bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photobiomodulation Inhibits the Activation of Neurotoxic Microglia and Astrocytes Through Inhibiting the Crosstalk of Lcn2/JAK2-STAT3 after Spinal Cord Injury in Rats
Authors: Wang Xuankang , Li Xin , Zuo Xiaoshuang , Liang Zhuowen , Wang Zhe , Ding Tan , Li Kun , Ma Yangguang , Li Penghui , Zhu Zhijie , Ju Cheng , Zhang Zhihao , Song Zhiwen , Quan Huilin , Zhang Jiawei , Hu Xueyu
Published: May 2021

BackgroundIn situ microglia and astrocytes begin to activate and participate in neuroinflammation after spinal cord injury (SCI), and the high expression of lipocalin 2 (Lcn2) and the activation of the Janus kinase-2 (JAK2)-signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (STAT3) pathway promote the polarization of activated microglia and astrocytes towards the neurotoxic phenotype (M1 microglia and A1 astrocytes). We previously reported that photobiomodulation (PBM) can promote functional recovery by reducing neuroinflammation after SCI, but the mechanism of PBM on the microglia and astrocytes involved is still unclear. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the role of the Lcn2 and JAK2-STAT3 pathways in the activation of M1 and A1 and the mechanism by which PBM may play a therapeutic role.MethodsPBM intervention was performed every day after the SCI model was established, and the activation of microglia and astrocytes was observed at different time points post injury (1, 3, 7, 14, 28 dpi). The level of tissue apoptosis, the number of surviving neurons, the recovery of motor function, the level of Lcn2 and the activation of JAK2-STAT3 were evaluated in the PBM group and the vehicle group. M1 and A1 cells were irradiated with PBM in vitro, and the JAK2-STAT3 pathway inhibitor cucurbitacin I, adenovirus transfection and recombinant Lcn2 protein were cotreated with PBM to explore the mechanism of the activation of M1 and A1 and the underlying effect of PBM.ResultsPBM inhibited the activation of neurotoxic microglia and astrocytes, decreased secondary inflammation and tissue apoptosis, increased the number of neurons retained, and promoted the recovery of motor function after SCI. The upregulation of Lcn2 and the activation of the JAK2-STAT3 pathway after SCI were suppressed by PBM. In vitro experiments also proved that PBM can inhibit the activation of M1 microglia and A1 astrocytes, and the effect is related to the level of Lcn2 and the activation of the JAK2-STAT3 pathway.ConclusionThe crosstalk of Lcn2/JAK2-STAT3 is involved in the activation of neurotoxic microglia and astrocytes after SCI, and this process can be alleviated by PBM.
Medial Closing-Wedge Distal Femoral Varus Osteotomy via Lateral Approach: The New Surgical Technique for Treating Valgus Osteoarthritic Knee
Authors: Pornrattanamaneewong Chaturong , Ruangsomboon Pakpoom , Narkbunnam Rapeepat , Chareancholvanich Keerati
Published: May 2021

Background and purpose: The medial closing-wedge distal femoral varus osteotomy (MCW-DFVO) was an excellent operation for painful valgus lateral unicompartmental osteoarthritic (OA) knee, especially in the young patient. Originally, it requires a medial approach that has more precarious. On top of that, releasing of the iliotibial band (ITB) that is the deforming force needs added incision. Therefore, this study aims to describe the new surgical technique of MCW-DFVO that uses a lateral approach and lateral plating to treat the valgus OA knee. Additionally, we also reveal the outcomes of our technique as the case series.Materials and method: Ten patients (12 knees) who underwent MCW-DFVO via a lateral approach were retrospectively reviewed. The inclusion criteria were age > 18 years, isolated lateral compartmental OA knee, no significant patellofemoral pain, and ROM > 90 degrees. We excluded the inflammatory joint disease, unstable knee (femorotibial joint subluxation > 1 cm), and prior surgical procedure. Demographic data, pre- and postoperative ROM, radiographic outcomes, complications, and survivorship were recorded.Results: The mean age, body mass index, and preoperative ROM were 55.3 ± 4.0 years, 25.4 ± 3.7 kg/m2and 113.3 ± 11.5 degrees, respectively. The preoperative valgus deformity was 162.3 ± 4.8 degrees, and the Final post-operative alignment was 182.3 ± 2.6 degrees. Overall mean operative time of this technique was 92.5 ± 26.7 minutes. During the follow-up period, post-operative ROM was decreased to 108.8 ± 11.7 degrees. One knee required plate removal due to hardware irritation, and another knee required subsequent total knee arthroplasty (TKA) at 1 and 8.5 years after DFVO, respectively. The survivorship of this technique was 91.7% at the mean survival time of 13.8 years (95% confidence interval, 11.9 – 15.7 years).Conclusion: This study proposed the new surgical technique of MCW-DFVO via a lateral approach. This technique provided a satisfactory outcome and excellent survivorship. However, further research with a larger sample size was required.
Molecular Mechanisms of Transforming Growth Factor-β/Smad7 Signaling Pathway in Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Bai Bingqing , Li Huihui , Han Liang , Mei Yongyu , Hu Cui , Mei Qiao , Xu Jianming , Liu Xiaochang
Published: May 2021

