7 N.m at 60°/s and 180°/s, respectively. CSA was positively correlated with flexion strengths of 60°/s (r = 0.363, p = 0.000) and 180°/s (r = 0.354, p = 0.000). Muscle strength was associated with CSA for all muscles, except the gracilis (r = 0.056, p = 0.375). Flexion strength decreased significantly with age after the third decade of life. Total CSA decreased with age (r = −0.247, p = 0.000). CSA of the biceps femoris, sartorius, semimembranosus, and semitendinosus decreased significantly, while CSA of the gracilis tended to decrease non-significantly with aging.Conclusions: Muscle strength was associated with total muscle CSA on MRI and the CSA of every muscle but the gracilis. Flexion strength decreased significantly with aging after the third decade of life. Total CSA decreased significantly with aging. CSA of the biceps femoris, sartorius, semimembranosus, and semitendinosus decreased significantly, whereas that of the gracilis decreased slightly with aging.Level of Evidence: Level III, retrospective comparative study
New approach for the formulation of High Performance Concrete Valorisation of local materials
Authors: Messaoud Sabah Ben
Published: April 2022

High performance concrete (HPC) is an innovative concrete that finds its place in modern buildings. The new high-performance concrete formulation and conception techniques have improved sustainability and acquiring remarkable mechanical properties compared to conventional concretes. The objective of this work is to make a contribution to understanding the influence of factors such as the W/ C ratio and the granular class on the mechanical and physical properties of high performance concretes. In the formulations of HPC aggregates by their high mass and volume proportion, play an important role, the Sherbrook and Dreux-Gorisse method has been used. When selecting aggregates it is necessary to know their intrinsic properties. These properties influence the performance of concrete in particular the quality of the granulate cimentary adhesion. At the end of our work, the examination of the results obtained made it possible to establish the correlations between the formulations studied and the physico-mechanical characteristics of the concrete compositions (HPC 25, HPC 16, HPC 8). The results of this study show that the use of three granular classifications (DMAX8, DMAX16 and DMAX25) and three Report W / C (0.25, 0.30, and 0.35) in two different conservation environment (EP drinking water and sea water ), clearly proves that the composition of high performance concrete is HPC25 concrete with an W/ C = 0.25 ratio has reached the largest mechanical strength of 80 MPa for different environments of conservation. When selecting aggregates it is necessary to know their intrinsic properties, these properties influence the performance of concrete. In general, there is a slight decrease in the compressive resistance of the specimens stored in seawater, it can be said that the conservation life has not had effect on the resistance (28 days). The effect of aggressive environment can appear in the long term.
Imine Reversal Mediates Charge Separation and CO2 Photoreduction in Covalent Organic Frameworks
Authors: Streater Daniel , Wang Denan , Fiankor Christian , Kennehan Eric , Liu Daohua , Kohlstedt Kevin , Luo Long , Zhang Jian , Huang Jier
Published: April 2022

We investigate the correlation between CO2 reduction performance in twin COFs with reversed imine connectivity and reveal that imine-linkage imparts intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) directionality – an effect we term an “ICT Tesla Valve.” This reversal also affects the coordination of Re molecular catalyst (MC) and leads to a slowdown in light driven CO2→CO photoreduction. ICT towards Re MC in Re-f-COF facilitates efficient CO2 photoreduction while performance is reduced when ICT is direct away from Re MC in Re-r-COF. Combining theory with experimental data shows that ICT directionality affects the charge separation mechanism which is particularly evident in the much longer-lived excited state of Re-f-COF compared to Re-r-COF. These findings are unprecedented, revealing not only that the linker chemistry should be recognized as a key factor to consider in the development of COF photocatalysts but also provides a unique approach to tailor photocatalysts by controlling the direction of ICT.
The Stat3 inhibitor F0648-0027 is a potential therapeutic against rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Kaneko Yosuke , Ozawa Shin-ichiro , Sato Yuiko , Kobayashi Tami , Matsumoto Tatsuaki , Miyamoto Kana , Kobayashi Shu , Harato Kengo , Hirono Shuichi , Matsumoto Morio , Nakamura Masaya , Niki Yasuo , Miyamoto Takeshi
Published: April 2022

BackgroundRheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a disease characterized by chronic joint inflammation, pain and joint destruction, leading to alteration in activities of daily living, yet pathological mechanisms underlying the condition are not fully clarified. To date, various therapeutic agents have been developed as RA therapy including DMARDs and/or biological agents that target inflammatory cytokines or inhibit JAK. Here we asked whether inhibiting signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (Stat3) activity would antagonize RA. MethodsStat3 forms dimers when activated and undergoes nuclear translocalization; thus we screened approximately 4.9 million small compounds as potential blockers of protein-protein interactions required for Stat3 dimerization using in silico screening. We then tested candidate Stat3-inhibiting activity in vitro by analyzing expression of IL-6, a Stat3 target, in compound-treated fibroblasts. We also analyzed expression of RANKL, a cytokine essential for osteoclastogenesis, in vitro. We then evaluated anti-arthritis effects of candidate compounds in vivo in collagen-induced arthritis model mice. Effects of the candidate compounds on inhibiting Stat3 phosphorylation and nuclear localization following IL-6 stimulation of fibroblasts were analyzed by an immune histocochemical analysis as well as western blotting.ResultsWe identified 15 as strong candidates as potential blockers of protein-protein interactions required for Stat3 dimerization using in silico screening from approximately 4.9 million small compounds. Four of the 15 significantly inhibited IL-6 as well as RANKL expression induced by IL-6. One compound, F0648-0027, significantly inhibited arthritis development without apparent adverse effects. F0648-0027 also significantly blocked Stat3 phosphorylation and nuclear localization following IL-6 stimulation of fibroblasts. ConclusionsThese data suggest that Stat3 is a target for RA, and that F0648-0027 could serve as a therapeutic reagent against the condition.
Effective Diagnostic Biomarkers, Immune Infiltration, miRNA and N6-methyladenosine regulators in Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Peng Zhishen , Lin Xiaobing , Liang Xiaofeng , Lin Zien , Lin Weiyi , Wei Shanshan
Published: April 2022

