bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Apolipoprotein E Polymorphism With Risk of Metabolic Syndrome: A Case-Control Study And Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Safarpour Mahdi , Sedaghati-khayat Bahareh , Bonab Leila Najd Hassan , Fallah Mohammad-Sadegh , Ebrahimi Ahmad , Azizi Fereidoun , Daneshpour Maryam S
Published: August 2021

Background: This study aimed to assess the genetic association between Apolipoprotein E (APOE) polymorphisms and susceptibility to metabolic syndrome (MetS) among the Tehran cardiometabolic genetic study (TCGS) participants. The results were then compared with similar studies in other populations using meta-analysis. Methods: the metabolic syndrome was defined according to the Joint Interim Statement (JIS) criteria. A total of 12282 subjects (5696 cases with metabolic syndrome and 6586 healthy controls) were genotyped using Human OmniExpress-24-v1-0 BeadChip. Subsequently, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases were searched using relevant Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms to collect all studies that examined the association between polymorphisms of the APOE gene and risk of MetS. Results: the presence of the APOE-ε4 allele could not significantly increase the risk of MetS in the carriers of this allele compared to individuals lacking the risk allele in the TCGS population (OR = 1.11, 95% CI: 0.92 to 1.32). The meta-analysis results also indicated no significant association between the APOE-ε 4 allele and the risk of MetS. Conclusion: the frequency of the ε4 allele was almost same in the cases and the controls. Therefore, this allele cannot be considered as biomarker to predict the MetS susceptibility in the TCGS population or other populations with different genetic pools.
OrtSuite – from genomes to prediction of microbial interactions within targeted ecosystem processes
Authors: Saraiva João Pedro , Bartholomäus Alexandre , Kallies René , Gomes Marta , Bicalho Marcos , Kasmanas Jonas Coelho , Vogt Carsten , Chatzinotas Antonis , Stadler Peter , Dias Oscar , Rocha Ulisses
Published: August 2021

The high complexity found in microbial communities makes the identification of microbial interactions challenging. To address this challenge, we present OrtSuite, a flexible workflow to predict putative microbial interactions based on genomic content of microbial communities and targeted to specific ecosystem processes. The pipeline is composed of three user-friendly bash commands. OrtSuite combines ortholog clustering with genome annotation strategies limited to user-defined sets of functions allowing for hypothesis-driven data analysis such as assessing microbial interactions in specific ecosystems. OrtSuite matched, on average, 96 % of experimentally verified KEGG orthologs involved in benzoate degradation in a known group of benzoate degraders. We evaluated the identification of putative synergistic species interactions using the sequenced genomes of an independent study that had previously proposed potential species interactions in benzoate degradation. OrtSuite is an easy-to-use workflow that allows for rapid functional annotation based on a user-curated database and can easily be extended to ecosystem processes where connections between genes and reactions are known. OrtSuite is an open-source software available at https://github.com/mdsufz/OrtSuite.
Folded Free Vascularized Fibular Bone Graft for Segmental Femoral Bone Defect: a Retrospective Report
Authors: Wu Yifan , Jian Chao , Qi Baiwen , Li Zonghuan , Yu Aixi
Published: August 2021

ObjectiveVascularized fibular bone graft is an efficient method for various segmental bone defects. The objective of this report is to introduce our experience of folded free vascularized fibular bone graft for segmental femoral bone defect.Patients and methodsClinical data collected by surgeons and Hospital Information System (HIS) system were screened respectively. Cases with segmental femoral bone defect repaired by folded free vascularized fibular bone graft were collected. Clinical data including demographic characteristics, defect size, coinfection, perioperative treatment and imaging data during follow up were all collected for analysis.ResultsTwelve patients (10 males and 2 females), aged from 6 to 58, were included in this report. The defect range was 3 to 10 cm, with an average of 6.2 cm. Three cases were complicated with infection, the others were not. Folded free vascularized fibular bone graft were harvested for the reconstruction of segmental femoral bone defect. The grafts were fixed with plates in 9 cases and external fixators in 3 cases. All grafts healed uneventfully with an average healing time of 5.2 months (range 4~8 months). Internal fixation failure occurred in one case. The follow up time ranged from 15 to 130 months (average 58.3 months).ConclusionFolded free fibula graft is one of the optional methods for segmental bone defect of femur. Through this method, patients can achieve one-time operation to reconstruct the bone defect of the affected limb.
Gravity cells as a necessary link in string theory. The formula for the gravitational constant, the formula for the mass of the electron, the formula for the minimum distance of the gravitational interaction, the formula for the minimum distance of the Coulomb interaction. The coincidence of the results obtained by the formulas and the experimental data.
Authors: Chernov Andrey
Published: August 2021

