bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
No-reference image quality assessment with multi-scale weighted residuals and channel attention mechanism
Authors: Wang Changzhong , Lv Xiang , Ding Weiping , Fan Xiaodong
Published: February 2022

Image is an important information source for human perception and machine pattern recognition. Image quality determines the accuracy and sufficiency of the information obtained. With the rapid development of deep learning in image processing, no-reference image quality assessment (NR-IQA) plays a significant role. Currently, most NR-IQA methods mainly use the global features of images without paying attention to the detail-rich local features and the dependencies between channels. There are subtle differences in detail between distorted and reference images, and the contribution of different channels to image quality assessment differs. Additionally, multi-scale feature extraction can be used to fuse the detailed information of images with different resolutions. The combination of global and local features plays a vital role in extracting image features. Therefore, a multi-scale residual convolutional neural network with an attention mechanism (MsRCANet) is proposed for NR-IQA. First, the network extracts global features and processes local features. Specifically, a multi-scale residual block is used to extract features from distorted images. Then, the residual learning with active weighted mapping strategy and channel attention mechanism is used to further process image features to obtain more abundant high-frequency information. Finally, the fusion strategy and full connection layer are used to evaluate the quality of the proposed network. The experimental results on four synthetic databases and three in-the-wild IQA databases, as well as validation results on cross-database, show that the proposed method has good generalization ability and can be compared with the most advanced methods.
A Novel 6-DOF Force-Sensed Human-Robot Interface for an Intuitive Bilateral Teleoperation
Authors: Liu Xin-Jun , Li Zihao , Xie Fugui , Ye Yanlei , Li Peng
Published: February 2022

The teleoperation of a 6 degrees-of-freedom (DOF) manipulator is one of the basic methods to extend people’s capabilities in the wide variety of applications. The master interface based on the force/torque (FT) sensor could provide the full-dimension intuitive bilateral teleoperation of a 6-DOF robot since it has the ability to trigger 6-DOF command input. However, due to the force coupling, noise disturbance and unlimited input values of the FT sensor, this forces-sensed interface could not be widely used in practice. In this paper, we present an intuitive teleoperation method based on the force-sensed sensor from mechanical design and input force signal process to overcome these challenges. In this method, the input signals from the force-sensed joystick were filtered and then processed to the force commands by force limit algorithm, with the merits of anti-interference, output limitation, and online velocity adjustment. Furthermore, based on the admittance control and position controller, the manipulator could be teleoperated by the force commands. Three experiments were conducted on our self-designed robotic system. The result of the first experiment shows that the interfered force from the force coupling could be effectively suppressed with the limitation of the input force through force limit algorithm. Then, a parameter was introduced in the other two experiments to adjust the velocity online practically with force limit algorithm. The proposed method could give a practical solution to the bilateral teleoperation based on the FT sensor.
Anomalous phase transformation behavior and hyperfine ferromagnetism inCo; results from perturbed angular correlation spectroscopy corroborated byab-initio calculations
Authors: Dey C. C. , Sewak R. , Toprek D.
Published: February 2022

Temperature dependent phase transformation behavior in Co from hcp to fcc has been found to be contradictory to that reported earlier. It is found that hcp phase stabilizes at both low and high temperature (∼873 K)while fcc phase is stabilized at ∼500 K. At 298 K, hcp Co has been found to be predominant (∼70%) where hcp magnetic phase is ∼60%. At 973 K, hcp phase is again predominant (∼73%), but it is mainly the non-magnetic phase (∼67%). Contrary to present results, it was found earlier that fcc phase was stabilized at high temperature and hcp to fcc transformation occured at ∼700 K. Theoretical models show that non-magneticfcc phase is more stable than non-magnetic hcp phase and presence of magnetism destabilizes the fcc phaseat low temperature. Present results from perturbed angular correlation measurements, therefore, requires anew theoretical interpretation for Co phase transformation. From present measurements, hyperfine magneticfields in Co at room temperature for the hcp and fcc phases have been found to be 18.7(6) and 12.8(3) T, much lower than earlier reported results. The hyperfine magnetic fields at 181Ta impurity atom have been calculated by density functional theory (DFT) employing the full potential (linearized) augmented plane wave method (FP-LAPW). Present calculated results for both hcp and fcc phases corroborate our experimental results.
The Impact of Splenectomy on Human Lipid Metabolism
Authors: Gunes Orgun , Turgut Emre , Bag Yusuf , Gundoğan Ersin , Aydın Mehmet Can , Sumer Fatih , Kayaalp Cuneyt
Published: February 2022

Background Splenectomy impacts hematological, immunological and metabolic functions of the patient. Since our understanding of its metabolic effects, in particular effects on lipid metabolism, are limited, this study aims to investigate the effects of splenectomy on lipid metabolism.MethodsThe data from 316 patients undergoing splenectomy between 2009 and 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Thirty-eight patients whose blood lipid values ​​were measured both preoperatively and one year after surgery were included in the study.Results Significantly higher levels of total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein were found in the post – splenectomy measurements. However, no significant differences were recorded in levels of triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein, or very-low-density lipoprotein.ConclusionWe determined that splenectomy does impact lipid metabolism and that the metabolic effects of splenectomy should be further investigated.
On the Outage Performance of Decode–and– Forward Based Relay Ordering in Cognitive Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: S DEVIPRIYA
Published: February 2022

