bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Paired Comparison of Plasma and Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid for Metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing in Critically Ill Patients with Suspected Severe Pneumonia
Authors: Sun Ting , Wu Xiaojing , Liu Yijie , Cai Ying , Zhai Tianshu , Zhou Yun , Yang Bin , Zhan Qingyuan
Published: March 2022

Background: Plasma cell-free DNA (cfDNA) metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) has emerged as an attractive and less invasive technique for pathogen detection. However, only few studies have demonstrated the need for simultaneous plasma and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) mNGS in patients with severe pneumonia.Methods: This study retrospectively performed a paired comparison of BALF and plasma mNGS in critically ill patients with suspected severe pneumonia from April 2019 to December 2020, who were divided into mNGS results match and mismatch groups. The diagnostic performance was compared between BALF and plasma mNGS, using the clinical composite diagnosis as the reference standard. The impact of mNGS results was also assessed.Results: In total, 57 patients were included in this study and divided into the plasma mNGS match with BALF group (n=15) and mismatch group (n=40). There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics and total 28-day mortality between the match and mismatch groups. Fifty-three patients were diagnosed with microbiologically confirmed severe pneumonia, with 49% having polymicrobial infections. There were significant differences in the BALF sensitivity and plasma mNGS (100% vs. 42%, P < 0.001), and the diagnostic accuracy was 96% and 46%, respectively. There were no significant differences in the baseline characteristics and total 28-day mortality between the mNGS match and mismatch groups. However, in the mismatch group, more bacterial infections were detected in BALF mNGS than in plasma mNGS (47.5% vs. 23.1%, P = 0.040). Additionally, though plasma mNGS detected additional microorganisms in 11/53 patients, a beneficial impact was obtained only in 5 out of 11 patients.Conclusions: This study does not support the simultaneous mNGS of BALF and plasma samples. Prospective studies are required to clarify the optimal indications for cfDNA mNGS as an additional test for pneumonia.
“Hot Cities” and Rapid Growth; Experiences and Responses of Public Health and Urban Planning Departments
Authors: Hammarberg Robert , Highfield Linda , Walton Gretchen , Wermuth Paige , Bowman Ann O'M.
Published: March 2022

It is presumed rapidly growing “hot cities” adapt their planning and operations to meet their evolving population’s needs. These presumptions inspired the development of the following mixed-method, convergent parallel study. Data from urban planning officials across nine rapidlygrowing “hot cities” were collected through pre-interview surveys and qualitative key-informant interviews. Thematic analysis was used to identify salient issues regarding awareness and perception of rapid population growth and resulting response from their public health and urban planning departments. Results indicate two main themes; Multidimensional Strain and Mitigation Strategies describe city experiences with rapid population growth effects and response. Across cities, urban planners expressed similar experiences of stress on land usage, housing, transportation, programming, and service delivery. Similar response patterns included evaluation and innovation of growth management strategies, enhanced collaboration, and equity considerations. This snapshot of rapid population growth repercussions, and current city mitigation strategies, may have future implications for public health and urban planning administrators in practice.
Challenging Axillary Lymph-Nodes on F-18-FDG, F-18-Choline and Ga-68-DOTATOC PET/CT in Cancer Patients throughout Covid-19 Vaccination Era
Authors: Storto Giovanni , Giordano Alessia , Gallicchio Rosj , Mariarita Milella , Pellegrino Teresa , Nappi Antonio , Nardelli Anna , Calice Giovanni
Published: March 2022

Objectives: unexpected detection of axillary lymphadenopathy (AxL) in cancer patients (Pts) represents a real concern during COVID-19 vaccination era. Benign reactions may take place after vaccine inoculation, confounding image interpretation in patients undergoing F-18-FDG, F-18-Choline and Ga-68-DOTATOC PET/CT. It may simulate loco-regional metastases/disease. To assess PET/CT findings after COVID-19 vaccination in cancer patients and the consequent impact on their management. Methods: we evaluated 333 patients undergoing PET/CT (257 F-18-FDG, 54 F-18-Choline and 23 Ga-68 DOTATOC) scans after first vaccination with mRNA vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech). Uptake index (SUVmax) of suspected AxL was defined significant when the ratio >1.5 as compared to the contralateral inoculation site. Besides, co-registered CT (Co-CT) features of target lymph-nodes were evaluated. Nodes with aggregate positivity were further investigated.Results: overall, the prevalence of apparently positive lymph-nodes on PET scans was 17.1% during vaccination era. 107 Pts had undergone PET/CT before COVID-19 pandemic and only 3 shown reactive lymph-nodes with a prevalence of 2.8% (p<0.001 as compared to vaccination era). 84.2% exhibited benign characteristics on Co-CT images and only 9 Pts needed additional appraisal. Conclusions: the correct interpretation of images is crucial to avoid unnecessary management changes and to rule out invasive procedures in cancer Pts undergoing diagnostics. An accurate anamnestic interview and the precise assessment of nodes’ Co-CT characteristics when performing PET/CT may help to address the diagnostic hypothesis.
Digital Arts And Culture For Mental Health In People Aged 16-24: A Qualitative Interview Study
Authors: Sheriff Rebecca Syed , Bergin Laura , Bonsaver Laura , Riga Evgenia , O'Dell Bessie , Adams Helen , Glogowska Margaret
Published: March 2022

