bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The emerging role of MEIS1 in cell proliferation and differentiation
Authors: Jiang Mingzhu , Xu Shuang , Bai Mi , Zhang Aihua
Published: December 2020

Cell proliferation and differentiation are the foundation of reproduction and growth. Mistakes in these processes may affect cell survival, or cause cell cycle dysregulation, such as tumorigenesis, birth defects and degenerative diseases, or cell death. Myeloid ecotropic viral integration site 1 (MEIS1) was initially discovered in leukemic mice. Recent research identified MEIS1 as an important transcription factor that regulates cell proliferation and differentiation during cell fate commitment. MEIS1 has a pro-proliferative effect in leukemia cells; however, its overexpression in cardiomyocytes restrains neonatal and adult cardiomyocyte proliferation. In addition, MEIS1 has carcinogenic or tumor suppressive effects in different neoplasms. Thus, this uncertainty suggests that MEIS1 has a unique function in cell proliferation and differentiation. In this review, we summarize the primary findings of MEIS1 in regulating cell proliferation and differentiation. Correlations between MEIS1 and cell fate specification might suggest MEIS1 as a therapeutic target for diseases.
SOX1 and PAX1 Are Hypermethylated in Cervical Adenocarcinoma and Associated with Better Prognosis
Authors: Zhao Zitong , Zhang Xiaoye , Zhao Xueheng , Cai Jingting , Wu Na-Yi Yuan , Wang Jing
Published: December 2020

Background. The increased risk and poor survival outcome of cervical adenocarcinoma (CAC) demand for effective early diagnostic biomarkers that can predict the disease progression and outcome. The purpose of this study was to investigate the value of methylation status of SOX1 and PAX1 in the detection and prognosis of CAC. Methods. We performed a quantitative methylation‐specific polymerase chain reaction in 205 cervical paraffin‐embedded specimens (175 CACs, 30 noncancer cervical tissues). Overall and progression‐free survival (OS and PFS, respectively) rates were calculated and compared using the Kaplan‐Meier method. The prognostic value of SOX1m and PAX1m on CAC patients was assessed by the Cox regression model. A mathematical formula combining SOX1m, PAX1m, and age was constructed for survival prediction. Results. The methylation status of SOX1 and PAX1 was higher in CAC tissues than in noncancer cervical tissues. In addition, SOX1m‐positive CAC patients showed a higher 5‐year OS rate than SOX1m‐negative patients. In CAC patients with smaller tumor size (<4 cm), the PAX1m‐positive group showed a higher 5‐year PFS rate than the PAX1m‐negative group. In the algorithm combining SOX1m, PAX1m, and age, the low‐risk group showed a better 5‐year OS and PFS rate than the high‐risk group. Conclusion. SOX1 and PAX1 methylation levels are higher in CAC than in normal cervical tissues and are potential biomarkers for monitoring CAC prognosis.
Can Primary Cardiac Myxofibrosarcoma Grow Quickly from Zero to a Size Leading to Left-Sided Heart Failure within 9 Months?
Authors: Karazanishvili Levan , Limonjiani Eduard
Published: December 2020

Malignant cardiac tumors are extremely rare, representing only 25% of all cardiac tumors, and angiosarcoma is the most common subtype. Myxofibrosarcomas are one of the rarest forms of cardiac malignant tumors. These tumors can silently grow and produce no or few symptoms until the tumor is large enough to obstruct blood flow. The definitive treatment is negative margin resection, if possible. Most cardiac tumors have a limited response to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Therefore, surgical treatment is considered the best option. Our patient is a 57-year-old Caucasian postmenopausal female who presented with dyspnea, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Echocardiography confirmed the presence of a mass in the left atrium. A median sternotomy was performed with aortic and bicaval cannulation. Right atriotomy was performed, and the left atrium was exposed through the transseptal approach. A rounded smooth-surfaced mass was found in the left atrium that was

3.5
×
4.5

 cm in size. The mass had a prominent and firm attachment point with a wide-based stalk in the pulmonary vein-right atrium border area. The tumor was completely excised, and the excision point was strengthened with a running suture. The following pathologic diagnosis was finally made: myxofibrosarcoma, FNCLCC (National Federation of Cancer Centres) Grade 2. Immunohistochemistry showed positivity for Epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), desmin, calretinin, Ki67, Smooth Muscle Actin (SMA), and S100. Given the rarity of cardiac malignant tumors, we thought preoperatively that this particular tumor could be a myxoma although it did not have the classical attachment point with a stalk at the interatrial septum. Our case is an example of how fast a cardiac sarcoma can grow. Nine months before the presentation, the patient underwent an echocardiography that did not show any signs of tumor growth. The estimated time of growth was 9 months or less. We followed our patient, performing a computer tomography scan and echocardiography 1 month after surgery, and these did not show any signs of tumor growth.
Miscarriage on Endometriosis and Adenomyosis in Women by Assisted Reproductive Technology or with Spontaneous Conception: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Huang Yangxue , Zhao Xianhong , Chen Yiyuan , Wang Jie , Zheng Weilin , Cao Lixing
Published: December 2020