In this paper, the issue of secondary network access in cognitive wireless sensor networks (CWSN) is investigated. An efficient scheme (in terms of both power and spectrum) named Decode-and-Forward based multi-relay scheme with relay ordering (DF-MRRO) is proposed for secondary network access. More important, this scheme is used to enhance the performance of secondary network. In an effort to assess the performance, the received signal-to interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR) of both the primary and secondary links are derived, from which new exact closed-form expressions for the outage probability of primary and secondary networks are derived. Moreover, the diversity order is calculated for both the primary and secondary network. It is also shown that full diversity order can be achieved if the condition of power requirement is satisfied. Finally, simulation results obtained for the outage performance of the proposed scheme in primary and secondary networks prove the effectiveness of the proposed scheme. It also demonstrates that a maximum of 7dB SNR gain can be achieved in the proposed DF-MRRO scheme.
Neuromaps: structural and functional interpretation of brain maps
Authors: Misic Bratislav , Markello Ross , Hansen Justine , Liu Zhen-Qi , Bazinet Vincent , Shafiei Golia , Suarez Laura , Blostein Nadia , Seidlitz Jakob , Baillet Sylvain , Satterthwaite Theodore , Chakravarty M. Mallar , Raznahan Armin
Published: February 2022

Imaging technologies are increasingly used to generate high-resolution reference maps of brain structure and function. Modern scientific discovery relies on making comparisons between new maps (e.g. task activations, group structural differences) and these reference maps. Although recent data sharing initiatives have increased the accessibility of such brain maps, data are often shared in disparate coordinate systems (or "spaces"), precluding systematic and accurate comparisons among them. Here we introduce the neuromaps toolbox, an open-access software package for accessing, transforming, and analyzing structural and functional brain annotations. We implement two registration frameworks to generate high-quality transformations between four standard coordinate systems commonly used in neuroimaging research. The initial release of the toolbox features >40 curated reference maps and biological ontologies of the human brain, including maps of gene expression, neurotransmitter receptors, metabolism, neurophysiological oscillations, developmental and evolutionary expansion, functional hierarchy, individual functional variability, and cognitive specialization. Robust quantitative assessment of map-to-map similarity is enabled via a suite of spatial autocorrelation-preserving null models. Finally, we demonstrate two examples of how neuromaps can be used to contextualize brain maps with respect to canonical annotations. By discovering novel associations with previously-established features of brain structure and function, neuromaps generates biological insight about new brain maps. Altogether, neuromaps combines open-access data with transparent functionality for standardizing and comparing brain maps, providing a systematic workflow for comprehensive structural and functional annotation enrichment analysis of the human brain.
Identification of Characteristic Metabolic Panels for Different Stages of Prostate Cancer by 1H NMR-based Metabolomics Analysis
Authors: Zhang Xi , Xia Binbin , Zheng Hong , Ning Jie , Zhu Yinjie , Shao Xiaoguang , Liu Binrui , Dong Baijun , Gao Hongchang
Published: February 2022

Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most prevalent cancer in males worldwide, yet detecting PCa and its metastases remains a major challenging task in clinical research setups. The present study aimed to characterize the metabolic changes underlying the PCa progression and investigate the efficacy of related metabolic panels for an accurate PCa assessment. Methods: This study analyzed the metabolic profiles of serum samples from PCa patients (n = 75), PCa patients with bone metastasis (PCaB, n = 62), and benign prostatic hyperplasia patients (BPH, n = 50) by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabolomics analysis.Results: Multivariate analysis revealed that BPH, PCa, and PCaB groups showed distinct metabolic divisions, while univariate statistics integrated with variable importance in the projection (VIP) scores identified a differential metabolite series, which included energy, amino acid, and ketone body metabolism. Additionally, our results also revealed the metabolic panels of discriminant metabolites coupled with the clinical parameters (age and body mass index) for discrimination between PCa and BPH, PCaB and BPH, PCaB and PCa achieved the AUC values of 0.828, 0.917, and 0.872, respectively. Conclusions: Overall, this study characterizes the potential metabolic alterations involved in the PCa progression and its metastases, and might provide potential metabolic biomarkers for the diagnosis and classification of PCa.
Safe alternative approach of reduced three-port versus conventional five-port laparoscopic right hemicolectomy for right-sided colon cancer: a propensity score matching analysis.
Authors: Kim In-Kyeong , Kwag Seung-Jin , Kim Han-Gil , Ju Young-Tae , Park Ji-Ho , Kim Ju-Yeon , Park Tae-Jin , Jung Sang-Ho , Jeong Chi-Young , Jung Eun-Jung , Lee Young-Joon , Lee Jin-Kwon
Published: February 2022

