bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A case report: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for multitrauma patient with pneumorrhagia
Authors: Qiang Meng , Ji Changwei , Ma Zhen , Chen Bowang , Zhang Hao , Li Jun , Cong Lin , Qu Feng , Gao Shuhong
Published: September 2022

Background: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) can be used as salvage therapy for multitrauma patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) when conventional treatment fails to maintain oxygenation. However, a controversy exists between ECMO application and the risk of bleeding due to systemic anticoagulation during the treatment. Non-heparin introduction seem to be a possible solution for this dilemma, owing to technical improvements in the device and management methods of ECMO.
Case presentation: A 58-year-old woman suffered from blunt thoracic, pelvic, and right lower limb fractures due to a falling accident, which resulted in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Although the patient received intubation and mechanical ventilation (MV), respiratory failure was not alleviated. Venous-venous (V-V) ECMO was used as a salvage therapy. With the support of V-V ECMO, we safely cleared blood clots in the bronchus and avoided secondary lung injury caused by pressure trauma and oxygen poisoning of the MV. We introduced heparin-free ECMO management as a solution to reduce the risk of bleeding associated with pulmonary contusion and other organ injuries. To prevent thrombosis, we set the blood rate of ECMO to 4.0 L/min, which is much higher than the usual parameter. During ECMO, coagulation factors, such as prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, and D-dimer, were examined. ECMO was maintained for five days without any complications, MV was stopped on the 13th day, extubated on the 24th day, and discharged from ICU on the 28th day.
Conclusion: ECMO with non-heparin could be an optimal treatment for multitrauma patients with ARDS when traditional treatment cannot sustain oxygenation. High blood flow rate could prevent thrombosis through ongoing ECMO therapy without systemic anticoagulation. In addition, monitoring D-dimer value change（Δ D-dimer）may be better than D-dimer value in predicting clot formation in the membrane oxygenator.
Comparison of multimodel ensembles of global and regional climate models projections for extreme precipitation over four major river basins in southern Africa. Part I: Assessment of the historical simulations
Authors: Samuel Sydney , Dosio Alessandro , Mphale Kgakgamatso , Faka Dieudonne Nsadisa , Wiston Modise
Published: September 2022

This study assesses the performance of large ensembles of global (CMIP5, CMIP6) and regional (CORDEX, CORE) climate models in simulating extreme precipitation over four major river basins (Limpopo, Okavango, Orange and Zambezi) in southern Africa during the period 1983–2005. The ability of the model ensembles to simulate seasonal extreme precipitation indices is assessed using three high-resolution satellite-based datasets. The results show that all ensembles overestimate the annual cycle of mean precipitation over all basins, although the intermodal spread is large, with CORDEX being the closest to the observed values. Generally, all ensembles overestimate the mean and interannual variability of rainy days (RR1), maximum consecutive wet days (CWD), and heavy and very heavy precipitation days (R10mm and R20mm respectively) over all basins during all three seasons. Simple daily rainfall intensity (SDII) and the number of consecutive dry days (CDD) are generally underestimated. The lowest Taylor skill scores (TSS) and spatial correlation coefficients (SCC) are depicted for CDD over Limpopo compared with the other indices and basins, respectively. Additionally, the ensembles exhibit the highest normalized standard deviations (NSD) for CWD compared to other indices. The intermodal spread and performance of the RCM ensembles are lower and better, respectively, than those of GCM ensembles (except for the interannual variability of CDD). In particular, CORDEX performs better than CORE in simulating extreme precipitation over all basins. Although the ensemble biases are often within the range of observations, the statistically significant wet biases shown by all ensembles underline the need for bias correction when using these ensembles in impact assessments.
Assessment of Indoor Air Quality of Porous Media Combustion Based Cookstoves
Authors: Maurya Pratibha , Palanisamy Muthukumar , Ramalingam Anandalakshmi
Published: September 2022

The present study analyses the emission mitigation ability of a Porous Media Combustion (PMC) technology based cookstove \({(CS}_{PMC})\)compared to a Free Flame Combustion (FFC) technology based cookstove (\({CS}_{FFC}\)). Emission of pollutants i.e., PM2.5, PM10 and CO caused due to burning of fuels namely methanol, ethanol, kerosene and LPG in the kitchen environment are measured. The study incorporated exhaustive real-time indoor air quality (IAQ) measurements and presented the temporal variation of measured pollutant concentrations for 2 h (morning meal duration). In addition, 24 h average concentration of the measured pollutants is also compared with the limits prescribed in WHO guidelines for domestic settings. The results emphasised that the utilisation of \({CS}_{PMC}\) would help in improving the IAQ of the kitchen area by decreasing the concentrations of PM2.5, PM10 and CO. For 2 h duration measurements, the methanol cookstove based on PMC reduced the concentrations of PM2.5, PM10 and CO by 7.7%, 8.1% and 17.2% respectively, compared to FFC cookstove. Similarly, in the case of PMC based LPG cookstove\(\left( {CS}_{PMC}^{LPG}\right)\) and kerosene cookstove \(\left({CS}_{PMC}^{Kerosene}\right)\), the respective values were 11.7%, 20.4% and 41.6% and 55.3%, 62.6% and 66.6%. Among all the tested cookstoves, \({CS}_{PMC}^{LPG}\)achieved the lowest emission values (PM2.5: 20.6 \(\mu g/{m}^{3}\); PM10: 31.3 \(\mu g/{m}^{3}\) and CO: 1 ppm) which are lower than the prescribed WHO values (PM2.5: 25 \(\mu g/{m}^{3}\); PM10: 50 \(\mu g/{m}^{3}\) and CO: 6 ppm).
Bioinformatic analysis of the microRNA-155 in pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: Zhao Yunjuan , Chen Ruilin , Zhang Jia , Xu Qian , Ma Haimei , Peng Lei , Li Zheng , Lϋ Yaming , Li Fengsen , Ding Jianbing
Published: September 2022

