bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication of a pH-responsive magnetic nanocarrier based on carboxymethyl cellulose-aminated graphene oxide for loading and in-vitro release of curcumin
Authors: Danesh Elham , Miralinaghi Mahsasadat , Moniri Elham , Sadjady Seyed Kazem
Published: March 2022

In this study, a pH-responsive magnetic drug delivery system was prepared by cross-linking of Cofe2O4/graphene oxide to carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) biopolymer with adipic acid dihydrazide (ADH) and then investigated for loading and release of a poorly water-soluble anti-cancer drug, curcumin (CUR). The CoFe2O4/GO-ADH-CMC bio-nanocomposite was characterized by FE–SEM/EDX, TEM, FT–IR, XRD, TGA, VSM, and zeta-potential techniques. The highest amount of drug loading was achieved as 23.7 mg g–1 at 323 K, pH 6.0, and 120 mg L–1 CUR concentration. The study of adsorption isotherms revealed that the Sips model was best fitted to the equilibrium data (R2 > 0.997), which indicated the contribution of both chemisorption and physisorption in drug loading. Furthermore, the release profile of CUR from drug-loaded CoFe2O4/GO-ADH-CMC was studied in mimicking the endosomal (pH = 5.6) and physiological (pH = 7.4) conditions. After 24 h, the maximum cumulative releases were found to be 86 and 38% at pH = 5.6 and 7.4, respectively. Also, the Peppas-Sahlin kinetic model was followed for the release data. The MTT assay exhibited good biocompatibility of the CoFe2O4/GO-ADH-CMC. The results implied that CoFe2O4/GO-ADH-CMC magnetic bio-nanocomposite might be utilized as a potentially safe carrier with the continuous and slow release of CUR.
Eye Surgery Applications Before and After the Covid-19 Outbreak
Authors: CETINKAYA Yasemin Fatma
Published: March 2022

Objective: As with any healthcare practice, elective surgeries had to be postponed since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. This study aimed to examine the characteristics of ophthalmology outpatients and eye surgery admissions during the COVID-19 pandemic and, also to compare the pandemic and re-pandemic periods.Methods:This retrospective study included patients admitted to the ophthalmology clinic of a tertiary hospital from April through June 2020. A similar control sample was formed using the registries from the same interval in the previous year. The primary endpoint was the number and distribution of type of surgical procedures (e.g., group A and group B surgery) during the pandemic. The secondary endpoint was the comparison between the pre-pandemic and pandemic period.Findings: A total of 116 operations were performed in 2020 (mean age: 42.3±25.6 years, male: 63.8%). In 2019, 873 surgeries were performed in the same period of the year (mean age: 56.6± 20.2 years, male: 48.8%), indicating a 86.7% decrease during the pandemic. While the proportion of group A surgeries was 10.3% in the total number in 2019, it was 25.9% in 2020 (p<0.001). The rate of group B surgeries also increased from 5.4% to 17.24% (p<0.001). Although the total number of surgeries decreased after the pandemic started, the rates of both A and B group surgeries increased significantly compared to the previous year.Conclusion: This study showed a striking reduction in eye surgery during the early period of the Covid-19 pandemic. However, an increase in trauma related surgeries were found during the pandemic.
Diatom-based ecologically water quality assessment of river Ganga in Western Himalayan region, India
Authors: Dimri Deepika , Sharma Archana
Published: March 2022

Most of the diatom-based indices have not been widely tested on Ganga river in Himalayan region. Diatom samples were collected from epirhithron, metarhithron and hyporhithron zone of river Ganga and 12 physicochemical parameters (pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, total hardness, dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand, sodium, potassium, nitrate, phosphate, sulphate) were measured during the field and laboratory studies. According to the results of the physicochemical analysis, elevated nutrient concentration (SO4− and NO3−) in hyporhithron zone are due to organic pollution resulting from agriculture activities, discharge of municipal and industrial wastewater and urban clusters. In epirhithron zone, richest species were Achnanthes sp. (54) followed by Nitzschia sp. (46) and Navicula sp. (35). The metarhithron zone had dominant species of Nitzschia sp. (58) followed by Diatoma vulgaris (54) and Navicula sp. (47), while Achnanthes sp. (81) showed maximum number followed by Nitzschia sp. (66) and Diatoma vulgaris (57). Furthermore, Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) identified five environmental variables (pH, SO4 − 2, NO3−, TDS, and EC) and their strong correlation with major diatom species. Shannon-Weiner diversity index, Simpson index and Margalef index showed moderately polluted sites under each ecological zone. Most of the applied diatom indices including, CEE, DESCY, IBD, IDSE, IDAP, IDP, IPS, SHE were effectively identified ecological status of Ganga river. This study suggests that the use of biotic indicators can provides useful information of the river health status and can be good indicators of Ganga river water quality. We recommend that attention can be paid towards use of biological indicators for water quality monitoring of river Ganga in Himalayan region in view of more detailed information on the use of foreign diatom indices.
Dosimetric Evaluation of a Hybrid Treatment Planning for Whole-Brain Radiation with Hippocampal Sparing
Authors: TOVAR ENRIQUE ADRIAN DE ATOCHA MARTIN , ALVARADO ANGELICA HERANDENY BADILLO , POOT LUIS ENRIQUE COCOM , SOSA JOSE LUIS GAXIOLA
Published: March 2022