Background and AimsAbnormal transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)/Smad7 signaling pathway may be an important mechanism of IBD.Therefore, this study was to investigate whether anti-colitis drugs modulate intestinal epithelial permeability in experimental colitis and to determine its TGF-β/Smad7 signaling pathway. MethodsA murine colitis model was induced, and then anti-TNF-α and 5-ASA were administered intraperitoneally and orally respectively. Myeloperoxidase(MPO) activity, histological index(HI) of colon and the disease activity index(DAI) scores of mice were detected. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), immunohistochemical and functional tests which included two methods: one was Evans blue(EB) and the other was FITC-dextran(FD-4), were used to evaluate intestinal mucosal permeability. The expression of epithelial E-cad, Occludin, ZO-1, TGF –β and Smad7 were analyzed. Epithelial MLCK expression and activity were determined.ResultsAnti-TNF-α and 5-ASA both effectively reduced the DAI score and HI, and decreased colonic MPO activity, plasma levels of FD-4 and EB permeation of the intestine. Moreover, anti-TNF-α and 5-ASA downregulated the MLCK expression and activity and the expression of Smad7 in the small intestinal epithelium, and increased the expression of TGF-β(P < 0.050). In colitis mice, TEM revealed partial ileal epithelial injury, intercellular TJs and the expression of E-cadherin, ZO-1 and occludin were decreased, which were alleviated by anti-TNF-α and 5-ASA.ConclusionsAnti-TNF-α and 5-ASA both showed a significant effect on intestinal epithelial permeability in experimental colitis. The mechanism can be clarified as the increase of TGF-β expression or the decrease of Smad7 expression which could inhibit epithelial MLCK and then reduce the mucosal permeability of ulcerative colitis.
Metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing In Febrile Neutropaenia of Children Hematological And Malignant Diseases
Authors: Hu Linglong , Wang Juxiang , Huang Zhen , Yang Zhou , Huang Tingting , Wang Yao , Chen Min , Li Yuan , Zhou Haixia
Published: May 2021

Objective: To evaluate the diagnostic value of metagenomic next-generation sequencing in febrile neutropaenia of Hematological and malignant tumor children. Methods: We retrospectively studied the diagnostic value of metagenomic next-generation sequencing in febrile neutropaenia of Hematological and malignant tumor children in the Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University from July 2018 to December 2019. Children with neutropenia and fever for more than 72 hours were sent for mNGS analysis together with traditional pathogen detection tests. The positive rate of pathogen detection and the following change of clinical treatment strategy was analyzed. Furthermore the duration of fever was compared between patients receiving both mNGS and traditional tests and those only had pathogen detected by traditionally methods. Results: The positive rate of mNGS was 75.6% (28/37cases), and that of the two methods combined was 86.4% (32/37cases). In these patients with long duration of fever, the detection positivity for bacteria, fungi, and viruse detection was high, and mycoplasma and rickettsias were also found. Among all the cases reported, clinical treatment strategies were changed in 9 cases due to the pathogen detection. The duration of fever of patients receiving mNGS together with traditional tests was shorter than those only had traditional ones (7.84d±0.17 vs. 8.39d±0.25, respectively, P<0.001) .Conclusion: Due to high positive rate of mNGS in pathogen detection, active treatment can be taken in time, infections can be controlled earlier. It has a positive effect on the outcome of febrile neutropaenia patients.
Differential Expression and Biological Analysis of circRNA in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Zheng Ji Qing , Liu Yun , Long Yaobin , Liang Shijie , Lin Chengsen , He Mingwei , Yang Guanglin
Published: May 2021

Objective: The study aimed to analyze the function and signal pathway of target genes by bioinformatics software, and then explore the possible role of circRNA molecules in regulating the pathogenesis of AIS so as to provide new potential molecular targets for AIS therapy.Methods: The study searched the circRNA gene array of AIS from the Gene Expression Omnibus and selected the upregulated and downregulated TOP 10 circRNAs to predict the miRNA binding sites of circRNA, which was then intersected with the differentially expressed miRNAs(DEMs) by miRNA gene array. Furthermore, the downstream target genes of miRNA were predicted jointly by three websites and constructed the ceRNA regulatory network, Database for Annotation Visualization and Integrated Discovery function enrichment analysis and protein–protein interaction analysis by the target genes. Results: miR-337-3p and miR-383 were the binding sites of hsa_circ_0004183, and miR-338-3p and miR-140-3p were the binding sites of hsa_circ_0051778 and hsa_circ_0092342, respectively, in addition, the four miRNAs were closely related to AIS. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis showed that MAPK signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, P53 signaling pathway, and erbB signaling pathway were upregulated and downregulated pathways. The MCODE plug-in of Cytoscape was used to screen out a set of the most significant core networks, 21 key protein components, 7 of which were closely related to the occurrence and development of AIS. Conclusions: These findings aim to provide reference for the study of the pathogenesis of AIS by circRNA and broaden the idea of treatment.
Feasibility and Utility of MRI and Dynamic 18F-FDG-PET in An Orthotopic Organoid-Based Patient-Derived Mouse Model of Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Espedal Heidi , Berg Hege Fredriksen , Fonnes Tina , Fasmer Kristine Eldevik , Krakstad Camilla , Haldorsen Ingfrid Salvesen
Published: May 2021

