bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
T-helper cell subsets, key cytokines and chemokines in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease (Part 2)*
Authors:   State Research Institute of Highly Pure Biological Products of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Vakhitov T.Ya. , Kudryavtsev I.V. ,   Institute of Experimental Medicine, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation,   Far Eastern Federal University, Vladivostok, Russian Federation, Sall T.S. ,   State Research Institute of Highly Pure Biological Products of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Lazareva N.M. ,   State Research Institute of Highly Pure Biological Products of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation,   Academician I.P.Pavlov First Saint Petersburg State Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Kononova S.V. ,   State Research Institute of Highly Pure Biological Products of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Khavkin A.I. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Sitkin S.I. ,   State Research Institute of Highly Pure Biological Products of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation,   V.A.Almazov National Medical Research Centre, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation,   North-Western State Medical University named after I.I. Mechnikov, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation
Published: May 2021

Studies in recent decades have identified the role of various T-helper cell subsets in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) and have shown the importance of cytokine-mediated regulation of the immune response in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD). The imbalance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines in IBD prevents resolution of inflammation and leads to chronic course, disease progression and tissue destruction. In the review article, the role of key cytokines that are important in the development and progression of IBD is discussed. Of the pro-inflammatory mediators involved in the pathogenesis of IBD, special attention is currently paid to chemokines – cytokines belonging to chemoattractants. Chemokines are responsible for directed migration and attraction of cells expressing a certain set of receptors to organs, tissues and foci of inflammation. The article provides unique data on the importance of some chemokines in IBD. Cytokines, chemokines and their receptors are considered as potential therapeutic targets in IBD. Cytokine-targeted therapy using antibodies against TNF-α and antibodies to IL-12/IL-23 have already shown high efficiency and safety in randomized clinical trials, as well as in real clinical practice in patients with IBD. The data presented by the authors are important for clarifying the role of immunological processes, including microbiome-dependent ones, in the etiopathogenesis of IBD. Key words: inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, T-helper cell subsets, cytokines, chemokines, gut microbiome
Trapezius Tear Causing Scapular Winging Treated with Rhomboid Transfer and Achilles Allograft Reconstruction
Authors: Tang Peter , Schreck Mark
Published: May 2021

Case:

This is a case of an 18-year-old woman with superior and lateral scapular winging due to traumatic injuries to the insertions of the superior and middle trapezius as well as the origins of the latissimus dorsi and lower trapezius.

Conclusion:

Scapular winging can be caused by a muscle tear in absence of a nerve injury. This patient underwent latissimus dorsi origin repair and superior and middle trapezius repairs. An Achilles allograft was used to reconstruct her lower trapezius to provide static restraint to her scapula, while a rhomboid major transfer was performed to provide dynamic restraint.
Mycoplasma hominis Lumbar Wound Infection After Posterior Decompression and Instrumented Fusion
Authors: Ng Stacy , Kumar Shree Dinesh , Loo Wee Lim
Published: May 2021

Case:

A 63-year-old man underwent L2-S1 decompression and fusion for spinal stenosis. He developed urinary retention postoperatively requiring catheterization. He developed fever, purulence, and foot-drop 8 days postoperatively and underwent debridement with implant retention. Cultures yielded Mycoplasma hominis after 10 days. He received 4 weeks of doxycycline. Four years postoperatively, he had no recurrence of infection and was able to ambulate despite a persistent foot-drop.

Conclusion:

Mycoplasma hominis is a urogenital commensal rarely implicated in musculoskeletal infections. A high index of suspicion is required in spinal surgery patients who develop fever and purulence and have initial negative cultures and poor response to empirical antibiotics.
2D numerical simulation of the filling process of submarine minibasins: Study of deposit architecture
Authors: Bastianon Elena , Viparelli Enrica , Cantelli Alessandro , Imran Jasim
Published: May 2021

Intraslope basins, or minibasins, are topographic features of the continental slope that can be filled with sediment transported by submarine flows. These deposits may contain important hydrocarbon reservoirs. Here we present results of two-dimensional numerical simulations of multiple turbidity currents entering two linked minibasins. The numerical model accounts for the non-uniformity of sediment grain size in the flow and the resulting deposit. Model results reasonably reproduce the evolution of linked minibasins illustrated in the field based “fill-and-spill” conceptual model. The conceptual model was developed for the Brazos–Trinity system from field observations. Further, simulations of two linked minibasins show that the upstream basin traps most of the coarse sediment. This material is deposited in the proximal zone of the basin and fine sediment is transported farther downslope, resulting in the formation of a weak pattern of downstream fining. Model results with different initial and boundary conditions reveal that minibasin geometry and turbidity-current characteristics are important controls on the deposit shape and grain-size distribution.
STRUCTURAL AND PROTEIN PRESERVATION IN FOSSIL WHALE BONES FROM THE PISCO FORMATION (MIDDLE-UPPER MIOCENE), PERU
Authors: BOSKOVIC DANILO S. , VIDAL URIEL L. , NICK KEVIN E. , ESPERANTE RAUL , BRAND LEONARD R. , WRIGHT KENNETH R. , SANDBERG LAWRENCE B. , SIVIERO BETHANIA C.T.
Published: May 2021