BackgroundLaparoscopic surgery with reduced port for colorectal cancer is being increasingly implemented, but its feasibility and safety are still uncertain. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of three-port laparoscopic right hemicolectomy (3-LRHC) compared to the conventional five-port laparoscopic right hemicolectomy (5-LRHC) for right-sided colon cancer using propensity score matching analysis. MethodsA total of 311 patients diagnosed with right-sided colon adenocarcinoma underwent laparoscopic right hemicolectomy (LRHC) in two medical centers between January 2011 and May 2021. We analyzed the short-term outcomes, such as clinical characteristics, intraoperative and postoperative outcomes, postoperative pain score, pathologic results and the long-term outcomes such as overall survival, disease-free survival rate. ResultsAs a result of the propensity score matching method, 108 patients in each group were similarly selected by clinicopathological variables such as age, sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score, and stage. The mean operation time except open conversion, first day of oral diet, first day of drain removal was shorter in the 3-LRHC than in the 5-LRHC group. Thus, recovery of bowel function was found to be faster in 3-LHRC group than in 5-LRHC group. No significant differences were observed in postoperative complication and severity, postoperative pain scale, open conversion rate. The number of harvested lymph nodes, overall survival and disease-free survival rates between the two groups were also not significantly different. ConclusionsReduced 3-LRHC has advantage of shortening the hospital stay due to rapid recovery of intestinal function and reduced pain without the need for additional instrument. There was no difference from 5-LRHC in terms of oncological outcomes and survival rates. Therefore, 3-LRHC for right-sided colon cancer may provide a safe and feasible alternative to conventional 5-LRHC.
Concomitant Cancer Related Venous Thromboembolism and Arterial Thromboembolism
Authors: Li Ji-Feng , Yang Su-Qiao , Su Ri-Na , Song Ling-Xie , Liu Lin , Jiao Xiao-Jing , Li Yu-Na , Ding Yuan , Yang Yuan-Hua
Published: February 2022

Background: Thrombosis is closely related with cancer patients. Venous thromboembolism such as pulmonary thromboembolism and deep vein thrombosis are more frequently occurred in cancer patients. Arterial thromboembolism such as myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke were less occurred. Venous thromboembolism and arterial thromboembolism were rarely concomitantly occurred in cancer patients, especially ahead of cancer diagnosis. Methods: Five patients who suffered from venous thromboembolism and arterial thromboembolism sequentially and then cancer was diagnosed were enrolled and followed up until the patient died or until June 2021. The medical records were retrospectively reviewed to evaluate the clinical characteristics, image findings and the outcomes.Results: Three women and two men were renrolled, with a mean age of 63.2 years (range, 47-76 years). Four patients suffered from ischemic stroke, and the lesions showed by magnetic resonance manifested bilateral diffuse changes. One patient suffered from lower limb arterial thromboembolism. Four patients suffered from pulmonary thromboembolism diagnosed by CTPA or ultrasound (among them, two patients with deep venous thrombosis simultaneously), one patient suffered from solely deep venous thrombosis. Pulmonary adenocarcinoma was diagnosed in two patients, and one skin basal cell carcinoma, one ovarian clear cell adenocarcinoma and one rectal adenocarcinoma were diagnosed in the other three patients. Four patients received cancer related treatment and all patients received anticoagulation therapy. Except the patient without cancer related treatment who survived for 3 months, all the other four patients survived more than 2 years.Conclusion: Cancer can present as venous thromboembolism or arterial thromboembolism or both in advance. Cancer should be screened in patients with venous thromboembolism, especially those with concomitant arterial thromboembolism.
Relationship between serum growth differentiation factor 15, fibroblast growth factor-23 and risk of atrial fibrillation: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Tan Ziqi , Huang Shanshan , Liu Menglu , Song Tiangang , Zhu Wengen , Ma Jianyong , Zhang Jing , Yu Peng , Liu Xiao
Published: February 2022

Background and Objective: Growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15) and fibroblast growth factor-23 (FGF-23) were considered as predictors of the incidence of cardiovascular diseases. The present meta-analysis aimed to elucidate the associations of GDF-15 and FGF-23 with the risk of atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods: An electronic search was conducted in Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Embase databases from inception until February 27, 2021. The study protocol was registered in PROSPERO database (CRD42020182226). Results: In total, 15 studies that enrolled 36,017 participants were included. Both serum FGF-23 and GDF-15 was elevated in patients with AF. Analysis of categorical variables showed a higher serum FGF-23 level was associated with increased risk of AF (relative risk (RR)=1.28, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.05-1.56), but not GDF-15 (RR=0.91, 95% CI: 0.20-4.04). In dose-response analysis, a linear positive association was noted between serum FGF-23 level and the risk of AF (P nonlinear = 0.9507), with a RR elevation by 7% for every 20 pg/ml increase in the serum FGF-23 level (95% CI: 1.02–1.13). No remarkable linkage was found between serum GDF-15 level and the risk of AF, and the overall RR for the association between a 100 ng/L increment in GDF-15 level and AF was 1.01 (95% CI: 0.998–1.02).Conclusion: Our study showed a positive linear correlation of serum FGF-23 level with the risk of AF. However, no significant association was found between GDF-15 and risk of AF. Further studies are warranted to clarify whether serum FGF-23 level may be significant to predict the risk of AF.
The Role of Temporal Coherence and Temporal Predictability in the Build-Up of Auditory Grouping
Authors: Sollini Joseph , Poole Katarina C. , Blauth-Muszkowski Dominic , Bizley Jennifer K.
Published: February 2022

