bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machine learning for clinical decision support in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma based on a population study of the US SEER database and a Chinese single-center registry
Authors: Zhou Shuang-nan , Jv Da-Wei , Meng Xiang-Fei , Zhang Jing-Jing , Liu Chun , Wu Zeyi , Hong Na , Lu Yin-Ying , Zhang Ning
Published: June 2022

Background and aims To date, there is still a lack of consensus on the treatment of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (iCCA). This study aims to build a clinical decision support tool based on machine learning of the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database and the Fifth Medical Center of PLA General Hospital in China. Methods A total of 4,398 eligible patients with pathology-proven iCCA from the SEER database and 504 from the hospital data were enrolled for modeling by cross-validation based on the method of machine learning. All models were trained by the open-source Python library 4scikit-survival version 0.16.0 and explained by SHapley Additive exPlanations. Permutation importance was calculated using the library ELI5. Results All of the involved treatment modalities can contribute to a better prognosis. Three models were derived and tested among different data sources with the concordance index in the test datasets of 0.67, 0.69, and 0.73 respectively. The prediction was also consistent with the actual situation in randomly selected real patients. Model 2 trained by the hospital data was selected to develop an online tool because of the advantage of predicting the short-term prognosis.Conclusion The prediction model and tool of this study can be applied to predicting patients’ prognosis after treatment by inputting the patient’s clinical parameters or TNM stages and the treatment option and thus contribute to the optimal clinical decision.
Percutaneous and Arthroscopically Assisted Osteosynthesis for Displaced Calcaneal Fractures with Different Calcaneal Talar Facets: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Xia Zhang-rong , Liu Xin-yue , Zhang Lei , Li Bing-kun , Tang Xiao-gao , Chen Jun-yao , Xiong Ji-xiang , Zhou Xin
Published: June 2022

Background: Percutaneous and Arthroscopically Assisted Osteosynthesis (PAAO) has been reported as beneficial for calcaneal fractures because of its visibility and minimal invasiveness. But reduction effect of it is not satisfactory, for some severe displaced intra-articular fractures (DIACFs). As calcaneal fractures are frequently related to displacement of calcaneal talar facets (CTF), the purpose of this study was to explore whether the effect of PAAO is different, for calcaneus with different CTF after fractures. This can offer direction and help for clinical practice.Methods: A total of 117 patients (129 fractures) treated with PAAO were included and classified by their CTF in this study. Radiological parameters, including Bohler angle and height of calcaneus, and patient-reported outcomes, including the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) were collected before surgery. The same results after surgery were analyzed and compared between different types.Results: Based on the CTF, calcaneal fractures were divided into five types ( 45 Type I, 31 Type II, 23 Type III, 18 Type IV, and 12 Type V). As for Bohler angle, Type III was smaller than Type I, II, IV and V (all P < 0.05), and Type V was larger than Type I, II, III and IV (all P < 0.05) at three time points of postoperative follow-up. The height of calcaneus of Type III was lower than that of Type I, II, IV and V (all P < 0.05), and Type V was higher than Type I, II, III and IV (all P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in AOFAS scores of five types (all P > 0.05). VAS scores were comparable between Type III (3.1) and Type I (2.2) and V (1.8)(all P < 0.05).Conclusions: The treatment effect of PAAO on DIACFs varied from different types of CTF. Therefor, PAAO can be given priority when it comes to Type V of CTF, but careful consideration should be given to whether to choose this method for Type III.
Comprehensive analysis of the transcriptome-wide m6A methylome in high-glucose and TNF-α-induced HUVECs by MeRIP sequencing
Authors: Shan Li , Wei Liang-Bing , Zhang Wei , Jiang Xiao-Xue , Fang Zhao-Hui , Gao Jia-Rong
Published: June 2022

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
AdipoRon engages microglia to analgesia through the AdipoR1-AMPK pathway in SNI mice
Authors: Fang Qian , Wang Yaping , Liu Xinli , Shi Yu , Chen Jiali , Zhan Hongrui , Zeng Yanyan , Wu Wen
Published: June 2022

Background: Microglia-associated neuroinflammation plays a crucial role in the initiation and development of neuropathic pain (NeuP). AdipoRon is an analog of adiponectin, which can activate the adiponectin receptors and exhibit anti-inflammatory property in various diseases. Adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) is the main downstream target of adiponectin receptor 1 (AdipoR1). Activation of AdipoR1 promotes the conversion of AMPK to phosphorylated AMPK (p-AMPK). The AdipoR1/AMPK pathway is involved in the regulation of inflammation. And therapies targeting this pathway are beneficial for a variety of diseases. This study aimed to investigate whether AdipoRon could alleviate NeuP by inhibiting the expression of microglia-derived tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) through the AdipoR1/AMPK pathway.Methods: In vivo, the spared nerve injury (SNI) model was established in mice to simulate NeuP. Using the Von Frey test to detect the effect of AdipoRon on mechanical paw withdrawal threshold. Western Blot was performed to detected the effects of AdipoRon on the expression of AdipoR1, AMPK, p-AMPK and TNF-α. Immunofluorescence was performed to observed the effects of AdipoRon on spinal microglia. In vitro, using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce inflammatory responses in BV2 cells. The effect of AdipoRon on cell proliferation was detected by CCK-8. Using qPCR to examined the effects of AdipoRon on the expression of TNF-α and polarization markers in LPS-treated BV2 cells. And the effect of AdipoRon on the AdipoR1/AMPK pathway was confirmed by Western Blot.Results: Intraperitoneal injection of AdipoRon alleviated mechanical pain in SNI mice. Moreover, the application of AdipoRon reduced expression of TNF-α and the number of activated microglia in the ipsilateral spinal cord. Then, AdipoRon decreased the protein level of AdipoR1 and increased the protein level of p-AMPK in the ipsilateral spinal cord. In vitro, AdipoRon inhibited BV2 cell proliferation and reversed LPS-induced TNF-α expression and polarization imbalance. Furthermore, AdipoRon abrogated the LPS-induced increase in AdipoR1 expression and decrease in p-AMPK expression in BV2 cells.Conclusions: Our results suggest that AdipoRon alleviates NeuP by inhibiting the expression of microglia-derived TNF-α through the AdipoR1/AMPK pathway.
Assessment of thermal damage in polymethyl methacrylates using quasi-static components of ultrasonic waves
Authors: Li Weibin , Jiang Chang , Xiao Jun , Xu Caibin , Deng Mingxi
Published: June 2022