Microstructural and biomolecular preservation is reported in fossils as old as the Triassic. Such preservation suggests unusual taphonomic conditions. We collected fragments of fossil whale bone from silty, tuffaceous, and diatomaceous rocks of the middle-upper Miocene portion of the Pisco Formation. The whale fossils within the region are generally well-preserved and mostly articulated, including some specimens with in situ baleen. Due to the depositional setting associated with the preservation of these fossils, they could be expected to be favorable candidates for the preservation of cellular microstructures and/or original biomolecules. To test this hypothesis, fossil whale bone fragments were subjected to microscopic analysis and EDTA-mediated demineralization to release extractable materials. Microscopy of partially demineralized fossil bones revealed quartz-permineralized osteocyte-like and vessel-like structures. Protein assay (micro-Bicinchoninic Acid Assay) of the supernatants obtained from demineralized fossils yielded 12 to 19.5 μg of protein per gram of bone. MALDI-TOF analysis of the extracted protein demonstrated the presence of approximately 5 kD molecules in one fossil sample, consistent with the presence of highly fragmented polypeptides. An LC-MS/MS analysis of the fragmentation pattern of the tryptic digest of extracted protein was performed. However, attempted protein identification was unsuccessful. Nevertheless, this study first documents the microstructural preservation with some silicification of the fossil whale bones of the Pisco Formation, and then quantifies extractable protein from these bones. It adds to the growing body of reports of microstructural and organic preservation in fossils.
INVERTEBRATE AND PLANT TRACE FOSSILS FROM THE TERRESTRIAL LATE TRIASSIC OF ZIMBABWE
Authors: SCISCIO LARA , BRODERICK TIMOTHY J. , BARRETT PAUL M. , MUNYIKWA DARLINGTON , ZONDO MICHEL , CHOINIERE JONAH N.
Published: May 2021

Late Triassic invertebrate and plant trace fossils are described from the Pebbly Arkose Formation of the Upper Karoo Group (Gwembe Sub-basin, Mid-Zambezi Basin), Zimbabwe. These ichnofossils appear in pedogenically modified siltstone and silty mudstone floodplain deposits and overbank fluvial channels. The ichnofossil-bearing sites show variability in their pedogenic features, maturity and preservation. Invertebrate ichnofossils are primarily recorded as horizontal, vertical and inclined burrows, sometimes branched, lined or unlined and may have an active meniscate infill. The common forms documented are Taenidium, Beaconites, Palaeophycus, Skolithos, and Planolites ispp. with some rare and more unusual morphologies (i.e., ‘Y’-shaped burrow type). Ichnofossil-bearing sites show a low-diversity but high-density of traces commonly dominated by Taenidium and Planolites ispp. The greatest diversity of invertebrate ichnofossils are within interbedded overbank sandstones in weakly pedogenically modified overbank sites. Rhizohalos and rhizoliths are common and often include carbonate infilled roots. Given the abundance and dimensions of fossilized wood and the rhizohalos and rhizoliths, the Pebbly Arkose Formation supported both large and small stature plants. Overall, the studied Pebbly Arkose Formation overbank areas are typically well-drained, calcic palaeosols subject to variable discharge, subaerial exposure, and supporting a diversity of plant and invertebrates tracemakers that lived in a semi-arid to sub-humid environment.
Development of a Probabilistic Framework for Risk-Based Well Decommissioning Design
Authors: Johnson Caroline , Sefat Morteza Haghighat , Elsheikh Ahmed H. , Davies David
Published: May 2021

In the next decades, tens of thousands of well plugging and abandonment (P&A) operations are expected to be executed worldwide. Decommissioning activities in the North Sea alone are forecasted to require 2,624 wells to be plugged and abandoned during the 10-year period starting from 2019 (Oil&Gas_UK 2019). This increase in decommissioning activity level and the associated high costs of permanent P&A operations require new, fit-for-purpose, P&A design tools and operational technologies to ensure safe and cost-effective decommissioning of hydrocarbon production wells. This paper introduces a novel modeling framework to support risk-based evaluation of well P&A designs using a fluid-flow simulation methodology combined with probabilistic estimation techniques.

The developed well-centric modeling framework covers the full range of North Sea P&A well designs and allows for quantification of the long-term (thousands of years) evolution of hydrocarbon movement in the plugged and abandoned well. The framework is complemented by an in-house visualization tool for identification of the dominant hydrocarbon flow-paths. Monte Carlo methods are used to account for uncertainties in the modeling inputs, allowing for robust comparison of various P&A design options, which can be ranked on the basis of hydrocarbon leakage risks.

The proposed framework is able to model transient conditions within the well P&A system, allowing for the development of new key performance indicators (e.g., time until hydrocarbons reach surface and changes in hydrocarbon saturation within the P&A well). Such key performance indicators are not commonly used, because most published work in this area relies on steady-state P&A models.

