bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating Pathway Knowledge with Deep Neural Networks to Reduce the Dimensionality in Single-Cell RNA-Seq Data
Authors: Gundogdu Pelin , Loucera Carlos , Alamo-Alvarez Inmaculada , Dopazo Joaquin , Nepomuceno Isabel
Published: September 2021

BackgroundSingle-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data provides valuable insights into cellular heterogeneity which is significantly improving the current knowledge on biology and human disease. One of the main applications of scRNA-seq data analysis is the identification of new cell types and cell states. Deep neural networks (DNNs) are among the best methods to address this problem. However, this performance comes with the trade-off for a lack of interpretability in the results. In this work we propose an intelligible pathway-driven neural network to correctly solve cell-type related problems at single-cell resolution while providing a biologically meaningful representation of the data.ResultsIn this study, we explored the deep neural networks constrained by several types of prior biological information, e.g. signaling pathway information, as a way to reduce the dimensionality of the scRNA-seq data. We have tested the proposed biologically-based architectures on thousands of cells of human and mouse origin across a collection of public datasets in order to check the performance of the model. Specifically, we tested the architecture across different validation scenarios that try to mimic how unknown cell types are clustered by the DNN and how it correctly annotates cell types by querying a database in a retrieval problem. Moreover, our approach demonstrated to be comparable to other less interpretable DNN approaches constrained by using protein-protein interactions gene regulation data. Finally, we show how the latent structure learned by the network could be used to visualize and to interpret the composition of human single cell datasets.ConclusionsHere we demonstrate how the integration of pathways, which convey fundamental information on functional relationships between genes, with DNNs, that provide an excellent classification framework, results in an excellent alternative to learn a biologically meaningful representation of scRNA-seq data. In addition, the introduction of prior biological knowledge in the DNN reduces the size of the network architecture. Comparative results demonstrate a superior performance of this approach with respect to other similar approaches. As an additional advantage, the use of pathways within the DNN structure enables easy interpretability of the results by connecting features to cell functionalities by means of the pathway nodes, as demonstrated with an example with human melanoma tumor cells.
Analysis of Industry Convergence Based on Improved Neural Network
Authors: Ma Nan
Published: September 2021

Economic growth in the information age is no longer a stage driven by unipolarity. It has entered a multi-polar driving stage characterized by integration, fusion, and integrated development on a larger scale between regions, and the trend of group competition with urban agglomerations as carriers has become increasingly obvious. This paper improves the neural network algorithm based on the needs of industrial economic integration in the digital age, and proposes an industry convergence analysis model based on the improved neural network algorithm. Moreover, this article combines industry models to analyze actual needs and constructs an industry convergence analysis model based on improved neural networks, and analyzes the integration of different industries. In addition, this article conducts experiments through multiple sets of data, and combines the neural network model of this article to conduct research. Through experimental research, we know that the model constructed in this paper can play an important role in the analysis of industry convergence.
Knowledge and attitude towards anesthesia for cesarean section and its associated factors among pregnant women attending Antenatal care
Authors: Endalew Mekides , Endalew Nigussie , Agegnehu Abatneh , Mekonnen Zemenay , Teshome Destaw
Published: September 2021

Background: Cesarean section is an effective technique for preventing maternal and perinatal mortality when performed properly. Evidence suggested that pregnant women who have had good knowledge about their condition are able to participate in shared decision-making and can alleviate fears related to anesthesia. However, only a few studies conducted in Ethiopia assess the level of knowledge and attitude of pregnant women towards anesthesia for cesarean section.Methods: Hospital based cross-sectional study was conducted from April 18 to June 25, 2021. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select a total of 362 pregnant women attending antenatal care. Pretested and structured questionnaires were used to collect the data using a face-to-face interview. Both bivariate and multivariable binary logistic regression models were used for statistical analysis. The adjusted odds ratio was used as the measure of association. P-value less than 0.05 at 95% CI was considered as statistically significant.Results: A total of 354 pregnant women attending at ANC clinic participated with a response rate of 97.8%. The overall proportion of good knowledge and positive attitude towards anesthesia for cesarean section were 56.5% (95% CI: 51.4%, 61.9%) and 50.8% (95% CI: 45.8%, 56.2%), respectively. Pregnant women who had previous operations (AOR=4.47, 95% CI: 1.77, 11.32) and had any health information about anesthesia (AOR=10.06, 95% CI: 5.41, 18.69) were significantly associated with good knowledge towards anesthesia for cesarean section. While, pregnant women who have had secondary education (AOR=6.71, 95% CI: 1.19, 37.99), college and above education (AOR=13.63, 95% CI: 2.26, 82.21), and had health information about anesthesia (AOR=2.02, 95% CI: 1.09, 3.77) significantly associated with a positive attitude towards anesthesia for CS.Conclusion: This finding means that a significant number of pregnant women still have poor knowledge and attitude towards anesthesia for CS. Previous operation and health information about anesthesia were significantly associated with knowledge while higher education and health information about anesthesia were significantly associated with a positive attitude towards anesthesia for cesarean section. Health professionals need to provide health information during ANC visits and in the operating theater areas for mothers who have indications for CS.
A Theoretical Study of Broadband Extraordinary Optical Transmission in Gold Plasmonic Square Nanohole Arrays and its Application on Refractive Index Sensor
Authors: Shafiq Rehan , Iqbal Javed , Khan Adnan Daud , Rehman Anees Ur
Published: September 2021

