bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Type-2 Fuzzy Approach to Driver-Automation Shared Driving Lane Keeping Control of Semi-autonomous Vehicles under Imprecise Premise Variable
Authors: Liu Yue , Xu Qing , Guo Hongyan , ZHANG Hui
Published: August 2021

The driver-automation shared driving is a transition to fully-autonomous driving, in which human driver and vehicular controller cooperatively share the control authority. This paper investigates the shared steering control of semiautonomous vehicles with uncertainty from imprecise parameter. By considering driver’s lane-keeping behaviour on the vehicle system, a driver-automation shared driving model is introduced for control purpose. Based on the interval type-2 (IT2) fuzzy theory, moreover, the driver-automation shared driving model with uncertainty from imprecise parameter is described using an IT2 fuzzy model. After that, the corresponding IT2 fuzzy controller is designed and a direct Lyapunov method is applied to analyze the system stability. In this work, sufficient design conditions in terms of linear matrix inequalities are derived, to guarantee the closed-loop stability of the driver-automation shared control system. Meanwhile, an H ∞ performance is studied to ensure the robustness of the control system. Finally, simulationbased results are provided to demonstrate the performance of the proposed control method. Furthermore, an existing type-1 fuzzy controller is introduced as comparison, to verify the superiority of the proposed IT2 fuzzy controller.
Effects of HIV status and history of pregnancy termination on trends of family planning knowledge among women living in nine fragile countries
Authors: Woytowich Daniel John , Xie Bin
Published: August 2021

Background: To decrease the proportion of women in fragile or conflict-affected situations (FCS) that need, but are not using modern contraception, the global health community must better understand family planning (FP) knowledge gaps; and elucidate which subgroups of women are, and are not, effectively being reached with FP information. This study investigated whether women with notable sexual and reproductive health histories that put them at risk for future pregnancy complications, namely HIV+ women and women with history of terminated pregnancy (HTP), would possess more complete FP knowledge and/or recall being given FP information more readily than HIV- women and women with no HTP (NHTP), respectively. Methods: Knowledge of several contraceptive methods, and the prevalence of women who recalled being given FP information at a healthcare visit, or via TV, radio, or periodical were estimated across HIV, HTP, and country subgroups. HIV+ and HTP status were major predictors in multivariate logistic regressions analyzing the odds of knowing a specified method of contraception or of recalling being given FP information via the modes considered. Results: HIV+ as opposed to HIV- women showed significantly higher odds of knowing about the pill (p=0.001), IUD (p<0.001), injectables (p=0.005), male condoms (p<0.001), female condoms (p<0.001), and implants (p<0.001); but not female or male sterilization. HIV+ women demonstrated higher odds of recalling being given FP information at a health visit (p=0.001), whereas HTP women did not. HTP women showed higher odds (p<0.001) of knowing each modern method of FP with the exception of male sterilization and of recalling TV (p=0.01) and radio (p<0.001) FP messages. Conclusions: Notable findings were the higher FP awareness among HIV+ and HTP women, and the observation that HIV+ women were seemingly provided FP information more readily at healthcare visits than were HTP women, despite their similar risk profiles concerning future pregnancies. Subsequent studies may elucidate why these patterns were observed and indicate which other diagnostic groups are effectively being reached with FP education, and which are not. Understanding trends and predictors of FP knowledge can help practitioners better target FP counseling efforts in FCS toward knowledge gaps and their causes.
AL355338 acts as an oncogenic lncRNA by interacting with protein ENO1 to regulate EGFR/AKT pathway in NSCLC
Authors: Hua Qian , Wang Dongliang , Zhao Lin , Hong Zhihui , Ni Kairu , Shi Yizhen , Liu Zengli , Mi Baoming
Published: August 2021

Background

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a malignancy with considerable morbidity and mortality. Abnormal metabolism is a hallmark of cancer; however, the mechanism of glycolysis regulation in NSCLC progression is not completely understood. Recent studies suggest that some dysregulated long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play important roles in tumor metabolic reprogramming.
Methods

To identify glycolysis-associated-lncRNAs in NSCLC, we compared RNA-sequencing results between high 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-uptake NSCLC tissues and paired paratumor tissues. The transcript abundance of AL355338 in 80 pairs of clinical samples was evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR assay and fluorescence in situ hybridization. The biological role of AL355338 on NSCLC cells were evaluated by functional experiments in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, RNA pull-down, mass spectrometry and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays were used to identify the protein interacted with AL355338. Co-immunoprecipitation, in situ proximity ligation assays and western blotting were applied to define the potential downstream pathways of AL355338.
Results

AL355338 was an upregulated glycolysis-associated lncRNA in NSCLC. Functional assays revealed that AL355338 was critical for promoting aerobic glycolysis and NSCLC progression. Mechanistic investigations showed that AL355338 directly bound with alpha-enolase (ENO1) and enhanced the protein’s stability by modulating its degradation and ubiquitination. A positive correlation was observed between AL355338 and ENO1 in NSCLC, and ENO1 was subsequently confirmed to be responsible for the oncogenic role of AL355338. Furthermore, AL355338 was capable of modulating ENO1/EGFR complex interaction and further activating EGFR-AKT signaling.
Conclusions