The developed framework was used in the assessment of several P&A design cases. The results obtained, which are presented in this paper, demonstrate its value for supporting risk-based decision-making by allowing for quantitative comparison of the expected performance of multiple P&A design options for given well/reservoir conditions. The framework can be used for identifying cost-effective, fit-for-purpose P&A designs, for example by optimizing the number, location, and length of wellbore barriers and evaluating the effectiveness of annular cement sheath remedial operations. Additionally, this framework can be used as a sensitivity analysis tool to identify the critical parameters that have the greatest impact on the modeled leakage risks, to guide data acquisition plans and model refinement steps aimed at reducing the uncertainties in key model parameters.
Prevalence of mental health symptoms and its effect on insomnia among healthcare workers who attended hospitals during COVID-19 pandemic: A survey in Dhaka city
Authors: Ali Mohammad , Uddin Zakir , Ahsan Nawara Faiza , Haque Muhammad Zahirul , Bairagee Monisha , Khan Sabbir Ahmed , Hossain Ahmed
Published: May 2021

Background: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the high workload, risk of infection, and safety issues for family members may pose a threat to the mental health of healthcare workers (HCWs) working in hospital settings. The study aimed to find out the prevalence of anxiety, depression, and insomnia symptoms were among HCWs, as well as the factors related to these mental health issues.Methods: We conducted an online survey of HCWs employed in Dhaka city from June 6 to July 6, 2020. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, and insomnia were measured using the Generalized Anxiety Disorder, the depression module of the Patient Health Questionnaire, and the Insomnia Severity Index, respectively. The related factors of anxiety, depression, and insomnia symptoms were identified using three regression models.Results: This research included responses from 294 HCWs (mean± standard deviation age: 28.86±5.5 years; 43.5% were female). Anxiety, depression, and insomnia symptoms were found in 20.7%, 26.5%, and 44.2% of HCWs, respectively. The variable financial difficulties was commonly found as an associated factor for anxiety, depression, and insomnia symptoms. Female HCWs were more prone to mental health symptoms and insomnia compared to male HCWs (Adjusted odds ratio- AOR=2.20, 95% CI=1.27 – 3.79). The depression symptoms among HCWs were found to be a factor for insomnia (AOR=6.321, 95% CI= 3.158 – 12.650).Conclusion: In the current pandemic, the high prevalence of mental health symptoms among HCWs indicates that this occupational group being associated with increased mental distress. Increasing financial support for HCWs and providing support to female workers in care facilities could help to alleviate the burden of mental illness. Supportive, training, and educational strategies, particularly through knowledge and communication platforms, could be recommended to the care facilities, which can reduce the burden of mental health symptoms among HCWs.
Strategies for the Implementation of an Electronic Fracture Risk Assessment Tool in Long Term Care: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Bai Yuxin , McArthur Caitlin , Ioannidis George , Giangregorio Lora , Straus Sharon , Papaioannou Alexandra
Published: May 2021

Background: Older adults in long-term care (LTC) homes experience high rates of fractures, which are detrimental to their quality of life. The purpose of this study is to identify and make recommendations on knowledge translation interventions to implementing an evidence-based Fracture Risk Clinical Assessment Protocol (CAP) in LTC. Methods: Following the Behaviour Change Wheel framework, we conducted focus group interviews with 32 LTC stakeholders (e.g. LTC physicians) to identify barriers and facilitators, suggest intervention options, and discuss whether the identified interventions were feasible. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic content analysis. Results: The intervention themes that met the APEASE criteria were minimizing any increase in workload, training on CAP usage, education for residents and families, and persuasion through stories. Other intervention themes identified were culture change, resident-centred care, physical restructuring, software features, modeling in training, education for staff, social rewards, material rewards, public benchmarking, and regulations. Conclusions: To implement the Fracture Risk CAP in LTC, KT interventions centred around minimizing any increase in workload, training on CAP usage, providing education for residents and families, and persuading through stories may be used. Results from this work will improve identification and management of LTC residents at high fracture risk and could inform the implementation of guidelines for other conditions in LTC homes.
A novel non-metabolic function of lactate in remodeling uterine receptivity by inducing endometrial histone lactylation, revealed by a proteomic atlas of maternal-fetal crosstalk in sheep
Authors: Yang Qianying , Liu Juan , Wang Yue , Zhao Wei , Wang Wenjing , Cui Jian , Yang Jiajun , Yue Yuan , Chu Meiqiang , Lv Qingji , Ma Lizhu , Tang Yawen , Hu Yupei , Miao Kai , Zhao Haichao , Tian Jianhui , An Lei
Published: May 2021

Well-orchestrated maternal-fetal crosstalk involves secreted ligands, interacting receptors, and coupled pathways between the conceptus and endometrium. However, previous researches mainly focused on either the conceptus or endometrium in isolation. The lack of integrated analysis, especially on protein levels, has made it challenging to advance our understanding of the crosstalk. Herein, focusing on ligand–receptor complexes and coupled pathways at maternal-fetal interface in sheep, a well-established embryo implantation model, we provide the first comprehensive proteomic atlas of ligand-receptor-pathway cascades that are essential for implantation. Based on these candidate interactions, we further revealed the physical interaction of albumin-claudin 4 and their role in facilitating embryo attachment to endometrium. More interestingly, we demonstrated a novel non-metabolic function of enhanced conceptus glycolysis in remodeling uterine receptivity, by inducing endometrial histone lactylation, a newly identified histone modification. Our results from in vitro and in vivo models supported the essential role of lactate, as a key pregnancy recognition signal, in regulating redox homeostasis and apoptotic balance to ensure successful implantation. Our study identified many putative molecular and cellular mechanisms that fine-tuned conceptus-endometrium crosstalk during implantation, thus providing important clues for developing potential clinical intervention strategies to improve pregnancy outcomes following both natural conception and assisted reproduction.
Gender differences in mathematical achievement development: A family psychobiosocial model
Authors: Chiu Mei-Shiu , Chen Bo-Jen
Published: May 2021