The use of acoustic nonlinear response can be an effective method for the early-stage damage evaluation of materials. However, it is challenging to assess the thermal damage in highly attenuating materials, such as polymethyl methacrylates, by the measure of generated second harmonics with a double fundamental frequency of primary waves. Quasi-static component (QSC) generated by ultrasonic wave propagation in damaged structures, which combines the high sensitivity of acoustic nonlinearity and low attenuative effect, has a great potential for early-stage damage evaluation in highly attenuating materials. In this paper, an experimental approach for directly detecting the QSC pulse of an ultrasonic wave tone burst is proposed. While a high-frequency longitudinal wave transducer is used for exciting the primary ultrasonic wave tone burst, the co-propagating QSC pulse is captured using a low-frequency ultrasonic transducer. The phase-reversal technique is employed to enhance the signal-to-noise ratio of QSCs and to counteract the signals of primary longitudinal waves. Amplitude variations of QSCs under different thermal loadings are clearly illustrated in a repeatable manner, while those of linear ultrasonic features in the specimens are neglectable. Experimental results indicate that the measure of QSC generation of ultrasonic wave propagation can be a prospective alternative for evaluating thermal degradation of highly attenuating materials.
Accuracy and outcome of a handheld accelerometer-based navigation device in total knee arthroplasty (TKA)
Authors: Man Sheryl Lok-Chi , Chau Wai-Wang , Zheng Xieyang , Ong Michael Tim-Yun , Ho Kevin Ki-Wai
Published: June 2022

Background:Optimal alignment is crucial for long-term outcomes after Total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Computer-assisted surgical (CAS) techniques provide an alternative method of navigation, using a tracking device and arrays attached to bone to allow tracking of bone position in virtual space, avoiding the need for violation of intramedullary canal. The purpose of this study was to compare the accuracy of accelerometer-based KneeAlign 2 (KA2) navigation system against conventional methods for accurate positioning of femoral and tibial components in TKA.Methods:Thirty-seven and 86 consecutive cases of primary TKA were performed with either conventional or accelerometer-based navigation (ABN) system respectively. Accuracy of femoral and tibial component alignments were measured by femoral or tibial component varus/valgus angle respectively. Accuracy of tibial component alignment in the sagittal plane was measured by posterior slope of tibial component. Accuracy of conventional alignment and navigation system was assessed by measuring the difference between intraoperative goal and postoperative radiographic measurements of components.Results:No statistical difference was found in preoperative mechanical alignments of lower limb between the 2 groups. Both conventional alignment and navigation groups were able to achieve a neutral postoperative mechanical axis of the lower limb. The KA2 navigation group’s tibial component alignment in both the coronal and the sagittal planes were significantly more accurate comparing to the conventional alignment group, while there was no significant difference between the 2 groups in the femoral component alignment in the coronal plane. Mean posterior slope value within the accepted range was significantly achieved in navigation group (43%) than conventional group (16%) (p = 0.004).Conclusions:KA2 navigation was significantly more accurate than conventional alignment methods for optimal positioning of tibial component in both coronal and sagittal plane. KA2 navigation system was able to achieve such accuracy for tibial component in the sagittal plane. Both conventional alignment and KA2 navigation were able to achieve a neutral mechanical axis of lower limb, and satisfactory placement of femoral and tibial component placement in coronal plane. However, only KA2 navigation system was able to achieve such accuracy for tibial component in the sagittal plane.Trial registration: Not applicable
Towards phage therapy for acne vulgaris: Topical application in a mouse model of ‎Cutibacterium acnes-induced acne-like lesions
Authors: Rimon Amit , Rakov Chani , Lerer Vanda , Sheffer-Levi Sivan , Alkalky-Oren Sivan , Shlomov Tehila , Shasha Lihi , Lubin Ruthi , Jaber Nora , Wilensky Asaf , Coppenhagen-Glazer Shunit , Molho-Pessach Vered , Hazan Ronen
Published: June 2022