Background: Pelvic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and whole-body positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) play an important role at primary diagnostic work-up and in detecting recurrent disease in endometrial cancer (EC) patients, however the preclinical use of these imaging methods is currently limited. We demonstrate the feasibility and utility of MRI and dynamic 18F-fluorodeoxyglucoce (FDG)-PET imaging for monitoring tumor progression and assessing chemotherapy response in an orthotopic organoid-based patient-derived xenograft (O-PDX) mouse model of EC.Methods: 19 O-PDX mice (grade 3 endometrioid EC, stage IIIC1), selectively underwent weekly T2-weighted MRI (total scans=32), diffusion-weighted MRI (DWI) (total scans=9) and dynamic 18F-FDG-PET (total scans=26) during tumor progression. MRI tumor volumes (vMRI), tumor apparent diffusion coefficient values (ADCmean) and metabolic tumor parameters from 18F-FDG-PET including maximum and mean standard uptake values (SUVmax/SUVmean), metabolic tumor volume (MTV), total lesion glycolysis (TLG) and metabolic rate of 18F-FDG (MRFDG) were calculated. Correlation between imaging parameters was assessed using a two-tailed Spearman test. Further, nine mice were included in a chemotherapy treatment study (treatment; n=5, controls; n=4) and tumor ADCmean-values were compared to changes in vMRI and cellular density from histology at endpoint. A Mann-Whitney test was used to evaluate differences between groups. Results: Tumors with large tumor volumes (vMRI) had significantly higher metabolic activity (MTV and TLG; r=0.93, p<0.0001). Non-invasive calculation of MRFDG from dynamic 18F-FDG-PET (mean MRFDG=0.39 mmol/min) was feasible using an image-derived input function. Treated mice had higher tumor ADCmean (p=0.03) and lower vMRI (p=0.03) and tumor cellular density (p=0.02) than non-treated mice, all indicating treatment response.Conclusion: Preclinical imaging mirroring clinical imaging methods in EC is highly feasible for monitoring tumor progression and treatment response in the present orthotopic organoid mouse model.
RBM10 Interacts with CTBNNBIP1 and Represses Lung Adenocarcinoma Progression Through the Wnt/β- catenin Pathway
Authors: Cao Yingyue , Wang Xin , Meng Qingwei , Geng Jianxiong , Xu Shanqi , Lang Yaoguo , Zhou Yongxu , Qi Lishuang , Wang Zijie , Wei Zixin , Yu Yan , Pan Bo
Published: May 2021

Background: RNA-binding motif protein 10 (RBM10), one of the RNA-binding protein (RBP) family, has a tumor suppressor role in various tumors. However, the functional role of RBM10 in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and the molecular mechanism remain unclear. The aim of this study was to explore the effect of RBM10 on LUAD growth and metastasis and its molecular mechanism.Methods: Bioinformatics analysis was used to predict RBM10 expression and its associations with clinicopathological features and prognosis in LUAD. Gain- and loss- of function experiments were conducted to investigate the biological functions of RBM10 both in vitro and in vivo. RNA-seq, bioinformatics programs, western blot, qRT-PCR, TOP/FOP flash reporter, co-immunoprecipitation (co-IP), nuclear and cytoplasmic protein extraction and rescue experiments were used to reveal the underlying mechanisms.Results: Bioinformatics analysis showed that RBM10 was significantly downregulated and closely correlated with poor prognosis in LUAD patients. RBM10 silencing significantly promoted the LUAD proliferation, migration, invasion ability, while RBM10 overexpression had the opposite effects. Furthermore, upregulation of RBM10 inhibited growth and metastasis of LUAD in vivo. Additionally, RBM10 suppressed tumor progression through inhibiting epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) in LUAD cells. Mechanistically, RBM10 interacts with β-catenin interacting protein 1 (CTNNBIP1) and positively regulates its expression, thus inactivating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. Conclusions: This is the first study that reported how RBM10 suppresses cell proliferation and metastasis of LUAD by negatively regulating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway through interaction with CTNNBIP1. These data suggest that RBM10 may be a promising new target or clinical biomarker for LUAD therapy.
Structural and Electrical Properties of Sprayed In2S3 Films on ITO/Glass Substrate
Authors: Koaib J. , Bouguila N. , Kraini M. , Halidou I. , Khirouni K. , Vázquez-Vázquez C. , López-Quintela M. A. , Alaya S.
Published: May 2021

In2S3 thin films were grown on indium tin oxide (ITO) glass substrate by chemical spray pyrolysis technique at 360°C. The structural analysis of the deposited films shows a combination of tetragonal and cubic structures. The average crystallite size is about 25 nm. The electrical properties of In2S3 thin films have been investigated in a wide frequency (40Hz-100MHz) and temperature (400 K-660 K) ranges.We find that the electrical conductance of the In2S3 thin films is frequency and temperature dependent. The dc conductance shows a semi-conductor behavior for In2S3 films over the explored range of temperature and it follows the Arrhenius law with different activation energies. The variation of ac conductance and the frequency exponent `s’ are explained by the correlated barrier hopping (CBH) model. The Nyquist plots of impedance exhibit semicircle arcs and an electrical equivalent circuit has been suggested to interpret the impedance results.
Comparison of TPF and TP Induction Chemotherapy for Locally Advanced Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Based on TNM Stage and Pretreatment Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index
Authors: Xiong Ying , Shi Liang liang , Zhu Sheng li , Peng Gang
Published: May 2021