This study proposes a family psychobiosocial model on gender differences in cognitive development. Specifically, the aim is to investigate how family biological, socioeconomic, and psychological factors predict child mathematics achievement (MAch) development. The data was obtained from the Millennium Cohort Study. Children’s pattern construction scores collected at ages 5 and 7 years worked as MAch (n = 18,497). The predictors were family data collected when the children were 9 months. The results of path analyses for all students indicate that all three factors in the family psychobiosocial model play some roles in children’s MAch development. Analyses for the female and male students separately reveal that girls’ positive MAch development was significantly predicted by four psychobiosocial factors (fewer mother in-pregnancy alcohol intakes, more family income, higher mother education levels, and more mother cognitive stimulation); boys’ MAch development is predicted by only one factor (higher mother education levels). The results support the psychobiosocial model as a whole. Family psychobiosocial factors, especially social factors, impact children’s cognitive development more for females than for males.
Longitudinal immune profiling of a SARS-CoV-2 reinfection in a solid organ transplant recipient
Authors: Klein Jon , Brito Anderson , Trubin Paul , Lu Peiwen , Wong Patrick , Alpert Tara , Pena-Hernandez Mario , Haynes Winston , Kamath Kathy , Liu Feimei , Vogels Chantal , Fauver Joseph , Lucas Carolina , Oh Ji Eun , Mao Tianyang , Silva Julio , Wyllie Anne , Muenker M. Catherine , Casanovas-Massana Arnau , Moore Adam , Petrone Mary , Kalinich Chaney , TEAM YALE IMPACT RESEARCH , Cruz Charles Dela , Farhadian Shelli , Ring Aaron , Shon John , Ko Albert , Grubaugh Nathan , Goldman-Israelow Benjamin , Iwasaki Akiko , Azar Marwan
Published: May 2021

The underlying immunologic deficiencies enabling SARS-CoV-2 reinfections are currently unknown. Here we describe a renal-transplant recipient who developed recurrent, symptomatic SARS-CoV-2 infection 7 months after primary infection. To elucidate the immunological mechanisms responsible for reinfection, we performed longitudinal profiling of cellular and humoral responses during both primary and recurrent SARS-CoV-2 infection. We found that the patient responded to the primary infection with transient, poor-quality adaptive immune responses that was further compromised by intervening treatment for acute rejection of the renal allograft prior to reinfection. Importantly, we identified the development of neutralizing antibodies and humoral memory responses prior to SARS-CoV-2 reinfection. However, these neutralizing antibodies failed to confer protection against reinfection, suggesting that additional factors are required for efficient prevention of SARS-CoV-2 reinfection. Further, we found no evidence supporting viral evasion of primary adaptive immune responses, suggesting that susceptibility to reinfection may be determined by host factors rather than pathogen adaptation.
Total excision of lumps and reconstructed the scrotum wall in situ for multiple epidermal cysts of scrotum: a case report
Authors: Wu ShangChao , Li GuanYi , Xu Hui , Niu Wenbin , Zhong Xin , Li Fang
Published: May 2021

BackgroundEpidermoid cysts are the common benign epithelial cysts that may occur in the dermis or subcutaneous tissue. It have been observed in several organs,especially in the skin of the scalp, ear, face, and back.However, the multiple epidermal cysts over the scrotum is a rare condition. We report a case of total excision of lumps and reconstructed the scrotum wall in situ for multiple epidermal cysts of scrotum.Case presentation:A 23-year-old man presented with multiple lumps on the scrotum skin for more than 7 years. On physical examination, multiple lumps were found arising from the scrotal skin, the largest one measuring 1.5 cm. Ultrasonography of the local part indicated testes of normal consistency without free fluid in the tunica of scrotum. The laboratory workup revealed that the blood cell, blood electrolyte and thyroid hormone were within the normal limits.A total excision of scrotal lumps and reconstructed the scrotum wall in situ was performed in this case. And the histopathologic of the specimen is demonstrated an epidermal cysts.ConclusionMultiple epidermal cysts over the scrotum are extremely rare, and correct diagnosis depends on the clinical history, radiological dates,clinical appearance,physical features and histopathologic analysis. The accumulation of further cases is needed to help understand the precisely histogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of this disease.
Prospects on the nano-plastic particles internalization and induction of cellular response in human keratinocytes
Authors: Gopinath Ponnusamy Manogaran , Twayana Krishna Sundar , Ravanan Palaniyandi , Thomas John , Mukherjee Amitava , Chandrasekaran Natarajan
Published: May 2021