Objective
Lupus nephritis (LN) is the most common complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which is an autoimmune disease involving multiple organs. This study aimed to explore the potential molecular mechanism of LN by bioinformatic analysis.
Method
In total, 130 LN, 25 living healthy donors were included to explore the differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of DEGs were developed using the STRING database. Additionally, five algorithms were used to find the hub genes and their diagnostic effectiveness was predicted using receiver operator characteristic curve (ROC) analysis. CIBERSORT was used to evaluate the infiltration of immune cells in LN. Furthermore, the mRNA-miRNA network was constructed. Finally, we explored the landscape of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) regulators in LN.
Result
Two hub genes—FOS and IGF1—were found by the intersection of five different algorithms. FOS and IGF1 could jointly diagnose LN with the most excellent specificity and sensitivity. LN patients had lower activated and resting dendritic cells (DCs) while higher M1 macrophages and activated NK cells than HC. FOS had a positive correlation with activated mast cells and a negative correlation with resting mast cells. IGF1 had a positive correlation with activated DCs and a negative correlation with monocytes. MiR-155 is considered as the hub miRNA. And m6A modification is related to the severity of renal injury and involved in the pathogenesis of LN. MiRNA may affect the occurrence and development of LN by targeting m6A regulators.
Conclusion
Activated DCs, resting DCs, M1 macrophages, and activated NK cells may play a role in LN pathogenesis. FOS, IGF1 and miR-155 may be new potential molecular markers for the pathogenesis, progression and new molecular targets for treatment of LN. MiRNA may affect the occurrence and development of LN by targeting m6A regulators.
Isotopic Tracing of Phosphorus Fraction Distribution in Chinese Fir Seedlings with High Phosphorus Efficiency Using 32P Labelling
Authors: Zou Xianhua , Liu Qingqing , Huang Zhijun , Chen Sitong , Wu Pengfei , Ma Xiangqing
Published: April 2022

Purpose
The ability of plants to redistribute and transfer phosphorus (P) fractions determines their adaptability to P limitation. However, the mechanisms of P utilization and transport remain unknown in Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata (Lamb.) Hook.) from the perspective of P fraction distribution.
Methods
In this study, we investigated the distribution and translocation patterns of total P and different P fractions in the M1 Chinese fir genotype, which has high P-use efficiency (PUE), using 32P tracking that can accurately trace the migration pathways of exogenous P after plant absorption.
Results
We found that total P in roots was higher than in stems or leaves under P limitation when the amount of exogenous P absorbed by M1 reduced significantly. Under low-P, plants optimized P allocation, which led to higher PUE than under high-P, with the highest PUE in leaves, followed by stems and roots. The M1 genotype maintained a high ratio of soluble P (i.e., inorganic-P and ester-P) in its leaves and stems that increase P mobility and recycling under P limitation. In roots, P content shifted from soluble inorganic-P and ester-P to insoluble P (i.e., nucleic-P), but total P concentration was relatively stable, which may ensure root growth and exogenous P absorption under P limitation.
Conclusion
Our results confirm the high PUE of the M1 genotype, which reduces P demand, maintains aboveground productivity, and optimizes the allocation of P among P fractions in response to P-limitation.
Prevalence and anatomical characteristics of bifid and trifid mandibular canals: a computed tomography analysis
Authors: Ramaglia Luca , Blasi Andrea , Galasso Luigi , Pezzella Vitolante , Cuozzo Alessandro , Iorio-Siciliano Vincenzo
Published: April 2022

Purpose: To assess the prevalence and configuration of bifid (BMC) and trifid (TMC) mandibular canals using computed tomography, describing the anatomical characteristics of the accessory canals, especially of the retromolar type.Methods: Computed tomographic scans of 123 patients were analyzed. BMCs were identified and the patterns of bifurcation were classified, including trifid canals. The width of accessory canals was measured. Retromolar canals were further classified according to their course and morphology, while their position and width were evaluated using linear measurements on CT/CBCT images.Results: The majority part of patients (53.6%) presented at least one BMC or TMC. A percentage of 36.2% of mandibular canals were bifid, while 4.5% trifid. The forward canals (12.6%) and retromolar canals (10.2%) were the most common among BMCs. In relation to the retromolar canals, 60% were vertical and 40% curved, with a mean width of 1.03 ± 0.28mm.Conclusion: BMCs and TMCs are common 3D radiographic findings, so that they should be considered as anatomical variants, not anomalies. Preoperative CT or CBCT evaluation should aid to identify these variations, analyzing the position and course.
Laser wakefield acceleration of electrons using high-order Bessel-Gauss beams for driver beam and electron bunch guiding
Authors: Tomkus Vidmantas , Girdauskas Valdas , Abedi-Varaki Mehdi , Račiukaitis Gediminas
Published: April 2022

High-intensity laser pulse propagating through a gas target disturbs uniform plasma distribution. Plasma density structures, created by high-order Bessel-Gauss beams for guiding the Gaussian beam driver and laser wakefield acceleration of electrons, are analysed using Wake-T and Fourier-Bessel Particle-In-Cell (FBPIC) simulation tool. The utilisation of Bessel-Gauss beams increases the acceleration distance and energy of accelerated electrons up to 50% relative to the Gaussian beam of the same intensity.