This study indicates that AL355338 confers an aggressive phenotype to NSCLC, and targeting it might be an effective therapeutic strategy.
Health-seeking Behavior of Undergraduate Nursing Students and Associated Factors: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Zaya Gerili , Li Shijia , Pan Jingyu , Zhang Jinyu , Näslindh-Ylispangar Anita , Ahokas Aija , Korhonen Eila-Sisko , Rekola Leena , Wu Xue , Shang Shaomei
Published: August 2021

Background

Though relevant education and clinical practice could promote health-seeking behavior, nurses and nursing students may not actively seek healthcare.
Methods

This was a cross-sectional study using an adaptation of the self-reported Health Behavior Questionnaire (HBQ) including sociocultural background, lifestyle, self-assessment of life, health care utilization, and health counseling. 199 valid samples were acquired by convenient sampling. Univariate analysis, Spearman rank correlation, Pearson correlation, and multivariate linear regression were used to analyze the data.
Results

Cultural background, living with family, employment, most items in lifestyle, and all items in perceived life status were correlated with health-seeking behavior. A multivariate linear regression verified the influence of alcohol consumption, financial situation, and work situation on the experience of health care utilization, as well as the influence of physical health and interpersonal relationship on the experience of health counseling.
Conclusions

Less alcohol consumption, better financial situation, and better work situation are positively correlated with health care utilization. Better physical health and sounder interpersonal relationships can improve health counseling. The effect of other factors needs further exploration. Cohort studies could be used to investigate the long-term change in health-seeking behavior.
The Role of Medical Staff in Shaping the Nutrition Habits in Patients with Autoimmunization Thyroid Diseases in Poland.
Authors: Czubek Ewa , Romaniuk Piotr , Alcer Klaudia , Varjacic Mirjana
Published: August 2021

Background: Autoimmune thyroid diseases are the most common diseases in humans. Their pathogenesis is complex. Patients are searching for ways of coping with them condition, including diet modifications. The aim of this study was to assess the role of medical personnel in shaping eating habits in patients with autoimmune thyroid disease based on experiences declared by patients. Methods: There were 208 people that took part in the study, of which 205 were qualified for final analysis. The results showed that patients most often choose online sources, while medical personnel rank second as the source of information on dietary recommendations.Results: People with thyroid disease are statistically more likely to use dietitian advice than people without thyroid disease. The highest percentage of respondents decided to modify their nutrition due to their own initiative. In addition, patients with autoimmune thyroid disease are statistically more likely to consider changing their diet to improve their well-being. The connection between the source of advice and modification of eating behaviour was also noted.Conclusion: Thanks to the joint effort of medical staff, patients can receive reliable knowledge about their disease, treatment and nutrition adapted to their needs.Trial registration: approved by the Bioethics Committee of Medical University of Silesia in Katowice (opinion no.: PCN/0022/KB1/80/2).
Middle East Pain Syndrome (MEPS) Vitamin D3 Deficiency Induced Hyperparathyroidism And Fibromyalgia Mimicking Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Elbeialy Adel , Bauomi Abdlnby , Elnaggar Basma , Elzomor Hala
Published: August 2021

Objectives: Musculoskeletal pains are sometimes misdiagnosed in some diseases, like rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis, erosive OA, etc. Secondary hyperparathyroidism was not considered a differential diagnosis for RA, despite the fact that it can cause arthralgia or arthritis. Also, fibromyalgia is a psychosomatic condition marked by widespread pain and tenderness. Methods: This study included 400 patients attended outpatient clinics of Al-Azhar Faculty of medicine in Egypt, and Elaj Specialized Clinics in Saudi Arabia, who were not fulfilling criteria for RA diagnosis, and not responding to its treatment. Other diseases like psoriatic arthritis and erosive OA were excluded. Criteria for classification of fibromyalgia syndrome were applied to all patients. We did lab tests of RF, ACPA, ESR, CRP, LFT, RFT, vitamin D3, PTH, calcium, phosphorus, and SUA. Radiological imaging modalities for diagnosis or exclusion of suspected diseases were applied. Results: All patients were fulfilling both old and new criteria of fibromyalgia syndrome, and not fulfilling any RA criteria, 18% were seropositive with low RF titers and negative ACPA. All patients had vitamin D3 deficiency or insufficiency. 75% of patients had abnormally high levels of PTH, and had no parathyroid gland pathology. X-rays showed subperiosteal and subchondral resorption of mainly thumbs, subchondral osteopenia of proximal and middle phalanges, mild subperiosteal resorption along the radial aspect of the middle phalanx and mild tuft erosions, besides changes in the carpus closely resembling those of rheumatoid arthritis, of ulnar styloid resorption, radiocarpal and scapho-trapezoid joint arthritis. Of special interest, the presence of tuft spurs-like excrescences.
LINC02027 / MiR-625-3p /PDLIM5 Axis Inhibits The Proliferation, Migration And Invasion And Promotes Apoptosis of HCC By Inhibiting RAS-MAPK Pathway
Authors: Wang Jinyi , Zhu Yong , Ai Xiaoming , Wan Hong , Jia Wenbo , Chu Jian , Xu Bin , Kong Xiangxu , Kong Lianbao
Published: August 2021