Background
Today, cosmetic usage has become customary in both men and women towards improving their appearance and increase societal visibility. In this study, the nano-sized (30 to 300 nm) plastic particles were isolated from the commercial face-scrubs and treated on the human keratinocytes.
Results
The adherence studies of polyethylene nano-plastics (PENPs), polystyrene NPs (PSNPs), and face-scrubs isolated nano-plastics (NPs) on the keratin layer revealed a rapid attachment of NPs on the skin from the cosmetics that have short exposure time. This attachment property could facilitate further adherence of protein molecules on NPs and the protein-corona formation. The protein-corona mimics protein aggregates, thereby triggers the macropinocytosis followed by the macropinolysosomal process in the cell. Then the internalized NPs induced the concentration-dependent cytotoxic, cytostatic and cytoprotective activity in keratinocytes. Both single dose and chronic long-term exposure of lethal and sub-lethal concentrations of NPs resulted in the oxidative stress-mediated down-regulation of cell growth and proliferation inhibition. Autophagy and premature aging were also observed in the NPs internalized HaCaT cells incubated in a fresh, NPs-free medium.
Conclusion
At the outset, this work provides insight into the NPs concentration-dependent regulatory, cytoprotective, and cytotoxic effects in HaCaT cells. Further studies are required to identify the detailed mechanisms of NPs toxicity and cytoprotective events in cells at the molecular level.
Association Between Maternal Exposure to PM10 and Risk of Anorectal Atresia/Stenosis in Offspring: A Population-Based Case-Control Study in Liaoning Province, China
Authors: Zhang Tie-Ning , Wu Qi-Jun , Huang Yan-Hong , Li Jing , Chen Zong-Jiao , Li Li-Li , Chen Yan-Ling , Liu Shu , Jiang Cheng-Zhi , Zhao Yu-Hong
Published: May 2021

Background: The potential association between maternal exposure to PM10 ranging from 3 months prior to conception to the end of the early trimester and the risk of anorectal atresia/stenosis in offspring have not been established. Thus, we determined the association in this study.Methods: We recruited 713 patients with anorectal atresia/stenosis and 7950 randomly selected healthy offspring from the Maternal and Child Health Certificate Registry of Liaoning Province and delivered between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2015. Monthly PM10 concentrations were retrieved from the Environment Protection Bureau of each city in Liaoning Province. We established a multivariable logistic regression model to calculate the adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).Results: Maternal exposure to PM10 was associated with an increased risk for anorectal atresia/stenosis in offspring during the three months prior to conception (per 10 μg/m3 increment: OR = 1.15, 95% CI = 1.03–1.20; per SD [27 μg/m3] increment: OR = 1.33, 95% CI = 1.09–1.63) and the first trimester (per 10 μg/m3 increment: OR = 1.08, 95% CI = 1.00–1.17; per SD [28 μg/m3] increment: OR = 1.26, 95% CI = 1.01–1.57). Evaluation of the association with a shorter exposure window (1 month) revealed a positive association between anorectal atresia/stenosis and PM10 from the 3rd month prior to pregnancy to each month of the 1st trimester.Conclusion: Maternal exposure to PM10 three months prior to conception and during the 1st trimester was associated with and increased risk of anorectal atresia/stenosis in the offspring. Future perspective studies are needed to confirm our findings.
WITHDRAWN: Changes In Monthly Streamflow In The Hindukush-Karakoram-Himalaya Region of Pakistan Using Innovative Polygon Trend Analysis
Authors: Ahmed Naveed , Wang Genxu , Booij Martijn J , Ceribasi Gokmen , Bhat Mohd Sultan , Ceyhunlu Ahmet Iyad , Ahmed Adeel
Published: May 2021

The present study explored the changes in monthly streamflow in the Hindukush-Karakoram-Himalaya (HKH) region within Pakistan using the recently developed trend analysis method known as Innovative Polygon Trend Analysis (IPTA). The monthly streamflow data of 34 gauging stations installed in the HKH region was analyzed, and the Pettitt test was applied to check the homogeneity of the time series. The entire study area was divided into 13 sub-basins, and then changes in monthly streamflow of each sub-basin were explored using the IPTA method. The streamflow of high elevated glaciated and snow/ice-covered sub-basins (e.g., Shyok, Astore, and Chitral) have increased in high flow months (June-August), where there is a downward trend for the Hunza sub-basin in these months. In the Gilgit sub-basin, a transition occurred from no trend in May to a decreasing trend from June to August. The upstream gauges of Swat and Kabul sub-basins showed an increasing trend throughout the year, while downstream gauging stations in the same sub-basins exhibited a strong decreasing trend only in high flow months (June-August). The upper reaches of the Indus part in the Upper Indus Basin (UIB) showed increasing trends in high flow months (June-August), however the downstream gauges of UIB showed decreasing trends throughout the year. Overall, only the glaciated and snow/ice-covered sub-basins experienced increasing trends, while most other sub-basins faced decreasing trends in high flow months and increasing trends in low flow months (October - March). The enhancement of the seasonal pattern of streamflow in the upper reaches of UIB is possibly due to the melting of snow and ice that potentially influence floods and hydropower generation. The results of this study can result in a better understanding of the hydrology of the HKH region and support sustainable water management.
Heavy Atom Oriented Orbital Angular Momentum Manipulation in Metal-Free Organic Phosphors
Authors: Shao Wenhao , Jiang Hanjie , Zimmerman Paul , Kim Jinsang
Published: May 2021