Introduction: This qualitative interview study aimed to understand the potential utility of digital arts and culture (DAC) for mental health in young adults.Methods: Participants aged 16-24 were selected by purposeful sampling from an online survey of community engagement for mental health and wellbeing. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted from 30th July to 9th Sept 2020 with thirteen participants who were socio-demographically diverse and varied in their use of DAC and in their mental health status. Rich interview data were analysed using a reflective thematic analysis.Results: Participants identified that culture and the arts could be helpful for their mental health, online engagement had some advantages over in-person engagement and benefits were greater with regular use. Participants described that the features of DAC most likely to benefit mental health were diverse human stories about personal challenges and a variety of viewpoints with which they could connect on a human level. This brought a sense of perspective and provided opportunities for reflection, learning, escapism, creativity, exploration and discovery. Perceived impacts on mental health included the disruption of negative thought patterns, lifting mood and increased feelings of calm and proactivity.Conclusions: This study demonstrates that young people have a critical level of insight and understanding regarding their mental health and the ways in which it might be improved. These findings can be used to optimise the mental health benefits of DAC in an engaging and acceptable way for young people. These methodologies could be applied to other types of community resource for mental health.
Socio-demographic heterogeneities as determinants of water and food-borne disease burden in Ahmedabad City, India
Authors: Sharma Ayushi , Wibawa Bima Sakti Satria , Andhikaputra Gerry , Solanki Bhavin , Sapkota Amir , Hsieh Lin-Han Chiang , Iyer Veena , Wang Yu-Chun
Published: March 2022

Urban areas within low and middle-income countries (LMICs) represent a confluence of unique and complex risk factors influencing disease dynamics. Continuous growth in the urban population fueled by migration and informal settlements makes these urban city centers conducive to inequality, environmental hazards, and infectious diseases. In this study, we evaluated the relationship between socio-demographic risk factors (age/gender, slum population density, and illiteracy rates) and spatial heterogeneity in the prevalence of viral hepatitis, typhoid, and diarrhea in Ahmedabad, India, from 2010 to 2017. The geographical distance of the wards from the river was also considered a potential risk factor. The analysis suggested positive spatial autocorrelation for viral hepatitis, typhoid and diarrhea incidence. The results of the Ordinary Least Square (OLS) and Spatial Lag Regression (SLR) models identified slum population density as a significant risk factor for all three diseases. Further, we observed a positive association between illiteracy rate and spatial distribution of viral hepatitis and typhoid at the local level, while the proximity of the wards to the river was associated with the incidence of viral hepatitis. In addition, the excess risk mapping of diseases revealed that most of the hotspot wards were in the central and southern zones of the city, to the east of river Sabarmati. This study identified issues arising due to spatial heterogeneities of resources and population demography. It thereby emphasizes rehabilitation, capacity building, and health systems strengthening through micro-planning at sub-ward/ward levels, as prospective solutions for health concerns arising from the urban paradigm.
DEB-TACE Combined With Hepatic Artery Infusion Chemotherapy Might Be an Affordable Treatment Option for Advanced Stage of HCC: Retrospective Study
Authors: Kondo Yasuteru , Morosawa Tatsuki , Minami Soichiro , Tanaka Yasuhito
Published: March 2022

BackgroundsAlternative treatment modalities are required because of the low response rates and unsuitability of Molecular-targeted agents (MTA) and/or immune checkpoint inhibitors (iCIs) in HCC patients. Therefore, we analyzed whether Drug-eluting beads (DEB)-Transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) with Low-dose-FP (Ultra-FP) therapy could improve the efficacy and safety of treatment among the difficult-to-treat HCC patients, especially those with advanced stage HCC.MethodsFrom November 2017 to April 2021, 118 consecutive patients with non-resectable difficult-to-treat HCC were included in this study. All patients were treated with Ultra-FP therapy. After the weak DEB-TACE procedure, we administered low-dose FP for 2 weeks followed by resting for 4 weeks. ResultsThe numbers of HCC patients CR/PR/SD/PD induced by Ultra-FP therapy were 36/52/17/13 (Modified RECIST) patients, respectively. The objective response rate of Ultra-FP therapy was 74.6% (88/118 patients). Tumor marker reduction was observed in 81.4% (96/118 patients). The objective response rate (ORR) in the HCC patients with portal vein tumor thrombosis (PVTT) was 75% (18/24 patients). Median survival time (MST) of all included HCC patients was 738 days. The MST of HCC patients with PVTT (-)/PVTT (+) was 816 days/718 days. The proportion of patients based on ALBI grade system was not significantly different between pre and after 3 course Ultra-FP therapy.Conclusions Ultra-FP therapy might be an affordable treatment option for difficult-to-treat advanced HCC. ORR and overall survival after receiving Ultra-FP therapy were remarkable in comparison to various kinds of systemic therapy including MTA and iCIs.
The zinc ionophore clioquinol reduces Parkinson’s disease patient-derived brain extracts-induced neurodegeneration
Authors: Teil Margaux , Doudnikoff Evelyne , Thiolat Marie-Laure , Bohic Sylvain , Bezard Erwan , Dehay Benjamin
Published: March 2022