Purpose
To investigate the effect of a Hybrid planning technique which results from combining intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and volumetric arc therapy (VMAT) for whole brain radiation therapy hippocampal-sparing (WBRT-HS).
Methods
Three types of plans were made for 15 patients, namely Hybrid, pure IMRT, and pure VMAT and retrospectively compared. All plans were made using the same contours based on the original computed tomography (CT) scans fused with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Plan quality was determined by calculating the conformity (CI) and homogeneity (HI) indices of planning target volumes (PTVs). The three types of plans were compared in terms of dose to organs at risk (OARs), number of monitor units (MUs), and treatment time.
Results
Hybrid plans showed improved homogeneity (p = 0.04) and conformity (p = 0.01) indices compared to IMRT and VMAT plans. In terms of hippocampus sparing, the Hybrid technique showed almost equal D100% and maximum dose (Dmax) values compared to the other techniques, but without statistical significance (p > 0.05); however, there was a significant difference for the left hippocampus, where the IMRT technique obtained the best result (p < 0.001). Regarding the dose delivered to the remaining OARs, MUs and treatment times, all values for the Hybrid plans were between those of IMRT and VMAT.
Conclusion
Compared to IMRT and VMAT plans, the Hybrid plan allowed a better conformity and homogeneity for the dose distribution in the PTV with intermediate dose values to the OARs.
Uracil-appended fluorescent sensor for Cu2+ and Hg2+ ions: Real-life utilities including recognition of Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) in milk products and invisible ink applications
Authors: Jindal Gitanjali , Kaur Navneet
Published: March 2022

A simple uracil-appended fluorescent sensor (1) has been developed by one pot reaction and characterized by using common spectroscopic methods such as UV-vis, Fluorescence, HRMS and FT-IR spectroscopies. Upon addition of various metal ions to the CH3CN solution of sensor 1, the fluorescence was quenched in the presence of Cu2+ / Hg2+ ions. The limit of detection for Cu2+ and Hg2+ was calculated to be 3.31 and 0.316 µM, respectively. Further, the sensor was applied for real-life applications in the determination of Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) and its presence in milk products. On the incorporation of different sources of vitamin-B to acetonitrile solution of it, there was discernible fluorescence enhancement only in the presence of vitamin B2. Also, it has been successfully applied for the detection of Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) in milk and curd. Moreover, based on the fluorescent color changes, the sensor was utilized for invisible ink applications.
Screen-Printed Biocompatible Ultrasensitive Electrochemical Sensor For Real-Time Detection Of Reactive Oxygen Species In Sweat
Authors: Liao Rui , Du Xiaosong , Zhai Zhiqiang , Wang Yang , Li Jun , Zheng Heng , Long Yin , Jiang Yadong
Published: March 2022

Excessive or burst production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) brings oxidative stress that leads to various vital diseases such as cancers, Parkinson’s disease and Ischemia-reperfusion damage, etc. However, traditional biological analysis of ROS based on separate procedure of capturing, labelling, and spectrometrically detecting is complicated and time-consuming, the accuracy of which was severely affected by the short lifespan (microseconds to milliseconds) of ROS, and thus, a fast and effective approach that allows for a real-time detection is highly desired. In this work, we have developed a printable CeO2 − x-CNTs-nanocomposite-based paste and fabricated an integrated flexible ROS sensor (IFRS) by directly printing the paste on a flexible polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate as both working electrode and sensing material. This IFRS device demonstrated the fast and real-time response to the hydrogen dioxide in lab as well as to total ROS in sweat of an adult, showing excellent current response to hydrogen oxide in the wide range of 0.01 to 10 mM with a limit of detection (LOD) reaching 1.85 µM. The superior sensitivity of the device to hydrogen oxide was found to be 136.59 \(\text{μA∙}{\text{mM}}^{\text{-1}}\text{∙}{\text{cm}}^{\text{-2}}\), 1.5 to 10 times higher than previously reported sensors. This IFRS device distinguished the instant ROS in the sweat of adult men in vitro, with amperometric response increased 8 times after half an hour strenuous exercise, exhibiting good selectivity and excellent stability together with confirmed high biosafety. Overall, our designed IFRS provides an applicable and translational feasibility toward the simple, rapid and real-time detection of ROS in the near future.
Veterinary Antimicrobials in Cattle Feedlot Environs and Irrigation Conveyances in a High-Intensity Agroecosystem in Southern Alberta, Canada
Authors: Sura Srinivas , Larney Francis J. , Charest Jollin , McAllister Tim A. , Headley John V. , Cessna Allan J.
Published: March 2022

The South Saskatchewan River Basin (SSRB) is considered one of the most intensively farmed regions in Canada, with high densities of livestock and expansive areas of irrigated cropland. We measured concentrations of seven veterinary antimicrobials (VAs) in 114 surface water samples from feedlot environs and 219 samples from irrigation conveyances in the SSRB. Overall, detection frequencies in feedlot environs were 100% for chlortetracycline (CTC) and tetracycline (TC), 94% for monensin (MON), 84% for tylosin (TYL), 72% for lincomycin (LIN), 66% for erythromycin (ERY), and 23% for sulfamethazine (SMZ). For irrigation conveyances, detection frequencies for CTC and TC remained high (94–100%), but dropped to 18% for ERY, 15% for TYL, 10% for MON, and 4% for SMZ. Lincomycin was not detected in irrigation conveyance water. High detection frequencies and median concentrations of VAs in both feedlot environs and irrigation conveyances were associated with high amounts of precipitation. However, an irrigation district (ID) with high livestock density (Lethbridge Northern) did not exhibit higher concentrations of VAs compared to IDs with less livestock, while levels of VAs in irrigation conveyances were less influenced by the degree of surface runoff. The ubiquity of CTC and TC in our study is likely a reflection of its widespread use in intensive livestock operations. Additional investigation is required to link environmental concentrations of VAs with livestock densities, and increase our understanding of potential antimicrobial resistance in high-intensity agroecosystems.
Developing A Third-Degree Burn Model Of Rat Using The Delphi Method
Authors: Chen Zhaoyan , Zeng Ya , Tian Fangyuan
Published: March 2022

