bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Dietary Pioglitazone Supplementation On Milk Yield, Insulin Sensitivity And GH-IGF-I Axis In Holstein Dairy Cows During Transition Period
Authors: Mirzaie Saeed , Yousefi Ali Reza , Masoumi Reza , Rostami Behnam , Amanlou Hamid
Published: January 2022

High-yielding dairy cows develop insulin resistance during the late gestation, which eventually disrupts the GH-IGF-I axis and cause metabolic and reproductive disorders. The objective of this research was to determine the effects of dietary pioglitazone (PIO) supplementation, as an insulin sensitizer agent, on milk yield, plasma metabolite status and GH-IGF-I axis in transitional Holstein dairy cows. Two experimental groups of twenty multiparous cows were randomly assigned (10 animals/group) and either fed by basal diet (control) or fed by the basal diet supplemented with 6 mg PIO/ kg body weight (BW) from d 14 before parturition to d 21 postpartum. The BW and body condition score (BCS), and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), insulin, glucose, GH, and IGF-I concentrations were measured, weekly. Milk production and composition were also measured weekly during the postpartum period. The BW and BCS losses were lower in PIO cows than the control (P<0.05). The percentage and amount of milk fat were decreased and the amount of protein increased only in the first week after calving in the PIO-treated cows compared to the control (P<0.05). Dietary PIO supplementation increased glucose at calving and insulin concentration at calving and in the first week after calving compared to the control (P<0.05). Plasma concentrations of IGF-I and the ratio of IGF to GH was increased in PIO group (P<0.05). The mean RQUICKI-BHBA, as insulin sensitivity index, was greater in PIO-supplemented cows (P<0.05). The findings of current study revealed the beneficial effect of PIO supplementation on improving insulin sensitivity and also the GH-IGF-I axis. Dietary PIO feeding may assist in a lower negative energy balance (NEB) and better metabolic and health status in transition dairy cows.
Pretreatment of NPMSCs with Appropriate Concentration of H2O2 Enhances its Ability to Treat IVDD
Authors: Zhang Yuyao , Hu Zhilei , Qi Yuhan , Li Haiyin , Chang Xian , Gao Xiaoxin , Liu Chenhao , Li Yueyang , Lou Jinhui , Zhai Yu , Li Changqing
Published: January 2022

Background: Nucleus pulposus mesenchymal stem cells (NPMSCs) transplantation is a promising treatment for intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). However, the transplanted NPMSCs exhibited weak cell proliferation, high cell apoptosis, and low ability to resist the harsh microenvironment of the degenerated intervertebral disc. There is an urgent need in exploring feasible methods to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of NPMSCs transplantation.Objective: To identify the optimal concentration for NPMSCs pretreatment with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and explore the therapeutic efficacy of NPMSCs transplantation using H2O2 pretreatment in IVDD.Methods: Rat NPMSCs were pretreated with different concentrations of H2O2. The proliferation, ROS level, and apoptosis of NPMSCs were detected by CCK-8 test, EdU staining, and flow cytometry in vitro. The underlying signaling pathways were explored utilizing western blot. A rat needle-puncture stimulated IVDD model was established. X-ray, histological staining, and multi-mode small animal live imaging system were performed to evaluate the therapeutic effect of H2O2-pretreated NPMSCs in vivo.Results: 75 μM H2O2 pretreated NPMSCs demonstrated the strongest elevated cell proliferation by inhibiting the Hippo pathway. Meanwhile, 75 μM H2O2 pretreated NPMSCs exhibited significantly enhanced anti-oxidative stress ability, which is related to downregulated Brd4, Keap1, and upregulated Nrf2. 75 μM H2O2 pretreated NPMSCs also exhibited distinctly declined apoptosis. In vivo experiments results verified that 75 μM H2O2 pretreated NPMSCs-transplanted rats exhibited enhanced disc height index (DHI%) and better histological morphology, which means 75 μM H2O2 pretreated NPMSCs can better adapt to the environment of degenerative intervertebral discs and promote the repair of IVDD.Conclusions: Pretreatment with 75 μM H2O2 was the optimal concentration to improve the ability of proliferation, anti-oxidative stress, and anti-apoptosis of transplanted NPMSCs, which is expected to provide a new feasible method to improve the stem cell therapy efficacy of IVDD.
Reactivating the phototransduction cascade by universally applicable gene therapy preserves retinal function in Rod-Cone dystrophy
Authors: Simon Cardillia-Joe , Khabou Hanen , Finzi Marion , Chaffiol Antoine , Grieve Kate , Norberg Nat , Grimaud Anais , Eickelbeck Dennis , Rucli Marco , Desrosiers Mélissa , Sancho Serge , Bonilha Vera , Mohand-Said Saddek , Duebel Jens , paques Michel , Picaud Serge , Sahel José-Alain , Audo Isabelle , Herlitze Stefan , Dalkara Deniz
Published: January 2022