Background: Induction chemotherapy (IC) was associated with a decreased risk of distant metastasis in locally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (LA-NPC). However, compared with TPF, whether the TP regimen can reduce the related toxicities caused by 5-FU while ensuring the survival benefit remains unclear.Methods: 213 patients diagnosed with LA-NPC (stage III-IVA) were included retrospectively. The prognosis of TPF and TP was compared by Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazard regression. The treatment-related toxicities were evaluated according to CTCAE v4.0 and RTOG criteria. Results: TPF was found to have a higher 5-year DMFS in stage IVA and N2-3 patients, which not applicable to stage III and N0-1. The optimal value of pre-treatment SII was 432.48. A further subgroup analysis revealed that patients in stage IVA combined with pretreatment SII≥432.48 could get higher OS (P=0.038) and DMFS (P=0.028) from TPF. Multivariate analysis showed that SII was a prognostic factor for PFS (HR 2.801, P=0.018) and DMFS (HR 3.735, P=0.032), and IC regimen (HR 2.182, P=0.049) for predicting DMFS. The rate of grade 3-4 leukopenia (P=0.038), neutropenia (P=0.021), radiation oral mucositis (P=0.048) and diarrhea (P=0.036) were more common in TPF group. Conclusion: Our study revealed that TPF regimen showed a higher 5-year DMFS for stage IVA and N2-3 patients, while TP may be enough for stage III and N0-1. In LA-NPC patients with high risk (stage IVA combined with pre-treatment SII ≥ 432.48), TPF had a higher 5-year OS and DMFS, although grade 3-4 toxicities were more common but tolerable.
Teaming In Interdisciplinary Chronic Pain Management Interventions In Primary Care: A Systematic Review Protocol
Authors: Giannitrapani Karleen F. , Connell Natalie B. , Zupanc Sophia N. , Prathivadi Pallavi , Singer Sara J. , Yano Elizabeth M. , Wong Hong-Nei , Lorenz Karl A.
Published: May 2021

BackgroundPatients with chronic cancer or non-cancer pain often struggle with physical, emotional, and psychological problems not easily addressed by a single clinician. Current pain management recommendations emphasize leveraging interdisciplinary teams. We aim to describe how we intend to identify key features of interdisciplinary team structures and processes associated with improved pain outcomes for patients experiencing chronic pain in primary care settings. Methods We will include randomized studies and systematic reviews of interventions involving teaming that address chronic or cancer-related pain. A systematic review of articles published in English and after 2009 in PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Cochrane Library will be conducted. The primary outcome will be a numeric, patient-reported pain score. Extracted data will include details about the team structures and processes used in the interdisciplinary interventions based in primary care. DiscussionThe intended systematic review will examine interventions that incorporate teamwork or teaming to manage chronic pain and will synthesize evidence as to which team structures and processes may help facilitate improved pain management, and thus improved pain outcomes. Results of this systematic review may help inform how to organize teams within primary care that will be most beneficial to chronic pain patients and highlight opportunities for future, high-quality randomized controlled trials exploring teaming models in primary care.Systematic review registration: PROSPERO #CRD42020191467
SDR Enabled C-RAN Implementation using OpenAirInterface
Authors: Mufutau Akeem Olapade , Guiomar Fernando Pedro , Oliveira Arnaldo , Monteiro Paulo Pereira
Published: May 2021

Towards enabling 5G radio access technologies and beyond to meet the requirements for continuous dynamic and diverse services, flexibility and scalability of the cellular network are therefore pertinent. The utilization of software-defined radio (SDR) aided with an open-source platform and virtualization techniques are increasingly exposing the realization of desirable flexibility for radio access network (RAN) while enabling the development of a prototype which can be directed at fostering further mobile network research activities. In this paper, we review OpenAirInterface (OAI) implementation and present an OAI based cloud RAN (C-RAN) testbed with which mobile fronthaul (MFH) solutions can be tested.
Application of Artificial Intelligence in Human Diagnosis and Public Health Management
Authors: Wang Weiwei , Zhao Xinjie , Jia Yanshu
Published: May 2021

To improve the diagnostic efficiency and accuracy of corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and to study the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in COVID-19 diagnosis and public health management, the computer tomography (CT) image data of 200 COVID-19 patients are collected, and the image is input into the AI auxiliary diagnosis software based on the deep learning model, "uAI the COVID-19 intelligent auxiliary analysis system", for focus detection. The software automatically carries on the pneumonia focus identification and the mark in batches, and automatically calculates the lesion volume. The result shows that the CT manifestations of the patients are mainly involved in multiple lobes, and in density, the most common shadow is the ground glass opacity. The detection rate of manual detection method is 95.30%, misdiagnosis rate is 0.20% and missed diagnosis rate is 4.50%; the detection rate of AI software focus detection method based on deep learning model is 99.76%, the misdiagnosis rate is 0.08%, and the missed diagnosis rate is 0.08%. Therefore, it can effectively identify COVID-19 focus and provide relevant data information of focus to provide objective data support for COVID-19 diagnosis and public health management.
Adaptation of a Community-based Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus Remission Intervention During COVID-19: Empowering Persons Living With Diabetes to Take Control
Authors: Quimby Kim , Murphy Madhuvanti , Harewood Heather , Howitt Christina , Hambleton Ian , Jeyaseelan Selvi , Greaves Natalie , Sobers Natasha
Published: May 2021