Background: The animal experiment plays an essential role in advances on research and treatment of burn. Currently, researchers often rely on personal experience or the literatures to complete the construction of animal disease models, which may lead to the lack of scientific rigor and wide range of animal disease models the reference value. The purposes of this study were aimed to establish a third-degree burn model of rat using a Delphi method in China to provide a reference.Methods: Two rounds of Delphi expert consultation survey was conducted on experts (n=15) in this study, and then used the boundary value method to screen, modify and supplement the indicators. Next, determined the index weight by analytic hierarchy process, and finally the index system of the rat model of third-degree burn was established.Results: Statistical analysis results show that the positive coefficients of the two rounds of expert consultation are 83.33% and 88.67% respectively. The expert authority coefficient values were 0.73 and 0.67 respectively, and the expert coordination coefficient test was P<0.001. According to experts' suggestion, the third-degree burn model of rats with 8 first-degree indexes, 14 second-degree indexes and 46 third-degree indexes was finally established.Conclusions: According to the characteristics and quality requirements of my country's animal models, this study constructs a rat model of third degree burns, which is expected to expressively improve the overall proficiency of burn research quality.
A rapid and high sensitivity RNA detection based on NASBA and G4-ThT fluorescent biosensor
Authors: Jia Guoshuai , Xu Xiaomeng , Guo Zengdan , Hu Xingxing , Pan Qi , Zhu Hanbing , Yi Wang
Published: March 2022

In recent years, various newly emerged and re-emerged RNA viruses have seriously threatened the global public health. There is a pressing need for rapid and reliable nucleic acid–based assays for detecting Viral RNA. Here, we successfully developed a highly sensitive, easy-to-operate G4-ThT-NASBA system to detect RNA that no need for labeled primers and probes. Next, we tested the system for detecting the Classical Swine Fever Virus (CSFV), an RNA virus that causes a highly contagious disease in domestic pigs and wild boar and easily causes huge economic losses. Results showed that the system, integrated the G4-ThT fluorescent biosensor and NASBA(Nuclear acid sequence-based amplification),is capable to detect as little as 2 copies/μL of viral RNA without interfering by other swine viral RNA. Moreover, we were able to detect CSF viral RNA within 2h in serum samples taken from the field in a real-time mode. These findings indicate that the G4-ThT-NASBA system is a rapid, high sensitivity and easy-to-operate technique for RNA detection. The method also has the real-time detection capability which is easily integrated in a highly automated system such as microfluidic chips.
Structure Optimization and Preparation of Power System Grounding Grid Based on Similarity Data Analysis Algorithm
Authors: An Yunzhu , HU Yuanchao , HUANG Tao , Jeon Seunggil , DU Changqing , HU Shangmao
Published: March 2022

The grounding grid of power equipment is the most basic overvoltage protection device for the power system. Before the design and construction of the power grounding grid, the power system generally uses a scaled-down model to verify the characteristics of the grounding grid. As the types and structures of grounding materials become more and more complex, there are one or more similar items in the grounding simulation test that cannot be scaled down. This paper takes the similarity test of a new type of grounding material-flexible graphite composite grounding material as an example. Firstly, the complete similarity theory of grounding simulation test is deduced. Secondly, the source of similar distortion items is analyzed. Then, the distortion error of different similar items is analyzed. Finally, the distortion similarity test of the flexible graphite composite grounding material is taken as an example to verify the test error influence of the distortion similarity item of the grounding simulation. The research results of this paper can provide reference for grounding simulation test, and at the same time, it can be applied to similar tests in other fields.
Distribution of SOCD along different offshore distances in China's fresh-water lake-Chaohu under different habitats
Authors: Yao Xiaojie , Wang Jingjing , Xie Xinyun , Dan Jiang , Xu Xiaoniu
Published: March 2022