Rod-cone dystrophy (RCD), also known as retinitis pigmentosa, is a group of inherited disorders characterized by rod degeneration followed by degeneration of peripheral cones, leaving patients with tunnel vision in mid stages and blindness in the latest stages. Previous studies expressed microbial chloride pumps, in degenerating cone photoreceptors to restore these cells’ activity and prolong vision. Microbial opsins lack intracellular signal amplification, requiring high light intensities. To develop a more sensitive strategy; we examined the phototransduction cascade in degenerating cones, in two RCD mouse models. We found that opsin and arrestin expression is maintained in the soma during outer segment degeneration. We thus hypothesized that cone reactivation based on cone opsin signaling may be feasible by expressing a target channel activated by G proteins recruited by cone opsin. Adeno-associated viral (AAV) mediated expression of G protein coupled inwardly rectifying K (GIRK) channel provided improvements in visual function in two RCD mouse models with mutations in two distinct genes. Importantly, we confirmed cone opsin and cone arrestin expression in cones of late-stage RCD patients, validating the rationale of GIRK-mediated gene therapy in humans. We propose GIRK channel expression in cones as a new approach to maintain high acuity, high sensitivity, color vision in RCD independently of the underlying mutation.
SARS-CoV-2 Omicron spike mediated immune escape and tropism shift
Authors: Gupta Ravindra
Published: January 2022

The SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.1 variant emerged in late 2021 and is characterised by multiple spike mutations across all spike domains. Here we show that Omicron BA.1 has higher affinity for ACE2 compared to Delta, and confers very significant evasion of therapeutic monoclonal and vaccine-elicited polyclonal neutralising antibodies after two doses. mRNA vaccination as a third vaccine dose rescues and broadens neutralisation. Importantly, antiviral drugs remdesevir and molnupiravir retain efficacy against Omicron BA.1. We found that in human nasal epithelial 3D cultures replication was similar for both Omicron and Delta. However, in lower airway organoids, Calu-3 lung cells and gut adenocarcinoma cell lines live Omicron virus demonstrated significantly lower replication in comparison to Delta. We noted that despite presence of mutations predicted to favour spike S1/S2 cleavage, the spike protein is less efficiently cleaved in live Omicron virions compared to Delta virions. We mapped the replication differences between the variants to entry efficiency using spike pseudotyped virus (PV) entry assays. The defect for Omicron PV in specific cell types correlated with higher cellular RNA expression of TMPRSS2, and accordingly knock down of TMPRSS2 impacted Delta entry to a greater extent as compared to Omicron. Furthermore, drug inhibitors targeting specific entry pathways demonstrated that the Omicron spike inefficiently utilises the cellular protease TMPRSS2 that mediates cell entry via plasma membrane fusion. Instead, we demonstrate that Omicron spike has greater dependency on cell entry via the endocytic pathway requiring the activity of endosomal cathepsins to cleave spike. Consistent with suboptimal S1/S2 cleavage and inability to utilise TMPRSS2, syncytium formation by the Omicron spike was dramatically impaired compared to the Delta spike. Overall, Omicron appears to have gained significant evasion from neutralising antibodies whilst maintaining sensitivity to antiviral drugs targeting the polymerase. Omicron has shifted cellular tropism away from TMPRSS2 expressing cells that are enriched in cells found in the lower respiratory and GI tracts, with implications for altered pathogenesis.
Molecular Cloning and Characterization of Triterpenoid Biosynthetic Pathway Gene HMGS in Centella Asiatica (Linn.)
Authors: Rahman Laiq Ur , Afroz Shama , Warsi Zafar Iqbal , Khatoon Kahkashan , Sangwan Neelam S , Khan Feroz
Published: January 2022

The flux of isoprenoids and the total accumulation of triterpenoid saponins known as centellosides in C. asiatica are controlled by the key genes of the Mevalonate pathway (MVA). These genes were reported to have positive regulation of the pathway in providing isoprenoid moieties. For the study, full-length pathway gene Hydroxymethyl glutaryl-CoA-synthase (CaHMGS; GenBank accession number: MZ997833), was isolated from previously annotated transcriptome data of Centella asiatica leaves. HMGS has been successfully cloned and heterologously expressed in bacteria E. coli strain DH5α. The cloned gene has been sequenced and further characterized through in silico studies by different bioinformatics tools. Also, the gene sequences have been submitted in NCBI. In silico studies of isolated gene sequence revealed the nature, characteristics of genes. The ORF of HMGS is 1449 bp encoding 482 amino acids. Predicted molecular weight (MW) of HMGS was 48.09 kDa and theoretical pI was 5.97. Blast results and Multiple sequence alignments of the gene showing the similarity with HMGS of other plants of their respective families. The Molecular Evolutionary Genetic Analysis (MEGA) version 10.1.6 was used to construct a phylogenetic tree. Differential tissue-specific expression of different plant parts was also checked. Tissue expression patterns unveiled that the highest expression level of the CaHMGS had been seen in the roots and lowest in the node of the plant. Functional complementation experiment of the CaHMGS in Saccharomyces cerevisiae wild strain YSC1021 and haploid strain YSC1021 which lack HMGS protein confirmed that the CaHMGS gene encodes functional CaHMGS that catalyzed the biosynthesis of mevalonate in yeast. Though, some information is available on the pathway and secondary metabolites. However, most of the pathway steps are not characterized functionally. As the genes were not reported in Centella asiatica yet. Hence, understanding this biosynthetic pathway gene will further help in the improvement of plants for enhanced secondary metabolites production.
Mental Health Consequences from COVID-19 Pandemic and Strategies for Community Level Recovery
Authors: Somasundaram Daya , Rajeshkannan Nadarajah , Kumarendran Balachandran , Kumanan Thirunavukarasu , Sugirthan Nalayini , Aloysius Ivan Dinesh , Sasikumar Sivanandan , Jegathesan Nalayini
Published: January 2022