Background: The Barbados Diabetes Remission Study-2 reported that a community-based low-calorie diet (LCD) for weight loss and diabetes remission was both an acceptable implementation strategy and a clinically effective intervention. This study aimed to examine the adaptability of the face-to-face BDRS-2 protocol into an online modality.Methods: The Iterative Decision‐making for Evaluation of Adaptations framework questions the necessity of the adaptation and the preservation of core elements of the intervention during the adaptation process – these elements were identified as the 12-week intervention duration, weekly monitoring of participants for change in weight and fasting blood glucose and daily 840kcal allowance. The adaptation outcomes were documented using the framework for reporting adaptations and modifications to evidence-based interventions. Implementation effectiveness was determined by fidelity to core intervention elements. Intervention effectiveness was determined from the analysis of clinical data.Results: We decided that an adaptation was needed as the COVID-19 measures to control transmission prohibited in-person interactions, and that key elements of the intervention could be preserved during the adaptation process. Adaptations were made to the following: (1) The context in which the data was collected: participants self-measured at home instead of being measured by community health advocates (CHA) at a community site. (2) The context in which the data was entered: participants first posted their measurements to a mobile application site which was accessible by the CHAs. As with the original protocol, CHAs then entered the measurements into an online database. (3) The formulation of the LCD: participants substituted the liquid formulation for a solid meal plan of equivalent caloric content. There was increased fidelity to the attendance schedule with the online format (1 incomplete entry out of 45 entries), as compared to the face-to-face modality (1 absence out of 20 visits). Regarding the solid meal plan, 1 participant logged difficultly averaging non-exact potion sizes. Weight change ranged from -14.3kgs to 0.4kgs over the 12-week period and all group members achieved induction of diabetes remission. Conclusion: Larger studies are needed to confirm that this adapted online protocol is both acceptable and clinically effective while maintaining fidelity to key elements of the original protocol.Trial Registration: NCT03536377 registered 24th May 2018 at https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03536377
Generation Mechanism and Dual Dynamic Simulations of Surface Patterns in Single-Point Diamond Turning of Single-Crystal Copper
Authors: Xiong Jie , Chen Yanbing , Dai Yuqi , Zhang Guoqing , Ran Jiaqi , To Sandy
Published: May 2021

Single-crystal copper (Cu), whose atom arrangement is in the same direction and has no grain boundary, is widely used in defense technology, civil electronics and network communication. As a diamond turnable material, fan-shaped patterns appear on the machined surface, which affects the machined surface quality and the optical function it carries. Previous studies on the surface generation mechanism in single-point diamond turning (SPDT) of Cu were limited to experimental analysis, while there is a lack of fundamental understanding of the fan-shaped pattern generation mechanism and suppression method. In the present study, the different fan-shaped patterns, surface quality, cutting force and chip morphology of the typical crystal planes (100), (110) and (111) planes of Cu were studied by both theoretical and experimental analyses. A molecular dynamics (MD) simulation was conducted to present the fundamental generation mechanism of the fan-shaped patterns from atom arrangement directions and its angle change with the main cutting direction, while a cutting dynamics model was established to simulate the generation of fan-shaped patterns on the machined surface. Based on theoretical and experimental analysis, it was found that the atom density arrangement directions of Cu and its angle change with the main cutting direction of SPDT caused fluctuations in the friction coefficient, which further caused the vibration of the cutting system and generated the fan-shaped patterns. The SPDT of crystal planes (100) can achieve the best surface quality. The present research provides a fundamental understanding of fan-shaped pattern formation on the machined surface, and provides an instruction for machining Cu to obtain better surface quality.
Spatial and Temporal Influence of Sea Level on Inland Stress based on Seismic Velocity Monitoring
Authors: Andajani Rezkia Dewi , Tsuji Takeshi , Snieder Roel , Ikeda Tatsunori
Published: May 2021

Earth’s crust responds to perturbations from various environmental factors. To evaluate this response, seismic velocity changes offer an indirect diagnostic, especially where velocity can be monitored on an ongoing basis from ambient seismic noise. Investigating the connection between the seismic velocity changes and external perturbations could be useful for characterizing dynamic activities in the crust. The seismic velocity is known to be sensitive to variations in meteorological signals such as temperature, snow, and precipitation as well as changes in sea level. Among these perturbations, the impact of variations in sea level on velocity changes inferred from seismic interferometry of ambient noise is not well known. This study investigates the influence of the ocean in a 3-year record of ambient noise seismic velocity monitoring in the Chugoku and Shikoku regions of southwest Japan. First, we applied a bandpass filter to determine the optimal period band for discriminating among different influences on seismic velocity. Then, we applied a regression analysis between the proximity of seismic station pairs to the coast and the ocean influence, as indicated by the correlation of sea level to seismic velocity changes between pairs of stations. Our study suggests that for periods between 0.0036 to 0.01 cycle/day (100–274 days), the ocean’s influence on seismic velocity decreases with increasing distance of station pairs from the coast. The increasing sea level deforms the ocean floor, affecting the stress in the adjacent coast. The stress change induced by the ocean loading may extend at least dozens of kilometers from the coast. The correlation between sea level and inland seismic velocity changes are negative or positive. Although it is difficult to clearly interpret the correlation based on simple model, they could depend on the in situ local stress, orientation of dominant crack, and hydraulic conductivity. Our study shows that seismic monitoring may be useful for evaluating the perturbation in the crust associated with an external load.
Influence of the Welding Angle on the Mechanical Behavior of Plates obtained by the Tailor Welded Blank (TWB) Process
Authors: Santos Wellington Augusto dos , de Andrade Etiene Pereira , Assunção Guilherme Souza , Santos Izabela Ângela , Silva Gilmar Cordeiro da
Published: May 2021