The cochlea decomposes sounds into separate frequency channels, from which the auditory brain must reconstruct the auditory scene. To do this the auditory system must make decisions about which frequency information should be grouped together, and which should remain distinct. Two key cues for grouping are temporal coherence, resulting from coherent changes in power across frequency, and temporal predictability, resulting from regular or predictable changes over time. To test how these cues contribute to the construction of a sound scene we present listeners with a range of precursor sounds, which act to prime the auditory system by providing information about each sounds structure, followed by a fixed masker in which participants were required to detect the presence of an embedded tone. By manipulating temporal coherence and/or temporal predictability in the precursor we assess how prior sound exposure influences subsequent auditory grouping. In Experiment 1, we measure the contribution of temporal predictability by presenting temporally regular or jittered precursors, and temporal coherence by using either narrow or broadband sounds, demonstrating that both independently contribute to masking/unmasking. In Experiment 2, we measure the relative impact of temporal coherence and temporal predictability and ask whether the influence of each in the precursor signifies an enhancement or disruption of unmasking. We observed that interfering precursors produced the largest changes to thresholds.
Fasciola hepatica extract suppresses fibroblast-like synoviocytes in vitro and alleviates experimental arthritis
Authors: Dalmolin Suelen Pizzolatto , Pedó Renata Ternus , Rosa Thales Hein , Silva Jordana Miranda Souza , Farinon Mirian , Gasparini Maria Luísa , Chiela Eduardo Cremonese Filippi , Paz Ana Helena , Sehabiague Martín Pablo Cancela , Ferreira Henrique Bunselmeyer , Santo Rafaela Cavalheiro Espírito , Gonçalves Fabiany , Xavier Ricardo Machado
Published: February 2022

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by synovial inflammation, fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) activation and joint destruction. Fasciola hepatica is a platyhelminth that releases excretory-secretory immunomodulatory products capable of suppressing the Th1 immune response and the production of inflammatory cytokines. Despite the effectiveness of available treatments for inducing and maintaining disease remission, there is no cure for RA. Current options are not successful in all patients and may cause side effects. Thus, new therapeutic alternatives are needed for RA. We evaluated the therapeutic potential of F. hepatica extract on FLS from RA patients and in antigen-induced (AIA) and collagen-induced (CIA) arthritis models. FLS were isolated from synovial fluid of RA patients, cultured, and exposed to F. hepatica extract (60, 80, and 100 µg/ml) for different time points. In vitro assays showed that extract decreased FLS cell viability, adherence, migratory potential, and cell invasiveness. For in vivo experiments, AIA and CIA animals received a 200 µg/dose of F. hepatica extract daily. The extract reduced leukocyte migration and nociception in AIA and delayed clinical onset of CIA, while preventing body weight loss. Taken together, our results point out a potential immunomodulatory effect of the F. hepatica extract in RA models.
Transgluteal Approach for Porcine Model Construction of Specific Hip Conditions
Authors: Su Tiao , Yang Liu , Chen Guang-xing
Published: February 2022

There exists no study reporting a safe and efficient approach for porcine model construction of specific hip conditions. Two pigs were sacrificed for the study of hip anatomy to explore possible approaches and 36 porcine models of irreparable acetabular labral tear were constructed to verify the feasibility and safety of different approaches. Based on the findings of the cadaveric study, three possible approaches were found: anterior approach, transgluteal approach, and posterior approach. 36 pigs were divided into three groups evenly in a random way according to the mentioned approaches they have undergone. The intraoperative findings revealed that the blood loss of the transgluteal group was the least among the three groups which had much to do with the least operative time. Although the posterior approach had similar surgical exposure with the transgluteal group, four pigs were found to have a surgical-related injury of the sciatic nerve. Additionally, operative exposure was inadequate due to larger surgical tension using the anterior approach compared with the other two approaches. In conclusion, transgluteal approach might be a suitable option for porcine model construction for its advantages and safety.
Effects of Intrinsic and Extrinsic Surface Optical Phonons on the Performance of the Graphene based Devices: an Accurate and Straightforward Modeling
Authors: Jalalvandi Sharare , Darbari Sara , Moravvej-Farshi Mohammad Kazem
Published: February 2022