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has spread across the globe from 2019 affecting millions of people physically, mentally, and socio-economically. The purpose of the study was to map out the mental health consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic and suggest recovery strategies.Methods: A qualitative inquiry into the mental health aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic using observations from working in busy health clinics, general practices, primary and community care setting, and dedicated COVID acute care wards during the pandemic in Australia, United Kingdom and Sri Lanka; discussions with colleagues worldwide; analyzing social and news media comments; literature survey and experience of dealing with past disasters were used to map out mental health consequences and put forward recovery strategies.Results: In covid sufferers, neuropsychiatric symptoms lasting months, unrelated to respiratory insufficiency suggested brain damage due to vascular endothelial injury and/or cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT). A third went onto develop or have a relapse of a psychological or neurological conditions. In the general population, common consequences included common mental health disorders; changing patterns of substance abuse including alcohol; increased domestic violence and child abuse. Family relationships, interactions and understanding improved in many but minority had strained dynamics. Vulnerable groups included the elderly, women, youth; children; disabled; frontline and health workers; minorities and severely mentally ill. At the community level, there were signs of collective (mass) hysteria from panic buying to conspiracy theories, public shaming, fake news and disinformation spreading on social media and mass protests. There were also positive effects such as better understanding of bio-knowledge; interventions (rapid vaccine production, contact tracing methods) and discoveries (mRNA Vaccines), health systems improvements (tele-health), online learning, gratitude toward heath care workers, increased social/community/family cohesion, closer international networking, reduction in suicide rates and drop in interstate and civil conflicts, road accidents, crime and communicable diseases with their resultant morbidity, mortality and mental health consequences. Conclusions: In view of the widespread mental health and psychosocial consequences from the COVID-19 pandemic, a community-based approach is suggested while treating more severe mental disorders at the primary care or specialist level.
Combined Use of Intraoperative Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Neuronavigation for Microsurgical Approach of Intractable Epilepsy:a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Tuleasca Constantin , Peciu-Florianu Iulia , Chochoi Maxime , Levivier Marc , Derre Benoit , Derambure Philippe Derambure , Reyns Nicolas
Published: January 2022

IntroductionEpilepsy is a major feature of multiple types of lesional epilepsy (LE) and non-lesional (NLE). However, there is an important heterogeneity in the use of such nomenclature. A favorable outcome is correlated to an identifiable cause and the extent of resection. Here, we evaluate the use of intraoperative MRI (iMRI) combined with neuronavigation, in improving the complete and/or adequate resection rates in patients with intractable epilepsy of various etiologies. We further discuss whether this results in better clinical outcomes. Material and methodsA medical librarian performed a comprehensive review of literature, searching the Medline®, Embase®, Index Medicus® and Cochrane® databases. Two reviewers independently applied following inclusion criteria: reports of at least two cases of any age undergoing microsurgical resection for epilepsy surgery, the use of iMRI as mandatory for intraoperative assessment, evaluation of LE versus NLE, describing if second resection after iMRI was necessary, detailing the extent of resection, qualitative reports of seizure outcome (Engel class). ResultsWe report 15 studies, encompassing 867 patients, with various types of LE and NLE. Most common surgical indications for the use of iMRI in LE were dysembrioplastic neuroepithelial tumor (DNET) and gangliogliomas, cavernomas, hypothalamic hamartomas, or primary brain tumors. For NLE these were sclerosis, dysplasia, ischemia and gliosis, which are further separately detailed in a supplementary material. With the use of iMRI, the rate of complete or adequate resection significantly increased from 74.8% (95% confidence interval (CI) 67.3-82.3%) to 97.6% (95% confidence interval (CI) 95.8-99.3%). Hundred and twenty-six cases out of 820 underwent additional resection after iMRI, for an overall rate of 24.4% (range 16.9-31.8). This was translated in an overall clinical benefit with 77.1% (95% CI 71-83.2%) Engel class I at last follow-up (p<0.001).DiscussionIntraoperative MRI might improve the extent of resection in LE and NLE. This might translate into a favorable clinical outcome (Engel class I as high as 77%). This is fairly comparable to what one expects in temporal lobe epilepsy surgery. We suggest that iMRI is beneficial when proposed in selected cases of intractable epilepsy. However, the reader should take into account that such data are not provided by randomized controlled trials and that such conclusions should be carefully interpreted.
Association Between Foot Posture and Tibiofemoral Contact Forces During Barefoot Walking in Patients with Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Kubo Takanari , Uritani Daisuke , Ogaya Shinya , Kita Syunsuke , Fukumoto Takahiko , Fujii Tadashi , Inagaki Yusuke , Tanaka Yasuhito , Imagita Hidetaka
Published: January 2022

Background

Accumulating evidence indicates that abnormal foot posture and function are risk factors for knee osteoarthritis (OA). However, the relationship between foot posture and function and tibiofemoral contact force (CF) during habitual weight-bearing activities remains unclear. This study aimed to determine the association between CF and foot posture and function while walking.
Methods