Background and Aims: Long non-coding RNAs have been shown to promote or inhibit various cancers, acting as competing endogenous RNAs for specific microRNAs. The primary objective of this research was to investigate the underlying mechanism by which the LINC02027/miR-625-3p/PDLIM5 axis affects proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Methods: The level of LINC02027 in HCC tissues and cells and its regulatory effect on the development of HCC were detected. According to the results of database prediction and qRT-PCR, the downstream microRNA and target gene were searched. Finally, HCC cells were transfected with lentivirus and used for cell function assays (in vitro) and subcutaneous tumorigenesis assay in nude mice (in vivo).Results: Downregulation of LINC02027 was detected in HCC tissues and cell lines. The knockdown or overexpression of LINC02027 increased or reduced the proliferation migration and invasion of HCC cells, and the apoptotic ability of HCC cells decreased or increased, respectively. Mechanistically, INC02027 inhibited epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). As a ceRNA, LINC02027 inhibited the malignant ability of HCC by competitively binding to miR-625-3p to regulate the expression of PDLIM5 and the activity of RAS-MAPK pathway.Conclusion: LINC02027/miR-625-3p/PDLIM5 axis inhibits the EMT and promotes apoptosis of HCC by regulating RAS-MAPK pathway.
On the Role of Atmospheric Simulations Horizontal Grid Spacing for Flood Modeling
Authors: Quintero Felipe , Villarini Gabriele , Prein Andreas F. , Krajewski Witold F. , Zhang Wei
Published: August 2021

Our study focuses on the hydrologic implications of resolving and modeling atmospheric processes at different spatial scales. Here we use heavy precipitation events from an atmospheric model that was run at different horizontal grid spacings (i.e., 250 m, 500 m, 1 km, 2 km 4 km, and 12 km) and able to resolve different processes. Within an idealized simulation framework, these rainfall events are used as input to an operational distributed hydrologic model to evaluate the sensitivity of the hydrologic response to different forcing grid spacings. We consider the finest scale (i.e., 250 m) as reference, and compute event peak flows and volumes across a wide range of basin sizes. We find that the use of increasingly-coarser inputs leads to changes in the distribution of event peak flows and volumes, with the strongest sensitivity at the smallest catchment sizes. Overall, we find that 4-km rainfall simulations represent a good compromise between computational costs and hydrologic performance, providing basic information for future endeavors geared towards regional downscaling.
Evaluation of Biventricular Function by Cadmium-zinc-telluride SPECT Gated Tomographic Radionuclide Angiography: Comparison to Conventional SPECT
Authors: Chen Yue , Pang Zekun , Wang Jiao , Li Jianming
Published: August 2021

To compare and analyze the consistency and repeatability of left ventricular (LV) and right ventricular (RV) functions obtained by radionuclide multi-gated acquisition (MUGA) with cadmium-zinc-telluride SPECT (CZT-SPECT) and conventional SPECT(C-SPECT) with sodium iodide (NaI) crystal detectors. Seventy-seven patients who underwent C-SPECT planar MUGA and CZT-SPECT tomographic MUGA on the same day were respectively enrolled and reviewed. Comparing the correlation and difference of LVEF, RVEF, PER, and PFR between the two cameras, The repeatability of the left and right ventricular function parameters obtained by the two cameras was also compared. There was a good correlation (R = 0.831, P < 0.001) of LVEF obtained by the two cameras, the comparison of RVEF (r=0.619, P＜0.001), LVPER (r=0.672, P＜0.001) and LVPFR (r=0.700, P＜0.001) showed a modest correlation and the comparison of RVPER (r=0.463, P＜0.001), LVPFR (r=0.253, P＜0.05) showed a poor correlation. In terms of repeatability, the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of RVPFR(P) was good (0.698, P＜0.001), while the ICC in other groups was excellent (0.823 ~ 0.989, P ＜0.001). The repeatability of LVEF and RVEF measured by CZT-SPECT was better than C-SPECT. The repeatability of LVEF and PER measured by two cameras was better than their respective RVER and PFR. The repeatability of PER and PFR of LV was better than RV for both cameras. CZT-SPECT tomographic MUGA had a good correlation with C-SPECT cardiac planar MUGA in evaluating left and right ventricular systolic function and left ventricular diastolic function, and the repeatability above was even better. The determination of right ventricular diastolic function still needed further study. MUGA with CZT-SPECT will play an important and unique role in the clinical application of accurate evaluation of biventricular function in the future.
Ribonucleotide Reductase: In-vitro S-glutathionylation of R2 and p53R2 Subunits of Mammalian Class I Ribonucleotide Reductase Protein
Authors: Chatterji Ajanta , Holmgren Arne , SENGUPTA RAJIB
Published: August 2021

Ribonucleotide reductases (RNR) catalyze the rate-limiting step in DNA synthesis during the S-phase of the cell cycle. Its constant activity in order to maintain dNTP homeostasis is a fascinating area of research and an attractive candidate for cancer research and antiviral drugs. Redox modification such as S-glutathionylation of the R1 subunit of mammalian RNR protein has been presumed to regulate the activity of RNR during catalytic cycles. Herein, we report S-glutathionylation of the R2 subunit. We have also shown Grx1 system can efficiently deglutathionylate the S-glutathionylated R2 subunit. Additionally, our data also showed for the very first time S-glutathionylation of mammalian p53R2 subunit that regulates DNA synthesis outside S-phase during DNA damage and repair. Taken together, these data will open new avenues for future research relating to exact physiological significance, target thiols, and/or overall RNR activity due to S-glutathionylation of R2 and p53R2 subunits and provide valuable insights for effective treatment regimes.
Prognostic significance of translocator protein in the brain tissue following traumatic brain injury
Authors: Bao Qing , Yuan Xuesong , Bian Xiaoxing , Wei Wenfeng , Jin Peng , Jiang Wenqing
Published: August 2021