Tailor Welded Blank (TWB) is a top-welding technique (by unconventional processes) of sheets of different specifications (materials, thicknesses and/or coatings). Because it allows localised distribution of mechanical properties and mass, it can optimise the relationship between structural rigidity and total weight. The great challenge of this technique is to combine two processes with completely different demands, welding and mechanical forming. This work investigates the mechanical behavior of sheets obtained by the Tailor-blank process from the determination of the optimum angle. We performed tensile tests on sheets with different weld line inclinations, as the general objective is to consolidate knowledge about the process, characterise the conditions for sheet formation obtained by the technique, in a safe conformation range, with complex contours, dimensional qualities and free of catastrophic failure. Steel sheets, interstitial free (IF), of 1.10mm and 0.65mm thick were used. The TWB was applied with a welding line oriented from 0º to 90º (ranging from 15° to 15°). The optimum angle obtained was 30º, where there was a good relationship between the breaking load, purely tensile and shear stresses, and the total elongation. In relation to the angle of 0º, the optimum angle presented a superior elongation of approximately 40%. It was still possible to notice that the thickness of the plates influenced the optimum angle, even if the LSR (Limit Strength Ratio) is close.
A Minimally Invasive Technique Using Cortical Bone Trajectory Screws Assisted by 3D-Printed Navigation Templates in Lumbar Adjacent Segment Degeneration
Authors: He Kun , Dong Chunke , Wei Hongyu , Yang Feng , Ma Haoning , Tang Xiangsheng , Tan Mingsheng , Yi Ping
Published: May 2021

Background: Revision surgery of adjacent segment degeneration (ASD) commonly need to expose and remove the original fixation. In order to minimize the trauma, reduce the operation time and blood loss, we introduce a minimally invasive lumbar revision technique using cortical bone trajectory (CBT) screws assisted by three-dimensional(3D) printed navigation templates.Methods: From April 2017 to October 2019, 18 patients with ASD underwent revision surgery with CBT screws assisted by 3D-printed templates in our hospital. All the operation data, including operation time, blood loss, incision length were recorded. We evaluated the clinical efficacy using the visual analogue scale (VAS), the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and the Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score. X-ray and Computed Tomography (CT) scans were used to evaluate the stability of CBT screws fixation, the accuracy of screws, and the fusion rate.Results: The mean follow-up was 22.4±4.7 months (12-31m), the VAS, ODI, and JOA score were analyzed by SPSS 21.0 and showed significant improvement at 2-weeks and the last follow-up compared with preoperative data(P<0.05). 76 CBT screws were inserted with navigation templates, 2 screws were Grade B, other screws were all Grade 0 or A. Changes of intervertebral height showed good stability of CBT screws fixation(P>0.05). All the patients had satisfactory fusion results.Conclusion: Revision surgery of ASD with CBT screws assisted by 3D-printed navigation templates has satisfactory clinical efficacy with advantages of the short operation time, small incision, and less blood loss.
The Mechanism of Compound Danshen Dripping Pills in the Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy Based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking
Authors: An Xuedong , Duan LiYun , Zhang YueHong , Jin De , Zhao Shenghui , Zhou RongRong , Duan YingYing , Lian FengMei , Tong XiaoLin
Published: May 2021

BackgroundOur previous randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multi-center clinical study showed that Compound Danshen Dripping Pills (CDDP) had a significant and safe effect in the treatment of diabetic retinopathy (DR), but its mechanism is still unclear, which we would explain based on network pharmacology and molecular docking.MethodThe active ingredients of CDDP (composed of Panax notoginseng, Salvia miltiorrhiza Bge., and Borneol) were searched in the TCMSP database. The validated target and Smiles number of the active ingredient are queried through the PubChem database, and the predicted target of the active ingredient is obtained through the Swisstarget Prediction database. The Drugbank, TTD, and DisGeNET databases were retrieved to obtain the related targets of DR. The core targets were obtained by the cluster analysis function of Cytoscape, and then the Protein-Protein Interaction was performed. The GO and KEGG signal pathways were enriched and clustered in David database. The potential active components and targets were docking with Autodock Vina, and the results were visualized by PyMOL.Result51 active components and 922 validation and prediction targets of CDDP, 715 targets of DR and 154 co-targets were obtained. Cluster analysis showed that there were two clusters, a total of 64 targets. Go and KEGG signal pathway enrichment analysis showed that the top 20 mainly included TNF and HIF-1 signaling pathway. In GO analysis, BP mainly includes positive regulation of smooth muscle cell proliferation and response to hypoxia, CC mainly includes extracellular space and extracellular domain, MF mainly includes protein binding and protein binding recognition. In KEGG database, the key genes in the TNF signaling pathway were TNF, NFkB and VEGF, in HIF-1 signaling pathway were the IL-6, STAT3, HIF1A and VEGF. Molecular docking results showed that all components of CDDP had a certain docking ability with TNF, NFkB, VEGF, IL-6, STAT3 and HIF1A, which of Asiatic acid and Salvianolic acid j was the strongest.Conclusion Based on the network pharmacology and molecular docking, the core active components of CDDP, mainly including Asiatic acid and Salvianolic acid j, which may play a role in regulating cell proliferation and response to inflammation and hypoxia by regulating the binding and recognition of intracellular and extracellular proteins, that is, mainly through TNF signaling pathway and HIF-1 signaling pathway.
Isorhapontigenin from Traditionally used Iris Domestica Reduces the Inflammatory Response by Suppressing NF-κB and MAPK Signaling in LPS-Activated RAW 264.7 Macrophages
Authors: Huang Wen-Chung , Wu Shu-Ju , Lo Han , Peng Hui-Ling , Hu Sindy , Liou Chian-Jiun
Published: May 2021