In total, 18 patients with knee OA and 18 healthy individuals participated in this cross-sectional study. Foot parameters were evaluated by foot Posture Index (FPI), Staheli Arch Index (SAI), hallux valgus angle, calcaneus inverted angle relative to the floor as a static rearfoot posture, navicular height, and toe grip strength. In addition, all participants underwent kinetic and kinematic measurements during a self-selected speed gait. The measurement device used was the three-dimensional motion analysis system with a sampling rate of 120 Hz. The musculoskeletal model, which has 92 Hill-type muscle-tendon units with 23 degrees of freedom, was used to calculate CF. Pearson's correlation coefficient was used to investigate the association between foot parameters and total, medial, and lateral CF of the first and second peaks.
Results

A significant negative correlation was observed between Walking SAI and first medial CF in control participants (r = -0.515, p = 0.029). SAI was also significantly positively correlated with first medial CF in patients with knee OA (r = 0.488, p = 0.040).
Conclusions

Our findings reveal a correlation between the medial first peak CF and the SAI. This study indicates that people with knee OA and flatfoot have excessive first medial CF during walking.
Financial Inclusion and Its Influence on Renewable Energy Consumption-Environmental Performance: The Role of ICTs in China
Authors: Feng Jingchao , Sun Qing , Sohail Sidra
Published: January 2022

Financial inclusion means that individuals and businesses can easily avail financial goods and services at an affordable cost. It is widely recognized that financial inclusion can help preserve the environment by increasing the consumption of renewable energy sources. Hence, our aim is to investigate whether financial inclusion has any effect on renewable energy consumption and environmental quality in China. To get the estimates of the variables, we have preferred the ARDL model. The estimates of the model confirm that a rise in the number of ATMs and total insurance has a positive impact on renewable energy consumption in China in long-run. Conversely, an increase in the number of ATMs and total insurance negatively affects CO2 emissions in China. In general, we can say that financial inclusion increases renewable energy consumption and reduces CO2 emissions in China. Therefore, by using financial inclusion, policymakers should try to divert the resources towards environmentally friendly consumption and production activities.
Sorafenib Alleviates Inflammatory Signaling of Tumor Microenvironment in Lung Cancer
Authors: Cicek Betul , Hayme Serhat , Kuzucu Mehmet , Cetin Ahmet , Yeni Yesim , Genc Sidika , Yildirim Serkan , Bolat Ismail , Kantarci Mecit , Gul Mustafa , Hacimuftuoglu Ahmet
Published: January 2022

Background: This study was designed to assess the possible beneficial effects of sorafenib (SOR) in diethylnitrosamine (DEN) induced lung carcinogenesis in male rats and also to examine its probable mechanisms of action. Methods and results: A total of 30 adult male rats were divided into three groups as (1) control, (2) DEN, and (3) DEN+SOR. The chemical induction of lung carcinogenesis was performed by injection of DEN intraperitoneally at 150 mg/kg once a week for two weeks. The DEN-administered rats were co-treated with SOR of 10 mg/kg by oral gavage for 42 alternate days. Serum samples were analyzed to determine SOX2 levels. Levels of TNF-α and IL-1β were measured in lung tissue supernatants. Lung sections were evaluated histopathologically. Also, COX-2 and JNK were analyzed by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence methods respectively. SOR reduced the level of SOX2 that maintenance of cancer stemness and tumorigenicity, and TNF-α and IL-1β levels. Furthermore, SOR reduced lung histopathological structure and suppressed COX-2 and JNK expressionConclusions: These results suggest that SOR reduces inflammation in the tumor microenvironment and decreases the level of SOX2 which has an important role in maintaining cancer stem cell properties.
Detecting COVID-19 in Chest CT Images Based on Several Pre-Trained Models
Authors: Hassan Esraa , Shams Mahmoud Y. , Hikal Noha A. , Elmougy Samir
Published: January 2022

COVID-19 virus (coronavirus) is causing a worldwide pandemic of severe respiratory illnesses (SARS-CoV-2). The unique virus was discovered in the Chinese city of Wuhan in December 2019 and has since spread throughout the world. For fear of spreading, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. This paper attempted to offer an autonomous prediction of COVID-19 disease using chest CT scan images by using transfer learning techniques and deep learning algorithms. The dataset included 13413 samples divided into two categories: 7395 CT chest scan images of individuals with confirmed COVID-19 and 6018 images of suspicious cases. The Resnet (50) model has the best training results, Specificity, precision, Negative Predictive Value, False Positive Rate, False Discovery Rate, False Negative Rate, Accuracy, F1 Score, and Matthews Correlation Coefficient with values 0.9880, 0.9892, 0.9891, 0.9882, 0.0108, 0.0109, 0.0120, 0.9886, 0.9885, and 0.9772 respectively.
3D Printing of Photonic Colloidal Glasses into Objects with Isotropic Structural Color
Authors: Demiroers Ahmet , Poloni Erik , Chiesa Maddalena , Bargardi Fabio , Binelli Marco , Woigk Wilhelm , de Castro Lucas , Kleger Nicole , Studart André
Published: January 2022