Background
The study aimed to measure the expression of translocator protein (TSPO) in brain tissue following traumatic brain injury (TBI) and to determine whether TSPO can predict outcomes.
Methods
TBI patients requiring emergent craniectomy and removing of intracranial hematoma were recruited from Wujin Hospital Affiliated with Jiangsu University between January 2018 and May 2020. TBI patients were divided into unfavorable and favorable groups according to GOS score. The TSPO in brain samples was analyzed by western blot and immunocytochemistry.
Results
The western blot and immunocytochemistry showed that the TSPO in the unfavorable group was higher than that in the favorable group. Double immunofluorescence staining exhibited that the percentage of TSPO positive cells in IBA1 and GFAP positive cells was 45.2 ± 3.1% and 3.5 ± 0.6% respectively. After adjusting for age, sex, CT, ICP and GCS, we found each 1-unit increase in TSPO was associated with 40% higher occurrence of unfavorable outcome (OR = 1.4, 95% CI 0.4–5.6). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), specificity, and sensitivity of TSPO was 0.87, 76.7%, 88.2% respectively.
Conclusion
Our study demonstrated that higher TSPO was associated with higher occurrence of unfavorable outcomes.
A Novel Rapid Visual Detection of Toxoplasma Gondii by Combining Recombinase Polymerase Amplification and Lateral Flow Dipstick Coupled With CRISPR-Cas13a Fluorescence Assay
Authors: Zhao Jinhong , Li Yuanyuan , Xue Qiqi , Zhu Zhiwei , Zou Minghui , Fang Fang
Published: August 2021

Background: Toxoplasmosis caused by infecting with Toxplasma gondii is a kind of parasitic disease that prevalent all over the world and does great harm to pregnant women and newborns. Effective, rapid and accurate diagnosis T. gondii is urgently needed to prevent and treatment the toxoplasmosis. The purpose of this study was to develop a rapid visual detection assay using recombinase aided amplification (RAA) and lateral flow dipstick (LFD) coupled with CRISPR-Cas13a fluorescence, henceforth RAA-Cas13a-LFD, for detection of T. gondii.Methods: Targeting 529bp gene of T. gondii, the primers and probes for RAA-Cas13a-LFD assay were designed and screened. The reaction time of RAA-LFD-Cas13a assay was optimized, as well as the sensitivity and specificity was further validated. Finally, the diagnostic performance of T. gondii was evaluated using the RAA-Cas13a-LFD assay for clinical blood samples.Results: The RAA-Cas13a-LFD assay was performed in an incubator block at 37℃ within 2h, and the amplicons were visible through LFD for naked eye visualization. The detection limit of the developed RAA-Cas13a-LFD assay was 1×10-6 ng/μL with high specificity for T. gondii. Compared with qPCR assay, there was a consistent positive rate among the clinical blood samples. Conclusion: In this study, A rapid and visual RAA-Cas13a-LFD assay was developed. It requires no sophisticated equipment and shows promise for on-site surveillance of T. gondii.
Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium Alleviates Postmyocardial Infarction Heart Failure by Upregulating Pparγ Expression
Authors: Chen Mengli , Zhu Hongyan , Zhu Qingqing , Wu Xiaodong , Zhou Yufei , Gao Rongrong , Shi Mengsha , Zhang Ting , Yin Ting , Zhang Haifeng , Shang Hongcai , Li Xinli
Published: August 2021

PurposeHeart failure after myocardial infarction (MI) is the leading cause of death worldwide. Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium (CRP) is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine that has been used in the clinic for centuries. In this study, we aimed to investigate the roles of CRP in cardiac remodeling and heart failure after MI, as well as the molecular mechanisms involved.MethodsMale C57BL/6 mice aged 8 weeks were subjected to coronary artery ligation to mimic the clinical situation in vivo. Echocardiography was used to assess the systolic function of the mouse heart. Masson trichrome staining and Wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) staining were utilized to determine the fibrotic area and cross-sectional area of the mouse heart, respectively. Cardiomyocytes and fibroblasts were isolated from neonatal rats aged 0–3 days in vitro using enzyme digestion. TUNEL staining and EdU staining were performed to evaluate apoptosis and proliferation, respectively. Gene expression changes were analyzed by qRT–PCR, and protein expression changes were assessed by Western blotting.ResultsOur findings revealed that CRP attenuated cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis and apoptosis and alleviated heart failure after MI in vivo. Furthermore, CRP mitigated cardiomyocyte apoptosis and fibroblast proliferation and differentiation into myofibroblasts. In addition, the PPARγ inhibitor T0070907 completely abolished the abovementioned beneficial effects of CRP, and the PPARγ activator rosiglitazone failed to further ameliorate cardiac apoptosis and fibrosis in vitro.Conclusion﻿CRP alleviates cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis, and apoptosis and can ameliorate heart failure after MI via activation of PPARγ.
Comparison of the efficacy and safety between palliative biliary stent placement and duct clearance among elderly patients with choledocholithiasis: A propensity score-matched analysis
Authors: Kitagawa Koh , Mitoro Akira , Ozutsumi Takahiro , Furukawa Masanori , Fujinaga Yukihisa , Nishimura Norihisa , Sawada Yasuhiko , Namisaki Tadashi , Akahane Takemi , Yoshiji Hitoshi
Published: August 2021