In this study, a new concept is introduced into physics - gravitational cells. The gravitational cell hypothesis was organically integrated into string theory. As a result, using the Schwarzschild radius formula and the Coulomb formula, a gravitational formula in the region of black holes was obtained on the basis of two fundamental constants, and its exact value was determined. The value of the "usual" gravitational constant was also confirmed and the mass of the gravitational cell was obtained. The introduction of the gravitational cell hypothesis into string theory made it possible to apply Planck's constant to gravitational interaction. As a result, a formula for the energy of a gravitational quantum and a formula for the vibrational velocity of a gravitational string were obtained. On this basis, the formula for the mass of the electron was obtained and its value was calculated, which coincided with the experimental mass of the electron. According to the formula for the vibrational velocity of the gravitational string, the formula for the minimum distance of the gravitational interaction was obtained and this distance was calculated. This minimum distance of the gravitational interaction with absolute accuracy coincided with the known experimental data obtained when determining the Casimir effect (force). Another great scientific result is the determination by a new formula of the minimum distance of the onset of the action of Coulomb forces between electric 3 charges and obtaining the minimum length of a standing electric wave between charges.
Analysis of the Performance of Coded and Uncoded Mixed RF and Multihop Coherent OFDM-FSO Systems for 5G-CRAN Applications
Authors: K Anbarasi , R.G. Sangeetha , C Hemanth
Published: August 2021

The performance of coded and uncoded mixed single-hop RF links and multihop FSO link systems for the 5G centralized radio access network (C-RAN) is investigated in this paper using a coherent detection technique. A generalized Nakagami-m fading channel is chosen for the RF link, and the Gamma-Gamma distribution channel is chosen for the FSO link. The RF and FSO links use M-Quadrature Amplitude Modulated Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (M-QAM OFDM) modulation for the coherent detection scheme. The Meijer-G function is used to calculate outage probability (OP) and average symbol error rate (ASER) for analyzing the performance of coded and uncoded systems. Reed Solomon (RS) and Bose-Chaudhuri-Hocquenghem (BCH) codes are used in the coded system. In relays, the decode and forward (DF) method is used. For analysis, the effects of atmospheric turbulence, atmospheric loss, and pointing error are considered. The results show that the coding technique improves the system's performance. When compared to BCH codes, RS codes improve system performance more. A Monte-Carlo simulation is used to validate the analytical results.
Low-Glycemic-Index Sugar in Type 2 Diabetic Patients: a Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Steciuk Damien , Amir Samia Mahmood Hafez , Goorapah Aroushini , Hosenally Muzzammil
Published: August 2021

Background and ObjectivesThere is a need to re assess the value of low-GI food and its specific components. The effect of one of them, namely low-glycemic-index sugar, is unclear, as its impact is usually confounded when reported in the literature. This study attempts to breach this gap, shedding light on its effect in type 2 diabetic patients and evaluate if it could be considered as part of a dietary plan.Subjects and MethodsThe blood sugar level of twenty (20) type 2 diabetics was monitored using a Continuous Glucose Monitoring system during two phases; firstly, an initial period of 5 days, whereby all the included patients were taking their usual dietary meals. Subjects were then randomized into two groups of equal size before embarking on a second phase; 10 subjects were instructed to eat prepared, portioned and delivered meals, the difference for the second group being that low-GI sugar was used for the preparation. ResultsCompared to baseline (day 1), blood sugar dropped by 18% for the group with low-GI sugar and 13% for those who consumed sugar with a normal-GI. The variation in sugar levels was also more contained in the interventional group. A by-product of the study design shows that constant glucose monitoring could raise awareness, and may foster reduction in blood sugar levels. Portioned food was capable of reducing blood sugar levels, with elevated levels of compliance just after start. ConclusionsEven though the ultimate aim is to reduce sugar consumption by diabetic patients, the intake of a low-GI sugar seems to be less harmful than normal sugar. Compared to using normal sugar for the preparation of portioned foods, the use of a low-GI sugar is encouraged as part of a wider plan for the management of diabetic patients.
Risk Assessment for Cardiac Arrest : A Deep Learning Approach
Authors: Yılmaz Atınç
Published: August 2021

Background:Risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, in the world, is increasing day by day. Accordingly, the number of deaths due to heart attacks is quite remarkable. Early risk assessment and diagnosis of heart disease are vital to prevent heart attacks by providing effective treatment planning and evaluation of outcomes. When a patient with high risk of heart attack is not treated correctly, chances of survival may reduce dramatically. Methods: In this study, individuals who has heart attack risks are predicted by using a CNN method. A set of medical data from patients with heart attacks and healthy individuals are provided from the UCI database. Reinforced deep learning and ANFIS architectures are also applied to the same problem in order to compare the results and put forth the efficiency of applied method. In addition, ROC analysis and measurements of processing times for the applied methods were performed to reveal the performance, accuracy and efficiency of the study. Results: The applied CNN method and other methods are tested and evaluated. The accuracy performance of the methods were 94.34% for the applied CNN method, 91.58% for the ANFIS, and 92.66% for the deep multilayer neural network. Highest accuracy has been obtained by using the applied CNN method, which is 94.34%. The reasons why the applied CNN method is better than other methods is the number of convolution and pooling layers, the filter size used in these layers, and the functions used in the loss and activation layers. Conclusions: In the study, the applicability of proposed CNN method with images obtained from numerical data has been demonstrated. With the early prediction system proposed, it is now possible to take precautionary measures against possible cardiac arrest. In this study; a new method based on CNN is proposed for early detection of possible heart attack, which is a great risk for human life. Different from studies in the literature, it was used in the applied CNN method by converting all numerical data from dataset into 2D images. Afterwards, to show whether this the proposed method is applicable or not, the dataset which is numerical form was applied to other methods and compared.
Design, Synthesis and Biological Activities of New Phthalimide and Thiazolidine Derivatives
Authors: Santos Flaviana A. , Almeida Marcel L. , Silva Vitor A. S. , Viana Douglas Carvalho Francisco , Pereira Michelly C. , Lucena André S. L. , Pitta Maira G. R. , Pitta Marina Galdino da Rocha , Rêgo Moacyr J. B. de Melo , Pitta Ivan da Rocha
Published: August 2021