Structural color is frequently exploited by living organisms for biological functions and has also been translated into synthetic materials as a more durable and less hazardous alternative to conventional pigments. Additive manufacturing approaches were recently exploited for the fabrication of exquisite photonic objects, but the angle-dependence observed limits a broader application of structural color in synthetic systems. Here, we propose a manufacturing platform for the 3D printing of complex-shaped objects that display isotropic structural color generated from photonic colloidal glasses. Structurally colored objects are printed from aqueous colloidal inks containing monodisperse silica particles, carbon black and a gel-forming copolymer. Rheology and Small-Angle-X-Ray-Scattering measurements are performed to identify the processing conditions leading to printed objects with tunable structural colors. Multimaterial printing is eventually used to create complex-shaped objects with multiple structural colors using silica and carbon as abundant and sustainable building blocks.
Patterns of Traditional and Nontraditional Network Involvement in Insulo-Sylvian Gliomas: An Anatomic Study using the Quicktome Platform
Authors: Wu Zhiqiang , Zhang Zifeng , Hu Guanjie , Wang Xiefeng , Zhao Lin , Wang Binbin , Liu Ning , Dadario Nicholas , Zheng Yan , Zhang Junxia , Sughrue Michael , You Yongping
Published: January 2022

BackgroundNeurosurgeons are increasingly capable of maintaining language and motor functions in glioma patients following surgery due to the ability to preserve traditionally “eloquent” structures. However, glioma patients continue to present with severe morbidity in cognitive functions due to the lack of familiarity in the neurosurgical community with non-traditionally “eloquent” brain networks. Therefore, the authors sought to identify and describe the frequency of invasion and/or proximity of Insulo-Sylvian gliomas to portions of non-traditional, large scale brain networks during surgery.MethodsA retrospective analysis was completed of consecutive adult patients undergoing surgery for newly diagnosed glioma at a single center between 2017-2020 with WHO grade II-IV infiltrating gliomas centered in the insula, opercular cortices or temporal stem. Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI)-based tractography was completed by creating a personalized brain connectome atlas based on the Human Connectome parcellation scheme with Quicktome software. This algorithm utilizes an machine learning (ML)-approach to assign voxels of the cerebral cortex to various brain regions according to structural connectivity patterns of voxels in the brain region of interest utilizing neuroimaging data specifically from normal healthy adults. Insulo-Sylvian tumors were categorized based on their involvement with non-traditional cognitive networks versus traditionally eloquent structures.Results45 patients were included (47±15 years, 51% female) consisting of mostly high grade (IV)-gliomas (56%) compared WHO grade II (22%) or III (22% tumors). Ultimately, 44/45 (98%) patients demonstrated tumor involvement (<1cm proximity or invasion) to the cortical or subcortical components of a non-traditional, large scale brain network or major white matter pathway involved in cognition. In comparison, 35/45 (78%) patients demonstrated tumor involvement of traditionally considered “eloquent” structures like the corticospinal tract or language regions/tracts. The most common non-traditional cognitive networks involved in cases included the salience network (60%) followed by the central executive network (56%). ConclusionsNon-traditionally “eloquent” brain networks are increasingly encountered during surgical resection of Insulo-Sylvian gliomas in both hemispheres and must be considered moving forward. Damage or dysfunction in these networks has been shown to result in severe cognitive morbidity and an improved understanding of their presence can allow for more informed surgical decisions based on patient onco-functional goals.
A Practical Swelling Constitutive Model of Anhydrite and its Application on Tunnel Engineering
Authors: Hou Zhenkun , Wu Jianxun
Published: January 2022

Swelling of anhydrite rock is a major threat in tunneling engineering, causing serious damage to tunnels as well as producing high additional costs during tunnel construction and operation. Reliable prediction of swelling pressures and deformations based on conventional swelling constitutive models is extremely difficult. This paper focuses on developing a practical swelling constitutive model of anhydrite for tunnel engineering. Firstly, swelling tests of natural anhydrite samples, focusing on time effect, were designed and conducted. The test results show swelling strain-time can be better described by S-curve model, and swelling stress-strain can be better described by quadratic model. Secondly, a swelling constitutive model with consideration of time effect was developed to reproduce the swelling behavior of anhydrite observed in swelling tests. This model can track the evolution of swelling activity in the tunnelling, which has practical significance for process simulation and process control of swelling disaster. Then this model was implemented within ANSYS for numerical simulation of Lirang tunnel. Based on simulation results, some useful measures were proposed and applied to this tunnel, and got a satisfactory result according to the on-site feedback information.
Designing Rare Disease Care Pathways in the Republic of Ireland – A Co-operative Model
Authors: Ward A J , Murphy Daniel , Marron Rita , McGrath V , Bolz-Johnson M , Cullen Walter , Daly Avril , Hardiman Orla , Lawlor A , Lynch Sally Ann , MacLachlan Mac , McBrien Jackie , O'Byrne James , Turner Jacqueline , O'Connell Susan , Treacy Eileen P
Published: January 2022