BackgroundIsorhapontigenin, a resveratrol analogue, isolated from Iris domestica can induce apoptosis in tumor cells. Here, we designed to explore whether isorhapontigenin reduced inflammatory response in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells.MethodsIsorhapontigenin treated with RAW 264.7 cells, and then with LPS to stimulate inflammatory response. Proinflammatory cytokine expressions were measured using ELISA, and protein expressions were detected using western blots. ResultsIsorhapontigenin significantly inhibited the proinflammatory cytokine expressions. Isorhapontigenin also decreased cyclooxygenase-2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase productions and promoted heme oxygenase-1 expression in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Isorhapontigenin could significantly inhibit NF-κB subunit p65 protein localization to the nucleus and reduced MAPK signal pathway activation. Isorhapontigenin also decreased reactive oxygen species production. ConclusionThus, isorhapontigenin has potential anti-inflammation and anti-oxidative stress that inhibits inflammatory mediators and cytokines expressions through suppressing the MAPK and NF-κB pathways.
Outage Analysis of Cognitive Communication System Using Opportunistic Relay Selection and Secondary Users as Relays
Authors: Javadzadeh Hojjat , zahedi abdulhamid
Published: May 2021

Efficient bandwidth utilization is significant in new communication systems where secondary users can be used besides of primary users considering interference issues and idle state of primary users. Using secondary users as relays to transmit their own signals in addition to the primary signals can be applied for more reliability of the system where opportunistic relay selection can significantly enhance the performance of the system. The best-condition secondary user is selected as the optimum relay for retransmission of primary/secondary signal. Outage probability is analyzed in this paper based on decode and forward techniques in secondary users while the closed-form statement for outage probability is provided and verified by numerical evaluations.
Predictive structure and protein-ligand interface of novel lectin from rice bean (Vigna umbellata)
Authors: Tripathi Ankur , Hallan Vipin , Raj Ritu , Katoch Rajan
Published: May 2021

Lectins are an important group of multivalent glycoproteins having the property of selectively recognizing and precipitating glycoconjugates. Although lectins have been reported from diverse biological sources, legume lectins is the best-characterized family of plant lectins. We have successfully cloned and sequenced the RbL ORF of 843bp from immature rice bean seeds (Vigna umbellata). We report the results of in silico analysis of novel lectin precursor of 280 amino acids from rice bean. BlastP analysis revealed more than 90% sequence similarity of RbL protein with Vigna angularis lectin and Vigna aconitifolia lectin. ProtParam analysis revealed acidic, stable and hydrophobic nature of RbL protein. Template based 3D structure of RbL protein was modeled using I-TASSER tool and validated as good quality model. Structural analysis revealed the presence of β-sandwich (Jelly roll fold or lectin fold) in modeled RbL structure. RbL protein was functionally annotated as a plant defense protein. Molecular docking was performed to analyze interactions of RbL protein with predicted ligands (N-acetyl-D-glucosamine β-galactose, Lactose and Adenine) and two selected ligands (Glucose and Mannose). Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of RbL-ligand complexes confirmed robust hydrogen bonding interactions between ligands and RbL protein. The novel information generated in the study would be useful in exploring RbL protein for different biomedical and biotechnological applications.
SARS-CoV-2 Infections Among Healthcare Workers Outside Hospitals
Authors: Fröberg Maria , Hassan Sadaf Sakina , Pimenoff Ville N. , Akterin Susanne , Elfström K. Miriam , Dillner Joakim
Published: May 2021

Most Covid-related infections and deaths occur in healthcare outside hospitals. We wished to explore SARS-CoV-2 infections among healthcare workers (HCWs) in this setting. All healthcare providers in Stockholm, Sweden were asked to invite HCWs at work for a study of past or present SARS-CoV-2 infections among HCWs. This study reports the results from 839 HCWs, mostly employees of primary care centers, sampled in June 2020. Prior infection, as measured using seropositivity, was found among 12% (100/839) of HCWs, ranging from 0–29% between care units. There was a significant trend of decreasing serology positivity by age (one sided p-trend 0.0467). Seropositivity was highest among HCWs < 40 years of age. Within this age group there was 19% (23/120) seropositivity among women and 11% (15/38) among men (p < 0.02). Current infection, as measured using PCR, was found in only 1% and the typical pre-symptomatic testing pattern found in only 2 subjects. SARS-CoV-2 infections had been rather common among younger HCWs in this setting, but pre-symptomatic infection appeared to be uncommon. Sex differences in SARS-CoV2 specific seropositivity in HCWs younger than 40 years and older than 50 years can be due to exposure, behavior and/or immunological factors.
Changes in extreme Integrated water Vapor Transport on the U.S. west coast in NA-CORDEX, and relationship to mountain and inland precipitation
Authors: Hughes Mimi , Swales Dustin , Scott James D. , Alexander Michael , Mahoney Kelly , McCrary Rachel R , Cifelli Robert , Bukovsky Melissa
Published: May 2021