Carbon storage in wetland ecosystems is an important part of the carbon cycle of terrestrial ecosystems and provides important ecosystem services. Chaohu Wetland is a typical freshwater lake wetland in China.In this study, soil and plant samples were collected every 500m through three sample lines of different vegetation habitats (estuarine banks, woodlands and shrub beaches) and different offshore distances, revealing the spatial distribution characteristics of soil organic carbon density in Chaohu wetland. The results show that: 1) The overall SOCD of Chaohu Lake wetland is low, the soil carbon density of different habitats is Woodland༞Estuary and riverside༞Shrub and beach, and the SOCD of different offshore distances has no obvious law, and the SOCD content decreases significantly with the deepening of the soil layer; 2) The plant biomass of the Woodland habitat is significantly higher than that of other habitats, and its soil nutrient indicators are also the highest, and the Estuary-riverside habitat has the highest N and P content. Soil and plant nutrients at different offshore distances have no obvious changes; 3) The contents of soil K, Ca, Mg, and N are significantly positively correlated with SOCD, soil bulk density and pH are significantly negatively correlated with SOCD, and vegetation P content is significantly negatively correlated with SOCD. In a comprehensive understanding, the SOCD changes in different spaces of lake wetlands are the result of the combined effects of plant nutrients, biomass, and soil physical and chemical properties. Chaohu wetlands may experience serious degradation. This research provides scientific and technical support for the restoration, protection and scientific management of the Chaohu wetland ecosystem.
Non-POU Domain-Containing Octamer-Binding (NONO) Protein Stability Regulated by PIN1 is Crucial for Breast Cancer Tumorigenicity Via the MAPK/β-Catenin Pathway
Authors: Lone Bilal Ahmad , Siraj Fouzia , Sharma Ira , Ahmad Faiz , Nagar Preeti , Pokharel Yuba Raj
Published: March 2022

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers with high mortality, highlighting the vital need to identify new therapeutic targets. Here we report that Non-POU Domain-Containing Octamer-Binding Protein (NONO) is overexpressed in breast cancers and validated the interaction between the WW domain of PIN1 and c-terminal Threonine-Proline (thr-pro) motifs of NONO. Interestingly, the interaction of NONO with PIN1 is essential for its stability. Functionally, silencing of NONO inhibits the growth, survival, migration and invasion, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and stemness of breast cancer cells. Biochemical analysis indicated NONO as a master regulator of the molecules associated with different hallmarks of cancer. Mechanistically, depletion of NONO promotes the expression of PDL1 cell surface protein in breast cancer cells, besides inhibiting the MAPK/β-catenin pathway; and the interaction of NONO with c-Jun and β-catenin proteins displays its role in regulating the oncogenic behavior of cancer cells. Taken together, our results demonstrated an essential role of NONO in the tumorigenicity of breast cancer and could be a potential target for anti-cancerous drugs.
Novel ZrO2-Glycine Nanocomposite As Eco-Friendly High Temperature Corrosion Inhibitor For Mild Steel In Hydrochloric Acid Solution
Authors: Aslam Ruby , Mobin Mohammad , Shoeb M. , Aslam Jeenat
Published: March 2022

We report the green synthesis of novel ZrO2-Glycine nanocomposite (ZrO2-Gly NC) followed by its characterization using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transforms infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, SEM/EDX, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques. Further, the inhibition effect of the varying concentration of ZrO2-Gly NC on the corrosion of mild steel in 1M HCl was investigated by weight loss and electrochemical measurements at 40-80°C. The percentage inhibition efficacy of NC increased with the increase of concentration and temperature and reached about 81% at 500 ppm at 70°C which decreased slightly (73.5%) at 80 °C. According to the polarization measurements, the investigated ZrO2-Gly NC works as a mixed inhibitor. Also, the adsorption isotherm analysis indicated that the adsorption was spontaneous and followed the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. Furthermore, the contact angle measurement revealed the water-repelling property of the investigated inhibitor. The surface morphological study via SEM-EDS micrograph affirmed the adsorption of ZrO2-Gly NC on the surface of the mild steel.
The Impact of Pulmonary Rehabilitation on the Quality of Life in Schoolchildren with Cystic Fibrosis “Pulmonary Rehabilitation and Quality of Life in CF”
Authors: Hadi Nazanin , farahani azam shirin abadi , nourian manije , nasiri malihe
Published: March 2022

Background
Cystic fibrosis is the most common type of severe chromosomal disease among white people. The disease affects several systems, mainly impacting the lungs. The children with cystic fibrosis have a poor quality of life. Self-management programs such as pulmonary rehabilitation can improve the quality of life. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of pulmonary rehabilitation on the quality of life in the schoolchildren with cystic fibrosis referring to Tehran Children's Medical Center.
Methods
The present study is a clinical trial in which the samples were randomly placed in two groups of 35, the intervention and the control group. The child demographic information and the Revised Cystic Fibrosis Questionnaire (CFQ-R) were used. In this study, the parent’s version was used for 6 to 11-year-old children and the child’s version for 11 to 13-year-old children as a self-report. In the intervention group, during 6 weeks, 12 sessions were held. Then, the CFQ-R was filled out, immediately and 8 weeks after the intervention. The results were analyzed using SPSS V25, considering a significant level.
Results
According to ANOVA, a significant difference was observed in the mean total scores of the quality of life between the two groups, immediately and 8 weeks after the intervention (P-value < 0.001). In addition, intra-group comparisons show that the impact of time was significant in the intervention group (P-value < 0.001).
Conclusions
Since the difference prior to the intervention and after it was significant, this method can improve the quality of life.
Application to practice
: This technique can be used as a nursing intervention in clinical contexts for children who are sick.
Trial registration number:
IRCT20161024030474N4
Date registration:
2019
Diagnostic and Prognostic Value of Urine Biomarkers among Women with Dysfunctional Voiding
Authors: Kuo Hann-Chorng , Jiang Yuan-Hong , Jhang Jia-Fong , Ho Han-Chen , Hsu Yung-Hsiang
Published: March 2022