Background. In the past several years, there has been an increasing concern on miscarriage caused by endometriosis or adenomyosis. However, the results reported by different studies remain controversial. The present study is aimed at assessing the impact of endometriosis and adenomyosis on miscarriage. Materials and Methods. Searches were carried out in PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane library for studies published from inception until February 29, 2020. The investigators included studies that evaluated miscarriage risk in pregnant women with endometriosis or adenomyosis by assisted reproductive technology (ART), or with spontaneous conception (SC). Miscarriage (<28 weeks) was the primary outcome. The secondary outcomes were antepartum hemorrhage (APH), postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), preterm birth, low birthweight, placenta praevia, placental abruption, ectopic pregnancy, stillbirth, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). Endnote was used for the study collection, and the data analyses were carried out by two authors using Review Manager version 5.2. Results. Thirty‐nine studies, which is comprised of 697,984 women, were included in the present study. Miscarriage risk increased in women with endometriosis in SC (OR: 1.81, 95% CI: 1.44‐2.28, I2 = 96%) compared with those without endometriosis, while women with endometriosis who underwent ART had a similar miscarriage risk, when compared to those with tubal infertility (OR: 1.03, 95% CI: 0.92‐1.14, I2 = 0%). Compared with those without adenomyosis, women with adenomyosis had an augmented miscarriage risk in ART (OR: 2.81, 95% CI: 1.44‐5.47, I2 = 64%). Compared with those without endometriosis, women with endometriosis had higher odds of APH, PPH, preterm birth, stillbirth, and placenta praevia. No difference was observed in the incidence of ectopic pregnancy, placental abruption, pre‐eclampsia, gestational diabetes, low birthweight, and IUGR. Conclusion. Women with endometriosis had an augmented miscarriage risk in SC and a similar miscarriage risk during ART. Adenomyosis was associated with miscarriage in pregnant women using ART.
An Automatic Emergency Braking Model considering Driver’s Intention Recognition of the Front Vehicle
Authors: Yang Wei , Liu Jiajun , Zhou Kaixia , Zhang Zhiwei , Qu Xiaolei
Published: December 2020

Driver’s intention of the front vehicle plays an important role in the automatic emergency braking (AEB) system. If the front vehicle brakes suddenly, there is potential collision risk for following vehicle. Therefore, we propose a driver’s intention recognition model for the front vehicle, which is based on the backpropagation (BP) neural network and hidden Markov model (HMM). The brake pedal, accelerator pedal, and vehicle speed data are used as the input of the proposed BP-HMM model to recognize the driver’s intention, which includes uniform driving, normal braking, and emergency braking. According to the recognized driver’s intention transmitted by Internet of vehicles, an AEB model for the following vehicle is proposed, which can dynamically change the critical braking distance under different driving conditions to avoid rear-end collision. In order to verify the performance of the proposed models, we conducted driver’s intention recognition and AEB simulation tests in the cosimulation environment of Simulink and PreScan. The simulation test results show that the average recognition accuracy of the proposed BP-HMM model was 98%, which was better than that of the BP and HMM models. In the Car to Car Rear moving (CCRm) and Car to Car Rear braking (CCRb) tests, the minimum relative distance between the following vehicle and the front vehicle was within the range of 1.5 m–2.7 m and 2.63 m–5.28 m, respectively. The proposed AEB model has better collision avoidance performance than the traditional AEB model and can adapt to individual drivers.
Physicochemical Properties of Hydrated Portland Cement Blended with Rice Husk Ash
Authors: Marangu Joseph Mwiti , Muturia M’thiruaine Cyprian , Bediako Mark
Published: December 2020

In the presence of significant quantities of carbon dioxide (CO2) and elevated temperatures in the atmosphere due to climate change, cement-based materials are susceptible to carbonation. Blended cements are more prone to carbonation attack than Portland cement. There is a need to evaluate the carbonation resistance of blended cements in a carbonation-prone environment. This paper presents experimental findings obtained from an evaluation of carbonation resistance tests on Rice Husk Ash- (RHA-) blended cement. The blended cement was made by intergrinding of Portland Cement (PC) and RHA to make the test cement (PC-RHA). The RHA dosage in the PC-RHA was varied from 0 to 30% by mass of PC. Pozzolanicity, standard consistency, and setting time tests were conducted on PC-RHA. Mortar prisms measuring 160 mm × 40 mm x 40 mm were separately cast at a water/cement ratio (w/c) of 0.50 and 0.60 and cured in water for 2, 7, 14, 28, and 90 days. Compressive strength tests were conducted on the mortar prisms at each of the testing ages. The prepared mortars were also subjected to accelerated carbonation tests in two Relative Humidity (RH) curing regimes, one maintained at an RH greater than 90% and the other between 50–60%. Carbonation resistance of the mixtures was evaluated in terms of the changes in carbonation depth using a phenolphthalein test at the age of 7, 14, 28, and 56 days of curing in a continuous flow of CO2. Compressive strength measurements were also taken during each of the carbonation testing ages. For comparison, similar tests were conducted using commercial PC. The results showed that PC-RHA was pozzolanic while PC was nonpozzolanic. Higher water demand and longer setting times were observed in PC-RHA than in PC. Moreover, there was increased strength development in water-cured samples with increased curing duration. Carbonation results indicated that there was a marked increase in carbonation depth with increased dosage of RHA in PC-RHA binders, increased duration of exposure to CO2, and decreased RH (RH between 50–60%). PC-RHA binders exhibited lower carbonation resistance than PC. In conclusion, for mortars at anyw/cratio, carbonation resistance decreased with increase in RHA dosage and increasedw/cratio.
Inflammation Is Associated with Worse Outcome in the Whole Cohort but with Better Outcome in Triple-Negative Subtype of Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Oshi Masanori , Newman Stephanie , Tokumaru Yoshihisa , Yan Li , Matsuyama Ryusei , Endo Itaru , Takabe Kazuaki
Published: December 2020

Inflammation has been linked with cancer, but whether it is part of the problem or part of the solution remains to be a matter of debate in breast cancer. Our group and others have demonstrated that inflammation aggravates cancer progression; however, some claim that inflammation may support immune cell infiltration and suppress cancer. We defined the gene set variation analysis of the Molecular Signatures Database Hallmark inflammatory response gene set as the inflammatory pathway score and analyzed 3632 tumors in total from 4 breast cancer cohorts (METABRIC, TCGA, GSE25066, and GSE21094). In the whole breast cancer cohort, high-score tumors were associated with aggressive clinical characteristics, such as worse disease specific survival, higher Nottingham histological grade, and younger age. Inflammatory score was significantly higher in triple-negative (TNBC) as well as basal and normal subtypes compared with the other subtypes, which suggest that the detrimental effect of high level of inflammation may be because it includes a more aggressive subtype. On the contrary, high score within TNBC was significantly associated with better survival. TNBC with high score enriched not only IFN-α, IFN-γ response, IL-2/STAT5 signaling, Allograft rejection, Complement, p53 pathway, Reactive Oxygen, and Apoptosis but also TNF-α signaling, IL6-JAK-STAT signaling, TGF-β signaling, Coagulation, Angiogenesis, EMT, KRAS signaling, and PI3K-AKT-MTOR signaling gene sets. High score was associated with mainly favorable anticancerous immune cell infiltration as well as Leukocyte fraction, TIL regional fraction, Lymphocyte infiltration, IFN-γ response, TGF-β response, and cytolytic activity scores. Although the inflammatory pathway score was not associated with neoadjuvant treatment response, it associated with expressions of immune checkpoint molecules. In conclusion, inflammation was associated with worse outcome in the whole breast cancer cohort, but with better outcome in TNBC, which was associated with favorable anticancerous immune response and immune cell infiltrations.
The pH Effect on the Growth of Hexagonal and Monoclinic Hydroxyapatite Synthesized by the Hydrothermal Method
Authors: López-Ortiz S. , Mendoza-Anaya D. , Sánchez-Campos D. , Fernandez-García M. E. , Salinas-Rodríguez E. , Reyes-Valderrama M. I. , Rodríguez-Lugo V.
Published: December 2020

Summary. In the present work, a study of H+ effects on the microstructure and morphology of hydroxyapatite synthesized by the hydrothermal method is reported. The synthesis was realized with pH values of 10, 9.6, 9, 8, and 7. To know the particle size distribution, growth habit, chemical composition, and crystalline phases present, SEM-EDS, XRD, AFM, and FTIR spectroscopy techniques were used and completed with Rietveld analysis. The obtained results showed an important effect of H+ on the morphological and crystallographic characteristics of the hydroxyapatite, demonstrating that the shape and nanoparticle size, as well as the number of crystalline phases, can change depending on the pH during the synthesis. It was observed that there is an increase in the formation of the monoclinic phase and a decrease of the hexagonal phase when the pH value diminishes from 9.6 to 7. The crystallite size also decreases from 46.69 to 19.56 nm. An explanation of the role of pH on the final characteristics of the hydroxyapatite was related to the amount of H+ and OH- ions, and it was included in this work.
Antimicrobial Efficacy of a Novel Antibiotic‐Eluting Injectable Platelet‐Rich Fibrin Scaffold against a Dual‐Species Biofilm in an Infected Immature Root Canal Model
Authors: Rafiee Azade , Memarpour Mahtab , Najibi Yasaman , Khalvati Bahman , Kianpour Sedigheh , Morowvat Mohammad Hossein
Published: December 2020

Background and Aims. This study was aimed at evaluating the antibacterial property of an injectable platelet‐rich fibrin (I‐PRF) scaffold containing triple antibiotic mixture against an Actinomyces naeslundii (A. naeslundii) and Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis) biofilm in an infected immature root canal model. Methods. A dual‐species biofilm was inoculated inside the root canals via a series of centrifugal cycles. The samples were allocated to three experimental groups (i.e., G1: triple antibiotic mixture, G2: I‐PRF containing triple antibiotic mixture, and G3: antibiotic‐free I‐PRF scaffold) and two control groups (G4: seven‐day biofilm untreated and G5: bacteria‐free untreated). Results. Bacterial gene quantification change and the overall reduction of live bacteria were evaluated. The highest antibacterial activity against A. naeslundii belonged to G2. However, G1 and G2 had similar antibacterial property against E. faecalis (p value = 0.814). In general, experimental groups revealed higher levels of antibacterial activity against E. faecalis than against A. naeslundii (p value < 0.001). Notably, G2 could dramatically decrease the number of live bacteria up to near 92%. Conclusions. The current study provides insight into the antibacterial property of an antibiotic‐eluting I‐PRF scaffold against a dual‐species biofilm colonized inside the root canal. The fabricated scaffold contains not only the antibiotics but also the growth factors, which favor the regeneration.
Image Classification Model Based on Deep Learning in Internet of Things
Authors: Zou Songshang , Chen Wenshu , Chen Hao
Published: December 2020

In the environment of Internet of Things, the convolutional neural network (CNN) is an important tool and method of image classification. However, the features that are extracted by each layer of CNN are all high dimensional, and the features differ among the layers. In addition, these features contain substantial amounts of redundant information. To prevent the increase in the computational burden and the decline of the model generalization performance that are caused by high dimensionality, this paper proposes an improved image classification algorithm based on deep feature fusion, which designs and builds an 8-layer CNN. In addition, it reduces the dimensionality of the features via the principal component analysis (PCA) dimensionality reduction algorithm and fuses the features that have undergone dimensionality reduction to make the obtained features more typical and differential. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed algorithm improves the performance of the model and achieves satisfactory accuracy.
Essential Attributes of Clear Aligner Therapy in terms of Appliance Configuration, Hygiene, and Pain Levels during the Pandemic: A Brief Review
Authors: Marya Anand , Venugopal Adith , Vaid Nikhilesh , Alam Mohammad Khursheed , Karobari Mohmed Isaqali
Published: December 2020

Fixed orthodontic treatment has been compromised at many levels during the pandemic period, as clinics underwent a prolonged lockdown and patients could not be treated regularly. With the end of the pandemic nowhere in sight, may be it is time to put newer tools, such as clear aligner therapy, for better use. Fixed orthodontic appliances by nature are not always self-limiting, which, if left unmonitored over a long period may cause undesirable side effects, pain, and discomfort. The undesired tooth movements that may occur with arch wire-guided mechanics in addition to problems with cut wires or removed brackets may be minimized with the use of aligners. While the benefits of using aligners are for all to see, they do require extensive planning and careful evaluation of the progress. This article reviews the advantages of using aligners during the pandemic period and how it can be beneficial in helping orthodontists resume their practice.
W-Index: An Index for Evaluating Link Prediction considering Only the Role of Wins
Authors: Yuan Yun , Wang Jingwei , Ma Yunlong , Liu Min
Published: December 2020

With the emergence of numerous link prediction methods, how to accurately evaluate them and select the appropriate one has become a key problem that cannot be ignored. Since AUC was first used for link prediction evaluation in 2008, it is arguably the most preferred metric because it well balances the role of wins (the testing link has a higher score than the unobserved link) and the role of draws (they have the same score). However, in many cases, AUC does not show enough discrimination when evaluating link prediction methods, especially those based on local similarity. Hence, we propose a new metric, called W-index, which considers only the effect of wins rather than draws. Our extensive experiments on various networks show that the W-index makes the accuracy scores of link prediction methods more distinguishable, and it can not only widen the local gap of these methods but also enlarge their global distance. We further show the reliability of the W-index by ranking change analysis and correlation analysis. In particular, some community-based approaches, which have been deemed effective, do not show any advantages after our reevaluation. Our results suggest that the W-index is a promising metric for link prediction evaluation, capable of offering convincing discrimination.
Assessment of Prevalence of Malnutrition and Its Associated Factors among AIDS Patients from Asella, Oromia, Ethiopia
Authors: Teklu Teferi , Chauhan Nitin Mahendra , Lemessa Firaol , Teshome Getu
Published: December 2020

Sub‐Saharan Africa remains to be the most heavily affected region by malnutrition, accounting for 23.8% share of the global burden. Undernutrition weakens the immune system, increases the susceptibility to infections, and may worsen the impact on various kinds of diseases. Our aim was to assess undernutrition and its associated factors among AIDS‐infected adult patients from Asella, Oromia Region, Ethiopia. An institutional‐based cross‐sectional study design was employed from June to July 2018. A total number of 519 patients were selected for the proposed work. Data was entered into EpiData, checked, coded, and analyzed using SPSS version 21 software. Descriptive statistics were used to assess the prevalence of undernutrition among patients. Bivariate and multivariate regressions were used to determine the relationship between undernutrition and its associated factors among the study participants. The results of our study showed that the overall prevalence of undernutrition was 18.3%; out of which 12.7% were mildly and 5.6% were moderately to severely undernourished, respectively. Monthly income (AOR: 3.589, 95% CI (1.469‐8.768)), whole grain feeding (AOR: 2.979, 95% CI (1.252‐7.088)), opportunistic infections in the last six months (AOR: 3.683, 95% CI (3.075‐4.411)), clinical stage (AOR: 2.998, 95% CI (1.269‐7.083)), and insufficient quality of food (AOR: 3.149, 95% CI (1.339‐7.406)) were found to be significantly associated with undernutrition in this study. Therefore, HIV treatment facility should be supported with nutritional assessment, supplementation, counseling, care, and support to patients that may possibly alleviate this predicament.
Study on Simplified Model and Numerical Solution of High-Speed Angular Contact Ball Bearing
Authors: Zeng Guang , Zhao Chunjiang , Yu Xiaokai , Sun Biao , Xiao Zhigang , Bian Qiang , Liu Bingyang
Published: December 2020

For the calculation model of high-speed angular contact bearing has many variables, the large root difference exists, and the Newton iterative method solving the convergence depends on the initial value problems; thus, the simplified calculation model is proposed and the algorithm is improved. Firstly, based on the nonlinear equations of variables recurrence method of the high-speed angular contact ball bearing calculation model, it is proved that the ultimate fundamental variables of calculation model are the actual inner and outer contact angles, the axial and radial deformations. According to this reason, the nonlinear equations are deformed and deduced, and the number of equations is reduced from 4Z + 2 to 2Z + 2 (Z represents the number of rolling bodies); a simplified calculation model is formed. Secondly, according to the small dependence of the artificial bee colony algorithm on the initial value, an improved artificial bee colony algorithm is proposed for the large root difference characteristics of high-speed ball bearings. The validity of the improved algorithm is verified by standard test function. The algorithm is used to solve the high-speed angular contact ball bearing calculation model. Finally, the deformations of high-speed angular contact ball bearings are compared and verified by experiments, and the results of improved algorithm show good agreement with the experiments results.
Computer Simulation/Prediction of Wear in Mechanical Components
Authors: Mukras Saad M. S.
Published: December 2020

In this paper, a state of the art on computer simulation and prediction of wear in mechanical components is reviewed. Past and recent developments as well as approaches employed in the simulation and prediction of wear are reviewed. In particular, the wear models, contact analysis schemes, and wear evolution prediction procedures as well as their application to the mechanical components (including cam-follower, gears, bearings, and cylinder/piston/piston ring wear) are reviewed. Recommendations and suggestions on possible directions for further research studies are also presented.
Association between Drinking Habits and Oral Symptoms: A Cross-Sectional Study Based on Japanese National Statistical Data
Authors: Kamoda Takeshi , Komatsuzaki Akira , Ono Sachie , Tanaka Satoshi , Yokoi Yasuno
Published: December 2020

Aim. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between drinking habits and subjective symptoms of the oral cavity based on Japanese national statistical data. Methods. The subjects were 8,698 respondents of the Japan National Livelihood Survey 2013, in their 30s to 60s. The association between drinking habits and each survey item was investigated by contingency table analysis and binary logistic regression analysis. Results. The proportion of people with drinking habits was 55.3% among men and 20.3% among women, and the proportion of men with drinking habits above the age of 40 years was high. Contingency table analysis indicated an association between drinking habits and the following items in men: subjective symptoms (

p
<
0.01

), chewing difficulty (

p
<
0.05

), subjective impression of health (

p
<
0.01

), smoking habit (

p
<
0.01

), and income level (

p
<
0.01

). Analysis indicated an association between drinking habits and hospital visits (

p
<
0.01

) and smoking habits (

p
<
0.01

) in women. When comparing the response rates of symptoms and presence of disease stratified according to drinking habits, inflammatory and sensory system symptoms were common in those who had drinking habits, as were diabetes and gout. Binomial logistic regression analysis with drinking habit as the objective variable indicated statistically significant odds ratios for smoking habit (2.13; 95% CI: 1.65–2.75), difficulty in chewing (1.63; 95% CI: 1.01–2.62), and working hours (1.50; 95% CI: 1.10–2.04). This study identified a correlation between drinking habits and masticatory disorders, suggesting that the effects of drinking as a risk factor for dental diseases should be examined in greater detail in the future.
Calculation of the Vertical Strata Load of Utility Tunnel Crossing Ground Fissure Zone
Authors: Zhang Dan , Hu Zhiping , Lu Ganggang , Wang Rui , Ren Xiang
Published: December 2020

A ground fissure is a geological disaster in which the vertical dislocation of strata causes surface rupture. Ground fissures can cause extreme harm to the surface and underground buildings. Ground fissure activity can result in different settlement on the two sides of the strata, which will generate additional stress (pressure) that differs from the stress of the general stratum on underground structures across the ground fissure zone. It is essential to assess the effective stress of strata in the design of underground engineering structures across a ground fissure zone. The Xi’an ground fissure through a utility tunnel was focus of the research, and a physical model and data for oblique crossing of the 45° ground fissure were analyzed. A model of the utility tunnel structure was established, including the surrounding soil load as an active ground fissure environment. This model was used to calculate the vertical formation pressure of the overlying soil on the utility tunnel. A method to calculate the overlying load on the utility tunnel caused by ground fissure activity was proposed and compared with the calculation based on the A. Marston principle. The results showed that the ground fissure load calculation method based on the strata-holding effect can effectively calculate the earth pressure of the surrounding soil layer of the utility tunnel in the cross-ground fissure section. The results of this work provide guidance and reference value for the design of a utility tunnel in an area with the potential for a ground fissure.
Macrophages Mediate the Antitumor Effects of the Oncolytic Virus HSV1716 in Mammary Tumors
Authors: Kwan Amy , Winder Natalie , Atkinson Emer , Al-Janabi Haider , Allen Richard J. , Hughes Russell , Moamin Mohammed , Louie Rikah , Evans Dhanajay , Hutchinson Matthew , Capper Drew , Cox Katie , Handley Joshua , Wilshaw Adam , Kim Taewoo , Tazzyman Simon J. , Srivastava Sanjay , Ottewell Penelope , Vadakekolathu Jayakumar , Pockley Graham , Lewis Claire E. , Brown Janet E. , Danson Sarah J. , Conner Joe , Muthana Munitta
Published: December 2020

Oncolytic viruses (OV) have been shown to activate the antitumor functions of specific immune cells like T cells. Here, we show OV can also reprogram tumor-associated macrophage (TAM) to a less immunosuppressive phenotype. Syngeneic, immunocompetent mouse models of primary breast cancer were established using PyMT-TS1, 4T1, and E0771 cell lines, and a metastatic model of breast cancer was established using the 4T1 cell line. Tumor growth and overall survival was assessed following intravenous administration of the OV, HSV1716 (a modified herpes simplex virus). Infiltration and function of various immune effector cells was assessed by NanoString, flow cytometry of dispersed tumors, and immunofluorescence analysis of tumor sections. HSV1716 administration led to marked tumor shrinkage in primary mammary tumors and a decrease in metastases. This was associated with a significant increase in the recruitment/activation of cytotoxic T cells, a reduction in the presence of regulatory T cells and the reprograming of TAMs towards a pro-inflammatory, less immunosuppressive phenotype. These findings were supported by in vitro data demonstrating that human monocyte-derived macrophages host HSV1716 replication, and that this led to immunogenic macrophage lysis. These events were dependent on macrophage expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Finally, the antitumor effect of OV was markedly diminished when TAMs were depleted using clodronate liposomes. Together, our results show that TAMs play an essential role in support of the tumoricidal effect of the OV, HSV1716—they both host viral replication via a novel, PCNA-dependent mechanism and are reprogramed to express a less immunosuppressive phenotype.
Invasive Micropapillary Carcinoma of the Uterine Cervix
Authors: Koh Hyun Hee , Kim Hyunjin , Park Sujin , Do Sung-Im , Kim Hyun-Soo
Published: December 2020

We herein present a case of uterine cervical invasive micropapillary carcinoma (IMPC) in a 35-year-old woman. She had neither specific symptoms nor any previous gynecological history. A cervical punch biopsy revealed a high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion and concurrent intestinal-type mucinous carcinoma. Based on the preoperative diagnosis of endocervical adenocarcinoma, she underwent radical hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy and bilateral pelvic lymph node dissection. Grossly, there was an ovoid, slightly elevated mass with surface nodularity in the lower endocervix, measuring 10 × 8 mm. Histologically, the tumor consisted predominantly of tufts of tumor cells arranged in micropapillary structures devoid of fibrovascular cores and surrounded by clear, empty, lacunar spaces between tumor cell nests and stroma. The IMPC component comprised 90% of the entire tumor volume. The greatest dimension and stromal invasion depth of the IMPC were 8 and 3 mm, respectively (FIGO stage IA2). Immunostaining revealed that mucin 1 (MUC1) surrounded each micropapillary structure, indicating the reverse epithelial polarity of the glandular cells. MUC1 was localized predominantly in the stroma-facing surface of the cell clusters, accentuating the outlines of the micropapillary structures by forming a distinct, characteristic band on this surface. In addition, targeted sequencing analysis of the IMPC revealed a missense PIK3CA mutation (c.1633G>A). In summary, we present the clinicopathological characteristics of cervical IMPC. We demonstrate for the first time that IMPC of the uterine cervix harbors a pathogenic missense mutation in PIK3CA. Further investigations using larger cohorts of patients are necessary to confirm these findings.
Treatment with Delipid Extracorporeal Lipoprotein Filter from Plasma after Intravenous Thrombolysis for Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Cui Yu , Zhou Zhong-He , Hou Xiao-Wen , Chen Hui-Sheng
Published: December 2020

Introduction: The delipid extracorporeal lipoprotein filter from plasma (DELP) has been approved for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) by the China Food and Drug Administration, but its effectiveness and mechanism are not yet fully determined. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of DELP treatment on AIS patients after intravenous thrombolysis. Methods: A retrospective study was performed on AIS patients with no improvement within 24 h after intravenous thrombolysis who were subsequently treated with or without DELP. Primary outcome was the proportion with a modified Rankin scale (mRS) of 0–1 at 90 days. Secondary outcomes were changes in National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score from 24 h to 14 days after thrombolysis, and the rate of improvement in stroke-associated pneumonia (SAP). The main safety outcomes were the rates of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage and mortality. To investigate its mechanisms, serum biomarkers were measured before and after DELP. Results: A total of 252 patients were recruited, 63 in the DELP group and 189 matched patients in the NO DELP group. Compared with the NO DELP group, the DELP group showed an increase in the proportion of mRS 0–1 at 90 days (p = 0.042). More decrease in NIHSS from 24 h to 14 days (p = 0.024), a higher rate of improvement in SAP (p = 0.022), and lower mortality (p = 0.040) were shown in DELP group. Furthermore, DELP decreased levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, E-selectin, malondialdehyde, matrix metalloprotein 9, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, and fibrinogen, and increased superoxide dismutase (p< 0.05). Conclusions: DELP following intravenous thrombolysis should be safe, and is associated with neurological function improvement, possibly through multiple neuroprotective mechanisms. Prospective trials are needed.
Rectal Perforation by a Balloon Spacer: A Rare Cause of Rectal Perforation Addressed Endoscopically
Authors: Barros Sónia , Roseira Joana , Caldeira Paulo , Vaz Ana Margarida , Guerreiro Horácio , Codon Oscar
Published: December 2020