Surface plasmons in graphene have mainly been affected by intrinsic optical phonons due to the vibrations of the carbon atoms and surface polar optical phonons (S-POPs) of the underlying dielectric surface. This plasmon hybridization dramatically changes the features of the plasmonic devices. However, a complete theoretical model for the graphene impedance to consider the optical phonons effects is yet remained to be developed. Here, we show how to derive a model for graphene impedance to include such impacts on graphene surface plasmons. Earlier models suffer from two limitations — i.e., the inability to show (i) the transformation of a single pure plasmonic mode into multiple hybrid plasmon-phonon excitations and (ii) the damping effect for energies beyond that of the intrinsic optical phonons due to the phonon emission. Our new model overcomes these two limitations. Then, we calculate the extinction spectra for a one-dimensional periodic array of graphene ribbons obtained through the impedance boundary condition method, addressing these obstacles. These spectra are directly related to graphene impedance, modeled using the dielectric function we developed in our earlier work. The extinction spectra show the presented model overcoming the limitations, firmly fitting the experimental data reported by others. Furthermore, we introduce our developed model for graphene to the CST Studio software to verify the accuracy of our extinction relation and impedance model. This study can be a step forward to correctly predicting the behavior of graphene-based plasmonic devices.
Characterization of the mechanisms of action and mosquito larva midgut response to a yeast- encapsulated orange oil larvicide
Authors: Kelly Patrick H. , Yingling Alexandra V. , Ahmed Anwar , Hurwitz Ivy , Ramalho-Ortigao Marcelo
Published: February 2022

Here, we assessed the mechanism of action of a yeast-encapsulated orange essential oil (YEOO) larvicide. YEOO is readily ingested by mosquito larvae leading to midgut epithelial cell responses associated changes in gene expression profiles and severe epithelial damage that were detected shortly after YEOO ingestion. In Aedes aegypti 3rd instar larvae exposed to YEOO at LC90, greater than 10 fold induction of the effector caspase CASPS8, >11 fold induction of the midgut epithelial regenerator Vein, and >26 fold induction of the inhibitor of apoptosis gene IAP1 compared to control larvae by 8 h after YEOO ingestion. For sublethal concentrations (<LC50), we observed significant differential expression of the cytochrome P450 detoxification enzyme families CYP6 and CYP9. Midgut epithelial damage was highlighted by destruction of microvilli, vacuolization of midgut cells, damage to cell junctions and basal lamina as early as 30 min. Curiously, the larval type 2 peritrophic matrix (PM2) structural integrity and porosity appeared to remain unchanged, suggestive that the orange oil released from the digested YEOO capsules seep through the PM2. Of relevance, our results strongly suggest that YEOO effective killing is due to a generalized broad-acting mechanism combining unregulated epithelial damage and apoptosis, with concomitant expression of multiple innate response genes involved in epithelial regeneration and detoxification. YEOO’s amenability for use as part of an integrated vector management makes this novel larvicide a practical approach for mosquito larval control in the future.
Simulation of the Third Wave of COVID 19 Infections in Zambia using the SIR Model
Authors: Mwale Moses , Kanjere Boniface , Kanchele Chuncky , Mukosa Solomon
Published: February 2022

Background
Various mathematical modeling approaches are used to provide a robust framework for understanding the transmission dynamics of infectious diseases in human populations. In an epidemic, models can be used for the analysis of the spread of a disease, forecasting, identifying trends and making parameter estimates which can be used for planning and implementing intervention measures.
Methods
This study utilizes the classical Susceptible - Infected - Recovered (SIR) model to analyze the evolution of COVID-19 in Zambia during the third wave of infections. The model is fitted to actual COVID-19 data for Zambia for the third wave of the pandemic obtained from the Zambia National Public Health Institute (ZNPHI). The transmission and recovery rates are estimated by minimizing the error between the fitted curve and the real data using the least square approach.
Results
Model simulations indicate that the basic reproductive number (\({R}_{0}\)) for Zambia is 1.31 meaning that, on average, 1.31 persons are infected for each infected person. At the worst point of the epidemic, we expect that 591,743 people will contract the virus and 7,144 fatalities will be recorded. To prevent the spread of infection, the model estimates that at least 24 percent of the population will need to be vaccinated. With the country's projected population of about 18.91 million, this translates to roughly 4.5 million people.
Conclusion
The severity of COVID-19 infection, hospitalizations, and deaths in Zambia is substantially higher than national testing data suggests, according to model projections. More modeling work is needed to acquire accurate estimates of the disease burden in society, to inform resource allocation, and to aid mitigation planning, especially in countries that may lack adequate national surveillance systems.
Hypomethylation Of The Hepc Genome In High D-Glucose Concentrations: Initiation Of Angiogenic Failure?
Authors: Fernández-Garcés Paulina , Hinojosa-Moreno Marcela , Gallegos Soraya Gutierrez
Published: February 2022