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate and compare the outcomes of palliative endoscopic biliary stenting (EBS) and complete stone removal among elderly patients with choledocholithiasis using propensity score matching.
Methods

From April 2012 to October 2017, 161 patients aged 75 years and older with choledocholithiasis underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography at our institution. Among them, 136 (84.5%) had complete stone removal, and 25 (15.5%) underwent palliative EBS without further intervention until symptom occurrence. The median age of the EBS group was significantly higher than that of the complete stone removal group. The proportion of patients with dementia, cerebral infarction, preserved gallbladder with gallstones, and surgically altered anatomy was higher in the EBS group than in the complete stone removal group. Propensity score matching was used to adjust for different factors. In total, 50 matched patients (n = 25 in each group) were analyzed.
Results

The median duration of cholangitis-free periods was significantly shorter in the EBS group (596 days) than in the complete stone removal group. About half of patients in the EBS group required re-treatment and re-hospitalization for cholangitis during the observation period. Cholangitis was mainly caused by stent migration. There was no significant difference in terms of mortality rate and procedure-related adverse events between the two groups. Death was commonly attributed to underlying diseases. However, one patient in the EBS group died due to severe cholangitis.
Conclusions

Palliative EBS should be indicated only to patients with choledocholithiasis who have a poor prognosis.
Association Between Urine and Serum Estradiol Levels in In Vitro Fertilization Cycles
Authors: Chotboon Chokchai , Salang Lingling , Buppasiri Pranom , Amnatbuddee Siriruthai , Eamudomkarn Nuntasiri
Published: August 2021

Objectives
To study the correlation between urine and serum estradiol (E2) controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH)
Methods
This is a cross-sectional analytical study that was conducted in a tertiary care hospital. Seventy-seven urine and blood samplings were collected from infertile women who were treated with COH. An electrochemiluminescent immunoassay was performed to evaluate E2 levels between urine and serum samples on the 6th day and the day of ovarian trigger. In addition, the correlations were evaluated between urine E2 level and number of follicles, retrieved, metaphase II oocytes, and fertilization rate. A sub-analysis was performed for age, responding status and BMI.
Results
Seventy-seven infertile women were recruited. The medians of serum and urine E2 level (E2/creatinine) levels on the day 6th of ovarian stimulation were 833.20 pg/ml (IQR; 516.90–1,371.00) and 3.67 (IQR; 2.84–4.81), respectively. On the day of ovarian trigger, the median of serum E2 level was 2,113.00 pg/ml (IQR; 1,382.00–3,885.00) and urine E2 level (E2/creatinine) was 6.84 (IQR; 5.34–8.70). The correlation between serum and urine E2 level on day 6th was 0.53 and the day of ovarian trigger was 0.59, p < 0.001. Moreover, the correlations of urine E2 level on the day of ovarian trigger to number of follicles, number of oocytes retrieved, metaphase II oocytes and fertilization rate were 0.57, 0.58, 0.61, and 0.64 (P < 0.001).
Conclusion
The urine E2 level was moderately correlated to serum E2, number of follicles growth, oocytes retrieved and also fertilization rate.
A Regime Shift in Seasonal Total Antarctic Sea Ice Extent in the 20th Century
Authors: Fogt Ryan , Sleinkofer Amanda , Raphael Marilyn , Handcock Mark
Published: August 2021

In stark contrast to the Arctic, there have been statistically significant positive trends in total Antarctic sea ice extent since 1979, despite a sudden decline in sea ice in 2016(1–5) and increasing greenhouse gas concentrations. Attributing Antarctic sea ice trends is complicated by the fact that most coupled climate models show negative trends in sea ice extent since 1979, opposite of that observed(6–8). Additionally, the short record of sea ice extent (beginning in 1979), coupled with the high degree of interannual variability, make the record too short to fully understand the historical context of these recent changes(9). Here we show, using new robust observation-based reconstructions, that 1) these observed recent increases in Antarctic sea ice extent are unique in the context of the 20th century and 2) the observed trends are juxtaposed against statistically significant decreases in sea ice extent throughout much of the early and middle 20th century. These reconstructions are the first to provide reliable estimates of total sea ice extent surrounding the continent; previous proxy-based reconstructions are limited(10). Importantly, the reconstructions continue to show the high degree of interannual Antarctic sea ice extent variability that is marked with frequent sudden changes, such as observed in 2016, which stress the importance of a longer historical context when assessing and attributing observed trends in Antarctic climate(9). Our reconstructions are skillful enough to be used in climate models to allow better understanding of the interconnected nature of the Antarctic climate system and to improve predictions of the future state of Antarctic climate.
Reconciling Biome-Wide Conservation of an Apex Carnivore with Land-Use Economics: Jaguars (Panthera Onca) in the Increasingly Threatened Pantanal Wetlands
Authors: Tortato Fernando R. , Hoogesteijn Rafael , Devlin Allison L. , Quigley Howard B. , Bolzan Fábio , Izzo Thiago J. , Ferraz Katia M. P. M. B. , Peres Carlos A.
Published: August 2021