Extraordinary optical transmission (EOT) behaviour is investigated in a subwavelength plasmonic nanostructure, consisting of a gold film perforated with a square nanohole array and deposited on a silicon dioxide substrate. The essential aspect of the proposed structure is the periodic disorder that enables broadband transmission peaks in the visible and near-infrared region and reduces the structure's size, which mainly arises from the excitation of localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPRs). Optical cavity modes formed in the nanoholes and the hybridization of plasmon modes. Further, the performance of the proposed nanostructure as a plasmonic sensor is analyzed by increasing the index of refraction of the local environment; the EOT exhibit remarkable refractive index sensitivity of up to 944 nm/RIU, a figure of merit of 9.25 and a contrast ratio of 47% are realized. The proposed structure has some practical significance for designing low-cost and effective sensing devices.
A Method for Quantitatively Separating the Piezoelectric Component from the as-received "Piezoelectric" Signal
Authors: Chen Chaojie , Zhao Shilong , Pan Caofeng , Zi Yunlong , Wang Fangcheng , Yang Cheng , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: September 2021

Polymer-based piezoelectric devices are promising for developing future wearable force sensors, nanogenerators, and implantable electronics etc. The electric signals generated by them are often assumed as solely coming from piezoelectric effect. However, triboelectric signals originated from contact electrification between the piezoelectric devices and the contacted objects can produce non-negligible interfacial electron transfer, which is often combined with the piezoelectric signal to give a triboelectric-piezoelectric hybrid output, leading to an exaggerated measured “piezoelectric” signal. Herein, a simple and effective method is proposed for quantitatively identifying and extracting the piezoelectric charge from the hybrid signal. The triboelectric and piezoelectric parts in the hybrid signal generated by a poly(vinylidene fluoride)-based device are clearly differentiated, and their force and charge characteristics in the time domain are identified. This work presents an effective method to elucidate the true piezoelectric performance in practical measurement, which is crucial for evaluating piezoelectric materials fairly and correctly.
Predicting the Diagnosis of Prostate Cancer with a Scoring System Based on Novel Biomarkers
Authors: Jethwani Durvesh Lachman , Sivamoorthy Lameena Lalitha , Toh Charng Chee , Malek Rohan
Published: September 2021

Objective: To predict prostate cancer using novel biomarker ratios and create a predictive scoring system.Materials and Methods: Data of a total of 703 patients who consulted Urology Department of Selayang Hospital between January 2013 and December 2017 and underwent prostate biopsy were screened retrospectively. Prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels, prostate volumes (PV), neutrophil and lymphocyte counts, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), Prostate specific antigen density (PSAD)and histopathology were evaluated. Results: Ages ranged from43-89 years, divided into 2 groups as per biopsy results; positive for prostate cancer (n=290, 41.3%) and negative for malignancy (n=413; 58.7%). Intergroup comparative evaluations were performed. Independent variables with p<0.001 in the univariate analysis were age, DRE, PV, NLR, PSAD.A scoring system was modelled using NLR <0.9, PSAD >0.4, Age >70 and DRE. A score of 2 or more predicted prostate cancer with a Sensitivity of 83.8% and Specificityof 86.4%Conclusions: NLR is shown to be good predictor for prostate cancer its usage in this scoring system affords more disease specificity as compared to PSA alone.
Genetic and Functional Characterization of ANGPTL7 as a Therapeutic Target for Glaucoma
Authors: Praveen Kavita , Patel Gaurang , Gurski Lauren , Ayer Ariane , Persaud Trikaladarshi , Still Matthew , Miloscio Lawrence , Zyl Tavé Van , Gioia Silvio Alessandro Di , Brumpton Ben Michael , Krebs Kristi , Asvold Bjorn Olav , Chen Esteban , Chavali Venkata , Fury Wen , Gudiseva Venkata , Hyde Sarah , Jorgenson Eric , Lefebvre Stefanie , Li Dadong , Li Alexander , McIninch James , Patel Brijeshkumar , Rabinowitz Jeremey , Salowe Rebecca , Schurmann Claudia , Seidelin Anne-Sofie , Stahl Eli , Sun Dylan , Teslovich Tanya , Tybjærg-Hansen Anne , Willer Cristen , Waldron Scott , Walley Sabrina , Yang Hua , Zaveri Sarthak , Hu Ying , Hveem Kristian , Melander Olle , Milani Lili , Stender Stefan , O'Brien Joan , Jones Marcus , Abecasis Goncalo , Cantor Michael , Weyne Jonathan , Karalis Katia , Economides Aris , Gatta Giusy Della , Ferreira Manuel , Yancopoulos George , Baras Aris , Romano Carmelo , Coppola Giovanni
Published: September 2021

Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness. Current glaucoma medications work by lowering intraocular pressure (IOP), a risk factor for glaucoma, but most treatments do not directly target the pathological changes leading to increased IOP, which can manifest as medication resistance as disease progresses. To identify physiological modulators of IOP, we performed genome- and exome-wide association analysis in >129,000 individuals with IOP measurements and extended these findings to an analysis of glaucoma risk. We report the identification and functional characterization of rare coding variants (including loss-of-function variants) in ANGPTL7 associated with reduction in IOP and glaucoma protection. We validated the human genetics findings in mice by establishing that Angptl7 knockout mice have lower (~2 mmHg) basal IOP compared to wild-type, with a trend towards lower IOP also in heterozygotes. Conversely, increasing mAngptl7 levels via injection into mouse eyes increases the IOP. We also show that acute gene silencing via siRNA knockdown of Angptl7 in adult mice lowers the IOP (~2-4 mmHg), reproducing the observations in knockout mice. Collectively, our data suggest that ANGPTL7 is important for IOP homeostasis and is amenable to therapeutic modulation to help maintain a healthy IOP that can prevent onset or slow the progression of glaucoma.
Analysis of the Energy Justice in Natural Gas Distribution with Geographically Weighted Regression
Authors: Kurkcuoglu Muzeyyen Anil Senyel
Published: September 2021

Background: Households are expected to have access to variety of modern, convenient and efficient urban energy alternatives, while limited or no access to urban energy services results in energy injustice. The amount of natural gas investments is affected from the socio-economic and physical characteristics of the communities. Natural gas distribution has been carried out for more than 15 years in Izmir, but still not all neighborhoods have access to the network in the city, which points to the presence of energy injustice. Revealing the local factors contributing to the injustice is key for decision makers to develop effective energy policies in emerging economies, such as Turkey. Results: Both GWR and OLS are employed to find out the variables affecting the amount of natural gas investments, while GWR provides improved results than OLS. Population, employment, income, and physical and legal status of the neighborhoods affect the amount of total investments at the neighborhood level. Higher population, higher average income, and higher employment lead to more investments. Disadvantaged areas, on the other hand, have negative impact on the amount of investments. GWR accounts for the location specific variations while mapping the spatial distribution of the factor coefficients shows the prominence of factors in investments throughout the study area visually. Conclusions: Energy injustice is observed at some level, unless variety of energy choices are available for the society. Energy injustice appears to be two-fold, since it is related to demand and supply sides, and specific policies are needed addressing to both. Population and employment are the factors related to the number of potential customers, accordingly leading to higher investments. Income, on the other hand, depends on the purchasing power of the customers, and there are economic barriers that need to be regulated for the low-income households to switch to natural gas. Disadvantaged areas in terms of their legal and physical attributes, either declared as urban transformation areas or currently under urban transformation, lack the natural gas service provision in general. However, natural gas can be invested in those areas when the transformation is completed in accordance with the new development plans.
Petrophysical Properties of Limestones - Influence On Behaviour Under Different Environmental Conditions And Applications
Authors: Sousa Luís , Menningen Johanna , López-Doncel Rubén , Siegesmund Siegfried
Published: September 2021

Limestones have wide variety, namely by differences in the process of formation, mineralogical composition, grain size and texture. Such variability leads to differences in weathering characteristics and behaviour under different environmental conditions and applications. Therefore, detailed studies are mandatory to assess the main factors controlling the physical-mechanical properties and the durability to propose the best applications for the limestones. This study presents the petrographic and petrophysical data of eleven selected Portuguese limestones. Texture, mineralogy and porosity were identified as key parameters for the durability of limestones. Two main groups were identified regarding the texture/petrography and weathering resistance; the compact micritic limestones and with the sparitic grainstones. For the first time an outstanding bowing behaviour was identified in a limestone, probably related with clay swelling minerals and iron oxides present in the micrite groundmass around or in the stylolitic planes.
Research on the Measurement of Patent-intensive Industry Technology Lock-in from the Perspective of TML
Authors: Yang Wu , Sun Shiqiang , Gao Tengfei
Published: September 2021

As the core industry of technological innovation capabilities, patent-intensive industries, cultivating their rapid development is conducive to breaking the "technological lock-in" and realizing my country's independent innovation in the core technology field. Based on the INNOJOY patent database, the wireless communication network patent was selected as the research object, and the subjective and objective weighting method and the growth rate cycle index synthesis method were used to measure the technical lock-in from the perspective of TML. The study found： (1) The technology lock-in index of the United States, Japan, and South Korea generally shows an upward trend, while the technology lock-in index of China has a trend of declining volatility, and the United States has the highest degree of lock-in in the field of wireless communication network technology, ranking first. Japan is in the second position, South Korea is in the third position, and China is in the fourth position; (2) The six core technologies identified belong to American companies. The public years are concentrated in 2017 and 2019, and the technical field is concentrated in H04W72/04 ( The same data transmission method and user equipment), H04W72/08 (signaling for proximity service and D2D discovery in LTE networks), and H04L1/00 (method to support channel allocation information for uplink and downlink channels) And device) these three core patents show that the current three core technologies are cutting-edge technologies in the field of wireless communication networks. The formation mechanism of technology lock-in was clarified, and measurement research was carried out to provide a theoretical basis and analysis method for cracking my country's "technology lock-in", and then to achieve the goal of "patent power."
Staged correction trajectory with hexapod external fixator for the satisfactory reduction of acute long bone shaft fracture
Authors: Liu Yanshi , Wang Fei , Liu Kai , Cai Feiyu , Zhang Xingpeng , Li Hong , Zhang Tao , Yusufu Aihemaitijiang
Published: September 2021