Acne vulgaris is a common neutrophil-driven inflammatory skin disorder in which Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) plays a significant role. For decades antibiotics have been widely used to treat acne vulgaris, with the inevitable increase in bacterial antibiotic resistance.Phage therapy is a promising solution to the rising problem of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, utilizing viruses that specifically lyse bacteria.Here, we explored the feasibility of phage therapy against C. acnes. Combining eight novel phages we had isolated and commonly used antibiotics, 100% of clinically isolated C. acnes strains were eradicated.Using topical phage therapy in a C. acnes-induced acne-like lesions mouse model resulted in significantly superior clinical and histological scores. Moreover, the inflammatory response decreased as reflected by reducing the chemokine CXCL2, infiltration of neutrophils, and other inflammatory cytokines, compared to the untreated group.These results demonstrate the potential of phage therapy in acne vulgaris treatment, especially when antibiotic-resistant strains are involved.
Confocal Interferometric Scattering Microscopy Reveals 3D Nanoscopic Structure and Dynamics in Live Cells
Authors: Sandoghdar Vahid , Kueppers Michelle , Albrecht David , Kashkanova Anna , Luehr Jennifer
Published: June 2022

Bright-field light microscopy and related techniques continue to play a key role in life sciences because they provide a facile and label-free insight into biological specimen. However, lack of three-dimensional imaging and low sensitivity to nanoscopic features hamper their application in high-end quantitative studies. Here, we remedy these shortcomings by employing confocal interferometric scattering (iSCAT) microscopy. We demonstrate the performance of this label-free technique in a selection of case studies in live cells and benchmark our findings against simultaneously acquired fluorescence images. We reveal the nanometric topography of the nuclear envelope, quantify the dynamics of the endoplasmic reticulum, detect single microtubules, and map nanoscopic diffusion of clathrin-coated pits undergoing endocytosis. Furthermore, we introduce the combination of confocal and wide-field iSCAT modalities for simultaneous imaging of cellular structures and high-speed tracking of nanoscopic entities such as single SARS-CoV2 virions. Confocal iSCAT can be readily implemented as an additional contrast mechanism in existing laser scanning microscopes.
Seasonality and weather condition’s effect on human perception of the urban-rural transitional landscape
Authors: Półrolniczak Marek , Kolendowicz Leszek
Published: June 2022

Landscape perception research has been around for some time now; however, research into the impact of seasonally changing landscape characteristics with the simultaneous influence of the weather on such perception are rather rare. In an attempt to fill such a lacuna, basic eye-tracking metrics were calculated according to fixation and saccades for the whole tested landscape, while its areas of interest (AOIs) were established based on clustering methods. Moreover, the gaze pattern was analysed using the Voronoi cells method. To identify significant differences in landscape perception according to various weather and seasonal conditions, nonparametric tests were applied. The significant influence of both weather and seasonality is noticed, as well as their synergistic influence on the suburban landscape visual perception. Moreover, the results indicate a rather complex influence of the analysed types of weather in warmer and cooler seasons. Regardless of the weather type, seasonal changes cause greater visual span and shorter fixations in the warmer season. The fixations and saccades are shorter in the warmer season only in two AOI’s during positive weather, but are longer in negative weather during the colder season in most AOI’s. The main reasons for the influence of weather and seasonality on the visual perception include seasonal changes in the landscape, resulting in the appearance of the landscape from more urban to natural and vice versa (phenological changes) as well as lighting changes (due to seasonality and type of weather).
Robust Formation of Optimal Single Spheroids towards Cost-Effective In-Vitro 3-Dimensional Tumor Models
Authors: Habra Kinana , Pearson Joshua R.D. , McArdle Stéphanie E. B.
Published: June 2022

Monolayer cell cultures, while useful for basic in vitro studies, are not physiologically relevant. Spheroids, a complex 3-dimensional (3D) structure resemble in vivo tumor growth more closely thereby allowing results obtained with spheroids relating to proliferation, cell death, differentiation, metabolism, and various anti-tumor therapies to be more predictive of in vivo outcomes. The protocol herein presents a rapid and high throughput method for the generation of single spheroids using various cancer cell lines including (U87 MG, SEBTA-027, SF188) brain cancer cells, (DU-145, TRAMP-C1) prostate cancer cells, and (BT-549, Py230) breast cancer cells in a 96-round bottom well plates. The proposed method is associated with significantly low costs (ca. £1) per plate without the need for refining or transferring and homogeneous compact spheroid morphology was evidenced as early as 1 day after following this protocol. By using confocal microscopy and the IncuCyte live imaging system, proliferating cells were traced in the rim while dead cells were found to be located inside the core region of the spheroid. H&E staining of spheroid sections was utilized to investigate the tightness of the cell packaging and Western blotting analyses revealed that these spheroids adopted a stem cell-like phenotype. This method was also used to obtain EC50 of the anti-cancer dipeptide carnosine on U87 MG 3D culture. The affordable easy-to-follow 5 step-protocol allows for robust generation of various uniform spheroids which show 3D morphology characteristics.
New Suture Probe Canaloplasty Combined with Suprachoroidal Collagen Implantation
Authors: Haus Arno , Szurman Peter , Müller Lisa , Farese Gerardo , Seuthe Anna-Maria
Published: June 2022