Background: Accumulating evidence suggests that Diabetes mellitus type 2 affects the angiogenic functions of Endothelial Progenitor Cells and a good glycemic control is not enough to restore these functions. Therefore, it is necessary to investigate if there are changes at the epigenetic level that can explain this phenomenon. Results: We isolated EPC from mononuclear cells and cultured them in 5 mM of D-glucose equivalent to normal glycemia, 10 mM equivalent to a glycemia clinically acceptable for a diabetic patient, and 20 mM of D-glucose corresponding to a value of glycemia in a patient with poor glycemic control; and we evaluated the adhesion capacity of EPC to fibronectin matrix. We also determined global methylation levels by slot blot for the 5-methylcytocine and 5-hydroxymethylcytocine and the expression levels of the TET1 and TET2 genes using qPCR. We found that high glucose concentrations do not affect EPC differentiation. Cells grown at 10 mM D-glucose do not decrease their adhesion to fibronectin matrix but at 20 mM culture we observed decrease in their adhesion (p> 0.05), but interesting, in both culture conditions we observed hypomethylation of the genome (p> 0.05) accompanied with an increase in 5-hydroxymethylcytocine in cells treated with 20mM D-glucose (p <0.05). We did not observe statistically significant changes in the mRNA levels of the TET1 and TET2 genes. Treatment with demethylating agent 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine, shows that adhesion failure is dependent on genome demethylation (p> 0.001).Conclusions: High concentrations of D-glucose (20mM) generate an active hypomethylation of the hEPC genome and a decrease in their adhesion capacity. Although the concentration of D-Glucose considered as "clinically acceptable" glycemia in a diabetic patient (10mM), do not produce significant changes in hEPC adhesion to fibronectin matrix, a global hypomethylation of the genome, was observed, which could be responsible for impair angiogenic functions of the hEPC in patients with good glycemic control.
Hetero-interpenetrated metal-organic frameworks
Authors: Perl David , Lee Seok , Ferguson Alan , Jameson Geoffrey , Telfer Shane
Published: February 2022

Interpenetrated metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) comprise two or more lattices that are mutually entangled. Interpenetration tunes the structures and pore architectures of MOFs to influence their interactions with guest molecules. Typically, the interpenetrating sublattices are identical. Hetero-interpenetrated MOFs, in contrast, have sublattices that are different to one another. While they can be produced by serendipity, to develop a deliberate strategy for making hetero-interpenetrated MOFs we employed the cubic 𝛂-MUF-9 framework as a host sublattice. 𝛂-MUF-9 is able to template the secondary growth of a second, interpenetrating, sublattice in its pores to produce hetero-interpenetrated MOFs. In certain cases, the sublattices cannot be produced via standalone reactions and are observed here for the first time. Unique functional properties are enabled by hetero-interpenetrated MOFs such as asymmetric catalysis. We grew a catalytically-active sublattice inside 𝛂-MUF-10, a chiral host. The chiral pore environment of the host imparts asymmetry on the catalytic activity of interpenetrating sublattice to give reaction products with an enantiomeric excess. This deliberate strategy for synthesizing hetero-interpenetrated MOFs opens new perspectives on framework structures and pore environments and allows unprecedented functional properties to emerge.
Shouting strengthens voluntary force during sustained maximal effort through enhancement of motor system state via motor commands
Authors: Takarada Yudai , Nozaki Daichi
Published: February 2022

Previous research indicates that producing a shout during momentary maximal exertion effort enhances the force levels of maximal voluntary contraction through the enhancement of motor cortical excitability. However, the muscular force-enhancing effects of shouting on sustained maximal force production remain unclear. We instigated the effect of shouting on the motor system state by examining motor evoked potentials in response to transcranial magnetic stimulation applied over the contralateral primary motor cortex (M1) during sustained maximal voluntary contraction, and by evaluating handgrip maximal voluntary force. Analysis revealed that producing a shout significantly increased handgrip maximal voluntary force and reduced the silent period. Our results indicate that producing a shout increased handgrip voluntary force during sustained maximal exertion effort through the reduced silent period. This study provides evidence that the muscular force-enhancing effect of shouting during maximal force exertion is related to the enhancement of motor system activity caused by the additional drive of shouting operating on the motor system (i.e., shouting-induced excitatory input to M1).
Optogenetic control of mGluR1 signaling modulates synaptic plasticity and cerebellum driven learning
Authors: Surdin Tatjana , Grömmke Michelle , Böke Hanna , Barcik Maike , Azimi Zohre , Jancke Dirk , Herlitze Stefan , Mark Melanie , Siveke Ida
Published: February 2022

Neuronal plasticity underlying cerebellar learning behavior is strongly associated with type 1 metabotropic glutamate receptor (mGluR1) signaling. This receptor is located at perisynaptic sites at cerebellar Purkinje cells (PCs) and detects glutamate spill over. Activation of mGluR1 leads to activation of the Gq/11 pathway, inducing synaptic plasticity at the parallel fiber-Purkinje cell synapse (PF-PC) in form of long-term depression (LTD). To optogenetically modulate mGluR1 signaling we fused mouse melanopsin (OPN4) that activates the Gq/11 pathway to the C-termini of mGluR1 splice variants (OPN4-mGluR1a and OPN4-mGluR1b). We provide the prove-of-concept approach to modulate synaptic plasticity via optogenetic activation of OPN4-mGluR1a inducing LTD at the PF-PC synapse in vitro. Moreover, we demonstrate that light activation of mGluR1a signaling pathway by OPN4-mGluR1a in PCs leads to an increase in intrinsic activity of PCs in vivo and improved cerebellum driven learning behavior.
Structural Design of Supreme Controller with Uncontrollable Transitions
Authors: Mohaman Gonza , ALLA Hassane , BITJOKA Laurent
Published: February 2022