BACKGROUND: Tuberculosis is a chronic and infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium Tuberculosis.To identify the target genes of microRNA-155(miRNA-155) and their functional mechanisms by bioinformatic analysis.
METHODS: Precursor sequences of miRNA-155 were obtained using the DNAMAN.
Target genes were predicted through targetscan, PicTar and MiRDB database. Additionally, the functional enrichment analysis and Reactome enrichment analysis were performed to annotate the gene functions.
RESULTS: Mature gene sequences of miRNA-155 family were highly conserved among various species. 49 target genes obtained from multiple databases were found to be enriched in membrane- enclosed lumen, negative regulation of cellular process, intracellular signal transduction and so on. Besides, the target genes were also seemed to be enriched in checkpoint kinase 1/ checkpoint kinase 2（Chk1/chk2） mediated inactivation of cyclin B:CDK1 complex (cyclin- dependent protein kinases). ACTL6A, SMARCA4, ACTB, and other genes might be closely related to the onset of tuberculosis.
CONCLUSIONS: miRNA-155 target genes are involved in multiple biological processes and possibly participate in the pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) pathogenesis by regulating immune-related genes, which may be used as potential biological markers for the research on PTB.
Prevalence of depression, syndemic factors and their impact on viral suppression among female sex workers living with HIV in eThekwini, South Africa
Authors: Bhardwaj Anvita , Comins Carly A. , Guddera Vijay , Mcingana Mfezi , Young Katherine , Phetlhu Rene , Mulumba Ntambue , Mishra Sharmistha , Hausler Harry , Baral Stefan , Schwartz Sheree
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Over half of female sex workers (FSW) in South Africa are living with HIV and clinical depression has been frequently documented among FSW. Data characterizing structural determinants of depression and the role of syndemic theory, an aggregation of multiple risk factors, on viral suppression among FSW in South Africa are limited. Methods: Between July 2018-March 2020, non-pregnant, cisgender women (≥ 18 years), reporting sex work as their primary income source, and diagnosed with HIV for ≥ 6 months were enrolled into the Siyaphambili trial in eThekwini, South Africa. Using baseline data, robust Poisson regression models were used to assess correlates of depression and associations between depression and syndemic factors on viral suppression. Results: Of 1,384 participants, 459 (33%) screened positive for depression, defined as a score of ≥ 10 on the PHQ-9. Physical and sexual violence, drug use, alcohol use, anticipated stigma and internalized stigma were univariately associated with depression and included the multivariate model. In the multivariate regression, prevalence of depression was higher among participants experiencing sexual violence (PR = 1.47 95% CI:1.24,1.73), physical violence 5 times or more in < 6 months (PR = 1.38 95% CI:1.07, 1.80), using illicit drugs in the last month (PR = 1.23 95%:CI 1.04, 1.48), and reporting higher levels of internalized stigma (PR = 1.11, 95% CI:1.04,1.18). Depression in the absence of the Substance Abuse, Violence and AIDS SAVA syndemic factors was associated with increased prevalence of non-viral suppression (aPR 1.24; 95% CI:1.08,1.43), and the SAVA substance use and violence syndemic was associated with an increase in non-viral suppression among non-depressed FSW (aPR 1.13; 95% CI:1.01, 1.26). Compared to those experiencing neither factors, those jointly experiencing depression and the SAVA syndemics were at increased risk for non-viral suppression (aPR 1.15; 95% CI:1.02,1.28). Conclusion: Substance use, violence, and stigma were all associated with depression. Depression and syndemic factors (substance use + violence) were related to non-viral suppression; we did not observe higher non-suppression amongst those experiencing both depression and syndemic factors. Training for non-mental health providers in screening for depression and its risk factors among FSW, along with proactive referral to support may help to address unmet mental health needs and HIV treatment outcomes. Trial registration: Clinical Trial Number: NCT03500172
The synergistic effect of sepiolite-LDH hybrid nanofiber and phytic-based nanosheet towards improving the fire retardancy, heat resistance, and mechanical properties of epoxy resin
Authors: Zhang Su-Hua , Wu Zhen-Zhong , Han Shi-Hu , Wang Yi-Qing , Qian Li-Jun , Hu Xiao-Ping
Published: September 2022

Usually, it is difficult to achieve satisfactory fire retardancy of epoxy resin at low addition by adding inorganic nano-fillers alone. Herein, sepiolite nanofibers loaded with layered double metal hydroxide (a-SEP@LDH) and P/N-containing flame retardant nanosheet (PAMA) were prepared via hydrothermal method, respectively. The UL-94 V-0 rating and an LOI value of 31.6% were achieved for EP by loading 1wt% a-SEP@LDH and 2wt% PAMA. Compared to adding sole a-SEP@LDH, the thermal stability of EP/a-SEP@LDH/PAMA was improved significantly, the total heat release (THR) and peak heat release rate (pHRR) decreased by 10.2% and 28.8%, respectively. Additionally, the total CO2 production decreased by 12.5% and the char residue yield increased to 19.9wt%. Moreover, the tensile strength and impact strength of the EP composites were remarkably improved owing to the incorporation of PAMA. To sum up, this work provides an environmentally benign, low-cost and efficient way for EP to achieve outstanding fire retardance, excellent thermal stability and high mechanical properties at a low addition.
Forkhead box P3 gene polymorphisms predispose to type 2 diabetes and diabetic nephropathy in the Han Chinese populations: a genetic-associated and gender-based evaluation study
Authors: Wang Xiaorong , Liu Xinyue , Liu Zejing , Zhang Shangdi , Yang Yinfeng , Wu Xue
Published: September 2022

Background
Functional mutations or polymorphisms affecting FOXP3 could lead to abnormal FOXP3 gene expression and/or defective Treg cells generation, thus resulting in autoimmune disease and inflammation disorders, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its complications, chronic and low-grade inflammatory disorders associated with long-term immune system imbalance. This study aimed to investigate the association of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and type 2 diabetes nephropathy (T2DN) susceptibility with FOXP3 polymorphisms in the Han Chinese populations.
Methods
Polymorphisms of rs3761548C/A and rs2294021C/T were examined in 400 patients (including an equal number of T2DM and T2DN groups) and 200 healthy controls using PCR-HRM and sequence analysis.
Conclusions
Significant differences between the two SNPs in terms of genotype, allelic frequencies of T2DM, and progression of diabetes developing to T2DN. The further gender-based evaluation showed that, as for female subjects, rs3761548C/A was associated with around 3-fold higher hazards for T2DM and 4.5-fold for T2DN, respectively, while no noticeable association with rs2294021C/T; as for males, the promoter polymorphism showed an increased risk of 5.4-fold and 3.4-fold predisposition to T2DM and T2DN, respectively, and another polymorphism could impart a nearly 2-fold risk of developing T2DN. Additional analysis of combined genotypes revealed that CC-CC and CC-CT could be considered protective combinations in the predisposition towards T2DN among males with diabetes, while AA-CC and AA-TT did the opposite effect.
Results
This study provides the first evidence for the genetic association of rs3761548C/A and rs2294021C/T polymorphisms with the susceptibility to diabetes and diabetic nephropathy in the Han Chinese population, as well as assessing gender differences.
Investigation on the Behavior Factor of Leaning Masonry Wall Structures
Authors: Choi Youngjun , Park Dawon , Kim Sun Woo , Hong Jung-Wuk
Published: September 2022

In force-based seismic design, the behavior factor \(q\) (or response modification factor \(R\) ) is devised to prevent overdesign by reducing the design force. Different values of the behavior factor $q$ are available for various structure types. However, masonry fence walls are not categorized in the current seismic design codes. These walls are of poor quality due to the absence of proper quality assurance and maintenance, and most of those structures are inclined. In this study, the behavior factor $q$ of leaning masonry fence walls is experimentally estimated. We fabricate three masonry wall structures that are inclined with three different wall angles of 1.5 \(\degree\) , 3.0$\degree$, and 6.0$\degree$, respectively. Monotonically increasing biaxial lateral loads are applied to the walls using a shaking table. The value $q$ of each leaning wall is calculated by analyzing the dynamic load-displacement relationship. A relationship between the factor $q$ and wall angle is discussed, and a new empirical formula representing $q$ as a function of a wall angle is proposed. The proposed empirical formula would be useful in seismic design for severely leaning masonry walls.
Numerical study on the nonlinear characteristics of shock induced two-dimensional panel flutter in inviscid flow
Authors: Zhou Hao , Wang Gang , Li QuanZheng , Liu Yi
Published: September 2022

For an aeroelastic system of a two-dimensional elastic panel subjected to an impinging inviscid oblique shockwave, the nonlinear flutter characteristics are affected by many factors such as shock impingement location, cavity pressure and initial perturbation. The effects of the above factors on the variation of system bifurcation type and dynamic behaviors are investigated numerically. A low-fidelity computational method coupled with local piston theory and van Karman plate model, and a high-fidelity computational method coupled with Euler equations and finite element model are used for fluid-structure interaction simulations. Two sets of new findings are unveiled. First, either the variation of shock impingement location or cavity pressure can induce the aeroelastic system to transition between a subcritical bifurcation and a supercritical bifurcation. For some cases, the system bifurcation characteristics exhibit strong sensitivity to these two factors. Second, it is found that in addition to the limit cycle oscillation (LCO) in the form of a combination of the second and third structural modes, multiple stable LCOs due to the coupling of higher-order modes can be triggered by proper initial perturbations. These LCOs are attributed with high frequencies and some of them even have high amplitudes, which indicates the higher risk of structural fatigue failure.
Predicting use of Intensive Care Units during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Perez Kathyana , Slater José M. , Pradenas Lorena , Parada Victor , Scherer Robert F.
Published: September 2022

With the prevalence of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, sudden planning needs emerged in intensive care units of health care centers in many countries, particularly in Chile. In such units, the most severe COVID-19 patient requires specific treatment. This fact stressed decision-making at the operational level. It then became necessary to understand the dynamics of patient arrival to predict the number of additional units required for the future. We propose ten approaches to represent the dynamics and predict the number of additional ICU beds required in the future. Machine learning models and classical time series analysis algorithms allow upper and lower bounds to be set for the number of units needed. Evaluating the predictions with 2020 and 2021 data in three representative geographic regions produces lower errors in the largest of the regions. The low errors produced by the classic Holt-Winters model suggest that the data series have seasonality and trend characteristics. Although the models were only evaluated in three regions, extension to other similar situations requires the training of models with the region's data.
Ten-month follow-up of patients with Covid-19 temporally related Multi-System Inflammatory Syndrome in Children: an early window of opportunity is a good treatment strategy? The experience of the Children Hospital of Palermo
Authors: Maggio Maria Cristina , Giordano Salvatore , Failla Maria Concetta , Campione Martina Gioacchina , Alaimo Annalisa , Corsello Giovanni
Published: September 2022

Background: In Sicily, the first wave of COVID-19 showed a low epidemic impact in paediatric population, while the second and the third waves had a higher impact on clinical presentation of COVID-19 in children and a significantly higher severe outcome in patients with multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), with a frequent life-threatening progression.
Methods: We describe a cohort of 22 Sicilian children (11 M; 11 F; age: 1.4-14 years), presenting with clinical features compatible with MIS-C. Patients with negative swab had a history of recent personal or parental infection.
Results: The following diagnostic criteria were detected: fever (100%); cheilitis and/or pharyngeal hyperaemia (86%); latero-cervical lymphadenitis (82%); rash (73%); abdominal pain and/or vomiting and/or diarrhoea (64%); conjunctivitis (64%); hands and feet oedema (18%). 59% showed cardiac involvement (6 pericardial effusion; 8 mitral valve insufficiency; 4 insufficiency of two valves; 3 coronary artery lesions CAL)). In all the patients, treatment was started within 72 hours after the admission, with IVIG (2 g/Kg/dose), methylprednisolone (2mg/Kg/day in 73% of patients; 30 mg/Kg/day for 3 days, followed by 2 mg/Kg/day in 27% of patients). 2 patients were treated with enoxaparin. TSS was described in 2 patients, who received additionally vasoactive drugs, albumin, diuretics. Cardiac involvement evolved into the complete resolution of lesions in most of the patients. All the patients were included in a follow-up, to investigate on clinical outcome and resolution of organ involvement. Cardiac valve insufficiency persisted only in 18% of children, CAL persisted only in 33% of children with coronary involvement, however without the evolution into aneurisms.
Conclusions: The preferred treatment strategy was more aggressive at the diagnosis of MIS-C, to block the cytokine cascade. Most of our patients, in fact, received a first-line treatment with IVIG and steroids. This approach could explain the favourable prognosis, the rapid restoring of cardiac function also in patients with MAS or shock, and the good outcome during the 10 months follow-up in all the patients.
Assessment of 24-hour moving average PM2.5 concentrations in Bangkok, Thailand against WHO guidelines
Authors: Sooktawee Sirapong , Kanchanasuta Suwimon , Bunplod Natthaya
Published: September 2022

Currently, the particulate matter with diameter less than 2.5 micron (PM2.5) pollutant has gained more concerned as can be seen from the WHO revised the air quality guideline value. The 24-hour average concentration has been strengthened from 25 µg m-3 to 15 µg m-3. However, the continuous PM2.5 monitoring system provides data on an hourly basis, which can be averaged at a 24-hour value compare with the WHO air quality guidelines. The value given by the moving average technique can be stored at the leftmost, center or rightmost hour. Three moving average PM2.5 time series would differ from the hourly observed PM2.5 data. Similarity testing by cross-correlation and Euclidean distance was performed to present a suitable 24-hour moving average time series for hourly data. The 24-hour moving average time series recorded at center is more suitable than the leftmost and rightmost 24-hour moving average time series in terms of shape and distance. It has less time lag and distance to the hourly PM2.5 time series. Comparing the 24-hour moving average time series to the WHO interim targets and the guideline value reveals PM2.5 concentration level lower than the guideline value (15 µg m-3) about 40% during the nighttime, whereas the proportion during daytime is around 28%. Also, the NAAQS of Thailand for 24-hour PM2.5 was changed from 50 µg m-3 to 37.5 µg m-3 corresponding to the interim targets 3 and 2, respectively. From this study, concentrations higher than the NAAQs level will increase from 10 to about 22%. The increase in the number of exceedances based on the same data means the state of air quality is similar. Therefore, residents may misunderstand and know the air quality becomes more severe. The government should spend more effort to reduce emissions and ambient air concentrations than earlier endeavors.
Rapid viable seedbank fosters resilience via pyrosilviculture in serotinous bishop pine
Authors: Bisbing Sarah , Urza Alexandra K. , York Robert A. , Hankin Lacey E. , Putz Tessa R.
Published: September 2022

Background In ecosystems where fire has been excluded, pyrosilviculture can restore fire regimes while mitigating risk where fire is inevitable. Pyrosilviculture in crown fire-adapted forests is, however, limited by insight into the temporal window of fire return matching canopy seedbank development. Here, we characterized demographic responses to fire and non-native pine pitch canker infection in a chronosequence of serotinous bishop pine stands burned at high-severity to quantify: (1) temporal patterns of seedbank development given seed viability and density, cone production, and tree density, and (2) pine pitch canker incidence across tree ages and sizes to assess how infection might influence pyrosilviculture. Stands were burned to promote resilience while mitigating WUI wildfire, and we use to our findings to elucidate pyrosilvicuture as a means of meeting these objectives in crown-fire adapted forests. Results Bishop pine produces an abundant, viable seedbank within six years, with high production and viability persisting across developmental stages and age classes. Seed abundance and viability are exceptionally high at even the earliest age (median > 600,000 seeds ha− 1& 97% viability at 6 years) and remain high, with the oldest stands (36 years) maintaining median densities of > 500,000 seeds ha− 1and viability of 95%. We additionally learned that pine pitch canker infection is most severe during the sapling stage (8–10 years post-fire), potentially shifting the timing and development of fuel structure to earlier successional stages as well as limiting recruitment into the canopy. Conclusions In bishop pine and equally-fecund serotinous species, burning at short fire return intervals is feasible given early development of a robust, viable seedbank, addressing two common management challenges in fire-adapted forests - restoring fire to promote resilience while mitigating wildfire risk to the WUI. Moreover, frequent fire in pine pitch canker infected stands may also provide disease mitigation. Although the long-term effects of pine pitch canker infection remain unknown, bishop pines’ viable and persistent seedbank suggests that managers can ignite prescribed fire across a broad return interval – as short as six to eight years and as long as several decades – to promote ongoing bishop pine resilience, mitigate disease infection rates, and reduce wildfire risk in WUI-adjacent ecosystems.
Is being childless associated with a woman’s risk of overweight and obesity during young adulthood? Results from a national longitudinal study
Authors: Jin Chuyao , Tooth Leigh , Xu Xiaolin , Mishra Gita
Published: September 2022