Purpose To present a modified surgery technique of suture probe canaloplasty with a specially prepared monofilament 4.0 polypropylene suture combined with suprachoroidal drainage (ScD) and collagen sheet implantation for non-penetrating glaucoma surgery.MethodsProspective study with a twelve months follow-up.In order to improve suture probe canaloplasty with a more stable und smoother probing device, a standard 4/0 polypropylene suture (Prolene™ by Ethicon) (thickness: ca. 250µm) is cut and shaped with an ophthalmic knife (MANI® Crescent Knife, Mani Inc 8-3 Kiyohara Industrial Park, Utsunomiya, Tochigi 321-3231, Japan) to create a blunt end without sharp or compressed edges. Schlemm´s canal is prepared with the standard technique of canaloplasty with suprachoroidal drainage. Then instead of using the canaloplasty microcatheter or the previously published 6.0 double-helix suture - Schlemm’s canal is probed with the blunt ending 4/0 prolene suture. In case of successful 360° probing a doubled 10/0 polypropylene tension suture is thread through the 4/0 suture, which is afterwards pulled backwards and tied at its ends. Schlemm’s canal is hereby tensioned with these 10/0 sutures. A special collagen sheet (Ologen®) is placed in suprachoroidal space, and the scleral flap is firmly sewed.Results115 eyes were included in this prospective study. In 113 cases the Schlemm´s canal could completely be probed with the suture and canaloplasty with ScD and collagen sheet implantation succeeded. In two cases the intervention was transformed to 360° suture trabeculotomy due to an intraoperative cheese-wiring. Twelve months after successful new suture probe canaloplasty with ScD and Collagen Implantation the IOP had decreased by 37.1% (from 21.6±6.0 mmHg with 3.3 different IOP lowering eye drops to 13.5±3.5mmHg with 1.0 eye drops). 16 Patients did not achieve sufficient IOP levels and underwent 360° suture trabeculotomy during the follow-up. One patient had to be treated with further glaucoma surgery to achieve a sufficient IOP level.Complications were hyphema, postoperative IOP elevation and transient hypotony. No serious or sight-threatening complications occurred.ConclusionNew suture probe canaloplasty with ScD and collagen sheet implantation yields the opportunity to conduct a cost-effective canaloplasty easier and less complicated than with the previously described method with the twisted 6/0 suture. The safety profile and IOP lowering effect is comparable. In cases where complete probing fails, there is still the opportunity to switch to suture trabeculotomy over the majorly probed part of Schlemm´s canal. The pressure lowering effect of the deep sclerectomy with ScD and suprachoroidal collagen sheet implant seems to have an additional impact on the sufficient pressure lowering procedure.
Electron-phonon coupling in amphiboles contributes to the anomalous conductivity in subduction zones
Authors: Bernardini Simone , Ventura Giancarlo Della , Schlüter Jochen Jochen , Mihailova Boriana
Published: June 2022

Anomalous high-conductivity layers (HCL) are typical of subduction zones, the largest recycling systems of our planet. Understanding the underlying physics of rock high conductivity has paramount implications for several planetary-scale processes, including the global water cycling, earthquake activity, and arc volcanism. Here we provide a direct proof for the activation of anisotropic electron-phonon excitations (small polarons) and delocalized H+ in riebeckite, a Fe-rich sodic amphibole typical of blue-schist metamorphic facies. This phenomenon occurs above 500 K, regardless of the oxygen fugacity, whereas the expulsion of H+ from the crystal surface occurs above 650 K only in the presence of exO2. Notably, the expected depth of activation of charge carriers, for modelled warm and cold subduction zones, fits the identified HCL providing the atomic-scale evidence for the observed anomalous electrical conductivity. This work thus gives new insights into the link between atomic-scale phenomena and Earth-scale processes interacting at convergent plate margins.
In vitro growth (IVG) of human ovarian follicles in frozen thawed ovarian cortex tissue culture supplemented with follicular fluid under hypoxic conditions.
Authors: Schallmoser Andreas , Einenkel Rebekka , Färber Cara , Sänger Nicole
Published: June 2022

Background: Despite its clinical success rates, transplantation after ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) remains a matter of concern. Certain cancer subtypes may lead to the transfer of malignant cells when transplantation of affected ovarian tissue is conducted. IVG and subsequent isolation of vital follicles obtained from frozen thawed ovarian tissue for further in vitro maturation (IVM) would expand current fertility protection techniques while reducing the risk of retransplanting malignant cells.Methods: A total of 216 cortical biopsies from 3 patients were included in this study in 4 treatment groups. After freezing, thawing and 8 days of hypoxic tissue culture supplemented with different concentrations of human follicular fluid (HuFF) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), follicles were isolated enzymatically and stained with calcein in order to determine follicular viability. Numbers and size of vital follicles were assessed by fluorescence microscopy (Ti2, Nikon) and specified by computer assisted, semi-automated measurement (NIS software, Nikon). To estimate the effect of in vitro culture on apoptosis, tissue sections were stained for nicked DNA (TUNEL) prior and after tissue culture. Results: Analysing 3025 vital follicles, we observed significant differences [P <0.01] regarding follicle size when hypoxic tissue culture was supplemented with HuFF compared with the control group on day 1, individual follicles reached sizes >100µm. Conclusions: The results implicate that HuFF contains valuable factors contributing to significant IVG of follicles in human ovarian tissue and could be regarded as an additional tool in personalized fertility restoration prior to retransplantation of ovarian tissue.
Antigen-driven colonic inflammation is associated with development of dysplasia in primary sclerosing cholangitis
Authors: Jabri Bana , Shaw Dustin , Aguirre-Gamboa Raúl , Vieria Marcos , Gona Saideep , DiNardi Nicholas , Wang Anni , Dumaine Anne , Gederloos Jody , Earley Zachary , Meckel Katherine , Ciszewski Cezary , Castillo Anabella , Monroe Kelly , Torres Joana , Shah Shailja , Colombel Jean-Frederic , Itzkowitz Steven , Newberry Rodney , Cohen Russell , Rubin David , Cobey Sarah , Jonkers Iris H. , Weber Christopher , Pekow Joel , Wilson Patrick , Barreiro Luis
Published: June 2022