Western U.S. (WUS) rainfall and snowpack vary greatly on interannual and decadal timescales. This combined with their importance to water resources makes future projections of these variables highly societally relevant. Previous studies have shown that precipitation events in the WUS are influenced by the timing, positioning, and duration of extreme integrated water vapor transport (IVT) events (e.g., atmospheric rivers) along the coast. We investigate end-of-21st-century projections of WUS precipitation and IVT in a collection of regional climate models (RCMs) from the North American Coordinated Regional Downscaling Experiment (NA-CORDEX). Several of the NA-CORDEX RCMs project a decrease in cool season precipitation at high elevation (e.g., across the Sierra Nevada) with a corresponding increase in the Great Basin of the U.S. We explore the causes of this terrain-related precipitation change in a subset of the NA-CORDEX RCMs through an examination of IVT-events. Projected changes in frequency and duration of IVT-events depend on the event's extremity: By the end of the century extreme IVT-events increase in frequency whereas moderate IVT-events decrease in frequency. Furthermore, in the future, total precipitation across the WUS generally increases during extreme IVT-events, whereas total precipitation from moderate IVT-events decreases across higher elevations. Thus, we argue that the mean cool season precipitation decreases at high elevations and increases in the Great Basin are largely determined by changes in moderate IVT-events which are projected to be less frequent and bring less high-elevation precipitation.
Poor Tricuspid Regurgitation Signal on Echocardiogram: How Does It Correlate with Pulmonary Artery Pressure as Measured by Right Heart Catheterization?
Authors: Aziz Mohammad , Romero Steven , Price Matthew J. , Mohan Rajeev
Published: May 2021

Background

Tricuspid Regurgitation (TR) gradient on echocardiogram is used to approximate pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) on echocardiography. A common dilemma is encountered when PAP measurement is indeterminate due to poor TR signal. We hypothesized that patients with poor TR signal would be unlikely to have pulmonary hypertension (PH) on right heart catheterization (RHC).
Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of 141 patients who underwent RHC and had a corresponding echocardiogram showing poor TR signal within 2 months of RHC. A cutoff of 25 mm Hg was used as the upper limit of normal to define PH.
Results

Fifty percent of patients had mean PAP (mPAP) greater than 25 mm Hg. 82% of values were 35 mm Hg or below.
Conclusions

Poor TR signal does not rule out PH but may indicate lower likelihood of severe PH.
Salivary Cytokine Profile in Patients with Ischemic Stroke. Can Salivary TNF-α be a Non-invasive Biomarker of Cognitive Impairment in Stroke Cases?
Authors: Maciejczyk Mateusz , Mil Kacper , Gerreth Piotr , Hojan Katarzyna , Zalewska Anna , Gerreth Karolina
Published: May 2021

Inflammation plays a crucial role in stroke pathogenesis. Thus, it is not surprising that cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors have been advocated in stroke diagnostics. Our study is the first to evaluate the salivary cytokine profile in patients with ischemic stroke. Twenty-five patients with subacute ischemic stroke and an age-, sex-, and oral hygiene status-matched control group were enrolled in the study. The number of patients was set a priori based on our previous experiment (α = 0.05, test power = 0.9). Salivary concentrations of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and interleukin 10 (IL-10) were assessed using an ELISA method. We showed that salivary TNF-α and IL-6 were significantly higher, whereas IL-10 content was statistically lower in both non-stimulated (NWS) and stimulated (SWS) whole saliva of ischemic stroke patients. However, evaluation of cytokines in NWS rather than in SWS may be of greater diagnostic value. Of particular note is salivary TNF-α, which may indicate cognitive/physical impairment in post-stroke individuals. This parameter distinguishes stroke patients from healthy controls and correlates with cognitive dysfunction and severity of functional impairment. It also differentiates (with high sensitivity and specificity) stroke patients with normal cognition from mild to moderate dementia patients. Saliva may be an alternative to blood for assessing cytokines in stroke patients, although further studies on a larger patient population are needed.
Groundwater Origin and Quality Appraisal through a Combined Geochemical and Isotopic Approach in the Great Algiers District (Algeria)
Authors: Khous Dalèle , Moulla Adnane Souffi , Cherchali Mohammed El-Hocine , Chorfi Hadjer , Benchabane Mounia , Ouarezki SidAli , Belaid Messaouda
Published: May 2021

The assessment of the origin of water that is allocated both for people and for irrigation in the eastern part of the Mitidja plain was carried out making use of geochemical and isotopic tools (18O, 2H and 3H). Both hydrochemical and isotopic information gathered for eastern Mitidja alluvial aquifer were used for the sake of assessing the mechanisms controlling groundwater chemistry. This allowed one to identify: (i) the natural or the anthropogenic processes that control groundwater quality, (ii) the origin of groundwater and when its recharge occurs. The work involved sampling campaigns, in situ measurements, and analyses of ions, heavy metals and water isotope content. Results showed a fair overall chemical quality of waters, since the assessment of water quality using water quality index (WQI) revealed that 90 % of the groundwater samples are good. Mitidja’s groundwaters fall into the Cl−SO4−Ca water type, that is mainly induced by water-rock interactions (dissolution of evaporites). The concentrations in Fe, Mn, Ni and Cd for some of the samples were found higher than the prescribed limits recommended by the World Health Organization. Isotopes indicate that groundwater is young since it originates from direct infiltration of precipitation that is mostly induced by Mediterranean atmospheric disturbances.