Aim:To examine the association between motherhood status (mothers, voluntarily childless, involuntarily childless) and overweight and obesity over 22 years.Methods:A total of 4,092 women aged 18-23 years were followed from 1996 to 2018. Motherhood status was defined by women’s reports on their fertility, attempts to conceive, use of in vitro fertilisation and fertility hormones, and number of biological children. Associations between motherhood status and overweight and obesity were examined using generalized estimating equations models, adjusting for socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, depressive symptoms, early life factors, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).Results:At age 40-45 years, 12% of women were voluntarily childless and 5% were involuntarily childless. The prevalence of overweight and obesity increased with age and women who were voluntarily or involuntarily childless had higher prevalence of obesity than mothers in all surveys. After adjusting for covariates, compared with mothers, women who were voluntarily childless had higher odds of being overweight (odds ratio [OR], 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.29, 1.09-1.52) and obese (OR, 95% CI: 1.67, 1.30-2.13). Involuntary childlessness was not associated with overweight, and its association with obesity was attenuated after adjusting for PCOS in the final model (OR, 95% CI: 1.39, 0.98-1.96).Conclusions:Around one in nine Australian women remained voluntarily childless by their late reproductive years. On average, they had higher odds of being overweight and obese than mothers, suggesting that overweight and obesity prevention programs should consider tailoring their advice by motherhood status.
Uncommon activation of SynDLP, the fusogenic Dynamin-like protein of the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803
Authors: Gewehr Lucas , Junglas Benedikt , Jilly Ruven , Franz Johannes , Zhu Wenyu , Weidner Tobias , Bonn Mischa , Sachse Carsten , Schneider Dirk
Published: September 2022

Dynamin-like proteins are membrane remodeling GTPases with well-understood functions in eukaryotic cells. However, bacterial Dynamin-like proteins are still poorly investigated. SynDLP, the Dynamin-like protein of the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803, forms ordered oligomers in solution. The 3.7 Å resolution cryo-EM structure of SynDLP oligomers reveals the presence of oligomeric stalk interfaces typical for eukaryotic Dynamin-like proteins. The bundle signaling element domain shows distinct features, such as an intramolecular disulfide bridge that affects the GTPase activity, or an expanded intermolecular interface with the GTPase domain. Such atypical GTPase domain interfaces might be a GTPase activity regulating tool in oligomerized SynDLP. Furthermore, we show that SynDLP interacts with and intercalates into membranes containing negatively charged thylakoid membrane lipids. SynDLP is able to fuse membranes in a nucleotide-independent process in vitro. Thus, we assign SynDLP to the subclass of fusogenic Dynamin-like proteins.
Single-port robot-assisted perineal radical prostatectomy with the da Vinci XI system: initial experience and learning curve using the cumulative sum method
Authors: Yu Chenhao , Xu Li , Ye Liyin , Hu Haiyi , Ni Kangxin , Zhou Chenghao , Xue Dingwei , Cheng Sheng , Wang Hui , Pak Raymond Wei , Li Gonghui
Published: September 2022

Background
To evaluate the early functional and oncological outcomes of single-port robot-assisted perineal radical prostatectomy (sp-pRARP) using the da Vinci XI system, and analyze its learning curve using the cumulative sum (CUSUM) method.
Methods
The clinical data of 50 patients who underwent sp-pRARP for localized prostate cancer between May 2020 and May 2022 in our center by a single surgeon were analyzed retrospectively. Demographic information, preoperative and postoperative variables, complications, early functional and oncological outcomes of patients were recorded. The CUSUM method was used to illustrate the learning curve based on operation time.
Results
All surgeries were completed without conversion. The median (interquartile range, IQR) operation time was 205.0 (82.5) min, whereas the median (IQR) docking time was 30.0 (15.0) min and the console time was 120.0 (80.5) min. The median (IQR) estimated blood loss (EBL) was 50.0 (137.5) mL. Positive surgical margins were detected in five patients (10.0%). The continence rate was 40.9%, 63.6%, 88.4%, 97.7% at the 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after surgery. According to the CUSUM plot, the inflection points of the learning curve were 20 cases, splitting the case series into "early phase" and "late phase." In "late phase" cases, there was less time spent on each step of the operation and less EBL.
Conclusions
Sp-pRARP using the da Vinci XI system was verified to be a feasible and reliable surgical approach. According to the CUSUM plot, 20 cases was considered the turning point for surgeons to master the novel technique.
Profitability of Ichimoku-based trading rule in Vietnam stock market in the context of the COVID-19 outbreak
Authors: Che-Ngoc Ha , Do-Thi Nga , Nguyen-Trang Thao
Published: September 2022