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is an autoimmune-like disease of the bile ducts that co-occurs with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in almost 90% of cases. Colorectal cancer is a major complication of patients with both PSC and IBD, and these patients are at a much greater risk compared to patients with IBD without concomitant PSC. Combining flow cytometry, bulk and single cell transcriptomics, and T- and B-cell receptor repertoire analysis of right colon tissue from PSC, IBD, and healthy controls we identified a unique adaptive inflammatory transcriptional signature associated with greater risk and shorter time to dysplasia specifically in patients with PSC. This inflammatory signature is characterized by antigen-driven IL-17A+ Foxp3+ CD4 T-cell and IgG-secreting B-cell responses. These data suggest that the mechanisms of PSC and IBD dysplasia are distinct and provide molecular insights to guide prevention of colorectal cancer in PSC.
Non-invasive assessment of muscle compartment elasticity by pressure related ultrasound in pediatric trauma: A prospective clinical study in twenty-five cases of forearm shaft fractures
Authors: Sellei Richard Martin , Beckers Aaron , Kobbe Philipp , Weltzien Alexandra , Weber Christian David , Spies Christian Karl , Reinhardt Nina , Klein Matias de la Fuente , Radermacher Klaus , Hildebrand Frank
Published: June 2022

Background: Soft tissue swelling after limb fractures in pediatric patients is well known to be a risk factor for developing acute compartment syndrome (ACS). Clinical assessment alone is uncertain in specific cases. Recently, we proposed a non-invasive ultrasound based method to objectify muscle compartment elasticity for monitoring. We hypothesize a strong correlation between the soft tissue swelling after stabilization of upper limb fractures and the compartment elasticity objectified with a novel ultrasound-based approach in pediatric trauma. Patients and Methods: In a prospective clinical study, children suffering forearm fractures but not developing an ACS were included. The muscle compartment elasticity of the m. flexor carpi ulnaris was assessed after surgical intervention by a novel non-invasive, ultrasound-based method resulting in a relative elasticity (RE in %) in both, the control (healthy limb) and study group (fractured limb). Soft tissue swelling was categorized in four different levels (0-3) and correlated with the resulting RE (%). Results: The RE in the study group (15,67%, SD +/-3,06) showed a significantly decreased level (p<0,001) compared with the control (22,77%, SD +/- 5,4). The categorized grade of soft tissue swelling resulted in a moderate correlation with the RE (rs = 0,474). Conclusions: The presented study appears to represent a novel approach to assess the posttraumatic pressure changes in a muscle compartment after fracture stabilization non-invasively. In this first clinical study in pediatric cases, our measurement method represents a low cost, easy and secure approach that has the potential to substitute invasive measurement for monitoring muscle compartment conditions. Further investigations and development in lager cohorts are required to improve its daily clinical practicability and to confirm the expected reliability.
Clinical Evaluation of Marginal Fit of Monolithic Zirconia Fixed Partial Denture, Using Scannable and Conventional Polyvinyl Siloxane Impression Materials
Authors: Kalantari Mohammad Hassan , Giti Rashtin , Abbasi Benika , Rastegar Zahra , Tavanafar Saeid
Published: June 2022

Background: This in-vivo study aimed to evaluate the marginal fit of three-unit monolithic zirconia fixed partial dentures (FPDs) using conventional and scannable polyvinyl siloxane impression materials because of the great importance of marginal accuracy. Methods: Ten patients were selected to replace the lateral teeth with a three-unit monolithic zirconia bridge. In the identical session, for each patient, as in the first group, an impression was made with a two-step putty-wash technique using scannable polyvinyl siloxane material (BONASCAN; DMP, Greece), and for the second group, an impression of conventional putty-wash polyvinyl siloxane was taken (BONASIL A⁺ Putty; DMP, Greece). The marginal discrepancy was measured once the replicas were cut perpendicularly within the buccolingual and mesiodistal directions. An Independent t-test was employed for data analyses (P < 0.05).Results: The marginal discrepancy in a conventional method for central abutment in four regions and canine abutment in mid-buccal, mid-lingual, and mid-distal was higher than in the scannable method but marginal discrepancies were not significant (P>0.05). However, the marginal discrepancy for mid-mesial in the scannable method was higher than in the conventional method, but it was not significant (P>0.05). Conclusions: FPDs fabricated from both scannable impression materials and conventional impression materials were not superior to each other in marginal fit by evaluation using the replica technique.
ATS/JRS/ALAT Guidelines for Humidifier Lung and Summer-Type Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis
Authors: Sakamoto Susumu , Masuoka Marie , Usui Yusuke , Shimizu Hiroshige , Sekiya Muneyuki , Miyoshi Shion , Nakamura Yasuhiko , Urabe Naohisa , Isshiki Takuma , Isobe Kazutoshi , Takai Yujiro , Kurosaki Atsuko , Homma Sakae , Kishi Kazuma
Published: June 2022