Conservation of carnivores involves finding solutions to minimize habitat loss and human-wildlife conflicts, and understanding the nature of land-use economics can allow us to mitigate both threats. In the Pantanal, the two main economic activities are cattle ranching and ecotourism, each of which directly and indirectly affect the persistence of jaguars (Panthera onca). To understand how the geography of these economic activities is related to jaguar populations, we developed a jaguar distribution model (JDM), livestock density model, and ecotourism lodge density model for the Pantanal. Due to the recent wildfires within the Pantanal, we also assess the impact of burnt areas that are suitable for jaguars, cattle ranching, and tourism. Our JDM indicate that 64% of the Pantanal holds suitable habitat for jaguars. However, jaguar habitat suitability was positively correlated with ecotourism, but negatively correlated with areas most suitable for intensive cattle-ranching. This demonstrates a biome-wide scenario compatible with jaguar conservation. Of particular concern, recent wildfires overlap most suitable areas for jaguars. If wildfires become increasingly frequent, this would represent a serious threat to jaguars and many other wildlife populations. We emphasize the global importance of the Pantanal wetland ecoregion as a key stronghold for long-term jaguar conservation.
(Ce, Gd):YAG-Al2O3 composite ceramics for high-brightness yellow light-emitting diode applications
Authors: Li Xiaoyun , Chen Jian , Liu Zhuguang , Deng Zhonghua , Huang Qiufeng , Huang Jiquan , Guo Wang
Published: August 2021

Gd3+ ions were doped in Ce:YAG ceramics as the phosphor material for the high-brightness yellow LED (565-590 nm). Besides the role of spectral modulation, the introduction of Gd3+ ions also exacerbates the thermal quenching effect. To increase its thermal performance, Al2O3 were introduced as the second phase and (Ce0.6%Y69.4%Gd30%)3Al5O12-z% Al2O3 (z=0, 10, 20, 30, 40) composite ceramics were fabricated by vacuum sintering. Their composite microstructures and phase structures were characterized. As the amount of Al2O3 increases from 0 wt% to 40 wt%, there is a noticeable improvement on the thermal conductivity. The thermal stability also increases and the operating temperature of ceramics reduced from 141.1 °C to 132.2 °C. Collaborating composite ceramics with InGaN blue chips, the steady-state luminous efficiency of 40 wt%-Al2O3 yellow LED reaches the highest value of 109.49 lm/W, which is 8.54 % higher than that of Al2O3-free sample. Additionally, scattering behavior and conversion efficiency of composite ceramics with different thicknesses were investigated.
The Predictive Value of Systemic Immune-inflammation Index on Bladder Recurrence on Upper Tract Urothelial Carcinoma Outcomes After Radical Nephroureterectomy
Authors: Chien Tsu-Ming , Li Ching-Chia , Lu Yen-Man , Chou Yii-Her , Chang Hsueh-Wei , Wu Wen-Jeng
Published: August 2021

Background: To assess the prognostic significance of pre-treatment lymphocyte-related systemic inflammatory biomarkers in upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) patients.Methods: This study included non-metastatic UTUC patients treated at our hospital between 2001 and 2013. The receiver operating characteristic curve was used to obtain the optimal neutrophile-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII). Multivariate logistic regression was performed to investigate the relationship between NLR, PLR, and SII and clinical pathologic characteristics. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to calculate the metastasis-free survival (MFS), cancer-specific survival (CSS), and bladder recurrence-free survival (BRFS) and the log-rank test to compare the survival rate.Results: Overall, 376 patients were included in the current study. Multivariate analysis revealed that an elevated SII was associated with advanced pathologic tumor stage, lymph node invasion, and adjuvant chemotherapy; high NLR was associated with older age, hemodialysis status, anemia, multifocal tumor, advanced pathologic tumor stage, and adjuvant chemotherapy; and high PLR was associated with older age, anemia, advanced pathologic tumor stage, and adjuvant chemotherapy. The Kaplan–Meier analysis indicated that patients exhibiting higher NLR, PLR, and SII showed significantly poor MFS and CSS rates. Only high SII showed significantly worse BRFS rates.Conclusions: The NLR, PLR, and SII were independent predictive factors for both MFS and CSS in UTUC patients. Among the factors, only elevated SII can predict bladder recurrence. Therefore, the patients might need close bladder monitoring during the follow-up.
High-Resolution Proteomics of Aedes Aegypti Salivary Glands Infected With DENV2, ZIKV and CHIKV Reveal Virus-Specific and Broad Antiviral Factors
Authors: Chowdhury Avisha , Modahl Cassandra Marie , Misse Dorothée , Kini R. Manjunatha , Pompon Julien
Published: August 2021