Ichimoku Kinkohyo or Ichimoku Cloud Chart is one of the most popular technical indicators used by traders all over the world. However, its profitability is heavily influenced by the market environment, to which it is applied. Furthermore, the COVID-19 outbreak may have an impact on the market environment as well as the performance of all technical indicators. This study is the first to look into the profitability of Ichimoku-based trading rules in the Vietnamese stock market in the context of the COVID-19 outbreak. More particularly, the COVID-19 outbreak has a positive influence on the performance of this strategy when applied to the four industries consisting of real estate industry, food and beverage industry, resource industry, and automotive and electronic components industry. The obtained results demonstrate that the Ichimoku-based strategy can be considered a suitable method for applying Vietnam stock market, indeed no matter if there would be adverse effects of the pandemic on the industries or not.
De-epithelialized overlap flap to secure urethroplasty in second stage hypospadias repair: Revisiting the Smith technique
Authors: AbouZeid Amr Abdelhamid , Habak Reda Abualyazeed , Hamad Mostafa Mahmoud , Shahin Alaa-Eldin Medhat
Published: September 2022

Background: The application of a second layer between the neourethra and skin was a major contribution, which has improved the outcome of hypospadias repair. Here, we report our experience of revisiting the original Smith technique using a de-epithelialized overlap flap to support the urethroplasty in staged hypospadias repair.
Methods: The study included primary cases of proximal hypospadias with significant chordee who underwent two-stage repair during the period 2016 through 2021.
The ventral curvature was corrected at first stage by excision of the urethral plate, followed by covering the ventral shaft by skin flaps or inner preputial graft. The second stage (Thiersch -Duplay urethroplasty) was performed six months later. The de-epithelialized overlap flap (double breasting) technique was used to cover the neo-urethra in all cases, which was combined with a dartos scrotal flap to cover the proximal neourethra when indicated.
Results: The study included 17 boys with proximal hypospadias who underwent two-stage repair. Follow up period after second stage ranged between 6 and 30 months (mean 19.7; median 18.5). Most complications were related to distal/glanular disruptions whether partial or complete (5 cases). One case developed a penoscrotal fistula that was closed surgically. Another case (belonging to the group which used preputial graft in the 1st stage) presented 21 months after the second stage with urethral stricture (penoscrotal).
Conclusion: With the trend back to two-stage repairs for proximal hypospadias, applying the de-epithelialized double-breasting skin closure can offer a reliable second layer to support the neourethra along the penile shaft.
SMAD2/3 signaling in the uterine epithelium controls endometrial cell homeostasis and regeneration
Authors: Kriseman Maya , Tang Suni , Liao Zian , Jiang Peixin , Parks Sydney , Cope Dominique , Yuan Fei , Chen Fengju , Masand Ramya , Castro Patricia , Ittmann Michael , Creighton Chad , Tan Zhi , Monsivais Diana
Published: September 2022

The regenerative potential of the endometrium is attributed to endometrial stem cells; however, the signaling pathways controlling its regenerative potential remain obscure. In this study, genetic mouse models and endometrial organoids were used to demonstrate that SMAD2/3 signaling controls endometrial regeneration and differentiation. Mice with conditional deletion of SMAD2/3 in the uterine epithelium using Lactoferrin-iCre developed endometrial hyperplasia at 12-weeks and metastatic uterine tumors by 9-months of age. Mechanistic studies in endometrial organoids determined that genetic or pharmacological inhibition of SMAD2/3 signaling disrupted organoid morphology, increased the glandular and secretory cell markers, FOXA2 and MUC1, and altered the genome-wide distribution of SMAD4. Transcriptomic profiling of the organoids revealed elevated pathways involved in stem cell regeneration and differentiation such as the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) and retinoic acid signaling (RA) pathways. Therefore, TGFβ family signaling via SMAD2/3 controls signaling networks which are integral for endometrial cell regeneration and differentiation.
Knock-down of Annexin A10 in trigeminal ganglion attenuates trigeminal neuropathic pain in mice
Authors: Miao Xiu Hua , jiang Yi , Zhang Hao , Zhou Ping , Ju Fei , Chen Quan , Li Liu , Zhou You Lang , Zhou Yuan
Published: September 2022

Trigeminal neuropathic pain (TNP) is an intense chronic orofacial pain syndrome, which the pathogenesis and treatment of it are still limited (Cruccu et al. 2020; Yadav et al. 2017). We induced TNP from adult male mice via partial infraorbital nerve ligation (pIONL)(Xu et al. 2008). The upregulated genes were screened in the trigeminal ganglion (TG) 7 days after pIONL and found that Annexin A10 (Anxa10) mRNA was up-regulated by up to 19-fold. PIONL induced persistent upregulation of Anxa10 mRNA and protein in trigeminal ganglion (TG). In addition, Anxa10 colocalized with the astrocyte marker glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), the neuronal marker TUJ1 and with the microglial marker IB4. To knock-down of Anxa10 expression, lentivirus containing Anxa10-shRNA (LV-Anxa10-shRNA) was microinjected into TG, and successful infection of the lentivirus was verified by immunofluorescence. After inhibiting Anxa10, the mechanical pain threshold of pIONL mice decreased accompanied decreasing of TNF-α and IL-1β. Also, whole-cell patch-clamp recording showed that knock-down of Anxa10 suppressed nerve injury-induced hyperexcitation of TG neurons. In conclusion, Anxa10 is participated in the maintenance of trigeminal neuropathic pain, and we try to explore more about trigeminal neuropathic pain in the future.
Inhibition of the TRIM24 bromodomain reactivates latent HIV-1
Authors: Horvath Riley M. , Brumme Zabrina L. , Sadowski Ivan
Published: September 2022

Expression of the HIV-1 genome by RNA Polymerase II is regulated at multiple steps, as are most cellular genes, including recruitment of general transcription factors and control of transcriptional elongation from the core promoter. We discovered that tripartite motif protein TRIM24 is recruited to the HIV-1 Long Terminal Repeat (LTR) by interaction with TFII-I and causes transcriptional elongation by stimulating association of PTEF-b/ CDK9. Because TRIM24 is required for stimulation of transcription from the HIV-1 LTR, we were surprised to find that IACS-9571, a specific inhibitor of the TRIM24 C-terminal bromodomain, induces HIV-1 provirus expression in otherwise untreated cells. IACS-9571 reactivates HIV-1 in T cell lines bearing multiple different provirus models of HIV-1 latency. Additionally, treatment with this TRIM24 bromodomain inhibitor encourages productive HIV-1 expression in newly infected cells and inhibits formation of immediate latent repressed provirus. IACS-9571 synergizes with PMA, ionomycin, TNF-α, PEP005, and JQ1 to activate HIV-1 expression. Furthermore, co-treatment of CD4+ T cells from individuals with HIV-1 on antiretroviral therapy (ART) with PEP005 and IACS-9571 caused robust provirus expression. Notably, IACS-9571 did not cause global activation of T cells; rather, it inhibited induction of IL2 and CD69 expression in human PBMCs and Jurkat T cells treated with PEP005 or PMA. These observations indicate the TRIM24 bromodomain inhibitor IACS-9571 represents a novel HIV-1 latency reversing agent (LRA), and unlike other compounds with this activity, causes partial suppression of T cell activation while inducing expression of latent provirus.
Environmentally-friendly synthesis of copper(I)-Tricine complex intercalated layered double hydroxide coated magnetite nanocomposites and its application in oxidative esterification by using ultrasonic irradiation
Authors: Pazoki Farzane , Bagheri Sepideh , Yazdani Elahe , Mohsenzadeh Fatemeh , Heydari Akbar
Published: September 2022

In this work, an approach described to successful intercalation of copper(I)-Tricine complex into layered double hydroxide (LDH) coated on magnetite nanocomposites by ultrasonic methods. The activity of this nanocatalyst was investigated for oxidative esterification of arylaldehydes under ultrasonic irradiation. The oxidative esterification reaction was performed in environmentally friendly condition, high yield, short reaction times and simple method with highly efficient catalyst system. In addition, this catalyst can be removed from the reaction medium simply by use of an external magnet.
Phenotypic characterization of single CD4+ T cells harboring genetically intact and inducible HIV genomes
Authors: Dufour Caroline , Richard Corentin , Pardons Marion , Massanella Marta , Ackaoui Antoine , Murrell Ben , Routy Bertrand , Thomas Réjean , Routy Jean-Pierre , Fromentin Remi , Chomont Nicolas
Published: September 2022

The phenotype of the rare HIV-infected cells persisting during ART remains elusive. We developed a single-cell approach that combines the phenotypic analysis of HIV-infected cells with near full-length sequencing of their associated proviruses. Individual cells carrying clonally expanded identical proviruses displayed very diverse phenotypes, indicating that cellular proliferation contributes to the phenotypic diversification of the HIV reservoir. Unlike most viral genomes persisting on ART, inducible and translation-competent proviruses rarely presented large deletions but were enriched in defects in the Ψ locus. Interestingly, the few cells harboring genetically intact and inducible viral genomes expressed higher levels of the integrin VLA-4 compared to uninfected cells or cells with defective proviruses. Viral outgrowth assay confirmed that memory CD4+ T cells expressing high levels of VLA-4 were highly enriched in replication-competent HIV (27-fold enrichment). We conclude that although clonal expansions diversify the phenotype of HIV reservoir cells, CD4+ T cells harboring replication-competent HIV retain VLA-4 expression.
Short Sleep Duration Associated with the Incidence of Cardio-Cerebral Vascular Disease: a Prospective Cohort Study in Shanghai, China
Authors: Ke Juzhong , Liu Xiaolin , Ruan Xiaonan , Wu Kang , Qiu Hua , Wang Xiaonan , Li Zhitao , Lin Tao
Published: September 2022

Importance: Sleep duration plays an important role in predicting CCVD incidence, and have implications for reducing the burden of CCVD. However, the association between sleep duration and predicted cardio-cerebral vascular diseases (CCVD)risk remains to be fully understood.
Objective: To investigate the effects of sleep duration on the development of CCVD among Chinese community residents.
Design: A prospective cohort study. The baseline survey was conducted from January 2013 to July 2013. The cohort has been followed until December 31, 2016 using a combination of in-person interviews and record linkages with the vital registry of Pudong New Area, Shanghai, China.
Subjects: A total of 9247 Chinese community residents were initially enrolled in the cohort. Of those, 6476 underwent the follow-up examination.
Exposure: Self-reported sleep duration and sleep quality were obtained via the questionnaire. Sleep duration was divided into five categories: ≤5, 6, 7, 8, or≥9 hours per day.
Main Outcome(s) and Measure(s): CCVD, Coronary heart disease (CHD) and Stroke occurrence, Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were calculated using Cox proportional hazards models.
Results: During a median follow-up of 3.00 years (IQR 2.83-3.08), we observed 393 participants have had incident CCVD events, of whom 216 had CHDs, 148 had strokes, and 29 had both. After adjustment for relevant confounders, short sleepers (≤5h) had 70% higher risk of total CCVD incidence (HR: 1.70; 95%CI: 1.24-2.34), 66% higher risk of CHD incidence (HR: 1.66; 95%CI: 1.11-2.47), and 65% higher risk of stroke incidence (HR: 1.65; 95%CI: 1.03-2.65) in contrast to the reference group (7h). Some of these U-shaped relationships varied by age, and were more pronounced in individuals aged <65 years. Individuals who slept ≤5h per day with baseline hypertension had the highest risk of CCVD incidence (HR: 4.41, 95%CI 2.76-7.04), CHD incidence (HR: 2.52, 95%CI 1.43-4.44), and stroke incidence (HR: 3.72, 95%CI 1.66-8.34), compared with those sleep 7h and without baseline hypertension.
Conclusions: Short sleep duration is independently associated with greater incidence of CCVD, CHD and stroke.
Comparative analysis of clinical treatment of HIV positive and HIV negative bladder cancer patients
Authors: Yu Zhang Yu , Xiaolin Su Xiaolin , Xuyu Li Xuyu , Wenrui Xue Wenrui , Xin Wang Xin , Xudong Wang Xudong , Pengfei Yuan Pengfei , Zhixing Han Zhixing , Haijian Zhang Haijian , Yurun Liang Yurun , Yi Cui Yi , Qingjun Liu Qingjun , Shiqi Ji Shiqi
Published: September 2022

Objective: To provide clinical reference for the prevention and treatment of HIV positive bladder cancer by comparing and analyzing the basic information, laboratory examination, treatment and follow-up of HIV positive and non-HIV infected bladder cancer patients.
Methods: This study collected 57 bladder cancer patients with complete data who were admitted to Beijing Ditan Hospital and Beijing You 'an Hospital from 2013 to 2021, including 14 cases in the HIV positive group and 43 cases in the HIV negative group. A retrospective analysis was conducted on the HIV infection route of HIV positive patients and whether antiviral treatment was regular. The viral load and the number of CD4+T lymphocytes before surgery were compared. The preoperative laboratory examination, pathological grade, treatment methods, 3-month recurrence and long-term follow-up of bladder cancer patients in the two groups were compared.
Results: In this study, the average age of onset in the HIV positive group was (48.93±13.83) years old, while the average age of onset in the non-HIV group was (62.05±13.38) years old, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.01). There were no statistically significant differences in the values of white blood cells, platelets, creatinine and albumin in preoperative laboratory tests between HIV group and non-HIV group (P>0.05), but there were statistically significant differences in red blood cell values between the two groups (P<0.05).There was no difference in pathological grade of bladder cancer between the two groups. The recurrence rate was 21.43% in HIV-positive patients and 23.26% in non-HIV patients at 3 months after surgery (P>0.05). The median long-term follow-up was 40 months (8-78 months). The survival rate of the two groups was HIV VS non-HIV (71.42% VS 93.02%) (P>0.05).
Conclusions: The clinical characteristics of HIV-positive bladder cancer patients are similar to that of the general population, and HIV positive bladder cancer patients also follow the guidelines for the general population in terms of treatment measures. The early age of HIV positive bladder cancer patients remains to be further studied.
Endogenous fluctuations in cortical state selectively enhance different modes of sensory processing
Authors: Parajuli Arun , Gutnisky Diego , Tandon Nitin , Dragoi Valentin
Published: September 2022

The degree of synchronized fluctuations in neocortical network activity can vary widely during alertness. One influential idea that has emerged over the past few decades is that perceptual decisions are more accurate when the state of population activity is desynchronized. This suggests that optimal task performance may occur during a particular cortical state – the desynchronized state. Here we show that, contrary to this view, cortical state can both facilitate and suppress perceptual performance in a task-dependent manner. We performed electrical recordings from surface-implanted grid electrodes in the temporal lobe while human subjects completed two perceptual tasks. We found that when local population activity is in a synchronized state, network and perceptual performance are enhanced in a detection task and impaired in a discrimination task, but these modulatory effects are reversed when population activity is desynchronized. These findings indicate that the brain has adapted to take advantage of endogenous fluctuations in cortical state to selectively enhance different modes of sensory processing during perception in a state-dependent manner.
Reducing COVID-19 Vaccine Fatigue: Results of Two Conjoint Experiments
Authors: Stamm Tanja , Partheymueller Julia , Mosor Erika , Ritschl Valentin , Kritzinger Sylvia , Alunno Alessia , Eberl Jakob-Moritz
Published: September 2022

COVID-19 vaccine fatigue is a major challenge in keeping the immunity in the general population up to date. Yet, not enough is known about how this problem can be overcome. We assessed vaccine acceptance in future scenarios in two conjoint experiments, manipulating factors such as new vaccines, communication, costs/incentives, and legal rules. The experiments were embedded in an online survey (N= 6,357 participants) conducted simultaneously in two European countries (Austria and Italy). The results show that adapted vaccines, their cost-free provision and expert consensus could help to counteract vaccine fatigue. To some extent, also positive incentives, celebrity endorsements, and knowledge about Long COVID may motivate citizens to get the vaccination. Motivational appeals mainly affected secondary outcomes such as the evaluation of vaccination campaigns. As the effect sizes of treatments were modest overall, vaccination campaigns should focus on mobilizing those with a general willingness to get vaccinated.