The current study aimed to investigate the diagnostic and prognostic value of urine biomarkers among female patients with DV. Urine samples were collected from 43 female patients with DV and 25 controls. Oxidative stress biomarker (8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine [8-OHdG], 8-isoprostane, and [total antioxidant capacity (TAC)]) and inflammatory marker (interleukin-1 beta [IL-1β], IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, tumor necrosis factor alpha, nerve growth factor, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor) levels were analyzed. In total, 26 patients with DV received further treatment with biofeedback pelvic floor muscle exercise or external urethral sphincter botulinum toxin A injections. Patients with DV had significantly higher urine 8-OHdG, IL-1β, IL-8, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels than controls. Both urine 8-OHdG and IL-1β levels were positively correlated with clinical symptoms. Patients with DV who had successful treatment outcomes had significantly lower pretreatment urine 8-isoprostane and TAC levels than those with unsuccessful outcomes. The pretreatment urine TAC level was the only independent predictor of successful treatment outcomes (odds ratio: 0.995). Compared with controls, female patients with DV had distinct urine oxidative stress biomarker and inflammatory marker profiles, which also mapped their clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes. These urine analytes might have diagnostic and prognostic values among female patients with DV.
Albumin and infection following a procedure: a Mendelian Randomization study
Authors: Tang Yanchao , Wei Feng , Yu Miao , Zhou Hua , Wang Yongqiang , Cui Zhiyong , Liu Xiaoguang
Published: March 2022

Background
Serum albumin concentration had been proposed to be an important changeable factor increasing the risk of infection following a procedure, and a perioperative albumin supplementation was recommended in some clinical scenarios. However, the results of the published epidemiological observational studies on these hypotheses are still inconclusive. Here, we performed a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to investigate the causal effect of albumin on infection following a procedure using publically available genome-wide association studies (GWAS) summary statistics.
Methods
A series of quality control steps were taken in our analysis to select eligible instrumental single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) which were strongly associated with exposure. To make the conclusions more robust and reliable, we utilized several robust analytical methods (inverse-variance weighted, MR-Egger regression, and Weighted median method) that are based on different assumptions of two-sample MR analysis. The Cochran’s Q test, MR- Pleiotropy RESidual Sum and Outlier (PRESSO) global test, MR-Egger intercept test, and “leave-one-out” sensitivity analysis were performed to evaluate the heterogeneity, horizontal pleiotropy, and stability of these genetic variants on outcome. Outlier variants were removed step-by-step to reduce heterogeneity and the effect of horizontal pleiotropy if identified by the MR-PRESSO outlier test.
Results
Our two-sample MR analysis with one group of exposure GWAS summary statistics and two groups of outcome GWAS summary statistics did not suggest the causal effect of increased/decreased albumin concentration on infection following a procedure. We did not observe the evidence of heterogeneity or directional pleiotropy. There was no potentially influential SNP driving the causal link under “leave-one-out” analysis and the result was stable.
Conclusions
Our MR analysis did not support the causal effect of albumin on infection following a procedure. The result was robust based on several analytical methods. Perioperative albumin supplementation was questionable and should be investigated with more randomized controlled trials.
Intraoperative visualization of a deformed left main stent – left main revascularization is still a topic of discussion
Authors: Müller Philipp Patrick , Heim Christian , Weyand Michael , Harig Frank
Published: March 2022

Background:Coronary artery disease remains the leading cause of mortality in industrialized countries. Treatment options for patients requiring revascularization are constantly re-evaluated by both cardiologists and cardiac surgeons to find an optimal strategy for affected patients. While coronary artery bypass grafting is typically considered first choice for the treatment of left main stenosis, there is a trend towards left main stenting due to a steadily aging population in western countries with a high operative risk and patients with single vessel coronary artery disease affecting the left main artery. Nevertheless left main stenting remains controversial, especially in patients with concomitant indications for open-heart surgery. Case presentation:We want to present a case of a 78-year-old male patient with high-grade aortic stenosis who underwent surgical aortic valve replacement at our heart center due to anatomical contraindications for transcatheter aortic valve replacement. Stenting of the left main coronary artery was performed three years earlier due to single vessel coronary artery disease while moderate aortic valve stenosis was under surveillance at the time of the intervention. Intraoperatively we found the stent to be deformed in the left main coronary artery, covering nearly 25% of the left coronary ostium, consequently cardioplegia for myocardial protection was applied retrograde through the coronary sinus. Conclusion: While left main stenting can be reasonable for a specific population of patients, it should be used cautiously in patients with concomitant indications for open-heart surgery in the near future and a low perioperative risk profile. Coronary artery bypass grafting remains the treatment option of choice for patients with left main stenosis especially in those with a low operative risk and other indications for heart surgery. Clear recommendations for patients with left main stenosis and coexisting moderate aortic valve stenosis are required in future guidelines to improve the long-term outcome for affected patients.
Angiogenic Factor-Based Signature Predicts Prognosis and Immunotherapy Response in Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Gu Xinpei , Chu Liuxi , Kang Yanlan
Published: March 2022

Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is one of the most common malignancies, and specific molecular targets are still lacking. Angiogenesis plays a central regulatory role in the growth and metastasis of malignant tumor. Angiogenic factors (AFs) are involved. Although there are many studies comparing AFs and cancer, a prognostic risk model for AFs and cancer in humans has not been reported in the literature. This study aimed to identify the key AFs closely related to the process of NSCLC development, and four genes have been found, C1QTNF6, SLC2A1, PTX3, FSTL3. Then we constructed a novel prognostic risk model based on these four genes in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and fully analyzed the relationship with clinical features, immune infiltration, genomes and predictors. This model had good discrimination and calibration and will perform well for predicting the prognosis of treatment in clinical practice.
Serum Nitric Oxide Metabolites (Nox) for Prognosis of Cardiovascular Death and Acute Myocardial Infarction in An ESSE-RF Case-Control Cohort with 6.5 Year Follow Up
Authors: Gumanova Nadezhda G. , Bogdanova Natalya L. , Metelskaya Victoria A. , Tarasov Vladimir I. , Kots Alexander Ya. , Kontsevaya Anna V. , Kutsenko Vladimir , Drapkina Oxana M.
Published: March 2022

Aims. The goal of the present case-control study was to assess associations of a panel of routine and experimental biomarkers with the risk for cardiovascular death and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in a cohort recruited from the multicenter study “Cardiovascular Epidemiology in Russian Federation” (ESSE-RF).Methods and Results. A total of 222 subjects included cardiovascular death (N=48) and AMI cases (N=63) detected during 6.5-year follow up with corresponding numbers of matched healthy controls. The levels of 15 routine and experimental biochemical markers were assayed to analyze associations with the outcomes using logistic and Cox proportional hazard regressions validated by comparison between various groups to assess the estimated hazard ratio (eHR). Elevated levels of cardiac troponin I (cTnI), C-reactive protein (CRP), and metabolites of nitric oxide (NOx) were independently associated (P<0.001) with a higher risk of cardiovascular death in various models with adjusted eHRs ranging from 1.83 to 3.74. Elevated levels of NOx and cTnI were significantly (P<0.001) and independently associated with a higher risk of nonfatal AMI with eHR ranging from 1.78 to 2.67. Elevated levels of angiopoietin-like protein 3 (ANGPTL3) were significantly (P<0.001) and independently associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular death in certain models (eHRs from 0.09 to 0.16) and a higher risk of nonfatal AMI (eHR 2.07; P=0.01).Conclusion. Subsequent large scale validation studies should focus on the investigation of predictive impact of cTnI, NOx, CRP, and ANGPTL3 for the development of nationwide recommendations for individual baseline stratification of patients with potential cardiovascular risks.
Parkinson's Disease With Mild Cognitive Impairment May Has A Lower Risk Of Cognitive Decline After Subthalamic Nucleus Deep Brain Stimulation: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: xie hutao , Bai Yutong , Jiang Yin , Zhang Jianguo
Published: March 2022

Objective: The cognitive outcomes induced by subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (STN-DBS) remain unclear, especially in PD patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). This study explored the cognitive effects of STN-DBS in PD patients with MCI.Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study that included 126 PD patients who underwent STN-DBS; all patients completed cognitive and motor assessments before and at least 6 months after surgery. Cognitive changes were mainly evaluated by the Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) scale and the seven specific MoCA domains, including visuospatial, executive function, naming, attention, language, abstract, delayed recall, and orientation. Motor improvement was evaluated by the UPDRS-III. Cognitive changes and motor improvements were compared between PD-MCI and normal cognitive (NC) patients. Logistic regression analyses were performed to explore predictors of postoperative cognitive change. Results: At the time of surgery, 61.90% of the included PD patients had MCI. Compared with the PD-MCI group, the PD-NC group had a significantly higher proportion of cases with postoperative cognitive decline during follow-up of up to 36 months (mean 17.34 ± 10.61 months), including in global cognitive function, attention, memory, visuospatial, and executive function. Covariate-adjusted binary logistic regression analyses showed that preoperative global cognitive status was an independent variable for postoperative cognitive decline. We also found that preoperative cognitive specific function could predict its own decline after STN-DBS, except for the naming and orientation domains.Conclusion: PD-MCI patients are at a lower risk of cognitive decline after STN-DBS compared with PD-NC patients before surgery.
Evaluation of the Global Lung Function Initiative 2012 Reference Values for Spirometry in an Iranian Population
Authors: Sahebi Leyla , Rahimi Besharat , Shariat Mamak , Mousavy Seyyed Hosein
Published: March 2022

Background
Spirometry is an important measurement in detecting and monitoring of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The validity of the multi-ethnic GLI-2012 spirometric norms has been debated in some countries.
Aim
The aim of the present study was to evaluate the applicability of the GLI reference norms in the Iranian population.
Method
A cross-sectional study was performed on 622 healthy non-smoker population (204 males and 418 females, age range: 4 ± 82 years) between July 16 and August 27, 2019 in Iran. Z-scores for spirometric data (FEV1 (forced expiratory volume in one second), FVC (forced vital capacity) FEV1/FVC, and FEF25 − 75% (Forced expiratory flow averaged over the middle portion of FVC) were calculated. According to the agreement approved, a mean Z-score outside the range of ± 0.5 was considered as clinically significant.
Result
The mean (SD) Z-score values of FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC and FEF25 − 75% were 0.44(1.21), 0.49(1.14), 0.11(1.03), and − 1.13(0.99) in males and 0.61(1.14), 0.89(1.26), 0.17(0.88) and-0.49 (0.96) in females, respectively. The Z-score of FEV1/FVC was below the Lower Limit of Normal (LLN) in 3.43% of men and 2.01% of women (in ≥ 21 years), while these values were significantly higher in people under 21 years old.
Conclusion
The GLI reference values are not perfect for the Iranian population, especially in children below 10 years old and women. The use of the GLI reference values was appropriate in population above 21 years; however, they would overestimate the prevalence of airway obstruction in individuals below 21 years.
Impact of Aqueous Micellar Media on Biocatalytic Transformations Involving Transaminase (ATA); Applications to Chemoenzymatic Catalysis
Authors: Dussart-Gautheret Jade , Yu Julie , Ganesh Krithika , Rajendra Gaikwad , Gallou Fabrice , Lipshutz Bruce
Published: March 2022