The combination of pharmacophoric nuclei with different targets has been a strategy for the development of new drugs aimed at improving cancer treatment. A series of ten novel phthalimido-thiazolidine-2-4-dione derivatives were synthesized by two different synthetic routes. The compounds were tested and evaluated in vitro, through antineoplastic activities against cancer cells. Cell cycle analyzes and clonogenic assay were also performed. In addition to these tests, in silico predictions were performed. The synthesized FT-12 compound (9j) exhibited antiproliferative activity against Panc-1, Sk-mel-28 and PC-3 cells. FT-12 reduced the ability to form new clones, also caused irreversibility in cell cycle, inducing arrest in phase S. Besides, the compound (FT-12) caused necrosis and apoptosis. The results suggest that phthalimido-thiazolidine derivatives may be useful in cancer therapy, highlighting compound FT-12 (9j) as a promising candidate. More studies must be carried out to confirm the viability.
TGIF2-Induced HMGB3 Promotes Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Progression Through TGFβ Signaling
Authors: Niu Liaoran , Yang Wanli , Zhou Wei , Duan Lili , Wang Xiaoqian , Li Yiding , Wang Qi , Xu Chengchao , Zhang Yujie , Liu Jinqiang , Zhao Qingchuan , Hong Liu , Fan Daiming
Published: August 2021

Background: Proliferation and metastasis are the major malignant phenotypes of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and the main causes for poor survival in patients with ESCC. Nevertheless, the underlying mechanisms of ESCC proliferation and metastasis remains unclear. The high mobility group box protein family 3 (HMGB3) is one of the HMGB family members. It is critically involved in the occurrence and development of various carcinomas. However, the knowledge of HMGB3 in ESCC remains limited. In this study, we elucidated the role of HMGB3 in ESCC proliferation and metastasis, and the concrete mechanism. Methods: Expression level of HMGB3 and TGF-β interacting factor 2 (TGIF2) in ESCC cell lines and tissues was quantified by qRT-PCR, Western Blot, and immunohistochemistry. In vitro and in vivo assays revealed the functions of TGIF2 and HMGB3 in ESCC. RNA-seq was performed to search for the downstream signaling of HMGB3. ChIP assay and were performed to explore the relationship of HMGB3 and TGIF2. HMGB3-interacting protein was validated by immunoprecipitation.Results: Higher expression of TGIF2 and HMGB3 was observed in ESCC cell lines and tissues and was associated with worse prognosis of ESCC patients. TGIF2 and HMGB3 upregulation could promote ESCC proliferation and metastasis, and vice versa. TGIF2 and HMGB3 upregulation can activate Smad-dependent TGF-β signaling. TGIF2 can transcriptionally regulate HMGB3, and its TGF-β inducing capability and oncogenic role are at least partly HMGB3-dependent. Additionally, TLR3 was identified as a client protein of HMGB3, and their combination might be the reason of TGF-β activation. Conclusions: Collectively, HMGB3-dependent TGIF2 overexpression activates TGF-β signaling and promotes the proliferation and metastasis of ESCC via TLR3 regulation. These findings revealed that TGIF2 and HMGB3 could be prognostic indicators of ESCC and targeting TGIF2/HMGB3/TLR3 axis might improve the OS of ESCC patients.
Access to Healthcare for Street Sex Workers in the UK: Perspectives and Best Practice Guidance from the Frontline
Authors: Potter Lucy C , Horwood Jeremy , Feder Gene
Published: August 2021

Background: Street sex workers (SSWs) are a highly marginalised and stigmatised group who carry an extremely high burden of unmet health need. They experience multiple and interdependent health and social problems and extreme health inequality. Despite high levels of chronic physical and mental ill-health, there is little evidence of effective healthcare provision for this group. They are often considered ‘hard to reach’, but many individuals and organisations have extensive experience of working with this group.Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey of professionals who work with SSWs in the UK on their perspectives on their access to primary care, mental health, sexual health and drug and alcohol services, how well these services met the needs of SSWs and suggestions of best practice.Results: 50 professionals mostly from England, responded. Mainstream general practice and mental health services were found to be largely inaccessible to SSWs. Sexual health, drug and alcohol services and homeless health services better met their needs; this was mostly attributed to flexible services and collaborations with organisations who work closely with SSWs. The main challenges in providing healthcare to SSWs were services being inflexible, under-resourced services and services not being trauma-informed. Best practice in providing healthcare to SSWs includes- seamless partnership working between agencies with case worker support; peer-involvement in service development and engagement, a range of health provision including outreach, presence in community spaces and fast-track access into mainstream services; trauma-informed, gender-sensitive health services in a welcoming environment with flexible, responsive appointment and drop-in systems and consistent clinicians with specialist knowledge of substance misuse, mental health, domestic violence and homelessness.Conclusions: Access to healthcare for SSWs in the UK is highly variable but largely inadequate with regards to primary care and mental health provision. The examples of positive healthcare provision and partnership working presented here demonstrate the feasibility of accessible healthcare that meets the needs of SSWs. These need to be systematically implemented and evaluated to understand their impact and implications. As we build back from COVID-19 there is an urgent need to make accessible healthcare provision the norm, not the exception.
Binding effects of Alpinia galanga oil and its nanoemulsion 1 to GABAA receptors in rat cortical membranes
Authors: Khumpirapang Nattakanwadee , Suknuntha Krit , Anuchapreeda Songyot , Wellendorph Petrine , Müllertz Anette , Rades Thomas , Okonogi Siriporn
Published: August 2021