Metal-free purely organic phosphors (POPs) are emerging materials for display technologies, solid-state lighting, and chemical sensors. The past decade has seen the promising utility of the El-Sayed rule and heavy atom effects in the design of POPs, and efficient matrix engineering to boost emission efficiencies. However, due to limited contemporary design strategies, the intrinsic spin-orbit coupling (SOC) efficiency of POPs remains low and their emission lifetime is pinned in the millisecond-second regime. Here, we report a universally applicable methodology to synergistically manipulate the main descriptors in SOC - heavy atom effect and orbital angular momentum, assisted by a novel set of natural-transition-orbital-based computation methods to visualize angular momentum descriptors in molecular design. Prototype POPs with efficient room-temperature phosphorescence were designed with SOC efficiencies boosted beyond 102 cm‑1 and lifetime pushed below the millisecond regime. Experimental verification for our novel design rule was conducted through systematic computation-assisted design achieving discrete tuning of heavy atom effects and orbital angular momentum.
Effect of Melatonin on Clinical Outcome of Patients with Repeated Cycles after Failed Cycles of In Vitro Fertilization and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection
Authors: Zhu Qi , Wang Kaijuan , Zhang Chao , Chen Beili , Zou Huijuan , Zou Weiwei , Xue Rufeng , Ji Dongmei , Yu Zhaojuan , Rao Bihua , Cao Yunxia , Ding Ding , Zhang Zhiguo
Published: May 2021

Background: Melatonin (MT), as a powerful antioxidant, can effectively ameliorate the in vitro development of animal embryos, but few studies have been made on human embryos. Therefore, we investigated whether the application of MT in embryo cultures can improve embryonic development and clinical outcomes in patients with repeated cycles after failed in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) cycles.Methods: Human immature oocytes from controlled ovarian hyperstimulation cycles were collected for in vitro maturation culture and ICSI fertilization. The obtained embryos were cultured in vitro in medium containing 0, 10-11, 10-9, 10-7 or 10-5 M MT, and 10-9 M was determined to be the optimal concentration. Subsequently, 140 patients who experienced failed IVF/ICSI cycles received 140 cycles of embryo culture in vitro with medium containing 10-9 M MT. High-quality blastocysts were collected and cryopreserved for three months before vitrified-warmed embryo transfer. These culture cycles served as the experimental (10-9 M) group. The control (0 M) group comprised previous failed cycles. The patients were further divided into subgroups of 1, 2 or ≥3 failed cycles. The fertilization and embryo development status were compared.Results: The fertilization, cleavage, high-quality embryo, blastocyst, and high-quality blastocyst rates of the 10-9 M group were significantly higher than 0 M (87.7% vs. 83.6%, p <0.01; 94.1% vs. 90.5%, p <0.01; 58.3% vs. 43.8%, 51.1% vs. 41.8%, 43.4% vs. 22.9%, all p <0.0001). A total of 50 vitrified-warmed cycle transfers were performed. A clinical pregnancy rate of 40% was obtained. Conclusion: The application of MT to embryo cultures in vitro improved embryonic development in patients with repeated cycles after failed IVF/ICSI cycles and obtained good clinical outcomes. The optimal concentration of MT was 10-9 M.Trial registration: Name of the registry: Effect of melatonin on clinical outcome of patients with repeated cycles after failed cycles of in vitro fertilization and intracytoplasmic sperm injection; registration number: ChiCTR2100045552; date of registration: April 19, 2021(Retrospectively registered); URL of trial registry record: www.medresman.org.cn.
Role of Ultrasound In The Diagnosis of Primary And Recurrent Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans
Authors: Zou Min-Hong , Huang Qing , Yang Ting , Jiang Ye , Zhang Luan-jing , Xie Yang , Zheng Rong-Qin
Published: May 2021

Background: Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare, low- to intermediate-grade sarcoma, which represents a diagnostic imaging challenge. This study aimed to analyze the clinical and ultrasound features of primary and recurrent DFSP to improve the diagnosis.Methods: Clinical, imaging, and pathological data from a total of 58 patients (23 patients with primary DFSP and 35 patients with recurrent DFSP) were retrospectively reviewed.Results: There was no statistically significant difference in age, sex, tumor size, or echogenicity between the two groups. Most of the primary DFSP lesions involved the overlying dermis and hypodermis, while most of the recurrent DFSP lesions were fixated to more deeply seated structures at the original surgical incision. Red nodules on the skin were found more frequently in the primary group. There were statistically significant differences in the type of lesion and ultrasound tumor morphology (p < 0.050). The lesions in the primary group showed more tentacle-like projections or a “claw” sign, while the lesions in the recurrent group were more commonly oval, lobulated, and irregularly shaped. Hypervascularity was common in both groups.Conclusions: For primary DFSP, a slow-growing, red nodule on the skin involving the overlying dermis and hypodermis, more frequently a hypoechoic mass with tentacle-like projections or a “claw” sign, was observed. For recurrent DFSP, palpable subcutaneous nodules or subcutaneous masses at the original surgical incision and oval, lobulated, and irregularly shaped lesions were more commonly observed. This may be useful for improving diagnostic accuracy.
Lovastatin Production from Cunninghamella blakesleeana under Solid State Fermentation
Authors: Balraj Janani , Murugesan Thandeeswaran , Kalieswaran Vidhya , Jairaman Karunyadevi , Esakkimuthu Devippriya , J Angayarkanni
Published: May 2021