Arboviruses such as dengue (DENV), Zika (ZIKV) and chikungunya (CHIKV) viruses infect close to half a billion people per year, and are transmitted through Aedes aegypti bites. Infection-induced changes in mosquito salivary glands (SG) influence transmission by inducing immunity, which restricts virus replication, and by altering saliva composition, which influences skin infection. Here, we profiled SG responses to DENV2, ZIKV and CHIKV infections by using high-resolution quantitative proteomics. We identified 218 proteins related to immunity, blood-feeding or cellular machinery. We observed that 58, 27 and 29 proteins were regulated by DENV2, ZIKV and CHIKV infections, respectively. While the regulation patterns were mostly virus-specific, we determined the function of four uncharacterized proteins that were upregulated by all three viruses. We revealed the anti-ZIKV function of gamma-interferon responsive lysosomal thiol-like (GILT-like), the anti-CHIKV function of adenosine deaminase (ADA), the pro-ZIKV function of salivary gland surface protein 1 (SGS1) and the antiviral function against all three viruses of an uncharacterized protein we called salivary gland broad-spectrum antiviral protein (SGBAP). The comprehensive description of SG responses to three global pathogenic viruses and the identification of new restriction factors improves our understanding of the molecular mechanisms influencing transmission.
Search Characteristics and Reporting of Systematic Reviews of Animal Experiments: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Zhao Bing , Chen Fei , Gao Qianqian , Mei Fan , Zhao Li , Yang Jinwei , Jiao Mingyue , Jiang Yanbiao , Ma Bin
Published: August 2021

BackgroundThe formulation and implementation of a comprehensive search strategy is the basis for ensuring the quality of a systematic review (SR) and/or meta-analysis (MA). All published SRs/MAs of animal experiments were comprehensively identified, to evaluate how each search strategy was formulated, and how the search process and reporting were implemented, in order to represent a reference and provide suggestions for the future development of search procedures and reporting guidelines for SRs/MAs of animal experiments which should, ultimately, allow translation of the results of animal experiments into clinical practice.Methods and FindingsPubMed, OVID-Embase, Biosis Previews, CNKI, CBM, Wanfang Data, and VIP databases were searched to identify the SRs/MAs of medical-related animal experiments. The literature was independently screened and basic information extracted. The search characteristics (including search methods and their reporting) of each included study were analyzed in accordance with pre-established evaluation criteria. A total of 813 animal experiment SRs/MAs published in 503 different journals from 52 countries and regions were included. PubMed, Embase, and Medline were the three most commonly searched English-language databases for animal experiment SRs/MAs, although in 28.8% (234/813), fewer than 3 databases were searched. A supplementary search had been conducted in only half (52.2%, 424/813%) of the studies. In terms of search reporting, only 47.4% (385/813) reported search methods and 31.6% (243/813) described the search strategy. Only 4.8% (39/813) of the animal experiments SRs/MAs reported the qualifications of the search personnel.ConclusionsThe quality of search methods and reporting of the search process for published SRs/MAs of animal experiments are inadequate and substandard. Therefore, the search process should be standardized in future to improve efficiency and ensure the integrity and universality of the search, thereby allowing the development of SR/MA search strategies and reporting guidelines for animal experiments, and ultimately promote improvements in the quality of animal experiment SRs/MAs.
Performance Evaluation of bi-directional Roller Bearings for Seismic Isolation of Buildings Under Near-fault Earthquakes
Authors: Ortiz-Cano Nelson , González-Olaya Ricardo , Gaviria-Mendoza Carlos , Magluta Carlos , Roitman Ney
Published: August 2021

An advantage bidirectional sloped rolling type isolation device composed of multiple rollers in both orthogonal-in-plane directions is studied in this research. The analytical model of a single direction of roller bearing (RB) system is extended to a two-direction RB system. Also, a 3D linear-elastic frame element to build the finite element model is used to incorporate the response of the building model. Several experimental tests of a physical building model with and without an RB system are used to validate the numerical model. The model is used to assess the nonlinear response history analysis of a four-story multi-column building system with two different physical properties that represent buildings with low and high lateral stiffness when subjected to pairs of scaled near-fault earthquake records. The effect of the angle of inclination of bearing plates in the range of 1.0o to 4.0o and sliding friction force is also investigated in a parametric analysis to evaluate the performance of RB with supplementary damping mechanisms ranging from 0.0 to 0.5N/kg, i.e., friction force normalized with the structure mass. Results show that the proposed bi-directional RB system is suitable for reducing the seismic response of rigid and flexible multi-column structures. In particular, the RB system reduces structure acceleration responses by 5–85% in the flexible structure and 86–96% in the rigid structure. Furthermore, an angle of inclination of bearing plates greater than or equal to 3.0o is an advantage to ensure the self-centering capacity.
A network pharmacology study on the Cervix Prescription for treatment of Cervical Cancer
Authors: Ying Pian , Zhu Yingping
Published: August 2021

Purpose: Based on the method of network pharmacology to explore the mechanism of the Cervical Prescription(CP) in the treatment of cervical cancer(CC) . Methods: To obtain the active ingredients and potential targets of CP from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology database and analysis platform (TCMSP) ; To search for targets related to cervical cancer through the database, and map the CP and the targets; Screen the core Targets, a Chinese medicine compoundtarget network and STRING database was used to construct a protein-protein interaction network (PPI). The DAVID 6.8 online tool was used to perform gene ontology (GO) and kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genome (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses of overlapping targets. Results: The CP contains 2 active ingredients, corresponding to 301 non-reactive targets; 10 GO biological process related items and 73 signal pathways were obtained. Conclusion: By constructing a network diagram of "components-targets-pathways", 1Project fund: Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation Project(CN) (LQ20H270016); Zhejiang Traditional Chinese Medicine Administration (CN) (2020ZB087). *Profile of the author: Zhu Yingping, (1987-), female, attending physician, from Ganzhou, Jiangxi Province, master's degree student, research direction: Chinese medicine prevention and treatment of gynecological malignancies; E-mail: zhuyingping_26@126.com this study revealed that CP can exert its efficacy through multiple components, multiple targets, and multiple pathways to achieve the purpose of preventing and treating CC.The network pharmacology-based approach in the present study showed promising potential for identifying the main therapeutic targets from TCM formulas. This study provides valuable information for TCM researchers and clinicians to better understand the main therapeutic targets and therapeutic roles of herbal decoctions in clinical settings.
Depletion of CD206+ tumour macrophages by mUNO targeted nanoconjugate inhibits tumourigenesis and dissemination in triple negative breast cancer
Authors: Lepland Anni , Malfanti Alessio , Haljasorg Uku , Asciutto Eliana , Pickholz Monica , Bringas Mauro , Đorđević Snežana , Salumäe Liis , Peterson Pärt , Teesalu Tambet , Vicent María , Scodeller Pablo
Published: August 2021