Surfactant-enabled asymmetric ATA-catalyzed reductive aminations in aqueous buffered media are described, representative of the enhanced levels of conversion made possible by the presence of a nonionic surfactant in the water, thereby minimizing enzymatic inhibition and enabling 1-pot chemoenzymatic catalysis. Several applications are described highlighting these modified conditions that involve both biocatalysis and chemocatalysis that are environmentally responsible, indicative of the possibilities using chemistry in water. Also included herein is technology for converting a racemic benzylic alcohol to a nonracemic primary amine, and an especially efficient synthesis of the pharmaceutical (S)-rivastigmine.
Development Of A Detection System For ESR1 Mutations In Circulating Tumour DNA Using PNA-LNA-Mediated PCR Clamping
Authors: Kojima Yuki , Noguchi Emi , Yoshino Tomomi , Yagishita Shigehiro , Yazaki Shu , Okuma Hitomi S , Nishikawa Tadaaki , Tanioka Maki , Sudo Kazuki , Shimoi Tatsunori , Kazama Ayaka , Terasaki Hiroshi , Asano Sachiro , Fujiwara Yasuhiro , Hamada Akinobu , Tamura Kenji , Yonemori Kan
Published: March 2022

Background: ESR1 gene mutations are an essential mechanism of resistance to endocrine therapy in patients with oestrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. ESR1 mutations can exist at multiple sites and are typically detected polyclonally after endocrine therapy. The use of circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) is a less invasive and less expensive method for assessing ESR1 mutations. Adequate amounts of DNA are required to assess polyclonal ESR1 mutations using next-generation sequencing (NGS). The aim of this study was to develop a method to assess polyclonal ESR1 mutations in blood samples.Methods: We developed a novel detection system to screen for ESR1-activated mutations in ctDNA by combining a peptide nucleic acid and locked nucleic acid polymerase chain reaction (PNA-LNA PCR) clamping assay for detection of the most common mutations: E380Q, Y537S, and D538G. Other mutations in codons 536-538 were detected by direct sequencing of the amplified product following clamp PCR. A validation assay was prospectively performed on clinical samples and compared with the NGS results. Results: The PNA-LNA PCR clamp assay was validated using six blood samples in which ESR1 mutations were detected by NGS and four samples in which no mutations were detected. Results of the PNA-LNA assay were comparable with those of NGS. We prospectively assessed the concordance between the PNA-LNA PCR clamp method and NGS. Using the PNA-LNA PCR clamp method, ESR1 mutations were detected in 5 of 18 samples, including those in which mutations were not detected by NGS due to the small amount of ctDNA.Conclusions: The PNA-LNA PCR clamping method is a highly sensitive and minimally invasive assay for the detection of polyclonal ESR1 mutations in the ctDNA of patients with breast cancer.
Expansion of Fibroblast Cell Sheets Using a Modified MEEK Micrografting Technique for Wound Healing Applications
Authors: Benchaprathanphorn Kanokaon , Sakulaue Phongphot , Siriwatwechakul Wanwipa , Muangman Pornprom , Chinaroonchai Kusuma , Namviriyachote Nantaporn , Viravaidya-Pasuwat Kwanchanok
Published: March 2022

One of many challenges in wound treatment is to provide sufficient wound area coverage to protect against pathogens and speed up the wound healing process. Recently, cell sheet engineering has shown promise in treating deep wounds. Unfortunately, the cell sheet size is too small for practical use. To overcome this limitation, the MEEK micrografting technique, currently being used in the treatment of extensive deep burns, was investigated. This technique was modified and applied to enlarge dermal fibroblast cell sheets, constructed using temperature-responsive PNIAM-co-AM graft copolymer, by transforming the intact cell sheets into small cell islands at expansion ratios of 1:3, 1:6 and 1:9. Afterwards, cell mechanisms essential for wound healing, including reattachment, proliferation, and migration were investigated. The fibroblast cells on MEEK gauzes possessed high cell viability, capable of reattachment and migration. The optimal expansion ratio having the highest migration rate was 1:6, possibly due to an effective intercellular communication distance. Therefore, the combination of cell sheet engineering with the MEEK micrografting technique could provide high quality cells with a large coverage area, which would be particularly beneficial in wound care applications.
Research on Modified High-performance Cement Mortar of Prefabricated Buildings Based on Orthogonal Test
Authors: Yuan Chengbin , Cai Yu , Gu Qiang , Sang Di
Published: March 2022