Our earlier paper had established the fact that new soil fungi known as Cunninghamella blakesleeana is potent enough to produce lovastatin significantly. At present, there are no reports on the media optimization for the lovastatin production. Hence, the objective is to optimize the fermentation conditions for lovastatin production by Cunninghamella blakesleeana under Solid State fermentation (SSF) condition through screening the critical factors by one factor at a time and then, optimize the factors selected from screening using statistical approaches. SSF was carried using the pure culture of Cunninghamella blakesleeana KP780148.1 with wheat bran as substrate. Initial screening was performed for physical parameters, carbon sources and nitrogen sources and then optimized the selected parameters through PBD and BBD. Screening result indicated the optimum values of the analysed parameter for the maximal production of lovastatin by Cunninghamella blakesleeana were selected. Out of the nine factors MgSO4, (NH4)2SO4, pH and Incubation period were found to influence the lovastatin production significantly after PBD. The optimal levels of these variables and the effect of their mutual interactions on lovastatin production were determined using BBD surface design. The optimum medium composition was found to be MgSO4(0.2 g/L), (NH4)2 SO4 (12.5 g/L), pH (6) and Incubation period (7 days). Experimental studies showed a yield of 7.39 mg/g at the above optimized conditions which were observed to be very nearby to the predicted value and hence the model was successfully validated. Hence, this is the first report on the optimization of critical parameters for lovastatin production by Cunninghamella blakesleeana.
Efficacy of Interferon β-1a in Treatment of Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients; SBMU Taskforce on the COVIFERON Study
Authors: Fallahzadeh Mohammad , Pourhoseingholi Mohamad Amin , Besharati Sajad , Boroujeni Masoud Ghanbari , Mardani Masoud , Shabani Minoosh , Shokouhi Shervin , Amirdosara Mahdi , Hajiesmaeili Mohammadreza , Gachkar Latif , Roshan Baran , Zangi Masoud , Mirmomeni Golshan , Irvani Seyed Sina Naghibi , Darazam Ilad Alavi
Published: May 2021

Background: Interferons are essential part of the innate immune and have antiviral and immunomodulatory functions. In the lack of definite medication for COVID-19, Interferons can be effective in treatment of severe cases of COVID-19 and may decrease mortality of this disease.Material and methods: This retrospective study was conducted on hospitalized COVID-19 patients in Loghman-Hakim hospital from 20 February 2020 to 20 April 2020, Tehran, Iran. Patients were selected from two groups, first group received Interferon β-1a in addition to standard treatment regimen and patients of second group received standard care. The clinical progression of two groups during their hospital admission have been compared.Results: We studied total number of 395 hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Out of this number, 111 patients (33.5%) died (31.3% of Interferon β-1a (Recigen) group and 34.1% of control group). Mortality rate indicated no statistically significant difference between groups, however for patients who hospitalized more than a week, the rate of mortality was lower in Recigen group. The median time of staying in hospital was statistically shorter for patients treated by IFN-β1a. The Odds of death in control groups who hospitalized for at least one week, compared to Recigen group was 3.96 (95% CI: 1.37-11.43, P.value=0.011) Conclusion: This study showed IFN-β1a have significant efficacy in treating severe COVID-19 patients who hospitalized for at least one week and improve the outcomes of patients and decrease the duration of hospitalization.
Internet Mentalization Informed Video Feedback (MI-VF) Intervention to Improve Parental Sensitivity in Mother-Infant Dyads with Maternal Depressive Symptoms: Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Feasibility Trial
Authors: Huber Marcia Olhaberry , Leyton Fanny , Moran Javier , León María José , Sieverson Catalina , Muzard Antonia , Honorato Carolina , Ensink Karin , Malberg Norka , Luyten Patrick , Costa-Cordella Stefanella
Published: May 2021

Background: Depressive symptoms in the postpartum period are a highly prevalent mental health problem. COVID-19 restrictions have increased maternal clinical symptoms during the postpartum period, leading to a high demand for mental health assistance and the need for cost-effective care adjusted to this new context. Video feedback (VF) has been a particularly cost-effective strategy in early interventions focused on maternal sensitivity. However, these interventions usually do not include mentalization as one of the critical elements involved in sensitive and attachment relationships. Also, these interventions are generally carried out in face-to-face settings. This study's main goal is to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a brief internet mentalization informed with VF to improve the sensitive response in mother-baby dyads with postpartum depressive symptoms attended in primary health centers.Methods/design: This randomized feasibility trial will include 60 mother-baby dyads. Participants will be randomized and allocated in a 1:1 ratio. A random number sequence will be computer-generated in varying block sizes (2&4) and stratified by center. The intervention aims to improve maternal sensitivity and mentalizing by using a model based on video-feedback methodology in a virtual modality. The intervention consists of four sessions plus one pre-intervention assessment session and psychoeducational cards. Control dyads will receive only psychoeducational cards once a week. Additionally, dyads from both groups will receive the health center’s treatment as usual. A MI-VF manual guides each intervention session, but its application is tailored to each dyad, VF therapists will receive one weekly group supervision session. Data will be collected at baseline, 4 weeks and 3 months follow-up. The main goal of this trial is to assess feasibility outcomes (recruitment rate and data completion) and change in maternal sensibility.Discussion: This study will inform parameters for the future implementation of a large randomized controlled clinical trial, contributing to the current scarce evidence on mentalization informed interventions that use VF as their primary intervention strategy. Also, this study will provide a cost-effective internet-based intervention model, feasible to be implemented in public health settings.Trial registration: NCT04748731
The Saliva Cortisol and Amylase Levels Related With Stress Response Compared by Different Analytical Methods
Authors: Şemsi Rabia , Kökbaş Umut , Arslan Burak , Dinçel Aylin Sepici , Ergünol Erdal , Kayrın Levent
Published: May 2021