Anesthetic activity of Alpinia galanga oil (AGO) has been reported however the mechanism of action in mammals has not been clear. In the present study, the binding effects of AGO and its three active components to gamma-aminobutyric acid type A (GABAA) receptor in cortical membranes of Sprague-Dawley rats were firstly investigated using a [3H]muscimol binding assay. Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) was used to deliver these test samples. The results showed that only AGO and methyl eugenol displayed positive modulation at the highest concentration whereas 1,8-cineole and 4-allylphenyl acetate were inactive. An oil-in-water nanoemulsion containing 20%w/w AGO (NE-AGO) was formulated to deliver AGO instead of DMSO. This NE-AGO significantly enhanced a specific [3H]muscimol binding to 179% of the control with EC50 of 391 µg/mL. The result correlates well to the amount of methyl eugenol in AGO. This result confirms that the anesthetic activity of AGO and methyl eugenol is associated with GABAA receptor modulation, while that of 1,8-cineole and 4-allylphenyl acetate is not and may instead be related to other mechanisms. AGO showed well-tolerated by human cells. Therefore, the formulated NE-AGO might be a promising alternative anesthetic product for humans.
Untangling Neurodevelopmental Disorders in the Adulthood: A Movement Disorder is the Clue.
Authors: Indelicato Elisabetta , Zech Michael , Amprosi Matthias , Boesch Sylvia
Published: August 2021

BackgroundThe genetic landscape of neurodevelopmental disorders is constantly expanding and children with early-onset neurological phenotypes increasingly receive a genetic diagnosis. Nonetheless, the awareness of the chronic course of these conditions, and consequently their recognition and management in the adult population, is still limited. ResultsHerein, we describe four patients with rare neurodevelopmental disorders (SON, ZMYND11, DNMT1 and YY1-related diseases), who received a genetic allocation only in the adulthood. All these patients had an early developmental delay and displayed a movement disorder (dystonia/ataxia/tremor) which manifested for the first time, or worsened, in the adulthood, prompting the referral to a neurologist. The syndromic nature of the phenotype led eventually to the genetic testing. We report previously unrecognized features and highlight the peculiarities of the adult presentation of four neurodevelopmental disorders. ConclusionsThis report expands the current knowledge on four rare neurodevelopmental disorders (SON, ZMYND11, DNMT1 and YY1), which was mainly based on reports from paediatric cases. This case series emphasize the importance of a tight neurological surveillance extending beyond the childhood.
Procalcitonin is a Prognosis Biomarker in Late Onset Neonatal Sepsis: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ruetsch Valerie , Barreault Simon , Sache Nolwenn Le , Tissieres Pierre
Published: August 2021

Background. Neonatal sepsis contributes substantially to neonatal morbidity and mortality. Procalcitonin (PCT) is a recognized biomarker for the diagnosis of late-onset neonatal sepsis (LONS), however, little is known about the prognosis value of PCT in LONS. This study aims at assessing PCT value as a prognosis biomarker in preterm infants with LONS. Methods. Retrospective single center observational cohort. All premature infants (less than 32 weeks of gestational age) with LONS admitted in a tertiary neonatal intensive care unit.Discussion. Among the 59 preterm infants included in the analysis, 48 survived (81.4%, 48/59). Deceased patients had a significantly lower gestational age (p=0,025) and weight (p= 0,016) at the time of LONS diagnosis. Although PCT values were not different between both groups at the time of LONS diagnosis, it was more elevated during the first 24 hours in deceased patients (p=0,041). Accuracy of PCT for LONS prognosis ranged from 0.70 to 0.82 of area under the curve on reciever operating characteristics curves. Optimal PCT cut-off values at LONS diagnosis was 8,92 µg/L (Youden’s J index 0.53), 15.75 µg/L for PCT values during the first 24 hours (J index 0.56), and 6.74 µg/L between 24 and 48 hours after diagnosis (J index 0.54). The estimated survival probability at day 60 was above 95% for patient with a PCT value at sepsis diagnosis under 8,9 µg/L and less than 45% if higher (p<0.0001). Conclusion. A PCT value > 8.92 µg/L obtained at LONS diagnosis suspicion seems to be a good prognosis biomarker.
qS-Ne2Mo Score – A New Risk Stratification Tool For Early Detection of Septic Shock in The Field of Emergency Medicine
Authors: Erdelyi Peter , Papp Laszlo , Foldesi Imre , Farkas Katalin , Molnar Zsolt , Peto Zoltan
Published: August 2021

Background Sepsis is one of the most significant healthcare concerns of the 21st century. In the United States sepsis affect 1.7 million adults, with 270,000 fatal cases, according to the estimation of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The management of sepsis relies on early recognition, therefore the emergency departments have distinctive role in sepsis care, hence the need for early reliable risk stratification tools.Methods A retrospective, quantitative study was performed in Department of Emergency, University of Szeged. Hungary. Patients with suspected infection were enrolled to four subgroups based on the results of patient examination and laboratory results. In all cases (N=276), cell population data markers were analyzed along with ordinary infection biomarkers, such as CRP, PCT and WBC. Performance of cell population data parameters were investigated with ROC (Receiver Operating Curve) analysis.Results Almost all cell population biomarkers showed significant differences in the subgroup analysis. Remarkable performance was found in three markers (NE-SFL/M, MO-X/M and NE-WY/M) in patients having septic shock. Combining quick SOFA with these biomarkers (qS-Ne2Mo score) resulted in excellent diagnostic ability for septic shock (AUC 0.914, p<0.001), with good sensitivity (73.9%) and excellent specificity (89 %).Conclusions Since determination of cell population data requires complete blood count analysis, turn-around time of this novel indicator is significantly lower than other methods. qS-Ne2Mo score might be used as an initial screening tool to select only those patients that need more extensive laboratory investigations for their proper treatment and spare inadequate, time and money consuming laboratory requests.Trial Registration: University of Szeged, Ethical Committee ref. nr. 25/2016-SZTE
Overcharge for Reviving Failed Li-O2 Batteries
Authors: Chen Kai , Yang Dong-Yue , Wang Jin , Huang Gang , Zhang xin-bo
Published: August 2021

Prolonging the lifetime of batteries is a long-term pursuit, and it is also one of the prerequisites for the practical application of batteries. However, this is really challenging for high-energy Li-O2 batteries due to their poor charge efficiency and cathode passivation induced by products accumulation. Here, we demonstrate that overcharging the Li-O2 batteries can facilitate the decomposition of residue products and thus revive the cathode, which allows further operation of Li-O2 batteries for 1316 cycles. This long lifetime not only makes full use of the Li anode, but also enables the battery recycling in a safer way. Furthermore, applying anode protection and overcharge together, the life of batteries can be extended to a record high value of 2714 cycles. This overcharge strategy simplifies the cathode regenerating procedures, realizing system-level efficient use of battery components and prolonging the life of Li-O2 batteries that can meet the requirements of practical applications.
Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography Features of Macular Epiretinal Neovascularization In Eales’ Disease: A Case Rreport
Authors: Alyousif Nora , Alsalamah Abrar K. , Aldhibi Hassan
Published: August 2021

Background: Eales disease primarily affects the peripheral retina. However, posterior involvement can be seen. Macular epiretinal neovascularization is not commonly seen in Eales disease. This report highlights the morphology and origin of macular epiretinal neovascularization (ERN) using multimodal retinal imaging, including optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). Results: A 35-year-old man with no history of systemic disorders presented with gradual decrease of vision in his left eye. Fundus examination of his right eye showed peripheral sclerosed blood vessels, neovascularization of the optic disc and elsewhere, and macular ERN. The view of the left fundus was limited by vitreous haemorrhage. Fluorescein angiography (FA), of the right eye showed widespread peripheral capillary nonperfusion and leakage of dye from the retinal neovascularization and macular ERN. Macular Spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) of the right eye showed an epiretinal membrane and the presence of epiretinal neovascular lesions extending above the internal limiting membrane towards the vitreous. Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) showed multiple tiny blood vessels at the macula that arose from the superficial retinal capillary plexuses and extended toward the vitreous. The corresponding B-scan showed flow signal through these vessels and the signal extend above the internal limiting membrane. Systemic work-up was negative except for strongly positive tuberculin skin testing giving the classic diagnosis of Eales disease. Patient was started on empirical anti-tubercular therapy and oral corticosteroids. Scatter laser photocoagulation was applied to nonperfused retinal zones. Despite adequate scatter laser ablation, the ERN failed to regress fully. Conclusions: Macular ERN can be seen in cases of classic Eales disease. The origin of macular ERN in our case was shown to be from the superficial retinal capillary plexuses. We also noted the slower regression rate of macular ERN as compared to the major neovascularizations of the optic disc and peripheral retina. Further research is needed to establish the pathogenesis of ERN and its optimal management.
Exploration of The Lower Threshold of Iodine Intake In Southern Chinese Young Adults Based On ‘Overflow Theory’ In An Iodine Balance Study
Authors: Wang Jun , Zhang Hongmin , Mao Deqian , Tan Hongxing , Yu Wei , Xu Jian , Hong Wenxu , Piao Jianhua , Yang Lichen , Liu Xiaobing , Lu Jiaxi , Li Weidong , Li Yajie , Liu Xiaoli , Yang Xiaoguang
Published: August 2021

Background: Appropriate iodine intake for adults is essential to reduce the prevalence of thyroid diseases, but there is little research data on iodine requirement of Chinese population. This study aimed to explore the iodine requirement of young adults to maintain a healthy status based on ‘overflow theory’.Methods: Iodine-balance experiment has been performed in this project. We conducted an 18-day study consisted of a 6-day acclimation period and 3 consecutive experimental stages in 37 Chinese healthy young adults (23 female and 14 male). Each stage was consumed for 4 days. Strictly-controlled low-iodine intake diets were provided for adults in the first period, an egg or 125mL milk was added in the second and third period, respectively. The dietary samples, 24-h urine specimens and faeces of volunteers were collected daily for assessment of iodine intake and excretion in volunteers.Results: Mean values of iodine intake (22.7±3.6, 35.1±3.7, and 52.2±3.8μg/d), excretion (64.7±13.9, 62.3±12.6, and 94.3±14.5μg/d) and iodine balance (-35.2±19.5, -21.0±19.8, and -33.5±26.9μg/d) were significantly different among three periods for male (P<0.001 for all); mean values of iodine intake (16.6±3.1, 29.7±2.7, and 48.0±2.7μg/d), and excretion (47.0±9.9, 55.5±8.1, and 75.7±12.4μg/d) were significantly different among three periods for female (P < 0.001 for all). No significant difference was observed among the 3 periods for female in the iodine balance (-30.5±9.3, -25.9±7.3, and -27.6±12.1μg/d). The linear regression equation of iodine excretion on iodine intake was Y=0.979X+37.04 (male) and Y=0.895X+31.48 (female). Compared with stage 2, iodine excretion increments in stage 3 had exceeded the iodine intake increment for men. The ratio of increment was 1.675 for male when the average iodine intake was 52.2μg/d in stage 3. When the iodine excretion increment equaled to the iodine intake increment, the daily iodine intake of men was 47.0μg.Conclusion: We have evaluated the iodine requirement of young adults in southern China based on overflow theory. Our results indicate the lower limit of iodine requirement for Chinese young men is 47.0μg/d. The trial was registered at www.chictr.org.cn as ChiCTR1800014877.
Identification of a Key Competing Endogenous RNA Axis, “COL5A1/miR-137-3p/FSTL1”, Associated With Gastric Cancer Progression by Integrated Bioinformatics Analyses and Experimental Verification
Authors: Yang Ming , Lu Zhixing , Li Liang , Ma Min , Long Fei , Wu Runliu , Zhang Yi , Huang Lihua , Chou Jing , Gong Ni , Yang Kaiyan , Li Xiaorong , Hu Gui , Lin Changwei
Published: August 2021

Background

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) and their target genes have been shown to play an important role in gastric cancer (GC), but this role has not been fully clarified. Therefore, our goal was to find the key miRNA-mRNA regulatory network in GC by combining a variety of bioinformatics and experimental analyses.
Methods

Differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) and genes (DEGs) were screened from TCGA and GEO, respectively. Survival-related differentially expressed miRNAs (SRDEMs) were determined by Cox proportional hazards regression and lasso regression analyses. Differentially expressed target genes (DETGs) of SRDEMs were predicted by TargetScan and miRDB and overlapped with DEGs. We constructed a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network of DETGs and conducted weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA) to screen the hub genes. Then, qRT–PCR and western blotting were performed to detect the expression level, and a dual-luciferase reporter assay was conducted to verify the binding of miRNA and mRNAs. CCK-8, EdU, wound healing and Transwell assays were conducted to compare the proliferation, migration and invasion abilities of GC cells in the different groups.
Results

We identified 11 SRDEMs and 233 DETGs, from which we selected miR-137-3p and its target gene COL5A1 for further research because of their key roles in the results of the bioinformatics analyses. Then, we showed that miR-137-3p was significantly downregulated in GC and that overexpression of miR-137-3p suppressed the proliferation, invasion and migration of GC cells by targeting COL5A1. Furthermore, we found that COL5A1 could regulate the expression of FSTL1 and GC progression by sponging miR-137-3p. Finally, bioinformatics analyses showed that FSTL1 might promote GC progression by regulating the immune infiltration of GC.
Conclusions

miR-137-3p played a tumor-suppressive role in GC, and its target gene COL5A1 could competitively bind miR-137-3p to upregulate the expression of FSTL1, which affects immune infiltration.
Validity And Reliability of The Chinese Version of The Partners At Care Transitions Measure Partners At Care Transitions Measure
Authors: Liu La-mei , Liu Ment-ting , Sun Meng-jie , Wang Jia-nan , Lin Bei-lei , Wang Peng , Oikonomou Eirini , Aggari Michael , Li Qiufang
Published: August 2021