Background: The ATS/JRS/ALAT Guidelines for the Diagnosis of Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis (GL for HP) were published in 2020. Humidifier lung and summer-type HP are forms of HP, but it is unclear whether they can be diagnosed using the GL for HP. This study examined the level of confidence with which humidifier lung and summer-type HP can be diagnosed with the GL for HP.Methods: Data from 23 patients with humidifier lung and 20 patients with summer-type HP (mean age, 67.3 and 57.4 years, respectively) diagnosed between October 2012 and January 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. We evaluated high resolution computed tomography (HRCT) patterns, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) findings, exposures, and histopathological findings to determine the level of confidence with which a diagnosis of HP could be made using the GL for HP. Results: HRCT pattern was classified as typical HP in 5 (22%) and compatible with HP in 18 (78%) patients with humidifier lung and judged as typical HP in 17 (85%) and compatible with HP in 3 (15%) summer-type-HP patients. The confidence level for diagnosis of HP was definite in 2 (8.7%), moderate in 14 (60.9%), and low in 7 (30.4%) patients with humidifier lung. It was definite in 12 (60%), high in 3 (15%), and moderate in 5 (25%) patients with summer-type HP.Conclusions: The GL for HP showed utility in the diagnosis of humidifier lung in many patients with a moderate to low confidence. There was, however, a definite to high confidence for patients with summer-type HP.
Repeat Hepatic Resection Combined with Intraoperative Radiofrequency Ablation Versus Repeat Hepatic Resection Alone for Recurrent and Mutiple Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patients Meeting the Milan Criteria: A Propensity Score-Matched Analysis
Authors: Huang Yang , Xu Liangliang , Huang Min , Jiang Li , Xu Mingqing
Published: June 2022

Background
The surgical indications and therapeutic strategies for early-stage multifocal and recurrent hepatocellular carcinomas (rHCC) remain controversial. The purpose of this study was to compare the long-term outcomes of patients with recurrent and multifocal HCC meeting the Milan criteria with repeat hepatectomy (RH) and RH combined with intraoperative radiofrequency ablation (RFA).
Methods
A total of 109 consecutive patients with intrahepatic early-stage multifocal rHCC within Milan criteria following RH or RH + RFA were retrospectively collected from April 2010 to May 2020. Propensity score matching (PSM), subgroup analysis, and univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. Overall survival after recurrence (rOS) and recurrence-free survival after recurrence (rRFS) were calculated.
Results
The 1-, 3-, and 5-year rOS and rRFS of the combination group and the RH group were similar (p = 0.699; P = 0.587, respectively). The similar results are also appeared in matched population. Subgroup analyses showed that there was no significant difference between patients with 2 tumors and 3 tumors, but the RH group was associated with better rRFS than the combination group for patients whose tumors were located in the same lobe (p = 0.045). Multivariate analysis revealed that time to recurrence (TTR) ≤ 2 years and IM pathologically were independent risk factors.
Conclusions
For multifocal rHCC patients meeting the Milan criteria, RH combined with RFA may offer similar OS and RFS as RH alone; however, RH may be more suitable for patients with tumors located in the same lobe than RH combined with RFA.
The roselle anthocyanin film enhanced sensory attributes of Penaeus vannamei by quality deterioration inhibition and protein conformation stabilization
Authors: Huang Jiayin , Hu Zhiheng , Li Gaoshang , Chen Jianchu , Hu Yaqin
Published: June 2022

The enhancement behaviors of polyvinyl alcohol/hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose/roselle anthocyanin (PHR) film on sensory and physico-chemical properties of Penaeus vannamei were investigated. The shrimp packaged by PHR film displayed better sensory profiles with higher sensory scores and lower rejection degree (62.67 ± 2.13%). Compared with control group, the color parameters were improved by PHR film, such as higher lightness (36.30 ± 1.23), lower redness (6.67 ± 1.15) and yellowness (6.67 ± 0.51) as well as less browning effects. Microstructure observation revealed that the PHR film could keep more compact and uniform muscle tissue with less cracks and small fragments. In addition, PHR film was effective in increasing of water holding capacities (80.23 ± 1.70%) and maintenance of flavor characteristics. Meanwhile, the PHR films had abilities to delay protein conformation alterations, manifesting as higher total protein contents (23.36 ± 2.58 mg/mL) and less generation of carbonyl groups (5.12 ± 0.16 nmol/mg) and disulfide bonds (3.11 ± 0.07 mol/105g). Moreover, statistical analysis results demonstrated the close relationship between sensory and physico-chemical properties. Then, the possible enhancement mechanism was proposed that the functional properties of PHR film were responsible for the protein stabilization, leading to less quality deterioration, and the sensory profiles were improved consequently. Thus, the PHR film was a promising food packaging for sensory attributes enhancement and shelf-life extension of Penaeus vannamei.
Neuregulin-4 attenuates diabetic cardiomyopathy by regulating autophagy via the AMPK/mTOR signalling pathway
Authors: Wang Hongchao , Wang Lijie , Hu Fuli , Wang Pengfei , Xie Yanan , Li Fang , Guo Bingyan
Published: June 2022