Sampling of salivary cortisol and salivary amylase is non-invasive and important for the evaluation of the hypothalamic-pituitar-adrenal axis funciton and stress levels. This study aims to compare the values of the cortisol and salivary amylase measured by using three diffeent analytical methods and discuss the comparison of stress levels of samples.Young adults (n =23) saliva samples were collected between 08.00 and 09.00 am, noon at 12.00 (before exam) and 14.00-15.00 (after unaware exam) during the first 48 hours, no freezing / thawing was done. Salivary cortisol and salivary amylase levels in subjects were measured by three different analytical methods (ELISA, Chemiluminescence and Biosensor).Comparison of method between ELISA and biosensor in determining salivary kortizol levels showed a good correlation y= 2.971+0.748x (R2=0.839). Salivary amylase concentrations were found only by ELISA method.The detection/information effectiveness as compared with conventional determination method ELISA, considering the low cost, fast results and specificity characteristics biosensor can be offered as an alternative method.
Investigation of ZnO nanotubes array as an antireflective coating
for planar CZTS/ZTO solar cell
Authors: melliti adnen
Published: May 2021

We present a theoretical investigation of ZnO nanotubes square periodic array as an antireflective coating for a planar solar cell including Kesterite as a p-type absorber and Zinc Tin Oxide as an n-type buffer. The method of the calculation is rigorous coupled wave analysis. We found that this coating leads to a considerable reduction of the loss of the ideal short circuit current density by about 80 %. The optimal values of the nanotube diameter, nanotube height, array period and the absorber thickness are 438 nm, 150 nm, 438 nm and 1.5 µm respectively. The study of the variation of the loss of the ideal short circuit current density with the incident angle of the sunlight shows that the NTs array still has good anti-reflection characteristics as long as the incident angle doesn’t exceed 60°.
Effects of Changes in Osmolarity on the Biological Activity of Human Normal Nucleus Pulposus-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Zhang Hua , Li Wei , Zhang Shengquan , Li Jie , Han Letian , Chen Haoyu , Wang Ziyu , Shen Cailiang , Zhang Yinshun , Tao Hui
Published: May 2021

Background:The expansion and differentiation of nucleus pulposus-derived mesenchymal stem cells（NPMSCs） are considered as potential therapeutic tools for clinical applications in intervertebral disc tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.However, the harsh microenvironment within the intervertebral disc is the main limitation of its regeneration.The osmolarity of the intervertebral disc is higher than that of other tissues, which has an important influence on the biological characteristics of NPMSCs. In this study,we observed the effect of different osmolarities on the biological characteristics of human normal NPMSCs cultured in vitro and explored the role of osmolarity in intervertebral disc degeneration. Methods: NPMSCs were isolated from the lumbar intervertebral disc (Pfirrmann I or II) of patients with lumbar fractures by collagenase digestion, and nucleus pulposus-derived stem cells were isolated, cultured and passaged in vitro. The isolated cells were identified by immunophenotype and multilineage differentiation. Then, the cells were cultured under conditions with different osmotic pressures. The cell proliferation rate, apoptosis rate ,cell cycle status and cell senescence were detected, and the expression of stemness genes (Nanog, Notch1, Jag1, OCT4), functional genes (Aggrecan, Collagen II) and the P16INK4A and RB genes was detected. siRNA transfection was used to determine the role of the P16INK4A/RB signaling pathway in the effect of changes in osmotic pressure on cells.Results: The experimental results demonstrated that the isolated cells met the standards of the International Society for Cell Therapy. The cells we isolated and cultured from the intervertebral discs are NPMSCs. Our work showed that low and high osmotic pressure can inhibit cell proliferation, promote cell apoptosis, block cell cycle progression, promote cell senescence,downregulate the expression of stemness genes (Nanog, Notch1, Jag1, OCT4) and functional genes (Aggrecan, Collagen II), and upregulate the expression of the P16INK4A and Rb genes.The transfection results showed that after knocking down P16INK4A gene, hypotonic or hypertonicity had no effect on expression of genes (Aggrecan, Collagen II,Rb).Conclusion: The change in osmotic pressure has an important effect on the biological activity of NPMSCs, and this effect may occur through the p16INK4A/Rb pathway.This study provides a theoretical basis for the future treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration.