bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lactobacillus fermentum and Lactobacillus crispatus Do Not Have Cytotoxic Effects on HN5 Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cell Line
Authors: Mokhtari Sepideh , Atarbashi-Moghadam Saede , Motevaseli Elahe , Ghafouri-Fard Soudeh , Hesampour Ardeshir
Published: September 2021

Background. The oral environment has a very complex normal flora and a wide variety of bacteria including lactobacilli. Studies have shown oral microbial flora has important influence in the development of oral cancer. Squamous cell carcinomas account for more than 90% of cancers in oral cavity. Lactobacilli are known as one of the newest methods for the prevention and treatment of cancers. Previous studies on the effects of probiotics on oral cancer cells are very limited, and only two species of Lactobacillus which are not present in the normal oral microflora have been studied. Due to the unknown effects of lactobacilli on oral cancer, this study aimed to investigate the effect of two species of lactobacilli of oral cavity on oral cancer cells. Methods and Materials. The effects of the supernatant of two lactobacilli, namely, fermentum and crispatus were studied on HN5-cancer cells. The MTT method was used to study the effects of lactobacilli on inhibition of cancer cell growth. Results. The results showed that these lactobacilli do not prevent the progression of oral cancer cells. Moreover, the results showed that the acidic medium had the most effect on reducing the growth of oral cancer cells. Conclusion. Due to the different effects of lactobacilli on various cancer types, the effects of two Lactobacillus crispatus and Lactobacillus fermentum on other oral cancer cell lines may be different from what has been reported in this study.
New Robust PCA for Outliers and Heavy Sparse Noises’ Detection via Affine Transformation, the

L

∗
,
w

and

L

2,1

Norms, and Spatial Weight Matrix in High-Dimensional Images: From the Perspective of Signal Processing
Authors: Liang Peidong , Likassa Habte Tadesse , Zhang Chentao , Guo Jielong
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we propose a novel robust algorithm for image recovery via affine transformations, the weighted nuclear,

L

∗
,
w

, and the

L

2,1

norms. The new method considers the spatial weight matrix to account the correlated samples in the data, the

L

2,1

norm to tackle the dilemma of extreme values in the high-dimensional images, and the

L

∗
,
w

norm newly added to alleviate the potential effects of outliers and heavy sparse noises, enabling the new approach to be more resilient to outliers and large variations in the high-dimensional images in signal processing. The determination of the parameters is involved, and the affine transformations are cast as a convex optimization problem. To mitigate the computational complexity, alternating iteratively reweighted direction method of multipliers (ADMM) method is utilized to derive a new set of recursive equations to update the optimization variables and the affine transformations iteratively in a round-robin manner. The new algorithm is superior to the state-of-the-art works in terms of accuracy on various public databases.
Design of Management Platform Architecture and Key Algorithm for Massive Monitoring Big Data
Authors: Liu Wen , Li Shanshan , Pan Jiangru , Xu Lijun , Gu Zheng , Hai Ling
Published: September 2021

With the construction and development of industrial informatization, industrial big data has become a trend within the smart industry. To obtain valuable information on massive data, achieving the acquisition, storage, analysis, and mining is becoming an important area of research. Focusing on the application requirements for industrial fields, we propose a data acquisition and analysis system based on the NB‐IoT for industrial applications. The system is an integrated system that includes sensor data acquisition, data transmission, data storage, and analysis mining. In this study, we mainly focused on the use of the NB‐IoT network to collect and transmit real‐time data for sensors. First, for the long time series (e.g., if we collect the data streams for one year for the sensor with a frequency of 1 Hz, the length of the series will reach 107). Then, we propose DSCS‐LTS, a distributed storage and calculation model, and CCCA‐LTS, an algorithm for the correlation coefficient of long time series in a distributed environment. Third, we propose a granularity selection algorithm and query process logic for visualization. We tested the platform in our laboratory and an automated production line for one year, and the experimental results using real data sets show that our approach is effective and scalable, can achieve efficient data management, and provide the basis for intelligent enterprise decision‐making.
Further Analysis of Non‐Gaussian Wind Pressure Peak Factor Calculation
Authors: Ye Tao , Zhu Ledong , Tan Zhongxu , Li Lanlan
Published: September 2021

The wind pressure time history of high‐rise building cladding is mostly non‐Gaussian distribution, and there is a one‐to‐one correspondence between a specified guarantee rate and its corresponding peak factor. A stepwise search method for calculating the peak factor of non‐Gaussian wind pressure and a gradual independent segmentation method for extracting independent peak values have been proposed to determine the relationship accurately in the previous study. Based on the given experiment and calculation results in the existing research results, more analysis can be given to enrich the study on this topic. In this paper, some characteristics of wind pressure coefficient time series in time and frequency domain are analysed. Based on the basic theory of fractal, the R/S analysis of wind pressure time series is made, and the fractal characteristics of wind pressure coefficient time series are explained. Based on the statistical theory, the relationship characteristics between high‐order statistics and peak factors are studied. The correlation between the guarantee rate and the corresponding peak factor is analysed, and the guarantee rates calculated by the Davenport peak factor method are evaluated. The power spectrum characteristics of fluctuating wind pressure are analysed and the relationship between turbulence characteristic frequency and optimal observation time interval is discussed.
Study on the Application Value of CT Thin-Layer Scan Data Assisted 3D Printing Technology in Hip and Knee Replacement
Authors: Sun Shihua , Xi Yongbin , Shi Xingchen , Zhao Li , Ma Fuming , Qian Jifang
Published: September 2021

To better study hip and knee replacement, 50 eligible hip and knee patients from March 2020 to April 2021 were selected. A 1 : 1 scale solid model was printed with CT thin-layer scanning data assisted by 3D printing technology to evaluate the ankle function of patients six months after surgery. The results showed that the 3D rapid prototyping time of the 1 : 1 fracture model in 50 patients was 3-4 hours. The operation time was 70–90 min, and the average operation time was 80 min. The actual application in operation was consistent with that in the simulation of the 3D printing model, after surgery, and there was no infection of incision soft tissue or loss of reduction in all 50 patients. CT thin-layer scan data aided 3D printing technology can help clinical hip and knee replacement simulation and planning, improving surgery’s accuracy and safety.
Maritime Pilots’ Risky Operational Behavior Analysis Based on Structural Equation Model
Authors: Xu Tingliu , Xiao Yingjie , Jiang Zhuohong
Published: September 2021

In this paper, a maritime pilots’ risky behaviour related factors questionnaire is designed to identify and quantify the factors of maritime pilots’ risky operational behaviour. And a questionnaire survey was conducted, which included four scales: risk-taking behavior, risk attitude, operational reliability, and risk perception. On this basis, the Structural Equation Model (SEM) of maritime pilots’ risky operational behavior is constructed to explore the internal relationship of the variable factors affecting maritime pilots’ operational behavior. The biggest influence on maritime pilots’ safety behavior is crowd psychology, which indicates that the maritime pilot’s mental health course, the psychological guidance course system, the psychological health consultation management, and safety training should be carried out regularly. Random evaluation and attention are significantly correlated with the risky cognition of maritime pilots. The results also explore that the maritime pilots’ risky behavior related factors questionnaire has a good structure, internal consistency, and validity in Chinese maritime pilots, and it is expected to be used for the Chinese maritime pilots’ subjective risky behavior self-evaluation. In addition, with empirical evidence for pilotage safety intervention in China, this measurement can also provide scheduling and management decision support for Chinese maritime pilot stations.
Mechanism on Activation of Coal Gangue Admixture
Authors: Chen Jixi , Guan Xiao , Zhu Mengyu , Gao Jie
Published: September 2021

Coal gangue, an industrial waste, is rich in silicon and aluminum phase and may be used as a mineral admixture in concrete after moderately stimulating activity, allowing for efficient solid waste utilization. This study used a mortar strength and activity evaluation method to investigate single or compound activation methods to find the optimum activation method of coal gangue. FLIR, XRD, and SEM were used to investigate the activation mechanism of different modes, providing a theoretical foundation for the study of coal gangue as a concrete admixture. Results showed that mechanical ball milling, microwave, and chemical activator could activate coal gangue, and the composite activation effect was the best. The fineness of the coal gangue powder was more than 300 mesh, according to the optimal compounding method. Accordingly, the particle surface was smooth, the internal defects were reduced, and the microwave irradiation temperature was 700°C–800°C, causing the coal gangue particles to form a bonding surface and gradually agglutinate and densify. Meanwhile, the layered structure of kaolin minerals was destroyed, and a significant amount of glassy active SiO2 and Al2O3 was produced, enhancing the gel ability and activity of coal gangue. Finally, 8% Ca(OH)2 was added in the production of mortar specimens, which increased the alkalinity of the slurry, stimulated the rapid cracking and secondary hydration of the coal gangue, and enhanced the strength of mortar. At this time, the activity rate of coal gangue powder reached the highest, which was 90.5%.
A Chinese Child Presented with Early T Cell Precursor Lymphoblastic Lymphoma
Authors: Pu Xiangyang , Deng Shengyong , Yin Nange , Song Lin , He Xiangling , Xiao Jianwen
Published: September 2021

T cell lymphoblastic lymphoma (T-LBL) is regarded as the leukemic phase of T cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL). The early T cell precursors ALL/LBL (ETP-LBL/ALL) are derived from thymic cells at the ETP differentiation stage and recognized as a high-risk subgroup of T-ALL/LBL. Most of these cases presented with ALL at the disease onset, but the ETP-LBL phase is uncommon. Here, we report a patient who presented with ETP-LBL at the disease onset. In this case, ALL developed even despite receiving chemotherapy, but the patient achieved a complete remission with intensive chemotherapy.
Smart Supply Chain Management Using the Blockchain and Smart Contract
Authors: Turjo Manoshi Das , Khan Mohammad Monirujjaman , Kaur Manjit , Zaguia Atef
Published: September 2021

The manufacture of raw materials to deliver the product to the consumer in a traditional supply chain system is a manual process with insufficient data and transaction security. It also takes a significant amount of time, making the entire procedure lengthy. Overall, the undivided process is ineffective and untrustworthy for consumers. If blockchain and smart contract technologies are integrated into traditional supply chain management systems, data security, authenticity, time management, and transaction processes will all be significantly improved. Blockchain is a revolutionary, decentralized technology that protects data from unauthorized access. The entire supply chain management (SCM) will be satisfied with the consumer once smart contracts are implemented. The plan becomes more trustworthy when the mediator is contracted, which is doable in these ways. The tags employed in the conventional SCM process are costly and have limited possibilities. As a result, it is difficult to maintain product secrecy and accountability in the SCM scheme. It is also a common target for wireless attacks (reply attacks, eavesdropping, etc.). In SCM, the phrase “product confidentiality” is very significant. It means that only those who have been validated have access to the information. This paper emphasizes reducing the involvement of third parties in the supply chain system and improving data security. Traditional supply chain management systems have a number of significant flaws. Lack of traceability, difficulty maintaining product safety and quality, failure to monitor and control inventory in warehouses and shops, rising supply chain expenses, and so on, are some of them. The focus of this paper is on minimizing third-party participation in the supply chain system and enhancing data security. This improves accessibility, efficiency, and timeliness throughout the whole process. The primary advantage is that individuals will feel safer throughout the payment process. However, in this study, a peer-to-peer encrypted system was utilized in conjunction with a smart contract. Additionally, there are a few other features. Because this document makes use of an immutable ledger, the hacker will be unable to get access to it. Even if they get access to the system, they will be unable to modify any data. If the goods are defective, the transaction will be halted, and the customer will be reimbursed, with the seller receiving the merchandise. By using cryptographic methods, transaction security will be a feasible alternative for recasting these issues. Finally, this paper will demonstrate how to maintain the method with the maximum level of safety, transparency, and efficiency.
Mass Spectrometry and Computer Simulation Predict the Interactions of AGPS and HNRNPK in Glioma
Authors: Zhou Wei , Liu Ying , Li Honglian , Song Zhaoyu , Ma Ying , Zhu Yu
Published: September 2021

Ether lipids are overexpressed in malignant tumor and play an important role in tumor process. Glioma is the most common malignant central nervous system tumor, and the content of ether lipids is higher than that of normal tissues. Alkylglycerone phosphate synthase (AGPS) is a key enzyme in the synthesis of ether esters and plays a vital role in maintaining the morphology and pathogenic properties of tumor cells. The cell proliferation and the content of tumor‐related lipid such as monoalkylglycerol ether (MAGe), lysophosphatidic acid ether (LPAe), lysophosphatidylcholine ether (LPCe), lysophosphatidylethanolamine ether (LPEe), phosphatidyl inositol (PI), phosphatidylcholine (PC), and phosphatidylserine (PS) were suppressed after AGPS silencing in U251, H4, and TJ905 cells; however, heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein K (HNRNPK) could reverse the above phenomenon such as cellar proliferation and ether lipid secretion. We found that HNRNPK was the target protein of AGPS by coimmunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry assay and verified by western blot assay in U251 cells. It confirmed that AGPS and HNRNPK are coexpressed in the cellular nucleus by a confocal laser microscope. The main protein‐protein interaction mechanism between AGPS and HNRNPK is hydrogen bond, conjugation bond, hydrophobic bond, and electrostatic force by computer simulation prediction.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae Infection Associated C3 Glomerulopathy Presenting as Severe Crescentic Glomerulonephritis
Authors: De Silva Lalani , Jayasinghe Dinesha , Amarathunga Priyani
Published: September 2021

C3 glomerulopathy (C3GP) is a group of diseases caused by a deregulated complement system, which encompasses both dense deposit disease and C3 glomerulonephritis. Renal manifestations of C3GP are primarily of proliferative glomerulonephritis, and only a few case reports of crescentic glomerulonephritis (CGN) in association with C3GP are available. Here is a case of an adult South-Asian female, who was diagnosed as seropositive acute Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection, with associated systemic manifestations, including immune-type extravascular haemolysis and nephrotic range proteinuria. Subsequent renal biopsy revealed CGN with disrupted Bowman’s capsules and necrotizing lesions. Immunofluorescence showed coarse granular mesangial C3 deposits with negative IgM, IgG, IgA, and C1q. The immunomorphological phenotype raised two possibilities including C3GP and infection-related glomerulonephritis (IRGN). Persistent proteinuria with no evidence of resolution even after 6 months of follow-up favoured C3GP over IRGN. The patient proceeded to end-stage renal failure requiring renal replacement despite aggressive immunosuppression. This case illustrates the rare association of CGN with C3GP induced by Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection, highlighting the importance of correct diagnosis as well as timely identification of triggering factors in CGN on patient outcome.
Effect of ORF7 of SARS-CoV-2 on the Chemotaxis of Monocytes and Neutrophils In Vitro
Authors: Wang Gang , Guan Jun , Li Guojun , Wu Fengtian , Yang Qin , Huang Chunhong , Shao Junwei , Xu Lichen , Guo Zixuan , Zhou Qihui , Zhu Haihong , Chen Zhi
Published: September 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is currently the most significant public health threat worldwide. Patients with severe COVID-19 usually have pneumonia concomitant with local inflammation and sometimes a cytokine storm. Specific components of the SARS-CoV-2 virus trigger lung inflammation, and recruitment of immune cells to the lungs exacerbates this process, although much remains unknown about the pathogenesis of COVID-19. Our study of lung type II pneumocyte cells (A549) demonstrated that ORF7, an open reading frame (ORF) in the genome of SARS-CoV-2, induced the production of CCL2, a chemokine that promotes the chemotaxis of monocytes, and decreased the expression of IL-8, a chemokine that recruits neutrophils. A549 cells also had an increased level of IL-6. The results of our chemotaxis Transwell assay suggested that ORF7 augmented monocyte infiltration and reduced the number of neutrophils. We conclude that the ORF7 of SARS-CoV-2 may have specific effects on the immunological changes in tissues after infection. These results suggest that the functions of other ORFs of SARS-CoV-2 should also be comprehensively examined.
The Influence of Individual Characteristics on Cultural Consumption from the Perspective of Complex Social Network
Authors: Liu Hui , Lu Shuang , Wang Ximeng , Long Shaobo
Published: September 2021

In the era of the digital economy, social network as an important social capital has an important influence on individual consumption decision‐making. This article uses the latest data from the China Household Finance Survey (CHFS) in 2017 to analyze the impact of personal characteristics on cultural consumption behavior under the influence of social networks from a theoretical and empirical perspective. Studies have shown that (1) social networks have a significant impact on cultural consumption; compared to gift money and social interaction, communication costs have a greater impact on cultural consumption; (2) communication costs have a greater impact on education consumption, entertainment consumption, and tourism consumption; (3) under the influence of social networks, individual characteristics have a significant impact on cultural consumption; (4) the higher the level of education, the easier it is for cultural consumption. There are intergenerational differences in cultural consumption expenditures of different age groups. It is easier for people to consume entertainment than the elderly.
A Joint Optimization Model of Production Scheduling and Maintenance Based on Data Driven for a Parallel-Series Production Line
Authors: Zhu Kai
Published: September 2021

The maintenance of a production line is becoming more important with the development of demanding higher operational efficiency and safety in industrial system. However, a production line often operates under dynamically operational and environmental conditions and the production scheduling is also a very important factor for the maintenance of a production line. First, this paper proposes an integrated data-driven model that coordinates maintenance planning decisions with production scheduling decisions to solve the problem of scheduling and maintenance planning for a parallel-series production line. The degradation information is considered, and the total cost is to be minimized in the proposed model. Also, the total cost is related with production process and maintenance considering reliability of equipment. Then, in order to better describe the relationship between production and maintenance, the accumulative processing time of equipment is used as the input of its failure function. Also, an ability factor is developed to control its reduced level by adopting preventive maintenance. Finally, a case study is used to demonstrate the implementation and potential applications of the proposed model. The long-term wear test experiments are conducted at a research laboratory facility of Shanghai Pangyuan Machinery Co., Ltd. The result proves that the proposed method is feasible and efficient to solve the joint decision-making problem for a parallel-series production line with multivariety and small batch production. The proposed model in this paper is suitable for semiconductor manufacturing.
Integrated Bioinformatics and Experimental Approaches Identified the Role of NPPA in the Proliferation and the Malignant Behavior of Breast Cancer
Authors: Sun Aijun , Sheng Xiaonan , Tang Jinhai , Yu Zhenfeng , Zhang Jian
Published: September 2021

Breast cancer is the 3rd most common type of malignant tumor worldwide with high heterogeneity, frequent recurrence, and high metastasis tendency. In this study, we aimed to demonstrate the value of extracellular matrix- (ECM-) related genes in breast cancer patients. The overall expression of ECM is assessed with a novel SC3 clustering method, and patients were divided into two clusters with diverse recurrence rate. We established the Cox regression model in breast cancer patients and identified NPPA as an independent prognostic marker. The NPPA expression is downregulated in breast cancer patients, independent of the ER status, PR status, stemness score, and immune infiltrating condition. And we observed the enhanced proliferation, migration, and invasion potential of breast cancer cells after NPPA depletion. Further, we predicted the transcription modulation of NPPA with PROMO and JASPAR. And we further validated the binding of MZF1 to the -318 bp~-452 bp region of the NPPA promoter with chromatin immunoprecipitation and dual luciferase assay. Together, our study identified NPPA as a potential prognostic biomarker for breast cancer patients, whose downregulation is associated with an enhanced malignant behavior of breast cancer cells both in vivo and in vitro and identified the transcription regulation of NPPA by MZF1.
Protective Effect of Xiao-Xu-Ming Decoction-Mediated Inhibition of ROS/NLRP3 Axis on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Lung Injury In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Xiang Yijin , Cai Min , Li Xiangting , Bao Xuxia , Cai Dingfang
Published: September 2021

Background. As a traditional Chinese medicine prescription, Xiao-Xu-Ming decoction (XXMD) could reduce the incidence of lung infection of patients with cerebral infarction. Nonetheless, the therapeutic mechanisms of XXMD in acute lung injury (ALI) remain to be elucidated. Our study was aimed to assess the effects of XXMD protects against ALI. Methods. ALI model was induced by intraperitoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in vivo. In vitro, human pulmonary alveolar epithelial cells (HPAEpiC) were treated with XXMD and were followed by LPS treatment. The levels of ZO-1, CLDN4, NLRP3, and caspase 1 were detected by Western blot, and the content of IL-1 and IL-18 was determined by ELISA. Transepithelial electrical resistance was used to detect the cell permeability. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels within the cells were evaluated by flow cytometry. Results. Our results showed that XXMD attenuated LPS-induced oxidative stress, barrier dysfunction, and the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome in vitro, as evidenced by enhanced ROS production, TEER levels, expression of NLRP3 and caspase 1 (p20) and release of IL-1β and IL-18, and weakened cell permeability. In addition, XXMD could counteract the effects of NLRP3 overexpression on HPAEpiC and vice versa. XXMD treatment also ameliorated the degree of neutrophil infiltration, barrier dysfunction, and the activation of NLRP3 in LPS-induced ALI lung tissues in vivo. Conclusion. The findings showed that XXMD could alleviate LPS-induced ALI injury and inhibit inflammation and suppress ROS/NLRP3 signaling pathway, which were involved in these protective effects.
Innovation Path of Leasing Trade under Smart Logistics Technology by Big Data Analysis
Authors: Song Yanan , Hua Xiaolong
Published: September 2021

With the continuous development of big data and the increasing maturity of e-commerce, people’s requirements for modern logistics are becoming increasingly diversified. Conventional modern logistics service level is insufficient to meet the needs of consumers. Therefore, research on the innovative path of big data analysis of leasing trade under smart logistics technology is increasingly important. Smart logistics pays much attention to the integration of the Internet of Things, sensor networks, and the existing internet and realizes the automation, visualization, controllability, intelligence, and networking of logistics through sophisticated, dynamic, and scientific management, thereby improving resource utilization rate and productivity level, creating a more comprehensive connotation of social value. This work aimed to study the use of smart logistics technology to make electric car leasing to a higher level and to innovate the promotion and use mode of leasing trade. A shared business model of electric vehicles was proposed based on the internet and smart logistics technology. The experimental results showed that smart logistics technology contributes to exploring and expanding the role of electric vehicles in solving group users’ short-distance travel and improving an urban transportation system. It could offer a basis for nationwide promotion, thus promoting the development of the new energy vehicle industry and testing the practicability of the model. Regarding the improvement of the sample information system, the experimental results showed that the user’s full satisfaction is approximately 50%, while there remain the customers who would ask for further improvements. Besides, most customers believe that the accuracy and sensitivity of the existing in-vehicle information display need to be enhanced.
Government R&D Investment, Knowledge Accumulation, and Regional Innovation Capability: Evidence of a Threshold Effect Model from China
Authors: Gong Chen
Published: September 2021

Innovation is the primary driving force of development and the strategic support for building a modern economic system. For enterprises, continuous innovation capabilities can effectively deal with uncertainties in the business environment and can enhance business competitiveness. Macropolicies can stimulate economic development and can try to promote enterprise innovation, but there is still widespread debate in academia about whether these policies successfully promote or, in fact, inhibit innovation. Looking at the provincial panel data from China between 2009 and 2018, the authors of this paper explored the complex nonlinear mechanism of government R&D investment in driving regional innovation capabilities from the perspective of knowledge accumulation. The empirical results show that, when the level of knowledge accumulation is used as the threshold variable, there is an obvious threshold effect between government R&D input and regional innovation capabilities. As the level of knowledge accumulation crosses the threshold, the influence of government R&D investment on regional innovation capabilities undergoes a structural mutation, shifting from an insignificant inhibitory effect to a significant promotional effect. The above conclusion has strong robustness. This article provides useful policy enlightenment for China to promote the development of scientific and technological civilization and the construction of an innovative country.
Association between Plasma Homocysteine Concentrations and the First Ischemic Stroke in Hypertensive Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A 7-Year Retrospective Cohort Study from China
Authors: Li Nanfang , Cai Xintian , Zhu Qing , Yao Xiaoguang , Lin Mengyue , Gan Lin , Sun Le , Yue Na , Ren Yingli , Hong Jing , Ma Yue , Wang Run , Yili Jina , Luo Qin
Published: September 2021

Purpose. This study was aimed at investigating the association between baseline plasma homocysteine (Hcy) concentrations and the risk of the first ischemic stroke (IS) and at investigating any possible influential modifying factors in hypertensive patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Methods. Cox proportional hazards regression was employed to investigate the relationship between plasma Hcy concentration and the first IS. A generalized additive model was applied to determine the nonlinear relationship. In addition, we conducted subgroup analysis. Results. A total of 2350 hypertensive patients with OSA without a history of IS were enrolled in this study. At a median follow-up of 7.15 years, we identified 93 cases of the first IS. After adjusting for potential confounding, the findings revealed that plasma Hcy concentration was strongly and positively associated with the occurrence of the first IS (per SD increment;

HR
=
1.37

, 95% CI: 1.30-1.44). A nonlinear relationship was found between plasma Hcy concentration and the risk of developing the first IS with inflection points for plasma Hcy of 5 μmol/L. In stratified analysis, a greater positive correlation was found between baseline plasma Hcy concentrations and new-onset IS in patients with

DBP
≥
90
 
mmHg

(per SD increment;

HR
=
1.48

, 95% CI: 1.33-1.65 vs. <90 mmHg:

HR
=
1.20

, 95% CI: 1.02-1.42;

P
‐
interaction
=
0.04

) and

BMI
≥
24

and <28 kg/m2 (per SD increment;

HR
=
1.46

, 95% CI: 1.26-1.70 vs. <24 kg/m2:

HR
=
1.13

, 95% CI: 0.95-1.33 vs. ≥28 kg/m2:

HR
=
1.46

, 95% CI: 1.25-1.70;

P
‐
interaction
=
0.03

). Conclusion. Elevated plasma Hcy concentrations are independently associated with the risk of the first IS in hypertensive patients with OSA. Plasma Hcy

concentrations
≥
5
 
μ
mol
/
L

surely increased the risk of the first IS in hypertensive patients with OSA.
BEND4 as a Candidate Gene for an Infection-Induced Acute Encephalopathy Characterized by a Cyst and Calcification of the Pons and Cerebellar Atrophy
Authors: Kara Bülent , Uyguner Oya , Maraş Genç Hülya , İşlek Eylül Ece , Kasap Murat , Toksoy Güven , Akpınar Gürler , Uyur Yalçın Emek , Anık Yonca , Üstek Duran
Published: September 2021

Three siblings born to Turkish parents from the same village had normal brain development until acute neurological deterioration between 12 months and 8 years of age. Consequent loss of all acquired motor, social, and language functions following infections was associated with a pontine cyst, calcification, and cerebellar atrophy. Exome sequencing revealed a homozygous c.1297G>A (p.Gly433Ser) alteration in BEND4, which was predicted to be deleterious in in silico analysis tools and segregated in multiple affected individuals in the family. BEND4 has not been associated with any existing disease. Immunofluorescence microscopy analysis of wild-type and mutant BEND4 expressing Vero cells showed nuclear and cytoplasmic localization. Wild-type BEND4 displayed a network-like distribution, whereas mutant BEND4 showed a juxtanuclear distribution pattern. Differential proteome analysis of Vero cells expressing BEND4 revealed that mutant BEND4 expression caused selective increase in reticulocalbin-1 and endoplasmic reticulum resident protein-29. Both proteins are associated with the endoplasmic reticulum and are primarily involved in protein processing and folding pathways. Any defect or stress in protein folding creates stress on cells and may cause chronic damage. This is the first study showing that pathogenic BEND4 variants may lead to an infection-induced acute necrotizing encephalopathy as demonstrated in characteristic neuroimaging findings.
The Natural History of Trisomy 21: Outcome Data from a Large Tertiary Referral Centre
Authors: O’Connor Clare , Moore Rebecca , McParland Peter , Hughes Heather , Cathcart Barbara , Higgins Shane , Mahony Rhona , Carroll Steve , Walsh Jennifer , McAuliffe Fionnuala
Published: September 2021

Objective: The aim of the study was to prospectively gather data on pregnancy outcomes of prenatally diagnosed trisomy 21 (T21) in a large tertiary referral centre. Methods: Data were gathered prospectively in a large tertiary referral centre over 5 years from 2013 to 2017 inclusively. Baseline demographic and pregnancy outcome data were recorded on an anonymized computerized database. Results: There were 1,836 congenital anomalies diagnosed in the study period including 8.9% (n = 165) cases of T21. 79% (n = 131) were age 35 or older at diagnosis. 79/113 (69.9%) women chose a termination of pregnancy (TOP) following a diagnosis of T21. Amongst pregnancies that continued, there were 4 second-trimester miscarriages (4/34, 11.7%), 9 stillbirths (9/34, 26.4%), and 1 neonatal death, giving an overall pregnancy and neonatal loss rate of 14/34 (41.1%). Conclusion: The risk of foetal loss in prenatally diagnosed T21 is high at 38% with an overall pregnancy loss rate of 41.1%. This information may be of benefit when counselling couples who are faced with a diagnosis of T21 particularly in the context of limited access to TOP.
Noninvasive Brain Stimulation for Poststroke Dysphagia: A Meta-Analysis for Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Zhu Yixin , Gu Lihua
Published: September 2021

Background: Past research has indicated that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on the pharyngeal motor cortex may be beneficial to poststroke dysphagic patients. In addition, some studies have supported that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) over the pharyngeal motor cortex can improve swallowing function in poststroke dysphagia. However, some studies showed that rTMS and tDCS show no effect on poststroke dysphagia. This study aims to make a meta-analysis to investigate the therapy effect of rTMS and tDCS on poststroke dysphagia in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Methods: We searched for studies published before March 2021 in databases (PubMed, Web of Science, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Google Scholar). Meta-analysis was made to compute the results of included studies using STATA 12.0 software. Results: The present study shows a significant increase in the swallowing function in poststroke dysphagia given rTMS compared to those given sham rTMS (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 1.08, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.37–1.80, I2 = 81.2%, p < 0.001). In addition, the study shows a significant increase in the swallowing function in poststroke dysphagia given tDCS (combined or not combined with conventional swallowing therapy), compared to those given sham tDCS (combined or not combined with conventional swallowing therapy) (SMD = 1.43, 95% CI = 0.73–2.13, I2 = 77.6%, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The study demonstrates that rTMS and tDCS over the pharyngeal motor cortex show therapy effects on poststroke dysphagia. Many more large-scale, blinded RCTs are essential to investigate the effect of rTMS and tDCS on poststroke dysphagia.
Macrophage-Based Combination Therapies as a New Strategy for Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Tian Lin , Lei Anhua , Tan Tianyu , Zhu Mengmeng , Zhang Li , Mou Haibo , Zhang Jin
Published: September 2021

Background: Cells of the immune system can inhibit tumor growth and progression; however, immune cells can also promote tumor cell growth, survival, and angiogenesis as a result of the immunosuppressive microenvironments. In the last decade, a growing number of new therapeutic strategies focused on reversing the immunosuppressive status of tumor microenvironments (TMEs), to reprogram the TME to be normal, and to further activate the antitumor functions of immune cells. Most of the “hot tumors” are encompassed with M2 macrophages promoting tumor growth, and the accumulation of M2 macrophages into tumor islets leads to poor prognosis in a wide variety of tumors. Summary: Therefore, how to uncover more immunosuppressive signals and to reverse the M2 tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) to M1-type macrophages is essential for reversing the immunosuppressive state. Except for reeducation of TAMs in the cancer immunotherapy, macrophages as central effectors and regulators of the innate immune system have the capacity of phagocytosis and immune modulation in macrophage-based cell therapies. Key Messages: We review the current macrophage-based cell therapies that use genetic engineering to augment macrophage functionalities with antitumor activity for the application of novel genetically engineered immune cell therapeutics. A combination of TAM reeducation and macrophage-based cell strategy may bring us closer to achieving the original goals of curing cancer. In this review, we describe the characteristics, immune status, and tumor immunotherapy strategies of macrophages to provide clues and evidences for future macrophage-based immune cell therapies.
Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Contributes to the Development of Delayed Neuroinflammation
Authors: Ponomarenko Arina , Tyrtyshnaia Anna , Ivashkevich Darya , Manzhulo Igor
Published: September 2021

Introduction: In recent years, according to the literature, the problem of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) has become more and more urgent. Compared to moderate to severe craniocerebral trauma, mTBI occurs in a far greater number of people. The delayed sequelae caused by a single mTBI or multiple mTBIs are a significant public health problem. Methods: A weight-drop model was used for the formation of mTBI. A metal rod weighing 337 g with a blunt tip of 3 mm diameter was uplifted at 8 cm height and held by a lever. The trauma was created by lowering the lever and the rod and free-dropping onto the rat skull. In the cerebral cortex of experimental animals, we analyzed the level of microglial activity (Iba-1-positive system) and the expression of pro-inflammatory markers (IL1β, IL6, and CD86). Also, the expression level of the endocannabinoid system receptor (cannabinoid receptor type 1 [CB1]) was assessed in brain samples. Results: Experiments have shown that mTBI increases (1) the amount of microglia (iba-1) activated by the pro-inflammatory pathway (CD86); (2) the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL1β and IL6; and (3) CB1R activity. Conclusion: Overall, the results of this study indicate that mTBI induces a sustained neuroinflammatory response.
Effectiveness of Deep Brain Stimulation in Reducing Body Mass Index and Weight: A Systematic Review
Authors: Contreras López William Omar , Navarro Paula Alejandra , Crispín Santiago
Published: September 2021

Background: Obesity has become a major public health concern worldwide, with current behavioral, pharmacological, and surgical treatments offering varying rates of success and adverse effects. Neurosurgical approaches to treatment of refractory obesity include deep brain stimulation (DBS) on either specific hypothalamic or reward circuitry nuclei, which might contribute to weight reduction through different mechanisms. We aimed to determine the safety and clinical effect of DBS in medical refractory obesity. Summary: Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, we performed a systematic review to identify all original studies – observational and experimental – in which DBS was performed to treat refractory obesity. From database inception to April 2021, we conducted our search in PubMed, Scopus, and LILACS databases using the following MeSH terms: “Obesity” OR “Prader-Willi Syndrome” AND “Deep Brain Stimulation.” The main outcomes were safety and weight loss measured with the body mass index (BMI). The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation methods were applied to evaluate the quality of evidence. This study protocol was registered with PROSPERO ID: CRD42019132929. Seven studies involving 12 patients met the inclusion criteria; the DBS target was the nucleus accumbens in four (57.1%), the lateral hypothalamic area in two (29.6%), and the ventral hypothalamus in one (14.3%). Further, 33% of participants had obesity secondary to Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) and 66.6% had primary obesity. The global BMI average at baseline was 46.7 (SD: 9.6, range: 32.2–59.1), and after DBS, 42.8 (SD: 8.8, range: 25–53.9), with a mean difference of 3.9; however, the delta in PWS patients was −2.3 and 10 in those with primary obesity. The incidence of moderate side effects was 33% and included manic symptoms (N = 2), electrode fracture (N = 1), and seizure (N = 1); mild complications (41.6%) included skin infection (N = 2), difficulties falling asleep (N = 1), nausea (N = 1), and anxiety (N = 1). Key Messages: Despite available small case series and case reports reporting a benefit in the treatment of refractory obesity with DBS, this study emphasizes the need for prospective studies with longer follow-ups in order to further address the efficacy and indications.
Transcriptional Regulation of the Y-Linked Mammalian Testis-Determining Gene SRY
Authors: Okashita Naoki , Tachibana Makoto
Published: September 2021

Mammalian male sex differentiation is triggered during embryogenesis by the activation of the Y-linked testis-determining gene SRY. Since insufficient or delayed expression of SRY results in XY gonadal sex reversal, accurate regulation of SRY is critical for male development in XY animals. In humans, dysregulation of SRY may cause disorders of sex development. Mouse Sry is the most intensively studied mammalian model of sex determination. Sry expression is controlled in a spatially and temporally stringent manner. Several transcription factors play a key role in sex determination as trans-acting factors for Sry expression. In addition, recent studies have shown that several epigenetic modifications of Sry are involved in sex determination as cis-acting factors for Sry expression. Herein, we review the current understanding of transcription factor- and epigenetic modifier-mediated regulation of SRY/Sry expression.
Intensive Stuttering Therapy with Telepractice Follow-Up: Longitudinal Outcomes
Authors: Irani Farzan , Rojas Raúl
Published: September 2021

Purpose: This study estimated the treatment outcomes of a behavioral stuttering therapy program that blended a combination of intensive face-to-face therapy with telepractice-based follow-up therapy. Method: A total of 17 participants (mean age = 22 years) who stutter participated in the program, preceded by an extended baseline period. The participants completed a series of assessments conducted over multiple time points, spanning a total of 42 weeks. Growth curve modeling was used to analyze the changes participants experienced in the frequency of stuttering, stuttering severity, communication attitudes, and quality of life. Results: The participants demonstrated stability throughout the extended baseline period, and experienced positive outcomes from the intensive program and the gains in communication attitudes and quality of life were largely maintained with weekly follow-up telepractice sessions. However, stuttering frequency and severity increased when the telepractice follow-up session frequency transitioned to a biweekly basis. Neither gender nor age group predicted the treatment outcomes for frequency or severity of stuttering. Gender-based differences were found for the treatment outcomes of specific self-report measures, with male participants having demonstrated a greater proportional decline on their standard scores, relative to female participants. Outcomes were similar for both adolescents and adults. Conclusions: Participants attending the intensive stuttering therapy program experienced positive and significant changes in their speech, attitudes toward communication, and overall quality of life, which were maintained over time with structured, weekly telepractice follow-up sessions.
A educação literária à luz dos movimentos feministas: algumas propostas de leitura para crianças de educação primária
Authors: Contreras Elisabet
Published: September 2021

Recentemente, diferentes eventos causaram uma maior consciência social em questões feministas, o que levou a uma transformação social em relação à igualdade real entre homens e mulheres. Essas mudanças podem ser visíveis nas salas de aula do ensino fundamental, graças à educação literária, já que uma das funções da literatura é justamente a da socialização dos leitores a partir dos comportamentos mostrados pelos personagens. Partindo destas reflexões são propostas cinco leituras, cujos personagens representam modelos de feminilidade inspiradores, que rompem estereótipos de gênero sem cair em dogmatismos.
É ainda uma casa portuguesa com certeza? Casa como potência semântica no romance português do século XXI
Authors: Barros Bruno Mazolini de
Published: September 2021

Este artigo busca elencar uma série de romances portugueses, todos publicados a partir do ano 2000, cujo tema da casa é central na narrativa, seja por meio da vivência desse local pelas personagens, seja por reflexões acerca desse lugar presentes no texto. As diversas obras literárias estão perfiladas não só com índices provindos da história da literatura e de estudos sobre a cultura em Portugal, mas também com abordagens do espaço da casa provindas da arquitetura, da sociologia ou da crítica literária. Desse modo, pode-se vislumbrar que, por meio do corpus romanesco aqui destacado, a reiteração desse espaço da narrativa nos textos torna a casa um profícuo dispositivo de leitura da literatura portuguesa do século XXI.
Bonaparte e o Imaginário Literário Português
Authors: Pereira Leonardo Atayde
Published: September 2021

A figura emblemática de Napoleão Bonaparte ocupou um papel de indiscutível relevância dentro do contexto histórico e, por conseguinte, suas ideias e atitudes como general, político e revolucionário foram constantemente retomadas e interpretadas por uma série de historiadores e intelectuais ao longo do período oitocentista. Essa ação interpretativa em torno de Bonaparte e do seu legado ideológico também marcou presença na prosa historiográfica e literária portuguesa durante o século XIX e início do XX, em destaque para alguns trabalhos de Garrett, Herculano, Camilo e Antônio Maria de Campos Júnior, autores analisados dentro de suas particularidades estéticas no presente artigo.