Chemotherapy is the standard of care for patients with triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), an aggressive breast cancer subtype with a poor prognosis. In many solid tumours, M2-skewed tumour-associated macrophages (TAMs) are known to promote progression, immunosuppression, relapse, and dissemination of the malignant disease. Although TAM depletion has been explored as an anticancer strategy, the currently available TAM depleting compounds suffer from poor efficacy and dose-limiting side effects. Here, we develop of a novel TAM-depleting agent that specifically targets CD206+ macrophages and show that it is efficacious as an anti-TNBC agent and well tolerated. This new TAM-depleting compound, called “OximUNO”, is a star-shaped polyglutamate decorated with the CD206-targeting peptide mUNO and carrying doxorubicin through a pH-responsive linker. In the orthotopic and experimental metastases of TNBC, fluorescent reporter mUNO-guided polyglutamate construct homed to CD206+ macrophages in the primary cancer lesions and at the sites of metastases. OximUNO displayed enhanced cytotoxicity towards primary M2 macrophages in vitro and exhibited no acute liver or kidney toxicity in vivo. In TNBC mouse models, OximUNO reduced the progression of primary breast cancer lesions and metastatic dissemination of malignant cells. Treatment with OximUNO had an immunomodulatory effect on the tumour microenvironment: besides reducing the number of CD206+ TAMs, it resulted in increased ratio of the CD8/FOXP3 expression. These studies suggest the potential utility of OximUNO based CD206+ TAM depletion strategies for the treatment of TNBC, and possibly, other types of solid tumours.
Synthesized Li2B4O7: Mg,Cu nanoparticles: a suitable thermoluminescence dosimeter for detection of high doses of gamma rays
Authors: Mehrabi Mohsen , Zahedifar Mostafa , hasanloo soheila , Nikmanesh hossein , Gheisari Rouhollah , li yangtao
Published: August 2021

Lithium tetraborate nanoparticles co-doped with various percentages of Cu and Mg impurities were synthesized through the combustion process. Scanning electron microscopy images along with X-Ray diffraction pattern confirmed the shape and structure of the products. The Williamson-Hall equation was used to measure the size of nanoparticles that resulted in approximately 47 nm for the crystallite size. The optical band gap of about 3.7 eV was obtained for the nanostructures from the UV-visible spectrum. Furthermore, the thermoluminescence features the samples under gamma irradiation were studied at ambient conditions. The highest thermoluminescence sensitivity achieved at 0.02 % wt Cu and 0.5 % wt Mg impurities simultaneously. The results show that the co-doped nanoparticles have a linear dose response up to an administrated dose of 30 kGy and about 10% of the thermoluminescence signal fades after 30 days of storage at room temperature.
Association between systemic lupus erythematosus and cancer: findings from cohort studies and Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Gu Dongqing , Tang Mingshuang , Cui Huijie , Zhang Min , Wang Yutong , Bai Ye , Wang Xin , Zhang Ben
Published: August 2021

Background

Observational studies suggested that systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) was associated with an increased risk of cancer, however, the causal effect remains unclear. We aim to determine the causality between SLE and cancer using a meta-analysis and Mendelian randomization (MR) approach.
Methods

A systematic search was conducted using PubMed to identify cohort studies published before January 21, 2021. Meta-analysis was performed to calculate relative risk (RR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI), and the potentially causal relationships identified by observational studies were further validated using two-sample Mendelian randomization.
Results

Through meta-analysis of 43 cohort studies involving 231,499 patients, we observed an increased overall cancer risk among SLE patients (RR = 1.62, 95% CI, 1.47–1.79). Site-specific analysis suggested that SLE patients were associated with an increased risk of 17 cancers. Mendelian randomization analysis indicated that genetically predisposed SLE was causally associated with an increased risk of lymphoma (odds ratio = 1.0004, 95% CI, 1.0001–1.0007, P = 0.0035), whereas a decreased risk of bladder cancer (odds ratio = 0.9996, 95% CI, 0.9994–0.9998, P = 0.00004) in European ancestry. However, no relationship was observed between genetically predisposed SLE and risk of colon, pancreatic, lung, cervical and Non-melanoma skin cancer in European ancestry, liver cancer and lung cancer in Asian ancestry.
Conclusions

Findings from meta-analysis and Mendelian randomization analysis suggested that SLE might be causally associated with an increased risk of lymphoma. However, inconsistent results were observed between SLE and risk of bladder cancer.