Background: Rare diseases (RDs) are often complex, serious, chronic and multi-systemic conditions, associated with physical, sensory and intellectual disability. Patients require follow-up management from multiple medical specialists and health and social care professionals (HSCPs) involving a high level of integrated care, service coordination and specified care pathways.Methods and Objectives: This pilot study aimed to explore the best approach for developing national RD care pathways in the Irish healthcare system in the context of a lack of agreed methodology. Irish clinical specialists and patient/lived experience experts were asked to map existing practice against evidence-based Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs) and best practice recommendations from the European Reference Networks (ERNs) to develop optimal care pathways. The study focused on the more prevalent, multisystemic rare conditions that require multidisciplinary care, services, supports and therapeutic interventions. Results: 29 rare conditions were selected across 18 ERNs, for care pathway development. Multidisciplinary input from multiple specialisms was relevant for all pathways. A high level of engagement was experienced from clinical leads and patient organisations. CPGs were identified for 26 of the conditions. Nurse specialist, Psychology, Medical Social Work and Database Manager roles were deemed essential for all care pathways. Access to the therapeutic Health Service Professionals: Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, and Speech and Language Therapy were seen as key requirements for holistic care. Genetic counselling was highlighted as a core discipline in 27 pathways demonstrating the importance of access to Clinical Genetics services for many people with RDs. Conclusions: This study proposes a methodology for Irish RD care pathway development, in collaboration with patient/service user advocates. Common RD patient needs and health care professional interventions across all pathways were identified. Key RD stakeholders have endorsed this national care pathway initiative. Future research focused on the implementation of such care pathways is a priority.
Effects of metal leachates from hydrothermal ore particulates in the marine copepod Tigriopus japonicus
Authors: Han Jeonghoon , Park Yeun , Jeong Hyeryeong , Kim Sang Bae , Yoo Chan Min , Hyeong Kiseong , Lee Kyun-Woo
Published: January 2022

We investigated the effects of metal leachates from hydrothermal ore particulates on the physiological and molecular responses of the marine copepod Tigriopus japonicus. We evaluated its life cycle parameters including survival, development, and fecundity and the transcriptional profiles of its genes regulating detoxification (cytochrome P450 [CYP]), antioxidation (glutathione S-transferase [GST]), and development (vitellogenin [Vtg]) in response to hydrothermal ore and beneficiation leachates. There were preponderances of copper, iron, and zinc in the hydrothermal ore and the leachates derived from it. There were no significant changes in copepod developmental time in response to leachate exposure. However, copepod survival and fecundity significantly changed in response to the leachates. Moreover, the transcriptional profiles of the detoxification, antioxidation, and development-related genes were significantly modulated following leachate treatment. Collectively, our results suggest that metal leachates from hydrothermal ore particulates can promote the transcriptional expression of detoxification, antioxidation, and development-related genes, and altered survival and fecundity in T. japonicus.
Ab Initio DFT Study of Polysaccharides To Predict Their Applicability In Wound Healing
Authors: Tripathi Shikha , Dadhich Bharat , Tripathi Manwendra Kumar , Kumar Awanish
Published: January 2022

A wound-healing patch is used to help in this repairing process in which the dermal patch has been proven to be the fastest and economical way to help. Nowadays more attention is being paid to the use of biodegradable polymers for making efficient biocomposite films. In this study, we have explored the properties of some polysaccharides that can be used for wound healing. In recent years ab initio method for electronic structure study is being used frequently. We have done the density function theory (DFT) calculations of polysaccharides (Alginic acid, Chitosan oligosaccharide, Chitosamine hydrochloride, Ethylcellulose, and Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose) using SIESTA software to know its structure/interaction at the molecular level. This information is helpful to understand the blending possibility of the above-mentioned biopolymers so that their patches can be cast easily for wound healing application. Further MD simulation calculations decipher the virial energy, order parameters, and accumulation time averages of biopolymers that could play useful information in storing biopolymeric blends for long time storage. DFT study has shown that chitosan oligosaccharide is thermally most unstable whereas chitosamine hydrochloride is most stable. Also, chitosan oligosaccharide has the highest density and lowest is of chitosamine hydrochloride at a similar energy level. The range of density at different states and structures of polymer helps in predicting homogenous blends. Overall, this study could help in providing insights for the formulation of effective blends of these polymers to obtain better biocomposite material with desired properties that could be used as efficient biocomposite films/patches in wound healing.
The Prevalence and Associated Factors of Depression Among Residents in Training
Authors: Karawekpanyawong Nuntaporn , Chimnuan Kamolchanok , Orrapin Saranat , Kawilapat Suttipong , Wiriyacosol Punjaree
Published: January 2022

Background: Residency training causes high stress and leads to depression.Aims: This study aims to investigate the prevalence and factors associated with depression in residents.Methods: This cross-sectional, single-site study was conducted on residents from March to July 2020. We used the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) to determine depression. We use binary logistic regression to evaluate associated factors: loneliness, burnout, sleep quality, Emotional quotients (EQ), and perceived social support (PSS). Results: About one-fifth of residents had depression (47 of 201), 6.97% of students had suicidality. Factors showing a positive correlation with depression included: loneliness (aOR: 1.27; 95%CI: 1.15-1.40); burnout syndrome in depersonalization (aOR: 1.18; 95%CI: 1.10-1.25), and reduced personal accomplishment (aOR: 1.10; 95%CI: 1.05-1.14). Factors showing a negative correlation with depression included: perceived social support from significant others (aOR: 0.91; 95%CI: 0.85-0.98); three subscales of EQ included motivation (aOR: 0.82; 95%CI: 0.68-0.99); life satisfaction (aOR: 0.83; 95%CI: 0.70-0.97); level of peace (aOR: 0.76; 95%CI: 0.66-0.87).Conclusions: Depression in residents was 23.40%. Loneliness, low social support, and burnout (depersonalization, reduced personal accomplishment) were associated with depression. EQ (motivation, life satisfaction, and peace) might reduce depression.
Extreme climatic conditions and effects on cropping activities at a farm settlement in southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Adewoyin Adelowo A , Eludoyin Adebayo Oluwole , Adetoro Olusola Olumide-Ige
Published: January 2022