In the framework of Petri net (PN), the structural supervisory control of discrete event system (DES) is an exciting method to design controller in the presence of uncontrollable transitions. Especially, this method addresses the controllability problem existing in the desired functioning PN. The controllability condition defined by uncontrollable synchronization can be expressed as constraints (GMEC). This leads to design place invariant-based controller, implemented through control places connected to plant transitions. The controller is maximally permissive if the transitions are controllable. Implying that the controller insures that the constraints are never violated directly or may be violated through the firing of uncontrollable transitions. But, if one control place is connected to uncontrollable transition, then the controller is non-admissible, since it cannot prevent such transition. The common idea is to transform the constraints or to displace the controller arcs. Unfortunately, the constraints transformation is computationally complex and not structural, while the arcs displacement approach is unsystematic. Our idea consists to iterate the structural supervisory control method to ensure a systematic displacement of controller arcs, so that no control place is input place of uncontrollable transition. This approach focuses on structural design of a less restrictive and admissible controller, namely the supreme controller.
Trp53 and Rb1 deficiency in chondrocytes spontaneously develop chondrosarcoma by activation of YAP signaling
Authors: Li Yang , Yang Shuting , Liu Yang , Yang Shuying
Published: February 2022

Chondrosarcoma (CHS) is a rare type of soft sarcoma with increased production of cartilage matrix arising from soft bone tissues. Currently, surgical resection is the primary clinical treatment for chondrosarcoma due to the poor response to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. However, the therapeutic effect is not satisfactory due to the higher local recurrence rate. Thus, management and elucidation of the pathological mechanism of chondrosarcoma remain an ongoing challenge, and development of effective chondrosarcoma mouse models and treatment options are urgently needed. Here, we generated a new transgenic chondrosarcoma model by double conditional deletions of Trp53 and Rb1 in chondrocyte lineage which spontaneously caused spinal chondrosarcoma and lung metastasis. Bioinformatic analysis of human soft sarcoma database showed that Trp53 and Rb1 genes had higher mutations, reaching up to approximately 33.5% and 8.7%, respectively. Additionally, Trp53 and Rb1 signatures were decreased in the human and mouse chondrosarcoma tissues. Mechanistically, we found that YAP expression and activity were significantly increased in mouse Col2-Cre;Trp53f/f/Rb1f/f chondrosarcoma tissues compared to the adjacent normal cartilage. Knockdown of YAP in primary chondrosarcoma cells significantly inhibited chondrosarcoma proliferation, invasion, and tumorsphere formation. Chondrocyte lineage ablation of YAP delayed chondrosarcoma progression and lung metastasis in Col2-Cre;Trp53f/f/Rb1f/f mice. Moreover, we found that metformin served as a YAP inhibitor, which bound to the activity area of YAP protein, and inhibited chondrosarcoma cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and progression in vitro and significantly suppressed chondrosarcoma formation in vivo. Collectively, this study identifies the inhibition of YAP may be effective therapeutic strategies for treatment of chondrosarcoma.
New, Minimally Approach for Middle and Distal Third Humeral Shaft Fractures a Cadaveric Study and Clinical Case Series
Authors: Liu Tang , Yang Jing , Li Hua , Yang Zhenxing , Wang Jian , Maimaitiaili Abuduheilili , Lu Zhanxin , Tao Cheng
Published: February 2022

Purpose Fractures of the humeral shaft, especially the treatment of extraarticular fractures of the distal third of the humerus, which is a challenge. We hypothesize that a new feasibility and safety minimally invasive surgical approach can be used for the treatment of middle-and distal-third humeral fractures. The main purpose of this study was to evaluate this new approach and develop it.Methods In 13 adult cadaver arms, a minimally invasive surgical approach to the anteromedial humerus was simulated, followed by fixation with a locking compression plate and the measurement of several sets of anatomical data to clarify the possible risk of iatrogenic vascular and nerve injury in this surgical approach. Between 2017 and 2019 in 18 patients with humeral fractures who were treated with this surgical approach.Results Patients were followed for average 20.1 months (range, 15 – 34 months). The distance from the vertex of the medial epicondyle to the median nerve was 2.96 cm (range, 2.30 – 3.40 cm). The distance from the tip of the distal end of the screw in the medial epicondyle to the ulnar nerve was 1.7 mm (range, 0.00 – 4.00 mm). The shortest distance between the Olecranon Fossa and the tip of the screws at the distal end of the plate in the medial humeral epicondyle was 0.69 mm (range, 0.00 – 7.00 mm). The distance from the vertex of the epicondyle to the intersection of the median nerve and the distal end of the underlying steel plate was 6.28 cm (range, 5.70 – 6.90 cm).Conclusions This approach does not cause iatrogenic neurovascular injury and provides sufficient strength for the fixation of fractures of the middle and distal thirds of the humerus. This approach can be used as an alternative in the treatment of extraarticular fractures of the middle and distal thirds of the humerus.Type of study/level of evidence Therapeutic Level IV.
Interpretable Machine Learning Prediction of All-Cause Mortality
Authors: Qiu Wei , Chen Hugh , Dincer Ayse , Lundberg Scott , Kaeberlein Matt R. , Lee Su-In
Published: February 2022