Backgroud:
When deformity correction and fracture reduction are conducted in acute long bone shaft fracture using the hexapod external fixator, the collision and interference between the irregular bony end in the reduction process often result in an incomplete reduction and a time-consuming procedure. The purpose of this study was to present and determine the clinical effectiveness of staged correction trajectory with hexapod external fixator for the satisfactory reduction of acute long bone shaft fracture.
Methods
A total of 57 patients with acute tibial shaft fractures consented to hexapod external fixator treatment in our institution were retrospectively analyzed from June 2016 to February 2020. Thirty-one cases (Group Ⅰ) underwent a conventional one-step reduction trajectory from June 2016 to July 2018. Starting in September 2018, the other twenty-six patients (Group Ⅱ) all underwent staged correction trajectory (three key points reduction trajectory of “extension-rotation-reduction”). The demographic data, residual deformities before and after correction, number of repeated radiographs after the first postoperative radiograph, duration of deformity correction, and external fixation time were documented and analyzed. At the last clinical visit, the Johner-Wruhs criteria were used to evaluate the final clinical outcomes.
Results
All the 57 patients achieved satisfactory fracture reduction and bone union. There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in demographic data, residual deformities before and after correction, external fixation time, and final clinical outcomes (P > 0.05). The average number of repeated radiographs after the first postoperative radiograph and mean duration of deformity correction in Group Ⅱ (1.3 times, 2.9 days) were all less than those in Group Ⅰ (2.3 times, 5.1 days) (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
Compared with the conventional one-step reduction trajectory, there are no statistically significant differences in the final clinical outcomes, but the staged correction trajectory is a superior method with the advantages of less repeated radiographs and reduction duration.
Exosomes Derived from Stem Cells from Apical Papilla Ameliorate Sjogren's Syndrome by Suppressing Th17 Cell Differentiation
Authors: Wang Aochen , Liu Jie , Yu Si , Liu Xuemei , Zhuang Xueying , Liu Yao , Chen Xu
Published: September 2021

Background: Sjogren's syndrome (SS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that is characterized by progressive lymphocyte infiltration and a decrease in the secretory function of the salivary glands. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSCs) transplantation has shown great potential in the treatment of SS. Exosomes are one of the key paracrine factors that allow MSCs to perform their functions, and are more stable and safer than MSCs. Stem cells from apical papilla (SCAP), a kind of dental stem cells that are derived from the neural crest, have a wide range of immunoregulatory properties. However, the roles of exosomes derived from SCAP (SCAP-Exo) in the treatment of SS are not clear. This study investigated the effects of SCAP-Exo on ameliorating SS and the underlying mechanisms.Methods: SCAP-Exo were isolated and characterized by western blotting, transmission electron microscopy and nanoparticle tracking analysis. SCAP-Exo were systemically infused into SS mice via the tail vein. H&E staining, saliva flow rate tests, flow cytometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) were performed to verify the therapeutic effects of SCAP-Exo. PIWI-interacting RNA (piRNA) array analysis was conducted to determine the piRNA expression profiles of SCAP-Exo, and the key pathways were analysed. A luciferase reporter assay was performed to reveal the molecular role of the exosomal hsa-piR-15254 target interleukin-6 receptor (IL-6R). Furthermore, the molecular mechanism by which hsa-piR-15254 regulated T helper 17 (Th17) cell differentiation in vitro was tested by flow cytometry, ELISA, and reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction.Results: We found that SCAP-Exo transplantation successfully improved saliva secretion, alleviated lymphocyte infiltration in the submandibular glands and reduced the proportion of Th17 cells in SS mice. Mechanistically, hsa-piR-15254 was enriched in SCAP-Exo; a luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that hsa-piR-15254 directly targeted the IL-6R mRNA 3’ untranslated region. Furthermore, we revealed that hsa-piR-15254 inhibited Th17 differentiation and downregulated the level of IL-17A in the supernatant and the expression levels of Th17-related genes in vitro.Conclusion: This study demonstrated that SCAP-Exo had a superior therapeutic effect on SS by inhibiting Th17 cell differentiation. These data suggested that SCAP-Exo could be used in a cell-free approach for the clinical treatment of autoimmune disease.
WITHDRAWN: Knockout of β2 Microglobulin Potentiates The Effects of IFN-γ Priming On The Survival and Immunomodulatory Capacities of Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: HAN A.Reum , Shin Ha Rim , Kweon Jiyeon , Lee Sang Eun , Go Jinyoung , Lee Soo Bin , Chang Eun-Ju , Kim Yongsub , Kim Seong Who
Published: September 2021

Background
MSCs have long been thought to be immune-privileged with low levels of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I and rare expression of MHC class II. However, growing evidence indicates that these cells may not actually be hypoimmunogenic, particularly when exposed to cytokines such as IFN-γ. IFN-γ primed increase of MHC class I expression can promote the rejection of allogenic MSCs in the host recipient. A strategy to overcome this drawback is urgently required.
Methods
We knocked out β2-microglobulin (B2M) in MSCs, which is a component of MHC class I, using the ribonucleoprotein (RNP)-mediated clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)- CRISPR-associated protein 9 (Cas9) system. The expression of MSC surface markers, MHC class I, and B2M was assayed by flow cytometry and western blotting. Upon co-culture of MSCs with CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, the survival and proliferation of both cell types were examined by cell counting kit (CCK-8) and carboxy fluorescein succinimidyl ester (CFSE), respectively. The levels of immunomodulatory molecules in MSCs were evaluated by both enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and western blotting.
Results
B2M-knockout MSCs expressed low levels of MHC class I even upon IFN-γ priming, but maintained their native properties as evidenced by the expression of specific surface markers. CD8+ T cell proliferation was also far less stimulated by B2M-knockout MSCs than by control cells. Under these conditions, B2M-knockout MSCs had a significantly longer survival duration (> 2.4 fold) than did control cells. B2M-knockout MSCs showed significantly elevated levels of immune-modulatory molecules including indoleamine 2, 3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO-1), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL-2), and interleukin-6 (IL-6); conversely, B2M-knockout MSCs produced significantly lower levels of proinflammatory molecules (e.g., IL-1b, CXCL10) compared with control cells.
Conclusion
The loss of B2M in MSCs potentiated the immunomodulatory effects of IFN-γ priming while mitigating its potential inflammatory effects. B2M-knockout MSCs are a potentially promising treatment for immune-related inflammatory diseases.
In Search of Lost Beauty: Experiences of Iranian Women with Melasma
Authors: Edalatkhah Hasan , Sadeghie-Ahary Saeid , Abbasnejad Fatemeh , Karimollahi Mansoureh
Published: September 2021

Background
The skin condition called Melasma affects patients’ appearance significantly and also impacts them psychologically and emotionally, besides leading to an impaired body image.
Aim
Since access to quality information in different cultural environments is necessary to understand the psychological problems associated with Melasma, the aim of this qualitative study was to explore the experiences of 20 Iranian women with Melasma.
Patients/Methods:
The content analysis method was employed for this study. Twenty participants were selected through purposive sampling, and data was collected through face-to-face in-depth interviews, and then transcribed verbatim.
Results
After categorizing the initial codes, 14 subthemes were identified, which were classified under five themes—camouflage, seeking treatment, lost beauty, grief, and others’ reaction; these were then grouped under a general one, “in search of lost beauty.”
Conclusions
Melasma has a tremendous impact on the lives of the women it affects, and therapists should focus on the condition’s social and psychological aspects, in addition to treatment.
Surface And Atmospheric Patterns For Early And Late Rainy Season Onset Years In South America
Authors: Talamoni Isabella , Cavalcanti Iracema , Kubota Paulo , Souza Dayana , Baker Jessica , Vieira Rita
Published: September 2021

The biosphere-atmosphere interactions associated with the rainy season onset in South America (SA) are not well understood. This study aimed to analyse the atmospheric and surface patterns associated with early, neutral and late rainy season onset years in SA. The years 2006, 2004 and 2008 were characterized as having early, neutral and late rainy season onsets, respectively, in comparison to the climatological mean (1998–2016). Distinct atmospheric conditions were identified in the early and late rainy season onset years. In the early onset year, the northwesterly moisture flux and moisture advection were higher than average over SA’s centre-east, promoting precipitation. In the late onset year, precipitation was enhanced in SA’s northwest and the configuration of multiple atmospheric blocking episodes contributed to the rainy season onset delay. Surface conditions also contributed to both the early/late rainy season onset. In the early onset year, there were wetter and cooler pre-onset conditions over centre-east SA. In the late onset year, atmospheric conditions were dry and warm prior to onset. Despite the atmospheric instability promoted by the increase in sensible heating, dry atmospheric conditions were not favourable to convection, thus delaying rainy season onset. These findings highlight the importance of the land-surface as well as atmospheric conditions for the rainy season onset in SA, and also how the onset variability promotes different atmospheric and surface patterns. The results will help develop modelling capability for better prediction of rainy season onset focusing on biosphere-atmosphere processes improvements.
Preparation of Nanostructured HgI2 Nanotubes /Si Photodetector by Laser Ablation in Liquid
Authors: Abd-Alrahman Amnah S. , Ismail Raid , Mohammed Mudhafar A.
Published: September 2021

In this work, HgI2 nanotubes/Si heterojunction has been prepared by pulsed laser ablation in ethanol at laser fluence of 12.7 J/cm2. The structural and optical properties of HgI2 nanotubes (NTs) are studied. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) result shows the presence of the mixture of tetragonal and orthorhombic phases of HgI2. The optical properties results show that the optical energy gap of HgI2 NTs was 2.98 eV measured at room temperature. The photoluminescence (PL) spectra of HgI2 display a single emission centered at 535nm. Fourier transformed infrared (FT-IR) results reveal the existence of small bonds at 612 and 1102 cm− 1. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) image show formation of nanotubes and spherical nanoparticles with average particle size of 23nm. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) image of HgI2 confirms the formation of nanotubes morphology with an average diameter of 80nm and an average length of 1.6µm. The I-V curve of HgI2 NTs/p-Si heterojunction were measured at dark and illumination. The responsivity of HgI2 NTs/p-Si heterojunction photodetector is 1.09A/W at 450 and the detectivity and external quantum efficiency are 3.6 ×1012 Jones at 450 and 3×102% at 400nm, respectively, without using post annealing.
Immunoregulatory therapy in anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis: Low-dose Interleukin-2 therapy increases the reduced Treg cells
Authors: Wu Ruihe , Mu Yanfei , Zhao Xiangcong , Zhao Jinfang , Ding Tingting , Xue Hongwei , Gao Chong , Li Xiaofeng , Wang Cai-Hong
Published: September 2021

Objective: The breakdown of immune tolerance caused by dysfunctional CD4+T cells is one of the key mechanisms to participate in the pathogenesis and progression of autoimmune diseases, especially the reduced regulatory T (Treg) cell is associated with the breakdown of immune tolerance. Low-dose Interleukin-2 (IL-2) therapy has been confirmed to be a potential therapy to treat autoimmune diseases by selectively expanding Treg cells to restore the immune tolerance. However, it is still unclear whether Treg cells play an important role in the progression of anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-(ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV), and whether low-dose IL-2 therapy contributes to restore the immune tolerance and promote the remission of disease in AAV. The aim of our study is to explore the role of Treg cells in the progression of AAV and evaluate the efficacy of low-dose IL-2 therapy on AAV. Methods: We collected the clinical data of 39 patients with AAV (including 12 who received subcutaneous low-dose IL-2 therapy combined with conventional therapies) and 65 healthy controls (HCs) to compare the differences of the absolute number of CD4 + T cell subsets, and then analyze the relationship between these cells and the clinical indicators of disease activity. In addition, we investigated the changes of CD4 + T cell subsets and clinical indicators before and after the treatment of low-dose IL-2 therapy. Results: Patients with AAV had reduced peripheral Treg cells than HCs (P<0.001), which were negatively correlated with the clinical indicators of disease activity and organ injury, and those patients with high disease activity exhibited lower level peripheral Treg cells(P=0.002). The low-dose IL-2 therapy significantly increased the reduced Treg cells in patients with AAV compared with the baseline values (P=0.001) to promote the remission of disease. Conclusion: The reduced peripheral blood Treg cells participated in the imbalance of immune in patients with AAV and were related to the progression of disease. Low-dose IL-2, as an immunoregulatory therapy, increases the reduced Treg cells to restore the immune tolerance and promote the remission of AAV.
Functional Tissue-engineered Microtissue Formed by Self-aggregation of Cells for Peripheral Nerve Regeneration
Authors: Zhang Jian , Li Chaochao , Meng Fanqi , Guan Yanjun , Zhang Tieyuan , Yang Boyao , Ren Zhiqi , Liu Xiuzhi , Li Dongdong , Zhao Jinjuan , Zhao Jie , Wang Yu , Peng Jiang
Published: September 2021

Background: Peripheral nerve injury (PNI) is one of the essential causes of physical disability with a high incidence rate. The traditional tissue engineering strategy, Top-Down strategy, has some limitations. A new tissue-engineered strategy, Bottom-Up strategy (tissue-engineered microtissue strategy), has emerged and made significant research progress in recent years. However, to the best of our knowledge, microtissues are rarely used in neural tissue engineering, thus we intended to use microtissues to repair PNI.Methods: We used a low-adhesion cell culture plate to construct adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) into microtissues in vitro, explored the physicochemical properties and microtissues components, compared the expression of cytokines related to nerve regeneration between microtissues and the same amount of two-dimension (2D)-cultured cells, co-cultured directly microtissues with dorsal root ganglion (DRG) or Schwann cells (SCs) to observe the interaction between them using immunocytochemistry, quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). We used grafts constructed by microtissues and polycaprolactone (PCL) nerve conduit to repair sciatic nerve defects in rats.Results: The present study results indicated that compared with the same number of 2D-cultured cells, microtissue could secrete more nerve regeneration related cytokines to promote SCs proliferation and axons growth. Moreover, in the direct co-culture system of microtissue and DRG or SCs, axons of DRG grown in the direction of microtissue, and there seems to be a cytoplasmic exchange between SCs and ASCs around microtissue. Furthermore, microtissues could repair sciatic nerve defects in rat models more effectively than traditional 2D cultured-ASCs. Conclusion: Tissue-engineered microtissue is an effective strategy for stem cell culture and therapy in nerve tissue engineering.
Effect of collapse and hump on thermomechanical behavior in high-power laser welding of 16 mm marine steel EH40
Authors: Wang Lu , Zhang Guojun , Xu Jiajun , Li Youzhi , Chen Quan , Rong Youmin , Huang Yu
Published: September 2021