Mitigating against the impact of extreme climatic conditions is a major concern for many communities in developing countries, especially in the sub-Saharan Africa. This study examined the occurrence of extreme climatic elements and coping strategies of smallholders in a farm community in Nigeria, as well as perception stakeholders in the area on the impact of extreme climatic conditions. Data used were responses of 24 purposively stakeholders and 35 years’ daily rainfall, temperature and wind speed data. Results showed that area experienced rainfall fluctuations as well as temperature increase which were associated with poor germination, impaired of crops growth, alteration of quality harvests and lowered crop productivity in the area. Coping strategies varied with socio-economic differences among the farmers; with the relatively wealthy farmers practicing preventive methods while poor farmers embraced reactive strategies like changing methods of cultivation and praying. The study concluded that food security in the area as typical of many farm communities in the region, will benefit significantly from local knowledge of the farmers.
Non-Invasive Imaging Modalities for Stem Cells Tracking in Osteoarthritis
Authors: Dortaj Hengameh , Alizadeh Ali Akbar , Azarpira Negar , Tayebi Lobat
Published: January 2022

The administration of stem cells in regenerative medicine has emerged as a potential treatment option for many diseases. The privation of an impressive cure for joint pathologies such as knee osteoarthritis (OA) has increased concern in stem cell (SC)-based therapies. Many questions remain about the survival and biology of SC after transplantation. Current progression in molecular biology and imaging has accredited winsome non-invasive SC monitoring in living subjects. Over time, these methods have been updated to assess the viability and biology of SC transplantation. The use of nanoparticles has become important in many aspects of SCs tracking. Given that different tracking strategies are being used for clinical trials, it is important to choose the best one. In this review, various imaging methods, which were assimilated to monitor the viability and biology of SC after injection in osteoarthritis, were discussed.
High-throughput sequencing reveals the dominance of Shewanella species in the intestinal microbiota of Barbour’s seahorses (Hippocampus barbouri)
Authors: Ortega Rose Chinly Mae Huerte , Tabugo Sharon Rose M. , Martinez Joey Genevieve T. , Balcázar José L.
Published: January 2022

In this study, taxonomic classification of intestinal microbiota from healthy Barbour’s seahorses (Hippocampus barbouri) was determined as it plays an important role in host nutrition and immunity. Genomic DNA was extracted from the intestinal mucus samples of eleven Barbour’s seahorses, which were subjected to high-throughput sequencing of bacterial 16S rRNA genes targeting V1-V3 regions. The results revealed that the most abundant operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were affiliated to the genus Shewanella. Our findings may provide baseline data for further studies in order to explore the potential implications of intestinal microbiota to seahorses in terms of health status, development, growth, and survival.
Clinical Study of Surgical Management of Olecranon Fractures
Authors: Shivanna Harish Y , S Ananth H , N Santhosh Kumar T
Published: January 2022

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Olecranon fractures are one of the most commonly seen orthopaedic injuries in the emergency room. Fractures of the Olecranon process of the Ulna typically occurs as a result of a motor-vehicle or motorcycle accident, a fall, or assault. The accepted management for Olecranon fractures is for Non displaced fractures short immobilization followed by gradually increasing range of motion. When displaced ,Open reduction and internal fixation with k-wires and figure of eight tension band wiring for simple transverse fractures and olecranon hook plate for comminuted fractures The present study is undertaken to evaluate the results of surgical management, the merits and demerits and to asses elbow joint motion and stability after the procedure.MATERIALS AND METHODS: It is a prospective study which was carried out from September 2010 to September 2012 in Bapuji Hospital and Chigateri General Hospital attached toJ.J.M Medical College, Davangere. In this study period of 25 cases of fracture olecranon treated by Tension band wiring with Kirshner wire for Simple transverse fractures and Olecranon hook plate for Communited fracturesRESULTS: In our series, majority of the patients were males, middle aged, with road traffic accident being the commonest mode of injury, Most of the cases were Type II B fractures i.e., oblique and transverse fractures according to Colton’s classification Surgery was performed with in 3.48 average days, Union was noted clinically and radiologically and functional evaluation was done by Mayo elbow performance score. Excellent results was present in 18 patients (72%), 4(16%) good and 3(12%) fair with no poor results.INTERPRETATION /CONCLUSION From the present study it is concluded that the technique of open reduction and internal fixation with Kirschner wires and tension band wiring for simple transverse and oblique fractures and olecranon plate fixation for comminuted fractures are effective means and gold standard technique of treating fractures of olecranon and is based on sound biomechanical principle.
A Biomechanical Study of the Medial Row Tightening on Stability of Single Stitch Suture-Bridge Construct
Authors: Abihssira Sharon , BOUCHE Pierre-Alban , CAMMAS Claire , THIRACHE Clément , NOURISSAT Geoffroy
Published: January 2022