Background: The Partners at Care Transitions Measure (PACT-M) is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing the quality and safety of care during the transition from hospital to home. The aim of this study was to examine the psychometric properties and test the reliability and validity of the Chinese version of the PACT-M.Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. A convenience sample of patients was recruited from three tertiary hospitals. A total of 402 participants were interviewed before discharge and 306 participants were interviewed one month after discharge from hospital to home using the Chinese version of the PACT-M. The critical ratio value and item total correlation were used to evaluate the item discriminatory power. A test-retest reliability approach and Cronbach’s alpha were used to evaluate reliability. Confirmatory factor analysis and exploratory factor analysis with varimax rotation were used to evaluate the validity of the Chinese version of the PACT-M.Results: The Chinese version of the PACT-M consists of two parts, the PACT-M1 and PACT-M2. Both have 2 dimensions, with the PACT-M1 having 9 items and the PACT-M2 having 8 items. The Cronbach’s alpha values of the PACT-M1 and PACT-M2 were 0.802 and 0.741, and the test-retest reliability values were 0.885 and 0.837. The item content validity index and scale content validity index values of the PACT-M1 and PACT-M2 were all 1.0.Conclusion: The Chinese version of the PACT-M shows acceptable validity and reliability and can be used to assess the quality and safety of care during the transition from hospital to home from the patient’s perspective in mainland China.
The Gut Microbiota Metabolite Urolithin B Improves Cognitive Deficits by Inhibiting Cyt C-mediated Apoptosis and Promoting the Survival of Neurons Through the PI3K Pathway in Aging Mice
Authors: peng chen , Chen Fuchao , Lei Jiexin , Wang Gaohua , Zhou Benhong
Published: August 2021

BackgroundDespite considerable advances in pharmacotherapy, more effective therapeutic interventions for aging-related neurodegenerative disorders (NDs), such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), remain limited. Urolithin B (UB), one of the major subcategories of urolithins (microbiota metabolites) found in various tissues after ellagitannin consumption, has been shown to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic effects. However, the neuroprotective effect of UB on brain aging in mice and its potential mechanisms were still unknown. MethodsIn the current research, we first assessed the ameliorative effects of UB on oxidative injury and apoptosis induced by H2O2 in neuro-2a cells. Then a subcutaneous injection of D-galactose in mice for 8 weeks was used to establish the aging model to evaluate the protective effects of UB. The capacity of memory and learning, alterations of hippocampus histology and corresponding molecular mechanisms were all evaluated. ResultsThe D-gal-induced accelerated aging model in vivo demonstrated that UB could significantly ameliorate deficits in learning and memory by inhibiting the accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and elevating the expression and activity of Cu, Zn-SOD and CAT. Furthermore, UB downregulated the c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signaling pathway and prevented cytochrome c release from isolated mitochondria, thereby inhibiting neuronal apoptosis during the aging process. More importantly, UB stimulation of aging mice activated ERK and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), leading to neuronal survival along with Akt and p44/42 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation and activation. ConclusionIn summary, UB effectively alleviated cognitive deficits and ameliorated brain aging-related conditions and could be considered a healthcare product to prevent aging-associated NDs such as AD.
Histones of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps (NETs) Activate Brain Pericyte via Dectin-1 in Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Liu Yang-Wuyue , Zhang Jingyu , Bi Wanda , Zhou Mi , Li Jiabo , Xiong Tiantian , Yang Nan , Zhao Li , Tan Xu , Chen Xing , Zhou Yuanguo , He Wenhui , Yang Teng , Wang Hao , Xu Lunshan , Dai Shuang-Shuang
Published: August 2021

BackgroundBlood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption and leukocyte infiltration are two pathological features post traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, the role of circulating leukocytes in BBB disruption and the crosstalk between them are not fully elucidated. Neutrophil is the most abundant circulating cell type that migrates into brain tissue when TBI occurs instantly, while brain pericyte occupies a strategic position between circulating cell and interstitial space in BBB. Understanding their interactions is essential to provide insight into the intrinsic relationship and identify biological targets for TBI treatments. MethodsBy analyzing brain tissues from TBI patients and mouse TBI model through immunohistochemical method and flow cytometry, we build the relationship between neutrophils, neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) and brain pericyte. The components of NETs-related medium were investigated by proteomics and metabolomics to decipher the factors directly regulating pericytes. The molecular mechanisms were deeply explored by WB/CHIP/RT-PCR in primary brain pericyte/pericyte cell line MBVP treated with NETs-formed medium or specific NETs components. In mice TBI model, we also explored the possible therapeutic approaches for TBI treatment that targeting at the axis of neutrophil-NETs-pericyte. ResultsNETs formation is highly enhanced post TBI, inducing the appearance of CD11b expressing brain pericyte simultaneously. This novel CD11b+ pericyte subset is characterized with increased permeability and pro-inflammatory profiles. Mechanistically, recognition of histones from NETs by Dectin-1 on pericyte contributes to CD11b induction in protein kinase C (PKC)-c-Jun-dependent manner. Transcription factor c-Jun directly binds to the promoter sequence of CD11b to enhance its expression in pericyte, conferring pericyte activation, BBB disruption and aggravated neutrophil infiltration post TBI. Either inhibiting NETs formation by Cl-Amidine or blocking Dectin-1 by Laminarin are both beneficial for decreasing neutrophil infiltration and brain pericyte activation post TBI. ConclusionsThese results unfold that “neutrophil-NETs-pericyte” and “histones-Dectin-1-CD11b” are possible cellular and molecular mechanisms for building connection between BBB damage and neutrophil infiltration. Targeting at NETs formation and Dectin-1 are promising treatments for improving neurological outcomes of TBI patients.
The Burden of Alcohol, Tobacco and Others Drugs Among Prisoners Diagnosed With Tuberculosis: Time Trends and Spatial Determinants in Southern Brazil
Authors: Scholze Alessandro Rolim , Alves Josilene Dália , Berra Thaís Zamboni , Santos Felipe Lima dos , Ramos Antônio Carlos Vieira , de Freitas Giselle Lima , Galdino Maria José Quina , Pieri Flávia Meneguetti , Arcoverde Marcos Augusto Moraes , Pillon Sandra Cristina , Monroe Aline Aparecida , Fronteira Inês , Gomes Dulce , Arcêncio Ricardo Alexandre
Published: August 2021

Background

Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis and is a public health problem worldwide. It is estimated that 90% of the patients diagnosed with TB live in vulnerable environments with limited health resources, such as individuals living in correctional facilities. This study aimed to identify the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs among prisoners diagnosed with tuberculosis and the spatial determinants and time trends of the phenomenon in southern Brazil.
Methods

An ecological study using data from the Brazilian Notifiable Diseases Information System. Tuberculosis cases confirmed from 2014 to 2018 in prisons located in Paraná, Brazil, were selected. The Prais-Winsten procedure was performed to identify time trends by calculating monthly rates and the percentage of monthly variation. The Seasonal-Trend by Loess decomposition method was used to verify the time series and trends. The spatial association was verified with the Getis-Ord Gi* technique, and risk areas were identified using spatial scan statistics.
Results

A total of 1,099 TB cases were found in the studied population. The consumption of tobacco (n = 460; 41.9%), illegal drugs (n = 451; 41.0%), and alcohol (n = 179; 16.3%) stand out. An ascending trend was found for the consumption of alcohol [+ 19.4%/mo. (95%CI: 12.20-23.03)], tobacco [+ 20.2% (95%CI: 12.20-28.82)], and illegal drugs [+ 62.2%/mo. (95%CI: 44.54–81.97)]. Spatial analysis revealed clusters for the use of alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs.
Conclusions

This study advances knowledge presenting the burden of drug use and its typology among individuals diagnosed with tuberculosis in the prison system. There is a growing trend among patients to use drugs, especially illegal drugs. The clusters show differences between the places where the prisons are located. Tuberculosis within the prison system is already a complex disease, and it is even more challenging when drugs are consumed. The consumption of drugs increased threefold when tobacco and alcohol were considered.
About the Law of Friction
Authors: Sosnovskiy Leonid , Sherbakov Sergei , Komissarov Viktor
Published: August 2021

The empirical law of dry friction, first formulated by Leonardo da Vinci 500 years ago, entered the history of technology as one of the most applicable laws in engineering calculations. Two hundred years later (after da Vinci) Amonton M., Coulomb C. A. and Euler L. made a decisive contribution to the substantiation and understanding of the law of dry friction, and it became classical: the friction force during sliding is proportional to the contact load. Studies have shown that the classical friction law for the tribo-fatigue system is inaccurate and, therefore, inapplicable. It was established experimentally that the error in estimating the coefficient of friction in a tribo-fatigue system (for example, a wheel / rail type, etc.) reaches 60...70 % or more, if we use the classical law of friction for its analysis. Therefore, the problem arises of adjusting the classical law of friction. A set of theoretical and experimental studies was carried out, the results of which allowed to formulate a generalized law of friction: the friction force is proportional to both contact and non-contact volume loads, if the latter excites a cyclic stress (strain) field in the friction zone. This law describes all the experimental results (more than 100 values ​​of the friction coefficient) with an error of no more than ± 6%. The widespread use of the generalized law of friction in the technique proposed by us is considered a very urgent task.
Tribological Performance of Textured 316L Stainless Steel Prepared By Selective Laser Melting*
Authors: Chen Ping , Liu Xiaojie , Jin Kangning , Qiao Xiaoxi , Yang Weixu
Published: August 2021

Selective laser melting (SLM) technology is a rapid prototyping additive manufacturing technology, which is widely used in the biomedical field. Surface texturing technology, as a surface treatment technology, has been used to improve the tribological performance. In the paper, both SLM and surface texturing technology are used to prepare textured samples with different parameters. Under the conditions of dry and phosphate buffer solution (PBS) lubricated conditions, the tribological performance and the mechanism of the textured 316L SS were investigated. The texture parameters studied are characteristic size, area ratio and shape including single triangular, circular and composite textures composed of two shapes. Results show that under dry friction condition, compared with the untextured surfaces, the friction coefficients and wear losses of the three textured samples almost increased, and only the wear loss of the circular textured sample decreases. Under the condition of PBS solution, compared with the untextured surface, most of the friction coefficients and wear loss of the textured samples decreased significantly, but the wear loss of textured surfaces in group B shows an obvious increase. And reducing the characteristic size of the texture significantly increases the wear loss of the 316L SS sample. At the same time, the triangular textured samples have better wear resistance than the circular textured samples. Therefore, the application of surface texturing technology to 316L SS samples prepared by SLM, especially in the simulated body fluid conditions, can achieve the purpose of stable friction and reduce wear loss. Meanwhile, reasonable texture parameters have a greater impact on improving the tribological performance of 316L SS.