Background: Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is characterized by the presence of intracellular α-synuclein-rich protein aggregates, named Lewy Bodies (LB), and by the progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. Several heavy metals, including zinc (Zn), have been suggested to play a role in PD progression, although the exact role of Zn in neurodegeneration remains to be fully elucidated.Methods: To address this gap, we investigated the effects of Zn modulation on the progression of degeneration in mice injected with PD patient-derived LB-extracts carrying toxic a-synuclein aggregates. Zn modulation was achieved using either a clioquinol-enriched diet, a Zn ionophore that redistributes cellular Zn, or a Zn-enriched diet that increases Zn levels. Results: Clioquinol treatment significantly prevented dopaminergic neurodegeneration and reduced α-synuclein-associated pathology in LB-injected mice while no differences were observed with Zn supplementation. Biochemical analyses further demonstrate that the expression levels of vesicle-specific Zn transporter ZnT3 in the striatum of LB-injected mice treated with clioquinol were decreased, suggesting an intracellular redistribution of Zn. Additionally, we found that clioquinol modulates the autophagy-lysosomal pathway by enhancing lysosomal redistribution within the neuronal compartments. Conclusions: Collectively, we found that in vivo pharmacological chelation of Zn, by dampening Zn-mediated cytotoxicity, can result in an overall attenuation of PD-linked lysosomal alterations and dopaminergic neurodegeneration. The results support zinc chelation as a disease-modifying strategy for the treatment of PD.
A universal strategy for the fabrication of single-photon and multiphoton NIR chromophore nanoparticles by loading organic dyes into water-soluble polymer nanosponges
Authors: Yang Li-Xing , Liu Yu-Cheng , Cho Chang-Hui , Chen Yi-Rou , Lu Yin-Lin , Zhang Zhiming , Tsai Yi-Tseng , Chin Yu-Cheng , Yu Jiashing , Pan Hsiu-Min , Jiang Wei-Rou , Chia Zi-Chun , Huang Wei-Shiang , Chiu Yu-Lin , Sun Chun-Kai , Huang Yu-Ting , Chen Li-Ming , Wong Ken-Tsung , Chen Chih-Hsin , Chang Yuan Jay , Huang Chih-Chia , Liu Tzu-Ming
Published: March 2022

The development of optical organic nanoparticles (NPs) is desirable and widely studied. However, most organic chromophores are water-insoluble, and therefore, the derivatization and modification of these chromophores are difficult. Herein, we demonstrated a simple platform for the fabrication of organic nanoemitters by loading ten different organic dyes (molar masses of 479.1-1081.7 g/mol) into water-soluble polymer nanosponges composed of poly(styrene-alt-maleic acid) (PSMA). This nanolization strategy enables the incorporation of small commercial dyes (3.7–50% loading) and newly synthesized large photosensitive molecules (> 85% loading) into PSMA NPs and prevents the spontaneous aggregation of these hydrophobic chromophores in aqueous solutions. These low-cytotoxicity organic nanoparticles exhibited tunable red to near-infrared fluorescence emission for cellular imaging and biological tracking in vivo. Moreover, PSMA NPs loaded with designed NIR-photosensitive molecules were fabricated, and photodynamic therapy with these dye-loaded PSMA NPs for the photolysis of cancer cells was achieved when coupled with 808 nm laser excitation. Indeed, our work demonstrates a facile approach for increasing the biocompatibility and stability of organic dyes by loading them into water-soluble polymer-based carriers, providing a new perspective of organic optoelectronic materials in biomedical theranostic applications.
Potential factors predicting histopathologically upgrade discrepancies between endoscopic forceps biopsy of the colorectal low-grade intraepithelial neoplasia and endoscopic resection specimens
Authors: Chen Youxiang , Hong Junbo , Wang Yining , Deng Jiangshan , Qi Miao , Zuo Wei , Hao Yuanzheng , Wang Anjiang , Tu Yi , Xu Shan , Zhou Xiaodong , Zhou Xiaojiang , Li Guohua , Zhu Liang , Shu Xu , Zhu Yin , Lv Nonghua
Published: March 2022

Background: It was gradually accepted that endoscopic fragment biopsy (EFB) diagnosis cannot accurately guarantee the absence of higher-grade neoplasms within the lesion of digestive tract. There are no well-established predictors for histopathologically upgrade discrepancies between EFB diagnosing colorectal low-grade intraepithelial neoplasia (LGIN) and endoscopic resection (ER) specimens demonstrating higher-grade diseases. Methods: A total of 918 colorectal LGINs was histopathologically diagnosed by EFB, including 162 cases with histopathologically upgrade discrepancy and 756 concordant cases. We compared clinicopathological data and relevant pathologic results of EFB and ER specimen between these two groups. Multivariate analysis was performed to investigate predictors for this upgrade histopathology. Results: The predominant upgrade discrepancy of LGINs diagnosed by EFB was upgrades to high-grade dysplasia (n = 114, 70.4%), followed by upgrades to intramucosal carcinoma (n = 33, 20.3%), submucosal adenocarcinoma (n = 10, 6.2%) and advanced adenocarcinoma (n = 5, 3.1%). NSAID history (OR 4.83; 95 % CI, 2.27-10.27; P < 0.001), lack of standardization of EFB number (OR 2.99; 95 % CI, 1.91-4.68; P < 0.001), ≥ 1.0 cm maximum diameter of the target adenoma (OR 6.18; 95% CI, 1.32-28.99; P = 0.021), lobulated shape (OR 2.68; 95 % CI, 1.65-4.36; P < 0.001), erythema (OR 2.42; 95 % CI, 1.50-3.91; P < 0.001), erosion (OR 7.12; 95 % CI, 3.91-12.94; P < 0.001), surface unevenness (OR 2.31; 95 % CI, 1.33-4.01; P = 0.003) and distal location of the target adenoma (OR 3.29; 95% CI, 1.68-6.41; P < 0.001) were associated with the histologically upgrade discrepancies. Conclusion: NSAID history, lack of standardization of EFB number, adenoma size and location, abnormal macroscopic patterns are significant predictors for potentially upgrade histopathology of LGINs diagnosed by EFBs. The standardization of EFB and advanced imaging techniques could minimize the risk of neglecting potential this upgrade histopathology.
Impact of Physical Activity Intensity on Longitudinal Trajectories of Cognitive Function and Depressive Symptoms in Middle-aged and Older Chinese Adults: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Zhang Wen , Wang Tingxuan , Wang Anni
Published: March 2022