Purpose: To define the more stable knot tightening of a suture-bridge when a single limb is preserved. Methods: Five different sutures were tested : No. 2 Ethibond (Ethicon), Hi-Fi (ConMed Linvatec), Sutblue (SBM), SingleFlat (SBM), Hi-Fi Ribbon (ConMed Linvatec).A Surgeon’s Knot was tied around a 30-mm circumference device, 6 times for each experiment. A single limb was kept to analyze failure modes of the knot.First step was to analyze which of pulling or sliding suture of the construct must be kept preventing failure of the knot.The cutting distance from the knot was evaluated at 1 mm and 4 mm with the suture loops pretensioned to 10 N and fixed to a second row after a 50 N tension load. The more stable construct was found: a single-pull load to100 N and cyclic load (to 50 N for 30 cycles) experiments were conducted to evaluate the impact of cycling on knot loosening.Results: The more stable construct was obtained when the non-post limb was tensioned, and the post-limb was cut at 4 mm (p<0.01). Loop circumference increased after each experiment for all tested sutures, independently of the preserved limb and the cutting distance. Elongation was significant for all tested sutures in all groups. Knot failure mostly occurred by slippage; only with tapes. Conclusions: a suture bridge construct with the non-post limb preserved and the post-limb cut at a 4 mm distance from the knot provides with the best security. Sutures are safer than tapes in suture-bridge.
Aging threatens sustainability of smallholder farming in China
Authors: Gu Baojing , Ren Chenchen , Zhou Xinyue , Wang Chen , Guo Yaolin , Diao Yu , Shen Sisi , Reis Stefan , Li Wanyue , Xu Jianming
Published: January 2022

Rapidly demographic aging substantially affects socioeconomic development 1-4, presents grand challenges for food security and agricultural sustainability 5-8, which have so far not been well understood. Here, by using over 30,000 households survey across China, we show that rural population aging lowers average education level of farmers by 3% (0-11% across different provinces) and reduces farm size by 4% (2-11%) due to land transfer-out and abandonment in 2019. These changes further led to a reduction of agricultural inputs, including fertilizers and machinery, which decrease agricultural output by 4% and labor productivity by 9%. Meanwhile, fertilizer use efficiency is reduced by 3%, while increasing fertilizer-related pollutants emission to the environment. New farming models, such as cooperative farming, tend to have larger farm sizes and being operated by younger farmers, who have a higher average education level, hence reducing total labor requirement. Without policy interventions, agricultural output, labor productivity and fertilizer use efficiency would decrease by 3-16% as a consequence of population aging by 2100, compared to 2019 levels. With policy measures, such as new farming models, this decrease could be reversed and in fact an increase by approximately one-third achieved in the same time period. Our analyses suggest that population aging effects on agriculture could be effectively addressed through labor saving in large-scale new farming models, further contributing to a widespread transformation of smallholder farming to sustainable agriculture in China.
Spatial Coherence Patterns of Extreme Winter Precipitation In The United States
Authors: Banerjee Abhirup , Kemter Matthias , Goswami Bedartha , Merz Bruno , Kurths Jürgen , Marwan Norbert
Published: January 2022

Extreme precipitation events have a significant impact on life and property. The United States experiences huge economic losses due to severe floods caused by extreme precipitation. With the varied terrain, it becomes increasingly important to understand the spatial variability of extreme precipitation to conduct a proper risk assessment of natural hazards such as floods. In this work, we use a complex network based approach to identify distinct regions exhibiting spatially coherent precipitation patterns due to various underlying climate mechanisms. To quantify interactions between event series of different locations, we use a nonlinear similarity measure, called the edit-distance method, which considers not only the occurrence of the extreme events but also their intensity while measuring similarity. Using network measures, namely, degree and betweenness centrality, we are able to identify the specific regions affected by landfall of atmospheric rivers in addition to those regions where the extreme precipitation due to storm track activity is modulated by different mountain ranges such as the Rockies and the Appalachians. Our approach provides a comprehensive picture of the spatial patterns of extreme winter precipitation in the United States due to various climate processes despite its vast complex topography
Theoretical study on the nature of Gold-X(IVA) interaction
Authors: Xinying Li , Zhang Wanli
Published: January 2022

Structures, stabilities, and interactions of AuX (X = C − Pb) series are theoretically investigated at CCSD(T) and B3LYP levels with extend basis sets. Natural bond orbital analysis shows that the Au-X interaction is resulted by the overlap of sp hybrid on X and 6s5d hybrid on Au atom. Laplacian and total electronic energy density values at BCP shows the “intermediate type” of Au-X (X = Si, Ge, Sn, Pb) interactions and covalent type of Au-C interaction. Moreover, analysis of electron density deformation shows pronounced charge accumulation in the middle of the region between lighter X and Au, suggesting obvious covalent character of interaction. ELF shows increased covalency from X = Pb to X = C. Energy decomposition analysis shows positive steric contribution and negative quantum contributions to the Au-X interactions. Comparing the interaction energy of AuC with other AuX series, the decrease of interaction strength between them is caused by the positive contribution of steric effect and the negative contribution of quantum and electrostatic effects. And steric energy is correlated positively with the total interaction energy and correlated positively with the steric charge deformation at BCP.