Prostate cancer is the second most frequent cancer in men worldwide. Dose escalation is currently the standard of care for the treatment of prostate cancer with radiation therapy. However, the rectum tends to be the dose-limiting structure when treating prostate cancer, given its proximity. The injection of biodegradable spacers between the prostate and the rectum may optimize radiotherapy treatment delivery for patients with localized disease. Nevertheless, although the overall complication rate of spacers is marginal, the benefits of spacer technologies need to be evaluated against the complication risks such as rectum perforation/necrosis. We report a case of a 59-year-old man with a diagnosis of prostate adenocarcinoma for whom hormonal treatment followed by intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) was proposed. A biodegradable and expandable balloon (BioProtect®) was injected into the perirectal space without detectable immediate complications. One month later, the patient presented with a 3-day persistent rectal bleeding. The investigation confirmed a rectal perforation by the balloon spacer system.
Development of Chinese Versions of Quality of Life in Late-Stage Dementia and Cognitive Tests for Severe Dementia
Authors: Leung Suet-Lai , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Kwok Timothy C.Y.
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Valid assessments of quality of life (QoL) and cognition are important in caring for individuals with severe dementia; there is an urgent need for validated assessment tools for specific populations. This study aimed to develop and validate Chinese versions of the Quality of Life in Late-Stage Dementia (QUALID-C) scale and the Cognitive Test for Severe Dementia (CTSD-C) for Chinese older adults. Methods: This was a cross-sectional validation study comprised of 93 Chinese older adults with severe dementia recruited from 6 residential homes. The content and cultural validity of the QUALID-C and CTSD-C were evaluated by a 7-member expert panel, and interrater reliability, test-retest reliability, internal consistency, concurrent validity, and factorial structure were examined. Results: The QUALID-C showed acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach α = 0.65), good interrater reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.99), and good test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.96). Principal component analysis yielded 3 factors; the items loaded on the factors were comparable to those in previous studies and suggested the scale’s multidimensionality to measure QoL. The CTSD-C showed satisfactory internal consistency (Cronbach α = 0.862), good interrater reliability (ICC = 0.99), and good test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.958). Principal component analysis yielded 3 factors; the items loaded on factors 1 and 2 resembled the items of the automatic response and attentional control factors of the original study. Conclusion: The QUALID-C and the CTSD-C are reliable and valid scales to measure the QoL and cognitive functions of Chinese older adults with severe dementia. These assessments can be utilized to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment and future research work.
Iatrogenic Tracheal Injuries: Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: Frost Ariel , Ruszkay Nicole , Steinberg Toby B. , Atkins Joshua , Mirza Natasha
Published: December 2020

Iatrogenic tracheal injuries are an uncommon but serious complication of endotracheal tube intubation. We present two cases that illustrate iatrogenic tracheal injuries presenting hours after the time of their injury. This report addresses the critical diagnostic evaluation and management of iatrogenic tracheal injuries resulting from endotracheal intubation.
Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis with Low-Molecular-Weight Heparin in Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma
Authors: Gazal Stav , Lebel Eyal , Kalish Yosef , Makranz Chen , Gatt Moshe E. , Goldschmidt Neta , Nachmias Boaz
Published: December 2020

Background: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a frequent, potentially lethal complication in individuals with cancer. Patients with brain tumors are at particularly high risk for VTE. Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is a rare subtype of diffuse large B cell lymphoma, involving the craniospinal axis. The incidence of VTE in patients with PCNSL was reported as very high, occurring mostly in the early period of therapy. Objectives: We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of prophylactic low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) throughout the treatment of PCNSL. Patients: All patients >18 years of age diagnosed and treated for PCNSL at our institution in 2005–2017 were included. Results: There were 44 patients; mean age at diagnosis was 61.5 years. Three patients (6.8%) had a personal history of thrombosis, 11 (25%) had a history of diabetes or smoking, and 32 (72%) had an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0–1 at diagnosis. During treatment with LMWH, no VTE events were recorded; 2 (4.5%) patients experienced a minor bleeding event and 1 (2.3%) a major bleeding event. Conclusions: Among our 44 patients with PCNSL treated with prophylactic LMWH, no VTE events were recorded, and only 1 (asymptomatic) intracranial bleed was recorded. Within the limitations of a retrospective nonrandomized study, our findings suggest that VTE prophylaxis may be beneficial for individuals with PCNSL.
Association of Sex, Age, and Comorbidities with Mortality in COVID-19 Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Biswas Mohitosh , Rahaman Shawonur , Biswas Tapash Kumar , Haque Zahirul , Ibrahim Baharudin
Published: December 2020