Background
Diabetic cardiomyopathy is characterized by left ventricle dysfunction, cardiomyocyte apoptosis, and interstitial fibrosis and is a serious complication of diabetes mellitus (DM). Autophagy is a mechanism that is essential for maintaining normal heart morphology and function, and its dysregulation can produce pathological effects on diabetic hearts. Neuregulin-4 (Nrg4), an adipokine, exerts protective effects against metabolic disorders and insulin resistance. The aim of this study was to explore whether Nrg4 could ameliorate DM-induced myocardial injury by regulating autophagy.
Methods
Four weeks after the establishment of a type 1 diabetic model in mice, the mice received Nrg4 treatment (with or without an autophagy inhibitor) for another 4 weeks. Cardiac function, histological structure and cardiomyocyte apoptosis were investigated. Autophagy-related protein levels along with related signalling pathways that regulate autophagy were evaluated. In addition, the effects of Nrg4 on autophagy were also determined in cultured primary cardiomyocytes.
Results
Nrg4 alleviated myocardial injury both in vivo and in vitro. The autophagy level decreased in type 1 diabetic mice, and Nrg4 intervention reactivated autophagy. Furthermore, Nrg4 intervention was found to activate autophagy via the AMPK/mTOR signalling pathway. Moreover, when autophagy was suppressed or the AMPK/mTOR pathway was inhibited, the beneficial effects of Nrg4 were diminished.
Conclusions
Nrg4 intervention attenuated diabetic cardiomyopathy by promoting autophagy in type 1 diabetic mice. Additionally, Nrg4 induced autophagy via the AMPK/mTOR signalling pathway.
Multi-scale habitat models influence a freshwater-obligate mustelid in the Southern Deccan Plateau, India
Authors: Moun Ankit , P Ramesh Kumar , M Malathi Priya , Kalle Riddhika , T Ramesh
Published: June 2022

Context: The changing land-use patterns surrounding freshwater bodies influences the habitat ecology of semi-aquatic mammals through alterations in stream characteristics and riparian habitat. Conservation of otters in inland freshwaters exposed to high anthropogenic activity requires an understanding of their multi-scale factorial responses for effective ecosystem-level and site-specific habitat management. Objectives: We aimed to predict the occupancy and detection probability of smooth-coated otter Lutrogale perspicillata along the Tungabhadra Otter Conservation Reserve (TOCR) taking stream characteristics, riparian vegetation and anthropogenic disturbances at the local-scale and hydro-environmental characteristics and land uses at the landscape-scale.Methods: We sampled 180 stream segments (100 m – 400 m) as spatial replicates of 60 1 km2 sites to record smooth-coated otter evidence (spraints and mass latrine sites) along TOCR in the dry season. We applied Markovian-chain detection and occupancy models to assess the multi-scale habitat use of otters.Results: At the local-scale, probability of otter site use increased with proportion of bank vegetation, and decreased with anthropogenic pressure while the species probability of detection decreased with grass cover. At the landscape-scale, probability of otter site use increased with stream power, river area, stream order and proportion of sugarcane fields.Conclusions: Our findings highlight the first empirical evidence of multi-scale habitat use of a southern Indian population of smooth-coated otters in a freshwater ecosystem surrounded by the scrub jungle-agriculture matrix. We suggest that habitat models built from analytical approaches that account for correlated detections can avoid biased predictions when estimating occupancy and detection probability of semi-aquatic or riparian mammal communities with linear distributions.
Lower extremity muscle strength is a factor in the early stage of development of locomotive syndrome in Japanese American women: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Kawae Toshihiro , Nomura Takuo , Nakashima Yuki , Ohno Haruya , Yoneda Masayasu
Published: June 2022

Background
Obesity and lower extremity muscle strength (LEMS) is a factor in the development of locomotive syndrome (LS), but the influence of gender differences on its development has not been clarified. We aimed to determine whether obesity and LEMS are associated with LS by sex, using a Japanese American population with a high prevalence of obesity.
Methods
The study was a cross-sectional study of 564 people living in Los Angeles, United States of America. The LS stage was graded using the 25-question Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale. The LEMS was determined by the knee extension force (KEF). Logistic regression analysis was performed to investigate the relationships between LS stage and KEF, age, and obesity-related parameters.
Results
No significant differences were found in the prevalence rates of non-LS, stage 1 LS, and stage 2 LS among the different age groups for men. In contrast, significant differences were observed in the LS prevalence rates the different age groups for women. In men, KEF was significantly lower in the stage 2 LS group than in the non-LS group. Conversely, in women, KEF was significantly lower in the stage 1 LS and stage 2 LS groups than the non-LS group. KEF was significantly associated with LS in the stage 2 LS group in men, while age and KEF were significantly associated with LS in the stage 1 LS and stage 2 LS groups in women.
Conclusions
KEF was found to be a factor in the development of stage 2 LS in men and stages 1 and 2 LS in women. Therefore, efforts to prevent muscle weakness in KEF from the early stage of LS in women are considered a necessary intervention.
Exploiting Synergistic Effect of Controlled Co-Delivery Medicine for Soft Tissue Transplantation using Double System of Bio-Multifunctional Hydrogel
Authors: Tang Xiaoduo , Ren Jingyan , Wei Xin , Wang Tao , Sun Yihan , Liu Yang , Chi Mingli , Zhu Shoujun , Lu Laijin , Zhang Junhu , Yang Bai
Published: June 2022

Autologous skin flap transplantation is a common method to repair complex soft tissue defects caused by cancer, trauma, and congenital malformations, among other conditions; however, limited blood supply range and post-transplantation ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) can cause distal necrosis of the flap and loss of long-term function, severely limiting the indications for this type of surgery. Here, development of a bio-multifunctional hydrogel for programmatic co-delivery medicine, DCDM, that meets the blood supply requirements of skin flap transplantation and can deliver two types of gas molecules, CO and NO, in a timely manner and with a concentration gradient during surgery, is described. DCDM maintains the immediate opening of blood flow channels in transplanted tissue and effective blood perfusion throughout the perioperative period, activating perfusion of the hemodynamic donor site. These results demonstrate that DCDM promotes distal vascularization and long-term functional reconstruction of transplanted tissues by inhibiting inflammatory damage and accelerating blood vessel formation. The findings presented here are applicable to the extended fields of large soft tissue defect repair and transplant of various organs.
Survey on the viral contamination of environmental surfaces around patients with COVID-19
Authors: Hayase Atsuko , Ogata Masayuki , Hiki Makoto , Okada Yasuhiro , Kubo Shun , Sato Mari , Naito Toshio , Tabe Yoko , Manabe Kenji , Mori Takuya , Ota Noriyasu , Hori Satoshi
Published: June 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has contributed to significant morbidity and mortality globally. Despite prior findings detecting SARS-CoV-2 genes on environmental surfaces, little research has examined the role of environmental viruses on disease spread. Thus, the present study examined the SARS-CoV-2 contamination in the hospital setting. In the study, 14 sites in the hospital room and one site on the back of nurses’ scrubs were sampled for virus detection. Of the 134 collected samples, 66 were positive for viral RNA (49.3%). Viral RNA detection rates were highest for samples obtained from patients’ masks and pajamas, and the likelihood of viral positivity decreased with increasing distance from the patient’s mouth. Meanwhile, SARS-CoV-2 was detected at sites distant from the patient’s mouth, including the shower room and patient room doorknobs, indicating the potential for the virus to spread through hand contact by infected patients. In addition, infectious virus was detected in 3 samples (2.2%). To our knowledge, this is the first report of SARS-CoV-2, which retain infectious, detected on environmental surfaces. Our findings illustrated the need for frequent cleaning of surfaces to prevent the in-hospital spread of COVID-19.
Biodegradable and Biorecyclable Organic Glass
Authors: Xing Ruirui , Yuan Chengqian , Fan Wei , Ren Xiaokang , Yan Xuehai
Published: June 2022

Glass is ubiquitous in life and widely used in various fields. However, there is an urgent need to develop biodegradable and biorecyclable glasses that have a minimal environmental footprint toward a sustainable society and a circular materials economy. Here, we report a family of eco-friendly organic glasses of biological origin fabricated using biologically-derived amino acids or peptides through the classic heating-quenching procedure. Amino acids and peptides with chemical modification at their ends are found able to form a supercooled liquid before decomposition and eventually glass upon quenching. These developed glasses exhibit excellent glass-forming ability and optical characteristics and are amenable to 3D printed additive manufacturing and mould casting. Crucially, the glasses show biocompatibility, biodegradability and biorecyclability beyond the currently used commercial glasses and plastic materials.
Towards the usage of Phaeodactylum tricornutum as biofactory for omega-3 fatty acids
Authors:   , Krämer Liv Celin
Published: June 2022

The increasing demand of the high value ω-3 fatty acids due to its beneficial role for human health, explains the huge need for alternative production ways of ω-3 fatty acids. The oleaginous alga Phaeodactylum tricornutum is a prominent candidate and has been investigated as biofactory for ω-3 fatty acids, e.g. the synthesis of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). In general, the growth and the lipid content of diatoms can be enhanced by genetic engineering or are influenced by environmental factors, e.g. nutrients, light or temperature. In this study, the potential of P. tricornutum as biofactory was improved by heterologously expressing the hexose uptake protein 1 (HUP1) from the Chlorophyte Chlorella kessleri. An in situ localization study revealed that only the full length HUP1 protein fused to eGFP was correctly targeted to the plasma membrane, whereas the N-terminal sequence of the protein is only sufficient to enter the ER. Protein and gene expression data displayed that the gene-promoter combination was relevant for the expression level of HUP1, while only cells expressing the protein under the light-inducible fcpA promoter showed a significant expression. In these mutants an efficient glucose uptake was detectable under mixotrophic growth condition, low light intensities and low glucose concentrations leading to an increased cell dry weight. In a second approach, the growth and lipid content of wildtype cells were analyzed in a small 1l photobioreactor. Here, a commercial F/2 medium and a common culture medium, ASP and modified versions were compared. There was neither a significant impact on the growth and lipid content in P. tricornutum cells due to the supplemention of trace elements nor due to elevated salt concentrations in the media. In a modified version of ASP medium, with adapted nitrate and phosphate concentration a constantly high biomass productivity was achieved, yielding the highest value of 82 mg l-1 d-1 during the first three days. This was achieved even though light intensity was reduced by 40%. The differences in biomass productivity as well as the lipid content and the lipid composition underlined the importance of the choice of culture medium and the harvest time for enhanced growth and EPA yields in P. tricornutum.
Some rigorous results on symmetry breakings in gauge QFT
Authors: Strocchi Franco
Published: June 2022

The extraordinary success of the Standard Model asks for a more
rigorous control beyond the perturbative approach, which is affected by
mathematical problems (interaction picture and canonical quantization,
non-covergence of the perturbative series, triviality results for
\phi^4ϕ4
model and related models, etc.).
We shall briefly discuss some non-perturbative results concerning the
crucial role and realization of symmetry breakings in the Standard
Model.