This paper concerns high-power laser welding of thick plates for the ship industry. Thermomechanical behavior during laser welding of 16 mm marine steel EH40 using 25 kW laser power was investigated by a 3D finite elements model. The objective is to analysis the effects of weld collapse and hump on the residual stress induced thermal cycle. A double-cylindrical source model was proposed to simulate the transient distribution of temperature field. Heat flow distribution area is a cylinder, radial heat flow presents a Gaussian distribution, while heat flow peak in the direction of thickness is decaying then increasing exponentially. The predicted weld geometry had good agreement with the actual results. When collapse and hump were considered, simulation error of temperature distribution was reduced from 10.85–1.54%. In addition, cooling curves obtained from the thermal simulation were incorporated into the continuous cooling transformation diagram of EH40 to explain the evolution mechanism of microstructure. It was shown that collapse and hump affected the values and distribution trend of residual stress in different thickness, especially in the high gradient stress zone near the weld center.
Association of Red Blood Cell and Platelet Transfusions With Persistent Inflammation, Immunosuppression, and Catabolism Syndrome in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Suzuki Ginga , Ichibayashi Ryo , Masuyama Yuka , Yamamoto Saki , Serizawa Hibiki , Nakamichi Yoshimi , Watanabe Masayuki , Honda Mitsuru
Published: September 2021

The objective of this single-center retrospective cohort study was to investigate the relationship between blood transfusion and persistent inflammation, immunosuppression, and catabolism syndrome (PIICS). The study was conducted at the Critical Care Center at Toho University Omori Medical Center, Japan. We included 391 patients in the PIICS group (hospitalization for > 15 days, C-reactive protein > 3.0 mg/dL or albumin < 3.0 mg/dL or lymph < 800/µL on day 14) and 762 patients in the non-PIICS group (hospitalization for > 15 days and not meeting the PIICS criteria). We performed univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses using PIICS as the objective variable and red blood cell (RBC) or fresh frozen plasma or platelet (PLT) transfusion and other confounding factors as explanatory variables. In addition, we conducted sensitivity analysis using propensity score matching analysis. The multivariate and propensity score analyses showed that RBC and PLT transfusions were significantly associated with PIICS. This is the first study to report an association between RBC and PLT transfusions and PIICS. Our findings have contributed to better understanding the risk factors of PIICS and suggest that physicians should consider the risk of PIICS occurrence when administering blood transfusions in intensive care unit (ICU) patients.
The Risk of Dementia in Adults with Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Cho Hyung-jin , Yoo Ju-hwan , Kim Mi-hyeong , Ko Kyung-jai , Jun Kang-woong , Han Kyung-do , Hwang Jeong-kye
Published: September 2021

Background Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) and dementia have similar epidemiological profiles and common pathogenic mechanisms. However, there have been few studies on the link between these two diseases.Materials and methods For this study, information from 2009 to 2015 was extracted from the Korean National Health Insurance system database. A total of 15,251 participants with a new diagnosis of AAA was included. Propensity score matching by age and sex with patients in whom AAA was not diagnosed was used to select the control group of 45,753 participants. The primary endpoint of this study was newly diagnosed dementia (Alzheimer’s disease (AD), vascular dementia (VD), or other type of dementia). ResultsThe incidence of dementia was 23.084 per 1000 person years in the AAA group, which was higher than that of the control group (15.438 per 1000 person years). When divided into AD and VD groups, the incidence of AD was higher than that of VD, but the HR of AAA for occurrence of dementia was higher in VD (1.382 vs. 1.784). Among the various risk factors, there was an interaction if age, hypertension, and history of cardiovascular disease with incidence of dementia (p < 0.05). In the presence of hypertension, the HR for occurrence of dementia was high according to presence or absence of AAA (1.474 vs 1.165). In addition, this study showed higher HR in the younger age group (age < 65) and in the group with no history of cardiovascular disease [1.659 vs. 1.403 (age), 1.521 vs. 1.255 (history of cardiovascular disease)].Conclusions AAA was associated with increased risk of dementia regardless of AD or VD, even after adjusting for several comorbidities. These findings indicate that follow-up with AAA patients is necessary for early detection of signs and symptoms of dementia.
Gelatinase-Sensitive Nanoparticles Loaded with Photosensitizer and STAT3 Inhibitor for Cancer Photothermal Therapy and Immunotherapy
Authors: Bu Lin-Lin , Wang Han-Qi , Pan Yuan-Wei , Chen Lei , Wu Hao , Wu Xian-Jia , Zhao Chen-Chen , Rao Lang , Liu Bing , Sun Zhi-Jun
Published: September 2021