Introduction: Although severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 infection is causing mortality in considerable proportion of coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) patients, however, evidence for the association of sex, age, and comorbidities on the risk of mortality is not well-aggregated yet. It was aimed to assess the association of sex, age, and comorbidities with mortality in COVID-2019 patients. Methods: Literatures were searched using different keywords in various databases. Relative risks (RRs) were calculated by RevMan software where statistical significance was set as p < 0.05. Results: COVID-19 male patients were associated with significantly increased risk of mortality compared to females (RR 1.86: 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.67–2.07; p < 0.00001). Patients with age ≥50 years were associated with 15.4-folds significantly increased risk of mortality compared to patients with age <50 years (RR 15.44: 95% CI 13.02–18.31; p < 0.00001). Comorbidities were also associated with significantly increased risk of mortality; kidney disease (RR 4.90: 95% CI 3.04–7.88; p < 0.00001), cereborovascular disease (RR 4.78; 95% CI 3.39–6.76; p < 0.00001), cardiovascular disease (RR 3.05: 95% CI 2.20–4.25; p < 0.00001), respiratory disease (RR 2.74: 95% CI 2.04–3.67; p < 0.00001), diabetes (RR 1.97: 95% CI 1.48–2.64; p < 0.00001), hypertension (RR 1.95: 95% CI 1.58–2.40; p < 0.00001), and cancer (RR 1.89; 95% CI 1.25–2.84; p = 0.002) but not liver disease (RR 1.64: 95% CI 0.82–3.28; p= 0.16). Conclusion: Implementation of adequate protection and interventions for COVID-19 patients in general and in particular male patients with age ≥50 years having comorbidities may significantly reduce risk of mortality associated with COVID-19.
Human Errors in Automated Office Blood Pressure Measurement
Authors: Elias Merrill F. , Goodell Amanda L.
Published: December 2020

In this review of the literature and commentary, we examine the literature on automated blood pressure (BP) measurements in the office and clinic. Our purpose is to revisit issues as to the pros and cons of automated BP measurement published in
Hypertension
in June 2020 and to identify areas needing additional research. Despite initial reservations about automated BP, it is here to stay. A number of experts suggest that human error will be reduced when we move from the more complex skills required by aneroid sphygmomanometer measurement to the fewer skills and steps required by automated BP measurement. Our review indicates there is still need for reduction in errors in automated BP assessment, for example, retraining programs and monitoring of assessment procedures. We need more research on the following questions: (1) which classes of health care providers are least likely to measure BP accurately, usually by ignoring necessary steps; (2) how accurate is BP assessment by affiliated health care providers for example the dental office, the optometrist; and (3) why do some dedicated and well-informed health care professionals fail to follow simple directions for automated BP measurement? We offer additional solutions for improving automated BP assessment in the office and clinic.
Hardly Happily Ever After: Trafficking of Girls in the Hebrew Bible
Authors: Parker Julie Faith
Published: December 2020

This article examines elements in the stories of Hagar (Gen. 16:1–3), Abishag (1 Kgs. 1:1–4), Esther (Esth. 2:1–4), and the unnamed Israelite slave girl (2 Kgs. 5:1–4) through the lens of human trafficking, specifically trafficking girls. First, I will argue that our tendency to understand Hagar, Abishag, and Esther as women, not girls, is undermined by the vocabulary used to describe them, as well as other contextual clues. I will then outline the United Nations’ criteria for defining the transport of a person as human trafficking. Most of the article provides narrative analyses of the four texts cited above. By identifying elements of dislocation, trauma, and exploitation in the stories of Hagar, Abishag, Esther, and the Israelite slave girl, I suggest that parts of their stories meet the criteria to fulfill the pattern of human trafficking. This childist interpretation further maintains that these portrayals of girls being trafficked have multiple troubling commonalities, with each other and with human trafficking today.
Reading with Minor Feelings: Racialized Emotions and Children’s (Non)agency in Judges 10–12
Authors: Kim Dong Sung
Published: December 2020

In this article, I read the story of Jephthah and his daughter in Judges 10–12 within the contemporary context of racism and discrimination in the U.S. Particularly focusing on the affective and emotional dimensions of the lived experiences in racially/ethnically minoritized communities, I engage the biblical story with what poet and writer Cathy Park Hong calls, “minor feelings.” Reading the biblical narrative alongside Hong’s crudely personal—and yet pervasively common—accounts of Asian American racial trauma, I critically reflect on the notion of childhood agency, and suggest that the Western conception of agency neither reflects nor promotes the lives of the children in minority groups. In turn, I ask: What if we moved away from the traditional notions of agency and voice in our critical works, and, instead, turned towards emotions, sensations, and other embodied experiences as a site of interpretation, critique, and movement for social change?
Are Enslaved Children Called to Come to Jesus? Freeborn and Enslaved Children in John Chrysostom’s On Vainglory
Authors: Martens John W.
Published: December 2020

John Chrysostom, circa 349–407 ce, wrote “On Vainglory, or The Right Way to Raise Children,” which purports to be about raising all Christian children. In fact, out of ninety chapters, only one deals with girls. Even more significant are the numerous overlooked children in the text, who are present but whose Christian education is never discussed because they are enslaved. This paper utilizes childist criticism to draw these enslaved children from hiddenness into plain sight. The paper is situated in the context of Jesus’ teaching about children because Chrysostom believes that the best way to raise children is by teaching them stories from the Bible, Hebrew Bible first, then New Testament, but instead of an openness to all children he discusses only freeborn, elite boys. Chrysostom’s treatise exposes the context of how few children in late antiquity could be shaped by biblical interpretation intended for all children. (147 words)