Background
Cognitive decline and depressive symptoms are very common in the ageing process. Physical activity (PA) has been demonstrated to be associated with the improvement of cognitive function and the reduction of depressive symptoms. However, little is known about how longitudinal trajectories of cognitive function and depressive symptoms are impacted by varying levels of PA intensity. In this study, we aimed to test whether and to what degree the rate of change in longitudinal trajectories of cognitive function and depressive symptoms over time was associated with PA intensity.
Method
The data were from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, a nationally representative household study of the Chinese population aged 45 years and older. The sample included 5,025 middle-aged and older adults (mean age = 57) who self-reported their cognitive function, depressive symptoms, and PA intensity (vigorous PA, moderate PA, and light PA) every two years from 2011 to 2018.
Result
On average, every 2 years, cognitive function decreased by 0.09 points (95% CI: [-0.15, -0.03], P < 0.01), while depressive symptoms increased by 0.22 points (95% CI: [0.14,0.30], P < 0.001). Middle-aged and older adults with more frequent moderate PA were more likely to report better cognitive function (β = 0.02, 95% CI:[0.002,0.04]), while those with more frequent light PA were more likely to have fewer depressive symptoms (β=-0.03, 95% CI:[-0.06, 0.01]). Rates of reduction in cognitive function were lower among middle-aged and older adults with more moderate PA. There was no reduction in cognitive function when the participants reported a minimum of 6 days of moderate PA per week.
Conclusion
Moderate PA could slow the reduction in cognitive function and light PA could slow the progression of depressive symptoms. A targeted intensity of PA may be more useful in obtaining the maximal improvement in cognitive function and mental health among middle-aged and older people. At least 6 days of moderate PA per week is advised to prevent cognitive impairment.
Antitumour Effects of Apatinib in Progressive, Metastatic Differentiated Thyroid Cancer (DTC)
Authors: Shi Liang , Qinqin You , Wang Jun , Wang Hanjin , Li Shaohua , Tian Rui , Yao Xiaocheng , Wu Wenyu , Zhang Lele , Wang Feng , Lin Yansong , Li Shuren
Published: March 2022

Purpose: Management of progressive, metastatic radioactive iodine refractory differentiated thyroid cancer (RAIR-DTC) has been a great challenge due to its poor prognosis and limited treatment options. Recently, apatinib, an orally anti-angiogenic tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) is reported to be useful for treatment of progressive RAIR-DIC. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antitumour effect of apatinib and the combination therapy with radioactive iodine (RAI) in patients with progressive metastatic DTC.Methods: Five patients (all female, mean age 62 ± 8 years, ranged from 51 to 69 years) with progressive distant metastatic DTC (dmDTC) after total thyroidectomy (TTE) and neck lymph node dissection were treated with apatinib at a dose 500 mg per day after 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) PET/CT. The effects of apatinib on DTC were evaluated at 4 ± 1 months after treatment with apatinib. RAI therapy was then initiated. The response to apatinib and the combination therapy with RAI treatment was evaluated by Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumours (RECIST, version 1.1) and metabolic activity using serum thyroglobulin (Tg) and 18F-FDG PET/CT. Results: Positive 18F-FDG PET/CT results were found in all patients before apatinib therapy. The immunohistochemical analysis of primary tumour tissues showed high expression of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (VEGFR-2). Four patients with follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) showed partial response (PR) with significant decrease in tumour size and maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) after 4 ± 1 month’s treatment with apatinib. Further significant reduction of tumour size and SUVmax were observed in three patients after combination therapy with apatinib and RAI. Only one patient with both FTC and papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) demonstrated progressive disease (PD) after treatment with apatinib alone, however, a decrease in tumour size and SUVmax as well as serum Tg levels was achieved after the combination with RAI therapy and apatinib. Conclusions: Apatinib had significant antitumour effects on progressive distant metastatic DTC. Moreover, beneficial synergistic and complementary effects were shown when apatinib combined with RAI therapy.Clinical Trial Registration: NCT02731352, Registered April 7, 2016.
Synchronous Measurement and Verification of Position-Independent Geometric Errors and Position-Dependent Geometric Errors in C-Axis on Mill-Turn Machine Tools
Authors: Chen Yu-Ta , Lee Ting-Yu , Liu Chien-Sheng
Published: March 2022

This paper proposes a synchronous measurement system of four position-independent geometric errors (PIGEs) and two position-dependent geometric errors (PDGEs) for the rotary axis in five-axis machine tools. The measuring instruments used in this system are a touch-trigger probe and two standard calibration spheres. The contribution of this paper is the simultaneous measurement of four PIGEs and two PDGEs (axial and angular positioning errors) can be directly analyzed through only one measuring process. It is expected to improve the shortcomings of previous studies that separately measured PIGEs and PDGEs. This paper analyzed the geometric errors of C-axis of a mill-turn machine tool MT-540. The process of calculation includes the establishment of the mathematical model of the machine and geometric error equations. Using the least squares method to solve the linear overdetermined system and calculate the values of the geometric errors. Before solving the geometric errors, the accuracy of the calculated process is ensured by using the simulated method. The simulation results also confirm the feasibility of this measurement system. Then using the data obtained from the experiment to calculate the geometric errors in the machine tool. During the experiment, the calibration procedure of the touch-trigger probe will be calibrated. After the calibration is completed, the mechanical coordinate values of the two standard calibration balls can be measured. The geometric error equations are programmed on the computer side, and the calibration spheres data obtained from the experimental measurement is substituted into the program to calculate the four PIGEs and two PDGEs.
Transcriptome-wide association study identifies new susceptibility genes for degenerative cervical spondylosis
Authors: Xu Jiawen , Zhang Shaoyun , Si Haibo , Zeng Yi , Wu Yuangang , Shen Bin
Published: March 2022

Objective
Degenerative cervical spondylosis (DCS) is a common musculoskeletal disease that encompasses a wide range of progressive degenerative changes and affects all the components of the cervical spine. DCS has brought a huge social and economic burdens to society. However, the genetic basis of DCS remains elusive now.
Methods
Firstly, by integrating the gene-expression prediction models of whole blood and skeletal muscle and genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary data of DCS (including 3739 DCS patients and 382326 controls), we conducted a transcriptome-wide association study (TWAS) to evaluate the associations of genetically predicted gene-expression with DCS risk using Functional Summary-based Imputation (FUSION) software. Secondly, to validate the genes identified by TWAS analysis, these genes were further compared with the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) detected by the RNA expression profiles of DCS acquired from the Gene Expression Omnibus database (GEO, accession number: GSE153761). Thirdly, we used Functional Mapping and Annotation of Genome-wide Association Study (FUMA) and Metascape tools to conduct gene functional enrichment and annotation analysis.
Results
TWAS identified 420 significant genes for DCS with a P value < 0.05 in the skeletal muscle, such as RPS15A (PTWAS = 0.0003), and 110 genes in the whole blood, such as SELL (PTWAS = 0.0028). After comparing with RNA expression profiling of DCS, we identified 12 common genes, such as APLNR (PTWAS = 0.0013, PDEG = 0.0254). We identified 148 GO terms enriched for DCS, such as mast cell degranulation (GO:0043303). We also identified 15 KEGG pathways enriched for DCS, such as sphingolipid signaling pathway (ko04071). By integrating the enrichment results of TWAS analysis and RNA expression profile, 9 common terms were identified such as Degradation of the extracellular matrix (R-HSA-1474228).
Conclusion
Our results identified putative susceptibility genes for DCS, providing new insights into the genetic mechanisms underlying DCS development.
Various metal ions promote formation of α-Synuclein fibrils with different shapes and cytotoxicities.
Authors: Saboury Ali Akbar , Atarod Deyhim , Mamashli Fatemeh , Ghasemi Atiyeh , Moosavi-Movahedi Faezeh , Pirhaghi Mitra , Nedaei Hadi , Riazi Gholamhossein , Muronetz Vladimir , Haertlé Thomas , Tatzelt Jörg
Published: March 2022

α-Synuclein (α-Syn) aggregates are key components of intracellular inclusion bodies characteristic of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and other synucleinopathies. Metal ions have been considered as the important etiological factors in PD since their interactions with α-Syn alter the kinetics of fibrillation. In the present study, we have systematically explored the effects of Zn2+, Cu2+, Ca2+, and Mg2+ cations on α-Syn fibril formation. Specifically, we determined fibrillation kinetics, size, morphology, and secondary structure of the fibrils and their cytotoxic activity. While all cations accelerate fibrillation we observed distinct effects of the different ions. For example, Zn2+ induced fibrillation by lower tlag and higher kapp and formation of shorter fibrils, while Ca2+ ions lead to formation of longer fibrils, evidences by dynamic light scattering and atomic force microscopy studies. Additionally, the morphology of formed fibrils was different. Circular dichroism studies revealed higher content of antiparallel β-sheets in fibrils formed in the presence of Zn2+. Interestingly, cell viability studies indicated nontoxicity of α-Syn fibrils formed in the presence of Zn2+ ions, while the fibrils formed in the presence of Cu2+, Ca2+, and Mg2+ were cytotoxic. Our results revealed that α-Syn fibrils formed in the presence of different divalent cations have distinct structural and cytotoxic features and indicate a protective role of Zn2+ in the formation of neurotoxic α-Syn assemblies.
Participatory Development of Practical, Affordable, Insecticide-Treated Mosquito Proofing for a Range of Housing Designs in Rural Southern Tanzania
Authors: Msoffe Rogath , Hewitt Matilda , Masalu John P. , Finda Marceline , Kavishe Deogratius R. , Okumu Fredros O. , Mpolya Emmanuel A. , Kaindoa Emmanuel W. , Killeen Gerry F.
Published: March 2022

Background
Insecticidal mosquito-proof netting screens could combine the best features of insecticide treated nets (ITNs) and indoor residual spraying (IRS), the two most important front line vector control interventions in Africa today, and also overcome the most important limitations of these two methods, such as pyrethroid resistance. This study engaged members of a rural Tanzanian community in developing and evaluating simple, affordable and scalable procedures for installing readily available screening materials on eave gaps and windows of their own houses, and then treating those screens with a widely used IRS formulation of the organophosphate insecticide pirimiphos-methyl (PM).
Methods
A cohort of 54 households were recruited upon consent, following which the structural features and occupant demographics of their houses were surveyed. Indoor mosquito densities were surveyed longitudinally, both before and after a participatory house modification, and screening was done using locally available materials. Each house was randomly assigned to one of three study arms: (1) No screens installed until the end of the study (negative control), (2) untreated screens installed, and (3) screened installed and then those screens treated with PM. The longevity of the activity of the insecticide applied to these screens was assessed using standard WHO cone assays.
Results
Of the 54 households, 52 participated until to the end, at which point all houses had been successfully screened. In most cases, screening was only installed after making enabling structural modifications that were accepted by the enrolled households. Screening installations almost entirely excluded Anopheles arabiensis (Relative reduction (RR) ≥ 96%, P < < 0.0001), the most abundant malaria vector in the area; but was less effective against Culex quinquefasciatus, a non-malaria vector with significant biting nuisance (RR ≤ 46%, P < < 0.0001). While the PM treatment of these netting screens reduced indoor densities of Cx. quinquefasciatus by only 24%, An. arabiensis was reduced by 63% and treated screens exhibited satisfactory residual efficacy eight months after treatment.
Conclusions
This study demonstrates that participatory approaches to mosquito proofing houses may be acceptable and effective, and that installed screens may be suitable targets for treatment with residual insecticides.
Wintertime Cold and Warm Spells in The Eastern Part of The Baltic Sea Region
Authors: Gečaitė Indrė , Rimkus Egidijus
Published: March 2022

One of the most important uncertainties in a changing climate conditions are changes in climate extremes. While precipitation extremes are particularly important at low latitudes, thermal extremes are of major interest at mid-latitudes. This study analyses the cold (CS) and warm (WS) spells winter climatology in the eastern part of the Baltic Sea region from 1951 till 2020. Data from the E-OBS database were used in the research. A CS/WS in this study is an event when extreme low/high (below 10th/above 90th percentile) air temperature persists for at least 5 days. The period 1971–2000 was used as the climate norm. The results show that both absolute winter air temperature minimum and maximum increased over the investigation period. The absolute maximum of winter air temperature strongly increased after 1988, when a statistically significant regime shift was determined. The results show that the number of WSs have increased and changes are statistically significant in most cases. Meanwhile, the recurrence and duration of CSs have changed insignificantly, although the number of years with more than one CSs is decreasing. The total number of CS/WS cases per season slightly increased. Total number of WSs days increased a lot at the last decade of the investigation period, while the number of CSs days changed insignificantly in recent several decades.
Probabilistic Seismic Evaluation and Experimental Tests of Multi-Direction Damping System on a Super-Long Column-Pylon Cable-Stayed Bridge
Authors: Zhong Jian , Chen Liang , Su Ruihan , Hu Ke
Published: March 2022

In view of the insufficiency of bidirectional seismic control of long span cable-stayed bridges as well as the limitations of existing schemes, a multi-direction damping system (MDDS) was proposed and investigated in this manuscript, which can provide seismic resistance bidirectionally. The new damping system owned a unique middle connecting structure, which overcomes the disadvantages that axial instability caused of excessive long rod and the demand of large installing space of traditional dampers. Both the performance stability and constitutive relationship of MDDS were verified by engineering tests, and the equivalent design method was then proposed and proved to be applicable. A detailed finite element numerical model of a super-long (main span over 800m) column-pylon cable-stayed bridge which equipped with MDDS in practice was established, the fragility curves of critical components were obtained by non-linear time history analysis, which exhibited the high efficiency of MDDS seismic performance in both transversal and longitudinal directions. Through extracting the median fragility value of 35 sections of the pylon under four damping cases i.e. setting dampers transversely (TDS), longitudinally (LDS), bidirectionally (BDS) and MDDS, it can be concluded that MDDS performed far better on seismic resistance than LDS and TDS, and made the similar contribution with BDS. On account of half number of damper setting and the reduction in installing space demand, MDDS becomes the optimal choice in practical application for its economical efficiency and superiority. Furthermore, the optimal horizontal installing angle of MDDS was derived through six angle cases which was based on the system-level fragility curves comparison.
USP13 Genetics and Expression in a Family With Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Maria Andrea G. , Azevedo Bruna , Settas Nikolaos , Hannah-Shmouni Fady , Stratakis Constantine A. , Faucz Fabio R.
Published: March 2022

Purpose: Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common type of thyroid carcinoma and its incidence has greatly increased in the last 30 years. Ubiquitin-specific protease 13 (USP13) is a class of deubiquitinating enzymes (DUBs) and plays an important role in cellular functions such as cell cycle regulation, DNA damage repair and is implicated in different cell signaling pathways. Studies regarding the role of USP13 in cancer development and progression are divergent and there are no previous data regarding the role of USP13 gene in PTCs. In this study, we investigated the genetic cause of PTC diagnosed in multiple members of a Brazilian family. Methods: Whole exome sequencing identified a heterozygous missense variant c.1483G>A (p.V495M) in the USP13 gene that fully segregates with the disease. We investigated whether the USP13 c.1483G>A variant found in our PTC patients impacts USP13 protein stability and function in thyroid cancer cells, MDA-T32, by clycloheximide chase assay.Results: The specific variant (c.1483G>A) preserves protein stability for longer hours compared to the non-mutated USP13 protein. Moreover, USP13 overexpression increased the potential of a single cell to form colony and the USP13 c.1483G>A variant enhanced the effects seen in USP13 overexpression. Conclusion: Our study suggests that USP13 may enhance tumorigenesis in PTC; in addition, the p.V495M (c.1483G>A) variant may contribute to PTC formation.
W-shaped Profile and Breather-like Soliton of the Fractional Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation Describing the Polarization Mode in Optical Fibers
Authors: HOUWE Alphonse , Abbagari Souleymanou , Djorwe Philippe , Saliou Youssoufa , Doka Serge Yamigno , Inc Mustafa
Published: March 2022

We use the nonlinear Schrödinger equation (NLSE) describing the polarization mode in optical fiber (OF) with Self-Steepening (SS), Self-Frequency Shift (SFS) and Cubic-quintic (CQ) term to analyze the effects of the fractional time parameter (FTP) on propagation of the breather-like solitons. We show the effects of the fractional parameter (FP) on the W-shaped profile, bright and dark optical soliton solutions as well as on the corresponding chirp component. It is observed that for small values of the FP, optical soliton shape is affected. Moreover, we show the effects of fraction time (FT) on Modulation Instability (MI) gain spectra. For all values of the FP, side lobes are formed and when these values increase the stability zones increases and the amplitude also increases values and the stability zones increases, both the stability zones and the soliton amplitude increase. We numerically investigate the propagation of the continuous waves (CW). We show the formation of stable breather-like soliton for small values of the FTP.
Native ligand carbonization renders common platinum nanoparticles highly durable for electrocatalytic oxygen reduction: annealing temperature matters
Authors: Li Zhicheng , Zou Jinxiang , Xi Xiangyun , Fan Pengshuo , Peng Ye , Banham Dustin , Yang Dong , Dong Angang
Published: March 2022

Monodisperse nanoparticles have attracted great attention in fundamental and applied research. Current protocols for the synthesis of monodisperse nanoparticles typically involve hydrocarbon molecules as surface-capping ligands. Utilizing platinum (Pt)-based nanoparticles for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), however, hydrocarbon ligands must be removed in order to expose the surface sites. Here, highly active and durable Pt catalysts are realized without removing the ligands; instead, the native surface ligands are directly converted into uniform, bilayered graphitic shells conformally coated on individual Pt nanoparticles by simple thermal annealing. Strikingly, the annealing temperature is found to be a critical factor dictating the ORR performance of Pt catalysts. Pt nanoparticles thermally treated at 500 oC show a very poor ORR activity, whereas those annealed at 700 oC become highly active along with exceptional stability. In-depth characterization reveals that thermal treatment from 500 to 700 oC triggers the subtle structural reconstruction of carbon shells through graphitization, gradually opening up the porosity without affecting the carbon shell thickness. Additionally, the ligand-derived graphitic shells can effectively prevent Pt nanoparticles from detachment, agglomeration, and dissolution while largely maintaining the accessibility of surface sites. As a result, such graphitic-shell-coated Pt catalysts can exhibit superior long-term stability, largely retaining the activity after 20,000 accelerated durability test cycles in a membrane electrode assembly. Moreover, this ligand carbonization strategy is amenable to Pt-based alloy nanoparticles and can further be extended to modify commercial Pt/C catalysts with substantially enhanced durability. Our work shows that boosting the ORR performance of common Pt nanoparticles is certainly possible by harnessing the native surface ligands, thus offering a robust approach of designing highly durable catalysts for proton-exchange membrane fuel cells.
Gender Differences In Sex-Related Education, Knowledge, And Attitudes Among Chinese Adolescents
Authors: Li Hongfei , Gan Mantang , Rao Xinlong , Xiong Chengzhu , Liu Dongdong , Guan Xin , Liu Yanfen , Mo Jian
Published: March 2022

Background: Gender equality in sex education is important to protect adolescents from unexpected pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections. The aim of this study was to examine gender differences in sex-related education, knowledge, and attitudes, and to identify factors that may contribute to these gender differences. Methods：A cross-sectional survey was distributed to 191 adolescents from four high schools in Fuzhou, China. Multivariable regression analyses were used to determine the associations between individual factors and their knowledge, attitudes.Results: Over 80% the responding adolescents lacked knowledge about contraception, and half of them cannot recognize all the AIDS transmitted routes. Boys got a lower level sex-related knowledge score than girls. However, parents were more likely to answer girls’ questions about sex than boys (p<0.001), and sex education courses were delivered later to boys (p=0.003). Gender difference of knowledge score was not identified in the multivariable linear regression model, while education from parents/school and sex education need score were found to be positive factors. In the multivariable logistic regression models, parents’ positive responses to adolescents’ questions and need score were associated with respondents’ attitudes with adolescence.Conclusions: Our findings indicated that Chinese high school students had a low level sex-related knowledge and education needs. Several individual factors may explain gender differences in adolescents’ sexual knowledge and attitudes. Designation of targeted sex education programs should consider these individual factors in the future.
A neural network based approach to classify VLF signals as rock rupture precursors
Authors: Nardi Adriano , Pignatelli Alessandro , Spagnuolo Elena
Published: March 2022

The advent of novel technologies revealed that other geophysical signals than those directly related to fault motion could be used to probe the state of deformation of the Earth's crust. Electromagnetic signals belonging to this category have been increasingly investigated in the last decade in association to natural earthquakes and laboratory rock fractures. These studies are hampered by the lack of continuous recordings and a systematic mathematical processing of large data sets. Indeed, electromagnetic signals exhibit characteristic patterns on a specific frequency band (the very low frequency, VLF) that correlate uniquely with the paroxistic rupture of rocks specimens under uniaxial laboratory tests and were also detected in the atmosphere, in association to moderate magnitude earthquakes. The similarity of laboratory and atmospheric VLF offers an unique opportunity to study the relation between VLF and rock deformation on at least two different scales and to enlarge the dataset by combining laboratory and atmospheric data. In this paper we show that the enlarged VLF dataset can be successfully used, with a neural network approach based on LSTM neural networks to investigate the potential of the VLF spectrum in classifying rock rupture precursors both in nature and in the laboratory. The proposed approach lays foundation to the automatic detection of interesting VLF patterns for monitoring deformations in the seismically active Earth’s crust.
Barriers to establishing outpatient cardiac rehabilitation in the western region of Saudi Arabia : A cross sectional study
Authors: Khushhal Alaa , Alsubaiei Mohmmed
Published: March 2022

Background: The core of cardiac rehabilitation is structured exercise training. CR reduces 28-56% hospital readmission rate, and around 25 % increases cardiorespiratory fitness, thus there is a need to establish outpatient CR (Phase III) in Saudi Arabia (SA). Furthermore, the awareness of outpatient CR in SA is unknown.Aims: To determine the main barriers to establishing an outpatient CR program (Phase III) in the western region of SA, as well as assess the awareness of outpatient CR (Phase III) in the western region of SA. Methods: A cross-sectional study survey was conducted among physiotherapists, cardiologists and the cardiac surgeon using a questionnaire distributed electronically to determine the awareness level of outpatient CR and barriers to establishing outpatient CR (Phase III) in the western region of SA. Results: Of the 141 participants who completed the survey, our findings showed that 131 were aware of CR with 112 participants were not aware of the four phases of CR. There were three main barriers to establishing CR: no appropriate CR (96%), lack of awareness among healthcare professions of the comprehensive CR phases and its benefits (95%) and the lack of healthcare providers trained in CR (94%). Conclusions: To overcome the barriers to establishing CR outpatient centers in the western region of SA, it is recommended to provide more CR outpatient training programs to healthcare providers and raise the awareness of the CR phases, its benefits, and the risk factors for developing cardiac diseases among healthcare providers.
Towards white light laser emission based on strained Poly:(Si/Ge)
Authors: Nawwar Mohamed A. , Ghazala Magdy S. Abo , El-Deen Lobna M. Sharaf , El-Shaer Abdelhamid , Anis Badawi , Kashyout Abd El-hady B
Published: March 2022

Solubility of Sn in Ge has the most impact in the emission characteristics of direct band gap GeSn alloy. Here, we employed the metal induced crystallization (MIC) process of amorphous Ge and Si via Sn as a novel mechanism to incorporate Sn inside Ge and Si networks. (Al/Si/Sn/Ge/Sn) and (Al/Ge/Sn/Ge/Sn) multilayers are deposited by thermal vacuum evaporation on different substrates. The devices are annealed under low vacuum at 500 ºC. The Ge doped nanocrystals structure is investigated. The direct transition and band gap values have been estimated using diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and Photoluminescence (PL) measurements. PL indicted that the junctions have emissions from visible to NIR regions that make them promise in white light laser sources as well as waveguiding applications. Charge carrier lifetime and EL measurements show high lifetime and very sharp emission, respectively indicating that the prepared structure is a candidate for white laser diode applications.
Time Operator in Quantum Mechanics; Fourier Transform
Authors: Belay Negasa
Published: March 2022

We can not only bring time operator in quantum mechanics (non-relativistic) but also determine its Eigen value, commutation relation of its square with energy and some of the properties of time operator like either it is Hermitian or not,either its expectation value is real or complex for a wave packet etc. Exactly these are what I have done.
Multi-model Predictive Stability Control Strategy for Vehicle Four-wheel Steering System Considering Tire Nonlinear Cornering Characteristics
Authors: Luan Zhongkai , Zhao Wanzhong , Wang Chunyan
Published: March 2022

In extreme working conditions such as poor road conditions, the low road adhesion coefficient is easy to cause the tire cornering characteristics curve to be in the nonlinear domain, making the vehicle system in the critical instability state. To this end, this paper proposes a cascade deep learning framework combining multi-model predictive control (MMPC) and LSTM tire cornering stiffness estimation (TCSE) neural network and designs a stability control strategy of vehicle four-wheel steering system considering tire nonlinear cornering characteristics. The four-wheel steering system and vehicle tire dynamic model are analyzed and established, and the online estimation method of tire cornering stiffness and MMPC's sub-model classification method is developed. On this basis, the tire angle is creatively introduced as the phase plane stability region boundary, used to design the MMPC controller's boundary condition. The hardware in the loop test results shows that compared with the existing research, the strategy proposed in this paper can effectively improve the tracking accuracy of the target steering signal and ensure the system's stability when the road adhesion coefficient is low.