In order to improve the construction technology level of the connection nodes of prefabricated hydraulic structures, and improve the mechanical properties, fluidity and economy of the connection mortar, this paper adopts the orthogonal experimental design to improve the cement mortar by adding polymer dispersible polymer powder. sex. A modified high-performance mortar with a compressive strength of 10 MPa, a fluidity of 90 mm and a final compressive strength grade of M25 was studied. The factors and levels of the orthogonal test are: mortar ratio 1:3、1:4、1:5; silica powder content of 4%、6%、8%; dispersible polymer powder content of 3%、5%、7%. After research, the optimal mixing ratio of modified high-performance mortar is 1:3, the content of silicon powder is 6%, the content of redispersible latex powder is 3%, the content of early strength water reducing agent is 0.1%, and the content of defoamer is 0.5%. The experimental verification is also carried out. This new type of modified high-performance cement mortar provides a new idea for the connection material of prefabricated hydraulic structures, which is of great significance for improving the integrity of prefabricated hydraulic structures and the durability of the connection.
Phagocytosing differentiated cell-fragments is a novel mechanism for controlling somatic stem cell differentiation within a short time frame
Authors: Wakao Shohei , Oguma Yo , Kushida Yoshihiro , Kuroda Yasumasa , Tatsumi Kazuki , Dezawa Mari
Published: March 2022

Stem cells undergo cytokine-driven differentiation; however, this process often takes longer than several weeks to complete. A novel mechanism for somatic stem cell differentiation via phagocytosing ‘model cells’ (apoptotic differentiated cells) was found to only require a short time frame. Pluripotent-like Muse cells, multipotent mesenchymal stem cells, and neural stem cells phagocytosed apoptotic differentiated cells via different phagocytic receptor subsets than macrophages. The phagocytosed-differentiated cellderived contents (e.g. transcription factors) were quickly released into the cytoplasm, translocated into the nucleus and bound to promoter regions of the stem cell genomes. Within 24~36 h, the cells expressed lineage-specific markers corresponding to the phagocytosed-differentiated cells, both in vitro and in vivo . At one week, the gene expression profiles were similar to those of the authentic differentiated cells and expressed functional markers. Differentiation was limited to the inherent potential of each cell line: triploblastic-, adipogenic-/chondrogenic-, and neural-lineages, respectively. Disruption of phagocytosis, either by phagocytic receptor inhibition via small interfering RNA or Annexin V treatment, impeded differentiation in vitro and in vivo . Collectively, our study uncovers a simple way to directly transfer differentiation-directing factors to trigger rapid differentiation of somatic stem cells into the target cell lineage.
Occurrence And Seasonal Disparity Of Emerging Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals In A Drinking Water Supply System And Associated Health Risk
Authors: Kumawat Manoj , Sharma Poonam , Pal Namrata , James Meenu Mariya , Verma Vinod , Tiwari Rajnarayan R , Shubham Swasti , Sarma Devojit Kumar , Kumar Manoj
Published: March 2022

Contamination of drinking water with endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) raisesconcerns over the security and long-term sustainability of clean water supplies as well ashuman exposure via daily water intake. In this study, the seasonal disparity and occurrence ofsix phthalates and bisphenol A in the drinking water supply system and associated health risk wereexamined. DEHP was the most prevalent phthalate esters congener ranging from 1.14 - 8351.85 µg/L(winter) and 0.552 - 410.29 µg/L (summer) surpassing the permissible limit.Meanwhile, BPA concentrations were found under the permissible limit. The results suggested that PAEsconcentration displayed significant seasonal variations with the highest in winter and thelowest in the summer.The exposure toPAEs and BPA from drinking water was assessed, and the results indicated a possible healthrisk to humans with a Hazard Quotient (HQ) for DEHP.The findings necessitate an immediate scrutiny of these EDCs indrinking water supply system and are critical for implementing effective technologies at theWTP scale to ensure the quality and safety of drinking water in order to ascertain human andenvironmental health.
Mechanical Stress Protects Against Chondrocyte Pyroptosis through Lipoxin A4 via Synovial Macrophage M2 Subtype Polarization in an Osteoarthritis Model
Authors: Shen Peng , Jia Shuangshuo , Wang Yang , Zhou Xiaonan , Zhang Delong , Jin Zhuangzhuang , Wang Ziyuan , Liu Donghao , Bai Lunhao , Yang Yue
Published: March 2022

Our previous study found that lipoxin A4 (LXA4) exerted therapeutic effects on osteoarthritis (OA). In this study, we evaluated the effects of LXA4 via synovial macrophage M1/M2 subtype polarization on chondrocyte pyroptosis and mechanisms during mechanical stimulation. Synovial macrophages were subjected to various LXA4 concentrations and cyclic tensile strain (CTS) conditions to determine optimal co-culture conditions. The effects of LXA4 on chondrocyte pyroptosis, as represented by macrophage M1/M2 subtype polarization, were detected by western blot, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry analyses. Forty male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 10): control group (CG), OA group (OAG), OA with moderate-intensity treadmill exercise (OAE), and OAE + BOC-2 (an LXA4 antagonist). All rats were evaluated using histology, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), quantitative PCR, and western blot analyses. We found that LXA4 was downregulated in articular fluid and that CD 86/Arg 1 was up-regulated in the synovium of patients with increasing Kellgren-Lawrence grade. In vitro, CTS and LXA4 both promoted M2 subtype polarization of synovial macrophages, inhibiting the nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 and the NLRP3 formation in chondrocytes. In vivo, the OAE treatment exerted protective effects on articular cartilage and facilitated M2 polarization of synovial macrophages. These effects were suppressed by BOC-2 treatment. We concluded that moderate CTS enhances the therapeutic effects of LXA4 by inhibiting the nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 and NLRP3. Furthermore, the therapeutic effects of LXA4 during treadmill exercise in monoiodoacetate-induced OA were driven by promotion of synovial macrophage M2 subtype polarization.