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) 2 and 9 are the family members of proteases normally up-regulated in tumor to enhance the metastatic of tumor cells, and have been associated with poor outcome of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs). In the present work, MMPs-degradable gelatin nanoparticles (GNPs) are simultaneously loaded with photosensitizer indocyanine green (ICG) along with signal transducer activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) inhibitor NSC74859 (NSC, N) for efficient photothermal therapy (PTT) and immunotherapy of HNSCCs. In the tumor tissue, Gel-N-ICG was degraded and encapsulated ICG and NSC were effectively released. Under near-infrared (NIR) irradiation, the released ICG nanoparticles enabled effective photothermal destruction of tumors, and the STAT3 inhibitor NSC elicited potent antitumor immunity for enhanced cancer therapy. Based on two HNSCC mouse models, we demonstrated that Gel-N-ICG significantly delayed tumor growth without any appreciable body weight loss. Taken together, the strategy reported here may contribute that the proteases-trigger platform could reduce tumor size more effectively in complex tumor microenvironment (TME) through combination of PTT and immunotherapy.
Hypochromic Red Cells as Predictors of Anemia in Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis: An Observation Retrospective Study
Authors: Kee Youn Kyung , Jeon Hee Jung , Oh Jieun , Shin Dong Ho
Published: September 2021

The percentage of hypochromic red blood cells (%HRC) estimates the availability of iron by evaluating the degree of hemoglobinization. We investigated whether %HRC was a predictor of anemia in patients undergoing hemodialysis. We recruited 142 patients undergoing routine hemodialysis between 2017 and 2019. Delta hemoglobin level (ΔHb)1mo-baseline was calculated as the difference between the hemoglobin level at 1 month after study enrollment and that at study enrollment. Development of anemia was defined as hemoglobin level ≤15% of baseline. The median %HRC was 3.1%. There was a significant negative correlation between (ΔHb)1mo- baseline and %HRC (r = -0.63, P < 0.001). The incidence of anemia was significantly higher in patients with %HRC >3.1% than in those with %HRC ≤3.1%. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, %HRC was significantly related to the development of anemia (odds ratio 2.57, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.72–3.85, P < 0.001). The best cutoff value for %HRC to predict the development of anemia was 4.3%, with a sensitivity and specificity of 67.74 (95% CI, 54.7–79.1) and 97.50 (95% CI, 91.3– 99.7), respectively. %HRC is an independent predictor of anemia in patients undergoing hemodialysis. %HRC ≤4.3% is an early marker to consider changing the anemia treatment.
Race and Ethnic Group Dependent Space Radiation Cancer Risk Predictions
Authors: Cucinotta Francis A. , Saganti Premkumar B.
Published: September 2021

Future space missions by national space agencies and private industry, including space tourism, will include a diverse makeup of crewmembers with extensive variability in age, sex, and race or ethnic groups. The relative risk (RR) model is used to transfer epidemiology data between populations to estimate radiation risks. In the RR model cancer risk is assumed to be proportional to background cancer rates and limited by other causes of death, which are dependent on genetic, environmental and dietary factors that are population dependent. Here we apply the NSCR-2020 model to make the first predictions of age dependent space radiation cancer risks for several U.S. populations, which includes Asian-Pacific Islanders (API), Black, Hispanic (white and black), and White (non-Hispanic) populations. Results suggest that male API and Hispanic populations have the overall lowest cancer risks, while White females have the highest risk. Blacks have similar total cancer rates than Whites, however their reduced life expectancy leads to modestly lower lifetime radiation risks compared to Whites. There are diverse tissue specific cancer risk ranking across sex and race, which include sex specific organ risks, female’s having larger lung, stomach, and urinary-bladder radiation risks, and male’s having larger colon and brain risks.
Psychological Distress in Adolescents: Prevalence and its Relation to High Risk Behaviors Among Secondary School Students in Uganda.
Authors: Anyanwu Michael U.
Published: September 2021

BackgroundPsychological distress is a mental health condition that is common in adolescents. It negatively affects the academic performance of adolescents, relationships with family and friends, and the ability of adolescents to participate fully in the community. Stressful life events in low income countries and risk taking behavior of adolescents have raised concerns on the magnitude and impact of psychological distress among adolescents in Uganda. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of psychological distress and assess the high risk behaviors associated with psychological distress among secondary school students in Uganda. MethodsA community based cross-sectional study was conducted among secondary school students in Mbarara Municipality, Uganda. Multistage cluster sampling technique was used to recruit study participants and a total of 921 students participated in the study using a self-reported questionnaire. Psychological distress was assessed by Kessler’s psychological distress scale (K10). To identify high risk behaviors associated with psychological distress, multinomial logistic regression was used with p <0.05 and 95% confidence interval. ResultsThe prevalence of psychological distress was 57%. Risky sexual behavior, alcohol consumption, smoking and substance use were associated with psychological distress. Also, boarding school students, those in mixed schools, students that own mobile phones and adolescents with chronic illness were more likely to report psychological distress. ConclusionThe prevalence of psychological distress is high among school going adolescents and risky behaviors were associated with psychological distress. The findings suggest the need to address mental health issues in adolescents.