Background Unlike linear models, complex machine learning models can capture non-linear interrelations and provide opportunities to identify novel risk factors. Explainable artificial intelligence can improve prediction accuracy and reveal unprecedented insights into outcomes like mortality. This paper comprehensively analyzes all-cause mortality by explaining complex machine learning models. Methods We propose the IMPACT framework that uses a principled XAI technique to explain a state-of-the-art tree ensemble mortality prediction model. We apply IMPACT to understand all-cause mortality for 1-, 3-, 5-, and 10-year follow-up times and age groups of <40, 40-65, 65-80, and <=80 years old within the NHANES 1999-2014 dataset, which contains 47,261 samples and 151 features. Results Here we show that IMPACT models achieve high accuracy in every mortality prediction task. Using IMPACT, we identify several overlooked risk factors and interactions. Furthermore, we identify relationships between laboratory features and mortality that may suggest adjusting established reference intervals. Finally, we develop highly accurate, efficient, and interpretable mortality risk scores. We ensure generalizability by performing temporal validation of the mortality risk scores and external validation of the key findings with the UK Biobank dataset. All our results and risk scores are available on a website where the relationships can be explored in detail to generate new research hypotheses. Conclusions IMPACT’s unique strength is the explainable prediction, which provides insights into the complex, non-linear relationships between mortality and individual's features. Our explainable risk scores could help individuals improve self-awareness of their health status and help clinicians identify patients with high risk. IMPACT takes a significant step towards bringing contemporary developments in XAI, which have already revolutionized fields like finance, to epidemiological research.
The infiltration pattern of microenvironmental cells and different immune escape mechanisms in colorectal cancer
Authors: Mao Yihao , Feng Qingyang , Chang Wenju , Lv Yang , Xu Yuqiu , Chang Jiang , Zheng Peng , Yu Shanchao , Zhang Zhiyuan , Li Zhiqiang , Lin Qi , Tang Wentao , Zhu Dexiang , Ji Meiling , Ren Li , Wei Ye , He Guodong , Xu Jianmin
Published: February 2022

Background: The tumour microenvironment (TME) plays a crucial role in tumour progression and metastasis. However, the infiltration pattern of TME cells in CRC samples and the immune escape mechanism underneath have not been studied sufficiently.Methods: Transcriptomic data from public datasets were retrieved online. In total, 1802 samples from the microarray dataset and 619 samples from the TCGA dataset were enrolled. The ssGSEA algorithm and unsupervised clustering were used for TME cells infiltration speculation and infiltration pattern recognition. Results: CRC samples can be classified into three distinct TME cell subtypes. Subtype 1, the immune-active subtype, was characterised by high infiltration of activated adaptive immune cells. Subtype 2, the immune-desert subtype, featured high tumour purity and low infiltration of immune and stromal cells. And subtype 3, stroma-rich subtype, had high infiltration of stromal cells. The stroma-rich subtype conferred a significantly worse prognosis. Three subtypes had different immune escape mechanisms. The immune-active subtype has the highest immune checkpoint expression level. In comparison, the immune-desert subtype had the lowest immunogenicity and the defective antigen presentation. And the stroma-rich subtype lacked activated immune cells.Conclusions: Distinct TME cell subtypes and immune escape mechanisms may provide inspiration and direction for further researches on CRC immunotherapy.
Feasibility of Robotic Surgery in Comparison to the conventional Laparoscopic and Open Procedures in Urology: A Systematic Review
Authors: Zahid Afra , Ayyan Muhammad , Farooq Minaam , Cheema Huzaifa Ahmad , Shahid Abia , Naeem Faiza , Ilyas Muhammad Abdullah , Sohail Shehreen
Published: February 2022

PURPOSE
To establish the feasibility of robotic surgical procedures in urology in terms of the applications, pros and cons as well as the postoperative and oncological outcomes while comparing it with the conventional approaches.
METHODS
A systematic search of electronic databases was performed to identify Randomized Controlled Trials and Cohort studies on Robot Assisted urological surgical procedures in comparison with the conventional methods. The quality assessment of included studies was performed using the Newcastle-‎Ottawa Scale and the revised Cochrane “Risk of Bias” tool. A qualitative narrative synthesis of the data extracted from the studies was performed and presented in tabulated form.
RESULTS
After screening, 34 studies were included in our review (3 Randomized Controlled Trials and 31 Cohort studies). Robot Assisted Prostatectomy appears to be associated with lower estimated blood loss and shorter length of hospital stay. For Robot Assisted Cystectomy, the results suggest longer operative time and fewer complications. Robot Assisted Radical Nephrectomy was found to be associated with fewer perioperative complications and longer mean operative time while Robot Assisted Partial Nephrectomy was associated with less positive surgical margins, no recurrence and reduced need of postoperative analgesia. The mean operative time was longer while length of stay was shorter for the robotic approach in inguinal lymphadenectomy and ureteral re-implantation.
CONCLUSION
The feasibility of Robot Assisted surgery varied for different outcome measures as well as for different procedures. Some common advantages were shorter length of stay, lesser blood loss and fewer complications while the drawbacks included longer operative time.